Seskhona Newspaper Issue 78

Ebhaceni hostels destroyed in a fire

afternoon, 28 November 2022 at about 14h30.

One of the buildings at the Ebhaceni hostels next to Tshalanag flats in Ext 8, eMbalenhle was destroyed after it caught fire on Monday

It is alleged that the fire started from a unit which was locked and the occupants were nowhere to be found.

Residents who were inisde the burning building jumped out

from the windows with some of their belongings meanwhile trying to save their lives. Some residents from the building stated that they are hurt about the incident, they do not know where to go or where they are going to sleep.

“The councilors as well as the community at large do not care about us and some community members opposite the hostel might be standing with us here rejoicing that the building is on fire,” said one of the resident from the hostel.

The Goven Mbeki fire rescue service and a security service from Evander responded to the incident and tried to extinguish the fire.

The cause of the fire is not yet known and no injuries were reported.

Ideal Prepaid Solutions alleged to be vending and keeping proceeds

Andani Matumba

Contractor still selling

R 5million worth of electricity which belongs to the municipality

Even after the municipality won the case for the termination of contract for Ideal Prepaid Solutions, the contractor which was appointed by Govan Mbeki Municipality to sell prepaid electricity to its residents on behalf of the municipality is alleged to still be vending and collecting proceeds on behalf of the municipality without transferring to GMM what is due to them.

During his address to the councillors at the launch of the Mayoral Service Delivery outreach programme which took place in Embalenhle on Friday, 03 November 2022, the Executive Mayor of Govan Mbeki Municipality, Cllr Nhlakanipho Zuma said that although the municipality has terminated the contract with Ideal Prepaid Solutions the previous year, the contractor continued to vend unlawfully within the municipality and continues to collect revenue from the residents of the

municipality without the authority to do so because GMM won the case against the contractor where it was compelled to desist service.

“Although at the beginning they used to forward the proceeds to our finance department, that has now stopped all together and they do not send whatever money they make from selling our electricity to our residents to us anymore,” said Cllr Zuma.

The Executive Mayor further stated, “The contractor is still selling R5 million worth of electricity which belongs to the municipality, they no longer even transfer that money to our account and not even inform us on how much they are collecting but we are aware that it is above R5 million”.

“We have met with the Auditor General from Treasury and they declared that the contractor should be compelled to disclose the exact figures being collected

within GMM now we are going to court to compel them to give us statements for declaration on what they collected from the beginning of the contract and after their termination,” said the Executive Mayor in closing elaborating that the municipality intends on instituting a civil case for damages so that the contractor pays back every cent it owes to the municipality.

GMM has been investing on revenue generation through initiatives of identifying ghost vendors and those who have connected the electricity illegally in order to be able place itself in the position where it would be able to reduce the Eskom bill as well as Rand Water.

The past few weeks since the lauch early November have been said to be successful.

Seskhona Newspaper tried to contact Ideal Prepaid for comment on the allegations with no luck.

The South building of Ebhaceni hostel during the fire that broke out on Monday, 28 November 2022

Refeloe Letsoisa

Isithembiso Sezintombi cultural group launches in eMbalenhle

Embracing culture and tradition young maidens from around Embalenhle parade in the streets of extension 21 in their cultural attire on Saturday 05 November 2022.

The purpose of the parade was to launch Isithembiso Sezintombi cultural group which is a group of young maidens gathered to practices traditional dance, songs and they are taught to stay pure by keeping their virginity.

Parents from the streets ululated showing pride in what the young maidens are taking part in. The streets of extension 21 were filled with crowds cheering and chanting praises towards the girls as they danced and sang throughout the parade.

Amongst the maidens some were from various parts of Embalenhle together with their leaders.

The parade ended at the MultiPurpose Center where the event was held whereby Mrs Masala from the Isiphephelo multi-purpose center

encouraged the young maidens to speak out of any abuse they might endure.

Masala further explained that the center does not only cater for maiden girls but for the entire community. Programmes ran by the center include that of male children including dealing with those addicted to the drug called nyaope, programme for mothers who are struggling building their homes together with that of fathers.

Masala continued to elaborate further on why they needed mothers support at the center, which she mentioned that after coaching the young maidens the mothers need to be guided and given support.

Raising a child takes the entire community. “There is an animal called HIV and AIDS that is about to wipe us out. We need to take a stand in teaching our youth on how to take care and protect themselves,” said Masala emphasizing the importance of the center. It was all songs and dances with other activities including drama play to entertain audience on the day.

Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

Young maidens from Isitembiso Sezintombi culural group parading in the streets of extension 21, eMbalenhle

Zanele Gatebe nominated for Miss Inspire 2022 finalist. Full story is

Cable thieves kill a security guard in their quest for theft

A security officer was brutally murdered during the early hours of Friday morning, 25 November 2022 at the main sewer plant in Leandra.

According to the spokesperson of Leandra police station, Constable Ntobeko Ngobeni, the police at Leandra responded to call whereby they were summoned to the sewer plant.

“Upon arrival, they found the 47 years old deceased with his throat cut-open and he was identified as an employee of a security company which operates in Leandra,” said Ngobeni.

Investigations at the scene of the crime reveal that the deceased was responding to a cable theft incident at the sewer plant when he was attacked, an

estimation of about +/- 5 metres of an aluminium cable were also cut and stolen from the sewer plant.

“Three cartridges where also found at the scene of crime and with the information received the victim had a Firearm with him which was stolen as well therefore it is believed that the cartridges might belong to the victims firearm,” Paramedics were also summoned to the scene but unfortunately the security had sustained serious injuries on his throat and was declared deceased at the scene of the crime.

Currently a murder case is being investigated with an additional charge of theft (of electric cable). No one has been arrested so far however police are working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrator(s)

is/are swiftly brought to book. Police urge anyone with information that may assist in the investigation to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will

be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous. Meanwhile the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly

condemned the attack on any of the law enforcement agencies. “We will use all available resources to hunt down, ensuring that those who are involved in the security officer’s murder feels the might of the law,” warned the General.

Secunda Mandela Drive shooter granted bail

The security officer who allegedly shot and killed a a man on Mandela Drive at Secunda was granted bail on Friday, 25 November 2022 after his first appearance at Secunda Magistrate’s Court. Bail was granted in the sum of

R4000 due to the exceptional circumstances presented by the accused such as being young, not having previous offences or pending cases and that he was on duty on the day of the incident.

According the spokesperson of Mpumalanga Police, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, the Police at Secunda are investigating a fatal

incident.

“It is alleged that the Police at Secunda received information regarding a shooting incident at Nelson Mandela Drive in Secunda and upon arrival the they found an ambulance with a male person inside who had sustained gunshot wounds.

The victim was taken by an ambulance to hospital where he

Three neihbours robbed and with two raped in eMbalenhle

neck.

After a long day and exhausting Black Friday at Emba Mall, a young woman came back to her place at Ext 12, eMbalenhle and dealt with the worst imaginable situation on Friday, 25 November 2022 afternoon at about 15h30.

The victim arrived at her place and parked a maroon VW Polo TSI outside.

The young woman went into her house and did not lock the door neither did she lock the bugler door that is when she saw her neighbour held by a male suspect with a knife on her

It is alleged that the suspect took both the victim and neighbour straight to the victim’s bedroom.

Upon entering the bedroom, the first victim found her boyfriend pointed with a gun on his head by the second male suspect who had tied up the boyfriend’s legs and hands.

It is also alleged that one of the suspects took the two female victims to another room and raped her while the boyfriend listened from the other room.

The victims were taken back to the room where the other victims boyfrined was held and thereafter, the suspects asked

for the vehicle registration certificate of the Polo but it was not there as the second victim had left it back home at Limpopo.

The suspects took the maroon VW Polo TSI, two cellphones, a laptop and R1200 cash which all valued to an amount of R308 000.

According to Constable Busisiwe Mthethwa from eMbalenhle Police Station, a case of robbery and rape has been opened.

The maroon VW Polo TSI was recovered.

The suspects are still at large and investigation is currently underway.

succumbed to the injuries.

It is said that a security officer allegedly opened fire directed at the victim who is yet to be identified,” said Mohlala. He stated further that circumstances surrounding the shooting are being investigated but the security guard was arrested by the police and charged for murder.

Although prelimenary investigation reaveal the fire arm used in the shooting belonged to the security company the officer worked for, the alleged firearm used has also been confiscated for further investigation.

The matter was postponed to 01 March 2023 for further investigation.

Young man shot and died after few drinks

A young man lost his life at the age of 33 years after having a few drinks at a tavern on Thursday night, 24 November 2022 at about 22h30 in eMbalenhle.

It is alleged that the young man was sitting at the tavern opposite EM Motors shop. When he left the tavern, it is alleged that he was followed and shot at the receiving gate of a retail and wholesale butchery and died on the spot of the scene.

A complainant was on duty doing his patrol duties when he received a call from the police

station letting him know about gunshots at Emba Mall. Officers from eMbalenhle Police Station responded to the incident and found the young man wearing a blue overall and boots lying outside the receiving gate of the butchery. The man was found with one gunshot wound at the back of his head going through the left eye with no signs of life. The alleged girlfriend arrived at the scene and identified the young man.

According to Constable Busisiwe Mthethwa from eMbalenhle Police Station, investigation is still underway and no one has been arrested yet.

Refeloe Letsoisa

Refeloe Letsoisa

Refeloe Letsoisa

Andani Matumba

Main Sewer plant in Leslie (Photo's supplied by Const Ngobeni, Communication spokesperson at Leandra SAPS

Mpumalanga police Commissioner vows for zero tolerance this festive

Police and security forces from all over Gert Sibande District Municipality gathered at Risko Fakude stadium in eMbalenhle on Tuesday, 15 November 2022 for the launch of the Safer Festive Season campaign.

“During the festive season peo ple will be taking advantage of committing crime at hotspot areas such as malls, taverns/ clubs boarders which are going to be packed of vehicles and people who will be crossing over going home, therefore as SAPS Mpumalanga, we will be ready for them,” said the Mpumalanga SAPS Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Daphney Semakaleng Manamela. She promised to deploy an additional 7000 trainees across province who will pass out in December 2022 which will create more police visibility. The General warned that the impact of policing will be felt by those who cross line during this festive season.

Pitbull viciously attacks girl (2) in Bethal Emzinoni

In 2021 during the launch of a Safer Festive Season Campaign, the Minister of Police, Beki Cele mentioned that “More boots on the ground enhances police visibility,” she quoted.

our town to in order to fight against the increase of high jackings in the province. During the launch, the general was joined by Executive Mayor of Gert Sibande District Municipality, Cllr Walter Mngomezulu to solidify rela tions in fighting crime within the district.

“Know your Neighborhood Campaign” seeking to ensure that neighbors and residents within the same community know and watch over each other during the festive season was announced as an initiative of Gert Sibande District Municipality by the Executive Mayor, Cllr Mngomezulu.

South Africa has an ongoing petition to ban pitbulls with over 50 000 signatures yet the breeders refuse to accept the harsh reality meanwhile cases of attacks from the breed are reported time to time.

On Wednesday, 16 November 2022 a two (2) year old girl and her twelve (12) year old sister were attacked by a pitbull on their way home from the salon. The two girls were walking down the streets of Emzinoni when a pitbull suddenly at tacked them.

After attempts to fighting for their lives against the pitbull the 12 year old sister managed to escape and went to call out

for help meanwhile the pitbull mauled at her younger sister. An African male who was on the street saw the incident and immediately got a plank which he used to try and rescue the little girl.

The pitbull would have mauled her to death as it was attacking her from the head.

The two year old suffered inju ries from the head to the lower body, meanwhile the sister suf fered bites on one of her breast and hands.

It is alleged the children of the pitbull breed were seen playing with the pitbull which is alleged to have been on a leash at the time.

The mother of the two girls said her two year old child has been traumatised since the incident.

‘’My child has been on the edge ever since the attack, each time she hears a dog buck or sees a dog on television she gets jumpy.

At night she cannot sleep properly as she can only lie on a stomach since she is bruised with the bites on her bums.

I want justice for my children,’’ cried the mother of the two young girls attacked by the pitbull.

It is further alleged that the owners of the breed are brag ging that the children suffered minor injuries, up till to date the owners have not taken re sponsibility towards the attack. The family of the girls have since resorted to reporting the case with the police and its still in the process.

“As Mpumalanga SAPS, we support this initiative to fight any form of criminality and we shall mobilise maximum resources to ensure that the community is protected,” said the general bringing back the confidence community mem bers should have towards police. According to the general, road blocks are going to be estab lished along the roads such as N2, N3, N4, N11, N12 and N17 and other various roads within

“Through this initiative motivates neighbors to know who resides on their left and on their right, they must also know if their neighbors are going away during the festive and for how long so that whenever they suspect unusual activities at the house of the neighbor, they can be able to contact the police,” said Cllr Mngomezulu. Mngomezulu stated further that this can only be achieved through the districts partnership with the police and the Community Policing Forum, ensuring the residents of eMbalenhle that this will reduce crime against business es, residential areas and on the road.

“We are going to show zero tolerance to those who consume alcohol and get behind the steering wheel as the provicial safety plan will be effective until 31 January 2022 with the main focus of maximum police visi bility and ensuring that people are being managed correctly,” added the general.

Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

SAPS Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Daphney Semakaleng Manamela giving a salute during the launch of a Safer Festive Season Campaign in eMbalenhle

Mpumalanga law efforcers during the festive season launch in eMbalenhle

Ten year old girl suffers after caught in between a lover’s feud

A ten years old learner from Zamokuhle Primary School in eMbalenhle Ext 1 was left traumatized after the lovers feud between her father and the lady he was in a love relation ship with when the female lover allegedly burned the house.

The learner who is currently in grade 4 lost her school books, stationary and school uni form as they were completely destroyed by the fire just before the commencement of exams on 29 October 2022.

It is alleged that during the fateful day when the house was burned there was a grade 12 learner who was preparing for the exams inside the house at Ext 14 eMbalenhle when the ex lover set the house on fire.

It is further alleged that after burning the house, the ex-lover went to the owner of house and told him that the house was burning.

Two younger brothers of the victims of the victim were also adversely affected by the fire since they lost all their clothes, school books and school uni form in the fire.

Zinhle Nqcobo who is the mother of the child said that her baby-daddy’s ex-lover took her daughter without permis sion and hid her at her initia tor’s (gobela) at Ext 18.

The child was only found after community members attacked perpetrator who then pointed out to the police where she was hiding the child.

“The police went and recovered my child who was unharmed from the initiators place,” she added.

A case of arson was opened at eMbalenhle Police Station by the owner of the house but surprisingly in the statement given to the police, the complainant did not mention that the house was burned by

the ex-lover.

He merely mentioned that the ex-lover was the one who came and informed him about the burning house, therefore no arrest has been made till to date.

In an interview with Seskhona newspaper, one of the educators said that it was unfortunate that the relationship between two people ended at the expense of a child.

“The sad part is the parents of the will have to pay for the books which were destroyed in the fire because they were not

destroyed by a natural disaster,” said the principal.

One of the teachers in the lower classes (grade 1-4) made an initiative of getting the learner school uniform, shoes and a jersey.

Although the parents still have to pay for the books, the edu cators as a collective could not let that affect the child there fore school gave books to the learners so that she can be able to pray for her exams.

“We have also made arrange ments that she gets school

books so that her loss should not affect her studies,” said the junior HOD.

The petite learner said that she appreciates the help she received from her teachers as she received some school uniform.

Her class teacher said the little girl still needed school tracksuits for cold days, more pairs of socks, school shoes and school shirts.

(For donations kindly contact Zinhle Nqcobo on 072 030 1983)

RAF payout splits family after mother allegedly squandered her child's money

Three children remain homeless after their mother kicked them out of her house and embezzled her child’s RAF money.

The source informed to Ses’khona newspaper that she grew up with three siblings at eMbalenhle Gate 7 and her mother who never introduced them to their biological father for the past 29 years although they were willing to meet him. However, when they were growing up one of her siblings was struck by a car but survived that tragic incident.

Her mother as guardian claimed for RAF money on behalf of her minor child as the child was still young.

In 2018 the claimed money paid-out and her mother received capital that worth R1 181 060.00 before the disbursements and legal fees were deducted through her then lawyer.

The source further stated that after the money was released her mother got married with another man residing in KZN and they have four children together and abandoned all her first three children where she is focusing on her new family.

“My siblings and I were never

treated with kindness by our own biological mother, she chose the other family over us, she never introduced us to our biological father and also stole my sister RAF money and spent the money with other family” said the anonymous source.

In the beginning of 2022, the source and her siblings became suspicious about where their mother was spending all their RAF money because she never does anything for them including the child whom the money belongs to.

Anonymous stated that early this year, February 2022 their mother kicked all of them out

her house and she remained with a new family thereafter she bought a new house and a car in KZN where she’s currently residing and never welcomed her children to the old house and she sold meanwhile her children remain homeless.

“After we were kicked out of the house, we were homeless, and at that night we did not know where we going to sleep,” said anonymous

She further stated that she had to ask her neighbour to sleep only for that night as they didn’t have relative residing around them in eMbalenhle at that time, although her brother started sleeping on the

streets and involved himself in substances due to stress that her biological mother caused him and his two siblings, currently he is looking forward to going to rehab.

It is alleged that the siblings are receiving threats to scare them not to speak or report about the said incident.

However, until today the trio has not opened a case as and they remain homeless but they are looking for a place to stay and are pleading with the community for assistance so that her sister can go to school as she matriculated but she doesn’t have money to go to tertiary.

Thendo Fonyofonyo Aka Buasi

Andani Matumba

The Gumede House which was completely burned down at eMbalenhle Ext 14

“The ex-lover took my daughter with out permission and hid her at her initiator’s (gobela) at Ext 18 and was recovered by the police after she was attacked by community ”

Friends of the Library in Kinross hosts Spelling BEE Competition

Thendo Buasi

Friends of the Thistle Grove Library hosted their third annual Spelling BEE competition at Kinross Sasol Club on Thursday, 27 October 2022.

Friends of the Library is a community based organisation situated in Kinross with the aim of promoting reading and education amongst children. The aim of the competition was to instill the understanding that education will always be vital in children lives.

“We as the Friends of the Thistle Grove Library have come to an understanding that libraries are established through the efforts of the community members, recognising the value of libraries

in our communities,” said Mrs Priscilla Naidoo.

She further stated that the library needs the total support of the community to survive and strive.

However, Mrs Naidoo was delighted for the huge success of the third annual competition after reviving from previous annual where one was hosted in the mist of Covid-19 in 2020.

Mpume Mdakane, Social Impact and Shared Value specialist from Sasol shared message of support during the competition.

“Today’s event fills all of us with pride because it demonstrate our core value of care,” said Mpume.

She further stated that the

development of communities is important for Sasol, therefore their social investment activities are aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals while responding to local realities with investments prioritise in their fence-line communities. The competition was joined by 10 primary schools which were; Sasolia, Nyandeni, Lamlile, Kinross, Osizweni, E.P Lekhela, Emdibini, Sizenzele, Thistle Grove Combined and Mbalenhle Primary School, although amongst them one school was from North West Province.

However on group participation, Sasolia Primary School took first position followed by Sizenzele Primary School with second position.

N17 Sasol plaza changes one learners life at a time

Refeloe Letsoisa

After weeks of waiting, the day finally arrived when Sasol N17 Plaza management team along with two franchise team members from the plaza visited Petrus (P.E) Maziya Primary School in Leandra (Leslie) on

Friday, 18 November 2022.

Mr. Nkosi, school principal and head of South Africa Schools Athletics welcomed the management team into the school.

The aim of the visit observed the challenges faced by learners, teachers and other staff

members at the premises of the school and also inspected the infrastructure identifying where they can be able to assist in future.

One of the plaza management team members has already organized a few sponsors to help start with the future

projects for 2023.

The team also took a walk around the school and checked changes that have to be done when starting with the project.

“Out of the small community, Mr Nkosi puts so much effort to make a difference in children’s lives,” said Rinate Dival, General

Manager of Sasol N17 Plaza. Management team members were emotional but excited to be amongst the school staff and observing all the challenges. “We aim on making a positive change and sustain the society,” said Nozibele Mthetheni, franchise business manager.

The team committed to bringing change to the school as they believe that small things are important and would benefit those who need them the most.

The visit came along with a few surprises to the school staff; namely, one hundred and seventy English oxford dictionaries which will be handed over to grade four (4) learners before end of the year. The learners will be required to use these dictionaries from 2023 in grade five (5) and even when they enter for competitions such as Spelling BEE.

A cheque of an amount of five thousand rand was also handed over to the school to help with feeding scheme. After the walk around the school, management team members started gathering some ideas of what needs to be done and how it will be done.

The team also promised to visit the school again before the year ends to start with the minor things identified for future projects. "I am excited that Sasol N17 Plaza agreed to help our school because i had already lost hope with this project," said Mr Nkosi.

Learners from Sasolia Primary School who particiapted in the Spelling Bee along with their Principal, Mr Gamede

Mr Nkosi, Principal of P.E Maziya Primary School receiving a cheque of five thousand rand and 150 Oxford English dictionaries from N17 Sasol Plaza represented by Mrs Renate Deval, General Manager of N17 Sasol Plaza

Govan Mbeki Unemployment forum stops Kinross sewer project

Andani Matumba

Cayos bloke loose at Ext 33 (Marikana) in Kinross when Govan Mbeki Unemployment Forum members invaded the project site on Monday, 14 November 2022, demanding for the contractor to cease operation and the workers to dispense from the project side until their demands have been met.

According to allegations, this followed after the forum demanded that the contractor Sipho Sezwe Trading’s headed by Mr Daniel Khumalo appoints two subcontractors from their database.

The parties could not reach an amicable solution until the contractor suggested that the forum can only give them a list of six people who will be employed as general workers.

According to project committee members, the meeting was held on a Friday in October at the project site in Kinross and the forum was only given three days to bring the six people who are

ought to be appointed as general workers.

“They only showed up after the time they were given has already lapsed and the contractor had already appointed other people to fill in those positions due to the backlog of the project. That is when they decided to come and stop the project.

We do not interfere in projects which have been awarded to develop eMbalenhle neither do we demand jobs there or contracts,” said one of the ward committee members.

Seskhona Newspaper also received a call from a source accusing Pr Councillor Daniel Khoza of the EFF of acting violently and alleging that on the day of the incident during the altercation between the forum and the steering committee he slapped a certain female across the face.

When asked about the allegations, Cllr Khoza said, the woman who was siding with the forum cursed him and slapped him across the face and kept on provoking him that is when he pushed her backwards trying

to prevent her from hitting him again.

Member of the Kinross Anti unemployment Forum Vusi Mabhena alleged that Pr Councillor Daniel Khoza is interfering with the hiring

process of sewer project by hiring people from Nelspruit however when asked who might the people be Vusi refused to reveal any identity.

Vusi therefore mentioned that as the Kinross Anti

unemployment Forum saw it fit to ally with Govan Mbeki Unemployment forum to fight the said corruption by Cllr Daniel Khoza that has been taking place at the project site for some time. .

Kinross community says they have lost faith in their ward councillor

Community members of Kinross engaged in a meeting on Tuesday, 15 November 2022 at Sasol Club in Kinross. The purpose of the meeting was to address service delivery and budget issues in the Thistle Grove and Kinross town.

Cllr Rose Nkabinde and the Director of Development and Planning were to chair the meeting which became unsuccessful as the aggrieved community members stormed out of the meeting. This is after the frustrated members of the community raised allegations that Cllr Rose Nkabinde never responds to their grievances as the ward councillor of the area.

The meeting is taking place after the two meetings which were scheduled for September and October, respectively.

Amongst the grievances are electricity and water issues

affecting the area. Before the meeting could not even proceed as the members of the community complained about not being issued with the minutes of the previous meeting and a report from Cllr Rose on solutions. The director from the electricity department at GMM, Mr Maswanganye tried to calm the situation which was in vain as the members had already proposed to suspend all payments towards the municipality until it responds to all their grievances.

”Moving forward, the community will have to draft a memorandum to be submitted to the office of the speaker, once the memorandum is submitted with their complaints therefore it can then be addressed, because the way it was the meeting was not structured,”said the director in his comment when asked of the way forward since the meeting was unsuccessful.

Sakhisizwe farm residents left stranded after road collapsed

Residents at Sakhisizwe farm were left stranded after the alternative route over the water pipeline project of Evander Gold Mine collapsed on Saturday, 18 November 2022 at around 16h00.

The residents could not enter nor exit the residential area as there is no alternative route. Evander Gold Mine has servitude rights over Sakhisizwe farm hence the water pipeline passes through the community from old Bracken Mine.

It is further alleged that the contractor failed to barricade or place warning signs over the area which has not been covered yet and a driver of a van

fell victim of the circumstances after he drove into the pipeline hole last night.

Community members came out in numbers to wait for a representative from Evander Gold Mine of Senior Authority with no luck. The Chief of Sakhisizwe Farm, Mthimunye along with ward 19 councillor, Sibusiso Mazibuko also contacted management of Evander Gold Mine to assist in resolving the issue with no luck until they sent someone from their technical deparment who mediated and resolved for a formal meeting between community representatives and the mine. According to Cllr Mazibuko, the contractor excavated and installed the

pipes in the pipeline system and failed to close the hole.

"The contractor should have used denite to fill the whole so that the soil does not sink preventing the collapse on the surface which was not the case in this instance.

Community members demanded that the pipeline project is terminated with immediate effect. However, on Monday 20 November 2022, the mine and the community where able to put their differences as the mine has promised to refurbish the royal house at Sakhisizwe farm, develop the road infrustructure as well as create jobs for the community which is close proximity to the gold mine.

Members of the Govan Mbeki Unemployment Forum forcing their way into the project site in Kinross Ext 33

Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

Andani Matumba

Women in taxi industry receive exellence awards

During the Vukta Annual General Meeting which was held at Lilian Ngoyi Center on Friday, 24 November 2022, two women were awarded in the categories for Best Taxi Operator and Best Taxi Owner. Mrs Nancy Madonsela who received the award for the Best Taxi Owner for the 2022 said she started her taxi business from the beginning without any inherence or financial assiantace when she first entered the taxi industry.

“I bought the very first taxi myself without depending on anyone for assistance after I have realised that there is prospects for success in the taxi business.

I was motivated by the fact that I wanted to be self-employed and not depend on anyone for a job.

She stated further that the education of her children was funded by the taxi business including the daily maintenance of her household.

Her children have also joined the taxi business with the hope of strenthening the family business.

Mrs Claudia Khumala was one out of the six drivers who were awarded for the Best Driver of the Year 2022.

Mrs Khumalo said she was grateful for the award because her journey was not an easy, more especially after the death of her husband and she was left to care for the children all by herself.

When she the taxi industry in 2006, Ms Khumalo said her youngest child was still in dippers and she would sometimes go to work with the child and ask female passengers to watch over her child and that she would change the baby’s pampers only when she gets to a garage that has toilets.

“Every time I came out of the toilets to change my child, I would sing praise to the Lord because there is no single male taxi owner or driver who has ever approached me and reprimanded me for driving with a baby.

“I joined Vukanini after the passing of my husband because I had to take care of our children. That is when I gathered the courage and worked as a driver. I even grew from strength to strength ensuring and giving home to my children that and the end of the day, I will come back to them without a single scratch.

She further stated that she got to where she is today through hard work and dedication because she had a vision and which she had to stick to. "I used to fight for what I wanted at work and some drivers would even tease saying that I have a gun in my pocket", she said jokingly describing the extent of her seriousness when it comes to her job of being a taxi driver. The ladies thanked the Chairman of Vukta, Mr Fanayana Maleleza for his undying support as well as the committee which is realisable at times

Vukta empowers its youth in eMbalenhle

Letsoisa

With excitement and happiness, Vukanini Taxi Association (Vukta) youth desk members celebrate their achievements of receiving driver’s licenses and business certificates on Wednesday, 16 November 2022 at eMbalenhle blue rank office.

Fourteen (14) youth desk members attended classes at a big business in Secunda and got to learn more about starting their own business and generating the business. The first classes were attended in August 2022 for three days then continued in September

2022 for five days.

Vukta helped its youth members with funds for both business classes and lessons for driver’s license which was obtained by nine (9) youth desk members.

Mr Realboy Khumalo, Treasurer of the youth desk explained that the taxi association is trying to help the youth build their own future and learn more about business in order to handle their parent’s businesses in the near future.

“I also teach them a lot because they are the people we need for the future,” said Mr Khumalo.

Some youth desk members explained the few things they have learnt about business namely, calculating costs and profits, creating a good business plan and target market for the business. They believe that they are now ready to handle their own businesses.

“I would like to continue with the catering business,” said Sibongille Mtsweni, deputy chairperson of Vukta youth desk.

Vukta youth desk aims to help more youth members from the community of Embalenhle build their own future.

Minister of Human Settlement promises to develop Holfontein Farm after engament with owner

Thendo Fonyofonyo AkaBuasi

The Executive Mayor of the Govan Mbeki municipality, Cllr Nhlakanipo Zuma, joined the Minister of Human Settlements, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi, at Holfontein farm in Trichardt to address the issue related to settlement on Tuesday, 15 November 2022. According to Executive Mayor of GMM, Cllr Hlankanipho Zuma said, “The people were placed at Holfontein farm by a farmer without consultation with government and the land is not owned by the government. However, the municipality committed to grading the roads to make them accessible for things like ambulances to be

able to service the community”. The municipality promised Holfontein farm residents to engage with the owner of the land to permanently transfer the land to community, but such will be done after the municipality together with Department of Human Settlement have consulted with relevant department on whether the land is habitable for the people, therefore if the place is not safe for people to stay all residents in Holfontein farm will be relocated to a safer area.

Now residents of Holfontein farm in Trichardt are breathing a sigh of relief as temporary toilets have been dispatched to the area to offer relief.

This will bring hygiene and

sanitation relief to the growing community as the municipality vowed to install 260 temporary toilets until issue of township establishment is settled.

The Executive Mayor of the GMM was joined by the Chief Whip of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Mr Fidel Mlombo on Saturday, 19 November 2022 who was doing oversite to ensure that the government is held accountable during the installation of temporary toilets. “The Govan Mbeki Municipality working with the department of Human Settlement will continue to improve service to all residents more especially the most vulnerable,” said Cllr Nhlakanipo Zuma.

Refeloe

From left: Sibongile Mtsweni (Deputy chairperson of Vukta Youth Desk, Maria Mkhabela, Mapule Lesebe, Safina Macie, Thulani Mkhwanazi and Portia Bhembe.

Front: Poppy Moloi (Deputy Secretary of Vukta Youth Desk) and Sphamandla Msimango

From left: Mrs Nancy Madonsela (awarded Best Taxi Owner for the year 2022), Mr Fananyana Maleleza (Chairman of Vukta) and Mrs Claudia Khumalo (awarded Best Driver for the year 2022).

Levhuwani Matumba

Thomas Mogadime scoops best policeman of the year award

Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

The South African Police Service (SAPS) hosted the Gert Sibande district excellent awards in Evander Recreational Club on the Thursday, 10 November 2022.

The purpose of the awards was to honor the members of the police work force for their dedication and commitment.

Gert Sibande District Municipality took the first position amongst the three districts in Mpumalanga Province and saw it fit to host the district awards to celebrate the hard work and dedication police stations put in assisting communities.

These awards for the district were last hosted before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Over 38 police stations in Gert Sibande District took part in the nominations and performance was rated for the year 2021 to 2022.

Secunda Police Station was awarded first place on a category which included mending a victims friendly rooms which is a space for gender based violence victims and sexual offence victim’s whereby a private place is provided for all victims.

Station Commander at Evander Police Station, Lieutenant Colonel Jennie Alberts walked away with an award for VISPOL employee of the year with her employee, SRC Kleyhans who received an ward for the Persons with Disability of the year. .

Bethal Police Station was also place on the map by Sergeant Thomas Mogadime who walked away with an award

for Policeman of the year with eMzinoni Police Station receiving an award for best visible support police station.

Detective Adries Tshabalala of eMbalenhle Police Station was awarded the Best Detective and Forensic Services Employee meanwhile his colleague, Constable Busi Mthethwa was awarded as the best dressed visible police in the district.

Sergeant Valentia Koma, the spokesperson at Trichardt Police Station also scooped an award for best police woman of the year.

‘’We could see that the spirit was very high and members were encouraged by this event because over the previous two years the event was not held due to Covid 19,’’ said Brigadier Lizzy Mtungwa the Acting Regional Commissioner of Gert Sibande District where she further elaborated how all the members of the police force were excited to take part in the nominations.

Balfour police station came out victorious in position one for the overall police station in the district, which the Commissioner said the

members in Balfour committed themselves in making sure that crime is reduced also considering the fact that they are bordering Mpumalanga province, Gauteng province and Free State province.

Stg Thomas Mogadime, spokesperson of Bethal Police Station said he took a chance and applied for one of the categories which he was nominated for and is glad that he came out victorious.

“I love working with people and also love working under pressure”, said Mogadime. He further mentioned that he thinks out of the box while working with community members who no longer trust the police and he believes that through his dedication he will change the way members of the community perceives police officials.

“The achievement of each and every station is because of every police member, therefore all officials are winners but at the end of the day we must have one winner,” said Brigadier Mtungwa giving words of encouragement to all officials who were not awarded awards.

Middle: Constable Busisiwe Mthethwa, Communication Spokesperson for eMbalenhle SAPS awarded for Best Dressed Officer

Middle: Station Commander Jennie Alberts at Evander SAPS awarded for VISPOL employee of the year

For a full video for an interview with Briegadier Mtungwa and Stg Thomas Mogadime follow us on Tiktok and Youtube Our handle is Seskhona Newspaper

Middle: Sergant Thomas Mogadime, Communication spokesperson for Bethal SAPS awarded for best communicator

Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgodi, Communication Spokesperson of the Hawks Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation was awarded for her contributions in the DPCI in Mpumalanga within the operation environment during the Provincial Commissioners Awards for Outstanding Performance by members award which was held at Sabie on Friday 25 November 2022.

HEAPS creates a safe space to address challenges faced by the youth in eMbalenhle

Refeloe Letsoisa

The Global Fund (GF) has chosen the Evander-based non-profit Highveld East Aids Project Support (HEAPS) to conduct the Adolescent Young People (AYP) program, formerly known as the AGYW/ ABYM, in the Goven Mbeki sub-district on behalf of the Aids Foundation of South Africa (AFSA).

The project’s goals include reducing gender-based violence, raising economic opportunities and decreasing HIV incidence.

HEAPS launched Safe Space at Isiphephelo Multi-Purpose Center behind Paulina Morapedi clinic in Ext 19, Embalenhle on Friday, 11 November 2022.

Safe Space introduced the program and services it will offer to the community.

HEAPS member highly recommend Safe Space especially for teenagers who are still in school.

It helps individuals who suffer with school work such as assignments and choosing subjects according to their career choices.

There are social workers who help individuals who face certain issues at home with their parents.

“Boys are allowed to come and stop believing that boys don’t cry,” said Mxolisi Nhlapo.

Safe Space helps individu als who have matriculated in applying at tertiary, internships, bursaries and curriculum vitae (CV) making.

He further stated that young people must be aware of their mental health on a daily basis as it affects our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

Mental illness also affects how we think, feel and act and also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

“Taking care of your mental health at an early age keeps you away from experiencing depression,” he said.

Mxolisi also stated that although if you are abused at home or struggling with alcohol and drug addiction, HEAPS can help you without paying anything and he’s grateful of how the team treats people with kindness and always willing to help.Safe Space invited stake holders from different organiza tions namely; the SAPS from eMbalenhle, Mpumalan ga Addiction Rehabilitation Center (MARC), Lerato Nogabe Foundation and teachers from chosen schools.

The stakeholders also introduced their services

offered to community members and how they help one grow and make right choices determining their future.

Nokthula, social worker at MARC advised young people to stop smoking hubbly-bubbly because it affects their lungs and other internal organs more than smoking cigarettes.

“However, it is advisable not to inhale any smoke whether cigarettes, weed, hubbly-bubbly to prevent yourself from getting sick,” said Nokthula.

Nurse Lina Ndlela, one of the

Men's Voice activates 16 days of activism at Embalenhle

Men’s voice in conjunction with the Embalenhle SAPS police station hosted a Gender Based Violence GBV awareness campaign in activation of 16 Days of activism at Ext 18 south hall on the 25 November 2022. Men’s Voice is an organisation which strives towards regaining dignity and respect in the families, communities and justice systems. The purpose of the event was to redress the high rise of GBV cases against women, man and children.

In her address, Sergent Thembi Motaung called upon women to stop reporting false rape cases and false domestic abuse at the Police Station when they might have had an agreement with their acquaintances rather

they should report to the police station that the person refuses to pay them for their services rather than calling out rape. She further elaborated that they would personally accompanied the complainant to collect the said money than sending innocent people to jail only to find out there was an agreement to begin with.

GMM PR Cllr Lwandile Ziwele who has been a victim shared his experience about how he was robbed by one lady he came back from a certain club with. He further stated that the lady demanded an amount of R3000 which he had to go loan from the loan sharks as he didn’t want his reputation tainted.

Ziwele urged women to stop going to establishment without money only to target man. The community of Ext 18 came

out in numbers both women and men attended the event including Govan Mbeki Municipality Councillors. Different stakeholders took part in the program of the day. Department of Justice (DOJ) Mrs Thembi Msibi from the Domestic Violence Unit in Evander says they have ob served a lot from the members of the community when it comes to opening up protection orders.

“What I have observed in such cases is that people in relation ships stay even when there is no love anymore which leads to resentment against each other. People should learn to leave relationships in due time when the love is no longer there, which leads to domestic violence and even murder as if the person you just murdered

nurses from HEAPS explained how the process works after testing for HIV/AIDS, they help both negative and positive people.

“Some people were born with the disease but their parents don’t tell them the truth,” said nurse Ndlela.

She further explained that people with HIV/AIDS continue with their lives normally especially after accepting that they are affected and taking their medication as prescribed.

“I am so grateful for HEAPS because it managed to keep us from streets and helping us with school work and providing us with their free WIFI,” said Sbongile when giving her testimony of how HEAPS has helped her.

Mxolisi Nhlapo expressed his special gratitude to all stake holders and everyone who attended their event in order to help young kids in the community and taking them out of streets to build their bright future ahead.

will wake up from death loving you”, said Mrs Msibi.

Msibi advised the community to be more involved in reporting domestic cases rather than staying home and blaming the justice system for not coming through for communi ties. She further advised parents that starting from the year 2023 if a child under the age of 18 gets pregnant the partner will be arrested together with the

guardian who will advocate that damages have been paid out.

Comments from community members included the high rise of crime in Embalenhle with the perpetrators being known to them as they fear for their lives, they therefore urged every member to take a stand in bringing down the crime in the area.

Sthembiso Ngobese, Peer Group Trainer at HEAPS with Ayanda Nkonyane at the back .

Residents listening to presentations during the activation for 16 of activism at the South Hall in eMbalenhle

Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

Two athletics seeking donation for upcoming trails at Potchefstroom

Musawenkosi Mnisi and Siyabonga Xowane from eMbalenhle Sasol athletics club are seeking donation to pay their accommodation as they are selected to participate on the upcoming SA’s cross coun try trails at Potchefstroom in North West province on Saturday, 03 December 2022.

Leonard Makhanye as the head coach stated that this year after the duo participated in the inter provincial competition where Musawenkosi Mnisi took posi tion 1 and Siyabonga Xowane took position 5.

They were then selected to be part of the SA cross country trials where they will be select ing a team that will be going to participate in under 19 com petitions in Australia next year February 2023.

Mr. Makhanye said that many athletes he train are able to go further to compete in in other countries and some are able to get scholarship in countries such as America, although currently his club is facing extreme funding challenges to pay accommodation for the duo who are being selected for the

upcoming trails, he’s hoping the community can have their hand in to help to get sponsors and be able to pay in due time. However, he further stated that Sasol have engaged themselves to assist with club travelling’s which they provide transport for the club but with limited Kilometers then other expenses

come out from their budget which it becomes too much expensive for them as currently they are owing Sasol amount that worth R12 320.00 and also owing Athletics Mpumalanga amount that worth R10 880.00 so they are pleading with the community to assist in clearing their debts so they can carry on doing their great work of devel oping young kids around Govan Mbeki Municipality.

“As a dedicated coach am look ing forward to develop youth from our community through this sporting code, as the best way to build support among the community is to show the community that we also support them by keeping their kids out of the stress and help them to build their career,” said Makh anye.

He further stated that as he is mentoring over 100 young

people, this upcoming December 2022 he will be having a camp with all ath letics around Govan Mbeki municipality in different age groups however he could appreciate it more if he can get sponsors that can contribute to this initiative.

“I will appreciate it more and be grateful if I get donation for my accommodation so that I can participate on this upcom ing SA cross country trails and be able to build my career as I have faith in me that will make it to Australia next year February 2023 and be recognized as best athletic champion in South Africa,” said Musawenkosi Mnisi. Makhanye said anybody who would like to help through this journey can contact him on his contact number which is 0790571390.

Carara Kicks FC takes first position during Sasol league Prize Giving for under 17

Sasol hosted social soccer league price giving ceremony for SAFS/Sasol under 17 De velopment league 2022 season at Embalenhle Sasol Club on Saturday, 26 November 2022. The league was played by 16 teams around Govan Mbeki Municipality and top three (3) was specially awarded during the ceremony with medals and first position was awarded with trophy as well with new gear, meanwhile all the teams that participated on the league received soccer ball, beeps and cones for practice.

“This is all by God’s grace that the top 3 managed to conquer all other teams and made it to the top on the league, however today we are here to celebrate

them,” said Thandi Twala a Sasol Representive in her welcome address.

The top 3 teams were awarded in descending order, where Rising Stars FC coached by Zola Xaba took position 3 and Zone Two FC under coach Jafta Manaka took position 2 where as Carara Kicks FC took first position under Ngaka Mokoena as head coach.

Calvin Kadi a former Jomo Cosmos football player in PSL was invited as a guest speaker to share his journey with develop ing players on the league during ceremony.

“I am grateful to Sasol for keeping young kids from streets to prevent them going to tavern and doing illegal things.

Sasol also helps those young kids to build their careers, it is a

great initiative,” said Calvin Kadi. Vusi Thenjekwayo a chairperson of SAFA shared the message of support during the ceremony, he stated that SAFA remain grateful to Sasol for such kind of support and wish for them to continue doing so in the spirit of their core val ue which is winning with people and excellence in all they do.

He further quoted Mousier Wenger from FIFA who stat ed that “Nobody has enough talent to live on talent alone.

“Let us keep in mind that in development league is not about winning but is it all about production and by that I mean producing player. We need players in Bafana Bafana and at international level so we can lift pedestal and be in a position to compete,” said Vusi Thenjek

that most important thing he learnt

Seskhona, 30 November 2022

Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

wayo. Bongani and Owethu from Carara Kicks FC they both shared that they are grateful for the award and also to be part of the developing team, however Bongani further stated

from the team is that together we can, nothing is impossible.

Johsnnes Nkosi a Sasol Rep ex pressed his specially gratitude to all guest that came to the ceremony and also all the team that participated to the league throughout the 2022 season.

Thendo Fonyofonyo Aka Buasi

Athlet Musawenkosi Mnisi who need funding to the SA Cross Country competetion to be held in Potchefstroom and his head coatch Leonard Makhanye

Carara Kicks FC which took first position at the Sasol under 17 Develop ment League