UD Express - E-Edition - 20 November 2025

MBDArevivedilapidatedKariegaRailwaySheds

SHANTI JAFTA

THE Mandela Bay Development Agency announced its flagship urban renewal projects in Kariega, one of them being the Kariega Railway Sheds located in the heart of Kariega CBD

In 2016, the MBDA’s mandate was expanded in Kariega to unlock further developmental opportunities in the region With this mandate in mind, the Agency committed nearly half of its capital budget to completing the upgrade of the old Railway Sheds in 2024, with work progressing throughout the year

According to the MBDA, upon completion, the Kariega Railway Sheds will house a Small Business Incubation and Business Park with flexible workspace to support SMMEs and start-ups

will also assist the businesses in this particular area by providing a working space; in that way we will be able to contribute to the SMME sector in Kariega,” Qaba concluded

The MBDA shared that guests enjoyed seeing the progress up close and were especially interested in the construction work, which has preserved the original outer brickwork of this heritage building

Once finished, the refurbished sheds will offer flexible spaces for education, events, conferences, office rentals, and small business development, creating a tech and innovation complex with the neighbouring Science and Technology Centre

Construction on the Railway Sheds began in April 2024 and is expected to be completed by June 2026

The project has created 80 jobs and engaged 20 SMMEs, with 33% of its spending directed to emerging enterprises to date

The total investment is R48 million The space is now 80% complete and already showing signs of what’s to come: a flexible, multi-use hub for education, events, small businesses, and more

AccordingtotheNelsonMandelaBayMunicipality, thisinitiativeaimsto:

Preserve and modernise the metro s rich heritage whilst maintaining its cultural character

• Support local businesses and SMMEs by creating new, affordable working and trading spaces

Stimulate the local economy by attracting exhibitions events and tourism to Kariega

“The only way we can supplement or sup-

At a progress inspection conducted last week at the Railway Sheds, MBDA CEO Anele Qaba shared, “Kariega often feels like a stepchild, with most of the projects and budget allocations made for the Gqeberha area The development agency in the last financial year made a decision to allocate a bigger chunk of its budget, with almost 50% of it allocated to this project, which is the Railway Sheds ” He added that, in light of the need that has been identified for creating an exhibition hall, similar to the one in the Tramways building, “we saw an opportunity in this old, dilapidated Railway Sheds structure, and we envisioned revamping and reviving it as a building that could contribute to the regional economy When residents want to have exhibitions and events, they won’t have to travel all the way from here to Gqeberha anymore They will now have their own events and exhibition space, which we hope will contribute to the tourism industry in this particular area ” Qaba also said that they hoped to expand and continue developing the other sheds to create a functional science, innovation and technology park in this particular area, which will also support the auto sector that has been facing significant challenges in this particular area

port what is happening in this particular area is to create practical examples such as the business events space, which will assist everyone Whether it’s a wedding, a funeral, or an exhibition that needs to happen in this particular area, there is a venue that will be able to host it

“Additionally, there’s an area that will be allocated for small businesses, which

• Revitalise the local community through inclusive urban renewal that creates jobs and opportunities

Once completed, the Kariega Railway Sheds will stand as a symbol of urban renewal and local pride, where history, culture, and enterprise come together to build a more vibrant and economically active Kariega

VWGAhonouredatannualExportersEasternCapeawards

ON Friday, 14 November, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) was recognised as the Best Exporter in the OEM category at the 31st annual Exporters Eastern Cape Awards

VWGA also received the SJM Flex Environmental Award, Community Chest (CSI) Award as well as a merit award in the IDC

Job Creation category

VWGA is particularly proud of receiving the Community Chest Award, as this was the first year the category was introduced

Being the first recipient of this honour holds significant meaning for the organisation

“At Volkswagen Group Africa, we work incredibly hard to uphold the highest standards in everything we do, and being rec-

ognised across multiple categories shows exactly that Being named the first-ever winners of the Community Chest Award is especially meaningful, as it affirms the positive community impact we strive to make beyond our plant,” said Martina Biene, VWGA Chairperson and Managing Director

For over four decades, Exporters Eastern Cape has served as a platform for businesses across the province that participate in, support, or have an interest in export activities Its members span a wide range of sectors, including automotive, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and various service industries

The panel of judges for the Exporters Eastern Cape Awards is made up of professionals from diverse fields, ensuring a well-rounded and credible evaluation process

PoliceseekpublichelptoidentifypedestriankilledinR75crash

DESPATCH Police are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying a pedestrian who was fatally struck by a vehicle on the R75 on Saturday, 13 September 2025

The incident occurred at approximately 21:45, between Azalia Park and Joe Slovo

when the pedestrian attempted to cross the road and was hit by a vehicle He died at the scene from his injuries

The deceased is described as an African male, aged between 26 and 30 years old He was wearing grey pants, a grey jersey with

white and red stripes, white sneakers with orange laces and orange soles, black socks, and a brown beanie SAPS Despatch has opened a culpable homicide case and the investigation is ongoing Anyone who can assist with identifying the

deceased is urged to contact SAPS Despatch Detective Warrant Officer Danny Muller at 041 933 8000 during office hours, Crime Stop at 08600 10111, visit their nearest police station, or submit information via the MySAPSApp

DeanArnolds’inspiringWorld TransplantGamesjourney

NATASHA BEZUIDENHOUT

A LIFE-SAVING kidney transplant at the age of 17 for Dean Arnolds (28), who had suffered from kidney failure since birth, marked a new beginning for the Salt Lake athlete who has represented South Africa at the World Transplant Games

"I had been sick since I was a baby and was in and out of hospital, and then, when I was 11 in 2008, my kidney was removed," he shared with the PE Express

"I spent six long years on the transplant waiting list and then on 29 September 2014, I received a life-changing kidney transplant "

This moment marked a new beginning for Arnolds, not just physically, but in spirit and purpose, he says The World Transplant Games sees athletes who, like Arnolds, received an organ transplant, from heart transplants to liver and kidney transplants

To participate, participants need to qualify at the National Transplant Games

This year was Arnolds' fourth time participating in the World Transplant Games which has seen him travel to Australia, Spain, the United Kingdom (UK) and Germany

"After my transplant, I began competing in the National Transplant Games in 2015 to prove that your talent should never be left behind, no matter what your circumstances," he shared

He participated in the 400m track and 5km road running events in Johannesburg, coached by Johann van Greunen

"With his guidance, I qualified in the 400m to represent South Africa in Spain Although I fell ill during the trip, I never gave up on my sport or my dreams "

He returned home determined to grow stronger and faster

"I qualified again for the National Transplant Games and went on to com-

pete in Newcastle, UK, in the 400m, 400m relay and both single and double Pétanque," he added proudly

"I proudly earned two bronze medals one in the 400m relay and one in double Pétanque thanks to my coach and the support around me "

Later, he travelled to Perth, Australia, and brought home another medal in double Pétanque for South Africa

"In 2024, I competed in the National Games in Cape Town, training hard for the 200m and Pétanque events "

Once again, he qualified to represent South Africa this time in Dresden, Germany, which was held from 17–24

August this year

"I competed in the 200m, 100m relay, single Pétanque and double Pétanque, where I was placed third in both Pétanque events "

Arnolds was placed fifth in the 200m and second in the 100m relay, bringing three medals back home

His preparation for the games included training twice a day at the Gelvandale Track under the watchful eye of his coach

For Arnolds, competing on a global level is more than receiving a medal

"It is not always about coming first or second," he shared "It is also about the people and their health stories and learning how they overcame it You meet people who have had heart transplants, bone marrow, liver or kidney transplants and for me it is also about making new friends and learning everyone's stories "

His inspirational message to those facing a health battle or any kind of hardship in life is: "There is always light at the end of the tunnel Never give up on your goals or your dreams," he says "It doesn't matter where you come from you can rise, you can grow, and you can make a difference Life is like chess: you must make your own moves to move forward and reach your goals "

ADVERTORIAL:GAMBLEPHARMACY

Celebrating45years ofGamblePharmacy

IN the heart of Kariega, one name has become synonymous with compassionate pharmaceutical care: Veganathan ‘Vicky’ Naidoo, the visionary behind Gamble Pharmacy

As the pharmacy celebrates over four decades of service, they reflect on an extraordinary journey of dedication, resilience, and community spirit

On 10 November 1980, Vicky Naidoo embarked on what seemed an impossible dream

“I started Sam Pharmacy with very limited resources, borrowing medicines from my friends, Vicky recalled “I struggled for a few years and thought I had made a mistake, but I persevered ”

He said the challenges were immense

The banks and wholesalers were unsupportive during the apartheid era Thinking back, I cannot believe we survived he admits Yet survive they did, thanks to his unwavering family support, especially his wife who has stood with him, loyal staff, supportive doctors, and most importantly the communitys embrace

Long-time friend Hamilton Petersen, who met Vicky through cricket during the “struggle days,” shared insight into Vickys character

Vicky seems to be one of those persons that one has always known A good friend, loyal to a fault, extremely helpful to all and sundry Always courteous soft-spoken and a true gentleman in every sense Vicky was instrumental in reviving non-racial sport in the area, committed to the principle of no normal sport in an abnormal society, said Peterson

His unwavering principles and respect for others earned him legendary status in the community What distinguishes Gamble Pharmacy is its profound commitment to community welfare

“He supported every worthy cause in the community noted Petersen At one stage every

dance, karaoke, and church concert ticket was sponsored by Gamble Pharmacy

This tradition continues today

“I want to leave a lasting legacy of compassion and empathy We are committed to helping soup kitchens, churches, school sporting clubs, and students to progress, ” Vicky stated Vicky’s extraordinary personal approach sets the pharmacy apart He knows customers by name and treats each as family

“He has saved me, and countless others, thousands of rands in medical bills through self-diagnosis He would go out of his way to assist those in need,” observed Petersen The communitys deep affection for Vicky was demonstrated during challenging times including the 1990 uprisings when the Savalot complex survived untouched; many attribute this to the respect for Gamble Pharmacy

Celebrating45years

Today Vicky s son Prinesh continues the family legacy

Initially uncertain about joining the business after completing his pharmaceutical studies and working elsewhere, Prinesh eventually recognised both the opportunity and responsibility before him

Initially it was tough to follow in his footsteps because he is a legend in the community As much as we are the same, we are also very different so I had to find my feet Prinesh shared

Under his father’s supportive mentorship, Prinesh has learned invaluable lessons

The one thing about my dad is hes always allowed my sisters, Parushinee, Komeela, Ashendri and me, to think for ourselves Every decision I made he fully supported me he reflected

“Times change, medical aids change, customers change However you still need the core discipline and values Thats what my dad taught me, ” said Prinesh “I m standing on his shoulders, taking forward all the hard work he’s done Everything I am is because of him

As Gamble Pharmacy looks towards the future, the commitment to exceptional service and compassionate care remains unwavering

In Vicky s words: This is our community, and we will proudly serve them to the best of our ability Long live Gamble Pharmacy ”

More than a pharmacy Gamble Pharmacy represents hope, care, and the enduring power of human compassion in healthcare; where caring comes first and community matters most

Hanko,NicoleneisDespatchsebestestoeiers

Verwey en haar twee afrigters, Haydri Strydom (links) en Mariëtte Els

, , en rugby vir die Hoërskool Brandwag Groot opgewondenheid heers egter oor sy moontlikhede in spiesgooi Hy het vroeër vanjaar eerste in die oos-Kaap gekom vir seuns o 14 met ’n indrukwekkende poging van

g y y de sportmeisie wat aktief deelneem aan tennis, netbal en atletiek Dis veral in tennis waar sy uitgestaan het In netbal het sy aan die Oos-Kaapse kampioenskappe deelgeneem, en in atletiek het sy by die Suid-Afrikaanse

kampioenskappe in die meisies o 12-afdeling 13de in die land geëindig Haar mikpunt nou is om onder

die land se voorste tien spiesgooiers in haar ouderdomsgroep te eindig Diani (15) speel vir die eerste ten-

nisspan vanaf die ouderdom van 14, en is ook gekies vir die eerste hokkiespan se oefengroep vir 2026

NOTICES LEGAL & TENDERS

WANTED TO BUY 1675 FOR SALE

GENERAL & HOME SERVICES

MISCELLANEOUS 1845

EMPLOYMENT

EP Media en Novus Media kan nie bevestig of enige van die geadverteerde dienste of produkte veilig is vir gebruik of die verlangde uitwerking of resultaat sal hê nie. Lesers word gewaarsku om die adverteerder se getuigskrifte deeglik te oorweeg en na te gaan. EP Media en Novus Media aanvaar hoegenaamd geen aanspreeklikheid ten opsigte van enige van die geadverteerde dienste of goedere nie.

FORM JJJ

LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Certificate of Consolidated Title Number T69430 /1992(CTN) Owned by NELSON MANDELA BAY

M E T R O P O L I T A N

MUNICIPALITY in respect of certain ERF 19601 UITENHAGE IN THE NELSON MANDELA BAY METROPOLITAN

MUNICIPALITY

DIVISION OF UITENHAGE, PROVINCE OF THE EASTERN CAPE which Certificate of Consolidated Title has been lost or destroyed.

All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby

Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for

issue of a certified copy of Certificate of Consolidated Title Number T41642 /1994(CTN) Owned by NELSON MANDELA BAY M E T R O P O L I T A N

MUNICIPALITY in respect of certain ERF 5186 DESPATCH IN THE NELSON MANDELA

BAY METROPOLITAN

MUNICIPALITY DIVISION OF UITENHAGE, PROVINCE OF THE EASTERN CAPE which Certificate of Consolidated Title has been lost or destroyed. All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby

ESTATE NOTICES

BOEDELS: KREDITEURE EN DEBITEURE 4201

Youngestkickboxerawardedglobalblackbelt

STRYDOM’S Kickboxing Academy recently held its annual kickboxing grading on Saturday, 8 November, marking a day of remarkable achievements and excellence

Among the standout students grading was Sofia Khan (14), who successfully completed a gruelling four-hour and 30-minute grading session conducted by Shihan Francois Strydom, earning her a well-deserved black belt

According to her chief instructor, Shihan Francois Strydom, what makes Sofia’s accomplishment truly exceptional is her distinction as the youngest kickboxer currently affiliated with World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO) in the Eastern Cape to have received her black belt “Her achievement not only highlights her extraordinary talent and

determination but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring young individuals across the region,” he said

“Sofia’s kickboxing journey has been nothing short of impressive Having begun kickboxing at Strydom’s at the age of four years old, she has spent the past 11 years demonstrating unwavering dedication to the sport ”

Strydom added that today, Sofia proudly represents both her province and her country, holding positions on both the Eastern Cape and South African kickboxing teams “This is undoubtedly a rare dual honour that underscores her exceptional calibre as a kickboxer ”

“Sofia’s story stands as a shining example of perseverance, discipline, and passion These qualities will undoubtedly propel her to even greater heights in the future,” Strydom concluded

Bergsighouprysuitdeling

Botha het die Kenneth Botha-trofee ontvang vir die mees belowende ambagseun asook die Burgemeesterstrofee vir DUX leerder van 2025

DIE Bergsig Skool se jaarlikse prysuitdeling is gehou op Donderdag, 6 November 2025 Tydens hierdie spoggeleentheid is verskeie leerders vir hul harde werk beloon

Die hoogtepunte van die aand het onder andere die aankondiging van die Dux leerder vir 2025 asook die nuwe hoofleiers vir 2026 ingesluit

Afrigtersbeloon

Vier afrigters is met ere-baadjies beloon vir hul betrokkenheid by OP-rugby en -krieket onderskeidelik

Hul prestasies is soos volg:

• RudolfSmit: Voorsitterskap van die OP LSEN Krieket vir vier jaar asook betrokke by afrigtingvanLSENkrieket;Tegniesebystand vandieOPLSENRugbyspanvireenjaar

• Leon Welgemoed: Voorsitterskap van OP LSEN rugby; Twintig jaar betrokkenheid by OP LSEN Rugby Verteenwoordiger op Raad van OP Hoërskole; Hoof van Keurders opLSENCravenWeek;LidvanWedstrydbepalingskomitee op Craven Week; SA LSEN Rugby-Spanverteenwoordiger

• Jeandré Esterhuizen: Hoofafrigter van dieOPLSENRugbyspanvirvierjaar;Eenjaar verteenwoordiger OP LSEN Rugbyspan is vir drie jaar gekroon as kampioene Een jaar HoofafrigtervirSALSENRugbyspan

• Fernando Uithaler: Voorsitterskap van OP Rugby Skeidsregters; Ondervoorsitterskap van die OP LSEN Rugbyspan; Spanbestuurder en hulpafrigter van die OP LSEN Rugbyspan; Wedstryd-bepalingsbeampte en verteenwoordig die Suidelike-unies op dieLSENCravenWeek

Despatch se rolbalklub het die Iced Diamond Novice Trips wat op Uitenhage gehou is die tweede keer in drie jaar gewen Toe die kompetisie drie jaar gelede gestig is was Despatch die eerste wenner daarvan nadat JP Ferreira, Salomé Ferreira en Pieter Vermaak met hul teenstanders klaargespeel het Nou het Despatch weer so gemaak toe Morné Botha, Dewald Meiring en Werner van Vuuren uithalerspel gelewer het Hulle het Morné Viljoen, Hendrik Beauzec en Buddy Bekker van Uitenhage in ’n opwindende finaal met 20-15 geklop. Despatch se vertoning is weereens merkwaardig as in ag geneem word dat 36 spanne by die Uitenhage-klub in aksie was Intussen het Wihan Visser van Despatch teen Arthur Langley van Uitenhage in die finaal van die Champion of Champions PBA Qualifier op Despatch gespeel. Wihan het gewen en kwalifiseer om in Durbanville in Maart 2026 in die PBA kwalifiseerder vir die World Bowls Tour te speel waar al die nasionale streekwenners sake sal uitspook Despatch se wenspan is (van links): Erich Human (borg), Morné Botha, Dewald Meiring, Werner van Vuuren en Jaco Human (borg) FOTO’S: VERSKAF

Tigersnowregionalchamps

DANIEL Pienaar’s first cricket team was crowned SA 20 Schools Regional Champions by beating Woodridge College in the final.

In the semi-final, DP overpowered Muir College. Muir was bowled out for 42, and DP knocked off the score in five overs to secure a place in the final.

After being sent in to bat in the final, DP scored an impressive 168/3 in their allotted 20 overs. The

was a superb 114 not out by captain, Daveric Petersen Good bowling under pressure secured a victory by 43 runs for DP. Summarised scores: DP 168/3 20 overs • Daveric Petersen 114 not out • Woodridge 125 all out Carlisle Maree 2 overs, 4 wkts, 7 runs

• Daveric Petersen 4 overs, 1 wkt, 13 runs

• DP won by 43 runs