Kariegaresidents’waterconcernsintensify
SHANTI JAFTA
WHAT began as a routine pipe repair in Goede Hoop Avenue, Fairbridge Heights has evolved into a tale of unfinished business that speaks to broader infrastructure challenges facing the community
In June 2024, a resident's report of a burst pipe near the Fairbridge Heights reservoir prompted municipal workers to respond quickly, but their solution created a new problem that remains unresolved more than a year later
The pipe was fixed, but the resident's driveway, damaged during the repair process, still bears the scars of heavy municipal equipment Despite multiple escalations through proper channels, the promised restoration has yet to materialise, leaving the homeowner looking to sell his property with a daily reminder of a job left half-finished
Meanwhile, the reservoir itself tells a troubling story of ongoing water
loss Multiple leaks in the surrounding area have created waterlogged conditions that, according to sources, are now hampering access for repair crews and their equipment
Fairbridge Heights resident Kallie
Calitz told UD Express that approximately 20 years ago, after purchasing his home, he realised that the cement in his driveway was cracking
The municipality discovered that the stormwater pipe underneath was leaking, weakening the soil They repaired the pipe and filled the hole without issues
After the June 2024 flood, municipal officials came to fix Calitz's backyard wall
Whilst reversing their truck into his driveway, they cracked the cement above the previously repaired pipe, leaving a gaping water-filled hole in his driveway that was cordoned off and left as is
Calitz informed the municipality after noticing that his driveway was hollow, with parts of the soil underneath washed away
A contractor assessed the damage and discovered a large hole
"The company told me that this was not their mandate, and that the issue was bigger than them The issue does not originate in my driveway, there is a bigger issue causing this," Calitz said
The contractor informed the municipality's roads department, which appointed a plumber for what Calitz maintains is not a plumbing issue
The plumbers noted a leaking pipe, an issue Calitz had repeatedly reported to the municipality
"My neighbour also has the same issue, but his yard is much worse
They dug in our yards as the stormwater pipe runs underneath our homes and left the pipe exposed There is now an open gap underneath our boundary wall on both sides of our homes," he said
Water testing revealed that the pipe contained potable water, allegedly from the Fairbridge Heights reservoir, prompting the matter to be transferred from the roads depart-
ment to the water department However, the water department refused to extract water from the holes to allow the roads department to repair the pipe
Calitz showed UD Express what he believes to be the root of the areas water problems Behind his home, a stream of potable water flows into a stormwater pipe; representing a loss of treated water and contributing to increased infrastructure costs
"There are so many water leaks in this bush In 1996 when I moved here, there was only a small stream, but it seems to get worse every year, with the water department doing nothing to fix the issue," he said "I was informed that the leaks have made the soil around the reservoir too wet for tractors to reach it Are we going to let the water we pay for be wasted?"
When asked about awareness of water issues in Kariega, the Nelson
Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) spokesperson, Sithembiso Soyaya said, "The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality acknowledges the ongoing water and sanitation challenges in Kariega and other municipal areas
These difficulties are largely due to a backlog of work and ageing infrastructure across the metro " The municipality added that a comprehensive metro-wide maintenance and refurbishment plan is being rolled out, covering all communities
When asked to comment on the resident's situation, the municipality did not address specific questions regarding the municipality's property damage restoration policy, contractor accountability, standard timeframes for damage claims, the root cause of the water leaks in the bush behind Goede Hoop, or estimated resolution timelines for the resident's case
NCCwarnsabout‘serioussafetyrisks’acrossmultiplevehiclebrands
THE National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued urgent recall notices for thousands of vehicles across South Africa, affecting popular models from Ford, Nissan, and Citroen manufactured between 2009 and 2025
The recalls, announced on Tuesday, 19 August, highlight serious safety defects that could lead to accidents, injuries, or even death if left unaddressed Among the manufacturers, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa is dealing with three separate recall campaigns affecting some of its most popular models In the most widespread recall,
2021 to 2025 model vehicles, the Mustang, Everest, Ranger, and Transit Custom vehicles are being recalled for faulty infotainment systems that freeze and display black screens This critical safety concern arises when the rear-view camera becomes frozen, missing, or delayed during reversing manoeuvres, potentially creating false images of the vehicle's surroundings
