Cape Town learners are getting an early look at how the City plans to secure its future water supply through an educational programme reaching schools across the metro.
The City’s water awareness initiative has already visited more than 95 schools this year. During a recent visit to Kommetjie Primary School, learners were introduced to the New Water Programme and learned about water reuse, desalination and other projects designed to reduce dependence on rainfall.
The sessions, led by Manzi, the water mascot, combine entertainment and education to teach children about saving water and protecting natural resources.
Edmond Tiku (City’s Community Engagement Team) and Manzi at Kommetjie Primary School
Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, said the programme is helping to build long-term water security.
“One of our priorities is to help young people understand the value of water and the role they can play in protecting this precious resource.”
He added that the New Water Programme will strengthen Cape Town’s resilience to climate change while encouraging responsible water use among residents.
Badroodien further stressed that schools remain an important partner in creating a sustainable and water-secure future.
“This school roadshow is more than an awareness campaign; it is an investment in future generations. By helping learners understand where their water comes from and how it can be reused and conserved, we are building a culture of water stewardship that will benefit Cape Town for years to come.”
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has launched an investigation into a tragic shooting incident in which a Free State police officer allegedly killed three people, wounded two others, and later took his own life near Hennenman.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the officer allegedly went to Whittes Plot in search of his girlfriend in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Provincial spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said when the officer failed to locate his girlfriend, he and the girlfriend’s uncle went to another location, where the uncle confirmed a family gathering was taking place.
“Upon arrival at the place, and after being informed that the girlfriend was not there, an argument allegedly ensued, during which the member allegedly opened fire. Three victims, the girlfriend’s mother, her uncle, and the 25-year-old woman, were declared dead at the scene.”
Mbambo confirmed that two other victims sustained gunshot wounds.
“One was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment, while the other sustained a graze wound and was treated at the scene.”
The officer then turned the gun on himself. Police confirmed that the motive for the shooting remains unknown and forms part of ongoing investigations.
Cases of murder, attempted murder, and an inquest will be registered and investigated by IPID.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has concluded #ChildProtectionMonth 2026 at the Ntabankulu Multi-Purpose Centre in the Eastern Cape.
SOURCE: Facebook SAPS
More than 15,000 suspects were arrested in the past year for allegedly perpetrating crimes against children. At the same time, there were over 2,700 convictions for those who had harmed children this year. The National Office of the South African Police Service released these statistics as Child Protection Month drew to a close.
“As Child Protection Month draws to a close, SAPS reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting children and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.”
More than 15,000 suspects were arrested in the past year for perpetrating crimes against children
An event was recently held at the Ntabankulu Multi-Purpose Centre in the Eastern Cape, where these shocking facts were brought to light. Major-General Mmantsheke Lekhele, delivering the keynote address, encouraged learners to make informed choices and to speak out against abuse. Kids should also report criminal conduct.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has concluded #ChildProtectionMonth 2026 at the Ntabankulu Multi-Purpose Centre in the Eastern Cape. SOURCE: Facebook SAPS
“In the past year, 15 888 suspects were arrested nationwide and 2 773 convicted for crimes against children.”
Lt Col Amanda van Wyk says the major-general further emphasised the importance of creating safe environments where children are protected, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Lekhele is the National Component Head: Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.
Crimes against Children
Major-General Mmantsheke Lekhele was joined by the EC Deputy-Provincial Commissioner: Policing, Major General Ngangema Xakavu. Also in attendance was the Executive Mayor of the Ntabankulu Local Municipality, Councillor Vuyokazi Matwasa, and Chief MG Diko. Other senior SAPS management members were there, as well as representatives from government departments, faith-based organisations and crime prevention stakeholders.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has concluded #ChildProtectionMonth 2026 at the Ntabankulu Multi-Purpose Centre in the Eastern Cape.
SOURCE: Facebook SAPS
“SAPS’ National Child Protection Month campaign culminated in a dialogue session and learner engagement held on Saturday, 06 June 2026, in Ntabankulu in the Eastern Cape. The event was attended by more than 300 learners from local schools.”
Lt Col Amanda van Wyk says the solution-driven dialogue created an opportunity for SAPS, stakeholders and learners to engage openly on the consequences of teenage pregnancy. They also delved into the legal implications of statutory rape and the long-term impact these crimes have on the lives and futures of young people.
Child Protection Week concludes
Van Wyk says that throughout Child Protection Month, law enforcement agencies, government departments, civil society organisations, and community structures strengthened awareness campaigns. There was also a focus on prevention initiatives. They targeted operations aimed at safeguarding children from abuse, exploitation, neglect, trafficking, and other forms of violence.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has concluded #ChildProtectionMonth 2026 at the Ntabankulu Multi-Purpose Centre in the Eastern Cape. SOURCE: Facebook SAPS
“The South African Police Service is working closely with key stakeholders. It continues to intensify its fight against those who perpetrate crimes against children.”
Notable convictions and investigations
The Police have highlighted notable convictions and investigations during Child Protection Month. This includes:
-> Gauteng: On 13 May 2026, the Pretoria North Magistrates’ Court sentenced a stepfather to five life terms. He also received an additional 60 years’ imprisonment for rape, sexual assault, crimen injuria, and possession of child sexual abuse material. The victim was 12 years old when the abuse began.
-> Eastern Cape: The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Humansdorp arrested a 39-year-old man and a 44-year-old woman for the alleged rape of a critically ill seven-year-old girl. The alleged abuse was uncovered after medical personnel at a hospital in Gqeberha detected signs of sexual abuse while the child was receiving treatment.
-> Western Cape: The Western Cape High Court sentenced a paedophile from Ceres to five life terms and an additional 78 years’ imprisonment. He was sentenced for a series of sexual offences committed against two nine-year-old boys and a 16-year-old girl.
-> Limpopo: On 02 June 2026, the Groblersdal Regional Court sentenced a 22-year-old man to life imprisonment. This was for the rape of a 10-year-old girl in the Motetema policing area.
-> KwaZulu-Natal: The Durban Magistrate’s Court sentenced a 36-year-old man to life imprisonment. The suspect was earlier found guilty of raping his 12-year-old neighbour in 2021.
-> Free State: The Bloemfontein Regional Court sentenced a 33-year-old mother to three life terms and 23 years imprisonment. Her 36-year-old boyfriend was sentenced to three life terms. He was sentenced on multiple charges of rape, sexual exploitation, and common assault. The pair was found guilty of the sexual abuse of the woman’s two minor daughters and niece.
“While Child Protection Month may be concluding, the responsibility to protect children remains a year-round commitment. Parents, caregivers, educators, and communities are urged to remain vigilant. You are also asked to report any form of abuse, neglect, or exploitation involving children.”
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67 Minutes. 20,000 Children. One Powerful Way to Make a Difference.
Every Mandela Day, South Africans are challenged to spend 67 minutes giving back. But finding a meaningful, organised way to make those minutes count isn’t always easy.
This year, Ladles of Love is making it simple.
The organisation is inviting companies, schools, families, students and community groups to become Hands-On Heroes, helping support the nutrition and education of 20,000 preschool children in underserved communities across South Africa.
The flagship Cape Town event takes place at DHL Stadium on Friday, 17 July 2026, offering volunteers the chance to roll up their sleeves and create real impact through a range of hands-on activities designed to support early childhood development.
Participants can choose from four activation zones:
Make – Join the Sarmiethon and help make sandwiches for vulnerable people, or pack nutrition boxes for preschool children.
Create – Design educational posters, flashcards and activity workbooks that support early learning.
Craft – Build teaching aids such as puppets, bean bags and learning tools that bring lessons to life.
Grow – Assemble grow boxes with vegetable and herb seeds to support urban farmers supplying fresh produce to preschools.
The event runs across four sessions at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 15:00, making it easy for individuals, families and corporate teams to get involved.
Founded in 2014 by Danny Diliberto, Ladles of Love has grown from a small Cape Town soup kitchen into a national movement providing nutritious meals and practical support to vulnerable communities.
This Mandela Day, your 67 minutes can help feed children, support learning and invest in the future of South Africa.
Individual tickets cost R300, while students and pensioners pay R200. All proceeds help provide children with two nutritious meals a day. Corporate and group packages are also available.
Book your place and learn more at LadlesofLove.org.za.
Become a Hands-On Hero. Help nurture our future leaders.
