THE deteriorating state of Nelson Mandela Bay’s beachfront infrastructure is contributing to declining tourism numbers and damaging the metro’s reputation as adestination.
Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber CEO, Denise van Huyssteen, said the condition of the beachfront is amajor concern.
“The state of Nelson Mandela Bay’s beachfront is of great concern, and the steady deterioration of critical infrastructure is eroding the metro’s appeal as atourism destination,”she said.
She warned that the continued neglect of critical infrastructurealong thebeachfront is eroding thecity’s appeal to bothlocal and international visitors.
“Tourism in Nelson MandelaBay
has not recovered topre-COVID levels and very concerninglyiscontinuing todecline,” she said
In 2019, the metro attracted more than 300 000 foreign tourists and over 2.7million domestic tourists.
However, by 2024,foreign visitor numbers had dropped to around twothirds of pre-pandemic levels, while domestic tourism had more than halved.
According to Van Huyssteen, several factors are driving the decline, including safety concerns and deteriorating municipal infrastructure.
“This is due toanumber of factors, among which include the perception that the metro is an unsafelocation; the declining state of its electricity, water and sanitation infrastructure; and the general stateofroads, lighting, signageand other aesthetics,” she said.
She described the beachfront as
one of the metro’s most important tourism assets and said its condition directly affects the city’s ability to attract visitors and host major events.
“The beachfront is acritical naturaltourism asset and as such needs to be safe and secure, clean and well maintained in ordertoattract both domestic and international tourists,” she said
Van Huyssteen said that the area playsanimportant role in hosting international events such as Ironman, the SkalWorld Congress and the Lifesaving World Championships,all of which contribute significantly to the local economy.
“These typesofevents deliver meaningful economic and tourism benefits as it attracts ahighinflux of international and domesticvisitors, driving occupancy across hotels and guesthouses, boosting restaurant and retail activity and creating opportuni-
ties forlocal MSMEs and service providers,”she said.
However, she warned that visitors entering the beachfront area are increasingly confronted by visible signs of neglect.
“Visitors are met with potholes, broken signage and barriers on the N2 as they enter Beach Road, and from there they see dilapidated buildings and poorly maintained amenities along the area,” she said.
Van Huyssteen explained the importance of maintaining Blue Flag beach status, warning that losing it would carry serious reputational, environmental and economic consequences.
“It is absolutely vital that the metro takes urgent actions to ensure that Blue Flag status for itsbeaches is maintained,” she said.
She warned that afurther decline in tourism would negatively affect hotels, restaurants, tour operators, in-
formal traders and other businesses that relyonvisitor spending.
“Tourism remains one of Nelson Mandela Bay’s most immediateeconomic opportunities,” she said. “However, without decisive action, that opportunity is being squandered.”
At aNelson Mandela Bay Municipality DTA Committee meeting on 21 April, Glenn Pappin also raised concerns about beachfront infrastructure and operations.
Representing the Federated Hospitality Association of SouthAfrica (FEDHASA), Pappin highlighted system failures at KingsBeach, which he said had impacted event safetyand reliability.
He also pointed to ongoing security concerns, saying that limited policing resources had forced increased reliance on neighbourhood watch groups and private securitytodeal with crime, vandalism and vagrancy.
Fuelcrisishampersemergencyresponse
AFUEL supply crisis within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality raised serious concerns about the metro’s ability to respond to emergencies as severe weather conditions threatened theregion last week.
The Democratic Alliance(DA) called for urgent intervention after claiming the municipality’s petrol and diesel supply contract had expired without areplacement being finalised.
DA Nelson Mandela Bay Caucus Chief Whip, Gustav Rautenbach, said that the situation posed amajorrisktoresidents, particularly while an Orange Level 6 weather warningwas in place for the metro.
“The lack of petrol and diesel supply meansthat emergency personnel and disaster management teams may be unable to respond effectively to emergencies,” Rautenbach said at the time.
He warned that power outages, flooding andstorm-related incidents could place residents indanger if emergency vehicles were unable to respond.
Lastweek, Ward40councillor Jason Grobbelaar indicated that electricity teams were unable to attend to faults duetoalackoffuel, while Metro Police responses and waste collection services were also disrupted
The party further criticised the municipalityfor failing to appoint alawfully actingcity manager,claiming the leadership vacuum had delayedcritical decisions.
Themunicipalityconfirmedfuelsupplyconstraints
In astatement issued on 6May,the NMBMconfirmed that its fuel supply contract had expired on 30 April and acknowledgedthat fuel shortages were affecting the municipal fleet.
The municipality said that aSupply Chain Management process had been ini-
tiated beforethe contract expired,but had not yetbeen finalised duetoprocurement and compliance procedures.
“The Municipality’s fuel reserves are currently depleted,and urgent interventions, subject to Supply ChainManagement processes areunderway to secure supplyand restore operations,” thestatement read
ExecutiveMayor Babalwa Lobishe reportedly instructed thatthe matter be treated as apriority,with officials providing continuous progress updates.
The municipality also said that it accepted accountability for thesituation and would strengthen internaloversight and contract management controls to prevent arepeat of the crisis.
Civilsocietycoalitioncondemnsgovernancefailures
The Nelson Mandela BayCivil Society Coalitiondescribed the situationasa “humanitarian crisis”.
Coalition chairperson, MongaPeter, said theinability to fuel emergency vehiclesduring severe flooding reflected a “dangerous collapseofgovernance”.
The coalition claimedrepeated warningsfromthe municipality’s JointOperationsCentre aboutthe fuel contracthad been ignored
It alsocriticised thefailure to appoint an acting city managerand alleged that theacting authority of themunicipality’s chief financialofficerhad notbeen formalised,contributingtodelays in critical financialdecisions.
