Kopanang Community Trust: A Beacon of Hope for South African Women

The article tells the story of Sr. Sheila Flynn, an Irish native and Dominican sister, who co-founded the Kopanang Community Trust in South Africa. The Trust, established in 2001, empowers women, many of whom are affected by HIV/AIDS or domestic abuse, through the creation of embroidery. These women, living in deep poverty, gain not only an income but also access to various training programs. The article highlights the personal journey of Patience Nomonde, a member of Kopanang, who has been able to improve her living conditions and manage her HIV status with the support of the community. The Trust's success is attributed to its focus on relationships and conflict resolution. The project also engages international students through immersion visits, broadening its impact. The author emphasizes the sustainability of the project and its significant impact on the lives of the women involved.

On the butcher's block: rhino, hippo, giraffe and many other animals for human consumption

The South African government has proposed legislation to expand the wildlife industry, allowing for the commercial slaughter of various wild species, including rhinos, hippos, and giraffes. This move has sparked concern among wildlife protection advocates and experts, who warn of increased cruelty and potential health risks. The legislation aims to regulate the slaughter of previously unlisted animals, ensuring animal welfare standards. However, critics argue that the government has not provided sufficient rationale for the changes and that the existing animal welfare infrastructure is already overstretched. The period for public comment on the proposed legislation has been extended to June 30.

Why are doctors able to violate a terminally ill patient’s right to die?

The article discusses the case of the author's sister, who died a year ago due to complications from a Meckel’s diverticulum, a condition that was not diagnosed throughout her life. The author questions why doctors are able to violate a terminally ill patient's right to die, reflecting on the circumstances of their sister's death after major surgery.

8 May, 2012 Voice of America Delia Robertson South Africa’s high court has ordered prosecutors to investigate Zimbabwean officials who alleged committed torture and human rights abuses in the run-up to Zimbabwe’s violent and disputed 2008 elections. The decision has important practical, political and diplomatic implications for South Africa Report picked up by Southern Africa Litigation Centre

Reporter's notebook memorializing Walter Sisulu who died on 5 May 2003. Mr Sisulu was one of South Africa's most remarkable sons who was arrested several times for his opposition to apartheid, lastly on on 11 July 1663 at Liliesleaf farm, Rivonia. Following the infamous Rivonia trial, he was imprisoned until 15 October 1989 - he was among the first group of senior African National Congress leaders released from prison in the runup to the unbanning of the ANC and release of Nelson Mandela. This page includes a link to the audio on Sound Cloud. At the time Delia was a correspondent with the Voice of America - the link to the report on the VOA website is here: http://www.voanews.com/content/a-13-a-2003-05-16-38-remembering-66851572/375893.html

South African Poor Protest Conditions

The article discusses the ongoing protests by poor South Africans, which have continued from the winter into warmer months. These protests, often violent, are a response to the government's failure to deliver basic services and communicate effectively with communities. Steven Friedman, director of the Center for the Study of Democracy, and Sbu Zikode, president of Abahlali base Mjondolo, highlight the issues of poor communication and the government's lack of understanding of the people's needs. Despite the government's efforts to build houses and provide services, the protests reflect deeper issues such as corruption, land competition, and unrealistic expectations set by political promises. The current national government, led by President Jacob Zuma, is showing signs of a more open dialogue approach. Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's mid-year budget report acknowledges the loss of jobs and reduced revenue, emphasizing the need for extraordinary efforts to meet the needs of the poor, including better communication between government officials and citizens.