TygerBurger | Kraaifontein | E-Edition | 4 February 2026

Qhama Xametshatareceives her award from Premier Alan Winde.Leftiseducation minister,David Maynier,and rightthe head of department,Brent Walters.

KRAAIFONTEINSCHOOLS AND LEARNERSACHIEVE TOPSPOTS

Schoolsshineatawards

DESIRÉERORKE

DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA

Kraaifontein schoolsfeaturedprominently at the annual matricawards ceremony held at the Western Cape Premier's residence, Leeuwenhof, on Thursday, with both atop matriculant and atop school.

With an averageof87%, six distinctions, and thetop achiever in business studies with 100%, the young Qhama Xametshata

from Hector Peterson Secondary School in Wallacedene was awarded aTop 40 spot in the province. Nowembarkingonher tertiary

studiesatthe University of Johannesburg, Qhama told TygerBurger shewas elated, as theprize moneyofR15 000 will go along way in assistingher with buying books for her first year of study for her Bachelorof Accounting.

“I enjoyed my matric year without toomanychallenges as I stayedathome and studied most of thetime,” she says.

Embarkingonher life journey, shesays sheis“still figuring

out”her future as she makes Johannesburg her new home. Withapass rateof89%, Kraaifontein High School secured seventhposition in the top10most improved schools category. Schoolsinthis category arerecognised for improvements in pass rates, increased Bachelor's degree access, subject excellence, and overall academic performance.

VRYDAG6FEBRUARIE

. ChrismarVillashou om 18:30 'n verskeidenheidskonsert.Die Othello-boeremusiekorkes tree ondermeerop. Tydens die pousesal koffie, teeen vrugteslaai met roomys te koop wees. Kaartjieskos R70per persoon en kanvoorafbyChrismarVillas gekoop word vanMaandag totVrydagtussen 08:00 en 12:00

SATURDAY7FEBRUARY

. TheCapeTownGem and MineralClubwillbe having itsOpen Dayfrom10:00to14:00 at 14aGoede Hoop Street,Bothasig. Allare welcome, from mineral specimen collectors, to friends, familiesand especially children.Freeentrance. Learnmoreabout the hobby of crystal, gemand mineralspecimencollecting and relatedcraftwork,orbuy itemsfrommember traders. Visit www.ctminsoc.org.zaoremail admin@ctminsoc org.za

. Die jaarlikse DTBS-interskole-atletiekkragmeting (voorheen MTBS) tussen die hoërskoleDF-Akademie Tygerberg, Bellville en Stellebergvindplaas in Groenpunt. Die dagbegin met die uiters gewilde Flashes in die DHLKaapstadStadion, gevolg deur dieatletiek op dieGroenpunt-baan. Kaarties vir die Flashes is beskikbaar by QuicketteenR80 elk.

. Hunters forbargainsatthe Goodwood Bargains Marketatthe Goodwood Sports Club from 09:00to 13:30. Entranceisfreeand parking is availableatthe cornerofAlice Street and MiltonStreet. Visitorsare encouragedtodonate unwanted garments in the on-site donation bin, supportingaworthycause.For moreinformationemail thegoodwoodmarket@gmail. com

WOENSDAG11FEBRUARIE

. Die digbundel diehelfteisjou nievertel deur ThérèseBartman word op die eerste byeenkoms van dieDurbanville-poësiekringvir diejaaropdeurdie digterself bespreek. Diebespreking begin om 10:00in die saal vandie Durbanville-biblioteek.Ligte verversingswordaangebied. Gasteiswelkom teen R50 per persoon.KontakLesleyvan derVyver by 083460 4571 of teachervdv@gmail.comomaan te sluitofgaste saam te bring.

THURSDAY12FEBRUARY

. Durbanville Business is presentinganexclusive evening of networking,dinner and aguided tour of Stadio HigherEducation'sprestigious newDurbanvillecampusfrom18:00.DrStanduPlessis,chief executive officerofStadio Higher Education, will be theguestspeaker.The campusissituated at 35 Akademia AvenueinGroot PhesantekraalEstate. The cost is R150 formembers and R350 fornon-members, dinnerand wine included. Seatsare limited. Confirm attendancebefore8Februarybyemailtoinfo@ durbanvillesakekamer.co.za

SATURDAY 14FEBRUARY

. Love willbeinthe airthisValentine’sDay as MdzanandaAnimalClinic& Shelterhosts itsValentine’s Picnic forPaws- aspecialfundraising eventin support of theanimals of Khayelitsha -from10:00 to 14:00atJoostenbergBistro&Deli. Theevent promises arelaxed and memorablepicnicexperiencefilled with good food, greatcompany,and ameaningful cause. Well-behaved dogs arewelcome to join their owners on theday.Ticketsfor the fundraising event areavailable viaQuicket.Visit www.mdzananda.co.za or email Kellyonfund@mdzananda.co.zafor more information.

. TheTygerbergHills Lions club will have awalk from the GracePresbyterianChurch MonteVista onto Camoens Park, Barrow Street,MonteVista. Come for awalkand showyoursupport forChildhoodCancer This walk is heldcountry wide by variousLions on theday to create awareness.The walk willkickoff at 09:00.Entrancefee is on donationbasis. Agreat morning to showsupport to ouryoung warriors Looking forwardtoseeing everyone,registrationwill happen on themorning. Contact Jeannievan Wulven forany enquiriesorforemoreinformation on 083 3050424

. TheTable View Lions Club is inviting the community to lace up theirwalking shoes and take part in the 5kmBig Walk forYoung Warriorsatthe TableView beachfront.Thewalk is familyfriendly,pramfriendly, and open to leashedpets, making it an idealouting forall ages.Anentrancefee of R50 applies, with all proceedsgoing the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa(CHOC). To register,send "choc" to 083 286 0255 by Thursday 12 February.

DONDERDAG19FEBRUARIE

. Die TygerbergTuin- en Blommeklubspring diejaar wegmet RuanEastes se praatjie oorbromeliasen Diana de Vossepraatjie oorPot-et-fleur.Die tema vandie blommekunskompetisie is "Tradisioneel vertikaal". Die klub het 'n propvolprogram metinteressanthedeelkederde Woensdag vandie maand by dieNG kerk ParowWelgelegen(La Provence47, Welgelegen) om 09:30vir 10:00. Teewordvanaf09:30 bedien.Bel Beatrix Lambert-Bestbier by 082873 9864 virmeer inligting.

Februaryfuel pricesdrops

South Africanmotorists arepoised foranother round of relief at the fuel pumpsinFebruary, with current indicators pointing to price reductions for bothpetrol anddiesel when the nextadjustment takes effect this month.

Fuel priceshave already retreated to theirlowest levels in nearly four years followingJanuary’s cuts, andthe latest figuressuggest thatdownward momentum is settocontinueinto February.

PRICESEXPECTEDTOFALLFURTHER

Accordingtounaudited data released by theCentralEnergyFund (CEF)as of Tuesday 27 January, petrol prices are showingover-recoveries that could translate into cutsofaround 66 cents per litre for 95 Unleaded androughly 64 cents perlitre for 93 Unleaded.

Diesel users are alsolikely to benefit, with wholesale prices for500ppm diesel projected to decrease by about60cents perlitre, while 50ppm diesel could fall by as much as 67 centsper litre, according to theCEF.

However, the Department of Mineral Resourcestold TygerBurger on Wednesday 28 February that in terms of the Basic Fuel PriceWorking Rules, official and audited fuelprices are determined and announced exclusively by the department through an official statement. These announcements are issued on the last Friday of each month or ahead of the first Wednesdayofthe new month.

WHATMOTORISTSCOULDPAYATTHEPUMPS

AccordingtoCEF, the price of 95 Unleaded petrol could drop to approximately R19.26 perlitre at the coast

FROMPAGE1

The awards go to 10 public schools with 30 or more candidatesshowing consistent improvement from 2023 to 2025.

School principal Kervin Grove credits this achievement to dedicated teachers whomotivated learners daily to excel

“As aschool,wehave been working hard and settingclear targetseach year. We fell short by only onepoint in 2025. The childrenworked very hard, with teachers going the extra mile through weekend classesand holiday school. Staff made significant sacrifices,putting in extra hoursthat ultimately made thissuccess possible,” he told TygerBurger

WHEREDOWEGOFROMHERE

While acknowledging increased matric passquantities, provincial education

CURRENT INDICATORS POINT TO FURTHER FUEL PRICE DECREASES

and about R20.09 inland. Inland motorists using 93 Unleaded may see prices settle at around R20.00 per litre.

At present, coastal drivers are paying around R19.92 per litrefor 95 Unleaded, while inland prices sit closer to R20.75 for 95 Unleaded and R20.64 for 93 Unleaded.

JANUARYCUTSSETTHETONE

Earlier this month, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announced substantial fuel price reductions for January,withpetrol prices dropping by between 62 cents and 66 cents per litre. Diesel saw even steeper decreases, falling by R1.37 per litrefor 500ppm and R1.50 per litre for 50ppm. Those cuts pushed local fuel prices to their lowest point since February2022, offering much-needed relief to households and businesses grappling with high transport costs.

RANDSTRENGTHANDOILPRICESDRIVERELIEF

Theanticipated February decreases are largely being driven by favourable international conditions, the CEF said. Therand has strengthened significantly against the US dollar, trading at its strongest level in four years thisweek, while Brent crude oil prices have remained relatively subdued, hovering around $64 abarrel.

Together, thesefactors have improved fuel price recoveries, paving the way for another month of lower prices.

minster David Maynier in his address highlighted concerning gaps in quality indicators. Only 25,4% of mathematics candidates and 27,6% of physical science candidates achieved marks of 60% or above –levels crucial for bachelor's degree eligibility.

“We simply cannot say we are delivering quality education when we have too few learners achieving abachelor's pass and too few passing mathematics and physical science well,” he said.

Thedepartment has thus outlined new targets focusing on raising bachelor's pass rates above 60% and significantly increasing the number of learners achieving 60% or higher in mathematics and physical science.

“We must commit to excellence, and we must deliver excellence, in education in the Western Cape,” he said.

Break-ins on the rise

DESIRÉERORKE

DESIREE.RORKE@TYGERBURGER.CO.ZA

Brackenfell residents are being urged to heighten security measures following a spate of break-insacrossthe area this week,with criminals employing anew methodofentry thatinvolves lifting gates from theirrails

Several incidents have been reported in recent days, including abreak-inon HarvestStreet in Protea Village where tools were stolenfrom agarage on Wednesdaynight. On Stasie Street,three separate incidents occurred, beginning with an attempted break-in on Monday night where agatewas removed from its rail, though nothing was reported stolen. Two nights later, criminals gained entry over agatetoaccess agarage on the same street, makingoff withfishing gear and other items. Additional break-ins were reported on Stasie Street on Thursday

night, with further details pending.

Thegate-lifting method is not confined to Brackenfell, with asimilar incident reported on Short Street in Kraaifontein on the same evening.

Securityofficials note that criminals are specifically targeting the lifting mechanism of gates as ameans of bypassing traditional securitymeasures. According to local securityfirm CMAX, residentscan contact securitycompanies to install brackets that prevent gates from being lifted from their rails.

"A dog is theretoalert you when they hear something. Don't exit your home unless you are sure no one is inside your yard," says Carla Lourens from CMAX. She advises the community to report all break-ins on community groups to keep neighbours informed of criminal activity in the area and to add neighbours to local securitycommunication groups.

Illegalb factoryb

Inasearch operation foran unlicensed firearm in Durbanville on Tuesday 27 January, an illegal alcohol manufacturing plant was discovered.

According to Const Ndakhe Gwala, provincial police spokesperson, police officials of KraaifonteinCrime Intelligence were on amission to recover an unlicensed firearm, when they stumbled uponanillegal alcohol manufacturing plantatthe house in Antelope Street in Uitzicht, Durbanville.

“They were assisted by police officersof Durbanville police to find asuspect with an unlicensed firearm, who was believed to be at the houseinAntelope Street. They descended on the premises at about 22:30, where they found four Congolese nationals,” he said.

“While searching, the police officials uncovered large quantities of alcohol, as well as manufacturing machinery inone of the rooms.

The four suspects —two menaged 23 and 24, as well as two Congolese women —were arrested on the spotfor the illegal manufacturing of alcohol, “Gwala says. They will appear in the Bellville Magistrate’sCourtonce charged.

Aanbiedervier30jaarinbedryf

Vandeesweek het Radio Tygerberg 104FM 'n buitengewone mylpaal saam met een van sy omroepers, Gerald Petersen,gevier.

Petersen is vandeesweek 30 jaarin die radiobedryf —'nmylpaalwat min andernog kon vier. Soos dit'nware radioveteraanbetaam, het hy nie net luisteraars vermaak nie, maar ook 'n betroubare stem vol positiewe energieen inspirasie oor die afgelope drie dekades geword.

Petersen se passie vir sy medemens en gemeenskap wordnie netopdie lug gehoor nie, maar word baiedikwels in die gemeenskap gesien en ervaar.

"Hy wil almal net laat glimlagen kykhoe hy RadioTygerbergkan help. So het ons eers onlangs uitgevind vandie vakansieBybelskool wathyreeds 30 jaar geledein Ravensmead begin het om kindersin die vakansie besig en veilig te hou. Hierdie Bybelskool is steeds aan die gang en maak nogelke vakansie 'n verskil in die kinders van Ravensmead se lewens,"sê Rikus van Rooy, stasiebestuurder

In sy tyd by Radio Tygerberghet Petersen baie geliefd onder luisteraars geword —soveel dat ‘n luisteraarvir hom'nkombers gehekel het aangesien hy op die lug genoem het hoe koud die ateljee soms is. Of hy nou 'n liedjievan 'n plaaslikekunstenaar of die nuutste aanbiddingslied speel, Petersen weet hoe om sy gehoor te vermaak en betrokke te hou.

Maar sy talente strek veelverder asnet die ateljee.

Hy is nie net 'n geliefde radiostem nie, maarook 'n gesoute seremoniemeester In November 2025 was hy die seremoniemeester by RadioTygerberg se Mighty Men Cape Flats-geleentheidindie Athlone-stadion, wat deur duisendemans bygewoon is.Hierdieimpakvolle inisiatief is deur Radio Tygerberggeorganiseerom vir die einde van geweld en vaderloosheid op die Kaapse Vlakte te bid Petersen is ook die aanbieder van

VERMAAK NIENET NIE, MAAR IS OOK BRON VANPOSITIEWE ENERGIE

die Healing the City-program wat op Woensdaeuitgesaai word, waar hy enkele vanKaapstad se mees dringende maatskaplike probleme bespreek, soos vaderloosheid, geslagsgebaseerde geweld, verslawing en bendegeweld. Met sy unieke mengselvan empatie en insig het Petersen onderhoude gevoermet sleutelfigure soos die burgemeester van Kaapstad envoormalige bendeleiers, wathul bendebedrywighede neergelê het toe hulletot bekeringgekom het. Deur hierdie gesprekke poog Petersen om 'n bydrae te lewer tot die genesing van die gemeenskappe op veral die KaapseVlakte, watdeur vele sosio-ekonomiese uitdagings en veralbendegeweld geteister word. Sy agtergrondasjeugpredikant hethom waardevolle insigte gegee in sy werk,veral toe hy een vandie energiekeaanbieders vanRadio Tygerberg se Vreesloos 2025-program gewordhet. Dieradiostasie het die program na 11 hoërskole geneem, waar leerdersbemagtig is deur 'n reeks aktiwiteite— geïnspireer deur bekende programmesoos Mr BeastGames, Fear Factor en Survivor.Die doelwas om jong mense te help om die lewe sonder vrees aan te pak —'nboodskapwat Petersen met groot suksesoorgedra het.

“Ek is bevoorreg. My radioreis het vankortgolf totFMingesluit; van gemeenskap- totkommersiële stasies; aanlyn totkleinhandel. My radio-insetsels is uitgesaai van Kaapstad totLagos en ook op 36 anderFM-stasies. Ek is trots en dankbaar. Dis nie te sleg vir 'n outjie wat op die KaapseVlakte grootgeword heten AfrikaapsenMengels gepraat het nie,”het hy laggend gesê Maar ondanks al die tyd in die kollig, is dit die eenvoudiger dinge in die lewe wathom die naaste aan die hart lê.Hyis

'n trotse pa,'ngesinsman en iemand wat groot vreugde vind in kuiers rondom 'n braaivleisvuur.

“Ons vier nie netsy30jaarindie

radiobedryf nie, maar ook die bydraes wat hy steeds in die gemeenskap lewer.Baie geluk Gerald Petersen —opnog 30 jaar van inspirasie!”het Van Rooy afgesluit.

TheBernadino Heights sports grounds were transformed into abustling hub of cultural celebration and athletic prowess as acombined stakeholder communitysports day brought together participants of allagesfor an unforgettableshowcaseofindigenous sports andtraditional games recently.The daywas hostedbythe Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.Herea young participantenjoys aclose encounter with a furryfriend.

