Spinalpatientenduresyear-longwaitforcare
SHANTI JAFTA
WHEN Magrietha Justus, aKariegaresident, was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis (a spinal condition where avertebra slips forwardorbackward over the one belowit) in April 2025, she never imagined that morethan ayear later she would still be waiting for aspecialist appointment at Uitenhage Provincial Hospital (UPH) whilst spending R500 monthly on private pain medication.
Her deteriorating back condition, now complicatedbysciatica,has become asymbol of a collapsing public health system where patients waitover ayear for critical carewhilst lying on hospital floors during medical emergencies.
In February 2026,whenviral meningitis brought her to the same hospital, Justussaid she spent five hours lyingonawaiting room floor in excruciating painwhilst an entireward of emptybeds sat unused upstairs owing to staff shortages.
What began as two separate medical crises has transformed this determined woman intoan unlikely healthcare advocate, inundating Eastern Cape health officials with formalcomplaints and demanding answers for a hospital she says has deteriorated so badly that“many people would rather dieathome.”
Despiteescalating her concerns to national health authorities, multiple failed meetings with UPH,and promises from hospital complaints officers that have led nowhere, the silencefrom officials continues.
“Where is this going to stop?”Justus asked.
Speaking to UD Express,Justus said that this didn’t start in February 2026, but actually began much earlier.
“In April 2025, Iwas diagnosed with spondylolisthesis by aprivate doctor. My back pain was getting significantly worse, so in June 2025, Igot areferral letter to attendthe Out-Patient Department (OPD) at UPH so theycould schedule an appointment with aspecialist. Ipresented myself at OPD, had X-rays taken, gave them all my details, and wastold aconsultant would contact me with an appointmentdate,” she said.
“Thatwas June 2025. Here we are now, and Ihave not received asinglecommunicationabout that appointment. My condition
has deteriorated to the point where it’saffecting my everyday life. I’m limited tominimal function now.Whilst some days are manageable, mostdaysIstruggle to walk normally.”
She added thatinthe meantime, she has been diagnosed with sciatica, which shesaid comes with financial strain.
“I now have to spend R500 every month just on painmedication because the publicsystem that’ssupposed to help me has completely abandoned me.”
Returning to the place she said hadabandoned her for eight months for what shethought was an uncontrollable migraine, she waited hours for help butsaw a doctor only the following morning, who gave her Panado tablets for the extreme pain she was experiencing
“The painwas so severe I couldn’t open my eyes or move without experiencing terrible spasms.They sent me to the trauma unit for admission and told me to wait. After several hours, despite having aspinal condition and suspected meningitisthat made it impossible for me to sit upright, Iended up lying on that floor because of the pain.
“When weasked about the delay, they said there werenobeds available. There were already about 11 other patients who had been waiting since Friday for admission, whilst the entire fifth floor sat empty because they don’t have enough staff,” she claimed.
“There Iwas, lying on ahospital floor, sick withmeningitis, already dealing with an untreated back condition that I’d been waiting eight monthstoget help for. That’swhen Irealised this wasn’t just my personal struggle; this is acrisis affecting everyone in our community.”
When asked about how lying on the floor of ahospital made her feel about her own dignity, shesaid, “Lying on that hospital floor, sick and in pain, waiting for basic care, was one of the mosthumbling and heartbreaking momentsof my life. In that moment,I felt invisible; like my dignityas ahuman being didn’t matter. No one should ever feel that way when they are at their mostvulnerable. It mademe question my worth, not because I believe Iamless, but because the system treated me as if Iwas.”
She saidthat people with serious medical conditions arewaiting ayear or more for necessary treatment.
“When appointments areeventually scheduled, patients have to travel to other towns to see specialists; something many can’t afford, especially those earning aminimum wage or unable to work like Iamnow. My mainconcerns haven’t changed: there’s not enough medication available, severestaffshortages, not enough hospitalbeds, and patients arebeing abandoned by asystem that’s supposed to help them. The financial burden alone is crushing families. Where is this going to stop?” she said.
“I’m exhausted and frustrated by the lack of response from management, but I’m also determined.Giving up would mean accepting that this is okay, and it’snot. Every day that passes without action means more people will sufferlike Ihave, or worse. Our community deserves better than this complete breakdownofhealthcareservices.”
She concluded that emotionally,this has been averyexhausting journey.
