COMMUNITY INFORMATION NETWORK

By Tina George
31 December 2007

*NOTICE*

# Iziko Slave Lodge is hosting an exhibition dealing with the geographical links and cultural similarities of slaves who were captured from regions around the Indian Ocean. Although abused and forced to live a barely human existence, these slaves brought with them both tangible and intangible evidence of a diverse cultural heritage which manifested itself in language, fashion, craftsmanship, cuisine and even architecture. The exhibition will take place weekdays from 10:00am till 16:30pm and on Saturdays from 10:00am to 13:00pm. Entrance fee for adults is R10 and R5 for pensioners and students. Contact (021) 481 3836.

# Make a paddleboat from a plastic bottle. Race your boat in the new water canal and see if it sinks or swims. You can have a splash at the new water exhibit at the MTN Sciencentre in Canal walk. The water exhibit is open from 9 am until 9 pm. Paddleboat workshops started on December 2 and ends today. If you miss out, don't despair: paddleboat workshops will see you in the New Year on January 7 and 14. The workshops are ideal for kids aged 8 and up. Contact Jani de Bruin, 021 529 8128 or 021 529 8100 or 083 276 9509.

# The Incredible Dog Show is a fantastic family show featuring some incredible canines doing amazing things. This show is very entertaining and is also educational, motivational, inspirational, interactive and fun. It’s all happening today at the Toy Makers Castle @ the V&A Waterfront at 14:00 with an entrance fee of R20. Contact: Lloyd: 084 5000 415 or www.dogzcool.com

#The Western Province Blood Transfusion Service is appealing to Capetonians to help alleviate pressure on the province’s blood supply by attending donation clinics. Any healthy person, especially those belonging to the O blood group, who would like to donate can go to the WPBTS Donor Centre at 22 Long Street, Cape Town or call WPBTS on 021 507 6300/636.

#Anyone interested in starting a support group for parents who have suffered a stillbirth or neonatal death, email Nicole or Graeme on bornsleeping@gmail.com.

You can add your event to this noticeboard by e-mailing the CIN team: news@bushradio.co.za, or feel free to contact us telephonically on 021 448 5450 or by fax us on 021 448 5451.

Body of unknown man found

By Tina George
31 December 2007

The body of an unknown man was found on Friday by a passerby in Nyanga.

Police are investigating the possibility that the deceased might have been hit by a vehicle elsewhere and left on the gravel road in Kosovo Informal Settlement.

“The deceased had a black tracksuit pants, grey t-shirt, black tracksuit jacket and one brown shoe on. One of his legs was in castor plast,” says Police spokesperson Inspector Bernadine Steyn.

Nyanga Police are requesting the assistance of the public in the investigation of a murder case.

Anyone with information can contact the Investigating Officer, Inspector Hein Munnik at the Nyanga Police station on (021) 380 3300 or 083 441 9818.

Five rescued from drowning

By Tina George
31 December 2007

On Saturday the Sea National Rescue Institute responded to a call in Soetwater near Kommetjie where five men were reported to be struggling in the surf.

“A swimmer had gotten into difficulty when a small row boat came to his assistance with 2 men on-board. They picked him up but then capsized in big rough surf,” says National Sea Rescue Insitiute spokesperson Craig Lambinon.

A further two men, a father and son, swam out to assist, but also got into difficulties. Lambinon added that all five people made it to shore safely prior to NSRI rescue craft arriving on-scene and that four were taken to hospital in stable but serious conditions.

“They were treated for hypothermia and near drowning symptoms but are all recovering well. The fith male was not injured,” says Lambinon.

Report any sea rescue emergency to 082 911.

Mayor and labour union's message for the New Year

By Anele Siwa
31 December 2007

The 31st of December celebrations mark the end of 2007 and the beginning of a new year, the Mayor of Cape Town, Helen Zille and the labour unions have passed on their new year's wishes to all Capetonians.

“2008 will be a challenging year, but political and economically, we will meet that challenge, we will bring all Capetonians together who want South Africa to work and who want to work together,” says Helen Zille .

Zille says her wish is for peace, prosperity, love and joy for all Cape Town citizens.

“New Year greetings to workers around the world and to all the people of South Africa, we hope that this is going to be a successful, prosperous and peaceful new year for all of us,” says COSATU National Spokesperson Patrick Craven.

According to Craven COSATU members will be rededicating themselves to the struggle against poverty, unemployment and inequality.

“Bush Radio would like to wish all its listeners a prosperous 2008, we hope that you, your family and friends are all safe and that only good things have to come in for the next year,” says Bush Radio Programme Integrator Adrian Louw.

“2007 was a difficult year in the financial arena, the increasing interest rate and petrol price pushing more and more people into poverty, but 2007 also have successes such as South Africa winning the Rugby World Cup and more recently the Western Cape having the highest matric pass rate, congratulations,” says Brenda Leonard Bush Radio Administrator.

“Now that we are facing 2008 lets hope that we start 2008 with the Bafana Bafana victory in the African Cup of nations,” she added.

Leonard has thanked Bush Radio listeners for their support, suggestions and constructive criticism in 2007.

Five suspects arrested after hi-jacking and armed robbery

By Tina George
30 December 2007

A hi-jacking occured in Albert Luthuli Street, Brown’s Farm yesterday afternoon during a goods delivery.

It is believed that a white Colt bakkie, transporting goods for a furniture store, stopped in the road while looking for a certain delivery address.

“Two men approached the bakkie on foot where one gunshot was heard by the three occupants in the bakkie, after which the bakkie was then hi-jacked,” says Police spokesperson Inspector Bernadine Steyn.

Police arrested one of the suspects next to the bakkie and another in a nearby house after recovering the bakkie, two fridges, a double bed and a stove.

Meanwhile police came across a stationed white Mazda in Bakala Street with three occupants inside.

“Due to thorough investigation police found them to be in possession of two microwaves, a speaker box and two illegal firearms,” says Steyn.

The five suspects are expected to appear in the Athlone magistrates’ court on Monday on charges of hi-jacking, armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

Body found in Browns Farm area, robbery suspected

By Tina George
30 December 2007

The body of a man was found in a house in Mqha Street, Browns Farm, Nyanga early on Sunday morning.

Twenty-eight-year-old Mbulelane Mazambane was found lying with open wounds to his head and neck on the floor next to his bed.

“Several items were taken from the house, including a television, computer and a leather jacket,” says Police spokesperson Inspector Bernadine Steyn.

Police have opened a murder case docket for investigation. Anyone with information can contact the Investigating Officer, Inspector Lincoln Sebola at the Nyanga Police Station on (021) 380 3300.

By Tina George
29 December 2007

Reeza Hendriks scored 154 overs helping South Africa with an overall lead of 140 before they were bowled out in their first innings today against their Bangladesh counterparts at Sedgars Park, Potchefstroom.

Yesterday Hendriks and Jonathan Vandiar both scored superb centuries to put South Africa under 19 in control over their three day match.

“Bangladesh made 294 on the first day with South African’s supplied with 393 by the close leading with 99 runs,” says Cricket South Africa’s Michael-Owen Smith.

18 year-old Hendriks and 17-year-old Vandiar have been playing first class cricket in the SA Airways amateur competition for Griquas for more than a year and has an aggregate of more than 500 runs at that level.

The match is a forerunner to the triangular under-19 series, which involves India and starts at Sinovich Park, Pretoria 1st January 2008.

Matriculants sigh in relief

By Tina George
29 December 2007

Many matric pupils long wait of anxiety and fear has finally come to an end as the final year end results have been released.

The Western Cape Education Department is pleased with the steady growth in the number of candidates who passed, from 33,316 last year to 33,787 this year – an increase of 471.

Bush Radio’s news team found out by some matric pupils how they feel about their results:

“I’m over the moon because I’m finally finished with school, I can’t even explain how I feel now, 12 years of school is now over. No more waking up early for school, I just feel relieved and we can go onto the next phase of our lives,” says Hadley Erasmus.”

“It’s such a relief to get the results because they were much better than anyone expected and everybody did so well and it’s so exciting that our school career has ended and we are going to start a whole new life,” says Katherine De bruin.

“I feel overwhelmed and excited that I’m not going to be at school anymore. My results are actually what I expected so I feel more relieved now and I can enjoy my holiday further,” says Chad Stevens.”

“I’m so relieved and glad that it’s all over and I’m very excited for the new year,” says Robyn-lee Malan.

“I feel happy, I feel great. I’ve got this happiness inside of me and it doesn’t want to end. I was so worried whether or not I was going to pass or fail and now that I know everything is over and done and that I passed, I’m extremely happy,” says Guzaipha Majiet.

Teachers’ union’s reaction on matric results

By Anele Siwa
29 December 2007

On Friday afternoon teachers’ organisations welcomed the prompt release of the 2007 matric results.

“The union congratulates successful candidates, their families, the teachers and the examiners,” says South African Democratic Teachers Union President Thulas Nxesi.

According to Nxesi SADTU remains very critical as the results reflect the inequalities which are inherited from apartheid.

“For the rural kids and working class kids we have not yet turned around the corner and it is our view that a lot still has to be done,” says Nxesi.

Nxesi says the union is also concerned about the 200 000 students who failed this year and that they will welcome the initiative by the Department of Education to create opportunity for them to rewrite the exam.

“We demand that adequate resources must be available, in terms of learning and contact this year,” he added.

National Professional Teachers Organisation of South Africa President Dave Balt has congratulated Western Cape for being one of the top schools in the country.

“Generally NAPTOSA is very concerned about the outcomes as far as the national results are concerned,” says Balt.

According to Balt Limpompo and Eastern Cape provinces have just over 50% of the learners passed.

“We can not have systems where only a half of the learners pass after 12 years of schooling and we are calling for an urgent revaluation of the system,” says Balt.

WC matric results slightly down from last year

By Nadia Samie

28 December 2007

Matric pupils in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces have once again come out tops in the country.

MEC for Education in the Western Cape, Cameron Dugmore, says that although the matric pass rate of 80,6% in the province is less than the 83.7% that was achieved in 2006, he is satisfied with the overall result, given the tough year for education in 2007, which included a protracted teachers’ strike in June.

In a statement, Dugmore says that the department is pleased with the steady growth in the number of candidates who passed, from 33,316 last year to 33,787 this year – an increase of 471.

While the growth in the number of candidates passing has been a trend in the province over several years, improving the quality of passes remains a serious challenge.

The number who passed without endorsement has increased from 22,727 in 2006 to 23,487 in 2007, an increase of 760.

The number of candidates who passed with endorsement — which is a requirement for entry into university — declined by 289 from 10,589 to 10,300. Merit passes declined by 152 from 6,594 to 6,442 and distinctions by 133 from 2,280 to 2,147.

Umalusi, the body that overseas the matric exam process, has approved the 2007 senior certificate examinations. In their report Umalusi notes that: “generally the papers were of a high standard and conformed to national policy and guidelines”.

The report points to a few concerns that require attention, including poor translation of papers and some basic errors in the format of question papers.

Mayor's New Year's message for Capetonians

By Ilhaam Hoosain
28 December 2007

“As we celebrate the beginning of 2008 with hope and good resolutions, there can be no doubt that the election of Jacob Zuma as the ANC President has set the scene for the next crucial chapter in South Africa’s political development,” says Mayor and DA leader Helen Zille.

She goes onto say that 2008 will also be a year in which South Africa prepares for two extremely important events in the years that follow: the general election scheduled for 2009 (that may be held earlier) and the Soccer World Cup in 2010. Both these events are key to our country’s future, for better or for worse.

“So, 2008 will be a difficult year, filled with exciting challenges. May the festive season be a restful one, and may 2008 be blessed with health and prosperity.

“To those spending this time away, may you travel safely to your homes, and may you return to face the New Year with confidence and hope,” says Zille.

Helen Zille wishes matric learners well

By Ilhaam Hoosain and Anele Siwa
28 December 2007

Friday, 28 December 2007, the day matric results are released nationally, will pave the way forward for many matric learners, while for few of them it will come with disappointment.

“This is the last matric exams as we come to know it and this class of 2007 ends an era. I hope it will end on a high note, but because of the teachers strike, and other things, it look set to be a year where we have to moderate expectations,” says Mayor of Cape Town Helen Zille.

“To all matritulants my very, very best wishes for the future, use your opportunities, go out there and make an effort, because people who make an effort get the rewards. Good luck and all happiness,” says the Mayor.

While some youth may go out celebrating their results this evening, others who did not make it will be faced with the disappointment and lack of surety for what next year may bring.

“A lot of kids might be feeling that they may not have made it, (that) they didn’t study enough, and they stress. There is a big gap between when they start the exams and when the release date arrives,” says South African Depression and Anxiety Group Janin Shamos.

According to Janin there is a lot of stress that the matrulants are going though at the moment and it’s very important that they do speak about out how they are feeling so that they can get support from family and friends.

Proteas disappoint

By Henry Booysen
28 Decemer 2007

South Africa was bowled out for a dismal 195 in their first innings of the five day test being played at St. George’s Park in Port Elizabeth against the West Indies.

South Africa was 13 runs shy to avoid the follow-on after the West Indies scored an impressive 408 runs in their first innings.

The only batsman to contribute to South Africa’s disappointing score was AB de Villiers who scored a determined 59 runs.

South Africa was avoided the follow-on when Windies captain Chris Gayle decided to stretch his teams lead leading to South Africa receiving an embarrassing defeat,

By tea time West Indies were 35 for one, with captain Chris Gayle back in the dressing room for 29 runs.

Rubber-duck capsizes off East London Coast

By Ilhaam Hoosain
27 December 2007

At 6:30 this morning an inflatable rubber-duck capsized in the surf with two men on-board. They were reportedly trapped on a reef a few hundred metres off the East London shore.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) East London , the SA Police, Netcare 911 Ambulance Services and Metro Ambulance and Rescue Services responded to Glen Eagle, 100km East of East London.

NSRI Station Commander, Geoff McGregor, said that on their arrival on-scene a Roodepoort father and son had managed to get to shore safely after their rubber-duck capsized in the surf. They required no medical attention. Police and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) are investigating this incident.

Meanwhile yesterday Goeff said they responded to the Van Stadens River Bridge where a man jumped of the bridge into the river. The 30-year-old man was recovered from the river and the police are investigating a suspected suicide.

Warning signs

SADAG lists the following danger signals of suicide:

Previous suicide attempts: Between 20 and 50 percent of people who kill themselves had previously attempted suicide. Those who have made serious suicide attempts are at a much higher risk for actually taking their lives.

Talking about death or suicide: People who commit suicide often talk about it directly or indirectly. Be alert to such statements like, "My family would be better off without me." Sometime those contemplating suicide talk as if they are saying goodbye or going away.

Planning for suicide: Suicidal individuals often arrange to put their affairs in order. They may give away articles they value, pay of debts or a mortgage on a house, or change a will.

Depression: Although most depressed people are not suicidal, most suicidal people are depressed. Serious depression can be manifested in obvious sadness, but often it is expressed instead as a loss of pleasure or withdrawal from activities that had once been enjoyable.

Be particularly concerned about depressed persons if at least five of the following symptoms have been present nearly every day for at least two weeks:

Depressed mood, change in sleeping patterns
Change in appetite or weight
Speaking and/or moving with unusual speed or slowness
Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
Decrease in sexual drive
Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness, self-reproach, or guilt
Diminished ability to think or concentrate, slowed thinking or indecisiveness
Thoughts of death, suicide, or wishes to be dead
Additional factors that point to an increased risk for suicide in depressed individuals are:
Extreme anxiety, agitation, or enraged behaviour
Excessive drug and/or alcohol use or abuse
History of physical or emotional illness feelings of hopelessness or desperation

South African Depression and Anxiety Group website: www.anxiety.org.za

50 mothers for 50 Christmas babies

By Anele Siwa
27 December 2007

This Christmas, celebrated on Tuesday, 25 December 2007, 50 women in the Western Cape became mothers, some for the very first time.

“The first baby born was a girl — born at 12AM at Hanover Park MOU,” says Acting Director of Communication in the Western Cape Department of Health Mark van der Heever.

According to van der Heever there have been no further developments in the total number of babies recorded at public health facilities in the Western Cape on Christmas Day.

"The latest total showed 50 babies were born on Christmas Day," he says.

Four children suspected to be gone astray

By Anele Siwa
27 December 2007

Four children are alleged to be missing after they were spotted launching small grey rubber-duck at Gordons Bay on Wednesday.

According to the eye-witness they were not wearing life-jackets and had only oars but no motor and the eye-witness also reported seeing them go quite far out to sea, about 2 nautical miles, in a very short space of time, and there were concerns that they may be in trouble.

“At 17:45 an eye-witness reported seeing 4 children launching a small grey rubber-duck with red rope handles around the edges near Greenways, between Gordons Bay and Strand,” says NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon.

“The Vodacom Netcare 911 Surf Rescue helicopter, the SA Police Services and two rescue craft from NSRI Gordons Bay searched the area thoroughly but found no sign of the rubber-duck or the 4 children,” says Lambinon.

According to Lambinon no other reports relating to this incident were received and no reports of anyone missing or overdue have been lodged.

“The matter will continue to be monitored,” he added.

Delft evictions halted until next year

By Ilhaam Hoosain
26 December 2007

Hundreds of Cape Flats families will be spending the festive season in the Delft houses they informally occupied, after Cape High Court Judge Deon Van Zyl ordered a temporary halt to their eviction on at 5PM on Monday.

Police and a private security company on Monday recommenced, evicting families from the houses, which are allocated for residents of the Joe Slovo informal settlement who cannot be accommodated there when the settlement is upgraded.

The Western Cape Anti-Eviction Campaign applied for an urgent interdict on behalf of the families.

The interdict was granted on the grounds that the evictions were being carried out illegally on the basis of an eviction order granted to the City of Cape Town on October last year, against other people.

Chairperson Ashraf Cassiem announced they had won a respite at about 5:15PM. He said that Thubelisha Homes, the housing company tasked with building homes on the Joe Slovo site as part of the N2 Gateway project, had asked the judge for a fresh eviction order, but the judge had refused it.

“The judge said that the order the City of Cape Town the Metro police, the SAPS and these private security company was using was an unlawful order, in other words the order was out of date and it wasn’t valid so that means the order they were using was an illegal one,” says Cassiem.

Martin was arrested last week for allegedly encouraging people to move into the new homes.
He demanded that the houses be handed over to the angry Delft residents. According to Thubelisha Homes Xhandi Sigcawu, Councillor Martin wrote letters to the beneficiary indicating to them that he is giving the people permission to occupy houses.

In a previous interview with Sigcawu he had this to say:

“The process is you have a waiting list and a committee that looks at the allocation.
The committee that comprise of officials from the City of Cape Town, the local government and housing department in the Western Cape and officials from the National Department of Housing. Thubelisha will then be given a list of names of people that should be moved to houses.”

He goes on to say that for councilor Martin to act in the manner in which he did, is totally uncalled for. He is now inviting people to move to houses illegally.

Sigcawu said that Martin does not have the right to give anyone permission to occupy houses.
The SA Police Service and the city metro police, plus a security firm, have been evicting people since last week.

Cassiem said about 700 families were represented in the application. City of Cape Town spokesperson Dan Plato says the sheriff with the assistance of the police, metro police and a private security company moved in to the sight and started to evict the people last week.

Police officer shoots girlfriend and himself

By Anele Siwa
26 December 2007

Christmas turned tragic on Tuesday night when a Pretoria police officer killed his girlfriend before fatally turning the gun on himself.

“The policeman’s girlfriend was shot several times before her murderer committed suicide,” says police spokesperson Inspector Paul Ramaloko.

Independent Online quotes police spokesperson Inspector Paul Ramaloko as saying the shooting followed an argument between the 27-year-old constable and his girlfriend in the man's home in Soshanguve around 10pm on Tuesday.

And in the Fort Grey informal settlement in East London police arrested a 37-year-old man for stabbing his girlfriend to death on Christmas Eve. Neighbours who witnessed the murder alerted the police. The suspect will appear in court on Thursday on a charge of murder.

Dale Steyn to lead the way

By Ilhaam Hoosain
25 December 2007

Lead by Dale Steyn, South Africa's fast bowlers will pose a formidable threat to the West Indies in the first of three Tests, starting on Wednesday.

Steyn has risen in the International Cricket Council rankings after two excellent series against Pakistan and New Zealand to No 3, one place behind team mate Makhaya Ntini.

Steyn will savour the opportunity of bowling at the West Indies at St George's Park after his previous experience on the same ground.

The West Indies had won the one-off Twenty20 international on December 16 by five wickets - with South Africa 12 for six at one stage - Steyn took 4-9 in three overs.

It was the second-best bowling performance in Twenty20 internationals, behind New Zealand’s Mark Gillespie's 4-7 last year against Kenya.

The Windies batting may be short of tour captain Chris Gayle, who will make a late decision after a lingering hamstring injury from the tour of Zimbabwe.

If Gayle does not play, Shivnarine Chanderpaul's tough resistance is likely to be the main concern for the South African attack, after Brian Lara's international retirement and Ramnaresh Sarwan's injury.

West Indies last week lost a tour match against South Africa 'A' by 10 wickets.
South Africa will look to Jacques Kallis. At the top of the order, South Africa captain Graeme Smith needs to show he has recovered from a virus. Smith used his recovery time to work on technical difficulties which have damaged his batting confidence.

For the West Indies, Jerome Taylor, Daren Powell and Fidel Edwards provide a three-pronged pace attack.

West Indies selectors could to use the legspin of Rawl Lewis against a South Africa which has never been entirely comfortable against spin.

Squads:

South Africa:
Graeme Smith (captain), Ashwell Prince, Hashim Amla, Mark Boucher, A.B. de Villiers, Herschelle Gibbs, Paul Harris, Jacques Kallis, Andre Nel, Makhaya Ntini, Shaun pollock, Dale Steyn.

West Indies:
Chris Gayle (captain), Dwayne Bravo, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Pedro Collins, Fidel Edwards, Darren Ganga, Rawl Lewis, Runako Morton, Brenton Parchment, Daren Powell, Dinesh Ramdin, Darren Sammy, Marlon Samuels, Devon Smith, Jerome Taylor.


Picture: www.thepca.co.uk

Christmas picnic turns to tragedy

By Nadia Samie
25 December 2007

It’s a sad Christmas for a family in KwaZulu-Natal, who lost their youngest child in a drowning incident earlier today.

News24 reports that the family was picnicking along the Midmar Dam in Pietermaritzburg shortly before noon, when the 7-year-old and his two siblings went into the water. A short while later the two older children were pulled from the water by police search and rescue personnel. They are currently being treated and will later be moved to a Pietermartitzburg hospital. However, the their young brother was declared dead on the scene.

The report says it is still not clear how the children experienced difficulty in the water.

The National Sea Rescue Institute has the following tips:

Read and obey all rules and posted signs;

Children or inexperienced swimmers should take precautions, such as wearing a life jacket or personal floatation device (PFD) when around the water;

Watch out for the dangerous “too’s” — too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity;

Set water safety rules for the whole family based on swimming abilities (for example, inexperienced swimmers should stay in water less than chest deep);

Be knowledgeable of the water environment you are in and its potential hazards, such as deep and shallow areas, currents, depth charges, obstructions and where the entry and exit points are located. The more informed you are, the more aware you will be of hazards and safe practices;

Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather;

Use a feet-first entry when entering the water;

Enter headfirst only when the area is clearly marked for diving and has no obstructions;

Do not mix alcohol with swimming, diving or boating. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination, affects your swimming and diving skills, and reduces your body's ability to stay warm.

In an emergency at sea, call 082 911.

Buffels River bursts its banks

By Ilhaam Hoosain
25 December 2007

The Buffels River at Laingsburg has burst its banks after heavy thunderstorms in parts of the Western Cape Karoo on Monday night.

Floodwaters rose over the N1 bridge, which had to be closed for short periods during the night, according to an SABC report.

The river's heavy flow has since subsided, but it is still raining steadily at Laingsburg.

Police said there were no immediate reports of damage, injuries or fatalities.

Laingsburg was devastated by floods on 25 January 1981, when the Buffels River also burst its banks. Over a hundred people lost their lives and only 21 houses were left standing in the town.

Spring tide calls for caution

By Ilhaam Hoosain
25 December 2007

At 07h38 this morning National Sea Rescue Institute, Still Bay answered to a call following eye-witness reports of a paddle-skier being swept out to sea, through the Goukou River Mouth, after becoming separated from his paddle-ski which had capsized with the outgoing Spring Tide.

On arrival on-scene, the 40 year old male, from Eldoraine, Pretoria, had managed to swim to shore.

“They recovered his paddle-ski and brought him to the NSRI rescue base where he was referred to a local doctor for a check-up but is otherwise doing well.

“He managed to get to a doctor where he was required no further medical assistance,” says Nsri spokesperson Craig Lambinon.

National: Spring Tide:

Yesterday’s full moon brought in the Spring Tide, which occurs at Full Moon and again at New Moon.

The effects of the Spring Tide should last until the 1st day of the New Year.

Bathers and boaters are warned that the Spring Tides higher than normal high tide and lower than normal low tide result in stronger than normal rip-currents which are the greatest cause of drowning accidents along our coastline.

Badih Chabaan throws in the towel

By Ilhaam Hoosain
25 December 2007

Months of the Greenmarket Square power struggle between the City of Cape Town and Badih Chabaan has ended as Chabaan throws in the towel.

He was due to tell informal traders on Monday that he is giving up his challenge to the City's cancellation of his lease in June.

In addition he will abandon his defence of the traders, whom he believes will lose out in the city's revamp of the square from March.

Chaaban told the Cape Argus that although he believed the city had behaved unlawfully towards him and the traders, the protracted battle had become too costly to wage any longer.

"I see myself as a victor in surrender. I see it has having lost the battle, not the war, against the DA's fascist style of government. I'm not going to fight the system if the system is bigger than me," he said.

As a councillor, he was bound to abide by the city's decisions, even if he did not agree with them.

"It's unfortunate. The city wins. I lose. One must accept defeat in the same way you celebrate victory."

Chaaban said that in the New Year, he would spend more time on the work of his political party, the National Peoples Party (NPP).

On December 1, when the city took control of the square, Chaaban refused to give up his presence there and continued to meet traders and collect a daily rental from as many as 130 of 230 traders.

At least five of his rent collectors, some of whom also trade on the square, faced arrest by Metro Police two weeks ago for illegally collecting money.

Chaaban had promised traders reduced uniform trading fees of R50 a day to compete with the city's monthly fee of R400.

He believes the traders will get the short end of the stick once the city begins its upgrade of the square.

"Rather than have the courage of their convictions and testing the validity of their so-called cancellation of the lease of Greenmarket Square by issuing a summons for my eviction, the city has targeted the traders, who are relatively defenceless," he said.

The city council decided in June to cancel the lease to allow it to upgrade the square and enforce its new informal trading bylaw at several trading areas across the metropole.

Simon Grindrod, the city mayoral committee member for economic development said that if Chaaban planned to do as he had said, he was pleased that it would allow informal traders on Greenmarket Square to take full advantage of the support available to them from the city.

Conservative estimates from the city put the value of the informal trading sector across the metropole at R1-billion a year.

Christmas and New Year’s babies

Anele Siwa
25 December 2007

Many babies are born every year on Christmas and New Year's Day. Much excitement is created around the first born babies and their parents on these days.

“This year the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health will again release a statement of all babies born on Christmas and New Year's Day at public health facilities in the province,’ says Deputy Director of Communications, Western Cape Department of Health Mark van der Heever.

According to van der Heever staffs at provincial public health facilities are on full alert to assist parents during this time.

“We would like to wish all expected parents well and also congratulate them,” he added.

Festive season road death toll down from last year

By Nadia Samie
24 December 2007

Nine-hundred and five people have died in 810 road accidents since the beginning of December 2007, which marked the start of the festive season. This figure is down from last year, when 1223 fatalities occurred from 1018 crashes for the same period.

The national Department of Transport has urged South African and visiting road-users to exercise extra caution over the festive season, a period notorious for road fatalities. In particular, pedestrians are asked to be careful on the country’s roads, as they form the highest number of road accident victims.

According to the department, last year this time, 497 pedestrians had been killed, while 375 pedestrians have been killed so far this season.

“During this festive season it is very important to avoid drinking and walking in an unsafe manner. The dangers of drinking and walking are tragically evident because the high intake of alcohol can seriously slow down your reactions and capabilities. By far the greater percentage of pedestrians injured or killed on our roads are found to have high levels of alcohol in their bloodstream at the time of the accident,” the department says in a statement.

Traffic officers have been deployed at holiday spots, in townships and villages, and they are especially vigilant for those drinking and then getting behind the wheel of a car.

Arrive Alive has the following road safety tips for pedestrians and motorists:

Always cross at intersections or at pedestrian bridges and crossings where drivers’ expect to find pedestrians;

Walk directly across the street. Do not walk diagonally. The shorter the distance crossed the less time you are at risk of danger;

Try not to walk on the road. By walking on the road you will be putting yourself at risk of being knocked down by fast approaching vehicles;

If you have to walk on the roadside, always walk on the right hand side as close to the edge as possible, facing oncoming traffic;

Cross only when it is safe to do so, and look in both directions and listen to oncoming traffic while crossing;

Wear bright colored clothing at night to increase your visibility to motorists;

Motorists must look out for unsteady or staggering pedestrians who might be under the influence of alcohol;

Avoid walking or crossing the freeway because vehicles travel at very high speeds. It is illegal for pedestrians to be on the freeway; and

At a pedestrian traffic light wait until the little green man appears. Then look right, left and right again before crossing. Look out for impatient motorists.
The provincial breakdown of road fatalities so far this season is as follows:

Gauteng: 195
KwaZulu Natal: 143
Western Cape: 111
Eastern Cape: 114
Free State: 65
Mpumalanga 103
North West: 62
Limpopo: 96
Northern Cape: 16

COMMUNITY INFORMATION NETWORK

By Tina George
24 December 2007

*NOTICE*

#The festival of the chariot will be taking place on the 29th and 30th of December. This two day festival includes a multicultural, spiritual and wellness festival and will be celebrating diversity, there will be a REAL Formula accompanied by lots of music and dance. This event will take place in Beach Road, Seapoint and is free of charge. The highlight of the event will be the performance by Tucan Tucan, so everyone is welcome. For more information contact Muriel Marco on 082 2953907 or Frank Paco on 0824983743.

#An art exhibition of children’s art by patients at the Red Cross Hospital is on display in the foyer of the Masque Theatre, Main Road, Muizenberg until the end of January 2008. All children’s art sold is in aid of the Red Cross Hospital. The exhibition is open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 12 noon and during the run of all shows. For more information call 021 788 6999.

#Anyone interested in starting a support group for parents who have suffered a stillbirth or neonatal death, email Nicole or Graeme on bornsleeping@gmail.com.

# The Cape of Good Hope SPCA have been trying to assist animals in the flood affected southern Cape. They urgently need food donations. Call 021 700 4143.

#Talk2Sales is offering 20 – 50 unemployed people between 18 and 35 years with sales experience from Mitchell’s Plain and surrounding areas an opportunity to earn about R500 through upliftment work in the community. Full training provided from the International Trainers and Mentorship programme. Contact Reggie on 021 419 0021/2 between 10am and 7pm.

You can add your event to this noticeboard by e-mailing the CIN team: news@bushradio.co.za, or feel free to contact us telephonically on 021 448 5450 or by fax us on 021 448 5451.

The new ANC National Executive Committee

Below is the full list of the new ANC National Executive Committee, and the number of votes each delegate received, following the election of the new NEC in Polokwane.

1. MANDELA, Winnie 2845
2. RADEBE, Jeff 2716
3. SKWEYIYA, Zola 2700
4. JORDAN, Pallo 2645
5. CRONIN, Jeremy 2519
6. DUARTE, Jessie 2448
7. SISULU, Lindiwe 2384
8. MTHEMBI-MAHANYELE, Sankie 2291
9. MABANDLA, Brigitte 2235
10. SEXWALE, Tokyo 2198
11. NZIMANDE, Blade 2157
12. STOFILE, Makhenkesi 2151
13. GIGABA, Malusi 2144
14. MAGASHULE, Ace 2121
15. MBALULA, Fikile 2116
16. MOOSA, Valli 2110
17. POTGIETER-GQUBULE, Febe 2091
18. CHABANE, Collins 2043
19. SISULU, Max 2041
20. RAMATLHODI, Ngoako 2034
21. YENGENI, Tony 2032
22. NYANDA, Siphiwe 2005
23. HANEKOM, Derek 1996
24. MKHIZE, Zweli 1976
25. EBRAHIM, Ebrahim 1964
26. CELE, Bheki 1950
27. MFEKETO, Nomaindia 1943
28. MASETLHA, Billy 1937
29. DLAMINI, Bathabile 1933
30. RAMAPHOSA, Cyril 1910
31. YENGENI, Lumka 1907
32. MOTSHEKGA, Angie 1906
33. MADLALA-ROUTLEDGE, Nozizwe 1905
34. GODONGWANA, Enoch 1891
35. DLAMINI ZUMA, Nkosazana 1885
36. SHABANGU, Susan 1775
37. MOKONYANE, Nomvula 1756
38. PULE, Dina 1730
39. BHENGU, Ruth 1729
40. PHAAHLA, Joe 1726
41. BOOI, Nyami 1709
42. MABUDAFHASI, Joyce 1698
43. ZULU, Lindiwe 1682
44. TOBIAS, Thandi 1675
45. LOVE, Janet 1670
46. SHOPE-MAFOLE, Lyndall 1642
47. DLODLO, Ayanda 1641
48. MTHETHWA, Nathi 1629
49. BROWN, Lynne 1623
50. KONDLO, Ncumisa 1619
51. MTINTSO, Thenjiwe 1616
52. XASA, Fikile 1615
53. MOTSHEKGA, Mathole 1613
54. VAN DER MERWE, Sue 1593
55. TSHABALALA-MSIMANG, Manto 1591
56. MOTSOALEDI, Aaron 1591
57. MANUEL, Trevor 1590
58. MTHEMBU, Jackson 1590
59. TOLASHE, Sisisi 1574
60. MABUZA, David 1572
61. SHICEKA, Sicelo 1532
62. CAPA LANGA, Zoleka 1506
63. MASHAMBA, Joyce 1497
64. MANANA, Sibongile 1496
65. JENKINS, Hazel 1496
66. MUFAMADI, Thaba 1496
67. LOBE, Charlotte 1494
68. MAPISA-NQAKULA, Nosiviwe 1490
69. MASUALLE, Phumulo 1484
70. MOLOI-MOROPA, Joyce 1470
71. MORULE, Playfair 1468
72. DUMA, Ndleleni 1447
73. NETSHITENZHE, Joel 1437
74. PANDOR, Naledi 1431
75. NDEBELE, Sibusiso 1427
76. MAGADZI, Dikeledi 1424
77. NTWANAMBI, Nosipho 1403
78. JOEMAT-PETTERSON, Tina 1369
79. MAYENDE-SIBIYA, Noluthando 1345
80. NKOANA-MASHABANE, Maite 1337

ANC president: Jacob Zuma
Deputy-president: Kgalema Motlanthe
Chairperson: Baleka Mbete
Secretary-general: Gwede Mantashe
Deputy-secretary general: Thandi Modise

NSRI responds to call-out

By Tina George
24 December 2007

Yesterday afternoon National Sea Rescue Institute Bakoven volunteers responded to a call to rescue two men whose racing rubber duck capsized in Camps Bay.

“A racing rubber duck with two Hout Bay men on board were both on-shore when rescue services arrived on the scene, neither of the men were injured,” says NSRI spokesperson, Craig Lambinon.

However many cases of drowning have been reported for the year.

Craig added that most of the drowning around the country have been as a result of rip currents.

“We have the spring tide which also brings a higher than a normal high tide and a lower than normal low tide which will result in stronger than normal rip currents,” says Lambinon.

NSRI are appealing to people to please exercise extreme caution when bathing at beaches.

Proteas finish year in 2nd place

By Henry Booysen
24 December 2007

The Proteas finished 2007 in second place in the official LG ICC rankings for both ODI and Test match cricket.

Media officer for Cricket South Africa Micheal-Owen Smith says that although South Africa was ranked second for most of the year and the Proteas has made major improvement to improve their game, especially the five-day format.

“The Castle Test squad was only ranked No 5 at the start of this year but they have won four series in a row in 2007 – at home to India and Pakistan, away to Pakistan and finally at home to New Zealand – and this enabled them to displace England as the world’s official No 2 side,” says Smith.

He elaborated that South Africa can strengthen their lead even further by winning the upcoming Castle Test series against West Indies which starts at Sahara Oval St. George’s on Wednesday.

The latest LG ICC Test ratings are as follows:

Rank Team Rating
1 Australia 143
2 South Africa 109
3 Sri Lanka 109
4 India 109
5 England 107
6 Pakistan 94
7 New Zealand 91
8 West Indies 72
9 Banngladesh 4

688 suspects arrested

Anele Siwa
24 December 2007

Cape Town Police have arrested 688 crime suspects in a city anti-crime blitz on Wednesday and Thursday.

Police spokesperson captain Randall Stoffels says some of the suspects were suspects with outstanding warrants of arrest.

According to Cape Argus these arrests are believed to be involved in 573 cases.

“Most of the suspects were linked to cases of theft and housebreakings,” says Stoffels.

According to Stoffels 29 suspects are arrested in connection with rape and 21 in connection with charges of robbery.

“The suspects are due to appear in various courts soon,” says Stoffels.

COSATU reacts to KZN accident

By Henry Booysen
23 December 2007

The Congress of South African Trade Unions has extended its condolences to the families of the ten passengers who died in a collision between a bus and a truck on the N3 in KwaZulu-Natal.

COSATU national spokesperson Patrick Carven said that they wish 37 the injured passengers a full and speedy recovery.

“The passengers were on a bus taking people from Rustenburg and Mthata. It is a tragic time of year when families should be coming together to celebrate peace and prosperity, so many families have been plunged into sadness, because of accidents on our roads, as workers return home from their place of work for a well deserved holiday,” says Craven.

They have welcomed the investigation into the accident and urge on all South Africans to drive safely and to keep accidents to a minimum.

Police catch perlemoen ‘poacher’

By Henry Booysen
23 December 2007

Police arrested a 52 year old man on Friday for being in possession perlemoen worth more than R4 million.

According to iol.co.za police spokesperson Siphokazi Mawisa says the man was arrested after the Goodwood police received tip-offs from neighbours in the area.

“Perlemoen worth over R4 million rand was confiscated,” says Mawisa.

Mawisa elaborated that a case of possession of abalone had been opened by police and the man is expected to appear in the Goodwood magistrate’s court tomorrow.

The arrest of the man follows after 500kg of perlemoen worth more that R200 000 was found on the seabed off Robben Island.

COSATU condemns electricity price hike

By Henry Booysen
23 December 2007

The Congress of South African Trade Unions has condemned the National Electricity Regulator (NERSA) for allowing ESKOM to increase the price of electricity by 14.2%.

COSATU believes that the increase will have negative effects focussing on the affordability and the overall package of basic services for the poor.

Spokesperson Patrick Craven adds that there are massive development challenges facing South Africa and many households face periodic cut-offs due to cost as a result of unemployment and continuous poverty.

“The price increase will cause serious hardships to all your consumers, particularly the poorer consumers who are struggling with the huge increases food fuel and other basic necessities. Many of them will probably have to stop using electricity altogether,” says Craven.

Meanwhile Eskom said that the hike will enable it to roll-out its programme to meet increasing power demand. The electricity giant is under strain to increase its capacity to provide power amid constant power failures.

COSATU is demanding an extended consultation process and a freeze on price hikes until all options have been revised.

Extra help given if matrics should fail

By Tina George
22 December 2007


Matriculants who fail this year will be given extra support by the Western Cape Education Department when writing their supplementary exam next year.

This year’s matric pupils are the last to follow the old matric curriculum and those who fail will not be able to go back to school to repeat the year or a subject they failed.

The new Further Education and Training matric curriculum will be introduced at all schools next year and the old curriculum will no longer be taught.

However the Education Department has ensured that pupils who failed will have access to the old programme and tutoring lessons in time for the supplementary exam.

“When the results are released normally the department provides schools with psychologists and councillors who will be on stand-by in case our schools need them,” says spokesperson for Education, Gert Witbooi.

“We will definitely be giving learners extra support but learners should not despair because it is not a matter of life and death if they don’t pass,” says Witbooi.

Failed pupils will be provided with various options. College learnership courses will be offered should a pupil not be able to enter a University.

Five years to write under their old curriculum will be provided.

Illegal residents get evicted from Delft in Cape Town

By Ilhaam Hoosain
21 December 2007

Cape Town City Councillor Frank Martin appeared in the Bellville Magistrate's Court on Friday on charges of fraud, enticing riots and violating a court order.

Martin was arrested on Thursday, while leading hundreds of backyard dwellers, who illegally occupied the N2 Gateway houses in Delft.

Earlier this week he demanded that the houses are handed over to the angry Delft residents. According to Thubelisha Homes Xhandi Sigcawu, Councillor Martin wrote letters to the beneficiary indicating to them that he is giving the people permission to occupy houses.

Sigcawu said that Martin does not have the right to give anyone permission to occupy houses.

Sigcawu explains the process that should take place.

“The process is you have a waiting list and a committee that looks at the allocation. The committee that comprise of officials from the City of Cape Town, the local government and housing department in the Western Cape and officials from the National Department of Housing. Thubelisha will then be given a list of names of people that should be moved to houses.”

He goes on to say that for councilor Martin to act in the manner in which he did, is totally uncalled for. He is now inviting people to move to houses illegally.

“They can’t refuse to leave the houses; those houses do not belong to them. We are law abiding citizens and no one is above the law. Whoever takes the law into their own hands has to face the music,” says Sigcawu.

City of Cape Town spokesperson Dan Plato says the sheriff with the assistance of the police, metro police and a private security company moved in to the sight and started to evict the people.

“They are busy evicting the illegal people out of the houses. This means more than 1000 people have to be evicted out of the houses.

“Literally hundreds and hundreds of people, moved in with cars, with bakkies, with combis. Furniture was mounted on top of cars and so on. Each and every structure they could see or lay claim of, they just took possession of that. In the end my warning to them were: if you give up you shelter now and it is not your chance to get your house, your can not then come and lay the blame solely in front of government,” says Plato.

Speaker of the Council Dirk Smit said that he received the complaints from Thebulisha Homes with allegations against Frank Martin he said that he is investigating and has given the councillor the opportunity to reply. Smit replies to the question: Will Frank Martin be suspended?

“The Speaker cannot suspend him. What will happen is we will have an investigation and if necessary it will be referred to the Disciplinary Committee. The Disciplinary Committee will then make a recommendation to Council, whatever their findings might be, if we go that far. Then the council will make a recommendation to the Minister. If we go that far, whatever the situation is and what is coming out of the investigation I am not making sure at this point in time,” says Smit.

The people say they've been on waiting lists for years. City officials say the delivery of 500 units by December 14, had to be delayed for various reasons. They repeated warnings that illegal occupants would face the full consequences of the law. Councillor Martin’s case has been postponed until next year the 25 April.

Councillor Martin could not be reached for comment.

Missing Johannesburg women found

By Chanel September
21 December 2007

The search for a 23-year-old woman who went missing in Cape Town ended, when she was found by police in Millerton on Thursday evening.

Annette de Klerk originally from Johannesburg went missing on Sunday; she was last seen in Long Street in the CBD.

“She was very dazed and confused when she was found. She is currently in hospital, says a close family friend,” Doreen de Waal.

“We are ecstatic that Annette has been found and can’t wait to come to the bottom of her disappearance,” says de Waal.

Police spokesperson Randall Stoffels says they are investigating her disappearance.

Cyclist get shot dead in Bonteheuwel

By Ilhaam Hoosain
21 December 2007

A Bonteheuwel man was gunned down on Thursday in what police believe could be a gang-related shooting.

Terence Johnson (26) died after an occupant of a blue Volkswagen fired several shots at him as he cycled in Kiaat Road.

The incident occured just before two-o-clock in the afternoon.

"There were three occupants in the vehicle that stopped nearby.One got out and fired shots," says police spokesperson Bernadine Steyn.

"The victim was wounded in the back and right leg. He died at the scene," says Steyn.

Anyone with information can call 021 935 9802.

Motorists asked to exercise caution

By Chanel September
21 December 2007

Motorists have been asked to exercise caution on the roads, due to continued road blocks.

The roadblocks which will take place across the country today and through the course of the long weekend, have been put into action to ensure a safer festive season.

According to reports almost 1500 motorists have been arrested since the beginning of December.

“Traffic officials will be taking action against drunken drivers, speedsters and reckless drivers,” says traffic department spokesperson, Kalvin Visser.

Traffic authorities were also deployed to provide assistance on the province's roads in anticipation of heavy traffic volumes.

“We appeal to all people to exercise caution as their will be roadblocks on our city’s roads,” says Visser.

Thus far 564 people have lost their lives in the Western Cape in road accidents alone.

Suspects arrested for two murders

By Tina George
21 December 2007

Four suspects were arrested at their homes in Temperance Town, Gordon’s Bay on Wednesday, following two separate murder incidents.

The body of a 45-year-old man was found with open wounds to the head by a nine-year-old boy in a field.

According to police another body of a 53-year-old man was also found in the field on Wednesday with open wounds to his head and neck.

“It is believed that cash was taken from the victims in both cases,” says police spokesperson Bernadine Steyn.

“The four suspects are expected to appear in the Strand’s Magistrate’s court on Friday on two charges of Murder,” says Steyn.

Gordon’s Bay Police are searching for a fifth suspect; anyone with information can contact the Investigating Officer, Inspector Gert van der Merwe on (021) 856 2317/8.

84 tons of waste collected in one month

By Tina George
21 December 2007

A total number of 84 tons of recyclable waste has been collected in November as part of the City of Cape Town’s recycling project.

The “Think Twice” project was first introduced in four main regions of the Cape Metropole – Southern Suburbs, Helderberg, Delft/Mfuleni and Phillipi.

“Wasteplan and Marthinus Waste was appointed to carry out the door-to-door service to a fifth test region making up 11 000 households in Pinelands, Bloubergstrand, Melkbosstrand,” says Acting Manager of collections for the City’s Solid Waste Department, Ncedo Mcani.

By the end of November, almost 48 000 kg of re-usable waste had been collected by houses in the West Coast suburbs and a further 35 000 kg from Pinelands.

“We’re really excited that we managed to get 84 tons just over one month and in particular the Pinelands area where we have over 3000 households participating,” says Ward Councillor for Pinelands and chairperson of the City’s Environmental and Planning Portfolio Committee.

Households in the zoned off areas are provided with information packs and free plastic bags to collect all types of refuse.

The refuse bags are collected separately by Wasteplan vehicles and then taken for sorting and re-processing.

“It’s the participation of the communities that has enabled us to collect this 84 tons, they have really become involved in the project and supported it,” says Watkins.

Atlantic Beach Golf Estate in Melkbosstrand has a participation rate of 80%, Pinelands 70% and Bloubergstrand area 61%.

Cape Town International Airport reaches exponental growth.

By Henry Booysen
21 December 2007

Cape Town international Airport made the record books on Wednesday when they passed the 8 million passenger mark.

For 2007 alone CTIA had a record passenger growth totalling 819.496 rising a staggering 17% from 2006. Communications manager at CTIA Deidre Hendricks says that the numbers mean that on average approximately 25 000 passengers move through the airport on a daily basis.

“All these people come to the airport in approximately 18 000 vehicles daily. Cape Town International Airport has never been busier,” says Hendricks.

The airport is undergoing massive construction due to the building of the airports second multi-second storey car park, has caused a lot of inconvenience to users, but nonetheless the passenger mark is still increasing.

CTIA also appeals to passengers to bear with the construction activities and the growth rate accelerating being experienced.

Reactions to JZ as president

By Chanel September and Tina George
20 December 2007

With Jacob Zuma settling into his new role as the African National Congress president, some have had mixed reactions into his new found position, as leader of the national party.

Zuma walked away with the majority of the votes on Tuesday evening, when he succeeded Thabo Mbeki in a bitter battle for leadership in the ANC.

Despite the victory being sweet for Zuma and his supporters many have disagreed with the selection of the new president.

Bush Radio’s news team took to the streets and found how the general public feel:

“I don’t want Zuma being president because his corrupt, doing rapes and being friends with corrupt people,” Derrick Jacobs.

“I feel great that Zuma is president because he will do a lot of changes for the county. So I say keep well Zuma!" says Khaya Mteqwa.

“I don’t feel so happy about him about it because as a leader he should have a good track record,” says Nelly Williams.

“Seeing Zuma, I know that he has a bad track record, but I know that he’ll be a good president,” says Joe Kotsheni

“Heaven forbid it be Jacob Zuma for various charges that must still be brought against him,” says Riaaz Adams.

Meanwhile political parties aired their views:

“It is sad that the succession battle has gone this way which has divided the party. It’s a topical issue for the country and shows that people are now shut off from a thing that affect them,” says the Democratic Alliance’s, Joe Seremane.

“We respect the decision of the ANC delegates. We want to congratulate Jacob Zuma and hope that he will bridge the divide in the country and party,” says the Independent Democrats, Patricia de Lille.

“We have grave concerns which regard legal issues that we don’t want to see an evasion of the justice system. Democratic processes have taken it course and we pleased about this," says the African Christian Democratic Party’s, Cherylin Dudley.

“Cosatu is extremely pleased with the outcome of the ANC conference. We believe that the new leadership will unite the movement,” says the Congress of South African Trade Union’s Patrick Craven.

Meanwhile the five top positions in the party was also announced with Kgalema Motlanthe walking away as deputy-president. Baleka Mbete, is the new chairperson of the party.

Gwede Mantashe was chosen as secretary-general and Thandi Modise is the new deputy-secretary general.

Man dies after helping drowning mass

By Tina George
20 December 2007

A 42 year-old man from Barkley East died after a mass drowning in progress was reported at Roberg beach in Plettenberg on Wednesday.

This follows after a family member had gone to the assistance of two children that were swept out to sea.

The family member was then followed by a number of other people who went into the water to try and assist.

On arrival on scene 14 people were found to be swept out to sea by a rip current and had gotten into difficulty themselves.

“NSRI deployed five rescue swimmers into the water, all fourteen people were rescued, some by each other and some by the NSRI rescue swimmers,” says NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon.

“The man was resuscitated on the scene and rushed to hospital in a critical condition but passed away this morning,” says Lambinon.

A further two men were hospitalized and are reported to be in a stable and satisfied condition. The remaining eleven people were released on scene requiring no further medical assistance.

“We are appealing to people to be extremely cautious of rip currents and not to go swimming unless lifeguards are on duty at the beaches,” says Lambinon.

Children should always have adult supervision when they are swimming.

In a sea rescue emergency you can call the NSRI on 082 911

Nationwide struggling

By Henry Booysen
20 December 2007

After their temporary grounding last month, Nationwide Airlines are still struggling to accommodate passengers as many have lost faith in the airline.

Nationwide was grounded on the 30th November after the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) suspended its approval of the airline’s aircraft maintenance organisation and the certificates of airworthiness of its fleet of aircraft.

According to Independent Online, the CAA ruled that the airline could fly again about two weeks ago.

Rodger Whittle, the corporate quality director at Nationwide, the airline is taking strain the festive season.

“We are operating with far fewer aircraft than normal. This has obviously had huge implication…we have been inundated with calls from our clients and we can’t accommodate them,” says Whittle.

On Wednesday two Nationwide flights were cancelled in Johannesburg, but the reason for this is still unknown.

Fire rips through Khayelitsha informal settlement

By Chanel September
20 December 2007

Residents of the SST informal settlement in Khayelitsha were left homeless; after a fire broke out in the area on Wednesday evening.

The blaze which ripped through the neighborhood left approximately 66 people displaced.

“At least 21 informal dwellings have been destroyed. However no injuries or deaths have been reported,” says Disaster Management spokesperson Johann Minnie.

“The residents were provided with building material to rebuild their homes. The cause of the blaze has not yet been established,” says Minnie.

People resinding in informal settlements are asked to take the follwing saftey precaustions into concedration, to ensure a safer festive season, free from fires:

· Never leave the children alone with matches, the stove or candles

· Check that any matches or lighters are stored out of sight and above a stretch zone line

· When cooking always supervise children every moment in the kitchen

· If a pan fire occurs smother a pan fire by covering with a lid

· Be extremely careful of open flames around homes and buildings

It's a Zuma revolution

By Ilhaam Hoosain

20 December 2007

Jacob Zuma is in the spotlight as South Africans try to determine when the ANC's new leader and the country's likely next president will lead the country.

