Mthatha Express North – E-Edition – 11 September 2025

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MTHATHA,1993:

THE National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has announced the reopening of an inquest into the killing of five children by the South African Defence Force (SADF) in Mthatha during the Apartheid era

This investigation seeks to uncover the truth behind the October 1993 incident, in which soldiers stormed a home and opened fire, killing all five victims

The incident occurred on 8 October 1993 at house number 47, AC Jordan Street, in Northcrest, Mthatha

The victims, aged between 12 and 17 years old, were identified as Mzwandile Mfeya (12), Sandiso Yaso (12), twins Samora and Sadat Mpendulo (16), and Thando Mthembu (17)

All were students preparing for their final examinations

The house was owned by Sigqibo Mpendulo, the father of the twins, who was a Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) activist

It is believed that the SADF launched the attack on suspicions that APLA, the PAC’s military wing, was using the prop-

erty to store an arms cache

Soldiers forced entry into the home and indiscriminately opened fire

Following the raid, the SADF issued a public statement accepting responsibility for the killings

Reports also suggest that the raid was prompted by information obtained after police security forces arrested and tortured members of APLA, allegedly coercing them to reveal details about their operations

The inquest, to be held at the Mthatha High Court on a date yet to be determined, will examine the events of that day and whether anyone can be held criminally liable for the deaths under the Inquest Act

NPA Regional Spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, addressed the importance of reopening the case, stating: “The NPA and its partners remain committed to addressing the injustices of the past This inquest is part of our efforts to provide closure to the families of the victims and assist society in confronting these atrocities ”

TaskTeamofficersurvivesQumbu shootoutduringcattlerecovery NPAapprovesinquest intokillingsbySADF

A POLICE officer from the OR Tambo Stock Theft Prevention Task Team survived an attack after being met with a hail of bullets while recovering suspected stolen cattle at Mpehle locality in Qumbu last week

Police spokesperson, Captain Welile Matyolo, stated that the task team, which operates around the clock in stock theft hotspots primarily Bityi, Tsolo, Qumbu, and Libode was involved in the recovery of four stolen cattle that had been positively identified by their rightful owners

During the operation, one of the team members came under fire from three armed men aged between 25 and 35 within a rondavel house

"One of the cattle ran into the premises of a nearby homestead While the officer was inquiring about the missing cow from a man in the yard, the man fled into a rondavel house, from where a hail of bullets was fired

“The police officer retaliated, fatally wounding three armed suspects inside the house," said Captain Matyolo The police recovered three unlicensed 9mm pistols with erased serial numbers from the rondavel Additionally, nine goats, also suspected to be stolen, were found locked in a shack on the same premises

"The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and the officer escaped the crossfire uninjured All relevant stakeholders, including the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), were called to the scene of the crime Inquest dockets have been opened with charges or enquiries against the deceased, including attempted murder, attacking a police officer, possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition, and possession of suspected stolen livestock

“The IPID will carry out its mandate to further investigate the case," Matyolo added

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WatershortageshinderEasternCapefarmers’efforts

BABALWA NDLANYA

BUKIWE Civane, a member of the Nontsomi Cooperative in Coza locality under the Nyandeni Local Municipality, has raised concerns about how water shortages are crippling their farming efforts

Speaking at an Agricultural Show hosted by the Department of Agriculture at Mthatha Stadium last week, she highlighted the financial burden of securing water for their farming operations

Civane said that while they began farming to feed their families and generate an income, the rising costs of water have put their livelihoods at risk "We are spending more money buying water because our rivers are far We pay R30 per bucket when hiring donkeys and R1,500 per truck delivery, sometimes as many as 10 times a month," she explained

Nontsomi Cooperative, which represented the Nyandeni Local Municipality at the Agricultural Show, is just one of many groups facing such challenges Civane shared that they had taken up farming after struggling to find jobs and viewed it as their only viable option for a sustainable future

"We used to do piece jobs to make ends meet, but we decided to invest that money into farming It’s the only plan we had for a better future," she added

However, in addition to water shortages, farmers are battling theft due to a lack of fencing and the absence of consistent market ac-

cess "We need government support, especially with fencing and access to markets Right now, we just sell to local shops," said Civane

