TygerBurger | De Grendel | E-edition | 13 May 2026

Mandiesin motorcycle accident

RICHARDROBERTS

RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Amotorcycle accidentinVryburger Avenue, Bothasig,claimed the life of one person.

Several emergency services, including theCity’s fire and rescue services, traffic services, lawenforcement,disaster risk management, ER24 andWestern Cape GovernmentEmergencyMedical Service (EMS) respondedtothe incident, which occurred on Saturday 2May around 12:30.

Neal de Wit, ownerofthe private security companyPrecinct Response, said acall came throughregarding aserious motorcycleaccident in Bothasig. “One of our response officers was dispatched immediately, arrivingwithin seconds, and quickly relayed the severity of the situation.”

Afirst responderalong withmembers of theEdgemead Neighbourhood Watch, he said first aid was administered on the scene while emergencymedical services were en route ER24 arrivedpromptly andtook the patient careover, De Witsaid.

“Tragically, despite the rapid response and all effortsmade by those on the scene thegentleman succumbedtohis injuries.

Our thoughts are with his family and lovedonesatthisdifficult time.”

Ineke van Huyssteen, ER24 spokesperson, said itsparamedics arrived on the scene shortly before 13:00 to find amotorcyclist lying on the centre island of the road. “On further assessment the patient was found to have sustained serious injuries. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation efforts wereimmediately initiated, yet despite the best efforts of all involved the patient succumbed to his injuries on scene.”

Theexact circumstances surrounding the incident were not known to the paramedics, she said.

Mario Borchards, Bothasig Community Policing Forum (CPF) chair, confirmed the incident,asdid Kevin Jacobs, spokesperson for the City’s traffic service, who said traffic officers were dispatched to the scene at 12:33 on Saturday. He said: “One motorcycle was involved. It appears the 26-year-old rider lost control and collided with alamppost.” He was declared dead at the scene.

Bothasig police spokesperson WO Sean Ah-Sing also confirmed the fatal motorcycle accident, adding it was under investigation.

Sapoaexplains

Storms batter communities

Cape Town’s Safety andSecurity

Directorateisworkingclosely with City of Cape Town services to manage and respond to hundreds of incidents reported in thewakeofamassive frontal system that struck Cape Town this week, the City said.

Between06:00 and09:30 on Monday morning, thePublic Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) received just over 950 calls.

Weather-relatedincidentsdominated, with downed trees, motor vehicle accidentsand power issues were among themostfrequently reported concerns.

Over theweekend, the PECC recorded 1220 calls for assistance.Ofthese, 64 were related to physical assault, 29 to domestic violence, andemergency services were dispatchedto44motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents.

The City’s Fire and Rescue Service has madeavailable its wildland firefighters to assist with clearing tree debris across the

city where needed.

Theservice has also made its heavy rescue crane available to help remove fallen trees, the City said.

Disaster Risk Management is spearheading aDisaster Operations Centre in Goodwood, which brings together all City departments, utilities and other role players.

“Our officers are doing duty at intersections, assisting where roads have been closed due to flooding or fallen trees, and responding to calls for help. We are supporting other departments and lending ahand where possible. Iwant to encourage residentstostay indoors where possible, take extra precautions on the road if you have to go out and report incidentsimmediately. Your safetyiswhat matters most, so do not take risks,”said Mayco member for safetyand security JP Smith. . Residentsare urgedtoreport emergenciesby dialling 021480 7700

GoodHopeFMpresenterdies

RICHARDROBERTS

RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Messages of condolenceshave been streaming in following the passing of awell-known radio sports presenter, Lorenzo Darries.

Darries passed away in hospitalon Tuesday morning 5May.

Darries was afamiliar voice on Cape Town's commercial radiostation Good Hope FM who extended their heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues,and listeners.

LEGACYWILLLIVEON

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague and friend,Lorenzo Darries, followingacourageous battle withheart disease.

"A beloved voice on Good Hope FM, Lorenzo brought warmth, passion, and authenticity to every moment onair and beyond. His strength, resilience, and spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

"His legacy will live on in all of us," the

SPORTS PRESENTER LORENZODARRIES

commitment to the school.

Expresso Morning Show on SABC3

REMEMBERED FORWARMTH, PASSION AND RESILIENCE

stationsaid.

Darries sharednews on Tuesday31

March that he is stepping away from his role as presenter.

"Bitter-sweet moment, this will be my final broadcastassportspresenter on the Great DriveShow

“I'll be heading into aproducer role and still stand in when needed but will miss the feeling of being on air every day. Myhealth comesfirst andIneed to be stronger, mentally andphysically to do whatIlove

“Cheers for nowfam," he wrote on his Facebook page

TRIBUTE

Darries was also afamiliar faceonthe

"We will misshis sport updates, his warm 06:00 koesisters which he'd bring for thecrew(all outofthe kindnessofhis heart), but mostofall we will miss his spirit.

“Lorenzowas atrue fighter,and his fight is now over. Ourthoughts and prayers to hisfamily and all who loved him."

Guy McDonald, radio host on Smile FM and friend, alsoshared his thoughts.

