Mthatha Express South - E-Edition - 18 June 2026

Hawkersseekcourtordertohaltcontainerremoval

BABALWA NDLANYA

THE Secretary of the African HawkersAssociation, Talita Jakavu, has confirmed that they have approached the High Court in Mthatha in an effort to stop the removal of their containers from the Mthatha Central Business District by the KingSabataDalindyebo (KSD) LocalMunicipality.

She claimed the municipality had never consulted them about the matter.

“We do not know wherethis started, and no one informed us that our containers would be removed. We are selling foodfrom these containers, and now that they are taking themaway, we do not know what we are supposed to do.

“We support our families through the income we earn fromthis business. They did the same thing in 2017,but the court instructed themtoestablish aplace called Container Street. They said they would close OwenStreet, but that has not happened to this day. They even tookustoDurban to show us how the plan would look,” said Jakavu.

According to her, she has been operating from her container for 18 years and employs eight workers who also depend on the business for their livelihoods.

She said they do not receive any support from the municipality and are surprisedthat it is

now removing their containers.

She added that they visited the municipality’s offices after receiving letters instructing them toremove their containers within seven days,but their visit did not yield any positiveresults.

Jakavu said that if the municipality claims it had given them notices, they should provide proof that all affected traders were properly consulted and informed

The spokesperson for the King

SabataDalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality, Sonwabo Mampoza, confirmed that consultation on the Informal Trade By-law was conducted beforeitwas gazetted in 2024.

“The consultation on theInfor-

Son,hitman jailed forlifeovertaxi boss murder

THENational ProsecutingAuthority (NPA) has secured life imprisonment sentences against Mntuwasekhaya Mpayipheli (33) and his co-accused Thabiso BovanaRaganay (30), who were both sentenced to life imprisonment for the murderofSimon Mpayipheli,awell-known taxi driverand philanthropist in the Elundini area, by the Tlokoeng Regional Court recently.

Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Luxolo Tyali, said they were also sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment for unlawful possession of afirearm and three years’imprisonment for unlawful possession of ammunition.

In addition, Raganay was sentenced to five months’ imprison-

ment for contravening the Immigration Act by being in South Africa illegally.

“On the evening of 9March 2024,the deceased (Mpayipheli) was attacked at his home in Mdeni location, in Katkop.The assailants entered his bedroom and shothim multiple times, killing him at the scene.

“As the murder was initially suspected to be linked to taxi violence, the Joe Gqabi District Taxi Violence Task Team became involved in the investigation. Whileprocessing the crime scene, investigatorsdiscovered spent cartridges hiddeninside shoes belonging to the deceased’s soninaseparate room.”

He added that during questioning, he disclosed his involvement

in the murder and implicated the hitman.

Tyali said Raganay was subsequently arrested in Langa, Cape Town, while in possession of the firearm used in the murder

He added that ballistic testing confirmed that the firearm was linked to the spent cartridges recovered at the scene in Tlokoeng. Evidence presented during the trialrevealed that the son had hired ahitman following disagreements with his father over the management of the family taxi business.

“He was further motivated by the prospect of inheriting his father’s taxi fleet. The two accused travelled from Cape Town and waited in the nearbytown of Nqanqarhu (formerly Ma-

Multi-millionrandoperationalequipmentforBuff

MANDLENKOSI MXENGI

SMALL Business Development

Minister Stella Ndabenihas delivered amulti-million rand worth of operational equipment, including machinery, to various small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs operating in Buffalo Cityatahandover ceremony heldinKuGompo City Hall on Friday, 12 June.

Ndabeni unveiled aR300million fundearmarked for various emerging construction companiesoperating in the Buffalo City region.

Ndabeni further unveileda R897 million fund set asidefor women-owned enterprises and cooperatives operating across the Eastern Cape, including Buffalo City

Severalwomen-owned emerg-

ingenterprisesoperating in different economic sectors in theprovince, including construction, spaza shop business, tourism, catering, infrastructure development, agriculture andvariousother sectors, receivedoperational equipment andworkingmachinery at the Ministerial Small Business Development seminar held in KuGompoCity.

The seminar, heldinpartnership with the Buffalo City Metro (BCM),formedpartofthe department's ongoing efforts to improveaccess to support fundingopportunitiesand productive assets forsmall, medium andmicro enterprises (SMMEs), informal tradersand ruraland township businesses.

Kuisine Trading, aBuffalo City-based catering company,

received adelivery truck, which will assist in expanding its order deliveries across the Metro Mbalelanga TradingEnterprise, a100 per cent black-owned company,received support throughthe business infrastructure support programme (BISP) for the acquisition of aCaterpillar(CAT) excavator.

The company,which provides plant hire services including graders, TLBs and trucks, currently employs 18 people, providing services to both the construction and mining sectors.

Delivering her keynote address, Ndabeni stressed that her department'scoremandate and role is to coordinate the promotion of entrepreneurship throughout the country by creating aconducive legislative frameworkwhich enables small

mal Trade Bylaw was doneprior to its gazettingin2024.

“Quarterly publicparticipation platforms were used to present bylaws to thebusiness sector, andposters were developedand shared acrossall municipal social mediaplatforms to inform thepublic.

“The decisiontoremove the containers is informed by the Informal Trade Bylaw, which was gazettedon6 May2024. The reasonthe containers were previouslyreturnedtotheir rightful owners was duetoa2001 councilresolution that instructedthe municipality to do so

“InJanuary 2026, thecurrent council rescinded that resolution,whichenabledthe municipality to proceed with theremoval of thecontainers,” said Mampoza.

According to him,for theinformal trade stalls,they applied for funding from theDepartment of Small Business Development (DSBD) andare awaitingaresponse.

“The container city was planned to be locatednearthe river (Owen Street), butwesuspect that thearea earmarked as acontainer city is in theflood line. On 7June, we dispatched ourteams to assess thearea and areawaiting that report

“Concurrently, alternative placestolocate thecontainers have been identifiedaround town.The DepartmentofHuman Settlementsisassisting us in securing theland.”

clear)until theearly evening. They then proceeded to thehome shared by thedeceased andMntuwasekhaya.

“He directedthe hitman to his father's bedroom, where thedeceased was shotand killedwhile asleep.Although both accused initially pleadednot guilty, they laterchanged their pleas to guilty during their trial proceedings.”

In aggravation of thesentence, State Advocate Nkululeko Mzinyathi argued that themurder was carefully planned andexecuted. He submittedthat, while the matterappeared to stem from afamily dispute,ithad been deliberately disguised as an act of taxi violence. Mzinyathi further argued that suchdecep-

businessgrowth and support for emerging entrepreneurs.

"Today we are activating productive assetsfor entrepreneurs throughvarious instruments of production, equipment,machinery, infrastructure and trading support designed to assist business growth,generateincome and createsustainablejobs," said Ndabeni.

Ndabeni noted that in Buffalo City, about 87 beneficiaries under theinformal and micro enterprise development programme (IMEDP) have been approved to receive operational equipment and machinery.

"Through theasset-assist programme,which provides up to R350, 000 in 100% grant funding, we are supporting emerging entrepreneurs who are often excluded from thetraditional

tion carried thepotentialtotriggerretaliatoryattacks by rival taxi operators or associations, potentially resulting in further bloodshed.

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Samkelo Mtwana, welcomedthe outcome andcommended theprosecutor andinvestigating team for their meticulousinvestigation andthoroughpreparation of the State’s case.

“The NPA hopesthatthis sentencewill provide ameasure of closure to thefamily andloved ones of thedeceased andserve as areminder that thosewho orchestrate andcommitviolent crimes for personalgainwill face thefullmight of thelaw,” said Mtwana.

financial systems,” explained Ndabeni.

“In Buffalo City, about 22 beneficiaries have been approved, with 11 beneficiaries expected to receive their assetstoday." Buffalo CityMetro executive mayor, Princess Faku, said that theMetro has already conducted business development workshops, facilitated enterprise support programmes and undertakenspaza shops registration initiatives to assist local entrepreneurs and small business owners.

"Young people must be strategically placed at thecentre of economic development,and the youthneed opportunities, not only to secure employment but also to be able to become business owners and employers," concluded Faku.

Premierunveilsstate-of-the-artMnquma’sRev.TiyoSogabuilding

MANDLENKOSI MXENGI

EASTERN Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane officially unveiled the newly built stateof-the-art Mnquma LocalMunicipality’s Tiyo Soga OfficePrecinct at the glittering opening ceremony heldinButterworth on Tuesday, 09 June

The constructionofthe multi-million rand modern double-story municipal facility started in 2024 and was fully completed in Aprilthis year.

The new municipal building complexserves as a‘one-stop shop’service centre, centralising critical service delivery functions to improve accessibility,efficiency and responsiveness to the municipalservice needs of Mnquma residents.

The MnqumaTiyo Soga municipal building has been named after the late Reverend TiyoSoga, the first blackSouth African to be ordained as achurch minister and the author of therenowned IsiXhosa hymn, LizaliseIdinga Lakho

Reverend Soga was born in 1829 and diedin1871. Preparations for the official opening of the

new Tiyo Soga municipalcomplex started withafamily visit to his graveside in Thuthura village, where his grandchildren invoked his spirit, asking for his spiritual guidance.

The political and administrative leadership of the Mnquma Municipality attended the session, which was later followed by an inter-denominational church service on the site in Butter-

Centanefamilydesperate tofindmissingson

BABALWA NDLANYA

WHILE other families are spending time with theirloved ones, the Mapolisa family from Macibe locality in Centane is enduring sleeplessnights as theyworryabout theirmissing son,Liyabona Mapolisa(29), who disappearedafter being involved in a car accident near King Hintsa TVET CollegeinCentane on 23 May.

According to his aunt, Asanda Mapolisa (36), the family is appealing to anyone with information about Liyabona’s whereabouts, or to Liyabonahimself, to contact them, as they are deeply concerned about his safety.

“On the day he went missing, he was on his way to town when hehit atree. He left the car at the scene, saying he was going to look fora tow truck,but he never came back and has not been seen since.

“According to people whowitnessed the incident, there were two

people in the car whenthe accident happened,but they do not know who theother person was,” she said.

She added thatthe family has searchedextensively for him and that police havealso conducted searches, but no trace of him has been found.

“This is very painful because his motherhas become illdue to the stress. Wefeelstuck and do not know what else to do,” she said.

Mapolisaappealed to anyone who may have information about Liyabona’s whereabouts to come forward and assistthe family.She also appealed directly to him,should he see or hear the message, to contact his family or returnhome.

“We have tried all available alternatives, includingsocialmedia and radio platforms, butwehavenot received anyinformation,”she said.

Police spokesperson, Captain Majola Nkohli, said the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that amissingperson report wasfiled at the police stationinCentane on 26 May,following reports of adriver who went missing shortly after crashing the bakkie into atree in CentaneCBD on 23 May 2026.

“Preliminary investigations revealedthatonthe dayofthe incident,Mapolisa was driving abakkie in Centane CBD andhit atree. It is furthersaid that Mapolisa waslast seen walkingtowardshis mother’s workplace in Centane CBD shortly after theaccident.

“On 27 May,a search and rescue operation was launched, butwith no success. Police are nowconducting an investigation

“Police are urging anyone with information that could assist with his whereabouts to contact the Investigation Officer, Detective Sergeant Vuyani Samkaon082 441 8197 or the nearestpolice station.”

worth later during the day.

Delivering his keynote address during the municipal building’s unveiling ceremony, Mabuyane said the state-of-the-art facility represented asignificant milestone in Mnquma’sdevelopment and underscores the municipality’s commitment to strengthening governance and enhancing service delivery.

“The new precinct is expected

to accelerate theeffective andefficient rolloutofmunicipal services to Mnqumacommunities.

NamedinhonourofRev.Tiyo Soga, the officesstandasa symbol of progress, excellence and the municipality’s commitment to servingthe people

“This investment is morethan justabuilding;itisacommitment to bringing government services closer to ruralcommu-

nities, improving efficiency, and creatingaprofessional environment where residentscan access themunicipal services they deserve,” said Mabuyane.

Mabuyanealsopresided over theunveiling andhandoverceremonyofthe newly upgraded 400-capacity Msobomvu CommunityHall, avitalcommunityasset that will provide Butterworth residentswith amodern andaccessible space for communityactivitiesand engagements.

Mabuyane’s busy schedulein Mnqumaincludedanoversight visit to themultimillion rand Msobomvu Sports Complexdevelopmentproject. The sporting facility, currently under construction is expected to include outdoor andindoor facilitiesfor major sportingcodesincluding tennis, basketball, soccer, rugby andcricket.

LastyearinJanuary,the Mnquma Municipality executive mayor,Tunyiswa Manxila-Nkamisa,officially opened theMsobomvu Driving andLicence Testing Centre (DLTC), which accepts applicationsfor learners anddriving licensing,renewals, payment of traffic fines andother traffic relatedservices.

Hawksurgepublictohelpfindfour

THEDirectorate forPriority Crime Investigation (DPCI) issued an urgent appeal to the provinceand the country at large to assist law enforcement authorities in resolving one of the most distressing and concerning missing children investigations.

More than ayear and ahalf has elapsed since Sive Siganga (7), Oyintando Siganga (4), and twins, Thabsile and Thabile Siganga(4), mysteriously disappeared from their family homestead at Mjila Administrative AreainNtabankulu. They were last seen on 10 November 2024.

Spokesperson forthe Hawks, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, said the children were last seen playing within the yard of their home before seemingly vanishing without atrace under circumstances that continue to perplex investigators.

He said their disappearance prompted the immediate opening of akidnapping case and the subsequent involvement of the Hawks.

“Sincethe matter was referred to the Hawks, investigators have embarked upon an exhaustive and relentless pursuit of everyavailable lead. Numerous investigative interventions have been executed, including intelligence-driven enquiries, inter-provincial follow-ups, community engagements and the analysis of all information brought to the attention of investigators. Their disappearance simultaneously elevates this matter to alevel of exceptional concern and urgency,” said Mhlakuvana.

He added that the Hawks, therefore, aremaking an urgent appeal to traditional leaders, community leaders, faith-based organisations,

civic structures,educational institutions, mediahouses, non-governmental organisations focused on child protection and membersof the publicacross South Africato assist in amplifying this appeal and encouraginganyone with knowledge of thematter to come forward.

“Anyonewith information regardingthe whereabouts of the children, or any information that may assist investigatorsinestablishing the circumstances surrounding theirdisappearance, is urged to contact UnitCommander of Serious Organised Crime, Colonel Raymond Buys at 082 301 1135 and Warrant Officer NortonNdabambiat082 559 4613. Alternatively, information may be provided at any South African Police Service station or reported anonymously throughthe MySAPS App.” All information received will be treated with the strictestconfidentiality.Membersofthe publicare encouraged to come forwardwithout

delay, as even the smallest piece of information may prove decisive in advancing the investigation.

MECconductsoversightvisittostalledhousingproject

MANDLENKOSI MXENGI

EASTERN Cape DepartmentofHuman Settlements MEC Siphokazi Lusithi embarked on an oversight visit to the stalled andabandoned multimillionrand Ikhwezi Block1housing projectinPotsdam, Buffalo City Metro,inan attempt to revive the failed project.

Lusithi was joined by BuffaloCity Metro (BCM) executive mayor PrincessFakuand member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for humansettlements, SakhumziCaga, during thevisit to the abandoned projectonWednesday, June 10.

Lusithi said that the purpose of the oversight visit was to assess progress madeinthe implementationofthe housing development projectasitwas one of the stalled and blocked

projects in Buffalo City region.

Lusithi confirmed that anew contractorhas been appointed and is expected to complete thehousing project including thecompletion of thestalled 656 housingunits andthe construction of the remaining200 units.

Local residentSiyabulela Simani said the 656 houses were built in 2018. “That was nine years agoand they are still yettobefully completed. The200 houses that we aretold are remaining housing units are just an election campaign strategy aimed at distracting people, especially thehousingbeneficiaries,” said Simani.

The Potsdam IkhweziBlock 1housingproject was started in 2018, butseveral challenges including theCOVID-19pandemic, shoddy construction work and non-payment of contractors ledtothe delays of theproject, with

several contractors leavingthe sitewithout finishingthe work.

Atotal budget of over R23-millionwas set aside for the initial phaseofthe Ikhwezi Block 1housing project.

The housing development project’s scope of work includedthe delivery of 656 housing units intendedfor designated communitybeneficiariesacrossthe Buffalo City region.

Thehousingproject initiative wasaimed at eradicating informal settlements in Buffalo City Metro and providingdecent,formal RDP houses for vulnerable and deserving community members in the Metro.

Through theMunicipal UrbanSettlements Development Grant and the provincial Department of Human Settlements Development Grant fundingallocation,the Metro wasexpected to implementabout29human settle-

mentsprojects valued at over R250 million starting from 2021, following thedevastating COVID-19pandemic.

The housing projectsincluded thePotsdam Ikhwezi Block 1, PotsdamNorthKanana, PotsdamVillage, Tyutyu Phase 3, Mdantsane Cluster, PeeltonCluster, West Bank Restitution, and others.

The provincial Department of Human Settlementsisexpected to work with theBuffalo City Metro in an attempttorevivethe project to its conclusion.

Several housing development projectsin theBuffalo City region and across theEastern Cape remained incomplete and had been abandoned by contractors duetoseveral challenges, including delays in payment of contractors, shoddy work, outstanding payments and illegal occupation of RDP houses.

MinisteroutlinesEPWPreformagendainKuGompoCity

MANDLENKOSI MXENGI

THE Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) Minister, DeanMacpherson, has outlined the ExpandedPublic Works Programme (EPWP)reformagenda and its intended benefits during his recent engagement session with EPWP participants held at theBilly FrancisHall, Buffalo Flats in KuGompo City. Through his nationwide EPWPListening Tourinitiative started earlier thisyear, Macpherson is criss-crossing the country holding aseries of information-sharing meetings with EPWP workers, government stakeholders, municipal ward councillors, traditionalleaders and community members discussing the EPWP’svision, challenges and long-term plans. Macpherson’s nationwidelistening tour provides community members and EPWP participants with adirect platform to sharetheir experiences and contribute ideasonstrengthening the EPWP initiative as apathway to sustainable employment, skills development and economic inclusion.

The recent engagement session heldinKuGompo City was attendedbyseniorgovernmentofficials and local traditionalleaders, including Buffalo City Metro ward 46 Councillor LucilleBenfield, EPWP InfrastructureSector ChiefDirector Ignatious Ariyo and DPWI Eastern Cape Regional Manager Nolizwi Hlengwa,

among others. Delivering hiskeynote address at the packed BillyFrancis Hall, Macpherson emphasisedthe EPWPreform agenda and itsbenefitsfor communities and individualsparticipatinginthe programme Macpherson said the EPWP tour wasaimed at engaging directly withcommunitymembers, includingEPWP workers, about their experiences with the government programme, addressing challenges and gatheringinsights that would inform hisvision for are-imagined

EPWP, focusedonlong-term socio-economic empowerment within communities.

“We cannot exclude peoplefrom job opportunities becauseoftheirage. While youthunemployment remains apriority,SouthAfricans over the age of 40 also deserveaccess to opportunitiescreated through programmes such as the EPWP,” said Macpherson. Community membersand EPWP participants shared their ownexperiences of theprogramme and raisedconcerns relating to several challenges,includinglimited skills development

ERANPCdrivescommunity-ledwastetransformation

ERANPC, aleading non-profit companydedicated to electronic waste (e-waste) management, has successfully diverted more than 16 tonnes of electronic waste from landfills during its recent Imbizo events, held in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in the Eastern Cape.

The community-focused imbizos, led by the DFFE Deputy Minister, Bernice Swarts and held in the KingSabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Lo-

calMunicipality, demonstrated how practical environmental solutionscan directlyuplift local economies

Bybringingresponsible recyclingdirectly intoresidential areas and offeringaclear financial incentive,ERA NPC sawwidespread community participation.Residents received a participation feeofR15.00 pertransaction plus an additional R4.50per kilogram of e-waste collected, turningunwanted and broken household

electronics into immediatefinancial support for local families.

Significantenvironmentalandeconomicimpact

The two-day initiative yielded exceptional resultsacrossbothhostlocations:

O.R.Tambo Village (19May): Amini Imbizo kicked offthe campaign, resulting in 68 transactions,the recovery of 3,985 kg of e-waste, and R18,952.50 paid outdirectlytoresidents.

Mthatha (20May):The main event at the Ngangelizwe RotaryStadium saw an extraordinary turnout with229 transactions, collecting12,831.43 kg of e-waste and distributing R61,265.56 in participation fees.

In total,the events achieved297 transactions,successfully recovering 16,816.43 kg of potentially hazardousmaterialand injecting R80,218.06 directlyinto the local community.

Empoweringlocalrecyclingecosystems

These imbizos represent avital step forward in connecting grassrootscommunities with national environmental policies. By providing accessible drop-off points,ERA NPC ensures that valuablematerialsare funnelledinto

initiatives, delayedEPWPstipend payments, shortages of personal protectiveequipment (PPE), lack of working toolsand inequitable access to opportunities. They also calledfor stronger collaboration between municipalities and non-profit organisations (NPOs) to improve thedelivery of theprogramme.

Macpherson welcomed thefeedback and noted that theinsightsgathered throughthe session wouldhelpshapeare-imagined EPWP that is more responsivetocommunityneeds. Buffalo City Metro ward 46 CouncillorLucille Benfieldexpressed her gratitudefor Macpherson’s initiativetovisit theBuffalo Flats communityand engagethem on issues related to service delivery,particularly on EPWPinBuffalo City Metro.

The discussion also highlighted therecently launched Working on Infrastructure pilot programme, which aims to connect publicemployment opportunities to infrastructure repair and maintenance throughworkplace learning, transparent recruitment processes, and pathways into employment,enterprise development and further training

The engagement session focused on theEPWP as aservice delivery initiativeaimed at providing work opportunities and skills development interventions towardscreating sustainable employment opportunities forthe programme's participants.

proper processing streams rather than being left in storage or discarded unsafely.

Alex Cremer, ERANPC’s Head of Programmes, emphasised thelong-term valueof these regional campaigns: “These eventscreateadirect channel forthe recovery of householde-waste that might otherwise remain in storage or enter informal disposal pathways Supporting national EPR awareness initiativeshelps strengthen alignment with Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts, theDFFE and identify potential local enterprises within host communities to support thedevelopment of amore inclusiverecycling ecosystem.”

Through close alignment with national Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiativesand theDepartment of Forestry,Fisheries and theEnvironment (DFFE), ERANPC is activelyworking to bridge thegap between regulatory compliance and real community empowerment

The organisation plans to build on thesuccess of theEastern Cape eventsbyexpanding its recycling footprint and continuing to uncover local entrepreneurial opportunities within thegreen economy across SouthAfrica.

TheEastern Cape community contributed significantly to thee-waste management imbizos held by ERA NPC andDFFE, with assistance from E-WasteAfrica.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

ECrewardsyoungmindsduringYouthMonth

ZAVELA MAKWABE

AS part of Youth Month celebrations, the Eastern Cape government reaffirmed its commitment to investing in the province’s future leaders by hosting the Provincial ResearchCompetition and Awards Ceremony at the East London Industrial Development Zone, KuGompo City, on 11 June.

The high-stakes eventsaw first-year Master’s students from across the province pitch cutting-edge research proposals directly aligned to the Eastern Cape’s growth and developmentpriorities.Competing for both recognition and critical funding, candidatespresented to adistinguished panel of adjudicators drawnfrom academia, governmentand industry.

At stake was agrand prize of afully fundedtwo-year Master’s bursary, designed to remove financial barriers and accelerate researchthat drives provincial

impact.

The second- and third-place winners will receivesubstantial annual bursaries of R50,000and R30,000, respectively, to support theirpostgraduate studies.

Led by the Department of EconomicDevelopment, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, the event forms partofthe province’s broaderYouth Month programme aimed at turning policyinto tangible opportunities— equipping young researchers with the resources, networks, and recognition needed to thrive.

Speaking at the ProvincialResearch Competition and Awards Ceremony, MEC forEconomicDevelopment, Environmental Affairs and Tourism Nonkqubela Pieters underscored thegovernment’s duty to base policy on evidence rather than assumption. “One of our greatest responsibilitiesistoensure public policyis informed by evidence, not assumption,” MEC Pieters said.“In aworld of limited resources and growing community needs,

we cannot rely on instinct alone. We need credibleresearch, robust analysis andreliable datatoguideour interventions and ensure every decision delivers meaningfulimpact.”

Addressing the postgraduate participants directly,she added, “Your abilities, your skills, and yourinnovationsare the missing pieces of the puzzle. Research helpsusidentifyopportunities, understand challenges, evaluate outcomes, and improvethe effectiveness of our programmes.Itanswersdifficult questions about economicdevelopment, environmental sustainability,industrial growth, youth unemployment, andsocialinclusion. Ultimately,itstrengthens our ability to governeffectively anddeliver value to the citizens we serve. Be partofthe drivetobuild the EasternCape we want.”

Beyond the competition, the programme created adynamicplatform for career development. Exhibitions by potential employers and key sector partners gave

students directaccess to recruitment pathways,skills alignment opportunities, andrealengagement with industries shaping theEastern Cape economy. The competition sawLihle Ngcobo from RhodesUniversityemergeasthe overall winner, takinghome thegrand prize for excellenceinresearchand innovation. She was closelyfollowedbyKamvelihle Mgidlana, whoclaimedsecondplace, and Ngawo Mati in third,with both representing NelsonMandela University. Thetop three were commended for the quality, relevance,and impact of their research on Eastern Cape development priorities.

“This competition is aboutmorethan funding,” thedepartmental spokesperson, NcedoLisani, said in an interviewwith the Express.“It’saboutidentifying and backing theyoung mindswho will solve ourmostpressing challenges —fromjob creation to sustainable innovation. We’re investing in researchthatstays in the provinceand serves ourpeople.”

THEMotor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), aproud association of the RetailMotor IndustryOrganisation (RMI), officially launched its 2026 Motor Mech season with ahighly successful juniorcompetition hosted at Port Rex Technical High School in East Londonon6 June.

Held during Youth Month, the competition saw 13 Grade 12 learners from the Port RexTechnical High School put their practicalskills, technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities to the test in a real-world workshop environment.

For many participants, thecompetition represented far morethana contest. It offeredvaluable exposure to the automotive aftermarket sector while building confidence,reinforcing career ambitions and providing clear insight into the demands of the industry.

The results reflected not only technical competence butalso the dedicationand commitment required to succeed in the automotive sector.

Taking top honours was Luke Wesson, whose months of preparationpaidoff on competition day.

“This achievement has been agoal of mine since2024. Ihave been working hard at home, studying and practising every weekend,soitshows that my hard work has paid off.Itgreatly improves my chancesofone day owningmyown workshop,” said Wesson.

Second place went to SomilaLigaba, who described the experience as both enjoyable andeducational.

He said the competition taught him valuable lessons about diagnosticsand fault-finding,reinforcingthe importance of sticking to the basics rather than immediately replacing components.

Having the opportunity to work on an actualvehicle also helped build his confidence and practical experience.

Third-placed Lingomso Nkewana said the competition had strengthened his determination to pursue acareer in the industry andmotivated him to continue his studies and seek further opportunities

Dewald Ranft, MIWA National Chairperson,said Motor Mechcontinues to demonstratehow practicalskills competitions can support young people in transitioning from the classroomtothe workplace.

“MotorMech is about creating opportunities for young people to applywhat they have learnt, gain confidenceintheir abilities, and engage directlywith industryprofessionals. These competitions help bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace readiness while showcasing the exciting career opportunities available withinthe automotive aftermarket,” said Ranft.

According to Port Rex TechnicalHigh School’s Head of Technical Workshops, Mark Hammond, the competition remains one of the most valuable skillsdevelopment opportunities availableto learners “The competition tests learners’abili-

ties and experienceunder pressure and bringsout the best in those who have the desire to pursue acareer in the technical field.

“It often highlights learners whom we never expected to excel and who go on

to pursue successful careersinthe industry,” he said.

Theimportance of workplace exposure was echoed by the competition judge, Lance Kettles, Eastern Cape Regional Representative for MIWA, whonoted a

clear difference between learnerswho had sought practical experience outside the classroom and thosewho hadnot.

“The students who participatedin jobshadowing duringschoolholidays demonstratedsubstantially more confidence andknowledge. Competitionssuch as Motor Mech create asenseofprideand belonging while removing some of the fear associated with entering thetrade by introducing learners to the industry at an early stage,” said Kettles.

Reflecting on thesuccessofthe event, Teresa Spenser Higgs, MIWA NEC member,RMI Boardmember and Chairperson of RMI Eastern Cape, said the impact of Motor Mech extends far beyond competition day.

“Thereare times, as event organisers, when we askwhether all the effortis worth it. Then astudent or pastparticipant comes up to thank us for the difference the competition has made in their lives. Thosemoments remind us why we do this andmotivate us to continue makinga difference, one student at atime,” said SpenserHiggs.

“Special acknowledgement must also go to Petervan Mosseveld, RMI Regional Managerand ConsumerAffairs Specialist for the Eastern Cape, whosededication, energy and unwavering commitment were instrumental in bringing this year’s event to life.His fresh approach to the NADA section of the competition contributed significantly to its success,while hispassionfor both the industry and the region continues to drivethe growth of initiativessuch as Motor Mech

“Never content to stand still, van Mosseveld is already exploring ways to make next year’s event even bigger and better

“MIWA alsoextends its thanks to Abie Kriek, SAMBRA Regional Representative, for theirsuccessful launch of anew MBR competition at Baysville Technical School focusingonspray-painting and panel-beating. Building on this momentum, plans arealready underway for the introduction of another exciting new competition at theKariega show next year, further demonstratingthe collaborative commitment of the RMI’sassociations to developing young talent and expandingopportunitieswithin the automotive sector

“Finally, special thanks to the sponsors who each sponsoredone of the five competition sections,namely Auto X, Midas Bowls Road, Goldwagen, ATEand NGK.”

ThePortRex event marks the firstof several Motor Mech competitionsplanned acrossthe countrythisyear as MIWA continues its commitment to developing the next generation of skilled automotive professionals and creating sustainable talent pipelines for the industry. Through initiativessuch as Motor Mech, MIWA is helping to inspire young people to pursuetechnical careerswhile ensuringthe automotive aftermarket has accesstothe skilled artisans it will need in the future

SATVETSAtakescivic,GBVFawarenessdrivetoECcampuses

Students tending uca

scomual-imng sturights encourdemgvoter adicaecausequiprespond use nt,the ibrant rience dsocial TVETwali, said action rectly to eneration whounesponsiending

GBVF in their communities,” he said

The programme will continue to be implemented acrossTVET collegesnationwide, incorporating sessions on GBVF awareness, social cohesion, mental health andcivic responsibility,whilestrengthening partnershipsbetween institutions, governmentand stakeholders.

Throughthis initiative,SATVETSA reaffirmsits zero-tolerance stanceonGBVF andits commitment to building an empowered, socially conscious student community grounded in thevalues of Ubuntu. Luvuno said they would be hosting thesame event at King Sabatha Dalindyebo TVET College in Mthathaon17June.

“Besides this programme,several awareness-raisingprogrammes arebeing undertakenbyTVET Collegesfor their respective students Mostly, ourprogrammesfocuson students andstudent leaders in the sector, butwith this one, everyone can join us in ourNational Civic Education andGBVF Drive.”

Mbhashe Local Municipality hereby invites service providerstobid for PANELOFCIVIL CONTRACTORSFOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS WITHIN MBHASHELOCAL

MBH/INFR/ 0021/2025-26

Project Name Bid NumberEnquiries ClosingDate CIDB Grading Briefing OrSite Inspection Date Availabilityoftender documents PANELOF CIVIL CONTRACTORS FOR INFRASTRUCTUR EPROJECTS WITHIN MBHASHE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY FORTHE PERIOD OFTHREE (03) YEARS.

Technical related Queries : Mr L.CMakonza 082 564 9243

SCMrelated Queries : MsA. Mbebe 047 489 5810

During 08:00 to 16h30 from Monday to Friday 21 July 2026not later than11h00 All completed bids mustbeina sealedenvelope marked “Bid Name, Bid No, Bidder’s Name At 454 Streatfield Road in Dutywa During 07h30 to 5CE or higher Compulsory Briefing: Thursday:25 June 2026@11:00AM to be heldat MbhasheTown HallatIdutywa

THEADVERT IS ISSUED IN COMPLIANCE PREFERENTIALPROCUREMENT REGULATION 2022 (PPR)

Stage1:AssessmentofAdministrativeCompliance

•Onlybidderswhoareresponsiveintermsofadministrativecompliancewillbeevaluatedfurthertostage2

Stage2:Thisstagewillfocusonevaluationofspecificationandbiddersabilitytoexecutetheprojects:

18 June2026 at Mbhashe Local Municipality Budget and Treasury Cashiers’offices, 454 StreatfieldRoad, Dutywa upon payment of anon-refundable deposit of R472.05 per document.Only cash. EFTwill be accepted, when paying through EFTpleaseuse thenameofthe companyasa reference.The municipality will only be selling thehardcopy documentsthe electronic documentswillbeobtainable on thewebsitewww.mbhashemun.gov.za at no charge

ACCOUNTTYPE:PUBLICSECTORCHEQUEACCOUNT

ACCOUNTNUMBER:62231175953 FIRSTNATIONALBANK BRANCH CODE: 211121 +BRANCH NAME: DUTYWA SWIFTCODE:FIRNZAJJH

•Biddermustrespondinaccordancewithalltheminimumrequirementsandconditionsofthetenderasdetailedinthetermsofreference,failuretocomplywillresultindisqualification

Stage3:Evaluationwillbedonebasedonthe90/10preferentialpointsystem.

•Where90pointswillbeallocatedforpriceand10forspecificgoals.Biddersmustsubmittherequireddocumentationtoclaimpreferenceplan.

•The90/10preferentialsystemwillbeappied,wherepoints90pointswillbeallocatedforpriceand10forspecificgoals.

SPECIFICGOALS

The specific goals allocated pointsintermsofthistender

Procurement under the 90/10preferencepointssystem where theenterprise head

office or primary placeofbusinessislocated:

Pointsfor enterpriseswithin Mbhashe municipal area

Points for enterprises withinAmatholeDistrict region

Points for enterpriseswithin the Eastern CapeProvince

Businessownedby100% blackperson.

Business owned by more than 50%black person

Business ownedbyless than or equal to 50% black person.

Bidder willbeentitled to claims in oneofthe above

Businessownedbymore than 50%youth

Businessownedbymore than 50%disabledperson

BIDDERSSHALLTAKENOTEOFTHEFOLLOWINGCONDITIONSOFTHETENDER:

•TheValidityperiodofBidsis90daysfromtheclosingdate.

•BidderstosubmitaTaxCompliancestatusdocumentwithPinissuedbySouthAfricanRevenueServices(SARS)orCSDnumbertoverifytaxstatus.

•BiddersarerequiredtosubmitproofofregistrationofCIDB.

•Failure tocomplete,dateandsignMBD4,MBD8,andMBD9willrenderthebiddernon-responsive

•Failureofdirectors/trustees/shareholders/memberstodeclarecompaniesinvolvedinunderMBD4,Item2.11,willresultindisqualification

•Electronictenderdocumentswillalsobeavailableonthemunicipalwebsitewww.mbhashemun.gov.za •BiddersmustberegisteredonCSDifthebidderisnotregisteredthebidwillbedeemednon-responsive. •FailuretosubmitJVagreements(whereapplicable)orConsortiumAgreementswillleadtoadisqualification.

•LatestbillingclearancecertificateORstatementofmunicipalaccountnotolderthanthreemonthsORaleaseagreementofthebiddingcompanymustbeattached.,Cllrsletterwillnot serveasabillingclearancecertificate.PleasenoteforanyaddressprovidedasthepreferredonCSDandCKtheremustbealeaseagreementorbillingratesclearancewhich willserveasaproofthatthecompanydoesnotoweratesfortheaddressesprovidedintheCSDandCK.BiddersareadvisedtoensurethattheyaligntheaddressesonCSD andCKtotheleaseagreementandbillingclearanceattached.

•IfabidderisaregisteredcompanyrequiredbylawtohaveitsannualfinancialstatementsauditedorindependentlyreviewedincompliancewiththerequirementsoftheCompaniesAct ,ActNo.71of2008,oranyotherlaw,auditedorindependentlyreviewedannualfinancialstatementsforapastthree(03)yearsmustbesubmitted.Biddersarerequiredtosubmitproofof registrationofCIDBasrequiredfromthetableabove.

•Ifabidderisnotrequiredbylawtohaveitsannualfinancialstatementsauditedorindependentlyreviewed,thennon-auditedannualfinancialstatementsforthepastthree(03)years mustbesubmitted.

•BiddersmustsubmitletterofGoodstandingfromtheDepartmentofLabour •AllcertifieddocumentsmustnotbeolderthanSix(06)months.

•Late,telegraphic,facsimile,emailed,electroniccopy,incompleteorunsignedbidswillnotbeconsidered •Non-disclosurebytheserviceproviderswhoareintheserviceofstateandserviceproviderslistedontenderdefaulterswillleadtodisqualification.

•Completed Bids and supporting documentation, placed in asealed envelope clearly written on theoutside of theenvelope with bid detailsofprojectmustbedropped in themarked tender bid box placedatthe reception of the Mbhashe Local Municipalityofficesat454 Streatfield Road in Dutywa During 07h30 to 16h30 from Monday to Friday,nolaterthan Tuesday,21July2026before11H00amonthedateasmentionedabove.AllthereceivedbidswillbeopenedinPublicatthesametimeanddate. •MbhasheLocalMunicipalitydoesnotbinditselftoacceptthelowestoranybidandreservestherightnottoacceptthewholeoranypartofthebid. •ThemunicipalitywillnotbeliableforanymisplacedorlatetenderdocumentdeliveredbyCourierCompany.

•BidderswillbeevaluatedinaccordancewiththeMunicipality’sSupplyChainManagementPolicyandintermsofPreferentialProcurementPolicyFrameworkActnewregulationsof2022 andwillbebasedon90/10pointssystem.

Issuedby M.NAKO MUNICIPALMANAGER MBHASHELOCALMUNICIPALITY

454StreatfieldRoad,P.OBox25,Dutywa,SouthAfrica,5000 MHXHS180626-TE180626

ECLegislaturetakes YouthParliament preparationsto localcommunities

ZAVELA MAKWABE

IN the build-up to the EasternCapeYouth Parliament, theEastern Cape Provincial Legislature conductedanoutreachvisit to King Sabatha Dalindyebo TVET College in Mthathaon11June.

Theengagementforms part of intensive province-wide preparationsfor the Youth Parliament, settoconvene on 25 June at the Legislature precincts in Bhisho This year’s Youth Parliamentwill be held underthe theme:“Celebrating30Yearsof ourConstitution:A conscientisedyouth advancing an inclusive economy andending gender-basedviolence, markingthe 50th anniversaryofthe 1976 Uprising.” Thetheme links South Africa’sconstitutional journey to the lived realitiesoftoday's youth —economicexclusion, unemployment, andgender-basedviolence— whilehonouring the legacyofthe 1976 generation

TheMthathaworkshop gave young people adirectplatform to debate criticalissues affecting their generation as they prepare to take their seats in the Sectoral Parliamentlaterthismonth.Participants tackled topicsrangingfromyouth unemployment andaccesstoquality education to gender-basedviolenceand meaningful economicparticipation.These sessions are notstandalone.

TheLegislature hasrolledout District Workshopsacrossall districts andmetropolitanmunicipalitiesinthe EasternCape. Theworkshopsare designed to deepen civiceducation,sharpendebate skills and ensure delegates arrive at Youth Parliament readytoholdpublic representatives accountable andinfluencepolicy. Participant, YolanaNdibo, said she found the engagementveryinsightful. “It changed my perspective completely. Inow understandthe Constitution,and I’ve realisedthatParliament is notreserved for aselect fewbut belongs to all of us.I am leaving here inspired,informed, andfully committedtoplaying my part in advancingthe EasternCapeand holding leaders accountable.”

TheDistrictWorkshops playa criticalrole in strengtheningparticipatory democracy. By equipping delegates with knowledge of governanceprocesses,oversight mechanisms, andtheir constitutional rights, the Legislature is investinginageneration thatcan driveaninclusive economy and help endgender-basedviolence. TheYouth Parliamenton25Junewill seedelegates from all regionsofthe provincedebate and adopt resolutionsthatwill be tabled before the Housefor consideration

EasternCapemarksInternationalMuseumDay

ZAVELA MAKWABE

THE Eastern Cape joined the global community in commemorating International Museum Day 2026 with avibrant two-dayprogramme that celebratedheritage, promoted social cohesion, and showcasedthe province’s young talent

Celebrations officially commencedwith acolourfulcultural parade that broughttogether learners,community members, cultural groups, and heritage practitioners.

The procession filled the streets with music, dance,traditional attire and cultural pride, highlighting the vital role museums play in preserving and promoting shared history and identity.

Observed annually on 18 May under the auspices of UNESCO and the International Council of Museums (ICOM), International Museum Day was commemorated provincially on 9and 10 June in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality due to logistical dynamics around the official date.

The two-dayprogramme brought together museum professionals, heritage practitioners, academics and stakeholders from across the province,creating aplatform for reflection and dialogue on the evolving role of museums in transformation, cultural preservation, community participation, innovation and contemporary society.

The gatheringreaffirmed the EasternCape’s commitment to safeguarding its rich and diverse heritage for future generations Through the observance, the provincerecognised museums not

merely as custodians of history, but as dynamic institutions that inspire dialogue, promote inclusivity, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable social andeconomic development

As part of the programme was a Social Cohesion Dialogue on the theme: “The Importance of Indigenous Knowledge in Modern Society”.

The dialogue brought together heritagepractitioners, academics, traditionalleaders, community representatives,and museum professionals to explore the enduring value of indigenous knowledge

systemsinaddressing contemporary social, cultural, environmentaland developmental challenges. Participants emphasised that, as custodians of generations of wisdom, indigenous knowledge systemscontinue to strengthen identity, promote social cohesion, preserve culturalheritage,and contribute to sustainable development.

Thesessionhighlighted the relevanceofthis knowledgeinmodern society while encouraging its preservation, documentation, and transmission to future generations.

Aday of celebration, learning, andcultural pride included the recognition of outstanding learnerswho excelledinvarious competitions. The festivities were enriched by vibrant cultural performances, traditional music and dance that showcased the rich heritage and diverse cultural expressions of Eastern Cape communities. Among thehighlights wasan educational trip to Robben Island, scheduled for September, which was awarded as one of thecompetition prizes.

Emihle Mlomo, aGrade 11 learn-

er from NtabankuluSenior Secondary School in theAlfred Nzo District, emerged as theoverall winner of theEssay Writing and PresentationCompetition at the Provincial IMD 2026 celebrations. Her outstanding performance earned her first place and thehonour of representing theEastern Cape at thenational competition laterthis year.

In her essay, Emihleexplored thesignificance of South African museums, with aspecial focus on museums in theEastern Cape

She highlighted theprovince’s rich cultural heritage, diverse histories, and theimportant role museums play in preserving and promoting these valuablelegacies for future generations.

“Museums helpconfront the legacies of tribalism, racism and social division by preserving and presenting thehistories and cultures of allcommunities. Through exhibitions, educational programmes and cultural dialogue, they encourage understanding, respect and social cohesion,” she said.

Emihlefurther emphasised that museums provide opportunities for peopletorecognise boththe diversityand interconnectedness of society, making them powerful institutions for promoting unity, celebrating cultural heritage, and contributing to amore inclusive and peaceful world

Her achievement wasatestament to thetalent,insight,and academic excellence of theyoung peopleofthe Eastern Cape The province congratulated all winners and participants who made theday amemorablecelebration of history, heritage, and identity.

TsoloartistBongeziweMabandlareturns with newalbum

ZAVELA MAKWABE

SINGER,songwriter, andguitarist, BongeziweMabandla, released his new album, Ndingubani,on11June.

It features the playfulyet profound sing-alongsingle, Walila "Walila is aboutkarma, and how what we do eventually finds its way back to us," Mabandla explained.

"Writing this song started in avery playfuland almostcomical way, butslowly became something deeper. It grew into a story about thatmoment when everything is finally revealed, and justice arrives afterfeeling wronged. It's adifferent kindof song for me,especially in how playfulitis, butatits coreit's about timing, consequenceand the quiet ways life circlesback around."

Hailing from Tsolo outside Mthatha, the39-year-old multiaward-winningartist, singsprimarily in isiXhosa,blending traditional Xhosa folk music with modern soul,electronic, and indie-folk elements.

Hissound is intimate,emotional, andspiritual, characterised by his haunting falsetto, poetic lyrics, andstripped-back guitar work.

Mabandla released his debut album Umlilo in 2012, introducing his signature folk-soulstyle. His 2017 breakthrough, Mangaliso,won Best Alternative Albumatthe 2018 SouthAfrican

Music Awards

He followedwith iimini in 2020, whichearned international acclaimwhen BBC 6Music nameditAlbumofthe Day. His2023 release amaXesha explored love and healing.

Speakingabouthis new 18-track album, Mabandla reflected, "Ndingubani is my story aboutwho Iam, andwho Iam yettobecome." However,hesaidthe album was never just his.

"A bigpartofthis album hasalsobeen thepeople who have walkedalongsideit. The communitythathas listened, shared,shown up to shows,and become partofthis unfolding storywith me.

"Itisa reminder that thestory of Ndingubani doesn'tbegin andend with me.Itextendsto all of you whocontinue to grow, change andbecome."

Having toured extensively acrossEurope andthe US, Mabandla hascollaboratedwith artists, includingZakesBantwini andTresor.

Although he writesalmostexclusivelyinisiXhosa,his music resonatesglobally throughits rawemotion and sound

He hasbeen pivotal in bringing Xhosa-language music into contemporaryglobal spaces withoutcompromisingits essence.

Hismostpopular tracks include Zange,BawoWam, Ndokulandela and Soze