Mthatha Express 18 April 2019 by Mthatha Express

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THURSDAY April 18, 2019 |0 047 050 4430 | Facebook: Mthatha Express | Twitter: @MthathaExpress | elizabethg@media24.com or express@media24.com

EDITOR: BETTIE GILIOMEE

H appy E aster Happy Easter MUNICIPAL STRIKE: ZOZO UNDER PRESSURE TO RESIGN

KSD mayor issues apology LUVO CAKATA

ING Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality Executive Mayor, Dumani Zozo, has apologised on behalf of the municipality for any inconvenience experienced by ratepayers and other stakeholders, due to the strike by municipal workers. This comes as calls mount from various stakeholders for the mayor to vacate his po-

sition, accusing him of being at the centre of the instability within the municipality. New political formation, the African Change Academy (ACA), recently pledged solidarity with striking municipal workers and also called on Zozo to resign as executive mayor of the troubled municipality. In a media briefing called by Mthatha Stakeholders Forum on April 11, chairperson of the forum, Pasika Nontshiza, said the forum was giving the KSD executive mayor until Sunday, April 14, to vacate his

position. The forum further threatened to organise an Mthatha shutdown with immediate effect to force Zozo to resign. “We attribute the labour unrest to the weak, reactionary, divisive and vindictive leadership style of Mayor Dumani Zozo. “It eludes many as to why the African National Congress, the party which deployed Zozo, does not take action,” reads an extract of the statement, which was read out at the briefing. Meanwhile other stakeholders, includ-

ing business and church formations, vented their frustrations at the provincial leadership of the ANC during the party’s stakeholders’ meeting in Mthatha on April 11. The meeting was led by ANC provincial chairperson, Oscar Mabuyane, who had promised action by Saturday, April 21 to stabilise administration within the KSD Municipality. KSD employees have been on strike since April 1, accusing the municipality of dragging its feet in addressing their demands.

All smiles for Mnquma learners As part of ongoing efforts to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged families, Mnquma Local Municipality recently sponsored school uniforms for 120 learners. Celebrating with the children who received brand new uniforms from the municipality are, back row from left, Mnquma Mayor Sithembiso Ncetezo, together with officials from the Department of Education and the Department of Social Development. Read more on page 7. PHOTO:LOYISO MPALANTSHANE

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News

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

SAPS reaches out to public in bid to fight crime BABALWA NDLANYA IN an effort to gain public trust and working hand-in-hand with the community, the Mthatha SAPS communications department, in the Mthatha Cluster, is visiting all church denominations on Sundays, with the aim of raising awareness in the fight against crime and recruiting informers to come forward with information that would assist the members of SAPS to arrest perpetrators of crime and create a safer society. Police spokeswoman, Captain Dineo Koena, said she was the one who started this initiative, with the aim of working with communities to fight crime in their areas. She said they held this initiative for the first time at Mandela Park Methodist Church of Southern Africa, last week. Koena confirmed that this would not be done in Mthatha district only, but in all the districts which fall under the Mthatha Cluster.

They would visit any church from which they received an invitation. Koena said if, for instance, they received an invite from a church in Qumbu, they would also go there. “In the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, people were requested to report their lost/ stolen stock immediately and not tamper with the scene of crimes, so as to allow the police to follow possible leads. “They were also advised to report illegal liquor outlets and not to take the law into their own hands, as Mandela Park is problematic when it comes to mob justice,” she said. She added that the congregants were advised to form neighbourhood watches, and that if someone was going out of town, they should ask a neighbour to keep an eye on their property. “We also advised them to form street committees and street patrols so that they could question those people who were roaming the streets during the night and report them to the police if they suspected foul play,” Koena said.

Crime Round Up BABALWA NDLANYA A MAN who was found in possession of a police-issued safe was arrested at Zixholosini locality in Ngqeleni, last week. According to police spokesperson, Captain Dineo Koena, the safe was believed to have been stolen during a break-in at the home of a police officer in Dumasi locality in Ngqeleni, in March this year. “Two laptops – an HP and an Acer – which were also suspected to have been stolen, were also confiscated from him during the raid by the police, acting on a tip-off. ) Two suspects, aged between 23 and 24, were arrested by the Mthatha Flying Squad, following a house robbery which occurred at Hillcrest in Mthatha, last week. Koena said the two suspects allegedly entered a house and robbed the residents at gunpoint, stealing several valuables including cellphones, televisions, clothing and a Polo

TSi. “Flying Squad members followed some leads to Qumbu town, where they found these suspects in a hideout. Two firearms were confiscated. The guns’ serial numbers had been filed off. “They were found hidden in the stolen vehicle. Other items were also recovered.” The Acting Cluster Commander, Brigadier Mandlakhe Twala, said they should make Mthatha a no-go area for criminals. “Let us stamp our authority and let them see that they don’t have space here,” said Twala. ) The Butterworth Cluster Stock Theft Unit recovered 20 sheep at Bityi outside Mthatha, last week. They were identified by the owner. Police spokesperson, Captain Jackson Manatha, said 30 sheep were stolen from a stock kraal during the night. “Police are still looking for the remaining 10 sheep. No one has been arrested yet,” said Manatha.

Church members from Mandela Park Methodist Church of Southern Africa listen to the SAPS communications officer, Captain Dineo Koena, who was giving them advice on how to fight crime in their communities and keep themselves safe. PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Suspected murderer arrested BABALWA NDLANYA POLICE officers from Centane arrested a man (24) for the alleged murder of Sizakele Sikhumba (24), at Theko Fihla locality in Centane. Police spokesperson, Captain Jackson Manatha, confirmed the incident, stating the two were attending a traditional ceremony when the incident happened. “The two men had an argument (the details of which are not known), while on their way to their various homes at Jojweni locality after the ceremony. “The suspect allegedly drew his knife and fatally wounded the deceased. “He suffered upper body injuries,” said Manatha. The Acting Cluster Commander, Colonel Ncedo Ngwendze, appealed to the villagers to report all traditional ceremo-

nies to the Great Place so that the chief can be aware of the ceremony. “All the traditional ceremonies must be ended by 5pm,” said Ngwendze. In another incident, a man (31) was arrested by Centane police after he allegedly raped a woman (67) at Feni Village in Centane, last week. The victim was fast asleep alone at her home when the incident happened. Manatha confirmed the incident, adding that the suspect allegedly kicked the door open and entered the home of the victim. “The suspect did not say anything but accosted the victim and overpowered her. He then raped her. “The victim managed to identify the suspect.” Ngwendze appealed to families not to allow elderly women to stay alone, as they were soft targets for rapists and murderers.

