Tuesday, March 25th, 2025
Moment of silence for brave health workers
President honors nurses
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed gratitude for the vital role nurses played during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The President addressed the 9th National Congress of the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) today.
President Ramaphosa reflected on the significant changes caused by the pandemic, including the loss of lives and the challenges encountered by healthcare workers.
“We lost a number of nurses and healthcare workers, brave men and women who were at the frontline of the pandemic. Brave is not an adequate word to describe them. Many of you faced the danger of being infected and death, but you still went on to care for those who were affected.”
He encouraged attendees to observe a moment of silence in honor of the brave nurses and healthcare professionals, who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving on the front lines.
“For you who are in the profession, nursing is a calling. It requires a strength of character and commitment to service that is rare.”
He reiterated his statements made during this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), that government will allocate resources to the health sector, build hospitals and clinics, and strengthen the healthcare system. – Source: SAnews.gov.za
Joe Barber recognised in 25th year
Theatre takes centre stage
THIS year marks the 60th anniversary of the prestigious Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards.
The who’s who of the South African theatre world attended this grand event at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Sunday, 23 March 2025.
“These awards remind us of the rich artistic talent we have in the Western Cape and South Africa,” said Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie. “We salute the artists, directors, designers and creatives who keep our stages alive.”
Among this year’s exceptional honourees was the production, Joe Barber that was recognised In recognition in its 25th anniversary. The dynamic creative duo behind the production, David Isaacs and Oscar Petersen, were presented with the Encore Award. It has become an institution in Cape Town’s performing arts scene.
“Joe Barber has become more than just a show – it’s a mirror to the everyday humour, resilience, and warmth of our communities,” said Mackenzie. “For 25 years, Isaacs and Petersen have brought laughter to generations of audiences. Through Boeta Joe and Boeta Gamat, they’ve given us characters who are both timeless and deeply rooted in the heart of the Cape Flats.”
The 60th awards also honoured My Fair Lady with five awards, including Best Production, while Metamorphoses received praise for Best Ensemble Performance and Lighting Design. Emily Child and Albert Pretorius walked away with lead acting honours for their standout performances in A Streetcar Named Desire and Othello, respectively.
A deeply moving moment during the evening was the tribute to legendary playwright Athol Fugard, who passed away earlier this year. – Source: www.westerncape.gov.za
Fire fighter commended for quick action
Hero saves baby boy
A CAPE TOWN fire fighter has achieved hero status after saving the life of a 5-month-old baby boy.
Michael Samuels was on duty in the watch room at the Mitchells Plain fire station in the early hours of Thursday, 13 March, when a local resident alerted him to a baby in distress at a neighbouring home.
It wasn’t long after this when the mom, Cachet Scala and her baby, Isaiah, arrived at the fire station. Samuels immediately set about trying to check for any blockages in his airway.
He managed to dislodge the blockage, providing instant relief to the baby who was transported to hospital for further observation and care, on the advice of the platoon’s senior medic, Baigum Abrahams.
On Friday, 14 March Samuels met up with Isaiah and his mom at the hospital and was surprised to discover Isiah turned 5-months on that day.
Cape Town Member of the Mayoral Committee for Safety and Security, JP Smith, commended Samuels for his bravery.
“There can be no doubt that his actions saved Isaiah’s life, and I am incredibly grateful to the mom for having the presence of mind to know that help was available at the fire station,” said Smith. – Source: JP Smith via Facebook