Issuu

community news

MTHATHA

media

For advertising contact Bubele on

063 033 7810 or 047 050 4430 email Bubele.tyani@novusmedia.co.za 49 Leeds Street • 1st ﬂoor • Mthatha • 5100

70 000 C OPIES WEEKLY

5X2FILLER-TE030425

Thursday August 13, 2026 | 047 050 4430 | Facebook: Mthatha Express | mthathaexpress@novusmedia.co.za

Singer chases continental crown Mbali Mngandi (33), songwriter, singer, instrumentalist and radio presenter from Mbuqe Extension in Mthatha, has entered the running for being named Best Female Artist of the continent, category #19 at this year’s African Female Artist Awards. The event will be hosted by Sarah Dee Nkala in Zimbabwe. Read more about this home-grown, freshly ground Mthatha songbird on the brink of possible wonders on page 7. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

MthathaExpress

NEWS

13 August 2026

Members of municipal opposition parties and community members marched to Mhlontlo local municipal offices to hand a petition over. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Residents march against mall plan BABALWA NDLANYA COMMUNITY members of the Kumkani Mhlontlo local municipal area in Tsolo, together with municipal opposition parties, marched to the municipal offices to hand a petition over regarding a proposed development the municipality has identified as being conducive to revitalising the town. In the process, another a bone of contention is the proposed demolition of the historic town hall. The provincial organiser of the African Transformation Movement (ATM), Philemon Tywaku said the march was decided on owing to unhappiness about a decision taken by some of the council members. “The decision was taken by eight councillors that the shopping mall must be built on the land of this municipality, which has some offices in Tsolo,” he said. “We are not against the development, but we want it to be done in the right way. They cannot use the municipality land because it has history. There are a lot of land vacancies around Tsolo. For instance, next to Malizo Mphehle Hospital there is land that belongs to Public Works; they can also use it instead of wanting to destroy the history of Tsolo.” United Democratic Movement (UDM) councillor Zakheni Nondaka said the party was also against the decision taken by the municipality that the Town Hall be demolished. “We are not against the development, but we are against the decision they are taking, particularly to demolish a building that in an historic landmark, one that is important for future generations.” The spokesperson for Kumkani Mhlontlo, Mamela Mangcotywa, said the local municipality had noted with concern the circulation of inaccurate and misleading information on

social media regarding the proposed shopping centre development in the Tsolo Business District. She said the municipality wished to assure residents that no decision had been taken that is contrary to the interests of the people of Kumkani Mhlontlo. “The proposed development forms part of the municipality’s strategy to stimulate local economic growth, create employment opportunities, improve service delivery and revitalise the Tsolo CBD. We remain committed to ensuring the project is implemented transparently, lawfully and in the best interests of the community.” She added that the proposed development was expected to: • Create employment opportunities during construction and operation; • Stimulate local economic growth and attract investment; • Modernise the Tsolo CBD through improved infrastructure and a better organised business environment; • Provide space for municipal offices and a one-stop business-environment service centre, improving access to government services. The council’s consideration of the proposed development was guided by responsible governance, sustainable development and the public interest. “All required legislative, planning and regulatory processes will be followed before implementation,” Mangcotywa said. “The proposed development will be aligned with the council-approved master and precinct plans of our towns. Residents are encouraged to rely on the Municipality’s official communication platform for verified information to avoid unnecessary confusion.” She said the municipality remained committed to transparency and would keep residents informed as the project progressed.

WIN R12 000 Enter as many times as you like.

Scan the QR code, answer the questions and stand a chance to win.

One lucky winner will be announced at the end of August.

NM10068000-TE130826 SAMXXX-QK070726

13 August 2026

NEWS

MthathaExpress 3

Hawks recover stolen RAF compensation HAWKS spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana confirmed the Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) Asset Forfeiture Investigation (AFI), working together with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), has secured the recovery of R800 071.17 for a victim who was brutally kidnapped, robbed and unlawfully deprived of his Road Accident Fund (RAF) compensation. The forfeiture order was granted by the Mthatha High Court recently. “The traumatic incident unfolded on the evening of April 12, 2026, when the victim, who was asleep alone at his residence, was awakened by aggressive knocking on his door.” According to reports the perpetrators falsely identified themselves as police officers before forcibly entering the house.

“One of the suspects was allegedly dressed in an official police uniform, deliberately exploiting the authority and trust associated with law enforcement, which led to the victim to opening the door,” said Mhlakuvana. He said the armed suspects allegedly overpowered the victim, confiscated his cellphone, covered his head with a blanket and abducted him in a Volkswagen Polo. Mhlakuvana said he was reportedly transported to the Maqanyeni Forest, where he was subjected to prolonged intimidation and violence. The suspects repeatedly assaulted him with the butt of a firearm until he disclosed the Personal Identification Number (PIN) linked to his bank account. “The ordeal escalated when the victim was taken to an unknown flat, where he

was allegedly forced to authenticate electronic bank transactions,” Mhlakuvana related. “Through coercion and intimidation the perpetrators unlawfully transferred R900 000 from the victim’s account, followed by a further R84 000. “The funds represented compensation that had been lawfully awarded to him by the RAF following a motor-vehicle accident. After holding the victim captive overnight they abandoned him in a valley not far from his home. “A criminal case was subsequently opened and referred to the Hawks’ Asset Forfeiture Investigation for a financial recovery investigation.” He added that the financial investigation identified Lubabalo Mofokeng (40) as a suspect linked to the commission of the offence. Mhlakuvana said evidence gathered by

investigators enabled them to obtain a warrant that led to his arrest. The suspect’s bail application was successfully opposed, and he remained in custody pending the continuation of criminal proceedings. “A meticulous financial investigation enabled investigators to preserve the stolen funds and ultimately secure the forfeiture of proceeds derived from the crime. The recovered amount will now be returned to its rightful owner.” The Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major-General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, praised the investigating teams, stating that the outcome highlighted the indispensable role played by the joint team in depriving criminals of the proceeds of unlawful activities while simultaneously advancing the cause of justice by restoring stolen assets to victims.

Buffalo City Metro strengthens international partnership with Norway MANDLENKOSI MXENGI THE Buffalo City Metro continues to strengthen its diplomatic relations and cooperation with Norway following the recent visit of the ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to South Africa, Anne Beathe Kristiansen, to foster international partnership with the Metro on Tuesday, 4 August. Buffalo City Metro (BCM) and the Kingdom of Norway share a diplomatic relationship focused on sustainable development, gender equality and housing development initiatives. Some of the key areas of cooperation relate to diplomatic relations, social and sustainable growth and social housing development. The social and sustainable growth initiative is aimed at inclusive local community development, social justice and women’s empowerment. The social housing development is a historical partnership which entails knowledge-sharing and cooperation in housing development projects including the Own

Haven Housing Association based in KuGompo City. Welcoming the Norwegian delegation, led by Kristiansen on behalf of the executive mayor Princess Faku, member of the mayoral committee (MMC) and portfolio head for finance Yomelela Tyali, highlighted that the visit reflected a strong relationship between Buffalo City and the Kingdom of Norway and presented an opportunity to strengthen cooperation in advancing gender equality, women’s empowerment and sustainable development. “We are deeply honoured by the visit of the Kingdom of Norway delegation led by Kristiansen and grateful for this opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue on issues that are important not only to our respective institutions, but also to the communities we serve,” said Tyali. Tyali added that the meeting reaffirmed Buffalo City’s commitment to building strong international partnerships that advance inclusive growth, social justice and sustainable development for the benefit of local communities. Tyali often undertakes mayoral duties

such as leading diplomatic and municipal engagements on behalf of the Metro council. After concluding the meeting with the Metro leadership, the Norwegian delegation visited Masimanyane Women’s Rights International girls’ football programme to witness how sport is being used to empower young women in preventing gender-based violence (GBV). With the generous support of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in South Africa, Masimanyane established the girls’ soccer programme to address violence against women and girls (VAWG). The programme goes beyond football by equipping players, coaches, schools and families with the knowledge and skills to challenge harmful social norms, promote gender equality and build safer communities. The programme features 12 soccer teams, all drawn from nearby rural areas and townships. Masimanyane extended its sincere gratitude to the Royal Norwegian Embassy for its continued partnership and investment in girls and young women.

Masimanyane is a non-profit organisation (NPO) based in KuGompo City that provides psychosocial services and counselling to survivors of domestic violence and rape. The NPO also provides training on GBV to communities and community organisations. Back in 2005, Parliament’s portfolio committee on housing undertook a study tour to Norway to gain insight into the policy basis for the social and co-operative housing approach in Norway, the results achieved through the social rental and co-operative housing approach, and how the international social and co-operative housing approaches in Norway relate when compared to the South African context and policy development, among others. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the South African and Norwegian governments. The main objective of the agreement was to develop a co-operative rental housing model for low-income households in South Africa, utilising the Norwegians’ experience and technical support.

Mercedes-Benz SA invests in a future where STEM talent has a pivotal role MERCEDES-Benz South Africa (MBSA) is proud to announce a new collaboration with Kutlwanong Centre for Maths, Science & Technology, a non-profit company (NPC). MBSA has invested R6 million to expand Kutlwanong NPC’s Promaths Programme in kuGompo, Eastern Cape. The programme is designed to enhance learner achievement in Mathematics and Physical Science across township schools, supporting selected Grade 10 and 11 learners from 18 feeder schools in the Buffalo City Metro District. Through a combina-

tion of supplementary academic support, teacher development, career guidance and industry exposure the initiative aims to strengthen educational outcomes and prepare learners for further studies and future opportunities in STEM-related fields. Commenting on the collaboration, Taryn Woodbridge, Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, said: “As a company synonymous with innovation and technology we recognise the importance of STEM education in shaping future opportunities for South Africa’s youth. Through our collaboration with Kutlwanong NPC

The Promaths Programme is designed to enhance learner achievement in Mathematics and Physical Science across township schools, supporting selected Grade 10 and 11 learners in the Buffalo City Metro District. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

we are intentional in our support of learner performance in Mathematics and Physical Science, increasing their exposure to STEM-related pathways. “We are proud to partner with Kutlwanong NPC on this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on learners and their future prospects." Collen Mkhomazi, Head of Education and Acting CEO of Kutlwanong Centre for Maths, Science & Technology NPC, added: “We are excited to welcome Mercedes-Benz South Africa as a strategic partner in our

mission to improve educational outcomes. “Their support enables us to extend the reach of the Promaths Programme, benefiting both learners and educators. Together we will continue to encourage academic excellence and help more young people realise their potential." By combining educational support, teacher development and access to STEM-related learning opportunities, the collaboration between MBSA and Kutlwanong NPC aims to strengthen learner outcomes across participating schools in the Eastern Cape.

MthathaExpress

NEWS

13 August 2026

13/08/2026 - 16/08/2026 • 2 DEALS PER CUSTOMER • WHILE STOCKS LAST MAMA’S Russians Assorted

4kg

Fresh Beef T-Bone / Club / Rump On Bone Steak (Class C)

BOXER Fresh Classic Boerewors

Fresh Bulk Pork Packs (Pre-packed)

Carrots

Potatoes

BUY TWO B

20 2 x 1kg

149

5kg

4kg

SUPREME CHICKEN Leg Quarters with Brine Based Mixture

199

99 5kg

15pcs

99 loose serve per kg

Frozen Chicken Wings

Crumbed / Grilled GO Meal Chicken Bucket (15 Piece)

99 loose serve per kg

Chicken Sizzler / Plain Russian Roll

2 x 2kg

per kg

Frozen Hake

99 7kg

BUY TWO B

Onions

ALBANY Superior / Everyday Sliced Brown Bread

BBUY THREE

39 3 x 700g

99 loose serve per kg

Imitation Cream Ready Made Cake

99 loose serve per kg

8499 5499 per pocket

7kg

Traditional / Chocolate Queen Cakes 10’s

Plain

Chicken

149 9

Butternut Family Pocket

99 each

ALL GOLD Smooth Apricot Jam 900g, BLACK CAT Peanut Butter Assorted 400g & STORK Country Spread 40% Fat Spread Tub 1kg

900g

1kg

BUY TWO B

loose serve per kg

Fresh Ground Beef (Flavoured)

each

DEW DROP Medium Cream Maas

Green Pepper Count Bag

99 each

Large Eggs

BEST COOK French / Chicken Polony

400g

BUY ALL B

99 44 per combo

PRICES VALID AT BOXER EASTERN CAPE STORES ONLY

99 2kg each

Excluding Boxer Cleary Park, Corkwood Square, Gqeberha, Motherwell, Uitenhage, Ziyabuya & Zwide Stores Only

99 30’s

Range May Vary. Prices include VAT where applicable. Boxer will attempt to have sufﬁcient advertised stock available to meet our customers anticipated demand, however if we still run out of stock we will obtain the stock or we will offer you a reasonable alternative. Boxer reserves the right to limit quantities per customer. Boxer takes utmost care to ensure that all promotion leaﬂets are correct. If, however, in the unlikely occurrence of a mistake, we will display a notice in-store with all the correct details. E.&O.E. Terms & Conditions apply. BOXER148354

13 August 2026

MthathaExpress 5

NEWS

13/08/2026 - 16/08/2026 • 2 DEALS PER CUSTOMER • WHILE STOCKS LAST

COCA-COLA Original Taste Soft Drink

BEST COOK Instant Noodles Multipack Assorted 5’s

BOKOMO Weet-Bix Wholegrain Wheat Biscuits

GLEN Tagless Tea Bags

99 900g

BEST COOK Baked Beans

BUY TEN B

150

99 100’s

FATTI’S & MONI’S Macaroni / Spaghetti

ALL GOLD Tomato Sauce 700ml, CROSSE & BLACKWELL Tangy Mayonnaise 750g & BEST COOK Chutney Assorted 460g

750g

BUY TWO B

150

BRUTAL FRUIT Assorted Cans 2 x (6 x 500ml)

BUY TWO B

120

BUY SIX B

39 3 x 500g

6 x 410g

GOLDEN DELIGHT Long Grain White Parboiled Thai Rice 2kg, ITAU Super White Super Maize Meal 2.5kg & SASKO Cake Wheat Flour 2.5kg 2kg 2.5kg

BUY ALL

BUY ANY THREE B

6 x 2L

GOLDEN DELIGHT Premium Grade Long Grain White Parboiled Thai Rice 10kg

150

CASTLE Lite Assorted Cans 2 x (6 x 500ml)

10 x (5 x 65g)

700ml

BUY SIX B

4TH STREET Wine Assorted 5L

ITAU 12.5kg Super White Super Maize Meal

2.5kg

460g

190 SAVANNA Assorted NRB 2x (6 x 500ml)

per combo

PAN Cooking Oil

BUY TWO B

275

PRICES VALID AT SELECTED BOXER LIQUORS STORES ONLY Alcohol Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.

109

BUY ALL

99 10kg

per combo

PAMPERS Active Baby Pants 35’s / 40’s / 48’s / 56’s / Disposable Nappies Value Pack 42’s / 50’s / 58’s / 60’s

LIFEBUOY Bath Soap Assorted

BBUY THREE

PLAYBOY / PLAYGIRL / SHOWER TO SHOWER Roll On Assorted B ANY TWO BUY

750ml

2 x 50ml

3 x 175g

129

99 125ml

12.5kg

99 2 x 2L

750ml

SUNLIGHT Dishwashing Liquid 750ml, DOMESTOS Multipurpose Thick Bleach Cleaner 750ml & HANDY ANDY Multipurpose Cleaning Cream 750ml

SUNLIGHT Laundry Soap

BUY TWO B

36 2 x 500g

SUNLIGHT Hand Washing Powder

3kg

per combo

VASELINE Blue Seal Pure Petroleum Jelly

AQUAFRESH Complete Care Whitening XL Family Pack Toothpaste

per pack

BUY ALL

30 28

750ml

BUY TWO B

99 450ml

TWINSAVER Luxury 2 Ply 200 Sheets Toilet Tissue Rolls 9’s

PRICES VALID AT BOXER EASTERN CAPE STORES ONLY

99 per pack

Excluding Boxer Cleary Park, Corkwood Square, Gqeberha, Motherwell, Uitenhage, Ziyabuya & Zwide Stores Only

99 3kg

MthathaExpress

NEWS

13 August 2026

NEWS

Mthatha singer chases the continental crown BABALWA NDLANYA MBALI Mngandi (33), a songwriter, singer, instrumentalist and radio presenter from Mbuqe Extension in Mthatha, has entered the African Female Artist Awards and is vying for the category #19 award, for Best Female Artist on the continent. The awards will be hosted by Sarah Dee Nkala in Zimbabwe this year. About her journey, Mngandi said her music career started at a very young age, when her family discovered she had talent. She used to sing a lot at home with her family as her audience, so to them her gifts were pretty self-evident. “I also sang in my school’s choir and as a soloist in my church, and a lifelong passion was born. My family on my mother’s side are very gifted when it comes to music; my great-grandmother was a choir conductor, composer and pianist in her early days, and my late aunt was an enthusiastic voical worshipper in church, legacies that have left an indelible impression in my heart.” She said she started pursuing music professionally in 2018 at the Mthatha Art Centre, where

she had the opportunity to learn to play instruments such as the guitar and piano, and to study music production. In 2023, Mngandi started teaching others to play, especially the guitar and piano, while she was still learning music production. “Since I started pursuing music professionally I have been playing on bigger stages such as music festivals. “In March 2026 I also started as a radio presenter at 047 Radio Station, where I have a show called Young Minds, which deals with youth issues. My journey as a music artist continues as I am also teaching myself the violin. All this playing has brought me bigger stages, particularly festivals, Soul Clap Sessions, open mic sessions and unplugged sessions. Musa Maki, also known as Mr Zain, is the one who taught me everything I know about music.” She added that she had worked with the founder of Soul Clap Sessions, Tandeka Vabaza (known as Nkqo), jazztrained South African singer Yolanda Notes, and others. Mngandi has appealed to her supporters to vote for her online at https://bit.ly/3TQRbx4.

Nkush named Coach of the Year ANELE RAZIYA THIS past weekend, North West University Soccer Institute coach Nkululeko “Nkush” Malgas from Ngqamakhwe in Mnquma was delighted to receive the Coach of the Year award for the first time at the North West Sports Awards 2026. This prestigious award follows the great work done by Ngqamakhwe-born Malgas and his technical team as they helped the North West University Soccer Institute to gain promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship (formerly known as the National First Division) from the ABC Motsepe League this year. On Saturday evening (1 August) in the North West province, Nkush was among three coaches who were nominated for the Coach of the Year award, with the winner voted for by supporters in the category. During the awards ceremony, Nkush was announced as the winner in the category, having accumulated more votes than anyone, and he was presented with a beautiful glass trophy. Speaking to Mthatha Express after the event, Nkush said he was very pleased to receive the Coach of the Year award, as the reward shows that they have done great work as a technical team, helping each other throughout the season to secure promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Nkush also praised his young technical team, which was working very hard behind the scenes to ensure that their players are always ready for action. Furthermore, he said the dedication, commitment and determination of his technical team are complementing his work very well, and it was one of the

reasons they received the Coach of the Year award and the Team of the Year award at the North West Sports Awards 2026. After receiving the award, CAF C licence holder Nkush highlighted that they will need to work extra hard as a team, as the recent recognition has brought a lot of attention to them. With the Motsepe Foundation Championship season about to kick off, the North West University Soccer Institute is continuing with its preparations for the league campaign.

NorthWestUniversitySoccerInstitute’s Coach Nkululeko “Nkush” Malgas holding the Coach of the Year award and Team of the Year award after the North West Sports Awards 2026 event on Saturday. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

MthathaExpress

Sport

SPORT

13 August 2026

Top-eight schools tourney returns after six years ANELE RAZIYA

WSU women announce return with back-to-back draws against varsity giants ZAVELA MAKWABE WALTER Sisulu University's women's football team opened Women's Month with a statement, going toe-to-toe with defending champions Wits University in the 2026 FNB Varsity Football tournament at the University of Pretoria. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but the result felt like much more for a team returning to the national stage after an eight-year absence. Early nerves quickly gave way to belief as Walter Sisulu matched the competition's established powers stride for stride. The real story was the brilliance of two Eastern Cape stars. WSU's Angela Tshabalala was crowned Player of the Match for her tireless work in midfield, while captain Okuhle Hotto Mrhulwa made history by netting the tournament's very first goal and taking home the Goal Rush Award. The momentum continued in round two against the University of the Western Cape. It was Lilitha Mweli from Mdeni Village in Qumbu, outside Mthatha, who provided the moment of magic. The second-year ICT student at WSU's Buffalo City Campus stepped up and bent a free-kick into the top corner — a strike she has perfected through countless hours of training. "I truly felt deeply honoured and humbled by the support my people have shown me," Mweli said. "From the moment I left for the tournament to scoring the goal, they've been with me. Even though we drew, their happiness made me feel like we had won."

WSU’s Angela Tshabalala, who was crowned Player of the Match for her tireless work in midfield, and captain Okuhle Hotto Mrhulwa, who made history by netting the tournament’s very first goal and taking home the Goal Rush Award. PHOTO: SUPPLIED She credits a clever decoy run from a team-mate for creating the space. "I love taking free-kicks. I take pride in the work I put into improving my technique because I know moments like these can decide important matches," she added. UWC would eventually equalise, but Walter Sisulu walked away with another hard-earned 1-1 draw. Mweli provided the artistry, but Tshabalala embodied resilience. She pressed relentlessly, won crucial duels and snuffed out danger, even as coaches withdrew her in both matches as a precaution against injury. She shared that she started playing football at the age of 14. "After school, I'd rush home and go straight into the streets to play with the boys in my neighbourhood," she

recalled. Those early games shaped the toughness that now defines her. But what drives her most is the badge on her chest. "We've earned points against both of last season's finalists, and what makes me proud is that we fought for each other. Our fighting spirit carried us through difficult moments, and that's what this team is built on," she said, beaming with pride. With draws against both last season's finalists — Wits and UWC — Walter Sisulu have announced their return to Varsity Football in the boldest way possible. The team now turns its attention to the next challenge at Wits University, where they will face the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and the University of Johannesburg.

Qumbu United ﬁnally wins Khiwa Media tournament HOSEYA JUBASE QUMBU United FC have finally ended years of frustration to be crowned champions of the 2026 Khiwa Media Tournament, beating Cheetahs FC of Ngcobo 4-0 in Sunday's final. The victory marks the club's first Khiwa Media title and comes after several near misses in previous editions. Qumbu United midfielder Axola "Promise" Mpakati said the tournament had long been his primary target. "I have lifted many trophies in the province, but this one was my main target because it is the biggest tournament in our province. I am very happy that I have finally lifted it," he said. Team-mate Athi Sitshwele reflected on the team's slow start before finding form in the knockouts. "We started very badly in this tournament. Our performance was not good at all and we were winning on penalties. But in the semi-finals we started to improve, winning 3-0, and again in the final we won 4-0," Sitshwele said. "We are very happy with the win, and now our main target is to defend the trophy next year in 2027." Qumbu United chairperson Loyiso Yalezo thanked the tournament organisers and supporters, and framed the win in broader cultural terms.

"This win belongs to you. This club truly represents a national team. We are proud to be a unity of two great nations, amaMpondomise and amaMpondo, and through sport we stand for unity and against social ills," Yalezo said. He said the club would now target an unprecedented title defence. "We have heard the challenge: no reigning champion has ever successfully defended this title. Group stages or semi-finals have ended their runs. We accept that challenge. Preparations begin now as we aim, with discipline, to make history in August 2027 by becoming the first to defend the trophy," added Yalezo. In netball, Western Cape side Sunrise Netball Team from Delft, Cape Town, won the title. Captain Qamani Stefans (16) said the victory was significant for the team. "I am very proud of the commitment by my fellow players. The win will motivate us to continue working hard and win many trophies," said Stefans. For the first time, the tournament included an under-15 boys' soccer category, and sixteen teams took part, with Modern Stars FC from eMampondomiseni in Ngqeleni winning 1-0 against Makhwekhwethe Academy FC in the final. Tournament founder Bulelani

ONE of the highly rated topeight schools tournaments, dedicated to the development of grassroots football in Mnquma, Mbhashe and surrounding areas, is returning later this month, after six years of absence. The top-eight schools tournament was established in 2016 by the uLwazi Foundation founder, Luxolo September, working together with a local organising committee that was chaired by Banzi Siyongwana. This schools tournament, which was planned to be hosted for five consecutive years, was disrupted by the outbreak of COVID-19. The tournament was meant to give schools from places such as Butterworth, Ngqamakhwe, Centane, Idutywa, Cofimvaba, Tsomo, Gatyane and Elliotdale an opportunity to compete against each other and also give young players a chance to showcase their talent in front of professional teams' scouts. Last week the chair of the local organising committee told Mthatha Express that the highly rated football event, known as the uLwazi Schools Super 8 Festival,

will be returning towards the end of this month and will be staged on 29 and 30 August at the Butterworth campus of Yunivesithi Walter Sisulu. He further said that, as the organising committee, they are busy finalising their preparations to host a launch for the event on 14 August (this Friday) at a venue to be confirmed this week. He also highlighted that the tournament is expected to run for the next five years without any disruption. The teams that are expected to compete in the upcoming event are the schools that were declared winners in their qualifying games in their areas, such as Butterworth, Centane, Ngqamakhwe, Tsomo, Idutywa, Elliotdale, Gatyane and Cofimvaba. During the event, great prizes are expected to be won by the schools that performed well compared to others, and parents and football supporters are urged to come in big numbers to support this initiative. Scouts from different divisions such as the ABC Motsepe, the Motsepe Foundation Championship, the Betway Premiership and other divisions will be present to look for talent.

NEWS TIPS? Send an email to mthathaexpress@novusmedia.co.za. ADVERTISING or CLASSIFIEDS? Contact Bubele Tyani at Bubele.Tyani@novusmedia.co.za

MBHASHE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

Khiwa Mancotywa thanked participants, supporters and sponsors for their contributions to this year's event.

DIVORCE SUMMONS IN THE REGIONAL COURT FOR THE REGIONAL DIVISION OF THE EASTERN CAPE, HELD AT MTHA THA CASE NO: EC\MTHA\RC139\2026 IN THE MATTER BETWEEN FUNDISWA SIRALARALA (780303 0929 08 7) PLAINTIFF ANDFIDELIS KELECHI EHUJOH (1977/09/28) DEFENDANT TO: THE SHERRIF/HIS DEPUTY, MTHATHA INFORM: FIDELIS KELECHI EHUJOH an adult male person whose whereabouts are unknown to the Plaintiff for the past eighteen (18) years. (Herein ref erred to as the “Defendant”). That: FUNDISW A SIRALARALA (herein referred to as “the Plaintiff’), an adult female person who is currently unemployed and currently resides at Zimbane Valley, Mthatha Eastern Cape province. Hereby institutes an action against him in which the plaintiff claims the relief on the grounds set out on the particulars of claim annexed hereto. INFORM the defendant further that if he disputes the claim and intend to defend the action. HE SHALL: a) Within ten (10) days of the service of this summons to file with the Registrar of the Regional Divorce Court at MTHATHA Magistrate’s Court on Corner of Leeds and Owen Street, Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province, a notice of his intention to defend and send a copy thereof on the plaintiffs attorneys, which said notice shall give an address (not being a postal address) for the service upon which the plaintiff shall receive documents and notices in the action. (b)Thereafter and within 20 (twenty) court days after filling and serving of a notice of his intention to defend as aforesaid, file with the Registrar a Plea and serve upon the plaintiff or an Exception with or without a Counterclaim. (a) INFORM the defendant further that if he fails to file and serve a notice as aforesaid, judgment as claimed may be given against him without further notice to him, or if, having filed and served such notice, he fails to plead, except or counter-claim, judgment may be given against him. (b) INFORM the defendant further that if he does not intend to defend the action, he may give a written notice to that effect to the plaintiffs’ Attorneys and to the Registrar and the action, may then, at the written request of the Plaintiff, be forthwith set down by the Registrar for hearing. (c) AND IMMEDIATELY THEREAFTER serve on the Defendant a copy of this summons together with the particular’ s annexure hereto, and return the same to the Registrar with whatsoever you have done thereupon. Costs if the action is undefended will be as follows. Attomeys/s Charges SCALE TO BE TAXED ON ATTORNEYAND CLIENT Sheriffs fees on Reissue DATED AT MTHATHA ON THIS 1st DAY OF JUNE 2026 N MCHIZA ATTORNEYS PLAINTIFF’S ATTORNEYS OFFICE NO 125st, Floor ECDC BUILDING, Cnr ELLIOT & YORK RD, MTHATHA CELL:0634140007 Email: nmchizainc@gmail.com NM10067808-TE060826

NOTICE OF ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING I Mr M. Nako, the Municipal Manager of Mbhashe Local Municipality, as duly instructed by the Municipal Council Speaker, Councillor B. Majavu, hereby gives notice that in terms of Section 19 (a) of the Local Government Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, an Ordinary Council meeting for Mbhashe Local Municipality will be held on Wednesday, 26 August 2026 at 11H00 in the Municipal Council Chambers, Dutywa. In terms of section 20 (1) of the Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, members of the public, the media and other interested bodies and organizations wishing to be part of this meeting are invited.

ISAZISO SENTLANGANISO YEBHUNGA Mna Mnumzana M. Nako uMlawuli oyintloko kaMasipala waseMbhashe, ngokomyalelo kaSomlomo weBhunga likaMasipala waseMbhashe uCeba B. Majavu, ndikhupha esi saziso ngokugunyaziswa licandelo 19(a) loMthetho wohlobo lokusebenza kooMasipala, wama-32 ka 2000 ukuba intlanganiso yeBhunga likaMasipala waseMbhashe iya kubanjwa ngoLwesithathu, 26 EyeThupha 2026, ngentsimbi yeshumi elinanye (11H00) kusasa, kwindlu yeBhunga likaMasipala eDutywa. Ngokwecandelo 20 (1) loMthetho wohlobo lokusebenza koMasipala wama-32 ka 2000, amalungu oluntu, oonondaba kunye namanye amaqela anomdla nemibutho enqwenela ukuba yinxalenye yale ntlanganiso, ayamenywa ukuba athathe inxaxheba. Mr. M. NAKO MUNICIPAL MANAGER NM10069235-TE130826