King William's Town Express 10 January 2018

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EDITOR: BETTIE GILIOMEE

Family welcomes son back home from initiation It was a joyful occasion as the Baleni family celebrated the recent initiation homecoming of their son, Athi Baleni, in Zwelitsha township. Pictured here from left, are father Msimelelo, son, and mother Nolusapho Baleni. The families of at least 17 other initiates were, however, not so fortunate and had to arrange funerals over the festive season instead of welcoming back their sons from the Summer Initiation 2017 season. According to Mamkeli Ngam, spokesperson of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, the number of recorded deaths was 9 in the OR Tambo, 1 in Buffalo City, 2 in Alfred Nzo, 3 in Amathole, 1 in Joe Gqabi and 1 in Chris Hani regions.

PHOTO:THEMBELA NDLUMBINI

METRO RANKED SEVENTH OUT OF 12 DISTRICTS

BCM matric pass rate drops MICHAEL SWARTZ

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ITH a decline of 0.5% from the results of 2016, the Buffalo City Metro managed to achieve a 65.9% matric pass rate, being placed seventh in the district rankings in 2017, a far cry from the second position they claimed in 2016.

This was announced at a media briefing attended by the Education MEC, Mandla Makupula, and other officials in East London last Friday.

A total of 32 provincial schools, including the evergreen Ulwazi High School in Mdantsane, managed to achieve a 100% pass rate. Ulwazi High’s matric learners, who were honoured for their outstanding performance by President Jacob Zuma two years ago, have consistently achieved top marks for the past few years.

They were among only seven schools in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM) that managed to make it into the top 32 schools that

Top HDI achiever in the Eastern Cape, Phikolomzi Mjikelwa (national top achiever in maths and science), of St James Secondary School

Mphoentle Piliso from Cofimvaba Secondary School took third place in the province, and second place nationally in quintile three schools.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

achieved a 100% pass. The other schools were Beaconhurst, Clarendon Girls’, Kingsridge, Lilyfontein, Stirling, and Vukuhambe Special School.

Vukuhambe and Efata School for the Blind in Mthatha managed a clean sweep

Eastern Cape top achiever, Reamohetse Mofitiso from Lehana Secondary School in Mount Fletcher. He was also the top national achiever in quintile one.

in the 2017 exams.

Nine schools in BCM appear on the list of the 50 schools whose results declined the most in the recent exams.

Dale College Boys’ High School achieved an 85% pass rate, a 1.5% decline from 2016,

while De Vos Malan High School achieved 94.3%, a 3.3% decline from 2016.

Breidbach Secondary School and St Thomas Private School dropped 21% each with pass rates of 63.2 and 76.5% respectively.

Makupula said he was concerned that BCM, with all the resources at their disposal, were placed seventh in the list of 12 education districts when it comes to performance.

Three of the province’s top achievers, who were among the top 25 pupils from the matric class of 2017 to be honoured at the national matric awards ceremony, came from previously disadvantaged schools.

They were Reamohetse Mofitiso of Lehana Secondary School (top national achiever in quintile one), Phikolomzi Mjikelwa of St James Secondary School (national top achiever in maths and science) and Mphoenthe Piliso of Cofimvaba Secondary School (second place national in quintile three in the country).

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NEWS

King William’s Town Express

10 January 2018

Mount Fletcher matriculant is top of class in EC CARA­LEE DORFLING THE top 2017 matriculant of the Eastern Cape comes from the remote town of Mount Fletcher.

Reamohetse Mofitiso, of the Lehana Senior Secondary School, was announced as the top matriculant in the province by Mandla Makupula, MEC for Education, at a prestigious ceremony in East London on Friday night.

“I never thought that I would come first,” Reamohetse said on Friday night.

He obtained 100% for Physical Science and Geography.

Aside from Life Orientation, he obtained above 90% for the rest of his subjects.

He said that it was only hard work and dedication that brought him his success.

His grandmother, Christina Mofitiso, with whom he lives, said on Friday night that she had strict instructions from her grandson to wake him early in the mornings that he could learn for an extra hour or two.

“And now he is number one in the province; it is incredible; he deserves it,” Mofitiso said.

Reamohetse was also announced as one of the top 20 matriculants in the country on Thursday night – he is first in the quintile 1 division.

(Quintile 1 schools are not allowed to charge school fees and are limited to very few resources.)

Abigail “Abby” Sieberhagen of Pearson High School in Port Elizabeth came a close second.

She obtained distinctions in all eight of her subjects.

She obtained 100% for History.

“I have always worked to get here some day.

“It is an incredible dream that came true,” Abby said.

Jeremy, Abby’s dad, was elated when his daughter was announced as the second best matriculant in the province.

“She deserves it! She sacrificed Fridays and Saturdays to be here today. And the bursary mo-

ney would certainly come in handy because we, as her parents, cannot really afford her medical studies.

Pieter Rademeyer, Pearson’s deputy principal, said Abby was in a class of her own and he had not seen a learner as studious as Abby in a long time.

“Academics is important to us.

“We, as a school, strive for excellence in academics. And we are elated when they achieve it.”

Mphoentle Philiso (front left) of Cofimvaba Senior Secondary School, Reamohetse Mofitiso (front centre) of Lehana Senior Secondary School in Mount Fletcher and Abigail ‘Abby’ Sieberhagen (front right) of Pearson High School in Port Elizabeth. Back from left are Phumulo Masualle, Eastern Cape Premier, and Mandla Makupula, MEC for Education in the Eastern Cape. PHOTO:CARA-LEE DORFLING

Mphoentle Philiso of Cofimvaba Senior Secondary School was announced as the third best matriculant in the province.

She said her matric year required hard work, but due to the teachers’ help, she achieved it.

Her advice to the matriculants of 2018 is to “believe in yourself; you really can do it; become still and let your academic record speak out loud”.

Meanwhile, Kamvalethu Rengqe of Solomon Mahlangu Senior Secondary School in KwaNobuhle, just outside Uitenhage, was also honoured on Friday night.

He was announced as the best matriculant in the Nelson Mandela Bay Education District in the previously disadvantaged division. He obtained seven distinctions.

Rengqe said before his matric year, he watched television every afternoon after school until late at night.

But in January last year he decided to turn all his attention to his schoolwork.

His mother, Nolubabalo, can attest to this.

“When I saw him after school, he always had a book in his hands.

“He was a completely different child and now all his hard work reflects in his marks,” Nolubabalo said while she tried to stop her tears.

Rengqe says it was not an easy road, but to an extent he prepared himself for his forthcoming tertiary education.

