King William's Town Express 14 February 2018

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EDITOR: BETTIE GILIOMEE

Happy Valentine’s Day ­ 14 February

Artists demand payment for festive season shows SIPHOKAZI VUSO

B

UFFALO City local artists have given the Buffalo City Metro Municipality (BCMM) until this week to pay them or they will resort to a mass demonstration.

This comes after the artists claimed that they were not paid after they performed at the BCMM’s 7 Days of Summer Season Performance Programme in December 2017.

In the contracts they signed, the artists were promised their payment 31 days after performing.

According to the campaign’s media liaison, Luzuko Kohli, more than 150 artists were never paid after performing at the BCMM’s events including the Summer Carnivals in King William’s Town, Mdantsane and East London.

“Over the past 30 days of waiting for our payment, we have been in talks with the mu-

nicipality trying to seek a swift response.

“Our engagement with the Local Economic Development (LED) office of the BCMM only yielded disappointment for the artists as the promised dates of payment kept on changing.

It seems as though the office is clueless on how to respond to this payment issue,” said Kohli.

The artists said they had financial difficulties in January as they had been waiting to be paid by the metro.

Local DJ, Lwazi Magaga, told Express that as artists, they have vowed to use every way possible to express the ill treatment and neglect of artists by the municipality.

“We are using every tool at our disposal in order to bring down the ill treatment of local artists. All national artists have been paid; what about us?

“When we go to seek clarity we are given the runaround,” he said.

BCMM spokesperson, Samkelo Ngwenya,

Rockets have hearts racing The popular Cape Town R&B and pop band, The Rockets, provided their King William’s Town fans with a magnificent performance during the Pre­Valentine’s Show held in the War Memorial Hall last week Friday. Back from left are party­goers Nadine Hattingh, Shamiela Fayzoo and Rory Stempa with members of The Rockets (in front from left )Jano van der Berg, Ryan Smith and Bruce Newman.

PHOTO: ZANE LEE

said that there was a new payment procedure that required anyone who did business with the government to be paid through the registered source, which is known as the Central Supplier Database.

She said this means they can only pay registered companies who are tax compliant and not individuals. However, not all local artists have registered companies.

“It would be risky to pay artists through an indirect route and we are optimistic that this matter will be resolved soon. We will have regular briefing sessions with the artists to explain the issue to them.

“We never had problems with payments in the past. We want to sincerely apologise as we value them and we always make sure to include them to ensure they dominate in our programmes,” said Ngwenya.

The artists have rejected the municipality’s new payment procedure.

“We reject any solution that will require artists to register with the CSD programme as this was never communicated beforehand and cannot form part of the negotiation,” said Kohli.

He said that to communicate their frustration, they are calling all local artists who performed at the BCMM programmes to join them in a march to hand over a list of their grievances to the BCMM tomorrow (Thursday).

The march will take place from Oxford Street to the Ann Bryant Gallery, where the LED Municipality offices are situated, at 3pm tomorrow (February 15).

“The march is not only about the artists who have not been paid, but for everyone who feels the pinch of being ill-treated and taken advantage of by those who we have been put in power to protect, develop and serve the people,” Kohli concluded.

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14 February 2018

King William’s Town Express readers share the love Valentine’s Day is the day we celebrate love. That is why King William’s Town Express correspondent, ZAVELA MAKWABE, asked a few locals to send special messages to their loved ones to spread the cheer and spread the love. ) Fikile Rasmeni: I would like to wish my smile keeper, Thembelani Makasi, a very happy Valentine’s Day. I want him to know that I love him and he means everything to me. May the Lord keep us happy together till we grow old and grey. ) Luthando James: I love you, mom and

dad. Your gift of love has always been the most precious gift I’ve ever received in my life. I wish you a warm and happy Valentine’s Day. May you two stay happy together. ) Amanda Masteki: Happy Valentine’s Day, Thembakazi Sikundla. We may not be

related by blood but my soul is peaceful knowing that I have another role model after my mother. I loved you from the first day I met you because you are smart, sweet, beautiful and humble. Allow me to call you my sister and wish us lots of fun times and lots and lots of selfies together.

) Nomahlubi Malusi: I would like to wish my family a Happy Valentine’s Day, not forgetting my boyfriend, Lukhanyo Tshengele. I love them so much, even though I will not be spending the day with them they are in my heart, where it matters.

Fikile Rasmeni.

Luthando James.

Amanda Masteki.

Nomahlubi Malusi.

Acclaimed artist holds historic exhibition SIYANDA NKONYENI ACCLAIMED local fine artist Thando Mama held an exhibition at the Albany Museum in Grahamstown last Friday to highlight the significance and evoke memories of the almost forgotten memorial site of Ntaba kaNdoda.

He said that Ntaba kaNdoda had long been considered by amaXhosa as a place of sanctuary where the graves of long dead Xhosa warriors, who fought the British in the 1800s, lay.

“The exhibition, titled Forgetting Ntaba kaNdoda, seeks to translate for the viewers my own experiences at the monument

in reframing and reconfiguring this multiplex memorial, by knotting memories within Ntaba kaNdoda that enriches the meta-narrative of its history,” Mama said.

He added that his approach to the exhibition was a combination of performance and technology, in order for him to capture the audience and narrate his experiences.

“I perform for and with the camera and I have produced a series of multilayered photographs that respond to this urgency that is Ntaba kaNdoda’s memory.

“So, the photographs reflect my own performative commemoration, which is enmeshed in a lyrical labyrinth of memory of Ntaba kaNdoda,” he said.

Mama lamented about the neglect of the memorial site and how he has taken it upon himself to use his art to tell the sad story of the place.

“The site has been abandoned and forgotten and unlike the traditional way of paying respect by throwing stones (esiVivaneni), which have been forgotten over time, my photographs of the monument counter the passing of time that has eroded our memory of this sacred place.

“The pictures also acknowledge the negligence that has robbed us of our heritage as the exhibition represents a self-reflective exploration on the monument through photography, but also affirms the memories I hold of Ntaba kaNdoda.”

Thando Mama.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Youngest black female cardiologist in country tells about her love for her work MOST people will say that finding a job they enjoy is very difficult and when they find themselves doing what they truly enjoy, it is a blessing that ensures productivity in most workplaces.

At the age of 32, Dr Viwe Mthwesi is the youngest black female cardiologist in the country and she sees her job as a blessing from above. She goes beyond what is basically necessary to assist her patients.

King Williams Town Express correspondent SIYANDA NKONYENI caught up with the Mount Frere-born trailblazer to hear what drives her to do what she does.

What is it that makes you feel that you are doing something important or special when healing people?

Mthwesi: I think it is being able to get to the heart of a patient, medically and spiritually, which is something you do not find in most cases. Just the way I interact with a patient makes a difference because sometimes you find that a person is not sick, but who just wants someone to listen.

What is it that you love about your job?

Mthwesi: What humbles me is to take care of people who are sick and to see them getting better.

You mentioned spirituality connecting with your patients. Tell us more about that.

Mthwesi: I am a born-again Christian and sometimes I get to a point where I communicate to God that I can only do so much and ask him to guide me. I hold my patients’ hands and pray with them. That gives them so much strength and peace.

< Despite coming from a disadvantaged background, Dr Viwe Mthwesi went on to become one of the youngest cardiologists in South Africa.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Tell us about the business you also run that is similar to your career.

Mthwesi: I have a medical tourism company where I take people and connect them

with the kind of doctors they need. Say, for instance, you need a cardiologist; what I do is arrange everything for you, from the doctor to the transportation and accommodation in cities around the country. At the moment, we deal with big cities like Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town.

How did that idea come about?

Mthwesi: I have good relationships with doctors in Johannesburg where I am based now and I decided to help foreigners when they sought medical assistance here in the country. I then realised that there are many places that lack resources here in the country and decided to cater for the local market as well. All you do is to contact me via social media; I then consult with your doctor and take it from there.

What is your philosophy for success?

Mthwesi: My message is to never underestimate yourself. You can achieve whatever you put your mind to, no matter what your background is.

14 February 2018

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Bakkies still used as taxis despite new law SIYANDA NKONYENI THE use of bakkies as taxis for communities residing in far flung rural areas and as scholar transport for school children around King William’s Town has created tensions between the Transport Department and vehicle owners.

This lack of adherence by bakkie owners, which is alleged to be the cause of many road fatalities, has compelled government to take steps to deal with those who continue to defy the law.

There have been accusations and counter accusations between the two parties, with the government claiming non-cooperation and deliberate defiance of the law by owners, and owners claiming unfair treatment by the powers that be.

“We have been trying to engage with the owners to make them abide by the law but we have realised that there is no reduction in the use of such vehicles. Last year we arrested people in the Nelson Mandela and Joe Gqabi area to ensure that the law is respected,” said Department of Transport spokesperson, Khuselwa Rantyi.

“The law does cater for individuals who want to ferry people because owners are allowed to modify their bakkies, for instance to have seats with safety belts, a head clearance of 359mm for

commuters and a loading carrier,” said Rantyi.

She acknowledged, however, that since the law was passed there was not a single bakkie in the province that had met the specifications required by the law. Rantyi attributed that to the poor financial situation in the province.

Bulelani Velaphi, who ferries school children from Mount Coke to Zwelitsha, said that since losing his job two years ago he had been making a living by transporting goods and children to school.

“I make a living with this bakkie by transporting goods for people and children to school daily, now if they say I must modify my bakkie.

Where am I going to get the money to do that and how am I going to feed my family when the schools are closed?

“I do not understand government because they are encouraging us to do things for ourselves and when we do that they come with all sorts of red tape,” he said.

Another bakkie owner who operates as a taxi, Zongezile Pame, said that the Department of Transport did not consider them when they took decisions and only wanted to enforce laws without proper consultation.

“We serve rural communities out of demand for transport because there are no taxis or buses that go to those areas as a result of bad roads.

If they say we must stop transporting these peo-

It’s a common sight in SA to see bakkies packed with school children being transported to schools.

Despite threats of harsh punitive measures by the government against those who continue to use unsuitable vehicles to ferry children to schools, the start of the new school year saw many children still being transported by bakkies around the King William’s Town area.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED ple, what solutions do they have to cater for the passengers in the rural areas,” he asked.

He also blamed decisionmakers for being na-

ive about the hardships experienced by most commuters in the most underprivileged rural areas.

Mourners gather to lay fallen comrade, ‘Kirro’ Nkopo to rest MORE than 600 mourners from across South Africa gathered in the King William’s Town Methodist Church in Sweetwater Location recently to pay their final respects to their fallen comrade, Themba “Kirro” Nkopo.

Comrade Kirro, as he was affectionately called, hailed from Zwelitsha Township and was a well-known and respected community builder, freedom fighter, musician and athlete, according to several speakers and community members.

According to his son, Thabo, Comrade Kirro died at the age of 73 after a long illness.

Speakers at the funeral described him as “a revolutionary giant, leader, commissar and public servant to the end”.

“Back in the day, he played a very important role in politics for Sanco, the ANC and SACP,” said Thabo.

Members of the ANC Women’s League sing at the King William’s Town cemetery before laying ‘Comrade Kirro’ to rest.

PHOTO: THEMBELA NDLUMBINI One of the mourners, Mxolisi Giyose, said Comrade Kirro not only contributed as an individual to the liberation struggle, but also by involving his whole family.

“To some of us, the Nkopo family followed

Drought continues to hit Eastern Cape REPORTER WHILE the country’s attention is focused on the drought in Western Cape, the people of Eastern Cape are suffering quietly as the dam levels are hovering around 35% and in some areas there is not even a drop to drink.

This according to a statement by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).

The drought is supposedly a consequence of El Nino, a phenomenon that brings about dry conditions in some parts of the province.

“Our major dams are losing water at an alarming rate and unless parts of the province receive substantial rain, a disaster of unprece-

dented proportions is looming.

“With growing pressures due to climate change, drought is taking its own course in Eastern Cape and the little rains that have fallen in some parts of the province do not have enormous impact in our dry dams and our precious water resources are declining daily,” the statement read.

The water crisis in the province is on the government’s agenda to bring solutions on the matter.

“The abnormal heat wave has increased evaporation rates to our dams and rivers, and this is one of the reasons for the fall off in our water storage levels. This unusual drought demands responses from all sectors to plan together and

in the footsteps of other revolutionaries, such as the Sisulus, the Mbekis and the Mandelas, where both parents and children played a vital role in the liberation struggle,” According to Giyose, Comrade Kirro also

address this water shortage.”

The department encouraged the municipalities who transport litres of water per day with trucks to continue to provide relief to the communities.

DWS has joined hands with other departments, municipalities and business fraternity to discuss the possible solutions that will address water shortages before the situation gets worse.

“Water is a valuable resource across all features of social and economic life in the province and it must be managed properly for the sake of stability.

“The integrated approach taken by the department to address sustainability of water use management, the distribution and pricing of water is a good gesture that must be supported all.”

More than 100 suspects arrested in weekend operation ZAVELA MAKWABE THE King William’s Town cluster of the SA Police set out on Operation Fiela in their policing areas at the weekend in an effort to ensure a safer environment for the community.

Police members arrested more than 100 suspects for various crimes in the King William’s Town area.

These suspects, who are aged between 19 and 50, were arrested for crimes ranging from drunk driving, possession of drugs, common robbery, common assault, drunk-

enness, housebreaking and theft and possession of unlawful ammunition.

As part of their crime prevention duties, police officers confiscated dangerous weapons while they were doing stop-and-searches. They also conducted patrols on farms to prevent stock theft.

The police also attended to an accident in Reserve Road, King William’s Town.

On arrival, they found the vehicle had been abandoned with 13 bags of dagga left behind.

The vehicle was not reported as stolen, but belonged to someone in Port Elizabeth. The dagga weighed 261kg and has an estimated

street value of R150 000.

The suspects will appear at different magistrate’s courts around King William’s Town today and tomorrow.

King William’s Town Cluster Commander Brigadier Luntu Ngubelanga commended the members for a job well done over the past weekend.

He thanked the community for sharing valuable information with the police that led to the arrest of various suspects.

“We will ensure that all perpetrators of crime are brought before court,” he added.

He also encouraged the community members to report any criminal activities to 08600 10111 or their nearest police station.

participated in the formation of the Zwelitsha Resident Association (ZWERA), which is key in championing civic related issues.

“As one of the leaders of ZWERA, he made a significant impact in uniting the community of Zwelitsha through development projects.

“Some of these projects created job opportunities for poor households in our township. During these days, many families were able to put food on their tables, take their children to school and restore their dignity as they had some form of income, some for the first time in their lives,” said Giyose.

During the memorial service, some of the people who gave tributes were Wiseman Sorasi (Sanco), Toto Teyise (Cosatu) and Ward 25 Councillor Crosby Kolela (ANC). The service was conducted by Reverend Otto Ntshanyana.

Comrade Kirro was laid to rest in the King William’s Town cemetery.

OMBUDSMAN

THEMBELA NDLUMBINI

We invite readers to comment about the paper’s contents, and we shall correct errors as soon as possible. Please send comments to the editor at elizabethg@media24.com, or phone 041 503 6057. Errors in the contents can be reported to Media24’s Community Press ombudsman,George Claassen, at george.claassen@media24.com, or phone 021 8513232, or 0835432471.

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14 February 2018

The Rockets gets music fans’ hearts racing MICHAEL WARTZ AND LIAM WEIMERS THE popular Cape Town R&B and pop band, The Rockets, provided their King William’s Town fans with a magnificent performance during the Pre-Valentine’s Show held in the War Memorial Hall last week Friday.

The Capetonians returned to the Eastern Cape with a bang and have once again proved that they are one of South Africa’s most soughtafter groups.

The show kicked off on a high note as the master of ceremonies, Terrence Theron, welcomed the talented and musically-driven Lewis family on stage who opened the show as the curtain raiser.

The five-member group entertained the audience with popular hits from different genres and left a solid platform for the Cape band as they ended with the classic, Me and Mrs Jones

by Billy Paul.

When The Rockets took the stage, they had the crowd immediately on their feet with Night-

shift by the Commodores, as their opening song.

It was only a matter of time until the dance floor was filled up with red and white outfits in honour of Valentine’s Day when The Rockets performed the 1970s classic, Love Is In The Air. Among the highlights were a heartfelt performance of Bob Marley’s, Redemption Song, as well as a medley of Davido’s If I Fall and Love Potion by Mafikizolo.

Denzil Alexander, a big supporter of The Rockets said, “The Rockets are masters on stage and is my number one band.

“I have been following them since their establishment and it is always wonderful to have them in King.”

A passionate musician, Derrick Primo, said, “The show was excellent, I played alongside the Rockets as a musician and it brings great joy to see how they bring the music flame back to King.

Rockets drummer, Bruce Newman, said, “It is always nice to perform in King. The hospitality is amazing, and the crowd is the cherry on the cake.”

; From left are, Sandy Brown, Dorothy Brown, Deon Reddy and Rochelle Reddy who came from East London to enjoy themselves at The Rockets Pre­Valentine’s Show last Friday at the War Memorial Hall in King William’s Town.

PHOTOS: ZANE LEE

; Back from left are, Gennevive Jagers, Ingrid Coetzee and Shantell Harris with members of The Rockets (in front from left) Jano van der Berg, Ryan Smith and Bruce Newman.

The Rockets, Theo Watt (left) and Derrick Primo at the Pre­Valentine’s Show last Friday at the War Memorial Hall in King William’s Town.

The Rockets in action with the song, Nightshift by the Commodores. They had the crowd on their feet at the Pre­Valentine’s Show last Friday at the War Memorial Hall in King William’s Town.

Film enthusiasts can enjoy new releases at Steve Biko centre’s cinema MICHAEL SWARTZ KINGNITES who have been enjoying their very own cinema experience since late last year will now be entertained by the latest blockbuster movies at the 210-seater cinema located at the Steve Biko Centre in Ginsberg, King William’s Town.

The chief operations officer, Bruce Waters, said, “We have negotiated with four major commercial distributors in South Africa, Times Media Films (the Nu Metro circuit), Ster Kinekor Entertainment, United International Pictures, and Indigenous Films, and we try to be as current as possible with only the one screen we have.”

These changes come just in time for the most anticipated superhero movie ever, Marvel’s Black Panther, which is hitting cinemas around the globe.

Black Panther is incredible, kinetic and purposeful. It’s a superhero movie about why representation and identity matter, and how tragic it is when those things are denied to people.

South Africans have an extra special reason to watch this movie as it was announced that isiXhosa has been used as the official language of Wakanda, the city in the film.

Waters said, “Currently the cinema only holds two screenings a week, one on Friday evenings at 6pm and one on Saturday afternoons at 4pm.”

He also said that as the demand increased

they would add additional time slots, especially during holidays.

“I do acknowledge that everyone has their favourites, but given that we only screen one title a week, and between four and seven films are released each week nationally, we aim to show films that have a commercial appeal to our anticipated audiences, with a preference towards South African cinema where possible,” he concluded.

All parkings on and around the Steve Biko Centre are being monitored by security guards 24/7. Tickets are sold at the door and are priced at R25 (standard), R15 (pensioners and children under 16).

Seating is unreserved and only certain screenings will be accepted to be booked in ad-

vance.

For bookings or ticket sales information contact 04367056700 or email lkampa@sbf.org.za.

Steve Biko Cinema’s present line-up is as follows:

•Friday February 16 and Saturday February 17 - Black Panther •Friday February 23 and Saturday February 24 - Den of Thieves •Friday March 2 and Saturday March 3 - Asinamali (prerelease screenings). Written by Mbongeni Ngema, creator of Sarafina. He will attend the Friday event.

•Friday March 9 and Saturday March 10 - Catching Feelings (to be confirmed) •Friday March 16 and Saturday March 17 - Just Getting Started •Friday March 23 and Saturday March 24 - Gringo •Friday March 30 and Saturday March 31 - 24 Hours to Live (to be confirmed).

Student at risk of losing a once­in­a­lifetime trip ZAVELA MAKWABE ONE of Wandisile Sixoto’s constant prayers was answered when he received an e-mail that the Research and Publications Committee of the African Studies and Research Forum (ASRF) had approved his research paper titled Inter-generational Dynamics of Smallholder Farming Households and the Implications for the Future of South African Agriculture: Issues and Concerns for presentation at the prestigious 22nd annual conference of the ASRF. Through this, the domestic worker’s son saw a chance to put his family name on the map. His excitement, however, has been dampened by a lack of funding.

The Keiskammahoek-born University of Fort Hare student was one of only two young scientists from the Eastern Cape to be shortlisted for the

10-person South African Fame Lab finals last year.

This week, 28-year-old Sixoto, who is currently waiting to enrol for his PHD, shared with Express his disappointment at not being able to get assistance to present his paper at the University of West Georgia next month.

According to the youth, his research sheds light on the youth in agriculture problem and gives ideas on how to address the problem to safeguard and improve family farming so as to improve the rural livelihoods of farmers, the rural economy and also addresses the issue of rural poverty.

“I form part of the majority of the unemployed graduates but throughout the years the emphasis was that we must work hard and grab opportunities that come and not focus on being employed.

“Now that we take chances and apply for op-

portunities that will surface our potential as young academic scholars, the government fails to assist,” he said.

His ultimate dream is to become an agricultural scientist so that he can one day help emerging farmers use their land better.

The disappointed youth who has knocked on many doors including government departments said he wished someone or some organisation could come to his rescue and had not given up hope.

“I always told myself that even if we were born without wings, let’s not prevent them from growing. Our biggest failure in life would be to give up because of the environment we find ourselves in. I believe we must dare to be different and strive by all means to reach our full potential,” Sixoto said.

The event takes place from March 29 to 31.

Keiskammahoek­born student, Wandisile Sixoto.

PHOTO:SUPPLIED

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Local heroes share the love with less fortunate

In the true spirit of Valentine’s Day, King William’s Town Express correspondent Zavela Makwabe is this week profiling three local residents who are spreading the love in their own unique ways to those who cannot always speak for themselves.

Annette Rademeyer: Love man’s best friend Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

Living out this motto is Annette Rademeyer, a volunteer senior inspector at the King William’s Town SPCA. The shelter is currently home to 15 dogs, 25 cats and a number of other animals.

“These figures change on a daily basis as more animals come in and some are adopted.

For example, three were adopted on Wednesday last week. We also adopted two horses about two weeks ago,” Rademeyer said.

She has been volunteering at the SPCA for about 25 years.

She does everything in a voluntary capacity and purely out of love for animals.

“Love means so many things to me. It means caring about people who are less fortunate than

myself, caring about sentient creatures and it means always trying to be kind to everyone.”

Over the years, Rademeyer has worked as a legal secretary, a personal assistant and as a councillor for the Buffalo City Municipality.

She has a higher diploma in business management, a diploma in events management and is well on her way to getting a degree in criminology.

“Through all of this I have always been passionate about animal welfare because animals, like children and old people, cannot speak for themselves.

“Farm animals are the most abused of all animals – especially in the intensive farming industry. I detest animal cruelty in any form.

“For me, it basically comes down to standing up for the defenceless and those who cannot speak for themselves.”

Yonela Jindela.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Anette Rademeyer and her Labrador, Jessie.

Yonela Jindela: Beauty with a purpose PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Busisiwe Papiyana: Love for the homeless “SOMETIMES it’s easy to walk by because we know we can’t change someone’s whole life in a single afternoon. But what we fail to realise is that simple kindness can go a long way toward encouraging someone who is stuck in a desolate place,” said Mike Yankoski, a writer and itinerant speaker.

Busisiwe Papiyana is the second local community member who deserves recognition for spreading the love in the area. She quit her job as an auditor at the Department of Roads and Public Works in 2014 and cofounded the Ubudlelwane Enkosini Foundation, an organisation that assists the homeless and disadvantaged in King William’s Town and surrounding areas.

The organisation provides counselling to the despondent, hosts a soup kitchen for the street dwellers in town every Saturday afternoon and reunites them with their families.

“To me, love means compassion and care.

It means treating others as you would like to be treated.

“If you desire to be helped, then help. If you desire to be forgiven, then forgive,” Papiyana said.

She believes that love gives instead of taking or receiving, which is why she gives so much of her time and love.

“Love is selfless. We do not have to wait until we have millions of rands to give and share the little we have because God gave his only son.”

The Ubudlelwane Enkosini Foundation members dish up for the local street dwellers at their soup kitchen.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

MOTHER Teresa said, “Love is not patronising and charity isn’t about pity; it is about love. Charity and love are the same – with charity you give love, so don’t just give money but reach out your hand instead.”

2018 Mrs Africa Tourism Universe 2018, Yonela Jindela, has been doing extraordinary charity work around the province.

The young mother, wife and daughter of a reverend grew up in Mqhekezweni Village outside Mthatha.

“I grew up in a Christian home where my parents always taught me and my siblings the importance of giving and shar-

ing.”

That, she said, is where her love for charity stems from. She said to her, love means meeting a stranger in the street, but not finding peace until that stranger’s life has changed for the better.

She said love was when you shared the little that you have with those who have nothing.

“Love is an act of selflessness, to help other people because it is within you not because you are expecting to gain something from it.

“You don’t have to have lots of money to help the next person; you can even get other people involved.”

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King William’s Town Express

14 February 2018

‘Cityproof’ yourself in the new Nissan Qashqai REPORTER THE Nissan Qashqai, which is the best-selling urban crossover in Europe, is now available in South Africa with significant premium enhancements to establish it as the perfect partner to conquer the city.

The wide-ranging changes to the upgraded model are based on customer feedback and industry insights and are designed to establish new levels of luxury in the mid-sized crossover segment.

The “cityproof” Qashqai’s improvements focus on the addition of Nissan Intelligent Mobility technology, higher levels of interior quality, improved performance and a contemporary exterior design.

Nissan Intelligent Mobility Nissan has been introducing its highly innovative technologies, known as Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM), to vehicles currently available in South Africa. The Patrol and X-Trail, which were launched last year, have several NIM features, and the new Qashqai benefits from these technologies too.

NIM features include: . Intelligent blind spot warning: Alerts the driver of a vehicle in the adjacent lane during lane changes. . Intelligent emergency braking: Helps avoid collisions by detecting the distance of the preceding vehicle and activating the brakes, if necessary. . Intelligent forward collision warning: Sensors analyse the relative velocity of the preceding vehicle as well as the vehicle in front of the preceding one. If the system detects potential risks, it alerts the driver to slow down with visual and audible alerts and will also tighten the seat belt. . Around view monitor: Using five cameras positioned around the vehicle, this technology provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings. . Intelligent cross traffic alert: When backing out of a parking space, this feature can detect and warn the driver of vehicles that are approaching behind the Qashqai. . Moving object detection: Linked to the around view monitor, the system analyses video signals in an image-processing unit from the cameras attached to the front, rear and both side-view mirrors of the vehicle. It is then able to detect certain moving objects around the vehicle in real time.

The exterior of the Nissan Qashqai boasts a range of new and improved upgrades, including the integrated front bumper and face.

PHOTOS:SUPPLIED

Interior enhancements Inside, the Qashqai is now more sophisticated than ever before. The stylish upgrades are more driver-oriented and start with a sporty new D-shaped steering wheel, which has a horizontal base to make entering and exiting the Qashqai easier. The four-way controllers on the steering are new and offer customers more intuitive use to reduce “eyes off the road” time.

The interior door handles and air vents are now finished in higher-quality materials with new stitching being added to the centre console armrest.

One-touch power window switches are now available across the range and all windows can now be opened and closed remotely via the key fob.

The front seats have been completely redesigned with tapered shoulders to offer additional support while also improving visibility for rear passengers.

The NissanConnect touch-screen satellite navigation unit has a smart new user interface and the roof antenna is now in the shape of a shark fin for improved reception and to add to the Qashqai’s striking design.

The Qashqai offers clever storage solutions

throughout the vehicle. The 430-litre boot increases to 680 litres when the 60:40 split rear seats are folded flat.

Exterior upgrades The exterior echoes the stylish design theme from the interior with extensive changes, from the Qashqai’s beautifully sculpted nose to its sharply styled tail.

There’s an integrated new front bumper and face with the latest incarnation of Nissan’s iconic “V-motion” grille.

On the halogen lights, the “boomerang” daytime running lamp signature is new and consists of nine LEDs. The clam-shell bonnet and rear bumper have also been redesigned.

There are new 17-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels, designed to reduce drag and all the enhancements result in an increased overall length of 17mm to 4,394mm while the width (1,806mm) and height (1,595mm) remain unchanged.

Ride The Qashqai’s ride, handling and steering have been improved in line with customer feedback to offer sublime ride comfort and a

calmer body motion.

The dampers have been retuned, the antiroll bar stiffness has been increased to maintain handling performance and, of course, the NIM active ride control system reduces body motion while going over large bumps.

Significant improvements have been made throughout the new Qashqai to improve noise, vibration and harshness levels and they include more sound insulation material, additional sealing and the rear door glass is thicker to improve rear passenger experience.

There is also less engine noise thanks to powertrain calibration improvements.

Pricing

1.2 T Visia - R334 900 1.2 T Visia + Alloys - R346 700 1.2 T Acenta - R367 000 1.2 T Acenta CVT - R381 000 1.2 T Acenta Plus CVT - R394 000 1.5 dCI Acenta - R394 000 1.5 dCI Acenta Plus - R407 000 1.5 dCI Tekna - R434 000 The Qashqai is backed up by Nissan Assured including 24-hour roadside assistance and has a class-leading six-year/150 000km warranty and a comprehensive threeyear/90 000km service plan.

Park run celebrates second birthday ZAVELA MAKWABE AND MIKE WEBB IT was celebrations, celebrations and more celebrations at the King William’s Town park run last week Saturday.

“Happy birthday park run” was echoed by all the runners and walkers on Saturday as they celebrated the event’s second birthday.

Event director, Veronica Karshagen, started the proceedings off thanking all for supporting the park run and keeping “their baby” going strong.

“We are into the terrible two’s now but it seems that we are only getting better and

stronger,” Karshagen said.

The field of more than 200 athletes had a fantastic run in humid conditions and were guided around the course by the ever efficient volunteers.

As it was a birthday, no celebration would be complete without a cake and for the second week in a row the runners were treated to cake at the finish.

Two Saturdays ago, the park runners celebrated their 100th Park Run and were treated to cakes supplied by Barbara and Dinka Dhaya.

Last Saturday, a few park runners contribut-

ed to a cake made and sponsored by Nick’s Daily Spar.

It was also a celebration of their first local Park Run 100 club member on Saturday, Ailsa Nelson.

Nelson, who has been a King William’s Town resident her whole life, has done 68 of her runs in King William’s Town with the balance spread around the country.

She has a personal best time of 41.53 and an average time of 49.42.

Very consistent and ever smiling, she is an integral part of the park run community and she and the organisers said they looked for-

ward to many more together.

Many of the park runners are moving on to longer races now as they get fitter.

Well wishes were extended to Faizel Kitching, Luke Ferreira, Yogan Muragan, Sizwe Nqgoba, Mzanele Gqotile, Luxolo Shushu, Khaya, Mike Webb and anyone else running in the Buffs Marathon next Sunday.

Ferreira is running his first marathon ever, Faizel and Muragan are gunning for superfast times and Webb is doing his 20th.

A number of Buffalo Runners Athletes Club (BRAC) runners are also competing in the Buffs Marathon.

These atheletes show that having fun is an essential part of the park runs.

PHOTOS: MIKE WEBB

Pictured here are some of our the park run volunteers.

14 February 2018

SPORT

King William’s Town Express

7

King William’s Town ‘Pink Fairy’ hosts fun day ZAVELA MAKWABE AND MIKE WEBB DESPITE unbearably hot conditions reaching up to 46 degrees Celsius last week Friday, the Pink Fairy Valentine’s Sunset Amble turned out a great success with approximately 150 participants.

A total amount of R1 100 has been donated to the SPCA so far. The event was the brainchild of Mike Webb (the Pink Fairy) and consisted of a 500m loop with the participants receiving a glow stick at the end of the lap. As it wasn’t a “race”, it started from 5pm and people filtered in and out at their leisure to participate.

The heat did not deter the King fraternity and as it got cooler in the evening more and more laps were completed.

By the end of the evening, the fields were aglow with armbands and necklaces of various colours.

Webb told Express that the idea was to generate a family affair and some good exercise at the same time without the pressure of racing.

“All this was to raise funds for our SPCA and the response from the public was fantastic,”

Webb said.

Various spot prizes were handed out to participants for anything from the cutest to the youngest, the oldest, most laps completed, first to 10 laps and the fastest lap.

A couple from East London, Wayne Jones and Linda Gunn, won the prize for most laps completed, for completing a total of 22 laps.

Maureen Marais scooped a prize for being the first person to complete 10 laps.

“Our oldest participants were 71-year-old Jill Jakob and 68-year-old Barbara de Man. “Aunty Barbs did 10 laps (5km), setting an amazing example to our youth. Many little ones took part in the event and a good few dogs were being led around the field making it a truly festive occasion.”

Webb was also challenged to a three-lap race, but sadly could not win this one.

In his defence, Webb said that was because he is 30 years older than his challenger, JayJay. “Many thanks to Dale Junior head, Pat Thatcher and the Dale Junior PTA for their assistance and generous use of their facilities,” Webb added.

Webb and the SPCA are looking into making

the Valentine’s Amble an annual event and have big plans to make it bigger and better with jumping castles and maybe even a water slide next year.

Dale Junior have also stated they are happy to host the event again.

“Hopefully the community will help to grow this event and raise more much needed funds for our SPCA,” said Webb.

“The only disappointment was that so few children from other schools in town participated and it is time that the schools and general public in town started supporting events held all over town and not just their own.

“We are a small community and need to support each event as much as possible and not moan that nothing happens in King all the time.

Why drive 120km to attend an event when you have something happening in your backyard?”

The next Pink Fairy multi-sport adventure event will be a 3km, 5km and 10km trail run in May (Pink Fairy Month) to raise more needed funds for the SPCA. “The date to still to be confirmed. Any sponsors wishing to assist please can contact Webb on 084 597 8254.”

Mike Webb (right), also known as The Pink Fairy, recently had a blast hosting the Valen­ tine’s Sunset Amble. Here he is with one of the participants.

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Team King donates uniforms worth R2 500 to special school MICHAEL SWARTZ AND LIAM WEIMERS Watch.

TEAM King brought smiles to the faces of two very underprivileged pupils from Sweetwaters-based Fundisa Special School last Tuesday when they donated much-needed uniforms worth R2 500 to them.

Team King members Morné Chrisjan (far left) and Ferquin Carelse (far right) with Fundisa Special School learners Silindokuhle Msereni and Halnganani Cikidti, teachers and principal Pakama Ndindwa, who felt honoured by the donation.

PHOTO:ELLSWORTH SWARTZ

Dojo opens for karate enthusiasts ZAVELA MAKWABE A DOJO is a space in which judo and other martial arts are practised, and last week, one opened its doors in King William’s Town, offering karate classes twice a week for all ages and belts.

“Opening up a dojo in King William’s Town was long overdue and it showed. I was inundated with phone calls and messages from parents who wanted to enrol their kids and some wanting more information on training times and costs involved,” Senpai Renier Roets, the instructor at the Shotokan Circle of karate told the Express.

“Our intake is from the ages of five and upwards. I believe you are never too young or old to defend yourself,” said Senpai Renier, adding that watching the interest and eagerness from five-year-olds who were punching and kicking the punching-bag wanting to learn the art of karate on opening day was beautiful to watch.

“Our hope is to enable the students to defend themselves when the need arises. With the crime rate and petty crimes being on the rise, ; Young participants learn new moves in karate classes at the dojo which has recently opened in King William’s Town.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

having karate is useful as it can assist you if you find yourself in a tight situation.”

According to Renier, doing karate strengthens the body and mind, keeping you physically and mentally fit and also instils discipline and develops character.

He added that the new students and prospective students can also look forward to learning new karate katas, building friendships and competing on a national level with other dojos.

Shotokan Circle of Karate is the third dojo in the area; the other two are the EL Main Dojo which is in Commercial Road and the other is in Gonubie.

The Main Dojo offers karate, Thai boxing, Brazilian jiu jitsu and mixed martial arts Shotokan is a type of style of karate developed from various martial arts and it is the most widely practised style in the world.

Shotokan and self-defence classes take place every Tuesday and Friday evening for a full hour, from 5pm to 6pm at the Dale Junior hall in Albert Road. If you love to stay active and want to learn a new sport please contact Renier Roets on 083 321 3522.

Team King, established in 2015, is a spinning club that is also involved in show and shine events.

Their last event, which took place in December last year, was a huge success as they received tremendous support from all across the Border region.

They, therefore, decided to donate the profits of that event in the form of uniforms to two learners who are desperately in need.

Team King has made a substantial amount of donations to various organisations in the last couple of years, including a donation of gloves, beanies and reflector jackets to the Breidbach Neighbourhood

The head of department at Fundisa Special School, Nombulelo Momo, who succeeded in her duty to identify these learners together with her staff, gratefully said, “We are very thankful for this donation.

“These learners are from underprivileged backgrounds and the intervention by Team King is much appreciated.”

She added that the school produced brilliant sportsmen and women who were chosen to represent the school at national level, but due to the lack of funds, they were unable to send them to events and would like to work hand-in-hand with people willing to sponsor the school.

Team King member Morné Chrisjan said, “We as Team King are also grateful for the school’s interest in the donation and the opportunity to make a difference.

“This is definitely not the first or last contribution and we look forward in working with the school in the future.”

Former SAPS trainer produces quality runners ELETHU MTIKI EXPERIENCED fitness trainer Briam Felix believes he is on the right track in his mission of unearthing talent and producing a lot of quality runners in King William’s Town.

a bronze medal in the 400m. From then, more kids started coming to me and asked me to train them,” he said.

Felix said one of their main challenges was a lack of sponsorship and resources. He said they were making attempts to find sponsorship, but they first need to register their club and become a recognised structure.

He believes his current crop of runners is showing great signs of making it all the way to the Olympics.

“These guys have everything in them to become professional athletes. Most of them are really serious; they can make it as far as the Olympics. I already have one boy who is an SA champ,” he said.

The former fitness trainer at the South African Police Service (SAPS) Academy in Bhisho has seen some of his athletes compete at a national level and he believes a lot of them have yet to rise under his tutorship.

“These guys are very committed. I can promise you that the majority of these guys will succeed. They are very committed; even during the winter school holiday they will be here training,” said Felix before their training session at the Dale College Sports Ground.

Felix started training athletes 10 years ago with his son, who was 10 years old at the time, and took him to the Eastern Cape championships.

Since then, he has never looked back as more children came to him and asked to be taken under his wing. Currently, he trains children from Dale College, De Vos Malan and others from Ginsberg.

“What basically inspired me was when I trained my son and led him to the Eastern Cape champs. Since then, he constantly made it into the EC Champs. In 2013 he made the Briam Felix and his club of runners at the Dale College SA team and came home with Sports Ground.

PHOTO:ELETHU MTIKI

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SPORT

King William’s Town Express

14 February 2018

Amathol’Amnyama aim to survive relegation zone ELETHU MTIKI IT is just a matter of time before Mthatha Bucks get out of the relegation zone in the National First Division (NFD).

This is according to the club’s chief operations officer (COO), Lunga ‘Doc’ Tukute.

Amathol’Amnyama, as Bucks are affectionately known, are second from the bottom on the NFD log standings with 18 points from 20 matches.

Last week, Bucks were also eliminated from the Nedbank Cup at the last 32 phase

by AmaZulu at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, Durban.

Tukute admitted that things were not going well for the Mthatha-based outfit, but he remained optimistic that the tables would turn for the remaining 10 league games.

“It’s true that things are not going well for Mthatha Bucks at the moment.

“But as a team we have high hopes that we’ll do well in the remaining 10 games and we’ll be playing most of these games at home,” he said.

Tukue said the team is responding well to their new coach, Duncan Lechesa.

Bucks have collected five points from a possible 15 points in their last five league matches. Even though the results have not been forthcoming, Tukute said there are more positives in the team.

“If you looked at our performance in our recent matches against AmaZulu, Tshakhuma (Tsha Madzivhandila) and Mbombela United, it’s clear that the players understand the coach.

“It’s a pity that we didn’t get the results against Tshakhuma. It is only a matter of time before we get out of the relegation zone,” he said.

Bucks are three points behind the 11th placed Uthongathi FC and a win for them this coming Saturday when they host Pretoria University FC at Mthatha Stadium could go a long way.

The COO said one of the things that affected the team’s performance was the ill-discipline of the experienced players, especially those who played in the top-flight.

The club released some of its players such

< Mthatha Bucks head coach Duncan Lechesa is hoping to save the team from relegation zone in the remaining 10 matches in the NFD. They are currently second from the bottom on the league log.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

as Luyolo Nomandela, former Free State Stars, Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town City midfielder.

“We’re trying our utmost best to make sure that this team remains (in the NFD) be-

cause this is the only team from the Eastern Cape in the National First Division. We’re the pride of the Eastern Cape. We need our supporters to rally behind us in order for this team to survive,” he concluded.

EC Bees accomplish primary goal in Nedbank Cup ELETHU MTIKI EASTERN Cape Bees are ready to take on any team that will come their way in the next round of the Nedbank Cup. The King William’s Town-based side landed at the East London Airport on Monday in high spirits, having achieved their primary objective in the prestigious competition after they beat Mariveni United 3-1 in the last 32 at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Sunday afternoon.

Bees’ head coach, Vuyisile “Chippa” Njedu, was thrilled that his team managed to make it through to the last 16 and praised his charges for their performance.

Once again, EC Bees’ on-form striker,

Sipho-Sihle “Music” Mtule, was on target for the Crazy Gang as he scored a brace and walked away with the man of the match accolade.

“My players played very well there. Our objective was to get into the last 16 and they’ve managed to achieve that.

“We’re ready to face anything in the next stage,” he said.

This is the first time that Njedu’s charges managed to make it through to the second round of this tournament in their third attempt.

In their previous attempts they lost in the opening round, despite playing in front of their home supporters.

Njedu is hoping to get a home draw when the draw for the last 16 is conducted tomorrow.

“All the teams that are remaining are

tough; you even can’t say you want to be drawn against a certain team.

“But our prayers are to play at home so that our supporters can get a chance to watch us play in front of them,” Njedu said. He said he was grateful that there were no major injuries in his team, except for minor bruises.

This weekend Bees will shift focus to their ABC Motsepe League matches.

Should Bees get a home draw tomorrow, they are likely to take it to Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane. ; EC Bees’ coach Vuyisile ‘Chippa’ Njedu and Sipho­Sihle ‘Music’ Mtule, who won the man of the match award after their 3­1 win against Mariveni United in the Nedbank Cup last 32 match at the weekend. PHOTO:SUPPLIED

Former professional footballer tells learners to put education first ELETHU MTIKI FORMER professional footballer, Eric Carlos Mtshamba, has urged learners to make education their first priority and not allow their backgrounds to determine their future.

The Bhisho Primary u/13 soccer team which won the annual schools’ Carlos Soccer Youth Develop­ ment Agency tournament.

PHOTO:ELETHU MTIKI

Mtshamba was speaking at Bhisho Primary School last week, where he was handing over a new kit, balls and a trophy to the school’s u/13 soccer team as part of its prize for winning last year’s annual Carlos Soccer Youth Development Academy (CSYDA) schools’ tournament, which was held at Dale College.

“I’d like to plead with you to put education above everything. In soccer you can be a millionaire within five years and have nothing to fall back on thereafter,” said the former Bloemfontein Celtic and Santos player.

Mtshamba also shared with the children how soccer changed his life.

“I come from a poor family, but soccer changed my situation. Whether you stay in a shack or you come from any kind of a situation, it does not mean you’ll never make it in life. In soccer it’s not about your background,” he said.

Already in its fifth year, his academy has already produced a few young soccer players who have gone to join some of the big teams

in the country. Two players from the Bhisho Primary soccer team have also been recruited

by Mtshamba’s academy and one of them is a young girl, Aza Mafanya (13).

“Mafanya who now goes to Bhisho High School, was the only girl in the team.

“We also managed to get a girl from this team. We think she’ll go places. I won’t be surprised to see her in the Banyana Banyana setup in the future,” said Mtshamba.

Mafanya said she was delighted and felt honoured to be recruited by the CSYDA. “She said it was never easy to play with boys.

The academy placed its recruits at Dale College which is a boys’ school.

It remains to be seen where the academy will place the young girl next year. Mtshamba said they might keep her at her current school.

Bhisho Primary principal, Dr Velelo Clifton Kalipa, was on cloud nine after receiving the kit and praised the academy for playing a meaningful in sport development.

“I’m feeling so excited that our school has been doing well all these years and it is pleasing that we’re moving forward again.

“This is great news that we won and we’re going to do that (win) every year.

“This school has been in need of such developments,” said Kalipa.