SuspectsarrestedasKwaNobuhle mournslossoftwolearners
SHANTI JAFTA
TWO high school learners were allegedly raped and murdered in Khayelitsha, an area of KwaNobuhle, on June 18, sending shockwaves throughout the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) when their charred bodies were found in the bushes nearby
The victims were identified as Sinothando Malinga (19), a Grade 12 learner from Molly Blackburn Secondary School, and Ibanathi Peter (17), a Grade 11 learner from Nkululeko Secondary School
Four male suspects, aged between 21 and 28, have been linked to the crime
According to South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, initial investigations had identified eight suspects, but four minors aged between 16 and 18 were questioned and subsequently released
The atrocity prompted the Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe, to make an in-person appearance, accompanied by SAPS District Commander of the NMB, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, KwaNobuhle Police Station Commander, Colonel Sakhiwo Dulungana, and Ward 43 Councillor, Mandlakazi Mabuda, at the homes of the bereaved
"We as the municipality are saddened by the incident that occurred and wish to condemn this unspeakable act To the parents,
the time to be vigilant of our children and keeping a watchful eye over them has come
“We are also saddened to learn that some of the perpetrators are under legal age We are of the view that this needs the intervention of families It needs families and communities to come closer to one another so we can prevent something like this from happening again," Lobishe said
"It is tough to express my views on this matter We, unfortunately, did not bring anything tangible; however, we wanted to show our support to the families by coming, hoping that it would bring some sort of comfort to the families that the municipality is aware of this atrocity "
She added, "This situation is tough for me as an outsider; I cannot imagine how it feels for a family member We therefore could not watch idly from afar "
Lobishe mentioned that the KwaNobuhle area needed intervention from all spheres as the last time she had visited, it was after the tragic loss of the two boys who had drowned in a reservoir dam in KwaNobuhle just a stone's throw away from the homes of the bereaved
"We were here for a tragedy of two children who had drowned nearby and now we are back for another tragedy involving a child
We hope for the best for our children and yet the loss continues
An incident like this must never occur again in our community,"
SHANTI JAFTA
THE Matanzima Bridge, located at the entrance to KwaNobuhle, Kariega, is currently under repair after it had collapsed during the June 2024 flash flood that hit Kariega
The construction work is being done by KwaNobuhle residents, part of the small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) packing gabion baskets with rocks with the purpose of preventing future flood damage, said Health, Safety and Environmental Manager of the bridge repair, Allister Seale
Speaking to UD Express, he added that so far, the construction works on the bridge are going smoothly, with no hiccups
struction, namely, we are working in and on a river, so we need to be careful Another hindering factor could be the wind Other issues could be labour-related issues," he said
"There are a host of things that could hinder our progress, but as I said earlier, I do not foresee any hindering factors in our control Everything so far is going according to our plan " Seale further added their plans to make the bridge sustainable and safe for users
she said sternly
Addressing the children who were present at the mayoral visit, Lobishe said, "There is no reason for anyone to put their hands on someone else, no matter the gender To hit someone is a crime When you have a disagreement with someone, you do not fight, but you walk away before the situation escalates There is never a situation where it is justifiable to hit someone, hurt someone or kill someone "
Ward 43 Councillor Mandlakazi Mabuda said, "These atrocities that keep happening really hurt These are our children Even the perpetrators are our children, which means that we the community have a responsibility
“We plead that perpetrators stop hurting our women and children, because it could be bad for the community if the women in it united and took a stand against those who hurt us We do not want to unite while we have that blinding anger, because nothing peaceful can come out of that No parent should have to go through something like this "
The Eastern Cape Department of Education MEC, Fundile Gade, said in a statement issued by the department, "We are deeply troubled by the heinous crime committed against two of our schoolgirls in Kariega Daily, I am becoming convinced that there is a silent war purposely directed against women and young girls We empathise with the families, their colleagues and the community of Kariega at large," while emphasising that law enforcement should leave no stone unturned in their investigation
The four accused briefly made their first appearance at the Uitenhage Magistrate's Court on counts of murder and rape
