Latest news with #Khayelitsha
News24
3 days ago
- General
- News24
Meet the woman behind Ask A Mom, a safe, supportive space for mothers who need a community
She was merely sharing her real, raw journey about single motherhood on TikTok. From one video to the next, many mothers resonated with her story, and the next thing, the community of mothers called for a Whatsapp group chat which she started in February 2025. Before she knew it, the community turned into an initiative and selfless movement aimed to help out mothers in their struggles. Nobuhle Radebe, affectionately known as BheePosh tells Drum how activism found her and philanthropy followed naturally. 'I didn't set out with a clear plan to step into motherhood, activism, or philanthropy in the way that I have, but life has a way of calling you into purpose through experience. Motherhood came first, and with it, a complete shift in perspective. Activism found me when I started sharing my real, raw journey on TikTok. I wasn't trying to be anything other than honest. But the more I shared, the more I realised how many women felt the same: overwhelmed, isolated, and in need of community. One comment suggested I start a WhatsApp group, and philanthropy followed naturally. 'Once you start connecting with people's real needs, when you see someone crying because they received baby formula, or you witness moms donating breast pumps and nappies to one another, you can't turn away. Helping others became an extension of my motherhood journey and a reflection of the kind of world I want my children to grow up in,' she adds. Read more | From Khayelitsha to international runways, Mzukisi Mbane on turning passion into award-winning success Now, she's a proud founder of Ask A Mom, a community-based support initiative born to create a safe, non-judgmental space for mothers. Nobuhle has created a platform where women can ask questions, share their experiences, seek advice from each other and qualified professionals, and receive both emotional and practical support. 'Whether you're navigating the early days of motherhood or balancing the demands of parenting, Ask A Mom exists to ensure that no mother feels alone at any point of their motherhood journey. We are proud to have a qualified social worker and midwife as part of our community, offering credible, compassionate guidance when it's needed most. At its core, Ask A Mom is about empowering mothers through connection, compassion, and community, regardless of their background or circumstances,' the mother of two says. Though she's no longer single, her heart has grown fond of the mothers that felt seen and heard by her. Currently, the Whatsapp group chat has over 170 moms who actively participate and support one another every day. 'For safety and to protect the integrity of the space especially since we discuss sensitive topics and offer personal support each new member is required to complete a vetting questionnaire to confirm that they are indeed a mom or a mom to be. This step ensures that the space remains trusted, secure, and genuine.' From all the stories and journeys, she's had a front-row seat to through her initiative, she says the one that stands out the most for her is one of a first-time mom who had virtually no support besides her partner. 'The moms in the group came together and created a heartfelt video filled with realistic, honest tips to support her through the early stages of motherhood. It was such a genuine act of community. 'There was also a young mom who didn't have the essentials to prepare for her baby's arrival. Without hesitation, other moms stepped in and put together a package of essentials, from nappies and baby clothes to toiletries and more. What's even more inspiring is that group members often go out of their way to deliver these items personally, breast pumps, baby clothes, nappies you name it. It's that kind of real-world action and sisterhood that keeps me going. It's proof that when women come together, incredible things happen,' she beams with pride. Under Ask A Mom, the 30-year-old houses a few programmes that include the following; - Commerce and Career Wednesdays (Ongoing) This bi-weekly digital series is dedicated to helping mothers reclaim or elevate their careers. Whether returning to work after maternity leave or exploring new professional paths, Commerce and Career Wednesdays provides practical tools like CV building, LinkedIn optimisation, interview tips, and entrepreneurial guidance. We've featured expert guests and real success stories. - Virtual Birth Class (April 2025) In response to the overwhelming need for accessible and reliable birth education, we hosted a free virtual birth class facilitated by healthcare professionals. The session covered crucial topics like labour preparation, creating birth plans, postpartum recovery, and mental well-being. - Winter Drive (Current) ' Our Winter Drive is one of our most heartfelt initiatives. As temperatures drop, we are collecting and intend to distribute warm clothing, blankets, baby supplies, and food to moms and families in need. Some moms not only donate but also volunteer to collect and deliver items to others in their area. It's a real-life reflection of the Ask A Mom spirit: no mother left behind. This drive reminds us that even the smallest act of kindness like a warm jacket or a pack of nappies can bring dignity and comfort to another family.' 