Young chess sensation Tumi
ChesssensationrepresentsSAinKenya
MXENGI
YOUNG East London chess ace, Tumi Balura of Fort Grey on the outskirts of East London, landed at the King Phalo Airport recently after representing South Africa at the 2025 African Schools Chess Championships held in Kenya
The 10-year-old Balura is following in the footsteps of another young East London chess sensation, Azo Maseti, who also represented the country in national and international chess competitions
Both Balura and Maseti are the products of the Rotary Club of East London's continued support and development of chess involving school learners in the Buffalo
City Metro region
Over the years, the Rotary Club of East London has steadfastly supported the development of chess in Buffalo City, reaching over 2,000 learners in nearly 100 schools, targeting primary schools in rural areas
The chess development initiative has benefitted hundreds of learners from disadvantaged areas, including Fort Grey, Dyam Dyam, Kiwane and Ncera villages Rotary Club of East London (RCEL) Public Image Chairperson Pam Way highlighted the foundational role of veteran coach Clive Delbridge, who helped launch the first chess club in Dyam Dyam village, and later extended his coaching to Fort Grey and Ncera village
Balura of Fort Grey in East London represented South Africa at the 2025 African Schools Chess Championships held in Kenya.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Families
Distraughtfamiliesmournliveslost
BABALWA NDLANYA
PAIN and sorrow were etched on the faces of family members who lost loved ones during a Provincial Mourning Prayer held by the Eastern Cape Provincial Government at King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) TVET College in Mthatha last week
At the time of going to print on Tuesday, the total number of recovered bodies was standing at 100
Deputy Mayor of O R Tambo District Municipality, Thandekile Sabisa, said the floods had taken a tragic toll on the community, marking a sombre chapter in the municipality's history
"It was the first time we experienced such a disaster Our area is often affected by disasters, but never like this We are here to say this must not happen again We came here today to be with the affected families," said Sabisa He emphasised that when one person suffers, the entire community should share the pain "We want you to know that the government and O R Tambo care for you Words cannot take away your pain, but the Church Ministry is here to pray with you Stay strong and let our silence speak May those we have lost rest in peace " Minister for Human Settlements, Thembi Simelane, stated that the government is striving to bring comfort to grieving families and ensure ongoing recovery efforts
"We do not want to count more lives lost again It is important for families to find closure The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, visited the area and expressed sympathy after inspecting the damage We are here as Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and MECs to represent the government of South
Africa We are all shocked This is something we have never seen before, and we pray it never happens again," she said Provincial Finance MEC Mlungisi Mvoko, speaking on behalf of the Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane, urged families to remain united with the government
"Mabuyane has been with us since day one
Everyone from the government came to show support Now that some time has passed, many affected families do not know what to do next We are mobilising all authorities to assist these communities We will be with them until their lives are restored We ask for unity
and cooperation from churches to community leaders," said Mvoko Grade 11 learner, Ibenaye Mxoxozi (16), from Jumba Senior Secondary School in Mthatha, shared his heartache over the loss of 13 learners from his school They were in a bus swept away by floods at the Efata Bridge while on their way to school
"We lost our friends and classmates people we considered brothers and sisters because of our close bonds Emotionally, we are deeply affected It is hard to cope Even those left behind at school are still crying because this is too deep," said Mxoxozi
Meanwhile, Tanduxolo Dakana is still searching for his daughter, Simbongile Nomntwana Dakana (16), a Grade 10 learner at Jumba Senior Secondary School
"What makes my heart ache is that we are searching in vain We know death is a part of life, but we just want to find her body It is unusual for someone to go missing for this long without a trace We have searched everywhere around here, unless she is outside Mthatha I pray day and night to find my child's body That, at least, would bring some peace "
As of the time of publication on Tuesday, the office of Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane announced in a statement that the provincial government is coordinating efforts to provide burial support for the victims of this tragedy
According to the statement, this support comprises the storage of bodies, burial services, and the transportation of remains to the location selected by each family for burial
“These provisions have been made possible with assistance from AVBOB, and the government is also working with other undertakers to mobilise additional support in line with the specific needs of each family,” the statement read
Reverend Khayalethu Matu (General Assembly Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church of Southern Africa) and Reverend Mzwandile Molo (General Secretary of National Council of Churches in Southern Africa) lighting candles in the Mourning Prayer that was held at King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) TVET College in Mthatha
PHOTOS: BABALWA NDLANYA
holding candles as a sign of remembering their loved ones who lost their lives, in a Mourning Prayer event that was held at King Sabatha Dalindyebo TVET College in Mthatha.
FatalshootingofWSUDeputy
Vice-Chancellorsparksurgentsafetymeasures
ELIZABETH GILIOMEE-ROSSOUW
THE National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, visited Mthatha on Friday following the killing of a Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the Walter Sisulu University
Sinethemba Mpambane, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Support and Development at Walter Sisulu University, was shot multiple times in the driver’s seat of a vehicle near an entrance to the university on Thursday afternoon, at approximately 17:39
The incident occurred near the Nkululekweni entrance gate adjacent to the N2 highway on the WSU Mthatha campus
The Eastern Cape South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a media statement that they have launched a murder investigation following the fatal shooting
“Police discovered the victim deceased inside a stationary vehicle Preliminary forensic analysis confirms the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds while seated in the driver’s position The motive remains unknown,” the statement read
This murder comes just weeks after the fatal shooting of Sisonke Mbolekwa, a final-year student who was killed during a protest on the same campus in April this year
The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane, visited the university and the Mbolekwa family to offer support and to understand the circumstances surrounding the loss
According to the Higher Education Ministerial Spokesperson, Camagwini Mavovana, the recurrence of such violence within an institution of higher learning is deeply troubling
“The Minister is profoundly disturbed that yet another life has been lost under violent circumstances at a university The safety and well-being of students and staff must be prioritised at all times The academic community cannot thrive in an environment characterised by fear and violence Institutions of higher learning must remain sanctuaries for teaching, learning, and transformation
“The Minister will urgently engage with the Vice-Chancellor of Walter Sisulu University, Professor Rushiella Songca, and the Chairperson of the University Council to assess existing security protocols and to identify immediate measures to ensure safety on campus
“The Minister extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr Mpambane and the broader Walter Sisulu University community This brutal killing must not only be condemned but must also serve as a call to action to restore peace, safety and dignity to our institutions Our universities must not become places of violence and loss They must remain spaces of hope, growth and opportunity,” said Mavovana
Mathabo Hendricks, Deputy Director Marketing and Communication at WSU, confirmed in a statement that Mpambane was targeted by an unknown assailant as he entered the gate
“WSU is deeply shaken by this tragic event
and extends its condolences to the Mpambane family, friends and colleagues An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is underway Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the statement read
“Mr Mpambane was an exceptional leader and a hard worker within our university His untimely passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt We stand together in this dark moment, as we mourn this tragic loss,” said Professor Rushiella Nolundi Songca, Vice-Chancellor and Principal
“Walter Sisulu University appeals to the community for calm and unity during this difficult time We will provide further updates as the situation develops and information becomes available Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mpambane family, as we trust in the swift administration of justice ”
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the police in the Eastern Cape, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, stated, “SAPS has mobilised maximum resources to pursue all leads Public speculation must be avoided to preserve the integrity of the investigation ”
At the time of going to print on Tuesday, the investigation was still ongoing, and no suspects had been arrested SAPS appeals to anyone with information to contact the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111, or via the MySAPS App
WSU has since communicated that, in light of the tragic event, they had decided to postpone the WSU Excellence Awards that were scheduled for Friday, June 2t, at the Mthatha
Campus Lunga Xolisa Mantashe, President of the WSU Convocation, said on Monday, "The university community is currently in mourning Given the circumstances, it would be unwise and insensitive to proceed with a jubilatory and celebratory event Therefore, the WSU Convocation Excellence Awards ceremony has been postponed to a later date this year
“WSU Convocation extends its sincerest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mr Mpambane May God comfort them during this difficult time and grant them the strength to cope with their grief "
LifesentenceforpremeditatedmurderinWillowvale
THE Willowvale Regional Court has sentenced Pumezo Voyi (41) to life imprisonment for the premeditated murder of his former girlfriend, Amanda Mkhosi (33), who had ended their relationship due to his abusive behaviour.
According to the spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Luxolo Tyali, the murder took place on 11 May 2024, during the day, in the rural outskirts of Willowvale.
He said that on the day of the incident, Mkhosi and her friend had gone to check on her homestead and livestock, as she had sought refuge at the friend’s home.
“As they returned to the friend’s home, they encountered Voyi exiting a local shebeen. He approached his ex-girlfriend and
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requested to speak to her. She refused, and he left, only to reappear further down the path and again ask to speak to her, but she declined once more,” said Tyali.
He added that moments later, Voyi returned armed with a homemade hunting firearm. Mkhosi, sensing the danger, attempted to shield herself behind her friend, who pleaded with Voyi not to shoot.
Tyali said that in a chilling turn of events, he (Voyi) fired a shot over their heads. Terrified for her own life and that of her children, the friend instinctively stepped aside
“Mkhosi then tried to disarm the attacker, but he fired at close range. The bullet fatally pierced her heart and liver. He fled the scene while the friend ran to the village to seek help.”
Tyali said that although Voyi pleaded guilty, Regional Court Prosecutor Yandisa Mhaga rejected his plea as it was inconsistent with the evidence
He claimed he had fired only one shot and that his intention was merely to recover his identity document and bank card, alleging that the deceased was misusing the card to buy alcohol on credit. However, this narrative was disputed by the state’s sole eyewitness, the friend of the deceased. Mhaga pleaded for a conviction of premeditated murder and a sentence of life imprisonment, highlighting the calculated nature of the killing, the vulnerability of the deceased, and the accused’s prior history of violence. Voyi had one previous conviction for assault with intent to cause grievous
bodily harm (GBH) dating back to 2015.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the life imprisonment sentence handed down to the accused for the brutal killing of his former partner. Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Barry Madolo, commended the courage of the eyewitness and applauded the diligent work of both the police and the prosecution team.
This outcome sends a strong message that the justice system will not tolerate femicide or gender-based violence
The NPA says it remains unwavering in its commitment to securing justice for victims, upholding the rights of women, and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are held fully accountable.
FormerSANTACOleaderdiesinshootoutwithpolice
BABALWA NDLANYA
THE former Chairperson of the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Eastern Cape, Zola Yolelo, also known as "Bishop,"
confirmed that firearms recovered from the scene will undergo ballistic analysis
Gantana stated that, in line with standard procedures, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been notified and gfs e d
not be tolerated by law enforcement “We are shocked by this incident, which occurred as police work tirelessly to combat crime in the province Law enforcement has the authority to arrest or stop anyone, regardless of their status, and will defend themselves when attacked,” he said
Spokesperson for King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo, Siphelele Mtikrakra, mentioned that the royal family has not yet issued a statement nor has the King commented on the matter at the time of going to print
The late Sinethemba Mpambane.
PHOTO: WSU
Former Chairperson of SANTACO in the Eastern Cape, Zola Yolelo, known as “Bishop,” was gunned down between Mthatha and Ngcobo. PHOTO: ARCHIVE (BABALWA NDLANYA)
FUNDINGBOOST:
‘Kwela-khaya’ Projectresumes
BABALWA NDLANYA
THE Amagubevu Communications film project, Kwela–khaya, which halted production for a year due to financial difficulties, has received a much-needed boost
An anonymous businessman from Mthatha has stepped in to fund the continuation of the project
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Amagubevu Communications, Dr Yonghama Mrwetyana, said the drama series set in the picturesque town of Lusikisiki was on the verge of being scrapped until this intervention
“This is a 13-episode drama series, with each episode running 48 minutes We are grateful to announce that production will resume later this month, thanks to the support of this entrepreneur The film showcases the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Cape but was nearly derailed by funding challenges
“We are thrilled that Kwela–khaya has been given a new lease of life We believe this investment will benefit the local economy and showcase the beauty and talent of the Eastern Cape to a global audience,” he said
Mrwetyana explained that the additional funding will not only ensure the project’s completion but will also allow the team to expand its scope
“We plan to scout for raw local talent in neighbouring towns, including Mthatha (AbaThembu), Tsolo (Amampondomise), and Mount Frere (KwaBhaca)
“Audition dates will be announced soon to provide aspiring actors and creatives
with a platform to showcase their skills ”
He said this initiative also aims to promote the Isibhaca and Isimpondo languages, celebrating the region’s rich cultural identity
With the new resources, the production team expects to deliver a high-quality series that highlights the Eastern Cape’s diversity and beauty
“We want people to think of the Eastern Cape as a prime holiday destination If we succeed, B&Bs will be busier, local businesses will see growth, and actors can work closer to home, unlike most productions based in Johannesburg
This marks Amagubevu’s first full-length series ”
Last year, the company produced a 48-minute drama titled Izifungo, which is currently being licensed to national broadcasters
They also competed in the 48-hour film challenge with Tatomkhulu, screened at the Mall of Africa Cinema in Johannesburg
Once Kwela–khaya wraps, the team plans to launch a larger project titled Kwa Nomagazi, pursuing it with full focus and ambition
In Kwela–khaya, viewers will explore themes such as the significance of a will, the instability caused by its absence, and the ultimate triumph of light over darkness despite greed
“This project is expected to create opportunities for local actors, crew members, and extras, contributing to the Eastern Cape’s economy,” added Mrwetyana
For more information or audition dates, contact Dr Mrwetyana at 063 875 9924 / 071 795 1117 or via email at Yonghama@gmail com
Sport
ExecutiveLadieswinannualYouthDaytourney
ANELE RAZIYA
SASOL League Inland Stream defending champions, Executive Ladies, celebrated Youth Day in style when they won an annual June 16 soccer tournament held in Ntabankulu town on Monday last week
For winning the tournament, the Ntabankulu-based team, Executive Ladies, went home with R8 000 prize money, a trophy and gold medals as the first prize of the event
This comes after Executive Ladies demolished First Touch FC, also from the Ntabankulu area, by 5-0 in the final game, which was hosted at Ntabankulu sports
ground
Twelve teams from the Ntabankulu area and surrounding areas, including one team from Mount Ayliff, were all part of the tournament, but only Executive Ladies and First Touch FC managed to reach the final game after they displayed great football on their way to the last round of the event Executive Ladies’ chairman, Mawethu Nama, was pleased to see his side doing well and being crowned as champions of the June 16 soccer tournament, which was organised by All Black Security Company
"First of all, we would like to thank All Black Security Company for hosting this tournament, as it played a meaningful role
in the development of ladies' soccer, and we are also happy to be crowned as champions," said Nama
He said that winning the June 16 tournament shows that his players are ready for the kick-start of the new Sasol League season Furthermore, Nama indicated that his team would continue preparing until the South African Football Association (SAFA) announces the starting date of the new season of the Sasol League
The June 16 tournament was organised for the purposes of contributing to the development of sport, particularly in ladies' soccer, and also taking youth away from alcohol abuse and drugs
Jongatolaunch youthfootball tournament
ANELE RAZIYA
FORMER Matta Milan FC and Musketeers FC midfielder, Julias "Juju" Jonga, is working hard to host a two-day football tournament sponsored by SuperSpar Engcobo
The tournament is set to take place in Maclear/Qaqarhu town on 5th July and will continue the following day A total of 18 football teams from the surrounding region will participate in the event
The primary aim of this tournament is to identify a talented young squad of 30 players who will travel across all provinces, playing friendly matches against professional teams and ABC Motsepe League clubs
In an interview, Jonga shared his desire to provide young players with an opportunity to showcase their talents in front of teams from the Premier Soccer League and the ABC Motsepe League Division
Jonga also expressed that, by hosting the tournament, he hopes to inspire young people to focus on sport and education, rather than succumbing to the dangers of alcohol or drug abuse He revealed plans to expand the event to other towns such as Centane, Ugie and Indwe in his search for talented players to join his 30-player squad
Jonga, affectionately known as "Juju" in football circles, enjoyed a successful playing career with the ABC Motsepe League side, Matta Milan FC from Dutywa, and the SAB League side, Musketeers FC from Centane in Mnquma After his illustrious career, he left football to establish his security company
Now, Juju aims to give back to the community by nurturing young football talent
Originally from Indwe town near Queenstown/Komani, Jonga spent much of his youth in Centane in Mnquma, where he regularly hosted mini-soccer tournaments supported by local businesses These events were part of his mission to steer youths away from harmful habits like substance abuse Currently based in Qaqarhu, he plans to host this tournament at the Sonwabile Sports Ground
The team that emerges victorious will receive a brand-new football kit as a prize The second-place team will be awarded gold medals, while the third-place winners will receive silver medals and a cash prize of R100 Jonga expressed his gratitude to SuperSpar Engcobo for sponsoring the event
HOSEYA JUBASE
FC Ravens from Bizana will represent the Eastern Cape province at the national ABC Motsepe league playoffs by the beginning of July
The national playoffs are scheduled to be held in Gauteng or Durban FC Ravens won by four goals to nil
against Amavarara FC during the EC provincial decider match held in East London this past Sunday
The match was supposed to be played a few weeks ago, but Sinenkani FC went to court to challenge SAFA for allegedly breaking rule 30 1 of the SAFA rules
Despite that, after weekend results, as things stand, FC Ravens will represent the Eastern Cape province at the national playoffs
FC Ravens is led by head coach, Sibusiso Popo Mapompo Meanwhile, the Grahamstown High Court is expected to deliver the judgement before Friday this week, after Sinenkani FC submitted an application against SAFA
PTMYouthDayCuptournamentendsinsuccess
"THE PTM Youth Day Cup was a huge success. It was a clear depiction that development teams and ladies' football need such tournaments, as they are hungry for such opportunities. Teams arrived on time and the fans came in droves," said Afika Sodo, the project manager and organiser of the tournament.
Sinenkani Ladies’ FC were crowned champions of the women's side after a 1-nil victory against Ayakha Stars FC, while in the men's division, U19 Makhanda FC beat Ju-
nior Chiefs FC from Ugie by 2 goals to nil in the final. Both champions, Sinenkani FC and Makhanda FC, won R10 000 each.
The tournament was held a week ago as part of celebrating Youth Month in Mthatha The teams that participated in the tournament came from as far as Bizana, Ugie and Ngcobo.
Sodo applauded those teams for travelling all the way to attend the tournament.
"It was a great tournament for both male and female divisions."
"There is very little to no attention being
directed to development football and ladies' football. People tend to want to follow the easier route of senior men's teams. It's our responsibility to even the scales on all fronts, and that's what we did with this tournament."
"Thank you once again to Pumzile Topie Ministries for their enthusiasm for using sport as a tool to curb the social ills in our country. Their contribution is highly appreciated by the sports fraternity," added Sodo Eight teams participated in this tournament from both the male and female divisions.
Former Matta Milan Midfielder, Julias Jonga, will host a football tournament next week. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Executive Ladies from Ntabankulu won the recent June 16 tournament.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
HOSEYA JUBASE