The City of Cape Town’s mayoral committee supports a recommendation to donate R1-million to fund the cost of essential services during the centenary celebrations of the Cape Minstrels.
”The funding will go towards the cost of safety and security during the event. Our contribution will be paid directly to the service providers. No group will receive funds directly from the city,” said Mansoor Mohamed, executive director for economic and social development and tourism.
Mohamed said the financial contribution will also provide traffic, disaster-management, cleaning, water and electricity services.
Mayoral committee member Simon Grindrod said the ”Kaapse Klopse”, as they are affectionately known, are an important part of Cape Town’s rich history and culture, and he expressed his full support for the centenary celebrations.
”The carnival is a significant tourist attraction which helps our economy to grow and creates employment in the hotel and restaurant sectors. The minstrels, ordinary people from across Cape Town, save their hard-earned money to buy their uniforms,” said Grindrod.
For many Capetonians, the carnival is their only celebratory event.
Grindrod said the city is committed to support this milestone in the history of the minstrel carnival, and that all disciplines participating in the carnival will benefit.
The city has called on all minstrels and residents to adopt a theme of mutual respect and tolerance.
”The city has contingency plans in place to curb unauthorised events, unruly behaviour and excessive noise that disturbs the peace during the festive season,” said Mohamed. — Sapa