TygerBurger | Elsies/Eersterivier/Ravensmead | E-edition | 20 May 2026

COUNCILLOR FLAGS COMPLAINT

Armyt scrutinis

Ifyou feel that the army has been roughing youup, seek medicalattention, document your injuries andlay acriminalcomplaint.

This is themessage from Bonteheuwel ward councillor, Angus McKenzie, after he received complaintsfrom members of the community aboutthe army using heavy handed tactics.

“I havereceived agrowing number of complaints from community members alleging heavy-handed treatment by members of the army during operations in our areas.Aswithany incident, there will always be two sides to every story. But the realityisthis thearmy is not the police. Policeofficers will often negotiate, engage and discuss situationswith residents. Soldiers are trained differently, operate differently, andrespond differently. This was always my concern when many communitiescelebrated the army coming into our neighbourhoods,” says McKenzie.

CONCERNSOVERMILITARYDEPLOYMENT

“The questionwas never whether people wantedsafercommunities,weall do. The questionwas whether we fully understood how the army operates once deployed into civilian spaces,” says McKenzie.

McKenzie says he haslittle to no influence over where the army is deployed or when they are deployed.

“But it is my sincerehope and prayer that wherever thearmy members engage with communities, residents cooperate

“Youmaynotbeagangster,but youstillhavearesponsibilityto cooperatewithalawfulinstruction” -Angus McKenzie

with lawful instructions in order to avoid unnecessary confrontation or escalation.

“At the same time, let me be equally clear no person deserves to be assaulted, manhandled or mistreated. Very little justification existsfor excessive force against ordinary residents. If you believe you have been the victim of alleged assault or abuse, Istrongly encourage you to, seek medical attention immediately, document your injuries, open acriminal case, and formally report the inciden,”says McKenzie.

CALLFORCOOPERATIONANDACCOUNTABILITY

“Rights and responsibilities go hand in hand. You may not be agangster,but you still have aresponsibility to cooperate with alawful instruction given by a soldier during an operation. We need safer communities, but we must also ensure that safetynever comes at the cost of dignity, accountability and respect for innocent residents,”says McKenzie.

TygerBurger reached out to the Bishop Lavis police to enquire if any cases were laid against the army. Sergeant Samantha Adonis, police spokesperson, says they are not aware of any complaints.

Arecent seminaratthe University of the Western Cape (UWC) has sounded the alarm on thegrowing vulnerability of sex workers in South Africa,pointing to adangerous combination of criminalisation, social stigma and aworsening funding crisis that is leaving many without support.

The event,held at the Centrefor Humanities Research Inyatsiba Lab in Woodstock,was organisedbyUWC's Research Chair in Gender, Transformation and Worldmakingand its Department of Criminal Justiceand Procedure, together with the SexWorkers Education and Advocacy Taskforce (SWEAT). Academics, activists andcivil-society representatives gathered underthe theme Practices of Sexual Freedomtodiscuss the realities facingsex workers and the pressing need for law reform.

Cherith Sanger, from UWC's Department of Criminal Justice andProcedure, drew astark contrast between the rightsSouth Africans celebrated on Workers' Day and thereality for sexworkers. Because sex work remainscriminalised, she noted, sexworkers are still unable to access the rightstofreedomoftrade, profession and occupation,tounionise or to participate in bargainingcouncil structures.

"Despite popular belief, sex workers are able to articulate theirown problems,needs, desires and solutions to theirstrugglesand should thus lead theadvocacy agenda for law reform themselves," Sangersaid. "As researchers, we mustdoresearchwith sex workers, not about them."

Excerpts from thedocumentary Womxn Working were screened at the seminar. In thefilm, sexworkers explain how their work can help break the cycle of poverty, while describing the everyday barriers that criminalisation creates —including difficultiesinaccessing housing finance, buyingland and opening bank accounts.

DIGNITYANDTHECOURTS

Dr TanveerJeewa andDrJohndré Barnes,from the Faculty of Law at StellenboschUniversity, examined the issue of dignity through the lens of the ConstitutionalCourt case Sv Jordan —a landmark caseinwhichasex worker and

”Asresearchers,wemustdo researchwithsexworkers,not aboutthem.”

-Cherith Sanger

others challenged the constitutionality of the Sexual Offences Act, arguing it violated their rightstodignity, equality and privacy.

Thecourt ruled that the provisions criminalising sex work were constitutional.

Barnes argued thisapproach has real consequences: "Dignityisconditioned on social acceptability, rather than being affirmed as aguaranteed right.Inother words,itisportrayed as something to be earned through conformity to dominant, societal norms."

SOCIAL-JUSICEFUNDINGCRISIS

Themost urgent message of the day came from Emily Craven, Director of SWEAT,who told delegates that the socialjustice funding crisis in SouthAfrica is the worst she has ever seen —worse, she said, than previous philanthropicpull-outs from the LGBTI sector.

"What we are seeing is across-the-board closures, retrenchments— important work coming to an end. And because it is so widespread, it means that places wherepeople might look for support or help are so overstretched, both hereand internationally,"Craven said.

She added that the crisis is not limited to SouthAfrica. According to information reaching SWEAT from American philanthropists, something like 87% of organisations in the USA that deal with women's health and LGBTIrightshave had budget cuts in the lastyear.

"Ifwesay that we believe social justice organisations are avital component —and Ibelieve that they are —ofany functioning democracy, then we have to figure out how to resource them," Craven said.

Theseminar was facilitated by Dr Hugo Uys, with Prof Karin van Marle, Research Chair in Gender, Transformation and Worldmaking, welcoming delegates.

Rooflesssingle mompleadsforhelp

BRENDENRUITER

BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Adesperate singlemotherfrom Leiden,Delft, is calling onthe community for help afterher house’sroof was blown off during the storm that was raging in Cape Town last week.

Jennica Hendricks says sheinitially heard roof plates vibrating,but didn’t thinkanything of it

“My 10-year-old son was sick sohewas home with me.Iwent to the toilet and I just heard aload bang, thinking something happened in the road outside. When Igot outofthe toilet, Isaw the roof was off andthe rain just pouring into the house. I just started to cry, because Iwas thinking of my son that is not well. Iran out into road,confused and dazed and was just screaming,” says Hendricks According to Hendricks everything in the house was water damage, including the electrical appliances.

“I am pleading for anyone who can assist us to get our house fixed andour lives

ALLFAMILY’SPOSSESSIONS GETWATER DAMAGED AFTER ROOF IS BLOWNOFF

back on track. We didn’texpectthisand nothing prepared us for what happened. Every small bit will help us rebuild, becausewehave nothing left,” shesaid.

. Contact Hendricson073 4179262ifyou can assist in anyway

Vier dood, kindinWesbank gewond

CARINAROUX

Die polisie ondersoek vier moorde en eenpoging tot moordná‘nskietery in Wesbank Saterdagaand (16 Mei)

AndréTraut,‘nprovinsialepolisiewoordvoerder, het gesê die polisie is omstreeks 20:00naStrandveldstraat ontbied, waar die beamptes op drie vroue en een man met skietwonde afgekomhet.Die slagoffers wastussen 32 en 39 jaar oud.

Paramedici het die slagoffers op die toneel dood verklaar

Volgens die polisie is ‘n sewejarige kind, watin die voorvalgewond is, is na ‘n nabygeleë mediese fasiliteit geneem Traut het gesê die voorlopigeondersoekdui daarop datdie voorvalmoontlik bendeverwant is.Die omstandighede rakende die skietery word deur die polisie se eenheid vir ernstigeengeweldsmisdaad ondersoek.

Ebrahim Sawant,wyksraadslid, hetMaandag gesê hy is, net soos die gemeenskap,deurdie

veelvuldigemoorde geskok. Sawant het ditas‘n “sinneloseslagting” beskryf. Wesbankseinwoners leef in vrees en dringaan op ingryping.“Ek is nienet kwaad nie, maar ook gefrustreerd,”het Sawant gesê.“My hart gaan uitna diefamiliesvan diedriema’sen‘npawat sinneloos afgemaai is,asook dieonskuldigeseun wattans in diehospitaal om sy lewe veg.”

Sawant hetMaandag familielede vandie afgestorwenes en diegewonde seun tuisbesoek. Volgensinligtingvan diefamilieaan Sawant is die gewondeseun egternegejaaroud.

Sawant hetgesê‘nman,wat tydens dieselfde voorvalgewond is, is ook tans in diehospitaal. Hy wasversigtig oor bespiegeling oor bendes, maar hetgenoem datdaarVrydagaandook ‘n skietery was. “Dieafgestorwenes wasalmalouersvan jong kinders. Dieseunwat in diehospitaal is,semais dood,”het Sawant gesê . Skakel dieStopMisdaad-nommerby 08600 10111.

BlueDowns andWesfleur athletics trackupgraded

The City’s refurbishment of the Blue Downs andWesfleur Athletics Stadiums resulted in Class Two Certification by World Athletics. The City’s Recreation and ParksDepartmentinvested R61million on refurbishmentsofthe BlueDowns and Wesfleur (Atlantis) athletics tracks.

The facilities reopened for public use earlierthis year. The Recreation and ParksDepartment, through an appointed contractor, submitted the certification application to World Athletics on behalfofthe City. The organisation is the international governing body for World Athleticsand is responsible for certification of facilities and standardisation of rules and regulations.

The Class Two Certification for Wesfleur is valid until November2030 and for Blue Downs until November2031

REFURBISHMENTSATTHESTADIUMSINCLUDED:

. repairs to thetartan tracks

. repairs to thelong, triple and pole vault lanes,take-off boards and runways

. repair andinstallation of the hammer throwand discuscage arenas and the steeple chaseareas.

Therefurbishments form part of a citywide programme guided by the 2021 AthleticsStudy. It aims to upgrade six Regional RecreationalHubsand develop anew athleticsfacilityinWestridge, Mitchells Plain.

The track upgrades at Mandela Park in Khayelitshaare already under way, with tracks identified for future upgrades including Vygieskraal Stadium in Athlone, and Jan BurgerSports Complex in Parow.

This is in addition to the recently announced upgrade of the Bellville athleticstrack, whichformspart of the

broader Bellville development proposal and includes afirm commitment to retaining public access to the facility.

FACILITYGRADING

TheCity’s short-term objective is to also achieve facility grading in line with the SouthAfrican Sportsand Recreation Act (SASREA) 2of2010 and broaden access to facilities across the metropole. SASREA compliance is specific to hosting events in line with national regulations and once graded under SASREA, thesefacilities will meet higher safetyand accessibility standards.

“The class two certification for Blue Downs and Wesfleur is an important step forward in the City’s ongoing investment in athletics infrastructure and community recreation facilities. While theseupgrades improve the quality of our facilities and support the potential to host larger events in future, the real value lies in creating accessible, quality spaces for local clubs, schools, young athletes and communities to participate in sport and develop their talents close to home.

“Through our athletics investment programme, we are working to improve facilities across the metro and create more opportunities for grassroots sport development and community participation to develop new generations of athletics champions,” said Mayco Member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham.

TheRecreation and Parks Department would like to encourage communities to take ownership of the facilities to ensure that certification is retained and that the Department can continue to do upgrades and take thesefacilities to even higher quality levels.

UWCscientist getstophonour

Arenowned scientistfrom Kuils River hasbeen recognisedwith one of the highest honours in the land.

PresidentCyril Ramaphosa bestowed national orders on 38 recipients, 33 South Africans and five foreign nationals, at aceremony in Pretoriaon Tuesday 19 May. Of the South Africans honoured, 13 wererecognised posthumously.

Prof Priscilla Baker, an analytical chemistry scientist and acting deputy vicechancellor for research and innovation at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), received the Order of Mapungubwe in bronze. She wasrecognised forher outstanding contribution to scientific research and leadership in science and technology, particularly in the field of electro-analytical chemistry.

National orders are thehighest awards in the country, through itspresident, bestowed on citizens and eminent foreign nationals in recognition of excellence and exceptional contributions that benefit South Africa and the world.

HONOUR

Baker expresseddeep gratitude when the award was announced aheadofthe ceremony, saying the achievement belongs to everyone whohas been part of her journey. "It's agreat honour for me to be the recipient [of thisaward], but I'm fully aware thatIdonot stand alone,"she said, acknowledging the role of herfamilyand the diverse cultural and faith communities that have shaped her life.

"All of the people who have crossed my path in one way or another have been part of the making of amoment. Ireceivethis award for all of us," she added. She thanked the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) for nominating her and reflected onthe value of working together: "Individually we can't go fast, but together we can go far, and we leavealegacy that counts."

Growing up in Bellville South, Baker's pathtoacademic leadershipwas not withoutits obstacles. In the mid-1980s, her schooling was disrupted under PW Botha's state of emergency. Despite facing systemic discrimination that prevented her frompursuing an honoursdegree, she persevered. In 1990 she became the firstwoman of colour to graduate with a BSc in physical oceanography from the University of Cape Town.

GROUNDBREAKING

Her research has since been groundbreaking. As co-directorofthe SensorLab research group at UWC alongside Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha, Baker is at the forefront of developing electrochemical sensors capable of detecting health biomarkers and environmental contaminants. Her work includes the development ofa biosensor for detecting uricacid in gout patients, technology that could

SPCAflooded with storm admissions

DESIRÉERORKE

DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA

KUILSRIVER-BORN SCIENTIST AMONG 38 HONOUREDBY PRESIDENT

revolutionisehealthcare in underserved regions like rural Africa, by enablingearly detectionofnon-communicable diseases such asdiabetes, cancerand heart disease. Baker's growing list of accoladesincludes being appointed afellowofthe Royal Society of South Africa in 2025, one of thecountry's highest recognitions for scientificexcellence. She was alsonamed the2025 L'Oréal-Unescofor Women in Science laureatefor Africa andthe Arab States. ANationalResearchFoundation (NRF)B-rated scientist, she hasserved as theSouth African ResearchChairs Initiative (SARChI) chair for analytical systems andprocesses for priority and emerging contaminants (ASPPEC) since 2018.

UWC's rector andvice-chancellor, Prof Robert Balfour, was quick to congratulate her: "Thisisa proudtestimonytoProf Baker's contribution to ouruniversity, our country and global scholarship: we are UWC. Well done, Prof Priscilla!"

OTHERRECIPIENTS

Two scientists widely known fortheir roles during the Covid-19 pandemic, Prof Tulio de Oliveira who ledthe teamthat discovered the Omicron variant, and Prof Salim Abdool Karim, recognised for his leadershipinpublic health andHIV/Aids andtuberculosis research, were honoured withthe OrderofMapungubwe in gold. The Springboks' director of rugby Rassie Erasmus received the Order of Ikhamanga in goldfor his inspirational leadershipof the Springbokstorepeated Rugby World Cup championships. Athlone-born jazzand gospel artistJonathanButler receivedthe same order in silver for his contribution to musicand the arts.

The body of apuppy, killed by the cold. Ahomeless man surrendering his only companion so the dog could live. Two motherdogs and their litter huddled inside aleaking kennel with nowhere left to go, andtwo little pigs trying to escapethe cold. This is what last week’s relentless winter storm did to animals in Cape Town.

On hand were the Cape of Good Hope SPCA who by the end of Tuesday had rescuednearly 100 animals from flooding and cold conditions as the storm continued to batter the city.

Over the two days, emergency teams from theSPCA remained inundated with distress calls from acrossthe metropole, as inspectorsworked around the clock in dangerousconditions, according to spokespersonBelinda Abraham.

Shesays rescue teams were deployed to some of thehardest hit areas, where floodedroads,gale force winds, and rising waterlevelsleft animals exposed, trapped, displaced, or without shelter.

ANIMALSSUFFERING

“We witnessed immense animal suffering caused by prolonged exposure to cold, flooding, hunger, andinadequate shelter,” shetold TygerBurger last week.

In one heartbreaking incident in Manenberg, inspectors discovered two mother dogs andtheir puppies huddled inside arickety kennel leaking rainwater from multiple points. Onepuppy had already succumbedtoexposure by the time helparrived. The two mothers and theremaining eightpuppieswere brought to theSPCA for urgentcare and warmth.

“This storm was unforgiving for animals livingoutdoors,” Abraham said. “For many of them,there is nowhere dry to escapeto. No warmth. No protection from thewind or rain.”

Several dogs were rescued after being found chained outside in flooded yards or roamingthrough waterlogged streetsin search of shelter. Horses have also been secured andreturned safely to theirstalls as conditions worsened on Monday night

“Among theadmissions were two small pigs rescued from the severe weather conditions. After arriving cold and soaked, staff watchedthem burrow happily into afresh pile of warm wood shavings, providing one of the few light-hearted momentsduring an otherwise emotionally exhausting rescue operation,” she said.

DUCKSSWIMACROSSTHESTREET

An unexpected moment briefly brought rescueoperations to astandstill when an SPCA emergency vehicle was forced to stop, not for arescue or obstruction, but to allow agroup of duckscalmly swimming acrossa flooded roadway to pass safely.

“Eveninthe middle of disaster, animals remind us of their remarkable spirit,” Abraham added. “Those small moments matterbecausethey keep exhausted teams going.”

In anotheremotional encounter,a homelessman made the painful decision to surrenderhis beloved dog intothe SPCA’s carerather thanwatch him continuetoshiverinthe inclement conditions.

“That is what real love looks like,” Abraham said. “He choseheartbreak for himself so thathis dog could have warmth, safety, and achance at abetter future.”

CUTTINGTHROUGHCHAOS

Workinginlockstep with the City of Cape Town’s Joint Operations Centre, the SPCA hadbeenable to cutthrough the chaos,gettingtothe right places faster and deployingresourceswhere they were needed most.

“Our liaison within the Joint Operations Centre hasbeeninvaluable,” Abraham said. “It allowed us to respond faster, prioritise the mostseverely affected areas first, andcoordinateour resources efficiently.”

Theorganisation also acknowledged the Law Enforcement Animal Control Auxiliary Unit, whose boots-on-the-ground support had proven critical as rescue demands continued to intensify.

“Noanimal should be left outside without proper shelter in storms like this. Bring animals indoors wherever possible. Raise kennels off flooded ground. Replace wet bedding immediately. Ensureanimals have protection from wind and rain. These are not small comforts during astormlike this. They are lifesaving interventions.”

Residents can report animals in distress or request evacuation assistance 24 hours aday: . Telephone: 021700 4158 /021 7004159 . WhatsApp: 021700 4140

Studentbuildsdigitalbookingsystem

BRENDENRUITER

BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

What began as afrustrating booking conflict at the University of the Western Cape’s High Performance Centre has evolvedinto astudent-driven dynamicdigital solution aimed at improving sports facility management at the university, thanksto the vision and determination of 20-year-old student-athlete Dateh Ambe.

Ambe, athird-year BCom Information Systems student, has helped reshapehow UWC Sport operates by developing anew digitalplatform to modernise sports administration, improve communication and createa more engaging experience for students and athletes. But the idea did not begin in alecture hall or technology lab. It started in the gym.

SYSTEMCOLLAPSE

As an athlete training through the University’s High Performance Centre, Ambe experienced the frustrations of multiple booking systems used simultaneously, which occasionally led to scheduling conflicts and inefficiencies.

He also noticed challenges with the manual equipment sign-out process, where incorrect capturing and illegible handwriting created difficulties in tracking equipment

“I was training withthe rugby players one day and there was adouble booking. There were several booking systems being used at the time and then there was also the manual equipment process, where handwriting sometimes created confusion. That’s when Irealised there was aproblem that technology could solve,” said Ambe Rather than simply complaining about the issue, he decided to create asolution.

After discussing the challenges with staff at the High Performance Centre, he approached manager Brent Hess with the idea of building amore streamlined digital systemtailored specifically to the Centre’s operational needs The project quickly gained momentum.

WORK-STUDYASSIST

Recognising his initiative and technicalability, the sports administration team later offeredAmbe awork-study opportunity to assist withthe

broader digitalisationofthe High Performance Centre andother sporting operations within the university.

Hess said the Centre hadspent years searching for asystem thatcould effectively meet its operationalrequirements. “We were constantlysearching for asystem thatwas simple,easy to use andable to accommodate allthe operational needs within High Performance,” he explained.

“Over time, we used various free booking applicationsand even trialled awell-known paid platform, but none provided a complete solution forour needs. As aresult, we ended up using multiple systems simultaneously, alongwith amanual pen-andpaper process forbooking equipment inand out.”

NETWORKEFFECT

According to Hess,hewas initially sceptical that astudent could create afully functional system capable of handling the Centre’scomplex operational requirements.

“When Dateh mentionedthathe could develop asystem tailored specifically to ourrequirements, includingteamand individual athlete bookings, facility spaces, andequipment management,I honestly didnot think it would be possiblewithout alarge IT company andsignificantfunding. However, once he demonstrated the prototype, we were genuinely impressed by both the functionality andattentionto detail within the system," Hess added.

He added thatthe systemhas transformedthe way the Centre manages itsdaily operations.

“The systemhas significantly improved bookings at the Centre by streamlining operations, reducing scheduling conflicts, andcentralising everything into one user-friendly platform. What hasalsostood out isthe abilityto communicate directly regarding glitches or recommendations, withupdates andadaptations being implemented quickly and efficiently. We truly received morethan we expected.”

COLLABORATION

Since then, Ambe hashelped developsystemsfor facility bookings,administration processes,and communication platformsfor UWCSport.

“This year, we met with Informationand Communication Services (ICS)todiscuss hosting, integration, andinfrastructure

ATHLETE TURNS FRUSTRATION INTO INNOVATION

for thesystems we designed,” Ambe explained.

“They told us thataslongas we couldmanage andmaintain thesystems independently, they would provide us with adomain to hostthem.”

PLATFORMDESIGNED

Those discussions eventually ledtothe development of a dedicatedUWC Sport website, a platform designed to centralise sports-relatedinformation and showcasethe University’s sportingculture in amore modern and accessible way.

AccordingtoAmbe,the idea became morerealistic after university stakeholders noticed how otherentities, suchasthe Innovation Hub, haddeveloped standalone platforms because

of limited space on the main university website.

“We realised therewas an opportunity to expand and create something specifically for sport,” he said. “We wanted students to seethe quality of support available and have easier access to information.”

The website officially launched in May 2026 and offers far more than fixture updates and club announcements. Students can access information about sports clubs, recreational programmes, campus leagues, volunteer opportunities and sports-related events, and about how those experiences can help students beyond university, especially with employment.

The platform also features sports news, athlete stories,

photographs and interactive visuals to create avibrant online sportscommunity at UWC.

For Ambe, the project has also become apractical example of how his academic studies intersect with real-world problem-solving.

He said studying Information Systems has equipped him with both the technical and business skills needed to understand how technology can improve organisations and user experiences.

BROADSCOPE

“One of the things Ienjoy about Information Systems is that it combines business and technology,” he said.

“You learn how systems can solve operational problems, improve efficiency and create better experiences for people. This project allowed me to apply what Ilearned in class to areal environment.”

Outside of academics and technology, Ambe is also making aname for himself on the athletics track.

He is the provincial u.23 long jump champion, an achievement he said has taught him discipline, consistency and resiliencequalities that have also helped him navigate the demands of balancing sport,academics and software development. “Being an athlete teaches you commitment,” he said. “You learn how to manage pressure, setbacks and time. That mindset definitely helped me with this project.”

Behind his success, Ambe has praised his parents for their constant support and encouragement throughout his journey.

“My parents have always supported me in everything Ido. They pushed me to believe in myself and encouraged me to workhard, whether it was in sport, academics or technology. I wouldn’t be whereIamwithout them,” he said.

INNOVATIVEPOWER

Balancing life as astudent, athlete and developer has not always been easy, but Ambe believes the experience has shown him the power of innovation driven by lived experience.

What started as frustration with inefficient systems has now become proof that one student’s idea can help shape the digital future of sport at the University of the Western Cape.

Cape Town’sfour seasons in 48 hours

There is something almost theatricalabout the weather in Cape Town. It doesn’t simply change —itperforms, complete with dramatic lighting, sound effects, and just enough chaos to make everyone briefly question their life choices.

For 48 hours, the city is pushed through an entire weathersystem with verylittle warning.

Gale-force winds arrive first, pushing rain sideways across roads and turning visibility intoagrey blur.Then come the floods, the icy bite in the air, andthe constant roar of wind that makes even solid buildings feel slightly less confident than usual. And then there are the trees. Not just swaying —but uprooted. Entire trees are tornout by their roots, collapsing across roads and open spaces like nature briefly losing an argument with gravity People don’t talk about “badweather”so much as they talkabout getting through it —waiting for the next gust, the next downpour, the next reminder that the storm is still very much in charge. Then, just as suddenly as it arrived,it stops performing.

The wind drops itsintensity. The rain slows. Apatch of blue appears in the sky like someone testing the lighting system And then, almost without ceremony,the storm is gone. And this is where things get truly CapeTown. Because Cape Town has avery specific post-storm personality: complete denial.

THESTORMDOESN’T FADEAWAY—ITGETS SOCIALLYIGNORED.

Within hours, the same city thatwas dealingwith uprooted trees,flooded roads andflying debris begins behaving as if nothing remotely dramaticjust happened As if the previous 48 hours were just a slightly intense dream everyone agreed not to talk about. It is almostimpressive The storm doesn’t fade away —itgets socially ignored. One moment residents are navigating blocked roads and dodging fallen branches. The next, they are discussing weekend plans infull sunlight, with the confidenceofpeople who did not just survive what can only be describedas nature’s aggressive reminder.

Lion's Head suddenly becomes apopular suggestion again, as if it wasn’tjust partially hidden behind horizontal rain a day earlier.The coastline follows the same pattern. Beaches refill quickly, even if the sand is still damp and the oceanhasn’t fullyrecovered from itsown moodswing Jackets disappear. Sunglasses return. Iced drinks are ordered with surprising optimism.

Coffee shops reopen their outdoorseating like nothinghappened. Conversations shift from “Did you see that tree comedown”? to “Whatabeautiful day forawalk”. Andthat is the most Cape Town thing of all —not the storm itself, but the speed at which it is mentally deleted.

And yet, within aday or two, it is treated as adistant inconvenience —something that almost happened in another version of the city. Almost like it triedtodo serious damage… and the city politely decided not to remember it thatway

That is thestrange rhythmoflife in Cape Town:extreme weather followed immediately by extreme optimism No slow recovery. No lingering drama. Just areboot. And by Wednesday morning, the same people who were dodging uprooted trees and sandbagging their driveways were posting sunrise selfies from Bloubergstrand beach, acting like the last 48 hours didn’t try to kill us —just briefly interruptedthe weather forecast. -KAILINDANIELS

Kommentaar // Comments

NEWERA FORSANAVY: Captain ZaneleMadibamade history at NavalBaseSimon’sTownasthe firstwoman to command aValourClass Frigateduring theSAS AmatolaChangeofCommand Parade on Thursday14May.The ceremonymarked the transferofleadership of SASAmatolaand SASKINGShakaZulu,attended by senior navalofficialsand defencerepresentatives.Madiba’sappointmentwas hailed as amajor milestone in thetransformation of the South African Navy.Pictured theSA Navy sailors saluting their Outgoing OfficerCommanding of SASAmatola,Captain Dieter Jones,asasign of respect during theceremony

BRIEWE|LETTERS

Weerkeernie oefengroepnie

BRENDENRUITER

BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

'nOu windjie hier en reëntjie daar gaan nie bejaardes wat by die Blue Downs-swembad oefenvan stryk bring nie.

Gewoonlik maak hierdie groep, onder leiding van Jacobus Michaels, vroeg indie herfsklaar met hul aktiwiteite en begin dan weer in die lente. Nie vanjaarnie "Die lede wil nie klaarmaaknie. Hulle wil aktiefbly, so wie is ek om teen hul besluit te gaan. Ons is 'n baie aktiewe groep wat nie wil rusnie," sê Michaels trots.

Volgens Michaels probeer hy hierdie tyd van die jaar net ligteoefeninge opdie Blue Downs-stadionmet diegroepdoen, maar hulledring steeds daarop aanom in die swembad te gaan.

"Die lede geniet die water baie en diegene wat leer swem is baie ywerig. Hoe ouer 'n mens word,hoe meer wil jy eintlik binnenshuis bly as dit begin koudword, maar my groep weet dat 'n mens die spiere moet warm en soepel hou," sêMichaels Hy hetjuis diegroep beginom ouer mensewat net tuis sit, 'n bietjie uitte bring. "Ons mense sit net en dan begin die mediese toestande kom. Hier by onskan jy fiks word en nognuwe vriende maak. Ons lag ook lekker saam, wat ookgoed vir die siel is," sê hy.Hynooi menseom by hulle te kom aansluit. "Kom oefen saammet ons en ek belowe jy sal nie net fiks word nie, maar jy sal nuwe vriende maak." . Stuur vir Michaels'nWhatsApp op 083417 7995 indien jy wil aansluit

Al sluipdie winterkoue nader,isJacobus Michaelsen sy oefengroepsteedsbesig met hul wateroefeninge.

MAAK

Trustdonates Olympic Brainz Monitor

Astate-of-the-art machine was recently handed over to the Neonatology Department at Tygerberg Hospital— marking asignificant step forward in enhancing specialised carefor the hospital’s most vulnerable patients.

The official handoverofthe Olympic Brainz Monitor, worth R709 969, was conducted by Prof PierreGoussardon behalf of the TygerbergHospitalChildren's Trust and formally received by prof. Gugu Kali, head of Neonatology. Alsopresent at the event were Dr Matodzi Mukosi, chief executiveofTygerberg Hospital,and Dr Sheila Lubega, medical manager for paediatrics.

The Olympic Brainz Monitor is an advanced neurological monitoring device used to assess brain activityinnewborns, particularly those at risk of neurological complications. Its introduction into the Neonatal Unit will enable earlier detection of abnormalities, moreaccurate diagnosis, andimproved clinical decision-making ultimately contributing to better outcomes for critically ill and premature infants, said Louise Theron, chair of the Tygerberg HospitalChildren’s Trust

ONGOINGCOMMITMENT

Speaking at the handover, Goussard highlighted the trust’songoing commitmenttosupportingexcellence in paediatric andneonatalhealthcare "This donation reflects ourdedication to ensuring that clinicians have access to the best possible equipment to carefor newborns in need,"Goussard said. Kali expressed sincere appreciation forthe donation, noting its impacton patient care. "This monitor will greatly enhanceour ability to provide specialised neurological caretoneonates, especially thosewithbrain injury. Early and accurate monitoring is critical, and this equipment will makea meaningful differenceinthe lives of the babies entrusted to our care,"she said.

The children’s trust continues to play apivotal role in advancingpaediatric healthcare at Tygerberg Hospital by funding essentialequipment, infrastructure improvements, andpatientcentred initiatives, said Theron.

The trust was established in 2001 and is dedicated to improving paediatric andneonatal healthcare at Tygerberg Hospital by addressing critical needsand supporting medical excellencethrough donor-fundedinitiatives.

Vermaak // Entertainment

ChristiaVisser byDieBoer

Christia Visser,aktriseensangeres,isop

Vrydag 22 Mei om 20:30 by Die Boer-teaterrestaurant in Durbanville Visser skittersteeds met treffers soos “17Shots”, “Ek sien jou” en haar nuutsteenkelsnit,“Maak dit maklik”.Syisook bekend vir haarrolle in films soos Tess Ballade vir ’n Enkeling en TV-reeksesoos Die Boekklub, Fynskrif en Binnelanders.Haarmusiek is diep persoonlik en weerspieël die stories wat

ENERGIEKE VERTONINGS

sy openlik op sosialemedia deel in dievormvan gedigtewat groot opslae maak onder aanhangers. Haar vertoningsisenergiek, eg en dikwelsvol grappies en lagwaargehoredie ware Christia leer ken. . Kaartjies kosR250. Bespreek by www dieboer.com of by 021979 1911.

Andréthe Hilarious Hypnotist returnstoDie Boer theatre

André the Hilarious Hypnotistmakes his return to Die Boer theatreonWednesday 27 Mayat 20:30 with his2026 show, Planned Pandemonium

After35years on stage, André describes this year's production as arefinementratherthana reinvention –amix of newroutines andthe strongest material from past performances. Whilethe format is familiar,the structurehas shifted,and theresultis afast-paced, unpredictableevening shapedentirely by the peopleinthe room.

Theconcept remains central to what André does: the audiencebecomes the show. Volunteers step intothe spotlight and drivewhat happensonstage, with each performanceshaped by the personalities

ofthose whotakepart. No twoshows areidentical.

Theshowisdesigned with afamily audience in mind,though onlythose aged 16 and older may volunteertogoonstage.Participation is entirely voluntary—noone is pressuredorsingled out

Andréhas made clearthat, in 35 years, he hasnever paid anyone to take part.The show is bilingual, withboth Afrikaansand Englishwoven throughout. As forwhether hypnosis is "real" that is aquestion Andréleavesfor theaudience to decide.Hesimplyaskspeople to relax, suspend disbelief foranevening, andenjoy theexperience.

. Tickets cost R220.Bookatwww.dieboer.com or on 021979 1911.

