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Schools festival returns to action The uLwazi Foundation hosted its schools’ Super 8 Festival tournament at Yunivesithi Walter Sisulu’s Bika campus near Butterworth last weekend, with eight schools from Mnquma, Mbhashe and Intsika Yethu competing. MEC for Sport, Sibulele Ngongo, commended foundation chairperson, Luxolo September, for the initiative, aimed at developing football and giving players aged 16 to 19 a chance to showcase their talent in front of professional scouts. From the left are Banzi ‘Bra Ace’ Siyongwana, who led the organising committee, Ngongo and September. Read the full story on page 8. PHOTO: ANELE RAZIYA

MthathaExpress

NEWS

10 September 2026

DeadsardinesalongMbhashe coast spark investigation ZOLILE MENZELWA INVESTIGATIONS are underway to determine what caused dead sardines to wash up along the Mbhashe Local Municipality coastline recently. Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) spokesperson, Zolile Nqayi, said a statement from the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) indicated no basis to discontinue consumption of commercially produced canned sardines processed under NRCS oversight. “These products must be distinguished from dead or dying sardines found on beaches or floating at sea. The public should not collect or eat these fish, or feed them to pets, because of decomposition-related risks. PHV is not known to infect people,” said Nqayi. He said PHV was a leading explanation for sardine deaths in the Western Cape, but environmental factors also needed investigation. Samples were being collected for further testing, and observers would document the distribution of affected fish. “Investigations are ongoing to determine whether an environmental stressor such as low oxygen, harmful algae or unusual ocean conditions may have triggered the mortality. Tests for paralytic shellfish toxins have been

negative,” he said. Nqayi said other sightings were at Bakoven and off Tsitsikamma, followed by widespread reports of sardines washing ashore around Gqeberha and floating offshore and within the harbour. Live and dead sardines had been reported in the Koeberg cooling-water intake basin. Mbhashe Local Municipality said residents, fishers and visitors to its shores should be aware that sardines were washing ashore along the municipal coastline. The sardines, also known as pilchards, were found in areas around Elliotdale and Willowvale. Municipal spokesperson, Babalwa Magqwanti, said Environmental Management and Community Services teams were monitoring affected beaches and conducting a clean-up. “We are working with DFFE, the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency and Amathole District Municipality to safely dispose of and bury the sardines. Further updates will be issued as official information becomes available. “We appeal to the public to comply with this advisory in the interest of public health, safety and environmental protection. Please report large accumulations to the municipality,” said Magqwanti.

Nurse jailed for girlfriend’s murder BABALWA NDLANYA SPOKESPERSON for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Luxolo Tyali, said the NPA had secured a sentence of life imprisonment against a healthcare professional for a non-governmental organisation based in Mthatha, Baxolile Masiza (34), for the murder of his girlfriend, a healthcare worker and nursing student, Nosethu Rawuzela (24). Both were nurses in Tsolo. The murder occurred in March 2025 at Gomeni location in Tsolo. Tyali said the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in Mthatha found that Masiza was motivated by jealousy and imposed the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment. “The court heard that on the night of the incident, Masiza invited the victim to the home of his cousin, where they spent the night in a separate bedroom. The following morning, Masiza woke his cousin and requested assistance in taking Rawuzela to hospital. When the cousin entered the room, he found the deceased lying on a bed with severe injuries, although she was still alive. The pair transported her to hospital, where she was declared dead on arrival,” said Tyali. He added that police were summoned to the scene and Masiza was arrested shortly thereafter. He admitted assaulting the deceased with the leg of a wooden table after becoming enraged by a belief that she was involved in a relationship with another man. He was subsequently released on bail. “During the trial, Masiza pleaded not guilty, claiming that he had been heavily intoxicated and had not intended to kill her,” said Tyali. State Advocate Avumile Bikitsha led evidence from the accused's cousin, the investigating officer and the medical practitioner who conducted the post-mortem examination. “The State’s witnesses testified that Rawuzela attempted to flee during the assault but was trapped by the accused, causing her to fall and strike her head,” said Tyali. Evidence further revealed that Masiza dragged her back into the house by her hair and continued assaulting her, including repeatedly banging her head against a wall. During the sentencing proceedings, Bikitsha led evidence from the deceased’s aunt, who described a history of domestic abuse throughout the relationship. She testified that Rawuzela had previously shown her visible injuries, including bruises on her neck following an alleged strangulation incident. According to Tyali, the aunt further told the court that on one occasion Rawuzela had been forced to leave Masiza’s home at midnight when another girlfriend arrived. Although Rawuzela had attempted to end the

relationship, the accused allegedly continued to harass her, including following her to her family home and refusing to leave unless he was allowed inside. Tyali said the court also heard that just a week before her death, Rawuzela had reported being slapped by him. Despite repeated encouragement from family members to report the abuse to the police, she declined to do so because she loved him. In handing down sentence, Judge Mbulelo Jolwana condemned the sustained domestic violence that preceded the murder. “Regrettably, it is her failure to get the accused arrested for the domestic violence that he has been repeatedly subjecting her to that ultimately resulted in her losing her life. Had these incidents been reported, the accused may have been arrested, and the deceased might still be alive today,” said Jolwana. The court agreed with the State’s submission that there were no substantial and compelling circumstances justifying a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment. Welcoming the outcome, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Eastern Cape, Advocate Samkelo Mtwana, said the sentence reaffirms the NPA’s unwavering commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide. “This sentence sends a clear message that perpetrators of violence against women will be held accountable for their actions. The NPA remains committed to ensuring justice for victims and their families and to pursuing the harshest consequences available under the law for those convicted of such heinous crimes,” said Mtwana.

Baxolile Masiza (34) was sentenced for murdering his girlfriend Nosethu Rawuzela (24).

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

10 September 2026

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NEWS

Disaster reduction campaign launched in KwaziDenge village MANDLENKOSI MXENGI AMATHOLE District Municipality, through its Disaster Management Directorate and in partnership with Amahlathi Local Municipality, launched its 2026 disaster risk reduction campaign in KwaZidenge village, Stutterheim, on Tuesday, 1 September. The launch began ADM’s build-up to the annual International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, observed globally on Sunday, 13 September. This year’s global theme is “Resilience Starts at Home”, aimed at highlighting the importance of building resilience through improved disaster preparedness, early warning systems and safe land-use and building practices. The campaign is mandated by the United Nations and promotes a global culture of risk awareness and disaster risk reduction. It also honours communities affected by natural disasters and commemorates those who have lost their lives. The launch followed a day after the ADM council approved measures to strengthen the district’s disaster management and emergency response, including updating the disaster man-

Amathole District Municipality officially launched its 2026 disaster risk reduction campaign in KwaZidenge due to the village’s exposure and vulnerability to flooding associated with rising water levels at the nearby Kubusi River. PHOTO: MANDLENKOSI MXENGI agement plan, improving verification of reported incidents, expanding community awareness and strengthening coordination with the six local municipalities under Amathole’s jurisdiction.

KwaZidenge was chosen because of its vulnerability to flooding from the nearby Kubusi River. The launch focused on educating residents about local disaster risks, responding to early warnings and taking practical measures

to protect their families, homes and property. ADM disaster management officer Lindokuhle Nqono said KwaZidenge had been identified as prone to flooding due to its proximity to the Kubusi River. “The purpose of this programme is to ensure that residents understand the risks and know what measures to be taken to protect themselves, their families and property,” said Nqono. Acting senior disaster management officer, Cebisile Noyo, warned residents about the potential impact of rising water levels in the Kubusi River, saying increased volumes could flood homes, affect livestock and disrupt access to schools. He said ADM had carried out a technical assessment to identify communities facing significant disaster risks. “Through a comprehensive desktop risk analysis, supported by the latest South African National Space Agency flood risk maps, ADM has identified KwaZidenge village in Amahlathi as a particularly vulnerable area with a high level of exposure to severe and recurring flood events,” said Noyo. The launch urged residents to take flood warnings seriously and implement precautionary measures before conditions become dangerous.

Raid shuts ﬁve spaza shops in KuGompo City MANDLENKOSI MXENGI FIVE foreign-owned spaza shops were closed for non-compliance, and a foreign national was arrested for drug possession, including mandrax tablets, after a Buffalo City Metro safety and security cluster raid in the North End business area of KuGompo City on Friday, 4 September. The suspect, charged with drug dealing, will appear in the East London Magistrate’s Court on Monday after being processed by the Department of Home Affairs immigration unit to establish the legality of his sta-

tus. The operation was led by executive mayor Princess Faku, and involved KuGompo police, the Department of Home Affairs immigration unit, Border Management Authority, Eastern Cape Liquor Board, the Metro’s Law Enforcement, and traffic and municipal health services inspectors. Nine business premises were inspected, including spaza shops, fast food premises and a guest house in St Paul’s Road. Officials confiscated expired food items, illegal pesticides and illicit alcohol. The arrested suspect was found with man-

drax tablets and an undisclosed amount of cash hidden under his bed in a rental building in St Paul’s Road. Faku said unannounced raids were conducted weekly to ensure businesses complied with municipal bylaws. “The Metro is forced to close down all businesses operating without valid licences,” she said. She also highlighted criminal activity in the North End area. “These people are heavily armed. We are dealing with drug dealers, so we needed to prepare well before conducting these oper-

ations, and the aim is to fight crime, especially the selling of drugs in this area,” said Faku. In June, the metro shut down an illegal alcohol-manufacturing factory in the Gonubie area. Faku has held meetings with foreign shop owners to discuss compliance and established a Buffalo City Metro compliance and registration task team responsible for business registration and bylaw enforcement. Spaza shop compliance workshops have been held in Cambridge, KuGompo, Qonce, Mdantsane, Ntabozuko and Dimbaza.

KuGompo City: Hawks secure fraud conviction HAWKS (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation) spokesperson, Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, said the KuGompo Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit secured a conviction on August 26, 2026, following an investigation into the conduct of Lucky Mudau (56), who operated outside the regulated banking and financial services environment. Mudau was convicted by the Qonce Regional Court on a charge of contravening the Banks Act. “In 2019, he represented himself to prospective investors as the owner and/or manager of GHI Traders (Pty) Ltd, portraying the company as an investment enterprise and/or a banking institution capable of receiving deposits and investments from members of the public. The victims were encouraged to invest their money on the promise that their investments would gen-

erate extraordinarily high returns within a short period,” said Mhlakuvana. In some instances, investors were assured that their capital could effectively be doubled. He said the victims became suspicious when they tried to withdraw their investments as promised but could no longer reach Mudau. A criminal case was opened and handed to the Hawks for investigation. “The investigation established that several victims suffered a combined financial loss of approximately R900 000. As a result of the Hawks’ investigation, Mudau was arrested in court the following day, where he was granted bail of R1 000. Mudau attended numerous court proceedings before he absconded. “His bail was forfeited to the State, and a warrant for his arrest was issued. A manhunt was launched, and he was eventual-

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR MINING PERMIT & ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORIZATION

This notice is hereby given in terms of Section 27 of the MPRDA, Act 28 of 2002 and Regulation 41(2) (c) of EIA Regulation GNR 517of 11 June 2021, promulgated in terms of NEMA, 107 of 1998, of the intent to carry out the listed Activity, GNR 517 “LN 1, Activities 21, on Part Unregistered State Land of Qweqwe Allotment area, in the Magisterial District of Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province.

This notice is hereby given in terms of Section 27 of the MPRDA, Act 28 of 2002 and Regulation 41(2) (c) of EIA Regulation GNR 517 of 11 June 2021, promulgated in terms of NEMA, 107 of 1998, of the intent to carry out the listed Activity, GNR 517 “LN 1, Activities 21 on Part of Unalienated State Land of Gcuwa Allotment Areas, in the Magisterial District of Butterworth, Eastern Cape Province.

The Central Coordinates are: 31.671403 S, 28.674746 E

The Central Coordinates are: 32.285502 S, 28.177377 E

Item 1.

Operation Name FITSHANE QUARRY

DMPR Reference No. EC30/5/1/3/2/11015MP

You are hereby invited to register as Interested and Aﬀected Party (I&AP) to comment on the above Mining Permit Application, lodged at the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources on behalf of Fitshane Investments and Trading C.c. A Background Information Document (BID) and a draft Basic Assessment Report (BAR) will be made available on request to all registered I&APs for their perusal and commenting thereof. For further information or registration as an interested and aﬀected party (I&AP), kindly contact Mr. Sicelo Botha, the contact person at Dynamic Geoscience Consultants (Pty) Ltd on 083 523 6687 and on sicelo.botha@yahoo.com. MTXHS100926-TE100926

Item 1.

Operation Name

DMPR Reference No.

MOMAME MINING

EC30/5/1/3/2/11017MP

ly rearrested in May 2025 and has been remanded in custody ever since. Following his conviction, the matter was postponed to August 28 for sentencing,” said Mhlakuvana. Provincial head of the Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, thanked the investigating team for securing the conviction.

Ngwenya said the conviction sent a clear message that individuals who unlawfully operated within the financial services environment, misrepresented their authority and exposed members of the public to financial risks could not assume such conduct would go unpunished.

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You are hereby invited to register as Interested and Aﬀected Party (I&AP) to comment on the above Mining Permit Application, lodged at the Department of Mineral Resources on behalf of MOMANE MINING (PTY) LTD. A Background Information Document (BID) and a draft Basic Assessment Report (BAR) will be made available on request to all registered I&APs for their perusal and commenting thereof. For further information or registration as an interested and aﬀected party (I&AP), kindly contact Mr. Sicelo Botha the contact person at Dynamic Geoscience Consultants (Pty) Ltd on 083 523 6687 and on sicelo.botha@yahoo.com. MTXHS100926-TE100926

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10 September 2026

Memorial service honours slain cashier BABALWA NDLANYA

S&P Spar Supermarket management, in partnership with Ibandla Lase Mthini Evangelical Movement, hosted a memorial service for Noni Masala (42), who died on duty at the supermarket last month after allegedly being struck by a stray bullet from outside the shop. The service was held at the Cathedral of St John Evangelist in Mthatha. Masala was laid to rest at the Manxileni locality in Qumbu. Her cousin, Phoyisa Masala from Manxileni, described her as someone who cared for her family and always made sure to give support when necessary. “What is more painful is that on the day of the incident, her daughter, Sinesipho, was graduating in Cape Town. She was a breadwinner who played a major role in ensuring that her siblings went to school. Her passing has devastated us, especially since their father left them while they were still young, but Noni tried by all means to close the gap,” said Masala. He added that they were happy to see how loved she was, as evidenced by the attendance. “My heart aches. We had a traditional ceremony at home in 2025. She is the one who played a major role in ensuring that everything was in order,” he said. Assistant manager, Khakhalethu Hempe, said Noni was

Nwabisa Masala (sister to Noni), Maqadi Masala (mother to Noni) and Khephu Khohlani (uncle to Noni) were among those who attended Noni Masala’s memorial service in Mthatha. PHOTO: BABALWA NDLANYA finishing her shift as a cashier when the incident happened. “It was brought to my attention by other staff members that Noni fell after we heard a sound which was not even loud. When I looked at her, I found that she was down, and I tried to lift her. “We thought she had fainted, thinking she had suffered a shock due to this sound. When I tried to hear the vital sounds, I

found that she was still alive and trying to respond,” said Hempe. He said he noticed she was deteriorating. One of the employees pointed out a bullet hole in the window. “She was not bleeding. Even when we tried to check her, we just saw a small amount of blood on her back. We were shocked and then called the police and ambulances. Unfortunately,

when they arrived, they saw that she had a bullet hole in her back and was no more,” said Hempe. He said the incident was not a robbery, but they had heard there was a shooting among people who had a misunderstanding across the street. He said the attendance at the memorial service reflected how she treated staff. “Even though all employees were trained in

how to treat people, Noni went the extra mile and was loved by people.” Ibandla Lase Mthini Evangelical Movement founder, Bishop Tshepo Machaea, said they partnered with the supermarket because of the manner in which the incident occurred. “Remember, this victim was at work performing her duty when the stray bullet hit her. Just imagine a bullet travelling from a distance of 60 metres (estimation), but we have to remember that none of us knows what tomorrow holds for us,” said Machaea. Police spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, said the South African Police Service in Madeira was investigating a murder case after an employee was fatally shot at a supermarket on August 21 at approximately 18:30. “The victim was serving at her till when a bullet entered through a window and struck her in the back. She succumbed to her injuries at the scene despite an immediate response. Detectives are actively following up on several leads. “However, no arrests have been made yet, and the suspect(s) remain unknown. Anyone with information that could assist in the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or report via the MySAPS App. “All information will be treated in strict confidence,” said Gantana.

Newlands village: Fire families receive relief aid MANDLENKOSI MXENGI ESKOM, an international humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers, and Buffalo City Metro officials continue to provide emergency relief aid and assistance to several families whose houses were recently burnt down following an alleged electrical fault in Newlands village outside KuGompo City. The destructive fire, believed to have been started by an electrical fault, resulted in at least 19 households being damaged, while three other houses were completely burnt down. Three people had to be rushed to Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in Mdantsane after sustaining in-

juries following the blaze, which occurred on Monday, 31 August. The electrical meters at the affected houses were completely damaged and needed urgent replacement, and Eskom has sent its officials to the village to start the work. The devastating fire has affected several homes, with families losing essential household equipment including refrigerators, television sets, microwaves and other electrical appliances, as well as personal belongings. A Buffalo City Metro delegation, led by executive mayor Princess Faku, council chief whip, Sangweni Matwele, and member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for human settle-

ments Sakhumzi Caga visited the affected families to assess the situation on Wednesday, 2 September. The power utility is continuing its investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire, while its maintenance team works towards the full restoration of electricity to the affected area. Faku said the Metro has requested Eskom to conduct a comprehensive assessment, and both parties are expected to engage on the findings and the final report. “The municipality will also provide relief and assistance to families whose homes were destroyed. The Gift of the Givers NGO is expected to conduct its

own assessment of the situation, while municipal officials will return to the affected community to further engage with residents and communicate the assistance that will be provided,” said Faku. The municipality has since mobilised relevant teams to assess the extent of the damage and work with affected families and the community to provide much-needed assistance. After conducting its own assessment, Gift of the Givers was expected to provide blankets and food parcels to families whose houses were destroyed by the blaze. Local village resident, Xola Mfenqe, who was at the forefront, rescuing whatever he

could inside the burning houses, praised the youth of Newlands for responding to a call to assist the affected families. “We responded swiftly to the call to assist, and we did our best to take out some furniture inside the burning houses. The community needed us at that time, and the youth jumped in to save whatever we could,” said Mfenqe. Over the years, the Buffalo City Metro, through its emergency unit directorate, in partnership with Gift of the Givers, has continued to provide relief aid and distribute social relief packs, blankets and building materials to victims of shack fires in informal settlements in Buffalo City Metro.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR MINING PERMIT & ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORIZATION

This notice is hereby given in terms of Section 27 of the MPRDA, Act 28 of 2002 and Regulation 41(2) (c) of EIA Regulation GNR 517 of 11 June 2021, promulgated in terms of NEMA, 107 of 1998, of the intent to carry out the listed Activity, GNR 517 “LN 1, Activities 21 on Remainder Portion of Farm 51, in the Magisterial District of Butterworth, Eastern Cape Province.

This notice is hereby given in terms of Section 27 of the MPRDA, Act 28 of 2002 and Regulation 41(2) (c) of EIA Regulation GNR 517 of 11 June 2021, promulgated in terms of NEMA, 107 of 1998, of the intent to carry out the listed Activity, GNR 517 “LN 1, Activities 21, on the Remainder Portion of Farm 30 and Portion of Portion 04 of Farm 30, in the Magisterial District of Butterworth, Eastern Cape.

The Central Coordinates are: 32.338296 S, 28.227110 E Item 1.

Operation Name

DMPR Reference No.

CULASTYLE QUARRY

EC30/5/1/3/2/11021MP

The Central Coordinates are: 32.323392 S, 28.231046 E Item 1.

Operation Name

DMPR Reference No.

AWOMI QUARRY

EC30/5/1/3/2/11020MP

You are hereby invited to register as an Interested and Aﬀected Party (I&AP) and to comment on the above Mining Permit Application, lodged at the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources on behalf of AWOMI RESOURCES (PTY) LTD.

A Background Information Document (BID) and a draft Basic Assessment Report (BAR) will be made available on request to all registered I&APs for their perusal and commenting thereof.

For further information or registration as an interested and aﬀected party (I&AP), kindly contact Mr. Sicelo Botha the contact person at Dynamic Geoscience Consultants (Pty) Ltd on 083 523 6687 and on sicelo.botha@yahoo.com.

For further information or registration as an interested and aﬀected party (I&AP), kindly contact Mr. Sicelo Botha, the contact person at Dynamic Geoscience Consultants (Pty) Ltd on 083 523 6687 and on sicelo.botha@yahoo.com.

MTXHS100926-TE100926

10 September 2026

NEWS

MthathaExpress 5

MthathaExpress

NEWS

10 September 2026

MthathaExpress

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Youth innovation competition opens

BABALWA NDLANYA

THE South African Youth Council (SAYC) Mbhashe Branch, in partnership with Mbhashe Local Municipality, through the Special Programmes Unit, is calling on young people to showcase their creativity, innovation and problem-solving ideas. The grand final will be held at Dutywa TRC Hall on September 24. Branch secretary, Sivenkosi Lateta said the Invest in Technology Programme aimed to identify, encourage and support innovation among young people in Mbhashe. He said they wanted to create a platform where school learners and young people could present technological ideas and solutions to challenges they saw in their communities.

“We also want to change the perception that technology and innovation are only for people who are already established or living in bigger cities. We believe that innovative ideas can also come from young people in rural communities such as ours,” said Lateta. He said this was the first edition of the programme. “For learners, the programme is intended to expose them to innovation, technology, problem-solving and entrepreneurship at an early stage. It gives learners an opportunity to take what they learn at school and think about how they can use that knowledge to solve real-life problems. We also hope that the programme will encourage learners to develop a greater interest in technology, science, engineering and other innovation-related career paths,” he said.

Lateta said learners did not need to have highly advanced technological products. They wanted to encourage ideas and creativity at different levels. “One of the important objectives of this programme is to encourage young people to look beyond employment as the only possible future. South Africa, and particularly rural communities such as Mbhashe, faces a serious challenge of youth unemployment. Through this programme, we want young people to start thinking about innovation, entrepreneurship and technology as tools they can use to create opportunities and potentially develop businesses of their own,” said Lateta. He said the long-term goal was not simply to have young people compete for prizes, but also to help create an environment where promising ideas could be identified and linked with institu-

tions and stakeholders for further development. Entries are open and close on September 14. Interested participants must complete the official online entry form and provide information about their innovation or technological idea. The competition is open to learners in Grades 5 to 11 from schools within the Mbhashe Local Municipality, and youth aged 18 to 35 who want to showcase innovative or technological ideas. The programme will progress from the entry stage to town-based activities in Dutywa, Xhora and Gatyana before successful participants proceed to the grand final on September 24. Innovation categories are digital technology and software, engineering, electronics and robotics, as well as community, agriculture and green technology. For more info, contact Lateta on 083 870 9385.

Arbor Month takes root in Libode BABALWA NDLANYA THE Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, launched Arbor Month 2026 in Libode, Nyandeni Local Municipality, last week. Arbor Month is commemorated annually in September to promote the planting, protection and conservation of trees and raise awareness about their role in supporting sustainability and climate resilience. The launch formed part of the 10 Million Trees Presidential Campaign. Swarts urged community members to look after the environment. “When we go out to the rural areas and work with the traditional leaders, we tell them that this is a government programme. Traditional healers must have a licence to buy the trees they want to use at a nursery, so that they must not go to the forests and cut any tree

they want. There are trees that should not be cut indiscriminately,” said Swarts. She also spoke to community members about waste management, saying poor practices contributed to climate change. “If people burn rubbish, it means communities will get sick. That is why we are always advised not to burn things like rubbish. Even at landfill sites, we do not want things to be burnt because this has an impact on air pollution. “If you do not have chickens at home, make sure you dig a hole so that you can put in your food leftovers, and this becomes fertiliser that you can use in ploughing. Now we are talking about separation at source, where we are supposed to have dustbins in different colours. “Unfortunately, even if we have them, they will be stolen, meaning we must learn to separate our rubbish and teach our children about this too,” said Swarts.

She urged the municipality to appoint public relations officers to deal with waste so they could purchase sorted recyclables from residents who separated their rubbish. She said recycling had no age limit and anyone could participate to earn money. Nyandeni Local Municipality Mayor Councillor Viwe Ndamase said they invited Swarts to teach them about climate change and how to fight it. “It is a crime to cut trees, because we are now facing the problem of soil erosion, as we are destroying the roots of trees. All that enriches the soil has been destroyed by fire. Let us teach ourselves that we do not burn grass, because it grows even if it has not been burnt and becomes green,” said Ndamase. He urged community members to stop discarding used nappies carelessly, saying they should not be thrown in the streets because they endangered children’s health.

Bernice Swarts (Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment) and Councillor Viwe Ndamase (Mayor from Nyandeni Local Municipality) show some of the fruit trees at Nyandeni Local Municipality. PHOTO: BABALWA NDLANYA

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MthathaExpress

Sport

SPORT

Schools festival returns to Butterworth ANELE RAZIYA MEC for Sport in the Eastern Cape, Sibulele Ngongo, has commended former Premier Soccer League (PSL) communications manager Luxolo “Lux” September, and his uLwazi Foundation for their contribution to football development in Mnquma, Mbhashe, Intsika Yethu and surrounding areas. The uLwazi Foundation hosted a schools’ Super 8 Festival tournament at Yunivesithi Walter Sisulu’s Bika campus near Butterworth last weekend. Eight schools representing Mnquma, Mbhashe and Intsika Yethu took part. Xolilizwe Senior Secondary School from Willowvale were crowned champions of the 2026 edition after defeating Centane-based Macibe Senior Secondary School 5-4 on penalties, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The event was aimed at developing football in parts of the Amathole region and giving young players aged 16 to 19 a chance to showcase their talent in front of professional team scouts. Ngongo said the event showed that education and sport go together. “As the Department of Sport, we want to applaud the

chairperson of the uLwazi Foundation, Mr September, for hosting this important event, and we also congratulate the winners.” She said such events are important to the development of sport as they start at school level and focus on nurturing talent. She thanked the team that worked with September to organise the event and acknowledged the dignitaries who attended in support of the tournament. Ngongo called on everyone to support the development of sport in every area so that events like the schools Super 8 Festival can continue to nurture talent. September told supporters and dignitaries before the prize presentation that the foundation had decided to host the tournament annually. He said prior to the COVID-19 outbreak there were plans to host the event for five consecutive years following its launch in 2016, but the pandemic disrupted those plans. “Now we are back in full swing, and we will host it for the next five years, giving schools an opportunity to compete against each other,” he said. September thanked the schools that participated in the tournament and congratulated the winners, Xolilizwe Senior Secondary School, who have won the event back-to-back since its inception in 2018.

Madeira race welcomes adaptive athletes HOSEYA JUBASE ORGANISERS of the Elliot Madeira Qualifying Race have called on adaptive athletes, including those using wheelchairs, to register and participate in this year’s race scheduled for 20 September 2026. The race is expected to attract more than 3,000 athletes from across South Africa and abroad this year. According to organisers, athletes who make the qualifying time in the 42km category will be able to use their times to register for three major marathons: The Soweto Marathon, Absa Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon. Race manager, Tobi Nceba, said athletes will assemble at the Mthatha Sports Field before being transported to their various starting points on race day. “We have more water stations — about 28 for the entire race,” said Tobi. The race distances will be structured as follows: 42km from Tyalara, 21km from New Town on the N2, 10km from Qweqwe (eZimotweni) and 5km from the Madeira Street and Elliot Street corner in Mthatha CBD. All participants are expected to receive T-shirts and medals on the day. “This year, if a school or any organisation manages to register 100 or more learners, it will receive R5,000 cash,” he added.

Organisers have emphasised that adaptive athletes, including those using wheelchairs, Intellectually Impaired (II) and Deaf runners, are encouraged to take part. “This year we want adaptive athletes who are using wheelchairs and crutches to be part of this year’s race. We don’t want to discriminate against any athletes; we want everyone to feel part of this year’s race,” he said. “During the month of September, the charity organises the Elliot/Madeira Charity Club Race, which involves participants of all ages. This event is organised to encourage community members to develop an interest in sport.” The race has grown significantly since its formation in September 2014, when approximately 600 athletes participated. The event has attracted athletes from across the Eastern Cape and neighbouring countries. In 2018, the club’s vision of promoting and developing the potential of young athletes in Mthatha and surrounding areas was achieved. In 2025, the event reached its highest number of participants, with 2,466 athletes. “As a result, the organisers were required to comply with the standards of major races, including doping testing, Mobii timing systems and other professional requirements,” Tobi said.

Fort Hare climbs as City Lads sink ANELE RAZIYA TWO Eastern Cape teams are experiencing contrasting fortunes in the Hollywoodbets Super League Super Rise division. City Lads FC from Gqeberha are still searching for their first points of the season, while University of Fort Hare FC from Alice continue to climb the log standings. On Saturday, the two sides met in a provincial derby. University of Fort Hare won 2-0 at home, moving from fifth to fourth place with 10 points after seven league games. City Lads remain bottom of the log in eighth place with zero points, having suffered seven straight defeats since the start of the season.

JVW FC lead the table with 17 points after their 2-1 win over TUT FC on Saturday. University of JHB FC occupy second place with 14 points. This weekend, City Lads will host thirdplaced TUT FC, with both sides looking to bounce back from weekend defeats. City Lads will also be aiming to make the most of home advantage for their first win of the season. University of Fort Hare will visit mid-table side First Touch FC Ladies in a league encounter on Sunday. Other fixtures in the division see Ramatlaohle Ladies FC host log leaders JVW FC on Friday, and Ezemvelo Women’s FC host University of JHB FC on Sunday.

10 September 2026

MBHASHE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

BID RE-ADVERTISEMENT BID NO: MBH/P&D/0010/2025-26 (RE-ADVERT) Mbhashe Local Municipality hereby invites service providers to bid for the APPOINTMENT OF TRAINING SERVICE PROVIDERS FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES FOR A PERIOD OF THREE (03) YEARS. Project Name

Bid Number

Closing Date

MBH/P&D/001 12 October 2026 APPOINTMENT 0/2025-26 not later than OF TRAINING (RE-ADVERT) 11h00 SERVICE PROVIDERS FOR All completed ECONOMIC bids must be in a DEVELOPMENT sealed envelope PROGRAMMES marked “Bid FOR A PERIOD OF Name, Bid No, THREE (03) Bidder's Name YEARS. At 454 Streatﬁeld Road in Dutywa During 07h30 to

Brieﬁng Or Site Inspection Date

Enquiries

Availability of tender documents

N/A

Technical related Queries :

10 September 2026 at Mbhashe Local Municipality Budget and Treasury Cashiers' oﬃces, 454 Streatﬁeld Road, Dutywa upon payment of a non-refundable deposit of R466.65 per document. EFT will be accepted, When paying through EFT please use the name of the company as a reference. The municipality will only be selling the hardcopy documents the electronic documents will be obtainable on the website www.mbhashemun.gov.za at no charge. ACCOUNT TYPE: PUBLIC SECTOR CHEQUE ACCOUNT, ACCOUNT NUMBER:62231175953 FIRST NATIONAL BANK BRANCH CODE: 211121

Mr M. Sibaca 063 689 0667 SCM related Queries : Ms. A Mbebe 072 399 8951 During 08:00 to 16h30 from Monday to Friday

+BRANCH NAME: DUTYWA SWIFT CODE: FIRNZAJJH

THE ADVERT IS ISSUED IN COMPLIANCE PREFERENTIAL PROCUREMENT REGULATION 2022 (PPR) Stage 1: Assessment of Administrative Compliance · Only bidders who are responsive in terms of administrative compliance will be evaluated further to stage 2. Stage 2: This stage will focus on evaluation of specification and bidders ability to execute the projects: · Bidder must respond in accordance with all the minimum requirements and conditions of the tender as detailed in the terms of reference, failure to comply will result in disqualification. Stage 3: Evaluation will be done based on the 80/20 preferential point system. · Where 80 points will be allocated for price and 20 for specific goals. Bidders must submit the required documentation to claim preference plan. · The 80/20 preferential system will be applied, where points 80 points will be allocated for price and 20 for specific goals. SPECIFIC GOALS The specific goals allocated points in terms of this tender

Number of points allocated (80/20 system) (To be completed by the tenderer)

Required documentation or proof to claim the points.

Procurement under the 80/20 preference points system where the enterprise head oﬃce or primary place of business is located: Points for enterprises within Mbashe municipal area Points for enterprises within Amathole District region Points for enterprises within the Eastern Cape Province

ID copy of directors / owner and CSD report

Business owned by 100% black person. Business owned by more than 50% black person

4 2

Business owned by equal or less than 50% black person. Bidder will be entitled to claims in one of the above.

Business owned by 100% black women. Business owned by more than 50% black person

4 2

Business owned by equal or less than 50% black women. Bidder will be entitled to claims in one of the above.

Business owned by more than 50% youth

ID copy of directors / owner and CSD report

Business owned by more than 50% disabled person

Medical report / Certiﬁcate

SMME's

Sworn Affidavit issued by the Commissioner of Oath or a certificate from the Verification Agency as means of verification

2 1

ID copy of directors / owner and CSD report

BIDDERS SHALL TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS OF THE TENDER: · The Validity period of Bids is 90 days from the closing date. · Bidders to submit a Tax Compliance status document with Pin issued by South African Revenue Services (SARS) or CSD number to verify tax status. · Failure to complete, date and sign MBD 4, MBD 8, and MBD 9 will render the bidder non-responsive. · Failure of directors / trustees / shareholders / members to declare companies involved in under MBD 4, Item 2.11 , will result in disqualification . · Electronic tender documents will also be available on the municipal website www.mbhashemun.gov.za · Bidders must be registered on CSD if the bidder is not registered the bid will be deemed non-responsive. · Failure to submit JV agreements (where applicable) or Consortium Agreements will lead to a disqualification. · Latest billing clearance certificate OR statement of municipal account not older than three months OR a lease agreement of the bidding company must be attached., Cllrs letter will not serve as a billing clearance certificate. Please note for any address provided as the preferred on CSD and CK there must be a lease agreement or billing rates clearance which will serve as a proof that the company does not owe rates for the addresses provided in the CSD and CK. Bidders are advised to ensure that they align the addresses on CSD and CK to the lease agreement and billing clearance attached. · All certified documents must not be older than Six (06) months. · Late, telegraphic, facsimile, emailed, electronic copy, incomplete or unsigned bids will not be considered. · Non-disclosure by the service providers who are in the service of state and service providers listed on tender defaulters will lead to disqualification. · Completed Bids and supporting documentation, placed in a sealed envelope clearly written on the outside of the envelope with bid details of project must be dropped in the marked tender bid box placed at the reception of the Mbhashe Local Municipality offices at 454 Streatfield Road in Dutywa During 07h30 to 16h30 from Monday to Friday, no later than Monday,12 October 2026 before 11H00 am on the date as mentioned above. All the received bids will be opened in Public at the same time and date. · Mbhashe Local Municipality does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any bid and reserves the right not to accept the whole or any part of the bid. · The municipality will not be liable for any misplaced or late tender document delivered by Courier Company. · Bidders will be evaluated in accordance with the Municipality's Supply Chain Management Policy and in terms of Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act new regulations of 2022 and will be based on 80/20 points system. Issued by M. NAKO MUNICIPAL MANAGER MBHASHE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY 454 Streatfield Road, P.O Box 25, Dutywa, South Africa, 5000 SAMXXX-TE100926