House Zai, the most expensive property in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs, is on the market for R107 million. Located in Bel Ombre Estate, the ultra-modern home was designed by renowned architect Stefan Antoni and built to European standards. The property features six bedrooms, a fully imported kitchen, high-tech security, and eco-friendly infrastructure. The area attracts high-net-worth local and international buyers due to its quality homes, lifestyle, and proximity to top schools and amenities. The Constantia area has seen significant high-end property sales, driven by demand from both local and international buyers.

House Zai, the most expensive property in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs, is on the market for R107 million. Located in Bel Ombre Estate, the ultra-modern home was designed by renowned architect Stefan Antoni and features imported materials, high-tech infrastructure, and eco-friendly systems. The property includes six bedrooms, a guest apartment, and luxurious amenities such as a Bulthaup kitchen, Schüco windows, and Bang & Olufsen surround sound. The area attracts high-net-worth buyers, both local and international, due to its quality homes, lifestyle, and proximity to top schools and the airport.

House Zai, Cape Town's most expensive property in the Southern Suburbs, is on the market for R107 million. Designed by SAOTA's Stefan Antoni, it features luxurious amenities, eco-friendly technology, and high security. The property is in high demand among local and international buyers, with the Constantia area experiencing a surge in high-end property sales. Francois Venter of Seeff Constantia highlights the area's appeal due to its lifestyle, value for money, and proximity to amenities.

House Zai, Cape Town's most expensive property in the Southern Suburbs, is on the market for R107 million. Designed by Stefan Antoni of SAOTA, it features luxurious amenities, eco-friendly technology, and high security. The property is in high demand due to its location, quality, and lifestyle offerings, with a mix of local and international buyers showing interest. The Constantia area has seen a surge in high-end property sales, with almost R2bn in sales above R20m since the onset of the Covid pandemic.

Tourism organizations and businesses on the West Coast of South Africa, including West Coast Way, are concerned about the threats posed by overdevelopment and mining to the area's appeal to tourists. The region is known for its unique attractions such as Mamre, Darling, the West Coast National Park, and Club Mykonos in Langebaan. Carmen Lerm of West Coast Way advocates for a unified brand experience and responsible, eco-friendly growth. Mike Schlebach from Protect the West Coast warns of the potential for beach mining and the presence of oil rigs along the coast, with 65 prospecting and mining applications in the pipeline, which he claims are being approved by the Department of Minerals and Energy and the Department of the Environment.

South African National Parks (SANParks) is considering the introduction of more elephants to the Knysna forest following the rare sighting of a wild female elephant. Sociological and ecological assessments were conducted, including a survey with a 74% response rate from 500 contacts, which supported the reintroduction of elephants. The ecological studies confirmed the presence of only one female elephant and her feeding range, with her stress hormone levels indicating good health and a tendency to avoid high human activity areas. The management approach recommended is cautious, low-risk, and informed by elephant specialists.

South African National Parks (SANParks) is considering the introduction of more elephants to the Knysna forest following the rare sighting of a wild female elephant. Sociological and ecological assessments were conducted, with a high response rate supporting the reintroduction of elephants due to ecological, cultural, and historical values. The ecological study confirmed the presence of only one female elephant and her feeding range. Low stress hormone levels were found in areas with minimal human presence. SANParks advocates for low-risk, cautious management options informed by experts.

Kim Prytz, 49, successfully completed a record-breaking swim from Lagoon Beach to Robben Island and then to Big Bay, covering a distance of 19.8 kilometers in 14 hours, 31 minutes, and three seconds. She performed the swim using breaststroke and without a wetsuit, in what she called her 'Reconciliation Swim,' to raise awareness and funds for the Goedgedacht Trust's 'Path Onto Prosperity' centers. The swim was her fourth attempt and was supported by Big Bay Events. Prytz, a music teacher and martial arts instructor from the southern suburbs, has previously completed other challenging swims, including a round trip across the Sound of Iona in Scotland.

Dr Ashley Naidoo has been appointed as the new CEO of CapeNature, a government entity responsible for managing nature reserves in the Western Cape. He is addressing the challenges of fire season, conservation, and stakeholder engagement. Naidoo emphasizes the importance of diversity and local knowledge in tackling issues like poaching and environmental crime. He is also focused on youth education and preparing for the impacts of climate change, aiming to future-proof infrastructure against extreme events.

Dr Ashley Naidoo has been appointed as the new CEO of CapeNature, a government entity responsible for managing nature reserves in the Western Cape. He is addressing the challenges of fire season, conservation, and stakeholder engagement. Naidoo emphasizes the importance of diversity and local knowledge in tackling issues like poaching and environmental crime. He is also focused on environmental education for youth and preparing for the impacts of climate change by future-proofing infrastructure against extreme events.