A second Ford recall affects 2019 to 2023 Mustang, Everest, Ranger, and EcoSport models with SYNC system errors Repeated short ignition cycles can cause system instability, resulting in blank rear-view camera displays or images that
remain frozen after reversing has ended
Another concerning recall is that of the 2025 Ford Ranger Wildtrak vehicles, where transmission defects may cause vehicles to move forward unexpectedly while in reverse or neutral gear Drivers may also experience complete loss of reverse motion when the gear selector is in reverse position Meanwhile, Nissan has recalled its Qashqai model vehicles sold between September 2021 and April 2024
According to the NCC the vehicles reportedly have incorrectly assembled battery harness connections In those cases, the loose re-
taining nuts may cause significant resistance increases under specific driving conditions, potentially leading to dangerous heat buildup in extreme cases However, the most serious recall involves the Citroen C4, DS4, and DS5 vehicles sold between 2009 and 2016
Stellantis South Africa has identified a critical flaw where driver airbag inflators may rupture during deployment, potentially releasing metal fragments into the vehicle cabin
"This could cause metal fragments to be released into the vehicle cabin, posing a serious risk of injury or even death to the driver
and passengers," the NCC statement warned
Vehicle owners are urged to take immediate action by contacting their nearest authorised dealership to arrange recall repairs All recall work is typically performed free of charge to consumers
The NCC emphasises that continuing to drive affected vehicles without addressing these defects significantly increases the risk of accidents and injuries
Vehicle owners can verify if their specific vehicle is affected by contacting their authorised dealership with their vehicle identification number (VIN)
A Fairbridge Heights resident’s driveway remains cordoned off and unrepaired over a year after allegedly being damaged by municipal officials, leaving a water-filled hole from the damaged drain.
Water from an alleged leak at the Fairbridge Heights reservoir flows through bush behind the resident’s home into a stormwater pipe, wasting potable water PHOTOS: SHANTI JAFTA
A resident in Goede Hoop Avenue was affected, with a visibly hollow driveway caused by the same water leak Municipal officials allegedly dug to investigate the problem but left the area unfilled, creating a safety hazard on the property.
GQEBERHASCORESBIG:
ChampionsCupRugbyreturnsforthesecondyear
THE Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) has secured another major sporting coup for the Eastern Cape, with the DHL Stormers set to return to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium for a highstakes Investec Champions Cup clash on 13 December
The Cape Town-based franchise will face French powerhouse, Stade Rochelais, in a Round Two fixture, marking the second consecutive season that Gqeberha has hosted European rugby's premier competition
With DHL Stadium in Cape Town unavailable due to a scheduling conflict with the World Supercross Championship, the Nelson Mandela Bay venue has once again stepped up as the Stormers' alternative home ground The announcement comes as
welcome news for the city's economy, with last year s Champions Cup fixture between the Stormers and RC Toulon generating significant financial returns
The December 2024 event attracted 31,000 spectators and injected R8 2 million into the broader city economy, while creating over 1,000 temporary employment opportunities
MBDA CEO, Anele Qaba, said the return of top-tier rugby validates the city's credentials as a world-class sporting destination
"Last year, the Stormers spoke of the incredible support they received from the people of Gqeberha and the high standards delivered by our stadium team,"
Qaba explained
"That feedback stayed with us It affirmed that Nelson Mandela Bay is not just viable as an al-
ternative venue, but it is a preferred one "
The venue's reputation has been further enhanced by recent high-profile events, including hosting the Springboks in July Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Executive, Raaziq Poole, highlighted the positive feedback from international visitors
"We received glowing reviews from the RC Toulon staff and management contingent They complimented the pristine pitch conditions of the stadium, cleanliness, operational staff professionalism, and our city's friendly atmosphere," Poole said
The stadium generated direct revenue of just under R5 million through kiosk and bar sales, VIP suites, and ticketing income during the 2024 event
Beyond the immediate finan-
ShowoffyourMatricDancestyle–
NELSON Mandela Bay matriculants can now enter for the prestigious Miss and Mr Matric Dance competition, hosted by PE Express and UD Express
This charitable initiative supports CANSA, with all proceeds directed towards the vital work they undertake in assisting cancer patients within Eastern Cape communities.
The competition will culminate in a glamorous fashion show finale at Walmer Park Shopping Centre in Gqeberha on Saturday, 18 October 2025, at 16:00.
Here, entrants will showcase their stunning matric dance ensembles, and winners for both PE Express and UD Express categories will be announced
Event highlights and prizes
• The winners' photos will be featured on the front pages of PE Express and UD Express
Attractive prizes in Walmer Park gift cards: Winners: R2,000 each, Runners-up: R1,000, and Second Runners-up: R500.
Rules and entry details
• An entry fee of R60 is payable directly to CANSA (banking de-
tails below)
• Entrants must send their matric dance photo and completed entry form via email, including proof of payment.
Submit high-resolution photographs where the full outfit, including dress or suit, hair, makeup, and accessories, can be viewed. Photo collages (maximum three photos) are permissible.
• Only one entry per matriculant is permitted, featuring a solo photograph or collage. No group photos, selfies, or photos with partners are accepted
• Only matriculants from Gqeberha schools are eligible for the PE Express category, while the UD Express category is exclusive to schools in Kariega, Despatch, KwaNobuhle, and Nqweba (Kirkwood).
• Photos posted on Facebook timelines or Messenger are disqualified – entries must be submitted only via email. Choose your image wisely as replacements are not accepted post-submission
• All qualifying entries will be posted in an album on the PE Express and UD Express Facebook pages. By entering the competition, you are giving EP Media permission to use these images on our
social media platforms
Note: Facebook reactions do not influence the competition. Judging is conducted by an independent panel, and their decision is final.
Closing dates
• PE Express: 17:00 on 14 October 2025
• UD Express: 17:00 on 8 October 2025
How to enter
1. Obtain the entry form via email from mdevries@cansa.org za or download it from the PE Express and UD Express websites.
2. Email the completed form along with your matric dance photo and proof of payment to mdevries@ cansa.org.za Use the subject line, "CANSA Matric Dance Competition" and indicate whether it is for PE Express or UD Express
Bank details for entry fee (R60):
• Beneficiary: CANSA Bank: Absa
• Branch Code: 63200500
• Account Number: 1157140058
For additional information, contact Marius de Vries at mdevries@ cansa.org.za, 041 373 5157, or 083 481 7404.
cial benefits, Qaba emphasised the event's wider economic ripple effects throughout the region
"Events like these bring visitors into the city, fill our hotels and restaurants, and create temporary work opportunities," he said
"There are tangible benefits for our residents and local businesses "
The temporary employment created by last year's event spanned multiple sectors, including security, cleaning, medical services, and concessions
The MBDA also utilised the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) to source hospitality staff for the event
As an agency of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, the MBDA continues to focus on ac-
tivating the North End and Stadium precinct as an economic catalyst for the region
"The MBDA continues to operate according to its mandate, delivering results for the people of Nelson Mandela Bay through strategic partnerships, efficient operations and a commitment to inclusive growth," Qaba concluded
Tickets for the December 13 fixture between the DHL Stormers and Stade Rochelais will go on sale in October
The match represents another milestone in Gqeberha's growing reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events, building on the success of previous international fixtures and cementing the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium's status as a national sporting asset
NovaNews this week launches a WhatsApp news channel dedicated to bringing readers the most compelling local community stories from across South Africa, alongside essential national and international news updates
The innovative news platform, which spans 21 unique community titles across the country, will deliver a distinctive blend of hyperlocal journalism and broader news coverage directly to your mobile device
