TygerBurger | Table View | E-edition | 6 May 2026

COMIC CONCOMESTOTOWN

Lagoonshows earlysignsof recovery

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Encouraging signs of environmental recovery are emerging at the Milnerton Lagoon, as community initiatives, rescue efforts and ongoing infrastructure upgradesbegin to show visible impactonthe long-challenged ecosystem

Local environmentalgroup, Rethink The Stink, reported renewed optimism after observinggradual improvements in the lagoon andits surroundings.The group also highlightedarecent wildlife rescue as apowerfulexample of community involvement in protecting fragile coastal ecosystems.

“WatchingMilnerton Lagoon and its surroundings gradually recover and come back to life is truly uplifting,” the group said. “A heartfelt thank you to those whosteppedintohelp, rescuing this ray while she gave birth, protecting her and her babies, and patiently waiting until theTwo Oceans Aquarium team arrived to assist. Moments like this remind us how powerful community care and quick action can be in protecting our fragile ecosystems.”

Therescue was supported by the Two

Oceans Aquarium, underscoring the importance of coordinated marine response effortsinsafeguarding local biodiversity.

André Williams, aTable View resident, said: “Seeing astingray give birthhereis incredible. It shows that all the clean-up efforts are starting to make adifference.”

Milnerton resident Lynette Jacobs said: “I haven’tseen something like this in years. It really gives me hope that the lagoon is slowly coming back to life.”

CITYSAYSINTERVENTIONS ARESHOWINGRESULTS

TheCityofCape Townhas maintained that itsmulti-layered intervention programme is already producing measurable improvementsinwater quality and system performance.

FROMPAGE1

According to Maycomember for Water andSanitationZahid Badroodien investmentsinsewer upgrades, pumpstation improvements andongoing monitoring are beginning to stabilisethe system.

“We arebeginningtosee the results of our investments. Fewer blockages andreduced odours are just some of the benefits.These interventions are building amoreresilientsystem for the longterm.”

Officials confirmed that atender processfor theproposed dredging project is currently under evaluation, with implementationexpected to begin in June 2026, subjecttoenvironmental authorisation

The City also outlined broaderupgrades across the Diep River catchment system, including real-time monitoring of 56 pump stations,infrastructure improvementsin areas such as Koeberg Road, Dunoon and Table View East, andcontinued upgrades at thePotsdam Wastewater Treatment Works.

Additional interventions include asaline water pilotprojectaimed at improving flowdynamics and reducing pollution as well as experimental trials using nanobubble technology andmicrobial treatments, which officials sayare showing early promise.

LONG-TERMINFRASTRUCTURE

PLANUNDERWAY

Beyond immediateinterventions, the City hasemphasised its long-term strategy to strengthen wastewater management and improve overall environmental resilience.

Upgrades at key facilitiesinclude ongoingmaintenanceand improvements at the Koeberg Pump Station, where weekly manual screen cleaning,pump checks andwet well level monitoring arebeing carriedout to maintain system efficiency.

Enhancements at the site have included the constructionofmanual screens, replacement of defective valves, installationofanew alarm system, deploymentofadditional mobile pumps andprocurement of new impellers to improve operational capacity.

Future plans include the constructionof anew pump station capableofhandling 1630 litres persecond, alongwith an emergency overflow storage pond designed to accommodateuptofourhours of sewage overflow during system pressure events. New rising mains will also replace older infrastructure to improve reliability andreduce risk of failures.

At the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works large-scaleupgrades are underway, including ultrafiltration systems, sludge pond rehabilitation andnew mechanical and electrical works aimedatimproving effluent quality andplant efficiency. Officials noted thatsignificantvolumes

of solid material have been removed from thesystem, requiring extensive cleaning and maintenance operations, with some processes takinguptoeight weeks per settlingtank.

COMMUNITYCONCERNOVERDREDGINGPLANS

Despite these interventionsproposed dredgingofthe MilnertonLagoon has sparkedgrowing concern among residents and environmentalstakeholders.

Reports indicatethatsome community members fear the intervention could permanently alter thenatural character of thelagoon

Concerns have been raised that dredging may change the lagoon’s shape, sediment balance aside from its overall ecological identity.

One resident, Gregory Nortje, an architect whohas lived along the lagoon for threedecades, warned that the proposedapproachcould significantly impactthe landscape

“This beautiful wide body of water will be reduced to an ugly, muddy thing which no one wants,” he said, raising concerns about how dredgingmaterial may be managed alongthe banks.

TheCity, however, hasstated that the preferredapproach will involve dredging a keychanneland using cyclone technology to separate sediment, allowing cleaned sand to be returned to the lagoon while organic waste is safely removed.

Theproject is estimated at around R70 million and is expected to take approximately 11 months once approved, pendingenvironmentalauthorisation.

SATERDAG9MEI

. DieNGkerk Bellville-Wes bied 'n dans en kuier saam met Christo en Cobus Snymanaan om 18:00 tenbatevan hul uitreik na Malawië.‘nVerskeidenheid sopenbroodjies salsaammet ‘n glasiesjerriebedien word.Gastekan ookhul eie piekniekmandjieendrinkgoed saambring.Die kostebeloopR200ofR180 per persoonvir ‘n tafelbespreking vir agtmense. Kinders (tweetot 12 jaar)betaalR100 (onder twee is gratis). Kontak Marykeby071 6432239vir meer inligting. Kaartjies is beskikbaarbydie kerkkantoorofstuur‘n e-pos na navraag@bellvillewes.ng.org.za.

