




















































































A KARIEGA community in Rosedale voiced growing frustration over an abandoned property at 38 Tailorbird Street, which has become a health and safety hazard that the municipality has allegedly failed to address despite repeated complaints for over a year
Last year, the UD Express reported that the residents described the property as a dumping ground, overrun by snakes and rats, and emitting unbearable odoursprobably from decaying animals
“This situation has gone on since 2023, and as a community, we are struggling to get this problem solved,” one anonymous resident said at the time
Attempts to involve the municipality have reportedly fallen on deaf ears, with residents providing a reference number as proof of their efforts to seek intervention
“We as a community urgently need to know what the municipality is going to do about this property The smell is unbearable, and this is unhealthy and dangerous for us,” the resident explained recently Locals say the situation has worsened, with the property attracting illegal dumping, further contributing to the squalor and posing additional risks to public health
“This creates a dangerous health situation - this house has become a dumping site within the community It’s terribly unsuitable to live with,” said another
resident, clearly exasperated by the prolonged inaction
In addition to the apparent health risks, the property presents safety concerns
Residents reported exposed electrical wires linked to a pole near the property, warning of a potential power outage should the pole collapse
“If this pole falls, the entire Tailorbird Street community will lose electricity It’s an emergency that needs immediate attention,” one of the residents warned
The community has now called for urgent action from municipal authorities to resolve the issue, citing concerns for their well-being and quality of life
“As residents, we can’t continue to live in these conditions The municipality must take responsibility for this,” said
SHANTI JAFTA
OOSTERLAND Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC) in Despatch recently revived its charity shop, OJ’s Charity Shop, which was first initiated in 2014 as a sustainability exercise for the centre Oosterland CYCC is a non-profit organisation which constantly sources and looks for sustainability initiatives.
Sharing with UD Express, the Director of the CYCC, Chantelle Jonker, said, "We always try to find new ways in which Oosterland can be more sustainable and not solely dependent on funding Although we get funding from the Department of Social Development, we often find ourselves having to fundraise additional funds as well."
Reviving and reopening the charity shop was one of the approaches the CYCC developed to become more sustainable. Jonker added, "We asked for donations from the public, and we sell what we cannot utilise for the children of Oosterland."
Friday, April 25 marked the revival and reopening of the shop. Jonker said that they had received funding within the Oosterland Trust, which means the CYCC cannot just utilise the funds where it sees fit, like buying food for the children. However, funding that comes from the trust can only be spent on sustainability initiatives, like rebranding the CYCC, revamping the charity shop, etc., and the profit thereon goes towards the Oosterland CYCC.
Jonker added that she hopes to see more community involvement at the CYCC. "We are looking for volunteers who can come and assist the shop. Be it retirees or someone who wants to give back to the community, they are more than welcome to reach out to the CYCC. Unfortunately,
those volunteers will not be compensated and we are looking for more donations as well We cannot have a charity shop filled with items which we have to buy The idea is, donors can come and drop off the items they have no use for anymore, or we can come and collect them ourselves to sell."
She hopes that this initiative can grow to greater heights where they can turn a profit. So far, the initiative generates a clean profit, but she is hopeful that in the future it will grow further
Jonker also added that one of her greatest fears leading up to the reopening has unfortunately come true. Despite receiving wonderful donations to stock the shelves initially, opening day saw locals purchase almost everything in the store. The wide variety of items: from clothing and jewel-
lery to mini side tables, flew off the shelves within hours. "We need to fill the shelves again now," Jonker explained, as the success of their first day has left them in need of new donations again.
Sharing his reason for being involved with the CYCC for 13 years, Karel Minni; a longstanding citizen of Kariega for 75 years, owner and managing director of Algoa Logistics, and one of the main donors of the charity shop, said he used to make donations elsewhere but never saw a tangible result from it.
"The way I felt was like a bottomless pit - you donate your money, but you never see where it goes. When I learnt about Oosterland, I came to assist because it's on my doorstep The children that the CYCC helps are from our community and whenever I
the concerned resident
All the residents wished to remain anonymous out of fearing for their safety "We have noticed that some criminal activities have been happening there now, and we fear for our lives Something needs to be done "
Despite numerous complaints, no significant action appears to have been taken to clean up the property or address the health and safety risks it poses Residents hoped that by highlighting their plight, the municipality and relevant authorities would finally intervene to restore their living conditions and bring relief to their neighbourhood
The NMBM was approached for comment, but after numerous attempts, they failed to comment on the matter
want, I can come here and see where my donation goes. Like this charity shop, it is tangible, and I feel proud of that. I have never been sorry that I came here," Minni said.
He added, "We also sponsor one of the houses at this place where other people reside and the stories you hear can sometimes bring tears to your eyes. Sometimes you have little kids who cling onto you as you arrive - that is such a great feelingdoing something good for someone else That is why I am at Oosterland and I am enjoying it. For as long as I live, I will be with Oosterland. I just want this place to improve continuously."
Minni said that the reopening of the charity shop is one of the highlights of his 13 years with Oosterland. "Today, I can actually see where my donation went. In prior years, I knew it went to good use, but I couldn't pinpoint where exactly my donation was used However, the reopening of the charity shop is proof to me that my donation to the CYCC is going to good use. This place now has a very special place in my heart."
Jonker said, "Volunteers can visit our office and speak to either me or Annelie who is the fundraiser. At the moment, the shop opens on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11:00 until 15:00, and we would like to see it being operational every day but unfortunately, as things stand, we do not have enough people to have it open every day. We cannot spend money on salaries, so those that volunteer would be doing so without pay."
• For more information, call the CYCC on 041 933 1120 or send an email to director@ oosterland.org za.
AFTER four decades of commitment to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Brigadier André Swart is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of community service, leadership, and was grew police always shared, join Commander the to
1994, where he served with distinction for 31 years, earning the trust and respect of colleagues and community members alike. Looking back on his journey, Swart considers his promotion to Brigadier, following 26 years as a Colonel, a personal career
challenges was to involve external role players in community policing We fostered collaborations through bilateral meetings, and, in the end, we worked as a multidisciplinary team to serve the community,” he said. His efforts brought together
SOLOMON Mahlangu Senior Secondary School in KwaNobuhle has become a beacon of hope and opportunity with the inauguration of its new Interact Club on Friday, April 25
Luphumelo Hini was confirmed as the Founding President of the club, which aims to empower students and uplift the surrounding community
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Uitenhage South, this newly formed club is now the eighth Interact Club in Kariega under the Rotary Club’s guidance “Interact is an essential part of Rotary International’s family, targeting high school learners It provides an incredible platform to build leadership skills while also making a difference in the community,” said Clive Hassell, President of the Rotary Club of Uitenhage South
Interact, known for its global reach and impact, boasts nearly 15 000 clubs with 343 000 members across 145 countries The new club at Solomon Mahlangu Senior Secondary marks a vital step in empowering young people in the area, and its influence is expected to extend beyond the school to the entire community of KwaNobuhle “With its local and internation-
al netw ing the commu One o on impr struggli ularly i the Rot dred bo acy is a remark these yo brighter The in Internat next ge and lea lo Hini ready to As the forts wi and org also co pressing le comm future, passion learners a lastin through
The new Interact Club brought hope to the KwaNobuhle comm uty Principal at Solomon Mahlangu SSS), Iviwe Mlele (Deputy Luphumelo Hini (President), Clive Hassell (President of the charge of Interact), Sisipho Kona (Treasurer), and Zukhanye
