TUESDAY 14 April 2020 | Tel: 021 910 6500 | Email: post@peoplespost.co.za | Website: www.peoplespost.co.za
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HEALTH
‘I’ve been called to serve’ KAYLYNNE BANTOM KAYLYNNE.BANTOM@MEDIA24.COM
DOING THEIR DUTY: Martin Cupido and Astrid Damons of the Mitchell’s Plain Disaster Risk Management Centre. A convoy of cars drove through the streets of Tafelsig to create awareness around the Covid-19 outbreak. In total, the centre hosted four awareness drives spread out over a few days, sharing information by speaking through a loudhailer. Read more on page 6. PHOTO: SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS
Protect yourself from Covid-19 SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS SAMANTHA.LEE@PEOPLESPOST.CO.ZA
@SAMANTHA_LEE121
There have been considerable efforts made to curb the spread of Covid-19, however cases in the country continue to climb. While there have been a number of recoveries, there are new cases being diagnosed daily with the death toll rising as well. This prompted president Cyril Ramaphosa to extend the intended lockdown by another two weeks with the 10 000 fieldworkers expected to continue with the door to door campaign to screen and refer residents for testing. In the first week, more than 3 000 people had already been screened with 258 of these being referred for testing. The official number of Covid-19 infections in the province on Wednesday 8 April was 510, with 407 of these being from the City of Cape Town. By Sunday 12 April, these cases had increased to 599, 492 or which are in the City of Cape Town municipality. This was the last confirmed
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City lends support to local soup kitchens
statistic before going to print. Head of health in the Western Cape Dr Keith Cloete says the areas of greatest concern in the metro are Khayelitsha, Mitchell’s Plain and Klipfontein. On Wednesday, seven cases were reported in Mitchell’s Plain; Khayelitsha had five cases and Klipfontein had 23. By Sunday these numbers were 11 for Mitchell’s Plain, 14 for Khayelitsha and 31 for Klipfontein. “These are the three areas that have the most vulnerable areas within them but it is still the areas with the least cases. Our concern is that we might be having community transmission in those areas,” says Cloete. In a statement on Wednesday, premier Alan Winde said: “Today, the Western Cape surpassed the 500 case mark, and with every additional case we register, we increase the risk of a vulnerable person being infected. It is important that we all continue to take the necessary steps to ensure we protect ourselves and others. This includes regular handwashing, not touching your face, and abiding by the rules of the lock-
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Inside the City’s Strandfontein temporary shelter
down by staying home.” Winde added that social distancing when going out, in line with the lockdown regulations, in addition to the other measures mentioned are the gold standard for infection prevention. Winde again reiterated the need to stay home. “We support the lockdown 100%. It is not going to be easy and we are going to need all of your support across this province to make this happen. We are doing this together, staying home and making sure that we are slowing the curve,” said Winde. “Around the world, we see hospitals can’t keep up. We are going into a lockdown now to keep us below that line. Making sure our hospitals can deal with this virus and create that space. We can only do that if we all do this together. This is in solidarity with our fellow human beings in this province and the rest of the world.” V If you are showing symptoms or for more information, call the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) hotline: 0800 029999, Western Cape government Covid-19 hotline: 021 928 4102 or send a WhatsApp to the Covid-19 WhatsApp number: 060 012 3456.
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Smokers will need to wait a bit longer to stock up
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why we became health practitioners. This is a very difficult time,” she explains. Miller added that they are seeing an increase in the number of people coming forward to get tested. She explains that having to break the news to people that they have tested positive for the virus does not get easier. “Often patients do not take it well. When the patients are admitted to the hospital, we are the only faces they see for at least two weeks. Their families are not allowed to visit them for safety reasons. They often do not know whether they will walk out of hospital alive.” The bubbly nurse makes a solemn appeal to people to adhere to the lockdown restrictions. “Covid19 is serious and it’s on our doorstep. I have been a nurse for many years and have seen many things, but nothing like this. Make sure you wash your hands and stay safe inside. You don’t want to end up here.” Miller praised her co-workers and other essential workers. “I take my hat off to them, this is not an easy task, but they are doing well. We don’t know what today or even tomorrow has in store. So for now all I ask is that people continue to pray for us.”
