TygerBurger | Mitchells Plain | E-Edition | 11 March 2026

WHAT’S ON /WAT IS WAAR

WOENSDAG11MAART

. Die Cape WelshChoirtreeopbydie Trans-50 Panorama Palms-aftreeoordinUys Krige-rylaan, Panorama. Die geleentheidbegin om 19:00enkos R60per persoon. Bespreekby021 9306035.

. PetraMüllersedigbundel Dieaandagvan jou oë —gedigte virdie liefde word by diebyeenkoms vandie Durbanville-Poësiekringbespreek. Dr.Christa Thom saldie bespreking doen. Ditbegin om 10:00 in die Durbanville-biblioteeksaal.Toegang is gratis en R50vir besoekers, ligteverversingsingesluit.Kontak Lesley vander Vyverbyteachervdv@gmail.comof 083460 4571 metnavraeofomtebespreek

THURSDAY12MARCH

. U3A Tygerbergwillmeet at the Stellenberg Gemeenteonthe cornerofMountainViewand EdelweissDrive,Stellenberg. This month’sspeaker is marine ecologist Prof William Fronemanfrom UCTwho willspeak on the topic “Understandingthe impact of global changeonmarine and estuarine ecosystemfunctioning”.Doors forthe meeting will open at 09:00for all. EntryR20 forvisitorsand R10 formembers.

VRYDAG13MAART

. Die kykNETBuite-ekspo Wes-Kaapworddie naweek van13tot 15 Maartweeropdie plaasMôreson netbuite Malmesburyaangebied. Die hooffokus val op tallebuitelewe-uitstallers watvan die nuutsteprodukte tans beskikbaarindie buitelewe-,kampeer-en 4x4-markuitstal soos watdie koper ditindie praktyk sougebruik. Dagbesoekerkaartjies wissel vanR30 vir kinders totR120vir volwassenes, afhangendvan die dag. Daar is ooknaweekpakkette.Dit is beskikbaarby OpenTickets,www.ekspo.co.za en ookbydie hekke tydensdie ekspo.Besoekwww.ekspo.co.za virmeer inligting.

SATERDAG14MAART

. Die Oppiehoek-basaarworddeur die NG kerk Durbanville-Bergsig op sy perseelopdie hoekvan Boland-enProteaweg in Durbanville aangebied. Die heerlikeoutydse kerkbasaar duur van08:00tot 15:00.Kom kuier, smul en geniet diedag saam by verskeie stalletjieswat onder meer gebak, pasteieen pannekoek totjaffels, boereworsrolle,roosterkoeke, koeksisters en basaarpoedingsverkoop,asook vermaak biedvir oudenjonk.

. TheFrancophonieFoodand CultureFestival returns to Cape Town from 10:00to17:00 at the Belgian Residence, Newlands. Nowinits fifth year thisfree, familyfriendly festival offersanengaging celebration of Frenchlanguage,culture,and creativity. Exploremorethan60stalls offering authentic food, artisanalproducts, and cultural displaysfromacross theFrancophone world. Free entrance. Parking willbe availableatKirstenboschCottages, with afreeshuttle servicetothe festival.

. Families struggling to access special needs services in theWestern Cape willhavethe opportunity to connect withdozens of support providersunder one roof at an expo held at the CheréBotha School, 20 Meerlust Street,Oakglen, Bellville,from09:00 to 12:00.The event is open to schools,educators, parents and caregivers who support individualswith special needs.

. TheNederduitsch Hervormde kerk will be holding aFoodmarket at RobbenRoad, Melkbosstrand from 09:00 —oxtail potjie,pancakes, croquettes, puddings and much more.For more info contact 082806 8396

. TheWestern Cape Lion Clubsare having an Open Dayfrom10:00atthe Lions Hall in Dorrey street Protea Heights. Learnabout the Lions eight pillarsof servicing the community.The daypromisesfun forthe whole family,including ajumping castleand games forthe children, food stalls and more Entry is free.The RuralChild charity shopin Brackenfellwillhosta free Winter 2026 launch event featuring sustainable fashionshopping and styling advice. Theevent will take placebetween 11:00and 13:00 at theirshop at OkavangoJunction inKenwil Drive.Funds raised support ruralchildren through the Goedgedacht TrustPathOntoProsperity Centres

. Thenextbooksaleatthe AndriesOlivier Durbanville QuadriplegicCentre takesplace between 09:00 and14:00 at the centreat18HafeleStreetinDurbanville.The booksalefeaturesanextensiveselectionof affordablebooks from R5 and covers ahugevarietyof budget-friendlypricedbooks.Expect to find amassive varietyofgenres and curated qualityreads. Thereis also “R1-a-laugh” promotiononcartoon booksincluding Madam &Eve,Snoopy and Garfield. Allproceeds raised directly fund the care of the residents and the maintenance of the centre.

WOENSDAG18MAART

. Die Kanadeseskrywer-digterAnne Michaels se roman Held word op ‘n byeenkomsvan dieDurbellleeskring om 10:00indie Durbanville-biblioteeksaal bespreek.MiemieTaljaardsal diebespreking doen. Toegangisgratisvir lede en R50 (slegskontant)vir besoekers.Ledegeld beloop R220 perjaar. Rignavrae aanLiz vanWyk,sekretaresse,by082 655 8061.

