TygerBurger | Elsies | Eersterivier | Ravensmead | E-Edition | 11 February 2026

Woman’skiller stillsought

BRENDENRUITER

BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Adayafter the brutal murder of a woman from Bonteheuwel police arestill searching forthe suspect, allegedly her husband Shireena Birchwas stabbed in the head and shoulderand was declared dead at a local hospital.

Local Ward councillor Angus McKenzie describedBirchasanincredible woman.

“Thisisnot aname Ispeak lightly. I knew Birchwell. She visited my office on numerousoccasions andwas apartner of mine in the work of making Bonteheuwel abetter, safer place.She was present, committedand deeply passionate about her community.”

ENDURINGTRAUMA

He said despite knowing Birch, he did not knowthe extent of the abuse, assault, pain and traumashe endured daily at thehands of theman who was meant to protect her. “I have requested that every single police officerand law enforcement resourceavailable in the area must search relentlessly and leave no stoneunturned in locating the husband, who is alleged to havecarried outororchestrated this heinous act.Iwill sorely miss Birch, the deep love she carried for her family.

“Let me be absolutely clear;I will be at theforefrontofensuring that when the perpetrator of this horrendous crime is broughtbefore the courts bail is never, ever an option. Justicemust be firm, swift and uncompromising. My advice to him is simple, hand yourself over. Every moment you delay only deepens theconsequences that await you

“Birch's murdermust serve as aclarion calltoevery woman that their smile, their

TRIBUTESPOURINFOR SLAIN COMMUNITY LEADER

strength, joy, passion should never be used to mask pain, fear or trauma inflicted by your own partner. You are not weak for speaking.”

Online supporters spokefondly of Birch.

“Shireen was amother, grandmother, sister, daughter, apillar of strength. She spent her life building our community up, only to have her own life stolen by the very person meant to protect her.”

TygerBurger is still awaiting response from the police on the latestdevelopments regarding the suspect

Tweedevroudoodgesteek

'n Tweede vrou is binne die bestek van 10 dae in Bonteheuwel met 'n mes doodgesteek.

Louise van Sensie is vroeg Sondagoggend in Loganberry-straat doodgesteek toe sy probeer het om 'n bakleiery tussen haar man en die verdagte, wat aan hulle bekend was, te keer.

Dieverdagtehet na bewering saam met iemand anders by Van Sensie se huis opgedaag op soek na 'n vriend, maar toe hy in kennis gestel is dat diévriend slaap, het hy aggressiefgeraak en die man met 'n mesaangeval. Sensie is raakgesteek toe sy probeer het om die bakleiery te stop.

Kapt.F.C. van Wyk,provinsiale polisiewoordvoerder, het die voorval bevestig en ook dat 'n 25-jarige verdagte in hegtenis geneem is.

"Die BishopLavis-polisie het dieafgelope Sondag (8 Februarie)omstreeks 12:30 'n misdaadtoneelinLoganberry-straat, waar 'n 58-jarige vrou gesteek is, bygewoon. Volgens gerugtehet die verdagte die oorledenesehuis aangedoen op soek na 'n vriend. Haar man het die verdagte ingelig dat die vriend slaap en dat hy hom nie gaan wakkermaak nie. Die verdagte het 'n mes uitgehaal om die man te steek en die

man het homself ook met 'n mes bewapen en die verdagte aangeval. Die oorledene is tydens diegeveg, terwyl sy probeer het om dit stop te sit,indie skouer gesteek. Die verdagte man en die vrou is na 'n nabygeleë hospitaal geneem, waar die vrou met haar aankoms dood verklaar is,"sêVan Wyk. Die verdagte wordonder polisiebewaking verpleeg.

Die plaaslike raadslid Angus McKenzie sê die verdagte is 'n bekende bendelid wat in dieselfde straat as Van Sensie woon. "Onsgaan borgtog teenstaan. Enige aanval op 'n vrou —ongeag wat die omstandighede is —moet met die volle mag van die wet hanteer word. Geweld teen vroue is 'n pandemie in ons gemeenskap en mag nie verdra word nie." McKenzie het ook sy innige meegevoel met Van Sensie se familie uitgespreek. "Onsharte gaan uit na haar familie. Onssal saam met hulle staan en hulle deur hierdie pynvolle en moeilike tyd ondersteun. Dit is nadat ons verlede week ook Shireena Birch deur geslagsgeweld verloor het. Dis onaanvaarbaar dat ons gemeenskap weer oor 'n vrou moet rou. Dit kan nie normaal wees nie en kan nie aanvaar word nie,"sêhy.

City’smobileservice headstoDelft

This weekthe City’s Mobile Office will be at theDelft South Public Library, on Thursday 12 February.

Residentsare encouraged to take advantage of the visit thataims to address account-related queries and access to a range of services.

The office will be at Delft SouthPublic Library, Delft Main Road, Delft South, between 09:30 and13:30.The City’s Customer RelationsDepartment’s mobile team will help residents to log queries and

service requestselectronically. “I would like to encourage residentswithinthe Delft Southarea to attend the upcoming Mobile Office visit,” said Mayco member for Corporate Services Theresa Uys. This service provides aconvenient opportunity for residentstoget help with non-emergency enquiries, including rates, water, electricity and refuse accounts. To ensure quicker and more efficient service residentsare requested to take their IDs or municipal account details.