"It was aprivilege to know and work with aman so passionate about sport and so desperate to live afull live. May his memoryforeverinspire hiswife, family andclosest friends."

ALMAMATERPAYSRESPECTS

SibeliusHigh School in Retreat where he attended school, alsoshared their sincere condolences to his family and friends.

"Lorenzowas akindhearted individual whosegenerosity extended well beyond his matriculation

“Hisregular donations of stationery to our learners reflected hisenduring

"He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. Ourthoughts are with his family during thistime."

Darries leaves behind his wife, Kelly Williams.

ToffeemarkscourtroomfirstinSA

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMDIA.CO.ZA

Inaquiet courtroom in the Western Cape High Court, history was made not by ajudge or lawyer,but by a gentle golden retriever named Toffee.

As a14-year-old boy prepared to testify against his own father in therape and murder trial of 8-year-oldDaniel Jamneck, the3-year-old therapy dog laycalmly beside him, offering silentreassurance during one of the most traumatic moments of the child’s life.

The April2026 testimonymarked the firsttime atherapy dog hadaccompanied achild witness in aSouth African criminal court, abreakthrough many child-trauma specialistshopecould transformhow vulnerable children experiencethe justice system

For the teenager, who waspresent at thescene of Daniel’s death in Peerless Park North, Kraaifontein, in June 2023, the court appearance was more thanjust giving evidence. It meant revisiting a traumatic night while speaking publicly against his father, who is facing charges of murder,rape and sexual assault. Daniel was found dead in the accused's bed following asleepoverinKraaifontein in Cape Town on 15 June 2023

Toffee doggedlyremained by the teenager's side as this was related to the court.

ACOURTROOMFIRSTBORNFROMYEARSOF ADVOCACY

The idea of therapy dogs supporting child witnesses has long been used in countries such as the UnitedStates,but South Africa had yet to take thatstep For EdithKriel, executivedirector of theJelly Beanz Foundation,it hadbeen adream decades in the making. “I have worked in the child protection sector now for 32 years and across my whole career I’ve to some extent worked withinthe sexual offences courts.”

She said major improvements have been made over the years to make courts less intimidating for children, including childfriendly rooms and intermediaries who help facilitate testimony.

“But the realityisthat if you’re akid and you’ve experienced something really traumatic, when you go back to court in astrange environment… youhave to sit down andthink like avideo inyourhead of that traumatic experience and then put that into words.

“You’re also sometimes asked to defend youranswers or made to feel like you’re nottelling the truth. Kids have areally hard time.”

Kriel believes therapy dogs can bridge that emotional gap.

“The role of atherapy dog during testifying is really to createasenseof safety for the child, asense of ‘I’ve got somebody on my side’.

“This beautiful animal is here with me. They’renot judging me when Itell

TEEN SUPPORTED BY THERAPY DOG,TOFFEE, DURING TRAUMATICTESTIMONY AGAINSTHIS FATHER IN WESTERN CAPE HIGH COURT

the stories of all theyucky thingsthat happened to me. They just think I’m amazing.”

CALMINGFEARINTHEMIDDLEOFTRAUMA

Traumaexperts say children who testify in court often relive their experiences physically and emotionally. Fear,anxiety andstresscan overwhelm the nervous system,making it difficult for children to think clearly or answer questions coherently.

Kriel said therapy dogs help regulate thoseemotional responses.

“That kind of non-judgmental, calm, safe presence helps children feel safer. It calms their nervoussystem

“And when your nervous system is calmer, the parts of your brain that do the thinking and come up with the words can work better.”

During the in-camera testimony on 29 April Toffee remained closetothe teenager throughoutproceedings, helping him find the strength to continue.

Krieldescribedthe moment as deeply emotional, sayingthe child visibly relied on thedog’spresenceduring difficultparts of his testimony.

“Tomyknowledge Toffee is the firstdog that hassuccessfully gonethroughthe processwith achild,” she said.

But she stressed the achievement was nothers alone

“It’s not just ameprocess. We need prosecutors on board who are willingto take iton, put in applications andstep outside of thenorm. There’sa whole team behind it.”

MORETHANJUSTACOMFORTINGPET

Toffee is not simply afriendly dog wandering through therapy sessions

She is acertified“fur-therapist” at the Jelly BeanzFoundation, aTable Viewbased non-profit organisation dedicated to helping childrenaffected by trauma, abuse andneglect.

Founded in 2009, Jelly Beanz provides therapy services,develops trauma resources,trainsprofessionals working withchildren andadvocates for better support systems for vulnerable young people.

The organisation’s work is rooted in a grim national reality.

According to Jelly Beanz oneinthree SouthAfrican children is sexually abused before the age of 18.

"Boysare just as vulnerable to abuse as girls.Eighty-two percent of childrenhave been directly exposed to violence in their homes orcommunities."

Against thatbackdrop therapy animals are becoming powerful tools in rebuilding trust andemotional safety.

“Childrenwho haveexperienced trauma often feelashamed, disconnected or different from others,”the organisation pointedout

“Dogs offer unconditional acceptance. No words are necessary.”

Therapists saychildren frequently communicateemotionsindirectly through thedog, sometimes revealing feelings they struggle to express themselves.

Achild may say, “Toffee is feeling sad today,”wheninreality they are describing theirown emotional state.

CARRYINGONAHEALINGLEGACY

Toffeealso carriesthe legacy of another beloved therapydog, Danni,South Africa’s firstNewfoundland fur-therapist, which workedwith traumatised children through Jelly Beanz

While smaller in size Toffee has quickly become acomfortingpresence in therapy rooms.

“With hersoft coat andcalming presence Toffeeoffers comfort, connection and unconditionalacceptance to children whohave experienced trauma,”the

organisation said.

“She is asymbol of healing, hope and trust.”

Kriel hoped the court breakthrough will inspire others to build similar programmes rather than relying solely on one dog or one organisation.

“The idea is not that Toffee becomes the next court therapy dog forever,” she said.

“It’sabout opening an opportunity for other people to step up and step in.”

JUSTICEWITHCOMPASSION

As the Daniel Jamneck trial continues Toffee’s quiet presence has already left alasting mark on SouthAfrica’s justice system.

For years the focus in criminal courts has understandably centred on evidence, procedure and legal outcomes. But child trauma specialistssay the emotional wellbeing of witnesses, particularly children, cannot be separated from justice itself.

For one frightened teenager facing the unimaginable taskoftestifying against his father, justice did not arrive only in legal robes or courtroom protocols. It arrived on four paws, with soft golden fur and steady, reassuring eyes.

AthleterunforMandelaDay

RICHARDROBERTS

RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Anultra-marathon athlete is set to run 27 laps, or 67,5 km, around Rondebosch Common for his tribute to late former President Nelson Mandela on his birthday,18July, celebrated annuallyasMandela Day. The‘67’ minutes or in this case kilometersrepresents the number of years of Madiba’s public service —from 1943 to 2010 For Denvervan der Bergh’s this Mandela Day Run is preparation for abigger run next year, from

ULTRA-MARATHON RUNNER TO CIRCLE COMMON OR 67 KILOMETERS

Cape Town to Namibia in as part of his SASmile aMile Run. Once in Namibia he will takepart in the 250kmBeyond the UltimateDesert Ultra

Last year Van der Bergh undertook asimilar challenge, running from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg, where he then took partinthe 2025 Comrades Marathon.

RUNNERSINVITEDTOJOIN

The run atRondebosch starts at 08:00 andany athlete interested in joining himiswelcome,hesaid.

The49-year-oldwill do 27 laps, but other athletes canjoin him forone lap ordecide their own distance. They canrun,walk or just comeout forsupport,hesaid.

“It is allabout recovery, hope andcommunity.”

There will also be aluckydraw andprizes will also be won.

RUNNINGFORRECOVERY

Vander Bergh is aformerdrug addict who turned his life around, becoming an inspiration to others, thanks to help he receivedfrom

theRamot TreatmentCentre for Substance Abuse in Parow.He struggled with alcohol anddrug addiction or 25 years andhas been sober for thepastfive years.

“I returned to education, earned my degree, repaired relationships and discoveredsomething that wouldreshape my life completely —endurance running.”

He is alsoplanning on running from Cape Town to Cairo in Egypt in 2028, arun he wants to document in theGuinness World Records.

“So, my run from Cape Town to Namibia is awarm-uprun for Cairo andthe 27 laps, or 67,5km, for Mandela Day is atraining run for Namibia.”

Van derBerghisalso the founder of thenon-profit organisation Serenity Strides Foundation.

“I am so excited. Ilearnt alot from my previous run andthis timeI actually have apersonal instructor, whooffered to train me for free for theentire Cairo odysseysoIcan avoid injuries.”

. Visit www serenitystridesfoundation.org

Arts and crafts group hasanew home

Edgemead Arts &Crafts, agroup that also serves surrounding areas, has officially found ahome, founding member Heleen Niere has announced.

"While our community continues to grow, finding a space large enough to host our events, prize givings and classes has always been a challenge until now.

"We are incredibly grateful to A1 Brews in MonteVista.

Acoffee and thrift shop with agenuine passion for arts and crafts, it has gone above and beyond to accommodate our needs. Its central location and welcoming atmosphere could not have come at abetter time."

Niere said Arts &Crafts' competitions have become more prestigious, with members stepping up to sponsor incredible prizes. Recent winners have walked

away with everything from tattoo voucherstotop-of-therange leather-goods stockist Jekyll &Hide gift cards.

-"Werecently hosted a fantastic prize giving at our new home. Beyond the main awards, members contributed beautiful goodie bags for everyone who attended. The day was filled with live music, lucky draws, biscuit tastings and communal doodle art.

"These activities were offered at no charge, afeat made possible only through the generosity of our members and support of A1 Brews.

"Ourcommunity is more than just agroup of 250 members; it is avibrant ecosystem of talent and heart. It is my greatest honour to lead such adedicated and supportive collective."

. ResidentsinEdgemeadwho wouldliketojointhe groupcan contact Niere on 083564 7655.

THINKING OUTLOUD

Classrooms arestill filledwithdreamers

Returning to my old school recently brought back memories Ihad not thought aboutinmany years.

Ihad dropped my nephew off anda wave of nostalgia hit me. It felt asthough Ihad stepped into my younger self's world which was full of hope, dreams and determination. Iremembered sitting in those small bluechairs, staring out the windows and imagining afuturefar bigger than thecommunity. Even as achild,I knew there was more. Ikneweducation could unlock opportunities.

Icome from apoor background. My parents worked hard and there were many things we simply could notafford. I neverarrived at school wearing the latest fashiononcivvies day.Sometimes paying school fees felt impossible formyparents butthey never allowed our financial situation to become an excuse. Education was non-negotiable in our home. My parents remindedmethat no one could takeknowledge awayfrom me They believed education could change the direction of my life. Lookingback now, I realisethe sacrifices they made to ensure

EDUCATIONWAS NON-NEGOTIABLEIN

my sister and Ihad that opportunity.They may not have been able to give us material things, but they gave us discipline, encouragement and areason to strive My way of thanking them was simple, Iworked hard.Istudied,respected my teachers and made sureIachieved good marks. Iknew that every test passed and every report card improved brought me one step closer to abetter future.

Today as Iwatch learnersmaking their way to school in the morning,I cannot help but feelconcerned. On some days it is already 08:30and some are strolling to school with no sense of urgency. Some look disengaged and uninterested.It makes me wonder what haschanged. Have our young people become disconnected? Or are they simply overwhelmed by the realities they face daily?

Today's learners are growing up in aworld filledwith distractions, social pressures and uncertainty. Many are exposed to unemployment, violence, povertyand social media influences that can easily make education feel less important. For some, it maybedifficult to dream about the future when survival feels like the priority. This iswhy motivation cannot come from schools alone. Parents, communities, teachers and mentors all have arole to playin shaping young minds. Children need to see examples of perseverance. They need encouragement and guidance. Most importantly, they need hope. We cannot expect young people to value education if society appears to undervalue their potential.Sometimesall it takes is one teacher, one family member or one opportunity to inspireachild.

Iwish those in power would take up that challenge. How many leadershavewalked throughthe halls of their former schools and asked themselves what they could do to create lasting change there?Build more schools, morelibraries and saferspaces for learning. Invest in these future leaders and give them areason to be excited Create opportunities that make learners eager to get to school because they can see afuture waiting for them beyond the classroom.

As Ileft the school that day, Irealised the classrooms are still filled with dreamers, children with untapped potential waiting to be nurtured. The challenge ismaking sure they do not lose sight ofthose dreams beforethey evenbegin.

-KAYLYNNE BANTOM

Kommentaar // Comments

SLICEOFLIFE

CLIMBERSUNITEFORWCCHARITIES: Runners and hikers tackledPlatteklipGorge during the annual Cableway CharityChallengeonTableMountain.So farthis year they have raised over R964 000 that willhelppower the life-saving and community-driven work of four organisations: VolunteerWildfireServices (VWS),Wilderness Search andRescue (WSAR),Ubuntu Football Academyand SANParksHonorary Rangers.The publiccan stilldonateuntil Sunday 17 May.To pledge support,visit:www charitychallenge.co.za

PHOTO:NICK JOUBERT

Magmoeders vreugdeervaar

Hoe seer is seer?

Ek wens ek konvandag(Sondag10Mei) se trane —dié watoor my wangerol,asook die watdie padinwaarts kies —in'nemmer opvang.Ekwil seer meet Ek is heel,maar terselfdertyd stukkend. Ons is té geneig om voor te geedat als"oukei" is.

Soveel mensevier Moedersdag, maar vir baie van onsishierdie 'n diep seer dag.

Nesek, is daar soveel vanons watnie meer 'n mamma het nie.Die uitsoek én opmaak van'nspesiale geskenkie; die beplanning van'nheerlikesamesyn vir diehelegesin; en die dek van'npragtigetafel vir'n spesialepersoon ontbreek die eregas is niemeer met onsnie Mygedagtesbly dwaal oor al die verskillende seer watvandaginhou: My hartsvriendinne watnie kinders konbaar nie;dié watkinders konaanneem, maar ook dieuitdagingswat saam met dit komindie gesig staar;elkeliewe mamma watstruikel om kinders alleen groottemaak, omdat pappavroeg sy engelvlerkies gekryhet;die watmoet baklei vir onderhoudsgeld;die watdie pa-rol moet vervul weens'nonbetrokkepa; diewat baklei teen 'n regstelsel watsyeie tydneem sodat geregtigheid kangeskied. Ek dink ookaan die mammas watmoet sterk staan teen tieners watinopstand kom, watraadop,moeg of weerloos is;endie vrouenswat onder 'n hand deurge-

loop hetensukkelomhaar waardigheid en plek in die samelewingtevind, omdat sy die keusegemaak het dat genoeg genoeg is.

Dis julle.Dis ons. Hierdie is die ma's vandie wêreld watvandaggesalueer moet word,maar watsoms so misgekykword. Ons draswaar.Ons skouers hang bietjie vooroor,ensoms komons vaal en onopvallend, verstrooid en vergeetagtig voor.Daar is storms wat nooit ophou raas nie. Daar is mensewat luister,maar nooit hoor nie. Wees assebliefnet genadig!

En vir die watwonder of God nogwakkeris. wanneer jy dit die minsteverwag, komverras Hy jou met 'n helderkleurigeEva wathaar ontferm oor'n alleen-mamma.

Daardie spesialevroue wiesehartesagterassag is; diéwat metsoveeldeernis en egtheid onsvrouwees, deuraldie krake, raaksien. Dis daardie Evawat inspring en 'n pakkie posofjou kinders nader trek om ietsie spesiaals vir jou te beplan,ofvir jou die styfstevan styfstedrukkiegee en so ekstrabietjie langer vashou.

Magelkegebrokemoederhart geliefdvoel onder haar eie omstandighede en magdaar iewers 'n teken vir jou wees dat jy waardig mamma is. As jy nie voor jou kinders wilhuil nie. is vandagdalkjou dagwat jy dit kanloslaat terwyl jy saam met hulle deur die reën hardloop.Glo in jouself, ystervrou! Irushka, BRACKENFELL

CityofCape Town: quo vadis?

Therecent “snot klap”mayor Geordin Hill-Lewisand his DA compatriots received in theHigh Court has reference.

Formonths we,the ratepayers of Cape Town, have berated himfor usingthe middle-class as avehiclefor apolicyofcross subsidisinghis socialist programme Nowthe courts have agreed with us andwhat does this young man do?Hetries to shame the ratepayers, who payhis inflated salary,intofeelingashamed for notagreeing to hisoutdated socialist agenda.Wedid not agreetoanunfunded spending spree on our dime to help him in avote-buyingcampaign

One wouldhavethought that during hisvarsity yearsheand hismanagementteamwouldtake cognancyofMaggie Thatcher’s famous words: “The problemwith socialism is that eventually yourun out of otherpeople’smoney”. And in 2025-’26 he and his team haverun out of money becausethisyearCoCT plans to borrowR1,2billion just to payfor previous years’ excessive spending.

In plainspeaking it meansborrowingmoremoney

to payfor borrowingprevious years, whilst spending moneytheydon’t have!Inwhatuniverse do these peoplelive?

We have seen howmunicipalities, including the City treatthe solidmiddleclass as agift that keepsgiving, hencethe increasing ratestaxation year on year.And year on year thesemunicipalities placatetheir staff andthemselveswith annual salary increaseswith no reciprocal performanceincreasesbecause the middle classkeep funding their ridiculous plans. Typically like trying to provide brick andmortar houses to anyeconomic migrant who ends up without ahouse. And howdoes he plan to generatemore money? By increasingyour propertyvalue andrates purely on the basis of properties sold in your area,i.e youare taxedon“unearned profits”,the exactprinciple the British parliament struck down when Keir Starmer andRachel Reeves tried it Do youthink the mayorwillheed ourcalls?Idon’t think so Francois JMarais, DURBANVILLE

Stingray birth shows moremust be done

In the TygerBurger of 6May 2026 residents of Table View andMilnerton arequotedstating that the recent stingray birthing incident shows that the clean-up efforts arestartingtobeeffectiveand gives renewed hope that the lagoon is slowly coming back to life HowIwish that this were true!

But what we witnessedonWednesday29April is that ashort-tail stingray femalewas stranded on the beachand through stress spontaneouslyaborted24 pups. Thesetinyreplicas of their mother stillhad their yolk sacs, whiletheir gills andother organs were not fullydevelopedyet

Sadly, theywerenot viableand none of them survived despitethe best efforts of communitymembers andrepresentatives of the TwoOceansAquarium. We canonlybut hope that at leastthe mother,who was escorted back intothe deep by the aquariumstaff, managed to recoverand survive.

Is the heart-rendering lotofthesemagnificent creatures notjust another illustration of howthe volume of sewage that the CityofCape Town discharges into the oceankills marine life,degrades critical habitats, andharms the ecosystems on whichhumansdepend fortheir ownsurvival?

On Milnertonbeach dead fish, molluscs, crustaceans, starfish, jellyfishand birds, besides disgusting washed-up rubbish, bear witness to decreased dissolvedoxygeninthe lagoon andsea andthe wide array of toxic pollutants contained within sewage Please,Cityand Mayor, the cityneeds to work forour sea.

LViljoen,MILNERTON

Chop upsneed repairs

As burst pipe repairs areundertaken, the huge question is:isthis departmentnot reporting their recent workmanship to, Ipresume, another department to do proper repairs to coverthe massivepotholes? Rainyseasonisupon us, andwith the expected downpours, the huge potholes willbecome camouflaged. Thepreventivemeasures to restoresafetyfor allroadusers is of utmostimportance Many unnecessaryincidents need to be avoided. Thesolutionisworking hand in hand with the different departments, who as mentioned “chopup” the surfaces andthose who “repair”the chopped up surfaces. Safety please,for allroadusers TessaLuck,GOODWOOD

Slaughterfordonkeyskins

Despite alandmark African Union moratorium on the commercial slaughter of donkeysfor their skins,South Africa continues to legally kill up to 10 500donkeys annually, and ashocking abattoir inspection in April hasreignited calls for afull ban.