Lentegeur police have urged residents in the Colorado sector to be cautious following arecentspike in robbery and armed robberycases in the area.

Lentegeur Police Station spokesperson Const Navon van Houten saidthere havebeen severalreports of robberies in recent weeks, with criminals particularly targetingindividuals walking alone to busstops or taxi ranks, especially during early morninghours when commuters are travelling to work.

SAFETYMEASURESADVISED

Policehave issued specific safety guidelinesfor residents to help reduce theirrisk of becoming victims:

. Avoid walking aloneduring dark morninghours;

. Keep belongings secure and out of sight;

. Do not wear headphones, use iPods, or carry mobile phones visibly whilst walking;

. Ensure all doors andwindows are properly locked when leaving home;

. Report anysuspicious activities to authorities immediately.

Van Houten said criminals view lone pedestrians as easytargets,particularly thosewho appear distracted or are carryingvisible valuables.

WEAPONSHAUL

In Lentegeur, thecommunity disrupted police’s search at ahouse wherealarge cache of weapons was found.

TheCity releasedastatement saying metro policehad accompanied officers from Lentegeur PoliceStation to a domestic dispute callout.

On arrival officers were tipped off about illegal weaponsinthe house.

On investigation alarge weapons cache was found, including grenades and rifle ammunition.

“One firearm and ammunition were

“Communitiescannotcallforhelp andthenturnonlawenforcement.”

—JPSmith

found to be licensed, asecond belonged to adeceased relative and was never surrendered,”apolice statement said.

“Officers also recovered more than 230 rounds of illegal ammunition, including 87 rifle rounds, 109 9mmrounds and 33 revolver rounds. They also found two grenade casings and several empty9mm casings.”

It said the officers had called for back-up from the K9 and Bomb Squad units,but were forced to withdraw before the units arrived.

COMMUNITYBECOMESRIOTOUS

“A crowd that gathered outside became riotous,” the release stated.

Van Houten said acase of illegal possession of firearms with ammunition was opened.

According to the City a48-year-old man was arrested and detained at Lentegeur Police Station.

Mayco member for safetyand security JP Smithsaid the incident highlighted the challenge police had with “ongoing public interference in enforcement operations.”

“Communities cannot call for help and then turnonlaw enforcement by obstructing theirwork,” he said. “Obstruction of justice is an arrestable offence. Iurge communities to condemn the small minority who protect criminals and to use our tip-off number to help City enforcement remove theseindividuals from our streets.”

COMMUNITYOUTREACHTOSENIORS

Meanwhile, the station also took partin acommunity outreach to seniorsatthe Lentegeur Community Hall.

Police distributed food items to the seniors before addressing them on elderly abuse, how to report acrime, awareness about grant dates, contact information for key personnel at the station and on how best to approach police for help.

WARNINGAGAINSTFALSECLAIMS

Thepolice station has also cautioned community members against filing false fraud reportsfor insurance purposes, stating that all cases will be thoroughly investigated and perpetrators will face arrest.

Residentsare encouraged to remain vigilant of theirsurroundings and report any serious crimes to police.

CommunityurgedtojoinImpact

LAURENO’CONNOR-MAY LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

The Impact movement is calling on more community organisations to join the anti-gang strategy that aims to transform Portlands into asafe haven.

At arecent communitymeeting, representatives from variouslocal organisationsgathered to discuss how they cancoordinate theirefforts under acomprehensive safety plan backed by Subcouncil 17.

COORDINATEDAPPROACHNEEDED

Violence Prevention through Urban Upgrading (VPUU) project coordinator Ignatius France told the meeting that successful implementation requires understanding who the stakeholders are and creatingstructuredspaces for collaboration.

“This is not about VPUU coming in and doing the work. It’s about the organisations from this community leading that charge,” France said at the meeting at Hazeldene Primary School in Portlands on Tuesday 3March..

The initiative brings together existing holidayclubs, trauma-informed programmes and aftercareservices under one coordinated framework to maximise impact.

BUILDINGONEXISTINGSUCCESS

The strategy builds on pilot programmes already running in Portlands and Westridge,including trauma-informed holiday clubs that emerged from a2024 anti-gang dialogueheld in Subcouncil chambers.

Criminologist Ben de Vos, who masterminded Cape Town’s neighbourhood safety officer programme

which the City adopted, said the approach focusesonreclaiming spacescurrently controlled by gangs.

“We started with thetrauma-informed children’s holiday clubs,” De Vos explained. “Ifyou work withchildren, you inevitably are goingtowork with parents. You areinevitably goingtowork with schools.”

The five-yearplan proposes transforming

fouridentifiedsitesinPortlands intosafe communityspaces, including business incubatorsand aftercare facilities.

PHYSICALTRANSFORMATION

VPUU’s proposal to Subcouncil 17 includes both social programmes and physical upgrades to create what organisers call“active boxes” community spaces that allow for meetings,

assessments and coordinated service delivery.

France said the approach involves taking “physical spaces and transforming those intosomething else”, including parks with amphitheatres for arts programmes and containerised small business incubation hubs.

COMMUNITYOWNERSHIPESSENTIAL

TheImpact Movement,formed by activists following last year’s dialogue, emphasises that community organisations must drive the initiative rather than relying solely on government intervention.

“We as civil societywant to take ownership of our safetyand we want to drive it ourselves, so our voices mustn’t be lost in government programmes,” De Vos said.

France stressed that VPUU’s role is temporary, with the goal of establishing “community-owned, leadership-driven” initiatives that continue beyond external support. Theproject includes embedded monitoring and evaluation to track impact from community perspectives, not just organisational viewpoints.

NEXTSTEPS

Organisers plan to establish asteering committee to coordinate participating organisations and return to Subcouncil 17 with aunified approach.

Thestrategy envisions scaling successful interventions across Mitchell’sPlain by 2030, with major capital investments including park upgrades, CCTV systems and improved lighting.

. Communityorganisations interestedin joining theinitiativecan contact De Vosat 069470 4215

FrenchambassadorvisitsPortland

The French Ambassador to South Africa has pledged continuedsupport for the AllianceFrançaise de MitchellsPlain following ahigh-profile visit to the community cultural centre.

His Excellency Ambassador David Martinonvisited the French Language and Cultural Centre accompanied bya distinguished delegation including Jean Spiri of the Institut Français d'Afriquedu Sud, French Consul-GeneralMsSophie Bel, andCorentin Ducroquet, Culturaland Audiovisual Officer.

COMMUNITYENGAGEMENT

HIGHLIGHTSVISIT

During his tour, Ambassador Martinon engaged with various tenantorganisations, includingFAMSA (family andrelationship counselling), the Children's Resource Centre, and the BlaqpearlFoundation, whichempowers youth through training and events focused on identity, self-worth, andtransformation.

The visit emphasised the Alliance'srole as ahub for community upliftment and cultural exchange in the heart ofMitchells Plain.

NEWBOARDOUTLINES

AMBITIOUSPLANS

Following the tour, theAmbassador met withthe newly appointed Board ofthe Alliance Française de Mitchells Plain Boardmembers outlined their expertise in finance, law, communications, administration, and institutional memory —skills aimed at strengthening the organisation's trajectory towards French Excellence.

The board shared future plans to expand community projects, deepen collaborations withschools and artists, andenhance

DIGNATORY PLEDGES SUPPORT TO LOCAL CULTURAL CENTRE ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE

youth engagement opportunities, whilst inviting the Embassy's participation in theseinitiatives.

Board PresidentDrAlicia English highlighted the Alliance'sstrategic vision, whilst Cultural Coordinator Janine Overmeyer presented upcomingevents including Frenchfilm screenings,Love Jam sessions showcasing local artists, and theannualJourdelaFrancophonie in March.

Plans to expand French language classes were also announced.

EMBASSYPLEDGES

ONGOINGSUPPORT

Ambassador Martinonexpressed satisfaction at theCentre'srenewed leadershipand pledged the Embassy's continued support for future development.

JeanSpiri addedthatseveral organisationswithin the Frenchnetwork areeager to collaborate with the Alliance Française de Mitchells Plain, reinforcing itsroleasabridge between South Africa and the Francophoneworld.

TheAlliance Française de Mitchells Plain boasts aproud 39-year history, having grown from its beginnings in the Town Centre in the mid-1980s to its current home in WallStreet, Portland Today, it serves as abeacon of creativity, multilingualism, andinternational friendship.

. Forinformation on activities, cultural events, andFrench classes, contactCulturalCoordinator JanineOvermeyeron084 6782524.

Blendingscentsandsensibilities

LAURENO’CONNOR-MAY LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

A29-year-old psychology graduate from Mitchells Plainisusing her sidebusiness to challenge the exclusivityofthe global perfume industry whilst making fragrances more accessible to everyday people.

Aneeqa Abrahams, who holds amaster’s degree in gender studies andis pursuing aPhD in psychology, founded Eraya —afragrancebrand that combines psychological profiling with perfumeryto create personalised scents.

The name Eraya, which means“fortune’s favourite” in Sanskrit, reflects the brand’s mission to democratise an industry that Abrahams describes as “extremely exclusive” and “extremely European”.

“What Icame to understand isthat this industry that we all glamoriseis extremely exclusive, extremely European, and doesn’t take into considerationpeople of colour when it is manufacturing,”said

hey times ofthe month as hormones, illness andother factors affect the body’s natural scent profile and that’s why, after two weeksofhaving paid thousands foran exclusive brand, her friend stoppedliking the scent

Likewise, despite the hefty price Abrahams paidfor her perfume, the spray mechanismbroke andshe was unable to get it repaired or refunded, renderingthe scent inaccessible.

“Asaconsumer, thatisa horrible experience to be in, because you’re definitely notgonna go back to that brand,” she said.

PSYCHOLOGYMEETSPERFUMERY

Using her psychology background, Abrahams noticed thatpeople struggle to define themselves beyond their careers

This observation ledher to create aspace where individuals couldexpress their identitythrough personalised fragrances.

“One ofthe toughest questions thatmy clients have to answer is, who are they? How do they know themselves?” she

perience,”

“We’ always mindfulwhen we are selecting scent profiles.”

Thebrand aims to educate consumers aboutfragrance composition and help them makeinformedpurchases, even from other retailers.

“A lot of the knowledgeisexclusive and it is niche.Ifyou don’t understand thelinguisticsaround it, you won’t understand the composition of a fragrance,” she said.

TEAMEFFORT

Whilst Abrahams serves as founder and CEO, Eraya operates as acollaborative effort involvingher millennial peer group.

Her husband develops the technology component,two attorney friends handle legal matters, and other friends manage internalsystems.

“We still havebills to pay, so it is part of our everyday life,” Abrahams acknowledged aboutrunning the business as aside venture whilst maintaining other employment.

This year the fledgling brand also aims

to highlight the contributions of people of colour communities to the perfume industry, particularly traditional perfumemaking methods in India and other regions often overlooked by Europeandominated narratives or exploited as cheap labour.

“A lot of theirknow-how and understanding comes from people of colour communities,”Abrahams said. “We want to pay homage to people of colour communities and cultures that have been using scent for centuries.”

Eraya operates primarily from Abrahams’ home in Westridge, with retail space rented in Lansdowne. The brand representsagrowing trend of young entrepreneurs using theiracademic backgrounds and side businesses to challenge established industries and create more inclusive alternatives.

TopGunwenpotjiekoskompetisie

Diepotte het heerlik geprutby die Tygerberg-Sakekamer se potjiekoskompetisie, wat Vrydagop die terrein van die Hoërskool De Kuilen plaasgevind het.Oudergewoonte het sake-ondernemings uit dienoordelike voorstede vanKaapstad metgroot gees om die gesogte titels meegeding.

POTTE

PRUT BEHOORLIK

Vanjaarserooipot-kampioenisTop Gun. DieBrackenfell-polisie se span, Die Damduikers het die witpot gewen. Bokradio het die beste potbrood gemaak, en TJ's LekkaBraai die beste potpoeding.

Roman graduateplansfilm about missionary childhood

An Italian filmmaker, who spent his formative years in Cape Town, has graduated with top honours from film school in Rome and plans to return to SouthAfrica to create amovie about his missionaryupbringing.

Tommaso Furgione, born in Rome, moved to South Africa at age six when his family began missionary work. He lived in Goodwood andattended Labiance Preand Primary School before moving on to CBC St John’s, Parklands High School.

The 22-year-old recently earned his degreesumma cum laude in Film Directingand Production at the Digital Artsand Media Academy in Rome, where he distinguished himself withathesis examining faith-based cinema and its potential for contemporary evangelisation.

Histhesis, titled “Self-sustaining cinema andfaithasa creative engine: The caseofThe Chosen and the birthof anew model of Christian participatory production,” analysed howreligious content can achieve both artistic quality and commercial success.

“Filmmakingrepresents one of the forms of evangelisation with the greatest potential in the contemporarylandscape,” Furgione explainedinhis thesis. “The Bible constitutes the greatest source of historical narrative in existence, offeringinexhaustible stories and infinite inspiration for anew generation of filmmakers.”

Furgione believes that faith-based projectscan transcend purely commercial considerationswhen built on clear missionand shared vision.

SOUTHAFRICANFILMPROJECT

The filmmakernow plans to return to hisadopted homeland to create amovie about his missionary experience, with production planned for Cape Town studios. Unusually, he intends to cast real people ratherthan professional actors to tell his story authentically.

“My passion for moviesarose during my

Furgione says his missionaryupbringing in Goodwood,Cape Town,influenced his interestin filmmaking.

path throughout SouthAfrica’s missionary work, where the desire grew to give back hope and beauty to people, especially youth,” Furgione said.

Furgione was forced to leave South Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic. He completed his studies in Rome, but his connection to the country remains strong. His supervisor, Elisabetta Villaggio —daughter of renowned actor Paolo Villaggio and adirector who works with major Italian broadcasters —praised his innovative approach to combining art, faith, and production.

Theyoung filmmaker concluded his thesis with this personal statement: “Of one thing Iamcertain: such acomplex project would not be possible without the presence of Divine Providence, which precedes every step and requires faith. God is the true producer.”

Team Silvercrowned championsat inaugural RedBull Locked In

Team Silver, led by captain Collins “It’z Skarrra” Manyame, has emerged victorious at the inaugural Red Bull Locked In tournament, claiming the 2026 championship title in Cape Town.

The team secured their victory on 7March during the intense 48-hourendurance competition held at Bellville Velodrome from 6to8March. The event marked a groundbreaking moment in South African esports, combining highstakes gaming with real-world challenges.

The Red Bull Locked In format pushed competitors beyond traditional gaming boundaries. Teams battled through Battle Royale, Wildcard,and Mixtape modes whilst navigating knockout mechanics and unexpected twists that could eliminate or revive teams at any moment.

The tournament’s unique structure demanded not only

gaming skill but alsostamina, strategy,and adaptability from participants. Spectators, content creators, andthe local gaming community gathered to witness the innovative competition unfold.

EMOTIONALVICTORYFORCHAMPI-

ONS

Team Silver memberJulio Bianchi reflected on the intensity of theexperience: “Preparation can only take yousofar. After that, you have to take afew leaps of faith

“What startedout as fun and games quickly became a rollercoasterofemotions.”

Bianchi expressed gratitudefor

theopportunity, saying: “I feel privilegedand honoured to have been part of this one-in-a-million event.Thankyou to everyone whomade it possible, specifically RedBull, andaspecial shout-out to our team captain Collins ‘It’z Skarrra’.”

Thetournamentfeatured NAG Magazine as its official media partner, highlighting the growing recognition of competitive gaming in South Africa. Withthe inaugural championship nowcomplete, Team Silverhas set the standard forfuture Red Bull Locked In competitions,establishing themselvesasthe first champions of this unique esports format.

Murderrate inWestern Capedrops

DESIRÉERORKE

Murder in theWestern Cape decreased by 3,4% in thelatest quarter, representing 41 fewer lives lost, though the provincerecorded 1157 murders andmaintains the secondhighest murder rate in the country at 15,2murders per 100 000 people.

“While any decrease is encouraging, 1157 murders in asingle quarter is still far toohigh,” said MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais when the thirdquarter crime statistics were released last Tuesday.

“At 15,2 murders per 100 000 people, we have the second highest murder rateinthe country.“The Western Cape continues to dominate gangrelatedviolence nationally, with 257 of the country's 276 gangrelatedmurders occurring in the province. Gang-related attempted murders were similarly concentrated, with 291 of 320 national cases recorded locally,” shesaid.

“That means roughly one in fourmurders and attempted

LEAP AREAS DROPPED IN MURDER RATE

murders in the Western Cape are gang -related.”

Firearms remained the leading weapon in murders, used in 644 killings and 713 attempted murders during the reporting period. Precincts including Mfuleni, Nyanga, Delft and Gugulethu continue to feature prominently on the national top 15 murder stations list. However, areas with Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP)deployments showed greater improvement,with murders decreasing 3,7% from 323 to 311 cases. Delft recorded a 19,4% decrease, Gugulethu 13,3%, and Mitchells Plainachieved a 22% reduction.

“This clearly indicates that additional boots on the ground, integrated deployments and focused operations do make a measurable difference,” Marais said. “It confirms what we have long maintained: resource allocation matters. Visible policing matters.”

Kommentaar // Comments

THINKING OUTLOUD LEWENSKIEKIE

We must hold institutionsaccountable

Maybe todayyou woke up to the hum of traffic, the calls of street vendors and therhythm of everyday life.For me theday begins quietly. But forothers it begins with worry, struggle or uncertainty. March is Human Rights Month in SouthAfrica.

Laterthis month, on 21 March, thecountrywillmark HumanRights Day, remembering theSharpeville Massacreof1960,when policeopened fireonunarmed protesters demanding dignityand freedom. Sixty-nine people were killed. Their deaths remind usthathuman rights arenot abstract ideals; theyare protections between dignityand oppression.However,what dohuman rights look like today?

Look farawayand the pictureisgrim. Thethree-year warbetween Israel and Gazasaw homes,schools, hospitals, nottomentionlives, destroyed. It left us withthe spectreoffamiliesfleeing under relentless fire, children going hungry, traumatisedcivilians living in constant fear.Wholesaleviolations of international law, lack of humanitarian access to basicneeds, shelter andprotections were paraded before us by theworld's media everyday

This is astark reminder that rights arefragile. They are neitherautomatic nor guaranteed. And here at home rights arejust as vulnerablethough the threats may seem quieter

Last week, FinanceMinister EnochGodongwana delivered the national Budget Speech. Numbers,projections, allocations, it allsounded distant.However,each rand has consequences. Funding decisions determine whether clinics have enoughmedicine,whether police patrolsreach our streets, whether families finally get aroof overtheir heads. Everyline of abudgetaffects whetherrightsare realised or remain promises on paper.

..

RIGHTSAREFRAGILE. THEYARENEITHERAUTOMATIC NORGUARANTEED.

Isee it.A nurseinKhayelitsha attends to patients in a clinic with long queues and limitedresources. Ateenager in MitchellsPlain takesovercrowded public transport to school, wheretextbooksand supplies are oftenscarce. AfamilyinMarikana, Philippi,awaits housing, while informal settlements expand. On astreet cornerin Wynberg, ahomeless man reads alibrarybook, finding aquiet moment amid thenoiseoftrafficand passersby. Adeliveryrider navigates busyroads, earning aliving whilehoping forbasic protection from accidents or theft.Theseare not statistics. Theseare human rights in practiceor, sometimes, in peril.

Human rights arenot abstract.Theyare livedand are universal. Freedom of expression matters even when opinions areuncomfortable. Theright to protest exists even when it disruptstraffic. Dignity applies to everyone, even those societywouldrather ignore. Yetthese rights arechallenged dailybyinequality, povertyand neglect. Cape Town reflects the contradictions of South Africa itself.Breathtaking beautyco-exists with entrenched inequality.Pristine suburbssit alongside informal settlements. Modern infrastructurecontrasts withcommunities struggling forbasic services. Opportunityoften depends on wheresomeone is born. Safety,education andhealthcareremain privileges forsome, whileothersare denied their rights. Human Rights Month shouldchallengeus to confront thesecontradictions. Arewebuildinga society where dignityisrealfor everyone,oronlyfor those withmeans? Arewewilling to ask uncomfortablequestions about inequality, neglect,and government accountability? Can we protect the rightsofthe most vulnerable even when it is inconvenient? And hereIsit with an uncomfortable truth; rights aremeaningless if we do not live them in our communities.

They aredefended in the decisions we make,inhow we treatour neighbours, and in theactions we take when we seeinjustice. Human rights aretestedboth in thestreets of Cape Town and in the bombed-out buildingsofGaza. Whetherthe threatiswar,poverty, or neglect,the principleisthe same: everypersondeserves dignity, safety,and opportunity

As we walk toward 21 March partner,the challengeis clear. We cannot simplyremember Sharpeville.Wemust act.Wemust speak to our neighbours, question our leaders, and holdinstitutions accountable.

We must walk the streets with empathy, witnessthe strugglesaround us and challengepolicies that leave peoplebehind. Human rights arenot inherited; theyare defended, livedand chosen, again and again.

Andaswemove through this month, letuswalk together in memoryofthe past,but in commitment to the present.Dignitybegins wherewe stand -NAMHLA MONAKALI

Aggressivedog terrifies park

Ivisit LeadvilleDog Park in Sunningdale everyday.A dogschool thereislinkedtoalocal trainingcentre. They allowa dog walker to walk alarge Africanis dog,wearing amuzzle, freelyamong other friendly dogs.I do notapproveofthispractice.

Even though the dog maynot be abletobite becauseofthe muzzle, it stillaggressivelyattacks other dogs,which is clearlywhy the muzzleisrequired. Unfortunately, this happens everytime thedog is presentatthe park

Ipreviouslycontacted the dog school politelyvia a phone message, as callsare notanswered, and asked

that this dog be removedfromthe premises, as it traumatises both thedogsthatare attacked andtheir owners. On Monday, aWhippetwas attacked, andthe ownerwas extremelyshaken. She hassincesaid that she does notwanttoreturn to the park Iunderstandthatthe intention maybetosocialise this dog, but Ibelieve that attempting this with a fully-growndog that consistentlydisplaysaggressive behaviourina public dog park is inappropriateand unsafe

Duringthe incident, Ishouted at the walker and askedher to leavethe park. In theheatofthe moment,

Rising ratesput Cape Town’spensionersatrisk

As Cape Town heads into the 2026 municipal election, acrisis is unfolding quietlyinplain sight.Pensioners arebeing forced from their homes becausemunicipal rates andservicecharges areskyrocketing, while their fixed retirement incomes remain stagnant,which is furthernegatively impacted by the current deteriorating economic climateand lowgrowth and inflation rates in SouthAfrica.

Much of the City’sIntegrated Development Plan (IDP)budget prioritises subsidies forindigent residents andservices to informal settlements —includinghouseholds that makelittleornocontribution to municipal rates andtaxes.

Whilethis support is important forthe needy,the consequence is that long-term homeowners, many of them elderly,are left shoulderingthe bulk of the City’s revenue needs. Theresult: ratesthathavebecome unaffordablefor those who builtthiscity. This is not just afinancial issue— it is aconstitutional andmoral one. Section 10 guarantees dignity, Section 26 the right to housing, andelderlycitizens have aright not to be economically displaced from homes theyworked decades to secure Politicalparties, take note:pensioners and longterm homeowners areapowerful,significant,and engagedvoting bloc.

How the Cityand political parties address this

imbalance,through rebates, income-linked rate caps, or deferred paymentschemes to protect elderly homeowners from economic eviction, willdefine their commitment to fairness andresponsiblegovernance.

In addition,the law already recognises the need for relief.The localgovernment: Municipal PropertyRates Actspecifically allows municipalities to implement measures to assist pensioners and vulnerablehomeowners. TheOlder PersonsAct likewiseemphasises the dutyofthe statetoprotect the well-being and dignityofolder citizens. Yetagrowing number of pensioners fall through the cracksofexisting policies.

ThecurrentCityrebatesystems rely on rigid income thresholds that excludemanymiddle-classpensioners who live on modest retirementincomesbut appear too“wealthy” on paper to qualify forassistance

Thesystemeffectivelyassumes that propertyvalue equals financial capacity—anassumption that is demonstrablyfalse formanyretirees.

Cape Town’spensioners who builtthis citydeserve to ageina placewith security, dignity, andrespect Anything less is afailureofgovernanceand leadership

Cape Town prides itselfongood governance and forward-thinking administration

Addressingthisissuebeforeitbecomesa crisis woulddemonstratepreciselythat kind of leadership CONCERNED PENSIONER,Brackenfell

visitors

Isuggested that euthanasia might be considered as an option.Inresponse, Iwas threatened that my owndog wouldbeattacked, andrude gestures were directed at me

Iamonceagain asking that this muzzled dog be removedfromLeadville Dog Park.The park belongs to the CityofCape Town, and despiteraising these concerns, Ifeel that my plea hasnot been heard. Iam thereforesharingthis experiencepubliclyinthe hope that it willbetaken seriouslyand that the safety of dogsand their ownerswillbeprioritised. CONCERNED,Email

Moeg vanhulp vra by munisipaliteit

Dit is uiters frustrerend om weekliks om hulp by die Stad Kaapstad aan te klop vir die verskuiwing vandie plakkers by die Kuilsrivier-kanaal langsdie Kuilsrivier-hospitaal,maar niksgebeur nie

Verwysingsnommers vir diensversoeke hoop op en geen terugvoeringwordontvang nie

Intussen vermeerder die plakkers.Snags word plastiektenteopgerig om meer menseteakkommodeer

Die DA noem in die media die persentasiegewyse afname vanwerkloosheid in Kaapstad as gevolg van werkskepping.

Tenspyte vandié gespogindie media beweeg meer mensenadie Wes-Kaap vir werksgeleenthede,wat die partyhoop goed is vir meer DA-stemme

Dit het 'n direkte impakopdie verhoging vanmy erfbelasting. Die DA-geleide Stad Kaapstad moet die menseakkommodeer en water, krag en skuiling voorsien.

Intussen moetekasgefrustreerde inwoner van Soneikedaaglikstoekyk hoedie plakkers feitlik op my voorstoep toeneem

Ná vele oproepe en kommunikasie metdie wetstoepassers,die burgemeester vanKaapstad en die wykraadslidvan die DA,isnog niksbereik nie

Uitnodigingsaan DA-leiersvir 'n besoek aan die plakkergebied valopdowe ore. Dit komvir my voor of die plakkerprobleem in Soneikegeen oplossing het nie Dankie DA

J.J.CLOETE, Soneike

Naturereservesinare home to importantindigenousfloraand birdlife.TheCity planstoexpand fivereservesaspart of its biodiversityprotection efforts

City wantstoexpand

fiveexisting reserves

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

The City of CapeTown is planning amajor expansion of its nature reserve network, with Wolfgat Nature Reserve among fivereserves set to grow, while two new reserves are proposed for the Helderberg area.

The City’s Mayco endorsed the proposal earlier today, which will now be submitted to Council for approval. If supported, the plan will addan additional 950,1 hectares to the reserves currently managedby the City.

The proposal includes the proclamation of two new nature reserves in Somerset West —Schapenberg Nature Reserve and Paardevlei Nature Reserve —together covering 88,2 hectares, while five existing reserves across Cape Town will be expanded by 861,9 hectares.

Deputy Mayor and Mayco member for spatial planning and environment Eddie Andrews said the expansion will help safeguard Cape Town’s unique natural environment while also providing valuable recreational spaces for residents.

“Our nature reserves play a critical role in the conservation of our unique biodiversity and ecosystems. Most of these reserves are located close to communities and provide residents with aplacewhere they can spend time in nature, away from roads, buildings, traffic and noise,” Andrews said.

He added that many of the reserves offer hiking trails, walking routes, birdhides, educational centres and picnic spots for visitors.

“Beyond recreation and wellbeing, these areas also allow us to secure land for conservation purposes. By protecting biodiversity offsets we can facilitate future development without compromising our biodiversity,” he said.

TWONEWHELDERBERGRESERVES

Council’s support will be requested for the proclamation of two new nature reserves in the Helderberg area.

Schapenberg Nature Reserve,

Vaccinationbarriersexplored

Poverty, long distances to clinics, lowliteracy levels among parents and misinformation spreading on social media arepreventing children fromreceiving crucial vaccinations. Thisleaves many vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles and polio, according to new research.

AUniversity of the Western Cape-led (UWC) study hasfound that childrenfrom low-income households are significantly less likely to be fully immunised. They remain at risk from dangerous infections, including pneumococcal diseases thatcan cause lifethreateningconditionssuchas meningitis.

Theresearch was ledbyDr Bridgette Lockettfrom UWC's School of Nursing. It identified several barriers preventing childrenfrom completing their vaccination schedules. These include negative experiencesat clinics, loss of income from taking timeoff work, large family sizes andhigh transport costs to reach health-carefacilities.

located on the Schapenberg Hills in Somerset West, will cover 13,2 hectares,while Paardevlei Nature Reserve, also in Somerset West,will consist of 75hectares.

The City officially launched SchapenbergNature Reserve in September last yearand hasalready started clearing invasive alien vegetation to reduce fire risksinthe area.

The Environmental Management Department is also working onidentifying sustainable activities for the reserve thatare compatible withits natural environment.

Planned initiatives include guided spring walks,night walks, outdoor classrooms andenvironmental education programmes.

EXPANSIONSACROSSCAPETOWN

Five existing reserves will also be expanded if Council approves the proposal. These include:

. Harmony Flats Nature Reserve inStrand —an additional0,9 hectares

. Table Bay NatureReserve in Milnerton—0,8 hectares

. Uitkamp Wetland Nature ReserveinDurbanville —3,9 hectares

. Witzands Aquifer Nature ReserveinAtlantis—826,2 hectares

. WolfgatNature Reserve inMitchells Plain and Maccassar—30,1 hectares

The expansion of Witzands Aquifer NatureReserve represents the largestportion of theproposed additions.

PUBLICPARTICIPATIONPROCESS

If Councilgives the green light, the Citywill submit the proposed proclamations tothe Western Cape MEC for EnvironmentalAffairs and Development Planning for gazetting.

This will include anotice of intent toproclaimthe reserves anda60-day public participation process, during which residents will be able to submitcomments.

City officials say the expansion of protected natural areas will help ensurethat Cape Town’s biodiversity is preserved while also providing accessible green spaces for communities to enjoy.

"Caregivers'knowledge about vaccines varies widely, with much lowerawareness in communities with lower levels of education," the study found. "Parentaleducation is one of thestrongest factors in determiningwhether achild completes their full vaccination schedule."

age

one year. "We are monitoring disease surveillance data to identify

Vermaak // Entertainment

‘PrettyWoman’onstage

South African theatreaudiences are getting their first tasteofBroadway glamour as Pretty Woman: TheMusical makes its localdebut this month, bringing the beloved1990film to life on stage.

Themusicaladaptation of theJulia Roberts andRichard Gere romantic comedy opensatCape Town'sArtscape TheatreonWednesday18March, beforetransferringtoJohannesburg'sTeatroat Montecasinofrom24April.

Basedonthe hitHollywood film,the stageversion features music by GrammyAward-winning artist BryanAdams, who hasexpressedhis enthusiasm for theproduction.The show combines theoriginalRoy Orbison classic"Oh, Pretty Woman" with newsongs written specifically forthe stageadaptation.

TIMELESSSTORY

Themusicaltells thestory of Vivian andEdward, twounlikelycharacterswhose chanceencounter leads to an unexpected romance. Sinceits Broadway premierein2018, theshowhas enjoyedsuccessful runs in London'sWestEnd and toured across North America andEurope

"The show delivered high-energy ensemblenumbers, dazzling costumes andsets, anda soundtrack that hadthe audiencetakingatrip back in time to the90s," noted Broadway Worldintheir review Localproduction companyShowtime Managementisbringing themusicaltoSouth Africa in partnershipwithCrossroads LiveNorth America. Theproduction features an all-South Africancast, crew andorchestraworking alongside international creative staff

"This timeless storyhas captured theheartsof audiences around theworld," said HazelFeldman from ShowtimeManagement

"Local theatre-goerswillexperiencethe unforgettablesongs, dazzling performances, andall the romance, humour andheart that made the filma

classic."

Theoriginalcreativeteamincludes book writers GarryMarshalland J.F. Lawton, who createdthe originalfilm,withsongsbyBryan Adamsand Jim Vallance.TonyAward winner JerryMitchellprovides directionand choreography.The productioncarries a PG rating of 12+due to adultthemes, andparental guidanceisrecommended.

Group discountsapplyfor partiesof20ormore, andspecialTuesdaydiscountsare available. . Ticketsare available through Showtime.co.za andTicketmaster.co.za.

WIN!WIN!WIN! Tworeaders caneach win aset of twotickets to seePretty Woman on Thursday26March at 19:30atArtscape. Find this articleand entryformonline at www.tygerburger.co.za

Jazz legendsdescend on Franschhoek forhistoricfestival

Thepicturesque Winelands town of Franschhoek is settomakemusicalhistory this Marchasithosts thefirstAfrican edition of theworld-renowned MontreuxJazz Festival.

From Friday 27 to Sunday 29 March, global superstars including Grammy winner Robert Glasper, UK sensation Ezra Collective,Irish electronic artist Róisín Murphy,and Scottish pop icons WetWet Wet willsharestageswithSouth Africanlegends like Thandiswa Mazwaiand rising localtalent

TheMontreuxJazz FestivalFranschhoek, presented by Nedbank, promisesanintimate,boutique experienceacrosstwo main venues —The Arches MainStage at theHuguenot Monument andthe Jazz VillagehousedinFranschhoek’shistoricchurch.

FRIDAYNIGHTHIGHLIGHTS

Theopening evening features Brother Kujenga,a collaboration between TheBrother MovesOnand Kujenga,alongside WetWet Wetperformingtheir classichitsincluding Love Is AllAround. TheJazz Villagewillshowcase Grammy-nominatedvocalist Stacey Kent andlocal talents MadalaKunene and SibusileXaba.

SATURDAY’SLINE-UP

Saturdaypromisesthe festival’sbiggest moments with MercuryPrize-winning Ezra Collectivebringing theirexplosiveAfro-diasporic jazz,whileThandiswa Mazwaiwillperform hergenre-crossing fusion of Afro-soul and Xhosatradition. Thenight closes with

alandmarkcollaboration between modern jazz architectsRobert Glasperand specialguest Bilal.

TheJazz Villagewillpresent aMiles Davis centenarycelebration featuring jazz legends Eddie Henderson, JavonJackson, Donald Harrison, George Colligan, Buster Williams andLennyWhite performing AKind of Blue,plusanintimate tributetolateSA jazz visionaryBheki Mseleku.

“BringingMontreuxtoAfrica hasnever been about replication —it’sabout re-imagining what this legendaryplatform canbecome when rooted in Africancreativity,”saysfestival founder Mark Goedvolk.

Theprogramme celebrates bothestablished and emergingSouth Africanartists,including ThePloemies andFriends, Cape Town pianist Kyle Shepherd, andMsaki presenting her deeplypersonal Entropy project featuring JesseClegg.

SUNDAYWIND-DOWN

Thefestival concludes with arelaxed Sunday along Huguenot Street,featuring free performances throughout thetownand wine tastings with local vignerons —perfect forexperiencingeverything Franschhoek offers. “This festival reflectsour commitment to investing in initiatives that create shared valuefor artists,audiences andcommunities,”says BuliNdlovufrompresenting partner Nedbank. . Ticketsare available at Ticketmaster. co.za. Visithttp://www.mjfsa.com/for more information.

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