only told my elderly parents that I’m working on the front line on Monday 6 April. I had to tell them because now I’m going to be staying at the hospital’s hostel. Not to protect myself, but to protect them.” These are the words of sister Carmen Miller, a nurse at Groote Schuur Hospital. Miller, who is currently the operations manager at the hospital’s trauma unit, recently made the brave decision to temporarily move out of her home, leaving her 20-year-old son and elderly parents behind. “I did it because I have been called to serve the country. Serving is what I do; it is what I have been doing for the past 30 years.” The 51-year-old has been in the nursing profession for the past 31 years. Miller together with thousands of other nurses, doctors, soldiers and police officers across the country are currently working on the front line to help fight the Covid-19 pandemic. They have been classified as essential workers called to serve during the country wide 21-day lockdown. She explains that the decision wasn’t an easy one. At the hostel she doesn’t have the luxury of a TV or a radio to listen to. “It’s like being in isolation; when I am off duty all I do is read a book,” she says. But according to her, it is a sacrifice worth making as her family is her main priority. “By staying at the hostel I can at least ensure that I don’t infect my parents or my son. My mother is 81 years old and my dad is 75, they are vulnerable,” she reiterated. The mother explains that hospital staff experience the same emotions as the patients. “We are scared too; none of us has ever had to deal with a virus at this magnitude. We Sister Carmen Miller a nurse at Groote Schuur have emotional days Hospital has decided to move into the hospital when we have to re- hostel; a brave decision made to serve Covid-19 mind each other patients. PHOTO: FACEBOOK
2 NEWS
PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 14 April 2020
COVID-19 LOCKDOWN
Fake online news spread panic SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS SAMANTHA.LEE@PEOPLESPOST.CO.ZA @SAMANTHA_LEE121
Refugees who were living inside the Central Methodist Church in the CBD are now at the Wingfield Military site in Maitland. PHOTO: FACEBOOK
Relocation of refugees to Wingfield ‘recipe for disaster’ KAYLYNNE BANTOM Kensington and Maitland residents fear that the relocation of refugees from streets in the Central Business District (CBD) to the Wingfield Military site will not be temporary as the City of Cape Town has said. The large group of refugees who were living inside the Central Methodist Mission Church in Greenmarket Square are now being housed in huge tents erected on an area opposite Maitland Cemetery in Voortrekker Road. Before the relocation, there was widespread confusion as to who would be sheltered at Wingfield. Leslie Swartz, chair of the Kensington Factreton Residents and Ratepayers Association (KFRRA), says when they met with mayor Dan Plato on Saturday 4 April they were told that homeless people will be placed there. “By Monday 6 April, we were still not sure what was going to happen.” Swartz adds that the community is not happy with the way the city handled the relocation process. “For the past 50 years, there has been no affordable housing development in the area which has resulted in the creation of informal settlements and backyard dwellers. This relo-
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cation will add to an already burdened and frustrated group of people, and is a recipe for disaster.” Plato says: “The Wingfield site was identified by public works minister Patricia De Lille. It is owned by her department and she instructed that it be used by the City for the housing of the non-nationals in our City. “We immediately took occupation of that site for the purposes of preparing it for the erection of tents and basic services for this purpose.” In Plato’s opinion, a decision by police to remove refugees from the Methodist Church in Greenmarket Square on Thursday 2 April to the Paint City site in Bellville was “premature as that was not what was agreed upon”. “We have procured tents, water tankers, ablution facilities, and health and safety supplies and equipment to ensure the Wingfield site is compliant with the regulations now in force,” says Plato. Swartz says the community needs clarity on what the plans are for after the lockdown. “The City in the past has created ‘temporary sites’ like Blikkiesdorp and that became the endpoint with no further plans in place. We wish to avoid a repeat of this,” explains Swartz.
City lends support to soup kitchens A total of 21 soup kitchens in various communities across the metropole will receive support through the Mayoral Fund. Each organisation is being supplied with a three-plate gas burner, two large cooking pots of 100F and 80F and a range of dry ingredients such as lentils, samp and beans, among other items. Mayor Dan Plato says these items are intended to provide supply for a three-month period, at which point they will be reviewed. “A number of registered organisations are doing important work in their communities and as a caring city, we wanted to contribute in assisting those who need it most. “While we already provide support to several soup kitchens, a number of requests have come in over recent months from communities to assist with setting up soup kitchens in their areas too,” Plato said. The management of these soup kitchens will be monitored by a faithbased organisation Genesis Faith Mission. Plato thanked residents who support the less fortunate by providing a warm meal. “In this time of fear and confusion, I am sure that this warm meal will provide comfort to many.”
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ly asked questions section on their website to have the information verified. “Have it validated because fake news does not help anyone during this lockdown,” he said. In a recent incident, a 55-year-old man was arrested for sharing a video on social media, calling on residents to refuse being tested for Covid-19. The video referenced a single incident in the UK that deliveries of Covid-19 kits would be delayed as core parts had been contaminated with the virus. The man said the video is the “most important message you will ever hear in your entire life” and called on South Africans not to allow the 10 000 community field workers to screen or test them as “there is a possibility that the swabs are contaminated with Covid-19”. The man was arrested on Monday 6 April. Referring to this instance and others, Winde demonstrated the test in a video of his own and shared it on social media. He said: “There has been a lot of fake news around the safety of the test and what it entails. Having now undergone it myself, I can say the test was slightly uncomfortable, being something I had never experienced before, but it was both painless and is 100% safe. I urge all those in areas where community testing is being offered to take up the opportunity. Community testing helps us to determine the presence of the virus in specific areas and is an important tool in helping to stop the spread.” Provincial health minister Dr Nomafrench Mbombo agreed. “Fake news and misinformation around health news constitute a potential threat to the public health and it robs people of vital information that can help them to get the best out of the health system. “This is not the time for bad jokes, nor a time to instil fear. I welcome the enthusiasm to screen and test despite recent fake news events. This has led us to expanding more sites to ensure that many people get to be screened and tested,” she said. Police have also instilled a zero-tolerance stance. Potelwa said: “Social media users are henceforth warned against posting untruths and advised to verify the information before disseminating.” V To report fake news, WhatsApp 067 966 4015 or email fakenewsalert@dtps.gov.za. Include a link or screenshot of the post, article or document in the description.
n an era where social media is meant to live up to its purpose, it seems to be more destructive than helpful to the general public. The increase in fake news and rumours surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic has created undue panic among residents. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp were designed to connect people across the globe, affordably and efficiently. However, in recent years, these sites have become popular among those who spread and create fake news. On Wednesday 18 March, the national government issued a Government Gazette, stating that fake news and disinformation surrounding the pandemic is considered a criminal offence. Reformative measures, such as a fine or imprisonment, have been put in place. Examples of fake news are flyers with departmental logos, memoranda from the office of the presidency and fake accounts. Disaster pictures which claim to show results of the pandemic are also flooding social media only for it to be revealed these scenarios were caused by tornados or hurricanes. One such incident that cut close to home was a message sent to residents at the start of the lockdown, saying that police stations would be closed during this period. The stations included Delft, Mfuleni, Kuilsriver and Khayelitsha, among others. The post advised police officials to stay away from work until after the Easter weekend. Provincial police spokesperson Brig Novela Potelwa said all 151 police stations in the Western Cape remained fully operational. She said provincial police management viewed the posts as “mischievous, meant to sow unnecessary panic and confusion”. Potelwa added: “Any police communication pertaining to operations at police stations is disseminated through official police mediums and platforms.” In another instance, a WhatsApp message did the rounds, reporting that the City of Cape Town would disconnect the water supply to communities. Eddie Andrews, councillor for ward 78, said this same message was spread during the drought period. Andrews called on residents to contact a reliable source to verify information or contact their ward councillors for City-related matters. “Your assistance to not further create any unnecessary anxiety would be most appreciated,” said Andrews. And it seems no one is exempt. There was even a fake account created which claimed to be that of premier Alan Winde. On his official page, the premier posted a picture of the fake profile, urging residents not to interact with it. “Fake news from the beginning has been a problem for us. It is not only in South Africa but across the world. You have seen in our reaction very stringent fines now in place for fake news,” says Winde. “We ask people to please think about it before posting something. Ask yourself if this is real and try and track it or trace it to see that it is valid. If you are in any doubt, don’t post it.” Winde said residents could Those found guilty of creating and spreading fake news could also post this at the frequent- face prosecution. PHOTO: SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS
NEWS 3
PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 14 April 2020
ENVIRONMENT
Protection of nature ‘essential’ RACINE EDWARDES RACINE.EDWARDES@MEDIA24.COM @RAEEDWARDES
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ational Geographic recently reported that air pollution has seen a major reduction since the start of the Covid-19 outbreak, and the subsequent closure of businesses. But the City of Cape Town says the same reduction is not anticipated when it comes to pollution on the ground during lockdown in South Africa. Mayco member for spatial planning and en-
vironment Marian Nieuwoudt explains: “There are multiple sources of pollution which emanate from a range of different sources from a wide-ranging geographic area. As pollution does remain in the environment for long periods of time, there is expected to be no decrease.” However, she says with the lockdown and with beaches being closed to the public, there is anticipated to be less litter. Previously Niewoudt told People’s Post (“Penguin rangers on duty”, 18 February) that tourists affect the breeding and molting habits of penguins. “Penguins in molt are un-
able to go to sea for about 30 days as they replace their feathers. At this time, if they are disturbed and forced into the water, they are at risk of dying from exposure,” she said. But she notes that the department does not anticipate that there will be any changes to these habits during the lockdown. The City assures residents that measures have been put in place to ensure that the essential environmental management services continue. According to a statement, a small team of the City’s coastal management department has been designated as essential staff during
Security rangers and contractors continue with their duties for the protection of the City’s nature reserves.
SOUTH AFRICA, WE’RE AT YOUR SERVICE.
PHOTO: RACINE EDWARDES
the lockdown. They will tend to, among other things: . Marine animal stranding; . coastal pollution events such as an oil spill or shipping disaster; and . the collapse of significant coastal infrastructure, such as sea walls. Two penguin monitors are conducting daily checks on the African penguin colony in Simon’s Town. The transport of birds to Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (Sanccob) for specialist treatment will continue during the lockdown. A small team of four coastal contracted workers is still undertaking basic tasks on the Hout Bay dune field to ensure that the municipal infrastructure is protected from loss, theft or damage during the lockdown. Quemic security rangers, as well as other security contractors, will continue with their duties for the protection of nature reserves and biodiversity. The rangers, with the support of limited permanent staff, will patrol the City’s nature reserves to ensure the protection of infrastructure and the integrity of these areas. Personnel from the City’s environmental management department remain on standby for emergency responses. The City’s service provider for baboon management, Human Wildlife Solutions (HWS), also continues to ensure the safety of residents in baboon affected areas. V Contact 107 from a land-line, 112 (toll-free) or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone to report environmental emergencies.
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PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 14 April 2020
STRANDFONTEIN
Residents object to shelter site SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS @Samantha_lee121
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he amount of money spent on the emergency temporary shelter site at Strandfontein Sports Ground amounts to millions of rands and will be around for at least the next three months. The site is one of several temporary shelters set up to accommodate the homeless during the lockdown period as set out by president Cyril Ramaphosa. There are currently close to 1 500 people at the site with space for around 500 more, says mayor Dan Plato. “I want to make this 100% clear to dispel all the misinformation that is going around. This site was set up under the instruction of the National Disaster Regulations published by the national government,” says Plato. “We have had to act quickly in terms of these regulations and in this unprecedented time, we have had to adapt our plans to keep up with the requirements expected of municipalities.” Mayco member for community services and health Dr Zahid Badroodien says when the lockdown was announced, the City had three days to achieve what was a mammoth task. Speaking to People’s Post, he says under the act, and with the limited resources, there was no time to run public participation. Plato sites the regulations: “11D. (1) For the period of the declaration of a lockdown, a person refusing to be evacuated from any place subject to lockdown may be evacuated by an enforcement officer to a temporary shelter, if such action is necessary for the preservation of life. (2) The State shall identify: (a) temporary shelters that meet the neces-
sary hygiene standards for homeless people; and (b) temporary sites for quarantine and selfisolation that meet the necessary hygiene standards for people who cannot isolate or quarantine in their homes.” The site and the City have since received wide-spread criticism. A joint statement by the Strandfontein ratepayers association, community policing forum and facilities management board – informing residents about the facility – read: “(This) decision (was) taken under the Disaster Management Act, which excludes consultations with all community organisations and residents. As representatives of the various community organisations, we communicated our concerns regarding the health and safety regarding the estimated numbers which were quoted with regards to the resources at hand and possible threats (health and safety) to the community.” It continued: “We acknowledge the plight of the homeless and are in agreement that they need to be housed in facilities which are safe, humane and dignified. However, we are of the opinion that the preferred location offers neither. Despite the valid concerns raised, the decision has been finalised.” Badroodien says they are mindful of the residents’ concerns but had no choice but to act quickly. Concerning allegations made about meals, sleeping arrangements and provisions of basic needs, Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith says the occupants are allowed to cohabit as they do on the streets. “We did not want to dictate to people how they should habitate and did not split people up based on gender,” says Smith. With regards to the availability of mattresses, blankets and access to basic servi-
ces, Badroodien and Smith say the occupants have access to showers with hot water, three meals and snacks in between, and a fully equipped medical tent which offers care for all pre-existing health conditions. In the coming days, the City will also partner with organisations who will assist the homeless in dealing with addiction. Smith says they received a commitment from a NGO partner to provide mattresses for the site but that did not materialise. Since, the City has bought 2 000 mattresses which have been delivered to the site. Plato says the site was inevitable and that the site would have been in Mitchell’s Plain, regardless, as the suburb has three of the biggest sports fields in the City: Strandfontein, Lentegeur and Swartklip. The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has been identified as a field hospital and all other community centres have been identified as isolation facilities for those who cannot self-isolate at home. Some of the homeless residents on-site became volatile and irate on Thursday 9 April, mainly due to withdrawal, says Badroodien. While at the site, People’s Post spoke to some of the homeless residents to get their take on life. To protect the vulnerable, only their first names are provided. “This is a concentration camp. We cannot leave,” says Andre. Patricia agrees, saying she wants to leave.
“I want to go home. I don’t like it here. I want to move around and be free,” she says. Smith says they are free to leave when they want to, however, they will be prosecuted under the lockdown restrictions if found wandering around. Not everyone is unhappy about being at the camp. Jason says: “I have a plate of food, a dry place to sleep and I can get access to medicine. The streets are tough and here we have some things we don’t find out there.” The site adheres to social distancing principals and has several marquees and tents set up in sections. Each section is managed by a NGO partner. The City says it aims to achieve re-integration following the lockdown, saying most of the homeless in their care usually refuse accommodation. With them there, they can work to achieve re-integration. After the lockdown has ended and the intended time frame for the camps have lapsed, all the temporary emergency accommodation sites, including the one at Strandfontein, will be restored to their original function Smith says they hope to give it back in a better condition. V Any persons or organisations wishing to assist by providing donations can email disaster.donations@capetown.gov.za.
Site occupants queue for food at one of the many large marquee tents.
Temporary shelter comes under siege Police are investigating the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman at the Strandfontein temporary shelter site which was reported to police on Friday 10 April. “The circumstances surrounding the rape of an 18-year-old girl last night at the Strandfontein temporary shelter are being investigated by the Mitchells Plain Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Of-
The site is manned by Law Enforcement officials.
fences Investigations (FCS) unit,” confirms police in a statement. A 36-year-old man has since been arrested in connection with the incident. The incident and widespread resistance to the camp has prompted petitions by civic organisations and opposition parties to have the site closed. The petition closed at midday yesterday (Monday 13 April).
PHOTOS: SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS
‘Nobody gives us any food, they are too scared to touch us’ NETTALIE VILJOEN NETTALIE.VILJOEN@MEDIA24.COM
When the clock struck midnight on Thursday 26 March, life as they knew it changed for people living on the streets. On Thursday 2 April, about 90 homeless people gathered at a local non-government organisation (NGO) focused on the rehabilitation of the homeless, UTurn’s service centre in Claremont for a daily meal. People’s Post spoke to a few of them to find out how they were experiencing the national lockdown. Most interviewed were only willing to share their first names. Merle, a pensioner, has been homeless for the past two years. The 62-year-old says people are suffering on the streets. “They (the government) have stopped the people who normally would give us food.
