shootingunfolds
THE Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, paid a solemn visit to the mourning family of a man (40) and his heavily pregnant wife (35), who were tragically murdered after reporting the rape of their disabled daughter
The identities of the victims have been withheld to protect the survivor This devastating incident follows the couple’s courageous step to file a police report, leading to widespread shock and anger within the community
During her visit, Fanta expressed her sincere condolences, describing the act as horrific and highlighting the couple’s bravery
“The brutality of this crime underscores the deeply entrenched violence in our society, particularly against individuals who stand up for justice,” she stated
The couple had recently reported their mechanic assistant for the alleged rape of their 18-year-old daughter
Fanta strongly condemned the retaliatory violence, calling it a cowardly response to their pursuit of justice
“No one should live in fear for seeking justice, especially in such grave matters We must prioritise creating environments where victims and their families are supported and safeguarded,” she added
Fanta emphasised the urgent need to address systemic shortcomings in protecting victims and their families, urging law enforcement to respond robustly to ensure perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice
She also highlighted the importance of community solidarity and the collective responsibility to stand against violence in all its forms, particularly violence targeting vulnerable groups
As an immediate response, the Department of Social Development pledged emotional and psychological support to the affected family
“Our social workers will provide coun-
selling and ensure the family receives the care they urgently need during this unimaginably difficult time,” Fanta announced
Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, confirmed that Scenery Park SAPS has opened a murder investigation after the fatal shooting, which occurred on 4 August 2025 in Reeston, Dice
“Neighbours alerted authorities after hearing gunfire Upon arrival, police discovered the bodies of a male (40) inside the house and a female victim (35) lying outside the kitchen,” Gantana stated Investigations revealed that both victims had suffered multiple gunshot wounds At this stage, no arrests have been made, and the motive remains unclear Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects and appealed to the public for information
The SAPS also condemned the violence and assured the community that resources are being deployed to bring the perpetrators to account The public is encouraged to report any leads to Crime Stop at 08600 10111
Fanta concluded her visit by stressing the broader implications of gender-based violence, reiterating the necessity of implementing the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF)
“We must prioritise public awareness and engage in open dialogues to address the root causes of violence Education and collective action remain pivotal in creating safer communities,” she said “Let us honour the memory of this couple by standing united against violence and working towards a society where such tragedies no longer occur ”
The incident has reignited calls for tougher action against gender-based violence and greater protection for those reporting crimes, sparking an urgent dialogue on safety and justice across the region
EasternCapeMECcallsonyouthtobuildbetterfutures
BABALWA NDLANYA
THE Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, has called on young people, particularly girls, to prioritise building a better future rather than facing the challenges of unplanned parenthood
Fanta issued this plea during her visit to the Msindo family in the Mamolweni locality of Ngqeleni, where she handed over a newly constructed two-roomed house Built by a local church leader, the house will provide much-needed shelter to a family of 37 members who had previously been liv-
ing in a single rondavel
The family consists of a grandmother, her seven children, and 27 grandchildren, all of whom have been sharing the cramped rondavel
The space doubled as a residence and a venue for selling alcohol, with customers sitting inside during rainy weather
“We’re here to encourage the youth of this area because this homestead alone has 27 grandchildren Some of these girls don’t have identity documents, and many don’t know their fathers, making it difficult for them to access government grants,” Fanta said
Fanta highlighted the importance of empowering youth in the area and urged them to make better life choices
“We’re telling them that it’s possible to live without a boyfriend or girlfriend if you want to achieve something in life,” she explained, adding that faith and prayer could play a role in guiding them
“As a woman of faith, I believe in prayer We will pray and ask God to help them As the government, we will also bring various programmes to this area to improve the lives of the children,” Fanta added She expressed concern over the
youth’s involvement in sexual activities rather than focusing on their futures
“Our department will work with other departments to support the youth and uplift this community
We’ll also visit local schools and seek assistance from private companies,” she said Reverend Mfanelo Mpohlekana of the New Jesus Church in Zion, who built the two-roomed house, said he was moved to act after witnessing the family’s dire living conditions
“I grew up in a church environment, and the teachings I received encouraged me to help those in need I’m thankful that God en-
abled me to fulfil this dream We must show compassion when we see others suffering,” the reverend said
Mpohlekana also highlighted the challenges faced by the family, including children without identity documents and many not attending school due to the unaffordable cost of transportation to town, which is R90 for a return trip
One family member, Andiswa Msindo (35), expressed gratitude for the assistance, saying, "We’re happy about what [Revd] Mpohlekana has done for us We will change our behaviour and focus on building a better future "
Bukiwe Fanta (MEC for Department of Social Development), Nomandithini Msindo (75) (the beneficiary of the house), Reverend Mfanelo Mphlekana and Councillor Viwe Ndamase (Mayor for Nyandeni Local Municipality) posing outside the house that was built for this family
Reverend Mfanelo Mpohlekana from New Jesus Church in Zion built this two-roomed house for 37 family members who were living in one rondavel.
PHOTOS: BABALWA NDLANYA
PrincessSigcauIItoreceiveprestigiousrecognition
BABALWA NDLANYA
PRINCESS Stella Sigcau II, of the Mpondo Kingdom in Ntabankulu, has confirmed her participation in the Women of Impact Awards ceremony, where she will be among the honoured recipients
The ceremony, hosted by the Women Navigating the Future Network, is set to take place on 29 August 2025 at the Pretoria Ridge Conference Centre in Pretoria
Sigcau shared that this recognition celebrates her dedication, contributions, and positive impact on the lives of others, particularly in empowerment and upliftment efforts
"Founded in 2010, these awards honour the achievements of impactful women movers and shakers who excel in professional leadership and community roles I am honoured to stand amongst exceptional and phenomenal women whose impactful journeys, remarkable contribu-
tions to society, and unwavering dedication will be celebrated," said Sigcau II
In detailing her accomplishments, Princess Sigcau highlighted her roles as Founder and Honorary President of the South African Royal Princesses Network and Founder of the Lwandlolubomvu Rural Development Programme, which has facilitated cultural exchange programmes, including sending students from the Mpondo Kingdom to Switzerland
BlindGospelartist’sdetermination inspiresotherstodream
BABALWA NDLANYA
DESPITE losing his sight, Lunga Tshatshelo (36), from Corana locality in Mthatha refuses to let his disability define or limit his future
Now residing in East London, Lunga continues to pursue his passion for music as a dedicated gospel artist
Speaking to Express, Lunga shared that while singing has always been close to his heart, his dream is to learn to play the piano professionally He is appealing to anyone who can help fund his studies at a local music school in East London, where tuition costs R1,100
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per month for a two-year course
“I am unemployed due to my condition, but I want to grow as an artist and also be able to teach others who want to enter the music industry,” he said
His journey has not been easy
Lunga lost his first eye in 2000 due to an accident while playing with friends
“Something got into my eye, and the doctors had to remove it
Tragically, in 2015, while trying to break up a fight in a nightclub in Mthatha, I was stabbed in my remaining eye, which left me completely blind ”
Despite the hardship, Lunga remains committed to his passion
He released his first album in
2013 (though he does not recall its title), followed by his second in 2021, titled Vutha Mlilo
His upcoming third album, The Gospel I See, will feature 12 original gospel songs
“What I can say about my situation is that people do not trust someone with a disability We are often overlooked and not supported or recognised,” he shared
Still, Tshatshelo continues to fight for his dream
She is also a diplomat by profession, having represented South Africa in countries such as Thailand, the Republic of Congo, Botswana, and currently in Hong Kong, China Moreover, she is a philanthropist committed to activism in combating gender-based violence (GBV), empowering women and youth, and preserving culture She co-founded the Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival and established the Mpondo Reed Dance, promoting unity through
cultural diversity
"I am humbled, truly honoured, and deeply grateful for this recognition The belief in my abilities and the acknowledgement of my work is incredibly humbling It inspires me to continue making a positive and impactful difference and motivates me to strive for even greater heights," she expressed Princess Sigcau also noted that this is her first award of this nature and expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition
With support, he hopes to inspire not only through music but also by empowering others living with disabilities to believe in themselves and their potential Lunga
MnqumaLFAequipscoacheswithCAFClicences
ANELE RAZIYA
THE Mnquma Local Football Association (Mnquma LFA), in partnership with the Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup, is working to elevate the standard of football in Mnquma and the surrounding areas
This collaborative effort saw the
29 coaches from various regions within the province participated, advancing their understanding of coaching methodologies
Speaking to Mthatha Express, Luxolo Matikinca, founder of the Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup, highlighted the motivation behind organising such a programme
the Hollywoodbets Super League, Sasol League, Motsepe Foundation Championship, and even universities ”
The partnership between Mnquma LFA and the Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup ensures that upcoming coaches are prepared, not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practi-
Centane-based Musketeers FC’s head coach, Banguhlanga Kona, reflected on the experience: “It was a fruitful and mind-blowing opportunity to see how clubs at a higher level operate We are very grateful for the learning opportunity provided by the course and Highbury FC ” The tour concluded with partici-
Tshatshelo from the Corana locality in Mthatha wants to fulfil his dream
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Sport
MthathaFNBFestivalsquadpreparesforNationalstage
HOSEYA JUBASE
FNB Festival squad coaches have announced a preliminary selection of 40 soccer players in preparation for the National FNB Festival tournament, scheduled to take place on 4 October in Gauteng
The squad comprises 20 female and 20 male players, with the final selection to be determined in the coming weeks
The players were identified during the
FNB Football First Mthatha Festival selection tournament, held at Rotary Stadium in Ngangelizwe last weekend More than 10 schools participated in this year’s regional festival
The FNB squad, representing the Mthatha region, will be led by coaches Bonga Dywili, Mhlathi Vuyolwethu, and Mhlathi Vuyokazi
Head coach, Bonga Dywili, expressed satisfaction with the calibre of players chosen for the preliminary squad “Af-
ter this, we’ll do the final selection based on their performances during training sessions We’re aiming to build a strong squad that will represent us well at the national festival,” said Dywili
The FNB squad from the Eastern Cape has performed commendably in past national FNB Festivals, although they faced disappointment in 2024 when they were eliminated in the preliminary stage
Dywili is optimistic about this year’s campaign, promising to make every effort
to reach the finals
However, he acknowledged the challenges ahead, with the team set to face strong competition from squads across other provinces
Meanwhile, at the 2025 FNB regional tournament, Ngangelizwe High School’s teams both boys and girls emerged as champions
Additionally, Ikhwezi Lokusa Special School secured an impressive 4-1 victory against City Strikers FC
SeventeenteamsbattleinWillowvaleforAcesTrophy
ANELE RAZIYA
SEVENTEEN soccer teams from Mbhashe and Mnquma are set to compete in the second edition of the Z Black Aces FC Soccer Tournament this weekend, at Qwaninga Komkhulu village in Willowvale
A total prize pool of R8,000, new soccer kits and a trophy are up for grabs during the two-day knockout competition
Sihle Yoko, one of the tournament organisers, revealed this after the official team draw held on 14 August
“This year, we’ve registered 17 teams from different areas, and we are thrilled
by the number of teams participating We look forward to kicking off this Saturday,” said Yoko
The tournament will begin with Abatshana FC taking on Young Leaders FC in the opening fixture at Gatyane Qwaninga sports grounds Other matchups in-
clude: Green Lovers FC vs Rasing Stars FC
• Giyana FC vs Ajax FC
• Abafana FC vs Bhantinti FC
• Young Tigers (Centane) vs Red Lion FC
• Aces FC vs Young Africans FC
• Amaroma FC vs Qorha Tigers FC
• Number One FC vs Young Tigers FC (Mbhashe)
Cheesa Leaders FC is the standby team, awaiting the next round of the tournament
The knockout format ensures that by Sunday, the final match can be played, with the first game of the tournament kicking off at 08:00 on Saturday morning
The champions will take home R5,000, a trophy, gold medals, and a brand-new soccer kit
Runners-up will receive R2,000, new kits and silver medals, while the thirdplace team will win R1,000 and bronze medals
Individual accolades, including
4800LadiesandAyakhaStarssetforepicclash
HOSEYA JUBASE
THE 48 00 Ladies’ FC (Sinenkani FC) and Ayakha Stars Ladies are continuing to dominate the Inland Sasol League as both teams remain unbeaten after five matches, each securing victories in all their games so far
This past Saturday, 48 00 Ladies’ FC delivered a decisive 4-0 triumph over the Executive Ladies’ FC
This marked Executive Ladies' heaviest defeat in recent seasons and their second loss in a short time span
Just a few weeks prior, Executive Ladies
suffered a narrow 2-1 loss to Ayakha Stars
Ladies
Historically, Executive Ladies have led the Inland Sasol League stream, but the tables appear to be turning Now, 48 00 Ladies’ FC and Ayakha Stars
Ladies are firmly in the race for the league title In an interview with Mthatha Express, the coaching team for 48 00 Ladies’ FC expressed their ambitions to advance to the Hollywoodbets Super League next season They issued a warning to Ayakha Stars Ladies’ FC, signalling their determina-
tion to claim the championship
The stage is set for a highly anticipated showdown this coming Saturday at Rotary Stadium, where the two powerhouses, Ayakha Stars Ladies and 48 00 Ladies’ FC, will meet
Based on the scheduled fixtures, both teams will be playing two matches each on the same day, raising the stakes even higher
Inland Sasol League Fixtures: Saturday
Ayakha Stars FC vs Eastern Rangers FC Time: 13:00
awards for Player of the Tournament, Top Goal Scorer and Goalkeeper of the Tournament, will also be presented
The Z Black Aces tournament is dedicated to promoting sports development in rural areas and steering youth away from alcohol and substance abuse
The organisers have invited football fans, parents, and communities from the Mbhashe and Mnquma areas to come in large numbers to support their local teams
However, they have emphasised that dangerous weapons, such as knives and guns, are strictly prohibited at the venue
• Coastal United Ladies vs 48 00 Ladies FC Time: 13:00
WSU Mthatha Campus FC vs Eastern Cape Peace Lovers FC Time: 15:00
• 48 00 Ladies FC vs Ayakha Stars FC Time: 15:00
Eastern Rangers FC vs WSU Mthatha Campus FC Time: 15:00
Executive Ladies’ FC vs Sapphire Ladies FC Time: 15:00
Z Black Aces FC will host a soccer tournament at Mbhashe this weekend.
PHOTO: ANELE RAZIYA