STUTTERHEIM:
Threemensentencedto lifefor2010gangrape
THREE men have been sentenced to life imprisonment by the East London Regional Court for their roles in a horrific gang rape that took place on a farm near Stutterheim more than 15 years ago
On Thursday, 27 November 2025, the court handed down sentences to Sivuyile Mbondela (41), Sisanele Hletyiwe (36) and Tanduxolo Khedama (47) for crimes committed during a violent home invasion on 4 July 2010
Mbondela received life imprisonment for rape and an additional 30 years for aggravated robbery
Hletyiwe was sentenced to life imprisonment for four counts of rape, plus five years for housebreaking and 15 years for aggravated robbery
Khedama received life imprisonment for three counts of rape, with additional sentences of five years for housebreaking, 15 years for aggravated robbery, and 15 years for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition
The sentences will run concurrently, and all three men have been declared unfit to possess firearms and have been placed on the sex offenders’ register
The court heard that four armed men forced their way into a house at Ngcobo farm in Stutterheim, outside Qonce, at approximately 23:00 on that July evening
The intruders demanded money from a 40-year-old woman who was sleeping with her 13-year-old daughter and boyfriend
When no money was forthcoming, the attackers began systematically raping the victims
Three additional women who arrived from a traditional ceremony were also subjected to the same horrific treatment
The attack was interrupted when the driver of a minibus taxi, who had come to check on his passengers’ whereabouts, exchanged gunfire with the suspects
The attackers fled the scene with the victims’ mobile phones, whilst the driver sustained minor injuries
The investigation, led by Detective Sergeant Melikhaya Kula, resulted in
the recovery of two mobile phones and a firearm
However, the lengthy court process took its toll on the victims and their families
Due to the extended legal proceedings, some victims expressed a desire to withdraw from the case, citing exhaustion with the process
However, the Senior Public Prosecutor refused to withdraw the charges, ensuring the case proceeded to its conclusion
Tragically, one of the five victims died after giving testimony, and four witnesses also passed away during the prolonged legal process
“The sterling work and persistence by the Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Melikhaya Kula, has been a huge success in the fight against gender-based violence,” said BCM District Commander, Major General Christopher Wright
THE Willowvale Regional Court has sentenced Nkosithandile Mtlaka (32) to 15 years’ imprisonment for the attempted murder of an elderly woman, Noqeshwa Dolisi (84)
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, said the victim was brutally attacked whilst sleeping alone in her home in the Madlutshana area of Willowvale during the early hours of 30 August 2025
“The ordeal began when the victim was awakened by the sound of someone forcefully trying to open her bedroom door She switched on the light, peered through the window, and shouted at the intruder to leave “Sensing imminent danger, she armed herself with a bush knife and stepped out of her rondavel to alert her grandson, who was sleeping in a separate structure in the same yard,” Tyali explained
As soon as she stepped outside, the attacker emerged, armed with a knife, and advanced towards her Although the victim managed to strike him on the forehead with the bush knife, causing a visible injury, the blow failed to stop him
“He proceeded to stab her multiple times, inflicting lacerations measuring between five and ten centimetres
Believing he had overpowered her, Mtlaka fled, leaving her severely injured Her grandson, awakened by the commotion, rushed to assist her and transported her to Butterworth Hospital, where she was admitted for two weeks,” Tyali said
Following her discharge, she was taken to Cape Town for further care
Based on her description of the attacker, including the distinctive scar on his forehead, police were able to identify and arrest him
Mtlaka later confessed to the crime and pleaded guilty
During sentencing, the court heard of the devastating long-term impact of the attack
The victim’s daughter explained that her mother continues to receive medical treatment, has suffered a decline in mental functioning, now requires incontinence care, and has lost her eyesight due to the injuries sustained
Tyali said the NPA welcomes the sentence, which delivers justice for the victim and sends a clear message that violence against the most vulnerable members of society will not be tolerated
“This case reaffirms the NPA’s commitment to combating violent crime and ensuring that perpetrators are removed from our communities ”
Detective Sergeant Melikhaya Kula.
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EasternCapeunitesagainstgenderviolencescourge
GOVERNMENT departments and community members from the Eastern Cape hosted the Provincial Commemoration of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children at Ntibeni Village in Ngcobo last week
Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane said they are operating under this year’s national theme: “Letsema: Men, Women, Boys and Girls working together to end Gender-Based Violence & Femicide (GBVF)”
This theme, which calls for whole-of-society mobilisation, reflects the reality that no single institution can defeat this pandemic alone Over recent months, weeks and days, powerful protest actions have emerged across the country and within the province
“South Africans, especially young women and community activists, have taken to the streets to cry out against a national sickness that continues to violate bodies, destroy families and break the spirit of our nation that is GBVF Here in the Eastern Cape, some of the most shocking cases of GBVF have shaken communities to the core Behind every statistic is a daughter, a mother, a grandmother, a friend And behind every silence is a boy-child or a man who was never taught that strength is not domination; it is protection, compassion and responsibility,” Mabuyane said
“We welcome the national debate; we understand the anger We affirm the
right of South Africans to demand stronger protections and harsher consequences But we must also work tirelessly to prevent these crimes, because punishment alone cannot rebuild a broken social fabric ”
Economic Empowerment strategy
The Eastern Cape Government is implementing comprehensive economic empowerment initiatives that include women-specific funding windows in the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, support for women-owned SMMEs in agriculture, manufacturing and tourism, preferential procurement for women-led companies, and expanded Public Works Programmes prioritising young women
The province is also investing heavily in education and skills development through full bursaries for girl-children pursuing scarce skills, partnerships with TVET colleges for digital, technical and artisan training, and STEM mentorship programmes for school-going girls
Social protection and safety measures include strengthening shelters and safe houses, expanding the psychosocial workforce, implementing school-based GBVF awareness and life-skills programmes, and establishing nutrition and sanitary dignity programmes across rural and township schools
“These initiatives ensure that our province not only protects women and girls but also creates pathways for economic freedom and independence, which are
central to protection from GBVF ”
Internship programme update
Addressing the matter of stipend payments for the provincial internship programme, which has attracted public attention, Mabuyane said that out of 3,037 confirmed interns, 2,336 have already been paid following Provincial Government intervention
“The outstanding 600-plus beneficiaries have not yet been paid because they do not have fully completed and signed contracts on record, which is a legal requirement before public funds can be disbursed ”
A rigorous validation process is being conducted to protect both programme integrity and beneficiaries’ rights
This includes verifying all supporting documents, identity documents, qualifications, attendance registers, bank confirmations and bank statements, whilst ensuring each file contains a properly signed contract
“We have uncovered cases where contracts were unsigned or incomplete In such instances, we have worked directly with host sites, who have now submitted formal declarations confirming that the affected beneficiaries were indeed placed and active in their roles I am pleased to report that we have commenced a new contracting process, conducted directly between the Office of the Premier and beneficiaries, to tighten governance, strengthen accountability and ensure that no young person unfairly falls through the cracks again ”
Re-socialising the boy-child
Mabuyane said that one of the most critical conversations that must be intensified is the re-socialisation of the boy-child
“For generations, society has taught girls to protect themselves, whilst not doing enough to teach boys how to be men They must be taught that manhood is not violence, that strength is gentleness, that
leadership is responsibility, that love is protection, and that respect is non-negotiable
“Our homes, our schools, our churches, our initiation schools, our sports clubs all must reinforce one lesson: A man’s role is to nurture, protect and uplift, never to harm Let us embrace the cultural principle of Letsema/Ilima: a communal call to work together voluntarily to solve a common problem
“This campaign is not only about events It is about a movement a movement that mobilises communities, changes attitudes, rebuilds families, empowers survivors, holds perpetrators accountable and restores Ubuntu ”
Premier of the Eastern Cape, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, speaking at the Provincial Commemoration of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children at Ntibeni Village in Ngcobo.
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RuralteacherbringsAfrican voicestotheworldstage
THROUGH sacrifice and service, the Founder and Global President of Afrikan Young Indigenous Leaders from Nkondlo Administrative Area in Ngcobo, Princess Dr Nikiwe Bam, has redefined what it means to lead with humanity and purpose on the global stage
In the bustling arena of global policy, where voices compete for attention and influence, Princess Dr Nikiwe Bam stands out not merely as a leader, but also as a woman of resilience, conviction and deep humanity
As the Founder and Global President of Afrikan Young Indigenous Leaders (AYIL), Lead Facilitator for the C20 Working Group on Cultural Diversity, Recognition and Embracement, and Chief Ambassador of Umoja Machifu Tanzania, she has carried the aspirations of countless African communities and traditional leaders onto international platforms
“The C20 (Civil 20), one of the official engagement groups of the G20, brings together civil society organisations, academics, youth and Indigenous representatives to ensure that citizens’ voices influence global policy decisions
“Within this space, I have been a relentless advocate for the inclusion of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) and cultural recognition across all thematic areas of the C20 and in its official Declaration,” Bam explained
Behind the titles, recognition and international travels lies a story few people know one of personal sacrifice, silent struggles and unwavering faith in a calling greater than herself
Bam recalls the intense months spent developing policy briefs, a demanding process that required long hours of writing, consultation and coordination with partners from different time zones
“There were times I worked in a place without electricity I still live full-time in an area with no electricity, and it has limited my work tremendously I often have to complete tasks at school or, when deadlines approach, I use my salary to book a hotel room just to complete and submit important work ”
She remains deeply grateful to Constitution Hill, which provided office space to Afrikan Indigenous Leaders during this period
“Many assume that being part of the G20 or international forums comes with financial comfort and sponsorship
“The reality is quite the opposite People think when you’re working with global institutions you have money, but the truth is, we often sacrifice our own resources, our energy, our time, and sometimes the very money that should be feeding our families ”
Balancing her full-time teaching career with voluntary leadership roles has proved challenging
“Sometimes the Department of Education sees my work as just my private organisation’s platform, but I speak about the reality of our schools the under-resourced classrooms, the curriculum that needs transfor-
mation, and the moral regeneration our society desperately needs ”
Since her mother’s passing, she has shouldered even greater responsibility, fully supporting her unemployed sister and nephew whilst struggling to pay her daughter’s school fees
Yet, despite these personal challenges, she continues to stand firm in her mission to unite African kingdoms, empower traditional leaders and advocate for indigenous voices in global governance
“One of the biggest frustrations has been transportation Most meetings I attend, I reach by Uber or Bolt Sometimes peo-
ple offer to walk me to my car after meetings, and I just laugh because I don’t have one They often don’t believe me when I say that ” She continues: “Yes, I travel extensively and attend major conferences, but I move around using public transport After a serious car accident, I couldn’t afford to replace my car, but that never stopped me I’m not ashamed of my situation I enjoy my simple life
“I love being amongst the people, listening to their stories, feeling their reality, and despite everything, people respect me because I’m genuine and down to earth ”
Bam also expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported her journey
Reflecting on sustainability, she believes AYIL can grow and sustain itself if everyone believes in the vision and contributes collectively
“Too often, Black people compete instead of collaborating They undermine rather than uplift one another, and that slows our progress Imagine how far we could go if we truly supported each other’s dreams ”
Looking ahead, Bam envisions a future where AYIL becomes a sustainable platform that nurtures young traditional leaders, bridges Indigenous knowledge
with modern governance, and strengthens partnerships across kingdoms and global institutions
“The goal is not just representation; it's transformation to ensure that indigenous systems of governance are respected, funded and integrated into the global development agenda ”
Her vision for the C20 is equally clear and ambitious: ensuring that the voices of Indigenous people, women and youth are not only heard but also acted upon in G20 processes
“The C20 should reflect diversity, inclusivity and collaboration, where policy recommendations are informed by real experiences from the ground ”
Founder and Global President of Afrikan Young Indigenous Leaders, Princess Dr Nikiwe Bam
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Mpondoprincenominatedfordualexcellenceawards
BABALWA NDLANYA
A WELL-KNOWN actor, cultural advocate and active GBV activist, Prince Zukisani Ndamase from Nyandeni Administrative Area in Libode, has been nominated for the Home of Legends Excellence Awards in two categories at the International Convention Centre in East London on 5 December 2025
He is nominated in the Provincial Actor of the Year and Provincial Traditionalist of the Year categories
The purpose of these awards is to recognise and reward outstanding contributions and achievements by individuals, businesses, workers and organisations, whilst encouraging service excellence, job creation, productivity, innovation and positive social impact
The awards also aim to motivate leaders and organisations to contribute to provincial development and fight against inequality, rights violations, injustice and Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF)
Ndamase made his first television appearance on Isidingo before se-
curing roles in several soapies and dramas, including Muvhango as an MMC board member, Generations and The Queen as a businessman, and Gomora as a journalist
As a Mpondo Prince by birth, he is deeply passionate about his culture and heritage He has dedicated himself to promoting unity among South Africa’s diverse royal houses and serves as a board member of the Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival He has also worked closely with the South African Royal Princesses Network on GBV-related initiatives
His heart is set on a major upcoming project producing a documentary to preserve and promote the rich cultural and environmental heritage of the Mpondo Kingdom The film will highlight the history, values and contributions of the Mpondo people
The documentary will also serve as a platform to advocate for official recognition of the Mpondo language and support the fight against GBV through his Prince Zukisani Ndamase Foundation
“I am committed to continuing to make a difference in humanity I will use the opportunity presented
by these awards to elevate my work as an actor, cultural ambassador, traditional leader, GBV activist and contributor to the film industry One of my long-term dreams is to open a film school in the Eastern Cape to empower rural youth,” he said Ndamase feels honoured to be nominated in his home province, stating that it means the Eastern Cape recognises his work and craft, for which he is truly grateful
He confirmed this is his first nomination in his home province, although he was previously nominated for the NGOMA Awards and the South African Youth Awards, but has not yet won
“My film school will help young people shape their craft and learn more about the industry I believe there is tremendous talent in the Eastern Cape we just need the resources to help them realise their dreams On every set I have worked on, you learn skills that help you grow It is important to believe in yourself because if you don’t, no producer or director will believe in you It begins with you as an actor or actress ”
Sister’sstruggleinspiresdisabilityawarenessbook
Traditionalsingerbreaks
Prince Zukisani Ndamase from Nyandeni Great Place in Libode is nominated for the Home of Legends Awards.
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Sport
XozaclaimsthirdBerlinNovembercrown
HOSEYA JUBASE
JOCKEY Sandile Xoza has made history by claiming his third Berlin November victory, collecting a winner’s cheque of R100,000 in the process.
The accomplished rider’s latest triumph in November 2025 adds to his previous successes in 2022 and 2023, cementing his dominance in this prestigious race.
Xoza guided Sivumelwano to victory, with
the horse owned by prominent racing figure, Lopez Magongo, from Qonce. This win ensures that Magongo successfully defends the Berlin November title, having previously tasted victory in 2024 when Liyema Meva rode Weekend Special to glory
The victory proved particularly disappointing for promising jockey Thabiso Nyakani, who finished as runner-up for the second consecutive year.
Despite claiming victories in both the 1,000-metre and 1,200-metre races earlier in
the day, Nyakani was surprisingly defeated in the main event, extending his wait for Berlin November glory.
This year’s edition provided thrilling entertainment as it developed into an intense battle between representatives from Qonce and Centane.
However, Qonce once again proved their racing supremacy, successfully defending their title in what many described as one of the most exciting Berlin November races in recent memory
AthletesinvitedtocompeteinWaysideBudgetHotel5kmrace
ANELE RAZIYA
ROYAL Strides Athletic Club from Ndabakazi is inviting athletes from Mnquma and surrounding areas to participate in the annual Wayside Budget Hotel 5km race, taking place in Butterworth this Saturday, 6 December The event aims to contribute to athletic development whilst encouraging young people to avoid alcohol and substance abuse through positive sporting engagement Event organiser, Lulama Tase, expects over one hundred athletes to compete this weekend, with substantial prizes awaiting top per-
formers across all categories
“I can confirm we are fully prepared to host our annual Wayside Budget Hotel 5km this Saturday We anticipate more than one hundred athletes from various areas will take part in the event,” said Tase The race is open to participants of all ages, with prizes awarded to those who excel throughout the 5-kilometre course The event will commence at 08:00 from the entrance of Wayside Budget Hotel in Butterworth, with runners proceeding to Butterworth Training College (BTC) before returning to the starting point
Safety measures have been arranged, with Mnquma traffic officers and health officials invited to assist during the event Tase has urged interested athletes to register promptly to avoid delays on race day
Those wishing to compete can contact Tase on 073 772 9676 for registration
Last month’s race saw victories for Bayanda Gaga from Pan African Resource Athletic Club in the men’s category, whilst Esihle April from Royal Strides Athletic Club claimed the women’s title
Whether either athlete can secure consecutive victories remains to be seen this weekend
CoachingcoursereturnstoButterworth
ANELE RAZIYA
NOZULU Youth Legacy Cup, in partnership with Mnquma Local Football Association (Mnquma LFA), is finalising preparations to host another CAF D licence coaching course at Walter Sisulu University’s Bika Campus from 11 to 18 December
The course aims to empower aspiring coaches with essential football knowledge, coaching skills, and recognised qualifications. Organisers are encouraging all interested coaches to register promptly by contacting Luxolo Matikinca, founder of Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup, on 073 513 0549. Participants will be required to pay a R3,000 registration fee for the comprehensive eight-day programme According to Matikinca, coaches have already begun registering for the course, which remains open to all applicants.
“Modern football requires qualified coaches at every level, from amateur through to professional leagues. That’s precisely why we organise these coaching courses to support upcoming coaches in their development,” said Matikinca during a recent interview.
He particularly encouraged coaches currently lacking formal qualifications not to miss this valuable opportunity to enhance their credentials through the CAF D licence programme.
Puriecrowned tournament champions
HOSEYA JUBASE
PURIE Netball Club have been crowned champions of the 2025 Tshomane Netball Tournament following an impressive display in Mqanduli last Thursday
The tournament, organised by Umhlobo Wenene FM sports presenter Okuhle Kezile, aimed to empower women through sport
The event proved to be a resounding success, with strong community support and exceptional performances from all participating teams
Kezile expressed her delight at both the standard of competition and the enthusiastic response from local supporters
“I am thoroughly impressed by how the teams responded and performed throughout the tournament, and I extend my congratulations to the winners, Purie Netball,” said Kezile “It was an enormously successful tournament, with community members turning out in great numbers to support the initiative ”
The positive reception from both spectators and participants has encouraged Kezile to continue with similar events in future
“The community have actively encouraged me to continue this initiative, and the players were absolutely delighted with the experience,” she added
BushBucks claimEastern Capeglory
BUSH Bucks FC have been crowned champions of the Eastern Cape Nedbank Cup after a thrilling victory this past Saturday
Imbabala secured their place in the next round with a hard-fought 3-2 triumph over Super Stars FC in Alexandria, situated between Port Alfred and Gqeberha
The Eastern Cape champions will now face Luthuli Brigade FC from Mpumalanga in a crucial play-off fixture scheduled for 16 December 2025
The victor of this encounter will secure their place in the prestigious Nedbank Cup Round of 32
The decisive play-off match will take place at a neutral venue in Bloemfontein on 16 December 2025
The Nedbank Cup requires eight provincial winners to complete the 32-team line-up, which includes sides from the National First Division (NFD) and Betway Premiership
With nine provinces competing for eight available spots, the tournament employs a rotating play-off system
This ensures that every eight years, each province participates in the play-off stage before potentially securing qualification for the Nedbank Cup Round of 32.
Matikinca confirmed that preparations are progressing smoothly, with registration numbers showing encouraging signs. The partnership has previously demonstrated its capability, having successfully hosted a CAF D licence course last year at Lilitha Guest House in Butterworth, where 29 coaches participated Earlier this year, in July, the organisations also conducted a successful CAF C licence
Some of the coaches who were part of CAF D license coaching course that was hosted in East London. PHOTO: FACEBOOK
HOSEYA JUBASE