They think it is contamination and that type of thing but none of us is ill. We have TB (tuberculosis), but there hasn’t been one report of a homeless person who has contracted the disease (Covid-19) or who has died of it.” Albert Teme describes the situation as complete chaos. He has been living on the streets for 12 years and does contract jobs when he can find them. Teme says they weren’t given enough time to prepare. “I had money. I worked for three months and four months before that. But when president Cyril Ramaphosa announced the lockdown (on Monday 23 March) there were only three days left. So I couldn’t save any money,” he says. Rosemarie, who has been homeless for 20 years, says she used to earn a small income by looking after parked cars. “We watch parked cars to earn a few cents to buy food. Now we have no income and nobody gives us any food, they are too scared
to touch us.” Enrico, 27, lives opposite the police station in Claremont. He says he is also going hungry. “There is very little food on the street. The police also won’t allow us to go to places. If we do move around, we have to tell them we are going to UTurn for food otherwise they keep us there.” On the same day that People’s Post visited UTurn, the City of Cape Town announced it had decided to accommodate the homeless at the Strandfontein Sports Ground for the duration of the national lockdown. When asked if they wanted to go to a Cityrun site, Enrico said, yes. Rosemarie felt differently. “No, I am already outside and I am happy where I am.” Merle, who lives in an area close to Tiger Wheel & Tyre in Claremont, says she wants to stay where she is. “We don’t mind being there.” Asked if she would go willingly to the
City’s site, she answered, no, definitely not. “I don’t know what they are planning. I don’t know where they are going to put me and I am not interested in being thrown where-ever they feel. We have been told today that if we don’t go, we will be locked up. So, okay fine, you lock me up. Where are you going to take me to and what are you locking me up for? What crime have I committed?” She describes it as senseless. “It is one way of doing a Hitler thing on the poor people, to get rid of them as fast as possible.” Teme says his decision to go or not will depend on who else will be sent there. “When you say a temporary place, what kind of people will go there? Being homeless doesn’t mean you are not decent people. On the streets, you find people who have TB, some who are very sick. You mean I will be together among those people? Because it is not safe either. This is not only about the Coronavirus,” he says.
PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 14 April 2020
NEWS 5
6 NEWS TAFELSIG
Driving lockdown regulations home SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS @Samantha_Lee121
end. The group also joined in on law enforcement drives. he disregard of the national lockdown reTheir important role in promoting awarestrictions is evident in the streets of ness and assisting to bolster visibility has alsmall communities where residents sit on so initiated a drive for new volunteers. street corners, chat with each other over The DRMC has called on all neighbourtheir fences and children play in the streets. hood watches (NHWs), accredited with the There is even a four-man game of dominos department of community safety, to considon the go, partially hidden by a washing er joining its volunteer database. line hung full with clothes blowing in the “This call is specifically linked to the wind. City’s safety and security directorate’s CovThis behaviour is mirrored in many other id-19 disaster risk management efforts,” communities where Washiela Harris, coun- says Mayco member for safety and security cillor for ward 82, says residents have be- JP Smith. come more relaxed as a result of the lockThe volunteers are required to: down winding down. It is meant to end this . Promote social distancing at supermarThursday (16 April) at midnight. However, kets (and other shops); president Cyril Ramaphosa announced on . promote social distancing at clinics; Thursday last week that the lockdown will . promote social distancing at transport continue for an additional two weeks, until interchanges; and the end of the month. Once again, he urged . patrol school grounds to prevent vanSouth Africans to adhere to the lockdown dalism. regulations in order for the country to re“It was agreed with NHWs two years ago turn to normal. that the City would deploy them with the During a ride-along with People’s Post in next major disaster as part of the disaster rethe ward, Harris highlighted some of the lief efforts. challenges in communities. “People are out “This is our opportunity to evolve our reas if it’s the festive season. They think lationship with NHWs to the next level and it’s more relaxed now because the lockdown to demonstrate to everyone how versatile is almost over,” says Harris. and proactive this important sector of comShe accompanied members of the local dis- munity safety is,” says Smith. aster risk management centre (DRMC) on an “Neighbourhood watch members who awareness drive through Tafelsig, on Thurs- want to make themselves available for this day 9 April, in the hope that this would en- purpose will be provided with the necessary courage residents to obey the lockdown protective equipment and they will be proprules. erly briefed by the DRMC. With their green and white lights flashing, “They will also be formally appointed as vehicles drove in convoy through the streets DRM volunteers and be provided with the and to the local informal settlement. As they necessary permit to perform these essential went, officials, accompanied by traffic servi- services during the lockdown period.” ces, created awareness and shared vital inAccredited NHWs within the City’s formation and tips on how to stay healthy boundaries are invited to nominate not via a loud hailer. more than 10 members for appointment as “We are doing this so that people can see volunteers. the virus is real and it is serious,” Harris Volunteers will be contacted as the need says. arises and be deployed in their home areas. They also handed out pamphlets provided “This will promote acceptance by local by the City of Cape Town. communities and will prevent unnecessary Efforts continued throughout the week- logistical arrangements. Please note that this is a call for volunteers only and no remuneration is attached to this initiative,” says Smith. “The City is grateful that it can call on community members to assist on a voluntary basis. “We value your willingness to participate and thank you in advance for selflessly putting yourself forward. “Similarly, to those who are staying at home, please know that you are playing an equally big part in preventing the spread of Covid-19.” V Neighbourhood watch coordinators can communicate names and contact details of the volunteers to Charl Viljoen via Residents are out and about as disaster risk management email to charl.viljoen@capeofficials drive through the streets. PHOTO: SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS town.gov.za.
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The group of offiicials who joined the awareness campaign.
PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 14 April 2020
Parcels delivered amid shots AVRIL FILLIES AVRIL.FILLIES@MEDIA24.COM
Parents of children at Jumpstart Educare Centre in Lansdowne are working with the non-profit organisation (NPO), the Connect A Heart Foundation (CAHF), to deliver food parcels in Hanover Park. The CAHF was established in 2017 to serve and empower poor and needy communities. Now the foundation has acquired the necessary permits and infrastructure to do drop-offs of food hampers during the national lockdown. “The Covid-19 virus and lockdown are placing severe strain on many families reliant on income from casual work and, in most cases, work that cannot be done during the lockdown. Those parents who continued to support the bread drive since before the schools closed and the last update, we requested they give permission to redirect their contributions to the CAHF. “We have asked them to launch a specific team in Hanover Park which I am proposing we support,” said Nathier Kasu, founder of the bread drive. The parents initially distributed bread in Hanover Park, then made pots of food for the community. Now they are putting together food parcels to assist the needy during the lockdown. A target of 100 food parcels was set on Friday 3 April for distribution in Hanover Park. Each parcel contained 750ml cooking oil, 500g split lentils, 1l long-life milk, 1kg sugar, 1kg rice, 500g pasta, 500g salt, concentrated drinks, coffee and tea. “Given the circumstances we are experiencing currently, I’m personally pledging my support for this venture. Due to the school holidays, we are not able to hand out the bread to the children at Jumpstart to take home. Pausing our bread distribution has, sadly, left a few of our recipients in dire need.” Volunteers in Hanover Park were issued permits by CAHF to deliver parcels to meet the need. When the first 15 parcels were delivered in Hanover Park on Saturday 4 April, parents say the gratitude on the faces of the recipients was unbelievable. “Due to generous donations by everyone, we were able to make a much bigger parcel and increase the total number of parcels we initially targeted, namely 100. Shukran for
your support. Now more than ever we need you to dig deep and think of those who do not have a fully stocked pantry and fridge,” said Kasu. The delivery of parcels continued throughout last week. “And we also upgraded the parcels to include chicken, potatoes, onions, tuna and flour,” he said. He added that a speedy response by the public enabled the group to quickly assist the CAHF team to serve Hanover Park and surrounds. “To date, 95 parcels have been distributed to the most vulnerable with parcels delivered to their doorsteps.” With the sound of gunshots ringing in their ears as they made deliveries, those who were making the drops were struck by two realities, according to Kasu. They had no idea what to expect when arriving at each home and were often unsure if it was safe to continue doing the deliveries in the gang-infested Cape Flats. “Going to the house of the elderly woman that phoned for assistance in the gang-infested area, we were not sure what to expect when the front door was opened.” Kasu continued: “One of the people who delivered a parcel was very emotional about his first drop-off in the same area. He dropped the parcel at an elderly lady who lives in the heart of the gang-ridden flats in Hanover Park. Despite being in grave danger – think live gunfire – never mind the virus, he stuck to his mission to complete his deliveries.” The CAHF also received a call from a woman living in an affluent suburb who was in dire need. And they made provisions for her too. Kasu commended their selfless acts and encouraged the nation to pray for the well-being of all those who can serve. “We cannot do this without your selfless contributions and their sacrifices to try and get aid to those in need. People, we have no idea how bad the struggle is outside our homes.” Kasu added that another distributor said the past week’s deliveries had been the most humbling and spiritually rewarding experience for him. “He now understands how the third pillar of Islam, charity, really works and that it is not only the giving of funds (monetary, goods or assistance) but the execution of the Ibadah (good works) that has and carries the most benefit,” Kasu said. After the distributor shared his experience with Kasu, he dropped off a further 20 parcels in Hanover Park.
