Afterhoursofintenseracing and tough eliminations acrossthe challenging dunes,theRed BullDune Dusterstested thestrength,enduranceand focus of everycompetitor.Emerging victorious in thewomen’scategoryLouiseDippenaar stunnedonlookers in her first-everentry, demonstratingresilience,determination and thetrue spirit of thedunes.Read moreonpage16. FROM
RICHARDROBERTS
RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Unless residents stopgiving handoutstostreet people they will be reluctant to leaveanarea or acceptassistance from the City ofCape Town.
This is the sentimentsof Ward 1 councillorCheryl Visser shared with fellow ward councillors at aSubcouncil7 meeting held on Wednesday last week. The
meeting washeld in the council chambers at themunicipal officesinDurbanville Councillors were discussing the Quarterly Progress Report on the Street People Programme Interventions undertaken by theStreet PeopleUnit within Subcouncil7onthe agenda,where the issue was discussed.
Visser saidOlienhout Avenue, Plattekloof,was of concern.
She saidstreet people roam the area,
butresidents were the problem as they supported them by givinghandouts and donations.
‘DONOTSUPPORTTHEM!’
Shesaid she understood people have amoral compassand they feel obliged to give. The Citycannotremove street people,onlyengage with them, Visser pointedout
TOPAGE4
WARD COUNCILLOR SAYS RESIDENTSARE THEPROBLEM WHEN IT COMESTO STREET PEOPLEBECAUSE THEY FEEL OBLIGEDTO GIVE HAND OUTS
THURSDAY26FEBRUARY
. TheR5booksaleatthe Durbanville Children’s Homewillbeheldatthe homeonThursday 26 February and Friday27Februaryfrom09:00 to 15:00 nd Saturday 28 Februaryfrom09:00 to 13:00atthe reception area.Therewillbeaselection of text books —all at R5 each, as well as CDs, DVDs and books, including children’sbooks and coffee-table books. Bring your ownbagsorboxes.Cardfacilities willbe available.
SATURDAY28FEBRUARY
. TheKraaifonteinFashion &Lifestyle Market Day takesplace at the KraaifonteinCivicCentre 11:00 to 16:00.Entry is free.Therewillbefashion, accessories, beautyproducts, gifts, sweettreatsand kids activities allwhilesupportinglocal smallbusinesses in arelaxed, family-friendlylifestyle atmosphere with great shopping and delicious snacksinone place. Enquiries to Garth on078 6381540
. Die NG kerk Bellville-Riebeeck te Noordstraat 2in Chrismar hou basaar van08:00 tot13:00.Die basaar biedietsvir almal. Boekliefhebbers kanrondsnuffelbydie boeketafel,terwyl skattejagtersnie die witolifanttafelmoetmisloop nie. Kinders kanprethê by diekindertombola-enspeletjiestafel. Virrustige oomblikkeisdaar 'n teetuinmet koffie, teeenkoek beskikbaar. Kaartjiesvir etes —spitbraaienhoenderpastei —kan vooraf bespreekwordbydie kerkkantoor (021 919 1501) of pere-pos na kktoor@ngkbriebeeck co.za. Aanlyn besprekingskan ookgedoenwordby: https://forms.gle/9eK9hEginf6BFwxT7
SUNDAY1MARCH
. Edgemead’slargest indoorsecondhand market willbeheldatthe Edgemead Community Hall, 83 EdgemeadDrive 08:00to14:00.Bargainsgalore.
VRYDAG6MAART
. Sakeluisêmekaaringoeie gees die stryd aanom die titelas potmeester by dieTygerberg-sakekamer se immergewildepotjiekoskompetiesie.Die kompetisie, njaarlikse hoogtepunt watnou in sy tiende jaar is, word by dieHoërskoolStellenbergaangebied. 'n Hele groep bekendes salvanjaarsebeoordeling behartig, insluitend MarindaEngelbrecht,MargitMeyer Rôdenbeck, StianBam,Andriette NormanenPeer Papsak vanBokradio,met PedroKrugerasdie seremoniemeester.Die pottebegin om 13:00prut. Stuur ne-pos na Marina by admin@tygerbergbc.co.zavir 'n inskrywingsvormenmeer inligting.Slegs 'n beperkte aantal pottekan ingeskryf word
SATERDAG7MAART
. Die AGSKuilsrivier se tehuis vir bejaardes (Care Village) bied van10:00 tot15:00'nherfsmarkaan op sy perseel te Kerkstraat17. Daar salmusiekwees, asook 'n verskeidenheidvan stalletjiesomnahartelus by te snuffel.Verdryf die honger met 'n wyekeuse watinsluit boereworsrolle,hamburgers en skyfies, kerrievetkoekeenveelmeer.Kom snuffel en smul saam en ondersteun só dietehuis
WOENSDAG11MAART
. PetraMüllersedigbundel Dieaandag vanjou oë –gedigte vir die liefde word by diebyeenkoms vandie Durbanville-Poësiekring op bespreek. Dr.Christa Thom saldie bespreking doen.Dit beginom10:00 in die Durbanville-biblioteeksaal. Toegang is gratis en R50 vir besoekers,ligte verversingsingesluit.Kontak Lesley vander Vyverbyteachervdv@gmail.comof083 460 4571 met navrae of om virbesoekers te bespreek
VRYDAG13MAART
. Die kykNETBuite-ekspo Wes-Kaapwordweer die naweek van13tot 15 Maartvanjaar op dieplaas Môresonnet buite Malmesburyaangebied. Diehooffokusval op tallebuitelewe-uitstallers watvan die jongste produkte tans beskikbaarindie buitelewe-, kampeer-en4x4-markuitstal soos watdie koper dit in diepraktyk sougebruik. Dagbesoekerkaartjies wissel vanR30 virkinders totR120vir volwassenes, afhangendvan diedag.Daarisook naweekpakkette Dit is beskikbaar by Open Ticketsbywww.ekspo.co.za en ook tydensdie ekspo by die hekke. Besoek webwerf by www.ekspo.co.za virmeer inligting
SATURDAY14MARCH
. TheFrancophonie Food and CultureFestival returns to Cape Town from 10:00to17:00 at the Belgian Residence, Newlands. Nowinits fifth year, thisfree, familyfriendlyfestival offersanengaging celebration of Frenchlanguage,culture,and creativity. exploremorethan60stalls offering authentic food, artisanalproducts, and cultural displaysfromacross theFrancophone world. Free entrance. Parking willbe availableatKirstenboschCottages, with afreeshuttle servicetothe festival.
. Families struggling to access special needs services in theWestern Cape willhavethe opportunity to connect with dozens of support providersunderone roof at an expo held at TheCheréBotha School, 20 Meerlust Street,Oakglen, Bellville,from09:00 to 12:00 Theevent is opentoschools, educators, parents and caregivers of individualswith special needs
erdelivera whilekeeping theminimum oidsevereservice
tariff increases to needed to avoid severe esholds will be raised, bands for fixed to mitigate the moving between possible.”
ty, the overall value Cape Townacross increased by 16,65% between from R1,85 trillion to properties in particular, all properties from R1,396 trillion to the median rates under R3 million 7per month, with increase for million –R3million case, 90% of million will avoid excess of around the valuation. The ranges roughly monthly for properties 6million, a2,5 from R200 –R350 valued R6 million –stated. that Cape Town’s rand is currently the lower rate-in-rand generally costs less to own a than it does anywhere also be expected to me, increasing the and personal wealth the income and rum,”Hill-Lewissaid. metro —Jo’burg rate-in-rand before ncrease for next even with higher Cape Town, you’restill while living in Also, the higher your bigger your saving will compared to property asset of the same differences in the
CTANDOBJECT owners wish to dispute not to reflect the accurately as at 1July 2025, submitted from 20 April thisyear on the form that can be found via e-Services and ection form. obtain the relevant at any inspection motivated and market-related information of 1July 2025. The and valid sales websitefor use by
ralValuation Roll rpublic inspectionon ap go om 20 February
Thebody of astreet personwas found in Panoramarecently.
ThePlattekloof,Welgelegen, Panorama andKleinbosch(PWP) Neighbourhood Watch, who assisted thepoliceinidentifyingthe dead man, appealedtothe public forassistanceinlocating hisnextofkin.Mike Buttner, PWPchair,saidafter he was foundnearthe hospitalonThursday morning (12February)Parow police contactedthe group to identifythe deceased.
ThelateLucas,awellknown homelessperson in thearea.
He said he wasidentified as Lucas, awell-known member of thelocal street community, commonly recognisedasa Rastafarian andoften seen on ablue Raleighbicycle
Afterassistingwiththe identification neighbour-
hood-watchmembers left thescene whilepolicecontinued their official investigation andprocedures. Buttner said thepolicewerehandling thematterand were responsible forlocating thenextofkin
“Weare appealing to thebroader communitytohelp us locate Lucas’s family so they maybeinformed and accorded thedignity of closure,”he said
ThePWP Neighbourhood Watch expressed itssincere condolences to thefamilyand friends of thedeceasedand hoped their appeal wouldhaveits expected outcome . It appealed to anyone with information to contact theParow Police Station on 021929 7000
RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
AGoodwood author's new book, Next LevelLove, is currently one of the bestsellers at alocal bookstore.
Shameez Patel, author, wife, mother and former civil engineer,worksinthe automotive industry, but in her spare time she writes romance novels. Thisnew book is her second romance novel to hit the book shelves.
“I have written for as longasIcan remember. My earliest memory of afull story was around theage of 10, and it was
titled The Treasures of Zombie Island, which hilariously, featured no zombiesat all,” she explains.
ALWAYSBEENADREAM
She sayswritingand publishing anovel has always been adream of hers. “I fully dedicated myself to writing during lockdown when everything felt bleak and we all needed an escape.”
Hernew book is currently amongthe bestsellersatExclusive Books.
Asked how shefeels aboutthis achievement, Patel responded saying: “I am honoured that Next Level Love achievedthe weekly bestseller statusatExclusive Books CanalWalk. Iamsodeeply appreciative of every purchasewhichmade thatpossible.”
NextLevel Love is an URLtoIRL romance where two gamers, who have fallenin love through onlinechatting,end up unknowingly workingtogether in acivil engineeringofficewhere their careers depend on their working relationship. It is forfansofAli Hazelwood, an Italian romance novelist,and lovers of the Hollywoodmovie You'veGot Mail,which features Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks.
Patel saysher next book is already in the making.
“The next book is awork-in-progress andwhile Ihave givenita title, it not something Ican share just yet. It is in the fun, carefree drafting state.”
She also sharedher advice to aspiring future authors.
“It sounds foolish to say, butmymost importantadvice to aspiringwriters is that they need to write. Finish yourdraft Do not switchideas. Do notstart deep editing. Of course, every writer is different, but learning howtofinish adraft is an incredibly importantskill.
“Thatand knowing thatsomeone somewherewill absolutely adore your work,” Patel says.
Familiesstrugglingtoaccess special needs services in the Western Cape will have theopportunity to connectwithdozens of support providers under one roof next month.
The Cheré BothaSchool will host an expo on Saturday 14 March, from 09:00 to 12:00, at 20 Meerlust Street, Oakglen, Bellville.
The event aims to bridge the gap between familiesand thewide range of services often difficult to access withinthe specialneedssector.
More than 20 serviceprovidersare expected to participate,including Horizon House, Oasis Protective Workshop, Iris House, Chris SteytlerIndustries, Vasco Special NeedsCentre, Sunfield Homes, Living Link, and Cape Town APD. Other participants include Autism Western Cape, Camphill Farm, Elizabeth Roos Home, and Evelyn Angeline Serenity Home.
“Unfortunately they do not want to move from there; they want to stay because it is nice there.”
Gerhard Fourie, Subcouncil Chair, said this wasanongoing issue.
Subcouncil 7encouraged residents rathertosupport the City's Give Dignity Initiative.
Accordingtothe City's websitethe interventions aim to raise awareness around theplightofpeople living on thestreet.Itemphasises the importance of giving those in need ahand up, ratherthan ahandout. Instead of acash handout,whichoften increases the risk
Theexpo will also feature supported employment enterprises, training workshops and educational-support services such as SISU Eduplay and Job Abled.
OPPORTUNITYTOCOLLABORATE
School officials describe the expo as “a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate and explore resources that can make ameaningful difference in the lives of our learners and families.”
Theevent is open to schools, educators, parents and caregivers who support individuals with special needs. Organisers encourage all members of the special-needs community to attend thisinformative gathering.
Theexpo representsanimportant step towards improving access to essential services for children and families with special needs in the region.
of prolonged homelessness, the City encourages people to make adonation to the initiative.
TheCitysupports 20 shelters by providing financial support.The donation from the public can help someone meet theirbasic needs; breakfast or ahot meal, anight in awarm bed, and amask or sanitiser.
Arepresentative of the SPUsaidthat theirteam has had new staff members joining them, and that thiswill allow them to be more visible within Subcouncil 7. . To help theGiveDignityInitiativecall021 480 7700
The South African NationalDefence Force (SANDF)has announced that applications for the 2027 Military Skills Development System (MSDS) intake are now open, offering young South Africans the opportunity to embarkonastructured two-yearmilitary career development programme.
Applications opened on 16 February and will closeon27March. The programme is designed for South Africancitizens between the ages of 18 and 22 years(for Grade 12 learners) or 18 to 26 years (for those with tertiaryqualifications) who meet specific educational andpersonal requirements.
Applicants must possess South African citizenship without dual citizenship, have an Admission Point Score (APS)of18 and above (excluding Life Orientation), maintain aclean criminal record,and comply with medical requirements including drug testing, psychometric evaluation, and medical assessment.
The Military Skills Development programme offers acomprehensive twoyearcontract that combinesprofessional development with practicalmilitary experience.During the firstyear recruits undergo initial military training followed by specialised functional training within their respective services.
. Application forms canbedropped off at the nearest recruitment centreorpostedto: DepartmentofDefence, Human Resource Division ChiefDirectorateHRManagement (Directorate HR Acquisition), PrivateBag X976, Pretoria 0001. Theform is availableathttps:// zurl.co/LQf8j
Aride-hailing driver wasarrested in Parow last week after metro police officers discovered he was using afraudulent licence and possessedequipment capable of producing fakedocuments
Officers were on patrol in Parow on Thursday 12 February at 09:30 when they noticed the driveracting suspiciously andtrying to avoid eye contact.Duringa routine traffic stop, they found his driver's licence to be fraudulent.
Asubsequent vehicle search revealed a device thatcould be used to manufacture fraudulent licences. Thedriver was arrested forproducing fraudulent documentsand detained at the Parow Police Station for further investigation
JP Smith, Mayco memberfor safety andsecurity,said the arrest highlighted ongoingsafetyconcerns in the public transport sector.
“Thisisanother example of public transportdrivers putting the livesoftheir passengers, otherroad users andtheir ownatrisk. Not only is it acriminal
offence to drive without alicence, and is it asafetyrisk, but it indicates alack of provencompetence,”Smith said.
He noted thatofficers had recently arrestednumerouspublic transport drivers for various offences, including drunk-driving, unlicenced driving and extreme overloading.
“Reliable public transport is essential for thecity's economic development, and while there are manychallenges, incompetent, unfit andunlicenced drivers should not be one of those challenges. Our officers will continue to patrol, check and arrest drivers who put the lives of hundreds at risk,” Smith added.
WEEKLYENFORCEMENTSTATISTICS
Last week'senforcement operations yieldedsignificantresults across multiple departments. Metro police officers made 114 arrests, of which21were for drivingunder theinfluence,while law enforcement made 183 arrests and issued
11 286 notices.
Traffic officers recorded 68 arrests, with 58 for driving under the influence of alcohol, eight for reckless or negligent driving and two for other offences. They also recorded 28 865 offences, impounded 170 publictransport vehicles and executed 928 warrantsofarrest
EMERGENCYRESPONSEDATA
ThePublic Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) handled 1277 calls for assistance over the weekend of 6February to 8February. Of these calls, 446 were for medical assistance, 57 wereassault-related cases, 35 involved domestic violence reportsand 37 concerned pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents.
Thepublic is reminded to report emergencies or suspicious and criminal activities by phoning the PECC on 021 480 7700. Callersshould provide detailed information, including the time, exact address and ashort description to assist enforcement services in responding swiftly.
RICHARDROBERTS
RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
The City's Fire andRescue Serviceswere called out to abuilding fire in Goodwood last week.The fire occurred at abuilding in Voortrekker Road, Townsend Estate in Goodwood
“Thefirewas startedbyfaulty electrical wiring.There were no injuries as far
as we know, andthe major damage was in theback store-room, and superficial cracksinthe adjacent building, but nothingmajor,” Sydney Abdallah, chair of theGoodwood Community Policing Forum (CPF) said.
There are businesses in the building, and that the CPFnever hadany issues with it buta problem-building is next to it, he said. Gerard Langenhoven, fire service spokesperson, says two pampers,a water tanker and skid unit wereused to extinguish the fire.
“Fire and rescue services received the call at 20:29 on Sunday 15 February of an out building alight. Thefirewas extinguished at 21:42.”
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Beaches are being littered withdiscarded disposable nappies, raising alarm among environmental groups and community volunteers.
At arecent clean-up at Lagoon Beach in Milnerton, hosted by Save aFishie, volunteers removed 187disposable nappies in just over an hour.
According to organisers this is notanisolated incident, but part of agrowing anddeeply troubling trend across rivers,estuaries and coastalareas.
Environmental advocacy group
Water Quality Awareness said theproblem reflectsa larger failure in waste management and producer accountability.
Product designer Jamii Hamlin described the situationasone of themostdisheartening aspects of modern consumer culture.
“Theconvenienceofa throwawaylifestyle andthe escalation of waste destined for landfill or flushed into the seahas become my greatest disillusionment.”
Sherecalledacoastal clean-up on RobbenIsland in 1999, where 22 000 pieces of rubbish were collected, amoment she described as her environmental “eureka” that shiftedher focus towards sustainable product design
Disposable nappies are made from complex materials, including plastics, elastic, adhesivesand super-absorbent polymers. They do not biodegrade. Instead, theybreak down into microplasticsthat enter marine ecosystems andpotentially the human food chain.
Environmental groups argue that while consumers must disposeofwaste responsibly, thescaleofnappies entering waterways points to systemic issues,from inadequatewaste services to insufficient producer responsibility.
Following the Lagoon Beach clean-up, Save aFishie issued an open letter to major disposable nappy brands calling for stronger action. The organisation is urging manufacturers to:
. Supportregular beach, river and wetland clean-ups.
. Invest in public education campaignsonproper disposal.
. Explore take-back schemes and lower-impact product alternatives.
. Strengthen Extended Producer Responsibility initiatives with measurable outcomes.
“If your logo is on our beaches it’s time your support is too,” theletter states. Founder Zoë Prinsloo emphasised that the
issue was not about blaming parents and caregivers.
“This is about systems that fail people and the environment,” she said. “What leaves our homes doesn’t disappear; it flows downstream.”
Advocates say City leadership is aware of the strain that nonbiodegradable waste places on sewage systems, landfills and biodiversity. But they argue that stronger enforcement, better infrastructure and greater producer accountability are urgently needed. Cape Town has repeatedly been recognised for its natural beauty and biodiversity. However, activists warn that maintaining that reputation requires decisive action.
James Vos, Mayco memberfor economicgrowth, is celebratingwhat he calls along-awaited victory for the city’s connectivityand economy as Airports Company South Africa announced Cape Town International Airport(CTIA) is about to getamajor facelift, to the value of R21,7 billion. Renovations and upgradesatCTIA will begin in March, when the airport will start work on upgrading thedomestic arrivalsterminal.
Some of the other renovations that are expected over the coming years include anew runway, expanded domesticand international terminals, and an upgraded security system.
Vos welcomed the announcement. “I warmly welcome ACSA’s announcement of these upgrades,” Vos said. “This has been aprojectclose to my heart for years. As part of our push to land more flights and open new international routes, we’ve been advocating tirelessly forexpanded capacity,and now, after all our efforts, Cape Town is hosting 228 international flights every week and connected to 31 destinations worldwide. It’s proof thatour strategies, from tourism campaigns to cityto-city agreements, areworking.”
According to Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), the ambitious R21.7 billion upgrade plan will includea new runway, expanded domesticand international terminals, and upgraded security systems.
“With over 10 million travellers processed in 2024 and cargo volumes up 56%, the upgrades couldn’t comeatamore critical time,” says Vos.
Renovations and upgrades to begininMarch.
According to Wesgro,the province’s tourism, trade,and investment promotion agency, international arrivals at CTIA contributed R24.3 billion to the Western Cape economy in 2022, supporting more than 10 000 jobs.
“Every flightthatlands here translates intoopportunities for ourcity, from hotels andrestaurants to transport andretail.
Aviationistruly an economic engine for Cape Town,” Vos explained.
The airport’s recentgrowth reflects years of strategicplanning.Airlines likeKLM have increased their frequencies, while new carriersare eyeing routes intothe Mother City.
Vosnotesthatthisprogress highlights the effectiveness of Cape Town’s Air Access initiative, andhesaid he has enjoyed working closely with the team to help bring these new routes and connections to thecity.
“Beyond just expanding the airport, this is about securing Cape Town’splace on theglobal stage,” Vos said. “I will be closelyfollowingACSA’s project timeline and delivery plan to makesure these upgrades are executed efficiently and on schedule. This is awin not justfor travellers, but for every Capetonian who benefits from athriving economy.”
SendMePlsallows userstoorder from multiplestoresinone trip,track deliveries in real-time,and enjoy securePIN-based handover.
ASouthAfrican on-demand delivery and personal shoppingapp is set to launch its public beta next month, promising to createnew earning opportunities for local residentswhilst simplifying everyday errands for customers.
SendMePlsofficially launched on 18 February2026, targeting South Africa's unemploymentcrisis which reached 42.6% in thethird quarter of 2025. Theplatform connectscustomers with local “runners” whocan complete deliveries and personal shoppingtasks usingbicycles, scooters, or cars.
“We’rebridging convenience and community,”said Florence Maziko, founding director of SendMePls. The platform is designed to create accessible earning opportunities whilstreducing the hassle of multiple errands for customers.
Unlike traditional delivery services, SendMePls allows customers to request deliveries from up to three different shops in asingle trip. Users can order essentials, appliances, household items, or set a budget and shop from anystorewithout restrictions.
Theapp offers real-time delivery tracking and secure PIN-based handovers, with three delivery options: standard, express, and scheduled. Beyond shopping, the platformenables users to book rides, send parcels, and purchase gifts. Runners can potentially earn up to R8 000 per month, according to the company. The low barrier to entry means individuals can start working using existing bicycles, scooters, or cars, making it accessible to abroader range of job seekers.
Thecompany has planned 2000 promotional trips for March 2026 across three provinces: 1200 in Gauteng, 500 in the Western Cape, and 300 in KwaZuluNatal. Target areas include both suburbs and townships such as Soweto, Tembisa, Katlehong, Soshanguve, Mamelodi,Kagiso, Mohlakeng, Toekomrus, Sebokeng, Umlazi, Khayelitsha, and Langa.
SendMePls will be available through the Apple App Store and WhatsApp, with plans for nationwide expansion.
Die politici het baie te sê oor die muur —daai een watouGeordie langsdie N2 wilbou
Watbedoel is om misdaad langseen vanons gevaarlikse hoofweë te help hokslaan,isintussen bestempel as 'n "apartheidsmuur", die "Berlynmuur", "muurvan skaamtes" watten doel het om ons"arm gebiedeweg te steek", net"nog'n skeidingslyn"
Danisdaar ook die watwil siendat diegeld beter aangewend word,want dis 'n "oppervlakkige oplossing watnet weer afgebreek gaan word”. Ek wonder hoeveel vandaardie politici watso vinnig op hul perdjies gespring het,net terwille van teenspraak maak, regtig na die groterprentjie gekyk het en die voordelevan so 'n muur opgeweeg het. Met 'n besoek aan Oostenryk so twee jaargelede het ek my verwonder aan die hoë mure langsWene se hoofweë
Virdie oningeligtes, Oostenryk is onder dietop-20 rykste lande in die wêreld.Die land se hawelose bevolking is maar 0,22%van sy totale bevolkingen 'n "shack"is'nberghutofherbergindie Alpe.Dis 'n natuurskoneland,met pragtigehistoriesegeboue. Nou hoekom dan 'n muur langsdie snelweg as hulle nikshet om wegtesteek nie?
Wel, die hoofdoel is om klankbesoedeling te beperk. Die omliggende woonbuurte word beskerm teen die konstantegedreun vanvoertuie. Tesame daarmee bevorder dit biodiversiteitenhernubare energie "Groen" ekovriendelike murewordbedek met plantegroei wat'nhabitat skep virinsekte en voëls, en ook stedeliketemperaturehelpverlaag. Verder dien vandit as sonkrag-geraasversperringswat krag opwek. Daar word selfsalgeëksperimenteer om wind watdeur verkeer geskep word deur middel vanvertikaleturbines binne dieinfrastruktuur in hernubare krag om te skep
Hoë murelangssnelweëisook nieuniek aan Oostenryk nie
LangsDuitsland —die einstelandwat ook 'n politiekeskeidingsmuur afgebreek het— se autobahn, 'n snelwegwaarvan70% geen amptelike spoedperk het nie,ishoë mureingespanomgeraas te beperk. Ook daar is baanbrekerswerk gedoenmet sonkrag-aangedreweversperringsenplantbedekte "groen" murewat klank absorbeer terwyl ditstof filtreer
Volgens Facebook-gerugtehet Belgiësesnelwegmureinnoverende ontwerpe,insluitend mure watsoosklaviersleutelsgevorm is en aërodinamika gebruik om subtielemusikaletone te skep.Ekisdie eerstepersoon watvir jou gaan sê jy kannie alles op sosialemedia glonie en twyfel dusofdit waar is, maar dink net hoe besonders so iets souwees. Die TsjeggieseRepubliek het welinnoverende snelwegmure. Die "Noba", soos dit daar bekend staan,isgemaak vanherwinde bande, watgeraas doeltreffend absorbeer.Dit het selfsin2020 'n gesogteRed Dot-toekenning gewen. Japan, die VSA(die Trompetterseskeidingsmuur uitgesluit), Kanada, Nederland, Pole …die lysgaan aan.
Virongeveer 10 jaar hetekreg langs'nsnelweg gewoon —vyf daarvanlangsdie puntwaartweevan dieKaap se besigstesnelweëbymekaar aansluit.Dit wasdoelloos om in die somer die namiddagnuusof Egoli te probeer kyk. Die televisie se klankkon netnie kompeteer nie.Ekkan myself indink watseimpak 'n muur op klankbesoedeling gaan hê vir mensewat reglangsdie N2 woon.
Kombineer dit met dieveiligheidsvoordele vir beide daardie inwoners en motoriste, danklink die muur mosná'nblink plan. Sit so bietjieekstra beplanning, innoveringenfinansiële steundaaragter en ditkan ook bydratot die kragnetwerk …onthou beurtkrag?
As jy my vra, is dit iets watlangsalons snelweë kort,nie net ons gevaarlikstepaaie nie.Ennee,vibracreteisnie die oplossingnie
Dit voel egtervir my asof sommigevan ons politici weer agteruit wil boernet omdat daar 'n verkiesing om diedraai is.
-CECILIA HUME
METDAPPERENSTAPPER: Stappers beur teen‘n bultuit in die 6km-stap Vrydagaandbydie Weg-Stapfees,wat
buite Durbanville aangebied is FOTO:CARINAROUX
Agolden milestone:A heartfelt thank youtothe peopleofMitchells Plain
On Thursday 12 Februarywegathered at Highlands Primary in Woodlands in unityand faith to mark the beginning of Mitchells Plain’s community-led50th anniversary celebrations.
TheMitchells Plain Legacy Project Team wishes to extend our deepestgratitude to everycommunity member,leader,organisation,wardcouncillorand local, provincial andnational governmentrepresentativesthatjoinedusfor our interfaith serviceand media launch.
We oweadebt of gratitude to the stakeholders and leaderswho have walked this road with us through monthlyengagements. Your voices arethe heartbeat of this project. To those who haven'tyet joined —our doors remain wide open. This legacy belongs to every forum, club, neighbourhood watchand street committeeinMitchellsPlain
Oursincereappreciation goes to principal Tanyavan Graan and educators of Mitchells Plain’s oldest school, Highlands Primary, which firstopened its doors in October 1976. Thankyou forbeingsuchgracioushosts. Your halland technical support provided theperfect canvas forthis historic moment.
Thankyou to our interfaith leaders,especially ReverendGailManoek of Christ the KingAnglicanChurch, Moulana Tawfeeq Elyofthe Imam Council of Mitchells Plainand Pastor Theo Roman of the West ReachAssemblies of God. Thankyou forthe scriptures, prayers, andmessagesofhope that reminded us thatweare a
communitybuiltona foundation of faith.
Our hearts were fullwatching Marsha Bothmaand the little ones of Mizpah EducareinBeaconValleylead us in the national anthem. To the learners of Highlands, Perseverance andYellowwood primaryschools, your poetry, dance, andsongprovedthatthe talent in our classrooms is world-class.
Aspecial shout-out to Strandfontein resident Mario Oostendorp forcompilingaspecial song celebrating Mitchells Plain’s 50-year journey,and sharing your musical gift so graciously.
Heartfelt thankstoShamiel Kolbee (Mitchells Plain Business Hive) andZaida Julius (Edubiz Media and Foundation) forsponsoringthe refreshments. Your support reminds us that localbusiness is the backbone of communityupliftment
As we move forwardintothisGolden Jubilee,let us continuetotellthe stories that matter—stories of resilience,excellence, andasharedheritage.
ThankYou! Baie dankie! Enkosikakhulu! Shukran!
*The Mitchells Plain Legacy Projectisa collective, apolitical andvoluntary effortbyvarious local organisations andleaders to promote socialcohesion andunity as we celebrate50decades of resilienceand more.
Our next public engagement willbeheldon12 March at WestridgeLibrary, from 09:30 to 11:00. For moreinformation,followthe Mitchells Plain Legacy Project Facebook page andWhatsApp channel.
DR ALICIA ENGLISH, ON BEHALF OF THE MITCHELLSPLAIN LEGACY PROJECTTEAM
I'm absolutely fedupwith the number of dog owners inour area who think it's perfectlyfine to lettheir pets run wild without leads. It's becomingaserious problem that's affecting everyone'ssafetyand enjoymentofpublicspaces. Just last week,I wasout formymorningjog whena massive German Shepherdcame chargingtowards me, barking aggressively. Theownerwas nowhereinsight, andIhonestlythought Iwas about to be attacked. When Ifinally spottedthe owners chattingontheir phone 50 metres away,theyjustshruggedand said, "He's friendly"!
Well,that's notthe point, is it? Ishouldn't have to
guess whethersomeone's dog is going to bitemeor just wants to play.Myelderlymother won'tevenwalk to the shopsanymorebecauseshe'sterrifiedofbeing knocked over by an overexcited dog. And don't get me started on the mess theseunleashed dogsleave behind in our parksand on pavements. It's disgustingand completelyunfair to families trying to enjoy thesespaces. Thelaw is crystalclear –dogsmust be on leads in public areas. It's notjustabout following rules; it's about common courtesyand respect foryour neighbours. Your dog might be the sweetest creature on earth,but the rest of us don't knowthat. FEDUP, Durbanville
Die metro is besig om in ‘n tente- of karton-dorp te ontaard. Hierdie euwel word by die dagerger en geen noemenswaardigevordering word gemaak om dit te keer nie
Die redes dat hierdie tendens ‘n euwel genoem kan word,isalgemene kennis. Onsbetaal hoëbelastings en heffingsterwyl hierdie mensewater steel en mors waar hulle kan, om nie eens te praat vandie gemors wathulle oral agterlaat nie.Nou en dan, ná baie klagtesenverwysingsnommers,wordhulle op enkele plekkeverwyder,maar die gemors blyagter.Enoor ‘n dagoftweeishulle terug.
Soosekdie situasie sien, het die Stad “informeel” moedopgegee hiermeeenbesef dis ‘n verlorestryd Intussen blyk die plaaslike regeerders trots daarop te wees dat mensenadie metrostroom …ongelukkig nie mensewat ‘n positiewe bydrae kanlewer nie J. VANDER MERWE, Bellville
Iamfrustrated at the ongoing problems at De Oude Spruit dam, which at times is an absolute nightmare forresidents.
What wasonceapeacefulspot hasturned intoa regularhangout forgroupsofyoung peoplewho seem to have no respect whatsoeverfor the community. They gather theretodrink, smoke, anduse the most appalling language youcan imagine As someonewho's livedherefor over15years, I'm genuinelyworried aboutthis. My elderlyneighbour can'tevenwalkher dog thereanymorebecause she's been verbally abusedfor asking them to keep the noisedown.
We'vecalledthe police, but theyshowuphours laterwhen everyone'salready gone.The council seems equally disinterested in sortingthis mess out. This dam belongs to allofus, notjust abunch of rowdy teenagers who think theyown the place. We need proper enforcement,regular patrols, andperhaps some decent lighting andCCTV to deter this antisocial behaviour.Enoughisenough. Ourcommunitydeserves better.
ACONCERNED RESIDENT,Brackenfell
To mark International Childhood Cancer Day, on Sunday 15 February, Tygerberg Hospital and the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital raised awareness of the importance of early detection and timely treatment of childhood cancers.
Paediatric(or childhood) cancer, though less common than adult cancer, requires timely recognition and intervention to improve outcomes. Themost common types of paediatric cancer include brain tumours, acute leukaemia and tumours arising from primitivecells in deepseated organs such as the liver, kidney and adrenal glands. Unlike adult cancers these cancers often grow quickly,but respond well to chemotherapy, the hospitals say.
ALLIYAHLEWIS’JOURNEY
In 2024 Alliyah Lewis, a two-year-old from Darling, presented progressive abdominal swelling, pain and weight loss. She was diagnosed with stage-4 neuroblastoma, acancer affecting the adrenal glands and parts of the nervous system. Alliyah's treatment included intensive chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and nutritional support, the hospitals say. In December 2025 she joyfully rang the copper bell at the Tygerberg Hospital's paediatric oncology ward,marking the completion of her treatment. She is now ahappy little girl, running and playing
AMBERMICHAEL’SJOURNEY
The story of 18-year-old Amber Michael from Heideveld illustrates the importance of vigilanceand early detection. Alump, initially identified and treated in 2012 when she was five years old, returned in 2020 and grew rapidly. After tests and biopsies at Red Cross Amber was diagnosed with stage-1 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She underwent rapid chemotherapy and received exceptional care from doctors, nurses and hospital staff. Today, Amber is afirst-year BA (psychology) student at the University of the Western Cape, atestament
City of CapeTown energy teamsworked around the clock during the festive period, fixing an impressive 6666 streetlight problemsbetween 26 December 2025 and 25 January 2026.
The hardworking crews alsoresolved atotal of 22 457 electricity-relatedservicerequests over the31-dayperiod. "I am immensely proudand grateful for thehard work and dedication of our technical teams throughout thebusyfestive peakperiod," said Mayco member for energy, Xanthea Limberg.
Theteams attended to an average
of around215 streetlight requests perday –helping the City's streetlight burn raterecover to an impressive 89,9% average over thelasttwo reported months. The City maintains amassive network of over 245 000 streetlights across Cape Town.
This year's R75,5 million streetlight capital budget will help grow andmaintain thesevital communityassets. But criminals
continue to target streetlights, with theft, vandalism and illegal connections causing most outages. "Inmost cases, tens of meters of cables and entire fittings are stolen, causing large and often complex streetlight faults," Limberg explained.
TheCity's Energy SafetyTeam and law enforcement remain visible in hotspot areas, while officials explore new anti-theft and vandalism solutions. . Residentscan help protecttheir neighbourhood lightsbyreporting suspicious behaviour to theCity's Public EmergencyCommunication Centre on 021480 7700.
to the life-saving potentialof timelydetectionand effective treatment, the hospitals say.
RECOGNISINGTHEWARNINGSIGNS
Parents shouldbealert to persistent symptomssuchas:
. Pallorand easy bruisingor bleeding, often associated with bone or jointpain;
. Persistently enlarged lymph nodes;
. Unexplained lumps in the abdomen, headand neck, limbs ortestes;
. White spots in the eye, new squints or bulgingeyes;
. Neurologicalchangessuch as deteriorationinbalance or speech andprolonged headaches.
Early medical consultation is crucialifany of these symptoms persist,the hospitals say
WHENTOSEEKMEDICALCARE
“If younoticeany warning signs persisting consult a physicianorqualified healthcare provider immediately,” advised ProfAlan Davidson, head of haematologyand oncologyatRed Cross. "Early recognitionallows forquicker diagnosis andbetter outcomes. While some symptomsmay resemble common childhood illnesses,promptinvestigation is essential."
In the Cape approximately 100 children under age 15 arediagnosed withcancer annually. While certaintypes, such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia,haveshown increases in specific populations, overallchildhood cancer ratesremain relatively stable, with casenumbers rising as the population grows.
Considering general practitioners and paediatricians encounter very few cases over aprofessional career the paediatric oncologyunits atRed Cross War MemorialChildren’s Hospital,TygerbergHospital andRondebosch Medical Centre work closely with the childhood-cancer charity, Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, to educate medicalprofessionalsin recognising and acting on the warningsigns,the hospitals say
The Astron EnergyRefinery in Milnertonhas announced that it will undergo scheduled maintenance and safety inspections on specific operational units from 14 February to the end of April. The refinery emphasises that the health and safety of its employees and surroundingcommunities remain its top priorityduring this period. During the maintenance and inspection period, the followingmay occur: . Increased noise levels: Certain maintenance activities may
produce higher noise levels. Every effort will be made to keep these disturbances to aminimum.
. Visible emissions: The systematic shutting down and depressurising of units may occasionally result in visible emissions.
"The refinery reassures residents that precautionary measures are in place to protect the local environment and community," Astronsaid in astatement.
Astron Energy said they are committed to keeping the
community informed. Residents seeking further information can contact Nwabisa Luzipho at Astron Energy on 021 508 3797 or send an SMS with the word ‘Info’ to 30786. Arefinery representative will respond promptly, and SMS queries are free of charge.
Dan Hirsch, General Manager of Manufacturing at Astron Energy, stated that the scheduled maintenance and safetyinspections are critical activities designed to ensure the refinery continues to operate safely and efficiently.
The City of Cape Town announced last week that it willtemporarily close some of itsswimming poolsasfrom Monday 23 Februaryfor planned infrastructure repairs, maintenance, and upgrades.
The Goodwood Swimming Pool in Milton Road, Goodwood, is one of the swimming pools which will temporarily close its doors for work to be done, which the municipality says is aimed at ensuring safe, reliable, and well-maintained facilities for local communities.
In astatement issued on Friday last week theCity says its recreation and parks department has adopted strategies to ensure the sustainability of its 37 swimming pools, and is now midway through its five-year swimming pool programme which has several phases. Some have been completedand this includes infrastructure repairs, maintenance and improvements which will continue in preparation for the upcoming 2026-’27 financial year swimming pool season, the City says. Two swimming pools havealready closed,Delft and Bellville South.
In addition, as part of the next phase, the Goodwood Swimming Pool, along with the Manenberg,Lentegeur and Langa Swimming Pools, will close forthe remainder of the current swimming pool season.
Over the past three financialyears, the City invested approximately R113,5 million in swimming pool upgrades and maintenanceacross the metropole
“Our swimmingpools are vital, multifunctionalcommunity hubs thatpromote health, safety, andasense of community.
Theseare facilities that are well-used and aremorethanjust aplacetocool off, but we need to ensure they remain in good condition and maintained.
“We appreciateresident’spatienceaswe continue to work towards providing world class facilitiesfor all,” says Francine Higham, Maycomember for community services andhealth.
The restofthe City's swimming pools will remain operational until 22 March –fromWednesdays to Sundays between 10:00 and 18:00. From 23 Marchuntil6 April, theseswimming pools will operate daily againfor the school holidays,and close for the seasononTuesday7April, the City says
KAILINDANIELS
Environmental organisation Save aFishie hasofficially launched its 2026 Schools Eco Challenge and Environmental Awareness Campaign in partnership with the City of Cape Town.
Running from March to June, the initiative invitesprimary schools across themetro to participateinahands-on environmental education programme aimed at tackling pollution, waste reduction, recycling, water conservation and ecosystemprotection.
Theprogramme is designed to move beyond theory —placing learners at the centre of real-world environmental action.
Participating schools will form Eco Teams of 20 learners who will complete aseriesofpractical challenges to create meaningfulenvironmental impact within theirschoolsand surrounding communities.
Through action-based learning, learners will explore how everydaybehaviours affect streets, parks, rivers and oceans —and howsimple changes can prevent pollution before it starts.
Rather thanonlylearning about environmental problems, learners will actively become part of the solution.
PRACTICALCHALLENGESWITHREALIMPACT
Activities during the three-month campaign will include:
. School andcommunity clean-ups.
. Recycling and wastereduction initiatives.
. Water conservation awareness campaigns.
. Environmentaleducation projects.
. Creative “Recycling Monster” builds using reclaimed materials.
“These hands-on activities aim to inspire long-term behaviour change among learners, their families and broader school communities,”says Zoë Prinsloo, founder of Save aFishie.
EMPOWERINGYOUNG ENVIRONMENTALLEADERS
Thecampaign seekstoengage up to 50 schools, directly involving more than 1000 learners and indirectly reaching thousands more.
“This project is about giving learners the opportunity to understand pollution in a real-world way,” says Prinsloo.
“When young people see the impact of theiractions and realise they can be part of the solution, lasting change begins.
“Thanks to the City of Cape Town’s support,wecan reach more schools and empower more future environmental custodians.”
At the conclusion of the programme, Eco Teams will present their projects for judging.
Thetop three schools will receive prizes of:
. R20000 (first place); . R10000 (second place); . R5 000 (third place);
Theprize money will support further sustainability initiatives at winning schools, alongside recognition awards for participating team members.
. Schoolsinterestedinjoining the2026 SchoolsEco Challenge cancontact Save aFishie at info@saveafishie.co.zafor more information.
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