MTHATHA
0630337810 or 0470504430
Studentsshineatworldyouthleaders’symposium
ZAVELA MAKWABE
Amazing!” That is how Mzwamadoda Ntshidi described his experience at the week-long 13th University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS), which took place from 5-8 August in Malaysia
Ntshidi is one of the five students from WSU who represented various facets of university
joining one
of the world’s largest youth leaders’ gatherings, all focused on humanitarian efforts Clad in their WSU colours, the group included student entrepreneur Tsholofelo Gopane, Institutional Student Parliament Secretary Phakamisa Madikizela, and Student Representative Council (SRC) members Amanda Dlamini, Mzwabantu Ntshidi, and Thuloana Mohoto Nombulelo Blaai, the WSU Manager for Student Governance and Leadership Development, described their participation
as a transformative experience aimed at equipping young leaders with the tools and confidence needed to address pressing societal issues
From visiting refugee camps to in-depth discussions and networking sessions, Ntshidi told the Express that he came back empowered and ready to make a positive difference in his community
“I learnt the importance of giving without expecting anything in return and how to be proactive and not wait for government
“I learnt about social responsibility and reaching the 17 Sustainable Development Goals ” The symposium included engaging UN workshops and inspiring talks from real-life change-makers to enable students to discover their voice, purpose, and the power to make a tangible difference The core focus of the gathering was to cultivate emerging world leaders and instil the confidence necessary to spearhead sustainable development projects within their communities
handouts
These WSU students attended the week-long 13th University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS), which took place from 5-8 August in Malaysia.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
REESTON,EASTLONDON:
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
ELIDZCEOinTurkeytoexploreglobalinvestmentopportunities
MANDLENKOSI MXENGI
AN East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) delegation led by its CEO, Thembela Zweni, attended the recent Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Investment Attraction Roadshow held in Turkey, aimed at bolstering and exploring ELIDZ’s new global investment opportunities
The SEZ Investment Attraction Roadshow started on Sunday, 3 August, and continued until Saturday, 9 August The ELIDZ was part of several other South African-based special economic zones and industrial development zones identified by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) to attend the roadshow Its strategic objectives included attracting global investment into South African special economic zones (SEZs), learning from Turkey’s world-class SEZ model, and strengthening international investment partnerships and trade relations with Turkey, amongst others
Last month, newly appointed ELIDZ Chief Operations Officer (COO), Ayanda Ramncwana, delivered a powerful and inspiring
presentation on investment and manufacturing growth at the 2025 Africa Manufacturing Indaba held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg
Ramncwana was part of a Breakaway Panel 10 discussion group examining manufacturing growth strategies under the topic: ‘Industrial Parks, SEZs, and IDZs: Catalysts for Africa’s Manufacturing Growth ’
“We are not just building infrastructure; we are building ecosystems The ELIDZ is intentional about creating platforms that enable innovation, support entrepreneurship, and deepen regional value chains Our Science and Technology Park is a living example of how SEZs can be reimagined as spaces of experimentation, learning, and transformation,” Ramncwana told the conference
The ELIDZ is part of the seven public entities under the provincial Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT)
This year, the ELIDZ is expanding and advancing its plans to develop multi-sector clusters in Ntambozuko, formerly Berlin, and revitalising its properties in Fort Jackson industrial area in
Already, the ELIDZ has signed a number of sustainable energy
investments that will be setting up facilities in Ntambozuko and will advance its planning for oth-
Mthathamanonamissiontoboostreadingskills
BABALWA NDLANYA
BUNTU Dweba (35), from Ncise locality in Mthatha, has embarked on a mission to establish an academy aimed at improving learners reading skills
Although currently employed in a restaurant, Dweba's true passion lies in fostering a love of reading and helping children grasp the world around them