In April, an inspector doing aroutine visit to an abattoir in Schweizer-Reneke, North West Province, found nearly 180 donkeys in distress, many unable to stand He was shocked by what he saw.There was little food and no feeding schedule for the donkeys.They were in terrible condition, thin, injured, andcovered in parasites

“Whenasked why she hadn’ttreated theparasites, the manager replied that the withdrawal period would take too long, thus creating adelay to their scheduled slaughter date. Our inspector hadnochoice but to humanely euthanise suffering donkeys,” the NSPCAwroteina Facebook on 15 April.

The remaining 175 donkeys subsequently went to slaughter, legally.

The NSPCAfurther noted that the abattoir has adocumented pattern of welfare failures. “Sadly, donkeys are regularly sent to thisabattoir fromacross thecountry. Afew weeks ago, the local SPCAstopped avehicle transporting donkeys tothe same abattoir because some of the animals in the truck were beingtrampled.Three donkeys hadto be humanelyeuthanised to end their immediate suffering. The slaughtering of donkeys is notillegal, butanimalcruelty is.Our inspector has compiled acriminal docketagainst both the owner and manager of the abattoir for allowing these gentle animals to suffer unnecessarily,” the NSPCA stated.

ABANTHATWASN’T

The African Union adopted a15yearcontinental moratoriumonthe commercial slaughter of donkeys for their skins in February 2024. However, the decisionrequired individualmember states to incorporatethe prohibition into theirown national legislation, astep SouthAfrica did nottake.

Instead, accordingtoleading animal welfare charity Brooke UK, South Africa elected to adopt a“controlled export model”,permittingthe legal slaughterof 10 500 donkeys for their skins per year.

Brooke UK’sfullfindings are detailedin theirdonkeyskins report.

Animalwelfare advocatessay thecountry’s legal framework is fundamentally inadequate.

“The existingregulatory framework does not protectour donkeys,” says Jonno Sherwin,founder of Karoo Donkey Sanctuary. “South Africa hastraditionally regulated, rather than banned, the trade. Asystem of legal export quotas has previously allowedlimited commercial activity. Donkeys may only be slaughtered at registeredequine abattoirs, of which there arevery fewinthe country. A key gap isthe absenceoflegislation specifically targeting the donkey skin trade.”

Authorities rely on broader laws such as theAnimals ProtectionAct 71 of 1962 to address casesofcruelty or illegal slaughter,which can limit enforcement effectiveness, he said.

UNDERGROUNDTRADE

“Restrictions have pushed parts of theindustryunderground, contributing to increased donkey theft andillegal ‘bush’ slaughter. South Africaisalso affected by cross-border dynamics. It is

South Africacontinuestolegally killupto10500 donkeysannually

ACTIVISTS CALL FOR COMPLETE BANASCURRENT LEGISLATION HASCREATED AN UNDERGROUND MARKET

frequently used as atransit point for donkey skinssmuggledfrom neighbouring countries, particularly Lesotho, where thetrade hasbeen especially severe. Enforcement is further constrained by limitedresources andthe overlap with other forms of organised crime, including wildlife trafficking, making detection and

prosecution difficult,” says Sherwin. He said the trade is largely fuelled by demand from China, where donkey hides are used to produce traditional medicinal. Thehigh market value of donkey skins creates astrong financial incentive.

Local animal welfare organisations are intensifying pressure on government to move beyond acontrolled model.

“Donkeys play avital role in the livelihoods of many communities, yet they remain highly vulnerable to exploitation and harm,”said Sherwin.

. Sign thepetition at www.change.org/ stopdonkeyslaughterSA

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONSSEES TICKETS DISCOUNTED

Gardner en VanWyk gaan laag

DesireGardner en Hannes vanWyk is te sien in Magdaenhaar Erhard,how Louw canyou go by Die Boer-teaterrestaurantvan Dinsdag 10 totVrydag 12 Junie,van Dinsdag 16 totDonderdag18Junie om 20:30, asook op Saterdag 25 Julie

Dieproduksiehet uitverkoop by die Aardklop-kunstefees en dieKKNK.

MagdaenErhardLouw besluit om die padtevat en dieverhoog te betree —sonaelkouend en mompelend soos net hullekan

Landmarktheatre opensdoorswider

The Artscape TheatreCentre willmark55 years of performanceand transformation on Tuesday19May,a milestone that speaks notonlytothe myriad productions staged within its walls,but also to the storyofacountryintransition

Openedin1971asthe Nico Malan Theatre, aspace reserved foraselect fewunder apartheid, it has sinceevolved intoacultural home forall South Africans. This anniversary, celebrated underthe theme "A Placefor All",honoursthat long and significant journey.

Celebrations

Theanniversaryprogramme launches at 11:00 on 19 Maywith the unveiling of amemorywallentitled "Becoming Artscape —aplace reborn", followed by an open press conferencetowhich the public is also invited. At 12:00,everyone is encouragedtotake part in ahistoric photograph on the stepsof the building.The morning concludes witha freelunchtime concert at the Artscape Opera Bar,running until 13:30

Performing at the concert willbe four school bands: Mbekweni CMA,Cedar High School, Rhodes HighSchool and Athlone School forthe Blind Admission is free,and allare welcome.

Thelunchtime concert series formspart of Artscape's ongoing commitment to access,championed under the leadershipofCEO MarleneleRoux.These concerts have become aregular andmuch-loved feature, offering manytheir first experience of live performanceinside the theatre, notasspectators but participants.

What's on throughout the year

Theanniversaryprogramme extendswellbeyond May. On 6June the Artscape Career Expo offers young peopleabehind-the-scenes look at the full

rangeof professionsthatmaketheatrepossible, from lighting andsounddesign to costume,technicaloperations and building management

Aseries of Saturdaymasterclasses willrun from MaytoNovember.The first,FastTrack to Opening Night, takesplace on 23 MaywithKMH Architects, coveringthe design, construction and accessibility ofthe Artscapebuilding. Afollow-up masterclass, facilitatedbyAfricaMelane,willfocus on funding thearts.

On 8November,ananniversarygalaconcert, producedand directed by BasilAppollis, featured in the theatre's50th-anniversary celebration, promisesto be aglamorous evening to remember Special R55tickets

Aspartofthe anniversarycelebrations,a limited number of R55 early-bird tickets willbemade available forselectperformancesinthe OperaHouse andTheatre.Limited to twoper person, tickets are availablethrough Dial-A-Seatonafirst-come,firstserved basis.

Le Roux reflected on thetheatre'sjourney: "This buildinghas walked along road, from aspace that excludedthe majority of South Africans,toone that nowactively welcomesand embracesall whoenter it. Accessibilityisnot aconcept forus; it is adaily commitment. Whether it is physical access forpeoplewithdisabilities, representation on our stages or ensuring that peoplefeel they belong herethis is the work we do everyday," said Le Roux reflectingon thetheatre's journey.

ZakGordon, chairmanofthe Artscape board, echoed thesentiment:"As we mark55years,our focus remains on ensuring Artscape continues to serveasaninclusiveplatformfor expression,access andopportunityfor all."

Lamtabrings KillerQueen to thestage this winter

Cape Town dancelovers have something to look forwardtothis winter, as the Luitingh Alexander Musical TheatreAcademy(Lamta) bringsits latest production, KillerQueen, to Theatreonthe Bay from 4to20June

Conceived and directed by NalediAward-winning LamtafoundersAnton Luitingh andDuane Alexander,the showisa high-energy celebrationof the musicofQueen —one of the world's most enduring rock bands. Weaving together powerful choreography, striking visualsand the unmistakable energy of Queen's legendary catalogue, it promisestobe

aspectacular winter outing fortheatreand dance enthusiastsalike

Theannouncement followsthe academy's recent success with Joseph and theAmazingTechnicolour Dreamcoat, co-produced with Pieter Toerien,which earned multiple accoladesatthe Naledi Theatre Awards in Johannesburg. Lamta'sannual productionshavebecome afirm fixtureonthe Cape Town performing arts calendar, with Hollywood (2024) andBeyond (2025)both sellingout before opening night.KillerQueen is widelyexpected to follow suit

Theproductionfeatures an impressive roster of choreographers— including Michelle Reid,Jared Schaedler,Robinvan Wyk, ChesneyStanfield, Emile Petersen,Brandon Herbstand Ashley Searle,among others —bringing afresh anddynamic interpretation to theband's iconic songbook Luitingh also musicallydirects aselection of vocal numbers, afeature that hasbecome afan favourite in recent Lamtaproductions.

Performed over twoacts, theshowshowcases Lamtastudentsfromfirsttothird year,taking audiencesthrough Queen's greatest hits and hidden gems,including "WeWillRock You", "Somebody to Love", "The ShowMust Go On"and "WeAre the Champions", allreimagined throughexpressive and dynamic movement

. Performances runnightly at 20:00, with Saturday matinees at 15:00.

. Tickets areavailablefromR200at Webtickets, or throughthe theatre'sbox office on 021438 3300

Die tema vanhul teaterdebuut is die liefde,maar dieliefdeuit MagdaenErhardseperspektief is effens andersasdie liefde waarvanons in boekelees of in films sien. In dieteaterproduksie (ofkonsert soos Erhard ditnoem) sien ons hoe MagdaenErhard hulbes probeer, maar ditsukkel. Is hulle regomop

die feesteseverhoë te klim?

In 'n tipe "NoisesOff!"-formaat neem Erharden Magdaons deur die prosestotdat hulle uiteindelik ook saam met die gehoor die waansinnigheidvan die liefde en die lewe aanspreek. Hulle gesels oor vergifnis, hoe om in die eg verbindtebly sonder om gearresteer te word of daardie einste eg te verbreek. Hulle gesels oor leënessindroom, volpens-sindroom en al die andersindrome watmens moet aanvaar soos die middeljare jou tref Dis 'n komiesestuk, maar met 'n dieper boodskap: dat ons uiteindelik maar die padmet iemandwil stap,alirriteer hulle ons of dryf hulle ons na drank. Daar salook interaksiemet die gehoor wees. Kaartjies kosR260 . Bespreek by www.dieboer.com

LiebenbergenBergbyDie Boer

Johan LiebenbergenCharlizeBergspankragtesaam in Diamonds andDivas by Die Boer-teaterrestaurant op Dinsdag26enDonderdag28Mei om 20:30 Maakreg vir’naandvol musiek vandie grootste manlikeenvroulikekunstenaarsvan alle tye—met treffersvan Neil Diamond, Celine Dion, Michael Bublé, Lady Gaga,BruceSpringsteen, Adele, Frank Sinatra,TinaTurner en meer. Hierdieproduksiebring twee gevestigde Suid-Afrikaanse stemmebymekaar:Liebenbergisbekend vir sy warm,storievertellende styl en sy passie virtydlose liedjies. Hy hetalinverskeieverhoogproduksies opgetree en is veralgeliefd virsyinterpretasies van klassiekekunstenaarsensyvermoë om ’n gehoor vandie eerstenoot af vastevang. Berg is ’n kragtige en elegantesangeresmet ’n unieke stem —bekend virhaar dinamieseverhoogteenwoordigheidenemosionelevertolkings. Sy het haar naam gevestigindie Afrikaanse musiekbedryf en bou voortaan haar loopbaanmet nuwe musiek en indrukwekkende optredes. . Kaartjieskos R220.Bespreekby www.dieboer.com of by 021979 1911

DAGBOEK /DIARY

. TheDrama LabatTable View Primary presentsAnnieatthe school from 8to16May.Tickets at Quicket.

. Alfred Adriaan'sbrand newshow, PositiveStrokes, is at TheHomecoming CentreonWednesday 13 and Thursday 14 Mayat19:30.Tickets from R200 to R250 at Webtickets.

. Eden tree op Saterdag 16 Meiom20:30byHeroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjieskos R260 totR300. Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. Die Stadskoor Tygerberg bied op Sondag17Mei om 16:00Sunday Afternoon Reflections in dieNGkerk De TygerinHannes Louwstraat,Parow-Noord, aan. Vandie gewyde koorwerkewat gehoor gaan word,is"Cantate Domino" deur Mark Hayes, "O vosomnes" vanPau Casals,"Benedictus" vanKarl Jenkins en "Via Dolorosa" deur BillySprague en NilesBorop.Kaartjies kosR120. Bespreek by Suzettevan Wykby083 2639335. Daar salook kaartjiesbydie deurebeskikbaar wees.

. Cape Town Operapresents GeorgesBizet's Carmen, astory of passion, freedomand jealousyatArtscape from 19 to 31 May. TicketsfromR180 at Webtickets

. Millennium tree op Vrydag 22 Meiom20:30by Heroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjieskos R120 totR140. Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. ACDC DuetXchange2026, atwo-day festival of danceperformance andcompetition, is at TheHomecoming CentreonFriday22and Saturday23May at 19:00. TicketsR150 at Webtickets.

. XollyMncwango:The Unusual Encounter is at the GrandArena,GrandWest on Saturday 23 Mayat18:00. TicketsfromR300 at Webtickets.

. Boyz II MenLiveinSouth Africa Tour is at the Grand

Arena, GrandWest on Wednesday27May at 18:00

TicketsfromR750 at Webtickets

. TheRockyHorror ShowisatTheatreonthe Bayin CampsBay currently until 31 May. Theproduction is ratedPG16.Tickets start from R200.Book at Webticketsoron021 4383300

. TheJiveCapeTownFunnyFestivalruns at The Baxter from 28 Mayto21June.Tickets from R190 to R250 at Webtickets

. JayenLianie MaytreeopVrydag29Mei om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjies kosR180 totR220. Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. Please,don't call me moffieruns at Artscapefrom2 to 6June.Nounder16s. TicketsR150atWebtickets. . KillerQueen -A LamtaDanceProduction runs from 4to20June at Theatreonthe Bay. TicketsfromR200 at Webtickets

. Spoegwolf tree op Saterdag 6Junie om 20:30 by Heroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjies kosR290tot R350 Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

. Cape Town Concert Series: Charl du Plessis– Mozart Mambo &MerlotisonSaturday6June at 15:00 at The Baxter.Tickets from R100toR300atWebtickets. . Cape Town City BalletpresentsOrpheus in the Underworldfrom12to21June at Artscape. Ticketsfrom R225 to R650atWebtickets.

. Don Vino Saxy Vibes 8isatthe Grand Arena, GrandWest on Saturday13June at 19:00.Tickets R190 to R350 at Webtickets

. Centre Stage–Dancing intothe futureisonTuesday 16 June at 19:00 at Artscape. TicketsfromR180 to R300 at Webtickets

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