One of the biggest talking points this past week was the story of alleged serial killer, Rosemary Ndlovu. She is accused of orchestrating the murders of her close relatives and boyfriend for insurance claims. How safe are we from our “loved ones”?
August has been largely dominated by negativity in South African news, but then again, which month hasn’t. This month saw the release of crime statistics, which were eye-popping, to put it in the Police Minister’s words. More shocking stats came to light regarding the rate of teenage pregnancy in the country. In my opinion, that was to be expected in light of disruptions to learning as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. More women were murdered, during the month to celebrate women. The police have their work cut out for them, even though from the look of things, they have no clue where to start.
At what stage do you burst your children’s bubble by telling them Santa and tooth fairies don’t exist? I’m tired of running around in efforts
I have always been a dog lover, and had never really loved cats. A black feral cat, however, found me and touched my life in a way I never thought a cat would. Adopting a pet carries a lot of responsibility. It’s a far cry from getting a stuffed animal, which I assumed it would be like. If anything, it’s like getting an extra child in the house.
My grandmother died this month, not of COVID-19, but COVID-19 definitely called the shots on how her long and amazing life was celebrated, or not. I saw first hand how lonely families have become in their time of loss, being forced to stay as far away from each other as possible, at a time when they need to be around each other the most. This is certainly a heartbreaking time
A social media storm erupted recently after a young woman alleged she’d been raped by two very popular DJs. As is to be expected, there were those that believed her “because famous people believe they can get away with murder”, and of course the celebrities’ fans who wanted to know why it took her so long to report the alleged rape. One thing for sure is it’s never easy for a woman to report sexual abuse by the rich and powerful. This is why many of the perpetrators continue to walk free after violating many women. The same society that marches during The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence uses a different yardstick altogether when act of violence have been committed by powerful people.
The ANC in Mpumalanga pulled a shocker earlier in the week when they reinstated a member accused of the rape of his two daughters to a top provincial position. They have since reversed the decision – but only due to a public outcry. Now is not the time to start pulling the “innocent until proven guilty” card. The man is facing serious charges. Charges he’s faced before. What a slap in the face as we sit here observing 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, listening to speeches that mean nothing at all when our leaders don’t walk the talk.
A woman had her cell phone snatched in the Randburg CBD. A crowd started chasing after the thieves, who ended up crashing their car as they tried to make their getaway. The crowd immediately stopped chasing the muggers, and moved to loot the crashed car before the police arrived. It’s shocking how everyone looks out for themselves, and how how you can be left to your won devices – even when those around you have the capacity to help.
While birthdays are supposed to be happy occasions, when you have a child with special needs, they are a reason to panic. In my situation, what makes me panic is the knowledge that despite my son’s challenges, he’s capable of a whole lot more given the right support. The right support is a pie in the sky. A 2017 report from the Basic Education Department revealed that nearly 10,000 children with special needs were waiting to be placed in schools. I believe the figure is a lot higher. While they’re waiting for placement, they don’t stop growing. They become illiterate adults who become a burden on their families and the state. Urgent action is needed.
The Gauteng Health Department’s notoriety with poor healthcare for people will psychiatric problems knows no bounds. The Life Esidimeni tragedy is still on the minds of many, abd conditions have still not improved in government institutions in the province. Mentally ill patients are getting raped in institutions, and there seems to be no will to address the situation. One wonders how many more of these cases are going unreported.
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