TygerBurger | Mitchells Plain | E-Edition | 4 February 2026
VRYDAG6FEBRUARIE
. ChrismarVillashou om 18:30 'n verskeideneidskonsert.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.
Two people were killed in ablaze thatrippedthrough several informal structures in Heinz Park.
The body of aman andwoman were retrievedafterthe blaze had ripped through fourshacksinthe early hours of Tuesday 27 January.
Spokesperson JermaineCarelse said theCity’s Fire and Rescue Service was notifiedabout theblaze in Roos Street, Heinz Park at 00:40.“Crews from Mitchells Plain, Gugulethu andOtteryFire Stations were on thescene. By 02:00 firefighters managedtoextinguish the blaze that had razed fourstructures andleft 16 people displaced.”
Pictures andvideos of the fire were circulatedonsocial media. It showed neighbours trying to douse the fire with buckets of waterand asking who lived in theshacksand whether they were safe.
In one videoaman says: “This is my sister’shousethatisburning here and my auntie’s house.”
AMAN (28) AND WOMAN(33) DIED IN THEIR SHACKAND 16 PEOPLEWEREDISPLACEDBY THEHEINZPARK SHACKFIRE
He breaks off to ask someone nearby about who had lived in the other structures. Aman answers him, saying most of the people had escaped and at least one of the structures had been empty.
“There are just two people unaccounted for,” he replied in Afrikaans.
Later videos show Fire Services removing zinc plates and extinguishing the fire with hoses.
“Firefighters found the bodies of two adults under the debris, identified as a male and female,” Carelse said, adding no other injuries had been reported.
Thembakazi Mpendukana of the police’s provincial media centre said Philippi police were investigating the blaze. She said the deceased were a28-year-old man and 33-year-old woman.
Body foundattaxirank
duringmorning
Early morning commuters weregreeted with agrim sceneafter security staff in Town Centre discovered the body of aman last week
Solomon Philander, the councillor of Ward116, of whichthe busy transport interchange and shopping centre forms part, issued apress statement on Monday 26 January, saying the body was discoveredatthe Northern Terminal taxi rank in Mitchells Plain.
Philandersaid on-sitesecurity guards foundthe man’s body at 6:00 and contacted Emergency Medical Services. Paramedics, whoarrived at 07:30, anddeclared him dead on arrival.
“At around 8:32, afamily member arrived and identified the deceased,” Philandersaid.
The relative confirmed that the man had been living on the streets, he added. Philanderextended his condolencesto
traffic
the family of the deceased, adding that State Forensic Services removed the body at approximately 09:20.
ConstNdakhe Gwala, of the police’s provincial centre, said Mitchells Plain police registered an inquest docket after the 34-year-old man’s body was found in SeventhAvenue, Eastridge, which is one of the lane’s in Town Centre.
“He was found lying lifeless on the pavement with no visible injuries and he was declared dead by paramedics. No foul play is suspected,”Gwala said.
Philander said: “This incident serves as asolemn reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable members of our community, particularly those experiencing homelessness.”
He thanked the securitypersonnel, emergency responders, and forensic services for theirprofessional handling of the matter.
Residents inspect the rubbleafter ablaze destroyedfour structuresonTuesday27January.
FROMPAGE1
Mathematics and Accounting proved particularly demanding, requiring continuous practice.
“There were periods when the academic workload became overwhelming.These challenges tested my discipline but also played asignificant role in shaping my academic growth,” sheadded.
STRUCTUREDSTUDIES
The key to her success lay in adopting adisciplined study approach. “I created aclear and realistic study timetable and madeitapriority to study every day, dividing my time into focused study periods rather than studyingfor long andexhausting hours,” Dollie shared This structured method allowed her to stay organised, productive, and mentally balanced throughout the demanding matric year.
Interfaith service to launch 50th
Mitchells Plain United Residents Association has invitedstakeholders to join them at an interfaith servicetolaunch the area’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Theservicewilltakeplace on Thursday 12 FebruaryatHighlands PrimarySchool, Woodlands, from 10:00to12:00. . Formoreinformation, call Norman Janjieson 083628 4421.
man involved in ahead-on collisiondied en route to hospital in Mitchells Plain.
Const NdakheGwala of the police’s provincial media centre saidthe man, thedriver of his car,diedashewas beingtransported by ambulance from Strandfontein Road.
Thirteen others, including three children,were injured in thecrash, between BadenPowell Drive and Spine Road, on theevening of Tuesday 27 January, Gwala said.
AccordingapostonStrandfonteinSurf LifesavingClub’s (SLC) Facebook page its lifeguards were first on the scene and the crashinvolvedasilver Volkswagen Polo and white ToyotaAvanza.
FIRSTRESPONDERS
Lifeguards Lisa Adams andSanele Mkhasibe were the first there and assisted theinjured until emergency responders arrived.
STRONGSUPPORTSYSTEM
Dollie credits hersuccess to the unwavering support of her family and teachers.“My parents were my greatest source of motivation, consistently encouraging me to work hard while maintaining ahealthy balancebetween academics and personal well-being. There were occasionswhere givingupfelt easier, but Ichose to remind myself of
Said the post: “Unable to reach emergency services Lisa contacted senior lifeguard Luqmaan Naidoo, who responded immediately and arrived withthe rest of the Strandfontein SLC crew and Paul Newman of Disaster Management.”
