Mthatha Express South - E-Edition - 9 April 2026

Innovationsupports6000girls

rectorofAzandeConsulting, MaquMakhaye (55), and formanager of Communication ng at the SouthAfrican Sourity Agency (SASSA), Luzuko handed themselves over to the London Serious Commercial estigation on 30 March 2026, ges of fraud andmoney laun-

spokesperson Warrant Officer Mhlakuvana said the accused before EastLondonMagisrt on the same day, where released on R5,000 baileach alleged charges emanate from transpired during the period 2013 and 2014 financialyear, with the implementation of Ministerial Outreach Programme for hich was initiatedacrossvarilocations, including Gqeberha, Engwa, Lusikisiki (Qaukeni Great Mthatha (Mvezo). outreach initiativeswere resigned to facilitate public and service delivery and nethe procurement of logistical onal services including, but to, catering,waterprovision, lsystems, entertainment and of tents forpublic gatherdignitaryattendance,”said ana. that aprivate entity,Azande ,owned by Makhaye, was alinted as project coordinator, functioned as theinternal manager.

ana said after the event, cerprovidersreportedly submit-

tedinvoicesfor payments. Furthermore, it is allegedthatsome of thebusinessentitiesalsosubmittedinvoices forservices that were notevenrendered at the event The matterwas immediately referredto theHawks for investigation.

“Investigationsuncovered adeliberately orchestratedand systematicscheme of misrepresentation,wherein Makhaye, apparently acting in thecapacity of projectcoordinator with Qina, unlawfully exploitedprocurement andpayment systems within SASSA

“Further investigation revealedthat throughthe submissionoffraudulent andfictitiousinvoicespurportedly issued by 15 serviceproviders who neither rendered services norauthorisedsuch claims.”

According to Mhlakuvana, this calculatedabuse of administrative processes andbreach of fiduciaryresponsibilities resulted in actual financialprejudice of morethanR10 million sufferedbySASSA

Moreover, theinvestigation revealed that fundswere channelledintothe bank accountsofthe companies andthe directors were instructedtotransfer mostof thefundstoAzandeConsulting.

“The accused made their initialcourt appearance beforethe EastLondon Magistrates’ Court on 30 March2026. The matterwas remandedto27May 2026, to reappear beforethe RegionalCourtasinvestigationscontinue.”

The Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks,Brigadier Mluleki Dyasi, warned perpetrators that their miscalculations in their calculatedcrimes will be exposedbythe diligent efforts of Hawks investigators.

venarrestedinbusindustry imecrackdown

Cape PremierLubabalo Oscar welcomedthe arrest of seven ross three provincesaspartof eakthroughinthe fightagainst dcriminalactivities thathave the long-distancebus industry. rdinated takedown operation South African Police Service the WesternCapeand supportmultiplespecialisedunitsmarks a milestone followinganextenear investigation into alleged on,extortion andinterference sector.

Mabuyane noted that these developllowyears of uncertaintyand withinthe long-distance industry, particularly affecting linked to the Eastern Cape. lelements have,for too long, undermine lawful business opfrustrate free enterprise,and oth operatorsand commuters ctsofviolence, coercion andfixtortion.

Eastern CapeProvincialGovernuivocally welcomes these aradecisive step towardsrestoring nity and the rule of law within transport sector. Thecriminalas infiltrated the long-distance ustry willnot be tolerated,” said hasised that the reported acts dation and extortion notonly the sustainability of legitinesses but alsoplaced an un-

fair financial burdenonordinarycitizens whorely on long-distance busservices foraffordableand safetravel.

“These acts arenot only criminal in nature,but theyare alsoanti-developmental. They undermineeconomicgrowth, threaten jobs anddirectly impact the livelihoods of ourpeople.Wecommend the meticulous andsustained efforts of law enforcement agencies whohave workedtirelessly to bringthose responsible to book.”

Thesuspects arrestedinCapeTown, Matatiele andNelspruitare expected to face arangeofserious charges, including extortion,money laundering, intimidation andcontraventionsofthe Prevention of OrganisedCrime Act(POCA).

Mabuyanefurther reaffirmedthe ProvincialGovernment’scommitment to working collaboratively with national law enforcement agencies,regulatory bodiesand industry stakeholders to safeguardthe integrityofthe transport sector.

“Wewill continuetostrengthen intergovernmental coordination to ensure thatcriminal networks aredismantled, andthatour transport systemsoperate in asafe,fairand regulatedenvironment free from

“The EasternCapeProvincialGovernment reiteratesits position of zero tolerance towardsorganised crimeand calls on all affected stakeholders to continue cooperating with law enforcement authorities.”

MECNqathadrawslineinthesandfortaxioperators

ZOLILE MENZELWA

TRANSPORT and Community Safe-

ty MEC Xolile Nqatha has drawn a line in the sand for taxi operators in Port St Johns (PSJ),voicing intentions to close the rank and revoke their operators’ licences after continued failures to elect new leadership despite government interventions.

Nqatha’s spokesperson, Makhaya Komisa,said the MEC was also concerned about avoice note making rounds alleging that Nqatha had closedthe rank.

Mthatha Express has not heard the voice note.

“MEC Nqatha wants to put on re-

cord that he has not yet closed the rank buthas written to taxi association leaders informing them about his intention to take extraordinary measuresasempowered by the National LandTransport ActNo5 of 2009 as amended.The taxi leaders have notrespondedtothe MEC as to whythe MEC cannot close the Port St Johns taxi rank.”

KomisasaidNqatha’simminentdecision wasbasedon:

•The PSJ association elected leadership’s term of office had expired last year, andthe department had intervened in creating aconducive environmentfor themtoelect new

Ncataappointed new Provincial Commissioner

ZAVELA MAKWABE

NATIONAL PoliceCommissioner GeneralFannie Masemola announced last week the appointment of Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata as the new Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, effective 1April 2026.

The announcement was made at the ProvincialSAPS Headquarters in Zwelitsha,with thePremier of the province, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, and theMEC of Community Safety, Xolile Nqata, in attendance.

Lieutenant General Ncata, who hails from Gqeberha, brings31 years of dedicatedservice to the role, having joined the police force as astudent constable in 1995. Born in KwaZakhele, Gqeberha, he started his career at KwaNobuhle police station and later trained as aPublicOrder Police member, serving as a unit commander.

Ncata’s experience includes serving as Station Commander at Langa police station in 2011 andBrigadier at Nyanga police station in 2014, where he led efforts to combat gang violence. He was promoted to Major General in 2022 and served as district commissioner of the Nelson Mandela Bay District before takingonhis new role.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola expressed confidence in Ncata’s

ability to provide strongstrategicdirection and sound judgement,particularly in addressingserious and violent crimein the Eastern Cape. Ncata takes over from Lieutenant-General NomthetheleliMene who retired in February 2025.

Ncata said he has abig responsibility ahead, but he is fit for the purpose and ready to take it on. “I am ready to lead the men and women in blue, knowing our challenges well.”

Thenew Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant GeneralVuyisileNcata. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

leadership, but that did not happen due to their disagreements; and

•The MEC went to PSJ with departmental officials, both transport and community safety, the Mayor (Cebisa Mazuza), councillors of PSJ Local Municipality and Border Alliance Provincialleadership, to convene an elective meeting foraninterim structure, and that collapsed in his (Nqatha’s) presence.

Komisa said Nqatha then wrote letters to implicated individuals, giving them seven days to make presentations as to why he cannot revoke their operator licences, and they never responded within the stipulated

BABALWA NDLANYA

LEAFLINE, awashable hygiene products producer from the Big Pineapple in Bathurst, is turning pineapple leaves into reusable, biodegradable, toxin-free sanitary products, including adult and baby nappies, that last up to two years.

All the products are made with cayenne pineapple leaves, which, when milled, produceafibre stronger than cotton.

Leafline founder Candy Androliakos said the idea for the reusable sanitary products came to life whilst working with local women at acare centre.

"One of the older ladies asked me to make her amoreaffordable option foradult nappies. Despite having never sewn, Idecided to try. That random request turned into the founding of Leafline in 2018, but we opened our factoryin2021. We began milling our leaves in 2024. Imanaged to make the garment itself, but it was missing the absorbent part of anappy. Afriend suggested using pineapple leaffibre, and that'swhere the realbreakthroughhappened," says Androliakos.

She said that throughcorporate sponsorships to schools and institutions, they have benefited over 6,000 girls.

Leafline employs four permanent membersofstaff and three part-time workers who are elderly and living with disabilities. Together, they producereusable, sustainable, and cost-effective alternatives to disposable hygiene products.

In pursuit of broader markets, Leafline was enrolled in afive-month Global Export Passport Programme (GEPP) managed by the Department

timeframe.

“There is only one individual who has responded after some time, insulting the MEC and Mazuza. MEC Nqatha followed all the steps in order to fulfil his obligation as per Section 91(1) of the National Land Transport ActNo5 of 2009 on this matter

“Subsequent to this,the MEC received complaints from some individualtaxi operatorsabout them being prevented from operating and some identifiable individuals who demanded an amount of R50,000 for them to operate,”hesaid.

After all these interventions and consultations, as alast resort, Nqatha had no option but to close the

of Trade, Industryand Competition (DTIC) in partnershipwith the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC).

"During the programme, participants were requiredtosubmitexport marketing strategies.I ranked third formyexport market strategy. Iwas pleased with that achievement because it broadened opportunities for Leafline's expansion. Supportfrom entities like the ECDC comes not only in monetaryterms but also provides the much-needed exposurefor businesses with niche products such as Leafline," says Androliakos.

Shesaid theECDC also helped Leafline acquire two hammer mill machinesvalued at R50,000 each, and aleaf shredder valued at R80,000. These additions to Leafline's production line ensurethey areready to provide asteady supply of quality products to local Sparsand to their biggest supporters,non-profitorganisations such as Rotaryand Do Ubuntu, that donate the products to the less fortunate.

Moving forward, Androliakos hopes to expand Leafline's fibreproduction and mechanise its pad and nappy embroidery, and spread the word about toxin-free sanitary solutions.

"Wedosupply to schools through corporate sponsorships, with partners like Rotary, Spar and the Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA). We use social mediachannels like Facebook and Instagram, and recently beganposting on TikToktomarket our products."

ECDC Trade Promotion Specialist, Linda Lubengu, saidLeafline's participation in the GEPP training demonstrates how focused export

PSJ rank, which is the asset of the government, and revoke the operator licences issued by the department, as all thesebelong to the state untilthey cooperate and abide by the law, Komisa said.

“The MEC has issued agazette for them and other stakeholderstocomment, and so far,thereisnoresponse except the voice note that incites violence in that area. We call on all affected stakeholders, including the taxi leaders,torespond to the letter written to them as to why the MEC should not close the rank,”Komisa said.

Taxi associations could not be reached at the time of writing.

R80kTourismfundbacksSMMEs

BABALWA NDLANYA

THROUGH the Tourism Growth Fund, Mbhashe Local Municipality has taken ameaningfulstep towards strengthening local economic development by handing over tools of tradeto14businesses, including Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and tourism operators.

The handovertook place atthe Willowvale Indoor Sport Centre as part of abroader strategy to combat unemployment whilst unlocking the area’s tourism potential.

Beneficiaries were from Dutywa, Elliotdale and Willowvale, ensuring abalanceddistribution of support across all three areas.

In Dutywaand Willowvale,the initiative focused on supportingbusinesses operating in key sectors such as textiles, agriculture, services and hospitality.

Textile enterprises receivedsewing machines, fabrics and related materials toboost their production capacity, whilst other businesses wereequipped with sound systems and poultry farming equipment to strengthentheir operations.

Additional supportincludedcateringequipment, poultry production tools, generators and workshop equipment, all aimed at helping businesses expand and sustain their activities.

Meanwhile, in Elliotdale, thefocus is on agriculturaldevelopment, with cooperatives set to receive irrigation systems, water infrastructure and vegetation managementtools.

With atotal investment ofover R80,000, the initiative underscores the municipality’s commitment to practical, hands-on support.

By providing essential equipment rather than only financial assistance,the Tourism Growth Fund enables businesses to operatemore efficiently, grow sustainably and create employment opportunities within their communities.

The Executive Mayor for Mbhashe Local Municipality, Dr Samkelo Janda,emphasised the importance of taking Integrated Development Plan (IDP) engagements seriously, describing them as avital platform

formeaningful interaction between the municipality andcommunities.

He noted thattheseengagements allow residentstoraise theirneeds, concernsand developmentpriorities,which are carefully considered in municipalplanning processes.

He further reaffirmedthe municipality'scommitment to practical support thatpromotes self-reliance andeconomicparticipation, adding that initiatives such as this are aimed at equipping communities with the resources theyneed.

This interventionalso alignswith Mbhashe’svisiontoposition itself as atourismdestination of choice by 2027, whilst actively addressing poverty and unemployment through targeted economicempowerment

“I am alwaysstrict because I want to see the beneficiaries at these events. Ialways saythat if

thebeneficiary is not present, he or shemustnot receive theiritems through someone else.The standing committeeconducted verification, and evenwhen peoplecome to collect theiritems,they mustbeseen. There shouldbeevidence for the Auditor-Generalthat thepeople we intendedtosupport havebeen identified, have signed,and that there arephotographs as proof,” said Janda.

He added that one thinghealways emphasises is that IDP meetings mustbetaken seriously because this is wherethe municipality listens to people’s views. Afterthat, policiesare developed to guide how they respond to communityneeds Janda said themunicipality does not simply decide what to do without consultation. Instead, they engage communities first,then devel-

op plansbased on what residents haveraised.

“You must never undermine these meetings. Ialways tell people who are well educated butdonot attend thesemeetings, and instead raise demands later, that theproblemis that they do not followthe proper procedures. They also do not make follow-ups on what they can do to achievewhat they want.Meanwhile,those whoare illiterate make decisions in these meetings, and we then implement them.”

According to him, no one should be left behind in these meetings, as this is where planning takesplace.

“We have intergovernmental relationswhere we callall departments and present theissues raised by IDPs.Weask them to respond becausewe, as themunicipality, are closesttothe communities. Iem-

phasise that youmust take this seriously.Asweapproach elections, when thenew term begins, officials working with new councillors must revivethe Local Economic Development Forum. This will provide an additional platform, separatefrom IDP meetings, to address challenges in boosting thelocal economy in Mbhashe,” he said

He explained that theforum includes different sectors and helps address issues such as access to inputs and other resources.

“You assisted us when we were developing theLED strategy and policy.Weare guided by this strategy on how to uplift thelocal economy.The consultant we appointed advised that we focus on four areas: agriculture, tourism and heritage development;support forbusiness entities; and marketing. To ensure we are on theright path,weaim to grow theeconomy by 2.5% over the five-year lifespan of thestrategy.We must also review whether thepeople we support are stillactiveorifthey havesoldthe items they received.”

He addedthat he has advised officialstoassess progress in economic growth and determine whether the municipality is making meaningful strides or remaining stagnant despite implementing such initiatives over along period.

One of thebeneficiaries, founder of LelatyTrading, Nolwazi Kupiso, said themunicipality assisted them with afullsound system, which will maketheir work easier.

“The equipment we had wasnot of good quality,soweasked themunicipality forassistance. They funded us with R50,000 so that we could buythis system. We thank themunicipality forsupporting our company,” said Kupiso.

Another beneficiary from Thunga Mfazi Cooperative, Buyiswa Vilana from Dutywa,said they sew clothes fordifferent clients.

“We are happy that we received materialsfrom themunicipality. This will helpuscreate more jobs forothers. It wasdifficultbefore because we had to buymaterialsfrom thesmallprofit we made. Now we will be able to produce more, especially when sewing tracksuits for learners,”said Vilana.

Healthofficialssoundvaccinationalarmasfluseasonhitsearly

DESIRÉE

RORKE

THE public is urged to vaccinate against influenza as theflu season has commenced earlier than usual, the National Institute of CommunicableDiseases (NICD) announced recently.

The 2026influenza season began in the week of 9March, with the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season starting simultaneously. The concurrent onset means clinicians could potentially see ahigh burden of patients with respiratory illness in medical facilities in the coming weeks

“Theflu season is declared when the rate from the NICD

sentinel surveillance exceeds the defined level for the season to start and is sustained for two consecutive weeks. While this year’s season hasstarted earlier than in recent years, it is similar to 2025, whenthe season started inthe week of 24 March,” says NICD spokesperson VuyoSabani.

Vaccines availablefromApril

Influenza vaccines have been available in pharmacies since the first week of April.

“Theearly start to the season means that this year,the vaccine is only becoming available as the season is gettingstarted,so membersofthe public who fall

into groups at high risk for severe influenza are urged to get their vaccines as soon as possible,” says Sabani.