Cape Town has expressed confidence in its ability to attract and retain global talent despite falling two places to 84th in the Global Cities Index (GCI). The city's Mayco member for economic growth, James Vos, questioned the data sets used in the report and highlighted the city's strengths in high-growth sectors like tech and boat building. He also pointed out visa regime constraints. Lester September from the Forum for Cape Flats Civics emphasized the need for affordable housing and social infrastructure to retain talent. The report by Kearney noted steady average GCI scores in 2023 and the potential of AI and remote work. Cape Town is recognized as Africa's start-up capital, with major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM establishing a presence there. However, connectivity issues in peripheral areas were also mentioned.

The SA National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) has countered allegations of neglect at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, following a visitor's complaint about poor conditions. Sanbi's representative, Nontsikelelo Mpulo, insists the gardens are well-maintained, a claim supported by recent visitor photos and an award recognizing Kirstenbosch as the best botanical garden in Africa. The dispute also touches on a revised agreement between Sanbi and the Botanical Society of SA (BotSoc), ending a long-standing benefit of free garden access for BotSoc members, which is expected to impact BotSoc's revenue. Both organizations deny that budget cuts have affected garden maintenance.

The SA National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) has refuted claims by Newlands resident Colin Bosman that Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden is in a state of neglect, citing evidence of ongoing maintenance and recent accolades. Bosman criticized the garden's condition, attributing it to political issues between Sanbi and the Botanical Society of SA (BotSoc). BotSoc's general manager, Antonia de Barros, acknowledged the impact of recent changes on their members but emphasized continued collaboration with Sanbi on conservation efforts. Both Sanbi and BotSoc denied that budget cuts or revenue loss affected the garden's upkeep.

Gary Trappler, a Green Point attorney accused of slashing the tyres of Thandi Mgwaba's car, has taken security measures including hiring bodyguards and wearing a bulletproof vest after receiving a tip-off about a hit on his life and his advocate's. The advocate has also taken precautions after receiving a similar warning. The dispute, which has escalated to involve political parties such as the EFF, ANC, and GOOD Party, originated from a 2020 incident where Mgwaba accused Trappler of racially motivated vandalism. Trappler denies the allegations, and the case is set for a court hearing in January next year.

Cape Town officials defended the city's performance in the Global Cities Index, despite dropping two places to 84th position. James Vos, Mayco member for economic growth, criticized the report's data sets and highlighted the city's ability to attract global talent, particularly in high-growth sectors like tech and Business Process Outsourcing. Lester September from the Forum for Cape Flats Civics emphasized the need for affordable housing and better social infrastructure to retain talent. The report by Kearney noted steady GCI scores across cities, with Cape Town recognized for its strong start-up ecosystem and connectivity challenges in peripheral areas.

Cape Town's officials defended the city's performance in the Global Cities Index (GCI) after it dropped two places to 84th, while Johannesburg retained its 58th position. James Vos, Mayco member for economic growth, criticized the report's data sets and highlighted the city's ability to attract global talent despite visa regime constraints. Lester September from the Forum for Cape Flats Civics emphasized the need for affordable housing and better connectivity to retain talent. The report by Kearney noted steady GCI scores globally, with European and Asian cities performing well. Cape Town was praised for its start-up ecosystem, attracting major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM. However, challenges in connectivity and affordable housing were noted as areas needing improvement.

The SA National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) has refuted claims by Newlands resident Colin Bosman that Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden is in a state of neglect, citing ongoing maintenance and recent successful events. Bosman's complaints, which include dried-out grass and litter, are not supported by other visitors' positive feedback and recent accolades. The controversy partly stems from changes in the agreement between Sanbi and the Botanical Society of SA (BotSoc), affecting free access for BotSoc members. Despite this, both organizations continue to collaborate on plant conservation efforts.

The SA National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) has refuted allegations of neglect at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden following complaints from a visitor, Colin Bosman, who described the gardens as derelict. Nontsikelelo Mpulo from Sanbi countered these claims, asserting that the gardens are well-maintained and provided evidence of ongoing upkeep. The controversy is linked to changes in the agreement between Sanbi and the Botanical Society of SA (BotSoc), which has affected BotSoc members' free access to the gardens. Despite the changes, BotSoc continues to collaborate with Sanbi on plant conservation efforts. Both organizations deny that budget cuts or revenue loss have impacted garden maintenance. Kirstenbosch was recently voted the best botanical garden in Africa by the World Luxury Travel Awards.

