Maritzburg Echo 300622 by KZNLocalNews

Integrity, Respect, Accountability, Courage

@ Echo KZN

neil.tapinos@expressmedia.co.za

Hillcrest Fever According to the editorial policy of the Hillcrest Fever, readers are invited to comment about the newspaper’s contents, and significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Please send information about correc tion of mistakes in the newspaper to the ombudsman of Media24’s Community Press, George Claassen, at george.claassen@media24.com or call him at 021 8513232 or 083 543 2471. Readers can also complain about the contents to the South African Press Ombudsman. In that case, please phone 011 788 4829 of 788 4837, send a fax to 011 788 4990 or email to pressombudsman@ombudsman.org.za

KZN LOCAL NEWS July to September 2014: 19950

maritzburg This week ONLINE

FEVER

OMBUDSMAN

EDITOR: Valene Govender valene.govender@media24.com REPORTER: Kalisha Naicker kalisha@media24.com SALES REP: Sarah Brauns: 0836574427 sarah.brauns@media24.com Debbie Williams debbie.williams@media24.com

CLASSIFIEDS ADS: Lynne Mathiesen: 031 533 7601 lynne.mathiesen@media24.com PRINTING: Paarl Coldset, PMB. COPYRIGHT: Copyright of all editorial, advertising layout, design and photographs is vested in Hill crest Fever and may not be used without the permission of Media24 News in writing. DISTRIBUTION: For all distribution queries, please contact Mpume Sithole at 031 533 7614

EDITORIAL COMMENT

A number of reasons to celebrate MANY people either look forward to the festive pe riod and begin their countdown to Christmas in Oc tober, while others are left running for the hills to avoid the ‘silliness’ that comes with the season. As we get ready to wind down and take a breath er, we decided to reflect on some of the wonderful reasons to celebrate the year that was. Yes, we can talk about some of the lowlights as well (no pun on the word ‘lights’), but that would not be very festive at all. The team at the Fever has had a wonderful year and has shared some truly remarkable memories with you. We’ve had an actionpacked year from meeting wonderful individuals who are slowly changing their communities one step at a time to covering campaigns that shows a proactive community who are willing to fight for their beloved home towns. To those people who are continuously going the

extra mile to serve others, we would like to salute you and thank you for allowing us to share your sto ries. This year South Africans voted hoping for the best – many are now glued to the parliament ses sion coverage because you never know what to ex pect. In 2015 we will be joining the queues for the byelections and once again, hoping for positive change. We know we live in a beautiful city and another reason to be a proud Durbanite is Durban has been voted an official new Seven Wonder City of the world. The picturesque beaches, rolling hills and breathtaking skyline together with a host of won derful inhabitants, sets us apart from the rest of South Africa. After 40 years, the Miss World title is held by a South African.

ECHO www.hillcrestfever.co.za

News

-Don’t be a victim of crime this festive season - Christmas centrepieces kids can make -Think when buying a Christmas gift -Mobile hospitals roll out -KZN’s tight security plans -Measles sweeps across South Africa

Picture Galleries

Your 24/7 local connection -Tis the season to be giving -Launch of Talk Sign 2015

Have a safe and blessed festive season

FREE

Events

-Maynards Beach Festival -KZN Music Imbizo

Become a CITIZEN JOURNALIST

Submit YOUR stories and pictures on our homepage

Hillcrest Fever

@HillcrestFever

Rolene Strauss was crowned Miss World at the weekend and now features in a long list of remarka ble women who continue to make a difference to the countries they live in and the world. South Africans also took time through out the year to remember Nelson Mandela and do their bit to fulfill his legacy. It’s been a year since his death and many ques tioned the stability and patriotism of South Afri cans. The good news is, it seems as if communities are now more united than ever. Many believe his spirit still lives on calling it a sprinkling of ‘Madiba magic’. Clearly South Africans will continue to make great strides despite the negative news that some times comes to the fore. The Fever would like to wish all our fantastic cli ents and readers a wonderfully happy festive sea son and here’s to welcoming 2015 in style.

Dear Readers, TODAY marks the end of another year for the Hillcrest Fever, and as the festivities kick off for this season, let us reflect on moments that touched our lives and the community this past year. 2014 has been marked by persistent challenges in our economy with price inflations (food, electricity, fuel, etc.). We had weather catastrophes and crime

continues to destroy some of our communities. However, the one thing that continues to stand undefeated is the spirit of the Upper Highway community. Through the difficult times, our readers have once again proven that we are, without a doubt, among the most resilient and strong-willed. We have weathered all the storms that came our way and have demonstrated that we can be a community to be proud of - from our disabled horse rider achieving his goals to a local woman beating breast cancer and becoming an inspiration to others - our community stands together proud! We are confident that 2015 will be better than ever. We, at The Hillcrest Fever, have faced our

30 June 2022

own challenges this year, but as we enter 2015 we renew our pledge to you to do our very best to continue to be the most accurate, fair and balanced source of news, opinion, features, sports and entertainment in the Upper Highway Area. We will continue to be open and honest with our readers and we assure you that the new year will be one never to be forgotten. Our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones this year and those experiencing difficulties of all types this holiday season. We extend sincere and warm wishes to our Hillcrest Fever family for a safe and peaceful festive season, and a happy and prosperous 2015. Kalisha Naicker Senior Journalist Hillcrest Fever

PMB Echo

Integrity, Respect, Accountability, Courage

@ Echo KZN

According to the editorial policy of the Hillcrest Fever, readers are invited to comment about the newspaper’s contents, and significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Please send information about correc tion of mistakes in the newspaper to the ombudsman of Media24’s Community Press, George Claassen, at george.claassen@media24.com or call him at 021 8513232 or 083 543 2471. Readers can also complain about the contents to the South African Press Ombudsman. In that case, please phone 011 788 4829 of 788 4837, send a fax to 011 788 4990 or email to pressombudsman@ombudsman.org.za

KZN LOCAL NEWS July to September 2014: 19950

maritzburg This week ONLINE

0 31 4 9 2 8 0 0 0

MANY people either look forward to the festive pe riod and begin their countdown to Christmas in Oc tober, while others are left running for the hills to avoid the ‘silliness’ that comes with the season. As we get ready to wind down and take a breath er, we decided to reflect on some of the wonderful reasons to celebrate the year that was. Yes, we can talk about some of the lowlights as well (no pun on the word ‘lights’), but that would not be very festive at all. The team at the Fever has had a wonderful year and has shared some truly remarkable memories with you. We’ve had an actionpacked year from meeting wonderful individuals who are slowly changing their communities one step at a time to covering campaigns that shows a proactive community who are willing to fight for their beloved home towns. To those people who are continuously going the

PMB Echo

Picture Galleries

Your 24/7 local connection -Tis the season to be giving -Launch of Talk Sign 2015 -Maynards Beach Festival -KZN Music Imbizo

FREE

TRIPLE MURDER stuns city Become a CITIZEN JOURNALIST

Submit YOUR stories and pictures on our homepage

Hillcrest Fever

son Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said the three family members were found with bruises and strangulation marks on their necks. She said a 29-year-old man was arrested after the police questioned people in the area and the information received led them to the alleged killer’s house. He was allegedly the last person seen with the family. “Police proceeded to the man’s residence with the hope of getting more information to assist with the investigation. They were stunned to find the man in bloodstained clothes. “He failed to provide police with a satisfactory response for the bloodstains on his clothes. He was arrested and charged with three counts of murder and two counts of rape. He will appear in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court soon,” she said. It is believed that the man was also wanted for other cases which include murder and kidnapping; however, police have not confirmed this. Ward councillor Sandile Dlamini said they have never seen such cruelty in the area. “This is [the most] brutal and painful incident that we have [ever] experienced in Sobantu. How can you rape and strangle women to death — people who cannot defend themselves? “We are the ones who are supposed to protect them. “What is very strange is that no one heard anything, not even neighbours. This shows that this person [was practised in] doing this and he made sure that no one heard anything,” Dlamini said. Dlamini said the incident has an-

@HillcrestFever

Have a safe and blessed festive season

Events

“W

PRINTING: Paarl Coldset, PMB. COPYRIGHT: Copyright of all editorial, advertising layout, design and photographs is vested in Hill crest Fever and may not be used without the permission of Media24 News in writing. DISTRIBUTION: For all distribution queries, please contact Mpume Sithole at 031 533 7614

SALES REP: Sarah Brauns: 0836574427 sarah.brauns@media24.com Debbie Williams debbie.williams@media24.com

ECHO News

e have never seen such cruelty.” These are the words of angry Sobantu residents, after two women and a child were strangled to death. A 65-year-old grandmother was murdered while her 46-year-old daughter and granddaughter (eight) were allegedly raped and killed. They were all strangled. The incident took place on Monday. The bodies of the family members were discovered on Monday night just after 8 pm by a relative who wanted to prepare food at their home. When he entered the house, he noticed that it was very quiet and that the bedroom door was latched from the outside. He then unlocked the door and found the child lying on her back in the bedroom; her mother was lying on her back on the bed and the grandmother was also lying on her back, next to the bed with blood all over her face. A family member who spoke to Echo said they believe that the family was killed in the morning and their bodies were only discovered at night. “We are devastated. This is very painful not only for us as a family but also for the community as a whole ... It was just horrific. “We want the law to take its course. We want to see this person arrested and not come out of jail because he is a danger to the community,” he said. KwaZulu-Natal police spokesper-

REPORTER: Kalisha Naicker kalisha@media24.com

A number of reasons to celebrate

www.hillcrestfever.co.za

LETHIWE MAKHANYA

CLASSIFIEDS ADS: Lynne Mathiesen: 031 533 7601 lynne.mathiesen@media24.com

EDITOR: Valene Govender valene.govender@media24.com

EDITORIAL COMMENT

We are here when you n d us

w w w. h p h . c o . z a

neil.tapinos@expressmedia.co.za

Hillcrest Fever

FEVER

OMBUDSMAN

gered the community and they want justice. “You should have seen how they approached the police van when they heard that the suspect was [inside]. They wanted to take him out but he was not inside at that time. The community is heartbroken. What angers them more is that the people who come to the area and commit crimes are not from the area but outside,” he said. A resident who asked not to be named said they will not rest until justice is served. “We are very angry. This means that we are no longer safe in our own homes. What did these people do to deserve such cruelty? “The person who did this must pay,” she said. Social development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza described the attack as barbaric and abhorrible. She said such acts show that there are people in our society who have lost their moral compass and cannot even see what is wrong with such acts. “As a nation we cannot continue like this where women and children are murdered daily. We all have a responsibility to protect the vulnerable. “As communities, we all need to ensure that we fight the scourge of gender-based violence,” she said. She added that communities should stand together to isolate those involved in child abuse, rape and gender-based violence. “We call on all sectors of society to join forces with the government to fight social ills and build solid foundations in which women and children are free and safe.”