Hy is planning to study Computer Science this year.

Eastern Cape Education MEC elated over progress CARA­LEE DORFLING DESPITE the fact that the Eastern Cape matriculants are last in the class for the eighth consecutive year, the Eastern Cape Education Department is elated.

Mandla Makupula, MEC for Education in the province, expressed his pride and joy over the Eastern Cape matric pass rate of 65,01% at a media conference in East London on Friday.

In 2016, the pass rate was 59,3%. Makupula reckons that the three-year plan of the department to help the matriculants of the province is starting to bear fruit.

Owing to this increase, the Eastern Cape, along with KwaZulu-Natal, is the province that improved the most.

Of the 67 648 matriculants who had written the matric end examination in the Eastern Cape, 43 981 passed. Two of the new education districts, which decreased from 23 to 12 in April last year, achieved a pass rate of more than 70%.

The Nelson Mandela Bay District has a pass

rate of 72,6% and the Sarah Baartman District 71,8%.

The matriculants of the Nelson Mandela Bay District also obtained the most distinctions in the province.

Makupula said that they asked for help at the Free State Education Department early in 2016. “Last year the Free State, and now again, was the province with the highest matric pass rate. They have appointed a consultation group for the last seven years to help with promoting the difficult subjects,” Makupula says.

Since April last year, the Eastern Cape also used this consultation group to help with improving Mathematics, Mathematics Literacy and Physical Science.

Makupula says that he is proud to announce that there was indeed an increase in the pass rate of these three subjects. The pass rate of Mathematics Literacy increased by 8,3 percentage points to 64,4%, Mathematics increased by 4,8 percentage points to 42,3% and Physical Science increased by 7,7 percentage points to 57,3%.

“We cannot be anything else but proud of the increases and the good results. But of cour-

se, there are schools that did not do well which we will attend to carefully,” Makupula says.

He refers to the Amathole East and Amathole West Education Districts which had pass rates of under 60%.

The Isivivane Senior Secondary School, in the Chris Hani West District, is to date the only school in the province with a 0% pass rate.

Another Eastern Cape school may also have a 0% pass rate after 14 out of the 15 matriculants, who wrote the examinations at the relevant school, were caught with cell phones and cheating in the examination venue.

According to Themba Kojana, the superintendent general of the Eastern Cape Education Department, this incident is being investigated by the national education team and the result will be announced later.

Kojana said that out of the 17 learners of the Isivivane Senior Secondary School who wrote matric not one has passed. He said the future of the school will have to be investigated since parents would not want to send their children to a school with a 0% pass rate.

A matric class can also not consist of only 17 learners. “The possibility that the school

can merge with another school must be investigated.”

Makupula expressed his gratitude towards the other eight education districts, which he feels achieved a good aggregate by maintaining a pass rate of between 60% and 70%.

The results are as follows: OR Tambo inland district – 69,3%, Chris Hani West – 67,9%, Alfred Nzo West – 67,3%, Joe Gqabi – 67%, Buffalostad – 65,9%, Chris Hani East – 61,8%, OR Tambo coastal area – 61,7% and Alfred Nzo East – 62,4%.

Makupula says it is never nice to take the last position in the rankings, but when one looks past the pass rate, it is clear that the Eastern Cape achieved more than the last place.

“Our province has three times more learners who wrote the examinations in comparison with the Free State.

“It is not only about the quantity but also the quality. We supply the country with distinctions and top learners, but they are hidden behind the last place.

“However, our goal is to improve the pass rate next year and maybe to shake the last position,” Makupula says.

Education psychologist gives advice on dealing with matric result stress SIYANDA NKONYENI FINISHING matric is a milestone for learners and passing Grade 12 has not proven to be a walk in the park.

The scenes of jubilation at the release of last week’s matric results was a true reflection of triumph and anticipation of a bright future, but the unfortunate reality is that many fell short in the exams and could not take part in last week’s celebrations.

Education psychologist Sylvia Nandipha

Nqadala shared a few tips for those who did not make it last year so as to ease the pain that comes with disappointment this time of the year for some learners.

“We as the Department of Education have realised that learners experience a lot of anxiety this time of the year when the matric results come out because some make it and some do not.

“Those who do not make it find it hard to cope with the disappointment which sometimes results in irresponsible acts such as committing suicide and substance abuse. Some get depressed for a long time.”

She said that this period calls for friends and family to play a positive role to help avoid the tragedy of losing a loved one.

“I would like to appeal especially to parents and siblings because they are most affected by the failure of a learner. They should avoid utterances that are negative while the learner is hurting because that might have a lasting effect on a child. Also friends’ actions and what they say should be encouraging so that the learner can have the strength to try again,” she said.

Nqadala also encouraged learners who have failed to try to conduct themselves in a positive

manner by facing reality and identifying what made it impossible to pass.

“It is important for a learner to be more logical and face the truth. Learners should make those around them aware of the emotional turmoil they are experiencing and not bottle it inside because that is what brings negative thoughts.”

She advised those who failed not to quit school but to seek available options like writing a supplementary examination, requesting a re-mark or re-register, which is what she highly recommends as it offers learners an advantage having done the same subjects previously.

10 January 2018

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King William’s Town Express

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Police alarmed by Eastern Cape drowning incidents SIPHOKAZI VUSO THE South African Police Service (SAPS) is extremely concerned about the number of drowning incidents which have occurred at Eastern Cape beaches this festive season.

Police are warning the community members to be vigilant and cautious when swimming at beaches, dams and rivers around the province.

SAPS dive coordinator Robin Steyn said a common cause of drowning was when people

didn’t have knowledge of the depth of the water where they were swimming.

“We had an incident in the Bridle Drift Dam near East London where a nine-year-old boy had difficulty swimming and a 13-year-old drowned while trying to rescue him,” said Steyn.

Captain Khaya Tonjeni, police spokesperson, added that two women, aged between 20 and 22, drowned on December 26 while swimming at Qolora by Sea at Centane. Both their bodies were recovered and their next of kin

were informed. Police have opened inquest dockets for both incidents.

According to News24, there was also an incident where the body of a 14-year-old boy was recovered at Mthatha Dam by Mthatha K9 Rescue.

The boy, from the Matyeba Locality, had been swimming in the dam at around lunchtime “People have a tendency of swimming when the lifeguards have not arrived or when they have left, whereas they should only swim

when lifeguards are on duty,” said Steyn.

He added that children who cannot swim are known to use 2l bottles that are tied together as a flotation device, and these could fail as the bound bottles could spread apart, forcing the child to try to swim.