UITENHAGEandAllanridgeLibrarystaffhostedaFreedomMonthQ FountainofLifeChristianSchoolandeightlearnersfromIlingePrim tain of Life Christian school is situated in Caledon Street, Kariega, in KwaLanga township A set of questions and answers were sen questions and answers that was not sent to schools, was used to issuedwithacertificateofparticipationandthewinningschoolgo
SEVENTEEN-year-old Kariega-born tennis sensation Abigayel "Abby" Vosloo is quickly becoming a name to watch in the tennis world
Recently, she achieved a remarkable milestone, representing South Africa at the prestigious Billie Jean King Cup held in Cyprus from April 7 to 13 Competing against 11 nations, she not only showcased her developing skills but also had the unique opportunity to connect with international talent
"It was a privilege to represent my country Competing internationally tested my abilities, and it was amazing to make friends with professional players," said Vosloo
Her dedication to the sport is evident in her rankings - 424th in the world junior division and an impressive 4th in South Africa’s women’s division
Vosloo trains at the EPQ High Performance Tennis Academy in Potchefstroom under the guidance of seasoned coaches, balancing her ambitious tennis career with homeschooling through the Threefold Cord Academy Despite the challenges of juggling training and academics, the teen remains focused
"It’s difficult to balance homeschooling, but
I manage as best I can It’s impossible to play international tennis while attending a full-time school," she shared
Her journey to success has been built on hours of training, dedication, and a deep passion for the game
"Long hours on the court and in the gym, coupled with sheer determination, have brought me to where I am now," she explained Vosloo credited her first tennis coach, Nicky Dorfling, from Despatch, for inspiring her early love for the sport, while her experiences at EPQ Academy have strengthened both her skills and endurance
As Vosloo dreams of competing in Grand Slams, with Wimbledon as her ultimate goal, she continues to take on international competitions to climb the rankings She is currently preparing to participate in a professional women’s tournament in Georgia, Europe - a trip she has self-funded
Reflecting on her motivation, she said, "My dream is to be one of the top players in the world and to make a lasting impact in tennis "
However, financial constraints threaten to limit her potential Vosloo frequently struggles to fund her participation in international tournaments, which are crucial for improving her rankings "Sadly, it’s very difficult to get
financial assistance to fulfil my dreams," she admitted
Her mother, Marlene Vosloo, highlighted the sacrifices her daughter has made to pursue her aspirations, including missing birthdays and special moments
"Tennis is a lonely sport, and Abby has had to endure a lot I’m incredibly proud of her endurance and strength," the proud mother said While Abby has competed in tournaments across South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, entering more international events is vital for her to gain the exposure needed to reach the next level "We’re appealing to sponsors to come forward and help Abby make her dreams a reality," said Marlene "Tennis is an expensive sport, with travel, accommodation, and entry fees piling up Without sponsors, Abby’s potential may not reach its full height "
Abby envisions a future where she plays professionally and, later, coaches young talent, contributing to the growth of South African tennis "I want to keep playing for as long as I can and, eventually, coach others Tennis has given me so much, and I’d love to give back," she concluded
For further details, email Abby's mother, Marlene Vosloo at marlene159vosloo@gmail com
EXCITEMENT is running high as the Eastern Cape’s Next Top Model continues to attract aspiring talents from Kariega, Despatch, Gqeberha, and, for the first time, Nqweba (Kirkwood)
This year took on added significance with a 60s theme, inspired by the programme’s “Sweet Sixteen” celebrations
“For our sixteenth year, we drew from the colourful and iconic 60s era, creating a nostalgic yet vibrant atmosphere for the pageant,” said founder and CEO Raynaldo Bredenkamp The highlight of the recent event was an energetic twist dance performed by learners from Strelitzia High School in Kariega, choreographed by Cariston Forbes, owner of Charismatic Dance Crew, adding flair to an already memorable occasion
Looking ahead, the anticipation builds for the 2026 Mr & Miss Interschool Nelson Mandela Bay Pageant, with the theme Step Up, inspired by the popular movie “This theme challenges learners to step out of their comfort zones and craft dynamic dance sequences to leave the audience with an unforgettable experience,” Bredenkamp explained However, the pageant is about more than entertainment - it’s rooted in teamwork and community service “Learners are working towards one common goal: making a meaningful difference in the lives of others They’ll collect non-perishable food cans and assemble pamper boxes, which will go to charities in dire need,” said Bredenkamp Each week in the lead-up to the main event, learners are tasked with performing one act of random kindness, fostering a greater sense of collaboration and compassion Addition-