At the Agricultural Show, the MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Nonceba Kontsi

we, commended the hard work of farmers but acknowledged the significant challenges they face, notably the lack of market access and exploitation by retailers

"Farmers are working hard, but they lack

markets Retailers often prefer sourcing from companies in other provinces, which undermines local cooperatives," she noted

Kontsiwe stressed that the department is committed to helping farmers grow their operations and become business owners so that the Eastern Cape can rely less on imported products from other provinces She expressed her appreciation for the active involvement of women and young people in farming, a sector often misunderstood as being solely for older individuals

"Young people used to think farming was for older people, but we are pleased to see them taking part now Regarding the water challenges, our department has a programme aimed at bringing water closer to the farmers We will engage with the O R Tambo District Municipality, which holds water authority in this municipality, to work together on resolving this issue We’ve already supported many farmers by bringing water closer to them," said Kontsiwe

She pledged to improve access to finance and markets for farmers and emphasised the role of agricultural high schools in building the entrepreneurial skills needed for success in the sector Kontsiwe also applauded seamstresses supported by the department for showcasing their products during the event

The Agricultural Show concluded with cooperatives from the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality receiving a cheque for R20,000, while cooperatives from the Nyandeni Local Municipality were awarded R15,000

ProvincialGovernmentdecriesrisingchildpregnancies;callsforaction

THE Eastern Cape Provincial Government is urging communities, parents, and next of kin to urgently report cases of child sexual offences following alarming reports of numerous young girls giving birth in state facilities between April and June this year

According to the Eastern Cape Health Department, from April to July 2025, a total of 117 children aged between 10 and 14 years gave birth in public hospitals across the province The highest numbers were recorded in the O R Tambo District, followed by Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay Additionally, 4,752 teenagers aged 15 to 19 years gave birth in public facilities during the same period

The Sexual Offences Act of 2007 explicitly makes it illegal for any individual to engage in sexual activities with children in these age groups Furthermore, the Act mandates prosecution, even when both parties are minors within this age range, irrespective of alleged consent Section 54 (1) of the Act also requires any person with knowledge of a sexual offence committed against a child to report it to the South African Police Service (SAPS)

Provincial police have confirmed that several rape cases involving minors have been opened, with some already making their way through the criminal justice system However, three cases have been withdrawn, highlighting the challenges faced in addressing these incidents

MEC for the Department of Social Development, Bukiwe Fanta, strongly urged families and next of kin not to withdraw or drop charges in cases involving sexual offences against minors, emphasising that such actions undermine the justice system and hinder the course of the law

She stated, "Withdrawing charges not only denies survivors the justice they deserve but also perpetuates cycles of abuse Pursuing cases to their full conclusion is essential in protecting our children and ensuring accountability "

The Provincial Government firmly condemns any adult engaging in sexual activities with minors, describing such acts as statutory rape, which will be addressed with the full force of the law

"The statistics are deeply concerning We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our children It is unacceptable that children as young as 10 years old are giving birth The situation requires immediate intervention and collaboration to safeguard our youth

The Children’s Act of 2005, Section 110, places a legal obligation on all communi-

ty members and professionals to report any suspicion of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation Parents, guardians, neighbours, teachers, and community leaders must remain vigilant and proactive Protecting children is a shared responsibility and cannot be left to the government alone," Fanta said She added that children in the Eastern Cape face numerous challenges affecting their development

"We have allocated over R103 million this financial year for programmes addressing children's needs Through Risiha sites, which provide community-based prevention and early intervention services, we are reaching over 22,000 vulnerable children This is our first line of defence to ensure children are growing up in safe environments," she highlighted

Fanta also pointed out that 28 Child and Youth Care Centres are supported in the province, providing care for 1,373 children in need of protection These interventions include temporary safe care, foster care, residential care and adoption services

MEC for the Department of Health, Ntandokazi Capa, stressed that these numbers represent real children whose lives and futures are being irrevocably altered

"These are not just figures; they are children whose innocence has been stolen, forcing them into adulthood far too early Any form of sexual activity with a minor constitutes statutory rape, and we will never normalise or accept it Each case reported in our facilities is addressed, and we continue collaboration with the Department of Social Development and SAPS to protect young girls," Capa said

To combat the rising incidence of teenage pregnancy, Capa noted that programmes emphasising prevention remain a focus, including youth-friendly services through Youth Zones in facilities, run by young nurses to reduce stigma and improve access to services Through the Integrated School Health Programme, the Department of Health collaborates with the Department of Education and Social Development to deliver prevention initiatives and contraceptive services to learners

Capa concluded by emphasising the need for enhanced collaboration: "Families, empowered communities and stakeholder partnerships are vital The numbers may be alarming, but they serve as a call to action We will not relent in safeguarding the future of our children " The Eastern Cape Provincial Govern-

ment, through its Executive Council, calls on families and communities to report any cases of sexual exploitation, abuse, or underage pregnancies Protecting children from sexual predators is both a moral and legal obligation

Behind every statistic stands a child whose dignity, safety, and future must be safeguarded The Provincial Government remains committed to working with law enforcement, civil society, and communities to ensure that every child is protected

Youngcycliststackle GBVawareness

BABALWA NDLANYA

ONE of the organisers of the Mpondo Cultural and Heritage Festival, Princess Stella Sigcau II, has confirmed that the Mzinduku Youth Development Cycling Club will cycle from Phuthi, near Ntsizwa Mountain, to Lwandlolubomvu Great Place in Matshona Village, Ntabankulu

The cycling event will take place from 13 to 14 September 2025, as part of the festival's celebrations this weekend

Princess Sigcau said the initiative aims to raise awareness about pressing issues such as gender-based violence (GBV), substance abuse (including drug abuse and trafficking), femicide, child and women abuse, child and human trafficking, rape, and other forms of abuse that undermine fundamental human rights

“These issues also include cultural practices like forced marriages which have been hijacked by criminal elements

“This theme will be central throughout the festival, including the Reed Dance, where maidens will be educated about these societal ills and atrocities Additionally, an empowerment session will be held for young males and boys in the communities to educate them about these issues, how to protect themselves, and how to avoid becoming perpetrators

“The session will also address the psychological impact and effects of these practices, their influence on societies and communities, self-esteem, and positive initiatives to empower young people without subjecting them to harm,” said Princess Sigcau

In the same spirit, on 12 September 2025, a session will be organised at Ntsikayezwe Senior Secondary School in Ntabankulu through the Khuthaza Ukufunda Initiative, in partnership with the South African Royal Princesses Network and the Mathli Founda-

tion

This session will focus on the same issues and will also serve to motivate matric students as they prepare for their final examinations

Princess Sigcau added that these events are among the activities leading up to the Mpondo Festival

The cycling club, comprising over 400 youth cyclists from the Mpondo Kingdom, is part of an organisation that operates in Mbizana and extends outreach to rural areas in the Eastern Cape, working to promote positive life choices and personal development through:

• Participation in grassroots sports and recreational activities, including cycling, ladies' football, and tug-of-war;

• Performing arts poetry and cultural activities;

• Basic computer skills and entrepreneurial initiatives;

• Tourism youth leadership camps and programmes addressing social challenges

Princess Sigcau noted that their analysis and informal interactions with youth from rural and disadvantaged communities highlighted the critical need for sports as a vehicle for development

Amampondo King Silosohlanga kaDakhile Sigcau, from Lwandlolubomvu Great Place, addressed the critical issue of GBV, saying: "GBV is a pervasive issue in South Africa, affecting countless individuals and communities It is a violation of human rights, a threat to dignity, and a barrier to equality We must work together to challenge the norms and attitudes that perpetuate GBV and create a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding “The impact of GBV is far-reaching, causing physical, emotional, and psychological harm to survivors It is essential that we provide support and resources to those affected, while also holding perpetrators accountable for their actions By doing so, we can create a safer and more just society for all "

MbhasheLocalMunicipalitygearsupforfestivities

THE spokesperson for Mbhashe Local Municipality, Babalwa Magqwanti, has confirmed that the municipality will be hosting a series of events leading up to the Ilifa LoMbhashe Festival as part of this month’s Heritage and Tourism Month commemoration

She emphasised that this vibrant festival is a key initiative within the municipality’s strategic plan to utilise event tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and to enhance its tourism profile

Guided by the reviewed Local Economic Development (LED) Strategy, the municipality considers event tourism as a vital tool for integrated marketing and the promotion of its tourism sector

In South Africa, the month of September is dedicated to celebrating diverse cultures and heritage while promoting domestic tourism

“This is an opportunity for the people of Mbhashe Local Municipality to reconnect with their roots, including their heritage, culture, traditional attire, and all aspects that define them September also marks Tourism Month, celebrated annually to promote domestic travel and highlight the country’s exceptional tourism offerings

The planned activities align with our commitment to ensuring tourism significantly benefits from the influx of visitors to Mbhashe Local Municipality during this time,” said Magqwanti

The Ilifa LoMbhashe Heritage Month involves various signature events designed by the Mbhashe Local Municipality and its partners to commemorate Heritage and Tourism Month

These events aim to showcase the region’s heritage, tourism, and investment potential to both domestic and international tourists, reinforcing Mbhashe’s position as one of the critical destinations within the Wild Coast Tourism Route

Key events in the Ilifa LoMbhashe Heritage Programme:

Eastern Amathole Agricultural Trade Fair (5 September 2025)

Held in collaboration with the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), the Eastern Amathole Agricultural and Food Trade Fair took place at the Indoor Sports Centre in Elliotdale

The event focused on promoting trade and market access for emerging farmers from Mbhashe by connecting them directly with market partners

Emerging farmers showcased their produce and products to visitors, boosting trade while supporting local economic growth and job creation

Ilifa LoMbhashe Cyclists’ Adventure Willowvale (13 September 2025)

This thrilling cycling event will take

participants on a scenic route from Nqadu Great Place to Lower Gwadu, navigating rolling hills, valleys, and winding roads with breathtaking views of the Mbhashe Local Municipality Cyclists of all levels are expected to join this adventurous ride

Inkciyo ka Xhosa in Nqadu Great Place (18–19 September 2025)

Young virgins under Inkciyo Eastern Cape and the AmaXhosa Kingdom, will come together to celebrate heritage

through various activities

The programme aims to educate young girls about the importance of abstinence, the dangers of teenage pregnancy, underage sex, and HIV/AIDS

Battle of Lurwayizo Guided Tour in Willowvale (19 September 2025)

The Heritage Tour includes a visit to the historical Jafta family homestead in Lurwayizo, the site of the iconic Battle of Lurwayizo

The battle, a significant yet undocumented liberation struggle led by Umkhonto Wesizwe against the apartheid regime, holds deep historical value

The tour is driven by the Battle of Lurwayizo Development Initiative (BOLD), a community-led initiative promoting economic development across various sectors, including eco-tourism, agriculture, and conservation

Fun Walk and Hike in Dutywa (20 September 2025)

This scenic activity begins and ends at the Mbhashe River near the N2 bridge

Participants will explore the beautiful terrain of the Mbhashe River Region, passing through the Nywara and Candu administrative areas, enjoying the stunning natural surroundings along the way

Ilifa LoMbhashe Music Festival and Flea Market in Dutywa (20 September 2025)

The festival’s main event combines a music festival featuring nationally, regionally, and locally acclaimed artists with a flea market

The event provides a platform for local SMMEs to showcase their goods and services, with attendees encouraged to support local vendors The festival also celebrates local talent and aims to nurture growth within the arts sector

Arbor Day in Dutywa (23 September 2025)

The celebration of Arbor Day in Ward 2, Dutywa, will include community tree planting, a clean-up campaign, and sessions to raise environmental awareness, promoting sustainability and a greener community

EzileJikijelawins GospelSongoftheYear

BABALWA NDLANYA

TALENTED South African gospel singer and songwriter, Ezile Jikijela, from Qumbu, has confirmed that his song titled Ndombathe Moya won the Song of the Year Award at the Independent National Gospel Music Awards (Ingoma), held recently at Glory House in Midrand, Johannesburg

"What led me to enter these awards was the overwhelming response my song received it garnered 1 4 million views on YouTube within six months It was my first time being nominated for these awards When I heard the judges announcing my name, I literally cried because I never thought I would win, especially since it was my first nomination I thank God and everyone who supported me," said Jikijela

Inspiringruralyouththroughfilm,acting

BABALWA NDLANYA

INGA Makosonke, Director of New Motion Casting Agency, has confirmed that their first film, Dark Shadow, was aired on Mpuma-Kapa TV in July this year.

Jikijela began his musical journey as a choir member in church before deciding to pursue his passion for music He released his debut single, Isabatha, in 2011, which was met with an enthusiastic response from his followers "I have worked with prominent gospel artists such as Betusile Mcinga, Khaya Noranga, and Butho Vuthela I have shared the stage at various events, including the Isingqisethu Cultural Festival in Port St Johns in 2017, and auditions hosted by Amaqhawe at Mthatha Town Hall the same year," he shared Jikijela further added that his songs, including Ndonyamezela and Ndombathe Moya, are available on major music streaming platforms such as Spotify, SoundCloud, Amazon Music Unlimited, and Audimark

The experience provided crucial lessons and helped identify areas for improvement. Makosonke, originally from the Futye locality in Mqanduli and now residing in Mthatha, shared that he never imagined he could help fulfil the dreams of young people from rural areas who longed to appear on television.

Recently, Makosonke completed film training courses to enhance his skills, and he emphasised a more structured approach to their upcoming projects.

"Through the Nkosi Group, I learnt about the film business from Agreement HR and Accounting. I also underwent online training focused on film marketing and distribution under Brain Engen. The most impactful experience, where I gained practical knowledge, was with New Brighton Pictures," he said

He added that his team has been actively engaging with local communities, teaching acting skills, and producing films that reflect their stories. Their film camps in Mount Ayliff (Bhotomani) and Elliotdale (Ku Manzi) have been particularly successful.

"We are currently preparing for a major shoot in Coffee Bay for Dark Shadow As the produc-

er and founder of this agency, I am pleased to announce that we are open to partnering with local businesses to feature them in our films. With a packed schedule from September to December, we are eager to collaborate with like-minded organisations."

Makosonke explained his journey, sharing that he started the academy to uplift and devel-

op young talent in rural areas, where access to resources and information about filmmaking is limited. He chose to leave Gauteng and return to the Eastern Cape to help elevate local talent and educate the youth

He founded New Motion Casting Agency in 2023 with the mission of supporting both emerging and experienced actors, particularly from rural backgrounds. The agency educates actors about their rights and seeks to protect them from exploitation in the industry.

"Having grown up in the deep rural areas of Mqanduli, I understand the challenges people face, including financial struggles caused by mismanaged earnings. To make a difference, I started training young and older individuals who are passionate about acting."

Currently, the agency trains 40 students across two locations: Norwood in Mthatha and the local library in Elliotdale. Earlier this year, several students graduated and received certificates during a ceremony held in March.

The agency's training programme spans six months, after which graduates automatically join the casting agency. While New Motion Casting Agency is working to secure professional roles for its graduates, they are currently gaining valuable experience by performing in the agency’s own film productions

Spo

Impressiveho atMnqumaSp

ANELE RAZIYA

Nqgamakwe-born and bred Nkulule

“Nkush” Malgas, now Head Coach North West University FC, expressed joy and gratitude upon being honou by the Mnquma Sport Council for his o standing contributions to football

The Mnquma Sports Awards, held Butterworth Town Hall on Friday e ning, celebrated sports heroes and h oines who have made significant con butions to various sporting discipli across the nation

Amongst the dignitaries were Sibul Ngongo, MEC for Sport, Fundile Ga MEC for Education, and ex-football st Siphiwe Tshabalala

Malgas, the former TS Galaxy video alyst and ex-AmaTuks FC assistant coa was recognised with a certificate a

Newheadcoachfor

BUSH Bucks FC has appointed Siyabulela Gwambi as the new head coach of Imbabala for the forthcoming 2025/26 season

Gwambi, who previously served as senior head coach at Chippa United FC, brings considerable experience to the role, having worked as assistant coach under Dan Malesela at Chippa United in 2021

He will be supported by coach Glenn Minnie, who, alongside Mondli Funani, led Bush Bucks FC in the previous ABC Motsepe League season

Despite finishing second-last in the 2024 season, Bush Bucks FC impressed fans and surprised many opponents

Gwambi's appointment was officially announced on Monday, 8 September The 2025 EC ABC Motsepe League is anticipated to begin in early October