community news
MTHATHA
media
For advertising contact Bubele on
063 033 7810 or 047 050 4430 email Bubele.tyani@novusmedia.co.za 49 Leeds Street • 1st floor • Mthatha • 5100
70 000 C OPIES WEEKLY
5X2FILLER-TE030425
Port St Johns | Mthatha | Ngqeleni | Tsolo | Qumbu | Butterworth | Dutywa | Engcobo
Thursday October 8, 2026 | 047 050 4430 | Facebook: Mthatha Express | mthathaexpress@novusmedia.co.za
P/C
Qonce baker wins provincial title Siphosethu Mbimbi, owner of Crust and Crumble from Qonce, has been named the Eastern Cape’s Snowflake Rising Stars winner for 2026 after a live competition that put emerging bakers’ skills and business ambitions to the test. Ten finalists from across the province competed at the Blue Ribbon Hospitality & Cookery School of Excellence in KuGompo City on 3 October. Nkosomzi Damana from Gqeberha took second place, while Nthabiseng Mpinda from Mdantsane placed third. Read the full story on page 8. From left are Sibongile Mooko (Marketing Executive at Premier), Siphosethu Mbimbi, Remolebogile Masupye (Snowflake Brand Manager at Premier) and Mbalenhle Mvelase (Marketing Graduate at Premier). PHOTO: SUPPLIED
.
2
MthathaExpress
NEWS
8 October 2026
Drug dealer jailed for life NKOSIYETHU Sizeke (36) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in Mthatha for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Alindiwe Nondlabi (22). The spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Luxolo Tyali, said that, in addition to the life sentence for murder, the court sentenced him to 30 years’ imprisonment for the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and five years’ imprisonment for defeating the ends of justice. “Evidence presented in court established that Sizeke and Nondlabi were in a domestic relationship and lived together in Marhewini Location in the Marhubeni area of Ngqeleni. Before his arrest on an unrelated matter, he gave her an amount of R25,000 to keep on his behalf. Following his release from custody, he demanded the return of the money, but she no longer had it,” said Tyali. He added that an argument ensued, during which the accused assaulted the deceased at their residence. To escape the assault, she informed him that the money was with her mother. “Sizeke, accompanied by two associates, went to Nondlabi’s family home, where they confronted her mother and sister to recover the money. When the money could not be produced, the Nondlabi refused to return with him. He forcibly dragged her to his vehicle and drove back to the home they shared. Upon arrival, he shot her in the head in the presence of his two associates. She died at the scene.” According to Tyali, he then instructed the two men to remove her body from the property. Community members later discovered the body. Tyali said subsequent investigations led to the arrest of Sizeke, who was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. He said that among the witnesses called by the State, Advocate Siphokazi Maarman
led the evidence of the two associates, who testified as Section 204 witnesses. They told the court that the money at the centre of the dispute was the proceeds of drug trafficking. “They further described the accused as a feared and ruthless figure within the community,” said Tyali. In handing down sentence, Judge Mbulelo Jolwana agreed with the State’s submission that the scourge of femicide continues to escalate across South Africa. “Regrettably, the situation is not getting better. It is getting worse, as every day women and children are being abused in various ways and even killed for the flimsiest of reasons, as if their lives do not matter. In some cases, their bodies are discarded. Sizeke similarly arranged for the deceased’s body to be discarded. Incidentally, several women were recently found murdered in various places in the Ekurhuleni district of Gauteng,” said Jolwana. The court highlighted the aggravating circumstances surrounding the offence. “The very act of dumping the body of the deceased as though she were a piece of rubbish is a serious aggravating factor, in addition to the offence of defeating the ends of justice. The accused showed absolutely no remorse. On the contrary, he made desperate attempts during sentencing proceedings to revisit and deny responsibility for the murder despite the court having already found, beyond a reasonable doubt, that he had committed the offence,” Jolwana said. Welcoming the outcome, Eastern Cape Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Samkelo Mtwana, said this sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of violence against women will be held fully accountable for their actions. “The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of gender-based violence and femicide, while supporting all efforts aimed at eradicating these crimes from our communities.”
ECLB urges safe exam celebrations THE Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB), Dr Nombuyiselo Makala, said that as learners enter the fourth term and prepare for their end-of-year examinations, the board is appealing to young people to resist the pressure to celebrate through “Pens Down” parties involving alcohol and underage drinking. For many learners, the final examination is more than just a test; it represents months of hard work, sacrifice and the hope of building a better future. “For parents and families, it is also a moment of pride and the hope of seeing their children complete the school year safely and take another step towards their dreams. It is against this background that the ECLB is concerned about the growing culture of ‘Pens Down’ parties, which can turn what should be a moment of achievement and celebration into a night of fear, injury, violence or, in the worst circumstances, loss of life,” said Makala. She added that through its Anti-Pens Down Campaign, the ECLB is encouraging learners to make responsible choices and is working with communities to prevent underage drinking and the harm that can arise from unsafe gatherings. “We understand that young people want to celebrate when their examinations are over. They have worked hard and deserve to feel proud of what they have achieved. Our message is simple: celebrate your achievement but make sure you make it home safely. We do not want a parent waiting at home for a child who never returns. We do not want families receiving devastating late-night phone calls because a celebration has gone wrong. We want our young people to complete their examinations, celebrate responsibly and return home safely to the people who love them.” She added that they are calling on parents, schools, liquor traders, community leaders and residents to play their part in protecting young people. “Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak openly with their children about the dangers of alcohol and to know where they are going, who they will be with,
and what activities they intend to attend. Schools and communities are urged to discourage learners from organising or attending gatherings where alcohol may be consumed by minors. Liquor traders are reminded that selling or supplying alcohol to minors is unlawful.” Makala added that traders must also ensure that their premises are not used to facilitate illegal activities involving underage drinking. She said the board therefore urges learners to look beyond one night of celebration and consider the future they are working towards and the families who are waiting for them at home. “Pens Down should mark the end of examinations, not the beginning of tragedy.” The ECLB encouraged anyone who becomes aware of a planned gathering involving underage drinking or illegal liquor activities to report it to the nearest police station or to the ECLB — Toll Free: 0800 000 420 or WhatsApp: 076 403 6223.
Chief Executive Officer for Eastern Cape Liquor Board, Dr Nombuyiselo Makana.
PHOTO: BABALWA NDLANYA
MthathaExpress 3
NEWS
8 October 2026
SMALL TOWNS REVITALISATION PROJECT:
Amahlathi secures R115-million funding MANDLENKOSI MXENGI
THE Amahlathi Local Municipality has secured additional funding of about R115 million earmarked for the Small Towns Revitalisation Project, disasters and municipal infrastructure backlogs for the 2026/27 financial year. Amahlathi’s budget expenditure on Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) and Municipal Disaster Recovery Grant (MDRG) projects for the upcoming financial year is projected to be around R314 million. This was announced by Amahlathi Local Municipality Mayor, Nomakhosazana Nongqayi, while delivering the annual State of the Municipality Address (SOMA) at the Mzwandile Wilson Fanti Hall in Stutterheim on Wednesday, 30 September. Some of the major projects highlighted by Nongqayi during her speech included the R40 million budget allocation set aside for the Keiskammahoek roads upgrade and the R18 million Keiskammahoek Recreation Centre. Included were a budget allocation amounting to R36 million for street paving in Stutterheim, R29 million set aside for street paving in Keiskammahoek and R16 million for the Cathcart
Town Hall upgrade. The budget allocation falls under Amahlathi’s Small Towns Revitalisation Project and forms part of the municipality’s efforts to address infrastructure backlogs. Nongqayi’s speech was delivered under the theme, “Restoration, Resilience and Renewal”, highlighting progress in financial recovery, infrastructure development and service delivery. Reflecting on the past five years, Nongqayi outlined the municipality’s efforts to build a financially sustainable, capable and people-centred local government. She described the theme’s three pillars as a practical framework for rebuilding trust, strengthening municipal systems and improving resilience. “Restoration is about repairing trust, rebuilding systems and restoring dignity to our people. Resilience is about standing firm in the face of adversity, while renewal is about embracing hope, fresh energy and a forward-looking vision,” said Nongqayi. The municipality reported progress in strengthening its financial position, including achieving a funded budget, reducing its Eskom debt, improving revenue collection and implementing cost-containment measures.
Nongqayi said these interventions had established a stronger foundation for sustainable service delivery and financial accountability. “Amahlathi has broadened its infrastructure funding sources beyond the MIG, accessing support through the Disaster Recovery and Rehabilitation Grant, Small Towns Revitalisation Programme and Integrated National Electrification Programme,” said Nongqayi. Another milestone was the installation of 3,155 electricity smart meters through the RT29 Smart Meter Grant, and the municipality has received a further R5 million allocation for additional installations. Following years of vehicle fleet shortages, the municipality reported significant investment in restoring its operational fleet. Acquisitions included refuse collection trucks, traffic vehicles, construction equipment, a cherry-picker and other operational vehicles to support waste collection, road maintenance, traffic management and essential services. Her address also highlighted Amahlathi’s heritage and tourism potential and the municipality’s continued support for local crafters, tour guides, creatives, homestay establishments and community tourism organisations
including the Amahlathi Crafters Association. “Heritage and tourism signage had been erected at attraction destinations including Xhologha Hiking Forest, Ntaba ka Ndoda Memorial Site, the Rev. James Calata Statue, Gubu Dam, Cata Hiking Trail, St Matthews Mission and Cathcart Hiking Trail,” said Nongqayi. Local crafters’ participation at this year’s National Arts Festival in Makhanda and the establishment of market days at Stutterheim Square were highlighted as platforms for promoting local entrepreneurs and artisans. “Over the past five years, tremendous work has been done to restore the integrity of our municipality, to build resilience in the face of challenges and to renew our commitment to the people we serve,” said Nongqayi. She emphasised that restoration, resilience and renewal must translate into practical action to build a responsive and sustainable municipality that meets its communities’ needs. Her speech concluded with a call for continued cooperation among communities, traditional leadership, businesses and other stakeholders to build a stronger and more prosperous Amahlathi.
Five in court after Dutywa bus torched,driver attacked BABALWA NDLANYA MEC for Transport and Community Safety Xolile Nqatha has severely criticised the torching of an Africa’s Best 350 (AB350) bus in Dutywa and the alleged violent activities by Van Taxi members in the area last week. Five accused, Gugulethu Mgunyathi (56), Mzwamacirha Dlambulo (42), Zenime Gwedlisa (39), Siyabonga Ngangqu (43) and Asavela Zifuku (38), briefly appeared before the Dutywa Magistrate’s Court facing charges of robbery, intimidation and assault. The matter was postponed to 7 October for a bail application. MEC spokesperson, Makhaya Komisa, said this followed an alleged attack by Van Taxi members on an AB350 bus travelling from Willowvale to Dutywa. He said they allegedly pelted it with stones and attacked the driver. “Subsequently, they allegedly robbed the driver of an estimated R3,500 and set the bus alight. Approximately 40 bus passengers were hiding in nearby residential premises when the incident occurred. The driver and one passenger sustained minor injuries. The injured bus driver and passenger were taken for medical attention,” said Komisa. He added that while South African Police Service (SAPS) members were still at the crime scene, they received information about another bus from the same company that the perpetrators were also chasing. Members of the police proceeded to the scene. However, police found the bus safe and escorted it to the station. “Police have arrested five male suspects, and the following cases have been opened against
NEWS TIPS? Send an email to mthathaexpress@ novusmedia.co.za ADVERTISING or CLASSIFIEDS? Contact Bubele Tyani at Bubele.Tyani@ novusmedia.co.za DELIVERY QURIES? Newspaper delivery queries can be sent to mthathaexpress@ novusmedia.co.za. Include your address and contact number.
the suspects: malicious damage to property, assault with grievous bodily harm and robbery with aggravating circumstances. SAPS is closely monitoring the area to prevent any future attacks. Extra deployment has been requested from Public Order Police (POP). A meeting is being organised with all affected parties to find an amicable, long-term solution.” Komisa said Nqatha applauded police for their swift action in arresting the five suspects. He said Nqatha also encouraged all parties to resolve their differences through dialogue and refrain from violence and intimidation. “Nqatha has issued a stern warning to perpetrators that the government will not tolerate violence and destruction of property, and that perpetrators will face the full force of the law.” Manager and Stakeholder of the Eastern Cape Small Bus Operators Council (ECSBOC), Manelisi Siguqa, said they were disappointed and shocked at the same time by this incident. “We can confirm that both buses were travelling to Dutywa when the incidents happened. The problem that we have is that we open these cases, but no one is arrested. After we signed a critical resolution and cooperation agreement with the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) following a high-level intervention by the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, we expected the violence to stop,” said Siguqa. He said one bus had been torched since the agreement. Past incidents used to happen at night — it was the first time their buses were attacked during the day. The agreement was signed at the Mayfair Hotel in Mthatha in Au-
gust 2023. Police spokesperson Captain Majola Nkohli said the Acting Amathole District Commissioner, Brigadier Zinikele Freddie, commended the swift multi-agency response to the arrest of five suspects following an attack on a privately owned bus at Chizele Administrative Area in Dutywa. “Police were summoned to a complaint of a group of suspects travelling in several bakkies allegedly pelting a bus with stones along Colosa Road just outside Dutywa. At the scene, police with other law enforcement agencies found the bus engulfed in flames with no occupants inside. Preliminary investigations were conducted, and it was established that the bus was allegedly attacked by suspects who were travelling in several bakkies,” said Nkohli. He added that it was further alleged that the suspects robbed the occupants of their personal belongings, including cash, before setting the bus alight. Nkohli confirmed that the driver and a passenger sustained minor injuries during the incident. “The other passengers escaped unscathed. While members were busy with the first scene,
Five suspects appeared in court facing charges releated to the torching of an AB350 bus and an attack on the driver. PHOTO: SUPPLIED they received a second complaint of another bus being chased by people travelling in bakkies nearby. The team managed to locate and rescue the second bus before any damage could be inflicted.” Acting Amathole District Commissioner, Brigadier Zinikele Freddie, has praised the collaboration among all the stakeholders. “Fighting crime is a collective responsibility,” concluded Freddie.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING NOTICE I Mr M. Nako, the Municipal Manager of Mbhashe Local Municipality, as duly instructed by the Municipal Council Speaker, Councillor B. Majavu, hereby gives notice that in terms of Section 19 (b) of the Local Government Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, a Special Council Meeting for Mbhashe Local Municipality will be held virtually on Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 11H00. In terms of section 20 (1) of the Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, members of the public, the media and other interested bodies and organizations wishing to be part of this meeting are invited. Mna Mnumzana M. Nako uMlawuli oyintloko kaMasipala waseMbhashe, ngokomyalelo kaSomlomo weBhunga likaMasipala waseMbhashe uCeba B. Majavu, ndikhupha esi saziso ngokugunyaziswa licandelo 19(b) loMthetho wohlobo lokusebenza kooMasipala, wama-32 ka 2000 ukuba intlanganiso ekhethekileyo yeBhunga loMasipala weNgingqi yoMbhashe iya kubanjwa kubuxhaka-xhaka balemihla ngoLwesithathu, 28 eyeDwarha 2026, ngentsimbi yeshumi elinanye (11H00) kusasa. Ngokwecandelo 20 (1) loMthetho wohlobo lokusebenza koMasipala wama-32 ka 2000, amalungu oluntu, oonondaba kunye namanye amaqela anomdla nemibutho enqwenela ukuba yinxalenye yale ntlanganiso, ayamenywa ukuba athathe inxaxheba. Issued by Municipal Manager Mr M. Nako
NM10075956-TE081026
4
MthathaExpress
NEWS
8 October 2026
Department of Agriculture invests in rural agricultural projects ZOLILE MENZELWA THE farming communities of two villages in the Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality received a boost following a R3.8 million investment in agricultural infrastructure by the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture. MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe handed over an irrigation system, storage infrastructure and fencing to the youth-led Vivi-Am Holdings in Sigubudwini village — an initiative that focuses on vegetable production. In another village, Nyanisweni, Kontsiwe handed over a Springwater project aimed at improving water access for households and strengthening community food production initiatives. During the installation phase of the project in May 2025, 40 community members had been employed, the department said.
The project benefited households within the village, particularly those involved in backyard food production who had experienced difficulties accessing water. Speaking at the Sigubudwini handover, Kontsiwe commended the young farmers running Vivi-Am Holdings for their commitment, adding that the work her department was doing enabled them to transform agriculture in their community. “These young people have dedicated themselves to this work. They are young but work hard. We are encouraged by their dedication to working the land and the fact that they have an established market where they sell their produce,” the MEC said. The move, Kontsiwe said, had been made to increase agricultural production and promote inclusive economic growth. The irrigation system covers 11 hectares of land for production while the fencing extends over 20 hectares. One of the
young farmers from Vivi-Am, Sihle Guzane, said the department’s intervention has strengthened the enterprise’s production capacity. “The irrigation is helping us a lot as it gives us an opportunity to plant throughout the season. Since the infrastructure is of a better standard than the one we used to have, our crops receive sufficient water to help them grow.” Guzane said that the expansion of their production capacity enabled the project to create employment opportunities through the appointment of permanent and seasonal workers. Previously, the Nyanisweni Springwater project received a tractor from the department, providing much-needed relief to their operations. “The handover forms part of the department’s efforts to strengthen agricultural production, improve food security and create sustainable economic opportuni-
ties for the rural Eastern Cape,” Kontsiwe said. Beyond supporting smallholder and commercial enterprises, the department’s intervention also extended to improving access to water for communities in the Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality area. The Springwater project, Kontsiwe said, has improved the livelihoods of community members by increasing household food production, improving household nutrition and reducing expenditure on vegetables. The Department of Agriculture had previously supported the Nyanisweni village and its chief, Nolitha Ludidi, with agricultural inputs including fertilisers and various vegetable seedlings at a cost of R80,000. Kontsiwe was accompanied by the Kumkani Mhlontlo mayor, Mbulelo Jara, and the municipality’s Local Economic Development Portfolio Head, Mbuti Voko.
Slain Eastern Cape officers laid to rest after business robbery shootout THE funerals of two Eastern Cape police officers killed while responding to an alleged business robbery have taken place, with two suspects arrested and three others fatally wounded as investigations continue. Warrant Officer Thando Magoxo (51), of the Mthatha National Intervention Unit (NIU), was buried at Lwandlana Location, Mqanduli, on 2 October, while Constable Ntlahla Tyhali (30), of Mthatha Public Order Policing (POP), was laid to rest at St Augustine Location, kuTsolo, on 4 October. The officers were killed on 18 September at Ziphunzana Location, Sikhobeni, Libode, after responding to a complaint of an attempted business robbery at a spaza shop. Both were found with gunshot wounds, and their service pistols were stolen. According to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, a 72-hour plan was activated following the killings. Two suspects were arrested, while three others were fatally wounded during intelligence-driven follow-up operations. An AK47 and three handguns were recovered. Charges being investigated include an attack on police, attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, commended his teams, who have worked tirelessly to ensure this breakthrough. “Through swift, intelligence-driven operations, two suspects have been arrested and three others linked to this crime were fatally wounded during confrontations with police,” he said. “We will not rest until every remaining role player is held accountable and the full might of the law takes its course.” The investigation also led to a Hawks op-
Warrant Officer Magoxo (51) was brutally murdered on 18 September at Ziphunzana Location in Libode, while responding to a call for assistance. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED eration on 22 September at Ezinkumbini Location, Libode, where a 45-year-old man was fatally wounded after allegedly firing at police. The Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana said the search of the property resulted in the recovery of four AKMS Norinco rifles, two Itadel shotguns, seven 9mm pistols, hundreds of rounds of ammunition and firearm magazines. According to Mhlakuvana, the firearm allegedly used by the deceased during the
confrontation was a 9mm pistol which preliminary checks indicated had been reported stolen in Cape Town. Mhlakuvana confirmed that two suspects appeared before the Libode Magistrate’s Court on 21 September. Sheila Nxulu (29) faces charges of possession of an unlicensed AK47 rifle with live rounds of ammunition, while Jongikha-
ya Dlani (29) faces charges of possession of live rounds of ammunition. Both were apprehended on 19 September during an intelligence-driven operation at Ngolo Location in Libode. “Both were released on R1,500 bail and the matters were postponed to 1 December for further investigation.” At Magoxo’s funeral, the Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing, Lieutenant General Maropeng Mamothethi commended the police teams involved in the investigation. “Their professionalism and determination send a clear message: those who attack police officers will be relentlessly pursued, arrested where possible, and brought before the courts to face the full might of the law.” Mamothethi added, “We will not allow criminals to believe that they can attack police officers, steal police firearms, and act with impunity. Our response will always be swift, intelligence-driven, lawful and unwavering.” Magoxo spent most of his career in specialised units, joining the NIU in 2007 after starting in Crime Intelligence. At Tyhali’s funeral, Ncata said his death highlighted the dangers faced by police officers. “He went towards danger while others were seeking safety. That is the nature of policing,” said Ncata. Mhlakuvana confirmed that the investigation continues, adding that those who were linked to the murder of the police officers were fatally wounded. “The two suspects were apprehended, with charges including an attack on police, attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition under investigation,” he concluded.
Constable Tyhali (30) tragically passed away on 18 September after being gunned down while attending to an attempted business robbery complaint.
8 October 2026
MthathaExpress 5
NEWS
Ilitha connects 10,000 Mthatha homes BABALWA NDLANYA THE Chief Executive Officer of Ilitha Telecommunications, Vuyani Jarana, confirmed that they had launched the Ilitha network at Sinolwazi Senior Secondary School in Mthatha, which will also assist learners to gain more knowledge through the internet. He said they came with their partners, who will enable learners from Grade 1 to 12 to access curriculum-approved digital content. He added that they had connected all the households in Mthatha West, Mandela Park, Chris Hani, Kwa Lindile and other areas. They had connected 10,000 homes so far. “We are here to say thank you to the people of this area for allowing us to enter their homesteads to install connectivity. We also came with partners offering remote diagnostic health care that has been approved by the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Now you can access a medical doctor while you are at home — they will diagnose you at affordable rates,” said Jarana.
He added that the patient would then receive a prescription to collect medication. Most minor ailments can be diagnosed remotely by a qualified doctor. “We have partnered with them to bring this service here in Mthatha West. We started connecting in Mdantsane and other areas, then here in Mthatha we started in Mthatha West because we wanted an area where people do not have connectivity, which is not a suburb. Now that we have finished with this area, we are able to connect surrounding areas. We have even connected some of the local areas in Mthatha.” He said the internet for WhatsApp and other digital platforms was fine, but it became even more crucial when someone was using it to gain an education and to protect a homestead by installing cameras. Jarana said it was most important when someone was accessing remote diagnostic health care. “We will move health care delivery from hospitals and surgeries and bring it home, meaning that the internet plays a major role. We have trained a lot of Small, Medi-
um and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) over the past 12 to 18 months. At one point here in Mthatha, we had more than 200 young people. We are focusing on those who are from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, and those who are not in TVETs, but who have matric — we train them. The SMMEs that we have groomed from scratch are many, not only here in Mthatha but also in other areas like KuGompo.” He said they had told themselves that these young people would be trained so that they could move on in life, and some had even been able to open their own businesses. He confirmed that Ilitha was not only about providing internet connectivity, but it also developed skills in young people. The service provider for Ilitha Telecommunications, Nelson Gaqana, said he had played a major role as he was the one erecting towers and other infrastructure for this network company. He said it was great to be given this opportunity because, as a pensioner, he had been sitting at home.
“They came and asked me if I could assist them by providing towers. I have used the opportunity they granted me to take in young people who are abusing drugs and alcohol. I train them for free. This is helping a lot because now they have skills. I started Chungwa Welding Academy in August 2025, after I was approached by this telecommunications company,” said Gaqana. Gaqana said that by profession he was a vehicle body builder and a qualified artisan welder. He confirmed that he started in 1973 at the Eastern Cape Centre in Gqeberha. “I then found a position building buses in Butterworth and then went for training in Tzaneen in 1975. I also worked at the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) as an operator welder.” Gaqana said his academy was not registered yet, but he was in the process of registering it. His aim was to help young people leave drugs behind so that they could rebuild their lives. He confirmed that if it had not been for Ilitha Telecommunications, he would not have been able to fulfil this vision.
Minister halts N2 Gateway Village eviction BABALWA NDLANYA COMMUNITY members from N2 Gateway Village in Libode recently celebrated Heritage Day in a different way, thanking the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso, for intervening to solve their land problem. They had not been receiving service delivery due to complaints that they had invaded land set aside for development. Chairperson of N2 Gateway Village, Pilisa Hele, said they fought this battle for eight months until his intervention. He confirmed that they bought this land from the owners of the fields. He said it was alleged that the people who sold them the land already had a deal with the Department of Land Affairs, Nyandeni Local Municipality and developers for the area to be developed. “At some stage, the deal did not go well, so they decided to sell this land to us to build our houses. A 40x40 site was not less than R50,000. As time went on, we tried to follow all the right channels, but we were let down. Ever since then, we have been fighting this battle; we even received a court interdict which ordered us not to build our houses here. The traditional leader of the area, Chief Jongisizwe Nobengula, was also ordered to sign an eviction order, but he refused to do that,” said Hele. He confirmed that their area has almost 500 households and they have stayed in this area for eight years even though they were not recognised as community members. He said they were not even receiving
Sibabale Binase, Bongiwe Mimi (Director of Mimiz Eatery) and Phelokazi Ntiyane from N2 Gateway Village in Libode celebrated Heritage Month in their area. PHOTO:BABALWA NDLANYA services; even now they have nothing, not even toilets. He added that they then decided to ask Nyhontso to intervene in the problem. Hele confirmed that Nyhontso called all the relevant stakeholders with the aim of solving this matter. “He ordered the eviction letter to be cancelled, stating that the land belongs to the people. He is the one who helped us achieve a breakthrough in this problem. Our official name is N2 Gateway Village, and that is what we will call this area.” The traditional leader of the area, Nobengula, said it was not going to be a good thing for him to watch these citizens’
40 winners Join
houses being demolished because they had spent a lot of money to buy land and to build homes for their children. “I decided to support them all the way because they had developed this area in the best way. Even when there was an eviction order stating that their houses must be demolished, I stood by them. I like government development, but after I saw that nothing was happening to bring it, I then supported them. These people are sitting here legally; they are a part of the Sibangweni Community,” he said. Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso, said people who are leaders must know that they
each get a
are making decisions. He added that after making the decision they must implement it. “What led us to be here today is that you said you were being chased away from your land, and there is also a court order. You cannot demolish the houses of the people knowing very well that they spent huge amounts of money. You came to us and we told you that no one will vandalise your houses as long as I am still the Minister and the President of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC). “After we agreed that you have already built your houses and this is your land, it is your right to get it. We then reversed that court order so that even when there is someone new, he must not implement it again because it was wrong from the start,” said Nyhontso. He added that whatever happens, this land will always belong to these community members. He added that people who are extorting are those who are selling land because no one is supposed to do that. Nyhontso revealed that he would be visiting kingdoms of the Eastern Cape soon to fulfil the promise he made that he would give kings’ farms. “We are not buying votes by doing that, but we are showing that traditional leaders are supposed to own the land. Now we have two bills that we are tabling in the Cabinet. The first bill is the Equitable Access to Land Bill; it is a bill that speaks to what the Constitution of this country says: land must be divided equitably, and that does not happen. We have also tabled it in the public cluster.”
R250
shopping voucher.
Loyalty and win
R2 000 cash
every week in October.
R10 000 in cash up for grabs! Valid across all our community newspapers. Check yourself. Book your screening.
FREE to enter. Takes 1 minute.
Closing date 31 October 2026. Draw date 6 November 2026. T’s&C’s apply SCAN HERE TO WIN! SAMXXX-TE081026
6
MthathaExpress
NEWS
8 October 2026
8 October 2026
NEWS
TLR Pictures seeks local talent BABALWA NDLANYA THE founder of True Levels Records (TLR) Pictures, Ayabonga Msuthu, and his partners are on a mission to develop talent from rural areas to ensure that this vision comes true. They are currently finalising their auditions for upcoming projects. He said auditions will take place in Cofimvaba and surrounding areas. Dates and venue will be announced on their official Facebook page: TLR Pictures. “We want to give local talent a chance because we believe there is a lot of untapped talent in our villages that has never been given a platform. We are looking for all age groups because our stories need everyone to be complete. We need children from eight years up to 50 years and above. We do not look for perfect English or professional actors, but we look for passion, discipline and people who can be real on camera,” he said. He said TLR Pictures is a film division under their parent company, True Levels Records. He is also an artist at TLR, managed by Mphumeleli Zimba. “Our stories are about real life in our communities. We tell raw, emotional stories that many people are afraid to talk about. Our latest film, titled The Last Letter, is about a young mother named Lindiwe who leaves her village for the city to find a better life for her son and her mother. But the city changes her and she loses herself in the process. It is a story about poverty, temptation, bad decisions, motherhood and the painful consequences of forgetting where you come from. It shows how one wrong choice can destroy a whole family,” he said. He added that all their stories, starting with Impukane, Impindezelo, Azigqibi and The Last Letter, are inspired by what they see happening around them in the Eastern Cape. He said their main goal is to teach and heal while entertain-
ing. First, people must not forget their roots and the people who sacrificed for them. “The city is not always what it seems. Peer pressure can make you lose yourself. It is never too late to ask for forgiveness, but sometimes forgiveness comes when the damage is already done. We want young mothers to think twice before making rushed decisions. The film industry in South Africa is very big, but it is still difficult for people like us who come from rural areas with no connections and no formal training. We had no background. We learnt everything from YouTube and from buying cheap movie courses online.” He added that the industry is changing because of Facebook and YouTube. Those who want to be in this industry now do not need to be in Johannesburg to be seen. “If your story is real, people will watch it. The biggest challenge is funding and equipment, but talent is everywhere. My advice to those who would like to follow in our footsteps is simple: do not wait for a big camera, money or someone to believe in you. We started with the little money we made from music. Use your phone if you have to. Tell the stories around you and learn every day. It will be hard. People will laugh at you, but if you are consistent and your stories are honest, people will eventually support you. We are the proof that you can build something from nothing.” According to him, their journey into film was not planned; it was born from necessity. After years of recording music, they realised their songs needed visuals. He said they saved every cent they made from music to buy their first cameras. “When we started shooting our own music videos, we realised the videos needed real storylines, and those storylines needed acting. That is how acting was introduced to us, and that is how TLR Pictures was formed.”
Founder or True Love Records Pictures Ayabonga Msuthu. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
MthathaExpress
7
8
MthathaExpress
NEWS
8 October 2026
Qonce baker wins Snowflake Rising Stars title SIPHOSETHU Mbimbi, owner of Crust and Crumble from Qonce, has been named the Eastern Cape’s Snowflake Rising Stars winner for 2026 after a live competition that put emerging bakers’ skills and business ambitions to the test. Ten finalists from across the province, including Gqeberha, Komani, Mthatha, KuGompo City, Qonce and Bhisho, competed at the Blue Ribbon Hospitality & Cookery School of Excellence in KuGompo City on Saturday, 3 October. Nkosomzi Damana from Gqeberha took second place, while Nthabiseng Mpinda from Mdantsane placed third. Each baker pitched their business, presented a red velvet cheesecake prepared in advance and had 90 minutes to create a spring-inspired dessert using Snowflake flour. Chef Ian Fritz Reynolds, Chef Jacques Viviers and Sibusiso Dhlamini, a technical sales representative from Premier, judged their work, considering taste, texture, creativity and presentation. “I was surprisingly relaxed during the pressure test because this is what I do every day. All the ingredients came together naturally and made sense with what
The Snowflake Rising Stars 2026 winners are, from left Nthabiseng Mpinda (third place), Siphosethu Mbimbi (first place) and Nkosomzi Damana (second place). PHOTO: SUPPLIED I had in mind. Winning this competition means so much to me, as it gives me the
opportunity to grow my business and flourish with the additional support,”
said Mbimbi. Mbimbi received R20,000 in business capital, while second place received R15,000 and third place received R10,000. Each of the top three also received a marketing and branding toolkit worth R30,000, business skills training, media exposure and Snowflake products. “Mbimbi has shown both the baking skill and the ambition to grow a business. This prize gives her capital, practical tools and exposure to reach more customers. That is what Rising Stars is here to do: help talented bakers in the Eastern Cape turn their work into stronger, more sustainable businesses,” said Sibongile Mooko, Marketing Executive at Premier FMCG. Volenti Robson, representing the Border Kei Chamber of Business, said, “I am incredibly proud to see the talent coming from across the Eastern Cape. “I encourage all our Top 10 finalists to continue their entrepreneurial journeys. The sky is the limit, and you are paving the way for our economy and creating opportunities for employment.” The winning baker is expected to showcase their products at Hemingways Mall from 29 October to 1 November.
Bungu wins 2026 OR Tambo Commemorative Marathon HOSEYA JUBASE AWONKE Bungu has won the 2026 OR Tambo Commemorative Marathon, held on Sunday, 4 October. Bungu, originally from Mdantsane, won the 42km race, which started in Baziya and finished at Walter Sisulu University (WSU) in Mthatha. This year’s theme was a call to stop gender-based violence (GBV). “I am very excited about this win. Travelling all the way from Mdantsane in East London and managing to win means a lot to me, because this is part of my preparations for the upcoming Nelson Mandela Marathon in the Western Cape,” said Bungu. “It will be my first time competing in a major marathon, and I hope I will do well,” he added. “Winning this OR Tambo Commemorative Marathon means a lot to me because it is one of the major marathons that commemorates one of our late icons, Oliver Reginald Tambo. I would like to thank the municipality for organising this iconic marathon,” he said. The champion also called on men to protect women. The women’s 21km winner, Anelisa Weduwedu, said she is proud of her progress, as she was the winner of the 10km race last year. OR Tambo District Municipality Mayor, Mesuli Ngqondwana, thanked all the ath-
Pictured are the athletes who participated in the 21 km race at their starting point near Baziya. letes who participated in the marathon to commemorate the late icon, Oliver Reginald Tambo.
“We are saying enough is enough to Gender-Based Violence. Even in our areas under our district, we have a high number of these
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
cases,” said Ngqondwana. Ngqondwana said in 2027 this marathon will be a qualifying race.
Royal Striders to host first Mbali LS Tase 5km race ANELE RAZIYA
The Royal Strides Athletic Club from Ndabakazi village will hold their first event for this year towards the end of the month. PHOTO: ANELE RAZIYA
ROYAL Striders Athletic Club from Ndabakazi village, near Butterworth, has started preparations to host its first 5km race event for this year. Last week, the club announced that on 24 October, they will host the first edition of the Mbali LS Tase 5km race in Butterworth. One of the purposes of hosting the event was for the Ndabakazi club to make a significant contribution to the development of sport, particularly in rural areas in Mnquma, and to keep young people away from wrongdoing. The Mbali LS Tase 5km race is expected to be the first event to be organised in Mnquma this year, as the area is normally known for hosting two events every year since the postCOVID-19 outbreak. Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Mnquma area used to host more than five race events and attract many athletes. Since the post-COVID-19 outbreak, well-known organisers such as the Royal Striders Athletic Club have been working hard to revive the sporting code around Mnquma and surrounding areas.
Event organiser Lulama Tase said the event on 24 October is open to everyone, and there will be great prizes to be won by athletes who perform well. “All athletes from different areas are invited to come and participate in the upcoming Mbali LS Tase 5km race, which is scheduled to take place in Butterworth towards the end of this month,” added Tase. He said their aim in hosting the event was to contribute to the development of sport and to keep their athletes competitive. He called on all athletes within Mnquma and beyond to come in large numbers to compete in the Mbali LS Tase 5km race, which will be hosted for the first time. He emphasised in conclusion that the competition is open to everyone — whether you are old or young, you are welcome to come and compete. Athletes who are interested in taking part should contact Tase on 064 056 9025 for more information. The event is expected to start at 09:00 on 24 October, and all athletes are requested to register as soon as possible so that there will be no delays on the day.