Mthatha Express South - E-Edition - 7 May 2026

Everychildpregnancy ‘anationalemergency’

NATASHABEZUIDENHOUT

THE Eastern Cape Department of Health has recorded asustained declineinteenage and childpregnancies and births across theprovince, but childprotection experts warn that thefiguresmay conceal afar more complex and troubling reality of abuse, inequality and underreporting.

Accordingtoprovincial data forthe 2025/26 financial year, birthsamong girlsaged 10–14 droppedsignificantly, falling from 553 in 2022/23 to 292 in 2025/26.

In thelatestquarter, 54 births were recorded,below thetarget of 75. Asimilar downward trend is reflected among adolescents aged 15–19, with totalbirths decreasing from 17,064 to 13,916 over thesame period.

Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa has attributed thedeclinetostrengthened multi-sectoral interventionsinvolving the Departmentsof Health,Education,and Social Development, alongside communitypartners. These include expandedyouth-friendly services, prevention programmes, and improved access to reproductive health support. However, child protection organisation ChildlineSAsays the declineinnumbers doesnot necessarilyreflect asimple success story.

AccordingtoOkuhle Mdodana, Director at Childline SA in theEastern Cape, teenage and child pregnancies remain driven by deep structural and social challenges, particularly in high-risk communities.

"Sexual abuse and statutory rape remain major drivers, with many pregnancies in girls under 16 resultingfrom coercion, grooming, or abusebyoldermen, relatives, or community members," sheshared.

Poverty, sheadded, increases vulnerability to transactional relationshipsand "blessers". Mdodana also pointedtobrokenfamilystructures, absent parenting, alcohol abuse, and overcrowdedhouseholds as keyrisk factors that reduce supervisionand protection. In many communities, cultural silence and stigma continue to prevent disclosure of abuse.

"Poverty, unemployment, and limited opportunities push some girls into relationships for financial support, especially in rural areas like theEastern Cape," she said, adding that inadequatesexual and reproductive health education further compounds the problem.

Whilethe department hasdescribed thedeclineasprogress, Childline cautions against celebrating what it calls "reductions from crisis levels"

"Thousands of childrenare still becoming pregnantevery year, often as aresultofrape

or coercion. Adecline in numbers does not equal success when theunderlying drivers remain unchanged," Mdodana said. She noted that many cases stillresultin school dropout,trauma and long-term poverty, and that ChildlineSAcontinues to see high volumes of cases through its helplines. Concerns havealsobeen raised about whether thedecline reflectsreal behavioural change or underreporting.

Mdodana said official data oftenreflects onlypublic health facility births, excluding home deliveries, privatecare, miscarriages, unsafeabortions or unreported cases due to stigma.

"In rural Eastern Cape communities, stigma oftenleadsfamilies to conceal pregnancies or avoid facilities," she said."The decline may reflect some real gains in awareness or services, butitlikely underestimates thetrue scale of theproblem."

The organisation also raised concerns about gapsinstatutory rapereporting and referral systems, despite legal obligations underthe Children's Act and Sexual Offences Act.Mdodana said implementation remains inconsistent duetoconfusion among professionals, fear of stigma, and weak follow-up systems.

"Cases are oftenreported,but investigations stall duetoshortages of social workers, overburdened courts, and limited SAPS capacity," she said."In many instances, pregnancies in minors are not automatically followedbyrobust child protection responses."

Childline saysitfrequently encounters cases where abuse is suspected butnot properly escalated, particularly in rural areas where services are limited.

Key systemic gaps, according to theorganisation, includeshortages of social workers, poor coordination between government departments, weak school-based prevention programmes, and limited mental health support forsurvivors. Persistent poverty and communitysilence further deepen vulnerability.

To address these challenges, Childline SA is calling forstronger enforcement of mandatory reporting laws,expanded prevention education in schools, and increased investment in childprotection services.

The organisation also wantsfaster, coordinated multi-sectoral response teams for abuse cases, expanded youth-friendly clinics, and greater economic and parenting support for vulnerable families.

"Every childpregnancy,especially among young girls, reflectsa failure of protection," Mdodana said."This must be treated as anational emergency,not just ahealth statistic."

Suspectswhotriedtobribeo

THE Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation and National Prosecuting Authority achieved adecisive legal milestone following the granting of aforfeiture order in amatter involvingpossession of stolen copper cables.

Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana said the outcome represents asignificantintervention in curbing infrastructure-related crimes and reinforcingthe rule of law through asset recovery mechanisms.

“The asset forfeitureorder, which pertained to agreyToyota Camry worth R70 000, was issued by the Mthatha High Court recently. The incident originates from an operation executed in August 2025, when law enforcement authorities acted on credible intelligence regarding the illicit transportation of copper cables from Mthatha to East London.Atargeted vehicle checkpoint was strategically established, resulting in the interception of agrey Toyota Camry,”said Mhlakuvana.

