TygerBurger | Table View | E-edition | 8 July 2026

R366minvested ininfrastructure

The City of CapeTown hasproposed adraft capital budget of more than R366 millionfor community services infrastructure in the2026/27 financial year, targeting upgrades and expansions across libraries, clinics, sports facilities,parks andcemeteries.

The four departments within the Community Services andHealth directorate—Recreationand Parks,City Health, Library andInformation Services, and Community Artsand Culture Development —have been allocated a combined draft capital budget of R366 381 000.

DRAFTCAPITALBUDGETALLOCATED

Key projectsinthe proposed allocation include major upgradestocemeteries, swimming pools,stadium infrastructure and librariesacross themetro.

The topfive capitalprojects are:

. Cemetery Upgrades –R63.5 million

. Swimming Pool Upgrades –R20 million

. Vygieskraal Stadium Cycling Track –R20 million

. Rebuild of Suider-Strand Library –R19.5 million

. Strandfontein Pavilion Refurbishment –R9 million

FOCUSONKEY COMMUNITYPROJECTS

Additional planned projects include upgradestothe Delft Clinic and Hartleyvale Stadium, planning for the Parkwood Community Hall, expansion of theLwandle Library, restoration of theBrown’s Farm Library,and further upgradesatthe Tafelsig Clinic.

Construction of synthetic pitches in Blue Downsand Westridgeisalso expected to begin, with completion planned for the 2027/28 financial year.

UPGRADES

The City says expanding burial capacity remains akey priority as Cape Town continues to grow, with ongoing work to expandexisting cemeteries and develop new facilities in areas including Strand, Kuils River, Mitchells Plain and parts of theSouthern Suburbs.

Aphased refurbishment of the Khayelitsha cemetery boundary fencing is alsoplanned due to vandalism.

At the same time,investment in swimming pool infrastructure continues as part of an ongoingrevitalisation programme, with upgrades across areas

FROMPAGE1

“Our metro policeand law enforcement areout acrossthe city monitoring for any disruption attempts.

“CapeTown is theonly working city in SA.

“Today we will keep it that way and uphold law and order.”

He addedthat thepublic transport systemreflected normal activity, noting that thebus was well utilised and city operations remained uninterrupted.

LAWENFORCEMENTDEPLOYEDASPRECAUTION

City safety and security teams, including metro police, traffic officers, and law enforcement units, were deployed across keypoints in themetro to monitor for any attempted disruptions linked to the planned protest activity.

Officialssaid the situation remained calm, with no major incidents reported duringthe early hours of the morning.

MILLSURGESCALMAHEADOFPLANNEDMARCH

Jonathan Mills previously addressed communityconcernsduring an earlier planned march linked to Parklands, urging residents to remain calm and avoid escalatingtensions.

He said at the time: “Regarding the widely circulatedMarch &and March graphic callingfor aprotest in Parklands, Iwould like to appeal to the community

“Thesespacesstrengthen communitiesandimprovequality oflife.”

-Francine Higham

including Khayelitsha, Bellville, Strand, Athlone, Gugulethu, Blue Downs, Atlantis, Mnandi and Sea Point.

Recent completed upgrades include facilities in Goodwood, Bellville South, Newlands, Lentegeur, Delft, Langa and Manenberg.

ONGOINGMAINTENANCEPRIORITIES

Beyond major capital projects, the directorate manages more than 3000 parks,102 libraries and hundreds of community facilities across the city.

To support this, an additional R150 million top-up budget has been allocated for repairs and maintenance, bringing the total maintenance budget to more than R950 million.

Mayco member for community services and health, Francine Higham, saidthe investment reflectsthe City’s commitment to improving public infrastructurethat residentsrely on daily.

“This budget reflectsthe City’s continued commitment to investing in public infrastructure that residentsrely on every day. From libraries and community halls to parks,sports facilities, clinics and cemeteries, thesespaces strengthen communities and improve quality of life for all our residents,”said Higham.

“This investment is about protecting, upgrading and expanding thosepublic facilities so that they remain safe and accessible to communities across Cape Town. We call on residentstohelp protect these public assets by reporting vandalism, theft or suspicious activity so that everyone can continue to benefit from them.”

to remain calm. While thereisalot of attention being drawn to the area… we will not tolerate hatred and violence.”

Mills confirmed that securitystructures were on alert and coordinated across agencies, adding: “The local security cluster along with the City and the police are all aware and on alert.

So thosefew who peacefully march will be allowed to do so.”

LARGENUMBERSNOTEXPECTED

He further noted that authorities were not expecting large numbers based on previous similar demonstrations in other parts of the city, and said community safetynetworks, including law enforcement and private security structures, were fully engaged.

“We will be monitoring closely, we will be taking nothing for granted… People who are concerned should avoid the area for acouple of hours.”

SITUATIONREMAINSCONTAINED

Authorities said Cape Town’s safety and securitynetwork remains active and coordinated as monitoring continues across affected routes.

Officials reiterated that while planned protest movements are being tracked, early indications suggest limited disruption and normal activity across most of the city.

Authorities areappealing to residents to report sick or dead seabirds whilekeeping asafedistance to help curb thespreadofbirdflu.

Authorities are appealing to residents to report sick or dead seabirds whilekeeping asafedistancetohelp curb thespreadofbirdflu.

Avianflucases increasing

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Ascases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, continue to climb across South Africa, conservation authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and help protectvulnerable seabirds by avoiding contact with sick or dead birds andreporting suspected cases.

The disease is highly contagious among birds and has resulted in significant mortality in wild bird populations.

Conservation authorities are appealing to residents and visitors to help protect both wildlife and their pets by avoiding contact with sick or dead birds.

DISEASECONTINUESTOSPREAD

HPAI is aserious and currently incurable disease in wild birds.

Whereinfection is confirmed, humane euthanasiaisoften the most compassionatecourse of action to prevent unnecessary suffering and limitthe spread of the virus to other birds.

CapeNatureCEO Dr Ashley Naidoosaid seabirds play an important role in the health of marine andcoastalecosystems.

“Seabirds are important indicators of the health of our marine andcoastal ecosystems

“Byreporting suspected cases ofavian influenzaand following safety guidelines, members of the publiccan support conservation agencies in responding effectively while reducing riskstowildlife andpeople.”

KEEPPETSAWAY

Authorities stress thatthe public should never touch, move or attempt to rescue sick or dead birds.Dogsand other pets should also be kept well away from affectedbirds to reduce the riskof exposure.

If abird is encountered, itshould be observed from asafe distance without causing further disturbance.

Bylawtacklesillegalbuildings

In June last year the City Council approved the revised municipal planning bylaw. Theamendment enablesthe City to impound moveable property, such as machinery andequipment, being used for illegal building work when an order to stopwork is ignored. According to theCity it helps clamp down on building contraventions.

Eddie Andrews, Deputy Mayor and Maycomemberfor spatialplanning and environment, said the impoundment provision was addedtothe bylaw to give theCity immediaterecourse when owners continueillegal building work despite a stop-work order.

"Some owners ignore the orders and continuetheir construction work, as they are prepared to pay the fines involved. These matters alsooften take considerable timetoconclude in court, and the surrounding communities are impacted while we seek legal recourse."

provision in the municipal planning bylaw we can deal decisively with those who display aflagrant disregard of our building and planning regulations. This is agame changer for us. Contractors do not want to risk having theirequipment impounded when the property owner has not followed due process to get approved building plans. This new enforcement regime is getting intohigher gear,and we can already see amind-shift taking place."

HOWINSPECTIONSWORK

. Building inspectors visit sites for compulsory inspections of the foundation, drainage, and upon completion. In complex or problematic cases, multiple inspections are required. Deviations from approved building plans, known as unauthorised work, are mostly identified at completion. These then require followup inspections to ensure compliance or enforcement

PUBLIC URGED TO AVOID CONTACT WITH SICK OR DEAD BIRDS

WHATTODOIFYOUFINDABIRD

Residents whocome acrosssickordead birds areencouragedtorecord important informationsuchasthe location, date, species (if known),the number of birds affected andany unusualbehaviour, including tremors or disorientation. Photographs or videos may alsobetaken, provided thebird is not disturbed.

Reports shouldthenbesubmitted to the appropriate authority.

Live seabirds should be reported to SANCCOB on 078 638 3731, while dead seabirds canbereported using the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s online Avian Influenza Reporting Tool.Multiple deadbirds found togethershould be reported to the relevant municipality, CapeNature,SANParks, landowner or local stranding network for saferemoval.

Live birds of otherspecies should be reported to the local State Veterinarian, while deadbirds should be reported to the relevant conservation authority.

RARERISKTOHUMANS

Although certain strains of HPAI can infect humans, infections remain rare Authoritiesadvise anyone who hashad potentialexposure to sickordeadbirds andlaterdevelops flu-like symptoms to seek medical advice promptly.

Conservation authorities emphasise that everyreport plays an important role in monitoring theoutbreak, identifying affected areas andcoordinating an effective response By following safety guidelines and reporting suspected cases, the public can help protect South Africa’s seabirds,other wildlife andthe country’sfragile coastal ecosystems.

Andrews said the City can now impound themovable property of the developer, theowner,and the contractor involved in theillegal work. In allfour cases to date wherenotices of intent to impound were issued, the illegal building work stopped immediately."

EARLYRESULTSANDCOMMON CONTRAVENTIONS

Since the start of theimpoundment project in March2026: Four intention to impoundment notices have been served in Diep River, HoutBay, Milnerton and Mowbray. No actualimpoundments have takenplaceasyet, as the illegal building work hasstoppedimmediately after the notices were served.

TheCity has 76 building inspectors who conduct on average 16 000 inspections per month at building sitesacross the metro.

The mostcommon contraventions are buildingwithoutanapproved plan, or deviatingfrom approvedplans. These are mostly by private individuals.

ACITY-WIDECHALLENGE

"Unfortunately, there is aculture of disrespect towards the rules and regulationsofthe municipal planning bylaw, nationalbuilding regulations and thedevelopmentmanagement scheme that assigns zoning rights," Andrews said.

"This is achallenge across the whole city, and not asingle suburb or planning area can be singled out.

"The issuingofnotices to stop illegal buildingwork is alsonot asimple matter. It is sometimes achallenge to determine ownership, or to gethold of the owner, as thenoticemustbeserved on the owner. Sometimes ourinspectors are prevented from entering sites to conduct followup inspections. Aseparate enforcement process is thenneeded just to gain access and check whether there is compliance with thenotice. Court processes also take along timetoconclude, and thisfrustrates surrounding neighbours andthe City alike.

"Luckily, with theimpoundment

. Inspections to monitor progress are done at sites where work has been stalled for awhile, or where issues may arise

. Inspectors also conduct inspections where acomplaint is lodged with the City about possible illegal building work, or deviations from approved plans

. Demolition orders are issued through a Western Cape High Court procedure. The extent of the contraventions determines whether the city will pursue this route, which is usually adrawn-out and costly process

. TheCityobtains, on average, two demolition orders per year.

ILLEGALBUILDINGSTATISTICS:

1JANUARYTO26JUNE2026

. 3883 complaints received: 925 (Tygerberg district); 620 (Southern district); 502 (Mitchells Plain/Khayelitsha district); 407 (Cape Flats district); 387 (Northern district); 372 (Blaauwberg district); 361 (Table Bay district); and 309 (Helderberg district)

. Most complaints related to illegal building work (2 021);boundary walls (256);building after hours (137); and building rubble (121)

. 12 566 inspections were conducted across the city during this period

. 1384 notices were served as aresult of illegal building work during thisperiod

Cityhonoursfallenheroes

The City of Cape Town has honouredthe bravery and sacrifice of staff members who lost their lives in the lineofduty during itsannual Remembrance Day Service at the Civic Centre on Saturday4July.

CEREMONY

The annual ceremony is held alongside the memorial wall, unveiled in2017, which commemorates enforcement and emergency services personnel who died while serving their communities.

This year, the names of four additional staff members were added, bringing the total number of names on the wall to 51, datingback to 1907.

HONOURINGLIVESOFSERVICE

Executive Mayor GeordinHill-Lewis saidthe annual commemorationserves as areminder of the extraordinary commitment shown by those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.

“Every name we remember today represents alifeofservice.

“A person who chose aprofession that askedmore of them than most careers ever will.

They understood that wearing the uniform meant accepting risks thatmany people wouldnever willingly face. That choice alone deserves our respect,” said Hill-Lewis.

He said whether they served in metro police, law enforcement,Traffic Services, Fire &Rescue Service or Disaster Risk Management, they all shared acommon purpose.

“These menand women accepted a simple but profound responsibility:to protect others, even when doing so placed them in harm’s way.”