Komsing saam aan Handel

ConSpiritoFilharmonies bied ‘n opwindende geleentheidaan diepubliekomdeel te neem aan'n uitvoering vanuittreksels uitHandel se "Messias" op Saterdag 22 Augustus in dieNGkerk Uitsig in Mountain View-rylaan,Ridgeworth As jy noot kanhou en al vantevoredie "Messias" gesing het, of ditvir dieeerstekeerwil beleef, word jy genooi om te komsaamsing.Con Spiritotree altydsaam met 'n simfonie-orkes op.Sipho Fubezi (tenoor)enConroy Scott(bas) gaan optreeasdie

soliste. Die program salaangevul word met Haydnse "Tjello konsert in D" met MatthiasEnder en Mozart se "Klavierkonsert K.488"met Pieter Rooi as soliste. Oefeninge begin op Maandag25Mei en sal daarna elke Maandagvan 19:00 tot21:00 in die Gereformeerde kerk Bellville-OosinCherrystraat, Belair, plaasvind. . Kontak SjoerdofAnna-Marie Alkema by Allmusic by 021981 5551ofstuur e-pos na sj@ allmusic.co.za vir meer inligting.

BARRYHILTONLIVEATDIEBOER

DAGBOEK /DIARY

. Cape Town Operapresents GeorgesBizet's Carmen astory of passion,freedomand jealousyatArtscape from 19 to 31 May. TicketsfromR180atWebtickets.

. CurroDurbanville HighSchool presents Sister Act JR at the schoolinGroot PhesantekraalEstatefrom Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 Mayat19:00.Ticketsfrom R160 at Quicket.

. Millennium tree op Vrydag 22 Mei om 20:30by Heroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjieskos R120 totR140. Bespreekbywww.heroeslive.net

. ACDC DuetXchange2026, atwo-dayfestival of danceperformance and competition, is at TheHomecoming CentreonFriday22and Saturday23May at 19:00. TicketsR150 at Webtickets.

. TheBavarian YouthJazzOrchestrameets the StellenboschUniversity Jazz Band –A BigBand Celebration is at the Endler Hall,StellenboschonSaturday23 Mayat16:00.Tickets areR170atWebtickets.

. Chicken, And runs at TheHomecomingCentre from 23 to 30 May. This independent theatre production pecksattoday's capitalist hellscape,inviting you intoawarpedtalk showarena.TicketsfromR200at Quicket.

. XollyMncwango: TheUnusual Encounter is at the Grand Arena,GrandWestonSaturday23May at 18:00.Tickets from R300 at Webtickets.

. Boyz II Men Live in SouthAfricaTour is at the Grand Arena,GrandWestonWednesday 27 Mayat18:00 TicketsfromR750atWebtickets.

. Elandré tree op by Kapstadt Brauhaus Durbanville op Vrydag 29 Meiom20:00.Die deuremaak18:00 oop. Kaartjieskos R220 by Quicket

. TheRockyHorrorShow is at Theatreonthe Bayin

BarryHiltonisdoing alunch showatDie Boer theatrein Durbanville on Sunday 24 Mayat14:00.Get ready for an electrifying afternoon of spontaneouslaughter with BarryHilton’s“Audience Unplugged”–whereyour suggestions ignitethe comedy! With no scriptinsight,Hilton unleasheshis impressive improvising skills,turning your ideasintoside-splitting punchlines on the spot.Ashe takesthe spotlight and the audiencekeepshim on his toes,prepare fora hilariously unpredictableexperiencethat willleave youroaring with laughter.Doors open at 11:30 Tickets cost R220.Book at www dieboer.com or on 021 9791911.

CampsBay currently until31May.The production is ratedPG16. Ticketsstart from R200.Book at Webticketsoron021 4383300

. TheJiveCapeTownFunnyFestival runs at The Baxter from 28 Mayto21June. TicketsfromR190 to R250 at Webtickets.

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

. Please,don’t call me moffie runs at Artscapefrom2 to 6June. No under 16s. TicketsR150 at Webtickets.

. Cape Town SymphonyChoir presentsMozart's GreatMassatthe Cape Town City Hall on Saturday6 June at 19:00 and on Sunday 7Juneat17:30.Tickets at Quicket

. Killer Queen –ALamta DanceProduction runs from 4to20JuneatTheatre on the Bay. TicketsfromR200 at Webtickets.

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

. Cape Town ConcertSeries:Charl du Plessis –Mozart, Mambo&Merlot is on Saturday6Juneat15:00 at The Baxter.TicketsfromR100 to R300 at Webtickets. . Cape Town City Balletpresents Orpheusinthe Underworld from 12 to 21 June at Artscape.Tickets from R225 to R650 at Webtickets.

. DonVino Saxy Vibes8 is at the Grand Arena, GrandWest on Saturday13Juneat19:00.TicketsR190 to R350atWebtickets.

. CentreStage –Dancing intothe future is on Tuesday16Juneat19:00 at Artscape.TicketsfromR180 to R300 at Webtickets.