Restrictions go up in smoke SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS @Samantha_Lee121
sell again I did not go to the shop to stock up. I thought I will be proactive and buy when I go do weekly shopping and now I Smokers in the province puffed a short drag can’t buy and I don’t have enough,” she says. of relief as the ban on the sale of cigarettes For many, cigarettes are part of stress manwas eased in the Western Cape, but their joy agement and in a high-stress environment was short-lived as the ban has now been re- now facing residents, the cravings may be instated. too much to bear. While the Disaster Management Act Joseph Rass, another participant, says: “I strictly prohibits the sale of cigarettes dur- am smoking more because I am stressed out ing the 21-day lockdown, the provincial gov- about not being able to smoke. I try to smoke ernment had eased the restrictions set out less and keep a skyf or two on each cigarette by the act, provided cigarettes were bought for a rainy day but it is so hard. We are all with essential items, and not made to be the stressed out and becoming depressed from main reason for visiting the shop. being inside. No beer and now no cigaThe Western Cape was the first and only rettes.” He has been smoking for 19 years province to relax the restrictions. and says he cannot kick the habit. Following a meeting with president Cyril “I am going to lose my mind. Locked in a Ramaphosa on the interpretations of these house and now cold turkey soon. I just hope restrictions, the ban has been reinstated. we get out soon so I can smoke all the cigaWhen it was first announced, police minis- rettes I am missing,” says Rass. ter Bheki Cele warned retailers and shops With the lockdown extended by another 14 in the province not to sell cigarettes, stating days, until the end of the month, smokers are they will be held accountain for a long rough ride. ble and fined. Commenting on the lock“We urge businesses in down extension, Rass says the Western Cape not to lishe will not be able to surten to people who tell them vive, while Paulsen says she wrong things. If it is not in doubts anyone around her the national regulations, it will survive. “I am a moody is not allowed to happen,” person when I don’t smoke. said Cele at a recent interI have already been rationministerial briefing. ing and I have one cigarette Wendy Paulsen, a particper day for the last few days ipant in a social media poll of this lockdown. I will not by People’s Post, says the be able to last beyond this. easing and reinstating of If your cigarette stash is They should just give us restrictions is confusing. running low, you will need to time to stock up.” “One day we can, the next wait until the end of lockdown V What will you do should the lockwe can’t. I was stupid. to replenish it again. PHOTO: down be extended and you run out When I heard they could SAMANTHA LEE-JACOBS of cigarettes?
ENTERTAINMENT 7
PEOPLE'S POST | FALSE BAY Tuesday, 14 April 2020
CONSTANTIA
Sound decisions get band noticed NETTALIE VILJOEN
W
ith the wealth of material available online, including virtual tours of just about anywhere or anything, now is the time to explore new frontiers. Doing exactly that, with their music, is the band Honeymoan. Since its four members – Alison Rachel (vocals), Skye MacInnes (guitar), Josh Berry (bass) and Kenan Tatt (drums) – joined forces about three years ago, the Cape Townbased group has garnered global attention with their alternative pop sound. This year, they even got a nod from Apple Music when the streaming service named Honeymoan as its New Artist Spotlight for March. People’s Post contacted Skye (31) to find out how this accolade will help shape the band’s future. When the call went through at 17:08, the SEO specialist had just signed off from his day job. Skye, who has played in various local bands since he was in high school, says Apple Music’s endorsement is a great opportunity to grow the band’s fanbase. “It brings the band one step closer to being taken seriously. Already, none of us would have guessed that we would get this far. Even if we gain just another 1 000 fans, that will be good.” The Constantia resident explains it is
thanks to the band’s manager, Thijs Vandongen, that Honeymoan first came on Apple Music’s radar. “Thijs has a contact there. Apple Music sent out its head of Africa department to watch our very first show at the Raptor Room in Cape Town in January 2019.” The band members have been friends for years but they first connected musically in 2017. Skye explains, except for Alison (28), all of them belonged to different bands at the time (Sakawa Boys, Twin Weaver, Yndian Mynah). “But the bands weren’t active so we decided to meet up just for fun. Alison joined us. We had heard that she could sing.” After a few sessions of writing and composing music together, the quartet – with influences from Psychedelia to Indie to Shoegaze – liked what they heard. So far, the band has written 25 songs in total of which they have released 10. Their first EP, called Body, dropped in June 2019 followed by their second, Weirdo, in February. Weirdo (available to stream on Apple Music) is their first release on the back of their signing to United Kingdom (UK) label, Communion Records. “Our music is accessible for pretty much anyone. Our writing style catches this kind of middle-class, millennial way of thinking. It seems to appeal to a wide
audience. My mom, Carolyn, and her song,” Skye explains. friends, they are big fans too. Although, she V Honeymoan hopes to release its first album by the is my mom, so maybe that beginning of next year. doesn’t count,” he chuckles. In June, Honeymoan was set to perform again in Cape Town and they were also looking at a concert in Johannesburg, but Covid-19 has placed a hold on their plans. Skye says at least the lockdown has not prevented them from creating new music as they are quite used to working remotely. “Alison lives in Amsterdam for six to eight months a year. It usually starts with one person who will come up with a basic musical idea. Alison will then add melodies and lyrics, creating a skeleton of a song. Then, as individuals, we produce the music and pool it all in Google drive. We exchange ideas, back and forth. Take stuff out, add on – and argue about it until we get to some- Honeymoan band members Kenan Tatt, Josh Berry, Skye thing that we can all call a MacInnes and Alison Rachel (front).
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SPORT TUESDAY 14 April 2020 | People's Post | Page 8 | 0021 910 6500
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The cup that got away EARL HAUPT EARL@MEDIA24.COM @EARLHAUPT
T
he final whistle has been blown, the champions have been crowned, the trophy has been lifted and with it, the curtain has been brought down on the 31st edition of the Bayhill Premier Cup (BPC) at Erica Park in Belhar... except... that it hasn’t. Naturally, the tournament was cancelled due to the lockdown restrictions in place nationally since Thursday midnight 26 March, in response to the Covid-19 outbreak. In what has become an Easter tradition for young football players across the Cape for more than 30 years, tournament organisers were decisive in drawing a line under the event for 2020, with very little room left to manoeuvre a later date. “Even if the situation returns to normality, there are certain dynamics that need to be considered; such as the space within the calendar year, bearing in mind that the BPC is a six-day event. The visiting teams’ availability, accommodation for those teams that will be willing to participate later in the year. The partners and sponsors of the event. Availability of the playing venue and many more factors,” says tournament director Patrick-John (PJ) Williams. Moreover to the tournament itself, the cancellation deprived clubs and players of several opportunities such as life skills programmes, registration of new players, unearthing new talent as well exposure to toplevel training from leading local clubs. Williams says the level of excitement was still evident a few short weeks before president Cyril Ramaphosa made his announcement at the launch of the tournament on Thursday 12 March, which was also when the tournament draw took place. “This is always where the excitement and anticipation are created,” says Williams. “This function is attended by all the local clubs’ representatives as well as the captain of the teams. The teams in each group are drawn in front of the participating clubs as well as dignitaries. For the month before the
start of the event, the main topic is the visiting team and in which group they have been drawn,” he adds. The visiting teams in question would have been Mamelodi Sundowns, SuperSport United, Kaizer Chiefs, Highlands Park, Tuks, Virginia Academy, Grey College: Bloemfontein, Olympics FC, Transition Football Gauteng as well as Al Sadaka from Palestine Unfortunately, as the claws of the Covid-19 outbreak started to entrench itself into every facet of South African society, so too were the hopes and expectations uprooted for all of those associated with BPC 2020. “The first match of the BPC 2020 would have been underway had it not been for Covid19. My cell battery would have been flat by now because of the numerous calls coming in,” jokes Williams. “The Erica Park Sports Ground would be buzzing in anticipation of top-class youth football displayed for the six days. So many players would have taken the field for the very first time; with mom and dad waiting in anticipation for their youngest and in Bayhill Premier Cup tournament director PJ Williams. some cases, their oldest son to run on the field,” he adds wryly. very much worth the disappointment, the However, while the pain of not being able hurt of missing the last chance as a player, to present one of the country’s premier or the first time as a match official. By not youth football tournaments still stings, Will- having the event we are preventing the iams understands the goal being sought by spread of the infection of the virus and conthe lockdown. tributing towards flattening the curve. And “Very few Capetonians would have by your sacrifice, many precious lives will missed the opportunity to be part of the six- be saved. We are doing our part as football day event – be it as a spectator, a match offi- lovers by acting responsibly. Stay home and cial, a scout, volunteer, service provider, save lives,” implores Williams. journalist, vendor, player or member of the Very little time will be spent lamenting organising committee. But the sacrifice is this season’s loss though because, for Willi-
PHOTO: SON
ams, the lessons of the Covid-19 outbreak are quickly being adopted, especially when it comes to hygiene and life as we knew it. “We would implement what we have learnt during the Covid-19 lockdown period in term of the hygiene protocols. Have courage in what is happening in this time of our lives. This pandemic is worldwide and we have to do our part to contribute towards mitigating the spread of this virus. Let us be responsible and do the right thing: life is more important than football.”
Online coaching helps improve cricketers’ batting technique
Toby Radford analyses cricketers’ technical and tactical technique.
Despite the restrictions the national lockdown has imposed, there may still be a way for cricketers to hone their skills. Ryan Maron, a cricket coach and a former Western Province cricketer, has teamed up with his former colleague Toby Radford to assist with an one-to-one online coaching programme. Maron runs the Cricket School of Excellence in Claremont and has worked closely with South African cricketing icons Jonty Rhodes and Lance Klusener. He first collaborated with Radford (the then batting coach to the West Indies team) in 2017 when Maron was appointed as West Indies fielding coach. “Toby’s Batting Booth is a great opportunity for cricketers to work with a very special batting coach. In my time working alongside him, I developed great respect for him and the way he communicated with players in one-toone practice sessions. “As a professional coach for 21 years, it was an honour and privilege to work alongside him
and to see him pass on his technical knowledge to players at all levels. He’s also a top guy, and I wish him well with a wonderful idea to help players of all ages to improve their game,” says Maron. Maron contacted Radford recently after seeing details on the Welshman’s website of how batsmen anywhere in the world are invited to send him footage which he will study to assist them in correcting technical faults. Radford says the initiative took off straight away. “I’m delighted to be able to offer batsmen of all abilities, and from anywhere in the world, the same technical and tactical analysis that I’ve been giving to international batsmen for many years,” says Radford. “With lockdowns everywhere currently preventing team practices and get-togethers, now is the perfect time for batsmen to put their game in top order for when the season begins,” he says. V For more information visit: www.tobyradfordcricketcoaching.co.uk/the-onlinebatting-booth.