REMEMBRANCEDAY

COMMEMMORATES PUBLIC SERVANTSWHO LOST THEIR LIVES IN THE LINEOFDUTY

FOURNAMESADDEDTOMEMORIALWALL

The City honouredfourstaff members whosenames have now been permanently added to the memorial wall. They are:

. lawenforcementofficer Mogamat Shakeel Abrahams, who died in amotor vehicle accident on 17 August 2025;

. MetroPolice Neighbourhood Safety Officer Tyler Lamb, who died on 7 November2025 after falling from aroof during astruggle with asuspectin Kensington;

.FirefighterMario Aisley, who suffered afatalheart attack while on duty on 13 May 2026; and

.LEAP officerLyle Thomas, who was offduty when he stopped to assistatan accident sceneafter identifying himselfto police before beingstruckbyanalleged drunk driver.

ALASTINGLEGACY

The memorial wall nowbears the names of 51 City staff members who have diedin the line of duty overmore thana century, recognising their serviceand ensuring their sacrifices are notforgotten.

The ceremonyalso acknowledged staffmembers who died while off duty, including YonkePakade,Luyolo Mene, Nopinki April, Gavin du Preez and Francois Slabbert.

CALLTOSUPPORTONEANOTHER

Mayco memberfor safety andsecurity, JP Smith, thanked City staff for their

dedication and encouraged colleagues to continue supporting oneanother.

“Today is an opportunity for us to celebrateand honour members who passed in thelineofduty, but we must never lose sightofthe fact that thosewho passed off duty alsoleft an impact,were also somebody’s friend, someone’s partner, and someone’s family member.”

He urgedstaff to continue looking out for oneanother, saying that by guiding, encouraging andhelping each other,“together, we are stronger as a directorate.”

Tree plantingboosts biodiversity

The public wereinvited to attend aspecial tree-planting event at Olienhout Park, located next to thePlattekloof Duck Pond in Plattekloof recently

During the event, the Cityof Cape Town’s parks and recreation department planted 12 Trees of theYear, Wild olive trees(Olea africana). These indigenous trees will, over time, provide shade, support biodiversity and enhance the

natural environment of the park, says Cheryl Visser, ward 1councillor.

The event took placeonFriday 26 June at the Frikkie Knoetze Arboretum at thepark. It was attended by community members,stakeholders alongwith Visser, Elmarie Linde,Member of Parliament andHelga Easom, chair of the Plattekloof, Welgelegen, Panorama andKleinbosch (PWP) Ratepayers Association.

Airportjoins forceswithUS

CapeWinelandsAirportand Stellenbosch University (US) forged a strategic partnership forsmart and sustainabledevelopment. They have entered into acooperation agreementaimedatadvancing innovation under theshared themesof“smart”and “green” development.

Cape Winelands Airport, formerly Fisantekraal Airfield, is aprivately ledairport development about 13km outside Durbanville. Currently serving as ageneral aviation facility and a popular base for flight training, plans are underway to expand and to develop astate-of-the-art,green,smart and innovative aviation precinct that will serve as amodern gateway for the region.

JOINTCOMMITMENT

The partnership reflects ajoint commitment to foster sustainable growth anddrive academic advancement, according to ajointmedia release by Cape Winelands Airport and US.

The agreementoutlines abroad range of collaborative focus areas,including agriculture and food processing, spatial planning, transport andlogistics, space and aviation research,and theintegration of airport operations with urban development.

Through this partnership, both parties will actively seek opportunities to align academic research, industry expertise, and infrastructure development to address real-world challengesand unlock new opportunities, accordingtothe media release.

Cape WinelandsAirport expansiongetsacademic boostfromStellenbosch University.

educational impact.Byworking closely with Stellenbosch University, we are creating aplatform to explore futurefocused solutions that benefitthe aviation sector, students, and the broader regional economy.”

ENGINEERINGMANAGEMENTPROGRAMME

Theinitial areas of potential collaboration include building student capacity through applied research opportunities linked to the airport’s development and operational environment This may include research projects for master’s studentswithin Stellenbosch University’s engineering management programme focused on areas of strategic interest to Cape Winelands Airport.

Thepartnership will further explore opportunities to establish facilities and spaces that support testing, innovation, prototyping, and future productionrelated activities linked to aviation, infrastructure, logistics, and smart technologies.

“The airport expansion also presents opportunities to contribute towards the development of future aviation talent pipelines within SouthAfrica. Through collaboration with Stellenbosch University and broader industry stakeholders, Cape Winelands Airport is interested to explore

Communityconcernstackled

KAILINDANIELS

KAILIN.DANIELS@NOVUSMEDIA.CO.ZA

Ward 113councillorSue van der Linde saysthe ward remained peaceful during theplanned protests relatingtoundocumentedimmigration last week, while several community issues were addressedthrough oversight visitsand engagement with residents.

Van der Linde provided asummary of her work over thepast week, highlighting service delivery,safety, floodmitigation andcommunity support initiatives.

WARDREMAINSCALMDURINGPROTESTS

The week began with asecurity briefing led by Mayco member for safety and security,JPSmith, ahead of the planned demonstrations

Van der Linde said she shared the relevant information withresidents to help them prepare.

She later joined fellow Subcouncil 3 councillors on oversight visits across their wards during the protests.

"I am pleased to reportthat Ward 113 remained calm throughoutthe day.

“The roads and residential areas were notably quiet, and thedemonstrations remained largely peaceful, withno significant incidents reported by law enforcement," said Van der Linde.

ILLEGALOCCUPATIONADDRESSED

The councillor said she also worked with neighbourhood safety officers to relocate rough sleepers from privately owned land near Eagle Park.

This after receiving several complaints from residentsabout fighting and concerns that aminor child was living onthe site. The area was subsequentlycleaned, while requests have been submitted for

COUNCILLOR HIGHLIGHTS WARD PROGRESS AND SAFETY EFFORTS

the property to be declared aproblem site andfor invasive vegetation to be removed to discourage future illegal occupation

Vander Linde alsoinspected an apparently abandoned property after concerns wereraised by residents The matter has sincebeen referred tothe relevant City departments for investigation.

FLOODMITIGATIONDISCUSSED

Last Friday, Van der Linde chaireda meetingbetween aHeronWaters resident andCityofficials to discuss possible flood mitigationmeasures.

She saidseveralinnovative proposals were presented to help improve protection against future floodinginthe area.

Thecouncillor alsovisited the new gender-based violencevictim support unit, where she is assistingwith furnishing a dedicated children's room.

She saidcreating awelcomingand safe environmentfor children affected by traumaisanimportantpart of supporting vulnerable families.

FENCEREPLACEMENTCONFIRMED

Residents of Waves Edge were updated on plans to replace the security fence alongsidethe R27.

Vander Linde confirmed thatfunding forthe replacementhas been includedin the current financial year's budget.

She also mentioned in astatement thatresidents' feedback on the preferred fencing design would be shared withthe

AntonKleyn is by die Suid-Afrikaanse Lugmagmuseumop Ysterplaat

KlassiekeVolkswagensmaak

gereed virwinterrit

Dielugverkoelde enjins word warm gemaak, terwylklassieke Volkswagenentoesiastevoorberei vir ’n gesinsvriendelike winterkonvooi, watop Saterdag 11 Julie deur dele van die WesKaap gaanry.

The Wild BuggersBeach Buggy Club hetsyPropellers &Pistons-winterrit aangekondig en nooi eienaars van duinebesies,Baja Bugs en “ouskool”VW Kewers om aan die ontspanne daguitstappie deel te neem.

KONVOOIBEGININMILNERTON

Dierit begin om 09:00byWoodbridgeeiland in Milnerton, waar voertuie bymekaarkom voordat die konvooiom 09:30 vertrek.

Van daar af beweeg die groep na die Suid-Afrikaanse Lugmagmuseum op Ysterplaat, waar deelnemers die geleentheid kry om historiese vliegtuieen helikopterstebesigtig.

Ná die museumbesoek ry die konvooina die Paarl toe vir ’n geselligemiddagete by CapetoRio Fisheries, bekend virsyvis en tjips.

Die roete kombineer plaaslike

geskiedenismet van die Wes-Kaap se mooisteoop paaie

OOPVIRKLASSIEKEVW-ENTOESIASTE

Die organiseerders sê die doel van die rit is om die plaaslike motorkultuur te vier en eienaarsaan te moedig om hulvoertuie weer op die pad te bring.

Die geleentheid is oop vir alle lugverkoelde Volkswagen-klassiekersen is ontwerp as ’n rustige, gesinsvriendelike daguitstappie “Dielugverkoelde enjins word warm gemaak, en ons soek nogklassiekeVW’s om by ons konvooi aan te sluit,”sêAnton Kleyn vanThe Wild Buggers Beach Buggy Club. “Dit salfantasties wees as plaaslike eienaarshul motors onderdie stof uithaal en saammet ons die winterrit geniet.” Kleyn en sy groenKango-duinebesie, “Shrek”, sal ook deel van die konvooi wees en by die LugmagmuseumopYsterplaat te sien wees as deel van die voorbereidings vir die rit.

. KontakMickeyby082 4977721ofbesoek https://wildbuggers.co.za/next-event/vir meer inligting of om aantesluit

City's roads infrastructure management department.

REGISTERTOVOTE

The councillor alsoencouraged residents to register aheadofthe final voter registration weekend on 1and 2August.

"Although next week marks the second week of Councilrecess, Iwill continue workinginthe ward, attending to resident concerns, conducting oversight, and drivingservicedelivery,"she said.

Shethankedresidents for their continued support andencouraged them to continue reporting servicedelivery issues and engagingwithher office.

of illegal occupants in

City breakstourism records

CapeTown’s tourism sectorhas recorded alandmark year, with anew report revealing record visitor numbers,revenue andjob creation across the city.

Cape Town Tourism’s 2025 Economic Value of Tourism report shows the sector generated approximately R24,5 billionin directtourism spend during 2025, with R19 billion of that coming from international visitors.

Tourism accounted for 6,3%ofthe city’s total gross value added and sustained more than 106 000 jobs.

“Tourism is one of the most powerful tools we have for creating jobs and driving economic growth in Cape Town,” said Mayco member for economic growth and tourism James Vos. “These results show that ourstrategy is working. Byfocusing on theright marketsand campaigns that convert interest into bookings, we are seeing stronger growth in international visitor numbers and spending.”

Data from Airports Company South Africa showed arecord 11,1 million two-way passengers travelled through Cape Town International Airport in2025, withapproximately 3,3million being international passengers, a7%year-onyearincrease.

Foreign overnight visitors reached 1,44 million, staying an average of9,5 nights andspending around R1 390per day.

Topsource markets included the United Kingdom,which alone accounted for more than 210 000 visitors, followed by the

United States, Germany, the Netherlands, France and Australia

Vossaidthe City’s new Tourism Framework 2030 aims to increase visitor spending to R34 billion anddouble tourism jobs toover 200 000 by the end of the decade.

“Cape Town doesnot stand still. We invest, innovate andcompete. My ambition is to see tourism create opportunitiesinevery community and support more jobs acrossour city.”

However, the report highlighted asharp contrast in domestic tourism performance Local tourism spend fell approximately 32% fromR8billion in 2024 to R5,5 billion in 2025, despite domestic overnight visitor numbers remainingclose to international figures at around1,42million. The average stayfor domestic visitors dropped from 5,2 nights to 4,4 nights, with daily spend declining to R882.

To counter the decline in domestic spend, Cape Town Tourism haslaunched three targetedinitiatives, according to Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy Adomesticcampaign encouraginglocal travelunder thetagline“Youdon’t need aholiday, you need My Cape Town”; a regionalpartnership with Zimbabwe and Namibia that hasalready grown arrivals by 17%; and the “One Small World” internationalbrandplatform targeting high-value long-haul travellers.”

“We do not wait for conditions to change, we go out andcreate them,” he concluded.

Gamingtournament headstoTableBay

CapeTown gamersare set foramajor e-sports showdown as the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience arrives at Table BayMallfrom10to12July, bringing three days of competitive gaming,live challenges and prize-winning opportunities to centre court.

The event forms part of one of South Africa’s largest mall-based gaming tournaments, givingplayers of all skill levels the chance to compete in an accessible and high-energyenvironment.

THREE-DAYGAMINGSHOWDOWN

The MTN SHIFT series features an overallprize pool of R350 000, with competitors battlingitout across multiple titlesand formatsduring the in-centre event

Players will compete for mall-level prizes as well as qualification spots for national finals later in the year.

The competitionbegan on 5July with the EA FC 26™ online qualifier, where the top fourplayers will secured automatic entry into theTable BayMall finals.

The winner of themall final will receive aR2500 Table BayMall gift cardand advance to thenational football final at Canal Walk in August, whereaR50 000 prize pool awaits.

Second and third place will receive

EXPERIENCE BRINGS THREE DAYS OF GAMING,LIVE CHALLENGES, COMPETITIONS TO TABLE BAYMALL

gift cards worth R1 500 and R1 000 respectively.

MULTIPLEGAMINGFORMATSFEATURED

Beyond EA FC 26™,the weekend event will include avariety of gaming experiences such as Beat Saber, aFighting Cup featuring Brawlhalla, Tekken and Street Fighter 6, as well as free-play gaming stations.

Visitors can also look forward to adedicated PC Gaming Zone and a Keyboard Rebuild Race, adding interactive and skill-based challenges for participants.

TheMTN SHIFTGaming Experience forms part of an eight-centre national series, with winners from each mall advancing towardthe national finals.

Other upcoming venues include Clearwater, Capegate and Canal Walk, each hosting both online qualifiers and incentre tournaments throughout Julyand August thisyear.

. Formoreinformation,visit: https://www. tablebaymall.co.za/events

Youngleaders’authenticvoicesheard

SISKAMARTIN

“Initiatives such as theMatriculant of theYear competitionaffirm to youngpeople thattheir voices matter.”

This is according to LeoniWessels, relationship executive at Absa Premium Business Banking, explaining the bank’s motivation for supporting the University of the Free State (UFS) and Novus Media’s competition. The first entries have already been received.

“When young people are given the opportunity to express themselves and receive recognition, it builds confidence, leadership and identity. In acountry facing diverse challenges, thiscompetition reassuresyoungpeople that their background or circumstances do not define their future.”

Two of last year’s finalists, Emile Dawson and Jané de Villiers, both medical students, agreethat taking part in the final round significantly boosted theirselfconfidence.

“Taking part was amajor stepping stone in building my confidence. It pushed me out of my comfort zone. Irealised thatto overcome stage fright, you simply have to stand up and startspeaking,” says Dawson,aformer learner of the William Pescod High School in Kimberley.

For De Villiers, aformer learner of Hoërskool Witteberg in Bethlehem, participating in the competition gaveher the opportunity to discover anew and better version of herself.

“It took me beyond the boundaries ofmy comfort zone and gave my confidence an enormous boost.”

Wessels says the bank’s involvement in the competition reflects itscommitment to being an active force for growth and progress in South Africa andacross Africa

“By supportingyoungpeople, we help maketheir stories visible andcreate opportunitiesfor them to developtheir potential. This aligns with ourpurpose of making ameaningful and tangible contributiontowards building sustainable, thriving communities.”

The bank hopes its sponsorship will remind every finalist that their journey is meaningful and their potentialislimitless.

“Through this platform,wewanttohelp open doors,amplify their unique stories andinspire them to makeanimpact. We want them to leave believing that their story is only just beginning– andthat it matters.”

Wessels,who alsoserves as oneof the competition’s judges, says the top candidates understandsomething very special: “They’re not tryingtobesomeone else; they’re authentic –they embrace their ownstory!”

Dawsonalsoencourages finalists to enjoy theexperienceand simply be themselves.

“Grabthe opportunity anduse it to get to know yourself better, challenge yourself andbuild lastingfriendships. Dream big andenjoy every moment!”says De Villiers

Both students alsospoke aboutthe friendships they formed during the competition, whichmade thetransition to university much easier when they arrived on campus at thebeginning of theyear

ENTERNOW

Matric learners from acrossthe country

whohave excelled in academics, culture and sport, and who intend to study at the UFS next year, are invited to enter. Scholarships and prize money worth approximately R500 000 are up for grabs for thetop 25 participants,thanks to thesponsors UFSStudent Recruitment Services,the Kovsie AlumniTrust,Forvis Mazars, Absa and Pick nPay Preller Walk. Learners may enterthemselves or be nominated by theirschools, provided theentry forms are signed by the school principal and bear the official school stamp. Atotal of 25 semifinalistswill be selected, from whom 14 finalists will advance to the final round, to be held in Bloemfonteinfrom 5to7 October. The winner andfinalists will receive prize money,scholarships and gifts, while thesemifinalists will also receive prizes and scholarships. Entriesclose on 31 July.

. Scan theQRcode to downloadthe entryform, complete it andreturn it to Linda Greyling at greylinl@ufs.ac.za. Shecan also be contacted formoreinformation.

Sport is asource of hope,pride,unity

Sport is often described as agame, butfor millions of people it is much more than that. It is asource of hope, pride, identity and unity.

In South Africa, where ourhistory is markedbydivision and inequality,sport has proven its abilitytobringpeople together in ways that politics and social programmes cannot.

It reminds us that despite our differences, we share common dreamsand emotions.

Just afew weeks ago, the nation celebrated when Bafana Bafana made South African football history by reaching the Fifa World Cup knockout stages for the firsttimebydefeating SouthKorea1-0 in theirfinal groupgame.

Theirdisappointing defeat toCanada in thelast32ofthe competition,whichsaw them bowing outofthe tournament, serves as aperfectexample.

As thefinal whistle blew, millions of SouthAfricans experienced the same feeling of heartbreak.Inthatmoment,we were not divided by language, religion or social status. We were simply South Africans supporting our team.

This is the unique power of sport. It creates moments where differences disappear, even if only for awhile. It allows strangers to celebratetogether, comfortone another and believe in something bigger than themselves.

Sport has the abilitytounite communities around acommon purpose

South Africa has witnessedthis power before. The1995 RugbyWorld Cup remainsone of the greatest examples of

SPORTGIVEUSREASONSTO BELIEVEINONEANOTHER

sport promoting national unity. When the Springboks lifted theWebb EllisCup, it was more than asporting victory.It became asymbol of reconciliation.

Former President Nelson Mandela understood that sportcould healwounds andbuild bridges wherewords alone could not.

Sportalso inspires the next generation. Young athletes learnvaluable life skills such as discipline, teamwork, perseverance and respect.

Many children growing up in disadvantaged communitiessee successful sportsmen and women as proof thathard work anddetermination canovercome difficult circumstances.

For some, the sportsfieldbecomes a place of opportunityand hope rather than despair

However, the power of sport should not only be celebrated during victories. Defeat also teaches important lessons. Losing remindsusthat successrequires resilience, patience and continuous improvement. Bafana Bafana's recent loss may haveended the dream of lifting atrophy, but it also showed howdeeply South Africans care about theirnational team.The pain of defeat is evidence ofthe passion and unity that football continues to inspire.

As anation, we should continue investing in school sport,community facilities andathlete development. Sporting success doesnot happen by chance. It requires proper planning, funding and support from government, businesses and communities. It requires us to recognise sport as an investment in social cohesion rather than merely entertainment.

The true value of sport cannot be measured by trophies alone.Its greatest achievementlies in itsability to unite people.

Sportgive us reasons to believe in one anotherand in the nation we are building. -KAYLYNNEBANTOM

Kommentaar // Comments

Kommentaar // Comments

Rietvleihas more to offer

Recent discussion around thetemporaryclosure of wateractivities at Rietvlei mayhavecreated the impression that the reserveitselfwas closed. This was not the case.The area where wateractivities take placerepresents only asmallportion of Rietvlei, and it wasonlythis section that wastemporarilyclosed The663-hectareNatureReserve remained open to the public throughout andcontinues to offer awide rangeofattractions forvisitors. Rietvlei is afavourite destination forbirdwatchers, with its well-maintained birdhideprovidingexcellent viewingopportunities.

Thereserve also offers picnic areas, line fishing (with the required permit), andeducational activities forchildren during school holidays,centred aroundthe wooden education centrebuiltand maintained by the FriendsofRietvlei.

We also host regulartalks by conservation experts on topics of environmentalinterest.Itisworth remembering that,thanks to the efforts of dedicated residents in 1984,Rietvlei wasprotected from being developed intoaresidential marina.

Today, it is atreasured natural area that supports pelicans, flamingos andaround165 other birdspecies.

In this regard,the City's Bayside Canalproject,which aimstoimprovestormwatermanagement before waterenters Rietvlei, is awelcome initiativethatwillhelp safeguard the health of this importantecosystem.

We encourageresidents to enjoyall that Rietvlei hastooffer —includingwater sports when conditions allow—while continuingtosupport the conservation of this unique natural asset forfuture generations.

of Rietvlei

NELIS VISAGIE, Friends

Call centre rises to the occasion in Maystorms

Following the devastation that followedthe storm around 11 May, it washeartwarmingtosee residents coming outtohelpthose who were most affected by the wind and torrential rain Weather eventssuchasthisone requirethe City to be fullyoperational in handlingservicecalls and emergencycalls.Weoften rely on our residents to be our eyes on the groundalertingustoemergencies.

As the Maycomember forcorporateservices, Iam extremelyproud of howour call centreagents riseto the occasion.

In Mayalone theCity's Customer Relations Department recorded atotal of 271940 customer interactions between 1and 28 May2026.Thisexceptional numberdemonstrates the high demand formunicipal services andthe importance of multiplecustomer engagementchannels.The interactions included 116 758 telephone calls, 36 990 emails, 109 125WhatsApp engagements,and 9067 SMS interactionsacrossthe City'sAccountsand General,Water,and Electricity servicequeues. Thesenumbers do not includecalls made to the 107safetyand securitynumber

If youare in need of aserviceorincaseofan emergency, youcan contact the City via logginga C3

request:

Theprimarygoalofservicerequests is to ensure effectiveservicedeliverythroughoutCape Town. If you wouldliketosubmit aservicerequest,report afault in your area or loganissue, youcan do so via ourcustomer call centreat0860 103089 or online at www capetown.gov.za/servicerequests. Youcan also useour WhatsApp number060 018 1505

While we understand the distress of being, forinstance,without powerorwater,I wouldliketoremind peoplenot to lognumerous servicerequests on the same issue.Itcauses bottlenecksinthe system

As we buildaCitythatisabeaconofhope,it'salso areality that in extreme emergencysituationsthereis ahierarchyofresponses, rather like the triage system that operates in healthcarefacilities. Theaggravation of nothavingpowerina safe domestic setting has to be weighed against the risksofliveelectric wires having been blownintoroads.

Iwouldliketothank those residents who helped out their neighbours, donated food andblankets to those displaced by storm damage.Together we can indeed buildabetterfuture.

THERESA UYS, Durbanville

Advocatingfor motorcycle safety,licensing

With the petrol prices rising, most likely we will see moremotorcycles aroundasanalternativecommute option. Ican remember in the 80swhenmynow husband used to travel with his50cctovisit me,almostgot pulledoverevery daytohavehis motorcycle licencechecked.

He gotsousedtoitthathemade sure he had it with him, becauseinthose days therewas no licencecard like these days.Itseems that the only time thatweget pulledoveriswhenwetravel long distanceswith the bikes or to abikeevent

Thesecheckswillalsoclear up the general question everyone hasabout, especially the motorcycledelivery riders goingaroundand that “theysurelydonot have alicence”, becauseoftheir ridingskills Iamall forthese checkspurelyfor the fact that anyone who does nothavealicence, no matter what vehicle, should notride andshouldnot be on the road. Ialsofeel stronglyaboutthe fact that everyone who gets intoavehicletodrivealsoshouldhaveat leastthird-partyinsuranceaswell.

MOTORCYCLE COMMUTER, Philadelphia

‘KIDSINRAIN’: Carima vanden Berg,aregular Vergelegen visitor with her grandchildren,won thePeople’sChoiceaward and took second placein theCameraClass category in thefourth Essenceof Vergelegen photography contest.Outstanding black-and-white photographs capturing themanyfacetsofhistoric Vergelegen Wine Estate were unveiled at afunction forthe 25 finalists on Sunday 1July.

Hierdie is ‘n abnormalewinter

Hierdie sonnigewinter maak my bekommerd. Ek het nognooit so 'n lekker winter in Kaapstad beleefnie.Waar onsgewoonlikreg deur Junie en Julie reën en koue kry, het onsvanjaar meer sonskyn, blou lugentemperature watskaars onder 15 grade daal. Op die oog af lykdit wonderlik. Wiekla oor sonskyn? Maar togisekbekommerd.Klimaatkundiges waarsku dat die somerwat kom, een vandie warmsteooit gaan wees. As dit die winter is, watwag vir onsinFebruarie? Ek is bekommerddat onsweer te doen gaan krymet droogte,brandgevaar en waterbeperkings. Dit is lekker om noubuitetekan wees en nie elke dagnat te word nie,maar onsmoet onsoëoophou Hierdie tipe winter is nie normaal nie.Enasdie natuur iets vir onsprobeer sê,moetons maar begin luister 'N KAPENAAR WATDIE WOLKE MIS, E-pos

DemocracyinCape Town?Don’t make me laugh

Iamaratepayer andresident of Brackenfell, andIam furious. Without so much as aknock on ourdoors, without asingle conversation with the peoplewho live,work andpay ratesinthis area,the CityofCape Town hasgoneahead anderected informal trading bays at Jannie Engelbrecht Park,a park that ourcommunityhas maintained, used andlovedfor years. And when residents did raisetheir voices, we were told the projectwas approvedbackin2024. Nobody knew. Nobody wasasked. Nobody wastold. TheCity claims notices were delivered by hand andpublished in newspapers.

Ichallengethem to produce asingle signaturefrom aresident in this area confirmingreceipt

Anoticestuffed in aKraaifontein newspaper,a paper that is notevendistributed in Brackenfell, apparentlyqualifies as public participation in Cape Town today.

This is notdemocracy.This is the Citydoingexactly as it pleasesand dressing it up in bureaucratic languageafterward

We aretoldtotrust aprocess that excluded us. We aretoldtoaccept adecisionmade withoutus. And when we askquestions, we aremet with vague assurances.

TheDAlikes to present Cape Town as abeaconof good governance.But what kind of governance ignores its ownresidents, approves projects without proper public participation, andthen builds in the dead of night before the communitycan respond? If this is what passes fordemocracy in Cape Town, then we have lost something farmoreimportant than apark

CapeAirportplansraiseconcerns

“An airport that serves the world means very little if it no longer serves the peoplewho call this place home,” said André Brink, fourth-generation owner of GrootPhesantekraal Wine Estate in Durbanville WineValley and SA Farmer of the Year last year.

Brink questioned whether an airport of the scale of Cape Winelands Airport is being built in the right location.

Brink, who was named South Africa’s Farmer of the Year 2024 by Agricultural Writers SA (AWSA), was one of the speakers at ameeting about Cape Winelands Airport last Thursday of the Tygerberg Chapter of the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Stadio Higher Education.

FINDINGBALANCE

He spoke about the importance of findingabalance between development and preserving Durbanville’s unique character, history and agricultural heritage. Other speakers were Deon Cloete, executivemanaging director of CapeWinelands Aero and executive directorof RSA Aero Limited, and Jeremy Wiley of Western Cape Property Development Forum and director of De Goede Hoop Development Company.

SECONDRUNWAY

“Years ago, CapeTown International Airport reportedly

rport were unable tolandatCape TownInternational. However, if diversions are caused by adverseweather —ashappened just amonth ago, andwhich accounts formorethan 80% of such incidents,then adistance of only 25 kilometresissimply not farenough awaytoprovide an alternative.

“Cape Town already struggles to accommodate its growing population, yet it continuesto becomeincreasingly popular. Nowweare planning to bring even morepeople here.

“A 3,5km runwayisbeing built —longenough to accommodate an Airbus A380 —only 35 kilometres drive from Cape Town International Airport,” he said.

CLOSERTOSALDANHA

“Would it not have made more sense to build anairport of this

ppo by politicians whosepriorities are not always aligned with the best interests of thepeople who actually live here,and Ibelieve this is one example of that,”he said.

“Therehas been an airfield heresince the SecondWorld War, and we havelived alongside it for manyyears. Development is inevitable, and we must adapt to it. However, Iquestionwhether an airport of this scale is being built in the right location.

HOURGLASSRUNNINGOUT

“I havealways known thatthe hourglass was slowly running out for this wayoflife.How quickly thesandrunsout depends on how responsibly development is managed. Will Durbanville shape its own future,orwill others decide that future on ourbehalf?

“Theairport is coming, and

Iwould like to congratulate Deon Cloete and his team on the processthey followed to meet all therequirementsnecessary to obtain approval.

“However, Ialso want to appeal to himand his team to remain truetothe commitments they havemade.

“It is easy to make promises in order to secure approvals, only to latersay, ‘We’re sorry, but circumstances have changed’

“I believe that with the arrival of theairport,the hole in the hourglass has become much larger, and the time we once thought we had has become very limited,” he said.

“We have never needed to boast of our wines, our landscapes, or our way of life. Those who have discovered Durbanville have recognised itsvalue for themselves.

“The runway is being built, but the most important question is not:Where will the aircraft be flying to? Themost important question is: Where is Durbanville heading to?

“The future of Durbanville will not be determined by an airport —itwill be determined by its people who are willing to stand up for what matters. The answer lies in our hands,” he said.

“Durbanville is not simply a place on amap. It is acommunity wherefamily farms have been passeddown from generation to generation. Well-known families such as the Louws, the Loubsers, and the Blanckenbergs are now in theirfifthand sixth generations.

Lotteringkom kuierbyDieBoer

MarcLottering bring sy nuutstekomedie, Ankle Marc, op Dinsdag14enWoensdag 15 Julie om 20:30 na die verhoog vanDie Boer-teaterrestaurant in Durbanville

Lottering is geliefdaseen vanSuid-Afrika se voorstekomedianteenwelbekend vir sy skerpskerts-vertonings, sowelasmusiekblyspele.

Komluister na al die jongsteverwikkelinge in hierdie charismatiesekomediant se lewe.Hyvertel onder meer hoe dit gebeur het dathy vanjaar al hinkepink moes ingaan met 'n af enkelen 'n "moonboot".

Die vertoning is 70 minutelank met geen onderbreking en is nie geskikvir kinders nie. . Kaartjies kosR220. Bespreekbywww dieboer.comofby021 9791911.

LOSDIE KINDERSBYDIE HUIS

Cape Town’stheatregreats recognised at annual awards

Thewinners of the 61st Cape Town TheatreAwards were announced at an intimate, elegant ceremonyat TheBaxteronSunday (5 July),powered by CapeTalk.

Formerlyknown as theFleur du CapTheatre Awards,the oldest theatreawardsinthe country have recognisedartistic excellenceinthe performing arts sector formorethansix decades.

Embarkingonthe next eraofits existence, anew non-profit company(NPC) hasbeen established for convening theAwardsinthe future.

Africa Melane, chairofthe Cape Town Theatre Awards Panel, says theompetition wasstiff with an incredible65productionsthatwereeligiblefor consideration in 2025. “Wesaluteour theatremakers and encouragethemtokeep pushing theboundaries andovercoming obstaclestocontinue creating theirwork. We congratulateall the nominees and winners,”saysMelane

Theeligibleproductionsincludedseven operas, threechildren’sproductions(two musicals andone opera), 24 student productionsand 55 other main productions, fiveofwhich were musicals.

The2025LifetimeAchievement Awardwas presented to NigelVermaas,who wasrecognised forhis immense contributiontothe performingarts db adc ti to direct nd writerf

.Best performancebya supportingactor in amusicalormusictheatre show: CarloDaniels| Randall Simons |Colleen TheMusical

.Best performancebya supportingactress in a musical or music theatreshow: TankisoMamabolo| Matron Mama Morton |Chicago

.Best performancebyanactor in amusical or music theatreshow: Jonathan Roxmouth| Billy Flynn |Chicago

.Best performancebyanactress in amusicalor music theatreshow: Cindy Ann Abrahams| Grizabella |Cats

.Best puppetry design:Adrian Kohler andWilliam Kentridge| Faustus in Africa!

.Best lightingdesign:Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater| Tina Le Roux

.Best setdesign:Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater| Greg King

.Best costume design:Cats| JohnNapier

.Best sound design,originalmusic, soundscape or live performance:Isidlamlilo/The Fire Eater| Tristan Horton

.Best performanceinanopera-male: William Berger|Bluebeard| Bluebeard's Castle

.Best performanceinanopera- female:SiphamandlaM ake| Judith| Bluebe d's Castle

. Waterfront TheatreSchool presents Something Rotten! from 10 to 18 JulyatArtscape. It’s bold,brash, knowingly silly, and packed with show-stopping numbers. TicketsR230 to R250available at Webtickets.

. Emo Adamsenorkes is by Die Boer-teaterrestaurant,Durbanville,opSaterdag11Julie om 20:30 en Sondag12Julie om 14:00. Kaartjies kosR250. Bespreekbywww.dieboer.com of 021979 1911.

. DisneyonIce presents Mickey's Search Party from 10 to 19 Julyatthe Grand Arena,GrandWest.Tickets at Ticketmaster

. Cape Town Operapresents Stephen Sondheim's A Little NightMusic nowuntil 12 JulyatTheatre on the Bay. TicketsfromR275atWebtickets.

. Cape Town G&Spresents aboldnew staging of Gilbertand Sullivan'scomicopera, ThePirates of Penzance at Artscape Theatreuntil Sunday 12 July TicketsfromR275atWebtickets.

. Agatha Christie's TheMurderofRoger Ackroyd star-

y.

Webtickets.

. EarlyB tree op Vrydag 17 Julieom20:30byHeroes Brackenfellop. Kaartjies kosR140tot R180.Bespreek by www.heroeslive.net

.Isaacvan derMerwe Piano Recital: ABaxterFundraiser is on Friday17Julyat18:30. TicketscostR250at Webtickets.

.Un-touched is at Artscape on Friday17and Saturday18Julyat17:00.A look at the factorsthat have shaped millennialsand their views.TicketsfromR80 at Webtickets.

.KickstArt Theatre's Puss in Boots runs at the Baxter Theatrecurrently until18July. TicketsfromR250at Webtickets.

. PeterPan runs at the CanalWalk Theatrenow until 19 July.Three dailyshows.TicketsfromR75 to R130 at Webtickets.

. DalinOliver: Stuck In Dubai runs at TheBaxterfrom 21 July to 1August.TicketsfromR180 availableat Webtickets.

WesternCapeskipsAartorollout

When Aarto (Administrative Adjudication of Road TrafficOffences)rolled out nationally on 1 July 2026, bringing its demerit-based system to 62 municipalities across SouthAfrica, one province was notably absent from the list: the WesternCape.

The Administrative Adjudication of Road TrafficOffences Actreplaces the Criminal Procedure Act traffic-fine system with an administrative model that allocates demerit points for road violations. The Constitutional Court declared Aarto constitutionally valid in July 2023, paving the way for Phase 2implementation.

While metros, including Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, eThekwini, Mangaung, Buffalo Cityand Nelson Mandela Bay, welcomed thenew system on 1July WesternCape municipalities were conspicuously excluded, following a formal disputeresolution process initiated by the City of Cape Town.

CITYOFCAPETOWN'SDISPUTE

"Several attempts to implement Aarto across the countryhave already been

UW

The Cape bold positions higher South of of Librari traditional ad designed the (4IR).

UWC' to academic on university just Libraries ready with to serv is project transfor and deep libra physical but peopl

cancelled atthe last minute,"said Stuart Grobbelaar,spokesperson for Stellenbosch Municipality. "TheNational Department of Transport canprovide more information It will now come into effectinall metros, withthe exception of Cape Town,aswell as in some municipalities, but not those in the Western Cape. Implementation in the Western Cape has been postponed to alaterdate. Theprevious failed implementation attempt was last year, when the plannedroll-outon1December waspostponed."

TheCityofCape Town declared aformal intergovernmentaldispute under the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act, citing multiple unmet legal and operationalprerequisites. Concerns raised included that approximately 48% of enforcement officers cannot yet be registeredonNaTIS, the enabling legislation(National Road Traffic Amendment Act) is notyet in force, andthe system would normally rely on areliable and stable postal service for delivery ofthe notice, but that is nowa thing of the past. Additional concerns

AARTO ROLLOUTDELAYED IN WESTERN CAPE AS CITY CHALLENGES IMPLEMENTATION PLANS

include unfunded training obligations, lackoffinalised Standard Operating Procedures, and arevenue-sharing model that may reducemunicipal income. The South African Local Government Association (Salga) attemptedtohalt Phase2through an urgent interdict at the Gauteng High Court, but the court struck theapplication, finding no urgency.

MINISTERAGREESTOSUSPENSION

"The City does not oppose Aarto in principle, it does notsupport its implementationinits current formor within theproposed time frame," said JP Smith,Mayco memberfor safetyand security. "In this regard the National MinisterofTransport took note of the

City's concerns raised via aformal dispute letter. She agreed to suspend the implementation of phase 2ofAarto in the Western Cape, while the City proceeds to engage on material concerns about the proposed implementation via astructured IGRFA[Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act] disputeresolution process. We are glad for this action by the minister and the suspension she has now put in place for Western Cape Municipalities so that we have an opportunity to now meaningfully engage on the remaining concerns the City has in regards to the rational implementation of Aarto."

Thenational government has targeted full coverage by January 2027, with the demerit points system expected to be considered in alater phase, potentially after April 2027.

For now Western Cape motorists continue to operate under the existing Criminal Procedure Act system. Fines are calculated on astandardbasis, and disputes are handled through the courts rather than an administrative process.