TygerBurger | Elsies | Eersterivier | Ravensmead | E-Edition | 25 February 2026

Haveyousayon Buttskopclosure

The City of CapeTown is asking residents forcommentona significant road infrastructure change that would permanentlyclose asection of ButtskopRoad in Blackheath as part of asafety initiative to eliminate the notorious rail level crossing.

The proposed plan involves the permanentclosure of Buttskop Road from Trafford Road to Van Riebeeck Road, along with asectionofMeadow Road in Blackheath. This closure would make way for the Zevenwacht LinkRoad extension, connecting Van RiebeeckRoad to Albert Philander Road andremoving the need for the problematic Buttskop rail level crossing.

The Buttskoprail level crossing has been asignificant safety concern for years, with multiple fatal crashesprompting extensive investigations by rail androad safety authorities.

“We urge residents to please comment on theproposal for theclosure of this portionofButtskopRoad in Blackheath. The proposed changeswill allow for apermanent solution, which will see asubstantial increaseinthe overall safety forall road users in the area. The Buttskoprail level crossing has been the subject of severalrail androad safety investigations in recent years due to the number of fatal crashes at thislocation and we would appreciatethe input from thecommunity on these important plans,” said theCity’s Maycomemberfor urban mobility, Rob Quintas.

BACKGROUNDANDPREVIOUSMEASURES

The City hasbeen working on solutions since 2019, when preliminarydesigns for eliminatingthe level crossing were completed. As atemporary safetymeasure in 2020, the City collaborated with Prasa and theRail Safety Regulator to realign FrederickStreet, reducing crash risksat thecrossing.

The comprehensive plan includes: . Construction of asingle carriageway between Albert Philander Road and Van Riebeeck Road, new traffic lights at both road intersections andabridge over the railwayline.

. Road changes: ButtskopRoad closure from Trafford Road to Van Riebeeck

CITY WANTSTO CLOSENOTORIOUSLY DANGEROUSCROSSING

Road, including the existing level crossing. Trafford Road will be extended southwards, passing underneath the new road via aroad-over-road bridge. Partial closure of the mid-block sectionof Meadow Road.

OPENDAY

An open day is taking place at BlackheathCommunity Hall (Evergreen Drive, Austinville) on Thursday 26 February from 12:00 to 15:00.

SUBMITCOMMENTS

View documents and submit feedback on www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay Email: urbanmobility.CT@capetown.gov. za (Reference: 110252611)

Written submissions can be delivered to the Subcouncil 14 offices on the corner of Van Riebeeck Road and Carinus Street or at the Kuils River Public Library(12 Carinus Street).

TheCity’s Public Participation Unit provides support for residentswho cannot read or write, people with disabilities, or thosefrom disadvantaged communities who need help submitting theircomments.

. Contact:Mbuthokazi Kubasheat021 400 9809orMbuthokazi.Kubashe@capetown.gov. za forassistance.

. Contact urbanmobility.CT@capetown.gov.za fortechnical queries.

Amap showing theproposedclosure.

Mayor’s Service Delivery Blitz connectsresidents

The City of Cape Town’s next Mayoral ServiceDelivery Blitz will take place on 26 February at the Eerste River Multipurpose Centre between 09:00 and 15:00. The City’s Urban Waste Management Directoratehas intensified outreach efforts throughparticipation in the Mayor’s ServiceDelivery Blitz programme, helping residents access information about government-funded work opportunities and register on the City’sJobseeker Database.

Over the course of nine blitz outreach eventsacrossCape Town since January last year, officials assisted 780 residents with newJobseeker Database registrations, while 958 existing jobseekers updatedtheir details, ensuring that 1738 residents are better positioned to be considered for Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) andother labourintensive opportunities.

By takingservices directly to residents, theblitz programme enables the Public Empowerment and Development Department to raise awareness of available employmentpathways,explain application processes andensure that community members’information is captured accurately for fair and transparent selectionprocesses.

“Participation in the Mayor’sService Delivery Blitz events allows the City to engage residentswhere they live, so they are informed about work opportunities and they can be assisted with registering or updating theirdetails on the Jobseeker Database. This kind of outreach is essential to expanding access and ensuring that more residentscan benefitfrom employment initiatives.