Tourism organizations and businesses on the West Coast express concerns over the threats posed by overdevelopment and mining, which could undermine the region's unique appeal to tourists. Carmen Lerm of West Coast Way emphasizes the need for unified, eco-friendly, and sustainable development, while Mike Schlebach from Protect the West Coast warns about the potential environmental impact of extensive mining activities. The article highlights the importance of responsible growth to preserve the area's distinctiveness and attractiveness.

Dr. Ashley Naidoo, the new CEO of CapeNature, is addressing the challenges of managing the Western Cape's nature reserves, focusing on stakeholder engagement, biodiversity preservation, and climate change adaptation. He emphasizes the importance of integrating diverse knowledge systems and engaging local communities to tackle issues like poaching and environmental crime. Naidoo aims to enhance educational programs like the Cubs Club and future-proof infrastructure against extreme weather events.

Nelson Mandela University has launched the Cybersafety Project to protect Grade R learners from cyberbullying and other online threats. The project features the Cybersmart Squad, cartoon characters based on South Africa's Big Five animals, each with a 'superpower' to teach children about good digital citizenship. The initiative, led by Professors Kerry-Lynn Thomson and Noluxolo Gcaza, uses age-appropriate content to promote cybersafety. A pilot is currently running at Beachwood Pre-Primary, with plans to expand to more schools in 2024. The Department of Basic Education has shown interest in integrating the project into the national curriculum.

The upcoming 2024 general elections in South Africa are causing significant uncertainty among economists and investors. Experts like Raymond Parsons, Daniel Silke, Dawie Roodt, and Hugo Pienaar highlight that the economic outlook will be influenced by global trends, domestic challenges, and the election results. The ANC faces criticism for economic stagnation, high unemployment, and corruption, with concerns about its ability to maintain power and manage the economy effectively. While there is some optimism about global economic conditions improving, issues like load shedding and inefficient state-owned enterprises continue to pose challenges. The sentiment towards the ANC and Eskom is largely negative, reflecting concerns about their impact on the economy.

A legal dispute in Green Point has escalated with allegations of a hit being ordered on attorney Gary Trappler and his advocate. Trappler, accused of slashing the tyres of his former neighbor Thandi Mgwaba, claims to have received a tip-off about the hit. Both Trappler and his advocate have taken security measures. The case, involving accusations of racial motivation and political pressure, has been postponed to January next year. Mgwaba denies the allegations and expresses frustration over the situation.

The SA National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) has refuted claims of neglect at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden following complaints from a visitor, Colin Bosman, who described the gardens as derelict. Sanbi's director of marketing, Nontsikelelo Mpulo, countered these claims, stating that the gardens are well-maintained and provided evidence of ongoing upkeep. The controversy is linked to changes in the agreement between Sanbi and the Botanical Society of SA (BotSoc), affecting free access for BotSoc members. Despite the changes, BotSoc continues to collaborate with Sanbi on plant conservation efforts. Both organizations deny that budget cuts or revenue loss have impacted garden maintenance.

More elephants may be introduced to the Knysna forest following the rare sighting of a wild female elephant. South African National Parks (SANParks) conducted sociological and ecological assessments, which support the introduction of more elephants to the area. The sociological survey showed strong support for re-introduction due to ecological, cultural, and historical values, while ecological studies confirmed the presence of only one female elephant and her well-being. The studies recommend a cautious, expert-informed management approach to minimize disturbance and human-wildlife conflict.

Nelson Mandela University has launched the Cybersafety Project to protect Grade R learners from cyberbullying through the Cybersmart Squad, a group of cartoon characters based on South Africa's Big Five animals. The project, led by Professors Kerry-Lynn Thomson and Noluxolo Gcaza, uses age-appropriate content to teach young children about cybersafety. The initiative aims to instill good digital citizenship behaviors and has garnered interest from the Department of Basic Education, with plans to expand to more schools in 2024.

Tourism organizations and businesses on the West Coast are concerned that overdevelopment and mining could threaten the region's unique appeal, making it harder to attract tourists. Carmen Lerm of West Coast Way emphasizes the need for a unified, eco-friendly approach to tourism. However, the rise in property development and mining applications poses significant risks. Mike Schlebach from Protect the West Coast warns of potential extensive beach mining and oil rigs, criticizing the Department of Minerals and Energy and the Department of the Environment for their approval of these activities.

The SA National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) has refuted claims of neglect at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden following complaints from a visitor, Colin Bosman, who described the gardens as derelict. Sanbi's director of marketing, Nontsikelelo Mpulo, countered these claims, stating that the gardens are well-maintained and provided evidence of ongoing upkeep. The controversy is linked to changes in the agreement between Sanbi and the Botanical Society of SA (BotSoc), which has affected BotSoc members' free access to the gardens. Despite the changes, BotSoc continues to collaborate with Sanbi on plant conservation efforts. Both organizations deny that budget cuts or revenue loss have impacted garden maintenance. Kirstenbosch was recently voted the best botanical garden in Africa by the World Luxury Travel Awards.

The upcoming 2024 general elections in South Africa are causing significant uncertainty among economists and investors. Experts like Raymond Parsons, Daniel Silke, Dawie Roodt, and Hugo Pienaar highlight concerns over economic stagnation, high unemployment, and corruption. The ANC's potential strategies to appease voters, such as increased spending, are scrutinized. While some optimism exists regarding global economic trends and potential easing of inflation, domestic issues like load shedding and inefficient state-owned enterprises remain critical challenges. The overall sentiment towards the ANC is negative, with doubts about significant economic improvement in the near future.

Kim Prytz, 49, has set a new world record by becoming the first person to swim the 19.8-kilometer route from Lagoon Beach to Robben Island to Big Bay, completing the feat in 14 hours, 31 minutes, and three seconds. This swim, termed her 'Reconciliation Swim,' was done in aid of the Goedgecht Trust to support their work for rural children. Prytz's journey, marked by profound personal and physical challenges, underscores her dedication to both her personal goals and charitable causes. The swim was supported by Big Bay Events and celebrated by the Goedgecht Trust.

Kim Prytz, 49, became the first person to swim the 19.8 km route from Lagoon Beach to Robben Island to Big Bay, completing the feat in 14 hours 31 minutes and three seconds using breaststroke. This swim, termed her 'Reconciliation Swim,' was in aid of the Goedgecht Trust, supporting their work for rural children. Prytz's journey, marked by profound personal reflection and community support, underscores her dedication to both her personal challenges and charitable causes. The swim was monitored by Big Bay Events and celebrated by the Goedgedacht Trust.

Kim Prytz, 49, became the first person to complete a 19.8-kilometer swim from Lagoon Beach to Robben Island to Big Bay, setting a new record. The swim, termed her 'Reconciliation Swim,' was done in aid of the Goedgecht Trust to support their work for rural children. Prytz's journey, which took 14 hours and 31 minutes, was marked by her determination and dedication, overcoming multiple challenges including cold water temperatures and strong currents. The event was supported by Big Bay Events and highlighted Prytz's commitment to raising awareness and funds for charity.

Police officers from the Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (Leap) seized a large number of weapons in Belhar, including eight handguns, two rifles, three suppressors, and 1,574 rounds of live ammunition, following an anonymous tip-off about a location storing firearms for gangs. The weapons were found in a blue bag and a black box near a sewage drain and were taken to Belhar Police Station for processing. The police highlighted the importance of removing illegal weapons from the streets to prevent crimes and save lives.

Housing inequality in California has disproportionately affected minority and Black families, with Black homeownership rates lower than in the 1960s. Proposition 19, passed in 2020, exacerbates this by imposing large property tax bills on inherited properties, threatening generational wealth and small family businesses. Edwin Lombard, president and CEO of the California African American Chamber of Commerce, argues for the Repeal the Death Tax Act to restore property tax benefits and support minority-owned businesses.

California's Proposition 19, which was narrowly passed, has exacerbated housing inequality, particularly affecting Black families by imposing significant property tax bills on inherited properties. This has made it difficult for families to maintain homeownership and small businesses, which are crucial for building generational wealth. Edwin Lombard, president and CEO of the California African American Chamber of Commerce, advocates for the Repeal the Death Tax Act to restore previous property tax benefits, allowing families to transfer homes and small businesses without triggering reassessment and massive tax increases. This measure aims to preserve family legacies and support minority-owned small businesses.

Housing inequalities in California have disproportionately affected minority and Black families, with the Black homeownership rate being lower than in the 1960s. Proposition 19, passed in 2020, exacerbates this issue by imposing a significant property tax on inherited homes and businesses, undermining generational wealth and upward mobility for Black communities. Edwin Lombard, president and CEO of the California African American Chamber of Commerce, argues for the passage of the Repeal the Death Tax Act to restore property tax benefits and support minority-owned small businesses.

California's Proposition 19, which was narrowly passed, has exacerbated housing inequality, particularly affecting Black families by imposing large property tax bills on inherited properties. This has led to forced sales of family homes and small businesses, undermining generational wealth and upward mobility. The Repeal the Death Tax Act aims to restore previous property tax benefits, allowing families to transfer homes and small businesses without triggering reassessment and massive tax increases. The measure seeks to preserve family legacies and support minority-owned small businesses.