He added that asearch of the vehicle yielded foursubstantial bags containing copper cables suspected to be stolen, leading to the immediate arrest of two occupants, both foreign nationals.

Mhlakuvana saidthat the suspectswere formally charged with possession of suspected stolen property. Thedriver of the vehicle

fficersarrested

was reportedly identified as Muzengeza Simba, who attempted to subvert the course of justice by offering agratification of R10,000 to alaw enforcement official in exchange for his release.

“The official ostensibly acted with integrity, ensuring that the attempted inducement was duly recorded and an additional charge of gratification was instituted. The gravity of the situation was further compounded when athird individual,Ivin Kutama, arrived at the police station and allegedly attempted to secure the release of the detained suspects. This act resulted in his immediatearrest and the registration of aseparate case of gratification, reinforcing the zero-tolerance stance adopted by law enforcement agencies against corruption in all itsmanifestations.”

The matter was later referred to the Hawks for asset forfeiture investigation. The order follows ameticulous and intelligence-driven investigation conducted by the joint team. Following the conclusion of the judicial process, the court authorised the forfeiture of the grey Toyota Camry, valued at approximately R70,000, on the basis that it constituted an instrumentality of crime.

Furthermore, atotal amount of R13,000 representing proceeds associated with the attempted bribery of the officers has been forfeited to the State.

SPOKESPERSON for the Department of Transport, Unathi Binqose, confirmed that the department is working around the clock to ensure that all legitimate scholar transportoperator claims areprocessed and paid, following awidespread withdrawal of services across the provinceinprotest against delayedpayments.

Binqose said the department met with operatorsand explained that the delays are duetotechnical and system-related challenges affecting payment processes. He added that the protest has had asignificant impact on teaching and learning in many parts of the province, particularly in BuffaloCity,ORTambo District, and Chris Hani District.

"The department acknowledges the challenges facedbyoperators and has deployed officials across all districts who are working tirelessly to process outstanding payments.

"The priority remains to stabilise the system and ensure operators return to the roads to transportlearners. We will continue to engage stakeholders in efforts to resolvethe matter," said Bin-

MANDLENKOSI MXENGI

RESIDENTS of Buffalo City Metro (BCM) in the inland region will be without runningwater from theirtaps over theweekend, due to maintenance work at the Laingbulk water system, from FridaytoSunday, 10 May

The planned three-day water outages, which willaffect several areas in Qonce, the province’s capital, Bhisho, Bhisho andGrey hospitals, Ntabozuko (formerly Berlin)and FortJackson factories, were jointly announced by the province’s waterentity, Amatola Water and Buffalo City Metro.

Initially, the planned water shutdown was scheduled to start on Tuesday and continue until

Friday, 8May,meaning that the water outageswereplanned for four consecutivedays.

Buffalo City Metro spokesperson, Bongani Fuzile, confirmed that Amatola Water has decided to revise the originally scheduled shutdowndates in an attemptto minimise disruptions duringthe working week

“Amatola Waterwishes to inform residents that the previously scheduled shutdowndates have been revised.The shutdown will nowtake place from Friday, 8May,toSunday,10May, over theweekend to minimisedisruptions during the working week,” said Fuzile.

Fuzile said the planned water interruption wasnecessaryto allow forthe structural inspec-

tion of the Qongqotha regional storage reservoir, along withthe maintenance of the Laing bulk water system suppliedfrom the Laing Dam Water Treatment Plant.

Allareas suppliedbythe Laing bulk water system will experience water cuts,includingQonce CBD,Bhisho, Ntabozukotown, Walter SisuluUniversity(WSU) Potsdam campus,Kayser’s Beach, Kidds’Beach, FortJacksonfactory area, GolfCourse, and several townships,includingIlitha, Sweetwaters, Schornville,Zwelitshaand Phakamisa. The shutdownisgoing to affect severalrural areas,including Mount Coke, Ndevana, Potsdam, Mlakalaka, Needs Camp, Ncera, and others.

qose.

Provincial Convenorfor the South African National Taxi Council(SANTACO),Mzwandile Nkewana, said they decidedto march to the Premier's Office after the DepartmentofTransport failed them

He statedthatin2022 and 2024, there were some monthsin which they were not paid.

"From OctobertoDecember 2025, some of us were notpaid. Then, fromJanuary 2026 until now, over95% of us have not received ourpayments. This is affecting us, andwehave lost some of ourmembers duetodepression.Weare paying instalments forour carsand feeding our families from this money. We arealsopaying school fees for our children.Ifthe department treats us this way, it leaves us confused," said Nkewana

He added that they have given the Premierofthe Eastern Cape,Oscar Mabuyane, time,as he promised that some of their problems would be resolvedby7 May 2026.

Nkewanasaidthatafterthis date, they would sit down and review what thegovernment managed to address. He noted that whenthey signed their contracts, thefuel escalation,a 6%

increase andthe rate cardwere included. "Ifthe department does nothonourthat, we will explore ways to putpressure on thegovernment."

According to theHeadofthe Department of Education,SharonMaasdorp, about107 schools acrossthe Buffalo City Education Districtthatutilise scholar transportwere severelyaffected by theprotest, with 12,388 learners absentfromschool that day. "The protest left learners who rely on scholar transportstranded at their pickuppointsalong theprescribed routes. Additionally, some educatorswho depend on publictransportreportedfor duty late,asthey hadtomake alternative arrangements to reach their schools," said Maasdorp. She addedthatthey areworking with theBCM districttoensure lostinstructional time is recovered for all affected grades. "Circuit Managers will oversee theimplementation of all these lessonplansacrossthe district. We alsowanttothank parents whokeptusinformed from various areas. Of the 107 schools affected, 62 areprimaryschools, while 44 areseniorsecondary schools.One secondaryschool was partly able to ferry 15 learners outof79intotal."

Fuzilesaid that although the shutdown is scheduled for a period of three days, residents are advised that it may take additional time for the system to fully recover, refilland restore normal water supply, adding that there may be delays before water is available from taps after the maintenance period.

“Water tankerswillcontinue to supply affected areas during thistime and will remain in operation until water supply is fully restored, with prioritygiven to healthcarefacilities,”added Fuzile

Over the years, the Metro has been experiencing persistent water outages and last year,disgruntled residentsofMzamomhle, Ducats and Nompumelelo

townships took to the streets, blocking the busy N2 with burning tyres and stones, demanding to be addressed by Mayor Princess Faku

At the end of April, some parts of Mdantsane experienced water cuts due to aburst pipe and heavy machinery, including a TLB, had to be deployed to enable excavation and necessary repairs.

In 2024, Amatola Water completed amajor infrastructure upgrade project at Laing Dam, one of the key water resources in the region. The upgrade included the rehabilitation of the dam wall, installation of new monitoring equipment and improvements to the water abstraction systems.

Dutywalearnersstudyoutsideasschoolrebuildstalls

BABALWA NDLANYA

LEARNERS from Vulingcobo SeniorSecondary School in Dutywa are facingchallenges, as some of themare taught outside due to alack of classrooms.

This was said by the traditionalleader from Chizele locality, Chief Gwebindlala Sigidi, who stated that besides the shortage of classrooms, the school is using dilapidated temporary structures that are putting learners’lives at risk

He said that despite these challenges, the school is one of those thatproducegood Grade12results.Headded that the school is made up of temporary structures that were put up before1994.

“We have tried several times to askfor help from the Department of Education. These classrooms can collapseatany time, andthere areeven holes in thewalls, which put our children’s lives in danger. At one point, alearner was bitten bya snake that cameout of ahole inside the classroom. It has been more than 10 years since we first askedfor helpfromthe department,” said Sigidi

TheTreasurer of theSchool Governing Body (SGB), Zukiswa Mayile, saidthe main issueisthat some communitymembers want the school to be relocated to another area within thesamelocality.

Shesaidthe land where the school is currently built belongs to someoneelse and also contains graves.

“The last time we spoke with the department, we were told that if classrooms are built on thecurrent site, this can be done at any time. However,ifwewant the school to bemovedtoanother area, it will take longerbecausea survey must first be conducted. Nowitisuptousasparents to decide what should be done,” said Mayile.

Sheconfirmed that due to the lackofclassrooms, learners arealso taught outside, and when all of them are writing exams, they are forcedtouse acommunity hall.

“I have never heard of alearner being bitten by asnake, and Ihavelived here fora long time.So, Iknownothing about that,”

said Mayile.

The spokesperson for theEasternCape Department of Education, Mali Mtima, said the department had identified the needs at Vulingcobo S.S.S. in 2015, and the project was allocated to the DevelopmentBank of Southern Africa(DBSA). He said it is one of the 16 historical projects under therealignment programme thatcould notbeimplemented due to budget constraints.

“Time hadelapsed,and theprojects were withdrawn by the department in August 2023. Theproject wasreallocatedtoDBSA in September 2023 with the scope of building anew school. Thenew site has been

verifiedbyProperty Management.The school enrolled 981 learners in 2023,” said Mtima.

He addedthatthe tender was advertised on all publicplatforms on 6August 2025, under RFP084/2025, and that the tender briefing was held on-site on 15 August2025.

