TygerBurger | Parow | E-Edition | 18 February 2026

Carnivalto showcase‘diversity’

KAYLYNNEBANTOM

With justover amonth to go, organisers of one of Cape Town's biggest annual events say the CapeTown Carnival is ready to bring the ‘heART’ to the Green Point Fan WalkonSaturday 21 March.

On Thursday12February, organisers gave the media andother interested parties abehind-the-scenes glimpse of all the preparations at the Cape Town Carnival workshop in Mailtland.

Jay Douwes,Cape Town Carnival chief executive officer, said people can look forward to 10 beautifully handcrafted floats. She said organisers are excited to bring the16th editionofthe carnival to life

Adding to the excitement, thisyear's event spotlights 11 "Champions" from Cape Town's creative scene, including singer Anslin Gysman,local actor Natasha van derMerwe, DJ Ready D, graffiti artist RizahPotgieter, anddesigner Stephen van Eeden.

Tracey Carter, performance director, said there will be entertainment for the entire family.

"Some of ourfloats are already completed. Performers are getting ready with choreography, andcostumes are almostdone.Weare getting ready to put on ashow like Cape Town has never seen before."

Shesaid people can look forward to a celebration of diversity.

"We are tellingthe different stories of the creatives from Cape Town. As different as they are, that's howdifferent the pods are going to be. This year we will have our first Afrikaans pod. There will be something for everyone."

Daphne Lodewyk has been aseamstress at the Cape Town Carnival workshop for the past 10 years.

She said with less than amonth to go, she and her small team of three are working around the clock to complete over 1000 costumes for the bigday.

"Wework as ateam, and each person knows what to do. We still have alot to do but the bulk of the workisfinished."

Lodewyk said she still gets excited despite doing this for the past decade.

"Every year the carnival is different. Different themes and different people. You meet alot of people and make friends."

She said on carnival day, they work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure every performer looks dazzling.

"Weare stationed in atent, dressing each performer and doing alterations or fixing things."

Prof Rachel Jaftha, chair of the Cape Town Carnival Trust, said: "Weare excited because it's just over amonth to go. This year we are following our hearts. People will see amazing creativity as always and the joy on the faces of the people participating. Do not miss the amazing follow-your-heart journey with us."

JP Smith, Mayco member for safetyand security, stressed the City's unwavering commitment to the event.

"Thank you for bringing this event to our city each year. This event is about social cohesion. It's about showing that there is much more that unite us than what divides us."

Votesopenfor improvementdistrict

Homeowners in Plattekloof, Welgelegen, Panorama,and Kleinbosch (PWPK) can now vote on the establishment of aCommunityImprovement District (CID).

To date, two public meetingshavebeen held —inJuly 2025 and October 2025 where detailed information regarding the proposed CID was provided ACID provides top-up services and does not replace municipal responsibilities Levies collected are spent on safety, maintenance and projects in the area. An id board of directo elected b

CID AIMS TO FOCUSON SAFETYAND MAINTENANCE

and acamera network with intelligent softwarethat is monitored24/7. The CID also intends to install security fencing along exposed roads and parks to reduce criminalentry andescape routes, and aims to install up to 100 monitored human detectioncameras in the first five years. TheCID alsoplans to contract alocal ntal ganisation for

Tiener in hof oor vuurwapen

‘n Tiener (17) het verlede Donderdag 12 Februarie in die Goodwood-landdroshof verskyn vir die besit van ‘n onwettige vuurwapenenammunisie.

Sers. Wesley Twigg, provinsiale polisiewoordvoerder, sê lede van die Ravensmead-misdaadvoorkomingseenheid het Dinsdag10Februarie inligting opgevolg oor ‘n swart Suzuki wat in 42ste Laan in Eureka Estate geparkeer was, waarvan die insittende in besit van ‘n vuurwapenwas

Hy sê die polisie hetopdie inligting gereageer en die voertuig met die insittendegevind. "Die voertuig en insittendeisdeursoek, waarna die polisie op ‘n 9mm-vuurwapen, waarvan

die reeksnommer verwyder was, in die voertuig afgekom het,” sê Twigg. Daar is ook 18 rondtes ammunisieindie voertuig gevind.

Die tienerseun is in hegtenis geneem vir die besit van ‘n onwettige vuurwapen en ammunisie, sê Twigg.

Daar is beslagophierdievuurwapen en ammunisie gelê nadat ditontdek is.

SANParks scraps indemnityforms

The SouthAfrican NationalParks frustration.Wehave listened to the

Department

Forestry, Fisheries andthe Environment received intelligenceabout avehicle illegally transporting abalone.

Followinguponthe information, investigators identified asuspect and

April 2025 entering ag lty plea. He was sentenced to pay R30000 or serve 12 months' imprisonment

Thefirst accused, Liang Yan Zhang, absconded and remained at large.

Radiostasie vier Wêreld Radiodag

Radio Tygerberg 104FMisbekend daarvoor dat hy nie vir'nuitdaging skrik nie —ofdit nou is om duisende manne op die Kaapse Vlakte bymekaartebring om te bid vir die eindevan bendegeweld en of dit nou is om die Amerikaanse gospelsanger Ben Fuller in Kirstenbosch te laatoptree, dié radiostasie gaanreeds die afgelope 32 jaar groot.

Radio Tygerberg het Wêreld Radiodag op Vrydag 13 Februariegevier met'n12 uur lange buite-uitsending vanaf die nuwe Groot Phesantekraal View-winkelsentrum. Van 06:00 tot 18:00isaldie programme van die sentrum uitgesaai –'neerste vir Suid-Afrika.

ONTMOETLUISTERAARS

“Dit is altyd ongelooflik lekker om 'n buite-uitsending te doen,” sê Rikus van Rooy, Radio Tygerberg se stasiebestuurder.

“Dis 'n geleentheidomons luisteraars te ontmoet en te hoor wat hullegeniet of waardeer van die programmeen omroepers. Ek staan elkekeer verstomom te hoor hoe Radio Tygerbergdeel isvan onsluisteraars se daaglikse lewe —of dit nou in die verkeer of in die kombuisis, hulleluister. Dit is presies hoekomons

doen wat onsdoen, om luisteraars in ons gemeenskapteinspireer en 'n impak te maak."

Verskeie bekendes het deur die loop van die dagingeloer– van Andriette Norman, JohanBritsvan Frank andI,enJohnny Davids tot Eden Classens van Suidooster enook van die akteurs vandie nuwe kykNET-reeks, Die Kantoor Die radiopersoonlikheid Amoré Bekker het vroegoggend vanuit die Goudstad ingebel, terwyl Geordin Hill-Lewis, Kaapstadse burgemeester, 'n spesiale stempos gestuur het om die span sterkte toe te wens.

"Ten spyte van soveel veranderings in die media-omgewing oor veral die afgelope dekade, bly radio steeds 'n belangrike deel van mense se lewens. Dit verskafnoodsaaklike nuus, weer-en verkeersverslae, en natuurlik ook musiek. Navorsing wys ook dat luisteraars die radio-medium baie betroubaar vinden dit nie met fopnuus assosieer nie. So, radiostasies van oor die wêreld heenhet rede om Wêreld Radiodag te vier,"sêVan Rooy

"Naraming is daar tussen 290 en 330 radiostasies in Suid-Afrika en 'n geskatte 200 000 in die wêreld. Lanklewe radio!"

JeffKaotakeson

CapeTownCycleTour

KAILINDANIELS

When Jeff Kao lines up at thestart of the 109km Cape TownCycle Tour on 8March, he won’t be watching fromthe sidelines —he’ll be part of the action.

Jeff, aresident living with cerebral palsy at Eric Miles Cheshire Home in Milnerton, will experiencethe iconic peninsula route from the seat of aspecially adapted buggy, towedbyadedicated teamofcyclists. His participation marksa powerful moment of visibility andinclusion, not only for himself, but for people living with disabilities acrossSouthAfrica.

Theinitiative is led by Cheshire Homes South Africa (CHSA), anetwork of 16 residentialHomesproviding specialised careand support to physically disabled adultsand children nationwide. The Homes,all registered NPOs, rely heavily on donations and fundraising to maintain high standards of care that enhance residents’ physical, mental and social wellbeing.

For CHSA, inclusionisnot just aconcept —itissomethingthatmust be lived out throughmeaningfulparticipation.

Anine-member cycling team will completethe full 109km route while

FROMPAGE1

“The community is united in demanding safer streets andmore effective intervention to prevent further tragedies,” Bezuidenhout said.

This remainsanongoinginvestigation, and we respect the legal process currently underway, she added.

“However,webelieve it is crucial that thebroader public becomes aware of the impact of crime on ourcommunity and thecollective callfor change.”

Bronwin Daniels, chairofthe Parow Community Policing Forum (CPF), confirmed the incident, that the forum was aware of the murder of a19-yearold from ArenaCourt, ablock of flats in Parow Park.

Shesaid the victim's body was discoveredatthe Parow Golf Course on Thursday.

“We wish to state clearly and unequivocally thatactsofviolence have no place in our community.” Daniels said thepolice were investigating, working diligently to identify andapprehend his allegedkillers.

“We urge members of the community to remain calm and cooperate fully with the policebyproviding anyinformation that may assist the investigation through the appropriatechannels.

“On behalfofthe Parow CPF we extend our deepest andmostsincere condolences to thefamily, friends, andloved ones of thedeceased at this extremely difficult time. Our thoughts are with them as they mourn this tragic loss.” Danielssaid the forum appealed to the

DISABLED MAN TO TAKE PART IN RACE IN BUGGY

pulling Jeffinthe adapted buggy, demonstrating that people with disabilities are active participants in society.

“This is definitely afirst for me and I cannot wait to see the peninsula from the vantage point of acyclist,” Jeff said ahead of the race.

Eric Miles Cheshire Home, where Jeff resides, is located in Milnerton and is one of the 16 Homes under the CHSAumbrella, offering residential care and supportto adults living with physical disabilities. Theinitiative has been made possible through the generous support of William Simpson Omoda Jaecoo Tokai,whose sponsorship of the adapted buggy, rider apparel and campaign visibility ensures that full participation is possible.

CHSA’s CEO, Etienne Schlechter, will be among the cyclists taking on the demanding route, reinforcing the organisation’s belief that leadershipinthe disability sector must be visible, practical and action-driven. Funds raised will go towards supporting CHSA’s ongoing work.

community to allow the investigation to take itscourse and refrain from speculation or spreading unverified information.

Col Deirdré Engelbrecht, Parow Police Station Commander, said last week a murder docket had been opened and is being investigated following the death of a 19-year-old.

Lt Col Leon Marx, detective commander, also confirmed that the case had been opened and that adetective had been appointed to the case. “Currently the investigation is at asensitive stage, so no more information can be relayed,”Marx said.

Ouersdankbaar

RICHARDROBERTS

RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Die gesin van 'n jong kankerlyer sê hulle is dankbaarvir al die ondersteuningwat hulle sedert hul dogtersediagnose vroeër vanjaar ontvanghet.

TygerBurger het vroeër berig oor die Back-a-Buddy-geldsinsamelingveldtog wat vanstapel gestuur is om diekankerlyer en haar gesinmet haar mediese kostes te help.

'n Seldsame en aggressiewe vorm van kanker, rabdomyosarkoom (RMS), is in Januarie by Chánterie van Rensburg, 'n gr. 7-leerder en hoofmeisie by die Laerskool Panorama, gediagnoseer Teen Maandag het die Back-a-BuddyveldtogR655 100 van hul R800 000-mikpunt bereik. Altesame 605donateurshet hul harte en beursies oopgemaak om dié mylpaal te bereik.

Die 12-jarige Chánterie word as passievol oor sport en kultuur beskryf.

"Chánterie is bekend vir haar sterk leierskap. Sy is 'n rolmodelvir haar maatsenjonger broer. Daaieinste deursettingsvermoë dra haarnou deur die lang hospitaaldae en veeleisende behandeling," lui die inskrywing. Sedertdien het talle skole ook geldvir die gesin help insamel deur geel linte teen R10 elk te verkoop.

DANKBAAR

Haar ma, Clarissa, is gevra oorhoe die gesinoor die ondersteuningvoel.

"Asgesin is ons ongelooflik dankbaar en diep geraak deur die ondersteuning van Chánterie se skool, asook ander laeren hoërskole, kleuterskole en die breër

605 DONATEURS HETREEDS R655100 VANDIE R800 000 GESKENK

gemeenskap. Die omgee, boodskappe, gebede en bydraes laat onswerklik voel datons niealleen hierdie pad stap nie.

"Hierdie ondersteuning geeons moed en krag op die dae wat dit besonder swaar raak,endit beteken vir onsmeer as wat woorde kan beskryf," sê Clarissa. Sy is ook oor Chánterie se toestand en behandeling tansgevra

"Sy het verlede week methaar tweede siklus chemobehandeling begin. Die dae in die hospitaal is lankendie medikasie maakhaarbaie moeg, maar sy bly ongelooflik dapper en wys elke dag ’n innerlikekrag wat onsverstom. Ons probeer haar so gemaklik en positiefas moontlik hou, en onsisopreg dankbaar vir die mediese sorg wat sy ontvang,asook vir almal wat haar in hul gedagtes en gebede dra," sê Clarissa

. Besoek http://www.backabuddy.co.za/ campaign/lets-fight-this-gogga-for-chnterie

Localresident AngelaKindman (93) also registered to take part in the walk to raiseawareness around childhood cancer

Melanie Huggins,alocal resident,withher fourlegged-companion,King Louis,also took part in the walk on Saturday14February

Walk held in MonteVista to raisefunds forcancer

MonteVista residents andmembers of thelocal Tygerberg Hills Lions Club came out to support aBig Walk this past weekend in aid of charity. Thewalk was to raise awareness around, and funds for childhood cancer.

The groupwalked from the Monte Vista Presbyterian Churchtothe nearby located Camoens Park, says Jeannievan Wulven, aresident

“Together,wewalked with heart and purpose raisingvital awareness and funds for childhood cancer,” she says.

The entry fee was on donation basis and theparticipants were very generous.

We hadseniors, dogs andyoung ones circling the park. Young cancer survivors

youth group of the Tygerberg Hills Lions, handed out sweetsinthe shape of aheart to walkerstocelebrate Valentine's Day. Thewalk was organised by Tygerberg Hills Lions in collaboration with Arms of Mercy, anon-profit company (NPC)

Artistwins internationalprize

ABellville artist has capturedglobal attentionafter winning the Public Prize at the prestigious René Carcan International Prize for Printmaking in Belgium, marking asignificant achievement for South Africancontemporary art on the internationalstage.

Jacques Kannemeyer'sworkemerged as thepublic favourite among 25 shortlisted artists from afieldof201 competitors representing five continents.The awards were announced on 7February2026 at the Wittockiana Museum in Brussels, where the exhibition continues until8 March 2026

Kannemeyer'swinning entry employed an innovative approach thatmerged artificial intelligence with traditional printmaking techniques. He used AIgenerated images, which were then reworked digitally before being handtransferred to linoleum for carving and printing.

EXPLORINGHUMANCREATIVITYAND TECHNOLOGY

“What interested me was the role

Late application surge hits schools

BELLVILLE MANTAKESHOME PUBLICPRIZE AT PRESTIGIOUS INTERNATIONAL AWARDS

The provincial education department has placed 26 312 Grade R, 1and 8learners acrossthe province sincethe beginning of January this yearinaddition to tens of thousands placedduring 2025.

Despite having placed 96% of all learners whoappliedlastyear—including late applications submitted up to 10 December —the department experienced an unprecedented number of new late applications this year, said education spokespersonBronagh Hammond.

Since thebeginning of January, the department received 25 065 applications for GradesR,1 and8.Asof6February 2026, forGrade 8, the department has placed 99,6% of thoseapplicants, with placement in progress for 396 more. In Grade 1, placementisinprogress for 326 learners, representing aplacement rate of over 99%. For Grade R, placement is in progress for 1148 learners.

The departmentreceived 13 905 extremely late applications for Grade R this year.

Hammond says thatwith schools having

only reopened on 14 January, officials have worked extremely hard to place learners as quickly as possible.

“The fact that more than 26 000 placements have been made withinfour weeks is aremarkable accomplishment by our team.

“The department has consistently communicated that the 10th school day is acritical milestone in the admissions process. It allows schools to confirm actual attendance through physical headcounts, deregister learners who have not arrived, and identify available spaces for rapid placement,” she said.

Hammond added that while it is always preferable for all learners to be in school on the first day, the realityisthat late applications require time. Officials must consult with School Governing Bodies (SGBs), negotiate available spaces, and finalise administrative processes that would normally take months over just a few days.

“We appeal to the publictoallow officials the space to complete thiswork,” she said.

Lunastelnuweenkelsnitbekend

Luna Paigese jongsteenkelsnit, “Die Oral”is onlangsopverskeie musiekplatforms vrygestel.

Luna Paige, sangeres en liedjieskrywer, se jongsteenkelsnit,"Die Oral"isonlangsop verskeie musiekplatforms vrygestel. Paigesê"Die Oral"is’nroerende lofsang virmenslikekonneksieendien as ’n voorsmakie vir haar nuwealbum, DieReisigers Die inspirasie vir "Die Oral"het vorm aangeneemop’nstoep in Porto, Portugal, tydens haar reisein2024, vertel Paige. Terwyl sy die universeletaal vandie liefde vanaf ‘n afstand dopgehou het— familieswat op diekaai skater tottieners wat op 'n hawemureflankeer, is sy diep geraak deurdie inherentemenslikebehoefte aan veiligheid en gebondenheid.

"Om ’n vreemdeling in ’n vreemde land te wees,herinner jou net weer aan hoe eenders onsalmal is enhoe afhanklikons vanmekaaris," sê Paige.

"Onsverloor so maklikdit watons as mensebinduit die oog. Ek het diefrase 'everywherepeoplelovingpeopleeverywhere'neergepen, en met my terugkeer na Suid-Afrika het'DieOral' lewe gekry."

Paigehet weer met AndréScheepers, vervaardigerenmusikant,kragtesaamgesnoeromdie snitopdie lugtekry

Die duohet dieoorspronklike vertoningsweergaweverfyn deur met vokale melodieë en instrumenteledeuntjieste

eksperimenteer

Die snit spog met diekenmerkende kitaarwerk vanHenry Steel.

Die bekendstelling van"Die Oral"lui die beginvan ’n omvattende nasionaletoer in virPaige . Besoek www.lunapaige.com vir al die toerdatumsenbesprekings. Luisterna"DieOral" op al die gewilde stromingsplatforms.

WEN!WEN!WEN! Skryfinbywww.tygerburger.co.zavir 'n kans om dubbelkaartjies te wenna Luna se vertoningbyDie Boer.

Mandri Sutherland is weer by Die Boer

Mandri Sutherland (Vroudrie)isopVrydag 27 en Saterdag 28 Februarieom20:30 terugbyDie Boerin Durbanvillemet Vrou ens. 1.2

Dit handeloor die vroue wathaar totdusverensteedsdefinieer,kritiseer irriteer,uitdaag en inspireer.Die stuk is ‘n

MandriSutherland,oftewelVroudrie,is op 27 en 28 Februarie terugbyDie Boerteaterrestaurantmet‘n nuwevertoning.

kombinasievan storievertelling en karaktervertolking.Sygooi lig, liefde,humor en vetopdie Afrikaner-vrouseswaarhede en waarhede."

"Kom luister, komleer,kom deel in die hype,hoop en liefde vansamesyn.Kom vind jou waarheid by vanjaarsegrootste safe space",nooi Mandri. Die ouderdomsperk is 16 weens taal.

. Kaartjieskos R220.Bespreek by www.dieboer.com of by 021979 1911.

WESTkeerterug

Ná'njaar se afwesigheid in die musiekbedryf keer die country-groep WEST terugnadie verhoog met iets groter as ooit tevore Die Kaap het gevraenWESThet geantwoord. Hulle bring nuweliedjies en ou bekendes saam virhul vertoning op Saterdag 7Maart om 19:00indie Kraaifontein-stadsaalopdie hoek van Brighton- en Darwinweg. Die trio wasgoed op dreeftoe hulle weens 'n persoonliketragedie vireers moes remaandraai. Ná bykans 'n jaar het die mannedie perdweer opgesaal en is hulle opnuut besig om die musiekbedryfteverower. In minder as twee maande het hulle die splinternuwe enkelsnit"Halfwaygone" vrygestel,'nhelenuweproduksieaan dieganggekryensopas hul jongste album,Tribute 2, vrygestel.Met hul Tribute-reeksbring die driemanskap huldeaan gewilde country-bekendes vandie verlede watdie genrebevorder en in gewildheid laat groei het WEST het dit goedgedink om 'n Kaapse draaitemaakaangesien hulle juis hier suksesbehaalhet met hul optredes by die CTC-konserteenin

HULLE BRINGNUWE EN OU LIEDJIES

voor-optredes by twee Smokie-konserteindie laaste paar jaar.Enashul aanhangers vra, dan probeer hulle hul bes om die mensewat hulle so lojaal ondersteun, gelukkig te maak,sêHugo Hewitt, watlid is vandie trio saam met Ernie BatesenMac Young. Tafels en sitplekkeisbeskikbaar. Daar sal'nkontantkroeg wees en gastekan hul eie verversingssaambring. Die deuremaakom18:00 oop AmoreRudman tree in die voorprogram op . Kaartjiesisbeskikbaar by opentickets.co.zaofbel Christo vanBakgatPromosies by 082895 5093met navrae

WEN!WEN!WEN!

Drie lesers kanelk twee kaartjies wenvir WEST se vertoning in Kraaifontein. Vind hierdie berig en inskrywingsvorm by www. tygerburger.co.zaenskryf nouin.

SaveaFishielaunchesCoast2Coast

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Save aFishie has officially kicked offits expanded Coast 2Coast 2026 campaign; and thisyear the youthled movement is going even bigger.

What began in 2023 as asingle journeyalong South Africa’s coastline to clear plastic pollution and inspire communities has now been re-imagined. For2026 Coast 2Coast will be split into six focusedclean-up trips throughout the year, making it easier for Cape Town residents and coastal communities nationwidetoget involved

“Over the past three years youth-led action has proven its power right here at home,” said Save aFishie founder Zoë Prinsloo.

“Our record 7,7 tons collected in 2025 shows how much South Africans care about our beaches, and splitting Coast2 Coast into six trips lets us make an even bigger impact in our neighbourhoods.”

RECORDYEAR

In 2025 alone Save aFishie mobilised volunteersfrom Cape Town’sbeaches to coastal hot spots across the country, removing an impressive 7,7 tons of waste. Items collected includedplastic bottles, fishing gear, lollipop sticks, bottle tops, cigarette butts and other harmful litter

The campaign also expanded its education initiatives, reaching

thousands oflearners and families and helping to spark a growing cultureofenvironmental care.

Breaking the campaign into six shorter journeyswill allow the team to:

. Time clean-ups accordingto tides and seasonal weather.

. Make it easier for schools, families andcommunitygroups toparticipate.

. Reachmoreneighbourhoods during key engagementperiods.

. Improve tracking of litter hot spots.

. Offer moreenvironmentaltalks andactivities at local schools and events

“This isn’tjusta clean-up.” saidPrinsloo, “it’sa community movement. By focusingonlocal areas throughout the year, we can work closer withour neighbours,adapt to changing conditions andinspire even more people to protect ouroceans.”

OVERBERGLEGAHUGESUCCESS

The first leg of Coast 2Coast 2026, in the Overberg, is already awrap.

The day began at Betty’s Bay MainBeach under threatening skies and strong winds. Although the beachappeared clean at firstglance volunteers soon discovered litter hiddenindunes andbushes.Six kilograms of waste, including alcohol bottles, cigarette boxes and butts, wet wipes andchip packets, were collected fromBetty’sBay alone

Local volunteersthendirected the teamtoHangklip in Pringle

Bay, where the scale of pollution became evenmore apparent. A broken JoJo tanklay between thedunes,surrounded by bottle caps,thousandsoflollipop sticks, plastic packetsand nurdles, tiny plastic pellets that pose asevere threat to marine life.

By theend of the day22kghad been removedfrom that area alone. Overall, the Overberg leg saw an incredible 529 kg of litter cleared from theenvironment.

“Incredible people met,” Prinsloo related. “Meaningful connections made “Newareas discovered. Memoriescreated. Awareness raised.

“And to topitall off, overhalf a tonoflitter removed.”

Thenextleg takingplaceonthe WestCoastatthe end of Marchis already in preparation

Prinsloo’s passion for ocean conservation began more than seven years ago while working toward herProtea Award in Guiding.

“I was shocked at howmany straws Ifound on our beaches,” shesaid. “But when Isaw that video of theturtle with astraw deeply embedded in his nose, that was literally the last straw for me.From that day Ivowedto never use anotherplastic straw again.”

That moment sparked a deeper mission. Determined to findaffordable, biodegradable alternatives, Prinsloo began sourcing eco-friendly products. Today, she proudly describes herself as the youngest

“Iwasshockedat howmanystrawsI foundonourbeaches.”

—Zoë Prinsloo

distributor of eco-friendly products in SouthAfrica.

“I would like to encourage you to say no when offered single-use plastic items such as straws or coffee cups,”she said. “Chooseeco-friendly options like bamboo or metal straws, recycled stationery, bamboo toothbrushes, biodegradable plasters and bags made from recycled plastic bottles.”

Amongthe most concerning pollutants are nurdles, tiny plastic pellets that serve as the rawmaterial for nearly all plastic products. These microplastics blend in with sand and shells and have been washing up on South African beaches since

amajor spill in October2017, when aMediterranean Shipping Company vessel lost 49 tons of nurdles during astorm. Nearly adecade later they continue to appear along the coastline. “They just keep washing up on our shores,”said Prinsloo.

Save aFishie is calling on communities to join the movement and help raise awareness about ocean pollution. . Donations canbemade via their BackaBuddycampaign,and those wanting to getinvolvedcan email info@saveafishie.co.za. Supporters canalsofollowthe journeyon Facebook to stay updatedon upcoming clean-ups.

Will Sona optimism translatetoreal change?

While President CyrilRamaphosa spoke of astrengthening rand, falling inflation, and renewed investor confidence during his State of the Nation Address,many woke up thenext day to aless reassuring reality: dry taps, rising living costs, unemployment queues, and unsafe neighbourhoods.

This contrast captures the central tension of this year’s address. The President painted apicture of an economy gradually stabilising, yet we knowfrom lived experience that life formillionsof South Africans remains uncertain and difficult.

His admission that “life remains hard” may have been themost honest line of the speech. It reflected something we understand: national progress measured in statistics does not always translate into relief felt in our communities. Economic stability matters.

Astronger currency signals confidence, helps government manage debt, and can encourage investment.Lower inflation protects purchasing power. These are necessary foundations for long-term growth.But for many struggling to basic necessities, macro-economic indicators feel distant and abstract. Recoveryonly becomes meaningful when reflected in secure jobs, stable services, and safer streets.

To his credit, thespeech did not avoid pressing challenges. Organised crime, he said, remainsone of the greatest threats to

THEPRESIDENT’SMESSAGEINVITESBOTHHOPEANDSCRUTINY

economic development and socialstability

Thisrecognition is important because crime is not only apolicing issue —itis an economic barrier.

Communities affected by gangs, extortion and crime struggle to attract businesses and opportunities. Unsafe environments limit where people can move freely,where small businesses can operate, andhow confidentwefeel in our neighbourhoods. Yet we have heard strong commitments to tackling crime before. Our confidence depends on implementation and results, not just tactical plans that sound decisive. Thesame pattern applies to corruption and governance failures. The president’s emphasis on strengthening institutions signals understanding thateconomic reform cannot succeed without credible leadership and functioning systems. However, we judge progress by concrete outcomes, successful prosecutions, and improved service delivery —not investigationsannounced orpolicies drafted.

Perhapsthe mostimmediate concerns relate to municipal services. Water shortages, failinginfrastructure, and inconsistent servicedeliveryaffect our lives in ways that national economic indicators cannot capture. These issues aretangible —they shape whether our taps run, roadsremainusable, refuse is collected, and electricity supply is stable Ramaphosa’s warning thatfailing municipalities couldlose service delivery powers suggests willingness to act but it raises uncomfortable questions: If government knows which municipalities are struggling, why has intervention been slow? Will stronger oversight translate into quicker, measurable improvements? These questions point to adeeper challenge: restoring public trust. Years of economic pressure, service delivery failures, and governance challenges have changed how we evaluate leadership.

BRIEWE|LETTERS

Waterwastage mindsets

Againweaddress a“critical watersecurity” issue, and everyone is urgedtosavewater

Itravelaround the countrywith tourists and findno oneconsciouslysavingwater.Notices areeverywhere but effective stepsofhow to save waterrare. Most geysersare farfromthe bathrooms andittakes six to nine litres before hotwater comes through ahot-water tap. If that’snot badenough, very few“mixers” have a clearindicationofwhich waytoturn the handlefor hot andcoldwater.And if onethinkshot is rightand cold left,think again! Ihavefoundthateveninthe same room, cold at thehandbasin couldbetothe left and in theshowertothe right. Thereisnostandard, every plumber inthe countrydoes whathelikes. Suggesting to the establishments, from guest houses to five-star hotels, to at least mark thetapsclearlyfor hotand

cold theylook at me in disgust,asiftosay:“who are youtotellmehow to run my place”?But when one approaches the subject of waterusage each andevery onecomplainsaboutthe huge billtheyreceive. Watersavingisnot clearlydefined in ourminds, and fewpeoplehaveany understanding of what shouldbe done to reduce consumption. As fortoilet flushing: the usualflushing systems were designed in Britain and countries with excess water, installedherewithout a thoughtofthe consequences. Thetip of the iceberg are“luxury”establishments with ahugebath tub “to relaxin”,after alongday’s safari or sightseeing. Talk is cheapand from thetop (Minister)downtothe end user watersavingisjustaphraserepeated everynow andthen, while we hope forrain PETERSMULIK, Rugby

Fed-up with roadworks

Ihavebecomeincreasingly frustrated with the ongoing road maintenanceonLaBelle Road in Stikland, which hasbeen causing significantcongestion.

OnelanefromStrandRoad, direction OldPaarl Road, has beenclosedoff andcompletelydug up, along withthe right-turninglanefromStrand and Bottelary road.Thishas createdmassivetrafficdelays in the vicinity, particularlyduringpeakhours. The lane closures have been problematic as La BelleRoad serves apredominantlyindustrial area and provides crucialaccess to the R300.The routecarries volumes of heavy-duty trucksand commercialvehicles essential to industrial operations, not to mention the minibus taxis(generallyalaw unto themselves).

Boetesskrik nie

Dithelpnie taxibestuurders kryverkeersboetes nie; die meeste hetnie 'n vasteadres nieendie boetes kannie by hulle afgelewerwordnie.Hulle werk vir iemand wat ditmaklikkan verminder of selfsafskryf.Ekhet op die hoek vanFrans Conradie-rylaan en Brackenfell-boulevard langs`nmetropolisie-voertuig met twee insittendes by ‘n rooi liggestaan.Langs die polisievoertuig,

Whatmakes this situation morefrustratingisthe lack of visibleprogress. Dayafter day, motorists endure delays, yetminimal actual work appears to be taking place. Whileroadmaintenanceisundoubtedlyessential, couldthe CityofCape Town not have planned this work differently? Perhapscompleting the project in phases to maintain trafficflow or implementing more intensive work schedulestoreducedisruption?The currentapproach is causingsignificantinconvenience to those usingLaBelle,Strandand Bottelary roads Iurgethe City to expeditecompletion of this project andimplement betterplanning protocolsfor future maintenance work on strategically importantroads.

FRUSTRATED

MOTORIST, Email

taxi’s af nie

op ‘n geel streep,was ‘n voertuig watlinkswou draai. Hulle hetnet voor hullegekyk natuurlik op padhuis toeofnie lusvir moeitenie

Mense watsory, sê baie vanhul beginsels. Hulle leer natuurlikbytaxi's of deesdae se afleweringsmotorfietse.

Anoniem, BRACKENFELL

Skollies is nou N2 se baas

Vanoggend moesmyswaer die trauma beleefvan twee skollies watmet vuurwapens in die hand voor sy vragmotor ingehardloop en dit op homgerig het Al wathykon doen wasomteversnel en hulle te probeer raakry Hulle het toebaie vinnig die bosseingehardloop om wegtekom.

‘n Ent verder sien hy toenet blou ligteenstoptoe by die verkeerspersoneel, wat'nvroubystaan watook gedreig is.

My vraagisnou,worddie verkeersreëlsnie meer toegepas nie?Met ander woorde,dat niemand op ‘n N2-roete magloop of staan nie,ofisdit nouweer shame, laat die skollies doen wathulle wil? Hulle kanmybeboet vir te vinnig ry teen `n afdraand, maar hierdie skollies kandoen wathulle wil metonwettigevuurwapens.

Pateties en papvrot.

GERHARD VANNIEKERK,Vredekloofhoogte

Kiewitz is ‘n groot aanwins

Ek het in Queenstraat opgemerkdat ‘n veselglasdeksel oor ‘n mangatontbreek. By nadereondersoek is die gebreekte dekselintweestukkeindie gatgevind. Omstreeks10:00 die volgende oggend het ek weer daar verbygeloop en ‘n voertuig opgemerk met iemand watbesig wasom‘nnuwedekseldaar te plaas.Ekhet nader gegaan om homtekomplimenteer oor die vinnigediens. Hy het my toemeegedeel dat hy toevallig daar verbygeryhet,onmiddellikdie implikasies van ‘n moontlikeeis teen sy werkgewerbesef het en direk na hul depot gegaan het om die stukkende dekselte vervang. Die man watdie belange vansywerkgewersoopsy hart dra, is EltonKiewitz vandie paaiedepartement in Langeberg. Welgedaan, meneer Kiewitz! SW BURGER,Durbanville

SA’sfirstBraillesignageunveiled

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

“Close your eyes andtry to read thesign; thatiswhat exclusion feels like.”

This was the message from Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Minister Willie Aucamp when he asked guests to close their eyes and try to read asign, toshow how blind and partially sighted people experience exclusion. That demonstration connects directly to the launch of Braille signageatBlaauwberg NatureReserve on Wednesday 11 February, delivered through apartnership between DFFE, Wildlife and Environment Society of SouthAfrica (Wessa), the City of Cape Town, Blind SA, Nedbankand disability advocacy partners.

The country’s first Braille informational beach signage at Eerste Steen, Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, marks amajor milestone in ensuring blind and partially-sighted

INCLUSIVESIGNAGE AFIRST FORSOUTH AFRICA

visitors are able to engage meaningfully withSouth Africa’s coastal environments. The tactile signage,featuring raised lettering and QR codeslinked to audio descriptions, allows blindand partially sighted visitors to independently access information aboutthe beach, its ecosystemsand its heritage.

ACCESSIBLETOALL

The initiative reflectsa shared commitment to ensuringthatSouth Africa’s natural heritage is accessible to allcitizens, regardless of ability.

The project was spearheaded by Wessa as part of its broaderCoastalProgramme, which includes the internationally recognised Blue Flag andGreen Coast initiatives

Sponsored by Nedbank, the launch was hosted in collaboration with Wessa, Blind SA, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), and the City of Cape Town, with additional support fromthe Ford Wildlife Foundation.

DIVERSITY

Speakingatthe event, Aucamp emphasisedthe importance of inclusive environmental access, noting that conservation spaces must reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.

“This initiative opens our coastal spaces to more people andensuresenvironmental education and awareness arenot limited by physical barriers.”

Aucamp announcedthe department was in theprocess of revitalising the national coastalsignage

“This revitalisation is about more than justfresh paint or new timber. It is abouttechnological integration and, most importantly, it is about inclusivity. Iwant our department to take this project out to all ourharbours.Iwant to be able to visit Mossel Bayand have all people have access to these spaces.

“I declaremydepartment is absolutely ready to work with everyone to bring this to everyone. We arecurrently working on aCollaboration Framework that aligns our legislative mandatefor integrated coastal management, to protect the coast, with Wessa’s century-long legacy of mobilising citizenaction. Thenew content we are introducing is vibrant andengaging. We aretelling thestory of ‘Life on the Edge’. We areinvitingthe public —sighted and visually impairedalike —tomeet the‘Noisy Mother,’ the African Black Oystercatcher.Weare teaching visitors how the White Sand Mussel ploughs

through the wet sand, and how the Three-spot Swimming Crab navigates the turbulent surf. That is not only for people who can see or read. These stories create a connection, and connections foster care.”

Theunveiling at Blaauwberg Nature Reserve is expected to set anational precedent, encouraging similar inclusive infrastructure at coastal destinations across SouthAfrica.

As part of Wessa’sbroader vision, the integration of accessible signage aligns with efforts to promote environmental stewardship, education and sustainable tourism.

By introducing Braille informational signage at one of Cape Town’s most iconic coastal reserves, stakeholders hope to inspire wider adoption of accessibility measures at beaches and protected areas nationwide.

RamaphosaextendsR370grant

President Cyril Ramaphosa announcedathis 2026 Stateofthe

Nation Address that the R370 monthly Social ReliefofDistress (SRD) grant supportingeight million South Africanswill continue indefinitely with complete employment-focused redesign.

Originally introduced as atemporary measure during the Covid-19 pandemic, the grant has cost R40 billion annually and has been renewed each year sinceits introduction.

In this year'sSona, Ramaphosa confirmed the grant would continue indefinitely and undergo complete redesign.

Thismarks another iteration of promises made at multiple previous Sonas regarding anew income support grant.

"Since it was introduced during Covid-19, the Social Relief of Distress Grant has

EIGHT MILLION BENEFICIARIES TO KEEP RECEIVINGSRD

kept millions of South Africansout of foodpoverty,"the president said. "Asa transformative instrument to improve the lives of the poorest andmostvulnerable people, this grantwill be continued. This year, we will redesign the granttomore effectively support livelihoods, skills development, work opportunities and productive activity.

"The redesigned grantwill incorporate employment-seeking criteria andlink toskillsprogrammes. This reflects NationalTreasury's desire to tie support to employment andskills development, moving away from previous universal basic income proposals.”

Government terminology hasshifted from "basic income grant" to "income support grant", specifically targetingthe

unemployed rather than all qualifying persons. This represents atrend away from universal income grantconcepts

towards more focused approaches. Ramaphosa previously described the SRD grant as an "essential mechanism for alleviating extreme poverty", despite itstemporary origins. The grant's steep annual cost of R40billion necessitates limiting conditions, as making it universal or increasing itsvalue would exceed the country's fiscal capacity.

Treasury has funded the grant until March 2027 following the latest extension granted in 2025. Whilst no clear continuation signals existed beyond that date, Ramaphosa has now indicated renewals will continue.

Further details about the grant's future are expected in the 2026 Budget Speech, to be delivered by finance minister Enoch Godongwana later thismonth.

Kennisgewing geskied hiermeeingevolge artikel 49 van die WetopPlaaslike Regering: MunisipaleEiendomsbelasting, Wet6 van 2004 (soosgewysig), hiernadie “Wet”genoem,dat diealgemene waardasielys vir 2025,van toepassing van 1Julie 2026,ter insae beskikbaar is by www.capetown.gov.za/propertyvaluations en bydie lys van lokale viropenbareinsae en besware hier onder.

Enige eiendomsbesitter of anderpersoonwordhiermee ingevolge artikel 49 van die Wet genooi om die lys binnedie voorgeskrewe tydperkhier onder te besigtig en, in ooreenstemming met wetgewing, ’n beswaar in te dien tenopsigte vanenige kwessie watin die waardasielys voorkom of weggelaatis.

Aandag wordspesifiek gevestig op artikel 50van dieWet waarvolgens’nbeswaarteen ’n spesifieke individueleeiendom ingedien moet word en nieteen die waardasielysas’ngeheel nie

Besware kanopenige vandie volgende maniereingedienword: Van20Februarie2026tot 30 April 2026: •Aanlyn via e-dienste (voorkeur-endoeltreffendste indieningsmetode): www.capetown.gov.za/en/eservices

•Per e-pos:valuationsobjection@capetown.gov.za

•Van 20 Februarie 2026 tot 31 Maart2026:Persoonlik -gedurendedie bedryfstye vandie lokale viropenbareinsae en besware hier onder

Die vorm virdie indiening van beswareper e-pos of by die lokalevir insae en beswareis verkrygbaar op die Stad se webwerf. Net goed gemotiveerde besware saloorweeg word.

GEENLAATBESWARE SAL AANVAAR WORD NIE

Eienaars sal skriftelik vanhul waardasies in kennis gestelword. Die kennisgewingssal ge-epos ofgepos wordnadie besonderhede watopdie Stad se databasis is.

Jykan jouwaardasiekennisgewingenrekeninge per e-pos ontvang. SMSbloot joue-posadres en rekeningnommer na 31223.

Virnadereinligting:

Inbelsentrum: 0860 103089

Web: www.capetown.gov.za

KAAPSTADKaapstad-burgersentrum

1 BELLVILLE Bellville-kleinsaal Bellville-burgersentrum, Voortrekkerweg2 20/02/202631/03/2026 08:30 -16:00

vloer, Kaapstad-burgersentrum, Hertzog-boulevard

CharlesMorkel-stadion Kerkstraat160 (langs Strand-muurbalklub)

5ATLANTIS Avondale-biblioteeksaal

6 GUGULETHU

9DELFT Delft-burgersentrum

Avondale-biblioteek, Avondale-burgersentrum

en Oakley Place (oorkant kliniekenbiblioteek)

02/03/202604/03/2026 09:30 -15:00

H.v. Delft-hoofweg en Voorbrugweg 05/03/202611/03/2026

Ilitha Park

en Morgensterweg, MitchellsPlain

Victoriaweg en Hoofweg

HOEK Vishoek- munisipale kantore Raadsaal, Sentrale Sirkel, Recreationweg

18 KUILSRIVIER Kuilsrivier-munisipalekantoreH.v.CarinusstraatenVan Riebeeckstraat

19MILNERTON RoyalAscot- munisipale kantoreRaadsaal, RoyalAscot, Bridleweg

20 PAROW Parow-burgersentrumBetaalkantoor,h.v.TallentstraatenVoortrekkerweg

Virmeer inligting: Deeloproep: 0860 103 089

E-pos: valuationsobjection@capetown.gov.za Web: www.capetown.gov.za/propertyvaluations

LUNGELOMBANDAZAYO

19/03/202627/03/2026 09:30 -15:00

AANDAGALMAL

kontant vir enige huis-houdelike goedklere, skoene,beddegoed, gordyne, speelgoed, oudhede, juweliersware -goud, breekgoed, potte, elektroniese ware. MEUBELS yskaste, beddens, Sitkamerstelle, tv's. (en baie meer) Johan 074474 4275

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Benodig 50 Avon Agente Ontvang gratisgeskenk vir 3maande Tel. 082933 3986

VIBRACRETE EXTENTIONS

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POTENTIAL CANDIDATES TO FORWARDTHEIR CV TO: admin@maverickes.co.za

EstateNotice

In theestate of late Marguerite SaraSpence, IdentityNumber 4001260331081, Divorced,of6 Springwater Close Melkbosstrand ,who died on the28March 2023 (ESTATE No 022890/2025)

Creditors in theabove mentioned are requested to lodge claims with the undersignedwithin30 (thirty) days reckoned as from19February 2026

Ivan Spence, 6Spring Water Close, Melkbos, Tel: 021553 0071, Email : admin@computeit.co.za

Rallim Modern Learning Environment

Rallim Modern Learning Environment is a future-focused,inquiry-driven independentschool committed to cultivating curiosity, innovation, and 21st-centurycompetencies in our students, situated in Sunningdale, Western Cape.

Rallim invites theapplications for thepositionof:

HEAD

OF THE PRIMARY SCHOOL

If you thinkthat you're asuitable candidate for the position, then you may obtain therelevant informationregarding thepost by sendinganemail to:

careersrallim.org.za

Notice of Curator in termsofSection 75 of the Administration of Estate'sAct,No66 of 1965 (as amended), notice is herebygiven of appointment of a personasCurator by theMaster of the High Court. Western

CuratorBonii: Laura Ashley Light and An li Je

Droomdebuut

CARINAROUX

CARINA.ROUX@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

KAYLA REYNEKE BLINK UIT VIR PROTEA-VROUEKRIEKETSPAN SLAAN LAASTE BALVIR ‘N REUSE-SESOMSA OP DRAMATIESEWYSETELAATWEN

Kayla Reyneke (20) vanKuilsrivier het verlede Dinsdagaand (10 Februarie) 'n droomdebuut vir die seniorProtea-vrouekrieketspan gehad in die span se openingswedstryd in die T20-toetsreeks teen Pakistan.

Reyneke het nie net haar tuisdorp nie, maar die hele land trots gemaak toesyop dramatiese wysedie wedstryd inSuidAfrika se guns beklink het. Met nog twee lopies kort om die teikenvan 181 te haal, het sy dieheel laaste bal vandie wedstryd vir 'n sesgeslaan. Dit het verseker dat die Proteasmet vyf paaltjies (185/5 teenoor Pakistan se 180/9) gewen het vir 'n 1-0 voorsprong in die reeks.

SPELERVANDIEWEDSTRYD

Reyneke het 29 lopies (nieuit nie) wat 'n vier en drie sesse insluit —van 16 balle aangeteken.Die veelsydigespeler en voormaligeSAo.19-kaptein het in haar heel eerste boulbeurt vir Gull Feroza, eenvan Pakistan se openingskolwers, uitgeboul. Haar boulsyfer van 2/13 (in vier boulbeurte) is die beste nog vir 'n nuweling in 'n Protea-vrouespan in 'n internasionaletoets.

Reyneke, wat as speler vandie wedstryd aangewysis, het ná die wedstryd gesê sy kon nie vir 'n beter debuut vir haar land gevra het nie. Haar insluiting in die nasionale span was reeds vir haar'n droom wat waar geword het. ClaireTerblanche, WP-vrouekrieket se hoofafrigter en assistent-afrigter by dieProteas, wat Reyneke se Protea "cap"

aan haar oorhandig het voor die toets, het verwys na 'n 10-jarige Kayla wat saam met die seuns krieket gespeel het en as"ballgirl"met 'n kriekethelmet op gedroom het van hierdie dag. "Jou ma het jourondgery sodatjydaardie droom kon bereik. Kayla, ek hetjou oor die jare sien groei as speler en as mens —dit is nou jouhart, jou inspanning en die manier waaropjyaanhouveg wat jou definieer," het Terblanchegesê.

Sy het uitgewys dat dit spesiaal is om 'n nasionale debuut op tuisgrond voor familie en vriende te maak."Genietdit," het syvir Reyneke gesê —woorde wat sy klaarblyklik ter harte geneem het.

KaylaReynekehet verlede week‘n droomdebuut vir die Proteasinhul openingswedstryd teen Pakistan in Potchefstroom gemaak.

Bernadette Reyneke, Kayla se ma, vertel sy hetaanvanklik gedink Kayla sal miskienindie derde wedstryd speelkans kry. Sy het die Maandagaand inderhaas 'n vliegkaartjie bespreek om Kayla te verras nadat sy (vertroulik) verneem het sy sal speel

Bernadette sê sy het omtrent nie woorde om Kayla se goeie debuut te beskryf nie. "Kyk, dit het ons nouglad nie verwag nie; ons is baie trots." Sy sê Kayla is van gr. 6 af by WP-krieketbetrokke en sy moes baie ritte vir oefensessies Nuweland toe ry en ureomwag omdat Kuilsrivier te ver was om heen en weer te ry. "Maar dit was als die moeite werd."