30 June 2022

Book of encouragement from Yeyeye

Thulani 'Yeyeye' Gumede recently released his 12th book titled ‘The Finishing Line’. Read the full story on page 13. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

TURBOVITE PROCYDIN 30’s

OSTEOEZE GOLD 90’s

450 Church Street PMB Tel: (033) 345 3130

140

PRETTY COWRY SNAIL BEAUTY KIT

DETOX HEALING PADS

FOR MARKS SPOTS & U UNEVEN TONE

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE

VIRALMED 200ml

VITA-G 10’s

SLIMCUT 100ml

HEALTH SHOE

BUY 2 GET 1 FREE

S I NA K H O KO N K E • AT M I N S TO R E

+ FREE Heel Balm

Many Styles Available!

MARITZBURG ECHO

NEWS

June 30, 2022

KwaZuluNatal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi during her visit to Ntathakusa Citrus Farm, in Eshowe. KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Bongiwe SitholeMoloi.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Aim to reduce unemployment rate SAKHISENI NXUMALO

waZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has urged stakeholders in the agricultural sector to spearhead efforts to reduce the unemployment rate among agricultural graduates. Sithole-Moloi was speaking during the launch of the unemployed agricultural graduate programme at Ntathakusa Citrus Farm in Eshowe over the weekend. She met graduates who had already been placed in the workforce as part of the intervention by the programme. “We all know how our young people struggle in the South African labour market. The official overall unemploy-

ment rate in the fourth quarter of 2021 was 35,3%. This rate was 46,3% among young people aged 15-34 years. This implies that almost one in every two young people in the labour force did not have a job in the last quarter of 2021,” she said. She said young people carried a burden of unemployment as they accounted for 59,5% of the total number of unemployed persons in South Africa. Sithole-Moloi said it was concerning that the youth, under the age of 25 were more vulnerable in the labour market with an unemployment rate of over 63%. According to the department, the unemployed agricultural graduate programme portal is part of the department’s interventions in efforts to

rescue the youth from the worrying unemployment figures. “We, as a department, want to ensure that this portal becomes a more valuable tool/network for opportunities and information to unemployed graduates, even linking them with sector roleplayers towards employability within the entire agricultural value chain,” Sithole-Moloi said. She said the department was hard at work in order to change the portal into a key tool in empowering young agriculturalists towards entrepreneurship and employability. The department said it was planning a new programme which would allow graduates who exited the onfarm placement programme to apply for opportunities to become incuba-

tors/instructors/coaches on department-funded projects or identified small to medium-scale enterprises. Sibusiso Gumede, who is the owner of Ntathakusa Citrus Farm, which took in two unemployed graduates, said the programme was quite helpful in adding value in the sector. “It helps a lot because these young graduates are people who are energetic and willing to work. The youth get the valuable practical experience and they get the chance to be employable once they complete the programme. “I have noticed that in the first year of mentorship they are usually not clued up about how the farm operates. It is the second year when they show signs of progress and knowledge. Unfortunately that is the final year of the

programme. I wish the programme could be extended to three years,” he said. Siyabonga Mhlongo, a beneficiary of the programme, said when he arrived at the farm, he had no knowledge of how a citrus farm operated but after receiving mentorship he feels that he is ready to work on his own farm. “I would like to get a farm where I can work on my own after having acquired the experience on the farm. This is a very important programme and it helps us a lot. We also appreciate the stipend we receive under the programme. I only need to familiarise myself with the farm payroll system so that it would be easy when I’m carrying on on my own to deal with employees,” he said.

MARITZBURG ECHO

June 30, 2022

n unattended candle is suspected to have led to the fire that killed two children and left their mother and sibling badly injured. The incident happened on Sunday night during the power outage in Imbali Unit BB3, Pietermaritzburg. Mnqobi Mncwabe (4) and his four-month-old sister, Mvelo, died after they were trapped inside the bedroom when the fire started. Their six-year-old sister, Siphokazi, who was also in the bedroom, is currently in the intensive care unit where she is receiving treatment for serious burn injuries. Their mother, Lindi Mncwabe, was also injured as she was burnt while trying to rescue her children. It is alleged that Lindi lit a candle in the bedroom where the children were sleeping and she went to sit in the dining room while she waited for the power to be restored. She allegedly fell asleep. Neighbours said it was unclear what happened to the candle but Lindi woke up when the bedroom was already on fire. She tried to rescue the children but she was also burnt and called the neighbours for help.

Some of the neighbours had to jump the fence since the gate was locked. They broke the windows to gain entrance into the room where the children were sleeping. “They managed to rescue the children, but unfortunately two of them died in hospital. “It was so heartbreaking to witness that incident looking at those children, being rescued. We just pray that the mother and the other child survives this,” a neighbour said. A family member, Ruth Mncwabe, told Echo that they received a phone call at midnight informing them about the incident as they were not at home when it happened. She said from the information they received from Lindi, the candle was placed on top of the table next to the bed where the children were sleeping. “We suspect that maybe the candle fell and the bed linen caught fire while the children were sleeping because when the mother woke up there was a big fire and she called neighbours for help. “It’s so tragic what happened. It is very devastating and painful for us as a family. We never imagined that something like this could happen,” she said.

LETHIWE MAKHANYA

Mncwabe said they were very grateful to the community members who came out to assist in rescuing the children. This is the second incident in the area where children were burnt to death during a house fire. Earlier this month Echo reported on the death of five-year-old twins Lunathi and Lulonke Danisa, along with Alwande Danisa (2), and another three-year-old cousin who were also trapped inside a bedroom when a fire started. The three-year-old girl was the only child who managed to escape without any injuries. Ward councillor, Mphilisi Ndlovu, told Echo that he had heard about the incident and he was planning to visit the family. He also committed to help the Mncwabe family with anything they might need during these sad times. “Currently we are not sure what started the fire but if it is indeed a candle, we are urging the community to be vigilant when using them. “We understand that there is an electricity issue throughout the country and people end up using candles. We urge them to be careful when they, do to avoid incidents like this,” he said.

Four people were shot dead in two separate incidents in the KwaShange area, Pietermaritzburg, on Monday evening. The incident happened at around 7.30pm. Pietermaritzburg police spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala said in the first incident three people were killed, two women and one man. Thembani Maphumulo (31), his girlfriend Zinhle Khumalo and Thabile Maphumulo were at the Maphumulo residence when they were shot. He said a number of unknown people gained entrance into the house by cutting the burglar guards and breaking the aluminium door. “A man’s body was found lying in

LETHIWE MAKHANYA A man was allegedly beaten to death by community members in Azalea 4, Pietermaritzburg on Friday afternoon. Mandla Zondi’s body (32) was discovered on the side of the road with injuries all over his body. Pietermaritzburg police spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala said it was established that

Identify problems Check all body systems R100 Discover hidden illness Detailed explanation given Printed report

SOLVE YOUR HEALTH PROBLEMS!

BEWARE OF FAKE PRODUCTS REVIVE MEDS ONLY AT STORES LISTED Fast Acting Natural Products to treat all illness including...

Mop Large

20 R28

Globes Holders from

Energy Saver Globes

Jumbo

Magic Star 1 ply Virgin Toilet Roll

2.50

Emergency Recharged Globe

2 Plate Stove

R11099 R5599 60 LARGE MIDLANDS EGGS

30 LARGE MIDLANDS EGGS

R42,99 EACH

100

HIV/ Aids Cancer Diabetes Arthritis Kidney Problems Liver Gall Stones High Blood Pressure TB

R39,99

Skin Problems

Ulcers Acne Rash, Shingles Piles Varicose Veins Slow healing Wounds Immune Weakness Body Pain

ICKEN CURRY CH S PIECE

FULL TREATMENT AVAILABLE Pmb:13 Laager Center, 0767692571. Pmb: Casbro Center, Shop7, 0764300478. Pmb: Shop 3, Cambridge Centre, 420 Pietermaritz Street, 0764300478, Pmb:Cental, 25 Brasfort House, 262 Langalibalele Str, 0764300478. Pinetown: Kiosk 10, Hill St. Mall, 0718972390. The Mall @ Scottsville (Nedbank Plaza) : Shop 34, (next to Checkers), 0715437784

R32,99 PER KG

PER KG

IENNAS 1KG BMS VN, RED, E K IC (CH SMOKED)

Back Ache Burning Feet Men’s Sexual Problems Prostate Low Sperm count Woman unable to fall pregnant Menstrual problems

R115,99 PER PACK

the man was allegedly beaten by community members, who accused the man of being a thief who had terrorised the community. “Police are investigating a case of murder and no one has been arrested,” said Gwala. Gwala further warned people against vigilantism, adding that taking the law into their own hands is not justice.

FULL BODY HEALTH SCAN

HERBAL HEALTH

OPEN THIS SUNDAY

the yard with gunshot wounds all over his body, one woman was found in the kitchen with one gunshot wound, and another woman was shot twice. “The motive of the killing is still unknown at this stage,” he said. Gwala said when the unknown men left the Maphumulo residents, they went across the road where they shot Mandlenkosi Justice Mazibuko, who is a family friend of the people killed. He was shot at the gate of his house. “It is not clear if he left the Maphumulo residence before the triple murder happened or if he ran away during the incident. “But these two incidents are believed to be connected.” Police are investigating.