SLC said the team treated the injured, “prioritisingthe mostserious injuries first, while traffic was safely directed by a towtruck driver.”
Injuriesrangedfrom minor to suspected spinal injuries.
VICTIMS PASSES EN ROUTE TO HOSPITAL
registered acase of culpable homicide for further investigation.”
Gwala said the crash occurred around 18:25. “Strandfontein police
Aman died in atwo-vehiclecollision on Strandfontein Road.
Paramedics arriveonthe scene
Faatimah Dollieposeswith her certificateshe received at the NationalSeniorCertificate Awards Ceremony, heldinLeeuwenhof.Alongside her is David Maynier (education MEC),Premier Alan Winde andBrent Walters (provincial head of education department. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Faatimah Dolliewith the GoldDux awardshe wonat Grassy Park High School.
Subcouncil setsgoals for2026
LAURENO’CONNOR-MAY
LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Mitchells Plain’s Subcouncil 12 has set its priorities for 2026, with chair Solomon Philander emphasising the need for improved service deliveryand transparency amid ongoing infrastructure challenges.
Speaking at the first Subcouncil meeting of the year on 22 January at theLentegeur administrative offices, he acknowledged that 2025 “was notwithout itschallenges”, citing service delivery pressures, infrastructuredemands and sewer problems.
“The beginning of the yearprovides us with an important opportunity to reflect, reset and recommitourselves to the responsibility entrusted to us by the communities we served. As Subcouncil 12 our mandate is clear; to ensure local government is responsive, accountable and firmly rooted in the real needsofour communities.”
Regional manager Alicia Bosman announced the council will fast-track all processes as the municipal body prepares for likely disbandment lateronthisyear due to the upcoming elections.
“The Subcouncil’s processes will be accelerated because in all probability, because this is an election year and subcouncils will disbandatthe end of August. We will continue as administrators, but the processes to council will be accelerated.”
While administratorscontinue their work all council items must nowmove faster throughthe system to ensure completion before the anticipated disbandment, Bosman said
Philander stressed the importance of goodgovernance as the subcouncil approaches the end of itsterm,with elections scheduled for November 2026.
“Good governance begins with us attending these meetings.” He emphasised that preparation, understanding and ethical conduct arefundamental to the role.
Philander praised the collaborative spirit among the different political parties,
noting thatdespite political differences “we have the same reason why we’re sitting here, whichistoserve our community.”
NEWCOUNCILLORJOINSSUBCOUNCIL
The meetingsaw theintroduction of newDemocratic Alliance PR councillor CameronJames, who replacesretired councillor Abraham Griesel. “It’s apleasure to serve on the Subcouncil, and Ilook forward to working witheveryone,” he said.
. Promoting economic opportunitiesfor youth andsmall businesses and
. Improving communication between Subcouncilwards andresidents.
JOBSCONNECT
Philander alsoinvited “local businesses andalso people looking for employment” to an engagementevent planned for today, 4February, at RocklandsCivic Centre. In apressrelease aboutthe event,the Mayco memberfor economic growth, JamesVos,said: “These services have supported thousands of Capetonians in accessing workopportunities, upskilling courses and equipping small business owners with information resources. In bringing our teams face-to-face withthe communitiesinMitchells Plainwecan help people to sign up to Jobs Connect, answer questions aboutenterprisesupport andassist informal traders wantingto apply fortrading bays, findout about available openbays,orother related queries.”
Applicants would need aworking email address andcellphone number to register andmust take their ID numbers along.
Leasesstill thwarting laneclosures
LAURENO'CONNOR-MAY
LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Subcouncil 12’s ongoingdiscussion on pedestrianlane closures revealed thatleaseagreements were still biggest hold-up in the process.
The matter wasdiscussed last month at its first sittingofthe year, on 22 January
For decadesMitchells Plain communities, especially residentswho livednexttoalleys, haveasked the City to closethe lanes because criminals and gangsters usethem as quick getaways when committing crimes.
“Without thosenumbers the Deputy Mayorcannotmotivate for funding.”
PROCESSES
Morné de Wet, aCity official from Urban Mobility’sRoad Infrastructure Management, supported this. “If there’s no application it can’t be determined how many leaseagreements thereare for doing acostestimate.”
He addedthat theCity had made use of leftoverfundinginthe fencing budget to closelanes, but there was no money this year for that
AccordingtoDeWet closing alane means residents have to complete the leaseagreements, send them to property management, who would then forward them to hisdepartment, which would request fundingfor the closure.
He added there was averylow percentage of lease agreements in place among thehundreds of applications for closures
Many residents do notwant to enter into leaseagreements andthe ward councillors noted severalinstances wheregroups set out to closelanesthemselves.
Subcouncil chair Solomon Philander gave an example of this, oneinvolving aneighbourhood watchinagiven area, buta ruling in aprevious meeting of councillors held sway; only residents whoseproperties abutsuch lanes could have leaseagreements for the space.
Responding to the question from Ward 92 councillor Norman Adonis asking how
CITY PROCESSES STALLED BY LACK OF LEASEAGREEMENTS
lanes that are not abutted by residential properties could be closed, Bosman said neighbourhood watches or even nongovernment organisations could enter into lease agreements, provided they operated from the properties abutting the lanes
SAFETYVERSUSREVENUE
In afollow-up email, TygerBurger asked the City why alease agreement is essential for the closing of lanes?
“In volatile areas where people cannot afford the leases, is therenoway the lane can be closed without alease agreement, in thisway prioritising the safetyof residentsrather than revenue generation for the City.”
Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews told the newspaper: “Lanes and passageways are City-owned property. Residentscannot make use of City-owned land free of charge, and therefore alease application has to be done at aminimal cost. Many lanes have underground infrastructure within the area where they arelocated, and the area also needs to be accessible for service repairs and upgrades. Lanes cannot be closed without consent.”
Additional points of note on lane closures from the subcouncil meeting:
. Thecouncil took steps in January 2024 to remove one barrier by waiving lease-application fees, encouraging more residentsand neighbourhood watch groups to submit applications.
. Property Management must still conduct thorough checks, including reviewing residents’ debt and rates status, before approving any lease applications. . Residentshave the option to close lanes themselves, provided they follow council specifications for gates and barriers using standards from the municipality’s fencing tender.However, strict conditions apply: leased areas must be returned to their original state if leases are not renewed, including removal of gates, walls and any plantings installed during the lease period.
DHET warns students against enrolling at unregistered colleges
As unregisteredand bogus institutions continue to exploit students,the Government Communication and Information System has warned prospective students to exercise caution when applying to colleges.
TheDepartment of Higher Education and Training(DHET) said fraudulent collegesoperate illegally without proper registration with theDHET,Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), or other recognised authorities.
“Qualifications offeredbythese institutions are notaccredited and have no value for employment, further studies, or official recognition,” the government statement warned in apress release.
Studentsare strongly advised to verify theregistrationstatus of anycollege before enrolling.
. To determine if acollege is properly registered, prospectivestudents canvisit theDHETwebsite atwww.dhet.gov.za or call the department’s toll-free number on 0800872 222.
3lifetermsformanwhorapednieces
A34-year-old Mitchells Plain manhas been sentenced to three life terms and 35 years’ imprisonment after being convicted of raping his three minornieces over severalyears.
The Mitchells Plain Regional Court sentence him on Monday 26 January, after finding the Rocklands resident guilty on multiple charges of sexual assault, flashing and rape.
National ProsecutingAuthority spokespersonEric Ntabazalila said the court convicted himon five counts of sexual assault, two counts of flashing (exposureor display of genital organs) and three counts of rape.
The state has not named the accused to protect the victims’ identities.
The court ordered the
sentences to run concurrently, effectively sentencing him to life imprisonment.
Additionalorders included declaring him unfit to possess a firearm andentering his name intothe NationalRegisterfor Sex Offendersand theNational Child ProtectionRegisterfor Persons Unsuitable to Workwith Children.
Regional Court ProsecutorC Adams presented evidencefrom three victimswho testifiedabout abuse that occurred since2008.
The incidents began after the girls’parents separated andtheir father gained custody, placing them in the care of their uncle.
The eldestvictiminitially remained silent about the abuse dueto threats from theaccused.
After moving to live with her mothershe told her middle sister
GIRLS SPEAK UP AFTER YEARSOFABUSE
to contact herifthe accused touched her.
When thatdreadedphone callcame,bothsisters told theirmotherabout theabuse, promptingthe eldest alsotoopen acase.
COURTFINDSVICTIMSCREDIBLE
The courtfound the three witnesses confidentwith detailed recollection of events.
Their testimony corroborated aspects of theliving arrangements, details about theaccused andfamily circumstances.
The courtnoted their evidence showedapattern of behaviour wherethe accused took
advantage when alone with the victims.
Theaccused denied the allegations, calling only his mother as awitness. His mother alleged that the victims’ mother had influenced them to make falseaccusations.
However, the court found thedefence case “riddled with inconsistencies and improbabilities” and rejected theaccused’sversion as not reasonably true.
Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions advocate Nicolette Bell welcomed the sentence, vowing that the NPA would continue to aggressively prosecute cases where vulnerable individuals are taken advantage of by those meant to protect them.
“AdvBell applauded the victims
for theircourage in retelling what had happened to them and ensuring justice for themselves,” Ntabazalila said. “Their courage is an example to all other victims of crime.”
Mitchells PlainCommunity Policing Forum (CPF) courtwatch and victim-support representative Linda Jones said the forum was happy with the outcome, noting that while the uncle had aright to appeal the CPF intended to lobby for the sentence to remain unchanged if he did.
Thecourt indicated that victims had the right to make representations under Section 299A of the Criminal Procedure Act should the convicted person be considered for parole, day parole or correctional supervision.
Free HPVvaccinationdrive at schools
Theprovincial health department will visit public schools from Monday2February to Friday 27 Marchtooffer asingle-dose human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, free to Grade 5girlsaged 9and older, the departmentsaid on Friday Thevaccine helps girls grow into adults who are better protected against one of themost preventablecancers affecting
women.
Cervicalcancer remains one of themost commoncancers in SouthAfrica, yet it was alsohighly preventable.Most cases are caused by thehuman papillomavirus.The vaccine, given in early adolescence, helps stop these infections before they can causeharm.
Immunising at thisage is recommendedworldwide
becausechildren havea strong immune response, makingthe vaccine most effective now, the department said.
From thestart of the HPV immunisation campaign in 2014 up to thefirst round of 2025, a totalof407 070 girls in public, independent, private andspecial schools received at least onedose.
The general public’s permission and support are crucial in
makingthis campaign possible.
School health nurses will immunise only young people with completed consent forms.
Thedepartment encouraged parentstoread the form, ask questions and return the signed form to theirchild’sschool.
Cristal Solomons, who oversees therollout of the campaign in theWestern Cape, said the vaccine is one of the strongest
tools thereistoprevent cervical cancer. “Giving it to girls at thisage offers long–lasting protection that can save lives later on. Ourschool nurses are adequately trained to provide the vaccination and will provide it only with your permission, through asigned consent form.” . Formoreinformationon immunisation visit www. westerncape.gov.za
Fullersing onderdieberg
Kaapstad se musiekliefhebbers kanuitsien na 'n besonderesomersaandwanneer die Amerikaansegospelkunstenaar BenFuller op Saterdag 21 Februarie by Kirstenbosch Nasionale BotanieseTuin optree
Die konsert, Under the Mountain with Ben Fuller, word deur Radio Tygerberg 104FM in samewerking met Fairtree aangebied,enbeloof om 'nunieke buitelug-ervaring te wees.
Ben Fuller is internasionaal bekendvir sy eerlike lirieke, energiekevertoningsenmusiek watreeds miljoene mensewêreldwydgeraak het. Sy trefferliedjies "Who IAm" en "IfI Got Jesus" het groot suksesopinternasionaleradiostasies en stromingsplatforms behaal, met laasgenoemde watreeds meer as 48 miljoen stromingswêreldwyd aangeteken het
Dieaand begin met'nlof-en-aanbiddingsessie, geleideur die geliefde Radio Tygerberg-musikante NevilleD,Rouchelle Liedemann en Henry Pike, voordat Ben Fuller die verhoogbetreevir sy langverwagteKaapstad-optrede
Die program is 'n uniekekombinasie vanmusiek en getuienis—alles teen die agtergrond vaneen van die wêreld se mees gesogtenatuurtonele.
"Ons sien daarna uit om mensebymekaarte bring vir 'n onvergeetlike musiekervaringineen van Kaapstad se mooiste venues.
"Dit is 'n aand watdie gehoor op verskillende vlakke salraak —ofjynou vir die musiek, die atmosfeer of die ervaring kom," sê Rikusvan Rooy, stasiebestuurder Kaartjiesisbeperk en die belangstelling isreeds groot.Die publiek word aangeraai om vroegtydig te bespreek om teleurstelling te voorkom. . Krykaartjies by www.webtickets.co.za.
WHAT’SWHAT’SON/DIARY
.DanCorder presents TheRealState of theNation from Thursday5toSaturday7Februaryat20:00 at TheHomecoming Centre. Tickets from R200 at Webtickets.
.Theband NewHorizon is playing at the Edgemead Cricket Club on Friday6February from 19:30.Food and barfacilities available. Entrycosts R40
.Alan Committie’s Av-a-laughta is currently on at Theatreonthe Bayuntil 7February.Tickets from R200 to R350 at Webtickets.
.TheOperaSinger runs at the Baxter Studiofrom currentlyuntil 7February.Tickets from R160 at Webtickets.
.MarcLottering’smusical comedyColleen TheMusical runs at TheBaxter Theatrenow until7 February Tickets cost R200 to R320 at Webtickets.
.Milnerton Players is proud to present TheNightof January16,writtenbyiconic writer/philosopherAyn Rand and directed by veteranJohann vander Merwe, from 6to21Februaryatthe MilnertonPlayhouse Theatre. Tickets cost R150.Book at www.milnertonplayers.co.zaoremail bookings@milnertonplayers.com.
.Gin Wizard’s Blues, Brews&Rock nRoll is atHillcrest Estate forNational Beer DayonSaturday7 February Doors open at 18:00.Tickets cost R180at Quicket and R200 at the door
.The1990 romantic film Pretty Woman shows at the GalileoOpen Air Cinema at ZevenwachtWine Estate on Saturday7February at 20:15. Gates open at 17:00 Tickets from R155 at Webtickets.
.Momentum is on Sunday8February at 14:00atThe Homecoming Theatre. Featuring rising stars across arangeofdancedisciplines and afreestyle roulette battle wheredancers willgohead-to-head. Tickets
HY IS BEKEND VIRSYEERLIKE
LIRIEKE, ENERGIEKE
VERTONINGS EN MUSIEK
WATMENSEREG OOR
DIE WÊRELD RAAK
Ben Fuller
WEN!WEN!WEN!
Vyfgelukkige TygerBurger-leserskan elk twee kaartjiesvir die Under TheMountain-geleentheid wen. Stuur'ne-posnareception@104fm.co.za met Under TheMountainindie onderwerpveld.Wenners sallukraak gekies word op Woensdag11Februarieen salper e-posinkennis gestel word
cost R200 at Quicket
.ConradKochand Chester Missing’s Puppet Power runs from 10 to 14 FebruaryatTheatreonthe Bay. TicketsfromR180atWebtickets.
.Juan Boucher tree op Donderdag 12 Februarie om 19:30 by Kapstadt Brauhaus Blouberg op.Kaartjies vanaf R265 is beskikbaar by Quicket
NdlovuYouth Choir opens busyyear with Artscape run
Abusyyearfor themuch-loved NdlovuYouth Choir kicksoff with sixperformancesatArtscape from Thursday 5toSunday8February
Audiences areassured of continuing whathas become amust-see,joy-filledmusical tradition. The choir’s national tourshavebeen sold out everyyear since2021.
It’snot onlyherethattheyare loved, though; thechoir currentlyhas asocial media following of 4,5million and theirtotal videoviews recently surpassed750 million across allplatforms.
AFRICANINTERPRETATION
Music lovers willbetreated to ahit-laden setlist in whichone undisputablehighlightwillbethe Ndlovu Youth Choir’s interpretation of Queen’seternal tour de force“Bohemian Rhapsody”.
studio version of thetrack andcreating aspectacularmusicvideo before sending theresults to Queen’s publisher,SonyMusicinLondon, which in turn forwarded them to thesurviving band members and theMercuryPhoenix Foundation,representing the late Freddie Mercury.
Thebandloved it andgavetheir blessing to an NdlovuYouth Choir release, an incredibleencouragement forthe Choir’s young singers.
The2026set list combines some of thebiggest namesininternational music from across eras and genres, includingElton John(“CircleofLife”), Aretha Franklin (“Respect”), Giacomo Puccini (“Nessun Dorma”,sung most famously by LucianoPavarotti), Dolly Parton (“Jolene”) andToto(“Africa”), among manyothers. Powerful localflavour comes from two medleys
.YukioMishima’saward-winning production The Lady Aoi is at Artscape from 14 to 21 February. Six performances only. TicketsfromR150 at Webtickets.
.Cape Town Operapresents Gershwin in the Park,a one-night-onlyconcertatthe Maynardville Open-Air Festival on Sunday15February. Theshowstartsat 18:30.Tickets from R254atQuicket
. JeremyLoops is at the KirstenboschSummerConcert on Sunday 15 Februaryat17:15. Tickets areR360 or R255 (age6-21).BookatWebtickets.
. Francois vanCokeAkoesties is by Kapstadt Brauhaus DurbanvilleopWoensdag18Februarie om 20:00.KaartjiesvanafR200byQuicket
. Under TheMountain,a night of praise and worship with localartists and American Ben Fuller,isat KirstenboschBotanicalGardenonSaturday21Februaryat19:00.Tickets R545atWebtickets.
.TheACappellaMusic Festival is at Artscape on Saturday21Februaryat13:00. TicketsfromR150 at Webtickets.
. Vusi Mahlasela and JabulileMajola performatthe KirstenboschSummer Sunset ConcertonSunday22 February at 17:15. TicketsR255(youth) or R360 at Webtickets.
. TheFirebird is at Artscape from Thursday 19 to Sunday 22 February.A fusionofpuppetry and dance. TicketsfromR160atWebtickets.
.TheNutcracker presented by Cape Ballet Africa is at theArtscape OperaHousefromWednesday 25 February to Sunday1 March. TicketsfromR290at Webtickets.
Bold puppets,
Ventriloquist, Conrad Koch,along with his outspokenpuppet alterego ChesterMissing,willbring their boldestand funniestshowyet to Theatreonthe Bay from Tuesday10toSaturday14February.
Cape Town hasbeen selected as thefinal stop on thenational Puppet Powertour, afitting choice giventhe city’s reputation forsharp wit,fearless laughter and an appetitefor clever,satirical comedy
“Cape Town crowdsare different,”saysKoch.
“They’re quick, they’repoliticallyaware,and they love characters that pushboundaries. Ending Puppet Powerherefeelslikebringing theshowhome to an audiencethatreallygets it.”
At thecentreofthe production is Chester Missing, South Africa’s most unapologetic puppet,whose unfilteredcommentaryanchorsacastofwildly entertainingcharacters, each adding their owndose of chaostothe stage.
“Chesteristhe voiceweall have in our heads but wouldnever sayout loud,”Koch explains.