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THE South Africa Social Security Agency (SASSA) says there are over 99 000 grant beneficiaries who have not yet collected their new gold cards. Last December, SASSA completed their switch to a new gold card, effectively swapping over seven million old cards. However, there are over 99 000 beneficiaries who have not yet presented themselves at a SASSA or Post Office to collect their new

cards since then. According to SASSA, two thirds of social grants go to the child support grant and it isn’t fair on the children for parents to fail to collect the new card, because it results in innocent children bearing the brunt and lagging behind in physical and other forms of development created by proper nourishment. “This is quite concerning, given the fact that failure to collect the new SASSA card on time is to deny yourself a constitutional right to social security,” said SASSA acting CEO Abraham Mahlangu.

“We once more urge our beneficiaries to visit our offices and collect their cards so that they can be able to provide for their families and especially children.” Sassa said if social grant beneficiaries are not collected in three successive months it can be assumed that they have found a source of income. Beneficiaries are requested to report to SASSA if their economic conditions change so that their grants can be cancelled and SASSA can open access to other people on the waiting list.

News

ANC promises to stabilise KSD Municipality LUVO CAKATA ANC provincial chairperson, Oscar Mabuyane, has committed to bring stability to the King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Municipality, saying the ruling party was working around the clock to find a solution to the problems facing the municipality. Mabuyane made the commitment during the party’s stakeholders meeting hosted at OR Tambo Hall on April 11. The meeting came as service delivery had come to a standstill at the municipality due to the crippling strike by municipal employees affiliated to the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) and the Independent Municipal and Allied Trade Union (IMATU), who have been on strike action since April 1. “We will come back and host a similar meeting to report to you what we have done to address the challenges facing the KSD municipality in a manner that addresses the trust deficit that has emerged,” committed Mabuyane. Mabuyane also told the gathering that follow-

ANC Eastern Cape chairperson, Oscar Mabuyane. PHOTO:LUVO CAKATA ing a meeting held at the ANC provincial headquarters Calata House between provincial leadership and KSD municipality top three deployees, Mayor Dumani Zozo, along with the

council speaker and council chief whip on April 1, it emerged that the three had not had a harmonious working relationship since assuming office in August 2016. Various stakeholders used the meeting to vent their frustrations at the trashing of the city of Mthatha due to the strike action and not getting basic services despite paying rates to the municipality. OR Tambo Business Chamber chairperson, Vuyisile Ntlabathi, said he could not operate his business, as the bad smell in the town has chased away customers, adding that the current strike was also chasing away investors. Zwelitsha Bava, from the National Federated Chamber of Commerce (NAFCOC) they have been inundated with complaints from their members in Mthatha, about business properties being hijacked by foreign nationals as well as non-enforcement of bylaws by the KSD municipality. Mabuyane has apologised on behalf of the ANC for the inconvenience caused to various stakeholders as a result of the KSD strike action.

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

OMBUDSMAN Contact the Mthatha Express ombudsman with reader complaints. Any complaints, queries or suggestions about content in the Mthatha Express may be sent to our ombudsman, George Claassen, at 083 543 2471 or 021 8513232, or at george.claassen@media24.com.

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WSU students request increase in security BABALWA NDLANYA STUDENTS from the Walter Sisulu University in Mthatha have asked the institution to beef up their security, following an incident where a student died after being thrown off a balcony, allegedly by other students, at Zamukulungisa Campus, last weekend. They suspected him of stealing their laptops. This was confirmed by the SRC communication officer, Asanda Mtshezi who

said that according to the information she had received, some of the students heard the deceased recording a voice note where he was explaining things he had stolen. “They confronted him, allegedly assaulted him and threw him off the balcony. “We want the university to add more security officers because we don’t trust the ones that we have. There is a high rate of crime on our campus, even though they are always there,” said Mtshezi. Police spokesperson, Captain Dineo Koena, confirmed that they found a man dead but

they don’t know what led to the man’s death. “I know nothing about the incident. “What I know is that we found someone (a dead body) lying on the ground,” said Koena. She said no-one had been arrested regarding the incident. She confirmed that they were investigating a murder case. The spokesperson for WSU, Yonela Tukwayo, did not answer phonecalls or respond to a WhatsApp message that was sent by the reporter. X1VCXPJ1-TE180419

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4 NEWS

MTHATHA EXPRESS | THURSDAY 18 APRIL 2019

DWS Deputy Minister visits Clarkebury REPORTER WATER and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Pamela Tshwete, met the community of Clarkebury to deal with water and sanitation issues that affect the communities and business forum in Clarkebury Hall, Ngcobo, on Tuesday, April 2. Ngcobo Local Municipality falls under the Chris Hani District Municipality, which is a water service authority and water service provider and is responsible for providing water to the communities in both rural and urban areas. The deputy minister’s visit to Ngcobo comes after the Business Forum reported the water and sanitation challenges that affect the economy of this area and requested her to come and bring solutions to the matter.

Tshwete opened the day by visiting the old infrastructure schemes, which are dysfunctional and the Mgwali River, where the community requested the department to come and purify the river water to make it fit for human consumption. The business sector highlighted to the deputy minister that sewage in Ngcobo is running in the streets and needs extra attention. The Chris Hani District Municipality indicated that construction on the Gqaga Water Treatment Works has been completed but the only challenge is the electricity. Tshwete tasked the department’s regional head, Portia Makhanya, together with the CEO of the Amatola Water Board, Vuyo Zitumane, to assess the old infrastructure in Clarkebury, including boreholes and compile a full report on the status of water in this area.

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Pam Tshwete (middle), during her visit to Clarkebury, Ngcobo. PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Residents urged to conserve water HOSEYA JUBASE RESIDENTS in and around Thabo Mbeki Village, in Libode, have been urged not to vandalise and steal water tanks and pipes; instead they were advised to report any illegal connection of water and theft. This was said by OR Tambo Water and Sanitation general manager, Ntombi Tshicilela, who was addressing thousands of residents during the handover of 15 water tanks to 18 rural areas around Thabo Mbeki Village. The tanks bring huge relief to the community of Thabo Mbeki and surrounding areas as the residents were previously forced to travel long distances to fetch water from nearby rivers and dams. Tshicilela said the municipality was now planning to deliver water to fill up all the tanks. She emphased that truck drivers who were going to deliver water were going to do so free of charge. She further called upon residents to report any water infrastructure vandalism and selling of water. According to Tshicilela, water standards

in peri-urban and rural areas have a level of service of 25 litres per person and no one is allowed to use over 50 litres of water per day. Thabo Mbeki Village currently has a population of more than 3 000 people, with more than 1 000 households. The village residents told Express that the tanks had improved their standard of living, as the existing taps in the areas had run dry for a long period of time. Tshicilela said that the municipality have a programme that focuses on handing over tanks to areas that are most affected by water outrages. “Per quarter we buy about 200 tanks then we distribute per need and we put these tanks in strategic areas, as we are facing a drought.” One of the Ward 7 residents, Zameka Rhani Ngozi, said they had been suffering for a very long time. She said the 5 000 litres of tanks would definitely change their lives. According to Tshicilela, the municipality spent about R6 000 per tank and their initial plan was to deliver another 30 tanks to households in Thabo Mbeki.

OR Tambo district officials and Nyandeni municipality officials handing over the 15 tanks to some Thabo Mbeki residents. PHOTO:HOSEYA JUBASE

MTHATHA EXPRESS | THURSDAY 18 APRIL 2019

NEWS

Farmers in the OR Tambo District Municipality show off their potatoes which are ready to be sold.

PHOTOS: BABALWA NDLANYA

ECDC provides boost to potato farmers BABALWA NDLANYA THE chief executive officer of the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), Ndzondelelo Dlulane, revealed that ECDC allocated R3,35 million incentive to seven co-operatives to boost potato production in the OR Tambo District Municipality. This was revealed in the potato farmers’ day which was held at Kei Fresh Produce Market, in Mthatha, last week. According to Dlulane, the incentive had been spread over a three-year period and it was being used to buy fertilisers, seeds and pesticides, and for the hiring of production equipment for the co-operatives. “Support for the potato industry is meant to boost local production and the regional economy. Potatoes are the most consumed product in the OR Tambo District Municipality, which means an estimated R10 billion leaves the region every year. “This is because 95% of potatoes in the OR Tambo District Municipality are sourced from other regions – 55% from neighbouring districts Joe Gqabi and Kokstad/Underberg, and 40% from Gauteng, Northern Cape, Free State and the Western Cape,” he said. Dlulane said the incentive was already flourishing. He confirmed that the Vuka Mntomtsha Agricultural Co-operative at Kwa-Link Village, 15km west of Mthatha, had improved potato production to 18 000 bags in its 2019 harvest because of the incentive, as well as technical and market access support provided by Potatoes South Africa and the Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency Kei Fresh Produce Market, respectively. New cultivars of seeds are being introduced by Potatoes South Africa in an attempt to increase the potato yields of these co-operatives in order to ensure that potatoes are produced within the region. “For the period January 2018 to March 2019, Kei Fresh Produce Market received 1 245 tons of potatoes. Of this amount, only 142 tons came from OR Tambo farmers. “We need to reverse these figures and get to a situation where OR Tambo produces the ma-

jority of its potatoes in the region. “The co-operatives are Vukamntomtsha Agricultural Primary Co-operative, Ngethemba Agricultural Primary Co-operative, Mampingeni General Suppliers and Multi-purpose Primary Co-operative, Living Dreams Farming Primary Co-operative, Lusikisiki Potato Farming Primary Co-operative, and Xhamla Mzantsi Farming Co-operative, as well as Masiphakamise Ulimo Agricultural Primary Cooperative,” Dlulane said. Potatoes South Africa transformation manager, Nomvula Xaba, said the joint efforts of partners such as the Kei Fresh Produce Market, OR Tambo District Municipality, Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Small Enterprise Development Agency and Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency had ensured that a large part of the region would become food secure. “They have also gained some knowledge in terms of potato farming. “While the ECDC provided funds for all inputs to the seven co-operatives, Potatoes South Africa provided mentorship and technical support to all these co-operatives to ensure their sustainability. “It is heart warming to see how some of the beneficiaries have grown and developed a huge interest in not only farming with potatoes for subsistence but to farm commercially,” Xaba said. “Through such partnerships we can guarantee that the goal of establishing black commercial potato farmers will be realised in the not too distant future,” said Xaba. The chairperson for the board at Ntinga OR Tambo Development Agency, Sithembele Mase, said they had hosted the potato farmers’ day with the aim of showing farmers how to plough potatoes that are of a good quality. “We had noticed that most of the time, potatoes are coming from outside countries so now we want to change that and produce them here so that even the price can decrease,” said Dlulane. He said they also wanted to introduce the farmers to the Kei Fresh Produce Market, so that they could bring their products there whenever they wanted to.

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6 Local taxi associations pray for peace News

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

BABALWA NDLANYA TWO taxi organisations put their differences aside and hosted a special prayer meeting in Nkululekweni, Mthatha, last week. The members of Border Alliance Taxi Association invited the members of uNcedo Taxi Association to the special gathering, with the aim of praying for peace between the two associations. The chairperson of the Border Alliance Taxi Association, Thandekile Skomela, said they had decided to host this prayer meeting with the aim of asking God to intervene and give them peace after a lot of violent incidents had taken place between the two organisations, where more than 60 people including passengers, drivers and owners lost their lives due to taxi violence. “This has led to lots of families losing their relatives. By doing this prayer (meeting) we are also trying to comfort those families who lost their loved ones due to taxi violence. “We respect them a lot and we still love them, even though they are no longer part of our lives.

Taxi owners and drivers from different associations gathered at Nkululekweni to pray for peace in their industry. PHOTO:BABALWA NDLANYA We also invited the members of Uncedo Taxi Association to be part of this prayer (meeting),” said Skomela. He said they wanted God to intervene and make peace between these two organisations, after previous agreements had failed to keep

the peace. Speaking on behalf of the president of Uncedo Taxi Association, Mcebisi Manqina said they were happy to receive an invitation from the Border Alliance Association. “They said we had to show support to the

families who lost their loved ones and to encourage peace between us. I came here with other members of Uncedo Taxi Association,” he said. “We are appealing to our drivers that when they see drivers from another association, they should treat them like their brothers. “If there is a misunderstanding, they should go to the office and resolve the quarrel, because using guns is not the solution,” said Manqina. Giving a word of support, the spokesperson for the Cape Organisation of the Democratic Taxi Associations, Besuthu Ndungane, said if there was no peace between the two associations, their organisation was also affected. “We have an agreement with them which allows us to transport passengers from Cape Town to the Eastern Cape, including here in Mthatha. “So if they are fighting, our operation is affected. This conflict makes us lose business and customers. “We are saying that unity is strength. If we want to regain our economic power, let us forget about the past and focus on the future,” said Ndungane.

Mhlontlo Municipality joins churches in call for safe Easter, elections LUVO CAKATA SCORES of congregants from different church denominations flocked to Tsolo Junction Hall on April 11 for an annual prayer session, hosted by the Mhlontlo Local Municipality, in partnership with Council of Churches within the municipality. The Easter prayer session is hosted annually with the intention of appealing to God for a safe Easter period.

But because the country is also going to hold a general election, the prayer session was also used to pray for a peaceful election. Speaking at the event, Mhlontlo Council of Churches chairperson, Lindinkosi Makhaba, said the annual prayer session had been in existence for over a decade and its main aim was to pray for safety on the roads during the Easter period, as well as to appeal to the public in general, especially the youth, not to engage in irresponsible behaviour during the period. Mhlontlo Local Municipality Mayor, Coun-

cillor Nompumelelo Dywili, said besides hosting the annual prayer session, they had also launched their Easter Arrive Alive campaign, which would see traffic law enforcement officials deployed to various road accident hotspots around the municipality, working with the provincial law enforcement cluster. Dywili further promised that they had a special arrangement for the Easter period, aimed at ensuring that law enforcement officials were visible around the clock. The mayor said a budget allocation had al-

ready been set aside to incentivise those who would be working long hours during the festive period. Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature deputy speaker, Mlibo Qoboshiyane, who also attended the prayer session, thanked the church leaders and the municipality for the initiative while also appealing for prayer on broader social ills engulfing the society such as alcohol and drug abuse by the youth and crime. Both Dywili and Makhaba wished people a blessed and safe Easter holiday.

MTHATHA EXPRESS | THURSDAY 18 APRIL 2019

Mnquma kick-starts its back to school campaign REPORTER

Following months of preparation, which included the careful selection and identification of the most needy learners from far-flung rural schools, Mnquma’s Executive Mayor, Councillor Sithembiso Ncetezo, led a delegation of municipal councillors and Mnquma officials during various visits to the schools across Mnquma. During the visits, he officially handed over some of the 120 pairs of new shoes, as well as trousers, shirts, Many learners in rural areas are forced to wear torn uniforms and their civilian jerseys and school bags to beneficia- clothing to school due to high uniform prices. PHOTO: LOYISO MPALANTSHANE ries. Delighted parents of the learners, yoke of social ills such as poverty, un- a peasant to become a doctor,” the maywho were selected by social workers employment, crime and substance or added. with intimate knowledge of their fami- abuse. Schools which have already been vi“It is not always easy for parents to sited include Upper Cegcuwana Junior lies’ backgrounds, were also there to buy school uniforms every year due to Secondary School in Ngqamakwe and live the moment. Most of the parents are pensioners lack of jobs. Hokisi JSS in Centane. “This means that, as a developmental and unemployed social grant beneficiaIn the next coming days, the Mayor municipality, we have a moral obliga- will hand over more uniforms to Cilo ries. To date, more than 500 learners have tion to give support as we groom tomor- JSS in Centane, Mkrwaqa JSS (Ward benefited from the campaign, which row’s leaders who would be able to take 10) in Butterworth and Matolweni in this country forward,” Ncetezo said. started around five years ago. Ngqamakhwe. “We also call on corporate business Addressing teachers and the hunTeachers and parents who spoke durdreds of learners who gathered at each and private individuals to do their bit ing the public addresses agreed that the of the schools, Ncetezo explained that to encourage education because, as we gesture from the municipality would the main aim of the campaign was to know, education is the only tool which boost the learners’ confidence and imencourage education among children can transform the child of a farmer to prove the attendance rate in Mnquma in rural areas, to help them escape the become a pharmacist and the child of schools.

Gender Justice tables its plans THE members of Sonke Gender Justice hosted a meeting with the Speaker of Mnquma Local Municipal, Councillor Thobeka Bikitsha, where they tabled their plans to prevent gender-based violence and to promote gender equality in the communities of Butterworth, last week. According to the Sonke Gender Justice’s government and media liaison

it k e r a c r a c shield

THE bell has rung for the Mnquma Local Municipality’s annual back to school campaign, which will over the next few weeks not only put smiles on the faces of 120 earmarked learners but also increase their chances of completing their education.

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spokesperson, Patrick Godana, the aim of making plans was that they wanted these themes to appear in the integrated development programme (IDP) in the local levels. “Our aim is to meet half the national strategy which is led by the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, where he said the challenge of woman abuse must come to an end and they should be treated equally,” said Godana. He added that they also wanted to em-

phasise this initiative to church leaders and traditional leaders, because they were the ones who frequently meet with the community and they wanted them to preach about equality. Godana added that they would also host a training session where they would tell the traditional and church leaders more about the prevention of gender-based violence and the promotion of gender equality. He said this training would be held from May 13 until 17 in Butterworth.

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LUVO CAKATA TRADE unions at King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Municipality received a boost in their fight for the permanent absorption of workers under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), following the tabling of the long awaited report by a multi-party ad hoc committee on the feasibility of their permanent absorption. The report was tabled before the council by ad-hoc committee chairperson, Councillor Nomamfengu Siyo-Sokutu, during a special council meeting held on April 12, following the investigation by the ad-hoc committee. The report recommends permanent employment for more than 200 employees under the EPWP, in line with the municipal organogram

and further mandated the office of the mayor to ensure appointment of EPWP technical champion as well as fast tracking the review of the 2010 municipal organogram. The issue of permanent absorption of workers employed under the EPWP within the KSD municipality has been at the centre of thedispute between the municipality and trade unions, which had led to the recurring and crippling strikes by workers of the municipality. However, the report also noted serious irregularities during its investigation, including non-cooperation from directors, salary discrepancies of workers under EPWP, employees not cooperating with the investigation, as some did not turn up for verification, and non-existence of a central EPWP coordinating office within the municipality.

The report further reveals that there are more than 90 ghost workers under the EPWP within the municipality, who could not be accounted for and yet drew salaries from the municipality every month. The council has further resolved that salary payments be immediately frozen for those EPWP workers that could not be verified and accounted for. Trade union leaders within the KSD Municipality were not immediately available for comment at the time of going to press, as the report had not yet been made available to them. The report was tabled without the presence of councillors from opposition parties, who grew impatient after the council seating had to be adjourned twice due to faults with the transcribing device.

For delivery complaints about the Express, send an e-mail to Babalwa.Ndlanya@media24.com or phone 047 050 4430 during office hours. Remember to include your contact details and address.

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8 Joka the joker launches comedy career News

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

BABALWA NDLANYA ATULE Joka (32), a journalist originally from Cradock, but residing in Mthatha, revealed another side to his talents by hosting a State of the Ward Address (SOWA) Comedy Night at the Bowling Club in Mthatha, recently. Joka’s day job involves working as a reporter for the SABC in their Mthatha office. Narrating his story, he said, after completing his matric he went to stay with his mother in Bhisho, while he was studying at Walter Sisulu University. That was when the comedy bug bit him. “After finishing my degree, I went to do my in-service training at one of the newspapers. That’s when my talent started to grow, as I was always making jokes around people just to make them laugh.

“That was when my brother-in-law noticed my talent. He then suggested that I should do comedy shows. “I then decided to go out and share the gift I have with other people,” said Joka. Joka confirmed that this was the first comedy show he had hosted in the Mthatha area. He had been doing comedy for quite some time, even before he joined the SABC. “The title SOWA comes from my journalistic background. I covered a lot of stories about destitute people. When I’ve met elderly (readers), they’ve told me how touched they were by my stories. “You know, with our parents, a councillor is one of the important positions you can ascend to. The elderly women from the laundry shop I always go to, told me that if I could be nominated for ward councillor, they would vote for me.

“That is why I titled my show SOWA.” He added that the response was positive, and the audience had asked him to move to a more central venue. Joka confirmed that he was planning to host other shows around the Eastern Cape, since the demand was growing. He said he was planning to become a household name and tour the world, creating a platform for the next generation. “You will not be always energetic and enthusiastic. Maximise your opportunities and follow your heart’s desires. “Do not set any limitations for yourself and always heed your calling from God. “That is the only way to show your gratitude towards him.” Atule Joka entertaining the audience at the Bowling Club in Mthatha. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Local gospel artist hailed for his bravery HOSEYA JUBASE CHURCH leaders came together at a touching concert to heal and pray for Yongama Mrwetyana, a talented gospel singer from the OR Tambo area, who has experienced a number of hardships in the music industry.

Yongama Mrwetyana performing at the concert. PHOTO:HOSEYA JUBASE

Some church leaders recently told the Express that Mrwetyana was one of the original gospel soldiers, who refused to give up, no matter what challenges he faced. The church leaders hailed Mrwetyana’s decision to hold the concert to celebrate the power of God, who had guided and protected him since the singer joined the music industry in 2009. Mrwetyana was, again, almost left disap-

pointed, after he was forced to change the venue at the last minute from Mthatha Town Hall to All Saints Hall, due to the ongoing King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality workers’ strike. The show was also affected by the rain but people managed to come out in their numbers despite the bad weather. Bishop Simphiwe Walter, from God Never Fails Ministry, described the young gospel artist as a fearless, brave guy for continuing with the event, to show his appreciation to God, who gave him power to overcome all the challenges in the past 10 years. “Yongama is a very amazing artist who is proud of his God. “He is always praising the power of God, even though he is coming across number of challen-

ges,” said Walter. One of the young women present at the show Punky Mayila (24) said, “The show was very entertaining and we had fun. “Even the presence of the Lord was there,” she said. Mayila felt that attendance figures could have been higher, but blamed the low turnout on the last minute change of venue, due to the municipal strike. She said, “The show was very crazy. The artists brought the house down with good entertaining music.” Mrwetyana will perform tomorrow (Good Friday, April 12) at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in KwaZulu-Natal before travelling to Nigeria for a one-month tour, where he will be performing a number of shows.

MTHATHA EXPRESS | THURSDAY 18 APRIL 2019

School News

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

New school building creates conducive teaching LUVO CAKATA THE newly built and state-of-the-art Victor Poto High School in Libode has created a conducive environment for teaching and learning which has led to the school annually improving on their matric pass rate. This is according to Victor Poto High School principal, Bandile Hlakanyane, who says when they moved to the new school premises, the matric results were very poor. But having state-of-the-art buildings and facilities has seen positive improvements. Hlakanyane was speaking at the official opening and handover of the school by Sport and Recreation Minister, Thokozile Xasa, on April 10. “When we moved to the new school premises in 2017, we managed to obtain a 49% matric pass rate and in 2018 there was further 10% improvement to 59% as a result of the conducive teaching and learning environment,” said Hlakanyane.

Hlakanyane said they had now set themselves a target of 65% and above in this year’s matric exams. Speaking on the sidelines of the official school opening, Sport and Recreation Minister, Tokozile Xasa, said the opening of the school formed part of government’s Accelerated Schools Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI). She further said she hoped the opening of the new school would address the challenge of learners having to leave their homes to attend far away schools in search of state-of-the-art facilities. The newly built school boasts 27 classrooms, a great hall, two computer laboratories and two science laboratories, with the government having contributed R42 million toward its construction. The school currently has a combined total of 1 101 registered learners for 2019 from Grade 8 to 12. This year also marks the 51st anniversary of the school’s formation.

Sport and Recreation Minister, Tokozile Xasa, unveils the plaque to signal the official opening of Victor Poto High School in Libode. PHOTO:LUVO CAKATA

Learners return home today from youth camp in Germany REPORTER THE four learners who were selected from the rural landscape of the Eastern Cape and one learner from a similar background in KwaZulu-Natal, who were selected to represent South Africa in an International Youth Camp that was held in Germany, are coming back home today (April 18). The camp took place at the CVJ Anne Frank-Haus-Bergen-Belsen (in Germany) from April 8 to April 18. These learners were selected by the Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha.

The learners who represented South Africa were Namhla Matanzima from Mthethuvumile Senior Secondary School in Cofimvaba, Lundi Binca from Ebenezer Nyathi Senior Secondary School in Sterkspruit, Solwethu Mpondonkulu from Milton Mbekela High School in Qunu, Nikita Bhokotya from Port St Johns High School in Port St Johns and Silindile Ntombela from Sthemb’inhlanhla Senior Secondary School in Manguzi, KwaZulu-Natal. According to the Nelson Mandela Museum senior manager: public engagement and marketing, Nontlahla Tandwa, the an-

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nual International Youth Camp is a joint partnership programme between Anne Frank Haus from the government of Lower Saxony, Germany and the Nelson Mandela Museum, in Mthatha. “The existing partnership between the two institutions is a result of an existing international relations between the provincial government of the Eastern Cape and Lower Saxony in Germany. Ever since the establishment of this partnership, more than 50 learners were taken to the Anne-Frank-Haus Museum in Germany to engage with their European coun-

terparts on issues affecting youth generally,” said Tandwa. According to her, the International Youth Camp creates a platform for the selected youth to discuss and debate South Africa’s cultural diversity, issues of human rights and current issues affecting youth with their European counterparts. Tandwa said the camp further exposed the South African youth to how the Jewish community, gypsies and homosexuals were treated during the World War 2 holocaust and to identify South Africa’s historical synergies.

MTHATHA EXPRESS | THURSDAY 18 APRIL 2019

Lifestyle

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

FOCUS ON: Easter Safety Keeping vehicles in top condition saves lives on roads REPORTER

between the car and the road, have your tyres checked to help prevent unnecessary spending at the pumps with the fuel price rising yet again just in time for the holidays.

THE long weekend is upon us and we’re counting down the days for that trip away for some much-needed R&R (rest and relaxation)! While you’re planning your accommodation and what to pack, don’t forget to make sure your vehicle is well maintained, safe and roadworthy. A poorly maintained vehicle is more than just a frustration, it’s a danger on the road. A quick professional vehicle safety check prior to your trip could help save lives on the road this holiday season. “While human error is the biggest cause of car accidents on the road, badly maintained vehicles also make a large contribution to the national road toll every year.” said Hugo Grobler, National Franchise Manager at Auto Care & Diagnostics (ACD). “Taking the time to properly prepare your vehicle for long distance travel will not only make your trip more pleasurable, (let’s be honest there’s nothing worse than an aircon that doesn’t work in the midday heat), but a car in optimum condition saves lives.” These are some of the things Auto Care & Diagnostics suggest you should have checked to make for a safe and enjoyable journey to your holiday destination:

Air conditioning A long-distance trip can feel never-ending, especially with small children constantly repeating the dreaded question; “Are we there yet?” A well-ventilated car can at least offer some relief so make sure your air conditioner has been checked and is working perfectly.

Regular and major car services Regular maintenance ensures the longevity of the major components of your vehicle. Always make sure you have your car serviced at the required intervals to make sure that mandatory items such as filters and lubricants that have a limited lifespan are replaced, this will limit costly repairs caused by excessive wear and tear.

Diagnosis of other faults and errors

Making sure that your tyre pressure, tread and wheel alignment are correct is critical for road safety PHOTO: PIXABAY

Auto electrical A dead battery, faulty starter or alternator could leave you stranded, not only causing an unnecessary delay in your journey, but also potentially a security hazard. A problem with one of these electrical components could be a symptom that your car’s electrical system is problematic. It’s important to check your vehicle at an experienced workshop that uses advanced electrical diagnostic equipment to get your car on the road and keep it there.

Brakes Your car’s brakes are a critical safety item

and regular maintenance of your brakes is a non-negotiable. Always keep a safe following distance, as possible brake failure due to worn components can be dangerous and the consequences, dire. Always have your brake pads checked, if your brakes sound like they’re squeaking and scratchy or they’re shuddering, get them changed immediately!

Tyre maintenance and alignment Making sure that your tyre pressure, tread and wheel alignment are correct is not only critical for road safety. Approximately 20 percent of fuel goes towards overcoming friction

The increased use of Electronic Control Units (ECUs), more commonly termed “computers”, and vehicle sensors has prompted the rise of the computer-aided diagnosis of faults and errors within vehicles. Some modern cars are equipped with diagnostic adapters and warning indicators on the dashboard that alert you when something is defective. Have your vehicle checked at a workshop that uses state of the art diagnostic equipment and experience to assess what could be wrong. Safe, is always better than sorry. “Auto Care & Diagnostics cares about the safety of people on the road; it’s for this reason that we’re offering a free vehicle safety check at any ACD across the country until the end of April this year,” concluded Grobler. ACD will walk you through all the key points and offer you sound advice on keeping your car in great shape and getting you to your holiday destination safe and sound. Visit www.acdworkshop.co.za to find your nearest workshop.

‘It’s that time again – get Easter holiday ready!’ REPORTER THE shops are brimming with Easter bunnies and eggs, a reminder that the Easter long weekend is not far off. “The private schools are also heading towards school holidays in a week or two so now is the time to get home security in order,” said Charnel Hattingh, National Marketing and Communications Manager Fidelity ADT. Whether you are staying at home or going away, ensuring your home is secure should be a priority. “We often see a spate of opportunistic crime over the Easter holiday period. These crimes are not always traditional house break-ins while residents are away,

but also include driveway hijackings and robberies, and break-ins while residents are entertaining or sleeping in their homes,” she said. In the spirit of Easter, she offers these five ‘hops’ to getting your security in order: Hop 1: Ensure that your alarm is in working order. Like all household appliances, your alarm needs to be tested regularly. Don’t leave it until the day before you leave as you may need technical assistance to fix any problems and this could take a few days. Hop 2: Make sure your security provider has access to your property in the event of an emergency. If you don’t have an access solution in place, such as a lock box for example,

speak to your security provider about what your options are. Hop 3: Cut back any bushes or trees that may offer easy access over walls or gates to your property or provide places for criminals to hide. Take a walk around your perimeter checking walls and fences for any broken or damaged areas that may compromise their effectiveness. Hop 4: If hiring a house-sitter, ensure that you teach them how to use your alarm correctly. If you don’t have a house-sitter, ask a neighbour or a friend to turn on lights occasionally so that there is a sense that someone is around. If this is not possible, consider putting your outside lights on a timer. Hop 5: Double check that you have locked

and secured all windows and doors before leaving home. Turn off your geyser and any unnecessary electrical appliances so you can save on electricity and be environmentally friendly. “If your children are at home during the holidays make sure they are aware that they need to keep all doors locked and that no-one is to enter the home without your permission. If you have a home security system installed teach them how to activate and de-activate it and how and when to use other security devices like panic buttons. “Make a list of important telephone numbers – including the 10111 number – and show them that it has been placed near the telephone for use in emergencies,” said Hattingh.

Lifestyle

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

FOCUS ON: In the Kitchen Valerie’s springbok fillet in red wine sauce WILNA DE KLERK VALERIE Smith of Cradock in the Eastern Cape, recently shared her recipe for springbok fillet in a red wine sauce with Express readers.

Springbokfilet in red wine sauce Ingredients 2 garlic cloves, crushed 250ml good quality red wine 1 twig rosemary, stripped 6 juniper berries, crushed salt and black pepper 250ml oil Method ) Combine the sauce ingredients and allow the fillet to marinate for two to three hours. ) Heat your pan until very hot. ) Fry the fillet until it is half cooked and remove it. ) Mix 100g butter with the sauce in the pan and stir well. ) Pour the sauce through a sieve. ) Cut the fillet into medallions and pour over the sauce.

ABOVE: Valerie Smith. RIGHT: Valerie Smith’s springbok fillet in a red wine sauce.

PHOTOS:WILNA DE KLERK

Finger-licking good knobkieries MID-KAROO Express, sister publication of Mthatha Express, correspondent NOLAN VENTER loves to spend his spare time in the kitchen, preparing mouth-watering dishes.

1 block beef stock 1 even tablespoon salt 2 tablespoons Aromat 2 tablespoons pulped ginger and garlic 1 teaspoon dhania powder 1 teaspoon jeera powder Half a packet of brown onion soup 2 tablespoons masala Method ) Cook the shanks in a pot until soft. The meat will shrink and the bone will be exposed. ) While the shanks are cooking, prepare the rest of the ingredients in another pot. Heat the oil and add the onion, green pepper, stock, ginger and garlic and masala and stir continuously with a spoon. ) Add the dhania powder, jeera powder, followed by the tomatoes, salt and Aromat. Mix the brown onion soup powder with a three-quarter cup of water and stir into the pot. Add another cup of water if the sauce is too thick. ) Add the precooked potatoes and shanks and leave to simmer for about 15 minutes. If needed, add salt to taste. ) Serve with samp, mealies or yellow rice.

Ingredients 4 lamb shanks 1 large onion (chopped) 1 medium green pepper (chopped) 2 tomatoes (skin removed and chopped) 2 large potatoes, cut in blocks 50ml cooking oil

Nolan Venter’s finger-licking good knobkieries. PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Jeanette’s traditional samoosas WILNA DE KLERK SAMOOSA maker Jeanette Nero, from Cradock, started her business in 1984, which helped to put two of her children through university. Nero also regularly cooks soup for hungry children and the unemployed. She shared her samoosa recipe with Express.

Traditional samoosas Ingredients

Dough

2,5 kg bread flour 3 tablespoons salt 1½ litre water 3 tablespoons baking powder

Filling 3 2 2 4 8

kg beef mince tablespoons turmeric tablespoons masala litres of oil onions

Method ) Place the flour, salt, baking powder and water in a dish and

knead until stiff. ) Divide the dough into 10 balls. ) Roll the balls out until the size of a plate. ) Smear each piece with oil and place on top of each other. ) Roll the dough out to the size of an oven pan. ) Bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 180° C. ) Cut the leaves in strips of approximately 14cm wide (smaller if the samoosas are for a party) and pull apart. ) Cook the mince and add the finely chopped onions, tumeric and masala to the mince. ) Make a mixture with cold water and flour (a beaten egg can also be used). ) Take one strip at a time and place some of the mince mixture (about one tablespoon) approximately 3cm from the top of the strip and fold over to form a triangle. ) Seal it with the binding mixture (the water and flour). ) Fry it in warm oil.

Jeanette’s traditional samoosas.

PHOTOS:WILNA DE KLERK

Jeanette Nero

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Motoring

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

Merc A-Class wins AutoTrader SA Car of the Year REPORTER THE Mercedes-Benz A-Class is the 2019 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year and won by a healthy margin. The highly sought-after award was presented at a spectacular function at Shepstone Gardens in Johannesburg on April 4. Much like the actual venue – which was top secret, with guests being shuttled there at the very last minute – the identity of the winner was a closely-guarded secret. So too were the runners-up, namely the Porsche Cayenne and Volvo XC40. George Mienie, AutoTrader CEO, believes that the A-Class is a truly deserving winner. “The AutoTrader South African Car of the Year has to represent innovation and ingenuity, while setting new benchmarks in its market segment. There is absolutely no doubt

that the A-Class does this,” he noted. The win was an extremely momentous occasion for Mercedes-Benz, which last won the South African Car of the Year in 1987 with the MercedesBenz 260E. Porsche last won in 2018, when it was the winner with the Panamera, while Volvo’s XC90 wore the crown in 2016. It certainly wasn’t unexpected though; the jury members were full of praise for the A-Class during the test days. “The judges were particularly impressed with its interior comfort, stunning design, innovative technology, terrific road manners and exemplary safety features. “Furthermore, the advanced engine offers the optimal blend of efficiency, performance and driving fun,” confirmed Rubin van Niekerk, chairperson of the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists (SAGMJ).

Incredibly, members of the public reached the same conclusion as the highly qualified jury members, who collectively have 584 years of experience in the motor industry. For the first time in the competition’s 34-year history, members of the public could cast a vote via the AutoTrader website – and pick a car that they believed most deserving of the AutoTrader South African Car of the Year title. “After 55 000 consumer votes, I am delighted to reveal that the public vote yielded exactly the same result: they also chose the Mercedes-Benz A-Class,” Mienie revealed. The Porsche Cayenne which was placed second, also scored highly during the evaluation days. “The jury were particularly intrigued by the fact that this is a sports utility vehicle (SUV) which is as impressive to drive as most sports cars. “Furthermore, they commented on the fact that the vehicle is well engi-

neered while the driveline is simply faultless,” Van Niekerk explained. The vehicle that came third – the Volvo XC40 – also attracted widespread praise from the judges. This vehicle has notched up award after award – most notably Women’s World Car of the Year and European Car of the Year. The jury members were unanimous in their praise for Volvo’s smallest SUV. Judges particularly liked its minimalistic dashboard design and commented favourably on the build quality, which is the best in the business. “Naturally, its being a Volvo, the safety features are exemplary too,” Mienie pointed out. In a historic first for the AutoTrader South African Car of the Year, categories were introduced. The category winners were: ) Urban Compact category winner: Suzuki Swift ) Medium Sedan/Hatch category winner:

Mercedes-Benz A-Class ) Premium Sedan category winner: Lexus ES 250 ) Lifestyle Utility category winner: Suzuki Jimny ) Leisure SUV/Crossover category winner: Porsche Cayenne

Mienie said that he was delighted with AutoTrader’s inaugural year as title sponsor. “The AutoTrader South African Car of the Year has scaled to new heights and we’re very proud to be part of this change. The motor industry has become more sophisticated and evolved than ever before. “This competition combines the immense experience of the jury, with the demands of the modern consumer, to produce a competition that is on par with the crème de la crème of Car of the Year contests around the globe. “We are proud and privileged to be associated with this incredible programme,” he commented.

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Motoring

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

Mayfair Casino winners announced

From leftt is Salman Ghazanfar (Mayfair Casino winner) who is congratulated by Pheliswa Ludidi (Guest Relations Officer). He won R4 500 credits on the Sunday Casino Nights draw.

Gaming Host Asanda Sopazi (left) together with Gaming Host Mavuso Gam (right) congratulate Mvuyiseko Mbokodi who walked away with R5 500 in cash on the Wednesday card holders draw.

Guest Relations Officer Sinetemba Mdoda (left) congratulates Rafir Shaikh who won R2 000 credits in the Sunday Casino Nights draw. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

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Minister donates sporting equipment LUVO CAKATA VICTOR Poto High School sports coordinator, Vulikhaya Mqikela, has welcomed the donation of sporting equipment to the school by the Minister of Sport and Recreation, Tokozile Xasa, saying it will encourage learners at the school to further excel in sport. Mqikela said learners from the school were very active and enthusiastic about participating in sport, with some of them having even joined local athletics clubs. He said the donation of soccer kits and other sporting equipment to the school came at the right time, as they faced a challenge of having one soccer kit shared among all the

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sporting codes at the school. Xasa donated the sporting equipment while on a ministerial outreach programme in Nyandeni municipality on April 10, where she also officiated during the official handover ceremony of the Victor Poto High School to the community. Xasa further encouraged learners to be active in sport, saying they already had an agreement with the Department of Basic Education which would ensure that education and sport were instilled at schools, as well as to make sure that learners were made aware of careers in various sporting codes. Other schools that benefited from the sporting equipment donation included Dlukulwana Junior Secondary School (JSS), Marubeni JSS and Nqwiliso JSS. X1VBRKJD-TE040419

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Sport

April 18, 2019 Mthatha Express

Amateur boxer gears up for Botswana bouts HOSEYA JUBASE THE high profile boxing coach, Mthethunzima Dumezweni, is confident that up-andcoming boxer Siyamthatha Wophela (23), will emerge victorious this coming Sunday, April 21 in Botswana. Wophela is currently ranked number one in South Africa among amateurs and he said he is ready for all four bouts in Botswana this weekend. The boxer from the struggling Khulani Boxing Club, situated in Waterfall, said all the preparations went well for the Botswana bouts, even though his club is functioning without proper training resources. Despite these difficulties, the club has produced some of the best professional boxers in South Africa, under the leadership of Dumezweni. One of the club’s biggest successes has been Sikho Nqothole, who almost qualified for the 2016 Olympic Games, only to miss out on a technicality. Wophela, who become involved in boxing in 2009, has won more than 20 gold medals across all competitions. The boxer’s records include being the 32kg Eastern Cape champion in 2010; the

2011 36kg silver medallist Eastern Cape; the 2013 46kg South African champion and best boxer; the 2017 46kg South African champion and best bout of the year winner with Ndabezitha Vumazonke from Port Elizabeth; the 2018 South African champion and in 2019 an international gold medallist, qualifying for team South Africa. Dumezweni described the young boxer as one of the most hardworking and promising fighters under his leadership. “I am confident that Wophela will be victorious this coming weekend. “He is the third boxer from Khulani Boxing Club to reach the number one position (in his weight category) in South Africa and to represent the country in international competitions.” Wophela is following in the footsteps of the experienced professional champions Nqothole and Bongani Noncele. This weekend, Wophela will fight against experienced gold medal winners from other SADC countries.

From left are legendary coach, Mthethunzima Dumezweni and up-and-coming amateur boxer, Siyamthanda Wophela. PHOTO:HOSEYA JUBASE

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