Houseshandedover

Another 26 homes were handed over to families last Thursday in Phase 5ofthe Greenville Breaking New Ground (BNG) housing project in Fisantekraal

TheCity of Cape Town's Human Settlements Directorate andits partner,GardenCities, handed over thehouses —totalling103 units in this phase of the project so far.

Phase5 of theprojectwill benefit 495 beneficiaries andtheir familiesonce completed.

Teams have been working nonstoponthe innovative Greenville Phase5Breaking New Ground (BNG) housingprojectofthe City and its partner, Garden Cities, in Fisantekraal, Durbanville.

TheR153 million Greenville housingdevelopment continues to makesteady progress, reflectingthe City's commitment to acceleratinghousing delivery, according to amedia release issued by the City.

"Lastyear,Phase 4ofthe Greenville housing development was completed, deliveringmore than 1000 housingopportunities to qualifying families—many of whom are among themost vulnerable in the metropole," says Carl Pophaim, the City's Maycomember for human settlements.

"This is one of theCity's most innovative housingprojects, as it makes use of BenexBlock technology —anaffordable, lightweight building solution that allows for faster and

DigterDianaFerrusoorlede

Hasgeregtigheid asweerstand,en brugtussenSuid-Afrika

hPetersenCampher

nie netink nie. Dit was trane. Dit was balsem. Jy sie se wonde benoem, iwer. En in daardie yvir onsgesê: ‘Julle leuen. Kyk hoe verbind pyn. Kyk hoe helder ons mekaar se stories dra’,” Jongh aanlyn. aans en Engels het jy gtigheid gepraat, van fde vir die land en sy Lady Di. Jou woorde bly in harte, in die wind oor ankie datjyons huis toe kryf Jean Oosthuizen. lfour, rektor en viseUniversiteit van Wes,het gesê Ferrus het as neellid van UWK talle skrywers gementor en mme uit gemarginaliseerde hoor word. “Deur in in Afrikaans te skryf, oorbrugendie diepte en ons meertalige erfenis ewyding teenoor jong digters en gemeenskaplike spreek vanhaar geloof in die krag van woorde ebemagtig.” erskeie eerbewyseen vang, waaronder ‘n in filosofie aan die Stellenbosch in 2022 omdat sy haar skryfwerk en poësie gebruik het om

op te voed en te bemagtig, haar aan die ontwikkeling van ‘n nuwe geslag skrywers toegewy en vir ander geleenthede geskep het. In 2020 het haar geboortedorp, Worcester, haar met die “Vryheid tot die dorp” vereer. Ferrus word deur baie wat haar pad gekruis het as ‘n ma-figuur, toeganklik en terselfdertyd sterk en sag, onthou. “Sykon haarself ‘n ikoon genoem het; sy het nooit Sy kon haarself die godmother genoem het, maar sy het nooit Sy kon haarself doktor genoem het, maar sy het nooit. Sy kon haarself die belangrikste stem van haar tyd genoem het, maar sy het nie. Sy was egter alles en baie meer as al daardie titels saam vir diegene op wie se lewe sy 'n impak gemaak het.”skryf Frazer Barry.

VERSOEKVIRSTAATSBEGRAFNIS

Op sosiale media is versoek om Ferrus met ‘n staatsbegrafnis te vereer

Sumayyah Petersen Campher skryf:

“Dr. Ferrus was ’n monumentale figuur in kuns en kultuur —’ndigter, akademikus en kulturele aktiviswie se werk die nasionale bewussyn herskep en die verloop van internasionale geskiedenis verander het. Deur haar poësie en haar onvermoeide voorspraak het sy ’n deurslaggewende rol gespeel in die repatriasie van Saartjie Baartman, waardeur sy nie net die waardigheid van een vrou herstel het nie, maar diévan ’n hele volk en van Suid-Afrika se kulturele geheue. Haar bydrae was nie simbolies nie; dit was transformerend. Sy het kuns as geregtigheid gebruik, taal as weerstand, en kultuur as ’n brug tussen Suid-Afrika en die wêreld. Min mense het die las van geskiedenis met soveel grasie, moed en impak gedra.” Hartzenberg het bevestig dat 'n versoek vir 'n staatsbegrafnis aan onder andere die president gerig is.

Snak mole

Ifyou like to swing would be unlucky to popupout of ahole Golf Course.

Aslithering solution constant mole problem at the club recently. The of seven molesnakes on towards theend of last problem in an environmentally-fri way, is now bearing fruit of the clubcommittee.

“We have tried every themole population on nothing seemed to wor pushing hills all over notonly destroy the aesthetic course, but also cause little small runner mo becausethey did damage and the greens. We even throughone of our freshly-

“The moleshavebeen building of the golf course. has avery dense populati whichhas been around

CLUB TRADES

SIGHT OF MOLEHOLES FORNONVENOMOUS SNAKES BASKING IN THE SUN

Amoleevenpushes casted cart paths on the

Twoeld hospita

DESIRÉE DESIREE.RORKE@TY

Two elderly women were Sunday morning followi on collision on Klipheuwel Philadelphia turn-off.

Titanium Securitas Medi received multiple emergency approximately 11:00regar vehicle accident, which vehicles.

Upon arrival, emergency discovered two elderly trapped inside one of the teamsworked carefully

Victoryforlocalveteranbowlers

Senior bowlers (60 years and over) from DurbanvilleBowling Club werethe main starsofthe club at the finals of the WP Single Championship at the Glen Bowling Club in Camps Bay lastSunday.

Stalwarts Etienne Malherbe andLydia Maritz won gold,putting the cherryon the top of an excellent performance by the club in this showcase tournament.

Altogether four Durbanville women players made it to their respective semifinals played on theday, andseven men got through to the quarter-finals.

In the veteran section, fourofthe eight quarter finalistswere from Durbanville.

INDOMITABLEBEST

Malherbe, who retained his 2024 title, was at his indomitable best. In the final, he showed offall the arrowsin his bowling-quiver –pinpoint drawing and cannonball-drives.

Malherbe was even succesful with his outrageous party-trick, hiss bouncing “skippy” shot, delivering the bowl with biases on top and at the bottom!

This bowlhopsand skips over the front bowls, blocking the line for anormal shot Malherbe comfortably beatGert Nieuwenhuysfrom Somerset Westwith 21-10 in the final.

Maritz was also on top of her game, defeating Denise Kidd from Edgemead with 21-15.

Novice Annemie le Roux did brilliantly by reaching the final. She won silver, losing to Annie Kloppers from Stellenbosch.

Protea star Anneke Scheepers,who has dual membership at Goodwood and Durbanville, won the Ladies Open, narrowly beating Michelle Reynoldsof Western ProvinceCricket Club –Bowling

SENIOR BOWLERSWERE BIGGEST STARSATCHAMPIONSHIP

(WPCC)

Zyl andDebbie Phillips won bronze by reaching the semi-finals, as did Francois Klopper

Of atotal of 11 playersinthe WP Singlesplayoffs,four women from Durbanville Bowling Club reached thesemi-finalsintheir respective WP Singlescompetitions at TheGlen Bowling Club last Sunday,and seven Durbanville maleplayers madeittothe

To agewith grace through seasons of change

"When you look up, say thank you. You may not know what you receive. Every day you are covered, in your carand anything can happen on the way, butGod makesyour path clear."

These are words from Freda Naidoo, agreat-grandmother that Irecently interviewed for astory upon reaching 100 years of age.

Aweek later, Ifind her words ofadvice for those wishing to live ahealthy and prosperous lifestill echoand intriguemy mind whether I'm driving to the office or daydreaming on the balcony of my apartment.

During the interview, Ifound myself dumbstruck at the sheer optimism and infectious senseofhumour Naidoo displayed as she shared her story.

As Iapproached her home, Isaw her exotically decorated porch with shrubs whilst agroup of cats lay onher stoep in the afternoon sun.

Upon introducing myself, she greeted me with the utmost respect andenthusiasm one would not expect from someone who just turned 100. She sat in her couch whilst her walker stood at her knees

Once Iswitched on my voice recorder andthe interview unfolded,Ifelt transported to asimpler timewherethe flow of life was allowed to move at amore moderate,yet oppressive pace, considering it was the height of apartheid.

YETSHE’SSTILLSTANDING, LAUGHINGANDBAKINGTRIFLES FORCHRISTMAS...

Isaw her eyes gleamed as she recalled her fond childhood memories of a forgotten version of Piketberg, whereshe was born. She enthused with childlike delight as she toldmeabout her mother's lovefor baking cakes.

At the age of 23 she got married, asmost of ourgrandparentsand parents did at that time, and started her life as afurrier when she moved to Diep River. However,not long after their move, tragedy struck when she, herhusband and 12-year-old daughter,were forcibly removed and ordered to move to Fairways due to the Group Areas Act.

Her voice was stirring and filled her lounge with ahaunting wisdom. Shewas theyoungest of four siblings, all of whom have passed, and as Ilistened to her,I wondered what the weight of her life felt like.

She is amother to five children; her eldest daughter sadly died when she was forty.

She experienced no chronic illnesses nor any addiction to alcohol or smoking. Her sharp and infectious senseof humour was evident as she told mewhy she never smoked.

"I'll tell you exactly why Inever smoked!" she told this story withOscar-worthy gestures and passion. In her nineties she was struck by aQuantumtaxi while trying to crossthe road, flung over the vehicle, cracked her skull twice and suffered abroken hip.

She recovered in hospital for10 months onlytoendure aruptured vein.

Andyet she's still standing, still laughing and baking trifles for Christmas and taking Ubers for aweekly shopping. When the interview ended,Ifelt a tremendous sense of gratitudetobealive Her grit, determination andnever-saydie attitude will always remain with me wherever Igo.

Before Ireached my car, she held my hand and looked me in the eye and said she sees aprosperous futurefor me.

-KEANAN HARMSE

Kommentaar // Comments

SLICEOFLIFE

EIAfor Altydgedacht is flawed

As aresident andvolunteer in Kenridge, Iwouldlike to comment on the article"Stilltime to comment on proposedAltydgedacht development", published in the TygerBurger on 21 January.

Theinformation the environmentalconsultants have offered to the public is notaccurate. Aquick read of the summarycreates the impression thatthe development is “environmentallyacceptable and sustainable”, as claimed by Guillaume NelEnvironmental Consultants (GNEC) in their basic assessment report (BAR) and quoted in the article.

However, closer scrutinyshows otherwise:The most recent botanical surveyavailabletothe public dates back to 2016,which wasdoneinlateSpring. GNEC promised to do an updated survey as recommended by their botanisttoincludeother seasons, butnoupdated survey(s)havebeen released to the public.

TheentireBAR refers to the oldBiodiversity Network (Bionet) which guides responsibledevelopment by identifying sensitiveareas,corridors, rivers and wetlands. Sincethen, the City of Cape Town has updated its BioNet.Despitethe City of Cape Town's request that theyoverlay their plansonthe updated BioNet,the BARfailstodoso.

