UD Express - E-Edition - 27 November 2025

TwomillionPolosandcounting

CommunitypartnershiptransformsUitenhageProvincialHospital

SHANTI JAFTA

THE community-led initiatives at Uitenhage Provincial Hospital (UPH) continue without hiccups

According to the UPH CEO, Khaya Mbewu, “It all began with a cleaning campaign, spearheaded by the Hospital Board, where community members joined forces to clean the hospital’s interior The event was a huge success, and we are pleased to announce that the next cleaning campaign is scheduled for 5 December 2025 ”

Tim Macquire, who chairs the UPH Board’s Infrastructure, Safety and Security sub-committee, noted that “The community and staff have responded positively to the cleaning initiatives as it is an attempt to ensure there is stability at the hospital ” Mbewu added that during their efforts to maintain cleanliness in the wards, a community member’s feedback on Facebook high-

lighted the need for beautification of the hospital grounds In response, the Hospital Board identified trees that required pruning for both aesthetic and security reasons “This initiative has not only improved the appearance of the hospital but also enhanced safety

“Building on this momentum, we launched the ‘Tidy UPH’ project, a collaborative effort between the hospital and the community to maintain a clean and beautiful environment,”

he said

Inspired by the “Tidy NMB” project, led by Dr Johann Malherbe, Mbewu said the UPH initiative aims to partner with local businesses, non-profit organisations, community members, and like-minded individuals to plant trees, prune branches, and nurture flowers

“The Board has faced challenges with the cleaning campaign as some have felt that the volunteers are being exploited Yet, the Board resolved to onboard volunteerism and we are grateful to them for giving of their precious time and working well under the leadership of

the Infection Prevention and Control department of the hospital,” Macquire said Mbewu added that these community-driven projects have yielded numerous benefits, including “cost savings for the hospital and, more importantly, fostering a sense of ownership and unity within the community By working together, we are reminded that the hospital belongs to the people, and it is our collective responsibility to keep it functional and thriving ”

He said the ultimate goal of UPH is to become a top-performing hospital, accredited by the Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) to provide quality healthcare services under the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme

“We believe that a clean and well-maintained environment will boost staff morale, leading to improved quality of care for our patients,” Mbewu added

Macquire said the hospital is the pride of the Kariega community and the objectives of the NHI will be realised through strategic partner-

ships and initiatives at better maintaining its infrastructure and ensuring safety

“The staff and patients are at risk if such initiatives aimed at ensuring a healthy and safe environment are not implemented This aligns well with ensuring that as a Board we assist the Hospital in building its capacity through means that are not restricted by government’s limited budget At the end of the day the hospital is a community hospital The Tidy UPH initiative is a welcome initiative,” he said Toensurethelong-termsuccessoftheirinitiatives, theyplanto:

Train staff on maintenance and upkeep procedures

• Developanddocumentstandardoperatingprocedures

• Share lessons learnt with other hospitals promoting a culture of collaboration and excellence

“By working together with the community, we are confident that we will achieve great things and become a model for community-driven healthcare,” Mbewu concluded

NovusMediabreiuitmetnuweweeklikseAfrikaansekoerant,‘DiePapier’

NOVUS Media, ’n afdeling van die JSE-genoteerde Novus Holdings, het vandag die bekendstelling van Die Papier aangekondig: ’n weeklikse, Afrikaanse koerant wat van 6 Maart 2026 af sal verskyn

Hierdie strategiese uitbreiding versterk Novus Media se posisie in die drukmedia-mark, waar dit voortgaan om titels te bekom en te bou wat waarde aan teikengehore bied

Oor'DiePapier'

Die Papier sal elke Vrydag in druk- en ook digitale formaat gepubliseer word, en sal omvattende dekking bied van die week se nuus en die naweek se gebeure, asook gemeenskapstories, sake-ontwikkelings, sport, kultuur en leefstylinhoud wat spesifiek vir Afrikaanssprekende lesers oor Suid-Afrika heen van belang is André van der Veen, HUB van Novus Holdings, sê dat die geleentheid om gedrukte publikasies in gefokusde markte te ontwikkel en te ondersteun steeds aantreklik bly, maar wys daarop dat dit ’n nuwe manier van werk en ’n gedetailleerde fokus op lesersbehoeftes vereis

“Die span by Novus Media is opgewonde om Die Papier bekend te stel en sal ons druk- en digitale kundigheid kombineer om daaglikse

VWcelebrates2 millionPolosbuilt inPlantKariega

JUST shy of the 30th-year anniversary of Polo production at Plant Kariega in 2026, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) celebrated the production of their two millionth Polo

The special milestone car, a smoky grey Polo which is destined for Australia, rolled off the production line earlier this month

Plant Kariega started building the Polo in 1996, which was known as the Polo Classic

That year, around 5 460 units were produced Since then, VWGA has been steadily producing Polos and has yielded four different generations of this model

Out of the two million Polos built so far, 592 840 were made for the local market, while 1 407 160 were produced for export In 2025 alone, Plant Kariega has already built 112 386 Polos, including 8 274 Polo GTIs

This milestone underscores VWGA’s contribution to the local automotive market and economy

Since July 2024, plant Kariega has been the only Volkswagen plant exporting the Polo to Europe and the Asia-Pacific regions, reaching more than 30 countries, additionally the Polo was South Africa’s most exported car last year

digitale nuus saam met ’n weeklikse koerant te lewer Vir baie Afrikaanse lesers is daar ’n sterk begeerte om nuus in ’n koerantformaat te lees, en ons is vol vertroue dat die Afrikaanse gemeenskap Die Papier sal ondersteun onder die leierskap van Esmé Smit en Barnard Beukman ”

“Die Papier is betekenisvol in ons evolusie aangesien dit ons eerste nasionale nuuspublikasie is,” sê Esmé Smit, direkteur van Novus Media

“Ons het die geleentheid in die mark opgemerk vir gehalte- Afrikaanse joernalistiek wat werklik nasionaal met gemeenskappe in drukén digitale formaat skakel Hirdie publikasie sal die ryke tradisie van Afrikaanse media eer terwyl dit moderne tegnieke en digitale vernuwing omhels Die bekendstelling van Die Papier spreek die groeiende vraag na gehalteAfrikaanse inhoud aan Met meer as 7 miljoen Afrikaanssprekendes in Suid-Afrika, beoog die publikasie om as ’n belangrike skakel tussen lesers en hul gemeenskap te dien ”

Barnard Beukman, wat as die eerste redakteur aangestel is, voeg by: “Die besluit om ’n nuwe koerant te begin verteenwoordig ’n historiese oomblik Dit spreek Afrikaanse lesers se

volgehoue behoefte aan, ook as Suid-Afrikaners, soos beskryf deur Arthur Miller, ’n Amerikaanse skrywer: "’n Goeie koerant is ’n nasie in gesprek met homself "

Volgens Beukman sal Die Papier se unieke kenmerk in die Afrikaanse media-aanbod gehalte-joernalistiek wees, eerder as blote verslaggewing

“Ons gaan die nuwe tuiste saam met lesers vorm, want kwessies waarin hulle belangstel en wat hulle interesseer gaan sentraal staan Jonger lesers gaan ook tuis voel, want ons gaan die gapings oorbrug na belangstellings en formate wat hulle tans net op sosiale media kan ervaar Ek wil vra dat die Afrikaanse gemeenskap die koerant van die eerste dag af ondersteun en ons help om dit as ’n spieël van hul wêreld te vestig ”

OorNovusMedia

Gestig in 2024, het Novus Media, ’n afdeling van Novus Holdings, homself gevestig

SHANTI JAFTA

THE tragic drowning deaths of at least four children and several adolescents in the Kariega and KwaNobuhle areas over recent summer holidays have prompted the South African Red Cross Society to sound urgent alarm bells about a deadly cycle threatening local communities

Whilst children seek relief from sweltering summer heat in dangerous, unregulated water sources like Willow Dam and the Swartkops River, the very municipal swimming pools that could provide safe alternatives remain shut well into the December holidays, leaving families with few options but to risk their lives in treacherous waters

As the 2025/26 summer season approaches, the Red Cross is calling for immediate action to break this fatal pattern They are highlighting not only the need for earlier pool openings and stronger water safety education, but also the critical importance of equipping communities with life-saving skills such as CPR and stroke recognition, interventions they say could mean the difference between life and death in areas where emergency response is often delayed

Speaking to UD Express, Coralie PeoSwartz, South African Red Cross Society branch manager for the Nelson Mandela Metro region, shared specific data on drowning fatalities recorded over the past three years

Peo-Swartz added that a number of patterns have emerged regarding age groups most at risk and the locations where incidents occur most frequently

“There are many more risks during school holidays and over weekends There are also risks associated with substance abuse Drinking too much can lead to risky behaviour Unsupervised children are also much more likely to be at risk of drowning in unprotected water pools, puddles, and stormwater drains ”

In response to the growing crisis, the Red Cross has begun rolling out new awareness and training programmes aimed at strengthening community readiness

“We have started a Facebook page called First Aid Saves Lives that shares information on how to save a life in emergencies We have engaged community newspapers such as UD Express and PE Express, as we recognise the value of such media sources to reach communities,” she said

According to Peo-Swartz, every child or adult who signs up as a Red Cross member automatically qualifies for free CPR and stroke-management training

Volunteers are also being mobilised to disseminate water safety information directly to parents, youth, and children in high-risk areas

Vooruitsig

“It has been a year of milestones for Plant Kariega, but achieving this one is a very proud moment for the Home of Polo,” said Ulrich Schwabe, VWGA Production Director “Contributing to the global success story of the Polo is a privilege for our team, and this is evident in the dedication of our employees, who have made this milestone possible ”

“There have been two drowning incidents; two children under 10 drowned at Willow Dam in November 2024, two toddlers drowned in a flooded stormwater drain in February 2025, where a similar incident occurred in 2019 Two drowned in a family pool this November 2025, and one youth drowned in the Swartkops River helping a boy who was in trouble in the water ”

However, she noted that the organisation has not yet formally engaged with Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality on issues such as delayed pool openings or the broader shortage of safe recreational spaces

“The lack of safe, public swimming pools, coupled with our ever-increasing hot summers, could be a contributing factor,” she said

Peo-Swartz outlined several interventions that she believes could significantly reduce

as ’n multimedia-organisasie wat diverse gemeenskappe oor Suid-Afrika heen bedien Tans publiseer die maatskappy 21 gemeenskapskoerante oor Suid-Afrika heen, Rooi Rose, Soccer Laduma en Kick Off-tydskrif, tesame met veelvuldige hoë-verkeer- digitale platforms, almal verbind tot die lewering van gehalte-joernalistiek

Die bekendstelling van Die Papier is deel van Novus Media se breër strategie om sy reikwydte uit te brei en gemeenskapsverbintenisse te verdiep Die maatskappy sal sinergieë tussen sy bestaande publikasies en die nuwe Afrikaanse weekblad benut om ’n mediaplatform vir handelsmerkeienaars te skep om met die Afrikaanse gemeenskap te skakel en verbeterde inhoud aan lesers te bied “Die dag 6 Maart 2026 sal die begin van ’n opwindende nuwe hoofstuk wees,” voeg Smit by “Ons belê in gemeenskapstories en ingeligte burgerskap, terwyl ons brûe oor Suid-Afrika se diverse landskap heen bou In vandag se wêreld dra plaaslike joernalistiek by tot demokratiese diskoers – en dit is presies wat Die Papier sal wees ”

risks if implemented

“There are things that can be done such as fencing canals, dams, and ponds At the Swartkops River, warning signs should be put up At Bluewater Bay beaches, lifeguards actively patrol, instructing people to get out of the water and only swim in designated areas

“Grilles could be put up to prevent access to stormwater drains but still allow water to flow through Children from preschool age should be warned to stay away from water unless a parent is present And most of all, people should be taught how to swim and float, but also how to respect open water sources because you do not know if there are rip currents or how easy it is to lose footing ” She emphasised the importance of safety measures at home as well

“People with swimming pools must ensure they are enclosed with childproof latches or with childproof covers ”

Asked why CPR and first aid form a central part of their intervention strategy, PeoSwartz was clear: “It definitely saves lives It restarts the heart and restarts breathing Applying CPR incorrectly can do more harm than good Applying outdated techniques can waste time, and applying the wrong technique at the wrong time can be fatal Reading about CPR, watching videos, and looking at demonstrations is not as effective as practising on a resuscitation doll The Red Cross provides Basic First Aid and CPR training ” Members of the public seeking training or wishing to join the organisation can contact Peo-Swartz at 083 633 1640 or cpeo@redcross org za

The municipality was approached regarding the opening and maintenance of the municipal swimming pools, but did not respond at the time of going to print

ECwinsnationalPowerTowersFoodDriveforfourthtime

THE Power Towers Food Drive, a national competition run every November, recently took shape in front of SuperSpar Despatch, marking its fifth edition since its inception in 2020

The Eastern Cape emerged victorious once again, raising a record-breaking 19 6 tonnes of food and beating the national record for the highest amount collected since the competition began

According to spokesperson Christie-Leigh Gouws, Mrs Eastern Cape 2023, the Power Towers competition is an initiative of the Role Models Foundation NPO

The competition is designed to get each province to raise as much food as possible in tonnes, with provinces competing against each other to see who can collect the most food to feed the nation

“We nominated three NPOs in the Eastern Cape to be the beneficiaries of the food: namely the Starfish Place of Safety, a homeless shelter; Walmer Angel Project, an NPO feeding the Airport Valley in Walmer Township who have been beneficiaries since 2021; Lake Farm Centre; and small homeless shelters in Gqeberha,” said Gouws

The Eastern Cape team was led by Suzanne Wylde, the new Mrs Mzantsi Africa 2025/2026 and previously

Mrs Port Elizabeth 2021/2022 Wylde has served as the National Coordinator for the Eastern Cape Power Towers since 2021

She was supported by Christie-Leigh Gouws from Kariega, who has been assisting with the initiative since 2023 and continues to give back to the community

Despite the challenges of securing donations at year-end when most charity budgets have been exhausted, the team managed to gather substantial support from various sponsors

Paul Barnes from Despatch SuperSpar emerged as a significant contributor, donating tonnes of food annually since 2021, paying for team shirts, and providing unwavering support to the initiative

“We have amazing sponsors, some don’t want to be named, but they have supported me since 2021,” said Wylde

“We also had local title holders get sponsors from private companies I also had 4 9 tonnes of food donated by my clients alone ”

Transport company Transport 2000 has also been a consistent sponsor since 2021, handling the collection, storage, and delivery of donated food to the venue, then redistributing it amongst the designated charities

All nine provinces participated in

the competition, with the winner determined by the total tonnage of food collected

The Eastern Cape’s victory with 19 6 tonnes marks their fourth win in the competition’s five-year history, having previously won in 2021, 2023, 2024, and now 2025

“We are all absolutely so proud of ourselves, we worked so hard and we deserve this win and so do the hungry mouths that we will be feeding Thousands of people will be fed with this food,” said the team Since 2021, Wylde and her Eastern Cape team have raised a total of 78 tonnes of food for the Gqeberha, Despatch, and Kariega communities, demonstrating their consistent commitment to addressing food insecurity in the region

The collected food will be distributed amongst several local organisations

Gouws expressed gratitude to her support system, stating: “I just want to say thank you to my mother Heidi Alberts and grandmother Juby Vermaak for always being by my side To my husband, Monré Gouws, thank you for supporting me, and also to my two sons, Gabriel and Mason Gouws, who, with their cousin Silas Morris, worked so hard to help the team They are three boys with big hearts for the community ”

Petfoodrecallovertoxinrisk

THE National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued an urgent alert following the recall of more than 55,000 bags of dry pet food by manufacturer RCL Foods, citing concerns over elevated toxin levels that could harm cats and dogs

The recall affects various sizes of popular pet food brands, including Bobtail, Catmor, Canine Cuisine, Optimizor, Ultra Pet, and Superwoof

All affected products were manufactured between 26-29 May, 4-5 June, and 17 June 2025, and have been distributed nationwide

RCL Foods discovered elevated levels

of Deoxynivalenol (DON), a naturally occurring mycotoxin found in grains such as maize, in certain batches of raw materials used in production

The final pet food products contained DON levels exceeding 1,000 parts per billion (1ppm), which may cause loss of appetite and digestive discomfort in pets

The company has traced the contamination to the maize supply used during the manufacturing process Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by fungi that can develop in grain crops under certain environmental conditions

Pet owners are being urged to immedi-

ately stop feeding the to their animals and re point of purchase for a nificantly, retailers hav to accept returns even purchase

The NCC has confirm monitor the recall proc compliance with the C tion Act

The commission emp owners should check t plies against the recall tion and take immedia possess any affected pr

ABSAreturnsasmajorsponsorfor Wildsfeeswithcommunityhandover

THE SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees announced that ABSA has returned as one of the festival’s major sponsors, maintaining its commitment to both the event and the broader Sundays River Valley community

As part of its continued investment in local development, ABSA handed over a cheque to Rietberg Primary School in Nqweba (formerly Kirkwood), which will go towards upgrading key facilities at the school

This contribution forms part of the festival’s ongoing Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives aimed at uplifting education and supporting the youth of the region

Festival Director Jennifer Honsbein says the partnership with ABSA marks an exciting new chapter for the Wildsfees

“We are delighted to welcome ABSA back as a major sponsor of the SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees Their renewed support not only strengthens the festival but has a meaningful impact on our community This contribution to Rietberg Primary School will help create an improved learning environment for local learners, and we are extremely grateful for their commitment,” she said Shane Agnew, Acting Provincial Executive of ABSA Eastern Cape, expressed pride in the bank’s continued

role as a major sponsor of the SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees He emphasised that their commitment extends beyond the festival itself, reaching into the broader community, customers, and employees “It truly comes full circle,” Agnew noted “By supporting Rietberg Primary, we are directly investing in the children of our community Ensuring access to clean, safe

ablution facilities is a vital step in giving our youth the strongest possible foundation for the future ”

The 23rd SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees will take place from Friday, June 26, to Sunday, June 28, 2026

For more information, visit www wildsfees co za or follow the SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees on social media for updates

FuelonWheelsfounderachievesdreamalongsideworldchamp

SHANTI JAFTA

JOHAN Oosthuizen, founder of the charitable organisation Fuel on Wheels, recently achieved a milestone that he describes as “one of the best moments of my life” when he was invited to participate in a charity ride for men’s health alongside cycling legend Mark Cavendish in the United Kingdom, raising R2.1 million for the cause

The opportunity, which Oosthuizen initially mistook for a spam call, has proven to be a significant breakthrough for his decade-long charitable mission in the local community.

Speaking to UD Express about the moment he received the invitation, Oosthuizen said, “When I first received the invitation from Mark Cavendish, I thought it was just a spam call! Taking that call turned out to be one of the best moments of my life, as I learnt I’ll have the incredible opportunity to participate in a charity ride for men’s health in the UK.”

Oosthuizen emphasised how Cavendish’s story continues to inspire his own mission: “Mark’s incredible story ignites my belief in making changes and the importance of perseverance and never give up! I salute him!”

During the ride, Oosthuizen was able to share the impact Fuel on Wheels has made over the past decade. “Yes, I was able to tell him the difference we are making in our community for 10 years,” he noted, highlighting how the organisation has consistently moved forward with strong community support.

The exposure gained from riding with the world champion has already begun benefiting the charity. “Fuel on Wheels always moved forward with our local community believing in us every kilometre we take on to be part of Cav. He told the media in the UK what we are doing and what we stand for. For

The invitation holds particular significance for Oosthuizen, who has long admired Cavendish’s achievements. “Mark Cavendish, Wayne Pheiffer, and Daryl Impey are some of the greatest inspirations behind my journey as a cyclist today. Having the opportunity to ride alongside a world champion while engaging in charity work filled me with priceless joy,” he explained

that, I believe we are moving forward,” Oosthuizen said.

Reflecting on the personal significance of the achievement, Oosthuizen described the experience as unforgettable despite challenging conditions. “Definitely riding with All-Time Hero is one of the best riding days, except for the cold weather and snow; it was so worth it. When we started Fuel on Wheels, our mandate was always people-first, with love and care for them. Every time, we created a beautiful story to tell.”

The ride represents not just a personal achievement but a validation of Fuel on Wheels’ mission and approach to community service. Oosthuizen’s participation alongside Cavendish has provided the charity with international recognition and demonstrates the power of perseverance in achieving seemingly impossible goals. Oosthuizen concluded by expressing gratitude to those who made the opportunity possible: “A heartfelt thank you to Monster Energy Cares in the UK for making this possible. It truly is an incredible company to be part of, and our leadership is nothing short of world-class.”

LastchancetoentertheUDExpressChristmasBabycompetition

WITH only days left until the closing date, don't miss you last chance to enter our Christmas Baby 2025 competition!

We are looking for a baby to grace the front page of the last edition of the year, which will be published on Thursday, 18 December The competition is for babies in the UD Express distribution area who are celebrating their first Christmas; therefore, babies who are entered need to be born after 25 December, 2024

ProDesign Photographers are once again this year’s official photography sponsor and will be photographing the winner for the front page, as well as taking family photographs during the front page shoot

Parents can enter their own photos, or if they would like to have

professional photos taken at a special rate, they can take advantage of open studio days at ProDesign Photographers in Westering, Gqeberha See Open Day details below

To enter, parents need to complete a form that is available via a link on the UD Express Facebook page

Qualifying entries will be uploaded to our Christmas Baby 2025 album on the UD Express Facebook page Allow at least one to two working days for entries to be reviewed and uploaded online The competition is not a voting competition – the number of likes/reactions will not affect the outcome of the finalists A panel of judges will choose the winner of the competition

The closing date for entries is 16:00 on Tuesday, 2 December 2025 No late entries will be accepted

Howtoenter:

• A link to the competition will be available on our Facebook page Look for “Enter now for Christmas Baby competition”

• Complete the form and upload your photo, which should be at least 1MB in size and in jpg format

Competitionrules:

• Only babies who are celebrating their FIRST Christmas may enter

• Only babies who reside in the Kariega/ Despatch/Nqweba (Kirkwood) area may enter

• Only entries received via the Christmas Baby form will be accepted

• No photos that are posted on our Facebook timeline or inbox will be entered

• You may enter only once for the duration of the competition and only one photo per entrant will be allowed – choose your photo submission carefully No collages allowed

• Once a photo has been submitted, it

cannot be swopped with another photo

• Photos do not need to have a Christmas theme

• The winner will be rephotographed by Pro Design Photographers and these photos will be used on the front page The winner will also be photographed with his/her parents

Takenoteofthefollowing:

• Baby’s face needs to be clearly visible

Avoid photos of the baby with a pacifier in his/her mouth

• The photo must be as recent as possible

• Baby needs to be fully clothed

• Baby needs to be alone in the photo (except in the case of twins, triplets, etc )

• The person entering the baby must be the parent/legal guardian or have permission from the parent/legal guardian

For queries, send an email to udexpress@novusmedia co za and

WomenForHopecelebratetheirfourthanniversary

SHANTI JAFTA

WHAT began as three women gathering for prayer in a Kariega home has blossomed into a remarkable prayer group that has touched countless lives across the Nelson Mandela Bay region

Women of Hope recently celebrated their fourth anniversary, marking a journey that has seen their interdenominational prayer group grow from those humble Tuesday gatherings to a thriving community of 60 women united in prayer and purpose

Founded by Lien Potgieter in November 2021, this prayer group has remained true to its roots whilst expanding its reach to the most vulnerable corners of their community; always with prayer at the centre of their outreach

As they reflect on four years of faithful prayer and service, their story demonstrates the transformative power of women coming together in prayer to bring hope to their community

Speaking to UD Express, Potgieter said, “I saw the need for women in my area in Dr Braun, Kariega The Lord put it on my heart that we as women should come together to pray together ”

She added that she had already come from a prayer group from Kabah where she used to live, before founding the prayer group in Dr Braun

“We gave the name Women of Hope to the prayer group My husband Mevin designed the emblem of the group We were three souls praying together on Tuesdays at

my house We started on 4 November 2021 as an interdenominational group ”

She added that at their first anniversary celebration on 4 November 2022, they were 22 women In their second year, they had 44, in their third year 50, and in their fourth year 60 women

type “Christmas baby” in the subject line

OpendaysatProDesignPhotographers

A quick photo shoot of baby costs only R350 and includes 5 edits sent as digital files For bookings contact Liezel at 073 161 3176

28 November: 13:00 to 18:00

29 November: 10:00 to 16:00

For family full shoots, normal and Christmas setup, the shoot costs R850 and includes 15 edits For any other professional photo shoots by Pro Design Photographers, call 073 161 3176, send an email to liezel@pro-design co za or follow them on Facebook ProDesign Photographers is situated in Westering, Gqeberha

“When we reach out on Tuesdays, we light a candle that gives people hope There are women who are now cancer-free and have given their testimony of what the Lord has done for them This is what Jeremiah 29:11 meant to them and every woman found hope from the verse ”

ha and KwaNobuhle

“We also go to the elderly’s homes, the homeless, welfare organisations, and the detective office We also serve soup to the community On 1 May 2024, we had a Walk of Hope march in Rosedale in which the community participated

The group also reaches out to the sick in the communities of Gqeber-

“Our outreach to Rooi Hel [North End Prison] was a special experience where we were able to talk to young girls and older women and lead some of them to the Lord We were also able to listen to their stories It made an impact in our lives ”

The group held their four-year celebrations at AGS Lofoord Penford where Pastor Elize Hall was their guest speaker

“We also invited pastors and their wives The pastors’ wives gave words of encouragement to our women We also invited Kabah prayer group, Rosedale prayer group and Talitha prayer group,” she shared

“Many women look at their circumstances and our goal is to help them out of their circumstances with the help of the Lord,” said Potgieter whilst thanking her husband and the other husbands of the group for their support

For more information, contact Lien Potgieter at 071 122 9941

Veteranmediccalls timeon42-yearcareer

AFTER more than four decades of dedicated service as a rescue medic, Christo Claassens prepares to hang up his uniform on 31 December 2025.

At 65 years old, Christo Claassens has reached the end of an extraordinary journey that began with a life-changing decision in 1983.

After completing his mandatory service with the South African Defence Force in 1982, where he distinguished himself by earning the golden sword award as the best corporal, Claassens

faced a crossroads that would define his future.

On 1 May 1983 - a Sunday morning that would mark the beginning of an illustrious careerClaassens joined the Department of Health’s Emergency Medical and Rescue Service division. What started as his first career choice would become his only one, spanning an incredible 42 years of unwavering dedication to saving lives

Throughout his remarkable tenure, Claassens became a trusted and recognisable figure in emergency medical services. His commitment to the profession took him across vast distances, travelling approximately 23,400 kilometres to respond to emergency calls by road, air, and water across multiple provinces. The path wasn't always easy, but his perseverance and dedication never wavered

As he prepares for retirement, Claassens reflects with deep gratitude on his career “I had such a fantastic and fulfilling career and met incredible people I have memories never to be forgotten,” he shares. “Thinking back from the day I started till today I’ve grown immensely. Thank you to my family, EMS, colleagues, friends and other stakeholders for your support and goodwill during my journey.”

His journey has been one of immense personal and professional growth. Looking back from that pivotal day in 1983 to the present, Claassens acknowledges how transformative his time in Emergency Medical Services has been. “EMS will always have a special place in my heart” - a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated nearly half his life to the noble calling of emergency medical care.

As Christo Claassens transitions into his next chapter as a pensioner, he leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and dedication that has undoubtedly touched countless lives throughout the Eastern Cape and beyond.

Joshua and Esterline Jantjies celebrate 50 years of marriage

ON 26 November, Joshua and Esterline Jantjies of Rosedale in Kariega, celebrated a remarkable milestone - their golden wedding anniversary

Fifty years of marriage is no small feat, and this beloved couple has much to be proud of as they reflect on their journey together

Their love story began in 1974 at the Jubilee Hotel, where fate orchestrated a perfect meeting Esterline was showcasing her talents as a vocalist while Joshua strummed his guitar as part of a local band What started as a shared passion for music blossomed into a lifetime of harmony, both musical and matrimonial

The Jantjies family has flourished beautifully over the decades Joshua and Esterline are the proud parents

of three children, whose own families have expanded their legacy to include eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren

When asked about their recipe for a successful marriage, the couple emphasises the power of communication

Their wisdom includes making it a habit to discuss feelings, ideas, and concerns honestly, truly listening to each other without interruption or planning responses, and always prioritising meaningful moments together through quality time

Perhaps one of the most charming aspects of their relationship is that Joshua and Esterline share the same birthday on 29 March - a unique quality that has given them a lifetime of double celebrations and an extra special connection

Fourteachersretireafterdecadesofteaching

SHANTI JAFTA

AFTER a combined 156 years of dedicated service, four beloved educators at Despatch Primary School are preparing to close the final chapter of their remarkable teaching careers, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped countless young lives across multiple generations

With individual tenures spanning 39, 42, 41 and 34 years respectively, these exceptional teachers have witnessed the evolution of education first-hand, adapting to changing times whilst maintaining their unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds within the familiar halls they’ve called home for

decades

Despite the inevitable challenges that come with such extensive careers in education, each of these retiring educators shares a common sentiment that speaks to their profound love for their profession: they wouldn’t trade a single one of those years for anything, a testament to the deep fulfilment they’ve found in their calling to teach and inspire

Sharing with UD Express, Athenia Campbell, who taught for 39 years at the school, said she has mixed feelings regarding her retirement

“I have been teaching here for 39 years I am very passionate about education I never saw myself as anything else but a teacher I am grateful that I could serve for as long as

I did ”

She added that ever since she was a little girl, she has always wanted to be a teacher

“Growing up, I used to play school every day, where I was the teacher There was never a doubt in my mind that I wanted to do this I am privileged to live out my dream Even the former learners who are now teachers at this school give me hope for the future of education ”

When asked about one highlight out of the many at the school, Campbell said, of course the learners had a special place in her heart, but her colleagues have been an unforgettable highlight

“All the highlights they mentioned are about the learners, which is why they are the true blessing It was a privilege to work with them every day ”

Grant van Wyk, who taught for 42 years at the school, said it is a very emotional time for him

“Leaving a career you have been in for four decades, you get so attached to the learners as a parent at school, replacing the parent at home You deal with all that they go through: the pain, the struggles, disappointments and joy As a rugby coach as well, it was also a pleasure to coach them

Some may not be academically strong, but some are gifted in sports I taught in the apartheid era and post-apartheid, so I learnt a lot about education ”

When asked about the key difference between the two eras, Van Wyk said that the current generation struggles to read

“Nowadays, Grade 4s struggle to read with understanding, which is concerning, because it seems as if they don’t care about reading anymore ”

He also said that the problem is not only reading books, but struggling to read prevents a learner from understanding an examination question, emphasising the importance of reading

Van Wyk added that technology played a role in the learners’ desire not to prioritise reading

“Learners used to go to libraries to sign out books, but now with technology, you don’t need to go and get a physical book because you can get it on your phone Back then, even when I was in school, we were forced to go to the library

“There need to be libraries at schools, not makeshift classrooms used as a library, but proper facilities that show the importance of reading ”

When asked about one highlight out of the many at the school, he said it is the learners who plough back to the school when they have become successful and seeing the success they made of themselves, picking out Aviwe Ngabom, an actor, as one example Ronwynne Meyer, who taught for 41 years at the school, said she is glad she got to teach at Despatch Primary School specifically

“This place was part of my DNA; I was blessed to be here Being on pension since June 2025, I am sad my time here has come to an end ”

Sharing why she was blessed to be at the school, she said, “God put me here when I asked him to put me in a school where I

can do something good and assist learners in need ”

When asked about one highlight out of the many at the school, Meyer said it was the underprivileged learners: the ones with worn-out uniforms and shoes

“The children who needed hugs; who were visibly glad to see you in the morning Maybe that child grew up in hardship, but wanted to go to school because they wanted to see me, their teacher Some learners did not have many opportunities, but with us, they felt seen That stands out for me ”

Sharleen Da Costa, who taught for 34 years at the school, said that this year’s prize-giving was an emotional one, as it was her last at the school: her last exam invigilating and her last time marking papers

“It is a great experience to teach here The community, learners and parents have been so welcoming They have become my family now This year I thought to myself, ‘Can I stay and go another year or should I really leave?’ but I think I have reached my end

“Like my colleague said, we taught during apartheid and post-apartheid; we have seen all the different curricula and it has been a journey that I would not trade for anything ”

When asked about one highlight out of the many at the school, Da Costa mentioned the choir

“Seeing our choir excel in national competitions like the ATKV was incredible to see Taking our learners out of the Eastern Cape who have never been outside of it to sleep at hotels for the first time was special Seeing their excitement, running in corridors, knocking on people’s doors, having to run after them; that is a moment that stands out for me

“Showing our learners that there is more to the world than just what they know in Despatch ”

Collectively, the teachers reflected on the options they had post-matric

They said that during that time, the only options were to become a nurse, teacher or police officer

They were glad they decided to teach

When asked about their plans for retirement, the teachers said they cannot wait to spend time with family, travel and not be woken up by an alarm daily

The teachers shared that they would like to see three things change in the future of education: to see South Africa in the top 50 world rankings when it comes to mathematics; make Grade R compulsory for all learners; see more social workers in schools and more special needs schools; and for there to be harmony amongst School Governing Body (SGB) members and government staff and for all to know the role they play Former head boy at the school, Aviwe Ngabom, shared, “Each of these teachers has played a significant role in shaping my early years As these remarkable educators begin their well-deserved retirement, I wish them abundant joy, love and blessings

“May they be blessed with time to cherish with their families and enjoy the fruits of their labour They’ve dedicated their lives to shaping generations of students, and we’re all better for it ”

EMPLOYMENT

The cremation service of the late HELENA MARIA (71yrs) will take place on

The funeral service of the late SANNA (65yrs) will take place on Saturday, 29/11/2025 at 12noon from the DALEVIEW COMMUNITY HALL, DALEVIEW, DESPATCH Deeply mourned by her family and friends

ERF 19474 KWA NOBUHLE LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

ERF 27171 UITENHAGE

LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

ESTATE NOTICES

ERF 10014 KWANOBUHLE

LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, CHRISTIANS

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 Registered Grant of Leasehold Number TL 3307/1990CTN registered in favour of TOTOSI RICHARD DLALA, Identity Number 281217 5133 087

a n d N O M T S I K E L E L O

GLADYS DLALA, Identity Number 380626 0220 089, Married in Community of Property to each other in respect of certain Erf 19474 KWA NOBUHLE which has been lost or destroyed All interested persons having objection to the issue

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 Deed of Transfer Number T35540 /2015 CTN passed by the NELSON MANDELA BAY M E T R O P O L I T A N MUNICIPALITY, in favour of MERVN BRANDERS, Identity number 791109 5218 088, Unmarried, in respect of c e r t a i n E R F 2 7 1 7 1 UITENHAGE, which Deed of Transfer T355401/4015 CTN has been lost or destroyed. All interested persons having objection to the issue of such hereby

ESTATES: LIQUIDATION & DISTRIBUTION 4205

WANTED TO BUY 1675 FOR SALE

GENERAL & HOME SERVICES

&

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.

RedSoxvinniguitdie blokketeenPirates

HANNES SCHOEMAN

RED Sox se bofbalklub op Despatch was vinnig uit die blokke toe hy Pirates in ’n opwindende wedstryd met 12-8 geklop het

Ruan Oliphant het die wedstryd vir Red Sox begin vanaf die gooiersplaat en uitstekend gevaar

Sy goeie spel het uiteindelik die toon vir die res van die span gestel

Rivaldo Roth, wat sy eerste wedstryd van die seisoen gespeel het, het onmiddellik ’n sterk indruk gemaak

Op eerste rus het hy baie goed gevaar, en as ’n linkshandse kolwer het hy die bal met gemak hard geslaan

In die middelveld het Damian le Roux, een van die senior spelers, ’n rustige en leidende rol gespeel

Sy ervaring het die jong spelers kalm en

gefokus gehou, en hy het gehelp om die middelveld mooi te stabiliseer

In die buiteveld het Zachary Coetzer, Schalk Willemse en Regardt Stroebel die spel puik beheer en niks verby hulle laat gaan nie

Schalk Willems het besonder opvallend gevaar met sy veilige hande en uitstekende besluitneming Strobel het ook ’n sleutelrol gespeel deur sy veldwerk te organiseer en by te dra tot die span se soliede verdediging, wat die Pirates se aanvalle keer op keer belemmer het

Die hoofafrigter, Daniel Coetzer, was besonder trots op sy span - nie net oor die oorwinning nie, maar oor die manier waarop die spelers die wedstryd deurgedruk het

Sy duidelike handseine en taktiese spelbeheer vanaf die kantlyn was merkwaardig en het sterk bygedra tot die span se struktuur en sukses

SusannahFouriepresteerinATKVkompetisie

Albertyn names 2026 learner council leaders

ABOVE: Albertyn Primary School recently named its learner council leaders for 2026 at its prize giving recently From left are Janelle Renison (Deputy Headgirl), Sandenathi Gqalinyanga (Head Girl), Adrian Kose (Head Boy) and Akhubuhle Jafta (Deputy Head Boy)

RIGHT: Abigail Bayman was named the school’s Dux learner at the prize giving. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED