Kouga Express - E-Edition - 5 February 2026

FootandMouthDiseaseoutbreakinKouga

FOLLOWING aconfirmed Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, Kouga Local Municipality recently urgently called on all farmers, including emergingfarmers, to implementimmediate and stringent control measures

According to apress release, todate, more than 100 cattle have testedpositive in theKruisfonteinarea.

“The vaccineisexpected to arriveinthe countrybymid-February, so until then, movement controland avoiding contact with cattletopreventfurtherspread is essential,” the statement said.

Furthermore, it is important toemphasise that the disease cannot affectpeople, butpeople can very easily transmit it to other cattle.

“Alarmingly, unlike previousoutbreaks, livestock deaths havenow been recorded, underscoring the seriousness of the situation,” the statement said.

Livestock mustbeconfined

All farmers are strictly instructedasfollows:

Livestock mustnot roam freelyunder anycircumstances

• The movement of livestock with herdersfor grazing is strictlyprohibited.

• All livestock must remain confined to theowner's premises at all times

• No transportation of livestock is permitted, either within or outside the affectedarea, without the required official permissionand documentation.

• Anyunauthorised movement of animals will be subjecttoenforcement and control measures

Biosecuritymeasures

To limit the spreadofthe disease, the following measures are compulsory:

• Immediateisolationofinfectedanimals to prevent further transmission.

• Ongoing surveillanceofsurrounding areasis being conductedtodetermine whether thedisease has spreadbeyond the identified zone

• Strictsanitisation of vehicles entering or operating within affectedareas

• Residentsand farm workersinaffectedareas mustadheretohygiene and sanitisationprotocols.

The statement noted that sanitisation points will be established at strategically identified locations.

“Theseprecautionary measures are critical tocontaining the outbreak and pro-

‘SUPPORTISINCONSISTENT’:

tecting livestock across theKouga Local Municipal area. Full cooperation from all farmers and residents is non-negotiable and essential to preventing further losses,”the statement said.

Furthermore, adedicated task team comprising the municipality and relevant stakeholders has been established and will meet daily to coordinate interventions and mitigate the impactofthe outbreak

“The matter is being treated with theutmost seriousness,”the statement said

Anyroaming livestock must be reported immediately to theKouga Call Centre at 042 200 2200 or 081 760 9183 (WhatsApp only)toenable intervention and enforcement.

Further updates will be communicated as moreinformationbecomes available.

Astatement released by theNational Council of SPCAs confirmed that FMD is spreading rapidly through many of South Africa’s farm animals, like cows, sheep, pigs, and goats, as well as wild animals like buffalo, leaving animals across the countryvulnerable andsuffering.

“The disease is caused by ahighlycontagious virus that spreads rapidly amongst animals with clovenhooves,” thestate-

ment said.

Furthermore, thestatement noted that thecurrent outbreak is mostly because of thelack of vaccines.

Symptoms of FMD in animals include fever, sores and blisters on theanimal's tongue, lips, nose, teats, and between hooves, reluctance to move due to pain, lameness and excessive salivation or drooling.

According to thecouncil, thedisease spreads directly through items contaminated with thevirus, like vehicles, clothing, and feed, and indirectly, through the air over large distances.

“If you think that your farm animals have FMD, call aveterinarian and ensure thevet treatsand prescribes pain relief. Furthermore, makesure you control the movement of your animals and people entering your facility and report any suspected cases of FMD to the State Veterinary Services,” thestatement said.

“If your animals are severelycompromised and suffering, please have them humanelyeuthanised by aqualified person.” The statement noted that FMD causes real pain, and acting fast can makeall the difference for animals.

Kareedouwresidentsatwitsendaswatercrisisdragson

RAZAANPLAATJIES

RESIDENTS of Kareedouwhave been battling ongoing water shortages for more than two months, with largeparts of the town left withoutwater every evening from around 17:00 until 06:00 thefollowingmorning.

According to resident HenkDeVos, waterissues in the towndate backtoat leastNovember2025and have steadily deteriorated

He believes thatthe watercrisis is the result of poor planningand mismanagementbythe Kou-KammaMunicipality. De Vos explainedthatalthough the municipalityhas access to boreholesin theKareedouw area, they are eithernot operational or not beingused effectively

“The municipality claims they have insufficient pumps, but the boreholes were never properly maintained.These boreholes were meant to provideclean watertoresidents for at least 12 hours aday,” said De Vos.

He addedthatresidents have heldtwo community meetings to address the crisis,but feel theirconcernsare being ignored.

“Peopleare fedup. It is summertime, it is hot, and residents need water,” said De Vos.

The worst-affected areas allegedlyinclude Mountain View, Kagiso Heights andNew Rest, where householdsare often leftwithout water fordaysata time.

While water tankshavebeen installed andwater trucks are meanttosupply theseareas, De Vos saidthissupport is inconsistent.

“There are times when no water trucks visit the area at all, leaving residents withoutany water,”saidDeVos

In theKareedouw CentralBusiness District (CBD), anightly water shutdownfrom 17:00 to 06:00 has hadasevereimpactonboth residents andbusinesses.

“Thereare restaurants in the CBD, as well as an OK Store with abutchery. These businesses cannot operateproperlywithout water,”saidDeVos

He saidthat frustrationswerealso raised at arecent Community Safety Group meeting, after whichrepresentatives met with theMunicipal Manager to seek clarity on theongoing shortages.

De Vos said thatduring the meeting, residents shared areport compiled in 2008bySFK Consulting Engineers and Scientists forthe Department of Water Affairs and Forestry,titled Kareedouw Hydrogeological Investigation

“Theshocking part is that the MunicipalManager wasnot even aware of this document.

“Thecommunity had to supply it to the municipality,"saidDeVos.

The report, which Kouga Express has seen, includes water testing at six boreholes in theKareedouw area andprovidesrecommendationsfor drought relief, which residents claimhave never been implemented.

He said residents have been unable to obtainany information on the status of the boreholes or why they arenot operational.

“Wewant to knowwhere our money is goinginterms of rates and taxes,”said De Vos.

He also pointed out that Kareedouw has two reservoirs, but only one is currently in use.

De Vos alleges that these reservoirs can be filled using water from the boreholes, but the municipalityisnot implementing thissolution.

He said that they aretherefore calling on the municipality to urgently repair and activate the boreholes to ensure a reliable water supply.

“The municipality needs to get the boreholes working so that sufficient water can be pumped to residents. People cannot continue living like this,” De Vos said.

Kou-Kamma Acting Municipal Manager, Advocate Mlamli Zenzile, confirmed that the intermittent water supply is primarily due to prolonged drought conditions, reduced rainfall, and theloss of key rawwater sources.

He said that the Derdebos water source (a measuring weir) has been significantly affected by insufficient rainfall, while the Mountain View boreholehas been rendered inoperable as aresult of vandalism and theft of infrastructure.

“Toprevent complete system failure, the municipality has implemented controlled water supply measures to stabilise reservoir levels.

“Emergency interventions, including water carting and the placement of JoJo tanks, are being deployed in affected areas, particularly in elevated sections of NewRest.

“In Mountain View, water carting is provided when shortages occur to ensure residents have access to potable water,”saidZenzile.

Commenting on the groundwater in-

frastructure, he said that themunicipality has five boreholes in theDriekrone area, of which only one is currently operational.

Zenzile said that theremaining boreholes, drilled in 2008, werenever fully commissioned and require installation and integration into thebulk supply system.

He further said that one borehole in Mountain View has been vandalised, while twoboreholes located behind the municipal building are operational but yield insufficient volumes to meet demand.

Zenzile said that Kareedouw has two reservoirs; however, one reservoir is currently offline due to astructural leak beneaththe structure, which results in unacceptable water losses.

He said that repairs will be undertaken once funding becomes available

“The estimated cost to fully restore boreholes and related infrastructure is approximatelyR5million. The municipality has submittedapplications for drought relief and water infrastructure funding to therelevant district, provincial, and national departmentsand is currently awaiting outcomes,” said Zenzile.

He further said that themunicipality disputes claims of mismanagement and notes that thecurrent challenges are consistent with drought-related impacts affecting many municipalities nationally.

“The municipalityremains committed to improving water securitythrough long-term planning, infrastructure rehabilitation, and transparent engagement,” said Zenzile.

Fourthhigh-mastlighterectedinWeston,Patensie

AFOURTH high-mast lightwas erected in Weston in PatensieonFriday, 30 January 2026, as part of Kouga Local Municipality’s ongoing public lighting andsafety programme forthe 2025/26 financial year. This installation formspart of abroader rollout of 11 high-mast lights planned for year one of the project,with locations identified across various wards based on priority needsfor public security lighting.

Thenewly erectedmastwill complementthe three existing high-mast lights alreadyinstalled in Weston, further enhancing nighttime visibility and contrib-

uting to improved safety and security for residents.

Executive Mayor,Hattingh Bornman, said the project reflects the municipality’s commitment to creating safer communities through targeted infrastructure investment.

“Public lighting plays acritical role in improving safety and giving residents greater peace of mind,” said Bornman.

“This high-mast light, together with others being rolled out across the municipality, demonstrates our focusonresponding to ward-level priorities and ensuring that communities benefit directly frominfra-

structure funding.”

Once installationiscomplete, thehighmast light will become operationalimmediately.

The lighting system operates on an automatic day/night photocell switch, activating at night and switching off again at sunrise without the need for manual intervention.

The high-mast lighting programme is being implemented over atwo-year period and is funded through the Municipal InfrastructureGrant (MIG).

Funding allocated for thefirst year of the project (2025/26) amounts to R7 mil-

lion,with an additional R5 million earmarkedfor thesecondyear(2026/27). Bornman addedthatthe municipality remains committed to equitable service delivery acrossall wards

“Weare using available grantfunding responsibly to improve basic services suchaslighting,whichhas adirect impact on thequality of life of our residents,” he said

The projectextendsbeyondWeston, with additional high-mastlightsplanned in other communities. Positions for seven morehigh-mastlightsinyeartwo of the rolloutare still to be finalised.

Anti-druggrouplaunchedinHumansdorptofightaddiction

RAZAAN PLAATJIES

AN anti-drug community organisation has been established in Humansdorp in response to the growing substance abuse crisis affecting young people, familiesand businesses across Kouga and the wider Sarah Baartman District.

The group, called Touch Your Dream, was founded in December 2025 and is led by communityactivist, CarvinJaars, who has more than 25 years’ experienceinyouth development and communityoutreach

Jaars, arenal patientwith Chronic Kidney Failure at Life Renal Unit in Jeffreys Bay, has adeep desire to share his lifeexperience.

He explained thathis decision to start the initiative was driven by the increasing number of distress calls he received from households dealing with drugabuse, as wellaswarning signsemerging from schools, theNational Prosecuting Authority, andlocal businesses.

“I was inspiredtostart this anti-drug group because of the massive impact of drug abuse calls Iprivately received from households in Kouga and Kou-Kamma, as well as conflict indicators from schools and theNational Prosecuting Authority involving children and youth in conflict

with the law,” said Jaars.

“Businesses aresuffering because of substanceabusers and employees strugglingwith addiction, and there is aseriouslack of support and resourcesfor people battling addiction.”

Touch Your Dream's visionistakingpossession of their community's future. Their motto is to remain unique, humble, simple, and friendly, andtheirmissionistoprovide real help.

The organisationfocuses on substanceabuse preventionand support programmesthroughcommunity outreachtoaddicts and parents affected by lovedones in addiction.

Jaarssaidthe organisation’s approach is notcentred on condemning alcohol or drugs, butrather on showing communities that alternative waysofliving are possible.

“Some people choosealcohol and drugsasacoping mechanism, while otherschoose alternative paths. Thereare other options, suchasreviving dreams and visions, goals that have subsided andhopes thathave died. Thatiswhy ourprogramme is calledTouch Your Dream,”hesaid.

The organisation offers arange of activities andsupport initiatives, including parents’ WhatsApp support groups for immediate assistance, addict and ex-offender support pro-

grammes such as Celebrate Recovery, community-based recovery initiatives, school holiday programmes, recreational and active learning activities, substance abuse awareness campaigns, rehabilitationsupport and referrals, and therapeuticrestorationprogrammes.

Thegroup currently consists of 16 members, including Jaars, with assistance from Lesa Schoeman and staff from the Oyster Bay Healing Clinic.Additional members include Ellioneace Lucas, Joabin Saffier, Gavin Didloft, Danelle Katra, Baxolele Buqa, Abigail Klaasen, Rozelle Bantom, Naqesa Rollison, John-Lee Janse, Shauné Bruiners, Celestie Sebia,Owen Hetjies, Rayzeen Janse, Rochelle Lessing and Allison Louwskitter.

According to Jaars, the state of drug abuse among young people in Humansdorphas worsened significantly over the past few years.

“The drug problem in Humansdorp has tripled since2018, and the backlog of drug-related cases has reached adead end,” said Jaars.

“Rehabilitation waiting lists run until 2027 or 2028, and people approach me daily when they cannot find help through government entities. The substance abuse situation in Kouga and the Sarah Baartman District is devastating. It is an epidemic.”

Jaarsfurther saidthat children are becoming involved in drugs at increasingly younger ages.

“We are currently dealing with a case where amother’s sonis10years old and has been struggling with drugssince the age of eight. Shehas been trying to get help for two years,” said Jaars

He believes the situation has contributed to abroader decline in safety and moralvalues in the region.

One of theorganisation’s corestrategies is building relationships with stakeholders,sectors, entities and communitiestoensuremeaningful and sustainable assistance.

Jaarssaidthat as partoftheirapproach, they do not promise more than they can deliver

He addedthat the group never condemns thoseseeking assistance and remains approachable at all times.

Despite their commitment to assisting those in need, Jaarssaidthe organisation faces significant challenges, including alack of resources

He said they currently have no transport to reach farmproperties or other townstorun therapeutic restorationprogrammes

Jaarsfurther saidthat long rehabilitationwaiting lists and the high cost of treatment leave many community members without access to help.

He also emphasisedthe urgent

need for asafe houseorrestoration property in Humansdorp, as well as administrative equipment, sporting and recreational tools, and access to afixedvenue in Kouga. Looking ahead, Jaarshopes to expand the project beyond Humansdorp.

“My goal is to produce adocumentary on this project, grow it into other communities in the SarahBaartman District, establish asubstance abuse divisionwithin municipalities,and eventually subcontract our project to the government to steer substance abuseawareness countrywide,” said Jaars.

He has also called on local businesses to supportthe initiative.

For meetings, assistance or collaboration, the group can be contacted viaDie Humansdorpse Landbou KorporasieSocial Employment Fund (SEF) programme and Humansdorp Correctional Services,which are community partners of the project.

“We aredeeply grateful and will always be indebted to the DieHumansdorpseLandbou KorporasieSEF and HumansdorpCorrectional Services They aretruly our stepping stones towards agreater visiontosupport our communities,” said Jaars.

For moreinformation, contact CarvinJaarsat071 216 4069 or emailCarvinjaars063@gmail.com or Touchyourdream81@gmail.com.

Kougastrengthenscommunitysafetywithnewstand-alonedirectorate

RAZAAN PLAATJIES

ON 29 January,Kouga Council supported the establishment of astandaloneSafety and Security Directorate, following aMotion tabledbythe Democratic Alliance Caucus on the same day.

ExecutiveMayor of Kouga Municipality, Hattingh Bornman, said that this decision is adirect response to growing concernsaroundcommunity safety,ascrime and security challenges continuetoincreaseacross South Africa.

“Residents deserve to feel safein their neighbourhoods, schools, businesses, and public spaces, andlocal government must play its part in ensuring communities are protected and supported,” said Bornman.

While policing is not aprimary constitutional function of local government, he said that the realityon the ground is that communitiesincreasingly rely on municipalitiesfor decisive leadershipand rapidaction during emergencies

Bornman said that the ognised that placing safe rity within thebroader Services Directorate had

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municipality’sabilitytorespond as quickly as possible acrossKouga, as it competes with other service delivery priorities. “A dedicated directorate will strengthen accountability, improve coordination, and ensurefaster decision-makingincritical situations,” said Bornman.

The establishment of thedirectorateis expectedto:

• Strengthen rapid response andaccountabilityacrossKouga

• Improvecoordination with SAPS,provincial and locallaw enforcement,and disaster managementstructures

Demonstrateproactive, responsible governancethat putsresidentsfirst.

Bornman said that he had mandatedMunicipal Manager Charldu Plessis toimplement the restructuring processin compliance with all relevant legislation

He said that arevised municipal organogram will be submitted to Council in due course.

safety and security needs.

In addition to Kouga’s latest innovation,she saidthat the municipalitymakes use of high-tech drones to fightcrime and operates astate-ofthe-artIncident CommandCentrein Humansdorp.

“The command centre has the capacitytomonitor more than 300 cameras, with municipal and private securitycameras feedinginto the system. Varioussocial media and community messaging groups are

nicipality also uses the groundbreaking URSafe SA app, allowingresidents to dial emergency services via voice command with geo-located response, and operates the “Boots on the Ground” project, featuring 18 retired police andsafety experts.

Knoetze said that Kouga’s adopted Community SafetyPlan entails awhole-of-society approach working in collaboration with

stakeholders such as the SAPS, agricultural and civic rightsorganisations, municipal departments, emergency services, the NSRI, private securitycompanies, businesses, schools, and charities.

“The KougaMunicipality is committed to community safety and is well on itsway towards becoming the safest municipality in SouthAfrica,”said Knoetze.

KougaMayoralGolfDayret Koug alGolfDayreturns urns

KOUGALocal Municipalityhas extended an open invitation to businesses,organisations and golf enthusiaststotakepartin the Annual MayoralGolfDay,set to take place on Friday,17April 2026,at the world-classStFrancis Links in St Francis Bay–namedSouth Africa’s Best Golf Course for2025 by the 12th Annual WorldGolf Awards.

More than just aday on the greens the prestigiousevent is hosted in supportofthe MayoralFund –a lifeline thatcontinues to bring hope, relief and opportunitytoresi-

dentsacrossthe Kougaregion.

The MayoralFund supports awide rangeofdeserving causes within the Kougacommunity.

It providesassistancetoNGOsimplementingupliftmentinitiatives, as well as to young people with exceptional potentialwho have been selectedto representtheir schools at district, provincial, and national platforms butlackthe financial means fortraveloressential equipment.

In addition, the fund extends support towardstertiary studies, ensuringthataccesstoopportunityis notlimited by circumstance.

KougaExecutiveMayor,Hattingh Bornman, said it is anticipated that the MayoralGolf Daywill grow into one of themunicipality’smost impactful and sustainable fundraising initiatives.

“This eventisabout more than golf –itisabout people,” said Bornman. “Every contributionmadeon the daytranslatesintorealsupport forfamilies in crisis, young achieverswithbig dreams, and organisations thatworktirelessly to uplift our communities. Through the MayoralFund, we areable to respond with compassion and purpose whereitisneeded most

“Weare deeply grateful to our sponsorsand participants who, year after year partner with us to makeatangible difference. Together,weare investing in the futureof Kouga,” Bornman said

Theevent will be played in a2-ball better ball format. Participants can enterata cost of R1 250per person or R5 000 perfour-ball team.

Theentry feeincludesparticipation in theofficial competition, ashared golf cart,aswell as the prize-giving ceremony and dinner

Setagainst thestunning backdrop of St Francis Links, one of the event’sproud sponsors, theday promisesanoutstanding golfing experiencewhile supporting acause thattrulymakes adifference. Businesses and organisations are invitedtoenter teams or join as sponsors, helping to ensurethat the MayoralFund continuesits vitalworkintransforming lives.

Formoreinfoortoenter,contact:

MoniqueBasson

Media and Communication Manager

KougaLocal Municipality

Tel: 082219 9169

Email: mbasson@kouga.gov.za

KougaLocal Municipalitylooks forwardtowelcoming participantsand partnerstothe 2026

KougaMayoral Golf Day, where sport, generosityand community upliftmentcometogether on oneunforgettableday.

CommunityeventraisesR80,000forStFrancisHospice

RAZAAN PLAATJIES

THE Rotary Club of St Francis and St Francis Tourism’s Amazing Raceevent, proudly sponsored by Dirk Ellis Motors, has delivered aremarkable fundraising triumph, raising R80,000 for St Francis Hospice on 7Decemberatanevent filled with community spirit and competitive fun.

At least 25 teams took part in the annual AmazingRace, dashingthrough town solving clues, tackling activities, and scoring points at secret locations throughout St Francis.

Event organiser, Errol Burman, said they had afantastic Amazing Raceevent.

“The enthusiasm and competitive spirit of all 25 teams were incredible to witness. Whatmade it even morespecial was seeing the community come together for such an important cause,” said Burman

The event raised R60,000 throughteam participation,with the motor dealership adding an additionalR20,000 donation to bring the final total to R80,000. After an action-packed morning

of challenges, TeamSlamDunk claimed the titleof2025 Champions,while several other teams were recognisedfor their efforts.

The Amazing Race format saw

teams of four per carcompeting in athrilling race through town, with each team receiving apassport and theirfirst clue before embarking on the challenge.

Participants solved clues, drove to mystery venues, completed activities, and scored points at each location before racing to the finish line.

All funds raised have gone directly to St Francis Hospice, supporting compassionate care services in the St Francis community.

Burman expressed gratitude to all participants and sponsors who made the event possible.

“A heartfelt thank you to all our sponsorsand every team who took part,” said Burman.

“Your energy, teamwork, and community spiritmade the day unforgettable, all while supportingatruly important cause.”

Sister Ingrid Williams from St FrancisHospice said that, as always, they aresograteful for all the wonderful supportthey have received from RotaryStFrancis and Dirk EllisVolkswagen.

“It is because of their ongoing commitment that we areable to bringcareand comfort to many people in the Kouga area who are sufferingall the consequences of life-limiting illness,”said Williams.

Shesaidthat as anon-profit organisation, they rely solely on the supportoforganisations like Rotarytocome alongside them.

“Thank you all againfor awonderful event and for all you do in the Kouga community.”

WHEN Deputy Fire Chief Marlin Sodien and Firefighter Vincent Walters take their places at the fires during the upcoming Potjiekos Fun Day competition, it will be more than just acookingcontest; it willbeacelebrationofteamwork, community, and afriendly rivalryforged in the fire service For Sodien, the decisiontoenter thecompetition is rooted in building strong teams beyond emergen-

cy call-outs.

“As Deputy Chieffor Coastal Fire Services, Iamconstantly creatingplatforms for firefighters that encourage team building and interaction outsidethe workenvironment,” said Sodien.

“Our internalpotjiekos competition between shifts was agreat success, competitive,fun, and rewarding, so taking it into the community feltlikethe rightnext

step.”

The idea gained extraspice when afamiliar rivalry resurfaced.

“We often do school demonstrations,and when Isaw this initiative,Iimmediately went for it,” saidSodien.

“Walters placedsecond in our last potjiekos competition and didn’t accept the defeat very well. This is now apublic rematch between number one and number

twotofinally settle the score.”

Adishwithheartandascoretosettle

For Walters, thiscompetition is personal,and proudly so. He said that hispotjiekos carries both historyand heart.

“Mydish is inspired by my father,” said Walters.

“It reflects talent, character, and lots of flavour. This potjie tells a story.”

Andwhile the atmosphere remains friendly, Walters makes no secret of his competitive drive.

“Of course Iwant to prove myself,” he said with agrin.

“Thisisbig for me. I’mout for revenge because the Deputy Chief beat me at our last fire department potjiekos competition.”

If the judges’ verdict goes his way, Walters already knows exactly how he wants his victory recognised.

“If Iwin, Iwant my Chief to tell allthe firefighters that Iamthe best, thatI’m the potjiekos king,” he laughed.

Teamwork from the firegroundtothe pot

The skills that save lives everyday are the same ones being broughttothe potjie fires.

“Teamwork is everything,” said Sodien.

“The meat may be supplied, but everything else comes down to preparation, the wood, firelighters, vegetables, spices and planning. Just like on the fireground, you must ensure your pot has everything it needs to succeed.”

Both Sodien and Walters will act as chefs, supported by theirchosen teams.

When it comes to seasoning, however,responsibility restsfirmly withthe chefs themselves.

“Spicesare solely the chef’s responsibility,”said Sodien

“That’s wherecompetitions are wonorlost.”

Does firefighting pressure offer an edge?

“Firefighters have aspecial DNA,” Sodien reflects.

“We know when pressure must appear andwhen it must disappear. When others run away from

danger, we run towards it.That instinct,toact quickly, accurately, and decisively, stays with you."

Potjieonfire

The team is entering the curry potjiekos category, with Sodien drawing on arecipe taught to him by an Indian friend from Richards Bay.

“A winning potjiekos comes down to preparation, the right spices and creativity,” said Sodien.

If theirdish had aname, it would be ‘Potjie on Fire’, afitting title for firefighters bringing theirpassion to the pot.

While Sodien describes himself as laid-back, he makes it clear he’s ready for the challenge.

“I enjoy competition,” said Sodien. “And I’ll make sure Vincent really earns that title if he wants it.”

Morethanacompetition

Beyond the banter and rivalry, the deeper purpose remains community connection.

“Firefighters serve the community,” said Sodien.

“Eventslikethis show that we are ordinary people too, part of the same community we protect every day. But when the bells ring, and we put on our gear, everything changes.”

He encourages residentstocome out and support the event.

“Value your firefighters. When we’reonthe firing line, anything can happen, and we do it in service of the community,” said Sodien. If victory comes theirway, he sums it up simply, “We plan together, we wintogether, and we celebrate together.”

And when faced with the ultimate question, fight afire with no water or cook apotjie with no spices, the answer is immediate: “Fight afire with no water,” he says. “That can sometimes be done. But apotjie with no spices? Never.”

The Potjiekos Competition takes place on Saturday, 7February at 09:00 at Pharos School in Jeffreys Bay.

For more information, send an email to marendaventer@gmail. com.

AHEARTWARMINGChristmas

Lights Donation Campaignhas raised R20 180.20 for aJeffreys Baychildren’s haven, demonstrating the powerofcommunity spirit and collective action in supporting vulnerable children.

Kouga Local Municipality, through the Office of the Executive Mayor and its Special Programmes Unit (SPU), led the festive initiative in partnership with CC Prints and Fountains Mall to support 7th Heaven Children’s Haven, aregistered non-profitorganisationthat has providedcare andasafe haven to neglected and abusedchildren for more than two decades.

The campaign, inspired by Executive Mayor HattinghBornman’s passionfor giving back, culminated in ameaningfulearly Christmas celebration and chequehandover to the organisation.

The contribution willassist the Haven in continuing its vital work of providing asecure,nurturing environmentfor neglected and abused children.

Bornmancommendedboth the

organisation and the broader community fortheir compassion andwillingness to uplift others

“Itgives megreat pride to know that within ourcommunity, there are unsung servants and heroines whodoextraordinary work in caringfor neglected and abused children.Thisact of kindnessis atruetestament to the humility andcompassion of our people, whoare alwayswilling to go the extramile toupliftothers,”said

Bornman

Founded in 2002byNelly Senong,7th Heaven Children’s Haven has, for morethan twodecades, provided shelter,care and hope to childrenwithnowhere elsetoturn.

Senong, who relocated to Jeffreys Bayafter feeling adeep callingto serve vulnerable children, hasdevoted her life to restoring dignity, confidenceand asenseof belongingtothose placed in her care

RaisedinJohannesburg and Rustenburg, she attended aChristian school where she continually sought guidanceabout her life’s purpose.

“I thought that God wascalling

me to work in Rwandawhen I sawthe warand the circumstances of the childrenontelevision,” sherecalled.

“But it was not meant to be. WhileIwas teaching at aChristian school,myalarm clock radio –tuned to Radio Pulpit –woke me up. Alady from Jeffreys Bay was speaking on the programme Ibelieve the Lord woke me up and showed me the direction to go. Ipacked my bags and decided to try it for three months.Iam still here24yearslater. This is my love story.”

Senong secured the haven’s first home at 7Koraal Street, where sheinitially livedwith12boys whohad previouslylivedonthe streets.

“In 2008, Ireceivedmyfirst baby at the haven, and from then on, the babieskeptcoming, brought by social workers. Today, we care for 16 childrenbetween the ages of twoand 20. The 20-year-old is currentlyinmatric,” she said.

“I did not give birth to these children, butthey feel like my own.”

Senong expressed heartfeltgratitudetoKouga Local Municipali-

ty and the donors who contributed to the campaign.

“This time of the year comes withmany needs. The donation means agreat deal to us. We are trulyblessed to have been chosen,” she said.

Sheadded that the needs of the haven remain extensive.

“Many of thesechildren have experienced severe trauma and struggle to cope in mainstream schooling. They attend private schoolswhere class sizes are smaller, and support is more personalised. We urgently need sponsors to ensure they receive the opportunities in life that they deserve.

“They did not choose to be born into these circumstances. They deserve to be loved. God has a plan for theirlives.”

Through the municipality-led initiative, community members and visitors were encouraged to contribute throughout the festive season, demonstrating the powerfulimpact of collective action.

Additional support from Oasis Water in Jeffreys Bay further strengthened the campaign’s reach and success.

At the cheque handover ceremony, Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) Reinhardt Foleycommended all stakeholders for their roleinensuring the sustainability of the organisation.

“It is always heartening to see communities coming together for acommon purpose. This selfless gesture will go along way in helping to keep the doors of 7th Heaven open, and it certainly does not go unnoticed,”said Foley.

The campaign brought together awide network of partners, including Fountains Mall, Kouga Tourism, CC Prints, Ladies’ Lighthouse, Apex Synergy, and Kouga Local Municipality, reinforcing the municipality’sapproach of building strong partnerships to address social challenges.

Marie Collins from CC Prints expressed her appreciation to Kouga Local Municipalityand the Office of the Executive Mayor for theirleadership and collaboration, emphasising that partnerships between government, business and the community are essential in creating lasting, meaningful change for vulnerable children.

Oud-bendelidstigkrieketklubopPellsrus

HANNES SCHOEMAN

JOAHN Cairncross, ’n jong manwat eers met bendes en verkeerde vriendedeurmekaar was, is besigomsyeie krieketklubopPellsrus te stig.

“Die klub se naam sal die Pellsrus Warriors wees. Ja, dis korrek, Pellsrus gaan sy eiekrieketklub kry,”sêhyopgewonde.

“Ek moes ’n besluit maak om my lewe drasties om te keer.En krieket was my roeping.

“Ditwas altyd in my agterkop datbeter dinge in die lewe op mywag,” sê hy.

Joahn het in die Pellsrus-gemeenskap groot geword.

“Ek was minder bevoorreg, maar die passie van sport het altyd binne in my gebrand

“Ek en my ouer boetie hetaltydalmal in ons straat by mekaar gebring sodat ons krieket kon speel.

“Ek het ook in ’n huis groot geword waar die liefdevir sport groot was.

“In 2024 het ek ’n groep spelers

ontmoet en by dieJayBay-krieketklub aangesluit

“Dit was vir my ’n groot voorreg ombydie klub te kon aansluit en is vanaf dag een met ope arms verwelkom.Dit het my baie goed laat voel.

“Ekhet altyd geweet onsbenodig iemand in ons gemeenskap wat sport na ons toe kan bring en almal ’n kans kan gee wat die liefde en passie het vir die sport.

“My doel is dus om jonk tot oud aan te moedig om by ons aan te sluit,” sê hy.

Joahn sê hy het reëlings getref met die plaaslike munisipaliteit sodat hulle op Pellsrussesportgronde kan oefen.

“Ek is ook baie dankbaar vir my vriend Ronald Geswint se hulp. Hy het die regtekontakte op die regte plek gehad.

“Ons hetuiteindelik goedkeuring gekry en oefenopDinsdae tot Donderdae vanaf 18:00 tot 19:30.

“Enigepersoon watbyons wil aansluit is welkom en kanmy WhatsApp by 060 475 4152 sodat

ons groepsgesprekke kanhê.

“Sodoende kan onsdie jeug meer betrokke kry om die sport te geniet en ’n sukses van hul lewe te maak.

“Daarna mikons om by ’n liga aan te sluit, asookomvriendskaplike wedstryde te reël sodat ons meer blootstelling kankry,” sê Joahn.

“Diedoel is ook om kompetisie te wees vir al die ander spanne rondom ons soos Humansdorp, Hankey asook JayBay-krieketklub.

“Maar ek sal ook graag wil sien dat die Warriors in die OP se derde liga speel sodat die ouens die gevoel van ligakrieket kan kry.

“Ek glo die Warriors sal groot aftrek krymet areas soos Ocean View, Mandela Bay, Tokyo Sexwale en Ebumnyameni rondom Pellsrus. Dit is dus opwindende tye wat voorlê.

“Intussen oefen ek steeds by my huidige klub, JayBay, om fiks te word en ondervinding op te doen,”sêhy.

CommunityChestopens non-profitregistration

THE Community Chest of theEastern Cape has announced an invitation for fully compliant non-profit organisations to register as beneficiaries on theirdatabase.

The initiative aims to expand the organisation's commitment and footprintbystrengtheningcommunity impact

The opportunityisavailable to organisations operating in Gqeberha, Kariega, Despatch, Humansdorp, Jeffreys Bay, St. Francis Bay and Hankey.

Eligibleorganisations mustmeetthe following minimum criteria and submit the required supportingdocumentation:

• Registerednon-profitorganisation(NPO) certificate

Operational fortwo (2)years or longer

• Organisational constitution

• Latestaudited financials

Latestannual report

• Minutes of latest AGM

• Full listand contactinformation of current board members

• Detailed profileofyourorganisation

TheCommunity Chest has indicated they expect ahigh volume of responses and will not be accepting telephone calls or visits to their office regarding this matter.

Importantconditionsapplytotheregistrationprocess:

1. Assistancetoorganisationsremainssubjecttofunding availability

2. Registration on the databasedoesnot guarantee assistance

3. Theinvitationexcludesbeneficiariesalreadylistedon theirdatabase

Allsubmissions must be e-mailed to sandya@cchestpe.org.za and must reachthe organisation on or before the end of February 2026

Supportprogrammeexpandswithdonations

The Nation Builders Prophetic Apostolic Movementand Service Centre in Humansdorp recently receiveda generous donation of branded T-shirts fromDedrePotgieterofJohannesburg. The organisation’sHope and Healing Programmeisexpanding this year to reachmore seniors, while training additional care workerstobetter serve thecommunity.Recent programmeactivities included distributing food parcelsand mobilityaids to seniors facing mobilitychallenges, with one Arcadia residentreceiving adonatedwalking frame.

’nBruis-dagvirdieEGKerk

BIETJIE meer as 30 jaar geledehet die Evangelies-Gereformeerde Kerk met’naantal lidmate ’n gemeentevan die kerk op Humansdorp gestigenbinne enkele jare huleie kerkgebou daar ingewy

Die langenmoedigepad vandie Kerk in die Jeffreysbaai/Humansdorp-omgewinghet pas ’n besonderemylpaal bereikmet die feestelike ingebruikneemvan hul eie kerkgebouinAD Keetweg 23, Wavecrest, Jeffreysbaai

kerkgebou was in verlede jaar genootskap

Die kerkgebouwas vroeër in besit van die Hervormde Kerk verledejaar by dié genootsk gekoop.

By die toewyding het die gemeente ook ’n ander mylpaal bereik deur tot selfstandig-funksionerende gemeente verklaar te word nadat dit lank onder die kerk se Evangelisasie- en Uitbreidingkommisie gefungeer het.

Kerk, Dr. toewyding gebplaas-

Die Moderatorvan die EG Kerk,Dr. André Bester, het die toewyding van die geb ou waargeneem nadat die like leraar van die afgelope byna ses jaar, Ds. Ruan van Vuuren, die gedenksteenonthul het.

is,indie pastorie se dubbelmotorhuisdienste gehou is, die Metodistekerk daar gebruik is. totdie eerstekerkgebou in die 1990’sopHumansdorp ingewy is.

Ds Ruanvan Vuuren. FOTO:VERSKAF

Sowat twintig predikante van die Kerk, o.m. kommissielede watdie aankoop vandie kerkgebou en die hele proses kerklik gehanteer het, was teenwoordig.

Saam met hulle het ’n groot getal lidmate, besoekers en genooide gaste die vreugdevolle geleentheid beleef.

’n Besondere gees van dankbaarheidteenoor Godengroot vreugde het die dag gekenmerk en dit was asof selfs die branders ekstra vrolik en uitbundig gebruis en gebreek het’npaar honderd meter daarvandaan!

Die geskiedenispad van die gemeente oordie dekadesheen, vanaf die eerste predikant, Ds Jannie Olivier, tot by Saterdag se toewyding, is gehanteer.

Daar was ’n tydperk toe ’n saaltjiegehuur

op die twee tot dit later algeheel na Jeffreysbaai geskuif die Humansdorp verhuur is. Oor baie is etlike geriewe gehuur vir kerk-

kraad oorweeg is..

mansdorp verkoop, wat koopproses stukrag gegee

Mettertyd het die lidmaatgetalle vandié wat op Jeffreysbaai woon dié van Humansdorp verbygesteek en is ’n emosioneel moeilike besluit geneem datdie gemeente se logiese toekomspad is oorskuif na Jeffreysbaai. Vir ’n tyd lank is kerkdienste beurtelings op die twee dorpe gehou tot dit later na Jeffreysbaai geskuif kerkgebou op Humansrp verhuur is. Oor baie jare is etlike geriewe gehuur vir kerkdienste, onder meer die kerkgebou vandie Hervormde Kerk, terwyl erf koop en bouopJeffreysbaai deur die kerkraad oorweeg is. Terselfdertyd ook was die kerkgebou op Humansdorpverkoop, wat koopproses stukrag gegee

Van Vuuren het intussen deel

VanVuuren het intussen deel vanJeffreysbaai se gemeenskap geword en is hy ook, buiten die groeiende gemeente se take, betrokke bydie gemeenskapenook by ’n program vir leerders by die Hoërskool NicoMalan

“Ons is saam met diekerkraad dankbaar oor allesenstaan verstomoor hoe die Here dinge in plek laat valhet. Ons is baie opgewonde oor die pad vorentoeinhierdie spesiale plekmet sy spesiale mense, waar onskan arbei,” het hy gesê.

Intussen word’nnuwe kleuterskool,We LoveKids, ook in die kerk se saaltjiebedryf op weeksdae

Eredienste word elke Sondag om 09:00 en 17:30 gehou en Sondagskool en kategete is direknaoggenddienste.

Ruan van Vuuren kan gekontak word op 084 584 9394. -JASPERSCHELLINGERHOUT

bevestigofenige vandie geadverteerde dienste of produkte veilig is vir gebruik of die verlangde uitwerking of resultaat sal hê nie Lesers word gewaarsku om die adverteerder se getuigskrifte deeglik te oorweeg en na te gaan EP MediaenNovus Media aanvaar hoegenaamd geen aanspreeklikheid ten opsigtevan enige vandie geadverteerde dienste of goedere nie 10X1DISCLA-KG211124

each other, inrespect of certainERF 1684 JEFFREYS BAY, IN THEKOUGA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY,DIVISION OF HUMANSDORP,PROVINCE OF EASTERN CAPE which hasbeenlostor destroyed. Allinterested persons having objection tothe issue of such copy arehereby required to lodge the samein writingwith theRegistrar of Deed at EasternCape:Qonce withintwo weeks from the dateofpublication of this notice

Datedat JEFFREYS BAYthis 30thday of SEPTEMBER 2025.

Applicants: BW &E Ganzevoort Unit1 BlaaukransOffice Park BlaaukransStreet Jeffreys Bay 6330 Tel. 042293 3333

E-mail: lieze@ pieterseinc.com

DORP PROVINCE EASTERN CAPEwhich has beenlost or destroyed.

All persons having objection to theissue of such copy are hereby required to lodgethe sameinwriting with the REGISTRAR OF DEEDS: EASTERNCAPEatQONCE within2 (Two) weeks after the date of the publication of this notice DATED at JEFFREYS BAY this dayofJANUARY2026.

Applicant: PIETERSE ATTORNEYS INCORPORATED BlaaukransOffice Park Unit 1 Blaaukrans Street Jeffreys Bay 6330 Tel. 042293 3333 E-mail. johrita@ pieterseinc.com Ref:JP/J235

JongHumansdorp-stermaakhaarmerkinvrouerugby

OP net 17-jarige ouderdom is Nadelean Leeuwskieter, ’n inwoner van Mooi Uitsig in Humansdorp, reeds besig om haar naammet trots in die wêreld van vrouerugbytevestig.

Hierdie jong matrikulant van Humansdorp Senior Sekondêre Skool (HSS) bewys datdeursettingsvermoë, harde werken geloofinjouself enige droom moontlik kan maak.

Nadelean,of“Kleintjie” soos haar spanmaats haar ken, hethaar hoërskoolloopbaanreeds op 13-jarige ouderdom by HSS begin waar sy onmiddelikbegin rugby speel het

Haar natuurlike talent en vasberadenheid het veroorsaak dat sy reeds in dieselfde jaar opgeneem is in die Oos-Provinsie (OP) o.16 meisiesrugbyspan, ’n prestasie wat min spelers op so ’n jong ouderdom bereik.

Sy het haar plek in dié span vir drie opeenvolgende jare behou.

Haar uitstaande prestasies op en van die veld is beloon toe sy in 2024 en 2025 aangewys is as Sportvrouvan die Jaar by

JudoinKouga vinniguitdie blokke

HANNES SCHOEMAN

JUDO in die Kouga-streek was vinnig uit dieblokke toe die skole twee weke gelede weer heropen is ná die feesgety.

Die plaaslike guru Matt Spear het die geleentheid aangegryp om by verskillende voorskoolse inrigtings en laerskole aante doenomdemonstrasies te lewer.

Hy sê dié poging was ’n groot sukses en sal opgevolg wordmet nóg vertonings. Die jonges het aandagtig toegekyk en baie geïntereseerdgelyk om aan die sport te kandeelneem.

Spearsêhysien ’n blink toekoms vir die sportindie streek.

Hy sê twee distrikkompetisies wordbinnekort gehou.

Ditsal op 21 Februarie en 21 Maartby die SarahBaartman Judovereniging gehouword.

’n Ander groot aansporing vir plaaslike judoka is dat die Suid-Afrikaanse kampioenskappe na vyf jaar weer indie Baai gehou sal word. Dit word van 5tot 11 Julie gehou.

Disnog niebekend waar dit aangebied salword nie, maar volgens Spear sal kindersvan Jeffreysbaai enPatensieaan dienasionale kampioenskappe deelneem. Hy hoop om sowat 15 kinders in te skryf

HSS, ’n bewys van haar konsekwentheid, leierskapentoewyding.

In 2025het Nadelean nog ’n mylpaal bereik toe sy gekies is virdie OP o.18 meisiesrugbyspan, asook virdie SA Rugby Girls Development Squad.

Tydens dieOPo.18 Youth Week-toernooi het sy weereens uitgestaan, wat daartoe gelei het dat sy opgeneem is in die SA o.18 VroueSpringbokspan,’n droom wat vir baie jongspelers onbereikbaar bly.

Wat Nadelean se storie egter nóg meer inspirerend maak, is haar lewenspad buite dierugbyveld

Sy is deur ’n enkelouer grootgemaak en het ten spyte van uitdagende omstandighede metvasberadenheidendissipline gematrikuleer met ’n B-simbool wat haar toelating tot Universiteit gee.

Haar akademieseensportiewe sukses getuig van’njong vrou wat nie deur haar omstandighede gedefinieer word nie, maar deur haar karakter.

Nadelean is tans aanvaar by Nelson Mandela Universiteit (NMU) en koester grootdrome om haar rugbyloopbaan tot nog hoër hoogtes te neem.

KougaSagessenuwebestuur

nuwe bestuur aandie spitsvan sake by Kouga SAGESgholf, is onlangsverkies. Agter staan Ewald de Beer (Tesourier) en Wynand du Plessis.(Sekretaris). Voor sitCecile vanRie en Celeste Scheepers (Voorsitter). Kouga Sagesbiedvanjaar twee belangriketoernooie aan. FOTO: GERRIEODENDAAL

LaerskoolJeffreysbaaiverwelkomnuweonderwysers

DieLaerskool Jeffreysbaai hetvier nuwe onderwysers en vier nuwestudenteverwelkom en sienuit om diepad vorentoe saam methulle te stap

DIARY| DAGBOEK

Nifty FiftiesPlus Club: The Nifty Fifties PlusClub forseniors, Jeffreys Bay, will have itsfirst club meeting for2026on Friday, 6February,at 09:30,atthe MethodistChurch oppositethe Caravan Park in Da Gama Road. The entranceisat2 Petunia Street.Door feeofR10.Qualify forluckydrawprizes and listentoa guestspeaker.Contact083 2770088for moreinfo. Alzheimersondersteuningsgroep: Die groep se eerste byeenkoms vir die jaar sal op Dinsdag, 10 Februarie om 15:00 in die Eedenglen-saal plaasvind. Almal is welkom. Vir navrae,kontak Anna-Marie Jacobsby082 8746328 of Marietjie Boonzaaier by 084409 3119 Milkwood SaturdayMarket: Don't missthe next market on 14 February from 09:00 to 13:00(weather permitting). Eight yearslater,theyare still locatedonthe GLA road next to the Fountains Mall. Hand-made crafts, jewellery,décor items,clothing,food, flowers, bottledproducts, second-hand items and moreare sold.Entry is free The market willalsotakeplace on 28 February.

Eb FloBlommeklub: Die klub van Jeffreysbaai se eerste algemene vergadering sal op 18 Februarie om 09:30 by Seashells plaasvind. LesBrent vanSt Francis sal ’n demonstrasie leweroor 'Beautywithin Reach'. Vir navrae,kontak die voorsitter, AnitaJordaan, by 072533 7725

AstonBay Market: Don'tmissthe marketatthe AstonBay CommunityHallon 28 Februaryfrom09:00 to 15:00 JeffreysBay Car Boot Sale: Join the bargain hunt in Da Gama Road, opposite the caravanpark, from 08:00 to 13:00 on 28 February. The entranceisat2 Petunia Street.ContactCorine at 082 9222260

Leon Kluge: Moenie die aanbieding vir die Jeffreysbaai Tuinbouklub op 3Maart om 17:30 vir 18:00bydie NG Kerk Kompleks-Kampusmisloop nie.Die koste is R250 per persoon, onthaal ingesluit Alle natuur-enomgewingsliefhebbersis welkom! Vir navrae en kaartjies, kontak 082332 2650

Sendyour Diary entriesto kougaexpress@novusmedia.co. za The deadline forentriesison Tuesdays at 14:00.Entriesmay be in English or Afrikaans