“This is notmerelyagovernancefailure –itisa humanitariancrisis,” the coalition said
The groupdemandedanswers on whyno acting city managerhad been appointed, whyfuel contract warningswere allegedly ignored,and howthe municipality planned to urgently restore fuel supply to its emergencyfleet.
THE New Brighton Seventh-dayAdventist (SDA) PrimarySchool in Gqeberha saysit is deeply concerned that it maybeforced to closeits doors for good, leaving learners and staff uncertain about their future.
The school says the 30-day eviction notice issued by the Eastern CapeDepartment of Public Works and Infrastructurehas created fear and instability within the school community, with parents and teachers now unsure what will happen next.
As previously reported, thedepartment issued the notice on 1April following the conclusion of aprocurement process to al-
locate the state-owned premises currently occupiedbythe school.
The site, which formerly housed Lwandlekazi PublicSchooluntil its closure, hassincebeen allocated to the Bantu ChurchofChrist after an open procurement process.
The department said the churchwas the only compliant bidder and that both the SDA school andthe church had been occupying the property without validlease agreements, rendering theiroccupation unlawful.
Italsostated that the SDA school didnot submit an expression of interest forthe site.
However, the school disputes this version of events.Governing body chairperson,Sisa
Kona-Mbilana, insists the school didapply for the property, arguing thattheyhad already been operating from the site andnaturally sought to remainthere
He says the situation has left the school community in distress.
“Whatwillyou do with the teachersatour school? This is aprivate Christianschool,” he said.“What willhappen to the teachersif the school is forced to close?”
Kona-Mbilanaalso questioned whether the department’s approach was fair to faithbased schools,sayingparents were increasingly worried about the future of their children’s education.
“The MEC said she willlookfor schools
forthe children, whichmeans theyare planning to shut down ourschool,”heclaimed. “Weare very concerned. Parentsdon’t know the future of their kids.”
He added thatthe school community is struggling with uncertainty.
“Weare praying andhavingsleepless nights andaskingfor an intervention.”
Theschool remainsinlimbo as it awaits furtherclarity on whetheritwill be allowed to remain on the premises or be forced to relocate within the 30-day notice period
The PE Express haswrittentothe officeof the MECfor Public Worksand Infrastructure forcomment andisyet to receivea response
R270mCapitalBoardwalktoboostcity’stourismappeal
THECapital Boardwalk hasofficially opened along the Nelson Mandela Bay beachfront, bringing aR270 million investment to the city’s tourismand hospitality sector.
Thedevelopment brings 145 designer roomsand apartments to Gqeberha’s coastal area, addingto the metro’s accommodation capacity
Chief Executive Officerofthe NelsonMandela Bay Business Chamber, Denise van Huyssteen, describedthe project as “a clear vote of confidence in Nelson Mandela Bay’s potential as apremierinvestmentand leisure destination,” notingthat it not only enhances the city’s accommodation offering but also strengthens itsabilityto attract both business and leisure travellers.
Beyond its appeal to visitors, the developmentisexpected to havea meaningful impact on local livelihoods.
Van Huyssteen highlightedthat “the creation of 200 permanent jobs is asignificant boost for local employment,” reinforcing the role of private sector investment in driving inclusiveeconomicgrowth within the metro.
She added that the benefits would extend wellbeyond direct employment, with the investment expected to “stimulate downstream econom-
ic activity through supply chains, local procurement and increased visitor spend across the hospitality, retail and services sectors.”
According to Van Huyssteen, its location, qualityofferingand scale will “support effortstoattract conferences,eventsand international visitors,ultimately increasing occupancy rates andextendingvisitorstays.”
The investment also aligns with broader effortstorevitalise key precincts withinNelson Mandela Bay
Van Huyssteen notedthat it “signals growingconfidence in the Bay’s urban renewal and beachfront development initiatives,” which are critical to unlocking further opportunitiesfor infrastructuredevelopment, smallbusiness participation and precinct revitalisation.
The Chamberhas commended all stakeholders involved in bringing theproject tofruition, emphasising that the development represents more than just anew hospitality asset.
As Van Huyssteen concluded, it is “not justamilestone for the hospitalitysector, butacatalyst for growth, investmentand the revitalisation of our tourism economy,” reinforcingthe view that tourism remains “low-hanging fruit in terms of itspotential to create jobs within the Bay of Opportunity."
Learners take climateactionintotheir ownhands
NATASHA BEZUIDENHOUT
LEARNERS are being encouraged to take action on environmental issues through atwo-day Change Maker Programme hosted by YMCA Nelson MandelaBay in partnershipwith Masifunde.
Grade9learners from Victory Leadership Academy, St Thomas Senior Secondary School, Chapman High School and Gelvandale
High School participated in the programmeatthe YMCAcentre
According to FionMfenqa, YMCA NelsonMandelaBay PublicRelations andCommunications Manager,the programme focused on leadership, social awareness andclimate change.
“After the training, learners will return to theirschools as peerfacilitators andidentifyenvironmentalchallenges.
Key focus areas include littering, plasticpollutionand the lack of green spaces. She added that the aim is to encouragelearners to move beyond awareness and take ownership of climate actionwithintheir schools.
YMCANelsonMandela Bay CEO Lerato Leboposaidthe partnership reflects the importance of collaborationinsupporting young people.
“The programme also aligns with YMCA’sVision2030 focus on climate action, whileMasifundecontinues its work in education and youth empowerment.
For many of the learners, the experience has already changed how they view environmental responsibility.”
Sibusiso Zweni from Victory Leadership Academy said he now understands climate change in a completely differentway
“Beforethe ChangeMaker activation, Idid not really knowwhat ‘climate action’ actually meant,” he explained.“Theprogramme introduced me to the science behind it, especially how greenhouse gases contribute to global warming.It changed how Isee the world around me.”
TheGrade 9learner shared that he now wants to use social media platformstobring awareness to climate change initiatives.
“I want to use my social media platformstoadvocate forthe protection of our forests,”hesaid. “I’ve realised thatreducing deforestation is important because trees arelike our lungs —they provide the oxygenweneed while absorbing carbondioxide.”
He also pointed to pollution as a growing concerninher area, saying littering and plasticwaste are damaginglocalenvironments and must be addressed.
Chapman High Schoollearner, Bronwin Gysman, said the programme challenged her past behaviour and attitudes.
“Before joiningthis programme,I used to litter without really thinking twiceabout the consequences,” she said. “I didn’tsee it as abig deal. The activation made me think
about the footprintI’m leaving behind.”
She said herhabits have already started to change.
“I am not indifferent nowbecause Iunderstand thatevensmall actions, like recycling or throwing away trash properly, arepartofa muchbiggerefforttosave ourclimate,” she said
Bronwin added thatwaste management remainsa seriousissue in schools andcommunities, where small actionsoften adduptolarger environmentalproblems if ignored. “Realchangewill dependon people adjustingtheir everyday behaviour andtaking responsibility forkeeping their surroundings clean.”
Marc Wachsberger(ChiefExecutive Officer of The Capital Hotels,Apartmentsand Resorts),and Loyiso Dotwana(Immediate Past President of the Nelson Mandela Bay BusinessChamber) at theopeningofthe Capital Boardwalk. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Grade9 learners from VictoryLeadership Academy,StThomas Senior Secondary School, Chapman High School andGelvandale High School participated in theClimate Action programme. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Sibusiso Zwenifrom VictoryLeadership Academy.
Chapman High Schoollearner Bronwin Gysman
Finn’sPawProjectcontinueschanginglives
NATASHA BEZUIDENHOUT
WHAT began with the adoption of apuppy and adesire to give back has grown into an annual community campaign helping shelters and vulnerable animals acrossNelson Mandela Bay.
Finn’s Furry Friends Paw Project, which started shortly after lockdown, was bornfrom the special bond between Lesa-Maré Harrisand her dog Finn, that she adopted as atiny puppyfrom alitter born to aminiature pinscher in Port Alfred.
“When we adopted him during lockdown and interprovincial travel restrictions, he was so tiny,” Harris recalled. “He changed my life so much. For
years, Iwanted adog,and he just cameatthe right time.”
Finn quickly became morethan just apet.
“Finn is my bestfriend, travel companion and my baby,” Harris sharedwith the PE Express.“He is more of afriend than apet, and offers endless loveand wagging tail vibes to everyonewho visits.”
When Finn turned one, Harris decided to celebrate his birthday in ameaningful way
“We had abirthday party for him with pupcakes,and instead of buying him gifts, we collected donations for animals in need,” shesaid. “In that first year, we received so much, which was amazing, and then it doubled in sizethe following year.”
catfood,cannedfood,blankets,pet
Now in its fifthyear, the campaign has expanded significantly,with five drop-offpoints operating across the region
“In celebration of Finn’s sixth birthdayinJune, we haverestarted his charity project,” Harris said.
“His birthday is on 24 June, so the campaign runs from 1May until24June.”
During May and June, residents areencouraged to donate dog and cat food,blankets, collars, leashes, pet bowls and other animal-related supplies. Monetary donations arealso welcomed and used to support veterinarycare
ClassiccarsdrivesupportforSinakoCentre
SHANTI JAFTA
THE sound of vintage enginesand the spirit of community recently came together as the MG Car Club Port Elizabeth Centre hosted its annual charity run in support of the Sinako “We Can” Learning and Care Centre for children and adults with special needs in Kariega.
Foundedin1923 by Cecil Kimber, MG, short for MorrisGarages, the centre became known for producing affordable sports cars and remains one of the world’s most recognised motoring marques. The Port Elizabethcentre currently has 55 members, with about 30 actively participating in club activities, including monthly social gatherings andscenic drives
Thisyear’s charityinitiative was inspiredbywhatthe Club Chairman, DirkPutter, described as a chance encounter between aclub member and aparentofachildattending the centre.
“This year’sbeneficiary, Sinako ‘We Can’, was chosen followinga
chance meetingand conversation between aclubmember and aparent of achildatthe centre,” said Putter. “The encounter struck a chord, prompting the club to adopt the organisation as its 2026 charity partner.”
As part of the outreach, club membersdelivered hampers and supplies based on aneeds list provided by the centre’s management team. In addition to amonetary donation from theclub,members contributed personalhampers containing requested items.
“Wereceived adetailed wish list of neededitems,” saidPutter. “Our membersenthusiastically started working on variousprojects which will benefit the residents.”
Putter also acknowledged support from theladiesof MOTHWA, who donated soup hampers forthe winter season.
The MG CarClubPortElizabeth Centre’s charitable work has long formedpart of the organisation’s activities, reflecting abroader culturewithinthe international MG
community.
“Over the years, the MG CarClub Port Elizabeth Centre has supported numerous charitable causes, continuing aglobal tradition among MG enthusiasts,” said Putter. “MG is knownas‘TheMarque of Friendship’.”
Beyond thedonations, the club hoped the displayofclassic vehicles would provide amemorable experience forresidents at the centre.
“For the children and adults at Sinako,the visit promises more than materialsupport,”Putter said. “Our cars always attract attention wherever we go.Wehopethis day brings happiness to the residents and creates lasting memories.”
The club also expressed hope that the initiative would encourage other community organisations and classic car clubs to become involved in charitable outreach projects across Gqeberha and Kariega
“We hope that the exposure around this event may inspire the generalpublic, but moresoother classic car clubs,” Putter concluded.
and animal welfare projects. The donationsare distributed to shelters andorganisations caring for strayand homeless animals in andaround theNelson Mandela Bayarea.In2025, the project collectedmorethan 338kg of dog food, 25kg of cat food, canned food, blankets, pet bowls, dog beds,leashes andpet shampoo, alongwith R2 500 that went towards vaccinationsand sterilisation programmesfor animals in need Harris said manyrescue organisations continue to face financial pressure, making community support moreimportant than
ever. “This year we areaiming even higher,” she said
Residentscan drop offdonations at thefollowing locations:
For moreinformation aboutthe campaign,residentscan contact Harris at lesamareharris@gmail com.
Lizz Meiring en Willie Esterhuizen as die gewilde ‘Mollie en Wors’ gaan in JuniebyImpetus-teater optree.
‘MollieenWors’kom maak’n draaiindieBaai
DIE Hoërskool Kaap Recife vier hierdie jaar hul 70ste bestaansjaar en om te verseker datdit ’n jaar salwees om te onthou,kom vier Mollie en Worssaam fees! Die bekendeakteurs, Lizz MeiringenWillie Esterhuizen, sal op 25 Junie om 19:00 by die Impetus-teater saam kom fees vier, methul verhoogstuk wat landwyd uitverkoop is, Die Geheim van ’n gelukkige Huwelik –Bly ’n Geheim Daar word ’n beroep op die publiek gedoenomhierdie projek te ondersteunwat tenbate van dieKaap RecifeSkool is. Die skool bied al virdie afgelope70jaar spesialiteits onder-
rig en ondersteuningbied aan leerders metleer-, fisiese- en serebrale gestremdheid Kaap Recifevolg dieCAPS Kurikulumvir leerders vanaf graad Rtot Graad 12. Die oorgrote meerderheid van dieKaap RecifeSkool se skoolverlaters lewerjaarliks besonderse prestasies.
Die vertoning beloof om die gehoor te laat skaterlagen’n viroombliktelaat vergeet van alledaagseuitdagings, maar ook tog stoftot nadenkete wees, soos net Mollie en haar Worskan.
Kaartjiesvir dievertoning kan deur middelvan Quicket se webtuiste bestel word
In 2025, Finn’sFurryFriends Paw Project collected morethan 338kg of dogfood,25kg of
PHOTO;
FOTO:VERSKAF
Lesa-Maré Harris and her dog, Finn.
PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Orrelverenigingbiedweer ‘SoiréeMusicale’aan
WILLEMIEN GREEN
KOS vir die siel.
Musiekliefhebbers kan uitsien na die Veremark-orrelvereniging en die Musiekvereniging van Port Elizabeth se immergewilde Soirée Musicale wat vandag, 13 Mei, weereensinGqeberha aangebied word
DieLaStrada-koor, gedirigeer deur Anele Mutei, sal twee werke van Antonio Vivaldi en ’n koorstuk uitGeorge Frideric Handel se Messiah sing. Albert Troskie en Justin Stone sal ook twee solo’s op die groot orrel uitvoer Twee sangers, Naomi Grobbelaaren
Anele Mutei, vergesel deur Erika Bothma-Troskie, sal gunstelinge soos Dein ist mein ganzes Herz en Memory deur Andrew Lloyd Webber tot die uitstekende program bydra.
Indrukwekkende optredes deur die bekroonde David Bester, viooldosent aan die NelsonMandela Universiteitasook deur Leonard Heydenrych, ’n fluitvirtuoos met geliefde werke soos Hymne a l’amour sal musiekliefhebbers meevoer.
Die pianis, CiskaRange en tromboonspeler, Isivile Maguga saldie gehoor met’ninspirerende werk deur Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov bederf.
Die konsert begin om 18:00 in die SomerstrandNGKerkinSomerstrand.
Die kaartjieskos R50 perpersoon en pensioenarisse betaal R40. Geen toegangsgeld vir skoolleerders word gehef nie.
Daar sal veilige parkeringbeskikbaar wees en verversings saltekoop aangebied word.
Rig enige navrae aan prof. Albert Troskie by 082 7269595 of dr. ErikaBothma-Troskie by 082308 4494.
DIARY|DAGBOEK
Finn’sFurry Friends: In celebration of her furry friend’s birthday, Lesa-MareHarris is once morecalling fordonations of canned petfood, drydog andcat food, treats,blankets, wet food sachets and waterbowls foranimal shelters Donations canbedropped offuntil 24 June at ZBrands in Walmer,DayleeCreations in Lorraine,and Mount Pleasant VetinBuffelsfontein Road. Formoreinfo, contact lesamareharris@ gmail.com.
DiabetesWellness Meeting (PEBranch): A meeting will be heldonWednesday,13May,at 19:15for 19:30,atthe Caritas ServiceCentre in West Street,NewtonPark.RegisteredCounsellorChanteJansevan Rensburg will speak about ‘Kindness Over Control: ANew WaytoLivewith Diabetes’.ContactMartin/Elizabeth at082 579 9059 or 041367 2810
Beach Clean-up: SANCCOBand WESSAAlgoaBay branch’s next beach clean-upwill be at Cape RecifeLighthouse on Saturday,16 May, from 09:30 to 11:00.ComingfromSummerstrand, turn leftoff MarineDrivepastPine Lodgeand stopatthe boom, which is the entrancetothe Cape RecifeNatureReserve. Tell the securitypersonthat youare participating in the SANCCOB/WESSAbeach clean-up.Drive pastthe SANCCOBbuildingand look outfor the signsaying Lighthouse. At the Yjunction,take thesplit to the leftand follow the road until the parking lot.Bring hats, sunscreen, waterand your owngloves. Litterbagswill be provided Formoreinfo, contact eitherTim at 082775 8816orJessicaat082 206 9860
BootSale: The Forest Hill communitywill have abootsaleatCloverCrescent,ForestHill (open ground by Donkin Hospital) on 17 Mayfrom 07:00 to 13:00.For moreinfo, contactIan at 081468 5077
Let’sThriftAgain Market: Themarketwill takeplace at the Walmer Town Hall on the corner of 8th Avenue and Main Road, Walmer on Sunday, 24 Mayfrom09:00 to 13:00.There willbeavariety of stalls, including bric-a-brac, pre-lovedand vintageclothing, artsand crafts antiquesand collectables,Tupperware, coffee andvarious food stalls. Formoreinfoortobook aspace foronlyR50 astall, send aWhatsApp 082 227 7073.
Aurora FamilyFun Fete: Don’tmiss outon the fun at the annual Aurora FamilyFun Fete on 30 Mayfrom09:00 to 15:00 atAuroraSpecial CareCentre, 52 Alan Drive, WalmerDowns.Food trucks,stalls, ponyrides, Animals in Wonderland, Kids Rock, PawPatrol &Friends, Golden JoyMime,train rides, Stretchthe Stiltwalker bubblehouseand spinthe wheel aresomeof the thingstolook forwardto. Formoreinfo, contactNickyorJuandréat041 3686180 or
073193 7142.
Craft,Hobbiesand ToyFair: Thefairwill takeplace on 30 May, from 08:30 to 13:00 at the WalmerTownHall, MainRoad. Therewill be craft stalls, dolls,bears andacollectable modelcar display.Thereisalsoabeautiful Lego display.There will be tea, coffee and goodies to eat.Entry is free.Their charityisthe SPCA ContactJenniferEndemann at 082 3978383.
Cheshire Fete: Fun, food andfestivitiesawait at CheshireHomesSummerstrand’s annual fete on Saturday,6 June,from08:00 to 13:00 It promises to be aday forthe whole family, featuring avarietyofstalls, tasty treats,entertainment and greatbargains.The fete playsa vital role in raising funds to support adults living with physical disabilitiesatthe home.There will be an auction at 11:00.Toapplytohavea stall at the fete,todonateitems or volunteer time,contactCheshireHomes Summerstrand at 041583 2183 or adminchs@cheshirehomes. co.za.
Gqeberha Central Men’sShed: They meet every Mondayfrom10:30 to 12:00 at Caritas, 16 West Street,NewtonPark (between Tiger Wheel and NewtonPark Spar). Amen’s shed is aspace where mencan relax, gettogether to talk, work together,haveacup of coffee and create friends. Allagesare welcome.For more info, WhatsApp Willie at 071142 3771 Caritas ServiceCentre: Mealsare available on order daily. Thetearoom is open every second Fridayofthe month. Trigym, pilates and line dancing fitnesssessionsare heldMondays to Thursdays.A blood pressureclinic is available monthly. Thereisalsoalibrary,arts andcrafts, canasta, knitting groupsand social outings. The hall at 16 West Street,Newton Park, is alsoavailablefor weddingsand parties. Contact066 111 2497 Mondays to Fridays from 08:30to12:30
RELIGIOUS:
CityLights Church: This family-style,Bible-based church is affiliatedwith the Advance group of churches. We meetevery Sundayat 09:30 at The EP Badminton Hallatthe end of Alan DriveinWalmer Downs.WhatsApp Dave at 084 9999197for moreinfo.
Hi’s PlaceDeveloping Centre: Achurch and healing serviceisheldevery Sundaymorning at 09:00.Theywill also have an AscensionDay Service on Thursday,14May at 09:00.All are welcome. Directions: DrivefromGqeberha on OldCape Road, 1.6kmpastthe Wedgewood Golf Course entrance,and enter through the gate of Sovereign Foodsonthe right-handside of the road. Forinfo, contact PastorChristo Campher at 082 515 2294.
Send your Diary entriesto peexpress@novusmedia.co.zabyThursdayat16:00.Entriesmay be in EnglishorAfrikaans
PUBLICATION OFANAPPLICATION IN TERMSOFSECTION71OFTHE NELSON MANDELABAYMETROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY SPATIALPLANNINGAND LAND USE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW,2023 FOR:
ERF/ERVEN: 424,WELLSESTATE PHYSICAL RANGERSTREET
ADDRESS: APPLICANT:MAARTJE WEYERS TRADING AS ROUTE2EC ON BEHALFOF: TRADEAFRIKAPROPERTY PROPRIETARYLIMITED
1. Theamendment of the NMBMMLUS Regulations by the rezoning of Erf424, Wells Estate, from Industrial Zone1toIndustrialZone3.
Thedetailed proposal mayberequested from the applicantviaemailtomaartje@route2.co.za
Members of the public areinvitedtosubmit comments, objections, or intervener statususing the Comments & ObjectionsFormintheSPLUMBylaw,withclearreasons inrespectoftheproposaltothefollowing:
(1)The Applicant, Postnet Suite x121, Private Bag X0002,SunridgePark,6008,Cell:0823753662,and email:maartje@route2.co.za, andacopysentto
(2)TheExecutiveDirector:HumanSettlements,POBox 9, Port Elizabeth 6000; c/o e-mail awilliams@mandelametro.gov.za
onorbefore25June2026
Persons with disabilities who arenot abletoemail may contact Ms. Williamsat2nd Floor,Lillian Diedericks Building, No. 191 GovanMbeki Avenue, Gqeberha, Tel No.0415061813
Apersonwho delivers comments, objections, or representationswillbenotifiedifahearingistobeheldin respectoftheapplication.
(Comments submittedafter thesaid date will be consideredinvalid.)
ERF424WELLS-PX130526
PUBLICATION OFANAPPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 71 OF THE NELSON MANDELABAYMETROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY SPATIALPLANNINGANDLANDUSE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW, 2023 FOR: ERF/ERVEN: ERF22,SUNRIDGEPARK
PHYSICAL 8CLEMATISAVENUE
ADDRESS: APPLICANT:MAARTJE WEYERSTRADING AS ROUTE2EC TOWN PLANNING SERVICES
1. The Removal of RestrictiveConditions B. 3. (a. –e.) containedinTitle Deed No. T13164/2020 applicable to Erf22Sunridge Park in terms of Section 47 of the SPLUMA
Thedetailedproposal mayberequested from the applicantviaemail,maartje@route2.co.za
Members of the publicare invited to submit comments, objections or intervener status using theComments & ObjectionsFormintheSPLUMBylaw,withclearreasons inrespectoftheproposaltothefollowing:
(1) The Applicant, Postnet Suite x121,PrivateBag X0002,SunridgePark,6008,Cell:0823753662and email:maartje@route2.co.za andacopysentto
(2) The ExecutiveDirector: Human Settlements, PO Box 9, Port Elizabeth6000; c/o e-mail awilliams@mandelametro.gov.za onorbefore25June2026.
Persons with disabilities whoare not abletoemail may contact Ms Williams at 2nd Floor Lillian Diedericks Building,No. 191 Govan MbekiAvenue, Gqeberha,Tel No.0415061813
Apersonwho deliverscomments, objections or representationswillbenotifiedifahearingistobeheldin respectoftheapplication.
(Commentssubmitted after the saiddate will be consideredinvalid.)
ERF22SUN-PX130526
PUBLICATION OFANAPPLICATION
IN TERMS OF SECTION 71 OF THE NELSON MANDELABAYMETROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY SPATIALPLANNINGANDLAND USEMANAGEMENT BY-LAW, 2023FOR: ERF/ERVEN: 1362,WALMER PHYSICAL 114FORDYCEROAD ADDRESS: APPLICANT: MAARTJE WEYERS TRADING AS ROUTE2EC ONBEHALFOF: STRATHAVON HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD
PUBLICATIONOFANAPPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION71OFTHE NELSON MANDELABAYMETROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY SPATIALPLANNINGAND LAND USE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW, 2023 FOR: ERF/ERVEN:2823,KABEGA PHYSICAL 581CAPESERVICEROAD/ ADDRESS: OPALROAD APPLICANT:MAARTJE WEYERS TRADING AS ROUTE2EC
The detailed proposalmay be requestedfrom the applicantviaemailtomaartje@route2.co.za
Members of the public are invited to submit comments objections,orintervener status using the Comments & ObjectionsFormintheSPLUMBylaw,withclearreasons inrespectoftheproposaltothefollowing: (1) TheApplicant,Postnet Suitex121, PrivateBag X0002,SunridgePark,6008,Cell:0823753662,and email:maartje@route2.co.za, andacopysentto
(2) TheExecutiveDirector:HumanSettlements,POBox 9, Port Elizabeth 6000;c/o e-mail awilliams@mandelametro.gov.za onorbefore25June2026.
Persons with disabilities who are not able to email may contact Ms.Williams at 2nd Floor,Lillian Diedericks Building, No. 191 Govan MbekiAvenue, Gqeberha, Tel No.0415061813.
(Comments submitted after the said date will be consideredinvalid.)
ERF2823-PX130526
PUBLICATION OFANAPPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 71 OF THE NELSON MANDELABAYMETROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY SPATIALPLANNINGANDLANDUSE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW,2023 FOR:
ERF/ERVEN:ERF600,MOUNTROAD PHYSICAL 16ROOSEVELTROAD ADDRESS: APPLICANT: MAARTJE WEYERS TRADING AS ROUTE2EC TOWN PLANNING SERVICES ONBEHALFOF:MELANIEHARVEY
1. The Removal of RestrictiveConditions B. 3. (a. –d.) containedinTitleDeedNo.T28931/2023applicableto Erf600, Mount Roadinterms of Section 47 of the SPLUMA
The detailedproposalmay be requested from the applicantviaemailtomaartje@route2.co.za
Membersofthe public are invited to submit comments, objections or intervener status using theComments & ObjectionsFormintheSPLUMBylaw,withclearreasons inrespectoftheproposaltothefollowing:
(2)TheExecutiveDirector:HumanSettlements,POBox 9, Port Elizabeth6000; c/o e-mail awilliams@mandelametro.gov.za onorbefore25June2026.
Persons with disabilities who are not abletoemail may contactMsWilliams at 2nd Floor LillianDiedericks Building, No. 191 GovanMbeki Avenue, Gqeberha,Tel No.0415061813.
Apersonwho delivers comments, objections or representationswillbenotifiedifahearingistobeheldin respectoftheapplication.
(Comments submitted after thesaiddate will be consideredinvalid.)
ERF600MUNT-PX130526
PUBLICATION OFANAPPLICATION IN TERMS OF SECTION 71 OF THE NELSON MANDELABAYMETROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY SPATIALPLANNINGANDLANDUSE MANAGEMENT BY-LAW,2023 FOR:
ERF/ERVEN:1935,NEWTONPARK PHYSICAL 13NEWTONSTREET
ADDRESS: APPLICANT: MAARTJE WEYERS TRADING AS ROUTE2EC ONBEHALFOF:HAPPY FELLOWS PROPERTIES CC
Noticeisherebygiventhatanapplicationwillbemadeto theNelsonMandelaBayMetropolitanMunicipalityfor: 1. Consent Use to permitErf 1935, Newton Parktobe usedforPlaceofEntertainment
NEWS TIPS? Sendthemtopeexpress@novusmedia.co.za
ADVERTISING? Contact us atecadvertising@novusmedia.co.za
The detailed proposalmay be requested from the applicantviaemailtomaartje@route2.co.za
Members of the public are invited to submit comments, objections, or intervener status using theComments & ObjectionsFormintheSPLUMBylaw,withclearreasons inrespectoftheproposaltothefollowing:
(1) TheApplicant,Postnet Suitex121, Private Bag X0002,SunridgePark,6008,Cell:0823753662,and email:maartje@route2.co.za, andacopysentto
(2) TheExecutiveDirector:HumanSettlements,POBox 9, Port Elizabeth 6000; c/oe-mail awilliams@mandelametro.gov.za
onorbefore25June2026
Persons with disabilities whoare notabletoemail may contact Ms. Williams at 2nd Floor,Lillian Diedericks Building,No. 191 Govan Mbeki Avenue, Gqeberha,Tel No.0415061813
Membersofthe public are invited to submit comments, objections, or intervener status using theComments & ObjectionsFormintheSPLUMBylaw,withclearreasons inrespectoftheproposaltothefollowing:
(2)TheExecutiveDirector:HumanSettlements,POBox 9, Port Elizabeth6000;c/o e-mail awilliams@mandelametro.gov.za onorbefore25June2026.
Persons with disabilities who are not abletoemail may contact Ms.Williamsat2nd Floor,Lillian Diedericks Building, No. 191 Govan Mbeki Avenue, Gqeberha,Tel No.0415061813.
(Comments submitted after thesaiddate will be consideredinvalid.)
ERF1935-PX130526
TheDepartment of SocialDevelopment in Motherwell Service Office is requestinganyone with theinformation with regards to the whereabouts of the
LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby givenin terms of Regulation 68 of the DeedsRegistriesAct, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issueofa
ERF 1281 HUMEWOOD FORM JJJ
LOST OR DESTROYEDDEED (FormJJJ added by GNR. 62 of 25 January 1970) Notice is hereby givenin terms of regulation68ofthe DeedsRegistries Act,1937, of theintention to ap- ply for the issue of acerti-fied copy of Deed of Transfer No. T21353/2001- CTNpassed by TRANSNET LIMITED, NO 1990/000900/ 06 in favour
LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby givenin termsofRegulation68of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intentionto apply for the issue of a certified copyofDEED OF TRANSFER NUMBER T78620 /2002CTN passedbyTHE NELSON MANDEL A METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY,infavour of LEONARD MP ALALA,
LOST OR DESTROYED DEED
Notice is hereby givenin termsofRegulation68of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intentionto apply for the issue of a certified copyofDeedof Transfer NumberST13691 /2019 passedbyELLEN ELIZABETH HODGE,Identity Number520918 0063 08 5, Unmarried in favour of MICHAEL GEORGE WELDON,Identity Number 450309 5084 08 2, Married out of nity of
NóggoudvirBaai sekragvrou(53)
DieBaaisekragvrou Elisabeth Barryhet onlangsbydie Suid-Afrikaanse Equipped-kragoptelkampioenskappe in Fochvilleaswenneruit die strydgetree. Sy spog nou reeds met meer as 30 nasionaletitels nadat sy in 2013 met die sport beginhet. Sy het ook al as meestersdeelnemer die wêreldkampioenskappegewen. Elisabeth(53) het op Fochville asmeester 2teen’nliggaamsgewigvan 51,2kg ingeweeg. Daarna hetsymet 85kg in die hurksit, 45kg in dieborsopdruken 107.5kgindie dooiegewioptel geslaag vir’ntotal van 237,5kg.Hier spog sy met haargouemedalje op Fochville. Syhet virdie Statebondspele in September en die wêreldkampioenskappe in Oktober gekwalifiseer.Sysêvanweë die groot onkoste wat metinternasionale byeenkomste gepaard gaan salsydié twee maar van die “kantlyn”moet dophou. Sy mik nounadie Asia AfricaPacific enAfrika-kampioenskappe wat in Suid-Afrika gehousal word. FOTO: VERSKAF
Weekendsportsnews,results,upcomingfixtures
SELBY MADIKANE
Sports Revolution Township High Schools’RugbyChampofChamps results
DAN Qeqe was the centre of attraction as the Sports Revolution Township High Schools’ Metro Fire Championship games were playedrecently.
Following their walkover against Gelvandale High,NewellHigh earned ahard-fought 14-7 win when they locked horns with Cingani Secondary. EZ Kabane High, who brimmed with confidence after their 1917 win over their neighbours, KwaMagxaki High, saw themselves lose 15-5 to Phakamisa Secondary.
The hot favourites, Ndzondelelo Secondary,who cruised to a48-7 victory over CowanHigh, continued with their back-toback winsasthey embarrassed KwaMagxaki High37-0 in their one-sided neighbourhood affair.
Soqhayisa Secondary, who startedthe tournament with anarrow 12-7 win over Loyiso High, saw their journey come to an end after they succumbed to a22-10 defeat against Ithembelihle Comprehensive High in a game that produced fireworks.
Sports Revolution Chairman Bantwini Matika said that all the schools played their hearts out. “I am delighted that these schools played exciting games. As the tournament progresses to another stage, the intensity of the games also changes. The spectators were really treated to gamesofahigh standard.These
schools displayed high levels of discipline. We will announce the date of the games to the schools thathave gone through to the next stage of the tournament,” said Matika.
MightyWarriorsFCset to defend league title
PORT Elizabeth East Football Association (PEEFA) two-time leaguechampions,Mighty Warriors FC, are settodefend their league title this season.
Warriors, whoare popularly known as Amagents, gave their arch-rivals, Golden Stars FC, arun for their money as they overcame them 3-2 in theirkeenly contestedgame at Veeplaas Astroturf Stadium recently (on 2 May 2026). After15games, Amagentshave managed to accumulate 36 league points.
Chairman Andile Bobotold PE Express that his coach, Siphosekhaya Thunzi Siko, and the team look forward to campaigning in the SAFA NMB HollywoodbetsRegional League in the2026/27season. “We work ridiculously hard so that we can defend our league title. The mandate to our head coach and the boys is to win the promotion playoffs. We look forward to playing in the regional league next season. Our boys are more than ready to represent PEEFA during the regional promotion playoffs,” said Bobo.
PEEFA Easter Tournament champions,Mighty Birds FC, dug deep toregister anarrow 3-2 win over the rejuvenated Young Teenagers FC. Real Aces
FC, who started the league on ahigh note, succumbed to a2-0 defeat against Real Lions FC. It was apiece of cake for Peace Lovers FC to claima3-1 triumph over Young Bucks FC. New kids on the block, United CityWarriorsFC, edged out the struggling Hillside United FC 5-0 in theirone-sidedaffair.
PEEFAFirst Divisionresults:
• Blackburn FC 0-6 KwaDwesiTigers FC
• United CityWarriorsFCReserves 0-2 Harambee FC
• MightyBirds FC Reserves 1-1Bayland FC BayTigersFC0-0 Real LionsFCReserves
Major Chiefs Sports Club areready foradecider
DESPITE theirrecent 2-1 loss to Red CityFC, Stream Blog leaders, Major Chiefs Sports Club,are through to play against Stream Alog leadersin the SAFANelson Mandela Bay Hollywoodbets Regional League decider.
Royal Bucks FC,the Stream Alog leaderswho, like Major Chiefs,have one game left, must draw theirlast game against Mr XCadersFCinWalmer on Saturday to end the season with 37 points. Apparently, aloss will be anightmarefor Bucks, as Red Lions FC haveone last game in Stream Atoplay.As things stand,Bucks haveconceded fewer goals, butthe Lions haveconceded more goals. Bucks showed that they would like to play against Major Chiefs
in the decider as they secured a comprehensive 5-0 awayvictory over EC Celtics,who areinthe redzone of thelog table.Onthe other hand,Major Chiefs, who will be expected to fieldtheir fringe players, take on Young Aces FC at Zwide Stadium on Saturday.
OtherSAFANMB Hollywoodbets
Regional League results:
Stream A:
• Camper United FC 2-1StingingBees
FC
• RedLions FC 2-0 Park United FC Group
• Lion CityFC0-0 Mr XCadersFC
Shining StarsFC1-2 Khayelitsha StarsFC
Stream B:
• HighlandSpurs FC w/o(2)-0 SaintsFC
• PeaceMakersFC2-6 Young Aces FC
SAFA NMB Hollywoodbets Regional League upcoming fixtures
Stream A:
• Stinging BeesFC–LionCityFCat
Chevrolet Stadium
• RedLions –ECCeltics FC at ChevroletStadium
Camper United -Shining StarsFCat Motherwell NU 11 Stadium
• Park UnitedFCGroup –Khayelitsha StarsFCatArcadia Field
Stream B:
• Madibaz Football –Red City FC at NMU South Campus FieldA
• Highlands SpursFC–Peace Makers FC at Jabavu Stadium
Real CelticsFC–CalliesAFC at KhayamnandiCommunityField
• SaintsFC–DespatchPioneersFCat SaintsGrounds
Langa RosedaleFAPremier League results
FANSwitnessed some teams embarrassing other sides during the Langa Rosedale Football Association (LAROFA) Premier League games that took place at Thembani Grounds and Limekhaya High School Grounds in Langa and Rosedale recently. At Thembani Grounds: Vital Stars FC let theirsupporters down in their5-0 drubbing by African Chiefs FC. TamboChiefs FC thrashed Young Boys FC 4-0 in aone-sided game. SwiftsFC crashed to a7-0 defeat against Langa Citizens FC. TamboChiefs FC faced atough challenge as they claimed ahard-fought 1-0 winover Tiryville FC. Vuselela FC supporters saw theirside go down 3-1 to Langa Citizens FC. At Limekhaya High School Grounds: Despite their1-0 loss, Black Spurs FC gave agood account of themselves against Star of Hope FC. Westhill United FC beat Mandela Stars FC hands down when they embarrassed them 7-1. Juventus FC suffered a5-2 loss at the hands of City Powerlads FC. Young Chiefs FC claimed ahard-fought 2-1 win over Atlantic Spurs FC. Moonlight FC registered acommanding 3-0 winover KingsFC. Vital Stars FC hammered Swifts 4-1 in an easy win.Black Spurs andCity Powerlads playedtoa 1-1 draw in an enthrallinggame.Langa All Stars FC crashed to an 8-2 defeat against African Chiefs. Mandela Stars shared a1-1 draw with Kings FC in anail-bitingclash
