April 2025 turned out to be a busy month filled with important events and stories you’ll want to keep track of. From safety updates in Cape Town to vibrant celebrations in New York City, and key social support info for South Africans to thrilling sports action – we’ve got the latest here all in one place.
A fire broke out in Newlands Forest, threatening several Cape Town neighborhoods near Table Mountain. Thankfully, firefighters managed to mostly contain the blaze, and no one was harmed or lost property. However, hotspots remain, so fire crews are staying on high alert. Authorities are asking people to respect trail closures to stay safe while the cleanup continues.
Over in New York City, Easter brought a special vibe this year. The Orthodox and Catholic churches celebrated on the same date, which is rare. The Easter Parade and the Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral drew crowds eager to share in both religious meaning and spring joy. It’s a fine example of tradition blending across different communities.
Meanwhile, back home in South Africa, if you’ve been wondering about the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant from SASSA, there’s some good news. Applications have become easier to track online, so you can see your payment status in real time. The April disbursements are rolling out, but remember to check if you meet the eligibility requirements. If your application is declined, you’ve got 90 days to appeal.
On the rugby front, the Perth Sevens tournament in 2025 did not disappoint. Kenya’s team, Shujaa, showed some bright moments but ultimately lost to Fiji after a strong start. Fiji’s Joji Nasova turned the game around with key tries. Uruguay surprised many by topping their group, beating some of the sport’s heavyweights. This tournament reminded everyone how unpredictable and exciting rugby sevens can be.
Whether it’s community safety, festive spirit, financial support, or world-class sports, this month had something for everyone. Stay tuned for more updates that keep you informed and prepared.
The recent Table Mountain fire, which began in Newlands Forest and swept across several Cape Town neighborhoods, is mostly contained. Firefighters are still monitoring hotspots, and authorities are urging the public to respect trail closures for safety. No lives or properties have been lost.
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Easter 2025 brought the world together with unique celebrations in New York City, highlighted by a Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral and the famous Easter Parade. This year, both Orthodox and Catholic churches shared the date, blending deep religious meaning and vibrant spring festivities.
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The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is now offering the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant with enhanced digital accessibility, allowing real-time tracking of applications and payments. The grant supports individuals facing financial difficulty due to unemployment or low income, with scheduled disbursements set for April 2025. Applicants must adhere to specific eligibility criteria, and declined applications have a 90-day appeal process.
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Kenya's Shujaa team faced a dramatic exit from the 2025 Perth Sevens after losing to Fiji, despite initially leading the match. Fiji's comeback was powered by Joji Nasova, who scored decisive tries. Kenya ended at the bottom of Group C, while Uruguay triumphed as group leaders with surprise wins against rugby powerhouses. The Sevens tournament showcased unexpected outcomes with Uruguay and highlighted Kenya's fleeting moments of brilliance.
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