Keepinganeye ontheprizepays

BRENDENRUITER

BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

“Knowledge shouldn’t be locked away. If we can teach people how to manage their money better, we change families,not just businesses.”

So saysLindsay Kearns (42) founder of Kearns &Associates Inc,a businessadvisory company from Kuils River He and his company are looking to give back to the communityhecomesfrom by sharing insights and knowledge fromthe financial field on alocal radio station. Kearns, who was raised in Forest Heights, Eerste River,initially didn’t quite know what he wanted to be.“The idea of medicine visited his imagination nowand then, but it never truly settled. What did stay, what consistently called my attention were numbers. Patterns, logic and order. While other children dreamed in titles I found comfort in calculations.”

The eldest of three children, responsibility came early. Hewas raised in amiddle-class home led by adevoted father, Dennis Kearns, who worked tirelessly to support wife Ansieand their family. Dennis, remembered by those who knew him as steady, selfless and protective, died in 2023, leaving behind alegacy of resilience and sacrifice that continues to shapehis family.

Kearns’academic path followed his natural strengths. He studiedCost andManagement AccountingatCape PeninsulaUniversity of Technology and later completed his Chartered Accounting

KEARNS ACCOMPANIES

SMALL-BUSINESS JOURNEYS.

qualificationthrough the University of SouthAfrica. “The journey was demanding anddeeply personal. Family functions,celebrations andmilestones were often missed. While others gathered I studied. While others rested Iworked.

“Ikept my eyefirmly on oneprize, to build afirm of my own.Thatdream came trueinFebruary 2017 withthe founding of Kearns &Associates Inc. Theearly days were noteasy. Long hours, financial pressureand the weight of responsibility tested my resolve

“"Yet those closetomesay success never hardened me;infact it softened me.I remainedapproachable, grounded and generous with my time. Helping others becameinstinctive. Ilike intentionally extending opportunity to aspiring accountants, mentoringand openingdoors where Ican.Mynext step is to plug our community serviceonthe airwaves, with aplanned Eerste River Radio segment aimed athelpingsmall, mediumand micro-enterprise owners become more money-savvy and financially confident.”

Kearns also employs people from the Eerste River community andcreates real pathways for growthand professional development. “For manyajob at thisfirm is morethan employment; it is afirststep towards realising adream. AndIalways want to help.”

Special needs teen seeks support

Donnel Mupambanga, a19-year-old from Cape Town, haslived with hydrocephalus since birth, acondition that has left him unable to walk anddependent on full-time care. As he enters adulthood, the physical and practical demands of managing his condition have increased significantly.

Mupambanga's life hasbeen shaped by ongoingmedical intervention and constant care. He has undergone six major surgeries and survived astroke, resulting in lastingphysical limitations. He requires assistance with all daily activities, along with ongoing management of chronic healthconditions, including severe skin allergies andthe risk of seizures.

Since the age of four, he has been cared for solely by his mother, Blessing, followingthe death of his father from cancer.For thepast15years, she has managed every aspect of hiswellbeing, becoming his full-time caregiver.

Her responsibilities are continuous and demanding. Sheprovides 24-hour supervision,managesmedical routines and hygiene needs, andperforms all physical lifting andtransfers, as her son cannot walk independently. As he has grown into ayoungadult, these tasks have become increasingly strenuous.

Despite thesepressures, Mupambanga's outlook remainsa source of strength within thehousehold. His family describeshim as disciplined, calm, and quietly resilient. During health setbacks, including seizures, it is often his composure that sustains hismother.

“He doesn’t complain,”his family explains. “Even in difficult moments, his attitude gives his mother the strengthto continue.”

One of theways he expresses determination is through music. Despite poor eyesight and limited use of one hand, he finds joy andpurpose in singing.

TURNINGTOCOMMUNITYSUPPORT

As Mupanbanga has transitioned into adulthood, his care needs have reached a critical point.

His physical size has made hospital visits, daily transfers, and transport increasingly difficult to manage. The strain of lifting and moving him has resulted in his mother developing severe, chronic back pain.

At the same time, the cost of essential daily supplies —including adult nappies and medicated creams —has continued to rise. Faced with these realities, the family made the decision to seek support by launching averified BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign. Since launching three days ago, the response has been encouraging. Morethan R14 000 has been raised, reaching 70% of the R20000 goal, through contributions from 15 individual donors.

. To supportMupambanga,visitthe BackaBuddycampaign here:www.backabuddy.co.za/ campaign/helping-donnel-access-the-care-hedeserves

Matrikulant drukdeur

Een van die voorste matrikulante aandie Hoërskool Apexseraadaan nuwegraad 12-leerders is omvroeg reeds te vindwat hul motivering is om aan te hou, en om net jouself te wees. Kirsty Matthews (18),wat metdrie onderskeidings geslaag het, sê haar reis totinmatriek was nie altyd met rose besaai nie, maar sy is dankbaardat sy uiteindelikbouitgekom het.

"Ek het grootgeword met 'n pa wat dwelmsgebruik het en ons lewens baie swaar gemaak het. Voor ek met hoërskool begin het, toe sterf een van my oupasen dit het my hard geslaan. Daarnamoesons hoërskool in die Covid 19-tydperk begin en alles was deurmekaar," sê Kirsty. In graad 9het sy met verkeerde vriende deurmekaar geraak en begin rook, drink en lieg vir haar ma. "Ingraad10het ek nuwe vriende gemaak, maardit het ooknie veel beter gegaan nie. Ek was 'n

BadisaKuilsRiver looking forparents

Badisa Kuils River is looking for a mother and afather in connectionwith acase they are working on.Anyone who knows the current whereabouts ofHeidi Veneel and Ashley Appels is requested to contact the social worker Carlo Johnson. Call Johnson on 021906 1881 (weekdays between08:00 and 16:00).

MOEILIKE OMSTANDIGHEDE KRYHAAR NIE ONDER NIE

probleem virmymatot ek in graad 12 besef het dit kan nie so aangaan nie.Ek het 'n verandering ondergaan en met die ondersteuning van my familie het my punte aanhou verbeter, want ek het ophou rook endrink. Uiteindelik wasmypunte die beste wat hulle ooit was," sê sy. Hoewel dinge vir haar verbeter het, wou een struikelblok haar nogpootjie voor die einde. "Ons elektrisiteit was vir 'n tydperk af en daarom heteknie verwag dat ek my naam as topleerdervan die skool sal hoor nie," sê sy Vanjaar gaan sy eers werk en wagtotdat sy haar "roeping" gevindhet voor sy gaan werk

Feedback meeting on erf

The feedback meeting for residents of Ward19and otherinterested parties regarding the City's proposed disposal of Erf 14079 (232 Highbury Road) hasbeen rescheduled from Tuesday to Thursday 12 February, from 18:30to20:00 at theKuils River Council Chamber.

Cityofficials will report back on concerns raised during ameeting heldon 20 January.

UWCmourns Diana Ferrus

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is mourningthe death of Dr Diana Ferrus, thecelebratedpoetand cultural icon who diedonFriday 30 January.

Ferruswas renowned for her powerful poetry that addressed social justice and healing, mostnotably her poem “I’ve Come to Take You Home”,written for Sarah Baartman.The work played ameaningful role in the return of Baartman’s remains to SouthAfrica and demonstrated what theuniversity called “the transformative force of art”.

ACADEMICANDMENTORATUWC

As bothanalumnaand staff member of the University of the WesternCape, Ferrus dedicated herself to nurturing studentsand mentoringemerging writers. Shechampioned voices from marginalised communitiesand was particularly committedtosupporting grassroots writers, womenpoets, andcommunity storytelling.

WritinginbothEnglish and Afrikaans, shebridged cultures andcelebrated South Africa’s multilingual heritage through her work.

Theuniversity described Ferrus as “more thanapoet”—calling her “a moral compass, avoice for the silenced, and a healerwho transformedpain intopurpose through language”.

Her poemaboutSarah Baartman helped shift global consciousness and showed that “poetry is notonlyexpression, but action —a catalyst for justice, memory, and reconciliation”, according to the university’s tribute.

Ferrus’ family remembered her not onlyasacelebrated public figure, but

POETLAUDED AS ICON AND ‘TRANSFORMATIVE FORCE’

as “a deeply loving mother, sister,aunt, and friend” whose “warmth, humour, generosity, and compassion touched countless lives beyond the literaryworld”. Prof Robert John Balfour, the university’sRector and Vice-Chancellor, said: “We honour her legacy and recommit ourselves to the values she embodied justice, empathy, creativity, courage, and hope.”

In apoetic tribute, he added: “Rest in peace, Diana. Your words still walk amongst us. Your voice still guides us. Your spirit still sings.”

Characterscome out to play forWorld Read Aloud Day

Booksand their characters were on full display in Cape Town overthe last few days as bookish people took part in several publicreadings for World Read Aloud Day.

The day, which is celebrated on 4 February, was foundedbyLitWorld in 2010 to promotes readingaloud to improve literacy, comprehension,and community connection

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and councillor FrancineHigham joined theCity's Library andInformation Services on Wednesday to celebrate World Read Aloud Day 2026 at the Iziko Museum of South Africa.

The event,heldinpartnership with Nal'ibali and IzikoMuseums, featured the theme “Magicatthe Museum” and was designed to unlockmagic through stories as ajourney of hope and adventure.

LIBRARIESGETQUIRKY

CentralLibrary in the Cape Town City Bowl District(CBD), posted aquirky video on social mediaofalibrarian reading Romeoand Juliet’s famous balcony soliloquyfrom thelibrary’s level one balcony. (https://www.facebook.com/ share/r/17t29jKmoJ/)

Staff from the library also visited several schoolsand read aloud to pupils

Other libraries alsoposted read-aloud eventsontheir social media pages.

Rocklands Library, in Mitchells Plain, posted: “Sotoday we managed to read aloud to over1500 learnersatthree primary schools’foundation grades.”

AUTHORSCOMEOUTOFTHEWOODWORK Publishersalso sent their authors out into the wild to read at schools and libraries.

Author LaurenO’Connor-May, from Strandfontein,visited two schools on Thursday 5February on the invitation of literacynon-profit TheOtto Foundation. O’Connor-May, visited twoOtto Foundation libraries in District Six (Holy Cross) and the CBD (St Mary’s)toread from herchildren’sbook DreamHouse Adventures

“Reading aloud allows us to have some fun, to get into characters, read in

different tones of voices. Iwould even encourage parents to allow theirchildren to read out loud, and it doesn't necessarily just have to be abook, they could be maybe in traffic, and ask the kids to read, bumper stickers or signage, just to get our kids to read out loud, because they also get to practise reading, and practise theirarticulation.”—Alicia Williams, founder of the Olive Exchange, an assisted publisher in Mitchells Plain.

“Reading aloud plays apowerful role in achild’sdevelopment. It helps build vocabulary, introduces new words, and strengthens listening skills.

“When children read out loud at home, they also gain confidence in expressing themselves.

“Parents are encouraged to create time and space for this. It makes alasting difference.” Roscoe Williams from Read to Rise, aliteracy NPO.

“We need to treat reading, the same way we do any other fun activity. We show kids the lens through which they should view books, so if reading is seen as something fun and exciting, and interesting to do, then that's what it will be.

“Use accents, ask them questions about what they see on the page, make funny voices.

“Make it as interactive as possible. Help them discover theirimagination through the world of stories.” —Bianca Flanders, entertainer and author.

Provincefeelsdroughtpressure

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Premier Alan Winde recently convened the Western Cape Government’s Integrated Energy and Water Council in arenewed effort to address critical water security challenges facing the province

The meeting brought together provincial Cabinetmembers, mayors, municipal managers and key stakeholders,marking acoordinated push to strengthen the resilience of the WesternCape’s energy and water systems.

Toppingthe agenda were escalating water securitychallenges being experienced by multiple municipalities amid ongoing drought conditions.

Winde highlighted the seriousness of the situation, urging council members to maintain momentum in strengthening governance, coordination and oversight across the province.

“Where municipalities require assistance, we must step in,” Winde said, reinforcingthe importance of collaboration between provincial, national andlocal government.

DISASTERDECLARATIONREQUESTED

On 22 January 2026, theWestern Cape Government’s Cabinet formally requested aprovincial disaster declarationfrom the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC).

The declaration, which is expected to be approved, would unlock access to emergency funding and resources, significantly enhancing the province’s ability to respond to water-related risks and support water-stressed municipalities.

The council also revisited the Western Cape Water Resilience Strategy, launched in October 2025,which Winde describedas

PREMIER CONVENESCOUNCIL TO ADDRESS CRITICAL WATER SECURITY CHALLENGES

both an “immediate andlong-term plan”

The strategy focuses on fourkey pillars: . Water conservation anddemand management .Water augmentation .Infrastructure development .Governance

Rapid population growth, climate change andincreasing demand were cited as key pressures on water resources.

Municipalities across the Western Cape, excludingCape Town,are expected to investanestimated R844 million overthe next two years to maintain andupgrade water infrastructure. Cape Town has independent plansinplace, including desalinationinitiatives.

Inaddition, the provincial government will investmore thanR2billion into bulk water infrastructure projectsinthe medium term, aligned with the Water Resilience Strategy and the province’s 15yearwaterdemandplan.

SUPPORTFORWATER-STRESSEDTOWNS

Winde said GardenRoute town Knysna is recovering from recent water stress following the declaration of alocal state of disaster. “Our engineers have beenthere helping with national, provincial andlocal government, making sure that we mitigate this risk becausewecannothave atown run outofwater,”hesaid.

He added that several Garden Route andKaroo municipalities continue to experience highlevels of water stress.

CAPETOWNWATERUSEEXCEEDSDAILYTARGET

Meanwhile,Cape Town residents have been urged to urgently reducewater consumption after daily usage once again exceeded the City’s target of 975 million

Brief Blackheath road closure

Residents making use of theintersection at Electron and Range Road in Blackheath have been advised by the City of Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorateabout atemporaryclosure

The closureisrequired to accommodate the upgrade of the existing stormwaterpipe system to anew culvert as well as the reconstruction of the affected roadway and sidewalks. The temporary closurewill be in effect from Saturday 7February to Sunday 15 March. Roadworks will take place from 07:00to17:30, Mondaysto Saturdays, weather permitting.

“To keep CapeTown moving theCity continuestoinvest in essential road upgrades andwell-planned alternative routes,” said Mayco member for Urban Mobility Rob Quintas. Traffic in both directions on Electron Road will be affected during the construction period;

however, traffic provisionswill be maintained on Range Road at all times to ensure through-movement between Stellenbosch Arterialand Wimbledon Road.Alternative access to Electron Road will be available via Range Road andWimbledon Road. TheCity thanks residentsand road users for their patience andcooperation while this important work is underway.

Roadclosure anddetoursignage will be in place todirectmotorists to Electron Road via the alternative access routes and construction areas will be clearly demarcatedoneach day to help manage traffic flow andensurethe safetyofall roadusers

Whilesomecongestion is expected during working hoursmotoristsare encouraged to plan aheadand make useof alternative routes wherepossible.

litres of water per day (MLD).

Cape Town’s dam storage levels currently stand at 62.2%,which must last until thenext seasonalrainfall cycle. Daily wateruse has peaked at 1062MLD, placing additional pressure on the City’s supply system.

Lower-than-average rainfall last year resulted in reduced inflows intodams. While taps are notatrisk of running dry at this stage,continued high consumption couldrapidly change the situation and lead to water restrictions if usage is not broughtdown urgently.

