Limpopo Mirror 11 November 2022

Vhembe’s idol makes it to the grand finale

By Kaizer Nengovhela

Thapelo Molomo from Thohoyandou Block G is proving to be a man of great talent. To begin with, he can sing very well. So well, in fact, that he just made it to the top 2 on South Africa’s biggest talent-search competition, Idols SA.

On Sunday (13 November), the whole of Vhembe and viewers from across the country will be glued to their TV screens when Molomo and Nozipho Sibiya battle it out at season 18’s final showdown for

the winning spot. The sing-off takes place at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria.

Molomo (29) is not just a wonderful singer. On completing his matric, he went on to study psychology at the University of Venda (Univen). He started working as a trauma councillor at the Brits SAPS last year.

The humble man said that making it to the final of Idols SA was by far the biggest compliment for him as he had always been insecure about his singing talent. “I still cannot believe that I made it this far. But I saw my growth

throughout this competition and that really means a lot to me. I am also very grateful for the support I have received since the competition started. I want to thank everyone,” he said.

The winner will walk away with just over R1 million in prize money, a Toyota Starlet, a fashion voucher and their live-show outfits, all to the value of R100 000. They will also win R85 000 worth of musical equipment and a recording contract.

Idols SA season 18 airs Sundays at 17:00 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161).

AFU grabs Lottery suspects’ property

By Anton van Zyl

The noose is tightening around the people alleged to have been involved in the systematic looting of the National Lottery Commission (NLC) as investigations into the misappropriation of at least R1.4-million in grant funding gathers steam.

In the latest move, the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) was granted preservation orders freezing various assets of people implicated in the fraud. Several of them are from the Vhembe area.

The alleged fraud was being investigated by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) and the Hawks, and the AFU has now joined in.

Nine properties, including luxury houses and a farm, were frozen after a secret application by the NPA was granted. The application was heard by Gauteng Division Deputy Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba in his chambers last Friday morning.

Two Ocean Basket franchises and a farm, belonging to dodgy

Pretoria lawyer Lesley Ramulifho, and a top-of-the-range BMW 420i, belonging to the NLC’s former chief operating officer (COO), Phillemon Letwaba, were also included in the order. In total, the assets that were frozen were valued at over R25 million. They include the luxury three-storey home of the actress, Terry Pheto, best known for her roles in the movie Tsotsi and the soapie The Bold and the Beautiful. The house was allegedly built using R3 million of lottery grant money meant for an “initiation programme”.

Vhembe also features

Two Louis Trichardt residents also featured prominently in last week’s seizures of property. Collins Tshisimba and his wife, Fulufhelo Promise Kharivhe, had two townhouses in Gauteng frozen by the court. Both have been described by the SIU as kingpins in the looting of grant funding. A company of which Kharivhe is the sole director, Thwala Front, was allegedly used to launder millions in looted Lottery grants.

Thwala Front has its registered address as 64 Anderson Street, Louis Trichardt.

Collin Tshisimba is a member of three non-profit organisations – Make Me Movement, Lethabong Old Age and Mbidzo Development Program – which received a combined total of R53 million in Lottery funding.

Independent investigators appointed by the NLC to investigate allegations of corruption found that of the R26,8 million given to the Lethabong oldage home in Kuruman in the Northern Cape, only R10,6 million was spent on the facility. The home is still unfinished.

Tshisimba also featured prominently in a multi-millionrand Lottery project to rebuild Vhafamadi School in Malamulele after it was destroyed during protests in 2016. A Limpopo-based NPO - Simba Community Development Foundation - received R28,3 million to rebuild the school, but a large chunk of the money found its way to individuals, including family and entities linked to former COO Letwaba.

(Continues on page 2)

A well-known business man in Thohoyandou, Mr Ronald Mutsila has announced that he was intending to sell one of his business to the interested customers.

Mutsila who owns many grind millers around the Vhembe District like the Ha-Tshikambe and Gaba said he intends to sell the Gaba village’s grind miller to the interested customer.

He said he has already sold the one in Muhuyu village near Thenzheni and another one in Nkabela near Xikundu village.

Mutsila is also the co-owner of the newly modern opened restaurant, the Jelanto Ice Cream, Pap &Vleis restaurant in Mutsindo Mall in Thohoyandou Central Business District (CBD) and the Susu Restaurant also in Thohoyandou.

However, Mr. Ronald Mutsila added that, the Gaba Grind Miller’s price is negotiable and those interested in purchasing the miller can contact him @ 082 804 4161

Advertorial by Silas Nduvheni

Well-known businessman in Thohoyandou, Mr. Ronald Mutsila is photographed with Mr Mmbudzeni Mahadulula. Photos by Silas Nduvheni

Jubilant

at Mr Ronald Mutsila’s

miller in Ha-Tshikambe village near Tshivhilwi. Photos by Silas Nduvheni

Mr. Ronald Mutsila said he was ready to sell, one of his grind millers, the Gaba village’s grind miller. Photos by Silas Nduvheni

Miss Congeniality calls on visually impaired young girls to enter

By Silas Nduvheni

Visually impaired girls between the ages of 16 and 30 are invited to enter the Miss Congeniality 2022 pageant, which will be held at the Vevisa Lodge near Sibasa on 10 Decem ber.

entries is 25 November 2022.

For more information about the pageant, Ra munenyiwa can be contacted on 079 031 1253.

A new branch of the national hardware group, Mr Build, opened its doors on Thursday (9 November). The staff members posed for a quick photo on Wednesday morning while preparing the store for the opening. In the photo, second from left at the back, is Cassim Ayob, the assistant branch manager. Next to him (third from left) is the accounts manager, Dawood Ayob, and next to him (in the middle, at the back) stand the two owners of the store, Bilaal Osman and Ziyaad Osman. In the front row, second from right, is the group buyer, Farhaan Patel, and in the front on the left is Jabir Patel, the branch manager. “We are proud to announce the opening of our latest store in Louis Trichardt. We look forward to the support of the local community and we hope to be a part of the growth of this beau tiful town,” said Bilaal Osman. The store will be open Monday to Friday from 07:30 to 16:30 and on Saturday mornings.

Two brutal murders at Tshivhulani

By Elmon Tshikhudo

In one of the shocking incidents to have happened over the weekend at Tshivhulani outside Sibasa, a man was stabbed to death in what is believed to be robbery.

In a strange turn of events, one man was killed and another injured to avenge the robbery victim, in what seemed to be a mob-justice incident.

The first man to be killed was identified as Zimbabwean national Mr Mutshineripi Shoko (30), who was found lying in a pool of blood at the gate of a local house at Tshivhulani Mali li. The incident happened on Friday (4th) at around 19:30.

The circumstances leading to the killing were still sketchy and a veil of secrecy shrouded the village, with residents speaking in low tones about the incident. What this paper gathered in the village is that the victim had been enjoying drinks with friends at a local tavern. Some of the patrons at the tavern allegedly noticed that he had money and apparently followed him when he left the tavern.

While he was leaving, he was attacked, stabbed and robbed of his cash. He allegedly managed to run away from the scene but fell down at the gate of a local resident’s house, where his body was spotted by a passer-by, who alerted the owner of the house.

The police arrived at the scene and the de ceased was found to have two deep stab wounds on his back and another one on his left shoulder.

The suspects who had allegedly killed the victim were identified and, filled with anger and grief, a group of unknown people went searching for them the next day. When the group found them, they allegedly took the law into their own hands, beating the two men and later burning them.

The police found one of the two men still alive,

of them, identified only as Johnson and aged around 30 years, had passed away, while his alleged accomplice, identified as Mr Hardlife Chitiyo (30), was rescued from the flames by the police.

Vhembe police’s acting spokesperson, Sgt Vuledzani Dathi, confirmed the incidents and said two charges of murder and one of attempted murder had been opened. He said investigations were ongoing and that no suspects had been arrested so far.

Miss Congeniality is the brainchild of Ms Bele Ramunenyiwa of Tho hoyandou, who was an educator for 22 years before she became visually impaired herself in 2013. She started the Miss Congeniality pageant in 2018, after her children encour aged her to do something for other disabled people, to show them that they too can use their disabilities for a good cause.

She wants disabled young girlswhether they are wheelchair bound or physically disabled, suffer from ce rebral palsy or are visually impaired - to enter the competition to become more confident and appreciate their beauty, regardless of their disabili ties.

Ramunenyiwa says she still loves education and says she hates to see young people with disabilities miss out on becoming successful future leaders because of a lack of good education.

Those interested in entering the pageant can call Denga Netshiheni at 063 486 2819 for entry forms. Completed entry forms can then be sent back to the same number (WhatsApp). The closing date for

Noose tightens around those accused of looting funds

(From page 1)

After the money was received by Simba, R4 million was transferred to Upbrand Properties, a company linked to Letwaba, according to a statement issued by the SIU in Sep tember this year. Upbrand, in turn, paid almost R4 million to attorneys handling the purchase of a luxury home on a golf estate in North West for former NLC commissioner Thabang Mampane. The home was among the properties frozen by the court.

Online publication GroundUp reported that Mbidzo Develop ment Programme had received R8 million in funding from the NLC between 2014/15 and 2016/17 for undisclosed projects. On 28 March 2018, a sum of R2 million was paid out of the NPO’s account into the bond account of Advocate Willie Huma, to help pay for his luxury Waterkloof home. At the time, Huma was an NLC board member. A further R500 000 was paid into Huma’s bond account on 14 May

as the chairperson of The Message. He said that he had applied for funding of R3 million for a “tradi tional arts festival”. On 8 October 2018, the NLC paid over R1,575 million into the account of which he, his niece Mukondeleli Tshivule (27) and Thomas Ndadza (49) were all signatories.

Kharivhe’s company, Thwala Front, was allegedly used on more than one occasion to “launder” Lottery funds. In April 2018, Thwa la received funds from another non-profit organisation and then paid R1.9 million into the bond ac count for Huma’s Waterkloof house.

Luxury mansions and hijacked NPOs

On 15 June this year, a preserva tion order was granted by Special Tribunal Judge Soma Naidoo regarding the multi-million-rand luxury home and furniture of former NLC board chairman Alfred Nevhutanda. An order was also granted against Vhutanda Invest ments, a private company that owns the property. Nevhutanda is the sole director of the company, according

At the time that the home, which is set on its own, private two-hect are estate in a suburb of Pretoria, was purchased, Nevhutanda was the long-time chairperson of the NLC board. The judge also instruct ed the SIU to initiate civil pro ceedings against Nevhutanda and Vhutanda “for the disgorgement of secret profits improperly earned” during Nevhutanda’s tenure as the

Nevhutanda is no stranger to Vhembe, having worked in the area for many years as lecturer at the Makhado College of Educa tion. He served as the NLC board’s chairperson for a period of 11 years until 2020, and he is a former ANC

He received a PhD in education from Unisa in 2000 and a doctorate in music in 2005. He also claims

a controversial professorship, awarded to him by the dodgy In ternational Eco-energy Academy of Azerbaijan and refers to himself as “Professor” Alfred Nevhutanda. Another NPO named in the pres ervation order is Mushumo Ush avha Zwanda, which received R27.4 million to build an old-age home at Maila village, 30 km southeast of Louis Trichardt.

In March this year, SIU head Advocate Andy Mothibi told Parliament’s Trade, Industry and Competition Portfolio Committee that the NPO had been hijacked.

Mothibi did not mention Mushumo Ushavha Zwanda by name when he told MPs that, shortly after the first tranche of R20 million had been paid into the NPO’s bank account, R4 million had been transferred to attorneys handling a property transaction for a former NLC board member.

The former board member was Alfred Nevhutanda, and the money was allegedly used to help pay for his lavish R27-million mansion in Annlin, in Pretoria.

Public Auction

The next step, now that assets have been frozen, will be to apply for a forfeiture order, NPA spokes person Lumka Mahanjana said in a media statement last week after the latest preservation orders were granted. “Once a forfeiture order is granted, the properties will be sold at public auction, and proceeds returned to the NLC.”

Mahanjana said investigations had revealed that Lottery grants had been used to buy luxury prop erties for the benefit of employees of the NLC and members of the non-profit organisations or their family members and friends. In many of the cases, properties were registered in the names of the enti ties and not in the names of private individuals, she said.

“Some entities masqueraded as construction companies but did

not do construction (or very little) and were effectively used as mon ey-laundering vehicles to receive kickbacks from non-profit organisa tions who received grants from the NLC,” she said.

GroundUp reported earlier this week that investigations into fur ther matters involving the abuse of Lottery funds are nearing comple tion and more applications to freeze assets will be brought before the courts soon.

GroundUp also quoted sources as saying that the SIU had “made criminal referrals” to the NPA involving Letwaba, Ramulifho, Mampane, Nevhutanda, former board member William Huma, and Mashudu Shandukani, who is in cluded in last Friday’s order, and his wife, Pretty. Shandukani’s company was the main contractor for con struction of Vhafamadi School, on a Lottery-funded project to build a school in Limpopo, where millions of rands were misappropriated.

Where to from here?

During a second report back on the SIU’s investigations, Mothibi told Parliament in September that they were investigating more than R1.4-billion in dodgy Lottery grants. The first phase of the SIU’s investi gation was complete and involved 12 grants, valued at R279.7 million, which were “corruptly syphoned out of the NLC with the assistance of [former NLC] Executive and Board members”.

