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Good luck, learners! Grade 1 learner, Kwandokuhle Cuthalele (6), from Maidern Farm in Mthatha, is ready to kick off his school career and wants to become a doctor one day. ‘Mthatha Express’ wishes all learners, parents and educators a successful school year. PHOTO: BABALWA NDLANYA
mthathaexpress@novusmedia.co.za
2 MthathaExpress
NEWS
15 January 2026
LEARNER TEACHER SUPPORT MATERIAL:
Department on track for new academic year SIGNIFICANT progress has been made in ensuring that the first day of schooling in the province was fruitful with the provision of Learner Teacher Support Material (LTSM), provision of nutritious meals and finalisation of admissions, including provision of curriculum on the first day of schooling. This was confirmed by the spokesperson for the Department of Education, Mali Mtima, stating that the department last year established District Admission Committees to ensure that no learner is left out by the system, rather access to education is maximised. He said that since then, a total of 849 learners remain unplaced across four districts (BCM, NMB, SB, and CHW), representing 0.05% of the provincial learner population. The projected learner enrolment for 2026 is 1,747,354, which is approximately 40,000 fewer learners than in 2025. “This confirms that the declining learner population trend is expected to continue into 2026. These trends have significant implications for the School Rationalisation and Re-alignment Programme, school resourcing, and the provision of access-related facilities and services. “The Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) confirms that it received the 4th tranche of the Education Infrastructure Grant (EIG) from the National Department of Basic Education (DBE) of R529 million. “The first payment of R282.1 million was received on 26 November 2025, and the last was R247 million on 19 December 2025,” said Mtima. He added that inappropriate weather conditions during the December recess period left some of their schools in terrible condition. Mtima added that to be precise, they have had to declare them disaster areas due to this, but eight service providers were appointed to assess and ultimately repair those schools to ensure that they become conducive for teaching and learning. There are 427 pit latrines in the province, and of that number: • 60 have been allocated to TMT through EIG • 34 have been allocated to TMT by DBE (remaining balance is 333) • 18 schools that have fewer than 50 learners, which are candidates for rationalisation and realignment, leaving the department to deal with 315 • Additionally, there are 112 schools with fewer than 135 learners that will also be considered for rationalisation, leaving the department with 203 • DBE has promised to fund 203, and they are waiting for confirmation of funds from the National Treasury The Department successfully completed the delivery of Learner Teacher Support Material (LTSM) stationery to all schools by 7 November 2025, ensuring that learners and teachers have essential learning materials ready for effective teaching and learning from the first day of school. “Furthermore, the delivery of top-up textbooks for all schools offering Grades 8–12 was completed on 5 December 2025, marking an important milestone in the Department’s LTSM readiness programme. “The procurement of top-up textbooks for Grades 1–7 is currently in progress. The Department assures the public that the top-up textbooks for Grades 1-7 will be delivered to schools by the opening of the 2026 academic year in January.” He added that the Department remains committed to ensuring that no learner is left without the necessary resources.
The timely and efficient delivery of LTSM is a key priority in supporting quality teaching and learning across the province. For Scholar Transport, DOE and DOT met to discuss challenges experienced in the provision of ST and proposed solutions. Mtima said a task team has been established to engage with the data in preparation for 2026. Data extracted from SASAMS and cleaned: • 159,631 deserving learners’ datasets towards the realisation that all learners are transported to access education. All 2025 Grade 12 learners are removed from the data. • It excludes learners who walk fewer than 5 kilometres until verified by schools and districts with written motivation. • Those who are fewer than 10 kilometres will also be verified to authenticate the data. • Dataset is made up of unique record numbers for all the learners to cover, even those without identity numbers. • The data has not accommodated new admissions that will be finalised by schools in 2026, e.g. Grade 1 and 8, which can only be affected after the 10th day submission in January 2026. • The Department, through SASAMS, had collected data for learners at schools that require provision of scholar transport. The data collected was in two folds (approved was 104,021 and pending was 62,388). • Engagements with DOT took place in an attempt to address the pending list and the court order. • As part of continued engagements with DOT, it was agreed that DOT would conduct verification of the current capacity of contracted service providers. • DOT reported having filled 14,553 to the existing capacity. • Taking into account the above statement, the total number of transported learners is 118,574 and pending is 47,835. • There is a task team established to look at alternative ways to deal with funding of outstanding learners. • As part of increasing access to education through the norms and standards funding, learners were funded at 100% of the Norms and Standards Funding. The second tranche was transferred to all Quintile 1-5 schools on 15 November 2025 to ensure all learners are fed on the first day of schooling. “For the 2026/27 financial year, learners will be funded at 100% of the Norms and Standard Funding. The first tranche will be transferred to schools by 15 May 2026, and the second tranche will be transferred to all Quintile 1-5 schools on 15 November 2026. “Between 2019 and 2025, the department has increased the number of learners receiving a meal/meals from 603,246 learners in 4,832 ordinary public primary, secondary, combined, and special schools to 1,574,902 in 2025. “Furthermore, 1,574,902 learners in 4,760 public primary and combined schools are fed both a breakfast and a main meal.” According to Mtima, the number of breakfast beneficiaries increased to 1,574,902 in 2025. The 3rd tranche was transferred to all schools in October 2025. The 4th tranche was ransferred to schools before the opening of schools on 12 January 2026. In conclusion, the Department remains committed to ensuring that all schools are fully prepared for the start of the 2026 academic year. “Through coordinated planning, strengthened district support, and timely implementation of key readiness activities, we aim to secure a smooth opening of schools and create an enabling environment for quality teaching and learning.”
15 January 2026
NEWS
MthathaExpress 3
FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE:
MEC launches awareness campaign after outbreak BABALWA NDLANYA THE MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Nonceba Kontsiwe, has embarked on a campaign to raise awareness and strengthen efforts to contain the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in the province of the Eastern Cape. A positive case of Footand-Mouth Disease was confirmed at Bumbane Village in Keiskammahoek within the Amahlathi Local Municipality on 23 December 2025. Kontsiwe hosted an awareness campaign at Nyaka Village in Mbizana on 5 January,
which was followed by another campaign at Gatyana Agricultural Hall in Willowvale on 7 January 2026, and a third one at the Agricultural Offices Hall in Keiskammahoek on 9 January 2026. “Following this confirmation, suspected cases showing lesions consistent with FMD were reported in other areas, including Willowvale in the Mbhashe Local Municipality and Matatiele under the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality. However, no additional cases were confirmed,” she said. She added that farmers and communities are urged to re-
Farmers and community members from Nyaka Village in Mbizana attended an awareness campaign hosted by the Department of Agriculture to equip them about foot and mouth disease. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED main vigilant and immediately report animals showing symptoms such as excessive salivation, sores, or blisters in the mouth and on the feet. “As part of the awareness campaign, I engaged farmers to promote early reporting and compliance with disease control measures. The department is further advising all farmers within the Eastern Cape to halt the movement of cloven-hoofed animals until 23 January as a precautionary measure.” She confirmed that there is currently no medication for the disease. Although some infected cows do not die, others may die after giving birth. “When it comes to the economy, farmers struggle because the quality of livestock decreases, and some buyers stop
purchasing cattle due to the disease. Even dairy farmers are affected because the cows develop cysts on their udders, making it difficult to milk them. “We are equipping farmers with information that if a person has received or bought a cow, even from another province, they must quarantine it for at least three weeks before mixing it with other cattle to observe whether it shows symptoms of the disease. The symptoms include blisters and cysts in the mouth and excessive salivation.” She added that if a farmer buys a cow with the intention of slaughtering it, this should be done before the animal mixes with others. Kontsiwe further confirmed
MBHASHE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
NOTICE OF SPECIAL 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 (b) of the Local Government Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, Special Council Meeting for Mbhashe Local Municipality will be held virtually on Wednesday, 28 January 2026 at 11H00. 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 EKHETHEKILEYO Mna Mnumzana M. Nako uMlawuli oyintloko kaMasipala waseMbhashe, ngokomyalelo kaSomlomo weBhunga loMasipala waseMbhashe uCeba B. Majavu, ndikhupha esi saziso ngokugunyaziswa licandelo 19(b) loMthetho wohlobo lokusebenza kooMasipala, wama-32 ka 2000 ukuba intlanganiso ekhethekileyo yeBhunga lomasipala wengingqi yoMbhashe iya kubanjwa kubuxhaka-xhaka balemihla ngoLwesithathu, 28 EyoMqungu 2026, ngentsimbi yeshumi elinanye (11H00) kusasa.
MEC for the Department of Agriculture in the Eastern Cape, Nonceba Kontsiwe, spoke to farmers about foot and mouth disease.
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 NM10042167-TE150126
that even if some people claim there is medication that cures the disease, thorough research has shown that there is no cure. One of the farmers from Nyaka Village in Mbizana, Zihambele Zulu (75), said he is experiencing a similar problem affecting his cows. He said that although he bought medication from a chemist, he is grateful that officials are educating farmers about the disease. “We started noticing the problem on 24 December 2025. Their gums and tongues were swollen, and it was hard for them to eat. I have heard that if you buy a cow from somewhere else, you must keep it aside for some days. “I appeal to other farmers to listen to the advice we are given,” he said.
4 MthathaExpress
15 January 2026
NEWS
Premier pays tribute to Mandela family matriarch EASTERN Cape Premier Lubabalo Os- family occupies a unique place in the car Mabuyane has, on behalf of the Pro- historical and spiritual consciousness vincial Government and the people of of their Province and their nation. the Eastern Cape Province, conveyed Yet, in moments such as these, they his heartfelt condolences to the Royal are reminded that beyond public legaHouse of Mandela, as well as cy lies the intimate pain of loss to the Mvezo Traditional felt by a family, children and Council, on the passing of grandchildren, and by all Mam’ uNolusapho Rose who drew comfort and Rayne Mandela-Perry. wisdom from her presMabuyane said he ence. conveys their deep“We honour her not est condolences to only for her lineage, the Royal House of but also for the huMandela, the Mvezo manity she lived and Traditional Counshared so generouscil, and the entire ly. Mandela-Perry fami“Her life reminds us ly on her passing. that the true measure “We have received of leadership and legacy this news with profound is often found in love givsadness. Her passing marks en freely, values transmitted the departure of a repatiently, and resilience The late Nolusapho Rose Rayne vered matriarch whose demonstrated quietly life was anchored in Mandela-Perry. PHOTO: FACEBOOK over time. dignity, compassion, “These are the virtues and unwavering devotion to family, that sustain families, communities, community and heritage. and nations alike. During the period of “She embodied the quiet strength of mourning, the Provincial Government African womanhood, nurturing gen- stands in solidarity with the Royal erations with grace, humility and an House of Mandela and the Mvezo Tradienduring sense of responsibility. Her tional Council. life's work, though often undertaken “We respect the family’s request for away from the glare of public attention, privacy as they grieve and reflect, and was nonetheless foundational to the we trust that the collective embrace moral fibre and continuity of the Man- of the people of the Eastern Cape and dela family and the broader community South Africa will offer comfort and of Mvezo,” said Mabuyane. strength. May her memory continue to He added that the Eastern Cape Prov- be a source of guidance, unity and soince they recognises that the Mandela lace to all who loved her.”
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Woman arrested for R1.7m RAF fraud in hit-and-run case THE Mthatha Serious Commercial Crime Investigation of the Hawks has allegedly arrested the deceased’s girlfriend, Sinethemba Sweetbirth Mdutyana (37), who appeared before the Mthatha Specialised Commercial Crime Court on a charge of fraud, relating to potential prejudice of R1.7 million to the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Spokesperson for the Hawks, Lieutenant Colonel Avela Fumba, said it is alleged that Mdutyana fraudulently lodged a loss of support claim on behalf of her two minor children, misrepresenting a fatal accident that occurred on 27 January 2022 on the N2 Qwelerha as a hit-and-run involving an unknown truck. “The Hawks’ investigation further revealed that two associates allegedly sub-
mitted false corroborating statements to support the claim. “These versions were found to be inconsistent with bona fide evidence obtained from police officers and paramedics who attended the scene and further uncovered that the deceased was initially recorded as an unknown person,” said Fumba. He added that based on prima facie evidence, J50 warrants of arrest were authorised. She was allegedly traced and arrested in Butterworth on 6 January 2026 and was released on warning. Fumba confirmed that she was released on warning and the matter was postponed to 3 March 2026, for the appointment of a legal representative. The investigation continues with further arrests imminent.
EASTERN CAPE:
Social Development MEC condemns child abandonment crisis THE Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has condemned the alarming trend of deliberate abandonment and sexual abuse of children in the province. In a troubling report, more than 60 cases of child abandonment and sexual abuse were registered in December alone, highlighting a growing crisis that demands immediate and decisive action. “The deliberate abandonment of children is a deeply disturbing act that violates the fundamental rights of our most vulnerable citizens. “It is unacceptable for any parent or guardian to abandon their child, leaving them exposed to danger and neglect. Our children deserve protection, love and care, and we must hold accountable those who fail in their responsibilities,” said Fanta. She expressed her outrage, emphasising that such acts of abandonment and abuse not only endanger the lives of children but also reflect a serious breakdown in community and familial support systems. “These cases are not just statistics; they represent innocent lives that have been put at risk. We must stand united against this senseless cruelty and work together to ensure the safety of our children.” She has issued a stern warning to parents and guardians who abandon their children or fail to protect them. She said those found guilty of such acts will face severe legal consequences.
“The law is clear: abandoning a child is a crime, and we will not hesitate to take action against individuals who neglect their duties as caregivers. The Department will work closely with law enforcement to investigate these cases thoroughly and ensure that justice is served. We urge community members to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of child abandonment or abuse. “It is our collective responsibility to protect our children and create a safe environment for them to grow and thrive. If you see something, say something. Together, we can make a difference.” Fanta added that in response to these alarming statistics, the department is ramping up its efforts to provide support and resources for families in crisis. She said they understand that various factors may lead parents to feel overwhelmed, but abandoning a child is never the solution. “Our department offers support services to help families navigate difficult situations. We encourage those in need to reach out for help rather than resorting to abandonment. “We will continue to advocate for the rights of children and take a stand against any actions that jeopardise their safety and well-being. “Let us work together to create a safer, more nurturing environment for our children, where they can flourish and reach their full potential.”
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1. The Western Cape Department of Social Development Gugulethu, local office, is requesting who has information about the whereabouts of Unathi Ntenda, who was last seen at Engcobo in Eastern Cape, to please contact social worker: Mrs B. Vakele on 0218315936.
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2. The Western Cape Department of Social Development Philippi, local office, is requesting anyone who knows the whereabouts of Sivuyile Mahlahla, who was last seen in the Uitenhage area, in the Eastern Cape Province, to please contact social worker: Ms. Zikhona Khonco on 0218347066. 3. The Western Cape Department of Social Development Philippi, local office, is requesting anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Zuzeka Mpumela, who was last seen in Tsomo, Eastern Cape, to please contact social worker: Nomendu Mtambeka on 0218347000. SAMXXX-TE150126
15 January 2026
NEWS
MthathaExpress 5
6 MthathaExpress
NEWS
15 January 2026
15 January 2026
NEWS
MthathaExpress 7
81-Year-old freedom fighter publishes debut memoir BABALWA NDLANYA
AN author from Quidlana locality in Kwa Bhaca (Mount Frere), Sandi Sijake has published his first book titled Fighting for My Country: The Testimony of a Freedom Fighter). It is about his life experience of being born and growing up in South Africa as a member of the Black community. According to the 81-year-old Sijake, the book details the struggles against colonial masters and their supporters. “I started to write this book effectively in 2015, after the African National Congress (ANC) unconstitutionally removed me as the founding President of the ANC Veterans League (ANCVL), he said. “I was inspired by the selflessness of our communities in their opposition to all forms and methods of colonialism and its supporters. There is very little written about what our struggle is about, the challenges we faced and what made it possible for us to advance to 1994,” said Sijake.
He added that the main message is that the struggle continues towards the Freedom Charter-based democracy in South Africa. Sijake said this book is important as it reminds the South African community that, in their millions, they are the government of this country. According to him, those elected to positions of leadership must serve their community, young and old, towards the fulfilment of their aspirations, dreams and destiny of becoming one of the leading countries in the world in all spheres of life. “When I joined the ANC in 1959, it became easier for me to indicate that 1994 placed us in a very good position to put in place the building blocks of a South African democracy based on the demands enshrined in the Freedom Charter. “During the negotiations, it was important to make whatever reasonable compromises. Once the ANC was the governing party, it had a mandate to implement substantively the Freedom Charter. “On the other hand, we as a
community at large were expected to pressure those we chose to govern to implement our historic demands. This is still far from being achieved.” According to Sijake, this book is suitable for people of all ages and all walks of life. He said it is important that they impart the knowledge of who they are as a nation/people, what South Africa means to them, where and how they fit in with the rest of the world, and what is happening around the world. “Put simply, this book is an autobiography and gives information about our communities and the fact that our natural resources are the main factor in why we are still where we are since 1652 or even earlier. “It covers my experiences until 1988 when I left Robben Island. I am busy with the second part from 1988 onwards.” Sijaka confirmed that Fighting for My Country: The Testimony of a Freedom Fighter) is printed by Jacana, and retails at R380.00. The book is available at selected bookshops.
Umkhonto Wesizwe Veteran, Sandi Sijake, published his first book titled ‘Fighting for my Country: The Testimony of a Freedom Fighter’. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Port St Johns lifeguard promotes water safety education BABALWA NDLANYA
Swim Instructor Nqobile Jojo from Port St Johns advises community members on safety when swimming at the beaches. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
QUALIFIED Swim Instructor, Driver and Skipper, Nqobile Majola (38) from Port St Johns, developed a passion for being a lifeguard after his brothers in his area introduced him to this job. Now he is educating others so that they can also gain knowledge about the sea. He said when people come to the beach drunk and do not listen to lifeguards, they fail to keep an eye on their children. He added that it is important to swim between red and yellow flags, and people must ensure that they swim where a lifeguard is on duty. “You must never swim at night and when you are drunk. My personal advice is that everyone should do swimming sessions, as it will provide more information about water safety tips and help you be water smart with just basic floating. If a person is drunk, they are at high risk because even in waist-deep water, a person can drown, and they cannot take full responsibility for themselves when drunk. Make sure the lifeguard is on duty when swimming,” he said.
He confirmed that he also gives lessons at schools, but he wishes that this could be on the radio and at schools as part of Life Orientation. Majola said he wishes to have his own academy one day, where he will educate those who are interested in swimming. He said that the reason he chose to become a lifeguard was that he was born and raised in Port St Johns, a place that often attracts many tourists. “We used to watch people coming to the beach every day. From my house, the beach is only 500 metres away. At times, there were no lifeguards available; only members of the Defence Force were present. I saw the need for our people to understand and learn about water safety, as I have seen people lose their lives here at the beach.” He continued: “Deep down in my heart, when I met different people, they used to tell me that there are many opportunities in water-related activities, and that I can learn these skills. Our brothers who learned how to swim passed that knowledge on to us and taught us, because we only knew how to jump into
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the water without knowing any swimming strokes. “Dumisani [surname not provided] is the one who encouraged me to join lifesaving. He was very patient in teaching us how to swim and in showing us the correct strokes.” Through this learning and his love of teaching, he made sure that he mastered swimming. He wants to pass the same knowledge and information on to other children. By obtaining a qualification as a swim instructor, he can transfer what he knows to people who know nothing about swimming. “As Black people, we were often not taught about water safety, even though we live close to the sea. This made it easier for us to learn activities like body surfing and lifesaving. Through training and gaining qualifications, I have grown, and now I am a lifeguard. “I serve my community by ensuring that people are safe at beaches, swimming pools, and dams. I always advise them to gain knowledge about water and to be water-smart, so they know how to stay safe in and around water.”
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MthathaExpress
Sport
SPORT
15 January 2026
Sindisiwe ‘Cindy’ Mbanjwa. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Mthatha teenager secures TS Galaxy development spot HOSEYA JUBASE
Tumelo Ncangayi.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
TUMELO Ncangayi (13) is expected to join the TS Galaxy FC development camp this week after his impressive display during trials held last week in Gauteng. Tumelo was among thousands of children from across the country who attended the TS Galaxy trials on 5 January 2026 in Johannesburg. The Mercy Academy development product Tumelo is now expected to join the TS Galaxy FC camp this week, as the team is still sorting out accommodation arrangments. Tumelo was in Grade 8 at Vela Primary School in Mthatha last year. “I went to the TS Galaxy trials in Gauteng last week, and fortunately, I made it, and soon I will travel back to Gauteng as TS Galaxy is still sorting out school issues. It was not easy at those trials because we had many players from all provinces.” “The coaches told me after the first match that I had made it and they took my parents’ numbers. I was very excited. “Playing for TS Galaxy FC development is a big thing for me, and I thank God for this opportunity.” Tumelo joined Mercy Academy in October 2025 after attending trials, and again this year, he went to the TS Galaxy FC trials and made it. “Thanks to my parents for allowing me to play football, thanks for taking me to the Mercy Academy trials last year and for assisting me to go to the TS Galaxy trials this year. To the Mercy Academy Chairlady, thank you very much for the opportunity.” Meanwhile, Mercy Development Academy Chairlady Ziyanda Mercy Qikani said she is proud of the young star, and she wishes him all the best in his future.
Netball star plans Youth League in KwaZulu-Natal HOSEYA JUBASE NETBALL player, Sindisiwe “Cindy” Mbanjwa (25), who has been selected to be part of Eastern Cape Comets for Telkom Netball League (TNL), told Express that she is eyeing to start a netball league in primary schools in Harding in KwaZulu-Natal Province this year as she is currently working in that province. Mbanjwa, originally from Bizana, started playing netball at the age of 9 in rural areas of Bizana and later moved to KwaZulu-Natal Province, where she developed a love of the game and received guidance. Mbanjwa is currently preparing herself to be ready for the upcoming Telkom Netball League trials that are coming soon, around February. TNL hosts trials each season to renew the squad, and Mbanjwa has been selected since 2023 and she is hoping that she is going to make it again this year. “Dedication, hard work and commitment in our training have assisted me big time because I have been part of the squad for three years, and even now I am working hard, training and getting ready for the upcoming trials,” said Mbanjwa. “I want to focus on my fitness level as the year has already started physically, mentally and emotionally for the Telkom Netball
League trials that are coming soon, also to train the young ones that still want to achieve more in netball.” She added, “I am also a coach for Under-13 and Under-15 teams, and I want to continue to be a good example to the young ones.” The netball superstar said the tournaments helped her a lot in gaining fitness. “Those tournaments helped me a lot because even now I am still fit. I mean, as December started, I went to the Spar National Netball Championship with Team Alfred Nzo, playing the whole week from Monday to Saturday. “Then I came back, and I didn’t stop training because I knew there were tournaments that I needed to play the whole December, to stay fit and look forward to Telkom Netball League trials (TNL), and those tournaments helped me a lot.” She encourages young players to play with passion, train hard and never lose focus. “This year, I have already planned to start a league for primary schools in Harding where I am staying since I work there, so that the kids can grow up with netball and sports knowledge. “I want to do this because when I relocated to Harding I saw the struggle in the Harding schools, both primary and high schools, so that’s why I decided to help without expecting anything in return,” she added.
Regional football league resumes after festive break ANELE RAZIYA THE South African Football Association (SAFA) in Amathole have confirmed the return of the regional league this weekend by publishing the third-round league fixtures that are expected to take place on Saturday. The SAFA Amathole Hollywoodbets Regional League will be returning this Saturday after players were given a month break to enjoy their festive season holidays with their families. The last league fixtures for the 2025/2026 season for Hollywoodbets Regional League Stream E in Mnquma were played on 22 November
last year after teams were given a break. Now the regional league will resume on Saturday with six league encounters that will be played at different venues within Mnquma. Among these weekend games, the current log leaders Ngqamakhwe City FC will host mid-table side Zeny Sport Club, their neighbours Ngqamakhwe United FC will lock horns against Ndabankulu SSS FC in a bottom-ofthe-table battle, joint log leaders Musketeers FC will face mid-table side Ezikaxhamela FC, Wongama FC will entertain Amakotamane FC, third-place side Young Stars United FC will visit WSU Butterworth FC and Inter City Sports Club will host FC Tshabalala.
All these games are expected to be played at different venues in Mnquma and they will be played in the afternoon at 15:00. Third-round fixtures are expected to be more interesting as teams like FC Tshabalala, Inter City Sports Club, Ndabankulu SSS FC and Ngqamakhwe United FC are still searching for their first win of the season, while the two top teams, Ngqamakhwe City FC and Musketeers FC, will be aiming to maintain their winning run as they won their two opening games. Meanwhile, in SAFA Amathole Hollywoodbets Regional League Stream F in Mbhashe, Matshotshisa FC, will host log leaders Abahlobo FC this Saturday, MM Combination FC will
visit Shining Stars FC, King Yako Brothers FC will welcome Kasi Beez FC, Excell Boys FC will entertain FC Nantez and one of the joint log leaders, Bashee Eagles FC, will visit Bm FC. All these league encounters will be played in the afternoon at 15:00 at different venues within the Mbhashe area. The Stream F third-round fixtures are expected to be interesting as the four top teams, which include Abahlobo FC, Bashee Eagles FC, Excell Boys FC and Bm FC, are fighting for the top position, while the other bottom four teams are searching for their first victory of the season this weekend.
Mqanduli Football League seeks sponsors for Youth Development ANELE RAZIYA MQANDULI League Football Association from Mqanduli near Mthatha has remained committed to contributing to the development of football in their area, although they are still struggling to find sponsors who can assist them every season. This follows the Mqanduli League Football Association making a humble request to local businesses or anyone who can support their local league with sports equipment like footballs, trophies and other things related to football. Speaking with Mthatha Express, association chairman Sibusiso Gecwa said that they had
established their league four years ago with the aim of keeping youth away from drugs and alcohol, and they were also targeting to contribute to the development of football in the Mqanduli area. Gecwa said they started their league with three divisions that include Under-13, Under-15 and Under-17, and then in February this year, they will register a senior division, which is Under-19. Although they have shown some serious intentions to assist in the development of young players, they still struggle to find a sponsor who can assist them with football equipment like footballs, kits, end-of-season prizes and other items.
“Last season we managed to buy prizes with our own money and hand them over to the teams who performed well throughout the league campaign,” said Gecwa. He said that since the establishment of the league, they have always written letters every season and submit them to businesses around, looking for support, as sometimes they struggle to have prizes at the end of the league campaign. Even this year, Gecwa said they are going to write more letters and submit them to businesses with the hope they will find a sponsor this time. He said that as the association, they would love to get assistance from businesses or anyone who can assist, as they aim to continue
contributing to the development of football in the Mqanduli area and also keep youth away from wrongdoings. Last year, the Mqanduli football league, in partnership with the SAFA association, hosted a CAF D licence coaching course to ensure that they empower coaches with coaching knowledge, current football coaching skills, and they get coaching qualifications, as modern football requires educated coaches. In his conclusion, Gecwa has made a humble request to anyone who can assist them to call him on 083 210 3096 or 064 992 7563. Mqanduli League Football Association is looking forward to starting their preparations for a brand new season in February.