“Hesaysthe wrong thing at exactlythe right time.”
big laughs
CHARACTERS
Audiences canalsoexpect appearancesfroma mix of fanfavouritesand newcharacters, including Hilton theOstrich, aparty-loving birdwith questionablelifechoices; DJ Hoodie,a puppet who DJsliveon stage; Gordon Ratsy, acelebritychefrat with strong opinions andnoregardfor hygiene; anda talking dinosaur powered–unexpectedly–byanaudience member. “Thesecharacters letustalkabout serious thingswithout it feeling heavy,”saysKoch. Chester,however,has his owntakeonthe ensemble. “Thesecharacters areheretosupport me,” he says.“I’mthe star.Hiltoniscomic relief.The dinosaur is therebecause Conrad ranout of ideas.” While packed with humour, Puppet Power also taps intothe mood of this year,offering audiences achance to connect,laugh andfind relief through comedy.“Peopledon’t want to be preached to,” Koch said.“They want to laugh, to feel seen, andto walk out lighterthan they walked in. That’s what this showdoes.”
. Ticketsare available at Webtickets.
One of the highlights willbethe Ndlovu YouthChoir’s isiZuluinterpretation of Queen’s‘‘Bohemian Rhapsody’’
R114mtabledforN2Edgeupgrades
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has announced that the City has allocated R114 million in its adjustment budget for the N2 Edge safety project, aimedatimproving safety for commuters, pedestriansand communities along a9km stretch of the N2.
The initiativewilladdress multiple concerns affecting hundreds of thousands of daily users of the major highway, includingcommuters from Khayelitsha, MitchellsPlain, Blue Downs,Eerste River,
Cape Town MayorGeordin Hill-Lewis says the City has allocatedR114m in its adjustment budget forthe N2 Edge safety project to improvesafetyfor commuters, pedestrians,and communities alonga 9km stretch of the N2
UPGRADESINCLUDE PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS, IMPROVED LIGHTING AND ACCESS CONTROL
Mfuleni,the Helderberg, and neighbouring towns.
Beyond safety barrierrepairs and reinforcements alongthe N2, the project will deliver varioussafety improvements for adjacent communities, includingnew pedestrian crossings, improved lighting andaccesscontrol, safety barriers for recreational spaces, safer grazing practices andreduced scope for illegal dumping.
“Todayour adjustment budget commits R114mtothe N2 Edge project,which will make apositive differencetothe safety of every motorist alongthatstretch,and reduce pedestrian fatalities.
“This projectwill not only repair safety barriers but alsobring various safety improvements for communities along the N2.
“It is not fair thata small number of criminalelements are impacting the safety of hundreds of thousands of daily usersof the N2,”said Hill-Lewis on Thursday29 January,
The Mayor emphasised that the project will complement theCity's enhanced highwaypatrolling, whichincludes more than 40 new Metro Police officers deployed tothe N2, backed by CCTV cameras, automaticnumber-plate recognition and digitalcoordination for rapid response to assist motorists.
CITYRECEIVESR412MPERFORMANCEGRANT
In separate budget news the National Treasuryhas awardedCape Town R412 million in performance grant-funding
as part of the newly-introduced Metro Trading Services Reform grant.
“This is averywelcome first injection of R412m fromNational Treasuryin recognitionofthe progress we have made since thevarious budget reforms last year,” said Hill-Lewis
The fundingwill support major infrastructure projects, including R74 million for electricity grid system equipment replacement, R35million for substationsand medium-voltage infrastructure and R267 million towards the City'sAutomated Metering Infrastructure (AMI)programme for more predictable waterand sanitation billing.
Other adjustment budget highlights include R46million for community swimming-pool upgrades, R30 million for various community-facility improvements and R11million brought forwardfor Strandfontein Pavilion, the work on it ahead of schedule.
TheCityhas also allocated R57million for additional stormwater projects in communities worst-affected by winter flooding, R16million for additional vehicles for Neighbourhood Safetyofficers and R45million towards operationalising anew Joint Policing Centre in Parow for inter-agency safetycoordination nthe City, SAPSand other partners.
SA’s tourism showedsignificant boom lastyear
South Africa’s tourism industry has achieved unprecedented success in 2025, withMinister of Tourism Patricia de Lille highlighting the sector’scrucial economic contribution during apress briefing.The country welcomed 10.48 million international arrivals between January and December 2025,a17.6% increase compared to 2024 andthe highest number of arrivals on record. This underscores tourism’s growing role in economic growth, investment, and job creation. SouthAfrica’s wasalsonamed Best Destination:Africa 2025 by the Travel WeeklyReader’s Choice Awards. De Lille said, this achievement reflects deliberate policy choices, focused implementation, and strong collaboration between government and the private sector Cabinet has endorsed the Tourism Growth PartnershipPlan, developed with
industrystakeholders andled by the South AfricanTourismBusiness Council. The plancentres on five prioritiesand features aperformance dashboard.
The Department of Home Affairs is implementingthe Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, beginning withkey markets including India, China, Mexico,and Indonesia. The system follows asuccessful pilot duringthe G20Summit, withfull rolloutprojectedtocreate between 80 000 and 100 000 jobs.
Air connectivity improvements include new routes such as Qantas’ directPerth–Johannesburg flight, Air France’s seasonal daily service to Cape Town,SAA’sCape Town–Mauritiusroute, andexpanded domesticconnectivity throughFlySafair’s Hoedspruit–Cape Town service. Destination marketing hasstrengthened collaboration between national, provincial,
and local government.
SECURITYEFFORTS
The Tourism Safety Forum, chaired by Deputy MinisterMaggie Sotyu, continues coordinatingpublic andprivate sector security efforts. During the festive season, 1500 tourism monitors were deployed, including over 400supporting the Border Management Authority.
The inaugural 2025 Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit launched eight bankable projects worth approximately R1 billion, with three projects already securing funding. Major investments demonstrate strong investor confidence
Technology advancement continues with theintroduction of Siyanda, an AI-powered travelassistant for NorthAmerican travellers, followingSouth Africa’s hosting
of the G20 Tourism Hackathon in 2025. Tourism currently sustains 1.8 million jobs, creating approximately one job for every 13 international arrivals. In the current financial year, 51 MICE bids were secured, generating an economicimpact of R894.5 million.
Events contributed significantly to the economy, with Meetings Africa 2025 generating R690 million and supporting 1200 jobs, whilst Africa’s Travel Indaba contributed over R610 million and supported more than 1000 jobs.
Following the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, the World Economic Forum will host aSpecial Davos Meeting in South Africa next year.
“Tourism is delivering. And tourism will remain acornerstone of inclusive growth, investment, and jobcreation in South Africa,” de Lille said.
TheN2Edgesafetyproject willimprove safety along a9km stretchofthe highwayuseddailybyhundreds of thousands of commuters
SLICEOFLIFE
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.
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
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
‘SEEITAGAIN’ATKENILWORTH: See It Again surgedhome to win the prestigious WorldSportsBetting Cape Town MetGr1 over2000m at theKenilworthRacecourseon Saturday31January.Veteranjockey Andrew Fortune and trainer Justin Snaith completedaremarkablecomeback after454 days without awin.Thecrowd at Kenilworth erupted as the favouritestormed past rivals,claiming“Met glory”at one of the most historic and celebrated races.
PHOTO:CHASELIEBENBERG
Hitsongevokes‘soundofhome’
MJhas released ajazz and ghoema trackcalled Mother CityVibes
The instrumental song by MJ and the Camissa Knights was released mid-December but has already had extensive airplay on radio, gathered afollowing on socialmedia and had more than 25 000 listens on YouTube Perhaps not the same kind of numbers that Michael Jackson would havepulled, especially from beyond the grave, butthis MJ is actually an anti-Apartheid activist and former journalist. MansoorJafferof Wynberg composed Mother CityVibes.It was arranged by veteran jazzmusician and music educator George Werner of Surrey Estate, and recorded by MJ and theCamissa Knights. Jaffer and Werner played guitar and keyboard forthe studio recording. The other musicians that make up the band areCarlo Fabe from Westridge on drums; Peter Ndlala from Langa on bass; Muneeb Hermans from Hanover Park on trumpet; and Uviwe Caso from Nyanga on guitar
“Just like the camissa, the historic stream at the bottom of Table Mountain that has come to encapsulate everything related to Cape Town, includingits people, cultureand history, the melody for Mother City Vibes came flowing out over time,” Jaffer said
Thesong and video, released by the Cape Cultural Collective (CCC) on the Dayof Reconciliation, 16 December, hasstruck a
LOCALLYFLAVOURED JAZZ AND GHOEMASONG DRUMS UP LISTENERS
chordwithaudiencesacrossthe globe.
MUSICRESONATESWITHOTHERS
Jaffer says the music andimagesofCape Towninthe video resonate with people for different reasons.
“Somefind it joyful, some find it nostalgic; it mighteven evoke some sadnessin some people,thinking of our history, what we’ve been through.It signalsfamiliarity, places where people live or havegrown up or naturalbeauty thatthey’ve experienced growingupor struggles. It’s acombination of jazz, more specifically Cape jazz andghoema, bothof which have longtraditions in ourcity.”
Jaffer is the head of operations and a founder member of the CCC. Thecollective hasgrown from humble beginnings in 2007 to apowerful arts movement, Jaffer said.
“I’ve always been asocial guitarist, playing at gatheringssuchasbraais.It’s only in the last 20 years that I’ve started taking music alittle more seriously andImet with people andplayed and experimentedwith sounds andthissong emerged during that period about15years ago; we calledit Chocolate Shake,and it wasjust aproduct of experimentation and
messingaroundinsomeone’s front room or kitchenwith guitars and eventually adrum,” Jaffersaid. “Itwas only last year that Idecided thatthe song could be recorded with abit of good arrangement. I thoughtithad theCape Town beat about it and needed thatghoema and jazz feel to be strengthenedand that it could represent thefeel and thebeat andthe spirit of Cape Town andhence we chose the name Mother City Vibes.”
‘SOUNDOFHOME’
MJ and theCamissaKnights, from left are,PeterNdlala on bass guitar,George Werneronkeyboardand arrangement,composer Mansoor Jaffer on guitar, UviweCasoonguitar, Muneeb Hermans on trumpet and CarloFabeon drums.Their song Mother CityVibes is racking up views and airtime.Search forMother CityVibes on YouTubetoviewand share thevideo PICTURE: MIKEBENJAMIN
Hermanssaid the song evokes “the sound of home”. “Mother CityVibes immediately makes me think of home, and with home I mean Cape Town.Wehave aunique sound and Mother CityVibes brings that to the people.”
Thesong was recorded by Cape Town Sound and filmed by Tri-Squared. The project was undertaken under the banner of Triple CRecordings, one of the nine programmes of the CCC.
This is Jaffer's second composition; his song Midnight Blue featured in the short film Address Unknown about the last postman of District Six.
TheCamissa Knights, formed by Werner with his former students, will perform at thisyear’sCape TownInternational Jazz Festival, which takes place on Friday 27 March and Saturday 28 March at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. . To viewthe video of MotherCityVibes,visit https://youtu.be/ud6Brl1HRV8?si=RYvPpUD yu8_ygFx
WriterspaytributetoDianaFerrus
LAURENO'CONNOR-MAY
LAUREN.OCONNOR-MAY@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA
Several poets and writers paid tribute to the late Diana Ferrus at the Cape Flats Book Festival atthe weekend.
Ferrus was scheduled to be on the Saturday programme of the weekend-long festival to read fromher children’sbook TheBoy Who Loved to Dance, but the world-renowned poet, writer and activist died aday before the festivalonFriday 30 January.
In apress statement, her niece and familyspokesperson Laniëlle Hartzenberg said: “It is with profound sadnessand heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of Dr DianaFerrus.
“This loss is deeply felt by her family, friends, colleagues, and the many communities whose lives she touched through her words, her courage, and her unwavering commitment to justice, dignity,and humanity.
“Dr Ferrus was more than apublic figure —she was abeloved family member, mentor, and guiding light. Her legacy will continue to live on through her work,her voice, and thecountless people sheinspired across generations and borders.”
CAPE FLATS BOOK FESTIVAL
HIGHLIGHTSPOWER OF LITERATURE
Roscoe Williams, of Read to Rise, who runs the festival at West End Primary School annually, said in apostonsocial media:“We were truly looking forward to welcoming you to this year’s Cape Flats Book Festival. Your presence, your voice, andyourlove for literature will be deeply missed.Rest well, Dr Diana Ferrus.Your legacylivesoninthe lives you touched andthe stories you helped shape.”
‘I’VECOMETOTAKEYOUHOME’
Ferrus’s readingsessiononSaturday morningwas notcancelled, however. Williams said thefamily hadindicated thatanotherwriter would read Ferrus’s book, aboutworld famousDistrictSix dancer Johaar Mosaval.
Writer andentertainer LynnJoffe readthe book to apacked classroom aftertelling the children in attendance about"Mama Diana"and howher poem, "I’ve Come to Take You Home", was instrumental in the movement to have SarahBaartman’s remains broughtback to SouthAfrican soil.
Speakingto TygerBurger,Joffe said she approached the family last week, while Ferrus wasstill fighting for her life,and
askedifshe couldstand in for the iconic poet. “Her last words to me wereme, ‘Lynne f*k voort’,” Joffe said.
Nearly ahundredauthors, poets and performers took part in the free Mitchell's Plainfestivaland roadshow. Theroadshow took place at 10 schools in Mitchell's Plain in theweek leading up to thefestival on 31 January and1February.
Thefestivalwhich hasbeen growing in stature every year, hasbeen running for several years.
Williams said he hadlotsofgood feedback from participants.
“Bianca Flanders mentioned that this is the best festival she's ever been to,” Williams said. Flanders is an entertainer whohas written aseries of books about Pumpkin Pie.
Williams addedthe festival was definitely a“stepup” from previous years, with more participants, vendors and attendees.
Read to Rise wasfounded in 2013. The non-profit organisation promotes youth literacy in under-resourced communities.
Deon Meyer, the author of Scorpio,chats with Martin Steyn, Nadine Petrick and Bettina Wyngaard.
This year the festival attracted morevendors than ever before
Oaky theReadtoRiseMascotinteracts withchildren.
TheLeweenDuisternis session featuredFaeed Amardien,author of Lifeis‘nbiets,and Jeremy Dames in conversation with FelicityTitus.
BiancaFlanders reads from her book Pumpkin and the Hidden Heroes.
Oncologist KarenSingh reads from herbook,Mama’s Garden of Hope,which is about adaughter dealing with her mother’s cancer diagnosis.
Lynn Joffereads Diana Ferrus’sbook TheBoy Who LovedtoDance.
Cookbook authors Kim Bagley.Fatima Sydowand Fehmz.
Panellistsinthe True Crime Unraveled session are Julian Jansen,author of TheMurder of DeveneyNel, NicoleEngelbrecht,author of BareBones,and Lester Kiewit
ROCKLANDS TROUNCE RANGERS
Ahapless Zayaan Kahn of Surrey Estate Rangers RugbyFootballClub(RFC)tries to getback on herfeet afterbeing sent to thegroundbyarampaging Rackelle
between the clubsplayedinKenilworth on Sunday1February.TheMitchells Plainbased club won34-0
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
during aday
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.