But the ANC's new top leadership has already indicated that economic policies are likely to stay the same.

Tokyo Sexwale said the result was a revolution but there should not be a purge to follow according to the Daily News.

"It (the result) was a revolution. I would however hope that there will be, as has begun, an understanding that we are one large party working together to secure a better life for all South Africans," says Sexwale.

Zuma received 2 329 votes and Mbeki only 1 505 votes and there were eight spoilt papers and one abstention.

The five top positions as deputy-president of the party Kgalema Motlanthe beat Foreign Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma.

The new chairperson is Speaker Baleka Mbete, who was chosen above Joel Netshitenzhe.

Gwede Mantashe was chosen as secretary-general, above Defence Minister Mosiuoa Lekota.

Thandi Modise, who beat Thoko Didiza, is the new deputy-secretary general and former Mpumalanga premier Mathews Phosa becomes treasurer-general, beating Deputy-President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.

Zuma did not comment or speak to any media at the conference.

South Africans would have been be able to get their first indications of Zuma's thinking from a briefing he was expected to give today, but this has been postponed until further notice.

Sexwale said "while it was quiet clear that change was needed at the top, I believe that the same leadership that was ousted tonight will still serve the ANC and the country with distinction. I think they can become nominees for the other NEC position still to be decided. They have been diligent and some of them are heroes of government. All of those who are out are stalwarts of the organisation. By removing them it does not mean a death sentence for them they will still play an important role in government at least for the next few years", he commented.

He also had kind words for the defeated President Thabo Mbeki.
"Thabo (Mbeki) is a veteran. He is gifted, a highly intellectual leader who knows the history of the ANC. He has served us. He has been at the top for 10 years and that doesn't include the 5 years he spent as deputy president of the country and the ANC under Nelson Mandela from 1994 to 1999."

"He is still the president of the country and it is out of order to call him a fifth columnist. It will never happen that these leaders are lost to the political wilderness.

"The ANC will not get divided because a certain faction won. Organisations get divided on issues of politics, policies, visions, philosophies and no such divisions within the ANC exist" he said.

ID President Patricia de Lille says the ID is ‘pleased that the ANC succession race is over and it is my hope that the ruling party will now focus on building a South Africa that bridges the divides between all sectors of our society.’

De Lille says the ID ‘respects the internal processes of the ANC to elect a leader of its choice – and we therefore congratulate Jacob Zuma on his election as President of the party.

She goes onto say that she hopes that the ANC will now finally focus on the important policy issues, because we as South Africans really need to deal with creating jobs, fighting poverty, improving service delivery and of course combating crime and corruption,’ says De Lille.

‘We also believe South Africa needs a leader who is pro-poor and stands firm when it comes to the protection of the most vulnerable in our society, women and children.

‘We hope Mr Zuma will be an all-inclusive leader who seeks to end discrimination in all its forms,’ De Lille says.

‘We also hope that he will move away from policy making to policy implementation – South Africa needs to see more action and less talk.’

Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zille has described Jacob Zuma’s election as African National Congress president as a "dismal day" for the country.

“It is an indictment on the ruling party that they could find no better candidate than Zuma to lead them,” says Zille. Former president F W de Klerk congratulated Zuma on his victory but urged him not to push for fundamental changes to the country’s economic policy. Inkatha Freedom Party leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi says Zuma faces "enormous" tasks but ads that it is "a great privilege and responsibility” to lead the organisation.

Pictures: www.nndb.com

www.jewcy.com

www.viewimages.com

www.asodugue.org.jpg

Security guard in Hermanus dies in another cash in transit heist

By Ilhaam Hoosain
19 December 2007

On Tuesday afternoon an armed robbery occurred outside a bank in main Road, Hermanus.

Two CW – security officials were about to deliver cash to the bank when they were approached by three armed men on foot.

According to police spokesperson Billy Jones, the men fired a number of shots killing a 44-year-old one security in the head and the chest. The other guard was physically unharmed.

“The suspects fled the scene with a cash-box, containing an undisclosed amount of money, in a Toyota Avante where two other males suspects were waiting. Police members who were alerted, spotted the vehicle in the immediate vicinity and gave chase,” says Jones.

The suspects drove to the new Harbour area in Hermanus where they got out and fled on foot between the nearby bushes. Police gave chase on foot and moments later arrested the five suspects.

“We recovered the cash box containing the money inside the vehicle as well as two 9 millimetres firearms in the bush where the suspects fled,” says Jones.

He goes on to add that the suspects aged between 25 and 31-years-old both from the Strand area, are facing charges of murder and armed robbery and scheduled to appear in the Hermanus Magistrate Court on Thursday the 20 December 2007.

Young woman goes missing from the City Centre

By Ilhaam Hoosain

19 December 2007

Annette de Klerk a 23-year-old woman originally from Gauteng, went missing in the early hours of Sunday morning, in the Cape Town City Centre.

De Klerk who has been living in Cape Town for the past two months, is about 1.6m tall, has dark brown hair and dark eyes.

"Annette only had her cellphone and car keys in her possession," says Doreen Dewaal.

Police spokesperson Randal Stoffells confirmed the disappearance, but added that their are no new updates in the case.

"Nobody knows what she was last wearing. We are currently working on getting her cell phone records," says De Waal.

Anyone with information can contact Koos de Villiers at 082 803 4423.

Another Cash-in-Transit heist

By Tina George
19 December 2007

Six suspects were arrested during an armed robbery which took place on Tuesday morning, outside a shopping centre in Voorttrekker Road, Ceres.

The arrest came just after Ceres police were busy with a routine patrol check.

“Two APC-Security Officials were about to deliver cash at the shopping centre when a group of six armed men approached them. The suspects robbed the guards at gunpoint of their firearms and three cash-boxes containing an undisclosed amount of money,” says police spokesperson Billy Jones.

On the arrival at the scene police fired several shots. Police later pursued the suspects who fled the scene in a white Toyota Run-X.

“Police chased after the suspects to the Khayelitsha area where they were all seized and found to be in possession of three cash boxes and three firearms,” says Jones.

The suspects face charges of attempted murder and armed robbery and are due to appear in the Ceres Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 20 December 2007.

Helicopter crashes into Southern Cape sea

By Chanel September
19 December 2007

A surf rescue helicopter crashes into the sea on Tuesday afternoon just off the Southern Cape Coast, near Groot Brakrivier.

At the time of the accident the pilot and a crew member were on board in the helicopter.

According to National Sea Rescue Institute spokesperson, Craig Lambinon the pilot had been conducting a routine static line hoist.

“The pilot of the helicopter was slightly injured and was taken to hospital, along with the three other passengers, as a precautionary measure,” says Lambinon.

Divers retrieved the craft from the water. The cause of the accident is not yet known.

Cape Town boasts with high number of accredited clinics

By Chanel September
18 December 2007

Cape Town boasts, with the highest number of clinics that complies with international health standards in South Africa.

According to a statement, the City Cape Town has received accreditation for 12 of its 82 clinics and one of its 16 environmental health clinics.

The clinics situated in Woodstock, Eerste River, Khayelitsha, Bellville South, Steenberg, Mitchell’s Plain, Netrag, Hanover Park, Landsdown, Somerset West and Wynberg are evaluated to provide patients with the best primary health care.

The computerised project management programme monitors the progress in the healthcare facility and reports its findings.

Facilities that have difficulties in improving their performance are identified and assisted.

“What it really means is that we test the quality of services we provide. It’s an external evaluation at international standards on primary health care and it will show that our patients get the best care possible,” says Executive Director for Health, Dr Ivan Toms.

“Cape Town has set a benchmark in quality of public health care for municipalities across the country,” says CEO of the Council for Health Service Accreditation of Southern Africa, Professor Stuart Whittaker