Suspected thief beaten to death

RER RM WAE EINATESRT W

Four people, including two women, shot dead in Pietermaritzburg

Two children dead in fire LETHIWE MAKHANYA

NEWS

3KG BMS NS SSIA CHILLI RU

GENERAL QUERIES - 072 895 6067 FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES from R980 000

Email: afriquasa@gmail.com

AAI FLAME BR WORS

R459,99

KEN 10KG CHIC’S LEG 1/4

PER BOX

R12,00 COMBO

GS 2X HOT DO

450 Church Street PMB Tel: (033) 345 3130

OSTEOEZE PLATINUM

PLUSSSZ 20’s Memory & Concentration

FREE RADICAL

240

HAEMOCLEAR SYRUP 200ml

299

FLU PAK

FIZZ C PLUS 10’s

FREE FLUGON CAPS

SUPAVITE

Multivitamin Syrup 200ml

OTC SPECIALS

FREE SLIMCUT 100ml

Betalix 100ml...............................R35 Benylin 4 Flu 100ml.........................R43

160

FOR BILE/ INYONGO

Codoxol 40’s.................................R25 Nurofen Peroid Pain 12’s.............R39

Mixture 100ml.................R10 Tea 20’s...........................R35 Tonic 100ml.....................R19 Capsules..........................R10

6995

Contains: 1. Flu Tablets 2. Cough Mixture 3. Pain/ Fever Tablets 4. Throat Lozenges 5. Chest Rub 6. Tissues 7. Immune Booster

WAIST BELT

35 SLIMMING CREAM 100g

FREE DIABEVIT

KOFLET SYRUP

100

MELLOMAG C 100gr

ANTAGOLIN

Lenamet OTC 20’s........................R20 Sinucon 20’s...................................R33

WHY PAY MORE? TRENVIT Vitamins

CALPIN PLUS

7995

R SAVE

30’s

R50

30’s 30

SAVE

R107

Similar Si il to t ‘Centrum’ ‘C

Similar Si il to t ‘Caltrate’ ‘C

THROAT

VEST

Spray

20each 2

SSimilar to ‘M Medi-Keel’

DILINCT Junior

45 4

R SAVE

100ml 1

R20

Similar tto ‘BBenylin li W Wet Cough’

R SAVE

SOFLAX

Laxative Tablets

2 25

R15

R SAVE

20’s

R14

Similar Si il to t ‘S ‘Senokot’

HYOSPASMOL Syrup

50ml

SAVE

GELACID SAVE

6 60

100ml

R25

SSimilar l to ‘Gaviscon’ ‘

CAL-C-KIDS

147

170g

100ml

Similar to t ‘Vicks’

Similar to ‘Buscopan’

Similar to ‘Calsuba’

ACTAMOL

SUPA VITE ZINC

WORMSTOP

1210 100’s

R SAVE

4995

200ml

R35

Similar Si il to ‘Calpol

Similar to ‘Zinplex’

1 19

R SAVE

R20

Similar to ‘Vermox’

Traditional African Medicines MORINGA IMMUNE BOOSTER 1lt

UTI TONIC 1lt

MORINGA POWDER 50g

CD PLUS

1 for R75

1 for R30

1 for R80

2 FOR R

SAVE R30

SAVE R5

SAVE R30

120

NONGXAMELA ULCERS 1lt

120

REJOOVENA 1lt

TMAN APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

130

ORGANIMUNE

1 for R95

1 for R103

1 for R83

1 for R90

2 FOR R

SAVE R40

SAVE R41

SAVE R26

SAVE R30

150

UMPHANGA WEPHIKA 1lt 1 for R120

165

UBHOKO 1lt

IMPILO ALOE VERA 1lt

1 for R140

1 for R69

2 FOR

2 FOR R

SAVE R60

SAVE R28

SAVE R50

SAVE R20

ISIKHWILI 1lt

UVUKAHLALE POWER BOOSTER

150

1 for R150

2 FOR R

190

140

280

OBEE’S

220

110

REVIVE BLOOD PRESSURE UJUQU IMMUNE BOOSTER 1lt

1 for R152

1 for R150

1 for R78

1 for R90

2 FOR

2 FOR R

SAVE R26

SAVE R36

250

SAVE R54

250

SAVE R50

130

ATM INSTORE • While Stocks Last!

144

NEWS

MARITZBURG ECHO

June 30, 2022

Substance abuse linked to crimes in Mountain Rise SAKHISENI NXUMALO

he majority of the escalating crimes such as housebreaking, theft and robberies in Pietermaritzburg’s Mountain Rise areas are believed to be linked to substance abuse. These are the views shared by community members in the area, who believe that there is an urgent need to root out the scourge. A resident, who asked not to be named, suspected that young people who are addicted to drugs are mostly behind the robberies and theft. She said that whenever these criminals are looking for money to buy their drugs, they turn to stealing whatever they can find to sell. “We have had our water metre box stolen twice now, and I believe it’s because they are looking for copper to sell to the scrap yards. “Also, every day someone posts on our community WhatsApp group that they had their copper pipe stolen or there has been a break-in. “It’s a serious matter which has been raised with the police and they have been asked to deal with the issue of scrap yards who buy from these criminals,” said a resident. Another resident said the issue of drug abuse has been reported in many schools in the northern areas. In a bid to address and curb various crimes from taking place in and around the policing ar-

ea, Mountain Rise SAPS have been having crime prevention operations on weekends. The operations start on Friday and continue until Sunday evening. Mountain Rise police communication officer, Warrant Officer Panchael Julius Singh, said they are aware of the crimes and substance abuse in the area. Singh said, together with the community police forum, they have been conducting ongoing drugs awareness campaigns to address the issue of substance abuse. “The campaign is ongoing and we are targeting schools because we have issues in schools where learners are found to be using drugs and bringing them into schools. “We have been doing our operations and they are yielding success. “Police go out to [known drug hotspots] and conduct raids. The police together with the CPF and private security companies do go to schools and conduct searches,” said Singh. Singh urged community members who might have relatives who are struggling with substance abuse to come forward so that they can try and assist them with rehabilitation. He noted, however, that not all housebreaking and theft are related to substance abuse. Singh said some of the crimes are committed by people looking to make quick cash.

MARITZBURG ECHO

June 30, 2022

NEWS

Residents need urgent assistance T

he Democratic Alliance (DA) in Msunduzi Municipality visited Azalea residents whose homes were damaged by a severe storm in December 2021. The storm left gaping holes on their old asbestos roofs. Hannah Shameema Winkler, DA’s constituency head for Msunduzi, said the oversight visit revealed that the conditions which these residents – especially the elderly, sickly, and vulnerable – continue to live in have deteriorated well past the level of what is acceptable to human dignity and well-being. She said the continued exposure to water leaks, which continue to cause damage to property and dampness leading to mould infestation, poses a significant health risk to residents. Prior to this oversight, Shameema Winkler said the DA Chief Whip in Msunduzi, Bongumusa Nhlabathi, had submitted a letter to the general manager of sustainable development and City enterprises in Msunduzi. He requested an urgent follow-up to what were “hollow promises” allegedly made by the MEC for Human Settlements, Jomo Sibiya, and other official officials during their visit to the affected area in January this year.

“On this official visit, MEC Jomo Sibiya promised residents that the roofs would be replaced within 10 days. “Two days later… officials returned to Azalea Township to take measurements and assess the damages. “To date, there have been no repairs to the houses or roofs despite desperate calls from residents, neither has there been any feedback. “The callous treatment of Azalea township’s long-suffering residents by the municipality is unacceptable,” she said. Shameema Winkler said they are waiting for a response from the municipality after they sent questions on what is the municipality’s knowledge of the roof repair project, the role and involvement of Msunduzi Municipality’s Human Settlements in the project, and what are the time frames of the roof repair project. “Should a prompt response not be forthcoming from Mr Nxumalo, as the DA we will escalate the issue to the Provincial MEC and if necessary to the National Minister of Human Settlements. “The DA will continue to pursue all necessary angles to ensure accountability for the residents of Azalea township. “The health and human dignity of this community must be restored as a matter of urgency,” said Shameema Winkler.

PHOTO: DA

A house in Azalea with a damaged roof.

FREE CURTAIN MAKING SALE NOW ON

PEE VEE’S CURTAIN CENTRE 212 Victoria Road - 033 342 4164 / 033 394 3854 Email: info@peeveescurtain.co.za

• CURTAINS • BLINDS • QUILTS • UPHOLSTERY MUCH MUCH MORE IN STORE SPECIALS

OUR SERVICES

- ALTERATIONS TO CURTAINS - UPHOLSTERY - RE-LINING OF CURTAINS - CHANGING OF EYELID TAPE - COLLECT, WASH & REHANG - HEADBOARDS

Upholstery fabric 140cm width R39,00 per meter

FREE PARKING AT THE REAR OF THE SHOP SALE ENDS 02 JULY 2022

INVITATION TO COMMENT

HOME TO BEDDING AND CHAINSTORE LIVING

THE MSUNDUZI MUNICIPALITY HAS RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING APPLICATION IN TERMS THE SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT ACT (NO. 16 OF 2013) AND THE MSUNDUZI MUNICIPALITY’S SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT BYLAWS.

f Share your thoughts and views with us. Have your say on the Maritzburg Echo Facebook page.

Application description in full: Application for special consent for a Service Industrial Building. Property description as per title deed: Portion 6 (of 1) of Erf 2242 Pietermaritzburg

494 CHURCH STREET | 033 345 7990

Down Town, (between Knipe Street and Thomas Street), Pietermaritzburg VOILE CURTAINS WITH TAPE

IMPERFECT COMFORTERS

FLANNEL FLEECE URBAN THROW

15% OFF ALL CHAINSTORE CURTAINS

Physical address/ describe location: 486 Boom Street A copy of the application is available for inspection during office hours (08h00 and 16h00) at the Town Planning Offices, 5th Floor, Professor Nyembezi Building, 341 Church Street, Pietermaritzburg. A petition or written comments must be lodged with the Town Planning Administrator (Tel 033392 2180), by e-mail to Ziphelele.Shinga@msunduzi.gov.za, or hand delivered to the Town Planning Offices (address stated above) or by post to Private Bag X 1393, Pietermaritzburg, 3200 by 01 August 2022 (A petition should be structured in accordance with a template obtainable from Town Planning Administrator). Failure to submit a petition or comments by the closing date, or to include full contact details, disqualifies the person from the right to receive personal notice of any future meeting or public hearing and the right to appeal against the decision of the Municipality. Persons submitting comments must ensure that they are identifiable in relation to the property (Erf number and/or Street number) which they own or reside on. Ms. N. Ngcobo Acting City Manager City Hall Pietermaritzburg MASIPALA WASEMSUNDUZI SPATIAL PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT ACT NO 16 OF 2013 ISIMEMO SOKUNIKEZELA NGEMIBONO

SINGLE THREE QUARTER DOUBLE QUEEN

R250 R130 R150 R175

TABLE TOP UNICORN DRAWER SET

270cm x 225cm

180cm x 200cm

R70 per drop

AVAILABLE IN WHITE AND CREAM

ASSORTED SHOWER CURTAINS

R145

15% OFF ALL CHAINSTORE CURTAINS

ESPELLO LUXURY PILLOWS

ESPELLO LUXURY INNERS

UMasipala waseMsunduzi uthole isicelo ngokwesimiso se Spatial Planning and Land use Management Act (No. 16 of 2013) ne Msunduzi By-Laws, sokuchibiyelwa kwe Town Planning Scheme kanje:Incazelo yesicelo:Isicelo sifakelwe ukucela imvume ekhethekileyo yokusungulwa kwe Service Industrial Building. Isiza sesicelo:Ingxenye 6 ( ka 1) yeSiza 2242 Pietermaritzburg

STANDARD

Ikheli lesicelo:486 Boom Street Incwadi yesicelo iyatholakala ukuze uyihlaziye, phakathi kwezikhathi zokusebenza (08h00 - 16h00) ehhovisi leTown Planning Services efasiteleni lemibuzo, 5th Floor, Professor Nyembezi Centre, 341 Church Street, Pietermaritzburg. Imibono nomqingo wezikhalazo mayelana nesicelo ingethulwa kwiTown Planning Administrator yakwaMasipala waseMsunduzi (033 392 2180), nge e-mail (Ziphelele.Shinga@msunduzi.gov.za), noma yethulwe ngesandla emahhovisi noma iposelwe ku (Private Bag X 1393, Pietermaritzburg, 3200) ungakashayi umhlaka 1 August 2022 ( incwadi yezikhalalzo mayenziwe ifane netebhula elitholakale kwi Town Planning Administrator). UMasipala waseMsunduzi angeke uyamukele imibono eﬁka emuva kwesikhathi sokuvalwa esinqunyiwe noma engenayo iminingwane ephelele. Abantu abahlulekile ukuveza imibono yabo ngesikhathi kanjalo nabahlulekile ubu veza ngokucacile ukuthi bangatholakala kanjani neminingwane yokuhlala nokubaxhuma ngeke bakwazi ukuba novo nesinqumo sikaMasipala. Ms. N. Ngcobo Ibambela Meneja kaMasipala City Hall Pietermaritzburg

R115

R65 each

CONTINENTAL

PRICES VALID TILL 6TH JULY 2022 OPEN THIS SUNDAY 03 JULY 2022 10AM TILL 2PM LAYBYES ARE STRICTLY 90 DAYS (NO LAYBYES ON SALE PRICES)

Whatsapp 072 502 9480

ADD US ON WHATSAPP FOR INSTORE OR WHOLESALE PRICES

TEL: 033 345 7990

FOR 2

R135 FOR 2

R180

SINGLE THREE QUARTER DOUBLE QUEEN KING SUPER KING

R180 R190 R200 R210 R230 R280

FREE PARKING AVAILABLE 494 CHURCH STREET PIETERMARITZBURG

Mon-Fri: 8:30 am - 5pm / Saturday: 8:30am - 2pm

NEWS

MARITZBURG ECHO

June 30, 2022

Mpac to probe Winter Clearance mayor’s staff Sale !!! complement 532 Pietermaritz Street • Tel: 033 345 7830

Everything Must Go!!! Valid date 1st July to 7th July 2022

Sleezy Sleep Base Set @

R1199

Paris Lounge Suite 4pc @

R4499

EUROTOP Hotel Collection Base Set @

R2499

Tuscany Lounge Suite 3pc @

R6999

Soho Corner Lounge Suite @

R8999

Living Room Concept (Plasma Stand & Coﬀee Table) @

R1999

Pick, Choose and Refuse! More then 80 Options to Choose

Glass Dining Set 5pc 9107 @

R1499

Kandy Kitchen Scheme 3pc

R1199

B66 Bedroom Set 3pc @

Royal PVC 3Door Wardrobe @

R2499

R1199

Fancy Designer Coﬀee Table @

Hisense Chest Freezer 170L

R299

R2699

WHATSAPP US TODAY: ALL PICTURES FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES. WE RESERVE RIGHT TO LIMIT QUANTITIES. E&OE

CHRIS NDALISO

ayor Mzimkhulu Thebolla’s office is alleged to have an over-bloated staff complement while the cash-strapped Msunduzi Municipality battles with crumbling infrastructure and minimal service delivery. Of the staff, seven are his bodyguards, a former ANC councillor, Mahmood Oumar, alleges. When asked for comment, Thebolla declined to confirm or refute the allegations about his staff complement. Oumar’s concern and that of opposition parties is the over-bloated staff complement amid the City’s financial crisis and “rampant” expenditure on the mayor’s office while issues touching the ratepayers are taking a back seat. Thebolla is alleged to have seven bodyguards, four interns, a communications officer, an official for special programmes, a manager in the mayor’s office, a senior manager for political support, and the youth centre with 12 staff in it. The mayor played down the allegations

without entertaining the request to confirm the exact number of his staff. In a texted message, he only said: “I cannot respond to a bitter and disgruntled person. This one is very bitter. He thinks the ANC owes him. That would be my comment.” The Msunduzi municipal public accounts committee (Mpac) said it will investigate the allegations. Committee chairperson Zwelinjani Magubane said: “We will investigate this and check out the organogram of his [mayor’s] office. If it’s true, we can’t accept such wasteful expenditure ...” The ACDP said leaders should lead by example. Party councillor in Msunduzi, Rienus Niemand, said the municipality is in financial distress. “Austerity measures must start at the top. In as far as his bodyguard count is concerned, we are concerned that the violent faction fighting within the ANC is indirectly sponsored by the ratepayers ... The ACDP will pose a written question to establish the extent of the staff, including the bodyguards, and cost to the ratepayer,” said Niemand.

Share your thoughts and views with us. Have your say on the Maritzburg Echo Facebook page.

30 June 2022

Maritzburg ECHO

S MIXED VEG CURRY 410G

EACH

KOO MIXED VEGETABLES 410G

R 99

RHODES APRICOT JAM 450G

NESTLE CONDENSED MILK 290G

R 99

NESTLE CARAMEL TREAT 290G

EACH

FROM

R 99

99 EACH

BOSS MIGHTY CHUNKS 775G

EACH

JUNGLE OATS 1KG

1499

EACH

2999

EACH

EACH EACH EACH

R 99

LIQUI FRUIT JUICE 2LT

9 R 50 1

R 99

EACH

OIL HEATER 7 FIN

OIL HEATER 9 FIN

FROM

3 BAR HEATER 1200W ZR-6005

4 BAR QUARTZ 1600W

2 BAR HEATER CERAMIC TUBE

5 BAR HEATER WITH FAN & HUMIDIFIER

FROM

EACH

CORDED KETTLE 1.7LT

EACH

CORDLESS KETTLE 1.7LT

EACH

1600

FROM

WALL SOCKET 1X3PIN + 1X INTERNATIONAL

3499

EACH

RECT. BULK HEAD WALL LIGHT FITTING

7499 R 7999 R

EACH

1499

ASSORTED JUICE 2LT

REDISSON KETTLE

EACH

HALL’S JUICE 1.25LT

R 99

EACH

48900 R 54900 R 29900 R 39900 R 19900 R 67500

FROM

EACH

ASSORTED ENERGADE 500ML

2499

R A

EACH

CHIPS STRIPS PACK OF 4 12G

EACH

R 99

EACH

ASSORTED CHIPS 100G FROM

1999

FATTI’S AND MONI’S SPAGHETTI 500G

CHEEZY BITES LOOSE

EACH

FROM

CHEEZY BITES PACK OF 6 180G

PUREJOY PACK OF 6 6X200ML

1999

EACH

ORIGINAL HONEY 500G

EACH

1499

FROM

MRS BALLS CHUTNET 470G

EACH

R 99

EACH

MAMA’S ASSORTED SAUCES 2LT

NESCAFE CLASSIC COFFEE 200G

JOKO TEA BAGS 20’S

EEZEE NOODLES PACK 0F 5

R 99

EACH

R 99

LAAGER ROOIBOS TEA BAGS 20’s

EACH

R 99

R 00

NYALA SUPER MAIZE MEAL 1KG

FROM

YUM YUM PEANUT BUTTER 800G

RHODES GRATED BEETROOT 780G

EACH

TOASTEA MILK RUST

EACH

MAMA’S ASSORTED SAUCES 750ML

PHENDULA TIPS TEA BAGS 100’s

2999

EACH

SIX GUN GRILL SPICE 200G

EACH

12999

MASEEHA BASMATI RICE 5KG

FROM

EACH

NOLA MAYONNAISE 750G

EACH

R 99

EACH

FROM

BLACK CAT PEANUT BUTTER 400G

CROSS & BLACKWELL MAYONNAISE 750G

R 99

KNORR ASSORTED SOUPS 50G

KNORROX ASSORTED SOUPS 200G

2299

R 99

EACH

1499 R 1499 R

NESTLE IDEAL EVAPORATED MILK 380G

MY LIFE PORRIDGE 500G

IN AN EFFORT TO REDUCE PRINT MEDIA, WE HAVE MOVED OVER TO E-MARKETING. YOU WILL BE ABLE TO VIEW OUR LATEST PROMO’S ON OUR NEW WHATSAPP BUSINESS.

KNORROX SOYA MINCE 400G

FUTURE LIFE PORIDGE 500G

- ADD 081 505 7940 TO YOUR CONTACTS. - SAY “HI” TO US ON WHATSAPP & FOLLOW THE PROMPTS. - OR SCAN THE QR CODE .

MIXED FRUIT JAM 900G

CHICK PEAS 410G

GET OUR LATEST SPECIALS!

30 JUNE TO 03 JULY 2022

R 99

EACH

BUTTER BEANS 410G

Page 7

EACH

ROUND GALLERY LIGHT FITTING WITH HOLDER

1799

EACH

Page 8

Maritzburg ECHO

30 June 2022

WOZA WINTER

I SAVINGS

PENSION PAYOUT STARTS MONDAY, 04 JULY 2022

SPECIALS VALID FROM THURSDAY, 30 JUNE - 06 JULY 2022 WHILE STOCKS LAST • SELECTED STORES ARE OPEN ON SUNDAYS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

119

MUTTON FLAVOURED SAUSAGES PER KG

JWAYELANI RUSSIANS PER KG

INDUNA WORS PER KG

JWAYELANI CHICKEN BACKS 5KG

CHICKEN LEG QUARTERS PER KG

129

BRAAI WORS BUCKET 4KG

BEEF LIVER PER KG

25KG

129

FRESH WHOLE CHICKEN TWIN PACK PER KG

DELI COUNTER

JWAYELANI CHICKEN FEET 5KG

149

RAINBOW CHICKEN LEG QUARTERS 3.5KG

19999

25KG

12799

JWAYELANI COOKING OIL 5LT

R730

STAR SUPER MAIZE MEAL 25KG, ROYAL RICE 25KG, AZAM CAKE WHEAT FLOUR 10KG & DÊLITE PURE COOKING OIL 5LT

R24 KOO BAKED BEANS IN TOMATO SAUCE 410G

15499

ALL FOR

TAKE 2 FOR

GOLDEN SMILE RED SPECKLED BEANS 5KG

HULETTS WHITE SUGAR 10KG

5599 2399

MEGASAVE POLONY ASSORTED 2KG

LARGE EGGS 30ÊS

GOLDEN SPARKLE DISHWASHING LIQUID 750ML

10999 SASKO CAKE WHEAT FLOUR 10KG

7999 NYALA SUPER MAIZE MEAL 10KG

TAKE 2 FOR

6999 11999

ITAU SUPER MAIZE MEAL 10KG

AUNT CAROLINE RICE 10KG

R35 4299 4999 DANONE ULTRA MEL CUSTARD 1LT

SPRING MEADOW FULL CREAM AMASI 4KG

SUNLIGHT ORIGINAL WASHING POWDER 2KG

PIETERMARITZBURG: Retief St, 367 Pietermaritzburg Street • ESTCOURT: Alexandra St • NEWCASTLE: Main Rd • HAMMARSDALE: 304 Main Road

GOVERNMENT GRANTS & PENSION PAYOUTS DONE HERE SIHOLELA IMPESHENI AIRTIME AVAILABLE AT TILL POINTS WE ACCEPT DEBIT & CREDIT CARDS WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO LIMIT QUANTITIES NOT TRADERS PRICES VALID WHILE STOCKS LAST NOT PRICES INCLUDE VAT E&OE

WWW.JWAYELANI.CO.ZA LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

30 June 2022

Maritzburg ECHO

Page 9

Page 10

Maritzburg ECHO

30 June 2022

www.W24.co.za

Your life. Your style.

Fashion, beauty & lifestyle inspiration online.

R350 ONLY THROUGH BABA NOWA CHANGED MY LIFE COMPLETELY It is true. If you have suffered enough but one day, your life will change completely. Now its time to see Miracles through Baba Nowa. My name is Mpho, I stay in Newcastle, KZN. I am here to testify about what Baba Nowa did in my life. He helped me with financial problems, since I have tried many doctors and read many Testimonies but never got help, when I read the testimony of Mr Mtuli that Baba Nowa had changed his life with only R350. I decided to contact him for my problems, He asked me to choose between lucky wallet and the short boys to put money in my account or Blackstone to bring Money in my house. I then chose the short boys to put money in my account. I was shocked after I waited a few hours to receive a notification from the bank That the money I chose was deposited into my bank account. My sister after seeing this, she also called and chose lucky wallet, since she was far she gave him her address then he sent the parcel to her via SPEED SERVICE COURIERS and she got it the same day. She got a lot of money from that wallet and paid him his percentage. Thank you Baba Nowa for changing my life. My family and friends I introduced to you Baba are now happy.

DON’T WASTE TIME JUST CALL BABA NOWA NOW!

082 777 6854

30 June 2022

Maritzburg ECHO

Page 11

Page 12

Maritzburg ECHO

30 June 2022

Specials Valid from 30th June till Stocks last!

PHC CLINIC OPEN DAILY 8AM TO 5:30PM

UMA UNENKINGA YOKHATHALA, UHLUSHWA UMKHUHLANE, AWUDLI KAHLE, WEHLA NASEMZIMBENI, AMASOSHA WAKHO APHANSI THOLA LEMISHANGUZO

Immune Complex 30’s

• Free Blood Pressure Test • FREE Sugar Test • FREE Urine Test • HIV Testing & Counselling • Assessment & Treatment of STDS • Pregnancy Testing & Family Planning • Acne, Psoriasis & Eczema Treatment • Wound Care • Flu Vaccines • Pain & Vitamin Injections • Weight Loss Advice

Airmune Fizz 10’s

Nativa Vitamin C 60’s

129 FIZZ C 10’s

Lifegain 1kg

Revital Royale

299

Lifegain 300g

COME IN FOR HEARING TESTS & AFFORDABLE HEARING AIDS

Revital Ginseg Plus

149

Zinc and Selenium 25mg 120 tablets

AUDIOLOGIST INSTORE

INSTORE SPECIAL

Ngoma Immune Booster 500ml

UMA UNENKINGA YOMKHUHLANE, NOKUKHWEHLELA OKUNGAPHELI THOLA UKUNCINANA, UKUKHWEHLELA, UKUTHIMULA, INHLUNGU ZAMAJOYINTI, IKHUPHULA AMASOSHA, IYATHOKALA EYENGANE NABADALA

Linctagon C 100ml

Linctagon C Junior 100ml

+ FREE Lip Balm

Linctagon C Junior 100ml

Linctagon C 200ml

129

Prospan 100ml

Linctagon Fizzy

UMA UHLUSHWA ISILUNGULELA NE-ACID ENINGI EMZIMBENI

OsteoEze Alkaline Powder 150g

Himalaya Aloe Vera Face Wash 150ml

Gaviscon Syrup 100ml

Gelacid Suspension 100ml & 200ml

BOTH FOR

Himalaya Exfoliating Face Wash 150ml

159

179

IZINHLUNGU ZAMATHAMBO, UKUQAQAMBA KWAMADOLO, IMILENZE EBUHLUNGU NEVUVUKALAYO, AMAJAQAMBA NENKWANTSHU

Threshhold 60 tablets

Go Pain P Syrup 100ml

Painamol Green 20’s Flustat 20’s Napacod 20’s Iodisod 20’s Benylin 4Flu 100ml Benylin 4Flu 200ml Koﬂet Syrup 100ml

5 10 R12 R7 R59 R99 R59 R

159

ALPHA SPECS - ALL SIZES

OKOMPHIMBO, AMATHANSELA

Listerine Total Care 95ml 2 FOR

199

UMA UNENHLUNGU EZINGAPHELI THOLA

Ibugesic Plus 30’s Syndol 20’s

AMATHAMBO

69 R69 R50 R99

Ibugesic Forte 30’s

#LookingAfterYour Sight

COLD & FLU SPECIAL

Venavine 30 caps

Zinium Syrup 200ml

Magup 30 caps

AMAVITAMIN ENGANE ANO VITAMIN C OVIKELA UMKHUHLANE NOKUTHI INGANE INGAKHATHALI, IPHINDE IKWAZI NOKUVULEKA INHLIZIYO

139

109

139

Venavine Gel 125ml

Magup 30 ﬁzz

Rumalaya + FREE Rumalaya Rub

Syndol 40’s USHUKELA

OZIFO ZONKE

Oranix Oral Spray 30ml

Umhlabelo Wempilo

Isiduko Sashukela

Inhlansi Yokuphila

FOR

2 FOR

115

200

180

170

June 30, 2022

MARITZBURG ECHO

NEWS

Suppliers of Quality Curtains & Linen DEEP BUTTON HEADBOARDS Assorted Colours

Author pens book of encouragement LETHIWE MAKHANYA >>lethiwe.makhanya@media24.com

“I

f you have dreams you need to be careful of the things that might block you from reaching them.” These are the words of the Lincoln Meade author Thulani ‘Yeyeye’ Gumede who recently released his 12th book. The tittle of the book is The Finishing Line. Speaking to Echo Gumede said seeing many people who have dreams, but are not be able to fulfil them due to small things that they come across, is what inspired him to write this book. He said the purpose of the book is to encourage people to stay focused on their dreams and be careful of the things that might stop their dreams from coming true. “When growing up there are things that

we come across in life and some of those things are the ones that stop us from reaching the finish line of our dreams if we get involved with them. You can be passionate about something but if you are not careful you might not finish your race in life. “With this book I want people to open their eyes all the time and make sure that they do not lose focus. You will find that there are people who go out to chase their dreams so that they can make their lives better, but you end up finding that their lives have changed for the worst instead of better,” he said. Gumede said this book will be a series of three and he is planning on releasing a second series in October and third one in March next year. He also revealed that he will be doing motivational talks around families and love on Umoya FM at 4.45pm every Sunday.

now

Sunflower oil is almost 40% more expensive than a year ago, said Kelly. Prices for sunflower oil jumped by 16,1% between April and May. Prices for bread and cereals increased by 3,4% between April and May — taking the annual rate to 8,4%. The annual inflation rate for transport, meanwhile, hit 15,7%. The hike was mainly driven by fuel increases of 32,5%. Most economists had expected the May print to exceed six percent. In a market update ahead of the data release, the Bureau for Economic Research said it is unlikely that May’s inflation would be the peak. FNB economists expect inflation to continue rising in June on the back of rising food and petrol prices. At the SA Tomorrow 2022 conference on Tuesday, Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago said that steps were taken as early as July last year to control inflation — at a gradual pace. In contrast, the U.S. announced a significant rate hike of 75 basis points — its biggest hike since 1994, Fin24 reported. Kganyago vowed that the bank would continue to manage inflation, especially in light of the sharp hikes introduced by major economies. — Fin24.

‘Many likely to face blank TV screens’ CLIVE NDOU Thousands of KwaZulu-Natal residents will not have access to television should government go ahead with its plan to shut down analogue transmission by next week. Briefing the media recently, Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the damage caused to the infrastructure by the floods made it impossible to install set top boxes in some of the province’s areas. “It should be remembered that some houses are on unsuitable land — so if you try to install something, you risk collapsing the houses. “The destruction of infrastructure such as roads and bridges mean that our installation teams are not able to reach certain communities. “Unfortunately, there isn’t much we can do as a department about that. We just have to wait for the infrastructure to be repaired,” she said. The department had until Tuesday to conclude its digital migration programme. Ntshavheni said failure to meet that deadline would have a dire consequence for the country. “Delays will have a crippling effect on the

economy,” he said. Television broadcaster, eTV, which argued that the Tuesday deadline for the country to switch off its analogue transmission will result in citizens who currently do not have set top boxes being unable to access TV stations, is challenging the deadline in the Constitutional Court. Ntshavheni said the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) would not be able to release the much-needed spectrum for better connectivity unless the migration happened. “We are eagerly awaiting the ConCourt decision on the analogue switch-off date for us to conclude broadcast digital migration. This will allow us to release spectrum in Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Eastern Cape,” Ntshavheni said. “Unfortunately, until the analogue switchoff, the country’s economic hubs of Gauteng and KZN will remain with poor network connectivity, with a negative impact to the economy,” he said The migration, Ntshavheni said, also made it possible for the government to roll out its programme to provide 10GB of free data to every household within the next three years.

now

1099 R1199

sale price

R SLEEPER COUCH Black, Grey, Red, Dark Brown, Charcoal, Purple

1999

DINNING CHAIR BUTTON

Sharp rise in inflation Consumer inflation for May hit 6,5%, which breaches the upper limit of the Reserve Bank’s target range of four to six percent. Stats SA recently released the latest inflation data. This is the highest inflation rate since January 2017, when the inflation was 6,6%. Stats SA said the uptick, from 5,9% recorded in April, was mainly driven by increases in food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing and utilities, transport and miscellaneous goods and services. Consumer inflation increased 0,7% on a month-on-month basis. Patrick Kelly, Stats SA’s chief director of price statistics, explained that prices for food and non-alcoholic beverages jumped by 2,1% between April and May. This is the largest increase since February 2016, when South Africa was experiencing a drought. The oils and fats food group, in particular, is facing “sustained levels” of high inflation, Kelly noted. The annual price hike for this group was 26,9% in May. Annual increases in oil and fats have been above 10% since December 2020. On a month-to-month basis, prices for oils and fats jumped by 10,1% — the first time since 1997 that prices have increased by more than 10% in a single month.

KING WAS R1699

DOUBLE/ QUEEN WAS R1599

sale price

R Printed Back Designs may vary according to colour

1399

was R499 now

DESIGNER PLASTIC AND WOODEN CHAIRS

330

ROUND OTTOMANS WITH GOLD TRIM BASE Various Colours

sale price ELSEWHERE R399

our price

299

699

DINNING CHAIRS 3 Colour Striped

sale price

799

DINNING CHAIRS Plain Colours

SHOP 11• PARKLANE CENTRE • TEL: 033 342 5769

Page 14

Maritzburg ECHO

Uthingo Network members proudly raising their rainbow flags.

30 June 2022

Uthingo Network members at one of their interventions.

Uthingo reflect on struggles as they mark Pride Month NOSIPHO GUMEDE

ride Month, June, is a celebration month for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex + (LGBTQI+) community during which they also protest against legal discrimination and inequality. Uthingo Network in Pietermaritzburg has been helping the LGBTQI+ community for about 19 years. The social group, founded by Pietermaritzburg local Anthony Wauldhausen, aims to create a safe space for the LGBTQI+ community to socialise, share struggles and just enjoy themselves and be free. This is because many queer people still experience violence and discrimination in society, homes and schools. According to the organisation, their name — Uthingo Network — is Zulu for Rainbow network, and it means everyone is accepted no matter how they

identify. Pietermaritzburg Uthingo Network director Brian Sibeko-Ngidi spoke about the organisation, Pride Month and some of the challenges that the LGBTQI+ community still face today. According to Sibeko-Ngidi, Uthingo network is an LGBTQI+ organisation focused on ensuring that queer people enjoy legal protection. This is stipulated in the Constitution. “We try to change people’s perception and impart knowledge because we realise that most cases of discrimination happen because people do not understand. “People have prejudiced ideas about those who are marginalised and those viewed as different, so our job is to ensure that we build healthy and empowered communities where everyone can be accepted no matter their cultural background, sexual orienta-

tion, gender identity and expressions,” said Sibeko-Ngidi. He added that they focus on rural communities because most queer organisations are concentrated in urban areas and they aim to reach everyone. Some of the services they offer include lay counselling services, mental wellness, HIV/Aids education and testing when needed, and they are also able to link people to other services that provide access to ARVs or gender affirming healthcare. “One of our biggest things is offering counselling to the LGBTQI+ community and their families because sometimes parents struggle with the fact their children have come out or are transgender. “We also do a lot of interventions in schools regarding the whole issue of school uniforms, and we try to make schools understand and accept children of the LGBTQI+ community.

DERBY ROSE INVESTMENTS cc T/A

KWA SYBA BUTCHERY

“We also offer sensitisation trainings with different stakeholders like the police because that is where LGBTQI+ individuals run to get help or to report a case of violation or any other violence.” Sibeko-Ngidi added that if those spaces are not sensitised, then it means that individuals of the LGBTQI+ community will get further victimised when going to police stations, adding that they work with the police to make them understand and know how to work or treat LGBTQI+ individuals. They work with the Department of Health and healthcare providers and other service providers, Sibeko-Ngidi added. Giving insight on Pride Month, he said the month provides the LGBTQI+ community with a chance to reflect on their considerable achievements as a movement. “It is a chance to also reflect on the

struggles that we are still facing. Pride “Month means we have a chance to amplify our winnings, we have won a lot. For example, queer people can get married in South Africa, we have legal protections, and we get to celebrate who we are without any fear of being victimised although there is a high possibility of that happening,” he said. He added that it also shows that they are here, they exist, and they are human beings like everybody else. Sibeko-Ngidi said the biggest change he would like to see is more influence from the country’s leaders, saying that they need to speak more about the movement and hold interventions, the same way they hold interventions for gender-based violence and 16 days of activism. “They should also hold campaigns to create awareness and make a positive change for gay communities,” said Sibeko-Ngidi.

TEL: 072 704 4484 77A CHURCH STREET, PMB • TEL: 084 678 6558

WHOLESALERS OF QUALITY ‘A’ GRADE BEEF & PRIME CUTS

WE HAVE MOVED

from 61 Church Street to 77A Church Street

Curry Beef

CHuCK & BLaDe

MeaTy BONeS

r69.99

r89.99 Per KG

r39.99

TeXaN STeaK

WHOLe SILVerSIDe

WHOLe BuTTOCKS

r89.99

r99.99

r79.99

Per KG

SpecialS valid from 30/06/22 to 03/07/22

Per KG

30 June 2022

Maritzburg ECHO

Page 15

A Grade

Riversmead Star pack

Lean Steak Mince

Fore Quarters Beef

99.99

89.99

49.99

p/kg

Marinated Chicken Wings/Fillet

139.99

p/kg

200.00

Lamb Bulk Packs

99.99

69.99

Chicken /Wors&Beef

p/kg

Beef Stir Fry /Steak Cubes

Combo

Fresh Chicken Fillets

69.99

p/kg

WE CUT MEAT NOT CORNERS Super Braai Wors

69.99

Russians Cheese Russians

Chilli/Plain

89.99

2kg

Cleaned Sheep Tripe

59.99

p/kg

49.99

p/kg

Arabian Sausages

89.99

p/kg

Braai Wors 10x400g

139.99 p/kg

O F F E R AVA I L A B L E AT T H E F O L L O W I N G S T O R E S : S U P E R S AV E 1 5 7 R e t i e f S t , P i e t e r m a r i t z b u r g also at Supersavers 50 Alan Paton Avenue The mall @Scottsville Pietermaritzburg All Prices in South African Rands.Offers valid from 30 JUne -06 July 2022. While Stocks last. T's& C's Apply. E&O.E.