. MdzanandaAnimalClinic and Shelterwillhost itsannual gala dinner and auctionat18:30atthe TwoOceans Aquarium,celebrating three decades of servicetoKhayelitsha's animals and community.The fundraising event will featurePippa Hudsonashost, withauctioneer Guy McDonald leading aliveauction of exclusiveitems and experiences. Entertainment willincludea performancebythe Isibane Se Afrika Choir during the pre-drinksreception. Guests will enjoya two-coursedinner with complimentarywineand dessert.Ticketsare available at Quicket or contact fund@mdzananda.co.za.

. TheGreater Simonsberg Conservancy(GSC) is inviting the publictolaceuptheir hiking bootsand running shoes forWalk forthe Wild,a 10 km trailrun and hiketaking placeatDelheim Wine Estate.Trail runners willstart at 08:00 sharp, while hikers canopt forarolling startbetween 08:00 and 10:00.Participantsare encouraged to join the fun by dressing in leopard-themed outfitsfor the Best Dressed Leopard competition, with prizes awardedfor the most creativeentries. Entriesare limited and availableat Quicket

THURSDAY14MAY

. U3A Tygerbergwillmeet at StellenbergGemeente on the corner of MountainViewDrive and Edelweiss Road.This month's speaker is Annemarie VanZyl from the Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary. Doorsopen at 09:00 fortea and coffee.Speaker takesthe floor from 10:00.R10 forU3A members and R20for visitors.

WOENSDAG20MEI

. DieTygerberg Tuin- en Blommeklub kombyeen by dieNGkerk ParowWelgelegen(La Provencestraat 47,Welgelegen) om 09:30 vir 10:00.Die sprekers is AltheaHigham, wat‘n“parallel”-demonstrasie sal doen, en Marco Moors vanLowensvlei Blomplaasoor snyblomme. Dietema vandie blommekunskompetisie is “Elegansie”.Kontak BeatrixLambert-Bestbier by 082873 9864vir meer inligting.

SATURDAY30MAY

. TheDianna JacksonFoundationwillhosta Community MarketDay from 10:00 to 15:00 at the Summer Greens Community Centre,22TinkersRoad, Summer Greens. Theevent will featurelocal vendors, food stalls,handmadecrafts, fashion, music and family-friendlyentertainment.For more information contact CJ Jacksonon072 8301966(WhatsApp).

SUNDAY31MAY

. Discover the hidden secretsand relics of an abandonedWW2 MilitaryBaseinLlandudno,during aspecial“Topsecret”HeritageTunnel and Bunker Tour forTourism Month. Thetrail starts at the bigGun in Apostles BatteryLlandudno at 10:30,and will end in the same spot.Explorers need to be walking fit,as there aresteps and obstacles to hurdleand ladders to climb.Children need to be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited to 20.Ticketsare R295 perperson. Email Matta at mattweisse@mweb.co.za to book.

SATURDAY6JUNE

. TheCapeTownGem and Mineral Club’s next open daytakes placefrom10:00 to 14:00 at 14aGoede Hoop St,Bothasig.Entryisfree. Learnmoreabout our hobbyofcrystals, gems, and mineral specimen collecting, and relatedcraftwork.Trawl the stalls, chat to members and find your special item. Plentyof off-roadparking. Food available.

FRIDAY12JUNE

. TheMitchells PlainUnited Residents Association (Mura) willbehaving aGolf Dayaspartofthe area's 50th anniversarycelebrations. It will be heldatthe RoyalCapeGolf Club on Friday12June. Theevent will caterfor 120players over six to eight waterholes. Mura is in need of prizes, waterholesponsors, contentsfor goodie-bags, and auctionitems forthe prize-giving dinners. Formoreinformation, contact Norman Jantjes at 083628 4421

SUNDAY28JUNE

. Step intoa worldwherewintermeetshigh fashion at the Winter Wonderland Fashion Show2026, presented by Kairos Events& Model Management at RooftoponBree, 170BreeStreet.This showcase bringstogether emerging and established designers, aspiring models,and fashionlovers foranunforgettablerunwayexperienceset against the stunning Cape Town skyline.Dress Code: Dress to Impress –High FashionEdition. Ticketsavailable via Quicket

Lifesaversget provincialcolours

The Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club andthe Milnerton Surf Lifesaving Clubare celebrating aproud milestone after itsathletes were awarded provincialcolours at the Lifesaving Western cape (LWC)2026 capping ceremony.

Dylan Froneman, Jan-Lukas van der Westhuizen and Steven Waters from the Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club and Javin Presencefrom the MilnertonSurf Lifesaving Clubeach received their Western Cape caps, recognising their dedication, discipline and passion for lifesaving. The achievementmarks an importantstep forward as they prepare to compete at ahigherlevel.

Their success follows months of demandingtraining, early mornings and unwavering commitment both in and out of the water. Forthe club, it reflects not only individual excellence but also the strength of its development programme.

FOUR MEMBERSFROM BIG BAYAND MILNERTON CLUBS AWARDED AT 2026 CAPPING CEREMONY

“We are incredibly proud of Dylan, JanLukasand Steven,”the club said. “Their commitment,resilienceand passion truly embody what Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club stands for. From early mornings to tough training sessions, they have earned thismoment.”

They will nowrepresent the Western Cape on abiggerstage,carryingboth the pride of their club andtheir community.

“Go show them what Big Bay andthe Western Cape are all about,”the club added.

As the new season approaches, the club remainsconfident thatthis achievement is justthe beginning of even greater success.

In recognition of Workers’Day,celebrated on Friday 1May,CenturyCitypaid tributetothe more than130 dedicated individualswho keep CenturyCityfunctioning efficiently each day.From tending to green spaces and maintaining the canal systemtoensuring streets remain cleanand bins areregularly serviced their efforts contributetoawell-managedurban environment.Their responsibilities also include supporting trafficflow, maintaining street lighting and helping to ensurethe area remains safe and secure forresidents,businesses andvisitors alike.Pictured is the CenturyCityCanal Maintenanceteam,part of the workforcerecognised for keeping the precinctrunning smoothly.

City property vandalised

RICHARDROBERTS

RICHARD.ROBERTS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Vandalising of CityofCape Town infrastructure was reported at Olienhout Park, Plattekloof andthe Plattekloof Duck Pond recently.

Thesignsindicatethe items permitted and notpermittedatthe park, the types of animals found andcrossing roads in the area, as well indicatethatnofishing is permittedatthe pond.

Cheryl Visser, Ward1councillor, visited thesite last week.

"I was disappointed to see that some of the signs hadbeen vandalised with spray paint. Thankfully, we were able to clean the signs,and it is great to see them lookinggood again."

Sheurgedresidents to report instances

of vandalism, if they notice it. "Itreally does make adifference, and you could even receive areward if anotice or fine is issued,"she said.

TygerBurger approached the City to determine what penalties such types of vandalism can incur.

Wayne Dyason, law enforcement spokesperson, said the penalty for vandalism is dependent on the type, and extent of the vandalism.

"For example, persons caught engaging in illegal graffiti would be liable to afine, but damaging essential infrastructure is amore serious crime and suspectsface criminal charges," said Dyason.

. Vandalismcan be reported to theCity's Public EmergencyCommunication Centre (PECC) on 021480 7700

Community actionseesbusy weekinWard113

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Despite two publicholidays last week Ward 113 remained active with several community initiatives, governance meetings and safety interventions

Theweek began on Saturday, when Branch 113 launched itsvoter-registration drive by assisting residentsof Vue du Cap for seniors register ahead of the upcoming local-government elections. The week ended with the official confirmationby the Independent Electoral Commission of SouthAfrica (IEC) that ElectionDay will takeplace on 4November.

Ward councillor Sue van der Lindeurged residents to maketheirvoices heard.

“Local government has adirect impact on ourdaily lives from service delivery to community safetysoitisvital that everyeligible resident ensures they are registered to vote. Active participation strengthens our democracy and helps shape thefuture of our communities.”

The weekalso included both afull Democratic Alliance caucusmeeting and afull council meeting, where matters relating to governance and oversight for the City were addressed.

HONOURINGALOCALLEGACY

Van der Linde attended the retirement dinner of Des Easom, outgoing president of Killarney International Raceway. “It was aprivilege to celebratehis remarkable contribution. Des’ passion and leadership have helped make Killarneythe iconic institution it is today.”

Ahybrid street captains meeting focused on finding better ways to use community WhatsApp groups to improve communication, strengthen neighbourhood support and better serve residents across the ward. Vander Linde said effective communication remained keytoresponsivelocal governance.

“Our Street Captains play aninvaluable role in helping us stay connected to residents’ concerns and ensuring information reaches communities quickly and effectively.”

TACKLINGURGENTSAFETYCONCERNS

The councillor also met with specialised law-enforcement officers andRiver Hamlet management regarding cattle crossing thevlei into the residential area. The issue has taken on added urgency dueto concerns aroundfoot-and-mouth disease.

Communitymembers receiveassistance with voter registration aspart of the DA branch 113’soutreach efforts in theeponymous ward it operatesin.

Mills engages residentson some keylocal concerns

KAILINDANIELS

VOTER REGISTRATION PART OF WARD 113’SFORWARD THINKING STRATEGIES

“A practical solutionhas been identified, and temporary infrastructure will soon be installed to safely manage the situation andminimiserisk,” she said.

Furtherdiscussions were held with Neighbourhood Safety Officers from Wards 113,107 and 23, alongwith councillorPaul Swart,toaddress ongoingconcernsalong Parklands Main Road andsurrounding areas.Joint operations were beingplanned to improve safety, tackle illegal activity andstrengthen by-law enforcement.

The week concluded with another community voter-registration drive

“It hasbeen an incredibly productive week despite theshorter working days,” saidVan der Linde. “I remain committed toensuring Ward113 continues moving forward through collaboration, action and community participation.”

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

WardcouncillorJonathanMills spent aday engagingwith residents and stakeholders acrossthe Bloubergstrand and Table Viewareas recently, addressing arange of community concerns and ongoing projects.

The day began alongCoral Road, where discussions were held with residents about therole of contractorsand security companies in improving waste collection days. Efforts were being made to reduce disruptions andillegal dumping, making bin day more manageable for households.

TACKLINGCLEANLINESS,INFRASTRUCTURE ANDSAFETY

Mills then walked asection of the R27 cyclepathwith aconcerned resident, focusingonongoing efforts to improve cleanliness and maintenance in the area. The route,frequently used by cyclists and pedestrians, has been flagged for attention as part of broader clean-up initiatives.

Avisit with thepolice followed, where Mills metwith adetective regarding an illegal taxi operator previously identified in thearea. Theengagement forms part of ongoingefforts to address unlawful activitiesand improve safety.

Thecouncillor also made astop at alocal TLCfacility to meet staff and welcome anew team member, before heading to Bellisima BeautyAcademy. There discussions centred on potential financialsupport opportunities for studentsfrom disadvantaged backgrounds, highlighting a focus on skills development and inclusion.

COMMUNITYSPACESINFOCUS

Theday concluded at Torrington Park, where ideas were shared on how to rehabilitate and improve the publicspace for residents. Community input remained central to shaping plans for safer, more accessible recreational areas. Mills said the day highlighted the importance of staying connected to community needs. “It’sbeen abusy day meeting residentsacross the ward in this beautiful weather, and each engagement plays arole in improving our area. From tackling bin day challenges and addressing illegal activity to supporting local organisations and looking at ways to upgrade public spaces, we’re working step by step to make progress where we can.” He said work on theseand other matters would continue in the week ahead, as efforts to improve service delivery and community wellbeing remain ongoing.

Lightsand sirensdelight learners

Metro policeofficersvisited learners at Cedar Crest Nursery School last week.

WardcouncillorJonathan Mills joined thevisit in Table View, where children had theopportunity to engage with officers, explore equipment and ask plenty of curious questions.

Thevisit sparked lively interaction, with learners showingkeen interest in the work of metro police. From flashing lights to sirens, thedemonstration captivated the young audience

“One girl asked where we put bad people if the jails are full,” Mills shared afterwards,highlighting the kind of honest and imaginative questions that made the morningmemorable.

Theevent was made possible with the support of the local neighbourhood structures, including the Table View Neighbourhood Watch (TVNW), whose chair helped organise the visit

EXCITEMENT

Officers from the NSOsquad embraced the moment, switching on lights and sirens to the delight of the children, who responded with wide eyes and excitement.

“The visit not only brought fun to the classroom, but also helped build positive relationships between law enforcement and the community from ayoung age —leaving alasting impression on both learners and officers alike.”

Gamingtourbrings e-sportstomalls

South African gamers are set for another high-energy competitive season as theMTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2026returns, bringing e-sports action to malls across the country.

Now in its fourth year,the series presented by Hyprop in partnershipwith MTN will travel to eight shopping centres from April to August, culminating in the National Finals at Canal Walk. Atotal prize pool of R350 000isupfor grabs.

TWOGAMES,ONENATIONAL TITLERACE

The competition centres on two major titles: EA FC 26™,the popular football simulation game, andBeat Saber, afast-paced VR

rhythm challenge.

Each stop on the tour features online qualifiersfollowed by three-day in-centretournaments, giving both experienced players andnewcomersa chance to compete foraplace in the national showdown.

“SHIFT has grown into something thatgenuinely reflects the diversity of South Africa’s gaming community,” said Christie Stanbridge, Brand and Campaigns MarketingManager at Hyprop.

“It meets players where they already areand givesthemareal chance to compete, connectand win.”

NATIONWIDEMALLTOUR INFULLSWING

The series hasalready opened at Rosebank Mall andwill travel throughSomerset Mall, Woodlands,The Glen, Table BayMall, Clearwater, Capegate, andfinally CanalWalk for the national finals

Each venue hosts bothonline qualifiers andlive in-centre competitions,managed by ACGL, aleading South African e-sports organiser

Alongside the main competitions, eachevent includes Fighting Cup brackets featuring

MATRICULANT OF THE YEAR COMPETITION

Brawlhalla, Tekken 8, andStreet Fighter 6, as well as freeplay zones,PCgamingstations, and interactive challenges.

These activationsensure that theSHIFT experiencecaters not only to competitors, but alsoto casual gamers andspectators.

BIGTITLES,BIGSTAKES

The EA FC 26™ tournament sees players progress through heatsintomall finals,with winnersadvancing to the national stage where they competefor R50 000. Defending champion HamzaMoosareturns automatically to defend his title.

Meanwhile,BeatSaber competitors battle for the highest score acrossmall eventsfor a chance to qualify for aseparate national final, alsofeaturinga R50 000 prize pool.

“MTN is committed to connectingSouth Africans to the things they love,”said Muyiwa Ladipo, ChiefConsumerOfficer at MTN South Africa. “We’re excitedtosee who rises to the top this year.”

. Entries forthe MTNSHIFTGaming Experience 2026 arenow open. Visit https://acgl.gg/mtnshift.Tosign up forthe online qualifiers,headtoyour nearest Hyprop mall on tournament weekends to be part of theaction

Newwalkway improves access

KAYLYNNEBANTON

Reaching the top of Table Mountain is now amore inclusive experience, thanks to a newly launched Universal Access Walkway designed for every visitor.

Thewalkway enables visitors using wheelchairs, as well as thosewithprams or mobility challenges, to experience the summit safely and comfortably.

The development, which is apartnership between the South African National Parks (SANParks), and the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC), marks a significantstep in advancing inclusive tourism and universal design at one of SouthAfrica's most iconic landmarks.

WahidaParker, managing director of TMACC, explained how the company will ensure the ongoing maintenance and safety of the walkway, particularly in response to changing weather conditions at the summit

"The walkway has been carefully designed and engineered with the summit's unique and often changing weatherconditions in mind.

"There are other structures and walkways on top of the mountain, and these have been impeccably maintained over many years."

ShesaidTMACC works closely with SANParks to ensure it is well maintained and continues to provide asafe and comfortable experience for all the visitors.

TheUniversalAccessWalkwayis making TableMountain moreinclusive forwheelchair users and visitorswith mobilitychallenges

Parkersaid the Universal Access Walkway forms part of a broader approach to improving accessibility at Table Mountain. Cape Town has been named the world's top mountain destination for thisyear, beating well-known spotsinEurope like Chamonix, Zakopane and Bergen.

Theranking, conducted by international connectivity provider Holafly, gave the city the highest overall score of 76,9 after looking at factors such as hiking options, affordability, places to stay, accessibility, outdoor activities, air quality and overall quality of life.

Impactful opportunity awaits entrants

SISKAMARTIN

For morethan 40 years, the Matriculantofthe Year competition hasbeenmaking adifferenceinthe livesofhundreds of young people whohavestarted their career path at the University of the Free State(UFS)

This year it will be no different, with the 45thcompetition starting this week.

Notonlyisitthe launchofthe 2026competition, butthe UFSis also excited to welcomeNovus Media as anew media partner for the competition.

NovusMedia, asubsidiary of NovusHoldings, hasanational footprintof36freecommunity papers;anational paper, DiePapier; andastrong digital and social media presence.

All articles about the competition will be publishedinthese printed publications, as well as on their websites,inadditiontobeing available to read forfreeonthe nationalwebsitenovanews.co.za

Onceagain, multi-talented matriculants from all over the country canenter themselvesfor the competition, whichwas won last year by KiaraSubramanian, nowaformer learner of the Eunice High School in Bloemfontein. Kiarasaysshe will always be grateful forwinning the competition.

“Not just becauseofthe title, butbecause of thepeople it broughtintomylife. It allowed me to connect with such inspiring, kind, and drivenindividuals,many of whom Inow gettowalk this journeyofstudying medicine with.”

The vice-chancellorand principal of the UFS, Prof.HesterC.Klopper,with the 2025 winner of the Matriculantofthe Year competition, Kiara Subramanian

PHOTO:CHARL DEVENISH

Forher,itbecame farmore meaningful thanacompetition— it extends to friendships,support and asharedunderstanding that“we were all striving toward something biggerthanourselves”.

“Looking back,Ithink what the competitionreallytaughtmeis the importanceofconnection and encouragement. “It showedmehow powerful it

is to be surroundedbypeoplewho uplift andmotivateyou.”

THISISHOWYOUENTER

Matriculants from across the countrywho areleadersand achieversinacademics, culture andsport,and whoplantostudy at UFSnextyear, canenter the competition. Bursariesand prizemoney

advancetothe fina ound om 5 to 7October in Bloemfontein. Thewinner and finalistsreceive prizemoney,bursaries,and gifts, whilesemi-finalistsare also awardedprizes and bursaries Entriesclose on 31 July

. Scan theQRcodeabove, downloadthe entryform, complete it,and send it back to Linda Greyling at greylinl@ufs.ac.za. She canalsobe contacted formoreinformation

ComicConplansmovetobiggervenue

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

Cape Town’s beloved popculture festival has officiallyoutgrown its home. Organisers of Comic Con Cape Town, which has beenrunning in the City since 2018, plan to move the international event across the road next year, to CTICC1 —a larger, single-level space that gives organisers room to do more.

Organiser Carol Weaving,MDofRX Africa, announced the planned moveata press briefing ahead of thefour-dayevent.

“We’ve now outgrown this venue and we’re going to be moving across the road to CTICC1,which is bigger and we have more space,” said Weaving

ABIGGERSTAGEFORABIGGERSHOW

This year’s Comic Con Cape Town, which started on Thursday 30 April, was spread across three levels. The ground floor was home to pop culture, whilethe middle level is given over to tabletop gaming. The top level serves asthe experience hall, and also features,digital gaming, the pop culturestage, aCAF animation stage andarange ofbrand activations.

The outdoor area was been expanded, with more food trucksand awider variety of food options.

STARS,STAGESANDPACKEDDAYS

Seven cast members from the Netflix live-action series One Piece season 2were among the international guests at this

year’s show. Theseries is currently being filmed in Cape Town.

International guests included ChristopherSabat, Jason Liebrechtand Evanna Lynch. Sabat, an American voice actor, is famousfor bringing to life iconic characters including Vegeta from Dragon Ball Z,Roronoa Zoro from One Piece,All Might from My Hero Academia,and Yami Sukehiro from Black Clover

Liebracht is oneofanime’smost recognisable voices, He is best known for voicing Dabi in My Hero Academia, Rob Lucci in One Piece,and Beru in Solo Leveling

Lynch is best known for playing Luna Lovegood in the Harry Potter films.

Local artists, who contributed to titles aroundthe world, were also in attendance andseveralemergingartists who were part of the City of Cape Town’s emerging artists activation, followingamural challenge, were given booths andan opportunity to build audiences for their art.

Thefour-day programme was packed with, cosplay competitions, tabletop and boardgaming, anime,collectibles,cards, toysand after-dark events thatinclude acoffee-and-comics session, acomedy evening on Friday andsets by DJ Elliott. The event concluded Sunday May 3.

GOODFORTHECITY,GOODFORTHEECONOMY

Mayco memberfor safety andsecurity, JP Smith, said events like Comic Con areavital part of what keeps the city’s economy moving.

“The top eight signature events in Cape Town generate around R4,5billion for our city economy. That’s abig deal. That’s a lotofmoneythatflows into businesses,” he said.

Henoted that theevents industry, the film industry and tourism are closely linked —eachhelping the other grow.

EVENTHOSTS GAMERS, ARTISTS, COSPLAYERSAND INTERNATIONAL TALENT

He also pointed outthatCape Townis one of the fewcities in South Africa, and in theworld, that is successfully bringing down youth unemployment.

“CapeTown generates the lion’s share of jobs around ourcountry. This industry, thefilm industry, the tourism industry, whichare closely interlinked, are part of that equation —animportant part of that equation,” he said.

Kommentaar // Comments

THINKING OUTLOUD

Beyond the ballot:Are youngvoters really politically aware enough?

Irecently stumbled upon a Facebook memory that took me back seven years, to an election year,toayounger version of myself, and to amoment Ihave notquite let go of.

Iwas ajournalism studentthen, on the eNCA election bus, and live on television when Iwas asked asimple question: "Are you voting?"

Isaid no. Around me, the answer was almost unanimously yes. My response landed awkwardly, as Iexpected it would. It was not because Idid notunderstand the importance of voting.

Idid. Political awareness was not foreign in my home.

But Ialso understood something else: the framing theory. This is atheory in communication of understandinghow meaning is shaped not only by what is said,but byhow it is presented, interpretedand socially received. At its simplest, framing is the process of selecting certain aspects of reality and making them more prominent in communication, so that a particular interpretation is encouraged. The same issue can therefore produce entirely different reactionsdepending on the frame attached to it

Conversations about politics among young people were, and often still are, uncomfortable terrain.

Speak too earnestly and you risk being labelled "too serious". Push too far and the conversation dissolves into humour.

Deflection or disengagement

Politics becomes something to joke about, avoid, or reduced to personalities rather than policy. So Ianswered deliberately. Not to reject democracy, but to disrupt the script.

Africans navigating politics with adegree ofawareness, but withoutconsistentspaces that nurture, challenge and deepen thatunderstanding.There is curiosity,but not always guidance.

There is exposure, butnot always explanation.

Politics is notanimage.Itisnot public relations

It shapes the costofliving, the safety of our communities, the quality of education andthe opportunities available to young people.

It requires more than following personalities or slogans. It requires lookingatleaders and parties critically, weighing their positions,manifestos andgovernance records, and makingdecisions grounded inunderstanding rather than allegiance.

Now, seven yearslater, as the countryapproachesanother localgovernment election,Ifind myself returningtothatsame question. Notwhether young people will vote, but whether they arebeing preparedtodecide.

Because voting, on its own,is notthe endpoint of democracy.

It is only meaningful when it isinformed. Aballot castwithout clarityis participation in form, but notalways in substance.

We cannotcontinuetomeasure civic engagementpurely by turnout,while ignoring the uneven foundation on whichthat participation rests.

YOUNGPEOPLEARE CONSISTENTLY ENCOURAGEDTOVOTE, BUTNOTALWAYS EQUIPPEDTO UNDERSTANDWHAT THATPARTICIPATION

DEMANDS. ..

Iwanted to see if anyone would pause long enough to ask why.

Very few did.That moment has stayed with me, not because of the answer Igave, but because of the gaps it revealed.

Young people are consistently encouraged to vote, but not always equipped to understand what that participation demands. We are told our voices matter, but seldom guided on how to interrogate manifestos, unpack ideology, or position ourselves within acomplex political landscape. Participation is promoted. Political literacy, far less so. At the time, my answer frustrated people close to me.I was accused of making myself appear uninformed in apublic space. How could Isay that, on live television, during an election cycle? But Iunderstood the power of framing.

Iwas willing to sit with that discomfort because the moment was never about appearing clever. It was about forcing aconversation that toooften remains avoided, even in spaces that are meant to encourage engagement

In many ways, Iwas not standing as an individual in that moment,but as areflection of abroader reality, young South

McLaren Circussparkspublic outcry

Thecircus hashit town! Therecentarrival of McLaren Circus, an animal performance outfit,has gotboth Milnerton residents andBeautyWithout Cruelty South Africa up in arms in protest ("Circus opposes claims", TygerBurger 29 April).

Political understanding remains fragmented. In somespaces it is actively discouraged, treated as divisive or unnecessary. In others, it is reduced toslogans, party loyalty, or surface-level debates thatdo little to build critical thinking

The result is ageneration expected to participate in a system they are not always fully equipped to navigate.

This is notanargument against voting. It isanargument against shallowengagement.

Importantly, these conversations cannot be confined to formalspaces alone. They must exist in homes, schools, campuses,communities and media platforms. They must be normalised amongpeers, not avoided. Political literacy should notrequire aspecialised interest or professional background. It should be part of howwe understand the world we live in.

The challenge isnot apathy. It is access, to knowledge, to dialogue, to spaces where politicalunderstanding is developed rather than discouraged.

As local elections draw closer, the questionshould notonly be howmanyyoungpeople will showupat the polls.

It shouldbewhether they arearriving there with clarity, confidence and asense of urgency.Whether they understand notjust who they are voting for, but why.

Becauseparticipation without understanding is not enough.

-NAMHLAMONAKALI

Objections, against,among other things, cruelty,confinement, transport andethics.

To that list add the objection to forcing cagedanimal beingstoperform oneor other "trick"for the enjoymentofhuman beings!

McLaren claims to be compliant with the license, transport,permits andinspection requirements of the PerformingAnimal Act, Cape Nature andthe SPCA.

Additionally to the above,inits attempt to defend the indefensible, it trots out a flawed statistical argument.Itsays: “... we had2250 peopleattendour shows.We

countedapproximately43protesters. This is aratio of 52 circus supportersfor every oneprotester”.

Thecynicism in this defencecan be puncturedbythe simplebut probingquestion of :“Have anyofthose 52 really been interviewedtoget their informed view of caged, confined andrestricted animal beingsbeing forced to perform fortheir amusement? Have theybeen given anyinsight into what happens to the sheer spirit andsoul of thesebeautiful wildcreatures whentheyare cagedand confined forthe duration of their livesand many, like lions, areforcedtoperform “under the whip”? They have not.

It might be of interest forMcLaren to note that “Eventhe devil mayquote the biblefor his ownpurposes” LOGANGOVENDER,Milnerton

Waarommoet dierely

oor mensesegedrag?

Ek stem 100% saam met “Onsisdie oplossing" en "Bunny report misrepresents facts of whatishappening on theground” (TygerBurger 29 April).

Dit is altydsnaakshoe mense veralin die noordelikevoorstede geen verdraagsaamheid teenoor die arme dierehet nie en ook altydiemandvindomdie skuld te geevir alleswat verkeerdgaan.Hoe belaglikdit ook al magwees.

Ek hetinClaremont gewerk en ek was verbaas oor hoedie mense daar alle diere, watter dier dit ook al magwees —hetsy hasies of kolganse,akkommodeer en probeer help.Hier word gedurig gelees van hoedie diere‘nprobleem raak en dan word daar gepraat vanskiet en vergiftig. Tipies, mensewat niesien dat die mens eintlik die probleem is nie. Ek draf elke oggend in Majik Forest en daar wastoevallig ook iemandwat my gevrahet oor hase in daardie omgewing.

Ek hetgenoem dat ek weleen of twee gesien het,maar het gewonder hoekom dit vir my gevrais. Seker om nogdaar vrytelaat.Ekvra altyd, of dit nou‘nhond, katofhaas is. Hoekom kryjydit in die eersteplek? As jy enigedier neem,isdit ‘n commitment om vir daardie dier om te gee. Ons weet almal hoekom die hase daar is; dit is so in die briewe uiteengesit Virdie mensewat in ontkenning is. vat bietjie verantwoordelikheid vir jou besluit om ‘n dier aan te skaf.Daar is weloplossings as daar net bietjie uitgereik en moeite gedoen word.Maar nee, dump die diere en geehulle die skuldvir alles. Hoe leef julle met julself om ‘n dier so seer te maak en te laat ly?Dan wonder ek ook maar netofsulke mensekinders het en watter voorbeeldjulle agterlaat PASSIEVOLLE DIERELIEFHEBBER Philadelphia

Bunny rescuer calls forhelp

My name is Genae andIrescue gorgeous fluffybunnies. Recentlytherewas aphoto of me holding aposterinour fighttocombatrabbit dumping in Durbanville Igot 12 postersthankfullysponsored by "Printmet Erika" which we plan to display around Durbanville Forthe last fewyears Ihavebeen focusing on Durbanville to steriliseand re-home as manyasIcan,toget them off the street andout of danger.I come from the southernsuburbs to take anysick or injured rabbits andrehabilitatethem for re-homing.

Ihavecaught,sterilised andre-homed 70 Durbanville rabbits this past year.I will continue to raisefunds to steriliseand remove

If youwould like to help,get involved or have ahome,garden or farm to allow theserabbits to live outtheir lives, please messagemeonsocial media: Instagram, Facebook or Website: TheHouse of Fluffels.

Rabbits arecomplex pets. They canlive up to 14 years.Theyneed space, dailyattention, specialisedfood andsterilisation is essential. Please adopt,don’t shopand be kind andsterilise.

GENAEMAREE, Claremont

Dankie Stad en burgemeester

Ná vele briewe aan die burgemeester van Kaapstad en die Stad Kaapstad aangaande die onwettigeplakkerswat langsdie Kuilsriver-kanaal in Soneikewoon,gaan daar uiteindelik opgetree word ‘n Aansoek om 'n hofbevelvir die uitsetting vanonwettigeplakkersna‘nbeter woonplek is in ‘n gevorderde stadium. Dankie Stad Kaapstad en die burgemeester vanKaapstad vir opsies vir hierdie hawelose mensevir beter blyplek, veralin die komende koue winter JJ CLOETE, Soneike

Runningupmilesforschoolshoes

More than 2800 children now have school shoes, thanks to agrowing initiativesparked byafirst-time runner who saw creative possibilities in turning kilometres intoaway to meet abasic educational need.

“My background is in higher education, and Iwas surprised to learn howmany of thestudents walked to school without proper footwear when they were younger When Itook up running last year atthe age of 60, the idea came to me: ‘Whatif every kilometre Iran could put apair of shoesona kid’s feet?’” says Craig Rowe,who leadsCDR Equipping,a nonprofit company focused on community development, leadership training and mentorship, among other community upliftment and ministry-related outreach projects.

MYWALKMADEWITHSOUL

What started as one man’s idea to encourage businesses and friends to sponsor apair of “My Walk Made with Soul” school shoes for each kilometre of his first Two Oceans half marathon has since germinated intoa networkof support that has already donated nearly R100 000 worthofshoes, benefitting almost three thousand children across South Africa so far.

“As Iset out on the Two Oceans Half Marathon, Itripped and faceplanted into the ground. Iwas bleeding, but afellow runner kindly offered me atissue, and I kept going. Iwas determinedtocomplete therace, knowing that those kidsneeded

PROJECTPROVIDES MUCH-NEEDED SCHOOL SHOES TO UNDERPRIVILEDGED LEARNERS

their shoes,”Craig remembers.

Word of Craig’s campaign reached otherrunners, and more people dedicated theirruns to raise funds. Donations were flowing through the Love Cities community initiatives, where Craig serves as nationalpartnership lead.

UPCYCLEDSHOES

The shoesthemselves tell an interestingstory. Theinnovative upcycling programme reclaims highquality polyvinyl chloride (PVC) from uncontaminated, safe healthcare waste, suchas drip bags and tubing,collected from participating Netcare hospitals in Gauteng andKwaZulu-Natal. This PVC is PVC diverted from landfill andupcycled to make My WalkMade with Soul school shoes that are shiny, comfortable, and durable.

Through partnerships with donors, ranging from individuals such as Craig to religiousand civil organisations and businesses large andsmall, over418 432 pairs of My Walk Made with Soul school shoes have beendonated to children throughout South Africa sincethe innovativeproject started in 2020.

City endorsesdraft National Rail Master Plan

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has welcomed renewed rail devolution commitmentsinthe draft National Rail Master Plan released for publiccomment by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy. He also calls for clear deadlines on such devolution, given the urgent need for affordable, integrated public transport for residents, especially lower-income households.

THEMASTERPLAN

The Master Planreaffirms "the future devolution of urban rail to municipalities, guided by aNational Devolution Strategy" as an important development in national rail policy (section 3.10).

“There are also plans for a national Rail Planning Unitto oversee the devolution (section 13.4).

“The plan further praises Cape Town’sproactive stationprecinct planning, an "aspect [that] needs to be driven by the metros and local authorities working with [the railagency] Prasaasisnow done by Cape Town."

This ispart of the metro’s long-term vision for upgraded station precincts, including affordable housing, over the next two decades.

“The draftMaster Plan is silent on devolution time frames, and our City’s submission will call for clear and urgent deadlines. Cape Town stands ready to be the first metro to run itslocal trains, and we are encouraged that the Master Plan acknowledges our City’s Rail Business Plan and proactive planning.

"In time we want to see Capetonians using just one ticket to hop from trainto

MyCitibus and other forms ofpublictransport.Only capable metroscan deliver a safe,reliable and affordable one-ticket system in line with our constitutionalmandate for integrated publictransport."

The National Master Plan cites research fromCape Town’s Rail Business Plan, which found thatlowerincome householdswould saveanestimated R932m a year if trains were working as theyshould in adevolved, integrated transport system.

City feasibility studies into aviable devolutionhandover foundthatPrasa and national government firstneeded to restore Cape Town’s rail network operationsto620 000 daily passenger trips, which existed priortothe steady collapseofrailover the last decade.

PARTNERSMADEITPOSSIBLE

"The City’s Rail Business Plan explored nine devolution scenarios, identifying the three mostviable options," saidMayco member for Urban MobilityRob Quintas.

"All viable optionsinvolve the devolutionofrail services, associatedassets and infrastructure to the City with the participationofthe private sectoroperating servicesona contractualorcomprehensive concessionbasis

“The Business Plan also rules outlessviable devolution scenarioswhere infrastructure remainsowned and managed by Prasa, and where the City operates the rail service rather thanthe private sector.

“The City also needs to have authorityover fare setting, accesstolong-term national grant funding and to generate localrevenue through publicprivate partnerships and commercialisation.”

“Withoutpropershoes, children risk cuts, infections, andinjury,and ill-fitting or worn-out shoescan alsocause long-term foot problems, affecting theirphysical development and mobility. This represents amajor obstaclefor children’s education,” says DelanieBezuidenhout, general manager of My WalkMade with Soul.

“You’d be surprised howmuch apair of shoes affectsa child’s education. With shoes on their feet, children are more likely to attend school consistently, concentrate better in class, and participate

fully in school life. We have seen what a simple pair of shoes means for achild in quintile one and two schools, wherethese necessities remain out of reach for many families.”

Over166 586kg of PVC from drip bags and tubing sorted safely at thesehospitals have been diverted from landfill to date through this circular economy inspired school shoe project, which supportslocal manufacturing and jobcreation alongside social and environmental sustainability.

ATALENTED CAST OF 53 YOUNG PERFORMERS BRINGS ANNIEJRTOLIFE ON STAGEIN TABLE VIEW THIS MAY