Theomissionand error in point oneand twounderminesthe landscaping, development andmanagement plans.Asa result,the landscaping plan places a pond over land classified by the City as “irreplaceable” Thereport also incorrectlyclassifies this area as CBA

Roadsimproved, vigilancestillvital

Residents of KuilsRiver have much to applaud regarding the recent major upgrades to our local road network. Theaddition of vehicularlanes and consideredtrafficcalmingmeasuresare adirect andwelcome responsetoour area’s growth. These improvements aresuccessfully carryingthe increased vehicleload, shorteningtraveltimes, andeasing the dailycommute formany. This significant investment in infrastructureisa positivestepforward

Particularlycommendableisthe incorporation of dedicatedcycle routes andpedestrian walkways.This forward-thinking design promotes healthier,moresustainable modes of transport and makes our community moreaccessible. However, thesenew facilities have brought their ownshare of challenges that requirea collective shiftinbehaviour

Apressingconcern is road safety at crossings. Somedrivers seem unawareoftheir obligation to give waytopedestrians wherewalkwayscross vehicular roads. This must be addressed throughawareness andvigilance to preventtragedy.I sincerelyappeal for consideration; thesepathsare forall people. Leashes andmindfulcontrol areessential foreveryone’ssafety andenjoyment

FEZEKILECOTANI,KuilsRiver

1b insteadofCBA 1a —anerror with seriousimplications forhow the entiredevelopment shouldbe approached, accordingtoenvironmental law.

Thecurrentplans ignorerecommendations from GNEC’sown botanicalsurvey, whichindicates two corridors that should remain open. Only anarrowstrip next to aserviceroadisretained, despitethe 2025 BioNet classifying the entiresiteasa corridor

CRITICALLYENDANGEREDVELD

An area identified by their botanist as having high rehabilitation potential forcritically endangered veld is nowearmarked forPhase 1ofthe development

It is upsettingtosee consultants assumethat declaringadevelopmentenvironmentally acceptable is sufficient,insteadofensuringthat it trulyis.

Iamnot opposedtodevelopment in principle. Land overrun by invasivespecies is also environmentally damaging.

If done correctly, this project couldbecomearare exampleofdevelopmentthatallowscaracals, porcupines, deer,chameleons, birds and indigenous flora to thrivealongside people, aplace wherechildren can learn the scentand character of localveld.

Followingproper environmentalprotocols would also enhancelong-term financial value—asanyone who hastried to buypropertynexttoanature reserve knows DALENATHERON,Kenridge

Verkeersoplossings?

Ons klaalmal daagliksoor die verkeersituasie in ons woonbuurte.

Al hoemeer ongesinchroniseerde verkeersligte werk nie, maar hier is dalk `n paar oplossingswat vinnig kan werk

Verbypaaie: Almal hoef niebyverkeersligte te stop as daar verbypaaie is nie; dis `n hoeksny-uitdraai vir verkeer watwil afdraai.

Daar is hope plekke waar dit suksesvol kanwees, byvoorbeelddie oorgeteerde La Belle-weg by die Stiklandbegraafplaas, die suidelikepunt vanCarlCronje by die FransConradie-, Durbanweg/Bloemhofkruising, hope in DurbanweginBellville op die nagmerriepadnaDurbanville Elkeblokhoefnie 'n robot te hê nie!

Taxi's watverkeersreëlsverontagsaam: Goedkoop oplossing?Plant sypaadjierandstene dwarsoor plekke waar hullekortpad skiet soos by geel strepe en verkeersligte

Besteopsie: Koop hommeltuie metkameras wat enigetyd oortreders kanverras en afneem met hul registrasienommers en al.

Boetes salbinne 'n kort tydjie vir die aankoop en vir die moniteringsentrum betaal Bendegebiede behoort ook snags hiermeegemonitor te word WAARNEMER,Bellville

Have we been heard?

Iwritethis letter with adeep senseofsadness and frustration aboutwhatOakdalehas become. Youhave heardthis before,and nowyou aregoingtohearit again.This is notwritteninanger,but in heartbreak. Aheartbreakfor acommunitythatoncefeltsafe, orderly, andrespected.

Afew weeksago,residents were allowedtoobject to aproposeddevelopment described as “student accommodation”. Unfortunately,those of us who live andwork in this area have seen this pattern before Time andagain, what is promised on paper turns into something entirelydifferent in reality, often becoming hubsfor prostitution andrelated criminal activity. Residents areexhausted, but we arenot giving up.Wewill notbackdown, because ourhomes, ourlivelihoods, andour communityare at stake.

Oakdaleisnot just aresidential area;itisa place wherebusinesses operate andwherepeopledepend on those businesses to survive. Ahealthy community is onewherepeoplecan work with dignityand where clients canvisit businesses feeling safe andcomfortable. Instead, business ownersare forced to watchas prostitution, drugdealing, andharassment spillinto their doorways

Prostitution in ourstreets hasincreasedtosuch an extent that it nowfeelsnormalised. With it comes litter,public indecency, noise, reckless disregardfor road rules, andanerosionofrespect forthe area.How do we explain this realitytoour children?Oakdale residents aretired. Tiredofreportingthe same issues repeatedly. Tiredofwatching laws being ignored withoutconsequence. Tiredoffeeling unsafeinour own neighbourhoods.Mostofall,weare tired of feeling unheard.

This letter is aplea, once again to localauthorities, lawenforcement,and municipal leadership to truly seewhatishappening hereand to act. Not tomorrow Not after another meeting. Now.

WON’TBACKDOWN,Oakdale

Ward plans overpolitics

This year it is the localelections andlocal residents shouldbelooking at the governing party's legislation, policies and10-,20- and30-year visionplans including the municipal integrated development plan of the City of Cape Town forBrackenfellWard7and 8. TheGovernment of National Unityhas basically minimal saying in localgovernment proceedings. There is already amajor concernhow the DA strategyplans especially at localgovernment,provincialgovernment andnationalgovernment is conflicting, some even say it seemsthateachsphereishaving their ownvision plans.

Forlocal government elections laterthis year you need to look at the CityofCape Town's visionplans, andhow it willimpactyourward. Unfortunately the GNU won'timpactanything in Ward 7and 8in Brackenfell.

JJRESIDENCE,Brackenfell

Damlevels, almost20% lowerthan

Fundingavailablefor arts

Theprovincialdepartment of cultural affairs andsporthas opened its annual call forfunding applications fororganisations andindividualsinthe arts andculture sector

Fundingisavailableinvarious categories,including cultural tourism, literature, film, language promotion and preservation andthe performingarts.

“The arts andculturesectorplays a

Tcrucialroleinthe Western Cape in creating job opportunities, bringing visitors to our province andgrowing our localeconomy.

“Wehaveawealthoftalent in our province andweare committedtosupporting our localartists andorganisations in this sphere to ensuretheycan continue their work," said,Ricardo Mackenzie, provincialminister of culturalaffairs and sport

Applications forfunding willclose on Monday9March at 23:59. Applicants arestrongly encouraged to submit at least24to48hoursbeforethe deadline to avoid missing it Late applications received after 23:59on theclosing datewillnot be considered. Thecriteriaand categories forfunding, as well as application forms, areavailable online . Visithttps://www.westerncape gov.za/cas/service/arts-and-culturefunding formoreinformation.

Doctorswarnofgastrosurgeseason

During very hot weatherascurrently experienced, health facilities across the Western Cape seean increase in children who arrive with gastro-related symptoms, according to amedia release by the provincial health department.

“Every year from November to May, more young children becomeill with diarrhoeaand pneumonia. Theseillnesses are common in young children, butit is important to remember that they can be treated and often prevented. When children receive help early,they usually recover well.

VULNERABLETODEHYDRATION

“As we move through the annual paediatricsurge season Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital,the province’s specialist children’sfacility, has recorded anoticeable rise in these cases,” said Prof Heloise Buys, the hospital's head of ambulatory and emergency services.

“Gastroenteritis is one of the most common reasons for hospitaladmissions during this time of year. While many children can be treated at home, young children are especiallyvulnerable to dehydration, which canbecome lifethreatening if not managed early.”

The World Health Organisation estimates that nearly 1,7 billion cases ofchildhood diarrhoeal disease occur every year.

Good hygiene, safe drinking water and proper sanitation can prevent many of these, Buys said.

The hospital is encouraging parents and caregivers to take extra care during this time. Early recognition of symptoms and timely treatment can prevent severe dehydration and other complications.

GOOD HYGIENE CAN PREVENT DIARRHOEA

EARLYINTERVENTION

Buysstressesthe importance of early intervention: “Ifyourchild is unable to keepfluids down or shows signs of dehydration, seek medical help immediately.

“Oralrehydration solutions are the firstline of defenceand should be given as soon as symptoms appear. Asimple sugar-salt solutioncan be made at home by mixing onelitre of clean tapwater, eight teaspoons of sugarand half alevel teaspoon of salt. Stir well andofferit in small amounts, especially after each watery stool or whenthe child is thirsty If the water is nottaken directly from municipaltaps it must be boiled, cooled andthen used.”

Buys also reminds families that water canbecomecontaminated more easily. Open containers allow germs, dirt and pests to enter andincrease the riskof illnessin youngchildren.

Open buckets canbecome contaminated throughdirty hands, unwashed utensils dipped into thewater, animals, insects or householdpests, dust anddebris.

Contaminated water can carry diarrhoeal germssuch as E.coli, shigella, salmonella androtavirus,all of which can be especially harmfultobabiesand young children, shesays

SIMPLESTEPSTOPREVENTILLNESS

Parents and caregivers can protecttheir children by following these important steps:

. Washhands with soap andwater

regularly, especially beforepreparing food or drinks and after using thetoilet; . Useonly clean, safe water for drinking, cooking, mixingbaby formula, washing fruit andvegetables, andbrushing teeth.

. Keep oral rehydration solution (recipe above) at home.Immunisations such as therotavirusvaccinehelp prevent severe diarrhoeal illness.

KNOWWHENTOSEEKHELP

Diarrhoeacan become dangerous very quickly in babies andyoung children because their bodies are small and they lose fluids faster and are at higher risk of dehydration.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to seek medical attention immediately if theirchild develops diarrhoea, Buys urges.

“Seek help urgently if your child shows any of the following: persistent vomiting and diarrhoea; signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, fewer wet nappies or less urine); unusual sleepiness, weakness or difficulty waking; refusal to drink or feed; blood in the stool; convulsions together with fever; swollen feet or ankles.

“Breastfeeding remains very important and should continue during illness. Antibiotics are not recommended for viral gastroenteritis. Parents are encouraged to visit theirnearest clinic for support.”

Kontant Koper soek 3slpkmr,2 badkmr, dubbel

in Durbanville, Brackenfell omgewing GeenKansvattersof Agente. Skakel 0836618013. Private Cash buyer seeks 3 bedrm, 2bathrm, dubble garage, in Durbanville, Brackenfell surround.No Chancers or Agents. Phone0836618013.

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Secondhand furniture and appliances working or not wanted. Cash offer. 084 440 8140 Ek koop kombuisware, linne, ornamente, speelgoed,juweliersware, ou tydse goed. Anita0829638877

Young footballersenjoy weekend of skills training

Kuils River-based Newman'sFootball Club hosted athree-day football performance hub for players from across CapeTownatBellville Technical High School over the weekend.

Nathan Newman, founder and director of Newman's FC, said the event was hosted in collaboration with some of the bestprivate football trainers locally –Nkala FTBL (Lwazi Mlonyeni), A+ Fitness and Coaching (Astria Boks, former Banyana Banyana player), Structured Futbol (Kyle Maart) and Glued Hands Goalkeeping (Keenan Smith and Siya Mbune).

