NeIlScOtt24
Donations needed to cook thousands of plates of food
Giving is a gift

THE Roshnee Feeding Scheme is a community initiative that prepares freshly-cooked meals daily for distribution to informal settlements, schools and underprivileged areas in the Vaal-area.
Their operations are scaled to serve 8500 freshly cooked meals and 16 000 sandwiches for school learners. In partnership with the humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers, 1500 meals are distributed in the greater Lenasia, Thembilile and surrounding areas daily.

Gift of the Givers also donate 10 000 loaves of bread nationally every month as well as other bulk food items (when available).
To contribute towards the Gift of the Givers interventions, visit http://www.giftofthegivers.org/make-a-difference or call 0800 786 911. Source: Gift of the Givers via Facebook
Cold front to bring damaging winds
Weather warning

The South African Weather Service has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning about damaging winds and waves associated with an incoming cold front this weekend.
The forecast is for strong to gale force north-westerly to westerly winds along the Western Cape coastline between Friday evening and Saturday evening, with the wind starting to moderate from Saturday afternoon.

Potential impacts could include uprooted trees, damage to roofs, an increased risk of runaway fires and disruption of coastal activities.
The public is urged to secure objects on their properties that could be carried by the wind, like outside furniture, and to be mindful of potential damage to garage doors, sliding doors and windows.
When traveling, please be on the lookout for obstructions on the roadway, like fallen trees or other debris.
Any weather-related emergency can be reported to the City of Cape Town’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700. Source: City of Cape Town
New initiative to create jobs and much more
Growth is key

GROWTH!
THIS will be the key in the second phase of Operation Vulindlela

Launching the next phase of this important initiative at the Union Buildings, on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa, emphasised that this new phase is aimed at driving rapid and inclusive economic growth for the benefit of all South Africans.
“We need growth that is both rapid and inclusive. We need growth that serves the millions of people in our country who remain unemployed, and the young people who cannot see a way into the labour market.
“And we need growth that improves people’s daily lives by fixing the infrastructure that is broken. That is why, in the next phase of Operation Vulindlela that we are launching today, we will implement reforms in three new areas,” the President said.
The three new areas are: tackling the legacy of spatial inequality, enhancing local government performance and accelerating digital transformation.
He stressed that if these reforms are implemented swiftly and boldly, they will put South Africa firmly on the path of economic recovery and renewal.
He acknowledged that the process of reform is never easy, and it is often contested, especially by those with vested interests.
“Yet we have a simple choice to make. If we do not reform our economy, it will not grow and we will not create jobs. Unemployment will rise and poverty will increase. On the other hand, if we implement these reforms – if we do so swiftly and boldly – we will place our economy on a path of growth and renewal.
“There is a generation of South Africans that does not know what it is to live in a country that is growing. They have never experienced rising incomes, increasing jobs, thriving businesses and expanding opportunities.
“It is our intention to ensure that every South African feels the benefits of rapid, sustained and inclusive economic growth,” he said.
Operation Vulindlela was established in October 2020 as a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms.
It was initiated in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and its devastating economic impact on the country and around the world.
In its first phase, Operation Vulindlela focused on reforms in five key areas namely energy, logistics, telecommunications, water, and the visa system. Source: SAnews.gov.za
Get ready for an exciting weekend ahead
What’s happening in the city

A look at what’s happening in Cape Town this weekend.

Live Music & Performances
- Rocco de Villiers at Heroes Brackenfell – A fantastic musical experience on Sunday, 11 May. More info.
- Gary Rathbone Live at The Alma Café, Rosebank – Enjoy songs from his debut album on Sunday, 11 May. More info.
- Ultra South Africa 2025 – A massive electronic music festival featuring top DJs on Friday, 9 May. More info.
- Y2K Roller Disco in Blouberg – Get your skates on for a nostalgic roller disco on Saturday, 10 May. More info.
Markets
- The Woodstock Quarter Thrift Fest – A treasure trove of vintage finds on Saturday, 10 May. More info.
Food & Drink
- Mother’s Day Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at UCT Irma Stern Museum – A whimsical tea party on Saturday, 10 May. More info.
- Mother’s Day High Tea at Royal Palm – A luxurious afternoon tea on Sunday, 11 May. More info.
Outdoor Cinema
- Galileo Open Air Cinema – Watch Braveheart under the stars at Central Park, Century City on Friday, 9 May. More info.
Adventure & Thrill
- Acrobranch Constantia – Treetop obstacle courses with zip lines, Tarzan swings, and balance beams. Perfect for adrenaline seekers! Located at Constantia Nek, Tokai. More info.
- The Protea Village – A Kirstenbosch Heritage Walking Tour – A guided walk through the beautiful Cecilia Forest on Saturday, 10 May. More info.
Scenic & Leisurely Activities
Best Hiking Trails
- Lion’s Head – A stunning sunrise or sunset hike with panoramic views of the city. More info
- Platteklip Gorge – A direct but steep route up Table Mountain, perfect for a challenge. More info
- Cecilia Forest – A peaceful forest trail with waterfalls and lush greenery. More info
- Hoerikwaggo Table Mountain Trail – A multi-day hiking experience across Table Mountain. More info
- Constantia Hiking Trail – A scenic route through the vineyards of Constantia. More info
Please note this entire article and picture was generated by AI. There is a possibility that some errors might have crept in. Please email us with your comments and/or corrections if you spot any.
City encourages filmmakers to apply for support
Fund-time for films

CAPE Town’s already thriving film industry just received another boost with the announcement by the City of Cape Town’s film office that applications for funding have opened.
The Film Fund intends to provide support to a range of productions and invites filmmakers to apply for support for productions set for completion during the 2025/26 financial year.

Established to strengthen Cape Town’s position as a premier film and media destination, the fund offers financial assistance and municipal services to qualifying film and media projects developed in the city.
It is geared towards projects that drive local economic growth, generate employment across the film and media value chain, and contribute meaningfully to skills development in Cape Town’s emerging creative talent pool.
The Film Fund further seeks projects that champion sustainability, diversity, and inclusion; celebrate Cape Town’s rich heritage and storytelling traditions; and have the potential to attract local or foreign investment.
Eligible projects include:
• Production and post-production of short films, feature films, animation, live action, and interactive media
• Music videos, commercials, and reality TV series
• Training programmes and initiatives that build capacity in the film and media sector
• Innovative projects aligned with the City’s strategic priorities
• Projects that can be completed within the upcoming municipal financial year (1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026)
The fund will not support adult content, corporate or training videos, current affairs or news programming and equipment or asset purchases.
For more information, FAQs, and detailed application criteria, visit filmcapetown.com and the City of Cape Town’s website. Submissions close on 20 June 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted. – Source: City of Cape Town, Media Office
11 out of 13 graduates secure jobs
Interns on their way

THE City of Cape Town has congratulated 11 Digital Internship Programme interns who have successfully secured permanent jobs with the City.
The internship programme was launched in February 2023 as part of the City’s Digital Transformation Programme. It attracted many students from Western Cape universities across various degrees, spanning Computer Science, Science, Engineering, Industrial Psychology and Physics degrees.

“I had the opportunity to meet six of the 11 interns during our International Women’s Day celebrations last month and wished them the best in their full-time careers with the City. The Graduate Internship Programme started with 13 interns and we ended up retaining 11,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Theresa Uys.
“There are many more exciting internship opportunities and graduate training programmes within the City. I encourage people to keep regular tabs on the City’s website, and scroll the ‘find a job’ page to view the latest advertisements, “ said Uys.
To qualify for a graduate internship, you must be in possession of a bachelor’s degree or postgraduate qualification. Source: City of Cape Town
No increase on 1 May
Good news on VAT

THERE was some relief for South Africans on Thursday, 24 April 2025 when it was announced that the proposed 0.5% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) would be withdrawn.
The VAT increase was to be implemented from 1 May. According to the National Treasury, the decision to withdraw the increase follows “extensive consultations with political parties and careful consideration of the recommendations of the parliamentary committees”.

Treasury said the withdrawal is expected to create an estimated revenue shortfall of R75 billion over the medium term.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana will withdraw when he introduces the Rates and Monetary Amounts and the Amendment of Revenue Laws Bill (Rates Bill) to Parliament.
“The Minister has written to the Speaker of the National Assembly to indicate that he is withdrawing the Appropriation Bill and the Division of Revenue Bill, in order to propose expenditure adjustments to cover this shortfall in revenue.
“Parliament will be requested to adjust expenditure in a manner that ensures that the loss of revenue does not harm South Africa’s fiscal sustainability.”
The Western Cape Government has welcomed the withdrawal of the VAT increase.
“Our position on the matter has always been clear: We have significant budget pressures, especially in health, education and social services. However, funding should come from fast-tracking economic growth reforms, cutting wasteful expenditure and reprioritising spending – not an increase in VAT,” said Western Cape Minister of Finance, Deidré Baartman. Sources: SAnews.gov.za/westerncape.gov.za
Victims of crime will also benefit
Skills training for ex-inmates

LAW breakers and victims of crime are getting a great chance at employment and entrepreneurship.
This comes after the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) announced a new Skills Development Programme, aimed at empowering victims of crime, parolees and probationers.

The initiative will provide inmates with market-related skills and vocational training, to facilitate their rehabilitation and social reintegration.
The programme is being rolled out in partnership with the Ekurhuleni Artisans and Skills Training College, in Kempton Park, Johannesburg.
The department said the initiative, funded by the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority, will provide 100 selected participants from the greater Johannesburg area, with accredited trade-related training.
“The programme is designed not only to enhance employability, but also to foster entrepreneurial opportunities among its beneficiaries. The beneficiaries will undergo six months of training under the programme.
“[Participants] will be equipped with practical skills in trades such as, pumbling, welding, electrical work, bricklaying, air conditioning and refrigeration. Upon completion, participants will receive trade certificates, boosting their prospects for meaningful employment or self-employment,” the department said. – Source: SAnews.gov.za
Bayhill Cup lives up to all expectations
Everyone’s a winner

IT’S BIG thumbs up for the players, organisers, sponsors, supporters and everyone else involved the 2025 Bayhill Premier Cup held in Cape Town over the Easter weekend.
The Ubuntu Football Academy was crowned the 2025 champions, but everyone involved in the prestigious tournament can call themselves winners.

For the record Ubuntu beat Randburg AFC 2 – 0 in the final at Athlone Stadium on Easter Monday. All the other teams lived up to the expectations and produced quality football throughout the event.
Thousands of people turned up daily to witness the knockout stages being played at Erica Park in Belhar, while at the Athlone stadium 6000 pitched for the finals on Monday alone.
“This truly is a wonderful example of how organised sporting events can bring out the best in players, but also those cheering from the sidelines.
“The atmosphere was absolutely electric, and it is clear to see why this tournament holds such prestige.
“I want to thank each and every one who came out to play, their supporters and also the event organisers for the show they put on. We look forward to seeing you all again next year,” said the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health,” Francine Higham. Source: City of Cape Town, Media Office
Good response to Easter safety campaign
Success on the roads

GOOD and positively.
This is how the public responded to the Easter Season Road Safety Campaign, according to the government.

While accident statistics for the Easter Season are still undergoing quality assurance and verification, Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, says early indications are showing a significant decrease in fatalities and crashes in all provinces, with the exception of Mpumalanga.
Providing an update for the 2025 Easter Season Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign on Sunday, the Minister said the public has responded positively to the campaign.
She also commended traffic law enforcement officers their dedication.
” We are confident that our actions are saving lives on our roads,” the Minister said.
The Easter Season Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign was launched on 20 March, under the theme – It begins with Me – and runs until 2 May 2025
The campaign is aimed at reducing road fatalities during the high-traffic holiday period through integrated law enforcement and public education. – SAnews.gov.za