Tuesday, 22 September 2026

The Constitutional Court ruled the Tafelberg sale unlawful and affirmed government’s constitutional duty to provide affordable housing, strengthening Reclaim the City’s campaign for public land to serve public good.

Cape Town’s housing affordability crisis is worsening as Airbnb, digital-nomad demand and property financialisation reduce long-term rentals, pushing working- and middle-class residents towards the city’s fringes.

Heart and Stroke Foundation CEO Professor Pamela Naidu said 225 South Africans die daily from cardiovascular disease, while 80% of risk factors are preventable through healthier behaviour and regular screening.

Municipalities fund operations through property rates, service charges and grants; own revenue provides about 80% of operating income nationally, while many rural councils remain heavily grant-dependent.

Residents can inspect municipal budgets, monthly spending and revenue collection on the National Treasury website, with Municipal Money and Go Muni simplifying the information for the public.