“There are days when Ifeel frustrated and drained by the lack of response and accountability from those in power. It is difficult to keep pushing when it feels like youare not being heard.However, at the same time, Istill hold on to hope. Hopethat by speaking out, by refusing to stay silent, something will change. Yes, Ifeel tired and discouraged, butIamalso determined. Ijust want those of us waiting for ayear or more to see specialists in Kariegatoreceive that care.”
In response, the Department of Health spokesperson Camagwini Mavovana stated that the matter was subsequently investigated, and the complainant was contacted on 18 March 2026.
“Upon conclusion of the investigation, the Department initiated aredress process; however, the complainant indicated limited availability for engagement. The complainant stated she would only be available after hours, over weekendsorpublic holidays,” she said
“This is concerning. It is thereforedifficult to reconcile the decision to escalate this matter through the mediawhen the Department has alreadyinitiated directengagement and aredress process, which the complainant didnot reasonably make herself available for.”
Mavovana added that according to hospitalrecords, Justus was attended to at Uitenhage
ProvincialHospital on 24 June 2025 andappropriately referred to LivingstoneTertiary Hospital OrthopaedicDepartmentfor further management
“It must be notedthatoncea patient is referred,the receiving institution is responsible for patient schedulingand communication,” she said.“The Department takes all allegationsregarding service delivery seriously. Investigationsintothe complaint did not substantiate claims of asystemic collapse as described.”
She alsonotedthatwhileintermittent stock constraints may occur,facilitiesare requiredto implement contingency measures, includingthe provision of clinically appropriate alternatives and sourcing from neighbouring institutions, whichwas done, she claimed.
Regarding theallegedempty ward,Mavovanasaidthatonly Ward5Bonthe 5th floor,an18bedunit, is currently non-operational.
“Thismatterhas been escalated and is known to Head Office,” she said. “The non-functionality of this ward doesnot equate to available unused capacity, as operationalisation is dependenton
staffing,equipment,and safety compliance requirements.”
Explainingthe timeframe in whichJustus allegedly waited for assistance, Mavovana claimedthaton8 February 2026, Justus presented at thefacility at approximately 01:00 andwas triagedat01:45 as ayellow-categorypatient in accordance with theSouth African Triage Scale, then attended to by amedical officerat04:20.
“These timeframesfall within theacceptable normsand standards prescribed in national policy for non-immediate cases," she said
Mavovanaalsoclaimedthat measures arebeing implemented to strengthenstaffing, including therecent appointment of additional healthcareprofessionals acrossfacilities
The Departmentrejects theassertionofa“complete system breakdown”atUitenhage Provincial Hospital. “Clinical carewas provided, appropriate investigationswere conducted, andadmissionwas initiated. It is importanttonote that thepatient left thefacility prior to completion of theadmissionprocess without notifyingstaff,” Mavovana said
NMBlaunchesWhatsAppsafetylinetostrengthencrime-fightingefforts
THE Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has launched anew WhatsApp SafetyLine as part of its enhanced approach to combating crime and improving community safety.
The WhatsApp number 079 490 0480 went live on 15 April, enabling members of the public to report incidents directly to the Metro Police Sub-directorate. The serviceoperates with 24hour backend support to ensure all complaints are received, processed,and acteduponpromptly.
Accessiblereporting forresidents
Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishesaid the WhatsApp line represents asignificant step forward in community policing
"This launch provides ourresidents with an accessible tool to report incidentsattheir fingertips.
Throughthe Cooperative Agreement signed among NMBM, SAPS, and other stakeholders last year, we continue toimprove through innovative solutions aligned with current technological developments.We urgeresidents to use this platform responsibly so that it can makeameaningful difference in our communities."
Servicecoverage
The WhatsAppline accepts reports for incidentsfalling under the following Safetyand Security Sub-directorates:
• Trafficand Licensing: All traffic-related complaints,including accidents, traffic
congestion,and tip-offsregarding suspecteddrink-driving
• SecurityServices: Incidentsincluding vandalism, theftofmunicipal infrastructure,and damagetomunicipal property
• MetroPoliceServices: Trafficpolicing matters,crime preventiontip-offs, by-law contraventions, protests,and suspicious activitieswithin theMetro Policemandate
DisasterManagement: Anyincident withthe potential to developinto, or have theimpactof, adisaster
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Safety andSecurity, CouncillorLuyanda Lawu,emphasised that the WhatsApp line complements existing crime-fighting initiatives. "Considering the level of crime in the Metro, we have as-
sessed and agreed that we must introduce this tool to improve our responsiveness to crime-related complaints. This linewill assist us to suffocate criminal activity andcreate safer communities."
Complaint categories
Community members can lodge complaintsunder four categories:
• Category A: Servicedelivery-related complaints(MetroPolice, Traffic, Security, DisasterManagement,and other safety-relatedservices) Category B: Complaints relatingto theworkethic or conductofofficials
• Category C: General complaints not relatedtosafetyand security, but pertaining to other municipal services,such as illegal dumping
• Category D: Servicedeliveryprotests
(violent or non-violent)
Platform capabilities
The WhatsApp linesupports:
• Text messages relatedtoreported incidents
• Livelocation sharing
Photo andvideo sharingofincidents
• Voicenotes relatedtoreported incidents
MMC Lawustressed that the WhatsApp linedoes not replace theofficial SAPS emergency number 0800 10111. "We are not replacing 0800 10111; we are complementing it. Our response to reported incidents will be undertaken in partnership with SAPS, as thecustodians of thefight against crime in thecountry."
Magrietha Justus waits on the floorfor medical assistance at UPH. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
MajorwastewaterplantupgradesnearcompletioninDespatch
THEDespatch Wastewater Treatment Works
is showing marked improvements following acomprehensive R4.8million upgradeprogramme that is now 87.5% complete, city officialsannounced during asite visit on Monday
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality(NMBM)
ExecutiveMayor Babalwa Lobishe andInfrastructureCommittee Member Buyelwa Mafaya, conducted an oversightvisitto the facility,which serves the entire Despatch area andremains fullyoperationalthroughout the upgradeprocess.
In astatement, the NMBMsaid that theplant is now operating at 88% compliance -asignificantimprovement that indicates better effluentquality andenhancedoperational stability.Morethan 90%ofthe allocatedbudget has been directed toward core water and sanitation infrastructure.
The upgrade programme hasincluded major technicalimprovements acrossthe facility. Newenergy-efficientlighting was installedat acost of R640,000, while two newsubmerged
pumps,sluice gates, and associated equipment werefitted forR768,549.
Other significant investments include a R815,000advanced control system featuring programmable logic controllersand variable speed drives, R827,000 forpump refurbishments, and R742,789 fornew gearboxes androtation assemblies.
Critical process improvements have also been completed, including full refurbishment of inletscreens, improvements to the grit removal system,and replacement of mixers in the biologicalreactor.
"Weare encouraged by the progress on the ground and the clear improvement in plant performance," said Lobishe. "Every rand we allocatetowater and sanitation must translate into reliability, dignity, and the protectionof public health."
The upgrades align with the municipality's three key priorities: strengthening servicedelivery, enabling infrastructure-led economic activity, and building institutional capacity.
Despitethe progress, the facility continues to
Wheelchairdonationbringsrelie
WHAT began as an emergency response to Kariega’s ongoing water crisishas led to alife-changing intervention for alocal family,after community volunteerHaylee Geeand disaster relieforganisation Gift of the Givers delivered awheelchair to a bedridden maninneed.
For nearly five weeks, Gee and her Bomb Squad Team have worked alongside Gift of theGivers to provide daily waterrelief to affected residents.During one such distri-
bution,the team encountered the Jansen family,wheredaughter Diane explained that her father, Daniel Jansen,had suffered twostrokes and wascompletely bedridden.
Withoutawheelchair, the familyfaced ongoingchallenges in moving him, assistingwithdailycare, and accessingmedical treatment.
Moved by the situation, Gee contacted Gift of theGivers,which respondedby
MBDAclean-upinitiativecontinues
SHANTIJAFTA
ARECENT community clean-up initiative in Kariega which saw kerbs, paving andstreet edgesalong Durban Road andLowerDrostdy Street cleared and restored, is now prompting renewedcalls forstrongersupport fromlocal businesses andresidents.
The clean-up, led by the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) precincts team, forms part of ongoing efforts to improve the area and restore pride in shared publicspaces. By targeting smaller, often overlooked details; such as grassgrowinginpaving, the initiative highlights how focused interventionscan significantly enhancethe overallenvironment.
AccordingtoNelson Mandela Bay Science and Technology Centreprecinct ranger PhilindaFillis, sustaining these efforts dependson consistent community involvement.
“We can clean, but people need motivation,” shesaid. “When you ask people aroundfor help, they want water, maybeasnack, something small to keep them going.”
Fillisnoted thatwhile the MBDAcoordinatesthese monthly campaigns, theabsence of adedicated budget limits thelevel of support availabletovolunteers. “From ourside, there’snospecificbudget for these campaigns,” sheexplained. “Sometimes we contribute fromour ownpockets, buyingcold drink, biscuits or even fruit just to keep the team motivated.”
MBDA spokesperson Nicole Klokow empha-
sisedthatthe clean-upsare designed to complement, not replace, the municipality’sroutine cleansing efforts.
“Our precinctteams are already deployed in targeted areas to support municipalcleaning programmes,” she said. “Community cleanups are an invitationfor residents andbusinesses to getinvolved and help bolster these efforts,particularly by focusing on smaller, detailedwork that may be overlooked in broader operations.”
Klokow added that participation is entirely voluntary and rooted in community spirit.
“This is not ademand. It’sanopportunity for individuals and organisations to take ownership of their shared spaces,”she said.
“These initiatives also playanimportantrole in building community pride andcohesion.”
Beyond general cleaning,Fillis is also prioritisingthe clearing of stormwater drains, warningthat littering is contributing to blockages andlocalised flooding.
“Our drainsare blocked because people throwrubbish into them,”she said. “If we can getthe community and businesses involved, we can prevent bigger problems.”
She stressedthat maintaining the precinctis asharedresponsibility. “This is the faceofour city. We need to start at our own doorstep,” she said
Residents and businesses interested in supportingfutureMBDA clean-up initiatives can contact Fillis at Philinda.reid@mbda.co.za or on 041 991 5000.
The clean up volunteers aftercleaninginKariega CBD,oppositethe Nelson Mandela Bay Scienceand Technology Centre.
KwaNobuhle,KariegaCBDhitbymunicipalenforcementoperations
TWOseparate law enforcement operations conducted in KwaNobuhle andthe Kariega central business district have resulted in shop closures, fines, and multiple arrests as authoritiesintensify by-law enforcement across Nelson Mandela Bay.
Six shops in KwaNobuhle were shut down and fined acombined R26,000 during a multi-agency operation focused on foodsafety and regulatory compliance.
The operation was led by the Nelson MandelaBay Municipality’s Chief Operating Officer’s office, represented by Monitoringand Evaluation Manager MpumiMrubata, and included Environmental Health, Economic Development, Human Settlements, municipal security, SAPS, Metro Police, Traffic Services, Inspectionand Enforcement, andTown Rangers.
Teams first assembled at the Kariega Traffic Department for astrategic briefing before proceeding to targeted sites in Mkoto,Mpityana, Nxarhana,Kopo,and Ponana Street.
Allsix businesses inspectedwere found to be non-compliant with municipal by-lawsand food safety regulations and were immediately shutdown.
Authoritiesalso arrested fiveundocumented individuals during the operation, who were taken in for processing.
The municipality said the operation forms
part of ongoing efforts to ensurebusinesses comply with regulatory frameworks andto safeguardpublic health
In aseparate operation conducted on April 14, Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe joined a multidisciplinary enforcementsweep in MarketStreet, Kariega, aimed at broadercompliance monitoringacrossmultiple sectors
Atotal of 20 shops were inspected duringthe operation, with five closure notices issued for non-compliance.
Wastemanagementinspectionsfound only three of 16 businessescompliant, resulting in 13 fines totalling R26,000 for failure to maintain validwaste removalcontracts.
TrafficServices andMetro Police issued 32 additionalfines worth more than R22,000 for offences including illegal parking, public nuisance, and unlawfulstructures.
The HousingDepartment identifiedseven properties with illegal structures,which have been referred to Legal Services for furtheraction.
Intotal,49enforcementactions were recordedduring the operation
The municipality said follow-upinspections willbeconducted to ensurecompliancewith allnoticesissued.
Both operationsformpartofongoingenforcement efforts aimedatstrengthening bylaw compliance and improvinghealth, safety, and order within themunicipality.
Tree-killing beetle spreads across Gqeberha
NATASHA BEZUIDENHOUT
THE Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer(PSHB), an invasive beetle that kills treesbyboring into them and spreading adestructive fungus, is spreading through Gqeberha's urban green spaces, conservation experts warn New and expanding infestationshavebeen recorded over the past year, including in areas such as the Baakens Valley and Theescombe, with experts saying that the pestisno longer confined to isolated sitesand may be spreadingmorewidely across themetro Conservation specialist, Reinier vander
Kuip, of the WESSA AlgoaBay Branch, says field monitoringinand around the Baakens Valley,Theescombe and surroundingurban green corridors has recorded confirmed and suspected infestations since last year, with furthercases emerging in 2026.
He says the spread is closely linked to human movement of infected wood andgreen waste, making containment increasingly difficult once infestations become established.
From aconservation perspective, he warns that the PSHB (Euwallacea fornicatus complex),together with its fungal symbiont (Fusariumeuwallaceae), represents a"severe andurgentthreat" to Gqeberha'surban ecosystems.
"The threattothe ecological integrity and long-term functioning of Gqeberha's urban green infrastructure is extremely high," he shared with the PE Express.
Accordingtoupdated data fromthe Forestry andAgricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), 181 tree species are susceptible to infestation,including 97 indigenous species.
Of these,97species —55indigenous —are consideredreproductive hosts where the beetle cansuccessfully establish and reproduce, ultimatelykilling the tree.
Van derKuip warned thatthis shifts the risk from individualtree loss to broader ecosysteminstability. "Ifleft unchecked, PSHB could cause widespread tree mortality andsevere biodiversity loss," he said. "Opencanopy gapswould likely be invaded by alien plant species,furtherdegrading ecosystemsand increasing long-term management costs."
He added that the beetle spreads throughinfected wood, with human movement acting as theprimary driver of new outbreaks.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) says it has activated its Public Health Environmental Management Sub-Directoratefollowing reports of suspected sightings from members of the public.
Officials sayall cases arebeing investigated,
Tuisversorgersvoltooikursus
By ACVV Aandmymeringword daar elke6 ½ maande tuisversorging kursusse aangebied. Verswaktes en bejaardes kaninhul eie huise versorg word. ‘n Groep tuisversorgers hethullekursus suksesvol voltooi en hul sertifikate ontvang.Hullekan nou indie gemeenskap van diens wees. Die kursus wasaangebied deur Sr Sylvia Rosseaw.Die volgendekursus sal wees September 2026 en almal wat belangstel om die kursus te doen kan Sr.Sylvia Rosseaw kontak op 041 992 1510 vanaf1Augustus 2026 vir verdere inligting. Agter,van links, is Annelie Morton (bestuurderes), MavoleenSeekoei, Tamara Smith,RuschniqueSwartbooi,Demi Steyn, Keshia van Vught, Charmoniox Smith, Roline Machabaen Sr.Elize Duckworth. Voor is Alray Japhta,Thalitha Westraadt, Veruschka Westraadt, Sr.Sylvia Rosseaw, Julenda Rossouw,Kaithline Machaba en Chantassicavan Wyk. FOTO:VERSKAF
with containment measures already underway, including the removal of infected trees, on-site chipping of material and controlled disposalofinfested wood at designated sites.
Themunicipality is also working with aspecialist who has studied the beetle for several years.
NelsonMandela Bay Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe urged residents to remain calm and support containment efforts
"Weunderstand the seriousness of the threat this poses to the environmental sustainability of the city, and we aregivingitthe necessary attentionthroughour environmental management structures," she said.
Van der Kuipwarned that Riparianareas areparticularly vulnerable to PSHB, as tree loss along river corridors can increaseerosion and weaken natural water regulation processes.
Riparian systemsare the natural zones of land along rivers, streams and wetlands These areas playa critical ecological role by stabilising riverbanks, filtering water, reducing erosion, and providing habitat for birds, insects and other wildlife.
"Thebeetle is easily transportedininfested firewood,timber and gardenwaste,"Van der Kuip shared. "Human movementisthe fastest way for this species to spread between neighbourhoods and cities."
He urgedresidents not to move firewood over long distances, to dispose of green waste responsibly and to report suspected infestations immediately.
"Public participation is the most effective and low-cost measuretoslow the spread,"he said.
According to Van der Kuip, most SouthAfrican cities arenot adequately prepared for an invasive species outbreakofthisscale.
"Current invasive management programmes arelargely reactive rather than proactive,"heshared.
While cities such as Cape Town, Johannes-
ThePolyphagousShotHole Borer kills treesby boring into them andspreading adestructive fungus
PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
burgand Durban have monitoring systems in place, he warned that even thesewould come under pressureifthe spread accelerated. He called for stronger coordination, rapid-responsecapacity and stricter control of wood movement.
"Evensmall-scale movement of infected wood can establish new infestations that are extremely difficult to control,"Van der Kuip warned.
If PSHB spreads widely across the Eastern Cape, Van der Kuip warned that the longterm consequences could be severe. He added that widespread loss of indigenous trees would fragment habitats,reduce biodiversity and weaken ecosystem services suchas shade, carbon storage, water regulation and soilstability.
"Overtime, thesechanges could permanently alter both natural and urban landscapes across the region," he said.
Citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist allow users to upload photographs of suspected infestations for expertverification. Reports can also be submitted to the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI).
Nelson Mandela Bay MunicipalityExecutiveMayor Babalwa LobishewithHealthcare Practitioner, ThethiweGqubule during acompliance site visit in KariegaCBD PHOTO: SUPPLIED
ThePolyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB), an invasive beetle, has beenkilling trees across the countryincluding Gqeberha, Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Rugbyskrywergeselsoor ‘rugbyaskunsvorm’
MEDEWERKER
RUGBY kan beskryf word as “’n kuns van ’n ander aard” wat net so baie waardeer word as skilderkuns teen die muur, beeldhouwerk of ’n verhoogoptrede.
Dít glo die skrywer Michael Green wat in Gqeberha woon en wat behoorlik in sy noppiesisomdat hy genooi is om oor sy rugbyboeke by die komende Kunskoorsfees op Jeffreysbaai te gaan gesels. Die welbekende RSG-omroeper en oudjoernalis, Mariska Spoormaker, wat ook voorheen in die Baai gewoon het, gaan op Saterdag 2Mei om 12:30 by die Infood Roastery in Blaauwkransstraat in Jeffreysbaai met Green oor sy boeke Pale Toe! en Strydvan die Reuse gesels
“Mense lagasekvir hullesê rugby is ’n kunsvorm, maar wat
is dit wat spelers soos Naas Botha deur die jare opgetowerhet dan anders?
“Naas het van skepskoppe iets asemrowends gemaak,” sê Green
“Meer onlangs is daar die opwindende spel van iemand soos Cheslin Kolbe. En wat vanOxNché, die ouens wat teen hom skrum sal sytegniek seker net so dramaties en donker as dié van die skilder Goya kan beskryf.”
Volgens Green laat die Springbok-losskakel Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezu hombaie aan Van Gogh dink.
“Jy weet nooit wat hy volgende gaandoen nie. Hy pluk dalk onverwags ’nlem uit sy sak, sny sy eie oor af en gee dit vir die skeidsregter omvir sy meisie te pos.”
Green gee darem toe dat nie alle rugbyspelers as ware kunstenaars beskou kan word nie. “Jykry mos maar ook in rugby die pretenders
en die wanna be’s,” sê hy.
As hy oor sy eie beskeie speeldaepraat, haal hy maar net sy skouers op.
“Ek het gou genoeg gesien ek gaan nie ’n Springbok word nie, toespeel ek maar sosiale rugby en skryf eerder oordie spel,” sê hy
Hy wasvir langer as 30 jaar ’n rugbyskrywervir publikasies soos Netwerk24 voor hy besluit het om ’n voltydse skrywerteword.
Behalwe vir sy rugbyboeke, skryf hy ook fiksie onder die skuilnaam RR Ryger.
By die Kunstefeesgaan hy so ’n bietjie meer vertel van sy eie “avonture” in die rugbywêreld en oor die “larger than life karakters” waarmeehyskouers geskuur het.
Kunskoors skopafop1Mei en duur tot3Mei.
Kaartjiesvir die fees kan aanlyn deur Quicketgekoop word.
Vroueskeidsregters
hupstootvir stoei
HANNES SCHOEMAN
DESPATCH se stoeiklub het sy eerste vroueskeidsregtersin20 jaar opgelewer.
HulleisDanielleJordan en Annebel Meiring,wat hul waarde gewys het tydens dieMosselbaai-toernooi wat in George gehou is Danielle is ’n SA kampioen, terwyl Annebel weens haar kind se betrokkenheid tot dieskeidsregtersgeledere toegetree het.
