May, 2025
What's on to enjoy this weekend
Events near you
What’s happening around the country this weekend of May 30 – June 1, 2025! Here are some highlights
INZOLO – A soulful music experience featuring Odwa Bongo, happening at Selective Live on June 1. More info.
Craig Lucas – The Identity Crisis Tour – A live performance at Noordhoek Farm Village on May 30. Details.
Mojo XXL Music Nights Ft. Ben Rodrigues – A vibrant music event in Sea Point on May 30. See more.
Trend 2035 Cape Town – A forward-thinking event at Kelvin Grove Club on May 30. Find out more.
Now that’s what I call music at Suikerbossie – A nostalgic music night at Suikerbossie Restaurant & Estate on May 30. Event info.
Benoni Beer & Gin Fest – A lively festival celebrating craft beer and gin on May 31. More details.
Mini Brandy Festival – A showcase of the finest brandies on May 31. Check it out.
Winelands Autumn Expo – A celebration of diverse wine districts on May 30-31. Explore more.
Hyperdrift SA – An adrenaline-pumping precision driving event on May 30-31. Event details.
SereniTea Saturdays – A luxurious candle-making and relaxation event on May 31. Learn more.
This article was originally generated by AI and we cannot guarantee that any of these events have been cancelled, postponed or moved venue. Please refer to the event website for more details.
Government start paying from support fund
Spaza shops R6 million richer
Some spaza shop owners have received R6 million from the South African government.
This money is part of the R500 million in total the government has promised to pay spaza shop through the Spaza Shop Support Fund (SSSF).
The fund, aimed at increasing the participation of South African-owned spaza shops in the townships and rural areas retail trade sector, was launched last month.
“This is moving at a slow pace due to all the parties that are involved in coordinating the work, which includes inspections, verification of citizenship as well as site and health inspections.
“The fund will assist shop owners that met the deadline for the registration of an operating permit,” the minister of Small Business Development., Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, said during a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, 29 May.
It offers funding of up to R300 000 per shop through a combination of grants and low-interest loans.
In addition, it allocates funding specifically for initial stock purchases, infrastructure improvements, business development tools, and Point of Sale (POS) system adoption.
The fund is being administered by the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFDA). Source: SAnews.gov.za
TTO brings in 11000 tourists in 3 months
Digital tourism scheme a success
THE Digital Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) has turned into a major success, bringing in over 11 000 tourists from China and India to South Africa in just three months.
The growth in TTOS uptake, from 50 applications a day in March 2025 to over 200 a day in May 2025, is clear evidence of its potential, said the Department of Tourism.
The Department has welcomed the scheme and says it is a testament to what is possible when government works hand-in-hand with the private sector to remove barriers and unlock economic potential.
By simplifying visa access for group travel through a secure, digital-first platform, the scheme has opened South Africa to new visitors who may otherwise have been lost to more accessible destinations.
“We commend Minister Schreiber and the Department of Home Affairs for driving this reform, and we fully support the expansion of TTOS. It will be the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system that will drive these kinds of results throughout the world, and we look forward to the Department of Home Affairs announcing a way forward soonest.
“These digital solutions are the future of global travel, and South Africa must be at the forefront of this shift.”
The department said it looked forward to working with the Department of Home Affairs and industry stakeholders to expand these reforms, grow the tourism economy and ensure that South Africa remains a destination of choice in an increasingly competitive environment. Source: SAnews.gov.za
There is help for addicts
Cops nab coke dealer
THE City of Cape Town’s Metro Police has taken another alleged drug dealer off the streets, make it safe for the entire community.
On Tuesday, 27 May the suspect was with 37 packets of cocaine valued at R17,000 and R3000 in cash, said the City’s Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security, JP Smith. The suspect was handed over to Brackenfell SAPS for further investigation.
According to Smith this seizure highlights the growing concern of cocaine trafficking in Cape Town.
“Once a recreational drug reserved for the elite, cocaine prices have dropped by about 50% over the last 10 years, making it easier to be positioned across all communities. The Cape Flats are now flooded with this dangerous commodity, fuelling gang wars and violence.
“The growing connection between local gangs and South American cartels is alarming. Ports like Saldanha Bay and Cape Town are being used to smuggle in these supplies.
“But cocaine trafficking isn’t just a law enforcement issue – it’s also a public health concern. Cocaine addiction can be subtle at first, but it’s a powerful and destructive force.
“Gangs market this drug in its potential to offer a rich reward, bringing feelings of happiness and pleasure as the users brain releases dopamine.
“But as the effects wear off, users experience a “crash,” leading them to use more to regain that high. Over time, this creates a cycle of dependence. It’s crucial we understand the nature of cocaine addiction and support those struggling,” said Smith.
For those who have been entrapped and struggling with addiction, the municipality wants to help you.
“We have Matrix facilities setup at our clinics across the city. The success rate of the Matrix program is extremely high, boasting results of over 80% for those who completed the program. Please visit any of our clinics to find out more,” concluded Smith. Source: City of Cape Town via FB
Motorists urged to take note of road closures
Slave Challenge attracts thousands
THOUSANDS of runners are expected to descend on Cape Town’s city centre this Sunday, 1 June to tackle the iconic Slave Route Challenge.
This will be the 13th edition of the race which will see about 8000 participants take on a 21km half marathon, a 10km walk or run and a 5km fun run.
The Slave Route Challenge follows a course steeped in Cape Town’s layered past, retracing the paths once walked by slaves and honouring the city’s heritage.
Starting on Darling Street, in front of the iconic City Hall, 10km participants go through District Six, Gardens, Bo-Kaap and back into the city centre for a finish on the Grand Parade.
Runners on the half marathon take on a similar route through District Six, Gardens, Bo-Kaap with an extra leg into Green Point before crossing the finish line on the Grand Parade.
The City of Cape Town has been providing support to the Slave Route Challenge for over a decade and continues the partnership for the 2025 edition.
“The Slave Route Challenge is more than just a race. It’s a journey tracing the history of Cape Town. It is an opportunity for participants to reflect on this history, while also leading a healthy lifestyle,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.
The half marathon runners set off at 07:00 with the 10km races following at 07:30 and the 5km at 07:40.
The City would like to advise residents and motorists of road closures and the impact on traffic. For more information on road closures visit: https://bit.ly/4kv1wGU
Source: City of Cape Town
Business and government take action against unemployment
Hope for our youth
Industry leaders from over 40 companies and government representatives gathered recently to explore impactful strategies for working with young people and addressing youth unemployment.
The Youth Futures CEO event was hosted by the YearBeyond programme, a collaborative initiative involving the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.
Launched in the Western Cape more than a decade ago, YearBeyond is a national programme that provides unemployed youth of between 18 and 25 years old with meaningful work experience and a pathway to further studies or work, while at the same time encouraging a culture of community service.
While the Western Cape’s youth unemployment rate is more than 10% lower than other provinces, too many young people are still without work.
“We still have a lot of work to do to drive down youth unemployment in our province,” said Premier Alan Winde in his address at the event, where he challenged stakeholders to be bold in tackling youth unemployment, “We believe every young person deserves a chance, and we have prioritised budget and programmes to facilitate this.”
To date, more than 15,000 young people have graduated from YearBeyond’s unique dual-beneficiary model.
YearBeyond’s structured approach focuses on helping young people develop essential, future-fit skills, increasing their chances of getting jobs. The programme acknowledges that young people face multiple barriers and require support, guidance, and mentorship.
Jacqui Boulle, Head of YearBeyond, said: “Given the country’s challenges with crime and unemployment, we all need to play our part. We received 45000 applications for 3000 opportunities in the YearBeyond programme, that is how relevant this initiative has become over the past 10 years. It is through programmes like this and our youth’s willingness to engage with these kinds of interventions that we can turn the tide on unemployment. “
For more information about the YearBeyond Programme or to find out how to get involved, visit www.yearbeyond.org or contact Boulle on 021 483 6545/ 082 337 1792.
Email:YearBeyond@westerncape.gov.za
'Manufacturing a key priority'
Summit attracts business, government
“MANUFACTURING remains key priority for Cape Town’s economic landscape.”
These were the words of James Vos, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, during his opening speech at the inaugural Cape Town Manufacturing Summit held at the City Hall this week.
The event, jointly hosted by the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Government, was attended by business and industry leaders, government officials, and investors.
“This summit is about ensuring our industrial areas remain productive and competitive. These zones are the engine rooms of our economy, where jobs are created, where goods are produced, and where value is added. This is the gift that keeps on giving, and we must do everything we can to keep it thriving,’ said Alderman Vos.
Approximately 337 000 people are employed in the province’s manufacturing sector, according to the latest Stats SA jobs report.
Manufacturing is the third-largest contributor to the Western Cape economy, with the bulk of activity based in Cape Town, according to Wesgro. The city is a leader in food and beverage processing, clothing and textiles (Cape Town produced 105 million garments in 2024, nearly a third of the country’s total), electronics, medical devices, and marine-based goods, such as catamarans.
SA's Nel flexes his muscles, takes world title
Congrats to strongman
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has congratulated Rayno Nel, 30, for becoming the first African and the first man from outside Europe and North America to win the prestigious World’s Strongest Man title.
“South Africa is beaming with pride as the rookie competitor made history on the global stage over the weekend in Sacramento, United States of America. It was not just a personal victory, but a continental milestone,” the department’s statement read.
As a former Cheetahs rugby player turned world champion strongman, the department said Nel showed the world what South Africans are made of – “grit, determination, and unstoppable courage”.
R1-M up for grabs as SA looks to impress G20
Tech challenge for SMMEs
South Africa has taken a giant step to position itself as a hub of digital innovation and entrepreneurship with the launch of inaugural SA Tech Challenge 2025.05.21
The aim of the Challenge is to identify and promote the most impactful and scalable small, micro, and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) within South Africa’s digital innovation ecosystem.
The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation’s (DSTI) Innovation Bridge Portal, in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), launched the SA Tech Challenge on Tuesday, 20 May 2025.
Its goal is to showcase local talent on a global platform, support innovation, and enhance South Africa’s representation in the Group of 20 (G20) Digital Innovation Alliance (DIA) and Startup20 working groups.
“It will not only provide recognition and exposure to exceptional SMMEs but will also foster an environment conducive to growth, collaboration, and knowledge exchange,” a statement issued by the department said.
Through the SA Tech Challenge, South Africa aims to position itself as a hub of digital innovation and entrepreneurship, while simultaneously contributing to the broader goals of the G20.
“This collaborative effort seeks to harness the potential of digital technologies to drive economic growth, social development, and sustainable progress on both a national and global scale.”
With R1 million up for grabs, the winner of each category will represent South Africa at the G20 DIA Summit in Cape Town from 24 to 26 September 2025.
They must operate in one of the following six categories: digital platforms, fintech, secured digital infrastructure, circular economy, innovations for connectivity, innovations for development including agritech, health tech, edtech.
The SMMEs must be operational for at least one year, with revenues not exceeding R250 million per annum.
Applications are now open and close on 30 June 2025, and South African tech SMMEs can apply at www.satechchallenge.co.za.
Finalists and winners will be announced on 31 July 2025. Source: SAnews.gov.za
Premier welcomes agreement on vital business
Deal saves thousands of jobs
THOUSANDS of jobs have been saved in the Langeberg region in the Western Cape.
Tiger Brands recently informed the Premier of the Western Cape that it has concluded a business agreement to facilitate the company’s exit from its deciduous canned fruit business, Langeberg and Ashton Food (LAF) cannery.
The business will be sold as a going concern to a capable consortium comprising partners with a vested interest in LAF, its employees, and the region.
The Premier, Alan Winde, has welcomed the agreement as the business is vital to the Langeberg region’s economy, employing more than 3,000 permanent and seasonal workers.
“This positive development will bring much-needed relief to LAF employees, their families, and the community of Ashton, as well as the broader Langeberg region,” said Winde.
He added, “Our priority throughout this process has been to protect jobs. Apart from the thousands of jobs that have been saved at LAF, this agreement also safeguards many more jobs on farms across the Langeberg area.”
The Premier has thanked Tiger Brands and other stakeholders who have been involved in finding an outcome that protects much-needed jobs. Source: westerncape.gov.za