ally, they’ll compete to construct the highest food can tower, a challenge designed to inspire the next year's group “The spirit within the community is incredible Random people are already pledging donations for our Tower of Hope,” Bredenkamp shared Participants in the pageant gain much more than titles - they acquire life skills that will help shape their futures “This isn’t just a pageant,” Bredenkamp emphasised “We teach learners how to prepare for interviews, speak in public, work in teams, and approach businesses for sponsorships These lessons equip
them for adulthood and professional success ”
Bredenkamp also reflected on how pageantry has evolved to be more inclusive and empowering “I’ve worked with first-time models who could barely walk in heels and later saw them shine internationally as titleholders Seeing their growth is a testament to what these platforms can achieve,” he said Running such a programme doesn’t come without its challenges, but Raynaldo remains steadfast in his mission “My perseverance, dedication, and desire to create a brighter future for our youth and future generations is what keeps me going,” he
affirmed As the 2026 Mr & Miss Interschool Nelson Mandela Bay Pageant approaches, it is clear that learners and schools will have ambitious goals to meet Special awards will recognise the outstanding efforts of both learners and their schools The reigning Mr & Miss Interschool Nelson Mandela Bay 2024, Jada Nichols and Qhawe Mconi of Uitenhage High School, are setting a high bar for the incoming ambassadors
For more information, contact Raynaldo Bredenkamp at 081 243 4243
ISUZU Motors South Africa (IMSAf) is proud to continue its partnership with Rally to Read, launching the programme for a second consecutive year in primary schools across Nelson Mandela Bay
"The Rally to Read initiative has enabled us to realise our aspiration of positive social impact and investing in meaningful and sustainable education outcomes in communities," said Celestin Ndhlovu, Vice President, Planning, Marketing and Corporate Affairs
"The transformation we're witnessing in these schools affirms the power of collaboration, community, and the consistent investment in youth development "
Since its inception in 2024, IMSAf has positively impacted over 600 learners, with an ambitious goal of reaching 4 000 by 2030
Through its partnership with the Rally to Read initiative, three Gqeberha-based primary schools Khulile Primary in Motherwell, Kaysar Ngxwana Primary in KwaZakhele, and St Albans Primary in St Albans were equipped with library boxes, classroom resources, and digital learning tools tailored for Foundation Phase learners (Grades R to 3)
The initiative also empowers educators through comprehensive literacy training and ongoing support, laying a strong foundation for long-term educational success
The Rally to Read initiative, in partnership with IMSAf, has made a notable impact not only on learners but also on teachers
Teachers have been equipped with practical literacy strategies while at the same time providing them with skills to provide additional support
to learners requiring added literacy guidance t The management teams of the primary schools have taken proactive steps to embed mechanisms that ensure the sustainability of the programme's legacy, enabling its impact to extend well beyond the initial threeyear duration
"Seeing the impact of this programme unfold over time reminds us why we do what we do," said Sibhekaphi Sibanda, project manager at READ Educational Trust "Together with ISUZU, we are not just donating books - we are building the capacity of schools, teachers, and families to support literacy development that will change lives "
Building on this success, the 2025 programme shifts its focus to Intermediate and Senior Phase learners (Grades 4–7), with a renewed emphasis on teacher development, learner support, and the integration of digital technologies into everyday classroom learning
As part of this year's initiative, teachers will receive added training focused on digital literacy, enabling them to integrate technology into their teaching and use artificial intelligence to co-create local stories Parents have also been invited to play an active role in supporting their children's education at home
"We have seen significant progress amongst our learners since the inception of the programme They are now able to read with confidence and understanding," said Linda Nonxuba, principal at Khulile Primary School
"The additional training and support offered to our staff have also empowered them in their day-to-day teaching activities We look forward to the expansion of the programme to our higher grades this year "
THE 2025 South African National Motocross Championship returns with Round 3, and it's set to be the most electrifying event of the season!
Hosted at the legendary Rover Raceway in Victoria Drive, Gqeberha, this adrenaline-pumping showdown commences with unofficial practice on Thursday, May 2, and the main event roars into action on Friday, May 3
Whether you're a die-hard motocross enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable day out with the family, this event has something for everyone
A track like no other
Rover Raceway isn't just any circuit –it's South Africa's only true sand track, demanding skill, speed, and stamina from every rider With its fast straights, deep berms, and technical rhythm sections, Rover is renowned for separating the best from the rest This is where champions are made
South Africa’s finest go head-to-head
This round marks the third National of the 2025 series, and you can be certain the intensity will be tremendous from Heat 1 at 09:00 sharp Expect fierce battles across all classes, as the Eastern Cape’s finest talents take on South Africa’s best
Look out for local legends and National Champions
National riders:
• Cameron Durow – MX 1 Class and MX 2 Class 2024 Champ
• Jayden Proctor – MX 1 Class & MX 2 Class
• Trey Cox - MX High School Class 2024 Champ
• Riley Geldenhuys – MX 50cc Class 2024 Champ This year racing in the MX 65cc Class
• Brody Bircher – MX 65cc Class 2024 Champ
• Trenton Kretzmann – MX 85cc Class 2024 Champ
Local riders:
• Wian Scheepers – MX 50cc & MX 65cc Class
• Aiden Retief, Seth VD Walt – MX 85cc Class
• Kyle Townsend Keegan Hickson Mahony Cameron Durow – MX 1 Class
• Breece Romans, Daniel Venter, Tristan Durow, Cameron Durow – MX 2 Class
• Royce Griffin Morne Janse Van Rensburg Craig Kruger, Shawn Carver – MX 3 Class
• Caden Weise, Andrew Venter, Tristan Durow –MX High School Class
• Cameron Grobler, Ty Potgieter, Matthew Lockhart-Ross, Pieter Van Wyk – MX Support Class Family fun and festival atmosphere It’s more than just racing – it’s a complete festival of fun!
• DJ Temo ODV will keep the music playing at the Liquid Event After Party from 19:00
• Food and refreshments available for purchase under the entertainment marquee
Bouncy castle and Soft Toy Play area for the children
• VIP tickets available for the ultimate race day experience
Bring the whole family and make a day of it – this is motocross at its finest, surrounded by splendid food, music, and non-stop entertainment
Tickets and details
Motocross
• R80 per person
• Children under 12 free
•
•
SECTION 11 THE TOWERS & SECTION 22 THE TOWERS, UITENHAGE LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68 of the Deeds Registri Act,
ESTATE NUMBER 1558/2015
IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE MTHOMASEBE BOOI DIED ON 22 FEBRUARY 2015 IDENTITY NUMBER 721227 5385 08 0 ADDRESS 31 DINISO STREET, KWANOBUHLE, UITENHAGE L
DITRIBUTION TO LIE FOR INSPECTION AT THE
KARIEGA Klawerjas Union will be hosting the Annual South African Klawerjas Board of Control (SAKBOC) Inter-Union tournament. The tournament will be at the Uitenhage Town Hall from May 2 to May 4. With teams coming
from Mossel Bay, Cape Town, and local teams from Gqeberha, it will be an epic weekend of Klawerjas on the highest level. Games will start at 09:00 in the morning until around 20:00. The community is invited to attend and show support.
BRING on the next Reunion Weekend!
Spectators enjoyed incredible school sport action in Gqeberha at the Reunion Weekend of Pearson High
The u/19 rugby clash between the hosts and Outeniqua who made the trip from George, was the highlight when the reunion came to a close this past Saturday afternoon
The visitors won 35-10 but Pearson pushed them all the way, especially in the first half Outeniqua was only 14-10 ahead at the break
Framesby (Gqeberha) will be at one of the biggest school sports events in South Africa when the main section of the Wildeklawer Tournament starts in Kimberley today
This event has grown tremendously since it started with 12 rugby teams in 2009 Netball, soccer and hockey are now also part of the tournament Rugby is still the main event and the first Framesby XV will be in action tomorrow and on Saturday They clash with the Paarl outfit Boland Landbou in an early match tomorrow and Saturday they are up against Helpmekaar (Johannesburg)
The tournament is another opportunity for the Framesby players to draw the attention of influential rugby people with eye-catching performances
One player to look out for is scrumhalf Mondre van Heerden He was the only Framesby player to be in-
DIE Despatch-atletiekklub se nuwe, kleurvolle frokkie waai soos ’n vars briesie deur die sport in die Oos-Kaap
“Ja, almal is baie opgewonde en ons kry van oral lof
“Ons atlete staan behoorlik uit tydens wedlope en jy kan ons eenvoudig net nie miskyk nie,” sê Helgard Potgieter, president van die klub
Die frokkie is deur die kunstige Karla Potgieter, 'n grafiese ontwerper, saamgestel en ontwerp
Die nuwe frokkie vertoon vars en energiek met die klub se logo daarop
Despatch het oor die jare al frokkies met verskeie kleure en ontwerpe gehad, soos wat die klub se naam en borgskappe ook verander het
In die 1990’s het Despatch se atlete onder die Transnet Atletiekklub,
deelgeneem
Daarna het die naam na Nokia Algoa Atletiekklub verander en nie lank
daarna nie, na Algoa Atletiekklub
In 2006 het die Atletiekklub se naam na Despatch Atletiekklub verander
Toe was die frokkies nog wit en swart
As gevolg van die sokker Wêreldbeker in 2010, was borge maar skugter om betrokke te raak by atletiek en het eerder besluit om hul fondse by sokker ingeploeg
Sodoende het die klub in 2010 vir ’n jaar lank onder die Transnet Rail Engineering vaandel deelgeneem
Ongelukkig was daar te min klublede wat vir Transnet Rail Engineering gewerk het, en die klub was genoodsaak om ’n borg elders te soek en ’n nuwe klub te stig
Despatch SuperSpar was egter dadelik aan boord en is sedert 2012 die borg
cluded in the Festival team after the Kearsney Easter tournament in Durban
Framesby will be able to take a look at some of the opponents they still have to face this year
One of them is Nico Malan from Humansdorp who will make their debut at this prestigious event in Kimberley
Outeniqua and Marlow (Cradock) are other teams in action in Kimberley who will take Framesby on later this year Luckily for Framesby they won’t have to face Oakdale who is also in Kimberley The Riversdale side totally outclassed Framesby, winning 75-0, this past Saturday Grey High will take on Pretoria Boys High next in an away match after a good victory over Dale College in Gqeberha
In Kariega it was yet again a close affair with Die Brandwag beating Daniel Pienaar 22-19 Brandwag can be proud of their impressive away record this year, also beating Marlow and Muir
Selectedfixtures
Saturday: 11:30: Framesby v Helpmekaar in Kimberley; Brandwag v Despatch, Pretoria Boys High v Grey High
Results: Oakdale 75, Framesby 0; Outeniqua 35, Pearson 10; Nico Malan 43, Muir 14; DF Malherbe 27 Alexander 21; Andrew Rabie 43 Gill 5; Westering 57 Cillié 0; Volkskool 32 Despatch 20; Brandwag 22, Daniel Pienaar 19; Otto du Plessis 20, Bergsig 12; Grey High 43, Dale College 3
Despatch Netbalklub: Kontak Beatrix Smith by 072 171 3532 of Ronelle Blom by 083 309 6374 vir enige navrae
Despatch Rugbyklub: Maandae, Dinsdae, Donderdae oefentye om 18:30 Kontak Matthew Moore by 061 266 9852
Kerk-vieringe: Dalestraat Congregational Kerk vier hul 129ste bestaansjaar op 3 en 4 Mei Saterdag is die Kerkbasaar by die Gerald Smith-saal Die Saterdagaand is die kore-aand by die Moederkerk Sondag is die feesdienste met Eerw Michael Saul as gas prediker Vir verdere inligting kontak Kerksekretaris Chris Ressouw by 063 740 2213
Send your entertainment news and Diary entries to udexpress@ novusmedia.co.za The deadline for entries is 14:00 on Mondays Entries may be in English or Afrikaans