Hoewel Despatchmet ’n klein span van net 13 stoeiersindie
goue, vier silwer- en drie bronsmedaljes huiswaarts gekeer
Die afrigters, Jacques Strydom en Norman Kilian, sê dietoernooi was van groter waardeas diemedalje-oes omdat ditwaardevolle oefening gewees het vir diekomende OP-proewe in die Grieks-Romeinse styl.
’n Plek in die OP-span is nou op die spel vir dieSAkampioenskappe volgendemaand. Met dieGrieks-Romeinse seisoen wat nou wink is Despatch duidelik diespan om doptehou. Dieafrigters sê diemomentum wat in George opgebou is, is presies wat hulle nou nodig gehad het Annebel Meiring. FOTO: VERSKAF
Suid-Kaap opgedaag het, het hulle sake in hul onderskeie afdelings oorheers en met 21
DIARY|DAGBOEK
Jukskei-spelerswen goudvirDespatch
HANNES SCHOEMAN
DESPATCHERShet hulle stempelbehoorlik afgedruk by die Suid-Afrikaanse jukskeikampioenskappe in Kroonstad Hulle was lede van die Nelson Mandelabaai-span wat uit die staanspoor ’n krag was om mee rekeningtehou. LowrenceMooreenChrista Hansen van Despatch het wéér albei SA kleure bo 50 jaar gekryenalbeihet goudgewen teen Namibië. Hulle het saam ook goud gewenindie gemengde dubbels Dan het tweeoud-Despatchers, SusanSchoultz (KuGom-
po City) en Wynarda van Eck (Jeffreysbaai)ook uitstekende spel gelewer. Susanhet ook SA kleure bo 50 jaar gekry, terwyl Wynarda dieSAmeesterspan gehaal het. Alewyn Smith was die afrigtervan diemanspan bo 50 jaar,terwyl Helgard Weyers dieTranskalahari-proefspan bo 60 jaar gehaal het Onder dievroue bo 60 jaar het Wynarda en Erika Gerber dieSentraal-streekspan gehaal. Susan, Christa Lowrenceen Wynarda toervolgendemaand na Namibiëvir ’n herontmoeting en Alewyn salasafrigter virdie SA mansbo50optree.
Entrepreneur Fair: Getexcited forthe Annual EntrepreneurFair on 27 April, from 10:00 to 18:00 at the Malabar Community CentreinHaworthia Drive Calling all youth, small businesses and newideas to attend. Vendorstalls are available. Contact081 2879847. Moedersdag Damestee: Bederf jou
ma, ouma of tantemet 'n kaartjie na die Moedersdag Damesteewat op 9Mei om 14:00 by Arabest op Despatch gaan plaasvind. Dit dien as fondsinameling tenbatevan 'n Kariegapaartjie,Ian Rudman en Eileen Cronje,wat albei in 2025 metkanker gediagnoseer is.Die damesteegaan 'n Tjhokodemonstrasie,gasspreker, lekker eetgoedenstalletjiesinsluit.Kaartjiesisbeperken beloop R200 perpersoon. Virkaartjies, donasies, skenkingsenmeer inligting, kontak Lizette by 084 406 2123 of Karen by 081 399 8521. Anniversary Show: Children in Christ gospel group will be celebrating their
37th anniversary showon10May at 16:00 at the Emmanuel Methodist Church (PatrysStreet). Admission is R50.For moreinformation contact064 025 9509 or 073805 2319. Moedersdag-ete: Die NG Kerk Despatch-Suid gaan wegneem-etesoffer op 10 Mei virMoedersdag. Dit is R60
perete wathoenderpastei, pampoenpoffers, gebakte aartappels en geelrys insluit.Poeding (gebakte bruinpoedingmet vla) gaan jou 'n ekstra R20uit die sak jaag. Melktert is ook beskikbaar teen R60,slegsmet vooraf bestelling. Die afhaaltydis10:30 op 10 Mei. Bestel by Catrien by 082702 8345
Plaaslike skrywer Michael Green gaan by die Kunskoors op Jeffreysbaaiwees.
FOTO: WILLEMIEN GREEN
SusanSchoultz.
FOTO’S:VERSKAF
Wynarda van Eck.
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HermitageHouseto hostvibrantColourRun
HERMITAGE House Independent
School is excited to announce its upcomingColour Run, taking place on 16 May 2026atthe Addo Polo Club.
This colourful, family-friendly eventinvites the community to come together for amorning of fun, fitness, and connection.
The Colour Run celebrates community spirit and inclusivity, welcoming participants of all ages to enjoy an outdoorexperiencefilled with colour, laughter, and activity.
The event offers three race options to suit everyone: the 50m Toddler Dashstarting at 10:00 (R30), the5km Fun Runstarting at 10:15 (R95), and the2km Walk/Run starting at 10:45 (R65).
Registration will take place from 09:00 to 10:45, giving families time to arrive, get ready, and enjoy the atmosphere before the races begin
Beyondthe run, there will be plenty of entertainmentfor children and families.AKiddies Corner (R20 entrance)will feature activities includinga jumping castle,while Popsi the Clown will offer face painting from 09:00 to 11:00 (R40). Food and refreshments will be sold by the school throughoutthe morning.
Entriesare available online only via Quicket,and participants will receive agoodie bag with their online entry.
This is more than just arace, the Colour Run offers an opportunity for thecommunity to gather, support local initiatives, and enjoy avibrant morning outdoors with family and friends
Residents from across the region areencouraged to lace up their running shoes, bring their families, and join the celebration of colour and community.
AmustwinchanceforlocalheroBell
HANNES SCHOEMAN
THEfirst open-air boxing event in 50 years in Gqeberha will be held on Saturday, 30 May in the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium when Nozipho Bell from the Walmer location willtake on experienced Namibian-born ZimbabweanChiedza Homakomafor the WBF Intercontinental Light Welterweight title.
The last time an open-air event was held was in 1976, staged by the late Maurice Toweel on the Crusaderground.
This time, Zantsi Promotions willbring the action
Bell is aSouth African professional boxer currently rated as a top contenderinthe super featherweightdivision
She is aformer WorldBoxing Federation (WBF) WorldFeatherweightChampion and reigning South AfricanJunior Lightweight Champion, and recently re-entered the International Boxing Federation (IBF) ratings.
Bell won15ofher 21 professional bouts, but lost her last two fights in Russia and Pretoria
The 36-year-oldhas been atop contenderfor most of her career, and besides winning the WBF world title in 2019, she has also
SusannahFouriehostssuccessfulSportsFestival
challengedfor WBOand IBO world titles abroad.
Also aformerSouth African national championand IBFIntercontinentaltitlist at SuperFeatherweight, shehas nowdecided to move to LightWelter in pursuit of eventuallybecominga world champion again.
But victory won't come easy
Her opponent, "TheQueen Tiger" Homakoma (32),always comes to fight, andafter facing
some of the best boxersAfrica hastooffer,she is motivated to upsetthe favourite.
Beating aformerworld champion andestablishednamesuch as Bell would be amajor breakthrough forher career
For Bell, shehas everything to fightfor andcan't affordtoloseif sheistoregain former glory
Theshow starts at 18:00 andentry is R100 foradults andR50 for childrenand students.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Susannah Fourie’sannual Despatch Superspar Sports Festival heldon17and 18 April was the biggest ever and an outstanding success. It was agreat weekend ofrugby andnetballwith players from15differentschools participating with enthusiasm and dedicated teamspirit. The school wishes toextend their gratitude to all who supportedthis event. Pictured arethe Susannah Fourie U13A rugby team after the finalmatch versus Tjaartvan derWalt Primary. In front,from left, are Arnold Kleyn (Coach), Athandwa Sidina, Octavian Nyathi, SesethuCekwana, MivuyoMadlingozi,Enzokuhle Mdhlalose, BathandwaBonani, Ngothando Ndzando, AchuMakoba, Luphawo Ntutela and Siviwe Nowewe.Atthe back are Simamkele Bhekiwe, Lukholo Mavanda, Lilitha Baleka, Lunjuthando Zinco, AnezwaMni,AphelelePhuwani, Oyama Mgquba, LincolnLindoor,Ruadin Helmy, Sipho Yoyo,Yongama Mxusani, and Tian de Klerk (Coach).
The staffofDespatch PreparatorySchool receivedbrand new netball shirtsfrom Jacques FerreiraofOKMinimart Protea.The new shirtscertainly boost team spirit and pride among staffmembers. At the back,from left, areChanré Botha, Asja Strydom, Jacques Ferreira, Tania Gerber,LisindaTait, Anjé Swart and Inge Baker.Infront areChante Roelofse, Chloe de Lange, MeganSchmidtand Kayleigh Leonard. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Nozipho Bell haseverything to fight for PHOTO: SUPPLIED