From community achievements in the Free State and Eastern Cape to municipal developments in the Western Cape, readers will receive authentic stories that matter to South Africans at grassroots level
Whether you’re a community leader, local business owner, or simply someone who values staying connected to both your neighbourhood and the wider world, the NovaNews WhatsApp updates will keep you informed about the stories that shape our communities and our country
“We’re thrilled to bring South Africa’s most authentic community voices directly to our readers via WhatsApp Our unique approach combines the power of local story-
telling with essential national coverage – it’s journalism that truly reflects the diversity and richness of our nation,” says NovaNews digital news editor, Lise Beyers
The channel will feature breaking news from NovaNews’s 21 community platforms, highlighting everything from local government decisions and community initiatives to business developments and human interest stories that showcase the spirit of South African communities
Howtosignup:
You can scan the QR code below to join thousands of South Africans already staying connected to their communities and more
Dowershows theirpower atWOW
Thirteen learners from Dower Practising School took part in the district competition of the WOW spelling festival on 16 August Seven learners advance to the Provincial Level of the competition taking place on 30 August. These learners are Asma Rahman (first place, Grade 5 English), Mariam Tobias (second place, Grade 6 English), Munira Diriye (6th place, Grade 6 English), Cayden Harris (second place, Grade 6 Afrikaans), Zaakirah Simon (finalist, Grade 5 English), Ayabonga Swartbooi (finalist, Grade 7 English) and Amy-Lee Johannes (finalist, Grade 6 Afrikaans) Pictured are the participants and their teachers, Carmen Gertze, Edre Muller, Sadique Patel and Yusra Salie
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Drakesehoofleiersvir2026
Die Hoërskool Despatch het onlangs hul nuwe hoofleiers vir 2026 aangekondig. Hulle is, van links, Marli du Preez (onderhoofmeisie), Mioné Jonker (hoofmeisie), Christiaan Ferreira (skoolhoof), Dylan Viviers (hoofseun) en Ethan Jooste (onderhoofseun). FOTO: VERSKAF
DIAR
OrchidShow: The EP Orchid Society will have their annual OrchidShowat TheVenue atWalmerParkShoppingCentreonFriday29Augustfrom13:00to18:00 Saturday30Augustfrom09:00to17:00andSunday31Augustfrom09:00 to 14:00 There will be a talk and repotting demonstration onSaturdayat11:00 Entry sR10onFriday R20onSaturday and Sunday Enter the raffe for R10 Contact Christo at 083 7030458orAnnemareat0748527877
Bazaar: The Uitenhage Methodist Church will have its annual bazaar on Saturday 30 August at John Street MethodistChurch Kariegafrom09:00 Gospelfees: Die VEK Emmanuel Penford Gemeente sal op 30 Augustus 'n gospelfees met Barneace Slabbert en Kobe
Botha-en-span hou Verversings sal vanaf 17:00 beskikbaar wees Diefeesbeginom18:30 CPF Meeting: The next meeting of the Uitenhage CommunityPoliceForumwilltakeplaceattheJocksRoomatthe UitenhagePoliceStationinKariegaonThursday,4September at 17:00 All are welcome The forum will bring about a channelofcommunicationwithSAPSwhereproblemsconcerningcrimeandthepreventionthereofcanbediscussed SPCAMusicTriviaNight: Uitenhage SPCA wil present a music trivia night on 4 September at the Barkly Street Theatre at 18:30 for 19:00 The MC will be Brenton Krain Tickets areR120perperson(maximumeightperteam) Bookby30 AugustwthDeirdréat0834155181ordeirdrev@gmai com Comehungryastherewillbeacashbarandfoodsold Family Spring Festival: Father's House Church Kariega wil have the Festival on 27 September from 09:00 to 16:00 at81JohnStreet Therewillbecardisplays Daniell'sCheetah Farm variousstalls foodandmuchmore Elvis Blue: Dié sanger gaan die eregas by Die Hoërskool Despatch se spogoggend op 27 September by die Ernest Swanepoelsaalwees KaartjiesisR250 Kontakdieskool:041 9335104 Loerie Nartjiefees: Moenie die fees op 27 September met Appel Elizma Theron Armand Hofmeyr
Uitenhage High learner, Kim-Shay Goliath (16), has been selected to join the EPA cross-country team, which will compete in the South African Cross-country Championships on September 6 in Mpumalanga. She will be participating in the 4km race. Pictured are Kim-Shay Goliath and Cross-country convenor, Gary Hendricks.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED