With just overamonth to go,organisers saythe Cape Town Carnival is on tracktolight up the Green Point FanWalkon21March with 10 handcraftedfloats and acelebrationof Cape Town’screativetalent,including11local“Champions.”Performers,designers andseamstressesare working aroundthe clock to completemorethan 1000 costumesand prepareafamily-friendlyshowthat celebratesdiversityand storytelling through art.Pictured aresomeofthe performers whowilltakepart in theevent.
PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA ANNOUNCESARMY DEPLOYMENT TO GANG-INFESTED
SANDFjoinscrimefight
BRENDENRUITER
BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
The announcement last week by president Cyril Ramaphosa that the South African National Defence Force will be deployedingang-infected communitieshas been welcomed by thecommunity of Bonteheuwel Bonteheuwel has been plagued by gang violence for many yearsand despite attempts fromvarious lawenforcement agencies to curb it, theviolence continued. During the last two
-Angus McKenzie
weekstwo women died violently, with shooting incidents an almost daily occurence Angus McKenzie,local ward councillor, says that as a communitythey have shown that when acommunity refuses to bow to gangsters, when residents work with law enforcement, andwhen visible policing is consistentand firm, crime can
be pushed back. “Today, gang elements in our area no longer operatewiththe arrogance they once did. They function opportunistically because they know thiscommunity is watching, organised, and unafraid. Iwelcome the deployment of the army to ganginfestedareas.
TOPAGE4
PHOTO: KAYLYNNE BANTOM
WHAT’S ON /WAT IS WAAR
WOENSDAG18FEBRUARIE
. Theo Kemp se boek KleinKoningswordindie Durbanville-biblioteeksaalop'nbyeenkoms vandie Durbell-leeskring bespreek. Jonathan Amid gaan die boek bespreek. Ditbegin om 10:00. Almaliswelkom. Gaste betaal R50.LedegeldbeloopR220per jaar.Rig navraeaan Liz vanWyk by 082655 8061.
. Die hoogsvermaaklike romanDie avonturevan HelgaRoets word deur Human &Rousseaubydie Durbanville-biblioteekbekendgestel.RiëtteRust salingesprek wees met die skrywer,RiaanGrobler Die boekbekendstelling begin om 17:00.Bespreek by RSVP@jonathanball.co.za.
DONDERDAG19FEBRUARIE
. Die TygerbergTuin- en Blommeklubspring diejaar wegmet RuanEastes se praatjie oorbromeliasen Diana de Vossepraatjie oorPot-et-fleur.Die tema van die blommekunskompetisieis“Tradisioneel vertikaal” Die klub het 'n propvolprogram metinteressanthede elke derdeWoensdagvan die maand by dieNGkerk ParowWelgelegen(La Provence47, Welgelegen)om 09:30 vir 10:00. Teewordvanaf09:30 bedien.Bel Beatrix Lambert-Bestbier by 082873 9864 virmeer inligting.
VRYDAG20FEBRUARIE
. Die Weg-stapfeeswordvan Vrydag 20 totSondag 22 FebruariebyMeerendal buite Durbanville aangebied. Stappers kankiesuit verskeieafstande.Daar sal'n6km-, 'n 10km-, 12 km- of 21 km-stapoor die naweekaangebied word.Skryf in vir een, twee of driestaptogte of al drie dae. Besoekwegstapfees. topevents.co.zaominteskryf
THURSDAY26FEBRUARY
. TheR5booksaleatthe Durbanville Children’s Homewillbeheldatthe homeonThursday 26 February and Friday27Februaryfrom09:00 to 15:00 and Saturday 28 Februaryfrom09:00 to 13:00atthe reception area.Therewillbeaselection of text books —all at R5 each, as well as CDs, DVDs and books, including children’sbooks and coffee-table books. Take your ownbagsorboxes. Card facilities willbe available.
SUNDAY1MARCH
. Edgemead’slargestindoorsecondhand market will be heldatthe Edgemead Community Hall,83EdgemeadDrive 08:00to14:00.Bargainsgalore.
VRYDAG6MAART
. Sakeluisêmekaaringoeie gees die stryd om die titelas potmeester by dieTygerberg-sakekamer se immergewildepotjiekoskompetiesie.Die kompetisie, 'njaarlikse hoogtepunt watnou in sy tiende jaar is, word op by dieHoërskoolStellenbergaangebied. Die pottebegin om 13:00prut.E-pos Marina by admin@ tygerbergbc.co.zavir 'n inskrywingsvormenmeer inligting. Slegs'nbeperkte aantal pottekan ingeskryf word
SATERDAG7MAART
. Die AGSKuilsrivier tehuis vir bejaardes (Care Village) bied van10:00 tot15:00'nherfsmarkaan op sy perseel by Kerkstraat17. Daar salmusieken'n verskeidenheid vanstalletjiesweesomnahartelus te snuffel.Verdryf diehonger met 'n wyekeuse wat insluit boereworsrolle,hamburgers en skyfies, kerrie-vetkoeke en veel meer.Kom snuffel en smul saam en ondersteun so dietehuis
VRYDAG13MAART
. Die kykNETBuite-ekspo Wes-Kaapwordweer die naweek van13tot 15 Maartvanjaar op dieplaas Môresonnet buite Malmesburyaangebied. Diehooffokusval op tallebuitelewe-uitstallers watvan die nuutste produkte tans beskikbaarindie buitelewekampeer-en4x4-markuitstal soos watdie koper dit in diepraktyk sougebruik. Dagbesoekerkaartjies wissel vanR30 virkinders totR120vir volwassenes, afhangendvan diedag.Daarisook naweekpakkette Dit is beskikbaar deur Open Tickets, www.ekspo.co.za en ook by die hekketydens die ekspo.Besoekwebwerf by www.ekspo.co.za virmeer inligting
SATURDAY21MARCH
. TheGreen PointFan Walk will come alivewith an explosionofcolourand entertainmentasthe 16th editionofthe Cape Town Carnival returns. Over 1500 performers will showcasetheirtalent under the theme “FollowYourHeART.” Limitedpaidticket options areavailable in VIP, seated standsoronthe RedBus. BookonQuicket
THURSDAY26MARCH
. Badisaispresenting its annual fundraising golf day at Durbanville Golf Club.The golf tournament daywill featureafour-ball allianceformatwithtwo scores counting towardsthe finaltally.Entryfeesare R5 500 perfour-ballteam, with an early-birddiscountofR4 500for bookings done before the end of February Contact Willow Williamson021 9577130orvia email to info@badisa.org.zatobook. Visit www.badisa.org. za formoreinformation.
