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New rural bridges link villages Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala (centre), visited the Qaga Welisizwe rural bridge outside Qonce to inspect construction progress on the project, which links villages in the Buffalo City area. Read the full story on page 2. PHOTO MANDLENKOSI MXENGI
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MthathaExpress
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17 September 2026
QONCE, POTSDAM:
Deputy Minister inspects progress on rural bridge projects MANDLENKOSI MXENGI THE Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, recently conducted an oversight visit to inspect work at various Welisizwe Rural Bridges projects currently under construction linking several villages in Qonce and Potsdam rural areas in the Buffalo City municipal area. Zikalala, accompanied by senior officials from the provincial Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), embarked on an oversight visit to inspect construction work at the Welisizwe Rural Bridges project in Qaga, Eluphondweni and Potsdam villages in the Buffalo City Metro. The purpose of the oversight visit was to monitor and inspect progress made on the construction of these rural bridges and interact with the respective communities. The Qaga, Eluphondweni and Potsdam Welisizwe rural bridges serve to improve accessibility and connectivity for vari-
ous neighbouring village communities in Qonce and Potsdam rural areas. The Welisizwe Rural Bridges project was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa during his 2022 State of the Nation Address (SONA), with the aim of fast-tracking the construction of bridges, particularly in rural areas, to address infrastructure backlogs and to ensure safer rural communities during floods. The Welisizwe bridge project is mainly aimed at building modular steel bridges in rural areas to fix infrastructure backlogs caused by heavy rains and floods. The project is managed and implemented by the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure in partnership with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the provincial departments of transport throughout the country. Since its launch, a number of bridges have been completed, while many others are under construction in the Free State, Mpumalanga, North West, Limpopo, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. In the Eastern Cape, a total of 54 rural
bridges have already been fully completed, including the Potsdam and Qaga steel bridges, while the Eluphondweni rural bridge is still under construction. Speaking during his oversight visit, Zikalala promised that the construction of the Eluphondweni rural bridge will be fully completed by the end of October this year. “The construction of the Eluphondweni rural bridge was paused due to heavy rains experienced in the past few months and the bridge project would be completed at the end of October,” said Zikalala. Deputy Minister Zikalala said the construction of the Potsdam and Qaga rural bridges has been completed and is awaiting final verification documentation before being officially handed over to the Potsdam and Qaga communities. “I would like to commend and thank members of the South African National Defence Force and EPWP participants for continuing to work despite challenging weather conditions and would like to reassure community members that the proj-
ects will remain under close oversight inspection until the final completion phase,” said Zikalala. The building of the Welisizwe rural bridges is led by SANDF members and the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) participants and has created thousands of job opportunities for youth and women in all six provinces where the project is implemented. The Department of Public Works had set itself an ambitious target of building 288 Welisizwe rural bridges by the end of the 2025-26 financial year. A total budget of R3.8 billion has already been allocated for this project over the 2023-24 and 2025-26 financial years and approximately 17 000 jobs and just over 500 training opportunities created during the first phase of the project. The Welisizwe Rural Bridges initiative was gazetted as a strategic integrated project to improve access to schools, clinics, hospitals and other essential services for rural communities through the construction of the modular steel bridges.
Teacher’s wife demands answers after alleged assault at school BABALWA NDLANYA SINOVUYO Fuzile (30) accused the Department of Education in the Eastern Cape of failing to show support after her husband, Monde Fuzile (34), from a school near Qonce, was allegedly assaulted by the principal (whose identity is known to Ex-
press) at the school on 19 August. She said the principal allegedly assaulted her husband and bit his ear. She said on the day of the incident, the School Management Team (SMT) was going to host a meeting where they were going to discuss the accusations that were laid by learners against the principal.
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“The SMT was going to host it with members of the School Governing Body and other teachers. It is alleged that the perpetrator refused to attend the meeting. Instead, he went out. Fuzile tried to close the door. That is when he kicked it and entered. He assaulted him with his fist to the mouth and bit his ear afterwards. As a result, he was admitted to one of the hospitals in East London,” she claimed. She said as his wife, she feels that the Department should have done more about this issue because the principal is still at the school. “The department is failing to protect teachers because to date we have not received even an email expressing sympathy about this. I am so disappointed, and the worst part is that the principal is still performing his duties as if nothing happened. We do not know what will happen when he is discharged because the department is not saying anything; instead, they are saying they are investigating.” The spokesperson for the Department of Education, Malibongwe Mtima, said they are aware of the incident. “We received this report from the victim’s wife. Upon learning of this, we reported it to the district and it initiated an investigation into the matter. The recommendations of the investigation will determine the steps going forward; hence we are waiting for the outcome of the investigation and the recommendations for the next step,” said Mtima. Mtima said the principal has not yet been suspended, adding that a preliminary investigation will recommend whether to place him on precautionary suspension. “So, we are awaiting its outcome and recommendations for the next steps.” Provincial Chief Executive Officer of the National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa (NAPTOSA), Loyiso Mbinda, said the organisation calls for due process and zero tolerance for violence in schools following an alleged assault incident at the school. “NAPTOSA has noted with serious concern reports regarding an alleged physical altercation between the principal and an educator. Our organisation remains committed to defending the principles of professionalism, safety, dignity and respect within all schools in the Eastern Cape. “Any allegations of violence between employees in a school environment are a matter of serious concern and must be addressed through proper legal and labour processes. Schools must remain safe environments not only for learners but also for educators and all employees who serve in them,” said Mbinda. He added that leadership positions in schools carry a significant responsibil-
ity and that principals are expected to demonstrate exemplary conduct, emotional maturity, conflict management skills and respect for the dignity of colleagues. Mbinda said that, at the same time, NAPTOSA emphasises that every person has the right to a fair process. The allegations must be properly investigated by the relevant authorities, including the Eastern Cape Department of Education and law enforcement agencies where applicable. He said no individual should be condemned without due process, but equally, no allegation of violence should be ignored or treated lightly. “NAPTOSA is particularly concerned that the reported incident allegedly occurred while preparations were being made for a meeting involving the School Governing Body, School Management Team and educators to discuss concerns raised within the school community. Regardless of the circumstances leading to the confrontation, disagreements in schools must always be managed through lawful, professional and constructive mechanisms.” According to Mbinda, violence cannot be accepted as a means of resolving workplace disputes. The education sector must model the very values it seeks to instil in learners — respect, accountability, dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. He added that the department must ensure that a thorough and impartial investigation is conducted without fear or favour. Mbinda said all parties involved must cooperate with the investigation and allow the law and applicable labour processes to take their course. “NAPTOSA calls on school leadership structures to strengthen mechanisms for managing conflict, grievances and allegations within schools before disputes escalate. All educators and school officials must uphold the professional standards expected of members of the education fraternity. “We remain committed to supporting safe, professional and respectful schools across the province. Every educator has the right to work in an environment free from intimidation, threats and violence, while every allegation must be handled fairly and responsibly.” Police spokesperson, Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa, said two cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm had been opened following an incident involving two educators from a local school, who reported allegations of assault against each other. Both cases are currently under investigation. Mawisa confirmed that at this stage, no arrests have been made as the investigation is ongoing.
17 September 2026
MthathaExpress 3
NEWS
EASTERN CAPE:
Ex-mine workers programme pays out over R45 million BABALWA NDLANYA THE Eastern Cape Provincial Government continued with an Ex-Mine Workers Programme round-table discussion at Mthatha Health Resource Centre in Mthatha, as part of efforts to strengthen partnerships and improve support and services for ex-mine workers in the province. The stakeholders' round table provided an opportunity for the Provincial Government to reflect on the journey of the programme, including achievements and challenges, while identifying areas for stronger partnership, collaboration and funding. A key objective of the government was to strengthen and establish partnerships around key intervention areas affecting exmine workers. The engagement is Phase 2 of the Thubalethu Ex-Mine Workers Outreach Programme, which has been implemented across communities in the OR Tambo, Amathole and Chris Hani Districts. It seeks to facilitate integrated service delivery and strengthen coordination among government departments, municipalities, public entities and other stakeholders supporting ex-mine workers. The programme focused on interventions including occupa-
Community members ready to check the claims of their loved ones.
PHOTO: BABALWA NDLANYA
tional health, tuberculosis (TB) and silicosis, injuries on duty, medical research, the Unemployment Insurance Fund, Provident Funds and other social protection services.
Premier Oscar Mabuyane discusses issues around ex-mine workers at Mthatha Health Resource Centre in Mthatha. PHOTO: BABALWA NDLANYA
Stakeholders also discussed recommendations and the way forward for improving support to ex-mine workers and their families. Minister for the Department of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, congratulated her team and other stakeholders on facilitating this programme. She said they were already seeing the fruits because people were getting their money. "From the outreach that we hosted in Port St Johns until now, people are receiving their money. Those who were injured in mines through the Compensation for Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (ODMWA), Act No. 78 of 1973 — we bring this programme as part of taking services to people. We do not chase people away; all those who want to check their claims are also welcomed," said Meth. She added that this programme does not have a time frame because it does not end; rather, they do outreaches with the South African Ex-Miners Association.
She said that they do these outreaches serving ex-mine workers across the whole of South Africa. The Premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane, said there are a lot of people whose claims were not paid who were working in the mines. He said some were injured in different ways and their money is still available, and now they are trying to ensure that all those who were not paid are getting their money. "We appeal to our people to stop throwing their money to scammers who promise to assist them to get their money. They must relax because government is trying by all means to do all that it can to ensure that they get their money. This programme is led by me as the Premier of the Eastern Cape. We will reach all the areas in order to ensure that beneficiaries receive their money," said Mabuyane. He added that even if those who were working are no longer alive, their children or wives will benefit from this. "The challenge that we have is that the Eastern Cape is made
up of rural areas, so now we are taking services to the people so that they do not travel to town in order to get them." Sonwabile Xaba, leader of the team that implements the Thubalethu Project, which works under the Eastern Cape Ex-Mine Workers Intervention Programme, said that since they started on 13 July in Port St Johns, they have targeted seven municipalities across the province. He said out of those municipalities, they have almost dealt with the urban centres of these municipalities. "We have managed to assist over 18,000 people from July until now. In this number, about 15,113 are people whose claims they have managed to deal with directly. “Most of these claims — the issue of payments is delayed, meaning we make a claim and process it, but you find that it takes seven days or 31 days to be finalised, but some take three to six months. To those that we have managed to pay, we have paid more than R45 million as we speak," he said.
Mthatha authorities seize suspected stolen copper in theft crackdown KING Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality's Law Enforcement Unit conducted an operation at Matebese Phase in the Northcrest area in Mthatha, following information relating to suspected stolen copper wire and the vandalism of municipal electrical infrastructure. A spokesperson for King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality, Sonwabo Mampoza, said that during the operation at House No. 40, law enforcement officers apprehended a foreign national from Uganda and seized a bakkie allegedly linked to the suspected offence. "Copper or metal was allegedly found at the back of the vehicle. The suspect was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the possession of the material. “The recovered items, together
with the vehicle, were seized for further investigation. The operation forms part of the Municipality's ongoing efforts to combat the theft and vandalism of municipal infrastructure, particularly incidents involving the burning of mini-substations and electrical boxes in the Northcrest area," said Mampoza. He added that these criminal activities have a direct impact on residents, disrupting electricity supply and leaving communities without power. Mampoza said information gathered during the operation will be followed up to establish whether there is any possible connection between the apprehended suspect and incidents of vandalism targeting municipal electrical infrastructure. "KSD Municipality commends its Law Enforcement Unit for
its continued efforts to protect municipal assets and safeguard essential services. “The Municipality further appeals to residents to report suspicious activities and work with law enforcement agencies in the fight against infrastructure theft and vandalism. We remain committed to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring reliable service delivery to communities." A spokesperson for the Hawks, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, said a businesswoman from Mthatha appeared before the Mthatha Magistrate's Court following her arrest for the alleged possession of suspected stolen copper cables and an aluminium-steel electrical component reportedly removed from a municipal electricity mini-substation.
Her matter was rolled over until 15 September 2026, for further proceedings. She remained in custody. "She was arrested on 6 September in Mthatha by members of the Mthatha Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI), working in collaboration with the King Sabatha Dalindyebo (KSD) Law Enforcement. The investigation followed intelligence received by the joint team regarding a Toyota GD-6 allegedly being used to transport copper cables at Phola Park in Mthatha. "Acting on the information, the team proceeded to the identified location where they allegedly observed a woman transferring material from a red container into a Toyota GD-6," said Mhlakuvana. He added that the officials
intervened and conducted a search of the vehicle. During the search, a quantity of copper cables was allegedly found inside the vehicle. He said the suspect was subsequently arrested, and a case of possession of suspected stolen property was registered. "Further investigation led the team to identify an aluminium-steel electrical component that was allegedly removed from one of the Municipality's electricity mini-substations. The operation resulted in the recovery and seizure of copper cables with an estimated value of R36,000, a Toyota GD-6 allegedly used to transport the suspected stolen material and an aluminium-steel electrical component estimated to have a black-market value of approximately R25,000."
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17 September 2026
Mthatha electrician claims top spot at national awards BABALWA NDLANYA AN electrical artisan and entrepreneur, Masixole Vuthela (36), from Bhongweni locality in Mthatha, has been honoured at the South African National Artisan Awards (SANAA) 2026.
Electrical artisan and entrepreneur, Masixole Vuthela, was honoured at the South African National Artisan Awards. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The awards were hosted at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, last week. He said he was honoured to represent the Eastern Cape at these prestigious awards. “I won first place in the Electrical category at the SANAA Awards 2026; it was a great honour to be recognised among artisans from across South Africa. At the moment I am the owner and director of Vutela Trading Enterprise, a construction and electrical service company based in Mthatha. “I am also involved in training and developing young people, particularly TVET students and aspiring artisans. Through the company, we provide opportunities for young people to gain practical workplace experience and develop skills in areas such as electrical work, construction, plumbing,
carpentry and other trades,” said Vuthela. He added that it was an incredibly emotional and unforgettable moment, stating that he felt grateful, humbled and proud. According to him, he immediately thought about the journey that brought him to that moment — the challenges, sacrifices, training and people who supported him along the way. “Winning was not only a personal achievement, but it also felt like a victory for the Eastern Cape and for every young person pursuing a career in the artisan and technical fields. It was my first time participating in the SANAA Awards, which made the achievement even more special. To enter for the first time and ultimately take first place in the Electrical category was something I will always be grateful for.” He believes this award will open new doors and opportunities for growth, partnerships and greater visibility for both himself and his company. More importantly, he said, it gives him a bigger platform to encourage young people to consider artisan careers and technical education as valu-
able pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and nation-building. “I also hope that the recognition will help strengthen our company and enable us to create even more opportunities for young people, particularly through training, internships and practical skills development. My message to others is do not be afraid to put yourself forward. Competitions are not only about winning, but they are also opportunities to showcase your abilities, learn from others, build confidence and open doors that you may never have imagined.” He added that sometimes people underestimate themselves and wait until they feel completely ready. “My experience has taught me that you have to be willing to step out, take the opportunity and allow your work to speak for you. “To every young person, artisan, entrepreneur and professional who is thinking about entering a competition, I would like to say: believe in your work, believe in your journey and do not disqualify yourself before you have even tried. Your opportunity may be waiting on the other side of your courage.”
Qumbu community demands school relocation BABALWA NDLANYA ONE of the parents from Ngxakolo locality in Qumbu confirmed that they had hosted a stakeholders’ meeting with the aim of trying to come up with a solution to relocate Ngxakolo Primary School to where they are residing now as community members, last week. He said they had appealed to the Department of Education to assist them with this, but nothing happened. “Our grandparents were residing where the school was built, which is a place that is not in a good position because it is hard even for vehicles to go there because there is no road. When they (grandfathers) were living there, they were forced to carry the coffin by hand because vehicles could not reach
that area. We grew up in that situation. Now that we are old, we decided to look for a better place where we built our homesteads; we left the school there and our children are now unable to go there due to this problem,” he said. He said that the school used to have an enrolment of 500, but this year it has only 94 learners. According to him, they had even urged the department to at least remove the temporary structures and put them at their new site, but this also did not happen. The Traditional Leader from Ngxakolo locality, Chief Zwelenkosi Bhabha, confirmed that they hosted a stakeholders’ meeting. He said that the school they are complaining about is in a condition where anything can happen to teachers because there are no homesteads around.
“Teachers and learners are at risk because they can be robbed and harmed by thugs, but the department is telling us about the policy. They (the department) say the school must be five kilometres from another school. We have tried to say we can build it using money from our own pockets, but they are refusing, stating that it will mean we are taking them back to the mud schools that they are trying to finish in this province,” said Bhabha. He added that even if they can get a Good Samaritan who can build this school for them, the department has to involve other sectors in order to ensure that the place where it is built is suitable for this. “Now the school has 94 learners this year. How many learners will be en-
rolled in 2027? We appeal to the department to assist us with this because it is a pain and I am always worried about teachers and our children that we are putting their lives at risk.” The spokesperson for the Department of Education, Malibongwe Mtima, said that the District Manager, Fundiswa Makrwede, should indicate whether the school management and governance have made any requests for the relocation of the school. “If numbers have been declining over the years due to learner and community migration, the school is now a candidate for rationalisation. In the current financial year, schools with fewer than 50 learners are the 2026/27 priority. But a district can prioritise a school like Ngxakolo Primary School,” said Mtima.
Youth agency drives automotive opportunities for EC’s unemployed youth MANDLENKOSI MXENGI THE National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) organised and hosted a successful Automotive Expo workshop seminar targeting unemployed youth, graduates and emerging entrepreneurs, which was held at the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) in KuGompo City on Thursday, 10 September.
The NYDA automotive expo was aimed at creating a platform for the province’s youth to learn about critical skills and practical pathways offered by the automotive sector, including employment opportunities, skills development, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, supplier opportunities and enterprise development. The auto expo also provided an opportunity to connect young people with much-need-
ed information on the opportunities available within the automotive sector and the broader industrial ecosystem. The expo seminar, which was attended by the Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa, attracted over 300 unemployed youth, including graduates and young entrepreneurs drawn from across the Eastern Cape who had shown keen interest in the automotive industry. Delivering his opening address, NYDA Deputy Executive Chairman Bonga Makhanya said the agency will continue to build partnerships with state-owned entities (SOEs), municipalities, manufacturing sectors and other related stakeholders in an attempt to unlock opportunities for the province’s youth targeting thriving manufacturing industries, including the automotive sector. “The NYDA is set to continue its unwavering support and strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders in an attempt to unlock greater opportunities for unemployed youth, university graduates and emerging entrepreneurs. The agency provides business grants that we want to scale up, and we are also preparing to launch an agricultural fund for youthowned farmers and we intend to bring those opportunities to the Eastern Cape youth,” said Makhanya. Makhanya strongly believes that the country’s youth must be given meaningful economic opportunities so as to participate equally in the country’s economic growth. Deputy Minister Hlengwa echoed Makhanya’s sentiments, stressing that the country's economic growth plans should
include and centre around young people’s innovations and entrepreneurship capabilities. “Indeed, the youth of the country should participate meaningfully in the economic growth and development of this country. They should aspire to become successful business owners and entrepreneurs whose innovative ideas are aimed at shaping the future of this country,” said Hlengwa. ELIDZ Advanced Manufacturing and Automotive Sector Manager, Ziphozakhe Mito, presented on the economic role played by the automotive sector and its employment and skills development training opportunities. Mito’s presentation extensively covered economic opportunities available to youth-owned businesses and emerging entrepreneurs in the auto sector, including supplier and procurement, manufacturing, investments, enterprise development and market access opportunities. Buffalo City Metro Executive Mayor, Princess Faku, urged the NYDA to continue supporting and funding youth-owned businesses, emerging entrepreneurs and the overall empowerment of young people in the province. Through its Science and Technology Park (STP) hub, the ELIDZ continues to provide skills development, training and funding for innovators, emerging entrepreneurs and youth-owned businesses, particularly those operating within strategic economic sectors including automotive, advanced manufacturing, digital economy, sustainable energy, agri-industry, aquaculture and logistics.
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The East London Industrial Development Zone Science and Technology Park (ELIDZ-STP) hosted its two-day innovation, entrepreneurship and SMME funding workshop in KuGompo City in June.
PHOTO: MANDLENKOSI MXENGI
ELIDZ prototype design initiative empowers local entrepreneurs, SMMEs MANDLENKOSI MXENGI
THE East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ), through its Science and Technology Park (STP), has introduced its newly launched Prototype Development Programme, an initiative designed to empower and boost innovators, entrepreneurs and emerging businesses in the Eastern Cape. The prototype development programme is also designed to transform innovative ideas into market-ready products and support the growth of technology-driven businesses in the province. The programme seeks to identify promising innovations with the potential to contribute to industrial development, technological advancement and economic growth across the province. The project is targeting innovators, entrepreneurs and small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) operating within strategic sectors including automotive, advanced manufacturing, digital economy, sustainable energy, agri-industry,
aquaculture and logistics, all of which have been identified as priority growth sectors for regional industrial development. ELIDZ Chief Executive Officer, Thembela Zweni, said the initiative formed part of the industrial development zone's broader commitment to supporting innovation-led industrialisation and expanding opportunities for local entrepreneurs. “Innovation is a key driver of economic growth and future industrial competitiveness. Through the Science and Technology Park, the ELIDZ is creating pathways for innovators and entrepreneurs to move beyond concepts and develop solutions that can respond to industry challenges and market demands. “By supporting prototype development, we are investing in the next generation of products, technologies and businesses that have the potential to contribute to economic growth, job creation and industrial diversification in the Eastern Cape,” said Zweni. Zweni further explained that as inno-
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vation becomes increasingly central to competitiveness and economic resilience, access to prototype development support remains a critical step in helping entrepreneurs validate their concepts, test solutions and prepare products for commercialisation, adding that the ELIDZ continues to provide a platform that bridges the gap between ideas and market opportunities while strengthening the province’s innovation ecosystem. The prototype development programme also supports inclusive economic participation, with particular emphasis on black-owned, women-owned and youthowned enterprises. By providing access to technical support and innovation development services, the programme seeks to unlock opportunities for emerging businesses that may otherwise face barriers to product development and market entry. The ELIDZ Science and Technology Park (ELIDZ-STP) was established to enhance the competitiveness of the industrial zone and the broader provincial econ-
omy through innovation, research and technology development. In addition to supporting entrepreneurs and innovators, the STP contributes to the advancement of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) capabilities while helping to create an enabling environment for innovation-driven enterprises. The park is a strategic innovation platform established to support research, technology development, entrepreneurship and industrial innovation. The STP provides a range of support services, including prototype development, research support and business development services, aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of SMMEs and fostering innovation-led economic growth in the Eastern Cape. ELIDZ acting communications manager, Siphosethu Tikana, has urged innovators, entrepreneurs and emerging enterprises to participate in the prototype development programme. This year’s applications close on Friday, 18 September.
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17 September 2026
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Port St Jonhs hotel to host EC family physician named women’s high tea this September 2026 Rural Doctor of the Year BABALWA NDLANYA COSY Posy Hotel in Port St Johns will host a High Tea in the hotel garden on 26 September, aimed at creating a welcoming space where women can come together, connect, relax and enjoy meaningful conversations. The hotel manager, Zama Mancotywa, said they wanted to create an event where women can take a moment away from their everyday responsibilities, celebrate themselves and each other, and build new connections within the community. "This is our second High Tea, which makes it very special for us. We hope to make it an event that we can continue hosting in the future. Including women means creating a safe, welcoming space where women can feel seen, heard and appreciated. We believe that bringing women together allows them to share experiences," said Mancotywa. She added that the main topic of the High Tea will be "From Approval to Anchored: Becoming a Secure Woman". The discussion will focus on helping women understand the importance of finding security within themselves, moving away from seeking constant approval from others, building confidence and self-worth, and becoming more grounded and
Manager from Cosy Posy Hotel in Port St Johns Zama Mancotywa.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
secure in who they are. "We are expecting approximately 100 women to attend. Tickets are R250 per person. Guests can purchase their tickets by con-
tacting our hotel directly and making payment to secure their booking. Our contact details are 039 253 1208 or 066 212 0485," said Mancotywa.
DR Graeme Hofmeyr, a Specialist Family Physician in the Eastern Cape, has been named the 2026 Rural Doctor of the Year by the Rural Doctors Association of Southern Africa (RuDASA). The award recognises his contribution to strengthening healthcare in rural and under-resourced communities in the Eastern Cape. During his four years as Clinical Manager at Isilimela Hospital near Port St John's, he led improvements in clinical services and patient safety, including strengthened theatre practices and expanded capacity for caesarean sections. He built a clinical team capable of responding to the realities of rural healthcare and drove improvements in the quality of care available to the surrounding community. Dr Hofmeyr also played a role in expanding women’s healthcare services, including access to safe abortion and colposcopy services, helping ensure women in rural communities could receive essential care closer to home. Beyond Isilimela Hospital, he has contributed to burns and anaesthesia training initiatives across the Eastern Cape and remains active in wound care education and obstetric training for rural clinicians. He is also involved in training the next generation of family physicians through Walter Sisulu University. “His contribution extends far beyond the patients he treats person-
ally. By strengthening systems, developing clinical teams, expanding essential services and training other healthcare professionals, he has created an impact that will continue to be felt across rural communities for years to come,” said RuDASA. The Rural Doctor of the Year Award celebrates healthcare professionals who demonstrate commitment, leadership and service in rural healthcare.
Dr Graeme Hofmeyr.
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Sport
SPORT
Eight Eastern Cape schools set for Super 8 football festival ANELE RAZIYA EIGHT high schools from Mnquma, Mbhashe and surrounding areas are gearing up to compete against each other in a Schools Super 8 Festival, to be hosted at iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu, Bika Campus sports grounds, this Saturday. This follows after the organisers, uLwazi Foundation, hosted the draw of the eight competing schools at Mnquma Local Municipality offices on Friday afternoon. Prior to the draw, all schools were represented by their officials (teachers), and the uLwazi Foundation organising committee also outlined the rules of the tournament. During the draw, Arthur Mfebe High School were drawn against Tsomo Senior Secondary School, Xolilizwe High School will play against Dinizulu High School, Thanga Senior Secondary School will entertain Macibe High School and Blythswood Senior Secondary School will
lock horns with Ezingqayi Senior Secondary School. All these games are expected to be played at iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu, Bika Campus near Butterworth, starting this Saturday until Sunday. The first matches of the tournament are expected to start at 10:00, with teams using two grounds at the same time. Banzi “Bra Ace” Siyongwana, who leads the organising committee, said the tournament is meant to contribute to grassroots football development and also give young players an opportunity to showcase their talent in front of professional team scouts. Siyongwana thanked the founder of uLwazi Foundation, Luxolo September, who is behind the event. He also highlighted that the teams who perform well will have an opportunity to win great prizes. In conclusion, Bra Ace called on all football supporters to come out in big numbers to support the event, and he also said that the event will be played by U/19 teams.
17 September 2026
Slovo Park to host inaugural junior football,netball tournament ANELE RAZIYA JUNIOR netball and soccer teams from around Mthatha are invited to participate in the Slovo Park Junior Tournament, which is scheduled to be played on 19 and 20 September on the Slovo Park grounds. The junior teams that are expected to participate in the tournament are U/13s and U/15s in both sporting codes. The main aim of the event is to contribute to the development of sport and to keep young people away from wrongdoing. One of the organisers, Sibusiso Gecwa, speaking to Mthatha Express, said the tournament is open to all teams from Mthatha and surrounding areas to compete in. Gecwa said any team interested in competing in the event will need to pay a registration fee per sporting code entered. He said a team interested in competing in football is expected to pay a R200 entry fee for the U/13 division, while in
the U/15 division it will be R300. In netball, Gecwa said teams that participate in the U/13 and U/15 divisions will pay a R300 entry fee for each division. He said that as organisers of the event, they are expecting more than 16 teams from around Mthatha to participate in football, while they expect eight or more teams in netball. The event is meant to encourage young people to participate in sport regularly and also aims to revive sport in Slovo Park, as there are no active sporting programmes currently in that area. Teams that are interested in competing in this inaugural sports event should contact Gecwa on 083 210 3096 or 063 159 9404. Teams that perform well during the tournament will receive prizes, including trophies, gold medals and prize money for the winners in each division. Runners-up in every division will also receive silver medals and money in football, while in netball they will go home with silver medals and a ball.
Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup to host CAF C coaching course in Butterworth ANELE RAZIYA THE Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup (NYLC), in partnership with Mnquma Local Football Association (Mnquma LFA), is preparing to host another coaching course, scheduled to run from 22 to 29 September at iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu, Bika Campus near Butterworth. Last month, the Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup announced that it will host a CAF C licence course at WSU in Butterworth with the aim of equipping coaches with the required coaching qualifications. NYLC has made it clear that it is inviting all coaches who are interested in joining the CAF C licence course, which is expected to have two phases. Phase one of the coaching course is expected to commence next week, from 22 to 29 September, and then phase two will run from 10 to 16 November. Coaches who are interested in enrolling in this course are expected to pay a R6 500 fee, and they also need to meet some
course requirements. In terms of the payment plan, coaches are expected to pay R4,500 before 22 September, and the balance of R2,000 must be paid by 30 October. Coaches must submit a SAFA D coaching certificate, an ID copy or passport (in colour), safeguarding certificate, coaching activity report, medical certificate and training kit, and these are the required documents for the CAF C licence course. NYLC founder, Luxolo Matikinca, said interested coaches should contact him on 073 513 0549 or via luxmfundation@gmail. com for information about the coaching course. It is not the first time NYLC, together with Mnquma LFA, has hosted a coaching course, as they normally do annually with the aim of empowering upcoming coaches with coaching skills and knowledge. The associations also want to assist upcoming coaches to get coaching qualifications so that they can work even in professional teams.
Nozulu Youth Legacy Cup in partnership with Mnquma Local Football Association will host another coaching course in Butterworth next week. PHOTO: FACEBOOK
SAFA OR Tambo Region representatives attended the SAFA National Elective Congress in Midrand this past Saturday. From the left are SAFA OR Tambo president Sandile Nowalaza, Zodwa Maphetshana and vice-president Maphelo Tobia Xakeka. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
OR Tambo’s Nowalaza elected to SAFA national executive HOSEYA JUBASE SAFA OR Tambo Region President Sandile Nowalaza has been elected to the South African Football Association (SAFA) National Executive Committee (NEC). Nowalaza was elected this past Saturday during the SAFA National Elective Congress held at the Vodacom World in Midrand, where Dr Danny Jordaan was re-elected as SAFA president for a fourth term. Speaking to Mthatha Express after his election, Nowalaza congratulated Jordaan on his re-election. “Congratulations to Dr Danny Jordaan, and I can confirm that I was elected as one of the people who are going to serve on the National Executive Committee. We are four members from the Eastern Cape who are going to serve at the NEC,” said Nowalaza. Nowalaza said his election came with significant responsibility rather than celebration. “Being elected to the National Executive Committee, you cannot say you are excited because those positions come with a lot of pressure. When you get into the position, some challenges need to be corrected, and people will look at you and check what you are going to do and what change you are bringing,” said Nowalaza. He said his immediate focus would be on addressing structural challenges facing Eastern Cape football. “Firstly, I will need to check in the Eastern Cape; we have our own problems. For example, we need to have coaches from the Eastern Cape who also form part of the
U/15, U/17 and U/23 national teams. Why are we not talking about our people? We have coaches who have CAF B and CAF C licences, and those are some of the key problems that we need to look at to make sure that Eastern Cape people get those opportunities,” added Nowalaza. The Eastern Cape went to the congress divided. Of the eight regions in the province, six supported Jordaan while two supported his challenger, Sandile Zungu. The six Eastern Cape regions that supported Dr Danny Jordaan include Alfred Nzo District Municipality, OR Tambo District Municipality, Chris Hani District Municipality, Buffalo City, Sarah Baartman and Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Then Amathole District Municipality and Joe Gqabi District Municipality supported Sandile Zungu. Nowalaza said it was now the responsibility of the newly elected NEC members from the province to restore unity. “We can’t work divided in the province, so we have that responsibility to sit down and resolve our problems,” he said. “There must be an increase of coaches in the Eastern Cape. We will look at women's football again and make sure that every region has a women's league; these are the things that need to be looked at even before we look at the national level,” said Nowalaza. “The most important part for us who are elected to the National Executive Committee is that we have the responsibility to organise more sponsors,” concluded Nowalaza.