All four accused abandoned their bail applications, which prompted community members present in court to whisper among one another, "They don't want to come out They are cowards "
The National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, said, "The NPA will guide further investigations to ensure that crucial evidence is collected for a formidable case to be presented to the court during the trial, to secure convictions and deserving sentences for these heinous acts of gender-based violence "
The case has been postponed to July 30
"So far, so good What has happened so far is that we have removed the damaged parts of the bridge, that being the concrete slab and the section of the road, including the asphalt The soil has also been removed to a certain depth to expose the underground piers, which support the bridge in its entirety
“Thereafter, those piers were cleaned and cracks were discovered in the concrete The cracks were filled with a specific chemical which serves as a bond The purpose was to seal and repair the cracks from the inside," Seale said
According to Seale, as the bridge works started on May 9, he believes the bridge repairs will continue until November 2025, should there be no external factors hindering their progress
"There are factors that could hinder the progress of the con-
"Adjacent to the pier section I spoke about towards the bridge, there is a concrete slab that the piers are constructed on Adjacent to that slab on either side, we have excavated to a depth of 1 5 metres Thereafter, we put in steel baskets filled with rocks to create a stable foundation, working off riverbed sand On top of that bed, we put in gabion baskets They get packed on top of the base coming up to form a slope to the surface of the road That supports the soil on either side and supports the sand from caving in and to a certain degree, supports the road and the bridge," he said
Seale confirmed that the cause of the bridge collapse is partially soil erosion, hence the installation of the gabion baskets "Installing these baskets protects the soil from eroding What happens is, instead of the water washing the soil away, which was the case before the installation of the baskets, the water will hit the baskets filled with rocks instead The water will now go through the rock and eventually find its way back to the river "
Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe comforted the grieving families at a memorial service last week. PHOTOS: SHANTI JAFTA
Workers packing gabion baskets with rocks with the purpose of preventing future flood damage.
PHOTO: SHANTI JAFTA
From left are Mandlakazi Mabuda (Ward 43 Councillor), Councillor Babalwa Lobishe (Executive Mayor) and the mother of the late Sinothando Malinga.
VWGAwelcomes540youththroughYESprogramme
WITH its seventh consecutive intake of young unemployed graduates, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has reinforced its commitment to youth development through the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme
The YES programme was initiated by the South African government in 2019 to alleviate youth unemployment
Since its inception, VWGA has supported the initiative by providing employment opportunities and work experience for youth at its sites, in addition to opportunities within the dealer network and SME partners
In the 2025 intake, VWGA welcomes 540 YES trainees, of which 296 candidates will work within VWGA: 232 in Kariega, 62 in Gauteng and two in the Western Cape
Another 244 trainees will be deployed with external partners in October
This intake brings the total of YES trainees who have benefited from VWGA’s involvement in the programme to 3 650
“We know that today’s youth will be tomorrow’s leaders, but we also believe in playing an active role in developing those leaders and innovators,” said Nonkqubela Maliza, VWGA’s
23NewMetroPoliceliquorinspectorsswornin
IN a significant step toward strengthening law enforcement, 23 new Metro Police liquor inspectors have been officially sworn into office.
The ceremony, held in the presence of Commissioner Advocate Andrew Moses, Colonel Mlindi Mangwane of the Metro Police, and Dianne Cadles from the Eastern Cape Liquor Board, marks the addition of fresh forces dedicated to public safety and crime prevention.
Addressing the new recruits, Advocate Andrew Moses emphasised the importance of their role within the Metro Police. "We, as Metro Police, take an oath to remain true to our duty and perform to the best of our ability," he stated. Reminding them of their vital mission, he added, "Our fundamental duty
is to prevent crime. As you sign for your employment card, I urge you to understand the immense responsibility that comes with this position. We need to go above and beyond the call of duty."
The new inspectors participated in an engaging session, where they read and signed their oaths They were also briefed on the rules, regulations, and expectations attached to their positions. This ceremony follows rigorous training provided by the Eastern Cape Liquor Board, aimed at equipping the recruits with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their responsibilities.
The event highlights a pivotal step towards fortifying efforts in liquor regulation and crime prevention, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community
Speedhumprepaintedtoboostsafety
THE Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's Human Settlements Directorate through its Social Development, Education and Administration Sub-directorate recently led a collaborative outreach initiative driven by community development facilitators and a municipal social worker at Sikhothina Primary School in KwaNobuhle
The programme brought together various municipal departments and key stakeholders, including Budget and Treasury, Electricity and Energy, Disaster Management, Waste Management, the Department of Health, SAPS, SASSA, Easy Pay, the Department of Social Development, and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC)
During the engagement, officials provided residents with crucial information on accessing housing assistance and subsidy programmes, the process of acquiring title deeds, and the importance of secure homeownership for generational wealth and family stability
Residents were also educated on available health care services, with an emphasis on chronic illness management, mental health support, and access to medication and treatment through public health facilities
Furthermore, representatives from SASSA and Social Development provided guidance on social grant applications, while IEC officials encouraged voter registration and civic participation
Budget and Treasury addressed concerns related to municipal accounts, payment options, and financial planning, while Disaster Management raised awareness on safety measures, fire prevention, and emergency response protocols
These presentations were designed not only to inform but also to build trust between the municipality and the community, ensuring that residents are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate public services effectively and improve their overall well-being
VWSA welcomed 540 YES trainees in 2025.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The swearing-in ceremony was held in the presence of Commissioner Advocate Andrew Moses, Colonel Mlindi Mangwane of the Metro Police, and Dianne Cadles from the Eastern Cape Liquor Board. PHOTO: NMBM
GetreadytogowildfromJune27
A NEW festival village will be ready for the 22nd annual SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees
What was empty scrubland a few weeks ago is now an eight-hectare fenced, cleared, levelled and covered platform for the Eastern Cape’s favourite family festival Sunny Karoo skies are predicted for the festival weekend, from Friday, June 27, to Sunday, June 29
Festival highlights include the Walk on the Wildside experience featuring interactive exhibits and activities, agri, outdoor and new vehicle expos, working dog and horse demonstrations, wild rides in the Family Play Park, pony rides, paintball, bungee bounce, pedal-go karting, and meeting cosplay fictional characters
There will be over 300 specialist stalls selling handcrafts, décor items, clothing and freshly prepared delicacies, in addition to wine tastings and “kuiering” at the Be-Dingus Bar, Dam Duikers Draai, ATKV Kalmeerkraal, Coca-Cola Kos Kraal, Castle Cor-
ner, LITEnUP Bar, and Lagerville Watergat
Visitors will be entertained by over 30 national stars appearing live on the giant Wildsfees stage
Friday’s line-up starts at 16:00 with Ruan van der Kuil, with Spoegwolf as the headline act at 21:00
On Saturday, the music starts at 13:30 with local legend Patrick Lindoor, and climaxes with former local, Ruhan du Toit, and Kurt Darren, from 22:00 Sunday’s entertainment begins at 11:00 with Wynand and Cheree, and Blackbyrd plays the festival out from 14:30
Lovers of traditional sheep’s head, tripe, or a mutton potjie will dine at the Lekker Lang Lamtafel while enjoying traditional Afrikaans entertainment
The dog and horse demos will be held in the MTN Arena on all three days, along with a demonstration by the SANParks K-9 anti-poaching unit on the Saturday
Visitors to the Walk on the Wildside marquee will be able to plan their next break by finding out more about 19 of the prov-
WITH the National Arts Festival just around the corner, Makhanda is preparing to be immersed in the vibrant energy of the arts once again
Taking place from 26 June to 6 July, the festival anticipates hosting over 2,500 excited attendees, many of whom have already started securing their seats for performances, exhibitions, and cultural experiences
This year promises unforgettable shows, including timeless works by Athol Fugard, direct-
ed by Gqeberha’s own Xabiso Zweni Audiences will enjoy free daily performances at The Monument, art walkabouts, and family-friendly activities
Whether you're interested in jazz, ballet, or thought-provoking theatre, there are over 240 experiences to entertain you throughout the 11-day event
The festival will pay tribute to the theatre legend Athol Fugard, who sadly passed away earlier this year Two of Fugard’s plays (co-written with John Kani and
ince’s top holiday and adventure destinations Sarah Baartman District Tourism, Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism (ECPTA) and Addo Tourism will connect visitors with all the attractions the area, including the Sundays River Valley, has to offer
There will also be fossil digs for the young and dinosaur virtual reality experiences, snake, spider and tortoise demonstrations by Mark Marshall of Sandula Conservation and his team, the Iziko Mobile Museum, and the
Despatch Netbalklub: Kontak
The
Winston Ntshona), The Island and Sizwe Banzi Is Dead, will be performed at the festival, where Fugard had once debuted many of his groundbreaking works
The a cappella group, The Soil, will tug at our heartstrings with beatboxing and harmonising, showcasing their new album alongside fan favourites They will also be judging the Makhanda Igwijo Competition
Expect an extraordinary night at the Guy Butler Theatre where Dumza Maswana s Umngqungqo Orchestral Experience (in collaboration with Kwantu Choir) promises to explore Xhosa culture and traditions through music and storytelling
For those eager to witness graceful pirouettes, raw emotion, and gravity-defying movements, Cape Ballet Africa will present SALT, a breathtaking triple bill featuring the works of choreographers Kirsten Isenberg, Mthuthuzeli November, and Michelle Reid Theatre for Children & Young People will offer interactive plays like The Forest, which combines Amapiano dance moves with contemporary improvisation, unfolding a mystical and multi-dimensional story both on stage and on screen
The Village Green Market is the perfect spot for anyone looking to find unique souvenirs, de-
with
licious food, and more free family-friendly shows on its pop-up stage This craft market serves as the social hub of the festival Be sure to check out Nic’s Nest on African Street, where Standard Bank will host an 1862 Restaurant collaboration at this local coffee shop
Another highlight to note is the performances by the Standard Bank Young Artists, selected for their groundbreaking artistry, who will present new works at the festival In addition, the Black Power Station presents a vibrant independent programme showcasing some of the country’s best singers and instrumentalists, while the National Youth Jazz Festival features powerful jazz talents such as Gabi Motuba, Sphelelo Mazibuko, Nhlanhla Mahlangu, and Kujenga
The National Arts Festival is
DIARY|DAGBOEK
Elmarie by 081 793 7793 vir
meer inligting en stalletjies
Uitenhage High Schools Leadership Seminar:AreyouaGrade11or12learnerready to take charge of your future? Join us in July in Kariega for a powerful week-long, in-person leadership seminar and the best part? It’s completely free! Build your personal brand, master work readiness skills, set smart goals for your future and learn financial literacy for real life It will take place the second week of July at 32 Caledon Street, Kariega Space is limited Register now online at https://forms gle/D3qP2GNo9iivwYAP9
Uitenhage & District SPCA AGM: Members of the public are invited to the annual general meeting on July 23 at 17:00 at 4 Mosel Road,Kariega Personswishingtomakethemselves available for election to the management committee must submit a CV not later than seven days prior to the AGM to info@ uitenhagespcacoza Contact Christelle Eras-
Experience.
truly a multi-genre, people-loving celebration Don’t forget to soak up a NAF tradition while you’re there and enjoy an SAfm Sundowner Concert at 5 PM every day at The Monument Experience and support the best of South Africa’s talent live in Makhanda from 26 June to 6 July
Attendees can familiarise themselves with the festival programme through the app (National Arts Festival on Apple or Android) or via the website www nationalartsfestival co za, where they can also purchase their tickets online While Makhanda could be a day trip, make an excuse to extend your stay in the town or in nearby holiday destinations such as Port Alfred, Kenton-on-Sea, and Bathurst Catch it between 26 June and 6 July 2025!
mus at 0825535478 for more info
Family Spring Festival: Calling all stallholders interested in participating in Father's House Kariega's Family Spring Festival on September 27 from 09:00 to 16:00 at 81 John Street Central Site size is 3m x 3m No electricity Email Pastor Elmien Wood at elmien@ fathershousesaorg for an application form or for more information
launch of a new tourism product by Small Town South Africa
conservation-minded will be able to leave a message on the Tree of Life, made from recycled cardboard by APL Cartons Packaging and decorated with household waste
The Wildsfees tent town, with the entire area covered in wood chips.
PHOTO: YANDRÉ TIBSHRAENY
Dumza Maswana will appear at the National Arts Festival
Dumza Maswana’s Umngqungqo Orchestral
PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Cape Ballet Africa presents SALT
The funeral service of the late GETRUIDA "Pienaar" (60yrs) will be held on Saturday, 28/06/2025 at 11am from the VOLLE EVANGELIE KERK, CHESTNUT STREET, THOMAS GAMBLE, UTH. Deeply mourned by her family and friends.
HECTOR
The funeral service of the late JURIE (61yrs) will be held on Saturday, 28/06/2025 at 9:30am from the DALE STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, ROSEDALE, UTH
Deeply mourned by his family and friends
JAPTHA
The cremation service of the late ISAAC ERNEST (83yrs) will be held on Saturday, 28/06/2025 at 11:30am from the OLD APOSTOLIC CHURCH, MADUNA ROAD, LANGA, UTH. Deeply mourned by his family and friends.
The funeral service of the late DAYNE (26yrs) will be
The funeral service of the late JOHANNA "Dora" (75yrs) will be held on Saturday, 28/06/2025 at 10am from the U.C.C CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, ROSEDALE, UTH. Deeply mourned by her family and friends
The funeral service of the
The Uitenhage Child and Family Welfare Society is requesting anyone with information with regards to the family of a female child born on 19/07/2024 at Uitenhage Provincial Hospital. Please contact contact Social worker: Ms T. Mdyova at 041 992 1486 or at the offices, 92 Cannon Street, Central, during office hours (08h00-16h30).
The Social worker is looking for the biological mother, Noziphiwo Goldine Mzati from Mandela Village and the biological father, Musa Ngena from Korsten, Gqeberha.
Cleaning, repairs & installation of all blinds. 073 368 6666
STORE MANAGER We are currently looking for a store manager, must have experience in hardware. Please send detailed CV to email: werner @climaxconcrete.com or drop CV at 49 Bell Street, Kruisriver. Kariega.
BANTAM
BrandwagonnieishoofafrigtervanSAkragoptelspan
HANNES SCHOEMAN
’N GROOT eer het ’n onderwyseres van die Hoërskool Brandwag te beurt geval toe sy die eerste Oos-Kaapse vrou geword het wat as hoofafrigter van ’n Suid-Afrikaanse kragoptelspan aangewys is
Ilze-Mari Maritz lei van 5 tot 13 Julie ’n span van sub-juniors tot seniors na die Asiese Stille Oseaan-kampioenskappe in Himeji, Japan
Haar vermoëns as afrigter is uiteindelik deur die land se groot base raakgesien en sy het reeds Brandwag se naam in die annale van SA kragoptel verseker Haar rekord tot dusver is ver-
DrakeisOos-Kaapsekampioene!
Despatch se huidige o.16-netbalspan die Oos-Kaap wenners wat vanaf 14 tot 15 Junie op Komani plaasgevind het. Hulle het 9 uit 9 wedstryde gewen. DIe span gaan nou deelneem aan die Top
Netbaltoernooi wat vanaf 1 tot 2 Augustus op Boksburg gaan plaasvind.Van links is Danielle Boshoff
stommend
In die 14 jaar dat sy by Brandwag is het sy reeds 24 leerders opgelewer wat hul Protea-kleure gekry het, asook vele ander wat hul provinsiale kleure verwerf en wat as SA kampioene weggestap het
Ilze-Mari spog self met SA kleure Sy het in 2011 die Protea-span gehaal na die wêreldkampioenskappe in Kanada waar sy die sewende plek behaal het Dieselfde jaar by die Statebondspele in Engeland het sy met die goue medalje huiswaarts gekeer
Ilze-Mari sê wat haar aanstelling nog meer spesiaal maak is dat drie sub-juniors van die Oos-Kaap die SA span gehaal
het
Hulle is Stephenè Loubser en Kobie Mellet van Brandwag, en Willem Bruwer van Pearson
Sy sê sy het toevallig by kragoptel betrokke geraak Sy was een oggend in die gimnasium in Humewood toe die OP-president, André Ludik, haar gevra het of sy nie kragoptel wil probeer nie
Sy het net gelag en gesê: “Nee, ek is nie sterk nie Net ’n langafstand-atleet ” Toe Ludick haar drie weke later die derde keer vra het sy besluit om dit ’n kans te gee Daarna het die een sukses na die ander gevolg
Nou wag ’n lang loopbaan as afrigter na internasionale toernooie op Ilze-Mari
Janecke Schuin (tellinghouer), Mieke van Tonder, Kayleigh Cauffmann, Avani van der Berg, Juané Schuin, Roshaan Bennett, Rushaan Sajini, Ellané Kok, Kayla van Tonder en Carmen Barnard (afrigter).
VERSKAF
ClubhostsannualNetballYouthTournament
The Despatch High School Open Golf Day was recently held at the Uitenhage Golf Club. Pictured are Lee-Ann Snyman (competition organiser), Moolman Olivier (winner of the Despatch High School Open) and Steve Lambrechts (sponsor, Advanced Cooling). Olivier walked away the proud owner of
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Skole
(afrigter),
FOTO:
The Future Stars Senior Champions.
Ilze-Mari Maritz is Brandwag se trots.
FOTO: VERSKAF