CPT film industry picket over slow rebate payments

28 January 2026

Representatives from Cape Town’s film and production industry picketed outside Parliament on Wednesday to highlight growing concerns over the national government’s handling of the National Film Incentives scheme, warning that delays in rebate payments are threatening jobs and investment in the industry.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, joined the picket in solidarity with industry stakeholders, saying the slow pace of rebate payments has negatively impacted both local production companies and foreign investors.

He noted that the incentives, administered by the Department of Trade and Industry, were originally designed to stimulate local production and attract international investment, but are now failing to achieve that goal.

“The film sector plays a central role in Cape Town’s local economy and has become one of our city’s most globally competitive industries. Its performance not only stimulates local economic activity but also enhances South Africa’s international reputation as an efficient and attractive destination for film production.” added Smith

However, multiple stakeholders have raised concerns with the City’s Events and Film Department about significant challenges in accessing national film incentives needed to secure investment.

The impact of these challenges is becoming increasingly evident. The film industry supports more than 30,000 jobs in Cape Town, many of which are now at risk due to declining investment.

Between 2021 and 2024, employment dropped sharply, with full-time equivalent jobs falling from 4,943 in 2021 to 884 in 2024, representing an average annual decline of 43.6%.

Investment in film production has also decreased dramatically, from over R6 billion in 2021 to approximately R962 million in 2024. Smith warned that these trends pose a serious risk to job creation, investment, and the long-term sustainability of the industry.

The City of Cape Town has reportedly sought engagement with the national government on the issue. A meeting requested through the Mayor’s office was scheduled for 23 January 2026 but was cancelled, with subsequent attempts to secure a new date proving unsuccessful.

“We will continue to do everything in our power to help kickstart the National Film Incentives – in the meantime, the local film industry is reminded that the City established a Film Fund that offers support.”

Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek Reveals First Artists for African Debut

Smile Staff Reporter

28 January 2026

The world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival is officially coming to Africa, and the first artists for its debut in Franschhoek have now been announced.

Set to take place from 27 to 29 March 2026, the Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek (MJFSA) marks the first time the iconic Swiss-born festival will be staged on African soil. Organisers say the local edition will be shaped by African identity, global collaboration and a focus on musical depth rather than scale.

Big names for The Arches stage

Leading the first wave of artists on The Arches, the festival’s main outdoor stage, is legendary Malian singer Salif Keita, widely known as The Golden Voice of Africa. With a career spanning more than five decades, Keita’s appearance is being described as a rare and powerful moment for the inaugural event.

Joining him is acclaimed South African trumpeter and composer Mandisi Dyantyis, whose emotionally rich and genre-blending sound represents a new generation of African jazz voices.

The programme also features Billy Monama’s Guitar Convergence, a special collaboration bringing together celebrated musicians Moss Mogale and Vusi Mahlasela. Created specifically for the festival, the performance promises a blend of storytelling, heritage and musical virtuosity.

Another standout production is The Kesivan amaBig Band Experience, led by South African drummer and composer Kesivan Naidoo. The 26-piece ensemble, made up of South African and European musicians, will reinterpret Amapiano through the sound of a large acoustic jazz band. Vocalists Boohle, Stogie T and BONJ will feature in the performance.

Intimate sounds at Jazz Village

The festival’s Jazz Village stage, hosted at the NG Church Complex, will offer a more intimate setting focused on musical exploration and close-up listening.

Among the first confirmed acts is a cross-generational collaboration between Madala Kunene and Sibusile Xaba, blending traditional maskandi guitar with contemporary, experimental sounds.

Also on the bill is Kwanti Leeh!, featuring respected jazz musicians Herbie Tsoaeli, Andile Yenana, Ayanda Sikade and Sisonke Xonti.

Artistic curator Lindsay Rhoda says Jazz Village is designed as a space where artists can take creative risks and audiences can fully immerse themselves in the music.

A new chapter for Montreux

Festival founder Mark Goedvolk says the first announcement reflects Montreux’s long-standing legacy while placing African artists at the centre of the global conversation.

The 2026 edition will run across two main venues, with performances scheduled from lunchtime until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Sunday will feature a more relaxed programme as part of a “Sunday Slowdown” experience.

Tickets for The Arches stage are now available via Ticketmaster, while Jazz Village tickets will go on sale once the full line-up is announced. Further artist announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit www.mjfsa.com

New Operating Theatre Opens After Truck Crash Devastated Animal Clinic

Smile Staff Reporter

28 January 2026

New Operating Theatre Opens After Truck Crash Devastated Animal Clinic

A new operating theatre has opened after a truck crash caused devastation at an animal clinic. In September 2025, a drunk driver crashed his truck into the Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s operating theatre in Khayelitsha, causing extensive damage and rendering the building beyond repair. The incident posed a serious challenge for the staff to continue delivering critical veterinary care, but with commitment and resilience, they continued operating in makeshift spaces.

“The reopening of the operating theatre not only restores a critical service but also lays the foundation for a future facility that will serve animals and veterinarians for years to come,” says du Plessis.

New Operating Theatre Opens After Truck Crash Devastated Animal Clinic

An urgent appeal for assistance was made to the public. “Thanks to the extraordinary outpouring of generosity, we are proud to announce that our new operating theatre is now fully operational,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive of Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter.

“What began as a significant setback has become a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved through collaboration.”

The new facility is made of two prefabricated structures. These have given us a beautifully designed, larger space than before, and most importantly, a calm and happy place for animals to recover. Being able to run at full capacity again feels nothing short of incredible

A space where lifesaving work can continue – New Operating Theatre

“While this marks an important milestone, it is not the final chapter,” says du Plessis. “Plans are already underway to work with an architect on the design of a permanent, state-of-the-art brick-and-mortar operating theatre. This will take time and lots of fundraising, but it is our vision for the future to provide the best environment possible for the animals.”

This future facility will be custom-designed to further enhance veterinary efficiency and the standard of animal care. To donate to this vision of hope, please contact info@mdzananda.co.za or donate to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current account, Branch code: 198765, Account number: 1314465147, Reference: New Theatre + Your Name.

One moment changed everything

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter is the only NPO veterinary facility and shelter in the Khayelitsha community, having served the community’s animals for 30 years. Their services include consultations, hospitalisation, operations, sterilisations, mobile clinics, an animal ambulance and shelter for rescues and strays. There is a strong focus on community inclusion and education, helping pet guardians become the best pet carers they can be.

Brewing war over drug turf in Bonteheuwel, says ward councillor

Caitlin Maledo

28 January 2026

A gang war is said to be brewing in Bonteheuwel, following recent shootings in the area.

Police have confirmed two separate shooting incidents in Bonteheuwel within days of each other.

Western Cape SAPS spokesperson, Constable Ndakhe Gwala, said Bishop Lavis SAPS members responded to a shooting in Karee Road in the early hours of Tuesday, 27 January 2026.

“[Officers] found a body of a 28-year-old male on the street with gunshot wounds on his head and back. A case of murder was registered for investigation; no arrest has been made yet,” Gwala said.

Then, a second incident was reported on Wednesday, where police were called to the corner of Keur and Kersboom Road at around 06:00.

Gwala confirmed that officers found a man who was also fatally shot.

“Bishop Lavis police attended the scene and found the deceased laying on the street in front of a supermarket with a gunshot wound on his chest and back. According to reports, a grey motor vehicle stopped next to the deceased, and the occupants gave him fruit, before opening fire,” said Gwala.

The motive for both shootings remains under investigation.

The region where the two recent shootings took place.

Ward councillor, Angus McKenzie, said these incidents come in the wake of residents raising concerns over a brewing conflict between rival gangs over control of drug turf in that part of Bonteheuwel.

“We’ve received strong information over the last few days from residents within that area of a brewing fight between the American and Fancy’s gang for drug turf in the area. Our officers have been relentlessly pursuing tip-off information over the last week in that area and will continue their relentless approach to ensure that this does not get out of hand,” said McKenzie.

McKenzie indicated that several people were taken in for questioning following the latest incident.

“I can confirm that based on strong information received, a number of individuals were taken into custody [Wednesday] morning in connection with the shooting. Those individuals will be profiled and questioned, and our hope is that it will link directly back to the shooting so that a formal arrest can happen.”

He further stressed the importance of community cooperation, calling on residents to assist police so that suspects can be arrested and prosecuted.

“We will continue to work with the community, with them providing us information and our teams acting upon it to ensure we nip these shootings in the bud immediately. We cannot allow it to linger. We have to act and we have to act quickly and decisively,” said McKenzie.

Wine Harvest Celebration Marks the Start of South Africa’s Harvest Season

Smile Staff Reporter

28 January 2026

South Africa’s wine community will raise a glass to history, heritage and the start of a new season when the 2026 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event takes place on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Groot Constantia.

Set on the grounds of South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm, the event marks 367 years since the first recorded wine was made from Cape grapes on 2 February 1659.

Today, it stands as the official start of the country’s grape harvest season, a moment that celebrates the journey of South African wine from vineyard to glass.

A night of tradition and celebration

Against vineyards and mountain backdrops, Groot Constantia’s historic Cape Dutch buildings will host an elegant black-tie evening under the lights. Guests can expect beautifully set tables, top South African wines, live entertainment and one of the most meaningful traditions of the night: the blessing of the new harvest.

The event brings together winemakers, cellar teams, sommeliers and industry leaders in a rare moment to pause and celebrate the people and passion behind one of South Africa’s most recognised global industries.

Honouring excellence in wine

A highlight of the evening is the recognition of individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to the industry. Awards are presented across five key categories that reflect the foundations of South African wine:

The 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership
Growing Inclusivity
Wine Advancement
Viti- and Viniculture
Wine Agri-Worker Recognition

These honours celebrate the innovation, resilience and collaboration that continue to shape the future of local wine.

Celebrate from home

Wine lovers who can’t attend in person are encouraged to join the spirit of the occasion from home, gather friends and family, open a favourite South African bottle and toast the start of harvest season.

“Each harvest is a reminder of how far we’ve come as an industry,” says Jean Naudé, CEO of Groot Constantia.

“This event is a moment to come together, reflect on the shared journey, and celebrate the passion and collaboration that continue to move South African wine forward.”

A shared investment in the future

The Wine Harvest Commemorative Event is presented with the support of Groot Constantia and platinum partner Standard Bank, alongside partners including Air France-KLM, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, South Africa Wine, Die Burger, Seabourne Logistics, SmileFM and Vinpro.

“Wine is ultimately a story of people, place and patience,” says Karel-Günther Jordaan, Standard Bank Regional Agribusiness Manager. “We stand alongside farmers and winemakers, helping them finance the next season, invest in innovation and build businesses that outlast any single harvest.”

For more information, visit www.sawineharvest.co.za and follow @sawineharvest on social media. Join the conversation using #HappyBirthdaySAWine.

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CPT film industry picket over slow rebate payments

“We will continue to do everything in our power to help kickstart the National Film Incentives – in the meantime, the local film industry is reminded that the City established a Film Fund that offers support.”

Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek Reveals First Artists for African Debut

Big names for The Arches stage

Intimate sounds at Jazz Village

A new chapter for Montreux

New Operating Theatre Opens After Truck Crash Devastated Animal Clinic

New Operating Theatre Opens After Truck Crash Devastated Animal Clinic

A space where lifesaving work can continue – New Operating Theatre

One moment changed everything

Brewing war over drug turf in Bonteheuwel, says ward councillor

“[Officers] found a body of a 28-year-old male on the street with gunshot wounds on his head and back. A case of murder was registered for investigation; no arrest has been made yet,” Gwala said.

“Bishop Lavis police attended the scene and found the deceased laying on the street in front of a supermarket with a gunshot wound on his chest and back. According to reports, a grey motor vehicle stopped next to the deceased, and the occupants gave him fruit, before opening fire,” said Gwala.

“We will continue to work with the community, with them providing us information and our teams acting upon it to ensure we nip these shootings in the bud immediately. We cannot allow it to linger. We have to act and we have to act quickly and decisively,” said McKenzie.

Wine Harvest Celebration Marks the Start of South Africa’s Harvest Season

A night of tradition and celebration

Honouring excellence in wine

Celebrate from home

“This event is a moment to come together, reflect on the shared journey, and celebrate the passion and collaboration that continue to move South African wine forward.”

A shared investment in the future

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