"Most of the time, children miss out on opportunities because they lack an interest in reading," Dweba shared
"I started this initiative to instil a reading habit from an early age Since launching it last year, I've been working mainly with primary school learners and even invite their parents to observe how I work with their children " Dweba explained that he starts with learners from Grade 1 onwards, as he believes cultivating a love of reading early is essential
"I also encourage them to watch educational programmes on television, but they must know how to read and write Without reading skills, it becomes difficult to understand what they watch Reading improves their concentration and overall learning," he added
While working full-time, Dweba shares educational materials within his community
Initially, he requested specific books from suppliers, but now, he focuses on acquiring educational books that include tasks and activities
"I've also started organising magazines with inserts suitable for primary school learners," he said
"These inserts provide tasks that are very beneficial for children "
Dweba's focus is mainly on children from rural areas, as he sees a lack of access to learning resources compared to those in urban areas
"I am passionate about ensuring that children from rural areas understand the world around them They could one day grow up and work internationally, so broadening their minds is crucial," he explained
Despite his demanding schedule, Dweba uses his days off to further this initiative while refining his vision for the academy
As a father, he shared, "I have young children of my own, and I want to include them in this journey Children belong to society, so I give to others what I share with my children I aim to provide everyone with access to this information "
Dweba also plans to visit primary schools to talk about his initiative and encourage more involvement
His message for parents is clear: "Take education seriously and inspire children to love learning Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty "
er activities in the agro-industries, advanced manufacturing, and the automotive sector
BCMmayordonatessportsequipmenttoNtsokothaHighSchool
MANDLENKOSI MXENGI
BUFFALO City Metro (BCM) exec-
utive mayor Princess Faku delivered on her promise made earlier this year and donated much-needed sports equipment to Ntsokotha Senior Secondary School in Nxarhuni village on Friday, 8 August.
As part of the back-to-school campaign in January this year, Faku, accompanied by the provincial Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC) MEC Sibulele Ngongo, visited Ntsokotha High School where she was told by learners and teachers about the dire need for sports equipment, especially rugby, soccer, and netball kit
In her response, Faku promised that she would come back and donate the sports kit to the school Ntsokotha High School achieved an overall 65 per cent matric pass rate during the 2024 National Senior Certificate
(NSC) examinations
Faku, alongside Ngongo and BCM Ward 26 councillor Monde Mfene, officially handed over rugby, soccer, and netball kit to the school on Friday, thus fulfilling the promise she made in January to the school’s learners Rugby, soccer, and netball are some of the popular sports among schools in Nxarhuni/Newlands’ closely-knit villages
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Faku said when the Metro invests in the youth, it also invests in the future of Buffalo City, adding that sport instils discipline, unity, and resilience, and these values are important in school and life in general
“Earlier this year I made a promise to these learners that I will come back and donate this much-needed sports kit, and I am proud and satisfied to see that commitment being fulfilled today,” said Faku
Local councillor Mfene told community members to protect the school from acts of theft and vandalism, and urged learners to
focus on their education
The handover coincided with the school’s hosting of the FNB Classic Clashes tournament, a
sporting event established in 2004 between Ntsokotha and Zwelandile High School from
Mdantsane
East London IDZ led by its CEO Thembela Zweni attended the South African SEZ Investment Attraction Roadshow held in Turkey PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Chalumna village
Buffalo City Metro ward 26 councillor Monde Mfene and Ntsokotha High School learners displaying the new soccer kit donated by
Buntu Dweba appeals to parents to ensure that their children know how to read.
PHOTO: BABALWA NDLANYA
EskomExpoEastLondonmarks30 yearsofinspiringyoungscientists
Eskom Expo East London celebrated its 30th anniversary in style on 9 August, showcasing groundbreaking research and innovative solutions from the region's brightest young minds
The regional science fair, held at Hudson Park High School, featured 76 projects showcased by 115 young scientists in Grades 4–12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) NC(V) Level 2 to NC(V) Level 4 students
According to a statement issued by Eskom, the event brought together learners, educators, industry leaders, and government representatives to recognise excellence in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI) and inspire the next generation of innovators
"These learners progressed in their Expo journeys after taking part in various activities throughout the year, including workshops and District Expos The most popular category at this year’s fair was Engineering, with 40 entries, followed by strong participation in Social Science (16), and Energy (six)," the statement said Eskom Expo’s East London Regional Science Fair Director, Andiswa Boqwana, said, “Our gratitude goes to Eskom, our main sponsor, for their continued support in making this platform possible; along with the Rotary Club, one of the special award sponsors, for recognising excellence in the category winners; the judges for their dedication and expertise; and the teachers for guiding and mentoring the learners Above all, heartfelt thanks go to the learners whose hard work and passion for discovery are at the heart of the fair’s success "
A total of five Gold medals, seven Silver medals, and 11 Bronze medals were awarded The outstanding young scientists were honoured with prestigious Special Awards from Eskom Awardrecipients
BestFemale
• Lunathi Qongqo Grade 10 Hudson Park High School Project Title: A solution for traffic congestion
BestInnovation
Lazola Nombakuze and Khazimla Gcoboza Grade 7
New Generation Primary School Project title: Cleaning Robot
BestEnergyProject
Azosule Naphakade and Uzuqhame Gcadana Grade 6
Amalinde Primary School Project Title: Biogas BestDevelopmentProject
Aluxolo Yanga Grade 12 Bulelani Senior Secondary School Project Title: The Earth's Rotational Movement
The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom
Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said: “Through the Eskom Expo, learners are exposed to real-world scientific research, innovation challenges, and opportunities for personal growth They learn how to design experiments, solve problems, communicate their findings, and think critically These are skills that are essential in both academic and career contexts Many of our past participants have gone on to study engineering, physics, computer science, and related disciplines, with some even representing South Africa in global science competitions
"The Expo acts as an early catalyst for learners to imagine themselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators It creates the spark, and then helps nurture that spark into a career ”
Other special awards at the event included a one-year full tuition bursary to Rhodes University, which was awarded to Great Ikechukwu Umejesi from Hudson Park High School
The floating trophy for the school with the most participants was awarded to Tsholomqa High School, while Hudson Park High School scooped the floating trophy for the best-performing school
Otherawardsforexceptionaleffortsandcreativityinvariouscategorieswentto: ComputerSciencesandSoftwareDevelopment
• Great Ikechukwu Umejesi, Grade 11, Hudson Park High School Project Title: AI for stress management and mental wellness Engineering
Sakhe Peter and Anami Mbekula, Grade 6, St Theresa Primary School Project Title: Building a hydraulic robotic arm EnvironmentalStudies(ScientificInvestigation)
• AkahlulwaVeyishile,Grade9,PortRexTechnicalSchool
Project Title: Efficient way of integrating a carbon capture with a carbon breakdown Social Sciences
• XolaniNgo,Grade12,BulelaniHighSchool ProjectTitle: From books to beat BiomedicalandMedicalSciences
• Vuyisa Hofisi Grade 12 Bulelani High School Project Title: Seeing Sound Physics,AstronomyandSpaceSciences
• AluxoloGrimmis Grade12 BulelaniHighSchool Project Title: The Earth rotation/movement Earth Sciences
• Milani Mjiji Grade 10 Port Rex Technical School Project Title: Cleaning dirty water Energy
• Azosule Naphakade, Grade 6, Amalinde Primary School Project Title: Cleaning dirty water ProjectwithGreatPotential
• LelomsoNoholozaandLuphumezoBobi,Grade7,Amalinde Nomvuyo Primary School Project Title: The Drone Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said the regional science fair forms a vital part of South Africa’s broader strategy to invest in skills development and strengthen education in STEMI at the school-level
“It offers a dynamic platform for young, aspiring scientists to present their innovative ideas and research projects, gaining valuable experience and exposure to future careers in scientific and technological fields Importantly, it also promotes inclusivity by encouraging participation from learners in previously disadvantaged communities and empowering young girls to pursue STEM-related studies
The creativity, passion, and problem-solving skills on display from these learners highlight the remarkable potential of our youth and signal a bright future for innovation in the country "
TWO years ago, Nokuthula Myeko-Mafikwana got a loan to purchase production inputs for 20 hectares of land Not only that, but she also benefited from the Blended Finance Programme administered by the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA) and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), receiving funds for the purchase of farming equipment
This was in 2024 This Women’s Month, Myeko-Mafikwana, who is not only growing crops but also growing hope and opportunity for her community of Sigubudwini near Mthatha, is celebrating an amazing milestone of a harvest worth R561,000 of yellow maize and soya beans
This harvest has created over 24 jobs locally, proving that when rural women lead, entire communities thrive She told the Express that her farming journey has not been without hurdles She said that when she started out, one of her major challenges was the lack of suitable farming equipment, particularly a heavy-duty disc harrow needed for effective soil preparation “The basic disc I used was not ideal for optimal land preparation The Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency stepped in and assisted with my Blended Finance Programme application to ensure that I received the funds to buy the equipment necessary to improve operations ” The MEC for the Department of Agriculture,
Africa’sdaughters unitedagainst corruption
ZAVELA MAKWABE
SEXUAL corruption and abuse of power as experienced by women in their everyday lives – this is one of the difficult topics tackled by a think-tank of women as a result of a collaboration between Masimanyane Women’s Rights International and the African Women Against Corruption Network (AWACN)
The event, attended by organisations such as the Legal Resources Centre and the Commission for Gender Equality, took place at the Osner Hotel in East London on 14 August to commemorate Women’s Month 2025 in South Africa
MEC for the Department of Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, who was a keynote speaker at the event, called it a declaration that Africa’s daughters are united in vision, spirit, and action towards Agenda 2063 in Africa “We gather not simply for a dialogue but for an honest reflection We are here to confront a difficult truth: corruption in our society is not only eroding governance, it is deepening inequality, entrenching gender injustice, and weakening the very fabric of our democracy ”
According to organisers, while corruption affects individuals across all genders, it disproportionately impacts the poor and vulnerable groups, with women and girls being the hardest hit The role played by culture and silence in protecting abuse and abusers also formed part of the discussions of the day Masimanyane Women’s Rights International Media and Communications Officer, Xolelwa Pona, said the event provided a gendered lens into policy-making, advocacy, and public disclosure when tackling corruption in gendered manifestations such as sexual corruption and abuse of authority “I hope that the attendees gained an understanding of what gendered corruption is in all its forms,” Pona said
Nonceba Kontsiwe, said one of their key priorities as the department is to accommodate designated groups such as women, youth, and people living with disabilities “It is encouraging to see women work the land and thrive in a male-dominated sector As we commemorate Women’s Month, it is an honour to see women take opportunities that are granted to them with both hands and show great yields We want to increase food production in our rural communities, create jobs, and improve economic activity A step such as this one is deeply satisfying, and it gives us great confidence to replicate the same model in other rural communities We would like to reiterate a call to the people to come together to till and cultivate the land ”
ZAVELA MAKWABE
FIT or not so fit, East Londoners are called to participate in a race that celebrates women on the last Saturday of Women’s Month to embrace the power of sisterhood Race organisers, Aurora Rise for Women, who have dubbed their event “the Every Woman’s Challenge: Buffalo City Edition a vibrant, empowering walk, hike, and run,” promise “an experience” for participants of all fitness levels The race, set to take place on 30 August, will be set against the scenic backdrop of Beacon Bay Country Club Trails**
According to Asa Tshandu, co-founder of Aurora Rise for Women, it is a bold celebration of resilience, sisterhood, and strength led by women, for women, and open to all who believe in the power of collective movement Aurora Rise for Women is an organisation dedicated to uplifting and empowering young women and girls through leadership development, education, and personal growth initiatives “This is going to be more than just a race “It is a statement that women rise, lead, and keep going no matter the season Whether it’s 2km, 5km, or 10km, every step taken on that trail will be a step towards community, connection, and change,” Tshandu said She said that over 1,000 participants are expected, and that the race is open to all women and supportive allies “This Women’s Month ends not with a whisper, but with a movement in motion Beyond physical endurance, the event amplifies the call for gender equality, wellness, and women’s leadership in community spaces Participants can expect energising warm-ups, motivational speakers, hydration stations, and an atmosphere filled with music, movement, and meaning “It will be a feel-good, do-good day to remember,” said Tshandu
Category winners with Michele Pietrucci (President of the Rotary Club East London) and Craig Thompson. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
ZAVELA MAKWABE
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
ADVERTISING or CLASSIFIEDS?
Contact Bubele Tyani at 0470504430 or BubeleTyani@ novusmedia.co.za
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
PHOTO:SUPPLIED
Fillinthis formbelowto standachanceto winyourshareof R10 000
For your confidence, we will allow up to 5 N/A answers. If you cannot nominate a business for any category, simply use N/A. Remember, you can still qualify for the cash prizes even with 5 N/A response
2nd weeks winner of R500 cash: Sonwabile Mbuku
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