RECENTWATERUSAGETRENDS

Accordingtothe City’s weekly water dashboard, daily consumption has remainedconsistently above target:

.10 December 2025 –1029MLD

.15 December 2025 –1029MLD

.22 December 2025 –1039MLD

.29 December 2025 –1010MLD

.5January 2026 –1 048MLD

.12 January 2026 –1 037MLD

.19 January 2026 –1 050MLD

“Water usage this past week has unfortunatelypeaked, so we are 87 million litres aday overour target. Team Cape Town,weneed all hands on deck to help bring our collective use down,” said theCity’s Maycomember for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien.

CITYSTEPSUPPROTECTIONOFWATERSUPPLY

Badroodiensaid the City is implementing multiple measures to protect and build a resilient watersupply, including repairing pipe bursts, fixingleaksand upgrading ageing infrastructure.

“Since thedrought, the City has invested heavily in replacingold pipes, improving

pressure management, strengthening metering and fixing leaks faster,” he said. In the long term, Cape Town plans to reduce reliance on rain-fed dams by adding new water sources such as desalination and water reuse from 2031.

WATERINSPECTORSENFORCEBY-LAWS

Throughout the summer season, the City’s Water Inspectorate has increased inspections to enforce the Water By-law and deter excessive water use.

During December 2025 and January 2026, inspectors visited areas including Sandown, Parklands, Bergvliet, Brackenfell South, Somerset West,Tokai, MonteVista, Heathfield, Gordons Bay and Ottery. Inspections focus on water wastage, leaks, illegal connections, permanent restrictions on hosing and construction activities, and swimming pool covers. Transgressors may receive spot fines ranging from R1 500 to R5 000. Further inspections are planned in Uitzicht,Westlake Business Park, Parow Industrial, Plumstead, Goodwood, Constantia, Table View and several shopping centres.

PUBLICURGEDTOSAVEWATER

Residents, businesses and farmersacross the Western Cape have been urged to intensify water-saving efforts. “Ultimately, we must use water responsibly yearround, not only during times of crisis,” Winde said.

Badroodien echoed the call: “Cape Town, we are in thistogether. We have done it before and Iamconfident we can do it again. Let’s work together to reduce nonessential water use and remain below the 975 million litres per day target.”

ABellville children's hospice is hosting a community fundraising event next month to support its free services for vulnerable childrenand their families.

Iris HouseChildren'sHospice will holdits Family Market Day on Friday 28 February, from 10:00 to 14:00 at its premises in StiklandEstate.

EVENTDETAILS

The family-friendly event will take placeatHouse1,Stikland Estate, 59 Old PaarlRoad, Bellville, with free entry and parkingfor all attendees.

Activitiesplanned for the day include market and food stalls,pony rides, face painting, bric 'n brac stalls,spot prizes,

and entertainment specifically designed for children. Iris House Children's Hospice is aregistered non-profit organisationthat provides free respitecare and support to children with special needs and their families.

All funds generated from the market day will go directly towards maintaining and expanding theseessential hospice services.

Thecommunity-focused event aims to raise vital funds whilst providing an enjoyable day out for families across the Western Cape.

For more information about the Family Market Day or Iris House Children's Hospice services, contact the organisation directly.

THINKING

Your wallet determines your medical care

Irecently found myself in asituation where life hung in the balance. Someone Icared about needed immediate medical attention. In amoment, driven by fear and desperation, we rushed to the nearest hospital,aprivate institution

We had no medical aid. We knew the odds were against us. Still, when death feels close, logic takes aback seat.

Walkinginto thereceptionarea, Iexplained that this was amedical emergency.

In that moment, Ibecame acutely aware of an invisibleline that divides peoplein medical crises: those whose medicalaid opensdoors, and those whose suffering must first be assessed against abalance sheet.

The receptionist calmlyexplained thataconsultation with adoctor andanelectrocardiogram, anoninvasive,painless testtomeasure the heart's electrical activity, would cost approximately R10000. This amount, Iwas told,had to be paid upfront,before anyone would even assess thepatient.

We left and went to aprivategeneral practitioner (GP), who then assessed and referred us to astate hospital.

But the divide becomes even clearer in astate hospital. Time stretches endlessly Hours pass while pain deepens. Wards aresoovercrowded that patients lieon floors, bodies against walls and hardened benches.

WEACCEPTTHATSUFFERINGWILLBE PROLONGEDIFYOUCANNOTAFFORDIT

Doctors movefrom bed to bed, visibly exhausted, some having missed lunch, others nearing the end of impossiblylong shifts

They treateveryone: stab wounds, psychiatricpatients, the chronically ill under one strained roof, all hoping their names will be called next.

Here, "non–code red" patients wait more than twelve hours, sometimeslonger, learning thehard waythat urgency is relative when resources are scarce. Security guards, hardened by constant chaos, enforce order with little patience or compassion, as though authority is the only thing keeping the system from collapse.

This is not astory about individual failure. It is about systemic inequality

In theory, healthcare is ahumanright. In practice, it is aprivilege.One that mirrors our economic divides.

Private hospitals boast efficiency, comfort, and immediacy, but only for those who can afford it

Public hospitals carrythe weight ofthe majority, underfunded and overwhelmed, relying on overworked stafftohold together asystemthat is quietly failing

The most disturbingtruth ishow normalised this has become. We expect state hospitals to be chaotic.Weexcuse the long waits.

We acceptthat suffering will be prolonged if you cannot afford it.

Until we confront the reality that access to timely, dignified medical care depends largely on financial status, these divides will continue to widen.

The sad truth is that in moments of emergencies and desperation, survival in our healthcare system often comes down to what you can afford, not how urgently you need help.

-KAYLYNNEBANTOM

Gymclosuresparksanger

Iwanttoexpress my deep disappointment,frustration,and concern regardingthe decision to closeVirgin Active RedParow

This facility hasbeen morethanjustagym. For manyofus, it has been aconsistent, welcoming, and accessiblespace that allowedustoprioritiseour healthwithoutthe excessivecosts associatedwith premium facilities. Virgin ActiveRed Parowhas always been busy, well-utilised, andsupported by aloyal membership base,which makes the decision to closeit particularlydifficult to understand.

Theexplanation that the club cannotberevamped to align withVirgin Active’s“premium vision” is deeply concerning.The realityisthatthe members of this club didnot want or need theseadditions. That is precisely whywechose Virgin ActiveRed. It demonstrated that movement,health, andwellbeingdonot need to be luxuriesreservedfor those who canaffordsignificantly higherfees

By closing this facilitybecauseitcannotbeconverted intoamoreexpensiveoffering, the message being sent is that affordabilityand accessibilityare secondarytoprofit.Thisdecision disproportionately

affects loyalmembers who areonstrict budgets but remain committedtotheir health. Many members will simplynolongerbeabletoaffordagym at all, which undermines the very principles of health andwellbeing that Virgin Activeclaims to promote. Whilemembers arebeingoffered the option to transfer to amoreexpensiveclubfromSeptember, this stillrepresents an increase of nearlyR200 per month —anamount that is simplynot feasiblefor many. Furthermore, those who choose nottotransfer areeffectivelypenalised by having to immediatelypay alternativegym fees elsewhere.This places members in an unfair andforcedposition

Foroveradecade,thisgym hasservedasa safe,inclusivespace forthe communityinthis area.Its closure represents notjustthe loss of afacility, but the loss of aculturethatprioritised health without financialexclusion.The decision feelsshort-sighted and, frankly, dismissiveofthe loyalclientele who supported Virgin ActiveRed Parowpreciselybecauseitwas different Accessibilityshouldnot be sacrificed in the pursuit of premium branding.

FRUSTRATED,Parow

Bejaarde ontvang ‘genade’van jong vakmanne

Redelik gereeldlees onsindie TygerBurger se briewekolomvan goedhartigeSamaritanewat bereid is om hul harteenbeursies oop te maak vir oënskynlik senior burgers watmoontlik net eenmalig of een keer per maand'nversnapering of sakkie negosieware kan bekostig. As pensioentrekker wasekdie afgelope week aan die ontvangkantvan drie goeie Samaritane se goeie dade "Janu-worrie"het onsbeursies ook maar leeg gelaat,maar ek moesnoodgedwonge onsvoertuig se wielsporingenbande laat nasien, watektelank uitgestel het.Ekvra toerondenwordverwysna‘n onderneming in Willowbridgewat wielsporing doen. Twee aangename en uitersbekwame jong manne wasmybehulpsaam en toedie bedrag vir die wielsporinggenoem word,het ek my oë toegeknyp.Ekwas egteruiters beindruk metdie regstelenherstel van die voertuig deur die vakmanne.Met die betaalslag ader die tw thul bestuurder komt

Public drinking and disorder on Chenoweth

As Durbanville business owners, my husband and Iare increasingly concerned about the growingdisorder outside abottlestore on Chenoweth Street

Largegroupsofmen –both homeless individuals and workers–regularlygather theretodrinkonthe pavements.This bottlestore appears to attractstreet peopleand after-work drinkers who consume alcohol immediately outside the premises.

Theresultisanareathatfeelsunsafefor residents andcustomers.

On weekends especially,the crowds become disruptive.Brokenbottles, shouting, public urination,and even defecation have become common. Pavements areoften littered with glass, andmanyshoppers have experienced harassment from intoxicated individuals.

This behaviour degrades theneighbourhood and harms localbusinessestryingtomaintain aclean, welcomingenvironment.

Durbanville already hasseveral bottlestoresin secure shopping centres where loitering andpublic drinking arenot tolerated.

Despiteongoingcomplaints, law enforcement presence remains minimal.Publicdrinking, urination, and nuisance behaviourare offencesunder Cape Town’s by-laws, yetlittleaction is taken.

Durbanville residents should not have to accept this levelofdisorder.Itistime forthe communityand our Ward councillortointervene andrestoresafetytothe area

JUSTINE PERRY, Durbanville

on Okavango Road at Cape GateonWednesday morning, 4January

It’sa dailystruggle…motorists driving, some speeding, down the yellow lane whilethe rest of us law-abidingdriverspatientlycrawl to ourdestination. Some do it under the pretenceofturning left at the next robot,evenifthe next robot is 500m away,only to shoot straightoverthe intersection from the left turning lane

Othersmakethe left turn, but shoot through the hospital andshopping centre’sparking areastojoin Okavangoagain further up the road. What theydon’t realise–ormaybe they’re justtoo selfish to care –isthey’re makeanexisting trafficjam even worse. Thesemotorists maketaxidrivers look like angels

TheCityofficialinbluemade my day. Ihope we see youtakeonthis lawless behaviour on Okavango more often.

ESTHER,LangebergRidge

Teenagepregnanciesontherise

City Health reported 1230 pregnant teenagers under 18 accessedantenatal care at CityHealth facilities last year, representinga 1,2% increase from the previous year

Atotal of 22 097 women sought basic antenatal services from City facilities last year.

The figures were released last week, observed as Pregnancy AwarenessWeek. City Health emphasised that support and medicalcare remains available to all pregnant women regardless of age.

“This increase in teenage pregnancies forms part of atrend that hasbeen observed over the past few years. These pregnancies can be at higher risk for medical complications and have a significant socioeconomic impact for both the mothers and their families,”said

CITY SEES1,2%INCREASEIN PREGNANT TEENS AT CLINICS

Mayco memberfor community services andhealth, Francine Higham.

TheCityhas responded by expanding adolescentand youth-friendly services at health facilities to encourage sexually active teenagers to access contraceptive services before unplanned pregnancies occur.

“There are several contraceptive choices available at all clinics, andclientsof allages can askabout anddiscuss their optionswithahealthcare professional,” Higham added.

EARLYCARESHOWINGIMPROVEMENT

Despite the rise in teenage pregnancies, City Healthhas recordedpositive trends in otherareas of maternalcare

Over the pastthree years, there has been aslight reductioninpregnant women presenting for their first antenatal care visit after20weeks of pregnancy. Health officials describe this as an encouraging development, as early antenatalbooking before the 20-week mark significantly improves the chancesofa smooth pregnancy with successful outcomes.

During antenatalvisits, clinicians monitorcrucial health indicators including blood pressure, urine levels,maternal weight anduterine measurements to detectpotential complicationsearly.

COMPREHENSIVECAREAPPROACH

City Health is promoting aholistic approachtopregnancy care thatextends beyond medical check-ups. Expecting mothers areadvised to maintain

Provinceclamps down on FMD

The Western CapeGovernment Cabinet received an update on Wednesday on measures being implemented to manage foot-and-mouthdisease (FMD), with officials confirming the outbreak remains contained within the province.

The briefing, delivered during the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 4February, outlined ongoing efforts by provincial authorities and agricultural stakeholders to protect the livestock industry and safeguard rural livelihoods

Western CapeVeterinary Services confirmed an FMD outbreak in November last year on afarm near Gouda, prompting immediate containment measures.

The affected property, along with two additional properties in the Velddrif and Bredasdorp areas, from which cattle are believed to havebeen moved to the Gouda farm, have been placed under quarantine.

COMPREHENSIVERESPONSE

Authorities have implemented extensive containment protocols, including the quarantine of all properties with cloven-hoofed animalswithin a10kmradius of the affected area.

Veterinary teams have conducted thorough inspections while epidemiological tracing has been carried out to track potential transmission routes.

Roadblocks and inspection points havebeen established to monitor and regulate livestock movement into

and withinthe province.

The response represents a coordinated effort between the provincialgovernment, AgriWestern Cape, and affected municipalities. FMD, whilstposing no risk to humans, ishighly contagious amongcloven-hoofed animals including cattle, sheep, goats, andpigs.

The virus spreads through direct animal contact or indirectly via contaminated vehicles, equipment,clothing, or feed.

Cabinet hasendorsed continued collaborationwith neighbouring provinces and thenational Department of Agriculture'sFMD TaskTeam, which coordinates nationwide efforts to controland ultimately eradicate thedisease within the next decade.

COLLECTIVEACTION

Premier AlanWinde emphasised the importance of collective action.

"We must continue to work together, utilising allmeasures we haveatour disposal to eradicate FMD," Winde said.

Provincialagriculture minister Dr Ivan Meyer stated that protecting the Western Cape'slivestock sector remainedthe "foremost priority", whilst mobility minister Isaac Sileku announced intensified inspections atprovincial entry points, describing livestock movement as "oneofthe highest risk pathways for spreading the virus".

healthy eatinghabitsand avoid harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol that can affect foetal development.

Mental health support has also been identified as apriority, with research indicating that poor mental health during pregnancy can have lasting impactson both mother andchild. “Pregnant women should accesssupport if needed, whether in theircommunities andown support networks or throughprofessional care,” health officials recommend.

The City also encourages discussion of HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and postpartum contraceptiveoptions during clinical visits, with healthcare professionals providingtailored advice basedonindividual circumstances Partners of expecting women are also

encouraged to attend antenatal visits where possible to provide additional support

ACCESSANDBOOKING

Residentscan register for basic antenatal care at theirnearest City Health facility as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. Online booking is available through the Healthcare Appointment System online. Expecting mothers can also contact their local facility directly for appointments and information.

City Health operates numerous clinics across the metro, providing free antenatal care as part of the publichealthcare system.