The second phase, which is cur rently underway, involves 17 matters, and the SIU had identified R246.6 million in grants for investigation, Mothibi told MPs. The report on this phase of the investigation is due in March 2023. The third phase, which will begin in April next year, will probe grants valued at R905.9 million, bringing the total of grants under investigation to R1.4 billion. If further information on corrupt grants were received, these would also be investigated, Mothibi said.

The managing director of the Miss Congeniality pageant, Ms Bele Ramunenyiwa, holds some of the certificates that were won by disabled contestants who had previous ly entered the competition. Photo: Silas Nduvheni.

Two people die after inhaling toxic fumes from back-up generator

By Maanda Bele

Two men died from toxic-fume inhalation, with another man still in a critical condition in hospital after they fell asleep next to a running generator at their workplace on the night of 27 October.

According to acting Vhembe SAPS spokesperson Sgt Vuledzani Dathi, the three men, employed at Netsia Vule Funeral Services in Siloam, in the Nzhelele area, were sleeping in a room adjacent to where the generator was kept. When the electricity went off during load shedding, they allegedly switched the generator on and fell asleep with it still running. The following morning, at approximately 08:25, they were found by other employees, seemingly asleep, but one of them, Mr Remember Manngo (24), was gasping for air and unable to speak. Only then did

it become clear that something was wrong.

Manngo was rushed to the Siloam hospital, where the doctor confirmed that he had inhaled carbon monoxide fumes from the generator. In the meantime, the emergency services were sent out to the scene, where the other two men, identified as Masala Mabirimisa (40) and Vhutshilo Mbedzi (25), were certified dead.

The owner of the funeral parlour, Mr Vuledzani Netsianda, said he had received a call that morning informing him that all his staff members had died. “I was shocked senseless. I called the police and rushed there. I have 22 staff members, and being told they were all dead was something I could not digest. It was only on arrival at the premises that I found out that the other staff members, who work at Bochum and Matoks, were not back yet. I found two bodies in the two-roomed

house they were sleeping in. The third man was still breathing. I left the police and rushed the one still breathing to the hospital,” he said.

Netsianda said that, after Manngo had safely been admitted to the hospital, he had gone back to the mortuary and found that the generator’s fuel tank was empty, which indicated that it had been running the whole night. “The post-mortems confirmed that they had inhaled the toxic fumes. I am devastated as I speak and blame load shedding for this tragedy. These three men were pillars of this company who knew the business inside and out. I do not know how we will continue without them. We are preparing their send-off with [their] families,” he said.

Mbedzi was buried on Thursday, 3 November, at Matanda village, and Mabirimisa on Sunday, 6 November, at Mabirimisa village.

Driver crashes into Waterval family, killing two and

By Kaizer Nengovhela

Two school children died, and three other family members were seriously injured after a driver sped past their house in Waterval on Saturday, 5 November, and ran them over while they were standing outside.

The driver, who was allegedly speeding and under the influence, lost control over

the vehicle when it hit the five family members. Eighteenyear-old Ntsakisi Hlungwane, a Grade-12 pupil at Waterval High, and 6-year-old Sharon Mapholi, a Grade-1 pupil at Mulweli Primary, died at the scene. The other three injured members were rushed to Elim Hospital for treatment. At the time of our going to press, only one of them was still hospitalised.

According to the uncle of the deceased children, Mr Matimu Maluleke, the driver was a woman, and they had found many bottles of alcohol inside her car. “We are greatly saddened by what had happened here. Ntsakisi and Sharon were still so young. This reckless driver has taken their lives and the state didn’t do anything. She was not arrested, nor did the police take any blood samples. We know this woman. She used to work at

the local magistrate’s court and now she is working at Home Affairs. We see her walking around freely as if nothing happened.” Maluleke said that they would not rest until this person was brought to book.

Police spokesperson in Limpopo Lt Col Mamphaswa Seabi confirmed that a case of culpable homicide had been opened, following the incident. The cause of the accident is yet to be determined.

Ntsakisi and Sharon will both be buried at Waterval this Saturday (12 November). The service starts at 06:00.

Police need help to re-capture three dangerous fugitives

By Elmon Tshikhudo

The escape of prisoners and suspects from lawful custody is becoming a source of great concern among communities across South Africa, who are left with a growing sense of not feeling safe.

In mid-October this year, seven inmates escaped from the Grahamstown Correctional Facility in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape. On Saturday, 5 November, 12 prisoners disarmed police officers and escaped from police holding cells at the Komatipoort Police Station in Mpumalanga. On Wednesday, 2 November, three dangerous suspects escaped from the Tshamutumbu Police Station outside

after cutting a hole through the roof of their holding cell. After nearly a week, they have still not been recaptured.

Two of these escapees are awaiting-trial prisoners, Rulph Chemai (19) from Zimbabwe and Tshilidzi Nemalale (34) from the Vhembe District, who face charges of house robbery. The third prisoner is Caiphus Kwinda (45) from Zimbabwe, who was sentenced to life imprisonment on Tuesday, 1 November, after being convicted of rape.

The Tshamutumbu police have since launched a massive manhunt to locate and recapture the fugitives, whom they confirmed to be still at large. Limpopo police spokesperson Col Mamphaswa Seabe said

the circumstances surrounding their escape was subject to an investigation and that internal processes would be instituted to determine if any officers had colluded with the fugitives.

The police are appealing to the public to help them locate these escapees.

Members of the community are, however, warned not to confront the prisoners, as they are considered to be dangerous, but to rather contact the nearest police station or urgently contact the investigating officer, Detective Warrant Officer Colbert Ntshavheni, on 082 4141621, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or the MySAPSApp

Musina

Wanted: Caiphus Kwinda (45).

Wanted: Tshilidzi Nemalale (34).

Wanted: Rudolph Chemai (19).

Ntsakisi Hlungwane (18). Photo: supplied.

Sharon Mapholi (6). Photo: supplied.

Happy

icate

matric certificate

an ID

By Bernard Chiguvare/ GroundUp

Happy Makondo was born in Louis Trichardt in 2002, of Mo zambican parents. His mother Rose has been trying to get him a South African birth certificate and ID, without success. He is one of many young people from immigrant families in the Vhem be District who passed matric but are stuck: no ID, no further study.

“I have never lived in any country other than South Africa since my birth,” said Makondo. He passed matric in 2019 and hoped to study engineering. But with no ID number on his matric certificate, he is stuck. He survives by giving extra lessons after school to learners in Grades 11 and 12.

“My dreams have been eroded”, said Makondo.

Save the Children, a civic organisation fighting for the rights of children, says it knows of 26 learners who wrote matric but still have no birth certificates and IDs. Most of them live in Elim in Makhado Municipality and Malamulele, in Collins Chabane Municipality. Not all passed matric, but even those who did are stuck in the Department of Home Affairs’ bureaucratic processes.

Violet Baloyi wrote matric in 2020. She failed and says she won’t bother to write again be cause she has no ID.

“My aim was to be a lawyer and fight for the rights of children who may be facing similar situations. Though I failed matric on the first sitting, I wanted to rewrite but realised that I am wasting my time as the matric certificate will not be recognised anywhere,” said Baloyi.

She was born in 2001 at Elim Hospital after her mother fled the civil war in Mozambique. She says she has never been to Mozambique. Her mother died in 2012, leaving Baloyi and her sister in the care of their grandmother, who does have a South African ID

but has been battling to get IDs for Baloyi and her sister, who is currently in Grade 11.

“I keep on urging my sister to study until she writes matric. Maybe one day we might get IDs through the assistance of Save the Children,” said Baloyi.

Vicky Muvhali, chairperson of the Njhakanjhaka traditional council, said 50 Mozambican families had been living in the area since the 1990s after fleeing the civil war in their homeland. He said the council could not help them with documents.

Department of Basic Education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said the ID number on the matric certificate protected the holder from fraudsters who used stolen documents for criminal purposes. He urged parents and guardians to work with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that they get the birth certificates and IDs.

The Bill of Rights in South Afri ca’s Constitution states that every child has the right to a name and nationality from birth. As a signa tory to the African Charter of The Rights and Welfare of the Child, South Africa has undertaken to ensure that legislation “recognises the principles according to which a child shall acquire the national ity of the state in the territory of which he/she has been born if, at the time of the child’s birth, he/ she is not granted nationality by any other state in accordance with its laws”.

GroundUp approached Depart ment of Home Affairs spokesper son David Hlabane by email and WhatsApp on 2 November for comment. He did not respond. We reminded him on 3 November by WhatsApp and telephoned, but he did not respond. On 4 November, we called him twice, but he did not respond. On 7 November we sent a WhatsApp message and called again, but no response has been received.

(Originally published on GroundUp - www.groundup.org. za)

Vhembe and Beitbridge hold twinning talks

By Silas Nduvheni

The Vhembe District Municipality (VDM) is in the process of entering into a twinning agreement with the Beitbridge District Municipality of Zimbabwe, which VDM Executive Mayor Dowelani Nenguda described as a social-cohesion project between the two districts to promote viable economic development.

A welcoming function was held at the 2Ten Hotel outside Thohoyandou on Wednesday, 2 November, where Nen guda welcomed the 10 delegates from the Beitbridge Rural District Council of Zimbabwe for their three-day visit to the district. The VDM planned on taking their visitors on a tour through various tourism destinations, agricultur al projects, some of which were funded by the VDM, as well as a boat cruise on the Nandoni Dam.

“We are members of the same family, sharing some surnames and village names with our Zimbabwean people. If an agreement is reached here, the eco nomic ties between the Vhembe District and Zimbabwe will be strengthened and we can trade with each other,” Nenguda said.

According to Nenguda, certain products produced in Zimbabwe are not produced in Vhembe. He said that trade between the two districts was important for growing their economies. He pointed out that when the VDM’s delegates had visited the Zimbabwean Beitbridge Rural District Council a few weeks ago, they were treated with

dignity and respect. Nenguda said he wanted the Zimbabweans to get the same treatment.

The vice-chairperson of the Zimba bwean Beitbridge Rural Council, Ms Sibongile Chauke, was excited about en tering into a twinning agreement with the VDM and looked forward to visiting the Vhembe District.

Elizabeth Shibambu laid to rest at Gumbani

By Silas Nduvheni

away in the Tshilidzini Hospital near Thohoyandou on 26 October after a long illness. She was 73 years old at the time of her death.

The executive mayor of the Vhembe District Municipality, Dowelani Nen guda, Collins Chabane Mayor Shadrack Maluleke and Speaker Thina Mbedzi,

other councillors and community mem bers from around Gumbani, Phaphazela and Mukhomi villages attended the funeral.

Shibambu was a staunch member of the Gumbani branch of the Zion Chris tian Church and was regarded as “the mother of the nations” because of her passion to help the people around her. She was also great at encouraging chil dren to take their education seriously.

Shibambu was the mother of the well-known media liaison officer for the Vhembe District Municipality, Mr Moses Shibambu, who said that he would re member his mother with deep affection.

“We grew up in a family of parents who loved God, and we were encouraged to go to church from an early age. My mother taught us to be serious about our education, always saying: ‘With educa tion, you can defeat the poverty which you are facing here at home’.”

Moses remembered how, after he had completed his matric, his mother had encouraged him to further his studies, despite the bad financial state at home, and he had finally become a teacher. That was before he joined the Vhembe District Municipality in 2007.

Vho-Shibambu is survived by seven children, Moses, Patricia, Simon, Joha nah, Amukelani, David and Elvis.

Cele urges police to show criminals no mercy

By Silas Nduvheni

The police’s Safer Festive Season campaign was launched at the sports grounds of the University of Venda (Univen) on Thursday, 3 November, where the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, addressed hundreds of people from all corners of the province.

Minister Cele was joined by his Dep uty, Mr Cassel Mathale, the MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Ms Florence Radzilani, Executive Mayor of Vhembe District Municipality Dow elani Nenguda, local Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rammbuda and some traditional leaders.

He urged the police in the country to prioritise this coming festive season.

“We want people to be safe this festive season and we urge our police officers to show no mercy for criminals. I salute the police in the Limpopo Province for showing us how it’s done. Although the late Collins Chabane mayor, Moses Maluleke, was gunned down and will never come back again, these hardwork ing police officers managed to arrest the suspects, who will now have to answer to the court on what had happened and why they killed him,” Cele said.

“We want people to live in peace in this part of Thohoyandou. We heard and are worried about the so-called ‘rotten Jerusalem’ here in Thohoyandou, where criminals move about freely and do things they are not supposed to do. We want the Limpopo provincial com missioner and the area commissioner here in Vhembe to deal with this ‘rotten

Jerusalem’ - crush it and shut it down with immediate effect,” he said.

As part of the day’s programme, Cele also handed over 23 new patrol vehicles to the Vhembe police and warned offi cers to use them strictly for crime-pre vention purposes and not for joyrides and doing their shopping.

Makondo was born in South Africa but has no birth certif

and no ID. He has passed matric, but without an ID number on his matric certificate, he cannot get into university. Photo: Bernard Chiguvare.

That hard-earned

means little if you cannot get

“My dreams have been eroded”, said Makondo.

From left to right: The vice-chairperson of the Beitbridge Rural District, Ms Sibongile Chauke, the executive mayor of the Vhembe District Municipality, Dowelani Nenguda, the mayor of the Thulamela local municipality, Ms Sarah Rammbuda, Mafu Sikhangezile and the newly elected chairperson of the Vhembe House of Traditional Leaders, Hosi Given Bungeni, photographed during discussions about a twinning agreement between the Vhembe District and the Beitbrige Rural District. Photo: Silas Nduvheni.

People from across the Vhembe District gathered at Gumbani village, near Phaphazela outside Malamulele, on Saturday, 5 November, to pay their last respects to the late Vho-Tsakani Elizabeth Shibambu, who passed

The mayor of the Collins Chabane local municipality, Cllr Shadrack Maluleke (standing fourth from left), the executive mayor of the Vhembe District Mu nicipality, Dowelani Nenguda, and MLO for the VDM Moses Shibambu (at the back, fourth from left), his siblings and other family members, photographed after the funeral of the late Vho-Elizabeth Shibambu of Gumbani village. Pho to: Silas Nduvheni.

Minister of Police Bheki Cele, accompanied by the acting National Commi sioner of the South African Police Service, Lt Gen Tebello Mosikili (behind him), inspects the police parade during the launch of the Safer Festive Season in Thohoyandou. Photo: Silas Nduvheni.

Muananzhele CPA fights back against illegal occupiers of land

By Bernard Chiguvare and Anton van Zyl

The struggle of communal property associations (CPAs) to protect and develop their land was again evident in the latest happenings at the Muananzhele CPA. This CPA is battling to stop dissenting members from illegally demarcating and selling off sections of their land. The CPA has even gone to the extent of having culprits arrested but seemingly to no avail.

During a meeting on Sunday (6 November), the CPA’s members had another meeting to discuss the problems. They then decided to provisionally terminate the membership of nine members accused of undermining the work of the CPA’s executive committee and acting in a fraudulent manner. They also decided to continue with the process of evicting the people who are illegally residing on the property.

A dream of restitution

The story of the Muananzhele CPA resembles that of many other CPAs in the province. The people who lived in villages such as Luvhaha, Vuledza, Sarel, Lihaiwa, Mbangambanga, Mahubu and Balimoni were forcibly removed from their land in the 1960s by the former government. A land claim was filed in terms of the Restitution of Land Rights Act for the farms Valdeglen and portions of Boschkopjes. In 2018, the Muananzhele CPA finally received the title deeds to the property. The CPA’s committee members were, however, active even before the title deed to the property was of-

ficially handed to them. In December 2013, the Makhado Municipality gave the green light for the demarcation of 300 sites.

Around 2018, problems started to surface. Some members of the CPA started to demarcate sites on parts of the Boschkopjes farm. The CPA’s executive committee approached the High Court in 2019 and obtained an interdict to try and stop these illegal activities. In the court documents, it states that the people involved have illegally sold sites and some of the buyers have already erected shacks and fenced off the land.

In the court documents they also allege that a large portion of the land had been sold illegally to a developer for R200 000, who started to develop it as a game reserve. Some of the other buyers started building houses and the CPA’s grazing camps were destroyed. The CPA members who tried to stop this illegal development were threatened.

Cases of fraud were opened against three of the offenders at the Bandelierkop Police Station.

No help from the police

When the illegal activities continued, even despite the order of the High Court forbidding such conduct, the CPA asked that a warrant of arrest be issued for two of the culprits, Tshifularo Rambau and Peter Ramphai. Ramphai, in particular, did not seem to comply with the order to stop with his illegal activities and in March 2019, a warrant for his arrest was issued.

The frustration of the CPA’s execu-

tive is evident in the numerous legal letters that were sent over the next couple of months. The Bandelierkop SAPS were clearly not keen on getting involved and tried to sidestep the matter. “We have reliably been told that when the CPA ask about the progress of the above-mentioned cases, they are informed that the officers are waiting for the perpetrators to come and give their statements and even to date they are still wait[ing] for them and they are doing nothing to bring them to the station,” the law firm Hammann-Moosa Inc states in a letter addressed to the national police commissioner.

The police also refused to investigate the illegal selling of stands, describing it as a “civil matter”. “Due to the failure to investigate the matter, and despite our client’s best efforts, over 3 000 stands have been demarcated on their property and countless stands have been sold through fraudulent activities,” the letter reads.

Taking a firm stand

In the latest developments, the CPA’s committee resolved to utilise the land predominantly for agricultural use. During Sunday’s meeting, the CPA’s constitution was quoted as not allowing any member to “sell, alienate or dispose of in any manner any portion of land of the Association without the consent and approval of the majority of its members present and

voting at a general meeting convened for such purpose”.

The CPA committee also emphasised that the Nthabalala Tribal Authority has no authority to demarcate stands on the CPA’s property. In a letter written by the lawyers, the illegal occupants of sites are warned that the tribal authority’s “permission to occupy” letters are unlawful.

During Sunday’s meeting, a decision was also taken to establish a five-person disciplinary committee to deal with the issue of the suspension of the

nine members accused of undermining the work of the CPA. The committee will be headed by a lawyer to ensure that the process is fair and adheres to the legal requirements.

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development will also be informed of the outcome.

A resolution to instruct the sheriff of the court to serve notices on the offending parties was also taken.

Local community could reach out and create wheelchair-friendly facilities

Isability news

From 3 November tot 3 December each year, South Africans celebrate National Disability Rights Awareness month, and across the world, 3 December is celebrated as International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Sadly, one can ask the question why people need special “awareness” months like these to highlight the struggles people with disabilities face daily.

This year’s theme in South Africa is: Empowering persons with disabilities through resourceful, sustainable and safe environments. “Whenever there is a need to create ‘awareness’, one should ask oneself the question: Why are we not aware of this issue? Why should we need to be reminded

about it?” says Ms Sandy James of the IsAbility Sports Club in Louis Trichardt. She goes on to explain. “A disability is often regarded as something that happens to someone else. And very often in our communities, people who live with any form of disability are ‘hidden away’ - or that may be our perception. In many instances, the latter could be true, but there is a very real, practical reason why we do not see people with disabilities moving freely in the public space. That reason is the fact that we have very few disability-friendly or wheelchair-accessible public facilities,” says James.

James urges residents to ask themselves a simple question. “If we consider our own local town Louis Trichardt and surrounding rural villages,

how many accessible public facilities have you come across? How many organisations that serve the public have accessible toilets and bathrooms?” James asks.

James says that a disability is often an impairment that one is born with, but even more often it comes as a result of an accident or unforeseen illness. This may happen at any time during one’s life - to anyone. “Until one has lived alongside someone with a disability, one can be blissfully unaware of the challenges faced. What a physically able person regards as perfectly normal is not so easy for someone with a physical challenge. For example, a parent attending his or her child’s sports event at school, or a child facing the sentence of being relegated to a ‘special school’ because there are no accessible facilities at mainstream schools, or even a mere shopping excursion to a mall. Any of these occasions would create huge challenges for someone in a wheelchair,” James says.

One of the aspects of the local IsAbility Sports Club’s vision and mission is to create awareness of opportunities for people with disabilities and develop those opportunities.

“We are enormously grateful for the amazing support our projects receive from our local community and wish to use this opportunity to thank all our volunteers, sponsors and members for their valued involvement and contributions. We are also indebted to some of our local schools, namely Emmanuel Christian School, Louis Trichardt High School and Louis Trichardt Primary School, for always being willing to make their facilities available

to us for events and functions,” says James.

She thanked the principals, staff and governing bodies of these schools who go out of their way to accommodate them.

“Here, again, we are indebted to Talisman and Laurie Bannatyne, who always goes out of his way to see that we are assisted with mobile toilets that are wheelchair accessible. These toilets have to be transported from Polokwane for each event,” James says.

Regarding her last remark, James feels that this brings her to a practical way that the community in Louis Trichardt could make a difference to people living with disabilities - and it would impact the whole community. “If we can raise funds within our local community towards constructing suitable

wheelchair-accessible toilets at some of our local schools, that would be the beginning of our own community’s embracing the needs of the physically vulnerable. This ‘Make our local public facilities an accessible and safe environment for people with disabilities project’ is on the verge of being launched. Please watch this space for more information on how you, as a concerned and aware member of our community, can become involved!” James said.

On a positive note, Mr Theo Muller, Louis Trichardt High School’s principal, has already pledged support to the initiative, saying that if the funds could be raised, they would gladly house these ablution facilities.

This coming Saturday 12 November, the IsAbility Sports Club will be hosting their

senior champs and provincial trials at Louis Trichardt High School’s grounds. “We are so excited, because our senior component has increased from five in 2019 to 63 athletes this coming Saturday - from across Limpopo. These are just seniors, as the juniors have already had their trials in Tzaneen. We are also having our annual general meeting (AGM) after the event and would like to invite anyone who is interested in becoming involved or just seeing what is possible for a person with a disability, to come along. At our AGM, we always give feedback on the progress of our various projects too,” said James. The AGM is from 13:00 to 14:00, while the athletes will be participating from 08:00 until 12:30.

Some of the members of the Muananzhele CPA who attended Sunday’s meeting. Photo: supplied.

Wheelchair para-athlete Vhumbani Masakona (the IsAbility Sports Club’s development coach), pictured with IsAbility Sports Club members Chris James and Louisa Kirsten (local para-athlete classifier). Left, at the back, is A Themeli, Vhembe Department of Sport, Art and Culture. Photo: supplied.

Mpheni residents voice concerns over increase in child abuse cases

By Thembi Siaga

The residents of Mpheni Block D voiced their concern about what they describe as the escalation in cases of physical child abuse and negligence. This follows the torture of two minors by their mothers recently, when a 10-year-old girl was slashed on the hand with a panga, and both hands of a 10-year-old boy were burnt on a stove.

Residents are now pleading for their own victim-empowerment organisation to be estab lished.

One of the residents, who wished to remain anonymous, explained that the young girl and her mother had had a fight before she was injured. She claimed that the mother had been intoxicated at the time of the incident. After wards, the child was handed over to one of the local leaders, Mr David Ndou, who drove her to the nearest clinic.

“When I asked the child why her drunk mother had injured her hand with a panga, she told me that she had taken some money from her mother. I was not surprised as it was social grant payment day,” she

said.

Vhakoma Vho-Shonisani Netshidzati of Mulweli Section said that the mother who burnt both her son’s hands on a stove claimed that he had stolen some of her sugar. Apparently, this same mother also used to beat her children with a wire cable.

Netshidzati said a homeless alcoholic mother in their village also neglected her one-year-old infant. “She is always at the tavern drinking alco hol with her baby, who is always half naked and hungry. She also reported that her Sassa grant card was taken by one of the local loan sharks whom she borrowed money from,” she said.

Ndou added: “We are also dealing with several other cases where children are being abused, like the one where a woman is known to abuse her deceased aunt’s orphaned children,” he said.

The media liaison officer of the Department of Social Development, Mr Joshua Kwapa, encouraged the public to take part in the fight against child abuse. “It is tough to explain how to discipline a child. But as the department, we are opposing any sort of abuse, since it causes long-term harm to children,” he said.

Workshop gives a boost to Vhembe’s emerging farmers

By Elmon Tshikhudo

Up-and-coming young livestock and vegeta ble farmers from all over Vhembe attended a farmers’ workshop at Tshisahulu Vhukhopfu Agri Food Solutions on Friday, 28 October, where they obtained valuable insight into the respective fields of farming.

Bishop Ndikandafhi Makhuvha, who is the director at Vhukhopfu Agri Food Solutions, said they realised that many farmers in both livestock and vegetable production were struggling to progress and were running at losses because of a lack of knowledge. “Through our day-today interaction with our clients, we observed that many were beginners, and even those who have been in the game for long were lacking knowledge. This had retarded their businesses; their businesses were not growing, and we felt we should intervene in order to assist them. We hosted our first workshop two months ago, where hundreds of farmers turned up, and it was a roaring success,” he said.

Makhuvha said that the most recent workshop was a follow-up to the first one. “We roped in experts in animal and plant production and the farmers had the chance to interact with them. We are doing all this free of charge as we would like to see farmers growing and prospering. They must see their farms as businesses that generate income and contribute to the economic devel opment of the country, and ensure food security.

chickens at Hamangilasi in Vuwani, but my busi ness has not been progressing. I learned a lot at the workshop, like the different medications and feeds. Throughout the workshop, we were allowed to ask questions. I gained a lot

By Thembi Siaga

Female entrepreneurs from all over Vhembe and Polokwane attended the event. Some of the obstacles that were pointed out included women dragging each other down in business, and gender inequality in terms of access to tenders.

One of the attendees, Ms Franny Mabasa from Louis Trichardt, said the event was very insightful. “The event helped me to broaden my thinking and to see that this coun try is full of possibilities. What we need to do is grab them with both hands and pave a way for the next girl child,” she said.

The founder of Maposh Catering and Décor, Ms Portia Phuravhathu from Chavani village, explained that she had established her business in 2013 because of the scarcity of jobs around her community.

Ms Phuravhathu’s business is a for-profit corporation that special ises in catering, décor and furniture hire. She was inspired by her father, Nduna James Mgabini, a wellknown and successful businessman. She shared her reasons for hosting events for female entrepreneurs.

“I want to encourage women not to rely on the government, since it does not provide enough job possi bilities, but to start their own busi nesses. They should also not rely on men because when you rely on men, they take advantage of you, which is why some are forced to stay in toxic relationships,” she said.

Despite their busy schedules as female entrepreneurs, one of the guest speakers, Dr Livhuwani Dagada from Thohoyandou, en couraged the women to take care of their health as breadwinners. “We should take care of our health too. What would be the point of making a lot of money, while we neglect to take care of ourselves?” She also discussed the management of life style disorders, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol.

Residents of Mpheni D2 is concerned about the spike in child abuse and negligence in their area. In the photo is Ms Joyce Lavhengwa (left) and Vhakoma Vho-Shonisani Netshidzati of Mulweli Section (right). Shonisani is holding the one-year-old infant who they claim is being neglected by her mother. Photo: Thembi Siaga.

A photo of a 10-year-old girl’s hand, wounded with a panga by her mother.

Photo: supplied.

We are excited that the majority of the farmers who attended were young people. We will be hosting another workshop in January 2023 as requested by the farmers,” Makhuvha said.

Ms Ndivhuho (35) was among the young farmers who attended the workshop. “I rear

and will not miss the upcoming one in January,” she said.

The farmers’ workshop that was held at Tshisahulu Vhukhopfu Agri Food Solutions on Friday, 28 October, allowed farmers to ask questions and seek clarity on all aspects of their farming businesses. Photo: supplied.

Maposh Catering and Décor host ed its first ever Business Women Talk at the Ribolla Motel in Bokisi village on Saturday, 8 October, to uplift and encourage woman entrepreneurs.

From left to right: Ms Zodwa Mabobo, Ms Daphney Nethondzhe (CEO of Cathida Funerals),

Art & Entertainment

Lesego conquers the airwaves Debut Venda poetry publication for Enos Madzhuta

Entertainment

A new voice is emerging on Musina FM’s airwaves, belonging to none other than the talented Lesego Maoka (22). The lively wordsmith presents the afternoon drive show, Kasi 104 Drive, which is broadcast weekdays between 15:00 and 18:00.

In an exclusive interview with the Limpopo Mirror last Friday, Maoka said she was honoured to be entrusted with one of the prime slots on Musina FM, which had such a high listenership. “The Kasi 104 Drive show is like the radio station’s engine, because it shares so many of the

issues concerning the local community. This programme needs someone like me who is self-confident. I feel very honoured to present this programme, and I am doing my best to make sure that the listeners get only the best from me.”

She said the programme’s content ranged from current matters, sports, weather, and traffic to entertainment updates. “To be able to succeed in this prime slot, one has to be well-informed and be up to date on what is happening around. You also need to dig up something new and exclusive that listeners will find interesting to listen to. That is why I give myself enough

time to prepare before I sit behind the microphone. I arrive at the studio two hours before the start of my show to make sure that everything is in order. Of more importance, it is vital to be more locally oriented because the main focus of community media is to update people on what is happening in their vicinity,” she said.

Maoka, who is studying office administration, encourages those who want to be successful to have a passion for and love what they do.

“Talent without passion and hard work will take you nowhere. If you love what you do, success and fame will follow you.”

By Frank Mavhungu

Years of hard work and dedication finally paid some dividends for a resident of Itsani village, Mr Phathutshedzo Enos Madzhuta. According to him, he felt as if a dream had come true when he received the first batch of his poetry book, titled Tshisima tsha ntha ha muri, from his publisher two weeks ago.

The 34-year-old author said that his writing skills came to the fore when he was still a high school learner at Lwandani Secondary School between 2003 and 2007. He was the best learner in the class when it came to reading and acting. His Tshivenda teacher, Ms AS Marwala, encouraged him to pursue his talent. Her inspiring words did not fall on deaf ears. Some of the poems that form part of his book were compiled while he was in Grade 10.

Some of the poems he had written during his time as a learner at Lwandani Secondary School are included in the anthology and include mutendi wa ngoho and vhushai ha

thalukanyo

After passing Grade 12 in 2007, Madzhuta continued to compile more poems with the hope that he would publish a book one day. He finished his 27th poem about three months ago and felt that the time had come for him to approach a publisher.

Tshisima tsha ntha ha muri comprises the 27 Tshivenda poems he had worked on.

He thanked his Tshivenda teachers at the Lwandani Secondary School, Ms AS Marwala, Ms LM

Budeli and Ms TM Nelufule, who gave him some words of inspiration after they had discovered the talent in him.

Meek Enk releases his second EP

By Thembi Siaga

Vhulenda Samuel Mahwasane, aka Meek Enk, is undeniably one of the hottest tickets in local music right now. The gifted young hip-

song, Dabadaba

Beyond Good and Evil is a collaboration with local hiphop artists such as Teyson Lucci, Yung Emo and Hard Eyez.

“This EP is generally based on losing my dad, dropping out of college, and my drinking habits. One of the songs on the album, called Go getter, reflects my optimism about making a real breakthrough one day. It is quite inspiring,” he said.

The EP also touches on how society views and judges smokers. “As I reflect on my whole life, I can see that, at times, I have been both a blessing and a curse. But I believe that God is helping me to fight my addiction, which you can hear on the EP’s opening track, Complicated.” Meek Enk might be fighting his own demons like everyone else, but nothing seems to be stopping him from pushing himself further up the music ladder. Last year, he earned himself a nomination at the Mzansi Arts and Media Awards in the Best Upcoming Artist category. “I was so grateful for that nomination, because it motivated me to keep trying. My biggest dream is to grow my audience and win some awards,” he said.

Beyond Good and Evil is available on all media platforms. For bookings, he can be reached on 060 714 4613.

Mr Phathutshedzo Enos Madzhuta. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

Veteran musician Mathase needs a helping hand to get his music recorded again

By Elmon Tshikhudo

Ra Fura, released in 2019, signalled Mathase’s disappearance from the limelight

In that same year (2019), Mathase lost his long-time friend, Emmanuel Mamphogoro, who was a producer and engineer. While still mourning Mamphogoro’s death, the Covid-19 pandemic struck, and he

performing and promoting his album. This hit him very hard in the pocket and he became virtually bankrupt. But even though he was without any means of generating an income, Mathase, who is also a former Univen employee and Gota (headman) at Ngulumbi Ha Ratshitanga, continued to compose more of the music that his many loyal fans have come to love so much.

He now has enough material ready for a new album, but lacks the financial means to get his music recorded.

rial ready for a new album, to get his music recorded. me,

I have been trying to dodge

“My fans have been calling me, trying to find out what is happening with me, and I have been trying to dodge the real situation and not telling them the truth. I am still around and have enough material to record two albums, but to tell you the truth, I am down and out.

two albums, but to tell you Covid-19 has totally crippled

Covid-19 has totally crippled my music business, and I did not even get anything from the government’s relief grant for artists to help sustain my business.

for artists to help sustain my

“If there is someone out there willing to manage and help me record my new album, please help. I am still available for live performances, and those who need my services are free to contact me,” he said.

Mathase can be contacted on 072 444 7999.

Local hip-hop artist Meek Enk's second EP, Beyond Good and Evil, was released last month.

Photo: Rikonise Mudau.

Solomon Mathase has been on the music scene for decades. The 72-year-old performing musician rose to prominence with the release of his phenomenal and highly successful album, Ndi Ntshavheni, in 2000, which was followed by other albums that did just as well. However, his sixth and last offering, Ha Tshivhasa Ri la

as he suffered one misfortune after the other.

could not continue

Veteran musician, Solomon Mathase, would like to reclaim his music career, but needs a helping hand. Photo: Elmon Tshikhudo.

Lesego Maoka presents Musina FM's prime afternoon show, the Kasi 104 Drive

Gusba Banana’s debut EP shoots straight to the top

By Maanda Bele

Gundo Masakona, famously known as Gusba Banana, finally released his much-anticipated debut extended play (EP), titled EP Ya Baba, last Friday (4 November).

EP’s release less than a week ago.

Gundo

Photo: supplied.

postponed to 4 November.

The nine-track album was supposed to be released on 5 August this year, but due to distribution problems, the release date was postponed to 4 November.

His eagerly awaiting fans were not disappointed with the eventual release of this tuneful EP, though, which shot straight to the top of the charts on Apple iTunes over the weekend.

Tracks such as Tshibonda (featuring Murumba Pitch & P. Postman), Mashonzha, which was inspired by a friend who started selling mopani worms, Mutanganoni and Marita are huge fan favourites and have already been playing in different clubs since the

Pastor Munzhedzi asks God to restore peace in church

Entertainment

Earlier this year, a video of a pastor of an African traditional church chasing a congregant around the church with a knife went viral on social media. The unfortunate incident prompted well-known pastor of the United African Apostolic Church (UAAC) Ndivhuwo Munzhedzi to pray for God’s peace and protection. His prayers, however, were uniquely compiled and recorded in his 13th traditional gospel album titled Ri fhe mulalo (Give us peace), which was released earlier last month.

Pastor Munzhedzi, who hails from Tshamutilikwa village outside Thohoyandou, has been nominated for the Tshivenda Traditional Music Awards twice. He said that, although his previous album, Hu divha Mudzimu, released in December 2020, was still doing extremely well, he felt inclined to raise awareness on the safety of congregants in churches.

“That knife incident is a shame in the house of God, and it is us, the Christians, who must make sure that it never happens again. The church should be a place where people feel safe, but it is disappointing to see people wielding weapons in the house of God instead of listening to his glorious Word. I believe that the message will be spread quickly this way, as thousands of fans out there enjoy my music,” he said.

The celebrated musician, who features the Tshamutilikwa UAAC Choir on all his albums, is happy that Ri fhe mulalo has already been so well received in the gospel music fraternity.

“My phone has not stopped ringing since the album’s release. It is also receiving fair airplay on both regional and national radio stations.”

The 10-track album contains beautiful renditions, such as Thabelo ya Murena, Tombo langa, Lazaro vuwa, and Dakalo ngei phanda

The man of the moment says that his euphonious lyrics were inspired by his day-to-day life. “I sing about things that are happening in my life; the things I discuss with my friends in the streets. My music is inspired by things I go through every day.”

Gusba apologised for the delay in releasing the album. “I feel more honoured since my project is doing so well on digital platforms, making it to the number one album on Apple Music’s top 10 out of all the different genres. I never thought I would top the national charts,” he said, still incredulous.

Gusba’s fans can expect more music videos from him, as well as his upcoming EP Ya Baba tour with Gusba Banana merchandise, such as personalized caps, T-shirts and hoodies up for grabs.

EP Ya Baba is available for streaming on all digital music platforms.

African tradition can rescue our rotten country

By Kaizer Nengovhela

Tshisinanne Nemungadi, founder of the Mukhuthu Arts Culture Foundation based in Ha-Masakona, wants to address the importance of culture and how young people from different cultural groups should conduct themselves in their daily lives.

Nemungadi said that the purpose of his foundation, which was established in 2019, was to promote culture among Vhavenda-, Xitsonga- and Bapedi-speaking youths from the Vhembe area. His foundation recently visited some of the local villages to encourage young people to start forming traditional dance groups.

“The foundation is serious about reviving culture and indigenous knowledge through traditional dances. We feel there is a need for a cultural school as it would teach the young ones their roots and their identity. There would be no heritage if parents do not become responsible and take charge of their children’s lives. Our country is rotten to the core; youths roam the streets aimlessly and engage in unbecoming activities. Immorality has

become the enemy of traditional leaders since people started to move away from good morals. I want to ensure that the indigenous dances of our forefathers do not fade away. The older people must restore what is being taken away from our young children by teaching them traditional dances and culture, which is fast fading away,” said Nemungadi.

He appealed to the youth to respect their culture and elderly people. “Africans must be proud of themselves, their culture and traditions, the foundation from which the prosperity of each nation starts. We must start practicing our culture, so that young people will grow up knowing where they came from. It is important to continue with initiatives of this nature for the sake of our children,” he said.

Meet the real woman behind Pastor Shonisani

This week, Phalaphala FM introduces Dakalo Mafhumulele, who plays the character of Pastor Shonisani in the station’s drama soapie, Ndiyone Mini Yeneyi

Mafhumulele is a talented South African actress born and raised in Murunwa village in Nzhelele. She is a former teacher at the Paradise Pre-school and a devoted Christian.

She first discovered her passion for acting while working on one of Nzhelele FM’s drama shows, and before long, found herself in the cast of Phalaphala FM’s Ndiyone Mini Yeneyi soapie.

“I never studied drama in high school because the school did not offer drama. My break to do radio-drama acting came in 2018, but I didn’t initially take it all that seriously. Then I started to realise that I might be onto something and make a success of it, because every time I acted my part, people would laugh at everything I said. Now, acting is not just a hobby to me, but a way of life.”

Mafhumulele says the youth of today want to become actors because they seek fame, but that acting involves a lot more. “The industry needs individuals who are ambitious, self-motivated and determined. A great actor must be so convincing in a role that he or she can hold an audience captive and make them feel as if there is nothing but the story at hand. A great actor has a natural talent for performing and entertaining. You must also have a love of arts at heart, be able to learn new tricks and always read more about acting,” she said.

The radio station’s programme manager, Ms Sharon Ravele, said: “Phalaphala FM is the home of talented actors and broadcasters like Dakalo Mafhumulele. We are proud to have her as part of our team.”

Ndiyone Mini Yeneyi airs every weekday at 13:15 and listeners are encouraged to tune in.

Phalaphala FM’s Dakalo Mafhumulele. Photo: supplied.

Through his album, Ri fhe mulalo, Pastor Muzhedzi prays to God to restore peace within the church. Photo: Mulovhedzi Photo Studio.

Masakona, popularly known as Gusba Banana, released his first EP, titled EP ya Baba, on Friday, 4 November, which immediately shot to the top of the album charts.

Gusba Banana's debut extended play album, titled EP Ya Baba, shot straight to the top of the charts on Apple iTunes over the weekend.

Tshisinanne Nemungadi, founder of the Mukhuthu Arts Culture Foundation. Photo: supplied.

Senior managers appointed to boost service delivery in Musina

To accelerate service delivery, Musina Municipality filled two vital senior management positions that had been vacant for years. Mss Priscilla Demana and Yolanda Sinclair were appointed general managers for community ser vices and technical services respectively. Their five-year contracts started last Tuesday (1 November).

The position of general manager: community ser vices became vacant when the

incumbent, Mr Jakkie Du Toit, retired in 2014, while the po sition of general manager: tech nical services was left vacant when Mr Richard Morolana’s contract expired three years ago. Different employees were acting on a rotational basis until Demana and Sinclair’s appointment.

When welcoming the two senior managers, Municipal Manager Nathi Tshiwanammbi said that their positions would help bridge the service-delivery gap created by the shortage of manpower. He said the munic ipality would function more

effectively now because people in these two departments could take direct responsibility.

Tshiwanammbi said the only senior management position that had not been filled yet was that of general manager: economic development and planning (EDP). “It is worth celebrating to note that the new general manager for EDP will join us next month, on the 1st of December. This means that the top management team will be fully composed, and we will be able to deliver the much-needed basic services to our people,” he said.

“We’ll burn the Babylon demons until we are free” - Rass Reuben

By Victor Mukwevho

Local Rastafarian and tee totaller Mphatheni Mphi galale, also known as Rass Reuben, says that since he had joined the Rastafarian religion back in 1989, he has not eaten any meat but lives on vegetables and the inter national herb called ganja.

When asked why he does not eat meat, as most Rastas do nowadays, he responded in Rasta lingo: “Man a Rasta man. Mi only nyam ital food.” Literally translated it means “I am a Rastafarian; I only eat

natural foods.”

The down-to-earth son of the soil from the bumpy village of Tshilapfene always refers to the Bible in response to a question. He says that, since the beginning of time, God has instructed humans to never ever kill animals and touch blood, but to work the land and live on vegetables and fruits.

Rass Reuben has also not had a haircut since he became a Rastafarian in 1989. “My hair is part and parcel of my religion. Like Samson in the Bible, Rastas do not want to lose their strength, which lies

in their hair, but the Philis tines are everywhere, opening saloons to destroy the Rasta man,” he says.

When asked why most, if not all, Rastas smoke mari juana or ganja, he says they only use the herb for cleansing and to talk to Jah, the creator. “In the Bible, Jah people re fused to sing when they were being tortured in Babylon. So, we use the holy herb to burn the demons of Babylon. We are still in chains, and believe you me, we will continue burning the Babylon demons until we are free,” he says.

Rhandi Baloyi scoops up a third place in provincial Spelling Bee

By Thembi Siaga

Hlalelani Primary School in Waterval is bursting with pride after one of its learn ers, Rhandi Baloyi, won third place in the provincial Spelling Bee’s Xitsonga di vision. The award ceremony was held at the Tiveka Game Lodge in Polokwane recently.

The National Spelling Bee, which is part of the Depart ment of Basic Education’s Read to Lead Campaign, is a compe tition where learners compete orally in spelling words, and it

focuses on enhancing learners’ linguistic skills. The Spelling Bee further aims to promote a love of reading through the development of reading clubs in schools.

Seven-year-old Rhandi com peted with six other learners from the Vhembe East and West District and secured third position in the foundation phase (Grade 1) for reading in Xitsonga. He was awarded a certificate, a gold trophy, a bronze medal and a school bag with reading books.

The young learner was

thrilled and delighted about his achievement. His father, Mr Dunisani Baloyi, expressed his gratitude to the school’s admin istration. “The joint support between me as parent and the teachers was evident through out the competition. I am really proud and happy,” he said.

His class teacher, Ms Nkhe sani Valoyi, said that Rhandi’s was a great achievement. “He did an excellent job represent ing the school. I encourage parents to play an active role in helping their children learn,” she said.

Road accidents can be minimised by understanding human behaviour

Education

Comet Mosena, a local traffic official, believes that better measures can be taken to minimise road accidents. Mosena, who graduated with a master’s degree in road-traffic management and policing from the Tshwane University of Technology last month, feels that assessing drivers on a regular basis, such as checking for valid driver’s licences and looking at serious health is sues, such as eyesight, is important.

His research is titled Human factors as critical elements con tributing to road traffic fatalities in Musina Local Municipality. “The findings of my study revealed that road-safety measures have made few con tributions in reducing road traffic fatalities in my study area. I have noted that there are many causal factors related to human behaviour as a critical contributory element of road fatalities. This includes drunken driv ing, non-adherence to traffic regulations, the attitude of road users, bad driving habits, fa tigue, aggression, rage, bad road conditions and corrupt traffic offi cers who take bribes.”

He says that many accidents are also caused by population growth and rapid urbanisation. “The ma

jority of pedestrians, including children, live along the high ways that go through informal settlements and contribute to the high number of road accidents. The fact that we have many hawkers selling their product along the highway is also a contributory factor. The solution to all these challenges is for stakeholders to work together to and raise awareness on human behaviour, among others, that contributes to road accidents.”

Mosena’s qualifications in clude a certificate in the crimi nal justice system, a road traffic diploma, a diploma in traffic and metropolitan policing, a national diploma in road traffic management and policing, and a BTech in road and municipal policing. He is currently an assistant superintendent at the Musina Municipality.

He thanked De Beers Venetia Mine for funding his latest degree. He is now working towards a proposal for a PhD.

Mphatheni Masibigiri, popularly known as Rass Reuben. Photo: Victor Mukwevho.

Musina News

Musina’s municipal manager, Nathi Tshiwanammbi (middle), welcomes the two new general managers on their first day of work. Standing next to him is Ms Priscilla Demana (left, com munity services) and Ms Yolanda Sinclair (right, technical services).

Local traffic cop Comet Mosena believes that better measures can be taken to reduce road accidents. Photo: supplied.

Rhandi Baloyi from Hlalelani Primary School made his school proud after he won third place in the provincial Spelling Bee. In the photo, from left to right, are Mr Samson Nukeri (SGB chairperson), young Rhandi Baloyi with his father, Mr Dunisani Baloyi, and Ms Nkhesani Valoyi (his class teacher). Photo: Thembi Siaga.

Mulindathavha to lead Khubvi-Bodzandala

Traditional Leadership

The senior traditional leader of Khubvi, Muhali Vho-Mmbangiseni Randima, advised the newly installed junior traditional leader, Vho-Rudzani Robert Gadisi, to treat all of his subjects equally and without discrimination. Gadisi, who was given a new name as per the traditional leadership custom, will now be known as

Vho-Mulindathavha as he executes his customary leadership role in Bodzandala, a sub-village of Khubvi.

Vho-Mulindathavha, who was installed on Saturday, takes over from his late father, Vho-Mafhungwana Alpheus Gadisi, who passed away in May of 2017. For the past five years, Vho-Ntshavheni Samuel Gadisi has acted as caretaker chief of Bodzandala.

Muhali Vho-Randima told the

large gathering that his work as senior traditional leader would be made easier now that Bodzandala had a permanent leader. He advised the local villagers that all service-delivery challenges must be addressed through Vho-Mulindathavha, instead of through him as senior traditional leader. “From today on, Vho-Mulindathavha will be my ears and eyes. I am giving him full authority to rule Bodzandala. I have no doubt that he will lead you with distinction, like his late father did. He will only consult with me if there are complex issues beyond his authority.”

Randima encouraged the newly installed junior traditional leader to work with the relevant stakeholders to ensure development in his area. “The faith groups, community-development structures, other traditional leaders, politicians, government and the private sector should always be your partners. Apply your wisdom with a sober mind, so that you can discern between wrong and right. If you allow the elders to advise you, you will live long and be able to develop this area into a perfect place where everyone wants to stay. Live a dignified life and lead by example, because from today, everyone looks upon you as their role model,” he said.

During the installation, Ntshavheni Samuel Gadisi was named as ndumi and Avhafarei Gadisi as khadzi

Informal traders gearing up for festive season

By Bernard Chiguvare

With the festive period around the corner, informal traders are getting busier by the day as families are starting to stock up to ensure they will have enough in terms of food to enjoy the December holidays together.

Agnes Muluri (31), a Zimbabwean woman who resides in Elim, is in the poultry business, and she is already making a great effort to supply her customers around Elim and Bungeni with as many chickens as possible.

Agnes and her husband, Takesure Tirivanhu, and their children first came to South Africa in 2009, but the first few years in the country had not been easy for the family. “In Zimbabwe, we really struggled to let our children go to school, so we decided to migrate to South Africa in search of a better life. At first, it was very difficult for us, but we kept trying for anything that could generate an income for us,” she said.

In 2014, after many years of hardship, Agnes rubbed shoulders with a local informal trader who runs a food stall next to the four-way stop at Elim Mall. Together, they hatched a plan to see Agnes and Takesure start selling chickens to local small businesses. “When we started, we used to buy around 200

to 300 chickens a month, because we still had very little income to handle more than that. But as our customers increased, we were gradually able to buy more chickens. Today, we have over 900 chickens,” she said.

Looking back now on how they started their business, Agnes is proud

of what she and Takesure had accomplished. “We never looked back or lost focus. We really went into this business wholeheartedly. The trick is to communicate with your neighbours and everyone around you, whether locals or foreigners, and you may end up grabbing some form of work to earn a living.”

Zelda makes it to final round of Miss Limpopo pageant

By Kaizer Nengovhela

positivity. “I would like to become the first girl from this area to win this competition and continue to spread diversity and unity in the Limpopo Province. This will also bring change to the Miss Limpopo brand by expanding their resources to the rural communities.”

Mutshotsho said she had always been passionate about modelling. “I don’t know where it started. Since I was a child, everybody used to tell me I could be a model. It became more than just a passion, and I started professional modelling in 2019. This time, I told myself to put in the extra effort and be dedicated, so that I could be selected as a finalist and make my village proud, and here I am,” she said.

She says that the reason why she entered the Miss Limpopo pageant was because she wanted to bring change and spread

Mutshotsho’s main focus as finalist is on empowerment of the youth and women. “I am using this platform to lead as an example to my peers and the future leaders of Limpopo by hosting different campaigns and free workshops for anyone who might be interested. The workshops deal with educational topics such as health, business, career guidance, social issues, cosmetics and, obviously, modelling. My aim in life is to educate people that you do not need to have an abnormal bank balance to make a difference. All it takes is yourself and a soul in need,” she said.

Zelda Mutshotsho (19) from Thohoyandou has secured her place among the finalists of the Miss Limpopo Province 2022 pageant, which will be held at Bolivia Lodge in Polokwane on 26 November.

Zelda Mutshotsho has secured her place among the finalists of the Miss Limpopo Province 2022 pageant. Photo: supplied.

Vho-Makhadzi Caroline Mukhuba dresses the newly installed junior traditional leader of Khubvi-Bodzandala, Vho-Mulindathavha Rudzani Robert Gadisi, with a leopard skin, while senior traditional leader Muhali Vho-Mmbangiseni Randima (right) performs the installation rites. Photo: Baudu Photography.

Agnes Muluri from Elim with her chickens. Photo: Bernard Chiguvare.

In an attempt to minimise the inconvenience of the interruption of the normal water supply, the Vhembe District Municipality dispatched two water tankers to the Musina Municipality last Friday. The water tankers will be stationed in Musina on a full-time basis to supply water to all 12 wards as the need arises. In the photo, the portfolio head of technical services at the Vhembe District Municipality, Cllr Miyelani Chauke (middle), presents the keys of the two water tankers to the portfolio head of technical services at the Musina Municipality, Cllr Victor Manavhela (left) and the Speaker of the Musina Municipality, Cllr Siyaphi Shirilele (right).

in the estate specified below will be open for inspec�on of all persons with an interest therein for a period of 21 days (or shorter if specifically stated) from the date specified or from the date of publica�on which ever may be later and at the offices of the Masters and Magistrates as stated. Should no objec�on thereto be lodged with the Master concerned during the specified period, the executor will proceed to make payments in accordance With the accounts.

Registra�on Number of Estate: 1300/2021

Sumame: MALOBANE

First name: Sontaga Rollet ID No: 550711 5484 080

Last address: Jamela Village, Hlanganani District Name of Surviving Spouses: Maria Rhulani Malobane Date of Birth: 1964/ 02/28 Id No: 640228 0765 084

Magistrate office: Giyani Master’s office: Thohoyandou

BALOYI RIKHOTSO ATTORNEYS’, Erf No: 851

Sec�on E, Giyani Township, PO box 2341, Giyani, 0826 CELL: 071 083 0866 071 241 6635

BALOYI RIKHOTSO ATTORNEYS.

NOTICE

IN TERMS OF SECTION 35(5) OF ACT 66 OF 1995

No�ce is hereby given that copies of the Liquida�on and Distribu�on Accounts (first and final, unless otherwise stated) in the estate specified below will be open for inspec�on of all persons with an interest therein for a period of 21 days (or shorter if specifically stated) from the date specified or from the date of publica�on which ever may be later and a�he offices of the Masters and Magistrates as stated. Should no objec�on thereto be lodged with the Master concerned during the specified period, the executor will proceed to make payments in accordance with the accounts.

Registra�on Number of Estate: 2058/2020 Surname: RISIMATI

First name: Hasani Risima� ID No: 430308 5441 081

Last address: Erf 2924 sec�on A, Mopani District Name of Surviving Spouses: NOMASWAZI RISIMATI

Date of Birth: 1947/05/03 Id No: 470503 0209 084 Magistrate office: Giyani Master’s office: Thohoyandou

BALOYI RIKHOTSO

ATTORNEYS’, Erf No: 851

Sec�on E, Giyani Township, PO box 2341, Giyani, 0826 CELL: 071 083 0866 071 241 6635

RIKHOTSO ATTORNEYS.

NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 35(5) OF ACT 66 OF 1995

No�ce is hereby given that copies of the Liquida�on and Distribu�on Accounts (first and final, unless otherwise stated) in the estate specified below will be open for inspec�on of all persons with an interest therein for a period of 21 days (or shorter if specifically stated) from the date specified or from the date of publica�on which ever may be later and at the offices of the Masters and Magistrates as stated. Should no objec�on thereto be lodged with the Master concerned during the specified period, the executor will proceed to make payments in accordance With the accounts.

Registra�on Number of Estate: 2760/2021

Sumame: SHIMANGE

First name: PATRICK EDWARD ID No: 471221 5536 083

Last Address: Erf 490, Sec�on D2, Mopani District

Name of Surviving Spouses: Noria Meriam Shimange Date of Birth: 1949/02/07 Id No: 490207 0703 080

Magistrate office: Giyani

Master’s office: Polokwane BALOYI RIKHOTSO

ATTORNEYS’, Erf No: 851

Sec�on E, Giyani Township, PO box 2341, Giyani, 0826 CELL: 071 083 0866 071 241 6635

MADZHIGA ATTORNEYS INC

NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 35

Kindly be informed that the First and Final Liquida�on and

Distribu�on Account in respect of the estate of the late LUSUNZI LUFUNO of Id no: 760427 5727 081 of Tshikombani Village, Limpopo Province Estate No. 001551/2022, shall lie for inspec�on at the Master’s office: Limpopo High Court, Thohoyandou, for a period of 21 (twenty-one) days calculated from the date of publica�on hereof.

Dated at Thohoyandou on the 01st day of November 2022.

MADZHIGA ATTORNEYS INC, Executrix A�orneys, Office No. 02, 3rd Floor Thohoyandou Tell: 0159691314 Fax: 0865104064 Ref: MKE/EST/168/2022

MAFANELA GEO-ENVIRO

NOTICE ISSUED IN TERMS OF REGULATION 4(2) OF THE EIA REGULATION, REGARDING THE APPROVED ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION FOR THE FARM SINGELELE 06 MT WITHIN THE MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT OF MUSINA WITH REF: LP 30/5/2/3/14278 PR IUCERNE Mining (Pty) Ltd have been granted an Environmental Authoriza�on for applica�on of prospec�ng right for copper and related mining ac�vi�es issued by the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) on the 02 November 2022.

REASONS FOR THE DECISION

In reaching the decision the Department looked into the following considera�on: (a) A public par�cipa�on processes (ppp) was undertaken and the Applicant has sa�sfied the minimum requirements as prescribed in the NEMA EIA 2014 Regula�ons for Public involvement

(b) The environmental impacts associated with the proposed mi�ga�on measures as outlined in the BAR (c) The closure and rehabilita�on is included in the BAR.

(d) The environmental emergencies procedure is included in the BAR (e) The environmental awareness plan is included in the BAR and (f) The quantum calcula�on of the financial provision for rehabilita�on of the prospec�ng ac�vi�es is included in the BAR.

NOTICE OF INTENSION TO APPEAL:

An appeal can be lodged against the decision as s�pulated in the Na�onal Appeals Regula�ons 2014 should you wish to appeal. The appeal must be lodged within 20 days from the date of receipt of the no�fica�on to the minister of Environmental Affairs. The appeal must be lodged as prescribed in the Na�onal Appeal Regula�ons 2014 by means of the following methods: Appeal to the Department of Environmental Affairs: A�en�on: Directorate Appeals and legal review Email: appeals@ environment.gov.za

By post: Private Bag X 447, Pretoria,0001

By hand: Environmental House, corner Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Street, Arcadia, Pretoria,0083

Copy of the lodged appeal to the Department of Mineral Resources

A�en�on: Regional Manager: Limpopo Region Email: tebogo.mangaba@ dmre.gov.za

Fax: 086 7101 045

By post: Private Bag X 9467, Polokwane,0700

By hand: DMR building,101 Dorp Street, Polokwane,0699

MAFANELA GEO-ENVIRO

NOTICE ISSUED IN TERMS OF REGULATION 4(2) OF THE EIA REGULATION, REGARDING THE APPROVED ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION FOR THE FARM MOSTERHOEK 71 MT WITHIN THE MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT OF COLLINS CHABANE WITH REF: LP30/5/2/3/11766 MP

Marholeni Gardens Development Trust have been granted an Environmental Authoriza�on for applica�on of mining permit for sand (general) and related mining ac�vi�es issued by the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) on the 2nd of November 2022.

REASONS FOR THE DECISION

In reaching the decision the Department looked into the following considera�on: (a) A public par�cipa�on processes (ppp) was undertaken and the Applicant has sa�sfied the minimum requirements as prescribed in the NEMA EIA 2014 Regula�ons for Public involvement (b) The environmental impacts associated with the proposed mi�ga�on measures as outlined in the BAR (c) The closure and rehabilita�on is included in the BAR.

(d) The environmental emergencies procedure is included in the BAR (e) The environmental awareness plan is included in the BAR and (f) The quantum calcula�on of the financial provision for rehabilita�on of the prospec�ng ac�vi�es is included in the BAR.

NOTICE OF INTENSION TO APPEAL:

An appeal can be lodged against the decision as s�pulated in the Na�onal Appeals Regula�ons 2014 should you wish to appeal. The appeal must be lodged within 20 days from the date of receipt of the no�fica�on to the minister of Environmental Affairs. The appeal must be lodged as prescribed in the Na�onal Appeal Regula�ons 2014 by means of the following methods: Appeal to the Department of Environmental Affairs: A�en�on: Directorate Appeals and legal review Email: appeals@ environment.gov.za

By post: Private Bag X447, Pretoria,0001

By hand: Environmental House, corner Steve Biko and Soutpansberg Street, Arcadia, Pretoria,0083

Copy of the lodged appeal to the Department of Mineral Resources A�en�on: Regional Manager: Limpopo Region Email: tebogo.mangaba@ dmre.gov.za Fax: 086 7101 045

By post: Private Bag X9467,

Polokwane,0700, By hand: DMR building,101 Dorp Street, Polokwane, 0699

MAFANELA GEO-ENVIRO

NOTICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION

APPLICATION BY: BALLY GERMS (PTY) LTD No�ce is here by given in terms of EIA Regula�on 41(2)(c) of the Regula�ons, under the Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998)

Bally Germs (Pty) Ltd applied for coal, copper, phosphate, mica and Rare Earths Elements for a prospec�ng right for mineral in terms of Sec�on 16 of the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act 28 of 2002. The DMRE applica�on reference number is LP30/5/1/1/2/14751 PR

The applica�ons cover the following farms: Brenhilda 546 MS, Refrew 620 MS, Thurso 619 MS and Andromeda 556 MS

Located in the magisterial district of Vhembe (Makhado). You can be involved in the Public Par�cipa�on Process by: - sending a fax, email or mail with your name, contact details and concerns/ques�ons rela�ng to the project.

- Providing us with the names of addi�onal people that can be contacted.

All correspondence, should be received within 30 days from date of receipt of the no�ce will be submi�ed to the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR). All issues raised during the public par�cipa�on process will responded to in wri�ng to the Interested and Affected Par�es (I&APs). I&AP include all par�es concerned, who will be affected by the project and interested in the prospec�ng/explora�on project.

CORRESPONDANCE MAY BE DIRECTED TO: MICHAEL MAFANELE

EMAIL: mafanelevm@ gmail.com OR Postnet Suite # 210 Private Bag X5981 Polokwane North, 0750 OFFICE: 26 Thabo Street (AL Smit Building), Polokwane, Limpopo FAX: 086 544 4911 TEL: 010 634 0780 CEL: 072 395 9511 or CEL: 081 575 1953

DATE OF NOTICE: 12 November 2022

MALULEKE B ATTORNEYS.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN TERMS OF SECTION 29 (1) OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES ACT 66 OF 1965 All persons having claims against or in favour of the under men�oned estate must lodge it with the Executor concerned within 30 days from the date of publica�on hereto.

ESTATE NO: 002111/2022

Master’s Office: Thohoyandou

Name of Deceased: MURULANE

NAMADZAVHO GLADYS

DATE OF BIRTH: 08/01/1948

ID NO: 480108 0730 085

LAST ADDRESS: 776 Thohoyandou Block F DATE OF DEATH: 04/10/2022

AUTHORISED AGENT: MALULEKE B ATTORNEYS

7 Tambo�e Street Sibasa White -Area Next To Masala Stores, P.O Box 2919, Sibasa, 0970

REF: MALULEKE B/ESTATE 01/2022

MALULEKE MARIA ATTORNEYS

NOTICE IN TERMS OF SEC TION 35 (5) OF ACT 66 OF 1965

Kindly be informed that the first and final Liquida�on and Distribu�on in respect of the estate of MUAVHI MBANGISENI ELIAS

ID NO: 480717 5270 088

Registra�on no of Estate: 1862/2022

Last address: Muledane, Limpopo province,will be Open for inspec�on for period of Twenty one days (21) days at Offices of Thohoyandou Master of the Limpopo High court from the date specified or from the date of publica�on hereof,which ever may be later.

Dated at Thohoyandou on the 11th day of November 2022.

MALULEKE MARIA ATTORNEYS, Office no 37, 2nd floor, Limdev building, Thohoyandou Tel: 081 479 9136 E-mail: maluleke_m@ yahoo.com Ref: MAL/EST04/2022

MUTHIVHITHIVHI ATTORNEYS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN TERMS OF SECTION 29 (1) OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES ACT 66 OF 1965 INOTICE TO CREDITORS IN DECEASED ESTATES In the Estate of the late MUKONDELELI DANIEL NETSHIDZATI, ID No: 361121 5130 080 who was a resident of HAMUKUNUNDI VILLAGE, THULAMELA MUNICIPALITY Limpopo Province who died on the 20/09/2020. Estate no: 1887/2020. Master’s office: Thohoyandou. All persons having a claims against the abovemen�oned estate are called to lodge their claims within 30 days from the date of publica�on.

Signed at Thohoyandou on this the 8 day of November 2022.

SIGNED: MUTHIVHITHIVHI K.A, MUTHIVHITHIVHI ATTORNEYS, Stand No 445 P East Opp Thavhani Mall Thohoyandou

MVUNDLELA & ASSOCIATES

NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 35 (5) OF ACT 66 OF 1965.

Kindly be informed that the First and Final Liquida�on and Distribu�on Account of the Estate of Late TSHIMBILUNI PHILLEMON ID No: 680928 5716 088 of 58 Waterval Sec�on C who died on the 18th January 2021 Master’s Office Thohoyandou Reference No: 834/2021 will be open for inspec�on for a period of 21 (twenty one) days from the date of this publica�on at the office of Magistrate Court Louis Trichardt and the office of Master of High Court Thohoyandou.

Should no objec�on be lodged with the Master’s office during the specified period, the executrix will proceed to make payments in accordance with the said account.

MVUNDLELA & ASSOCIATES ATTORNEYS, House Number 553, Murangi Street, Block P East, Thohoyandou, 0950 P O Box 3560, Thohoyandou, 0950 TEL: 015 962 2953 FAX: 015 962 2913

EMAIL: info@mvundlela a�orneys.co.za Ref: MVU/EST/MT/712

MVUNDLELA & ASSOCIATES

NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 35 (5) OF ACT 66 OF 1965.

Kindly be informed that the First and Final Liquida�on and Distribu�on Account of the Estate of Late LIDIAVHATHU MUKOSI ALBERT of ID No: 540501 5378 082 of Lwamondo House No: 447 who died on the 02nd day of January 2022.

Master’s Office Thohoyandou Reference No: 0344/2022 will be open for inspec�on for a period of 21 (twenty one) days from the date of this publica�on at the office of Magistrate Court Louis Trichardt and the office of Master of High Court Thohoyandou. Should no objec�on be lodged with the Master’s office during the specified period, the executrix will proceed to make payments in accordance with the said account.

MVUNDLELA & ASSOCIATES ATTORNEYS, House Number 553, Murangi Street, Block P East, Thohoyandou, 0950 P O Box 3560, Thohoyandou, 0950 TEL: 015 962 2953 FAX: 015 962 2913

EMAIL: info@mvundlela a�orneys.co.za Ref: MVU/EST/RM/708

NETSHILEMA ATTORNEYS NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 35 (5) OF ACT 66 OF 1965

ESTATE OF THE LATE NTSIENI JOSEPH MMBI ESTATE NO: 000260/2022

ID NO: 741225 6806 084.

Date of death 20/01/2022

Last address: MANIINI BLOCK MUSANDA. No�ce is hereby given that copies of the liquida�on and distribu�on accounts in the estate above will be open for inspec�on of all persons with interest therein for a period of 21 days from the date specified or from the date of publica�on hereof and at the Thohoyandou Masters of the High Court.

Should no objec�on thereto be lodged with the Masters concerned during the specified period, the executors will proceed to make payments in accordance with the accounts. The adver�sement should run on the 11th November 2022.

NETSHILEMA ATTORNEYS INC , 150 Tshedza Street,Block A,Sibasa. PO

Box 1440, Sibasa, 0970. Tel: 015 004 1370

Email: admin@netshilema a�orneys.co.za

Ref: Est NTSIENI

NL CHOENE ATTORNEYS INC

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN TERMS OF SECTION 29 (1) OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES ACT 66 OF 1965

In the estate of the late: SINGO TSHIFHAMBANO OBED Estate No: 2238/2022 ID No: 240202 5083 086 Last Address: Mutshiliki ha-Makuya Date of Death: 201710-26

All persons having claims against the above men�oned are called upon to lodge their claims with the undersigned within thirty (30) days as from date of this publica�on thereof hereof NL CHOENE ATTORNEYS, Office No.G9, Sabina Plaza, opposite Usave Shoprite. Thohoyandou, 0950

PESULO LEGAL PRACTICE

NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 35 (5) OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES ACT NO 66 OF 1965 is hereby given that copies of the Liquida�on and Distribu�on Account (first and final) in the Estate specified below will be open for inspec�on by persons with an interest therein for a period of 21 days from the date of publica�on hereof, at the Office of the Master of the High Court Thohoyandou and Magistrates Court Louis Trichardt. Should no objec�on thereto be lodged with the Master concerned during the specified period, the Executors will proceed to distribute and make payment in accordance with the account.

Estate number: 000969/2022

Surname: SIBANDA, Names: ESAU, Date of birth: 1945-04-03 Id No: 450403 5474 086

Last address: 716 Montecello Estate, 84 Tambo�e Road, Midrand Date of death: 2022-0109

Master’s Office: Thohoyandou Signed at Thohoyandou on 17th day of October 2022

Name of Adver�ser: PESULO LEGAL PRACTICE, 46 Irwin Street, Musina, 0900 Tel: 015 534 1401 Email: info.advpesulo@ gmail.com Ref: EST000969/2022

SHEMAYA VENGESA ATTORNEYS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN TERMS OF SECTION 29 (1) OF THE ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES ACT 66 OF 1965

In the deceased estates of the late NETHENGWE MPFARISENI GIDEON Estate No: 2110/2022 ID No: 440917 5173 086, Last Address Stand No:3204 Makwarela Date of death: 12/08/2022

BALOYI

NOTICE

Notice of Environmental Authorization application, on behalf of Takalani Lawrance Sipheyi. Notice is hereby given in terms of EIA Regulation41(2)(c) of the regulations, under the environmental management act,1998(act no.107 of 1998). This is also a notice of acceptance for an application of mining permit in terms of section 27 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resource Development Act 28 of 2002(MPRDA).

Takalani Lawrance Sipheyi applied for a mining permit to mine Sand (General) in terms of the section 27 of the MPRDA ,the application covers the Farm Vergenoeg 228 MT.

LP30/5/1/3/2/11898MP (DMR REF)

104MS,

approximately 80km west of Musina and 40km north-east of Alldays in

commenced with operation in 1992. Current operations consist of a fully

open pit. As the depth of open pit mining increases, the amount of waste rock increases and opencast mining becomes economically and environmentally unviable. As a result, the opencast pit will be developed to a depth of approximately 450m, thereafter the reserves will be mined from under ground as part of the Venetia Underground Project (VUP). The VUP is currently in the construction phase, and current activities includes the sinking of two vertical shafts and developing a decline from the surface. It is the intention of Venetia Mine to develop and operate an explosives manufacturing plant (Emulsion Plant) to supply explosives for the VUP, once operational.

Alta van Dyk Environmental Consultants cc (AVDE) has been appointed as the independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) to undertake the required environmental related permitting and associated public participation process for the proposed Emulsion Plant. Before Venetia Mine may commence with the development of the proposed Emulsion Plant, the following environmental related permits are required:

• A Basic Assessment environmental authorisation process in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA) and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations. The competent authority for this process is the Limpopo Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).

• A Water Use Licence Application in terms of the National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998) (NWA). The competent authority for this process is the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).

The Draft Basic Assessment Report is available for public comment of a period of 30 days, from 11 November to 12 December 2022 at the venues listed in the table below. The report is also available electronically on the AVDE website: https://www.altavandykenvironmental.co.za/public-documents/.

Contact details

Public Place Locality

Venetia Mine Security Gate, Venetia Mine, D2692 015 575 2466

Mapungubwe National Park Reception Mapungubwe National Park, R572 015 534 7923

Musina Public Library C/o Irwin and Scholtz Streets, Musina 015 534 6111

AVDE Offices 9 Mountain Sherman Crescent, Midlands Estate, Olifantsfontein 012 940 9457

If you would like more information on the proposed project, or comment on the proposed project or the Draft Basic Assessment Report, please direct them to:

Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP): Alta van Dyk Environmental Consultants cc

Contact person : Suzanne van Rooy Tel number : 012 940 9457 Fax number : 086 634 3967

Postal Address : Postnet Suite #745, Private Bag X 1007, Lyttelton, 0140 Email : suzanne@avde.co.za

Due date for comment: 12 December 2022

In terms of section 11 of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), all personal information collected will be processed lawfully and explicitly for the Environmental Authorisation processes.

Located in the magisterial district of Vhembe. You can be involved in the public participation process by sending, email or fax with your name and contact details, stating your concern/questions relating the proposed project. you can also provide us with names of additional people that can be contacted. All correspondence which is received within 30 days from the day of notice will be submitted to (DMR). All issues raised within the public participation process will be responded to in writing to the interested and affected parties. This include all parties who will be affected by the project and interested in the mining project.

All correspondence may be directed to Yadah Consulting (Pty) Ltd (Ms T.J Magagula) Yadah.consult@gmail.com (073 875 0228/ 013 001 2901)

Notice date: 11 November 2022

We are looking for a qualified Diesel Mechanic with appropriate qualification and experience to maintain our Fleet of Buses which include the following makes: MAN, Yutong and Scania.

The interested person must be in possession relevant qualification in line with national Qualifications Framework.

A Valid Driver’s License with Public Driving Permit will be an added advantage.

Our recruitment is in line with employment equity policy of the company which seeks to empower designated groups. We are therefore encouraging people with disabilities to apply.

Remuneration will be in line with Annexure “A” of the Main Agreement of the Road Passenger Bargaining Council. Applications can be forwarded to this email address: Phadziri coaches@gmail.com Physical Address: 16 Devenish and 38 Kruger Street Louis Trichardt. Closing date: 15 November 2022. No late applications will be accepted.

(90) days after closing date, the time and date of opening tender boxes. Late submissions, telegraphic, telefax or e-mail transmission tender will not be accepted. Vhembe TVET College does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any bid and reserves the right to accept a tender as a whole or in part. All tenders and supporting documents must be sealed in a cover clearly marked “Tender Bid Name and Number as well as the station / Campus where it is required” and must be deposited in the Tender Box C at Central Office, Site No 203, Sibasa, Limpopo, not later than 5 December 2022 at 11:00 for all the bids. NB: Kindly note that if you Bid for both Mavhoi Campus and Musina Campus, you will only be awarded for one Campus. All enquires can be directed to +27 15 963 7000 OR by email to : tenders@vhembecollege.edu.za

BR Hlekane The Principal

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United Artists collect more points

By Frank Mavhungu

United Artists managed to deposit more significant points into their league account when they beat Munaca FC 1-0 in their ABC Motsepe League match that was played at the Makhuvha Stadium on Saturday.

During an interview with the head coach of United Artists, Mr Tsumbedzo “Zoo” Manamela, shortly after the game, he said that the victory was good enough to give them hope that the team would escape the relegation axe at the end of the season.

He said that his man-

date was to ensure that the club maintained their ABC Motsepe League franchise next season. According to Manamela, they were still building the team after gaining promotion from the Safa Regional League at the end of last season and they were still searching for a winning combination.

This is only the second victory for the team this season.

United Artists’ first victory was against Emmanuel FC, whom they had beaten 2-1 at the same venue two weeks ago. The Lufule side have deposited seven points into their league account from five matches to date.

Mr Manamela’s counterpart from Munaca FC, Mr Solly Luvhengo, described the defeat as a bitter pill to swallow. He said that for him to accept the defeat after his team had controlled the game from the start to the end was difficult.

Munaca FC lost their confidence after missing a penalty in the 24th minute. This after a defender of United Artists had handled the ball within the box. Orilwela Nematenda caused an upset by shooting straight to the keeper.

The hosts took the lead towards the end of the first half.

Tsiko Masikhwa finished off a rebound, following Rolivhuwa Mathidi’s attempt.

Wheelchair-tennis player Ronewa Mudzanani is off to play in Turkey

By Elmon Tshikhudo

After a nerve-wracking struggle to raise enough funds in time for his much-anticipated international tournament in Turkey, wheelchair-tennis player Ronewa Mudzanani finally managed to achieve his goal, and he is all set to go.

Ronewa (25) suffers from cerebral palsy. He was diagnosed with scoliosis, an abnormal lateral curving of the spine, which means that he is permanently wheelchair-bound. His wheelchair-tennis career started when he was in the ninth grade

at Thohoyandou Technical High School and a teacher realised his potential. From there on, he just kept going at it.

The tennis star from the deep rural village of Vhurivhuri, outside Thohoyandou, was on cloud nine when his travel visa was approved on Monday. His flight leaves for Turkey this Friday (11 November), where he will participate in four tournaments before he returns on 2 December. For Ronewa, this trip is a dream come true - a steppingstone towards building his tennis career. “It was tough preparing for these

Maindis donate points to City Lads

By Frank Mavhungu

Maindis Ladies are still battling to come to terms with the 0-2 defeat they had suffered at the hands of City Lads in their Hollywoodbets Super League match that was played at the Giyani Stadium on Sunday.

The head coach of Maindis Ladies, Mr Sipho Mabuza, could not hide his frustration during an interview shortly after the final whistle. He said that his players had squandered numerous scoring opportunities and had failed to convert even one of them. He said that

they could have easily won the game, although the visitors had managed to score two goals.

Mabuza reckoned that he was not blaming the players for the loss, adding that such things did happen in sport at times. The former TUT Ladies FC head coach said the defeat would jeopardise the team’s chances to finish their league programme within the topeight bracket. The team must now collect at least seven points in their three remaining league fixtures to be sure of a top-8 place at the end of the season.

Only one of Maindis’ three remaining matches will be

played at home. Their only home fixture will be against TUT Ladies FC on Sunday, 20 November.

The past Sunday, City Lads took 54 minutes to open their account. Qaqamba Ngqangashe beat the keeper with a header, following a corner that was taken by Andisiwe Ndesi. Siphosethu Nojoko was on target with a half volley in the 84th minute to seal the game.

The keeper of City Lads, Amanda Nteyi, was nominated the Woman of the Match. She was presented with a cheque to the value of R2 000 and a trophy after the game.

“Cena” Nephalama promises that it will be war in the ring

By Victor Mukwevho

Local bare-knuckle boxing champion Khodani Nephalama, nicknamed “Cena” for bullying his opponents in the ring like former world wrestling champion John Cena, says he is going to knock his opponent, Thulani Nkwinika, out when the two pugilists meet in the ring during this weekend’s Tzaneen Boxing Tournament.

accepting the challenge at short notice and not being one hundred percent physically ready for my boxing debut. But I am physically and mentally ready for this fight,” he said.

last money to enter these tour-

tournaments, because I was also busy raising funds in between, knocking on business people’s doors in search of sponsorships, which proved to be unsuccessful. This trip was made possible by the people who donated funds into my account. I want to thank each and every one who contributed. Although the donations were not enough and I had to use my last money to enter these tournaments, my dream is finally coming true,” he said.

He promised to do everything he could to make everyone who invested in his trip proud. “Going to Turkey is different from my last tournament in Italy in 2021. This time, I am going out there as an individual.”

The matches take place at the Nkowankowa Sports Centre on Saturday (12 November).

Nephalama, who used to do musangwe (bare-knuckle boxing), has had to learn the rules of professional boxing. According to him, the two sports are very similar except that, in professional boxing, they use boxing gloves, while you fight with your bare hands in musangwe. Also, in musangwe, you are allowed to use your knees and headbutt your opponent, where this is not allowed in professional boxing.

his trip proud. “Going to

The reserved-looking boxer from Mukula village said Nkwinika was going to pay for making him lose his debut fight three months ago. “I made the mistake of

“I have already learnt the boxing rules and am ready to rumble. As a former musangwe champion, I am a warrior. I am calling on all my fans to accompany us to Tzaneen and witness when I destroy my opponent. I don’t see this fight lasting for more than two rounds,” he said.

Ronewa has high hopes of one day participating in grand-slam tournaments, such as Wimbledon and the US Open. “Representing my country at the 2021 BNP Paribas World Team Cup in Italy, and winning the bronze medal is the highlight of my career so far. Thank you, Decathlon South Africa, for your support. Thank you, MAVU Sport Development, and The Back Clinic for always making sure that my health is in good condition,” he said.

The Mango Soccer Academy’s U/6 to U/15 teams visited Gauteng last month to play matches against Wits Development and Old Eds. They U/6 team lost only one of their six matches, when they went down 2-0 to Wits Development. Photo: supplied.

Purity Mugayi of Maindis stops Siphosethu Nojolo of City Lads from reaching the ball. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

Endlani Chabalala of Munaca (left) kicks the ball, while Ndamulelo Mathoni of Artists tries to intercept. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

Wheelchair-tennis player Ronewa Mudzanani will take part in different tournaments in Turkey until early December this year.

Photo: supplied.

Khodani “Cena” Nephalama will be fighting Thulani Nkwinika in the Tzaneen Boxing Tournament this weekend. Photo: supplied.

Will the UWC students have to pay for Maindis’ defeat against City?

By Frank Mavhungu

With most of the teams left with three matches before they wrap up their league

activities for the current season, affiliates of the Hollywoodbets Super League will do business as usual this weekend. Whether the Uni versity of Western Cape FC (UWC) will pay for Maindis’ 0-2 defeat last weekend at the hands City Lads is something that remains to be seen.

Maindis and UWC will lock horns at the UWC Campus Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The head coach of Maindis Ladies, Mr Sipho Mabu za, is optimistic that his team has what is required to humiliate the UWC in front of their home crowd. He added that the spirits were high in their camp and that his squad had a clean bill of health.

After failing to find the net in their game against City Lads, Shamiso Mu tasa and Sophie Magoro will be expected to keep the UWC defenders run ning for cover through out the game, while Madembe Tshikumbu and Viola Ndlovu will

keep the fire burning in the middle of the park. The UWC side is still fresh from a 2-0 victory over Richmond United at the Galeshewe Stadium in Kimberley. Durban Ladies will entertain Bloemfontein Celtic Ladies at the Chatsworth Stadium in Durban. Coal City Wizards will host First Touch FC at the Puma Rugby Stadium in Emalahleni. Golden Ladies will visit City Lads at the Nel son Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

TUT Ladies must beat Richmond United to maintain their second position on the log standings. They will meet at the TUT Campus Stadium. Tsunami Queens will enjoy the home-ground advantage in their game against Thunder birds Ladies that will be played at the Goble Park Stadium in Bethlehem, Free State.

Tsunami Queens will be relegated to the lower division at the end of the season, even if they manage to win all their remaining matches. They are lying at the bottom of the log with nine points.

Former Black Leopards win Murida

By Silas Nduvheni

The Former Black Leopards team emerged as the winners of the Murida Legends Cup after beating Thohoyandou Block G Masters 7-6 by a penalty shootout. The games were played at the Makware la Stadium on Sunday, 30 October.

The Murida Legends Cup was a one-day soccer tourna ment initiated by well-known reggae artist Khakhathi “Murida” Tshisikule of Mbaleni village and was sponsored by MR21 Funeral Insurance.

Shisharo Masters FC and KK and Friends Invitation FC also participated. In the preliminary matches, Thohoyandou Block G Masters beat Shisharo Masters FC 2-0, while the Former Black Leopards beat KK and Friends Invitation FC 4-2.

According to Tshisikule, the players of all four teams were mostly former soccer stars from around Thohoyandou. He said that this first-of-its-kind tour nament was aimed at giving back to the communities that had supported his music career over many years.

Soccer fans were also en

tertained by local comedian Vho-Nyawa, Tshisikule himself, who is also a traditional rhum ba dancer. The Venda Mapant sula Club and Benny Doctor also entertained the fans. For mer Black Leopards went home with R3 000, a soccer kit and a floating trophy. Thohoyan dou Block G Masters ended in second place and received R2 000 in cash and a ball, KK and Friends Invitation FC won R1 000 and a ball, while Shisharo Masters FC ended fourth and received R1 000. The captain of Former Black Leopards, Mr Mulondo Sikhwivhilu, who is a former player of the Black Leopards, SuperSport and Orlando Pirates, was very happy about their victory and thanked the organisers of the tournament who had enabled them to come together as former players of big teams in the country.

Sikhwivhilu, along with other former Black Leopards players such as Matari Netshidzivhe, Godfrey Ramudzuli, Erick Ra mavhale, and Sathiel Phasha, were all excited to revive the game of soccer again.

Tshisikule said that, with soc cer being his favourite sport, he hoped to hold the tournament at least twice a year.

The brain behind Dolphins’ success?

The former head coach of Mikhado FC, Mr Joel Mongalo, is the brain behind the success of the ABC Motsepe League side, The Dolphins FC. He joined the club at the beginning of the current season. The Dolphins are leading the Stream B league log with 12 points after winning all four matches they have played to date.

A 65-year-old former teacher defied all the odds when he won the Unto the Church of God Apostolic in Zion’s 10km race on Saturday, 4 November. Mr Nndweleni Freddy Madi, who was a teacher for more than 40 years and runs between Khubvi and Vondwe almost every day, was elated to have won the race. In the picture, one of the organisers of the race, Ms Deborah Mukwevho, hangs a gold medal around Madi’s neck.

Mukwevho.

Vhadau vha Damani and Pretoria Callies on the warpath on Saturday

By Frank Mavhungu

After fighting for league points against Cape Town Spurs at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Wednesday afternoon, Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila FC (TTM) will play another league game at the same venue on Satur day afternoon. Vhadau vha Damani, as they are widely known, will entertain Preto ria Callies in what promises to be a real battle.

TTM must win the match, no matter the cost, to revive their hopes for promotion. The Tshakhuma side was lying in the 10th position with 13 points, 12 behind the pace setters, Polokwane City, before Wednesday’s match against Cape Town Spurs. (The result of the game against Cape Town Spurs was not yet available at the time of our going to press).

TTM had lost four matches in succession before Wednes day’s match. Last Friday, they were beaten 1-0 by JDR Stars at the Soshanguve Giant Sta dium.

Callies’ strikers will not find penetrating TTM’s defence, marshalled by Issa Sarr and Luvolwethu Mpeta, easy.

While TTM will be fighting to restore the team’s lost pride and to revive their promo tion hopes, Callies are in a fight for their lives. Pretoria Callies are currently lying at the bottom of the log with five points. They managed to win only one of the 11 matches that they have played so far.

Magesi FC will play against Cape Town All Stars at the Old Peter Mokaba Sta dium in Polokwane in one of the three other matches that will also be played on Saturday. MM Platinum will have a date with Baroka FC at the Bidvest Stadium in Johan

Boycott may be looming in MLFA

By Kaizer Nengovhela

The ructions within the Makhado Local Football Association (MLFA) are continuing, with teams threatening to boycott the league’s activities. The teams are unhappy about various matters, such as the removal of Itani Netshivhulani as gen eral-secretary and because no prize money had allegedly been awarded to the winners in the 2021/22 season.

A meeting with team officials was held on 29 October, during which some of the problems were raised and discussed. The threat to boycott the league activities, which is set to start in a month’s time, was made.

SAFA Vhembe’s decision to remove Itani “Muraida” Netshivhulani as general-secre tary again came under scrutiny. This issue seems set to split the association. Netshivhulani was elected to this position on 30 July this year during the congress held at the Makhado Show Grounds.

A dispute arose as to Netshivulani’s home address.

Netshivhulana has addresses in both Tshithuthuni and Siloam village. Whereas the first falls within the Thulamela area, Siloam is regarded as a soft boundary by the local football association. Netshivhulana’s team, Muraida FC, have their home ground at Sendedza village, which falls under the Makhado Local Municipality.

A spokesperson for the teams that are unhappy about the manner in which the MLFA conducts its affairs, Mr Shoni sani Matshoko, said last week that the teams were refusing to pay affiliation fees. He accused the MLFA of “side-lining us in favour of other streams”. Matshoko said that the MLFA was not consistent in the way they made decisions. He used the example of the first depu ty-chairperson of the associa tion, Mr MP Rambau, who he alleges comes from Ha-Davha na in the Collins Chabane municipal area.

“We are also fighting the issue of our teams being fined, which were too high,” he said. Matshoko accused MLFA of promoting teams that did not

qualify.

MLFA league chairperson Freddy Phathela said that the teams had no right to simply boycott the games. “We are going to deal with these people. We are running this league in line with the Safa constitution,” he said.

Phathela said that the issue of Netshivhulana’s removal would be handled by Safa Vhembe. Phathela said that Netshivhulana had appealed against his removal and the date of his appeal was still to be decided. As far as the complaint about prize money was concerned, he said that this was not handed out during a prize-giving ceremony but deposited directly into the accounts of the teams. The teams were requested to send their bank details to the league office.

Phathela said that if the team officials disputed the residen tial area of Rambau, they must take this up with the league organisers.

Photo: Victor

nesburg, while Black Leopards will host Cape Town Spurs at the Malamulele Stadium.

TTM’s centre back, Issa Sarr. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

Maindis Ladies’ playmaker, Ma dembe Tshikumbu. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

The dissenting teams now want SAFA Vhembe to address the teams and answer their questions.

Mr Khakhathi “Murida” Tshisikule (left), organiser of the Mu rida Legends Cup, and managing director of MR21 Insurance Company Ms Constance Nengwenani (right). Photo: Silas Nduvheni.

Black Leopards prepare to maul Cape Town Spurs

By Frank Mavhungu

Following their 2-2 draw with Uthongathi FC in their Motsepe Foundation Championship League match that was played at the Princess Magogo Stadium in Durban last Sunday, Black Leopards are now geared to bury Cape Town Spurs when they meet at the Malamulele Stadium on Saturday.

The fixture will be the last for Lidoda duvha before they go for the FiFA World Cup break. Their next fixture will be against Pretoria Callies at the Lucas Moripe Stadium outside Pretoria on Saturday, 7 January.

The head coach of Black Leopards, Mr Rodwell Dhlakama, is positive that his side will close the year with a bang. He said that the team’s performance was improving each game ever since he joined the Thohoyan-

dou side last month.

He said that scoring was no longer a challenge to his strikers. According to him, their challenge was at the defence as they had failed to maintain their lead until the end of the game each time they were leading. He described their 3-3 draw with University of Pretoria FC as a bitter pill to swallow to everyone in the club.

Should they manage to collect the full points at stake against Spurs, Black Leopards will be on course to finish their league programme among the top three teams.

Cape Town Spurs played against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila FC (TTM) at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Wednesday.

(The result of the game was not available at the time of our going to press).

Vhembe’s boxers are ready to fight

By Victor Mukwevho

All systems are ready for three local boxers who are going take part in the Thriller in Tzaneen Boxing Tournament to be held at the Nkowankowa Sports Grounds on Sunday (13th).

The local delegation will be led by the well-travelled Raider Muleba, who will be fighting for the national title against Kholosa Ndobayeni. The other two boxers are Khodani “Cena” Nephalama and Tsumbi Mbedzi. They are

all confident that they will win their fights.

The soft-spoken Mbedzi, who will be making his professional debut during the tournament, said that nothing would stop him from winning his fight on Sunday.

Local female title challenger Raider Muleba reiterated that she was going to take the belt home on Sunday. “I am wrapping up my training this week, and I am ready for war. All that is on my mind is Kholosa Ndabayeni, nothing else. I am coming for you, girl,” she said.

Meanwhile, boxing pro-

moter Mr

Mathonsi said that the tournament was not going to be held on Saturday but would be held on Sunday. “Saturday is reserved for the weigh-in and the tournament starts at 14:00 on Sunday. This is a very historical event because our own girl from Limpopo, Raider Muleba, will be fighting for the national championship title right here in this province,” he said.

Mathonsi added that tickets for the tournament cost R100 for adults, R50 for the youth and R250 for VIP seats.

Black Leopards’ number one goalkeeper, Rotshidzwa “Bomber” Muleka. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

James Manghabia

The three local boxers who will participate in the Thriller in Tzaneen Boxing Tournament on Sunday. From left to right are Tsumbo Mbedzi, Raider Muleba and Khodani “Cena” Raphalalani. Photo: Victor Mukwevho.

match that was played at Magogo last Cup

Lucas Moripe Stadium outside

“Bomber” Muleka.