TygerBurger | Durbanville | E-edition | 15 April 2026

WOENSDAG15APRIL

. DieTygerberg Tuin- en Blommeklub komom 09:30 vir 10:00 by dieNGkerk ParowWelgelegen, Provencestraat47, Welgelegen, byeen. Lorraine Rose doen ‘n blommedemonstrasie met die tema “Verrassing” en Anja Freysenpraat oor moderne tendenseintuinontwerp en wenke. Die blommekunskompetisie se tema is “Halfmoon kisses”.Tee word van09:30 voorsien. Kontak Beatrix Lambert-Bestbier by 082873 9864met navrae

. Curious about Buddhism and the practiseof meditation? Residents and visitorsare invited to join aBuddhist lecture on meditationatMilnertonLibrary, 81 Pienaar Road,onWednesday15April at 18:30. Theevening willinclude atalk on meditationfroma Buddhist perspective, followedbya guided session to help participantsexperiencemindfulness firsthand Thesession is expected to last 2–3hours, and newcomers arewarmlywelcomed. Thelecture is open to all, witha suggested donation of R70, and visitor parkingisavailable at the library. Forenquiriesorto register,contact capetown@buddhism-southafrica orgor067 3768336

SATERDAG18APRIL

. DieVriendevan Bracken vier hul 20 jaar vandiens by dieBracken-natuurreservaatmet ’n grootbyeenkoms by diereservaat.Daarsal ’n verskeidenheid van stalletjies en aktiwiteitesoos’npretdraf, ’n begeleide stap,’npraatjie en rotsverf vir jong kinders wees. Die dagbegin om 07:00 en eindig 12:00. Kontak André by 071089 9503 vir meer inligting.

.TheCapeModel and ToyClubwillbehaving their Summer CollectorsToy Fair onceagain thisweekend Theevent willbeheldatthe Edgemead Community Hall in Edgemead on Saturday18April. Theevent starts at 09:00,finishing at 14:00.Entrycosts R10 perpersonand children under 16 yearsenter forfree. Organisers saysofar 80 tables have already been booked and thatrefreshmentswillalsobeonsale. Formoredetails call Chris Lourens on 083448 6813or email capemodeltoyclub1997@gmail.com

.Aspecialfamilymovie evening is being presented by the Andries OlivierDurbanville QuadriplegicCentre on Saturday18April from 15:00 to 17:30.EntryisR40 forchildren and R60 foradults. Snackswillbesold at the venue.The event will be heldatthe centre at 18 Hafele Street in Durbanville.The Andries Olivier Durbanville QuadriplegicCentre is an independent care facilityfor paraplegicand quadriplegicpeople. Contact Ella on 079469 6267 to book your spot or for more information.

THURSDAY23APRIL

TheR5book sale at the Durbanville Children’sHome willtakeplace on Thursday23April and Friday24 April from 09:00 to 15:00 and Saturday25April from 09:00 to 13:00 at the receptionarea. Therewillbe alarge selection of fiction, non-fiction, coffee-table and children’sbooks, as well as CDsand DVDs. Card facilities willbeavailable

TUESDAY28APRIL

. TheEgyptianSocietyofSouthAfricawillhostits next meeting at St George’sGrammar School in Mowbray on Tuesday28April at 19:30.Guest speaker Prof Sebastianvan As willpresent alecture titled “The NurtureofChildren in Ancient Egypt”,offering insight intochildhoodpractices and upbringing in one of history’soldestcivilisations. Entryisfreefor members, whilevisitorspay R30.Refreshmentswillbeavailable at acostofR10.Booking is not required,and secure parkingisavailable on the schoolgrounds. Formore information, contact 021852 7273 or 084 7743972.

SATURDAY2MAY

. TheCapeTownGem and Mineral Club’s next open daytakes placefrom10:00 to 14:00 at 14aGoede Hoop St,Bothasig.Entryisfree. Learnmoreabout the hobbyofcrystals, gems, and mineral specimen collecting, and relatedcraftwork.Plentyofoff-road parking. Food available.All welcome, especially children.

SATURDAY30MAY

. TheDianna JacksonFoundationwillhosta Community MarketDay from 10:00 to 15:00 at the Summer Greens Community Centre,22TinkersRoad, Summer Greens. Theevent will featurelocal vendors, food stalls,handmadecrafts, fashion, music and family-friendlyentertainment.Freeentry.For more informationcontact CJ JacksononWhatsApp 072830 1966.

FRIDAY12JUNE

.TheMitchells PlainUnited Residents Association (Mura) willbehaving aGolf Dayaspartofthe area’s 50th anniversarycelebrations. It will be heldatthe RoyalCapeGolf Club on Friday12June. Theevent will caterfor 120players over six to eight waterholes. Mura is in need of prizes, waterholesponsors, contentsfor goodie-bags, and auctionitems forthe prize-giving dinners. If youwouldliketotakepart, donateorfor more information, contact NormanJantjesat

Objectionsagainstdevelopment

Ofthe 3419 Durbanville residents whohave signed apetition against the proposed development of Durbanville racecourse, atotal of 34% mentionedinfrastructure capacity and 28% traffic congestion as their main concerns.

According to Richard Downing,a resident who started the petition, it includes more than 600 pages of comments by the residents who have signed it. In asummary of the objections he said other common concerns were loss of open space and environment(24%), the effect on the heritage and the character of Durbanville(18%) and rezoning and title deedrestrictions (8%).

OUTLINESOBJECTIONS

“This executive summary outlines the primary objections raised by residents regarding the proposed development of Durbanville Racecourse. Theconcerns reflectwidespread oppositionacross multiplecategories, highlighting risks to heritage, infrastructure, traffic and community well-being,” Downing said.

The proposed developmentapplication is forthe removal of restrictive conditions, consolidation, rezoning, the approval of street names and the approval ofa development framework forErven 458, 4627 and4658, commonly known as Hollywoodbets Durbanville Racecourse. The application by Urban Dynamics Cape for thedevelopment of 980 residential units includes 310 single residentialunits, 210 sectional title unitsand 20 apartment units.

It also includes retail and office space, tourist facilities, aplace of assembly, a placeofentertainment and utility services for racecourse-related amenities and

facilities,aswell as aclubhouse and a private stormwaterattenuationpond. The deadline forobjections andcommentswas on Monday 6April.

Besides the petition, atotal of 123 individual objections andfourlate objections were received, as confirmedby the City of Cape Town, Downing said.

“The racecourse is regarded as a heritage site and integral to Durbanville’s identity. Residents fear the loss of the ‘village feel’ and transformation into a denseurbanenvironment. Many invested in Durbanville specifically for its rural charm and open spaces,” Downingsaid in his summary.

TRAFFICCONGESTION

“Roads such as St Johns Road, Bowlers Avenue and Aurora Street are already gridlocked during peak hours. Thereare concerns about road safety, speeding andcongestionaround schools.The development will worsen traffic volumes andincrease risksfor pedestriansand children,” he said.

He voiced residents’ concerns: “Schools areover capacity, with children struggling to secureplacement. Water shortages, sewage failures and stormwater issues are already prevalent. Medical andpolicing services areoverstretched andunable to absorbadditional demand.”

LOSSOFOPENSPACE

“The racecourse is one of the last open

green spacesinDurbanville,” Downing said. “Residents have concerns about naturalhabitat destruction, drainage and ecological continuity. They have, in their comments, emphasized the importance of preservingrecreational and community spaces

“Therewere alsoobjections to the removal of restrictive clauses in the title deed andconcerns aboutprocedural fairness andlack of transparency in rezoningprocesses. Residents purchased property with the understanding that open space rights were protected,” he said.

OVERWHELMINGCONCERN

“Theobjections demonstrate overwhelmingcommunity concern that the proposeddevelopment is unsustainable, poorly planned and destructive to Durbanville’s heritage and liveability.

“Thestrongest opposition relates to infrastructure capacity and traffic congestion, but heritage and environmental concerns remain

significant.Legal and procedural objections further underscore the need for transparency and adherence to existing protections.

“Our recommendation is that the City should give serious consideration to these objections before approving any rezoning or development applications. Responsible urban planning must prioritise infrastructure readiness, heritage preservation and community well-being,” he said.

Eddie Andrews, deputy mayor and Mayco member for spatial planning and environment, had previously told TygerBurger the petition and any other inputsorcomments received will be sent to the applicant for theirresponse before the matter is tabled at the municipal planning tribunal.

“This matter is an active application that is being duly processed. The application is in the advertising stage. The purpose of thisstage is to obtain inputsfrom the publicand the City’s internal technical departments,” he said.

FROMPAGE1

“The news felt like reliving the nightmare all over again,” Britz said. “Heisdoing hisbest to stay strong and hopeful. Emotionally,ithas been averystressful and overwhelming time for all of us,but he has also been deeply moved by the incredible supportfrom friends,family and even strangers.”

ARACEAGAINSTTIME

“Our dad has not yet been able to begin his next round of treatment,”

said Britz. “Hewill be able to start only once we have raised enoughfunds for the firstround of chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

“We are hopingthiswill happen soon, andhis doctorsare alsotrying to arrange discounts with the relevant institutions. Theurgencyisclear, without timely treatment,his condition could continue to worsen.”

The sisters havelaunched a crowdfundingcampaign to raise R800 000 to help coverurgently-needed chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment that is not fully covered by medicalaid

“The costs are enormous,” Britz pointed out, “blood tests alonecosts R28 000, R150 000 forthe first dosage of immunotherapy and the chemotreatment morethan R91 000.

“Herecently went for abiopsy and will go for furtherbloodtests on Monday13 April forimmunotherapy.”

Herfatherisdescribed by his family asthe heart of their home —a devoted husband, lovingfather andaman whose

strengthhas held the family together through difficult times.

“Mydad means everything to our family and so much to the people around him,” said Britz. “Heisa deeply caring person whohas always shown up for others with generosity, strength andkindness.

“Beyond his role as afather he has helped manypeople through hypnotherapy, supporting those struggling with addiction, helping establish rehabilitation centres andguiding others through deep personal trauma.

“He has madea real difference in manylives, and in his community he is known as someone who gives of himself wholeheartedly.”

HOLDINGONTOHOPE

On herfamily theemotional toll has been immense, Britz said.

“Themostdifficult part of thisjourney has been tryingtostay hopeful and positive through so much uncertainty, while holding ontofaith that he can be healed again.”

Funds raised through the campaign will

help cover: . Chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments; . Specialist consultations and medical scans; . Blood tests and monitoring; . Medication, pain management and supportive care.

To date atotal of R137 192 has been raised through the campaign, 17% of the R800 000 needed.

For theBritzfamily every contribution representsanother chance for father Chris to continue his fight.

“We are deeply grateful for everyprayer, donation, kind word and act of support,” his daughter said. “Your generosity has given our family hope in one of the hardest seasons of our lives.”

“If you cannot donate please consider sharing our story or keeping our family in your prayers.”

. To supportChristiaan Britz’s campaign,visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/ stand-with-britz-family-help-chris-fightcancer

PietTande komkuier

Solidariteit Helpende

Hand(SHH) se geliefde tandgesondheidsgelukbringer,Piet Tande, hetonlangs'nvrolike en leersame besoek by drie Kwetterbekkies-kampusse in Durbanville afgelê. Die besoeke aan die kleuterskole in Uitzicht, Sonstraal en Amanda Glen vorm deel van Helpende Hand se breër streeksinisiatief om gesonde leefgewoontes, selfbewussyn en mondversorging reeds van kleuterouderdom af te versterk

SPEELSEMANIER

"Met sy kenmerkende humor, groot glimlag en energieke persoonlikheid het Piet Tande kinders op 'n speelse manier bewus gemaak van die belangrikheid van tande borsel, gesonde eetgewoontes en vroeë mondsorg," sê Mariëtte Roos, streekorganiseerder: Weskus van Solidariteit Helpende Hand. By die Uitzicht- en Sonstraalkampushet dr. Ruan Visagie van Visagie Dentistry in Durbanville die sessies gelei en die maats ingelig oor hoe tandbederfontstaan, watter kos tande beskadig en hoe hulle hul glimlag in die lang termyn kan beskerm. "Sykindervriendelike verduidelikings en praktiese voorbeelde het die kleingoed laat luister én aktief deelneem," sê Roos.

By dieAmanda Glen-kampus het dr. MariekeFraenkel die leiding geneem. "Syhet op 'n toeganklike en entoesiastiese manier verduidelik waarom gereelde mondhigiëne so

BEVORDERGESONDE LEEFSTYL ONDER KLEUTERSOPPRETTIGE WYSE

belangrik is en hoe kinders met eenvoudige, daaglikse gewoontes hul tandgesondheid kan verbeter.Haar energie en warmte het die jong leerders se aandag van begin tot einde vasgevang," sê Roos.

GROOTOPGEWONDENHEIDOOR

PIETTANDE

"Die besoeke het groot opgewondenheid onder die maats veroorsaak, en onderwysers vertel dat die kombinasie van Piet Tande se speelsheid en die kundige insette van dietwee tandheelkundiges die boodskap op 'n duidelike en prettige manier gevestig het. Virbaie kinders was dit die eerste keer dat hulle op 'n eenvoudige, interaktiewe wyse geleer het waarom hul eie gesondheid belangrik is,"sêRoos.

"Die besoeke in Durbanville was deel van 'n reeks opvoedkundige sessies wat Helpende Hand aan die Weskus en in Kaapstad aanbied —alles met die doel om jong kinders te bemagtigmet kennisen gewoontes wat hul welstand vir jare kan ondersteun," sluit sy af.

Die Helpende Hand Durbanville-tak het nog verskeie projekte wat deur die jaar beplan word.

. Kontak Mariëtte Roos by marietteroos@helpendehand.co.za om betrokke te raak.

Dr.Marieke Fraenkel van Durbanville leer diekleuters by Kwetterbekkiesin Amanda Glen van tandesorg.

Familymovie screening fundraiser

Aspecial familymovie evening is being presented by the Andries Olivier Durbanville Quadriplegic Centreon Saturday18April from 15:00 to 17:30 Come and enjoythe featured film Zootopia 2 withthe wholefamilyfor an afternoon of laughter,adventureand popcorn fun. EntryisR40 forchildren and R60 foradults. Snacks willbesoldatthe venue

Theevent willbeheldatthe centre at 18 HafeleStreet in Durbanville. TheAndries Olivier Durbanville Quadriplegic Centreisanindependent

care facility forparaplegic and quadriplegic peopleand has enjoyed the favour and charitableactions of the Durbanvillecommunityovermany years. Theresidentshope to continue this support as theyaim to remain relevant to their existing long-term funders and establish relationshipswith the younger members of their community so the centrecan prosper in the years to come . Contact Ella on 079469 6267 to book your spot or formore information.

Rotarygivestabletstofarmschools

Learners from underprivileged primaryschools outside Durbanville recently benefited froma donation of much-needed tablets by the Rotary ClubofTygerberg.

The foundation phase teachers of Fisantekraal Primary Schooland Vissershok Primary School were equipped with tablets to assist theminteaching mathematics and language literacy skills. At arecent handover ceremony and demonstration of the tablets,the Rotarians were blown away at the easewith which the learners, manyofwhom have no access to technology in their homes, took to the tablets, said Willy Watson, president of the Rotary Club of Tygerberg.

Remarked his wife, Gillian, alsoaRotary member:“It is wonderful to see the children interacting withthe tablets curious,engaged, and already capable!”

BACKTOSCHOOL

It was back to school for the teachers who had to do e-Learning courses before each receiving 11 tabletswithheadsets. On receipt of the tablets, the teachershave to preparethe tablets for theclasses and download freeapps to assist them with their teaching. The tabletsare stored in secure charging units andlockedupevery night.

In addressing the teachers,Willy Watson, president of theRotary Club of Tygerberg,thanked them "for their unwavering dedication and commitment to our children. You are the foundationof our education system, and your workis invaluable”.

Vissershok Primary School, which celebrates its53rd anniversarythis year, accommodates 325 foundationphase learners in nine classes —many of whom arefrom Du Noon andafew from

BLENDED LEARNING IS TRANSFORMINGCLASSROOMS

surrounding farms. Founded in 1977 by minister AP van Wyk,arespectedpastor who establishedseveralschoolsinthe area,Vissershok began with just 100 learners,aprincipal andtwo teachers.

"Over the years, it has grown intoa school known for producingwell-rounded learners with achievements in academics, sport, and culture, with its current buildingsinuse since1988,"Brian Meyer, principal, said at the handover ceremony.

Charmaine van Schalkwyk, headof department andthe implementation lead on thelearning tablets, said the entire foundationphase teamhas embraced thisopportunity with enthusiasm and commitment. "Thespirit of collaboration anddedicationacrossthe staff is evident, anditis exactly what makesinitiatives like this so impactful," she said.

IMPORTANCEOFDAILYATTENDANCE

Fisantekraal Primary School, funded througha Global Grantfrom The Rotary Foundation, serves 1352 learners,ofwhich 688 inthe foundationphase. They are from Klipheuwel, Fisantekraal andsurrounding farms.Underthe leadership of Loretta Loggenberg, principal, the school is filled with energy, purpose, andheart. Known for herunwaveringcommitment to her learners,she speaks passionately about theimportance of daily attendance: “Our children mustbeatschool every day this is where their future begins.”

Loggenberg alsohighlighted how blended learning is transformingclassrooms, particularly for learners who do nothave

access to technology at home

“Blendedlearning in ourfoundation phaseclassesisimplemented through structuredsmall-grouprotations. While one groupreceives focused, individual support fromthe teacher, another practisesphonics or mathematics on thetablets, and athird group completes writtentasks. Groups rotate daily, ensuringall learners benefit from both personalisedteacher interaction and access to technology,” she said.

"Equally powerfulwas hearing from the teachers, who are already seeing the real impactintheir classrooms. These devices are freeingupvaluable teacher time for one-on-onelearner support; strengthening mathematicsand readingskills through interactive, blended learning; teaching responsible and respectful use of digital tools and enablingteacherstotrack individual progress andidentify learners whoneed additional support," Watson said.

SPIN-OFFS

“Theproject hashad spin-offs in unexpected ways. Class discipline has improvedmakingthe task of the teacher much easier. Schools can potentially start offeringcodingand robotics at foundation level.

"But,perhapsthe biggest bonus, has been thefreeing up of resources to thebenefit of the higher grades. Many schools have only onecomputer lab shared across all grades

"Withthe foundation phase now having access to technology, time in the computer laboratorieshas been freed up.”

He continued: “None of this would have been possible without the dream and theincredible support of our donors and fellow Rotarians,who believed in this

At thehandoveratFisantekaal PrimarySchool are(from left) LorettaLoggenberg(principal at Fisantekraal PrimarySchool),Gail and John Yorke(Rotary Club of Tygerberg),Gillian and Willy Watson (RotaryClubofTygerberg),Liezl Kramer (teacher)and RethaLuijk (teacher).Photo: Caroline Steenekamp

initiative from the verybeginning. Despite delays,their generosity and commitment have turned thisvision intoareality. We are still looking at implementingthe project at another two schools.”

"This is Rotary in action. Ourclub would like to thank TheRotary Foundation, our international partner; the Rotary Club of Kristiaanstad in Sweden, represented by Göran and Kerstin Anderberg, Rotary Districts 2395 and 9530 and the Rotary Club of Niwot in America. Furthermore, we received support from DGMT,Lewis Stores, TheLorenzo and Stella Chiappini Trust, and the Durbanville community who have supported us through the 40 Protea Way OpenGardens events," he said.

. Call WillyWatsonon082 7810782or presidentrotaryclubtygerberg@gmail.com to join theRotaryClubofTygerbergortobecome involved in communityprojects.

THINKING OUTLOUD

Let’stalk abouttech, baby... and brains

Our family is very strict about screen time. To explain the reason, I’m going to get all nerdybefore Iweigh in with experience fromraising seven daughters. Our tech reluctance is becauseofthe prefrontal lobe. This part of the brain is in the forehead and keeps developing long after the rest stops. It actually only stops when one is about 25. It is responsible for impulsecontrol, emotion regulation, and weighing longterm consequences. It will becomethe filter that will influence decision-making. Put another way, this is whereyour wisdom sits andittakes at least25years to grow.

So what has this got to do with screen time?

Well, screens, and any other activities from the plethora of instantgratification stimuli readily availablenowadays, damagesthe development of the prefrontal lobe.

If you don’t believe me, lookitup. There are dozens of peer reviewed articles easily accessible online that say the samething. So, for this reason, my husband and Itry, really, really hard, to limit ourdaughters’ screen times. Ideally we’d cutitout altogether but unfortunately, the world, the school system and my ownrelatives seem to be against us. Gone are the days when pupils used adiary torecord appointments and homework. Nowadays even my six-year-old’s homeworkissent via google classroom. And Ihavefirsthand experience of how my children’s moods and marksdecline when they have access to too much screen time Take for example my second eldest.

PRINCIPALS,HELPUSOUTHERE

For years, before we had aTV, she and her sisters woulddraw, read, play boardgames, skate, cycle, play outside, write their own littlecomicsand entertain themselves easily without anyhelp from us. When we had no TV, mychildren would automatically navigate to their hobbies,but then my sister gifted us with one and all creativity in our home had a sudden and dramatic drop.

Soon after, when the sameSantasister gave mysecond eldest acellphone when she turned 14, it was accompanied by a dramatic change in personality. That year shefailed asubject for the first timeand all her marks dropped. We took awaythe phone. She regarded it as apunishment. We didn’t care.

Her first phoneless week, she meandered around the house like apoltergeist; head lowered, face scowling, speaking to no one and answering anythingaddressed to her in growlymonosyllables. She also behaved like an addict. She threw epic tantrums, cried, and tried allmanner of manipulation.

She searched our room andstoleitback afew times, but, eventually, after awhole week of phonelessness, she moved on from being avery morose, moody,antisocial teenager to aslightly less morose, moody, anti-social teenager. But, more importantly, within one schoolterm, her marks improved and she was back inthe top quarter of the class again. We would havegladly never given her phoneback but, unfortunately her teachers started sending homeworkon WhatsApp chats.

While modern tech is anecessary part of life and Idonot hate it,Ido feel that in the classroom it should belimited to only whatisabsolutely necessary and I am not alone in my thinking.The growing philosophy worldwide is for acomplete banofcellphones in schools.Yet, last term, Igot letters requestingthat Iregister all three my primary school-aged children on google classroom.

Principals, help us out here, please!

—LAUREN O'CONNOR-MAY

Parklands safety in crisis

As ahome ownerinParklands, Iamwith the many who strive to makethis asafeplace to call home

Informalsettlements, particularlysectionsofSiyahlalaand shacksnearPioneer Valley,haveexpanded intothe TableBay NatureReserve near Dunoon This occupation, often on the Diep River floodplain, causes severe pollution andhabitat disruption, with approximately 189shacksinthe reserveasof2021. It alsoposes greatsafetyrisks; thugs andthievesoften quickly findplacestohide

This allimpacts home values andselling power, if ever oneseekstomoveatsome stage. Additionally, thereislittle to no policing in the Parklandsarea, leaving lawlessness to flourish, unabated

TheParklands Satellite Police Station on Parklands Main Road facedconcernsregardingresource limitations and remains closed, apparentlydue to manpowershortages.

Therecentincident of an attempted murder followingashootingincident on Friday3April at approximately17:00 in MorningfordRoad, is notthe only incident. Much moreneeds to be done from by our council, our policeand the other civic structures. What assurancedowehaveashomeownersand the greaterParklands community? Is proper and proportionateaction being take on ourbehalf?

Parklands is abeautiful area and canbebetter maintained. TheParklands FynbosCorridor is agood example.

It connects the Rietvlei Wetland Reservewith the BlaauwbergConservation Area but it is notwellkept andhas been neglected foraverylongtime.Whatis being done here?

Thereare manywho share my sentiments andwe allbelieve in this community.

TYRONE

BRETT COETZEE, Parklands

Ratepayers question legaltariff basis

Ifind it peculiar that ourmunicipalityisbudgeting basedontariffscurrentlyunder legaldispute.

Do municipal officialspossess information unavailabletothe public, or aretheysimplyproceedingwith wishfulthinking?The eventual court ruling will serve as acrucialtest of judicial independence and adherence to the ruleoflaw

Ipropose that ratepayerassociationsdemand areferendum on the municipal budget.Taxpayers should vote on whether theyaccept the proposedbudgetand arewilling to payinflation plus 1% on their municipal accounts. Whatever the outcome,all residents should

payaccording to the referendumresults.

This is howgenuinedemocracyshouldfunction–with citizens having adirect sayinhow their taxmoney is spent,rather than having decisions imposedupon them by officialswho maybeoperatingondisputed legalgrounds.

Thecurrentapproach undermines both fiscal responsibilityand democratic principles. Ataxpayer referendumwouldrestoreaccountabilityand ensure that municipal spending truly reflects the willofthose who fundit.

CONCERNED RATEPAYER,Brackenfell

Somerkan noumaar einde se kant toestaan

Asseblief,winter, komgou!

Ná nog ‘n paar strawwe somerdae verlede week, begineknou wonderofons ooit weer verligtinggaan kry. Ek verlang na daardie eerstekoue oggendwanneer jy lekker onder ‘n kombers kaninkruip,enwanneer ‘n koppiewarmkoffiewerkliksin maak.Ekverlang na die

dae toeons oorkoue weer geklahet –wat soueknie nougee vir ‘n lekker koue reënbuinie!

Ek is nouuitgesomer komassebliefgou,winter Onsisgereed vir jou koue wind, jou reën, en selfsjou donker dae

UITGEPUTTE SOMERLEWENDE

Basic kindness missing on Cape Town roads

My worst fearsabout Cape Town'sreputation as an "unfriendlycity" were confirmed when my car recentlybroke down on abusymain road during peak traffic. Foroveranhour, Istood beside my vehicle with the bonnet raised, the universal distress signal, whilehundreds of cars passed by.Not asingle person stopped to offer assistance,check if Ineededhelp,or even ask if Iwas alright Iwatchedasdrivers deliberatelylooked away,some even changing lanestoavoid anypotentialinteraction. What has happened to the spirit of communityand Ubuntu thatweclaim defines South Africa? Whendid we become so self-absorbed andindifferenttoour

fellow citizens' plight?

Before moving here recently, I'veheard visitorsdescribe Cape Town as beautiful butcold–not referring to the weather,but to its people. This experiencesadly validates those observations.

We'vebecome acitywhere peopleare toobusy, toosuspicious, or simplytoo uncaringtoextend basic human kindness. Perhapsweshouldreflect on what kind of societywe'recreatingwhen common decency becomes uncommon, and helpingastranded motorist is seen as someone else's responsibility. We candobetter, Cape Town. DISILLUSIONED, Durbanville

LAGMET LANGNEK: ’n Nuuskierigevolstruis by dieCape Ostrich Ranch op dieN7-snelweg het diekolliggesteel toehysykop uitsteek om besoekers op ’n vriendelikeenspeelse manier te“groet”.Die dier se nabyheid het gastelaat glimlag en groot vermaak verskaf

FOTO:CHRISTA ROSSOUW

Stronger communities start with us

It is easy to complain about the stateofour neighbourhoods —fromlitterand crime to service delivery—but real changebegins when residents choose to getinvolved. Toooften, communityinitiatives such as neighbourhood watches, clean-up campaigns or localmeetings aresupported by only ahandful of dedicated individuals. Thereality is that theseefforts cannotsucceed or grow without broader communityparticipation Getting involved does notrequireamajor time commitment.Itcan be as simpleasattending alocal meeting, reporting issues to the relevant authorities, supportingaclean-up effort,orlooking outfor your neighbours. Smallactions, when multiplied, canmake ameaningful difference.

Stronger,safer andcleaner communities arebuilt through sharedresponsibility. When residents work together,theynot only address challenges more effectively, but also buildasenseofpride andconnection in the places theylive. Insteadofwaitingfor others to take the lead, perhapsitistimeweeachask: what can Idotocontribute?

If moreresidents step forward, even in smallways, we canbegin to create the kind of communities we all want to live in.

LEND AHELPING HAND,Brackenfell

Medicalcosts leave families struggling

Irecently had an experiencethat left me deeply concerned about the growing cost of healthcarein our communities.

Whilevisiting apaediatrician with my young son, Iwitnessed acouplearrivewith their child, clearly anxious andinneed of care.During their conversation at reception, it became evident that theydid nothave medical aid. Thequotedcostfor asimpleconsultation, excluding anymedication,was alarminglyhigh. One couldsee the hesitation andworryontheir facesas theytriedtodecide what to do,quietlyweighing their child’simmediateneeds against what theycould afford. As someonefortunate enough to have medical aid, I am acutelyaware that even we feel the financialstrain of co-payments, shortfallsand steadilyincreasing monthlypremiums. Each visit often comeswith unexpectedadditional costs. But forfamilies without this safety net,accessing privatehealthcarehas become an overwhelming andoften impossibleburden. Yes, it is often argued that government clinics and hospitalsare availabletothose who cannotafford privatecare. Whilethis is true in principle, the reality on the ground is very different.Thesefacilities are frequentlyovercrowded andunder immensepressure. Healthcareisnot aluxury –itisa basic humanneed. No parent shouldhavetostand at areceptiondesk andwonder whether theycan affordtohavetheir child seen by adoctor.

EMAIL, TableView

Leadersspendnightonthestreet

NAMHLAMONAKALI

More than 30 businessand community leaders will spend anight on the streets of Cape TownonSaturday 18 April as part of afundraising initiative aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness.

The initiative, ANight on the Streets, is hosted by U-turn Homeless Ministries and forms part of efforts to raise awareness and funding forlong-term interventions.

Participants will eachcontribute R10 000 and spend 12 hours outdoors. Organisers say the event aims to raise over R1 million.

The initiative is designed to move beyond awareness, directing support towards sustained rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.

RESEARCHHIGHLIGHTSSTRUCTURALCHALLENGES

Academic research intohomelessness in Cape Town pointstolong-standing structural and governance challenges.

AUniversity of Cape Townstudy, "Exploringthe lived experiences of homelessness in aCape Townsuburb" by Kerry-Lee Black, found homelesspeople face barriers including limited access to services, social exclusion and difficulty transitioning offthe streets.

AUniversity of the Western Cape research paper, "An analysis of the City of Cape Town's responseto street homelessness" by Francesca Visagé, examines the City's legaland institutionalresponsibilities inaddressing homelessness and how municipal frameworks respond to the issue.

Together the studies framehomelessness as acomplex issue requiring coordinated, multi-sectoral and long-term interventions.

BY SUCH INITIATIVESU-TURN HOMELESS MINISTRIES ENACT LONG-TERM INTERVENTIONS.

EXPERTRAISESGOVERNANCEANDPOLICYGAPS

Dr Nobukhosi Ngwenya, urbanplanner anddevelopment practitioner whose research interest focuses on communityled planning, of theUniversity of Cape Town said homelessness in Cape Town persisted largely due to unclear responsibility among spheres of government, resulting in fragmented and uncoordinatedresponses.

"This governance gap is closely tiedto the question of whose budgetthe response to homelessness should come from,"she said, adding that municipalities have often had to take on responsibility through social-development departments despite homelessness being amulti-sectoral issue.

Ngwenya said thecity's approach had also been shaped by aconservative policy andby-law framework, including regulationsfor street-based activity.

She noted such frameworks hadattimes criminalisedhomeless people, contributing to further marginalisation even where amendments have been introduced.

While she described the City's Street People Policyand the 2024 StrategytoReduce Rough Sleepingas important developments Ngwenya said implementation remained limited. "Safe spacesand shelters often came with strict conditionsthatseparate couples, exclude pets andimposerigid entry and exit times."

She added that thebiggest gap was the lack of transitional housing between shelters and long-term accommodation Ngwenya argued this reflected abroader

gap in both municipal andnational housingpolicy, whichdoes not adequately provide pathways from temporary accommodation into stable, long-term housing.

U-TURNPROGRAMMEAPPROACH

U-turn Homeless Ministries says its programme combines immediate support with structuredrehabilitation, including therapeutic services,skills development and work readiness training.

Theorganisation said about 80% of participants who complete itsprogramme remain stably housed andemployed.

Chiefprogramme officer Lise van den Dool said the focusisonlong-term change.

"When you provide stability, rehabilitation and skills development people are able to rebuild theirlives,"she said. We knowwhatworks, but we need theinvestmenttoscaleit."

FUNDINGANDCLAIMS

U-turn has also highlighted what it describesasthe costofongoing crisis management in addressing homelessness.

The organisation hascited an estimated annual spend of R744 million related to homelessness in Cape Town.

Theinitiative alsoincludes participation from business leaders who say they want to understandthe realities faced by people living on the streets.

Colin Young,Chief Executive Officer of UrbanGrowth,said his company previously supported individuals who moved off thestreets andlater joined the business. He said the experience showed thepotentialfor long-term impact when support is sustained.

PUBLICPARTICIPATION

The public can also takepart by

More than 30 business and communityleaders willspendanight on thestreets of Cape Town on Saturday 18 April as part of U-turn Homeless Ministries’“A Night on the Streets”initiativetoraise awareness and fundsfor homelessness support PHOTO:SUPPLIED

purchasing virtual tickets and spending anight outdoors while raising awareness through social media.

Brandon Manzoni, aformer homeless person, says safetywas his biggest daily concern while living on the streets.

"You're constantly worried about getting robbed or assaulted. Finding asafe space to sleep was the biggest thing."

"A typical day was just getting up and figuring out what to do ,where Iwas going to eat, where Iwas going to sleep and whether that place was safe."

Manzoni said homelessness is often misunderstood.

"When people see homeless people, all they see is the person there. They don't see the suffering behind it."

"I had no idea places like U-turnor other programmes existed. Iwas totally oblivious."

"Ifthere were more programmes and safe spaces, it would change things hugely. A lot of the time, Ijust needed someone to talk to."