Realise Advertising DBN 062 288 5753

Page 16

Maritzburg ECHO

30 June 2022

Some taxpayer tips SARS has introduced some changes to the auto assessment process this year to make it easier for taxpayers to file their income tax returns. Following a recent update on auto assessments, new information has been published on the SARS website. An auto assessment is based on data received from employers, medical aids, banks, retirement annuity funds, etc. Once SARS has completed the auto assessment, it will notify the taxpayer by SMS or email, and the taxpayer will be able to view it on the eFiling website or the SARS MobiApp. Taxpayers can view the third-party data that was used to prepopulate the return (by clicking on the “Third Party Data Certificate” search button on the menu bar) to check that the data is correct. If the taxpayer is satisfied that the auto assessment is correct and contains all relevant information, and a refund is due, they do not need to take any action to “submit” the assessment. If they are satisfied it is correct, but they are due to make a payment to SARS, they must do so within the payment due date specified on the Notice of Assessment (ITA34). However, if a taxpayer believes the auto assessment is incorrect, or does not contain information on all sources of income (eg, rental) or allowable deductions, they must access and complete their tax return and file it within 40 business days. If this is not possible, they can apply for an extension via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp before the 40 days is up or within 21 business days of the

SARS has introduced some changes to the auto assessment process this year.

40 days on the basis of reasonable grounds. Extensions beyond 21 business days will only be granted on exceptional grounds, which may be difficult to justify. There are administrative penalties for the late filing of a tax return. Previously, penalties only kicked in when two or more tax returns were outstanding. Since December 2021, SARS will levy administrative penalties when more than one tax return is outstanding. These penalties are based on taxable income, and they can range from R250 to R16 000 for each month that the return is outstanding. These penalties start to mount from the first day that the return is late. HERE ARE THE TOP 10 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO PREPARE FOR THE 2022 FILING SEASON: 1. Register on eFiling or the SARS MobiApp and avoid those queues!

2. Check that your bank details are correct and if necessary, correct or verify them especially if you are expecting a refund from SARS. 3. Collate supporting documents to complete your tax return if you have other sources of income, or if you claim medical expenses. 4. Check if you are a provisional taxpayer. Provisional taxpayers must file their returns by January 23, 2023, but non-provisional taxpayers have earlier filing dates. 5. If you only receive a salary and interest of less than R23 800 (under 65) or less than R34 500 (65 and older), and no other sources of income, then you are probably not a provisional taxpayer. You will need to file your returns by October 24, 2022 (unless you are auto assessed.) 6. If you are not a provisional taxpayer and only receive salary and

interest from a bank, then you may be auto assessed and be issued with an assessment by SARS pre-populated with third party data. Look out for the SMS or email from SARS that your auto-assessment in the form of an assessment is on eFiling or MobiApp ready for you to view. 7. Once you receive the auto-assessment SMS or email from SARS, log onto eFiling and check the assessment and the third-party data used to calculate the tax or refund due. If you are happy with the assessment, you need not “submit” the assessment. (This is different to the 2021 filing season which required you to submit the estimated assessment.) If a refund is due to you, the SARS website states that the refund process takes about 72 hours from the date the assessment was issued to you. If you owe SARS tax, you will need to pay by the due date on the assessment otherwise, there will be interest. 8. If you are not happy with the assessment, you will need to obtain and complete a tax return on eFiling within 40 business days from the date the assessment was issued. (However, if you are not happy with the third-party data used, you will first need to get the data corrected with the relevant third party.) The requirement to obtain and complete a return within 40 business days is something new this filing season. For example, if you are auto assessed and you are unhappy with this assessment which was issued on July 1, 2022, you will need to obtain and complete a tax return by

August 29 2022 (i.e., 40 business days after July 1, 2022). 9. What if you are not happy with your assessment from the auto-assessment and need more time to complete the tax return? SARS can grant an extension for you to file the return if a request with reasonable grounds is made preferably, within the 40 business days after the date your assessment was issued to you. If you are late, you can still request an extension with reasonable grounds within 21 business days after the 40 business days of the date the assessment was issued to you. For example, if your auto-assessment was issued on July 1 2022, request an extension preferably within 40 business days of July 1 2022, which is by August 29, 2022. If you are late, request an extension within 21 business days after August 29, 2022 i.e., by September 26, 2022. Extensions further than August 29, 2022 until June 30, 2025 (i.e., up to three years from issue date of assessment) require exceptional circumstances and may be difficult to justify. 10. Beware admin penalties — and here, there is a little uncertainty on due dates for taxpayers who are auto-assessed but want to file tax returns, and those that are not autoassessed and want to file tax returns. It appears (although it is not 100% clear), that your due date to file the completed return may be sooner than October 24, 2022 if you are auto assessed but want to file a return. — Fin24.

DISCOUNT AUTO BODY PARTS

AUDI, BMW, VW, MERCEDES, ISUZU, DAEWOO, NISSAN, TOYOTA, KIA, HONDA, HYUNDAI, FORD, JEEP, LANDROVER, MAZDA, OPEL, CHEV, RENAULT, SUZUKI, JETTA, POLO, GOLF, HARDBODY NP300, NP200, CORSA GAMA, UTILITY, RANGER, BANTAM ROCAM, MITSUBISHI, HILUX, FORTUNER, COROLLA, CONDOR, NISSAN 1400, CRESSIDA, AVEO, CRUZE, GWM, TATA, MAHINDRA, PEUGEOT, CAMRY, FIAT, ETIOS, HIACE, QUANTUM, VENTURE FOR ALL VEHICLES

SALE

Tail Gate

Mirror

Bonnet & Boot Catch Lock

Bonnet Side Panel

Bumper

Guard

Grills

Hood

Mirror

Spoiler

Head Lights

Tail Lights

Front Bumper

Rear Bumper

A/C Radiator Fan Radiator A/C Condenser

Bonnet & Tailgate

Fender

Tail Gates

Ama Bhesu 4x4 Polo Hulux Ranger (all cars)

Door Handles Inner & Outer

Car Door Rubbers

Radiator Support

Head Lamp Door

Door Hinges

Windscreen Regulator

Headlamp/ Indicator/ Wipers

Fan Cowling

Fog Kits ON SPECIAL

Headlights

Key Lock Sets

BUMPERS & BUMPER GRILL RADIATORS, AIR CONDENSORS & WATER BOTTLES DOOR MIRRORS BUMPER BRACKETS BUMPER REFLECTORS FAN & FAN ASSEMBLY RADIATORS BUMPER SPOILERS CRADLE, TAILGATES ON SALE FENDER & FENDER LINERS SHOCKS FOR BOOT & BONNET FOG LIGHTS & FOG COVERS DOOR HANDLES, TAIL GATE HANDLES DOOR HINGES & HANDLES WINDSHIELDS, BONNET & LIGHT GUARDS FENDER ARCHES MUD FLAPS CAR STYLING KITS , SIDE SKIRTS STEERING RACK BODY KITS, BUMPER LIPS, SPOILERS, DIFFUSER WINDOW SWITCHES & WINDERS CLIPS, CATCHES, TONNEAU COVERS, WINDSCREENS, DOOR GLASSES WIPER MOTORS WIPER LINKAGES SOUND PROOF RUBBERS, CANOPY WIPER ARMS MIRRORS RUBBERS, DOOR RUBBERS , WINDOW CHANNELS, BOOT RUBBERS, DUST RUBBERS KEY LOCKSETS, IGNITION AND BARREL, BOOT LOCKS, DOOR LOCKS, DISCOUNT CLUTCH KITS

Radiator & Condensors ON SALE

Window Winders

Tail Lights

Radiator Water Bottle

Tail Gate Handles

Wiper Motor, Linkage, Arms, Blades

BRING PICTURE OF CAR AND LICENSE DISC

AUTO BODY SUPPLIES

407 GREYLING STREET, PIETERMARITZBURG, (Below Boshoff, next to Peter Baxter*) PH: 033 345 2326 • 033 345 2326/7/8 • “The helpful guys”

“We Love to Serve you”

FOG LIGHT KITS ON SALE

30 June 2022

Maritzburg ECHO

Page 17

BUILD

494 Hoosen Haffajee Street (Berg Street), Pietermaritzburg

Tel: 073 581 8822 | follow us on Instagram @powerbuildpmb | Whatsapp: 081 517 8280

BUILD YOUR HOME FOR LESS WITH OUR AMAZING

WINTER SALE Valid from 1st to 7th of July 2022

Afristar Double Roman Roof Tiles SABS

Econo Cement 32,5 SABS

7950ea

Aluminium Full Door

159900

Razor Flat Wrap Wire 15m

29900 1 Room Combo!!

R8 999.00

750ea

NC2 900x900 Aluminium Window Bronze

59900

Power Waterprooﬁng with Free Membrane

9900

Includes Roof Windows Door + FREE Innova 20L PVA 600 x M150 Blocks 20 x Cement 50kg 1 x BRC Mesh, Black Plastic, 8 x Rafters & Purlines 5 x Heavy IBR Roof Sheets 1 x NC2 900x900 Aluminium Window 1 x Pine Door with Handles + Hinges

Wall Paper Rolls 530mm x 10m (5 Designs)

27500

2 Room Combo!!

R16 999.00

M150 Blocks

Common Face Bricks

Aqua Water Tank 2500L

750ea

220ea

199900ea

Single Bowl Drop In Sink + Sink Mixer

Shower Door 900x900x1,94m

Awning

69900

199900

59900

UNDERTILE MEMBRANE WHITE

33000

15000

FREE FREE

You can add or buy these combos separately: Toilet Set Combo 5pc

55 per metre

4 Room Combo!!

Includes Roof Windows Door + FREE Toilet Set Combo (Pan, Cistern, Basin, Pedestal) 1000 x M150 Blocks 40 x Cement 50kg Brickforce, Budget Mesh, Plastic 8 x Rafters and Purlines 10 x Corrugated Iron Roof Sheets 2 x NC2 900x900 Aluminium Window 2 x Pine Doors

IBR Roof Sheeting Heavy Duty

Rafters Treated 38x114x5.4m

2000 x M150 Blocks 120 x Cement 50kg 30 x IBR Roof Sheets BRC Mesh, Black Plastic, Interior Doors/Frames Timber and Lintels Aluminum Windows and Doors Toilet and Basin + FREE Garage Door + FREE water tank

R48 999.00

Porcelain Tile 600x600 Combo (10sqm):

Fencing Combo 50m

(Toilet, Cistern, Basin, Pedestal)

7box x Porcelain Tiles 600x600 Ivory white 4 x Tylon Tile Fix 20kg 1 x Power Tile bond 5L 1 x Power Grout 5kg 1 x Pack Tile Spacers

Rolls x Welded Mesh Fencing (100x100x1.8m) 17 x CCA Treated Poles SABS 2,4m 2 rolls Fencing wire 5KG 1 rolls Binding wire 2KG 1 Pack Fencing Staples

79900

179900

199900

Painting Combo 1 x Jumbo PVA Paint 20L 1 x Paint Roller Tray Set 1 x Paint Brush

19900

White Door Combo

Solid 8 Panel Door Combo

1 x White Townhouse Door 1 x Door Handle 1 x Door Hinges

1 x Solid Stained 8 Panel Door 1 x Door Frame 2x3 1 x Door Handle 1 x Door Hinges

39900

79900

T’s & C’s Apply. We reserve the right to limit & restrict quantities. All picatures are for illustration purposes only. EO&E

Page 18

Maritzburg ECHO

Classifieds

PLACE AN ADVERT BY CONTACTING OUR CLASSIFIEDS DEPARTMENT: Phone: 033 355 1116 Email: lerato.chaka@witness.co.za

GENERAL & HOME SERVICES RUBBLE REMOVAL 1860

1 to 4 ton trucks for garden refuse /rubble removal/ top soil/ compost/ tree felling 076 888 1000. Yusuf .

SAVING Money SAVING Time

More than half of Echo readers considered purchasing a product advertised in a newspaper insert If you’d like to market your business to readers email avir@witness.co.za or WhatsApp 084 278 3447

ADVERTISING

about your business services under

CLASSIFIEDS

is cheaper than advertising your business on other mediums like TV ads, radio, etc – FAST and

EFFICIENT!

ECHO

Source: Forum24 2021 research

30 June 2022

SANCTUARY PHARMACY Slimming Mixture A formulation you can trust... 3 Effects you can feel 3 Boosts energy 3 Helps to suppress appetite 3 Results you can measure 3 Weight loss without the risk of Ephedrine

WhatsApp Us:

065 844 8547

STOP SUFFERING IN SILENCE

I am Thandeka from Imbali. I once worked for Boxer in Longmarket Street. Unfortunately it was closed and we were not paid. I started having financial problems. I came across this paper and I saw Mama Aisa and Baba Adamu to whom I call my blesser cos I gave him R100 and made me win lotto of R950 000. Thanks Mama Aisa and Baba Adamu for saving me and I recommend him event to others. My name is Londiwe Thandeka sister. I had a big problem for 6 years and one day I heard my sister Thandeka praying and giving thanks and appreciation to Mama Aisa and Baba Adamu, I also contact them about my lost lover and helped me to bring back my husband and I am now happy after the miracles from Mama Aisa and Baba Adamu.

Call or whatsapp 0781612020 Maritzburg Echo and Media24 have not verified whether any of the services or products advertised will have the desired effect or outcome. Readers will note that some of the promised results in the advertisements are extraordinary and may be impossible to achieve. Beware some of the procedures and claims advertised may be dangerous if not executed by a qualified medical practitioner. Readers are warned that they should carefully consider and verify the advertiser’s credentials. Maritzburg Echo and Media 24 does not accept any liability whatsoever in respect of any of the services and goods advertised.

JULY’S HOTTES T DEALS

FREE PHOTO (FOR EX20 ONLY)

30 June 2022

Maritzburg ECHO

Page 19

OPEN THIS SUNDAY * Black * Navy

399

2399

6-10

799

* Navy * Black

6-10

1699

*Reversible

599

6-10

Ladies 3-8

1299

449

* Navy * Black

1149

1649

6-11

5-10

* Olive * Brown * Navy

Tel: 033 394 9077

454 Church Street

* Olive

949

699

6-10

6-11

5 - 10

6 - 10

* Grey * Beige * Black * Navy WERE

1199.95

799

829

2899

849

6 - 11

Ladies 3-8

* Brown * Navy * Black

369

*Olive

599

* Pink * Black

* White * Yellow * Blue

maritzburg ECHO

SPORT 30 June 2022

PAGE 20

VAN NIEKERK BAGS bronze at senior world champs A

ra van Niekerk ensured South Africa’s proud record in the World Championships pool continued by bagging a bronze medal in the 50m breaststroke on Saturday night. Competing in her first major event at senior level, the 19-yearold came up against world recordholder Benedetta Pilato and 2013 world champion Ruta Meilutyte in the final, after some earlier disappointments for Team SA at the event. Van Niekerk swam 29,90 to take the bronze, with Meilutyte taking gold for Lithuania in 29,70 and Pinato the silver for Italy in 29,80. Van Niekerk’s performance means South Africa have claimed a medal at every long course World Championships since Roland Schoeman’s solitary bronze in the 50m freestyle at the 2001 event. “Surprisingly I wasn’t that nervous. I thought I would be way more freaked out than I was,” admitted the talented teenager. “I was actually very calm and just focused on what I had to do and how I had to execute the race, so I think that was a really good thing — learning how to manage the nerves. “I’m so happy. My first senior world champs and winning a medal, I think it’s a bonus,” she added. The last time Van Niekerk competed at a world championships in Budapest was the junior edition as a 16-year-old back in 2019 where she finished just off the podium in fourth, with a then 14-year-old Pilato taking the gold. Asked about her progress since then, Van Niekerk reckoned: “I’m definitely happy with the improvement. “If you look at my time at junior worlds, it’s a twosecond difference. I’m just happy to be improving, it’s a good sign.” Meanwhile, Van

DRAGON BALM

PHOTO: SSA

Lara van Niekerk. Niekerk’s coach, Eugene da Ponte was thrilled with the medal, particularly with an eye on the next month’s Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. “That was half the reason we decided to come here, to deal with the more high-pressure situation so that when we get to Common-

MELAMINE BOARD

(Supawhite) 1830mm x 2750mm x 16mm Also Colour & Grain boards available

R35 50ml EXTRA STRONG

450 Church St, PMB

— SSA

I was actually very calm and just focused on what I had to do and how I had to execute the race, so I think that was a really good thing — learning how to manage the nerves.

Soweto giants Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs have taken contrasting decisions pertaining to their respective coaching appointments ahead of the new season. Pirates at the weekend announced Spanish tactician Jose Riveiro as their new head coach. Riveiro’s appointment left question marks as an unknown quantity and a surprise choice as he has only held just one head coach job in his career — which was at Finland club FC Inter Turku. Prior to his stint at the helm of FC Inter he was an assistant coach at three other clubs in Finland — HJK Helsinki, PK-35 and FC Honka after having been with the Celta Vigo youth team. As an assistant with Helsinki, he won the league twice and was second in consecutive years as head coach of FC Inter. He was born in Vigo and only played in the Spanish third division for Gran Pena admitting that he wasn’t a good player so went into coaching early starting out in the lower divisions back home before ultimately moving up north to Finland. He takes over after the club experimented with the interim cocoaching arrangement of Mandla Ncikazi and Fadlu Davids last season. Davids has since left the club while Ncikazi will now serve as an assistant along with Sergio Almenara. Since Ruud Krol lasted all of his three-year contract until he left in 2011, Pirates have gone on to have Julio Leal, Augusto Palacios, Eric Tinkler, Vladimir Vermezovic, Tinkler again, Muhsin Ertugral, Palacios again, Kjell Jonevret, Milutin Sredojevic, Rulani Mokwena, Josef Zinnbauer then Ncikazi and Davids. Third coaching chance at Pirates Just like Chiefs, Pirates have made a third coaching change in consecutive years having moved from Zinnbauer to Ncikazi and Davids and now Riveiro.

Pirates’ surprising coaching hire, Jose Riveiro. PHOTO: TWITTER

Chiefs will be led by Arthur Zwane this season after having had Stuart Baxter last term while Gavin Hunt was in charge in the previous campaign. Just like Riveiro, Zwane is thin on head coaching experience in the PSL but is familiar with the environment and his club having been at Chiefs for 22 years as a player and coach. Amakhosi have also had just as many coaching changes since 2010. VV came within months of completing three years when he was sacked in April 2012 after which Aces Khuse and Doctor Khumalo took charge followed by Baxter, Steve Komphela, Patrick Mabedi, Giovanni Solinas, Ernst Middendorp, Hunt, Zwane and Sheppard then Baxter again who has now since made way for Zwane. — KickOff.

We offer the following services NQUMA/SIKA

SIYA EJA

GOQA

UNSHINI WEZINKUNI EZIQINILE

SIYAHLANGANISA

CHIPBOARD

(Grade A) 16mm x 1830mm x 2750mm

SQUARE LINE COUNTER SUPAWOOD TOP (Grade A) • Various colours • 32 x 600 x 3.6

wealth Games, we can really focus and try to swim really fast. This was more for experience and that’s going to be for trying to get the times we really want. I’m looking forward to it. “I know Lara is too.”

Pirates and Chiefs appoint new coaches

16mm x 1830mm x 2750mm

MASONITE BROWN AND WHITE • 3,2 x 1220 x 2440 • 4,8 x 1220 x 2440 • 6,4 x 1220 x 2440

PEG BOARD SOFT BOARD

(Plain) (Bitumen)

SHUTTERPLY PINE • 18 x 1220 x 2440 • 21 x 1220 x 2440

BB (PINE PLY) • 4, 6, 9, 12mm Thk 1220 x 2440 • Also Exotic & Flexi Ply

XPRESS • XPRESS • XPRESS Contact: 033 3941094 • 060 739 8032 293 Jabu Ndlovu (Loop) St • Pietermaritzburg 786woodworx@gmail.com

Instore Specials While Stocks Last (T’s & C’s Apply) • Ample parking available (side)