. Visithttps://healthcareappointments. capetown.gov.za/

Vermaak // Entertainment

Ubuntutakescentre stageatArtscape

Inaworldincreasinglydividedby powerand politics, acclaimed cultural storytellerElvis Sibeko presents The Kingdom of Ubuntu –atimelyAfro-epic that asks what trulyholds us together Opening at Artscape Opera Houseon Friday6and Saturday7March at 19:30, this semi-staged productionpromises a cinematic musical experience placing unity and shared humanityatits centre.

Created, written, directed andcomposed by Sibeko, the production bringstogether the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, the Sibonelo DanceProject,the AfriArtsChoir, and –for the first time –anindigenous orchestra ledbyEmeritusProfessor Dizu Plaatjies.

"Ubuntuisnot aslogan. It is aresponsibility,"said Sibeko. "In aworldobsessed with power, TheKingdom of Ubuntu asks whether leadership tillb tedi

THE KINGDOM OF UBUNTU BLENDS ORCHESTRALAND INDIGENOUS SOUND

heirreturns to challengethe throne.The storyunfolds throughmusic, ritual and movement,askingwhether thekingdom willchoose domination or Ubuntu. "To bring together twojuxtaposedorchestras on onestage is not onlya celebration of music, but of unityand heritage,"said Plaatjies

"Thisismorethana performance –it'sa living testament to our shared humanity."

Theproduction blends orchestral grandeur,indigenous music, contemporary Africandance andtheatricalstorytelling in a90-minuteexperience(with interval) Thefinalmomentsdissolvethe boundary between stageand seats,transformingthe theatreintoashared spacewhereaudiences become part of theUbuntukingdom In timesofdisconnection andyearning, TheKingdom of Ubuntu speaks to the hu pirit's desiref lo ,belonging

Liebenberg‘EetKreef’

Laudo LiebenbergenFrank Freeman komtreeopDonderdag26Februarie om 20:30byDie Boer-teaterrestaurant in Durbanvilleop. Dié twee het in 2019 virdie eerste keer musikale kragte saamgesnoer en dielandvol getoer met EetKreef!Herleef,wat met 'n kykNet Fiësta-toekenning beloon is Nou komhulle weer bymekaar vir 'n vertoningmet musiek uit albei

se persoonlikeprojekte,sowel as gestroopteverwerkingsuit die Eet Kreef! Herleef-produksie. Komluister na vars verwerkingsvan Laudose aKing-musiek,asook verwerkingsvan Volk,Frank se alternatiewegroep,se musiek.Hulle meng die ou en die nuwe saam op 'n intieme en uniekemanier Kaartjies kosR225. .Bespreek by www.dieboer.comof by 021979 1911.

Project 021 readyto‘Shine’innew production

Project 021 willpresent apowerful new production called Shine from Thursday26FebruarytoSaturday 28 Februaryat the Sarepta CommunityHall.

TheKuilsRiver-based non-profit organisation uses performing arts to developand empoweryoung peopleinthe community.

Founderand director David Cornelsonsaid theyhaveassembled atalented and energetic cast to bring this compelling storytolife. "Shine dealswith gender-basedviolenceand the impact it has on children who experience it firsthand," Cornelson explained. "The storylineisfilled with dialogue thatwilltakethe audience on aroller-coaster of emotions, asweare sure theywillbe able to relate to the characters in the play." Cornelsonaddedthat the production also serves as aplatform to highlight localtalent

"Shine is an opportunityfor us to showcase the wealth oftalent we have in our community. We invite everyone to come andenjoy theproduction whilesupporting the importantwork we aredoing with youngpeople." . Tickets areavailablefor R60at Webtickets.

. Conrad Koch and Chester Missing's PuppetPower runs from 10 to 14 FebruaryatTheatre on the Bay. Ticketsfrom R180 at Webtickets.

. Juan Boucher tree op Donderdag 12 Februarieom19:30 by Kapstadt Brauhaus Bloubergop. Kaartjies vanaf R265 is beskikbaarbyQuicket

. Yukio Mishima'saward-winning production TheLadyAoi is at Artscape from 14 to 21 February.Six performances only. TicketsfromR150 at Webtickets.

. Cape Town Operapresents Gershwin in the Park,a one-night-onlyconcert at the MaynardvilleOpen-Air Festivalon Sunday 15 February.The showstartsat 18:30.TicketsfromR254available at Quicket

. JeremyLoops is at the Kirstenbosch Summer Concert on Sunday 15 Februaryat17:15.Ticketsare R360 or R255 (age 6-21). BookatWebtickets.

. Sonja Herholdt bring haarvertoning

. RoccoenCoenie de Villiers 88 is van 18 tot28Februarie te sien by Theatre on the Bay. Twee klaviermeesters saam op dieverhoog. Kaartjies kosR200tot R350byWebtickets.

. UnderThe Mountain,a night of praise and worshipwithlocal artists and American BenFuller, is at KirstenboschBotanicalGardenonSaturday 21 February at 19:00.TicketsR545at Webtickets.

. An Intimate Night with Robin Peters &Dr. M is at FairbairnCollege,Goodwood on Saturday21Februaryat18:00 TicketsfromR200atWebtickets.

. Luna Paige: Die Reisigers is op Sondag22Februarie om 15:00 by die Drostdy-teater,Stellenbosch. Kaartjies kosR250byWebtickets.

. Vusi Mahlaselaand JabulileMajola performatthe Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert on Sunday 22 February at 17:15.TicketsR255(youth) or R360 at Webtickets.