“Residents who were unable to attend the Blitzevents are encouraged to register or update theirdetails on the Jobseeker Database at theirnearest sub-council office, Smartcape Centre or the City walk-incentre at 50 Wale Street.The City will continue to use community outreach initiatives to ensure that more residents are aware and able to access employment support programmes,” said Mayco member for urban waste management, Grant Twigg. Residentsare encouraged to attend and jobseekers must bring aclear copy of theiridentity document, proof of address (or an affidavit signed by acommissioner of oaths or ward councillor), household and contact details and an updated CV, including any previous EPWP work. . Formoreinformation, call theEPWPHelp Desk at 021400 9406

Eenkryborg, anderbly

BRENDENRUITER

BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Die een is op borgtog vrygelaat, terwyl die ander sy borgtogaansoek laat vaar het.

Dit is die storie van twee vermeende moordenaars wat Dinsdag in die hof verskyn het op aanklagte van moordop vroue.

Rushin Abrahams word daarvan beskuldigdat hy LouisaFancensie op 8FebruarieinLoganberry-straat in Bonteheuwel doodgesteek hetnadathy in

Gesuiptebestuurder ry skoolkindersaan

BRENDENRUITER

kom haal,"lui die verklaring.

Skoolvervoer was die afgelope tyd onder die loep nadat 12 leerdersop19Januarie gesterf het toe dieminibus waarin hulle onderweg skool toe was,teen ’n vragmotor gebots het.

TWEE VERMEENDE MOORDENAARSWAS OP DIESELFDE DAGINDIE HOF

’n onderonsie methaar man betrokke was Fancensie wou glo tussenbeide tree, maar is noodlottig gewond.

Gister is borgtog van slegs R1 000 aan Abrahams toegestaan,wat totskok onder familie en verontwaardiging in die breë gemeenskapgelei het. "Dit is egter belangrik om daarop te let dat hy onder strengvoorwaardesvrygelaat is, watonder meer behels dat hy nienaby Bonteheuwel mag komnie. Terwyl dit nie die uitslag is wat onsverwaghet nie, moetons in ag neemdat daar feitevoor die hofgeplaas is waarvan die publiek nie kennisdra nie en dit sal deel van die regsproses vorm. Ek doen’nberoep op die gemeenskap om die hofsitting op 4Junie, wanneer hy weer verskyn, by te woon

BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA ’n Manwat skoolkinders vervoer se turf het Maandag gesit toe die metropolisie se veiligheidsbeamptes hom weens dronkbestuur in hegtenis geneem het. Luidens ’n verklaring deur die metropolisie het die bestuurder in ’n rooi minibus oor ’n stopstraat gery, waarna hy gevra is om af te trek. "Diebeamptes het drank aan sy asem geruik en nadat hy erken het dat hy gedrink het, is ’n asemtoets op hom gedoen. Die lesing het gewys dat hy ’n bloedalkoholvlak van 0,24mg per 1000 ml het. Die 34-jarige bestuurderisinhegtenis geneem en by die Bishop Lavis-polisie aangehou. "Die eienaar van die minibus is gebel om die nege leerders wat nogdaarin was, te

Na aanleiding van daardie voorval het die Wes-Kaapseregering, in samewerking met die provinsiale verkeersdienste en munisipale verkeersbeamptes, hul pogings om skoolvervoer te beveiligopgeskerp. Hierdie aksies het, volgens die Wes-Kaapse mobiliteitsdepartement, kommerwekkende vlakke van nie-nakoming van regulasies aan die lig gebring.

Tussen 14 en 23 Januarie is 1600 voertuieafgetrek, 1250 boetes ter waarde van R580 000 uitgereik, 46 voertuie geskut en 23 voertuieonpadwaardig verklaar

Six arrested within hours in R10000 liquor theft

Six suspects were arrested within hoursafter a burglaryduringwhich liquor to thevalue of R10000 wasstolenfromasupermarket last week.

Afteratip off,TitaniumSecuritas detained three men in he Vlak informal settlement known.

Thesuspects provided details about their accomplices, leading to thearrest of afourth suspect at another location in Kraaifontein andgetaway driver. Along with thepolice, Titanium Securitas then detained thefinal two suspects shortlyafter

Universitylaunchesfeedingdrive

Atthe University of theWestern Cape (UWC), theacademic year begins withhope, ambitionand the promise of opportunity. Yet for thousands of students, this periodis also marked by hunger —arealitythat threatens learning, academic success and student wellbeing.

According to the university between February and April, studentsare most vulnerableasthe academic year commencesand they settle into campus life.

The university anticipates that approximately 10 000 students will require food support.

To respond to this immediate need,UWC has launched the Feed the Need campaign, afocused call for assistancetoensure that hunger does not underminestudents’ chancesofsuccess.

For Gerhard*, afirst-year student from arural village in the Northern Cape, arriving at UWC representsboth hopeand uncertainty. His family made significant sacrifices to send him to university, believing that education wouldopen doors notonly for him but also for those back home who depend on him. In the first weeks of the academic year, however, the reality of student life setin. Gerhard will have to attend lectures onanempty stomachfor days.

SUPPORTPROGRAMME

Right now, it is aquiet andisolating experience,but he is aware thatmany of hispeers are also facing similar experiences. Through UWC’s food support programme, Gerhard will receive asimple but nourishing meal of rice,beans, and vegetables —sufficient to restore his

energy, improve his concentration, and reaffirm hissense of belonging at the university. More thannourishment, the meal affirms that he is seen, valued, and that his presenceatthe universitytruly matters.

Stories like Gerhard’s are notisolated They reflect the lived experienceof thousands of UWCstudents navigating the gap between enrolment andfinancial aid disbursement.

DONATIONS

To meet this need, the university estimates that approximately R7,4 million infood is required to support affected students for about two months.

Contributionsmay takethe form of cash donations or non-perishable groceries, allowing theuniversity to respond flexibly andatscale.Importantly, all assistance is delivered in adignified anddiscreet manner, protecting students’ privacyand ensuring that support is experienced as care rather than charity.

“UWC recognisesthathunger carries stigma, and every effort is made to uphold students’ dignity while meeting theirbasic needs.The Feed the Need campaign calls on staff,alumni, corporates, philanthropic organisations andmembers of the public to stand with students during this vulnerable period.

“Food collection boxes will be placed in facultyoffices, at building entrances such asthe library and administrative buildings, at security officesatthe main university entrances, andatother clearly visible andeasily accessible points across campus,” reads astatementfrom the university.

. To donatevisit:https://bit.ly/Udubs-Cares

*Not his real name

Faceliftplanned forCTairport

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.

R21,7b

Renovations and upgrades to begininMarch.

BOOSTFORECONOMY

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.

PLANNEDROLLOUT

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.

Citytolowerpropertyratesformula

DESIRÉERORKE

DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA

Onthe eve of the publicationof the General Valuation 2025 (GV2025), the CityofCape Town on Thursday announced its intention to propose a10,2% reduction in the rate-in-rand forresidential properties for the 2026’27 draft budget. The rate-in-rand is the formula used to calculateproperty rates.

The City’s indicative residential rate-inrand is 0,006428 —down from 0,007159 pending draft budget finalisationinMay.

ACity spokesperson confirmed to TygerBurger that the 10,2% dropwill applytoall 23 rating categories, including business, commercial, industrial, vacant land andother non-residential categories.

‘KEEPINGINCREASESTOAMINIMUM’

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says this is among several proposed measures to help keep property rates increases to aminimum for“most homeowners”,despite strong asset value growth forproperty ownersinCapeTown

Otherproposed measures inthe forthcoming draft Budget 2026-’27 include raisingthe “rates-free benefit” to the first R500 000 of propertyvalue —upfrom R450 000 —and extending this benefitto all properties up to R8 million—upfrom R7 million, the City stated.

According to the City, thesemeasures will ensure that 60%ofresidential properties will experience either arates decrease or no change in rates, even though their property valuehas risen.

“The proposed 10,2% rate-in-rand decrease andextended ratesbenefits to more middle-class homes will shield the large majority of ratepayers —over 60% of allhomes —with very low rates increases despite their property asset showing

strong value growth, alsoincreasing their family’s net worth,”the mayor said.

ACTIVISTRAISESCONCERNS

However, civic activist Sandra Dickson, founder ofSTOP COCT, is inclined to believe thatthis60% figure is farfrom clear-cut and should be treated with caution.

“The ‘60% notaffected’statementis financially conditional. What it really meansisthat60% are notworseoff relative to themetro’s average distribution shift.It does not automatically mean 60% will see no increaseintheirtotal rates bill. The difference between ‘not negatively impacted by valuation shifts’ and‘not paying more’issignificant —and thatdistinction should be clearly stated publicly,” she said.

She added that by her calculations,the rate-in-rand decrease will only make a possible difference if value growth is under 17,1%.

Reports from homeowners receivedby STOP COCT thus far show propertyvalue increases of between 2,1% and80%.

GROWTHINPERSONALWEALTH

Hill-Lewis said Cape Town offers the chance for property assets andpersonal wealthtogrow in value.

“Cape Town is South Africa’s onecity that works, offering the best services, SA-record infrastructure investments, the chance for yourproperty assets andpersonal wealth to grow in value no matterwho you are,and the lowest total monthly bills of SA’s metros, even when taking higherproperty valuesinto account. This is the difference compared toother cities, where property values are declining even as rates rise andservices sadly collapse,” he said.

“The City will furtherdeliver abalanced

“TheCitywillfurtherdelivera

—Geordin Hill-Lewis

budget while keeping tariffincreases to theminimum levelneeded to avoid severe servicedelivery cuts.

“Indigentreliefthresholdswill be raised, while property value bands for fixed charges will be altered to mitigate the number of properties moving between bands as far as possible.”

GENERALVALUATION2025ATAGLANCE

Accordingtothe City, the overall value of ratedproperties in Cape Townacross allcategoriesincreased by 16,65% between GV2022 andGV2025, fromR1,85 trillion to R2,158 trillion.

For residential properties in particular, thetotal ratedvalueofall properties increasedby17,1% fromR1,396 trillion to R1,634 trillion.

The City statesthatthe median rates increase for properties underR3million ranges from R3 to R27per month, with roughly a0–2,5% rates increase for propertiesinthe R1 million –R3million range.

“Eveninthe worst case, 90% of propertiesunder R3 million will avoid arates increaseinexcess of around R100 resulting fromthe valuation. The median rates increase ranges roughly from R27 –R200 monthly for properties valuedR3million –R6million, a2,5 –6%increase, andfrom R200 –R350 monthly for properties valued R6 million –R10 million,” theCity stated.

TheCityemphasised that Cape Town’s residential rate-in-rand is currently the lowestofSA’s metros.

“Cape Town’s vastly lower rate-in-rand shows that it generally costs less to own a property asset here than it does anywhere else. This asset can also be expected to grow in value over time, increasing the net worth of families and personal wealth of ratepayers across the income and property value spectrum,”Hill-Lewissaid.

“At 0,009545, the next metro —Jo’burg —has a48,5% higher rate-in-rand before even applying theirincrease for next year. This means that even with higher property values in Cape Town, you’restill likely to pay lesshere, while living in acitythat works. Also, the higher your property value, the bigger your saving will be in Cape Town compared to property rates elsewhere for an asset of the same value, due to the big differences in the rate-in-rand.”

HOWTOINSPECTANDOBJECT

Should property owners wish to dispute valuations believed not to reflect the market value accurately as at 1July 2025, an objection may be submitted from 20 February until 30 April thisyear on the legislated objection form that can be found on the City’s website, via e-Services and via the emailed objection form.

Ratepayers may also obtain the relevant documents in person at any inspection venue.

Objections must be motivated and supported with market-related information at the valuation date of 1July 2025. The City supplies verified and valid sales information on the websitefor use by property owners.

. TheCity’s2025 GeneralValuation Roll (GV2025) is available forpublic inspectionon www.capetown.gov.za from 20 February

Wie hetsó besluit?

Committeediscusssafety

Last week the Western Cape Safety Advisory Committee met with Provincial MEC forPolice Oversight andCommunity SafetyAnroux Marais to discusskey issues, one of them thedeployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to the Cape Flats.

It will be deployed to the Cape Flats in the near future to help fightgang violence andcriminal syndicates, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced in the State ofthe Nation Address recently.

The Safety Advisory Committee provides strategic advice, recommendations on policies, budgets and legislationto the MEC with the aim of improving safety and crimeprevention strategies,the department said in astatement.

Key deliberations during the meeting, heldonTuesday 17 February, centred on the deployment of the SANDF to the Western Cape, to support the police in addressing the high levels ofviolent crime, particularlygang-related murders,

the departmentsaid.

It saidthat committee members provided strategicinput on howsuchdeployment can be optimally coordinated to disrupt anddismantle organised crime syndicates, while ensuring measurable impactand enhanced community safety.

The committee also discussed practicalways in whichthe provincial government can support the police in capacitatingand resourcing its detective services.

The safety advisory committee is a highly valued strategic partner in shaping oursafety agenda, Marais said.

She said: “Theindependent expertise andconstructive insight provided by itsmembers strengthen ourresolve and refine our approach.Bydrawing on this collective experienceweare better positioned to implement focused, datadriven interventions that advance our sharedgoalofbuilding asaferWestern Cape for all.”

Ride-hailing drivercaught withfakelicence

Aride-hailing driver wasarrested in Parow last week after metro police officers discovered he was using afraudulent licence andpossessed equipment capable of producing fake documents.

Officers were on patrol in Parow on Thursday 12 February at 09:30 when they noticed thedriver acting suspiciously and trying to avoid eye contact. During a routinetraffic stop, they found his driver's licence to be fraudulent.

CABBIE FOUND WITH DOCUMENT FORGER

Asubsequent vehicle search revealed a and while there are many challenges, incompetent,unfit and unlicenced drivers should not be one of thosechallenges. Ourofficers will continue to patrol, check and arrest drivers who put the lives of hundreds at risk,” Smithadded.

WEEKLYENFORCEMENTSTATISTICS

Last week's enforcement operations

LEWENSKIEKIE WATDIE HART VANVOL IS N2-muur het soveel meer voordeleasnet

misdaadbekamping

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

DITIETSWATLANGSALONS

SNELWEËKORT,NIENETONS GEVAARLIKSTEPAAIENIE...

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

Thanks formakinglaunch asuccess

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

Residents demand responsiblepet ownership

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

Metro ontaardin tentedorp

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

Calls foraction at dam

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

Hospitals highlight childhoodcancer awareness

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 to the life-saving potential of timely detection and 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

Streetlightsrepaired

City of Cape Town 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 also resolved 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

6666 LIGHTSRESTORED DURING FESTIVE PERIOD

of around 215 streetlight requests perday –helping the City's streetlight burnrate recover to an impressive 89,9% average over thelasttwo reported months. The City maintains amassive network of over 245 000 streetlights across Cape Town.

CAPITALBUDGET

This year's R75,5 million streetlight capital budget will help grow and maintain 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 suspiciousbehaviour to theCity's Public EmergencyCommunication Centre on 021480 7700.

DefenceForce opensapplications

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has announced thatapplications for the 2027 Military Skills Development System(MSDS) intake are now open Applications opened on 16 Februaryand will close on 27 March. Theprogramme is designedfor South African citizens between theagesof18and 22 years (forGrade 12 learners) or 18 to 26 years (forthose with

tertiary qualifications) who meet specific educational and personal requirements. Applicants must possess South African citizenship without dual citizenship,have an Admission Point Score (APS) of 18 and above (excludingLife Orientation), maintain aclean criminal record, andcomply with medical requirements including drug testing, psychometric evaluation, and medical assessment.

TheMilitary Skills Development programme offers acomprehensive two-year contract that combines professional development with practical military experience . Application formscan be dropped off at thenearest recruitment centre or posted to:Department of Defence, Human Resource Division Chief Directorate HR Management (Directorate HR Acquisition),Private BagX976, Pretoria 0001. Theformis available at https://zurl.co/LQf8j

Tallebekroondes byvanjaarseKKNK

Die program vandie 30steKlein KarooNasionaleKunstefees (KKNK), watvan Saterdag 28 Maart totSaterdag4 April in Oudtshoorn plaasvind, is propvolbekroondeteaterproduksies, kunstenaars en regisseurs.

Ek is nie Danie met Albert PretoriusenSchalk Joubert is by verlede jaar se Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees met vier Woordtrofeesbekroon —vir bestetoneelstuk, besteteksverwerking en/ofsamestelling (DanieMarais), bestemanlike speler (Pretorius) en uitsonderliketegniesebydrae(Joubert) Dana Snyman se Seun met Wilhelmvan derWalt en onder regie vanNicoScheepers, is metvyf Momentum-Aardklop-toekennings bekroon,waaronder bestetoneelaanbieding, besteregieengehoorgunsteling. Diédrama is ook met die Woordtrofee vir besteeenpersoonvertoning bekroon.

Andrew Buckland se TheUglyNoo Noo hetaltesaam 17 nasionaleeninternasionalepryse ontvang, waaronder ’n Scotsman FringeFirsten’nPerrierPick of the Fringe-benoeming by die EdinburghFestival Fringe. Buckland is ook op die verhoog in ’n splinternuwedrama, TheFool’s Guide

Frank Opperman is terugopdie verhoog in Reünie, bekroon met die kykNET-Fiësta-prys virbesteakteur vir sy spel in dié komediedrama. Chris Vorsterse Gebou soos Steffi Graf het die Vrystaat-kunstefees se Vr kit vir best olkin nb lo

IETS VIRALMALOP DIEPROGRAM

se eersteoptrede by diefees met MOYA.Dié geselskap hetalverskeiepryse,asuitsonderlikesirkus-geselskapenvir hulsosialeimpak, gewen. StephanieBaartman en diepianisJanine Neethling issaamopdie verhoog in Hoort,wenner vandie Woordtrofeevir uitsonderlike bydraetot kontemporêre musiek: kleingroepe

TheScullery Quintet se Stir-Fried Sonatas is die wenner vandie Momentum Aardklop-pryse virbeste musiekgedrewe produksie, asook grensverskuiwendewerk. Winand Gründling, welbekendonder KKNK-gehoreasorrelis en reeds met drie Kannas bekroon,isvanjaar as pianisopdie verhoog in A Victor Borge Tribute

Die LaerskoolDurbanville se Potloodsakkie: Agterdie zip, een vanses laerskoolproduksies wat deelgeneem het aan dieATKV-Tjokkertoneelfinaal by dieBaxter-teaterin2025, is een vandie kinderteater-aanbiedings.

Onderdie produksies en kunstenaarswat benoem is vir pryse telBreyten Breytenbachsedrama Boklied,wat benoem is virvyf Woordtrofees, waaronder besteproduksieenbeste regie.

MagdaL nh Erhard HowL

COHENENDIAMOND

andDiamondJourney met Mathys Roets en Johan Liebenbergisvan Woensdag4tot

elkeaand om 20:30,byDie Boer-teaterrestaurant in Durbanville op die verhoog.‘n Samekoms vanRoetsen

Liebenbergmet Cohen en Diamond se musiek beloof ‘n onvergeetlikeaand.Komkuiersaam.Kaartjieskos R280.Bespreek by www.dieboer.com of by 021979 1911.

Alexander honouredfor 37yearsservice

AVRILFILLIES

Brig Jan Alexander from Kuils River, Tygerberg Sub Acting District Commander, was honoured for 37 years of dedicated service in the police at the Western Cape PrestigiousAwards in the Convention Centre in Century City held recently. The main keynote speakers were Fransina Lukas, chairperson of the National Community Police Consultative Forum and the Western Cape Provincial Community PoliceBoard, as well as Brig Mark Hartzenberg, Cityof Cape Town Acting District Commander,who delivered his speech on behalf of Maj Gen Thembisile Patekile, Acting Police Commissioner of the Western Cape.

At the ceremony Alexander was described as honouring astalwart of justice, acrime fighter, aspiritual leader and afather figure to all in his presence. He has served communities at its very core of hardship and experienced first hand destruction caused by lawlessness.

Before becoming the TygerbergSub Acting TygerbergDistrict Commander he was stationed at Mitchell’s Plain.

“37 years in the police service is more than just acareer,it is alife’s mission. From the beginning as ayoung officerto advancing through the ranks of my current role,commanding one of the regions most critical districts, Ihavenavigated the ever evolving challenges in the police and of law enforcement with asteady hand an asharp wittedmind,” he says.

Alexander believes true policing isn’t just about enforcement, it’s aboutthe heart you havefor the people, to serve with courage and to protect those who cannot protect themselves.

“Standing tall is not how high you can reach but how low you can bend to help achild. Ihope my 37 years of loyal, unwavering

CEREMONY HONOURS ‘STALWART OF JUSTICE’

and dedicated service to the people of South Africa marks thisextraordinary milestone of nearly 40 years of service. Since takingthe helm in TygerbergI’ve tried totransform the operational landscape of theTygerberg District region,” he says.

Throughout hiscareer

Alexander has become synonymous withintegrity, resilience and abootsonthe ground approachtoensure community safety. Heisknown as astrategist who leads from the front. Histenure has been defined by relentlesscrime prevention, spearheadinghighvisibility, high density patrols targetingidentified hotspots, andhis operations focused on dismantling criminal networks andstabilising volatile areas.

“In Tygerberg Iamtrying tobridgethe gapbetween the badge andthe public fostering aculture of trust andshared responsibility. In my personal capacityIam serving as a beacon of light forjunior officers, instilling the core values of discipline, patriotism andsacrifice,”hesays.

Alexander calls on the community to forgemeaningful partnerships in combatting the crime ineach sector. He acknowledges that the needs ineachsector are different and only throughforging partnerships andcreating trust, the Tygerberg district can have its own tailor-made effective policing to make a realimpact.

“Thepolice areprepared toserve the Tygerberg community atits various levels, fromthe youth, from spiritual crime prevention to socialcrime prevention. The public is welcome to contact me on 082460 7087 and together we can make theregion abetter place to live in,” Alexander says.

SchoolstotakeonEcoChallenge

KAILINDANIELS

Environmental organisation Save a

Fishie has officially launched its 2026 Schools Eco Challenge and Environmental AwarenessCampaign in partnership with the CityofCape Town. Running from March to June, the initiative invites primary schools across the metrotoparticipatein a hands-onenvironmental education programme aimed at tackling pollution,waste reduction, recycling,water conservation and ecosystemprotection. The programme is designed to move beyond theory —placing learnersatthe centre of real-world environmental action.

TURNINGKNOWLEDGEINTOACTION

Participating schools will form Eco Teams of 20 learners who will complete aseries of practical challenges to create meaningful environmental impact within their schools and surrounding communities. Through action-based learning,learners will explore how everyday behaviours affect streets, parks, rivers and oceans —and how simple changes canprevent pollution before it starts. Rather than only learning about environmental problems, learnerswill actively become part of the solution.

PRACTICALCHALLENGESWITHREALIMPACT

Activities during the three-month campaign will include: . School and communityclean-ups. . Recycling and waste reduction initiatives.

. Water conservation awareness campaigns.

. Environmentaleducation projects . Creative“Recycling Monster” builds

PRIMARYSCHOOLSINCAPE TOWN INVITED TO JOIN CITYBACKED GREEN CAMPAIGN

Sch ge at info@saveafishie.co.za formoreinformation.

Sport

Lavisclubbackontrack

After some inconsistent performances on the cricketfield the Bishop Lavis Cricket Club found themselves back to winning ways with brilliantbatting performances by Neo Petersen (118) andBevan Abrahams (104), and amatch-winningbowling display by SimeonFondling,who took 7wickets for only30runs.

Lavis won the toss and elected to bat and soon their decision paiddividends as Abrahams andChad Fisher(30) had an opening stand of 62 runs. Making hisway back into theteam, Andrew Calvert(9) cameinatnumber three andmovedthe score along 93 runs with Abrahams. As the temperature of theday was rising,sodid Lavis' batting as Petersen entertained the crowdwithsome exquisite batting.

Petersen hasalways been regarded as one of the Cape's young talents and Saturday he lived up to expectations. During his innings of 118 runs,his maiden centuryinthe First DivisionBleague, he

hit 6sixes and8fours.While Petersen was hitting boundaries in all directions, the ever consistentAbrahams hit onesix and 8fours in his innings of 104 runs

WithDillon Plaatjies (15*) andEmilo Koeberg (3*) the boys from Lavis managed to put amammoth score of 288 on the scoreboard.

Withatargetof289, it hasbecome evident that thevisitors from Belhar will always struggle with the bat, as they lost their first three wickets within thefirst powerplay, with the score on only 19 runs. The Lavis bowlers did not makeitany easier for the visitors as Fondling took wicketsatregular intervals andended the day with figures of 7/30. He was well supported by Jerwaan Goosen (1/11) and Shaquille Phillips (2/27).