Atotal of 206 players attended the event, with participants ranging from u-8 to u-20 age groups, including girls. "They were treated tofootball heaven as they hadan opportunity to train with these footballelitecoaches,"Newman said.

The purpose of theevent was to ensure children from all walks of life, particularly those from Kuils River,could access high-quality footballtraining on their doorstep.

The attendees were split into age groups androtated through various training and skill sessions throughout the three-day programme.

VARSITY CUPAND SHIELD SETFOR KICK-OFF

Playersgearup foraction

Young talented rugby players attertiaryinstitutions across the country are gearing up for the kick-off of the Varsity Shield and Varsity Cup, on Friday 13 and Monday 15 February respectively.

As usual,the tertiaryinstitutions inthe Western Capeare represented inboth competitions

In theVarsity Shield, Cape Town is represented by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) andthe University of the Western Cape (UWC). The two sides will compete against Madibaz, University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN), Sol PlaatjeUniversity, Wits, Walter Sisulu and Fort Hare.

In the Varsity Cup, defending champions Ikeys and losingfinalist Maties will carry the flag for the Capetonians.

Other teams competing against them are Shimlas, Central University of Technology (CUT), North-West University (NWU), University of Johannesburg(UJ), University of Pretoria (Tuks)and Varsity College, known as Emeris.

Emeris won the Varsity Shieldtwo years after their initial involvement in the

tournament andprogressed to the Varsity Cup. CPUT are in action against Madibaz at home in their opening fixture andUWC travels to the Eastern Cape for the match against Fort Hare in Alice

In the Varsity Cup, Maties andIkeys both travelfor their first matches.Maties traveltoBloemfontein to play against Shimlas and Ikeys will visit Tuks in Pretoria.Sincethe matches are shownon television all thebig unions andfranchises will have the opportunity to see potential players in action to sign for the different unions and franchise.

Many of therugbyplayers of tertiary institutions in thepastbecame Springbok or Blitsbok players

AllCape teams are also in action in the Super League competitions of Western Province Rugby Union(WPRU) but areexempt from competing when the club competition kicks off on Saturday 22March due to the obligations in the Varsity Shield and Varsity Cup.

Bellville: 074858 6152

Grassy Park:076 5036916

Tygerbergers blinkuit

DieTygerbergers het in die meeste gevalle ‘n baie suksesvolle naweek agter die blad in die jongstesarsie topligakrieketwedstryde.

In die derby-kragmeting tussen Brackenfell (181) en Bellville (184/3) was dit grootliks die Bellvilliete Reece du Plessis (76*), Hanno Kotze69) en Evert Carstens (5/44) wat die kalklig gesteel het. Durbanville (199/5) het sy vyfpaaltjie-sege oor Groenpunt (198) grootliks te dankeaan die kolfwerk van Fritz de Beer (75*) en Laurens Smit (52).

In nog ‘n derby-tweestryd het Noordelikes-Goodwood

(43) heeltemal platgeval teen Kraaifontein (224/6),vir wie Daylon Beukes (74) en Diego du Plessis (7/25) pragtig op stryk was. Tygerberg-klub (151/7) het spogreg verkry teen St Augustine (148) —in‘ngroot mate danksy Lincoln Simons (64) se kolfwerk. Terselfdertyd het Edgemead (131) ondanks papperige kolfwerk, Primrose (70) katswink gespeel, danksy veral uitstekende boulwerk deur Duane Abel (5/13).

Milnerton (187) het egter sy rieme styfgeloop teen Pinelands (231) ten spytevan walgooikolfwerk deur Dillon Smit (78) –SAREL BURGER

Klinkendeoorwinningsbehaal

Die hoërskoleBellville,TygerbergenMilnertonseeerstekrieketspanne het die afgelope Saterdag ‘n besonder suksesvolle dagbeleefenklinkende oorwinningsin hulonderskeie wedstrydebehaal. Nadat Bellville die span vanCurro Durbanville totnet 117lopies beperk het, het Jordan Holtman (55*)ensymakkers ‘n sespaaltjie-segevir die Bellvilliete beklink. In ‘n puik HS Tygerberg-spanpoging —waarin Anees Buhardien (64)en nog drie makkers 50-talle behaalhet,het dieTiere 422/9inhul 50 boulbeurte teen TableViewopgestapel om die besoekers uiteindelik met 325lopies af te ransel MondreJulies (54en6/51) was‘nander groot Tygerberg-staatmaker DF Akademie se Justinvan Rensburg (101) is deur sy spanmaatsindie steek gelaat toehul 196 lopies nie ‘n agtpaaltjie-segevan Milnerton konweerhou nie DieMilnerton-kolwers watdie papsodik

aangemaakhet,was Daniel Bloemetjie (76*) en JaredBlessing (58). Fairmont (326) se M. Heyns (109) en Arush Verkat (6/22)was die groot uitblinkers om hul o.15-span ‘n weghol-sege oor Pinelands (102) te besorg. Ook HS Bellvillleseo.15’swas met hul 318lopies heeltemalbobaasteen Curro (154),danksy veraldie bydraes deur W. Liebenberg(68)enLukas Otto (54) In die enigsteamptelikeo.14-wedstryd in die WP NoordelikeStadsgebiede het HS Bellville (103/5),net soos sy senior spanne,met Curro(102) klaargespeel Die jaarlikse SammyBloch-uitklopkompetisie (25boulbeurteper span) skop vandag (Woensdag) af met die volgende wedstryde(tuisspan eerste): Milnerton tDurbanville, CurrotHS Tygerberg, Edgemead tHSBellville Stellenberghet ‘n loslooitjie in die eerste ronde –SAREL BURGER