“Influenza vaccination is recommended to protect against infection and severeillness. Ideally,the influenza vaccine should be administered priortothe start of the influenza season, as it takes about two weeks for an adequate immune response to develop following vaccination.”

However,itisnot too late to vaccinate once the season has begun.

“High-risk groups include pregnant women, individuals living with HIV, those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung

disease, tuberculosis, heart disease, renaldisease, andobesity, older individuals above 65, and children under two yearsold. Thesegroupsshouldseek medical help early if they develop respiratory symptoms whichare not resolving,”says Sabani.

Prevention measures emphasised

Influenza A(H3N2), A(H1N1) pdm09and influenza B, according to theNICD,are common seasonal influenza strains in humans.

“The majority of people with influenza present with mild illness, whichusually resolves within three to seven days.However, influenza may cause severe

illness, leading to hospitalisation or possibly death,especially amongstthose at risk. While RSV is theleading cause of bronchiolitis andlowerrespiratory tract infectionsinyoung children,it can lead to severe illness in infants. It is highlycontagious, primarily spreading through respiratory droplets. This year, theRSV seasonhas started later than usual.”

The institute advises communitiestoreducethe spreadofflu andRSV by washing handsoften, covering coughsand sneezes with elbows or tissues, avoiding contact with people whoare sick, andstayingathome when feeling unwell.

Policearrest71motoristsinmajorEastersafetyoperation

A50-year-old manhas been charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm following a majorpolice operation in theAmathole District that resultedin71 arrests over a24-hour period

Operation Paseka saw officers establisheight multi-disciplinary roadblocks across the district on Thursday, 2April, despite challengingweather conditions

The operation was conducted in preparation forthe Easter holiday periodaspart of efforts to enhanceroad safety and reduce crime

Duringthe intensive operation, police searched 548 motor vehicles and questioned 736individuals. The arrests covered arange of offences, from minor traffic violations to the more serious firearm charges

Acting Amathole District Commissioner, Brigadier Zinikele Freddie, praised his officers’ commitment to the operation.

Officers also arrested a41-yearoldmotorist for drunk driving and issued traffic fines totalling R69,400 throughout theday.

“Operation Paseka is arecurringhigh-density, multi-disciplinary operation designed to increase police visibility and ensure road safetyduring the Easter holiday period,” he said.

The Brigadier urged motorists to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, emphasising that the measures wereimplemented “for the safetyofeveryone” during what is traditionally one of SouthAfrica’s busiest travel periods.

ECvegetableproducer eyesglobalmarkets

ARUZABIZ, aruralEastern Cape vegetable producer, founded by Zoleka Dikana, is accelerating plans to enter international markets after its export marketing strategy ranked among thetop three in the province duringthe latestGlobal Export Passport Programme (GEPP).

It was one of 15 Eastern Cape businesses to graduate from the programme in February2026, which is run by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) in partnership with provincial agencies, including the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC).

The company’s high-ranking export strategy signals its readinesstocompete globally, with expansionplans already underway Aruzabiz is investing in greenhousecultivation and frozen vegetable processing to meet internationalquality and compliance standards. The company is targeting export markets, includingGermany, as part of its growth strategy.

Established in 2014, Aruzabiz produces arange of vegetables, including tomatoes, green mielies, bell peppers,potatoes,cabbageand spinach,with cabbage and spinach among its top-selling products. The company supplies major retailers, including SPAR stores, FoodLover’sMarket, and the Buffalo City Fresh Produce Market. Dikanasays participation in the programme gave themaclear understanding

of the standardsrequired for international trade.

“We are now preparing to scale our operations through greenhouse production and frozen vegetable processing to competeglobally.Operations span two leased farms,a 21-hectare site in Maya village near Cofimvaba, and an eight-hectare farm in Amberdalenear Komani.

“We currently employ 16 permanent members of staff and eight temporary workers, with seasonal headcount reaching up to30during peak production periods,” says Dikana.

EasternCapeDevelopment Corporation (ECDC) Trade Promotion Specialist, Linda Lubengusaidthe GEPP equips small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), such as Aruzabiz, with the tools and expertise neededtoaccess global markets.

Since itslaunch in 2018, the programme has supported morethan 50 Eastern Cape businesses.

“The ECDC,through programmeslike GEPP, equipscompanies with exportcapabilities.Importantly, we follow this up withstructured market access supportto ensure these businesses can participate in trade shows, access incentives, and engage with buyers.

“We are committed to ensuring thatour interventions translate into real export activities, not just training outcomes, by providing ongoing support,” said Lubengu.

JaguarLandRoverrecalls modelsoversafetyconcerns

THE National ConsumerCommission (NCC) has notifiedconsumers about productrecalls of certainJaguar Land RoverDefender and I-PACEvehicles,asreportedbyJaguar Land RoverLimited (Jaguar). Therecalls aredue to potential defects that may affect vehicle safety systems and batteryperformance.

Land RoverDefender vehicles

Jaguar has informed theNCC thatthey are recallingcertain2026 ModelYear Land RoverDefender vehicles, which weremade availablefor sale between 3November 2025 and 21 February 2026 and soldnationally through authoriseddealerships, affecting 60 vehicles.

According to the supplier, the third-row lower seatbelt anchorage bracket maycontain aweld stud of insufficient strength due to material contamination during manufacturing.

This defect could prevent the seat belt from functioning correctly in acrash, increasing therisk of injury to occupants

Jaguar I-PACEvehicles

Jaguar is also recalling certain2019 to 2021 ModelYear JaguarI-PACEvehicles thatwere sold nationally between 23 June 2017 and 18June 2021, affecting 67 vehicles

The supplier has identified apotential issue affecting the high-voltagetraction battery pack. In certain circumstances, the battery may experience thermal overload, which may result in smoke or fire.

As an interim measure, affected Jaguar I-PACEvehicles willreceive asoftware updatethatrestricts the maximumbattery chargelevel to 90%. Consumers are advised to limit charging to 90%, park vehicles away from structures, and chargevehicles outdoorswherepossible.

Ownersofthe affected vehicles are urged to take their vehicles to the nearest authorised Jaguar and Land Rover dealerships for repairs.The necessaryrepairworkwillbe carriedout at no cost to the consumer.

Consumers who havequestionsorenquiries pertaining to this recall areencouraged to contact ProductRecall@thencc.org.za

Formerradiohostseekspublicsupport

BABALWA NDLANYA

SINGER,master of ceremoniesand former radio presenter, Azole Jezile (30), from Kwa Njakazi locality in Willowvale, is appealing to his supporters to votefor himashecompetesinatalent search on SABC Tru FM.

Jezile said his success dependson people voting for him. He alsosaidthat he is an ambassador for Telkom.

"I am appealing to people to vote for me and help me secure aradiopresenter positionwith aone-yearcontract at TruFM. Istarted working in radio in 2014 at KanyaFMinButterworth.I was hosting ashow from12:00 to 15:00 called Midday Connection

“I then leftin2018 andjoined Down-

town Radio, based in Durban and Johannesburg.There, Ihostedthe Poetic Sunday Show, whichwas an award-winning show. Ileftradioin2023, and now Iwanttoreturn througha talent search on SABC Tru FM."

He confirmed that, besides being aradiopresenter, he hasreleased asong titled Wawukuphi,featuring Vee Sholo. The song hasearned him recognitionin themusic industry.

He alsoplays amajor role in supporting thoseinneed.Jezileand his friends donatedover600 jackets to an orphanage andtochildren from Skiet Informal SettlementinButterworth in 2023. Those whowanttovote for himcan SMS "TruTalent 14" to 39721. Each SMS costs R1.50.

Mthathacreatorwins Mthathacreatorw topdigitalaward

ZAVELA MAKWABE

FASHION enthusiast and content creator from Mthatha, Ziyanda Nkunjana, emergedvictorious when she was crowned the Best Content Creator at the 5th annual Emerge Africa Awards,beating 10 other talentedcreators at the SA StateTheatre Arena in Pretoria on 28 March 2026

She has been making waves in the digital spacewith her unique blend of fashion, lifestyle, and village life content, and now her authenticand relatablecontent has earned herthe topspot.

Expressing her gratitude at the prestigiousred carpet ceremony, Nkunjana said she couldn't believethat it was the thing she had been ashamed of that became the foundation of her success.

"I wish younger me could've seen this coming, Iwishshe knew that the very thingshe was so ashamed of wouldland her here. That's whomyaudience fell in love with, that's how Iended up on this stage today. Being myself, my villagegirl self from Mthatha, whom theinternet loves so much."

Makingher heartfelt speech, she thankedher family, friends and online communitywho made the win possible.

"You might think it's justlike, acommenthere and there, but to

me it's asoft nudge to keep going because someone thinks I'm worth it. Everyone who voted, shared and campaigned…wedid it; it'scoming home."

Nkunjana told the Express that her journey into content creation began as ameans to document her fashion designs, butitsoon evolved toencompass her village life experiences

Her decision to pivot her content focushas attracted adiverse audienceand earned her recognition in the industry

With acombined social media following of over 185,000 across Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok,Nkunjana is determined to continue growing her online presence and inspiring her community

Beloveddoctorretires after18years

AFTER 18 years of dedicated service as afamily physician at Mthatha GeneralHospital, Dr Ramprakash Kaswa, apillar of thecommunity, has retired.

With compassion and expertise, he provided care to countless patients, built lasting relationships, and championed universal healthcare access.

"I came to Mthatha on 1January2007; it's my 18th year. I received love and supportfrom the people of Transkei and my employers, Mthatha Regional Hospital and WalterSisulu University.

“Along this journey, Iwas blessed with many friends and

colleagues who supported me. Iamgoing to miss all of them, especially the simplicity of the people of Mthatha," he told the Express

He shared thatworking at Mthatha Regional Hospitalwas fulfilling, especially when patients he'dcared for would recognisehim on the street or in the mall, thanking him for his help -afeeling that stood out during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr Kaswa has also inspired generations of healthcare professionals as aSenior Lecturer at Walter Sisulu University and a SpecialistFamily Physicianat Mthatha Regional Hospital. His research and editorial work have advanced healthcareinthe

region, and his kindness, wisdom, and dedication will leavea lasting legacy

He told the Express that he will now be joining the District Clinical Specialist Team (DCST) postatthe Nelson Mandela Bay Health District in Gqeberha and will continue to work in primary healthcaretoimprove the quality of healthcare.

"My ongoing mission is to ask the people, 'Does healthcaredeliver?'

“I am looking forward to working with the Nelson Mandela Bay health district community," he said The staffatthe hospitalwill miss Dr Kaswa's kindness, wisdom and dedication.

ANELE RAZIYA

EVERY year,a certain number of coaches in professionaland amateur leagues try their best to equip andempowerthemselves with coaching skills by attending CAF coaching courses, as modern football requires qualified coaches Ngqamakwe-born Nkululeko "Nkush" Malgas,who hails from Mnqumaand is now North West University's head coach, is amongthose coaches who arealways lookingtoimprove their coaching expertise and knowledge by empowering themselvesthroughattending coachingcourses that will assist themtogrow as coaches.

Lastweek,the 2019 Nedbank Cupwinner with TS Galaxy, Malgas, was presented with his CAFAlicencecoaching certificate aftercompleting the CAF Acoachingcourse, which began in September last year

The formerTSGalaxy video analyst was among25coaches who graduatedwith CAF Alicences lastweek,and he was delighted andexcitedtocomplete his coachingqualifications.

"I think gettinga CAF A coachinglicencewill open many doorsfor me in my coachingcareer, andIamgoing to getbetterrecognition than before," said Malgas when speakingwith Mthatha Express abouthis latest coaching qualification.

He said he was very happy that he hadmanagedtostudy thecourse successfully, as it was notaneasyjourney because he was busy looking afterNorth West University teams whowere seriouslycompetingfor leaguetitles in the ABCMotsepeLeagueand the RegionalLeague.

By obtaining his CAF Alicence, coach Malgas can now sit as headcoach in thePremier SoccerLeague(PSL) because he meetsthe coaching requirements, as theSouth African Football Association (SAFA) hasset standards for coaches whoshouldsit on the bench, startingfromprofessionallevel down to amateur. In conclusion, Malgas thankedNorth West University for assisting him financially during theCAF Alicence coachingcourse, andhehas nowshiftedhis focustothe ABCMotsepeLeaguetohelp theteamwin the title race. North West University are leading theNorth West ABC Motsepe LeagueStream Btable with 48 pointsand one game remaining, followedby ThamesFCwith 48 pointsand onegame remaining. However, thetable leaders areenjoying an 18-goal advantage compared to thesecond-placed team, whichmeans North West University needs only to win their finalmatch to be crowned streamchampions.

Sport

McoyileFCcrownedEaster Tournamentchampions

HOSEYAJUBASE

MCOYILE FC were crowned champions of the Ezinduneni Easter Tournament.

The tournament is based in Ngqeleni.

The team walked awaywith R10,000.According to the team chairman, Wanda Mcoyile, the R10,000 will be shared amongst the players.

Mcoyile FC defeated Happy Brothers 1-0 in thefinal.

One of the tournament organisers, Siviwe Dina Boko, said the main purpose of the tournament was definitelytogive back to the community.

“The tournament acts as asocial anchor, bringing the community together to celebrate their roots and reconnect through sport,” shesaid.

“Whenlocal vendorsstayed busy and young players got to showcase their talent in front of their home crowd,the tournament achieved itsgoal of uplifting the village.”

Bokosaid this was their firstannual tournament

“Definitely agreat experiencewe will do it againnext year.”

Titleraceheatsupas topthreesendwarning

ANELE RAZIYA

SAFA AmatholeHollywoodbets Regional League StreamE’s top three teams in Mnquma arestartingto make their intentions clear to their opponentsasthe leaguecampaignapproaches its end

Musketeers FC from Centane, WSUButterworth FC from WalterSisulu University’s Bika campus, and Ngqamakwe City FC from Ngqamakwe arethe sides making it clear they areserious contenders for thetop spot.

At theweekend,all three top sides sent astrongmessage to their upcoming opponents when league leaders Musketeers FC thrashed mid-table sideNgqamakhwe UnitedFC6-1 at hometo remaintop with 34 points from 12 games.

Second-placed WSUButterworth FC punished another mid-table side, FC Tshabalala,6-0 away to keep their title hopes alivewith 26 pointsfrom 12 matches. But thebiggest scoreline occurred when third-placed Ngqamakwe City FC demolished bottomsideInter City Sports Club12-2 away to keep themselvesincontentionfor topspotwith 26 points andanimproved goal differencefrom 12 games.

Another team working hard to climb thetable from fourth position is Amako-

tamaneFC, whoregistered another important victory when they thrashed Zeny Sports Club5-0 at homeat theweekend to revivetheir hopesofchallenging forthe top position before theseason’s end

Currently,Amakotamane FC have 24 pointsfrom 12 games.

Judging by recent results, leagueleaders Musketeers FC stillhaveagood chance of finishing theseason top of thetable as they enjoy an eight-point gap over thetwo teams behind them.

However, should theCentaneteam droppointsunnecessarily in their remaining leaguefixtures, it might give other teamsachanceto capitalise andclosethe gap.

This Saturday,SAFA Hollywoodbets RegionalLeague StreamEreturns to action afterthe Easterholiday break

Leagueleaders Musketeers FC will visit mid-table side Ezikaxhamela, AmakotamaneFCwill battle against Wongama FC, Young Stars United FC will entertain WSUButterworth FC. Zeny SportsClubwill host Ngqamakwe City FC, Ndabankulu SSS FC will host Ngqamakhwe United FC, andFCTshabalala will play against Inter City Sports Club.

All these matches areexpectedtobeplayedonSaturday afternoon.

GhettoRoversplayersexperienceChiefsAcademymagic

HOSEYAJUBASE

GHETTO Rovers FC players attended aseven-day camp in Gauteng last week.

Thecamp was organised by Nathi Academy, which is based in Soweto, Gauteng.

Ghetto Rovers FC founder, Sibusiso Momoza, said he was delighted for his playerstorub shoulders with professional players.

“We played against other academies during our camp, and our

playersperformed brilliantly,” he said

“It was an educational journey for all of us, including the coaches. These arevitaltrips for young players to meet professional footballers,”saidMomoza.

“We also visited Naturena Village, where we receivedawarm welcome from management members, including Jessica Motaung

“Whilst we were at Naturena, our playerswere introduced to

Kaizer Chiefs’ seniorteamplayers, andour lads were absolutely thrilled

“Wealsomet with Kaizer ChiefsAcademy coaches and were taughtaboutplayerdiscipline andthe importance of nutrition,” he said

“I wanttothank theparents whosupportedtheir children andbackedthe team,”saidMomoza.

“ThanksalsotoNqoroAttorneysfor supporting Ghetto Rovers FC.”