“We are continuously warning people not to drink alcohol before entering the water, to swim only in the presence of lifeguards and for children to be supervised by parents or guardians at all times when swimming,” he concluded.

Residents hold HIV/Aids and violence awareness campaign THEMBELA NDLUMBINI MORE than 200 community members gathered at the Breidbach Civic Centre recently to attend an awareness campaign on domestic violence, HIV/Aids and violence against women and girls.

Community representatives from Breidbach, Qalashe, Tshatshu and Sweetwater also attended the event which was hosted

by Ward 14 councillor, Sixolisiwe Ntsasela.

Empilisweni Masimanyane Aids Centre is a programme created by the Masimanyane Women Support Centre (MWSC) based in King Williams’s Town.

MWSC is an equality and social justice non profit organisation, seeking to end discrimination against and the oppression of women and girls, particularly incidents of violence.

Masimanyane Women’s Rights International, a non-governmental organisation based in East London, is running a Bumbingomso programme which aims at reducing HIV/Aids in young people and has a satellite office at the Empilisweni Masi-

manyane Aids Centre.

The programme, created by the DG Murray Trust in the Buffalo Municipality Metro, is a collaboration between various stakeholders.

Social worker, Phakama Qongwe, said intimate partner violence happens in our homes, families and communities.

“People seem to think it’s acceptable to be beaten, forced to have sex and to be stalked on social media.

“If you have been beaten, report the case to the police, the social workers and NGOs like Masimanyane.

“You don’t have to hide. If you have been forced to have sex please report it, and have yourself tested to know your HIV status,” she said.

“For those who have been in a situation where the partner forces them to have sex, stalks them, insults them and makes them feel uncomfortable when they are with friends and family, please make sure you speak out or look for counsellors either at Masimanyane or any other place with help.

“Intimate partner violence all starts with finger pointing and it will end up with gun pointing and death.

From left are, Nicholas Stewart (coordinator and educator at Breidbach Primary School) and Elanore (HOD for safety and discipline at Breidbach Primary School).

“We at Masimanyane offer counselling on these issues,” she said.

Sergeant Hombakazi Lusithi and her colleagues from the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection Unit and Sexual Offences Unit in King William’s Town told the community that this specialised Police unit

deals with cases of rape and crimes against children.

“Rape must be reported immediately, within 72 hours after it takes place. However we still accept the cases even after the 72-hour period has expired.

“We advise people not to bath after the incident.

“All our victims are examined by the doctors for further evidence. The evidence is analysed by the lab and they provide us with the report for court purposes.”

Community development workers, Pauline Timmy and Nontsikelelo Vuke, both from the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Addiction (Sanca) spoke about substance abuse and how it can be prevented and treated.

One of the citizens of Breidbach, Bernie Basson, said she was glad the event had been held.

Fadiel Souls, Fernando Mentoor and Paul Williams, said they had learnt important lessons about what was and was not acceptable in relationships.

Osburn Bantom said, “this programme is something that we need. It helps us to do the right things in life.”

Eastern Cape’s top matriculants honoured MICHAEL SWARTZ EASTERN Cape Education MEC, Mandla Makupula, and Premier Phumulo Masualle, honoured the Eastern Cape’s top matriculants at a presentation ceremony in East London last Friday night.

The Buffalo City district top performers were Sherin Manuel of Clarendon Girls’ High School who achieved an average of 91.6% with

seven distinctions, and Dale Philip of Selborne College Boys High with an average of 91% and also with seven distinctions.

Manuel, who will be studying medicine at UCT, said that her parents gave her all the necessary support she needed and helping others also assisted her in mastering her studies.

“I was involved in a peer-to-peer training whereby I teach others and at the same time it assisted me in better understanding my

Top achievers in King William’s Town are, from left, Kalawe Siyamthanda, who placed third in the HDI Cluster B, Andile Nyingwa who placed first in the HDI in Buffalo City district and Phaliso Siviwe, top achiever in IsiXhosa (home language).

PHOTOS:ELLSWORTH SWARTZ

work. It was a beneficial exercise.

“A message for the class of 2018 is, don’t give up and don’t stop believing in yourself; keep pushing yourself,” she concluded.

Philip will also be studying medicine at Wits. “I always wanted to be a doctor since primary school.”

He said he balanced his academic and social life by setting priorities and having a study programme in place.

Top achievers in King William’s Town were Siyamthanda Kalawe, placed third in the HDI Cluster B, Andile Nyingwa, placed first in the HDI in the Buffalo City district and Siviwe Phaliso who was awarded for being the top achiever in IsiXhosa home language (95%).

Kalawe, who will be studying B.Com Accounting, said that she has been working tirelessly every night to achieve her goal.

Nyingwa, who will be studying medicine at Wits, said the class of 2018 should strive for better marks and should dream big.

Phaliso, who will be studying B.Com Accounting Science, said her secret to success was that she always paid attention in class and read all the prescribed books in advance.

She advised all matrics to manage their time effectively and prepare early.

From left are, Sherin Manuel of Clarendon Girls’ High School who achieved an average of 91.6% with seven distinctions, and Dale Philip of Selborne College Boys’ High who achieved an average of 91% also with seven distinctions.

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MEC Qoboshiyane visits livestock and cropping projects THE Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) is starting the 2018 calender year by strengthening its implementation of the Agriculture Economic Transformation Strategy (AETS).

As part of this plan, MEC Mlibo Qoboshiyane will be visiting livestock farms and cropping projects in the Sarah Baartman and Amathole districts this week.

In the Sarah Baartman district, Qoboshiyane will visit Cress Farm and Lili Bovids Farm, which are owned by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform and run by previously disadvantaged individuals.

Lili Bovids is a 100% black-owned beef pro-

duction farm and is a prime example of what can be achieved when black farmers are given space to enter the commercial farming sector.

The farm runs a commercial herd at Happy Valley and a Boran stud at Upper Caxton.

Qoboshiyane will engage the farmers on their operations and the challenges they are facing as a business. He will also use the opportunity to inspect the development of pastures and explain the AETS to the farmers.

The visits commenced yesterday, with a visit to the Bathurst Graveyard.

Following the graveyard visit, Qoboshiyane visited the two farms.

From today until Friday, Qoboshiyane will

visit cropping projects in Mbhashe and Mnquma municipal areas.

The MEC’s visits today include projects in Tutura, Nkente, Feni and Toleni, tomorrow he will visit Nqadu and Candu projects, and on Friday he will visit Newlands, and Sixhenxe projects.

“As part of the economic transformation strategy the department is working with private sector partners who assist smallholder farmers with mechanisation. This has seen hundreds of farmers in the Eastern Cape getting more yields than they were doing before the DRDAR intervention,” the department said. – REPORTER

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King William’s Town Express

10 January 2018

‘Express’ readers are ready to take on 2018 It happens every year without fail. People all over the world make New Year’s resolutions to improve their lives. It’s now little more than a week into 2018 and for some, the clock of failure is already ticking. King William’s Town Express correspondent ZAVELA MAKWABE spoke to a few young entrepreneurs in the area to find out what their resolutions are for the year of 2018 and how they plan to stick to them ) Akhona Excellent of Trillionaire Mind Inc from Bhisho: I’m not a person who makes New Year’s resolutions, but I always try to make each year better than the previous one by trying a different approach in each situation. I’m generally a planner, so I plan to stick to them by writing them down and hanging them up next to my calendar so that I’m reminded of my goals every time. Last year was a great year for my company. This year I plan on working on the hurdles I came across last year so as to bring the residents of King William’s Town a bigger and better third annual

) Siyanda Nela of Nela Events from Bhisho: This year I want FOCUS to be my theme. I want to focus on the growth of the East London Fashion Walk and re-brand it to make sure it fits the international market. I plan to stick to this by aligning myself and the event with people who know more than I do about the fashion industry, so that I can learn as much as I can from them and not get side tracked.

I know I have to work harder than I have been to enter the international market.

Akhona Excellent.

Siyanda Nela.

iQonce Homecoming Festival.

) Chuma Liwana of Isiqhamo Farming Co-op from Ndevana: My resolution is to invest more time and effort into my business and try to improve new products and livestock. I plan on meeting this resolution by tapping into my hunger for success and trying to get financial help as that is a very big challenge. There are very few programmes for young entrepreneurs like myself, but I plan to focus on the positive things and change my mindset and believe more in my dreams. ) Ntuthuzelo Mbeseza of Baby Swag Kids’ Entertain-

Chuma Liwana.

Shanel and Ashley tie the knot Celebration was the order of the day when Shanel Maart and Ashley Fritz were married at the St Andrew’s Catholic Church in Breidbach, King William’s Town, recently. PHOTO: SHANE CHRISTIAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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ment from Zwelitsha: At around this time last year, I had no idea my brand would be where it currently is. 2017 was a great year for Baby Swag and I’m hoping things will only get better. But because I can’t rely on chance, I have to make marketing the order of the year. I have so many plans for the growth of my business, like diversifying within the kids’ entertainment business by adding many cool devices and services. I plan to stick to this goal by building relationships with my clients and fellow entrepreneurs in and around my community.

Ntuthuzelo Mbeseza.

OR Tambo groups excel in Imvuselelo Gospel Development Extravaganza HOSEYA JUBASE THE gospel group, Mthatha Praise and Worship, were crowned the 2017 champions of the Imvuselelo Gospel Development Extravaganza during the final at the East London Orient Theatre at the end of last year.

The group walked away with R10 000 cash, a recording deal with Vovee Music Production worth R90 000, a trophy and a certificate.

The build-up auditions for the festival were held in the six district municipalities and two metros of the Eastern Cape, where thousands of young, up-and-coming gospel artists showed off their talents.

Speaking on behalf of Mthatha Praise and Worship, Nomzekelo Manqokoma said they did not expect to take the top position out of all the gospel artists who were competing in the competition.

Manqokoma said, “The six Mthatha Praise and Worship members, namely Zimasa Diko, Nomzekelo Manqokoma,

Siphumle Mdlakuhluthi, Asanda Mpengesi, Yonela Makhayonke and Siphokazi Diko, met in a battle as individuals before deciding to form this group in 2015.

“It is unbelievable that today we won one of the best recording deals in the province.”

The Sam and Phopho group claimed the second position in the competition, receiving R7 000 cash and a certificate.

Both groups represented the OR Tambo District in the competition.

The Imvuselelo Gospel Development Extravaganza is a talent search event which falls under the Amaqhawe Heroes Forum non-profit organisation, which focuses on developing the youth in South Africa.

It is sponsored by the National Lottery Commission (NLC).

Manqokoma said the recording deal, worth R90 000, will make a huge difference to the group because they have been struggling to find a way to record their music since forming three years ago.

Pictured here are the members of Mthatha Praise and Worship, who won the competition, as well as the members of the second-placed Sam and Phopho group. They are now the gospel pride of the OR Tambo District.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

NEWS

10 January 2018

King William’s Town Express

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Communities empowered with cash for cows REPORTER FAMOUS Brands Cheese Company (FBCC) and Coega Dairy will collectively contribute R3 million to five black-owned community dairy farms in the Eastern Cape to finance the purchase of more than 300 dairy cows.

From left are, Llewellyn Collet (Coega Dairy), Luxolo Kente Ncora (Dairy Trust), Lumka Maso (Seven Stars Dairy Trust), Cyril Jantjies (Middeldrift Dairy Trust), Leonard Mavhungu (Fort Hare Dairy Trust), Fezeka Ngqakayi (Shilo Dairy Trust), Jeff Every (Amadlelo Agri), and Lebo Nthla (Famous Brands).

PHOTO:SUPPLIED number of the cows on the community farms are leased from commercial dairy farmers.

“By investing in this project we

Kasi Biltong is a hit in King William’s Town SIYANDA NKONYENI “BILTONG” is a snack that is generally not associated with townships, but Mdantsane entrepreneur Bonke Monono, is busy changing that stereotype.

This young entrepreneur has started producing biltong that is fast becoming very popular in his township.

King William’s Town Express caught up with him to find out why and how he decided to start producing biltong.

Who is Bonke Monono?

I was born and bred in Mdantsane where I was raised by my grandmother. Professionally, I am a microbiologist at Aspen Pharmacare. I am also an aspiring businessman who is an artist manager and partner at SNH Productions, as well as a founder and director at Carater Forte, which makes biltong and other things.

When did you start producing biltong and why?

It’s all about the love of biltong. I used to buy it almost every second day and then, about

two months ago, I did my research and decided to make it.

Is it not hard and expensive to make?

Biltong making is not that complex. It’s only a lot of work.

It starts with meat selection and preparing and mixing the spices for your own unique taste, before moving on to the drying process. As for the money involved, it was not that expensive because I started small and hope to grow as the time goes by.

How has the response been since you started?

I started with a small drier and with the support I got from friends and the use of social media, I had to get a bigger drier within two months because of the demand.

What are the plans for your business going forward?

I first want to open outlets around the Eastern Cape and soon I will be opening one in Mdantsane. My main dream is to train young people in manufacturing biltong so as to create employment for them as well.

Bonke Monono is breaking stereotypes and aims to expand his biltong business around the province.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED

will assist the community farmers to gain increased access, participation and ownership in the value chain,” Mundell said.

“Ensuring security of supply of raw milk is critical to FBCC and Coega Dairy, and this investment will achieve that,” he said, adding

Youth Lab opens again for holiday season ZAVELA MAKWABE IN a bid to create and share opportunities for youth development and expand knowledge, the Buffalo City Metro Municipality’s (BCMM) Youth Lab has reopened their doors for the festive season break.

Located in Taylor Street, King William’s Town, the community youth centre provides support to the youth, whether they are in school or not, in the form of basic computer literacy, career guidance, assistance with CV writing

and online applications and providing information on employment and entrepreneurial opportunities within the municipality and around the country.

It also provides copying, printing and scanning services, as well as access to the internet. All these resources are available free, but only for a limited time every Monday to Friday from 8am to 4:30pm.

Speaking to King William’s Town Express, Lukhanyo Morris, the youth development officer who facilitates and implements the programme at the King William’s Town branch of the Buffalo City

Metro Municipality Community Youth Centre, said, “I encourage any young person who is making an effort to better themselves and those around them to pay a visit to the centre whenever they can to get an update on new developments.

“The centre operates on a walkin basis; no appointment is needed unless there is a specific issue you would like to discuss. The staff is always willing to help and go the extra mile,” added Morris.

The municipality also has two other labs in Mdantsane Community Centre and Gompo Community Centre.

Test case on SASSA payments on track REPORTER THE South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) successfully initiated a test case last month to directly pay about 100 social grant beneficiaries using commercial bank accounts of their choice as part of the January 2018 payment cycle.

“With effect from February 1, SASSA will continue to make direct deposits into all beneficiary

commercial bank accounts.

“SASSA has received and confirmed details of the commercial bank accounts of more than 2 million beneficiaries, who are receiving their social grants through banks,” said SASSA CEO Pearl Bengu.

According to Bengu, the 100 beneficiaries’ test case was part of implementing SASSA’s plan to insource social grant payments.

The plan will be implemented in an incremental and phased man-

Controlled blasting on R72 THE South African National Roads Agency Soc Ltd (Sanral) would like to notify road users of controlled blasting at Shaw Park quarry between Port Alfred and Fish River tomorrow at 3pm, weather permitting.

The R72 will be closed for approximately 30 minutes.

The Shaw Park quarry is situated next to the R72, near the intersection of the R72 with the gravel road leading to Shaw Park.

The quarry extends from the Sanral kilometre markers 20 800 to 21 200.

“Motorists are requested to plan their trips accordingly and be cautious when making use of the road, and to comply with the directions of safety personnel,” Sanral southern region manager, Mbulelo Peterson said.

Sanral apologises for any inconvenience caused. – REPORTER

OMBUDSMAN

The five community farms which will benefit from the R3 million investment include, Fort Hare Dairy Trust, Middledrift Dairy Trust, Keiskammahoek Dairy, Shiloh Dairy Trust and Ncora Dairy Trust The funds will be disbursed over a three-year period, with FBCC and Coega Dairy each contributing R1.5 million.

In 2016, Amadlelo Agri, a black empowerment agricultural business which manages the five community owned farms, approached Coega Dairy and FBCC to assist local community farmers to attain ownership of their own dairy herds.

Chief operating officer for FBCC Enterprise Development, Andrew Mundell, said currently, a large

that the farms currently deliver approximately 25% of FBCC’s total milk intake.

“It is projected that the cows and their future offspring will produce in excess of 10 million litres of milk over a five-year period,” Mundell said.

Chief executive of Coega Dairy, Victor Korsten said Coega Dairy and FBCC are committed to the development of this primary production of milk from community farms.

“This locally focused empowerment investment will make an important difference in a particularly needy province,” Korsten said.

He added that all the necessary operational, technical and statutory support will be provided to ensure the sustainability and good governance of the project.

“We are excited about the opportunities this investment will create for local community suppliers, while ensuring we continue to meet our franchise network’s growing demand for this strategic menu item,” Mundell concluded. .

ner leading to a desired future state where SASSA owns, operates and delivers a ‘’one-stop’’ grant administration and payment service.

SASSA will continue to pay all beneficiaries who receive their grants at cash paypoints or who use various merchants throughout the country.

The SASSA payment card use has been extended until December 31 this year and will be used to access social grants.

In accordance with the editorial policy of the King Willlam’s Town Express, we invite readers to comment on mistakes in the newspaper and shall correct significant errors as soon as possible. Send info to the Ombudsman of Media24’s Local Press, George Claassen, at george.claassen@ media24.com or call him at 021 851 3232.

Readers can also contact the SA Press Ombudsman at 011 484 3612/8 or e-mail ombudsman@presscouncil.org.za.

EP Media and Media24 have not verified whether any of the services or products advertised are safe to use or will have the desired effect or outcome. Readers are warned that they should carefully consider and verify the advertiser's credentials.

EP Media and Media24 does not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of any of the services and goods advertised.

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6

NEWS

King William’s Town Express

10 January 2018

FOCUS ON: MATRIC RESULTS

Dealing with disappointing matric results REPORTER WITH the release of the matric results of the Class of 2017, thousands of parents and learners who may not have done as well as required are feeling anxious and uncertain about the future.

According to an education expert, while many of them will have to come to terms with disappointing results, it is important to know that there are a number of options that can get learners back on track.

Head of programme for the Faculty of Commerce at The Independent Institute of Education Fathima Razack said the most important thing for both parents and learners is to not panic.

“While it might feel like the end of the world at the moment, clear

heads and a pragmatic approach are required to make the right decisions for the future,” Razack said.

She said it is particularly important for adults to manage their response, as their emotional state could impact on the resilience of learners in the wake of the release of the matric results.

“Although parents and guardians may feel deeply disappointed, they should know that their first words and reactions may leave a lasting impact.

“They should take stock and consider their unified position so that the energy can be focused on the learner and their next steps,” Razack said.

Options open to learners who failed, but who are determined to still earn their National Senior

Certificate, include: ) Sitting for the supplementary examinations; ) Sending papers for either a remark or re-check; ) Returning to school and re-registering for matric; ) Registering at another school to complete matric; ) Completing matric via distance learning.

Learners who passed, but didn’t achieve the marks required for entrance into degree study, have the following options: ) Sending papers for either a remark or re-check; ) Enrolling for a higher certificate at a higher education institution, which can give access to degree study; ) Enrolling for a diploma which

can give access to degree study.

“It is also important to remember that while your marks may not have been good enough to get access to your first choice of course or institution, that doesn’t mean you have no other study options left,” Razack said.

She said the most important thing to remember is that below par matric results don’t have to mean giving up on one’s dreams and aspirations.

“If parents and learners can handle this situation maturely and plan their next steps instead of getting stuck in a catastrophical mindset, disappointing performance could be just the catalyst needed to propel a learner in a new and better direction, with more determination and resolve than before,” Razack said.

Fathima Razack, head of programme of the Faculty of Commerce at The Independent Institute of Education.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

FOCUS ON: WATER SAFETY

What to do in a drowning emergency REPORTER FOR South Africans, summertime spells fun, sunshine and outdoor activities involving water sports and swimming.

However, it can unfortunately also be a time fraught with tragedy for those who are inexperienced, unable to swim and who may for some or other reason be vulnerable to drowning.

David Stanton, head of clinical leadership at Netcare 911, said that emergency medical service providers, such as Netcare 911, tend to receive more calls related to drowning and water-related emergency incidents during December and January than any other months.

“In any emergency situation, the most important thing to do is contact the correct emergency number immediately.

“Try to memorise the number for the emergency services in your area and keep the number saved on your cellphone and close to your landline telephone,” Stanton said.

He said in many cases, during the panic of a medical emergency, people cannot remember the correct number or cannot find where they have written it down.

“In such cases, one can contact Netcare 911 on the national number 082 911,” Stanton added.

Safety at the beach ­ tips from Netcare 911 ) Be absolutely vigilant where small children and older individuals are concerned. Keep a watchful eye on children at all times when around water. )Swim at beaches where lifeguards are on duty and keep to the specifically demarcated areas designated for safe swimming.

Swim in the areas closest to the lifeguards. )Be mindful of warning signs that may indicate dangerous swimming conditions such as strong currents, sharks and oth-

er dangerous sea life as well as contaminated water. ) Please remember that swimming in the ocean, where there is wave action and at times dangerous currents and sea life, is very different from swimming in a pool. ) Young children and inexperienced swimmers should wear life jackets or swimming aids to ensure their safety. ) Be careful not to dive into water where you cannot see the bottom. It is particularly dangerous to dive into the water headfirst as you could very easily injure your neck. ) Check the weather report before going to the beach. Be careful of lightning in particular and do not enter the water until at least 30 minutes after the thunder and lightning has stopped. ) Steer clear of the ocean if you notice a choppy current with murky water. ) If you get pulled out to sea, stay calm and save your energy.

Allow the current to carry you for a while and then swim parallel to the shore until such time as you are out of the current. If you cannot swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are safe from the rip current. ) Do not be ashamed to call for help if you are in trouble. Anyone, even the best swimmers, can run into difficulties at some or other time. It is important to signal for a lifeguard as soon as possible. The best way to do so when swimming in the ocean is to raise your arm as far out of the water as you can and to wave it around.

The lifeguards will be with you as soon as they can. In the interim, stay calm and try to tread water, or if possible float on your back, until they reach you. ) Be mindful of the waves as they are great deal more powerful than you may think. Pay close attention to children and elderly people especially, as wave action can easily result in a loss of footing, even in shallow water.

) Stay sober at the beach as alcohol will not only impair your judgement, making you less careful, but it will also dehydrate you. ) Use sunscreen, wear a hat, use an umbrella or a tent for shade and cover yourself up during the hottest time of day, which is generally between 10am and 4pm. ) Do not make use of a flotation device such as an inflatable bed, boat, noodle and other items unless you can swim properly. If you do go boating ensure that the boat is safe and that you are wearing a lifejacket. Don’t go out so sea unless you have checked the weather conditions. ) When fishing, be careful of walking on slippery rocks in case you lose your footing. Also be mindful of changing tides and rough seas that can knock you off the rocks.

What to do in the event of drowning ) Get the victim out of the wa-

SAPS is concerned by the large number of reported drowning incidents over the festive season. Netcare 911 has issued some advice on how to stay safe in the water as well as what to do in case of a drowning emergency.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

ter as soon as possible, but do not become a victim yourself. Make sure it is safe for you to enter the water first. ) Handle the victim with care.

Many submersion incidents are associated with neck injuries, so keep movement to the back and neck to a minimum. ) Assess to see if the victim is awake. ) Check for breathing by looking at the chest for no longer than 10 seconds. If the victim is not breathing or not breathing normally (gasping), call for immediate medical assistance. ) Call a recognised medical emergency service provider, such as Netcare 911 on 082 911, as soon as possible and give the dispatcher an accurate location of the incident and a contact number at the scene. Never hang up on the operator and always return to the rescuer to inform them that you have called for help. ) If the victim is not breathing, immediately start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), beginning with chest compressions.

Keep doing CPR at a ratio of 30 chest compressions and then two breaths. ) CPR is vital, even if it is an amateur administering it. Keep on doing it until someone who is trained in advanced life support arrives and can take over. ) All parents should learn how to administer child CPR as it differs from adult CPR. According to Stanton, having multiple layers of safety nets around the pool and spa areas at home or around other open bodies of water can prevent accidents and drowning.

“A basic course in first aid and CPR can make a dramatic difference in the outcome should the skills be applied timeously.”

For more info on CPR courses contact the Netcare 911 Faculty of Emergency and Critical Care on 0102098911 or visit the Netcare 911 website.

To read or download the newspaper online, go to www.issuu.com and search for King William’s Town Express

MOTORING

10 January 2018

King William’s Town Express

7

Nissan launches new Patrol for sophisticated buyers REPORTER

folding bench seat, which folds flat into the floor for extra cargo carrying flexibility.

The exclusive Bose audio system features AM/FM/MP3/CD with 13 speakers, a subwoofer and digital amplifier to provide rich acoustics.

The Patrol comes standard with the 3D Nissan navigation system and a multi-screen DVD entertainment system with screens fitted into the headrests of both front seats.

The centre console has a 12-volt power outlet and the Patrol has nine cupholders, four bottle holders, a sunroof, power door locks with illuminated switches and an anti-lockout system with auto door lock speed-sensing function, Nissan intelligent key with push button start and Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

FOLLOWING its international success, Nissan is confident the new Patrol will find a place in South Africans’ hearts as the new model embraces comfort, extravagance and smart technology without losing its off-road proficiency.

“We are extremely proud of the new Nissan Patrol because it shows off just how advanced Nissan is when it comes to Intelligent Mobility,” said Xavier Gobille, Nissan Group of Africa managing director of marketing and sales..

It’s for the sophisticated buyer who requires an SUV that’s big on features, big on opulence, big on style and big on exclusivity.

“This executive SUV has an amazing array of technology that keeps you safe and in premium comfort while re-energising your passion for driving,” said Gobille.

Nissan Intelligent Mobility This SUV is the epitome of Nissan’s most advanced technology – Nissan Intelligent Mobility with features that include: . Intelligent blind spot intervention . Intelligent cruise control, which works like standard cruise control with the added feature of maintaining a selected distance from the vehicle in front of you. . Intelligent distance control in relation to the vehicle ahead. . Intelligent driver awareness that analyses the driver’s steering behaviour to provide an alert if signs of drowsiness, or inattention are detected. . Intelligent emergency braking . Intelligent forward collision warning. If the system detects potential risks, it alerts the driver to slow down with visual and audible alerts, and will also tighten the seat belt. . Intelligent lane intervention. Using a camera installed in the windshield; this system detects lane markers to calculate its position and if you drift out of your lane; it will alert the driver and can apply brake force to the appropriate wheels to help guide you back into your lane. . Intelligent ride control, which controls the engine and brakes to deliver a smoother driving experience over small and large bumps. . Intelligent trace control. When negotiating a corner, this system applies braking automatically to each wheel. . Intelligent lane departure warning. . Intelligent smart rear-view mirror. This

The new Nissan Patrol offers the perfect combination of style, luxury, technology and performance.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED system uses a built-in LCD monitor to display images from a camera mounted at the rear of the vehicle to negate the inherent limitations of a standard rear-view mirror. . Around view monitor. Five cameras positioned around the vehicle provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings.

Stylish from every angle Designed for full-sized family adventures, the Nissan Patrol maintains its seven-passenger utility and has an impressive array of high-tech standard features.

The exterior appearance is both powerful and refined, and the redesigned body features an aggressive stance with a bold V-motion front grille and Xenon headlights.

The front includes functional air intake vents and the electronic tailgate includes an auto-close feature.

The plush interior offers limousine-like space in the second and third row of seats with classleading knee-room.

Among the list of standard features are climate-controlled front seats, heated steering wheel, premium leather seating and a dualzone automatic temperature control system, including second row “curtain” vents to effectively distribute cool air to every seat.

The standard seating configuration includes front eight-way power-adjustable bucket seats with a large centre console, second row fold flat 60/40 split bench seat and third row 60/40-split

Technical prowess The Patrol is powered by a robust, high-tech 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine that develops 298kW of power and 560Nm of torque.

This is mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox that uses variable valve technology.

The Patrol has a towing capacity of 3.5 tons and a 140-litre fuel tank.

The new direct injection gas system provides better throttle performance, improved fuel economy and advanced emissions performance by reducing engine knock, improving combustion stability and offering precise injection control.

The seven-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control and downshift rev matching features a new design that helps enhance fuel efficiency through use of its wider gear ratios and automatic transmission fluid warmer.

The All-Mode four-wheel drive system features Auto/4H/4LO modes and an electronically controlled part-time transfer case.

Under normal driving conditions, the system operates in two-wheel drive mode, but it can distribute torque to all four wheels when road conditions warrant it (up to 50 percent of torque can go to the front wheels on demand).

Responsive braking is provided by a four-

wheel disc brake system with anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and brake assist. Also standard is ABLS and a Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.

The Patrol’s formidable independent doublewishbone front and rear suspension provides smooth ride comfort and responsive handling for both on-road and off-road driving.

Ensconced in safety In addition to cutting-edge Nissan Intelligent Mobility features, the Patrol’s safety features include Nissan’s advanced air bag system (AABS) with dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and front occupant classification sensor.

It also includes roof-mounted curtain supplemental air bags , front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags, and front seat active head restraints.

Standard are three-point front seat belts with dual pretensioners and load limiters, three-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including in the centre position, ISOfix child seat anchor system, child safety rear door locks, and Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones.

A tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is also included with a warning lamp in the gauge cluster or a warning display in the navigation system.

Pricing There is one model on offer – the Patrol Premium – which comes jam-packed with a host of creature comforts in either a tan, or black interior and seven exterior colours. Optional extras such as a tow bar are available.

The new Nissan Patrol Premium costs R1 299 000.

The Patrol is backed up by Nissan Assured and has a six-year/ 150 000km warranty, and a comprehensive three-year/90 000km service plan.

TALKING F1: NATALIE LE CLUE

What 2018 will look like for Formula 1 REPORTER THE new year is here and it brings with it the prospect of a new Formula 1 season.

Though there are no great changes in regulations, the modifications for the 2018 season could still have a significant impact.

Aesthetically there is good news and bad news for the 2018 cars. The good news is that the T-wings and shark-fins will no longer feature thanks to a tweak of the aero rules.

Like it or loathe it, the halo head protection system is coming in 2018.

There’s little doubt that the halo will make a significant visual impact to F1, but it’s not the only impact it will have.

The two other factors that would have been giving several designers prolonged headaches, is the effect it will have on aero performance and the weight addition.

While the FIA has added 6kg to the overall weight limit of the cars, rumours are that the halo comes in at around 15kg.

This will likely force teams into trimming weight in other areas of the car.

One of the more preposterous rules for 2018 is the limit of three power units for the entire 21-race season. It means that each engine will now have to last seven races.

This, in the name of cost saving, means manufacturers will need to balance reliability and performance on a knife-edge.

With only three engines, it’s likely to be inevitable that all teams will incur grid penalties at some point, including the frontrunners. The irony of it all is that money won’t be saved on power units.

Toro Rosso in particular will be hoping

that Honda has solved its woeful reliability record as it starts its partnership with the Japanese manufacturer this year.

While Honda’s performance saw a slight upturn with McLaren in the latter half of the 2017 season, they still have a long way to go to catch up to Renault – let alone Mercedes and Ferrari.

Elsewhere, McLaren and Fernando Alonso will be hoping that Renault has solved its own reliability issues that marred the end of the 2017 season.

There is great expectation that bolting the Renault into the back of the McLaren will push it up the grid. How far they’ll progress remains to be seen.

Sauber too are looking to recover from one of the worst seasons on record.

They’ll be doing so with the signing of F2, formerly GP2, champion and Ferrari Academy driver Charles le Clerc.

Despite jumping into the high-pressure cauldron of F1, there is high expectations for Le Clerc who is considered one of the best young drivers.

Another boost to Sauber’s 2018 bid is a new technical and commercial partnership with Alfa Romeo. While the car will be decked out in Alfa red, the link up also means access to Ferrari’s latest power units.

With all of this said, there are still many more scenarios, issues, permutations, and speculations for the new season.

Will Mercedes be able to hold off Ferrari and perhaps even Red Bull? What of the intra-team battle between Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo? How far can McLaren go with Renault power? What impact will Pirelli’s remodelled tyres have on track?

X1U6YHL1-KX131217

8

SPORT

King William’s Town Express

10 January 2018

Zwelitsha hosts annual Buyelekasi reunion THEMBELA NDLUMBINI THE fourth annual Buyelekasi Zwelitsha reunion (BZR) was recently held at the Zwelitsha stadium.

More than 600 sports lovers, ranging from

youth to senior citizens, attended the reunion, including visitors from Ginsberg, Phakamisa, Litha, Bhisho, Sweetwater, Dimbaza, Mdantsane and East London.

The event started at 8am with a fun walk from Oliver Reginald Tambo Community Hall to Zwelitsha Stadium. More than 50 youth participated. At the stadium they played soccer, rugby, netball and chess.

From 10am to 11:45am, the over-35s, over-40s and under-15s played in different sports codes.

There was also an SAB league soccer match between BZR and Barcelona.

Children were entertained with games, swimming and music.

BZR was born out of a passion for change, a sense of identity with the township and a desire to set in motion a sustained community upliftment drive.

It is also aimed at promoting opportunities for the community members of Zwelitsha to be united in sport, arts and culture and to be supported in all areas of development.

Mzimkhulu Makopo, one of the organisers of the event, answers questions from the media.

The Amagoduka football team were among the teams that participated at the games.

PHOTOS:THEMBELA NDLUMBINI

Tornado blow Spears away in opening encounter of 2018 ELETHU MTIKI LOG leaders Tornado FC are not showing any signs of slowing down this year in the ABC Motsepe League campaign.

The Mdantsane-based outfit beat Spears 2-1 in a league match this past weekend to start the year off on a high note and continued from where they left off before the festive break.

This victory saw Tornado move to 34 points, seven points ahead of PE Stars and Eastern Cape Bees who are in second and

third positions respectively.

Tornado is the most consistent side so far in the provincial ABC Motsepe League having registered only a single draw and one loss in their 13 matches. They are the only team that has scored over 30 goals so far as they have scored 33 goals.

A victory for the fourth-placed Spears could have seen them close the gap between themselves and Tornado by 10 points. Despite the loss, it is not all over for the Spears.

They are still in the race as there are 17 matches left.

Spears will travel to Mthatha City on Sat-

Homani dreams of playing varsity netball ELETHU MTIKI

Metropolitan University (NMMU), has a number of great netball players, including NolusinA GINSBERG-BORN Nelson Mandela Universi- diso Twani, who plays for the national u/21 ty (NMU) student, Lindisa Homani, is deter- team, and Jeanie Steyn who was named the mined to fight her way up and onto the varsity player of the year. netball squad.

Homani praised Twani and many others who have paved the way.

Homani (21), who is set “You always get to to graduate this year, learn something from plays in the NMU Res them because they have a League and she knows lot of experience. what it would mean to fi“Even the res league nally make the varsity that we’re playing in was team. started by them. They “Yes, of course!” she teach us how to play prosaid when asked if she fessionally. Playing so has any hope of getting inclose to such people helps to the varsity squad. you to build yourself and “It’s everyone’s goal to your character,” she said. play for the varsity team Even though Homani is because you get a lot of in love with netball, she privileges. You get to be said her passion has alexposed to a number of ways been in short disthings, you get to play tance running (100m and against other universities 200m) and she believes and get a lot experience.” she will return to it in the It remains to be seen near future. whether she will remain Lindisa Homani dreams of one day She made a name for at the university for her playing on the varsity netball team. herself on the track as postgraduate studies as PHOTO:SUPPLIED learner at St Christoshe is also contemplating pher’s where she repremoving somewhere else. sented the school in a number of competitions.

However, moving to another university could “I want go back to athletics. That has always limit her chances of making it onto the varsity been my number one passion. team as she would have to work hard to impress “I came across netball along the way and I rethe new coaches. alised that I can play it. But my passion has alNMU, formerly known as the Nelson Mandela ways been in athletics,” she revealed.

urday, while Tornado will have a chance to further extend their lead when they welcome Highbury FC at North End Stadium in East London on Friday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Future Tigers suffered yet another setback when they were hammered 5-1

by PE Stars at Ginsberg Stadium on Saturday. This was not an ideal start for Tigers in the New Year as this was their second consecutive loss.

They lost 3-2 to arch-rivals EC Bees on December 16 to end the year with dented morale.

The side from Ginsberg will face another

tough battle when they take on Try Again at Bhisho Stadium this weekend. Ironically, Try Again are brimming with confidence as they have won two matches in a row.

Other ABC Motsepe League results: Sibanye 1-1 Mthatha City Lion City 1-3 Try Again Highbury 4-0 Butterworth FC Future Tigers 1-5 PE Stars Bizana Pondo Chiefs 1-2 EC Bees FC Buffalo 0-2 City Lads Matta Milan 1-3 SUBS Spears 1-2 Tornado

Bhisho runner pulls back from 42km marathons ELETHU MTIKI A YOUNG and promising runner from Bhisho, Zimkhitha Hoza, has pulled back from participating in 42km marathons.

Hoza (23) said she has been advised not to participate in the 42km marathons as she is still too young to put such pressure on her body. Last year, Hoza came second in the 42km Amathole Marathon from Stutterheim to King William’s Town before competing in another marathon in Mossel Bay. “The 42km was not easy. That’s why I’ve decided to step back. I only go for five kilometres, 10km, 15km and 21km.

“I’m trying to work on my endurance.

“I’ve have also been told by some of the experienced runners that I’m still too young for the 42km marathons and this can even pose a health threat. I’m taking things slowly,” she said.

With time still on her side, the PE College student wishes to run the renowned Two Oceans Marathon in the future. She said running means a lot to her.

“Running is not just something that I do for fun. It’s a gift from God. I’ve been running since primary school and I’m still following my dream,” she added.

The passionate runner hopes for the best this year. She said 2017 was not all smooth sailing as she often had to juggle

her studies and running. However, she was pleased that she managed to strike a balance between the two.

She revealed that one of her long-term goals is to impart her knowledge and groom children to follow in her footsteps.

“In future I want to coach kids and develop them to become better runners.

“One thing for sure is that I’ll always be involved in running until I die,” she concluded.

Zimkhitha Hoza, a young runner from Bhisho, in action.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED