




THE Alfred Nzo District Municipality (ANDM) is mourning the loss of Councillor Eunice Voko (56), who passed away on 19th June 2025 after a short illness
Her memorial service was held at the municipality's conference centre, and she was laid to rest at her home in Lukholo Village, Mbizana, last week
Eunice Voko began her journey in local government as a Proportional Representative (PR) Councillor for the Winnie Madikizela Mandela Local Municipality (WMMLM)
She was an active member of the Corporate Services Department Standing Committee and the ICT Governance Committee, contributing meaningfully to the development of the municipality Councillor Sixolile Mehlomakhulu, Speaker of Alfred Nzo District Municipality, extended his condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues He described her as a leader and activist who was deeply connected to marginalised communities
He stated, "We have lost a leader and compatriot who has served our district with dedication Our flags are lowered for this selfless leader, and our thoughts go to her family and the organisation she served so outstandingly "
Executive Mayor Vukile Mhlelembana also shared his shock and sadness at the passing of Councillor Voko, promising that her legacy would live on He said, "We honour the life and times of Voko by ensuring the people of the district receive quality services and their lives are transformed We will work tirelessly to deliver water, fight poverty and unemployment, and ensure the district works for all Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time "
Eunice Voko's dedication to public ser-
vice and improving the lives of those in her community has left an enduring legacy in the Alfred Nzo District Her commitment to social upliftment and her unwavering focus on service delivery will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps
MZOMHLE Mathakiya (24) appeared briefly in the Flagstaff Magistrate’s Court, charged with three counts of murder and one of attempted murder after allegedly fatally stabbing three women last week
Police spokesperson, Captain Welile Matyolo, confirmed that the victims included his sister, Minentle Mathakiya (20), his mother, Ntombokhanyo Mathakiya, and Nobekelelo Phokolo (97), the mother of his alleged boyfriend
The alleged boyfriend survived the attack and is receiving treatment at a nearby hospital
The case has been postponed to July 1, and Mathakiya has been remanded in custody
The incident has thrown the community into mourning and sparked widespread outrage MEC for the Department of Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic deaths and emphasised the need to address escalating violence within families and communities
“This horrific crime has left us in deep pain and disbelief,” Fanta said “We must come together to support the affected family and work collectively to prevent such senseless violence This incident is a reminder of the growing violence plaguing our society ”
Fanta also highlighted the department’s commitment to providing counselling and trauma support for those affected
She stressed the importance of prior-
itising mental health dialogues, education on violence prevention, and creating safe environments for families
Fanta urged law enforcement to ensure that justice is served in a transparent and thorough manner
“We must advocate for a society marked by love, respect, and compassion rather than violence,” she added Nkosi Mwelo Nonkonyana, Member of Parliament and head of the Constituency Office in Flagstaff, echoed the sentiments, condemning the act and highlighting the concerning trend of violence in communities
“We have seen similar incidents repeatedly, and urgent measures must be taken to address this worrying trend,” he remarked
Nonkonyana raised additional concerns about the prevalence of drug abuse, unregulated spaza shops, and 24-hour taverns that he claimed are contributing to societal decay “These places target our children, disrupting their lives and exposing them to harmful behaviours We are taking steps to address these issues, but much more needs to be done,” he noted
He also pointed to the challenges posed by dagga use, despite its legalisation, especially among the youth
Both Fanta and Nonkonyana stressed the importance of community-wide efforts to combat violence and its root causes As the community grieves this tragedy, there is a renewed call for advocacy, education, and collective action to build a safer and compassionate society
THE Eastern Cape Provincial Government hosted a media briefing last week at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha, providing updates on disaster management and relief efforts in response to the tragic flooding that occurred on June 9 and June 10, 2025
MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Zolile Williams, noted the immense emotional toll the rising fatalities have placed on government officials
Williams revealed that the floods have claimed 101 lives to date, with O R Tambo and Amathole districts being the hardest hit
Among the victims were 63 adults and 38 children, with 32 of the children identified as learners
Two children remain missing, and seven bodies are yet to be identified, with DNA testing required due to decomposition
The disaster also caused significant infrastructure damage, affecting roads, schools, utilities, healthcare facilities, and homes
An estimated R5 1 billion is required for repairs, with 6,869 households impacted and 4,724 people left homeless
The province currently only has R120 million to address temporary housing needs but requires R461 million, prompting appeals to the national government for intervention
ity and Department of Human Settlements
Temporary accommodations, such as mass-care shelters and community halls, have been activated in partnership with the O R Tambo District Municipal-
Meanwhile, land has been identified to facilitate the delivery of approximately 1,100 Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) and permanent housing, while social facilitation efforts continue to assist families who may need to relocate
Additionally, 431 schools and 69 health facilities were damaged, along with losses in agriculture, including over 1,300 livestock and 1,803 hectares of crops
Efforts to provide veterinary services, technical advice, and machinery replacement are underway
Williams urged the public and media to refrain from prematurely reporting recovered bodies to allow for proper identification through forensic pathology services
This approach ensures accuracy, sensitivity, and adherence to international best practices for disaster victim identification
ZOLILE MENZELWA
MBHASHE Local Municipality
continued its support for SMMEs and cooperatives by providing tools of trade worth nearly R2 million across its three rural towns on Tuesday, June 24
The municipality stated it was committed to maximising the region's economic potential while enhancing macro-economic resilience through increased local economic growth, employment creation, and developmental initiatives
The Executive Mayor, Samkelo Janda, highlighted that the programme aimed to fulfil the aspirations of local businesses
He noted that the government alone could not address the
world's challenges, but with active collaboration from the public, these hurdles could be mitigated
“Issues like poverty, inequality, and unemployment are not solely for the government to solve The people must bring their initiatives forward, and the government must support these
“Small businesses are critical to sustaining our economy While big businesses play a role, sustainability relies on the efforts of SMMEs, which were started by people who understand their community’s needs,” he said
Mayor Janda added that the government’s intention was to encourage communities to set
aside petty differences and collaborate to overcome the country’s challenges
“Social cohesion is a prerequisite for development, and without it, communities cannot move forward Since you are already engaged in these businesses, we must work together to grow them
”
He further elaborated on three key areas of focus for government support: access to information, access to funding, and access to markets
“A major issue is that people don’t attend Integrated Development Plan (IDP) meetings but still expect support It's vital to engage, share ideas, and avoid working in silos,” he emphasised
The handover ceremony began in Willowvale, where 12 tourism operators received tools of trade valued at an impressive R680,000 The equipment provided included fishing gear, sewing machines, accommodation materials, kitchen supplies, office equipment, and sound systems, among other items
In Dutywa, the municipality spent R952,065 to recapitalise 15 recipients’ businesses with equipment such as heavy-duty bandsaws, egg incubators, and power mixers The final leg of the initiative took place in Rwantsini, where R160,860 was allocated for mechanisation and irrigation equipment
In total, the investment amounted to a staggering
R1,792,925
One of the beneficiaries, Asanda Hlakuhle from Sanda H Projects and Entertainment, expressed gratitude: “This is not the first or last time the municipality has supported local SMMEs and cooperatives It is up to us to make good use of this support Business requires persistence it does not favour greed or quick success We will continue to work hard as we were before, now with the added resources This support is like giving us wheels to move further We will also share information with those who do not have access to it, ensuring the support has a ripple effect Even if we stumble, don’t give up on us,” he said
PROJECT Manager and Civil Engineer, Vukile Sokoyi, overcame early challenges and launched Soma Workshop in East London in February 2018 with just four employees
The business, which started by servicing only 10 cars in its first year, now handles an average of 130 cars a year and offers services such as engine overhauls, car diagnostics, and suspension repairs
Soma Workshop’s staff complement has also grown to 14 permanent employees, including eight qualified mechanics, three administrative staff members and three assistant mechanics set to write their trade tests later this year
In a major milestone, the business has added towing services to its operations after acquiring a tow truck valued at R915,069 through the Eastern Cape Development Corporation’s (ECDC) Automotive Operator Blended Finance Scheme
Launched in 2024, the scheme aims to support Eastern Cape-based micro, small, and medium-sized operators in the automotive sector by funding equipment, compliance measures, and training
This funding was allocated on a 70% loan and 30% incentive basis, introducing a new revenue stream for Soma Workshop Sokoyi expressed gratitude for the funding support, describing it as the business’s most significant financial injection since its founding
He highlighted that government contracts, including fleet maintenance for entities such as the Buffalo City Metro, Amathole District Municipality, and South African Police Service, contributed to a major growth turnaround in 2019
The business also continued to thrive during the COVID-19 period
ECDC Chief Executive, Ayanda Wakaba, emphasised the scheme's design to address funding gaps faced by small operators, particularly black-owned enterprises
Applicants must meet criteria such as having been operational for at least 12 months, and funding ranges from a minimum of R300,000 to a maximum of R1 million
noted the importance of supporting small operators in the Eastern Cape, home to around 60,000 people employed by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and component suppliers
Sisa Mbangxa, praised the innovative scheme for its focus on emerging automotive operators
BABALWA NDLANYA
AFTER Luyanda Zitulele, known as Luu from Hole in the Wall in Mqanduli, abandoned his dream of becoming a model in Johannesburg, he turned his focus to photography and videography, which eventually paved the way for his music career
Now, Afro-Soul singer Zitulele released his latest EP, Uzoxola, in May this year, featuring three tracks: Uzoxola, Sombawo, and Wena Wedwa
Reflecting on his journey, Zitulele shared how he started work as a photographer during his school years, encouraged by a farmer, Stef de Klerk, to pursue his ambitions
Although his attempts to model in Johannesburg didn’t succeed, his photography work connected him with a client who introduced him to singer Zuko Kupiso, famously known as Zuko S A He collaborated with Zuko S A in 2022 on the track, Egumbini, from the album, No One Is Safe That same year, Zitulele released his first single, Ndiya Kubona
This year, Zitulele’s new EP includes songs that also explore Christian themes, appealing to a wide audience
Plans are in progress to shoot music videos for the EP, with locations including Johannesburg and his hometown, Mqanduli
His music is available on all digital platforms
BABALWA NDLANYA
LWANDILE Myeki, a Maskandi musician from Samariya locality in Qumbu, known by his stage name, Mahlasela, has expressed gratitude to three public figures under the Mhlontlo Local Municipality for their contributions to his music career
Mahlasela recently released an album titled Ibheyili, which includes a song dedicated to Councillor Zakheni Nondaka for helping him secure sponsors, Attorney Mvuzo Notyesi for promising assistance with musical instruments, and Mxolisi Hoboyi of the Mxolisi Hoboyi Foundation for funding his backing musicians
Mahlasela began his music journey in 2005, performing alongside artists like Mluleki Zinyana (Thulas Mjoli) and Dalumzi Dladla
He released his debut album, Amaloyo, in 2010 and has since produced seven albums, including Imbizo Yaphezulu in 2008 and Amayelekenqe in 2011
NOVUS Media this week officially launched NovaNews co za, a comprehensive national news platform featuring contributions from 21 community newspaper editorial teams across South Africa
The digital news hub delivers trusted, indepth journalism nationwide in both English and Afrikaans, all without paywalls or hidden fees
The new platform offers users easy access through any web browser, with the option to add an icon to their mobile homepage for instant access to breaking news, community updates, and national and international coverage
What makes this platform unique is the hyperlocal content from 21 Novus Media community titles distributed across the Western Cape, Boland, Eastern Cape, Free State and Northern Cape Tygerburger, Paarl Post, Bloemnuus and Mthatha Express are among these publications
The community newspaper websites will maintain their commitment to giving a voice to local communities while reaching significantly larger audiences with expanded news coverage
“NovaNews co za is a one-stop destination for trusted journalism, covering everything from breaking news and hyper-local community stories to school updates and sporting events The platform emphasises its commitment to delivering authentic, reliable news that matters on both local and national levels,” said Esme Smit, General Manager of Novus Media
“We’re providing news you can rely on news that is not fake, news that matters, close to home and diverse true to our rainbow nation and culture,” said Smit Lise Beyers, the National Digital News Editor for Novus Media, said she is extremely excited about the launch of this groundbreaking
new media platform “The unique community voices of our diverse country have for far too long been unheard There are so many stories which lie hidden in our communities and now NovaNews will give these stories a unique platform, together with keeping our nationwide readers informed about major national and
international news ”
“This groundbreaking digital platform uniquely brings together Novus Media’s community newspapers from across South Africa, creating an unprecedented media ecosystem that preserves the authentic voice of local communities while seamlessly integrating
national and international news coverage delivering both hyperlocal storytelling and global perspective to significantly expanded audiences in a way no other digital media site has achieved ”
To celebrate the launch, Novus Media is running two exciting competitions for users who subscribe to the NovaNews newsletter and follow NovaNews on Facebook In the Search for the Star competition, participants stand to win one of five R4 000 Pick n Pay vouchers or a luxurious 2-night stay for two people at The Boardwalk Hotel in Gqeberha, valid for six months Travel costs are for the winner’s own expense
In the “Nou waa is that star” competition, several stars will be hidden in reports on the novanews co za home page If you find a star, click on it, and a form will pop up to enable you to subscribe to the NovaNews newsletter Then follow NovaNews on Facebook The competitions will run for two weeks across the main NovaNews site
The launch represents Novus Media’s commitment to accessible digital journalism through innovative user experience design The platform allows readers to access trusted news content instantly through their web browsers, with intuitive navigation that seamlessly connects hyperlocal community stories with national and international coverage With fake news increasingly challenging media credibility, novanews co za emphasises its dedication to factual, verified reporting that communities can depend upon The platform is now live at novanews.co.za, with competition details available on the website and associated social media channels
THE Gcino netball team were crowned champions of the Sir Jiks Legacy Tournament, held this past Sunday at Marambeni Sports Ground in Mthatha West. The tournament featured 16 soccer teams and 5 netball teams.
Sindile Majikija, famously known as Sir Jiks, is a renowned Maskandi presenter in the Eastern Cape, respected across South Africa for
his contributions to the arts.
Speaking to Express, Majikija said the festival’s primary goal was to steer the youth away from drugs by promoting sport and entertainment.
“This was our first festival, and we plan to improve it yearly I want to thank everyone who attended and made it a success,” said Majikija.
Gcino netball team, established in March this year by Mthatha youth activist, Mandlakayise Gci-
no, defeated Green Lovers FC 14–3 in the netball final Team founder, Gcino, expressed his joy, calling it their biggest win. Player Khazimla Mthi shared her excitement about winning such a significant tournament for the first time.
Lisakhanya Bomela, another team member, added, “Despite a few challenges during our games, I’m happy we won a tournament named after a legendary presenter like Sir Jiks.”
ANELE RAZIYA
FORMER Matta Milan FC and Musketeers FC midfielder, Julias Jonga, has confirmed the arrangements for his upcoming two-day soccer tournament, set to take place this Saturday at Sonwabile Sports Ground in Maclear/Qaqarhu
The tournament aims to provide young players with opportunities to showcase their talent as Jonga plans to select 30 young players to play against Premier Soccer League (PSL) and ABC Motsepe League clubs
Jonga explained that his motivation for hosting the event goes beyond football; he hopes it will steer young people away from drugs and alcohol abuse by encouraging them to focus on positive activities like sport
"South Africa is facing a serious challenge with young people engaging in negative behaviours This tournament is meant to inspire and create opportunities in sport," Jonga said
The tournament will feature 18 teams that were drawn to compete
Matches are scheduled to kick off at 08:00
The top-performing team will win a brand-new soccer kit, a trophy, and gold medals
Tournament Draw, July 5, 2025:
• Al Ahly FC vs Abatshana FC MLFC FC vs Aston Villa FC
• Imbilinga FC vs Ukhahlamba FC
• Black Stars vs Amabunga
• Zulisa vs Hope United
• Uthongathi vs Masizakhe
• PSG vs Flamingo
• Stellenbosch FC vs Blackpool FC Spurs FC vs African FC
HOSEYA JUBASE
MCOYILE FC has been crowned champions of the Winter Cup tournament for the second consecutive year, showcasing their dominance in Eastern Cape tournaments
The team secured a 3–1 victory against Mountain FC at Rotary Stadium this past Sunday, earning a cash prize of R42,000 Chairman Wanda Mcoyile announced that the prize money
would be shared among the 18-player squad, emphasising that many players come from disadvantaged backgrounds and use the funds for essential needs such as groceries and school uniforms for their children
With their Winter Cup triumph behind them, Mcoyile FC is now preparing for the Khiwa Media Annual Tournament, set to take place in August under Ngqeleni at Nomcamba
COACH Nceba Maduntswana of Emirates United FC expressed pride and excitement after his team claimed victory at the Mnquma Local Municipality Mayor's Cup, held at Ngqamakhwe Sports Ground last weekend
Winning for the first time, Emirates United FC received a brand-new soccer kit, balls, gold medals and a trophy
The main event, held on June 21, saw six teams from Centane, Ngqamakhwe, and Butterworth competing Each town was represented by two clubs that had qualified earlier Butterworth’s teams showcased strong performances throughout, with Emirates United FC and Hawks FC making it to the final In a tightly contested match, Emirates United FC defeated neighbours Hawks FC 1–0 to claim the title The
team, last year’s runners-up, completed this year’s tournament without conceding a single goal Coach Maduntswana praised his team’s performance and acknowledged their resilience after last years disappointment
"Being crowned champions for the first time is an incredible achievement I’m very proud of how the team performed," Maduntswana said He also thanked the Mnquma Local Municipality for hosting the annual Mayor's Cup, which he believes plays a key role in developing sports, especially in rural areas Events like this, according to him, help divert youth from drugs and alcohol abuse while promoting positive engagement
The Mayor's Cup featured a variety of sporting codes, including rugby, boxing, netball, and soccer, providing opportunities for broader participation and growth in local sports