FMDdeclared nationaldisaster
The Western Cape Government has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement made at last week’s State of the Nation Address that Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) has been classified as anational disaster. The declaration enables acoordinated national response to what is described as one of the mostsevere livestock disease outbreaks in recent years. SouthAfrica has been battlingFMD since 2019, with devastatingimpacts on farmers through herd losses, export restrictions, and economic pressure.
Western Cape Agricultural MEC Ivan Meyer welcomedthe move, saying it will improve response times and accountability. Acentralised, one-size-fitsall model slows down diseaseresponse. Allowing provinces to procurevaccines —supportedbynational guidelines will strengthen ourability to act quickly, Meyer said.
Meyerwas outonthe street in the Kuils River vicinity last week handing out awareness pamphlets to motorists at atraffic control point on Stellenbosch Arterial, near Wesbank and Kalkfontein.
The province hasstarted implementing a21-Point FMDResponse Plan —that includedsuccessfully containing the initialGouda outbreakand introducing virtual livestockauctions to reduce animal movement.
VACCINATIONS
Vaccinations began recently. Over
theweekend of 7and 8February, 284 cattle were vaccinated in Kalkfontein Daniel Johnson, spokesperson for Meyer, confirmed only cattle were vaccinated and not any pigs or goats or other hooved animals —ascattle are the main concern (priority). Overthe past weekend vaccinations took place in Fisantekraal near Durbanville as aprecautionary measure.
Western Cape Local Government MEC Anton Bredell highlighted the economic significance, noting the Western Cape’s livestock sector is valued at R13,5 billion and supportsthousands of jobs. We are actively protecting our provincial borders and monitoring entry points for cattle. Any movement of livestock without required permits pose adirect risk to the entire province. We will be firm in enforcing compliance, Bredell said.
TheProvincial Disaster Management Centre is coordinating with agricultural authorities, municipalities, traffic services, and police to monitor border entry points and enforce livestock movement regulations. Bothministers emphasised that combining national coordination with provincial expertise is essential to protect farmers, rural employment, and food securityacross the country.
Lateapplication surgehitsschools
The provincial education department has placed26312 Grade R, 1and 8learners acrossthe province sincethe beginning of January this yearinaddition to tens of thousands placedduring 2025.
Despite having placed 96% of all learners whoapplied last year —including late applications submitted up to 10 December —the department experiencedan unprecedented number of new extremely late applicationsatthe startof2026, according to education spokesperson Bronagh Hammond.
Since thebeginning of January, the department received 25 065 extremely late applicationsfor Grades R, 1and 8.
As of 6February 2026, forGrade 8, the department hasplaced 99,6% of learners for whom applicationswerereceived, with placement in progress for 396 learners. In Grade1,placement is in progress for 326 learners, representing aplacement rate of over 99%. For Grade R, placement is in progress for 1148 learners.
The departmentreceived 13 905 extremely late applications for Grade R this year.
Hammond says thatwith schools having only reopened on 14 January, officials have worked extremely hardtoplace
learners as quickly as possible.
"Thefact that more than 26 000 placements have been made withinfour weeks is aremarkable accomplishment by our team. Thedepartment has consistently communicated that the 10th school day is acritical milestone in the admissions process. It allows schools to confirm actual attendance through physical headcounts, deregister learners who have not arrived, and identify available spaces for rapid placement," she says.
Hammond acknowledged that while it is always preferable for all learnerstobein school on the first day, the realityisthat late applications require time. Officials must consult with School Governing Bodies (SGBs), negotiate available spaces, and finalise administrative processes that would normally take months —now condensed intojust afew days.
"While we celebrate the placement of tens of thousands of learners in an exceptionally short period, we remain mindful that new extremely late applications continue to arrive daily. These are being handled with urgency, and we appeal to the publictoallow officials the space to complete thiswork," she said.
Western Cape Agricultural MECIvanMeyer sharing information on foot-and-mouthdisease at atrafficcontrol point on StellenboschArterial near Wesbank and Kalkfontein last week
Leerdersin stekerybetrokke
BRENDENRUITER
BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Bekommerde ouers het verlede Donderdagmiddag voor dieSekondêre
Skool Eersterivier saamgedrom om hul kinders te kom haal nadattwee leerders glo mekaar op die skoolterrein aangeval en gesteek het.
Sers. Wesley Twigg, provinsiale polisiewoordvoerder,het die voorval bevestig.
"Die Kleinvlei-polisie is steeds op die toneel by die skool in Beverley-straat. Voorlopige verslae dui daarop dattwee leerdersmekaar gesteek hetendat albei meternstige beserings na 'n mediese fasiliteit geneem is.
“Die omstandighederondomdie voorval word ondersoek,maar intussen is twee sake van aanranding met diedoel om ernstigtebeseer by diepolisie aanhangig
Suspectsnabbed in Kleinvlei fordrugpossession
ONDERONSIETUSSEN TWEE BEGINGLO DIE OGGEND BY BYEENKOMS
gemaak," sêTwigg.
Volgens Bronagh Hammond, woordvoerder vir die provinsiale onderwysdepartement, het 'n graad 9- en 'n graad 12-leerder tydens die oggendbyeenkoms in 'n stryery betrokke geraak, wattot die stekery gelei het.
"Die polisie is ontbied en dissiplinêre aksiesal deur die skool teen die betrokke leerders ingestel word,"sêHammond.
Met TygerBurger se besoek aan die skoolhet honderde ouers buite die skool saamgedrom om hulkinders te kom haal
Die polisie en wetstoepassers was op die toneel om die situasie te monitor.
Arecent intelligencedriven operation in theKleinvlei Policing Precinct led to thearrest of severalsuspects for the possession of prohibited firearms and drugs.
Members of theanti-economic-crime task team and counterfeit and illicit goods policingteamconducted the operation in Kleinvlei andEerste River wheretheysearched identified premises and confiscated two 9mmpistols with ammunition and 100 Mandrax tablets, whichwerefoundatdifferent addresses.
They arrested three suspects aged 39, 37 and 21 forthe possession of prohibited firearms andammunitionand possession of drugs.
“Once chargedthe suspects will make theirrespective court appearances in the BlueDownsMagistrates’ Court,”says police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg.
Drugs that were confiscated during police raids.
‘Humanityonly’benchunveiled
BRENDENRUITER
BRENDEN.RUITER@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Learners at the Bishop Lavis School of Skills last week markedthe day 60 years ago, 11 February1966,that many Capetonians,including people living in Bishop Lavis, will always regard with infamy—the day District Six was officially declaredwhite under apartheid group areas. It unveiled a “humanity only”park bench in its art gallery.
The ensuing two decades sawat least 60 000 peopleforcibly removed fromthe area and all traces of the area removed under “slum-clearance” ordinances.
Aside from the Group AreasAct (1950 andits 1957 and 1966 amendments), governing residential segregation, apartheid also saw the advent ofsuch
FROMPAGE1
It brings much needed stabilisation and sends astrong message thatthe state recognises the seriousness ofthe crisis. But let us be honest, stabilisation isnot thesame as asolution.
“The real weakness in thefight against gangsterismisnot only on the streets. It sits within acriminal justice system that has too often failed victims, failed witnesses, and failed communities. Arrests mean very little if cases collapse, if prosecutions are weak, or if hardened criminals are released back into the very neighbourhoods they terrorise,” says McKenzie.
According to him if the government is serious about permanently dismantling gangs, they must empower those who have proven their willingness and capability
HISTORICALDAY COMMEMORATED BY SYMBOLIC SEAT
legislationasthe Separate AmenitiesAct (1953),which brought separate beaches, cinemas, eateries, train carriages and so on about, castingseparation of the races in stone.
The new bench, only partly finished at thetimeofits unveiling,alludesto designated park benches —“whitesonly” and“non-whitesonly”— only this time withthe innocuous “humanity only” on display.
Mario Oostendorp, ateacher at the school,pointed outthatata specialschool like his learners engage with history in
“Our metro police and law enforcement officers need expanded powers including investigative authority andthe necessary competenciessotheycan do more than justrespond.They must be able to build cases, pursue syndicates, and ensure convictions. Communities like ours, andplaces elsewhere on the Cape Flats, have demonstrated thatlocal, visible, accountable policing works. The questionnow is whether the president is preparedtodevolve policing powers to capable metros who are ready to take responsibility anddeliver results. Our people deserve more than temporary deployments. They deserve lasting safety,” saysMcKenzie
more interactive ways, presented more as topicsofinterest.
“I always wantedtomake abench becauseI had the signhere from a previousexhibition. When Ilooked at the date Irealised it was the date District Six was declared awhites-only area. Idecided Iwas goingtotell thelearners about the history of DistrictSix, reminding of all thestories their grandparents may have relatedabout being evicted from the area.
“I explained about the signs on park benches and otheramenities, making them aware that many in the past didnot enjoy thefreedom of movement and association they take for granted now.”
Oostendorpsaid once it is finished the bench will form part of an exhibition at theCape FlatsArt Festival. “For now it will be in our school's art gallery.”
Members of the South African National Defence Forcemarch just before the Stateofthe Nation address.
UrgentfundsneededforBlisters
For nearly six decades,the Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun
Walk hasbrought together families, schools, businesses and community organisations in asharedstand againstchild hunger.
Now in its 58th year, this much-loved eventfaces an uncertain future.
To deliverthe event safely and professionally and to ensure it remains accessible for the community, the PeninsulaSchool Feeding Association (PSFA) requiresR1,5 million in sponsorship funding.
This sponsorship enables PSFA to cover all operational costs.This meanswalker entry fees remain affordable and 100% of the money raised is directedtoits school feeding programmes.
Without urgent sponsorship support, this year's Blisters for Breadwalk may not be able to go ahead, dealing a significant blow not only to the PSFA but also to the families,schools, and communities who have made thisevent an annualtradition.
The PSFA is calling on members of the corporate sector to partner withPSFA for this year's event
Thewalk raises awareness of childhood hunger and contributes to vital funding for thePSFA's school nutrition support programme, whichfeeds over30000 learners across the Western Cape each school day.
Since itsinception, Blisters for Bread has grown into atrusted platform for collaboration, combining large-scale public participation with astrong focus on social impact.
Brian Benatar, PSFA chair, said Blisters for Bread hasalways been built on partnership.
The event hashistorically benefited from strong corporate involvement. It also offers sponsors credible brand visibility, employee engagement opportunities andalignment with PSFA which hasbeen addressing food insecurityamongvulnerable learners for decades.
"Blisters for Bread continues to demonstrate what is possible when business and community work together," saidPSFA Director, Petrina Pakoe. . Formoreinformation, contact PSFA's Fundraising Manager, Charles Grey,on021 447 6020 or via email at charles@psfa.org.za
PSFA REQUIRES R1,5 MILLION IN SPONSORSHIP FUNDING TO ORGANISETHE FAMILY FUN WALK
Theiconic Blisters forBread Charity FamilyFun Walk is at risk after 57 Years.
Presidentcommitstoendstunting
DESIRÉERORKE
DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA
President Cyril Ramaphosa announcedinhis State of the Nation
Address his government's commitment to end stunting by 2030, focusing on interventionsduring the first 1000 days of life from conception to achild's second birthday
The announcement comes twomonths afterCabinet approved the National Strategy to AccelerateActionfor Children (NSAAC), which sets 10 national priorities to improve the lives of children and teenagers. The president said his government will "implement targeted interventions to ensure that pregnant women and low birth-weightchildrenget the protein and nutrients that they need".
The DG Murray Trust (DGMT) welcomed the president's commitmentand called for adequate funding towards evidence-based strategies. Theorganisation highlighted that stunting risk increases when babies are born with low birth weight (under 2.5kg) and never catch up because their motherswere malnourishedorconsumed alcoholduring pregnancy.
Syndrome (FAS) in the country are reported in the wine-growing areas of the Western Cape. According to Mediclinic, arecent study in theBolandaroundthe townofWellington showed that48out of 1000 children in their first year at school hadFAS. This is 36 timeshigher than the figure for Westernnations, which is 1.33children per 1000. Province-wide, according to the City of Cape Town,the Western Cape is facing oneofthe world's highest rates of FAS with310 cases per1 000 births,promptingarenewed focus on prevention and support services.
Rates arehighest in poor rural communities with aculture of heavy drinking of alcohol, wineinparticular. This mayhave hadits historical origin in the "dopsystem"—givingfarm workers alcohol on adaily basis—andinthe ready supply of cheap alcohol in both legal outlets and in "shebeens", Mediclinic notes.
KEYINTERVENTIONS
DGMTproposed three key
interventions: introducing micronutrient supplementation for pregnant women usingasingle tablet containing 15 vitamins andminerals; implementing a Maternal Support Grantfrom the second trimester thattransitions to the Child Support Grantafterbirth; and providing nutrition support to pregnant women at risk, as well as newmothersoflow birthweightbabies. Theyfurthermore urged thegovernmenttointroduce minimum unitpricing for alcohol and called for provincestotighten regulations around liquor trading hours andlimit liquor outlet density.
In 2025, the Western Cape health and wellness, in partnership with the DGMT and Shoprite, launched Khulisa Care. The pilot programme supports underweight pregnant women, mothers at risk of delivering low-birth-weight babies, and infants already born underweight through acombination of nutritious food vouchers andsustained careprovided by trained community health workers
The initiative is currentlybeing implemented in Breede Valley, Khayelitshaand Mitchells Plain, where 897 women are already enrolled, with early collaboration acrossgovernment, civil society and theprivate sector already
yielding valuable insights.
FOCUSONCHILDHOODNUTRITION
Provincial minister of health and wellness, Mireille Wenger said the province is encouraged by the growing national focus on early childhood nutrition and stunting prevention.
“Ending child stunting in SouthAfrica will require evidence, partnershipand urgency. Through Khulisa Care, we are testing amodel that combines nutrition and care in the earliest stages of life, and we are already learning important lessons from our communities and healthcare teams.”
Premier Alan Winde emphasised the importance of combining resources and learning quickly to maximise impact.
“Todefeat child stunting, we must combine our resources, our knowledge and our partnerships across everysphere of government and society. By learning quickly from what works and scaling effective interventions, we can have the greatest possible impact now and securea healthier, more prosperous futurefor our children.”
Funding for the plan will be allocated during the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement.
modern day Macgyver traverses the Cape Flats selling rabbits on awobbly bike heldtogether by “elastic andwire”.
Jack Chopper,asheprefers to be known, hails from Manenberg but travels several dozensofkilometresbybicycle multiple times amonth to deliver baby rabbitsto pet shops.
TygerBurger caught up with the eccentric cyclist in Woodlands, Mitchells Plain, last week, while he was on hisway to “Winners”, which is thename of anow defunctsupermarket in Lentegeur He gave the paper an exhibition of hismulti-coloured and multi-textured “bicycle”, while he stopped to catch his breath alongsideHighlands Drive.
ANYTIEWILLDO
The bicycle, which sportsashadecover, baskets, lights, acharger, reflectorsand adynamo, was built from scratchby Chopper —without any welding. Cobbled together with spare parts, it features star-spangled handles, ared fabricseat cover and two differently-sized wheels It’s decorated with an old baby shoe and random labels andlogos, including a Bokke emblem.
When asked how it is held together, Chopper, who has several jewelled teeth, said, “with elastic and wire”. TygerBurger however noticed several cable ties securing the shadecloth cover,white tape that looked suspiciously likegauzeon the shadecoverframe, achain connecting parts of the bike’s back frameand even a pair of handcuffswhich connected two of the frame’s bars —though the paperwas unclearifthis was purely fordecoration Abasket made of chicken wire and
carpet was attached to the back and it bore several black baby bunnies —who hada fabulous viewofthe back wheel, covered with amudguard made of indiscernible material.
Animal lovers need notworry about their hydration.Chopper hadthreaded awaterspoutthroughthe makeshift hutch fromabottle secured to theframe’s verticalbars
KOKIEDCONFIRMATION
When TygerBurger askedifthe bike wasroadworthy, Chopper cackled saying that traffic officers once stopped himand jokingly askedhim for his licence.Since then he decidedto“fake it” and addeda repurposed trailerlicense, updatedwith
Rabbit breeder uses aMacgyvered bike to traverse the Cape Flats
blackkokipen, to the bike’s eclectic ensemble
Thechainguard alsosported alicence plate drawn on in blackkoki but Chopper said that he hadoncehad an actual licence plate on the bike but had lost it on oneofhis travels. The bike used to belong to Chopper’s10-year-old son. His sonsurrenderedthe bike, Chopper said, “because it is tooheavy for him”.
“With the battery, it’salmost 50 kilos,” he said. “This is a1972 model,” Chopper added.
Chopper was not surprised by TygerBurger’s attention.Hesaid he was frequently stopped by curious passersby some of whom have made videos of him and made him “famousonTikTok.”
Chopper said the bike is his mode of transport to sell his rabbits to pet shops in Gatesville, Lentegeur and the Town Centre in Mitchells Plain, all of which is more than 10km away from his home in Manenberg.
SANParks scraps indemnityforms
TheSouth African National Parks (SANParks)announced on Friday 13 February that it has suspended the indemnityand verification form requirement at Table Mountain National Parkwithimmediate effect.
This announcement came just days after it had stated that it will be implementing the indemnityand verification form requirement process.
“The measure was introduced to strengthen verification and governance processes. However, SANParks acknowledges that itsimplementation led to operational delays and visitor frustration. We have listened to the concerns raised by visitors and tourism partners and have acted decisively,” the entity said in its statement last week.
Overthe next twelve months, SANParks will implement afully digitised identification document (ID) and passport verification system at park gates, including high-speed scanning technology to ensure accurate compliance while delivering aseamless visitor experience, the statement reads.
During thistransition, gate operations will continue without the indemnityform requirement,SANParks said.
Theviewfromthe mountain overlooking FalseBay
Will Sona optimism translatetoreal change?
While President CyrilRamaphosa spoke of astrengthening rand, falling inflation, and renewed investor confidence during his State of the Nation Address,many woke up thenext day to aless reassuring reality: dry taps, rising living costs, unemployment queues, and unsafe neighbourhoods.
This contrast captures the central tension of this year’s address. The President painted apicture of an economy gradually stabilising, yet we knowfrom lived experience that life formillionsof South Africans remains uncertain and difficult.
His admission that “life remains hard” may have been themost honest line of the speech. It reflected something we understand: national progress measured in statistics does not always translate into relief felt in our communities. Economic stability matters.
Astronger currency signals confidence, helps government manage debt, and can encourage investment.Lower inflation protects purchasing power. These are necessary foundations for long-term growth.But for many struggling to basic necessities, macro-economic indicators feel distant and abstract. Recoveryonly becomes meaningful when reflected in secure jobs, stable services, and safer streets.
To his credit, thespeech did not avoid pressing challenges. Organised crime, he said, remainsone of the greatest threats to
THEPRESIDENT’SMESSAGEINVITESBOTHHOPEANDSCRUTINY
economic development and socialstability
Thisrecognition is important because crime is not only apolicing issue —itis an economic barrier.
Communities affected by gangs, extortion and crime struggle to attract businesses and opportunities. Unsafe environments limit where people can move freely,where small businesses can operate, andhow confidentwefeel in our neighbourhoods. Yet we have heard strong commitments to tackling crime before. Our confidence depends on implementation and results, not just tactical plans that sound decisive. Thesame pattern applies to corruption and governance failures. The president’s emphasis on strengthening institutions signals understanding thateconomic reform cannot succeed without credible leadership and functioning systems. However, we judge progress by concrete outcomes, successful prosecutions, and improved service delivery —not investigationsannounced orpolicies drafted.
Perhapsthe mostimmediate concerns relate to municipal services. Water shortages, failinginfrastructure, and inconsistent servicedeliveryaffect our lives in ways that national economic indicators cannot capture. These issues aretangible —they shape whether our taps run, roadsremainusable, refuse is collected, and electricity supply is stable Ramaphosa’s warning thatfailing municipalities couldlose service delivery powers suggests willingness to act but it raises uncomfortable questions: If government knows which municipalities are struggling, why has intervention been slow? Will stronger oversight translate into quicker, measurable improvements? These questions point to adeeper challenge: restoring public trust. Years of economic pressure, service delivery failures, and governance challenges have changed how we evaluate leadership.
BRIEWE|LETTERS
Waterwastage mindsets
Againweaddress a“critical watersecurity” issue, and everyone is urgedtosavewater
Itravelaround the countrywith tourists and findno oneconsciouslysavingwater.Notices areeverywhere but effective stepsofhow to save waterrare. Most geysersare farfromthe bathrooms andittakes six to nine litres before hotwater comes through ahot-water tap. If that’snot badenough, very few“mixers” have a clearindicationofwhich waytoturn the handlefor hot andcoldwater.And if onethinkshot is rightand cold left,think again! Ihavefoundthateveninthe same room, cold at thehandbasin couldbetothe left and in theshowertothe right. Thereisnostandard, every plumber inthe countrydoes whathelikes. Suggesting to the establishments, from guest houses to five-star hotels, to at least mark thetapsclearlyfor hotand
cold theylook at me in disgust,asiftosay:“who are youtotellmehow to run my place”?But when one approaches the subject of waterusage each andevery onecomplainsaboutthe huge billtheyreceive. Watersavingisnot clearlydefined in ourminds, and fewpeoplehaveany understanding of what shouldbe done to reduce consumption. As fortoilet flushing: the usualflushing systems were designed in Britain and countries with excess water, installedherewithout a thoughtofthe consequences. Thetip of the iceberg are“luxury”establishments with ahugebath tub “to relaxin”,after alongday’s safari or sightseeing. Talk is cheapand from thetop (Minister)downtothe end user watersavingisjustaphraserepeated everynow andthen, while we hope forrain PETERSMULIK, Rugby
Fed-up with roadworks
Ihavebecomeincreasingly frustrated with the ongoing road maintenanceonLaBelle Road in Stikland, which hasbeen causing significantcongestion.
OnelanefromStrandRoad, direction OldPaarl Road, has beenclosedoff andcompletelydug up, along withthe right-turninglanefromStrand and Bottelary road.Thishas createdmassivetrafficdelays in the vicinity, particularlyduringpeakhours. The lane closures have been problematic as La BelleRoad serves apredominantlyindustrial area and provides crucialaccess to the R300.The routecarries volumes of heavy-duty trucksand commercialvehicles essential to industrial operations, not to mention the minibus taxis(generallyalaw unto themselves).
Whatmakes this situation morefrustratingisthe lack of visibleprogress. Dayafter day, motorists endure delays, yetminimal actual work appears to be taking place. Whileroadmaintenanceisundoubtedlyessential, couldthe CityofCape Town not have planned this work differently? Perhapscompleting the project in phases to maintain trafficflow or implementing more intensive work schedulestoreducedisruption?The currentapproach is causingsignificantinconvenience to those usingLaBelle,Strandand Bottelary roads
Iurgethe City to expeditecompletion of this project andimplement betterplanning protocolsfor future maintenance work on strategically importantroads.
FRUSTRATED MOTORIST, Email
Boetesskrik nie taxi’s af nie
Dithelpnie taxibestuurders kryverkeersboetes nie; die meeste hetnie 'n vasteadres nieendie boetes kannie by hulle afgelewerwordnie.Hulle werk vir iemand wat ditmaklikkan verminder of selfsafskryf.Ekhet op die hoek vanFrans Conradie-rylaan en Brackenfell-boulevard langs`nmetropolisie-voertuig met twee insittendes by ‘n rooi liggestaan.Langs die polisievoertuig,
op ‘n geel streep,was ‘n voertuig watlinkswou draai. Hulle hetnet voor hullegekyk natuurlik op padhuis toeofnie lusvir moeitenie
Mense watsory, sê baie vanhul beginsels. Hulle leer natuurlikbytaxi's of deesdae se afleweringsmotorfietse.
Anoniem, BRACKENFELL
Skollies is nou N2 se baas
Vanoggend moesmyswaer die trauma beleefvan twee skollies watmet vuurwapens in die hand voor sy vragmotor ingehardloop en dit op homgerig het Al wathykon doen wasomteversnel en hulle te probeer raakry Hulle het toebaie vinnig die bosseingehardloop om wegtekom.
‘n Ent verder sien hy toenet blou ligteenstoptoe by die verkeerspersoneel, wat'nvroubystaan watook gedreig is. My vraagisnou,worddie verkeersreëlsnie meer toegepas nie?Met ander woorde,dat niemand op ‘n N2-roete magloop of staan nie,ofisdit nouweer shame, laat die skollies doen wathulle wil? Hulle kanmybeboet vir te vinnig ry teen `n afdraand, maar hierdie skollies kandoen wathulle wil metonwettigevuurwapens. Pateties en papvrot. GERHARD VANNIEKERK,Vredekloofhoogte
Kiewitz is ‘n groot aanwins
Ek het in Queenstraat opgemerkdat ‘n veselglasdeksel oor ‘n mangatontbreek. By nadereondersoek is die gebreekte dekselintweestukkeindie gatgevind. Omstreeks10:00 die volgende oggend het ek weer daar verbygeloop en ‘n voertuig opgemerk met iemand watbesig wasom‘nnuwedekseldaar te plaas.Ekhet nader gegaan om homtekomplimenteer oor die vinnigediens. Hy het my toemeegedeel dat hy toevallig daar verbygeryhet,onmiddellikdie implikasies van ‘n moontlikeeis teen sy werkgewerbesef het en direk na hul depot gegaan het om die stukkende dekselte vervang. Die man watdie belange vansywerkgewersoopsy hart dra, is EltonKiewitz vandie paaiedepartement in Langeberg. Welgedaan, meneer Kiewitz! SW BURGER,Durbanville
Carnivaltoshowcase‘diversity’
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
With just over amonth to go,organisers ofone of Cape Town's biggest annual events saythe Cape Town Carnival is ready to bring the ‘heART’ to theGreen Point Fan Walk on Saturday 21 March.
On Thursday 12 February, organisersgavethe media and other interested parties abehindthe-scenes glimpse of all the preparations at the Cape Town Carnival workshop in Mailtland. Jay Douwes, CapeTown Carnival chief executive officer, said people can look forwardto 10 beautifully handcrafted floats. She said organisers are excited to bring the 16th edition of the carnival to life.
Adding to the excitement, this year's event spotlights11 "Champions" from Cape Town's
Performer,Jalene Burgerislooking forwardtothe Cape Town Carnival.
WORKING AROUND THE CLOCK TO COMPLETE THE OVER 1000 COSTUMESONTIME
creative scene, includingsinger Anslin Gysman,local actor Natashavan der Merwe, DJ ReadyD,graffitiartistRizah Potgieter,and designer Stephen vanEeden.
Tracey Carter, performance director, said there will be entertainmentfor theentire family.
"Someofour floats are already completed. Performers are getting readywithchoreography, and costumes are almost done. We are getting ready toput on ashow likeCapeTownhas neverseen before."
She saidpeople can look forward to acelebrationof diversity.
"We aretelling the different stories ofthe creativesfrom Cape Town. As different as they are, that's how different thepods are goingtobe. This year we will have our firstAfrikaans pod. There will be something for everyone."
Daphne Lodewyk has been a seamstressatthe Cape Town Carnivalworkshop for the past 10 years.
She saidwithless than amonth to go, she and her small team of three areworkingaround the clock tocomplete over1000 costumes forthe big day.
"We work asateam, andeach person knowswhat to do. We still
Computerisedlearner’s licencetesting starts
From next week, the Computerised Learner’s Licence Testing (CLLT) system will be implemented at all of the City’s 18 Driving Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs). Installation is currently taking place at the last two facilities to come on board,Milnerton and Eastridge.
As an implementing agent for the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and the Western Cape Government,the City’s DLTCsstarted the roll out last year.
The system replaces the current manual booklet-based test and will allow learner licence applicants to tap their way through their test, using digital screens.
“This is afaster and more reliable system, which will not only improve efficiency, but will reduce the waiting periods associated with paperbased, manual tests,” said Mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith.
Key benefits of the CLLT system:
. Faster and more accurate results thanks to instant digital processing;
. Reduces the risk of corruption through secure and standardised testing;
. Equippedwith fingerprint verification and touchscreen functionality for amodern, user-friendly experience;
. Tests are available in all 11 official languages and the system supportshearingimpaired applicants, making
havea lot to do butthe bulk of thework is finished."
Lodewyk said she still gets exciteddespite doing this for the past decade
"Every year thecarnival is different. Differentthemes and different people.You meet alot of people and makefriends."
Shesaid on carnival day, they work tirelessly behind thescenes to makesureevery performer looks dazzling.
"We are stationedina tent, dressingeach performer and doingalterationsorfixing things."
Prof Rachel Jaftha, chairofthe Cape Town Carnival Trust, said: "We are excitedbecause it's just over amonth to go. This year we are followingour hearts. People will see amazingcreativity as always and the joy on the faces of the people participating. Do
not miss the amazing follow-yourheart journey with us."
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, stressed the City'sunwavering commitment to theevent.
"Thank you for bringing this event to our city each year. This event is about social cohesion. It's about showing that thereismuch more that unite us than what divides us."
the process more inclusive;
. Uninterrupted service as systems are designed to remain operational during electricity outages;
. Prospective applicants are reminded thatthe booking system remains the same
The digital system will have ademonstration function to help candidates familiarise themselves with what’s expected, before the test gets under way.
“The digital system offers on-screen, multi-language support in11official languages andprovides specialised supportfor hearing-impaired applicants, which eliminates the need foraninterpreter,” saidCapeTownTraffic Services spokesperson, Chief InspectorKevinJacobs.
Learner’s licence test appointments canbemade at anyofthe City of Cape Town’s 18 Driving Licence Testing Centres
To help applicants prepare, afree downloadable study guideisavailable, covering road signs, vehiclecontrols, andthe rules ofthe road. It can be downloaded on https:// www.natis.gov.za/index.php/ downloads/learner-drivermanual
. Formoreinformation aboutlearner licences andthe requirements,pleasevisit the City’swebsite at https://www. capetown.gov.za/City-Connect/ Apply/Licences-and-permits/ Driving-and-vehicles/Apply-for-alearners-licence
Performers gave patrons aglimpse of what canbeexpected on event day.
PHOTOS: KAYLYNNE BANTOM
PerformersCassidy Fortuin,Dianna Ocholla and Lana Fortunecannot wait to showcase their talent
RamaphosaextendsR370grant
President Cyril Ramaphosa announcedathis 2026 Stateofthe
Nation Address that the R370 monthly Social ReliefofDistress (SRD) grant supportingeight million South Africanswill continue indefinitely with complete employment-focused redesign.
Originally introduced as atemporary measure during the Covid-19 pandemic, the grant has cost R40 billion annually and has been renewed each year sinceits introduction.
In this year'sSona, Ramaphosa confirmed the grant would continue indefinitely and undergo complete redesign.
Thismarks another iteration of promises made at multiple previous Sonas regarding anew income support grant.
"Since it was introduced during Covid-19, the Social Relief of Distress Grant has
EIGHT MILLION BENEFICIARIES TO KEEP RECEIVINGSRD SUPPORTINDEFINITELY
kept millions of South Africansout of foodpoverty,"the president said. "Asa transformative instrument to improve the lives of the poorest andmostvulnerable people, this grantwill be continued. This year, we will redesign the granttomore effectively support livelihoods, skills development, work opportunities and productive activity.
"The redesigned grantwill incorporate employment-seeking criteria andlink toskillsprogrammes. This reflects NationalTreasury's desire to tie support to employment andskills development, moving away from previous universal basic income proposals.”
Government terminology hasshifted from "basic income grant" to "income support grant", specifically targetingthe
2025- ALGEMENE WAARDASIELYS VIRDIE STAD KAAPSTAD
Kennisgewing geskied hiermeeingevolge artikel 49 van die WetopPlaaslike Regering: MunisipaleEiendomsbelasting, Wet6 van 2004 (soosgewysig), hiernadie “Wet”genoem,dat diealgemene waardasielys vir 2025,van toepassing van 1Julie 2026,ter insae beskikbaar is by www.capetown.gov.za/propertyvaluations en bydie lys van lokale viropenbareinsae en besware hier onder.
Enige eiendomsbesitter of anderpersoonwordhiermee ingevolge artikel 49 van die Wet genooi om die lys binnedie voorgeskrewe tydperkhier onder te besigtig en, in ooreenstemming met wetgewing, ’n beswaar in te dien tenopsigte vanenige kwessie watin die waardasielys voorkom of weggelaatis.
Aandag wordspesifiek gevestig op artikel 50van dieWet waarvolgens’nbeswaarteen ’n spesifieke individueleeiendom ingedien moet word en nieteen die waardasielysas’ngeheel nie
Besware kanopenige vandie volgende maniereingedienword: Van20Februarie2026tot 30 April 2026: •Aanlyn via e-dienste (voorkeur-endoeltreffendste indieningsmetode): www.capetown.gov.za/en/eservices
towards more focused approaches. Ramaphosa previously described the SRD grant as an "essential mechanism for alleviating extreme poverty", despite itstemporary origins. The grant's steep annual cost of R40billion necessitates limiting conditions, as making it universal or increasing itsvalue would exceed the country's fiscal capacity.
Treasury has funded the grant until March 2027 following the latest extension granted in 2025. Whilst no clear continuation signals existed beyond that date, Ramaphosa has now indicated renewals will continue.
Further details about the grant's future are expected in the 2026 Budget Speech, to be delivered by finance minister Enoch Godongwana later thismonth.
•Per e-pos:valuationsobjection@capetown.gov.za
•Van 20 Februarie 2026 tot 31 Maart2026:Persoonlik -gedurendedie bedryfstye vandie lokale viropenbareinsae en besware hier onder
Die vorm virdie indiening van beswareper e-pos of by die lokalevir insae en beswareis verkrygbaar op die Stad se webwerf. Net goed gemotiveerde besware saloorweeg word.
GEENLAATBESWARE SAL AANVAAR WORD NIE
Eienaars sal skriftelik vanhul waardasies in kennis gestelword. Die kennisgewingssal ge-epos ofgepos wordnadie besonderhede watopdie Stad se databasis is.
Jykan jouwaardasiekennisgewingenrekeninge per e-pos ontvang. SMSbloot joue-posadres en rekeningnommer na 31223.
unemployed rather than all qualifying persons. This represents atrend away from universal income grantconcepts
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivering his speech during SONA 2026
SA’sfirstBraillesignageunveiled
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
“Close your eyes andtry to read thesign; thatiswhat exclusion feels like.”
This was the message from Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Minister Willie Aucamp when he asked guests to close their eyes and try to read asign, toshow how blind and partially sighted people experience exclusion. That demonstration connects directly to the launch of Braille signageatBlaauwberg NatureReserve on Wednesday 11 February, delivered through apartnership between DFFE, Wildlife and Environment Society of SouthAfrica (Wessa), the City of Cape Town, Blind SA, Nedbankand disability advocacy partners.
The country’s first Braille informational beach signage at Eerste Steen, Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, marks amajor milestone in ensuring blind and partially-sighted
INCLUSIVESIGNAGE AFIRST FORSOUTH AFRICA
visitors are able to engage meaningfully withSouth Africa’s coastal environments. The tactile signage,featuring raised lettering and QR codeslinked to audio descriptions, allows blindand partially sighted visitors to independently access information aboutthe beach, its ecosystemsand its heritage.
ACCESSIBLETOALL
The initiative reflectsa shared commitment to ensuringthatSouth Africa’s natural heritage is accessible to allcitizens, regardless of ability.
The project was spearheaded by Wessa as part of its broaderCoastalProgramme, which includes the internationally recognised Blue Flag andGreen Coast initiatives
Sponsored by Nedbank, the launch was hosted in collaboration with Wessa, Blind SA, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), and the City of Cape Town, with additional support fromthe Ford Wildlife Foundation.
DIVERSITY
Speakingatthe event, Aucamp emphasisedthe importance of inclusive environmental access, noting that conservation spaces must reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
“This initiative opens our coastal spaces to more people andensuresenvironmental education and awareness arenot limited by physical barriers.”
Aucamp announcedthe department was in theprocess of revitalising the national coastalsignage
“This revitalisation is about more than justfresh paint or new timber. It is abouttechnological integration and, most importantly, it is about inclusivity. Iwant our department to take this project out to all ourharbours.Iwant to be able to visit Mossel Bayand have all people have access to these spaces.
“I declaremydepartment is absolutely ready to work with everyone to bring this to everyone. We arecurrently working on aCollaboration Framework that aligns our legislative mandatefor integrated coastal management, to protect the coast, with Wessa’s century-long legacy of mobilising citizenaction. Thenew content we are introducing is vibrant andengaging. We aretelling thestory of ‘Life on the Edge’. We areinvitingthe public —sighted and visually impairedalike —tomeet the‘Noisy Mother,’ the African Black Oystercatcher.Weare teaching visitors how the White Sand Mussel ploughs
Save aFishie launchesCoast 2Coast
KAILINDANIELS
KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Save aFishie has officially kicked offits expanded Coast 2Coast 2026 campaign; and this year theyouth-led movement is going even bigger.
What began in 2023 as asingle journey alongSouth Africa’s coastline to clear plastic pollution and inspirecommunities hasnow been re-imagined. For2026 Coast 2Coast will be split into sixfocused cleanup tripsthroughout the year, making it easier for CapeTown residentsand coastal communities nationwide to get involved “Over the past three years youth-led action has proven itspower right here at home,” said Save aFishie founder Zoë Prinsloo.
“Our record 7,7 tons collected in 2025 shows how much SouthAfricans care aboutour beaches, and splitting Coast 2 Coast into six trips lets us make aneven bigger impact in our neighbourhoods.”
RECORDYEARFORCAPETOWNANDBEYOND
In 2025 alone Save aFishiemobilised volunteers from Cape Town’s beaches to coastalhot spots across the country, removing an impressive 7,7 tons ofwaste
Itemscollected included plastic bottles, fishing gear, lollipop sticks, bottle tops, cigarette butts and otherharmfullitter
The campaign also expandedits educationinitiatives, reaching thousands of learners andfamiliesand helping to sparkagrowing culture of environmental care.
Breaking the campaign into six shorter journeys will allow theteamto:
. Time clean-ups accordingtotides and seasonal weather.
. Make it easier for schools, families and community groups to participate.
. Offer more environmentaltalksand activities at local schools andevents.
“This isn’t just aclean-up.” said Prinsloo, “it’s acommunity movement.Byfocusing on localareas throughout theyear,wecan work closer with our neighbours, adapt to changing conditions andinspire even morepeople to protect ouroceans.”
OVERBERGLEGAHUGESUCCESS
The first legofCoast2Coast2026, in the Overberg,isalready awrap.
through the wet sand, and how the Three-spot Swimming Crab navigates the turbulent surf. That is not only for people who can see or read. These stories create a connection, and connections foster care.”
Theunveiling at Blaauwberg Nature Reserve is expected to set anational precedent, encouraging similar inclusive infrastructure at coastal destinations across SouthAfrica.
As part of Wessa’sbroader vision, the integration of accessible signage aligns with efforts to promote environmental stewardship, education and sustainable tourism.
By introducing Braille informational signage at one of Cape Town’s most iconic coastal reserves, stakeholders hope to inspire wider adoption of accessibility measures at beaches and protected areas nationwide.
Theday began at Betty’sBay Main Beach under threatening skies and strong winds. Although the beach appeared clean at first glance volunteers soon discovered litterhiddenindunes andbushes. Six kilograms of waste, including alcohol bottles, cigarette boxes and butts, wet wipesand chippackets, were collected from Betty’s Bay alone.
Local volunteers then directed the team to Hangklip in Pringle Bay, where thescaleofpollutionbecame even more apparent.Abroken JoJo tank lay between thedunes,surrounded by bottle caps, thousands of lollipop sticks, plastic packets and nurdles, tinyplastic pellets that pose a severe threat to marinelife.
By theend of the day22kghad been removedfrom that areaalone. Overall, the Overberg legsaw an incredible 529 kg of littercleared from the environment
“And to topitall off, over half aton of litterremoved.”
The nextleg takingplaceonthe West Coast at the end of Marchisalready in preparation
Prinsloo’s passion for ocean conservation began more than seven yearsago while workingtoward her Protea Award in Guiding.
“I was shocked at howmany straws I found on our beaches,” she said. “But when Isaw that video of the turtle with a strawdeeply embedded in his nose, that wasliterally the last straw for me. From that day Ivowedtonever use another plastic straw again.”
That moment sparked adeeper mission. Determined to find affordable, biodegradable alternatives, Prinsloo began sourcingeco-friendly products. Today, she proudly describes herself as theyoungest distributor of eco-friendly products in South Africa.
“I would like to encourage you to say no whenofferedsingle-use plastic items such as straws or coffeecups,” she said.
“Choose eco-friendly options like bamboo or metal straws, recycled stationery, bamboo toothbrushes, biodegradable plasters and bags made from recycled plastic bottles.”
Among the most concerning pollutants are nurdles, tiny plastic pellets that serve as the raw material for nearly all plastic products. These microplastics blend in with sand and shells and have been washing up on SouthAfrican beaches since amajor spill in October2017, when a Mediterranean Shipping Company vessel lost 49 tons of nurdles during astorm. Nearly adecade later they continue to appear along the coastline. “They just keep washing up on our shores,”saidPrinsloo. Save aFishie is calling on communities to join the movement and help raise awareness about ocean pollution. . Donations canbemadevia their BackaBuddy campaign,and those wanting to getinvolved canemailinfo@saveafishie.co.za.Supporters canalsofollowthe journeyonFacebooktostay updatedonupcomingclean-ups
Over half aton clearedinthe Overbergalone.
MYBURGH HANEPOOTDRUIWE te koopopdie Bettelarypad. 021 203 3424
24/7FRIDGEREGASSING Ph 073480 8444
A1 FRIDGE and FREEZER Regassing 0835359300
Rallim Modern Learning Environment
Rallim ModernLearning Environment is a future-focused, inquiry-driven independentschool committedtocultivating curiosity, innovation,and 21st-century competenciesinour students,situated in Sunningdale, Western Cape. Rallim invites the applications forthe positionof:
HEADOFTHE PRIMARYSCHOOL
If you think that you'reasuitable candidatefor the position,then you mayobtain the relevant information regarding the post by sending an email to: careersrallim.org.za HUISVERBETERINGS
Kle vo in atl wed win en ha 'n wedloop is ho di sien se nuwejaarsvoornemens te vo 8M wi di ak die byeen.
