Stories from Cape Town · South Africa

The city of Cape Town has allocated a record 6.8 billion rand for its safety and security directorate for the 2026-2027 financial year. This represents the largest investment ever in crime prevention and public safety for the city. JP Smith, the mayoral committee member for safety and security, confirmed the allocation. This investment aims to offset losses in staff numbers within the South African police force. Over the past four years, the police have lost approximately 1,300 staff members, while the city has gained slightly less than that, around 1,280.

Professor Richard Van Sales Smith from the University of Cape Town released research regarding e-cigarette usage. The study found that e-cigarettes are becoming prevalent among African high school learners. The findings were presented during a broadcast on SAFM. A study of 25,000 learners conducted by Richard Fancell Smith at the University of Cape Town found that e-cigarettes are now the most commonly used inhaled substance. Educators report that vaping is disrupting classroom lessons as students use devices on school grounds. The research indicates vaping is frequently linked to cannabis and tobacco use. The findings highlight a health challenge for young children in educational settings. Medical personnel are monitoring the health implications of this trend in local schools. Reports indicate nicotine use is disrupting school classes as students vape during lessons.

South African vaccine manufacturer BioVac has secured a financing package of 1.8 billion UAH from the International Finance Corporation, the European Commission, and the European Investment Bank. The company will build Africa's first end-to-end multi-vaccine manufacturing site in Cape Town. This initiative aims to enhance self-reliance in vaccine production for Africa, addressing gaps identified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccine manufacturer BioVac has secured a $1.8 billion UAH financing package from the International Finance Corporation, the European Commission, and the European Investment Bank. The company will establish Africa's first end-to-end multi-vaccine manufacturing site in Cape Town, aiming to enhance vaccine production self-reliance for the continent following identified gaps during the COVID-19 pandemic.