“The tender closed in August2025. The project is budgeted for the 2026/27 financial year at an estimated cost of R6,950,000. DBSAwas busy with evaluation processes in November 2025. Currently, concurrence has been submitted to the department, and DBSAisawaiting approval to begin,”he said.

R512,000 boost forEastern Cape animal health entrepreneurs

IN amove aimed at addressing unemployment and improving access to animal health services in rural areas in the province, the Eastern Cape Government has invested atotal of R512 000tosupport13Animal Health Technicians (AHTs) to start their ownPrimary Animal Healthcare Facilities

The initiative is led by the EasternCape Development Corporation (ECDC) in partnership withthe Food andAgriculture Organisation’sTsoloAgriculture andRural Development Institute (TARDI)

This is afterlegislative reformsin2022 created aframework thatallows AHTs to operate

as private sector entrepreneurs, enabling expanded accesstoanimal health services, creating job opportunitiesand opening economic opportunities for graduates.

The13youthsform part of thefirst cohort thatunderwent training at TARDI, focusing on both business development and animal health.

MECfor Economic Development,Environment Affairs andTourism Nonkqubela Pieters handed overstarter kits, which included equipmentand vouchers, to the13 young entrepreneurs.

Theequipment includes an animal branding kit, adousing gun, animal castration equipment, biosecurity equipment,mini fridges, cooler boxes and microscopes, amongothers.

Pieters said the establishment of Primary Animal HealthcareFacilities within local communities was acritical intervention.

“Itdecentralisesservicedelivery, reduces the costand timeburden on farmers and strengthens the first line of defence against animal diseaseand livestock losses. We are enhancingbiosecurity and disease surveillancecapacityata community level,” she said.

Oneofthe beneficiaries, Zimasa Qwayele, who owns aPrimary Healthcare Facilityin the AlfredNzo District, said this equipment will enable hercompanytooperate as afully-fledgedAnimal Healthcare Facility. She

expressed appreciation for thecoordinated intergovernmental effort,saying that the collaboration wasinstrumental in ensuring that AHTs in theprovince were empowered with business skills to run successful enterprises.

DeputyDirector Generalfor Agriculture, Mthozini Goqwana, said theprogramme transforms theagricultural sector in the country.

“An opportunitywill exist for theAHTs to work with thegovernment in fighting Foot and Mouth Disease, which thegovernment has been effectivelyfighting in collaborationwith private veterinarians,” said Goqwana.

South African Veterinary Services Chief ExecutiveOfficer, Mongezi Menye, said theceremony wasamilestone in thetransformation of theSouthAfrican veterinary landscape.

“For toolong, thestory of theAnimal Health technician in thecountry was one of untapped potential. We faced aheartbreaking reality where, according to a2021 FAO survey, 32 to 60% of our AHT graduates were sitting at home unemployed,while our rural farmers, thevery heartbeat of our agriculturaleconomy, remained critically underserved,” said Menye.

Addressing thetechnicians, Menyesaid thesuccess of theAHTs wasinthe healthof theanimals in rural communities.

MANDLENKOSI

MXENGI

THE East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) is set to unveil its digital economyflagship projects at the EasternCape Digital Economy Summit to be held at the ELIDZ ConferenceCentreinKuGompo City, formerlyEast London, from ThursdaytoFriday, 8May

The ELIDZ,anentity of the provincial Department of Economic Development, EnvironmentalAffairs and Tourism (DEDEAT), is hosting the high-level strategicsummit focused on advancing the province’spartici-

pation in the digital economy, under the theme, “Poweringthe Eastern Cape’s Digital Future”.

ELIDZ acting corporate communications manager, Siphosethu Tikana, said the highlight of the two-day summit is the official unveiling of the ELIDZ’sdigital economy flagship projects,which collectively position the ELIDZ as afuture-ready smart industrial zone and acatalyst for digital infrastructure development, innovation, job creation and investment attraction within the province. Some of the industrial zone’sdigital economy flagship projects expected to be unveiled include the ELIDZ

data centre, ELIDZ digital hub for innovation, skills development and SMME support, undersea cableand broadband enablement opportunity, andCisco digital skills and innovation programme.

DEDEATspokespersonNcedo Lisani said the summit comes at a critical moment forthe province, as digitalisation hasbecome akey economic priority for the Eastern Cape, supporting efforts to modernise industries, attract investment, improve service delivery andcreate sustainable employment opportunities.

Premier Lubabalo Mabuyane is ex-

pected to address thesummit under the theme, “Building globally tradeabledigital services from theEasternCape”.

ELIDZ chief operating officer (COO)AyandaRamncwana will deliver her presentation under the theme“Fromdigital infrastructure to globally tradeabledigital services.” Other notablespeakers include DEDEAT MEC Nonkqubela Pieters and ELIDZ chief executive officer(CEO) ThembelaZweni. Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, and key stakeholders from theICT,telecommunications, investment, innova-

tionand skills development sectors are allexpected to attend theevent Tikana said that within theEastern Cape, digital transformation is being advanced as apractical enabler of industrialisation, investment attractionand enterprise development,in linewith theprovince’s economic development priorities.

“The focus is on ensuring that digitalisation delivers tangibleprovincial outcomes, including increased investment, stronger industries, improved public and privatesector services and inclusive opportunities for communities across theprovince,” concluded Tikana.

ZAVELA MAKWABE

AT 27, Sandisiwe Mathamo, from Lucingweni Location in Ntabankulu, never imagined his voice would travel from his villagechurch choirtoaNetflix film. Butthat is exactlywhat happened when Netflix musicproducer, Brandon Jury, reachedout.

“Hesaid they had watchedmy singing videos on social media and said my song Khayelihle had caught their attention,” Sandisiwe told the Express.“Theywere workingonafilm with apowerful deathscene and believed my voice couldcarry that moment.”

180 is anew, grittyand emotional South African Netflix revenge thriller, written and directedby Alex Yazbek, which premiered in April 2026. The movie, which features some of South Africa’s most

loved actors like Prince Grootboom, WarrenMasemola, Noxolo Dlamini, FanaMokoena,Desmond Dubeand Bongile Mantsai, centres on Zak, played by PrinceGrootboom, aformer gangster who has turnedhis life around and is tryingtolive peacefully.

Thatpeaceshattersinaninstant when aroad rage encounter leaves hisyoung son Mandla fighting for hislife.After the justice system fails him, Zak is forcedtoconfront the violent pastheleftbehind.

The film is already getting abuzz as one of Netflix’s standout African originals.

“Honestly, Ithought it wasa prank.Days wentby, and then I got askedtocome to the studio for recordings. Isaid yes, showed up on the date,and therest is history,” he said.

Sandisiwe’s journey started in

Sundayschool, where his teachers first heard him sing and encouraged himtokeep going. “If it wasn’t forSunday school, I wouldn’t be the bold singer Iam today,”hesaid. “That’s where my voicewas shaped. Igrew up singing in the church choir, and gospel musicisstill at the heart of everything Ido.”After matriculating in 2019, he beganposting singing videos on hisFacebook page. The response was overwhelming,with thousands of followers drawn to his voice. He later opened aTikTokaccount, where his covers, especially Khayelihle, went viral, reaching over 1.8million views.

“I believed in my voiceand carried myself as an artist, even before the industry noticed me,”he said. “I’mforever grateful to everyone on social media who believed in me.”

While he is focused on building astrong foundation through social media,Sandisiwe has already taken his first step into professional recordings. Hisdebut single, Ndiyamazi ondithumile,was recorded with ThulasMTV, an opportunity he is deeply thankful for He said that hissong Khayelihle holds aspecialplace in hisheart. He sang it at hisfather’s funeral in 2021, and now he’ssinging it again in adeath scene in 180 “It’samazing how life comes full circle. There were so many big names and established artists they could have chosen, but they chose me. That tells me there is something real in my voice.”

Now, Sandisiwe is ready to take the next step, recording moreof his own original songs and sharing his gospel with awider audience.

ANNOUNCEMENT:MATRICULANTOFTHEYEARCOMPETITION

Impactfulopportunityawaitsentrants

Formorethan 40 years, theMatriculantofthe Year competition has been making adifference in the lives of hundredsofyoung people who have startedtheir career path at the Universityofthe Free State(UFS)

This year it will be no different, with the 45th competition starting this week.

Notonlyisitthe launchofthe 2026 competition, butthe UFSisalso excited to welcome NovusMedia as a newmedia partner forthe competition.

NovusMedia, asubsidiaryofNovus Holdings, hasanational footprint of 36 free community papers;anational paper, DiePapier; and astrong digital and social media presence.

All articles about the competition will be publishedinthese printed publications, as well as on their websites,inaddition to being available to read forfreeonthe national website novanews.co.za

Onceagain, multi-talentedmatriculants from all over the country canenter themselves forthe competition, whichwas wonlastyearby KiaraSubramanian, nowaformer learnerofthe Eunice High School in Bloemfontein.

Kiarasaysshe will always be grateful forwinning the competition.

"Not just becauseofthe title, but becauseofthe people it brought into my life. It allowedmetoconnect with such inspiring, kind, and driven individuals, manyofwhom Inow gettowalk this journeyofstudying medicine with."

Forher,itbecame farmoremean-

Thevice-chancellor and principal of the UFS, Prof. HesterC.Klopper,withthe 2025 winnerofthe Matriculant of the Year competition,

ingful thana competition–itextends to friendships,support,and a sharedunderstandingthat"we were allstriving toward something bigger than ourselves".

"Looking back,I think what the

competitionreallytaughtmeisthe importance of connection andencouragement. "It showed me howpowerful it is to be surrounded by people whouplift andmotivateyou."

This is howyou enter Matriculants from across thecountrywho areleadersand achievers in academics, cultureand sport, and whoplantostudy at UFSnextyear, canenter the competition.

Bursaries andprizemoneytotalling aboutR500000 areupfor grabs forthe top25participants, thanks to sponsorsincluding UFSStudentRecruitmentServices,the Kovsie Alumni Trust, Forvis Mazars, Absa and Pick nPay Preller Walk. Learnersmay enterthemselvesor be nominated by theirschools, with formssignedbythe principal and bearing theofficial school stamp

Atotal of 25 semifinalists will be selected,fromwhich 14 finalists will advancetothe final roundfrom5to 7October in Bloemfontein Thewinner and finalists receive prizemoney, bursaries,and gifts, whilesemi-finalists arealsoawarded prizes andbursaries Entriescloseon31July. Scan the QR code above, download theentry form,complete it,and send it back to LindaGreylingatgreylinl@ ufs.ac.za.She canalsobecontacted formoreinformation.

Drought-hitAmatholetackles watercrisisinnewbudget

MANDLENKOSI MXENGI

THE drought-stricken Amathole District Municipality (ADM) is expected to spend a fairshare of its budget allocation upgrading bulkwater infrastructure projectsand addressing sanitation backlogs in the upcoming 2026-27 financial year, whichstarts at the beginning of June.

Throughout the month of April, the Amathole district hosted its 2026-27 Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and budget public hearingswere heldinall six local municipalitiesunder its jurisdiction.

The IDP serves as the municipality’s principalstrategic planning instrument, guiding development, budgeting, and service delivery.

It aligns community needs with availableresourcesand ensuresthat development is implemented in acoordinated, sustainableand inclusivemanner.

Theprocess provides aplatformfor communities to actively participate in decision-making, ensuring that their voices shape municipal priorities.

ADM dams’ water levels remained low due to severe drought, while the district also experienced persistent water outages attributed to ageing water infrastructure, theft and vandalism at its bulk water infrastructure projects.

The municipality continues to deliver water tankers in many areas after residents complained about persistent water outages.

Speaking at apublic hearing in Adelaide, ADM Mayor Anele Ntsangani told residents that the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality has been allocated R69,9 millionfunded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) for the upgrading

of bulkwaterinfrastructure projects and sanitation backlogs inthe area.

Abudget of R7,2 million has beenset aside forthe refurbishment of waterinfrastructureinFortBeaufort and Alice towns.

Ntsangani saidR4,2 million will be spent on emergency intervention at sewagesystems, R20 million on the completion of sanitation project backlogs andanamount of R14 million for thecompletion of the Victoria East watersupply project.

“The budget allocation of R1,2 millionwillbe spent on Nxuba Adelaide and Bedford bucket eradication project, including the upgrading of the Bedford Wastewater Treatment Works, while R18 million hasbeen allocatedfor theFort Beaufort bulkwatersupply project,” saidNtsangani.

Ntsangani also presented a budget allocation of R17 million fundedthrough the Water ServicesInfrastructure Grant (WSIG), whichwill be spent on the refurbishment of water retainingstructures in the area.

Community members, including Nxesi village residents, complained about long-standingchallenges, including collapsedinfrastructure, sanitation backlogs dating back 15 years andpersistent sewage spillagesaffecting households andlivestock.

Ntsangani acknowledged the challenges andassured residents thatthese issues arebeingprioritisedand have been incorporated intothe municipality’s intervention plans.

Duringthe public engagements heldinMnquma, Mbhashe andNgqushwa local municipalities, residents raised several service delivery failures,including incomplete waterinfrastructure projects, sewer spillages, sanitation backlogs and water outages.

Amahlathi Local Municipality has been allocated atotal budget of R41 million funded throughthe MIG to be spent on key water infrastructure projects during the upcoming 202627 financial year.

In hispresentation, ADM Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) responsible for IDP and Budget, Bandile Ketelo, outlined planned infrastructure investments funded through the MIG, with abudgetofR41 million allocated for Amahlathi’s bulk water infrastructure projects.

“Key projects include the completion of the Amahlathi area-wide sanitation backlog project, upgrades to sewer and water pipelines in Stutterheim, the Cathcart bulk services upgrade and the Rhabula Water Supply Extensions, which received the largest share of the allocation,” said Ketelo.

TheWater Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) budget allocation of R16 million will be spent on the Dontsa Water Supply project, Amahlathi’s non-revenue water loss control projectand the refurbishment of water retaining structures.

In Amahlathi,water tankers had been deployed in Keiskammahoek and surrounding areas to provide temporary relief as ashort-term solution to water outages.

Monitoring of water supply systems is ongoing in Zanyokwe, Ngqumeya, and Lower Zingcuka, including repairs to leaks fromthe Sandile Water Treatment Works.

Amathole is awater services municipality responsible forbulk water infrastructure projects and providing clean drinking water to residents of Great Kei,Mbhashe, Mnquma, Ngqushwa, Amahlathi and Raymond Mhlaba local municipalities thatfall under its jurisdiction.

Hip-hopartistdrops empowermentanthem

BABALWA NDLANYA

HIP-HOP artist, Ndingalinda Matambeka, known as Nick Pagemat, from the Mazizini area in Mthatha, has released his latestsingle titled King Pagemat, whichhedescribes as an empowering musical journey.

He said the song is more than just amusic release; it celebrates Black excellence and resilience.

"King Pagemat is about embracingwho we are and the heritage we carry. It's aresponse to thechallenges we face in our workplaces, homes and communities.

“The song draws from generationsofstrength, turning per-

sonal success intoananthem for anyone who has been told to hold back," he said.

He added that he has planned avisual campaign to accompany the song, which explores different aspects of leadership through themes of warmth, determination, and commitment. According to him, the song encourages people to make space for greatness and declares that the time for holding back is over. "I want to be partofacultural movement that reminds us that when we celebrate our identity and our stories, we become powerful,"hesaid.

The song is available on all major global streaming platforms.

RURALKwaNonkobe in Mthatha came aliveonSunday lastweek as 270 residents tookpartinthe Eastern Cape's Provincial Hiking forHealth event, exhibiting apowerful show of commitment to wellness and community spirit.

From sunrise, walkers of all ages tackled the 12km route with energy and determination.The daywas filled with camaraderie andpurpose as neighbourscametogether not just to move their bodies, but to strengthen the bonds thathold communitiestogether.

Hosted by the Department of Sport, Recreation,Arts andCulture, the Hiking forHealth initiativecontinues to highlight how sportand recreation go beyond fitness. They playa vital role in promotingsocial cohesion,mental wellbeing,and community development. This year's strongturnout reflected agrowing appetite for healthier,moreactivelifestyles across the province

DepartmentalSpokesperson, Andile Nduna,praised the response andsaidthe participation of 270 people shows thatcommu-

nities areembracing active living. "Hiking forHealth is notonly about physicalfitness, butit's also about building united, healthier communities. As adepartment, we're committedtocreatingaccessible spaceswhere people can move, connect, andthrive."

Forparticipant, Nomveliso Mgangatho, the hike was more thanan exercise."It was refreshing and uplifting," shesaid. "Itbrought people together in abeautifulway andreminded us to prioritiseour health.I'm motivated to keepgoingand to encourage othersinmy community to join in."

Another participant, Lisa Mdoda,told the Expressthatthe hike was the breakshe didn'tknowshe needed. "Itprovideda much-needed escape. Thefresh air, soothing sounds of nature andstunning views cleared my mind andrechargedmyspirit,"she said.She added thatshe is consideringmakinghikinga regular part of her lifestyle

TheDepartment said it would continueexpandingsuch programmestoreachmorecommunities andempowerresidents to lead healthierlives

Sport

EasternCapebidstohostABC MotsepeLeaguenationalplayoffs

HOSEYAJUBASE

THE South African FootballAssociation (SAFA) is yet to announce the province which is going to hostthe ABC Motsepe League NationalPlayoffs.

The announcementisexpected to be madebeforethe endof May 2026,according to reports EasternCape province is one of the provinces that have shown an interest in hosting this year’s playoffs, but the provincial SAFA Competitions Committee office says that for thattobeasuccess, the government will need to intervene and assist.

EC SAFA Competitions Commit-

tee chairman, Sandile EricMata, said that even during last year, the province showed an interest in hosting those playoffs, butit was too late.

Mata said that in order for the provincetohostthese playoffs, they needed to lobby different stakeholders

“We need to lobby the government tointervene and assist because we can’t host playoffswithout government involvement, without department involvement and municipalityinvolvement,” he added.

Mata alsorefuted claims that they rejected hosting these playoffs.Instead, he emphasised that there are three big cities in the

province ready to host the playoffs and with the capacity to do so

Nelson Mandela Bay,KuGompo City and Mthatha are the three bigcities with the capacity to host these national ABC Motsepe League playoffs, according to chairman Mata.

If the Eastern Cape succeedsin hosting these national playoffs, it will be abig victoryfor the Eastern Cape people, as thiswill also play ahuge role in the local economy.

In these playoffs, the Eastern Cape provincewill be represented by FC Ravens, who arethe current champions of the EC ABC Motsepe League.

JYAsettostageinauguralwomen’s footballtournamentinMthatha

ANELE RAZIYA

AS the Jubase Youth Academy (JYA) from Mthatha is wrapping up its preparations before hosting its first-ever football tournament this weekend, its founder, Hoseya Jubase, has announced the names of the teams that will be part of the event.

Last month, Jubase announced that as an academy, they were preparing to host aone-day football tournament on 9May and had invited sixladies’ teams from different areaswithinthe province, but the teams had yet to confirmtheir availability to honour the event at that time. Then, last week, the JYA founder came forward with good news, announcing that the teams expected to participate in the JYA

Women’s Football Development Tournament, which is scheduled to be played at Marambeni sports ground, MthathaWest, this Saturday, 9May

In hisstatement, he said, “Thetournamentwill cater for fourschools, namely Khanyisa School, Holy Cross School (Mthatha), Welese School (Ngqeleni), and afourth still to be confirmed, as well as two academies, JYA (Mthatha)and PSG Ladies’ FC (Xhora/Elliotdale).”

This meansthe total number of teams expectedtocompete during the event istwo academies and fourschools, although another school is yet to confirm its availability for thetournament.

Duringhis announcement, he also madeanappealtobusinesses andcompanies to support

women’sevents, because those tournaments arehelping to empower women and give them an opportunity to showcase their talent.

He said they were holding the tournament with zero budget, but were hoping that it would be a success.

Jubase also madeanappealto sponsors who areable to assist or make adonation to theirdevelopment tournament to getintouch with him via email at hjubase@ gmail.com.

Thegames areexpected to start at 08:00 thisSaturdayand run until 17:00, and football supporters areencouraged to come out in good numberstosupport the JYA Women’s Football Development Tournament at Marambeni sports ground.

forannualMayor’s Cuptournament

ANELE RAZIYA

THEMbhashe Local Municipality,whichismade up of Dutywa, Xhora andGatyana, is expected to host its annual Mayor’s Cupevent from 16 to 30 May.

By hosting theevent annually, the municipality wanted to contribute to thedevelopment of local sport, give the youth an opportunity to showcase their talent and also keep young people away from wrongdoing

The tournament is expected to feature various sporting codesthatinclude ladies’ football, volleyball, rugby, netball, handball andfootball.

Teams around Mbhashe are expectedtokick-start the tournament by competing in aseries of unit gamesthat will be hosted in different areas within themunicipality.

Opening fixtures of the Mayor’s Cupare scheduled to be hosted at Xhora on 16 May, andall teams within that unit areexpected to par-

ticipate in the event. Then, thefollowing unit gameswill be hosted at Dutywa on 23 May, andthe conclusionofthe unit games will take place at Willowvale sports field on 30 May. Afterthe unit gamesare complete,the municipality, under theleadership of ExecutiveMayor,DrSamkelo Janda, will be expectedto announcethe date andthe venue where theMayor’s Cup finalwill be playedthis year From 16 to 30 May, local teams from Mbhashe will be expectedtoworkhard throughout theevent in ordertobook their place in the grandfinals of the2026 Mayor’s Cup.

Mbhashe residents areexpectedtoturn outinlarge numbers as usualtosupport these events, as they didat lastyear’s Mayor’s Cup. Teams that manage to be crowned championsafterthe finals areexpected to receive prizes suchastrophies, medals andother sport-related items.

ViedgesvilleFCclaimbronzeinNgqelenitournament

HOSEYAJUBASE

THE founder of Viedgesville FC, Sibonisiwe Diniso,has applauded her players after their stunning performance in therecent Mgudlwa Attorney’s Tournament heldin Ngqeleni.

During the tournament, Viedgesville FC finished in third position and walked away with bronze medals, akit and R10 000.

The Viedgesville team wasdefeated by Gqeberha giants, OldGrey FC, in thesemi-finals.

Chairwoman Sibonisiwe Diniso told the Express that shewas overwhelmed by theteam’s performance at thetournament.

“LosingagainstOld Grey FC on penalties showsthat we are agood team, and it showsthat in rural areas there’s alot of talent.I’m happy with theteam,” she said.

Viedgesville FC lost 5-4 on penalties against Old Grey FC after playing a0-0 draw on the field.

Viedgesville FC, from Viedgesville village near Mqanduli, wasestablished in 2021.

Among the team’s objectives are to root out crime in rural areas and to expose rural talent.

Last week’s Mgudlwa Attorney’sTournament was won by COPE FC from Ngqeleni, and the team walked away with R40000 in cash, akit and gold medals.