'Each of these programmes is born from real needs expressed by our community. Whether it's emotional support, professional development, birth education, or physical resources, Ask A Mom strives to show up for mothers in tangible, life-changing ways.' Read more | Lawrence Maleka gets real about fame and hosting Friends of Amstel With the winter drive, the goal is to keep at least 100 families warm with winter packages, with basic items such as clothes, non-perishable food, and blankets. All the items collected will be donated to the Frida Hartley Women's Shelter in Yeoville, Johannesburg during Mandela month (July). While motherhood has taught her endurance, emotional depth, and vulnerability with all the sleepless nights and financial stress, helping other mothers has given her life purpose and meaning beyond words. If anything, it's been a constant reminder that healing can happen through community. 'In the next 5–10 years, I see Ask A Mom growing into a national network of physical and digital support hubs. I envision resource centres in every major city where mothers can get help, attend workshops, and simply connect. We hope to be a recognised voice in maternal wellbeing and advocacy, driving policy and social change,' she confidently tells Drum. Nobuhle is also the founder of Fempire Afrika, a digital solutions marketing agency that helps brands grow through strategic content and online visibility, a full-time content creator, and she also runs Luna Boheme ZA, a gold non-tarnish jewellery line that celebrates elegance, individuality, and everyday luxury.
Zawya
4 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Reopening of Central Line Will Ease Traffic Congestion on Cape Town Freeways
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport, Mr Donald Selamolela, has noted with appreciation the successful reopening of the Central Line connecting Khayelitsha to the CBD. Mr Selamolela attended the function that was overseen by the Minister of Transport, Ms Barbara Creecy, Deputy Minister Mr Mkhuleko Hlengwa, and the City of Cape Town Mayor, Mr Geordin Hill-Lewis. Mr Selamolela said: 'This is a significant infrastructural rail project that must benefit our people to and from work. We particularly appreciate the investment government has put into this project. We are changing the lives of people of Cape Town for the better.' The Central Line which used to commute 2 million passengers daily, had fallen victim to vandalism which saw the rail tracks being stolen and the stations being vandalised. This Mr Selamolela called on the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) not to lose momentum and increase the volume of carriages on the rails while significantly improve signalling equipment as that will ease pressure on Cape Town freeways. 'The reopening must not end with the photo opportunity of officials, but a real change in people's lives through the provision of affordable, safe and reliable public transport. PRASA must act with speed and regain the trust people used to place on trains. We want them to be a transport mode of choice.' Mr Selamolela urged the community and community leaders to play a role in protecting and guarding the rolling stock and the network as the assets are theirs. 'The greatest security is in the hands of the people. They must safeguard the Central Line against cable theft and burning of trains.' 'Our country requires this service as of yesterday. So many of our people are unemployed and will benefit greatly from this PRASA initiative.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The Herald
21-05-2025
- The Herald
Law enforcement officers arrested for 'kidnapping, extortion' in Cape Town
Two city law enforcement officers were on Tuesday arrested in Cape Town on charges of kidnapping and extortion. The officers, attached to the metal theft unit, allegedly kidnapped two men in Khayelitsha and demanded a ransom for their release, said safety and security MMC JP Smith. The arrests were carried out after an internal investigation by the city's safety and security investigations unit which alerted the police. ' Search warrants were obtained on Monday and the officers were arrested earlier today, in collaboration with the SAPS provincial kidnapping and extortion task team. 'The city takes a dim view of any attempts at dishonesty and illegal behaviour on the part of staff. We will co-operate with police to ensure a swift conclusion to the investigation and prosecution,' said Smith. The officers also face disciplinary hearings. 'The management of the safety and security directorate are committed to rid the department of corrupt and criminal elements and will not hesitate to investigate and take the required action when wrongdoing is uncovered.' TimesLIVE
Zawya
13-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa: PCG help local developers to build affordable homes
Partial credit guarantees (PCGs) provided by Shared Interest, are helping local developers in Cape Town to finance and build dignified housing for low- and middle-income communities, overcoming long-standing barriers to credit. Recently, Shared Interest hosted a roundtable and guided site visit to affordable housing projects in Khayelitsha and Mandalay funded through guaranteed loans, demonstrating how guarantees are unlocking capital for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and fueling inclusive urban development in communities where traditional mortgages are hardly accessible. 'Affordable housing is a pressing need, and we have capable developers ready to deliver; what they lack is capital,' says Lusanda Netshitenzhe, chief executive officer of TUHF21, an organisation lending to affordable housing developers across South Africa. 'With a PCG, we can say yes more often. It gives us the confidence to lend to entrepreneurs building real value in their communities.' Credit guarantee model reduces risk Shared Interest's credit guarantee model reduces risk for microfinance institutions, banks, and development lenders by covering a portion of potential losses. This enables them to finance early-stage and underserved entrepreneurs who may lack collateral, lengthy track records, or traditional financial profiles, particularly in the housing sector, where impact and affordability matter most. 'In Cape Town, we have partnered with Lead Capital to guarantee their affordable loans to BitProp, which are targeting and turning female homeowners into landlords. "Through our partnership, BitProp is building and managing 72 units for 12 women, increasing the value and earnings from their properties. "We are in negotiations with TUHF to replicate this successful pilot with Lead in Johannesburg,' says Ann McMikel, executive director of Shared Interest. Impact of guarantee Shared Interest's partial credit guarantee has seen $34m in guarantees issued, which has unlocked $132m in SME loans, reaching over 2.3 million beneficiaries, with 60% being women and youth. A 2025 goal is to deploy $8m to $11m in guarantees to support high-impact sectors such as housing, agriculture, fintech, and climate resilience. Expand SME financial inclusion The event also featured a panel discussion at 22 on Sloane SME Campus on how PCGs function to expand SME financial inclusion. The panelists included PCG experts such as: - Stacy Manvitz, vice chairwoman & co-chair, Credit Risk Committee, Shared Interest Board - Alex Area, chief investment officer, AFAWA, African Development Bank - Lusanda Netshitenzhe, CEO, TUHF21 - Dorcas Onyango, Shared Interest global programs director & architect of the PCG Convenings - Joyce Masi, managing director, Kwheza, Shared Interest implementing partner in Malawi The event drew participation from banks, microfinance institutions, and SME empowerment ecosystem actors. 'Partial credit guarantees are catalytic in bridging the risk gap. They allow financial institutions to extend credit to SMEs that would otherwise be considered too risky, particularly women-led businesses, while maintaining portfolio quality,' says Area. 'They are one of the most effective tools to expand financial inclusion and build more equitable economies.' Since 1994, Shared Interest has been working to drive inclusive development in previously disadvantaged communities in Southern Africa by unlocking opportunities where capital was previously out of reach. 'In Cape Town, property developers and homeowners are able to access finance to develop affordable homes for working families, creating jobs and helping to reshape communities,' says Manvitz. All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
News24
10-05-2025
- News24
‘Deeply appreciated': Khayelitsha residents welcome crackdown on hijacking syndicates
A person was arrested during an operation to shut down a hijacking syndicate in Cape Town. The operation comes amid a reported surge in hijackings of municipal vehicles. Khayelitsha residents have welcomed the crackdown on 'thugs' hijacking people to extort morning from them. Khayelitsha residents, who have seen a noticeable increase in hijacking syndicates operating in the area, have welcomed a joint crackdown operation by the local police and City of Cape Town law enforcement. The alleged syndicates target people mostly in Harare, Makhaza, Lingelethu, SiteB and Mfuleni areas. Earlier this week, an alleged hijacking syndicate was busted amid a surge in hijackings of municipal vehicles. The City of Cape Town said its law enforcement agencies and the police shut down a syndicate operating in Lingelethu West during an operation on Wednesday. The operation comes amid a surge in the hijacking of municipal vehicles in Cape Town and only weeks after the City announced that it was looking to bolster its security services for municipal employees. Over the last financial year, the City has recorded a marked increase in the hijackings of municipal vehicles. Between July 2024 and April 2025, 113 City vehicles were hijacked, which increased from 57 vehicles during the previous financial year. Some residents who spoke to News24 said the criminals have long been using the area as their 'meeting spot' and target municipal workers who are called to the area for service delivery complaints. While most of the residents said they didn't know the identities of the syndicate members, some have alleged that they are foreign nationals working with criminals in the area to extort money from people. 'It's an easy way for them to make money. They especially target the small local spaza shops, municipal workers and the security guards that escort the workers to the area,' said a resident who asked to remain anonymous for her safety. She said most of the private security guards that escort government workers to the area have firearms on them, which the criminals are after. She said the hijackers 'don't care what time of the day it is' and often operate without masks because the 'weapons they have are their protection'. Another resident, who wanted to be identified only as 'Sipho', said hijackings in the area had been a common occurrence 'for years', adding he believed the police only acted when someone was killed. Sipho said: These are dangerous criminals. They don't care for your life. If they see you live a lifestyle that indicates you are loaded with money, they will come for you and milk you dry He said the recent clampdown on the syndicates 'highlights the need for safety in our communities'. Khayelitsha Community Policing Forum (CPF) spokesperson Phindile George said hijacking remained a challenge in the community. 'We welcome efforts by the SAPS (South African Police Service) and law enforcement to clamp down on hijacking syndicates as this scares away services to the community of Khayelitsha. 'In particular, essential service gets delayed as they now have to be escorted by police, [who are] already under severe strain,' said George. George said what was even more concerning was that ambulances were also being targeted. 'For every traumatised essential service personnel, it means that they would be taken off work for trauma counselling, which hinders service delivery,' said George. George said residents had welcomed all efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat crime in townships and ensure residents' safety and the operation of all community services. 'We call upon local government to ensure that they ramp up the CCTV camera systems and deploy licence plate reading cameras to ensure that there is a quicker track-and-trace mechanism on reported hijacked and stolen vehicles in the community. 'We also call upon the municipality to service all existing cameras in the area so they are in working condition. This would also assist in building capacity and bolster the local crime-fighting efforts,' said George. Lingelethu CPF chairperson Lunga Guza said they welcomed the intervention by law enforcement agencies. 'We welcome any intervention that will generally help reduce crime in one of the areas affected by the hijackings; one could even say it has become the norm in the area,' said Guza. He said the police had worked tirelessly to shut the syndicates down. 'To us as residents, it's fantastic. The more these criminals get caught and arrested, the less fear the community lives in,' said Guza. 'We are very happy that the City of Cape Town has also realised that this is a pandemic, especially in our precinct. These are people's lives we are dealing with that hijackers think nothing of. 'So more help by the government is deeply appreciated,' said Guza. According to the CPF, it's not just government workers coming under attack by criminals, but almost every vehicle in the precinct. 'It should not just be government vehicles prioritised, but every citizen's vehicle should be protected from the hands of hijackers. 'We must protect people's lives,' said Guza. Mayoral committee member for safety and security JP Smith said City officials embarked on a joint intelligence-driven operation with the police and raided a property in Town Two where they uncovered a stash of items presumably used in hijackings and also recovered a vehicle that was reported stolen in Muizenberg last year. 'Over the last financial year, the City has recorded a marked increase in the hijackings of municipal vehicles. In the period between July 2024 to April 2025, a total of 113 City vehicles have been hijacked, which increased from 57 vehicles during the previous financial year,' said Smith. Of the 133 vehicles hijacked in recent months, the City has been able to recover 42. Smith said statistics showed that the urban waste and water and sanitation directorates were most affected, and in most of these incidents, City officials were held at gunpoint. Western Cape police spokesperson, Captain FC van Wyk, said several premises were searched during Wednesday's operation in Lingelethu. Police found three homemade rifles, three homemade handguns, vehicle keys, radios, one silver Renault Duster stolen in Muizenberg in March 2024, a Toyota Quantum engine stolen in Khayelitsha in July 2021, and vehicle wheels. 'A 28-year-old male suspect who was sought on a Lingelethu-West SAPS murder case was arrested,' said Van Wyk. Police said the joint operation was a 'culmination of a few weeks of planning' with the City to prevent carjackings and clampdown on those involved or suspected of being involved in these crimes.
