The 25th WaterNet/WARSFA/GWP-SA Symposium

The 25th WaterNet/WARSFA/GWP-SA Symposium, held for the first time in Lesotho, brought together experts from Southern and Eastern Africa to discuss critical issues in water resource management. This year's theme, “Enhancing Sustainability: Upscaling Innovations and Best Practices for Integrated Catchment and Water Resources Management in Eastern and Southern Africa – Leaving No One Behind,” emphasized the importance of inclusive practices and collaboration.

Picture by: Sihle Jezile

Researchers presented findings that not only focused on innovative approaches to water management but also highlighted the significance of engaging youth and communities in these efforts.

“There are two very important statistics came that out recently, one is from is from the Linkedin global green skills report and there they found that from 2023 to 2023, the growth in demand for jobs in green skills increased by 23%, and at the same time people who have green skills only increased by 12,3%, this means that there many more jobs out there that require green skills,” said, Camila Haux, specialist for Management and Economics at Yoma.

Done by: Sihle Jezile

The City of Cape Town urges parents to monitor children ahead of Guy Fawkes Day

The City of Cape Town is advising parents to keep a close watch on their children as Guy Fawkes Day approaches on Tuesday. Unlike the Drakenstein Municipality, Cape Town is unable to enforce a ban on fireworks due to legal limitations.

However, the city is urging residents to avoid using fireworks, citing risks to animals, individuals, and local businesses. Guy Fawkes Day marks the anniversary of the 1605 gunpowder plot, where a group attempted to blow up the British Parliament and King James I.

JP Smith, the MMC for Safety and Security, stated, while a ban on fireworks would be ideal, it is unfortunately beyond the city's control.

"A ban on fireworks is the best solution, but unfortunately that is outside of the city's purview, and we will ensure that we play our part to curb it as best possible," he said.

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen

 

Homeless individuals removed from Castle of Good Hope

A group of homeless people has been evicted from the Castle of Good Hope after living there for two years. On Friday, the court sheriff, with help from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Cape Town Metro Police, removed the unauthorized occupants from the national monument. 

Before the eviction, two structures were set on fire in protest, but there was no further resistance once police and firefighters arrived to put out the fire. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis called the eviction an important step for the city. 

"The City of Cape Town welcomes this positive milestone. Positive for the whole city, positive for this heritage site, and positive for those who were living in indignity at this site for several years. This has been a very visible site of urban decay in recent years, and its clean up today is an important moment for urban restoration in the city," Hill-Lewis said.

He said he was relieved that the illegal occupation has ended, noting its impact on tourism and the well-being of those affected. The Department of Public Works obtained an eviction order two months ago to clear the area. The homeless individuals have been offered shelter at safe space facilities in the city.

Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen