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5 - 19 May 2011
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FOCUS ON ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION
PAGE 6
JOBURG ARTISTS SAMAS PAGE 11
DOMINATE
STORIES FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
PAGE 5
A NEW WAY OF THINKING PAGE 13
City heritage site restored PAGE 2
Ndileka Mandela and Adv George Bizos attend the Chancellor House reopening ceremony.
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NEWS
INNER-CITY GAZETTE
City restores heritage site Lucille Davie
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ignity has been returned to Chancellor House, the inner city building near the law courts that was once the offices of Mandela & Tambo Attorneys. The modest, three-storey structure, at corner Fox and Gerard Sekoto streets in Ferreirasdorp in the CBD, has had its dignity restored. Executive Mayor Amos Masondo and his team presided over the launch of the refurbished building this week, a process that begun in September 2010. “We meet to celebrate the opening of a fully restored Chancellor House, a historic building that was used as a legal firm for Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo in the 1950s. If bricks could talk this building would have been replete with colourful stories about the struggles for national liberation.” Advocate George Bizos, a long-time friend and advocate of Mandela, was the special guest, and he warmly recounted anecdotes of attorneys Tambo and Mandela. He said of his friend: “He had a wonderful presence.” Bizos added: “I am very pleased about the initiative of the City to restore the building; it is a living structure, a living space in honour of Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Duma Nokwe, Mendi Msimang, Godfrey Pitje and others.” He also paid tribute to the Essa family from Polokwane in Limpopo, which owned the building since 1943. It was expropriated by the City last year. “They took a chance in allowing them to stay (in a white area); they couldn’t always afford the rent. They played a role,” he explained. The renovated Chancellor House, retaining its facebrick, with its balcony restored Other guests included representatives of the Sisulu and Mandela families - Beryl Sisulu and Ndileka Mandela. Attorneys who worked in the firm were Mendi Msimang and Dumi Nokwe, who were
represented by Hlula Msimang and Nosizwe Macamo. The building, a derelict disaster for the past 10 years, has been restored using old photographs, says Lauren Segal, the curator of the exhibition of Chancellor House. The tall ceilings and interior pillars give the inside a more elegant look than the exterior promises. The ground floor has had its large Fox and Gerard Sekoto street window fronts re-instated. Parquet flooring, gleaming and warm, has been sourced and covers the ground floor and the three offices on the second floor of the Tambo and Mandela rooms, which overlook the Magistrates’ Courts across the road. The rest of the office space has grey carpeting, and all walls are crisp white. The other offices have been opened up to create spacious, open-plan areas, with toilets and kitchens running along the north side on each floor. The original entrance on the Fox Street side has been restored, while the courtyard toilets have been demolished, to create a new, enlarged space with plants and benches. A fire escape has been added and a new lift installed. A new roof was constructed, the old one having been damaged by fire and water seepage. The offices of Mandela & Tambo, gleaming with new flooring and white walls. Some 68 homeless people had to be removed from the building and were relocated to a shelter, before the City could expropriate the building. Shaun O’Shea the Stakeholder Manager at Region F is thrilled by the launch of the first phase of the Chancellor House project. “Chancellor House is an asset to the inner city for its association with two prominent liberation stalwarts, Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo. It’s been a long road and congratulations to team at Johannesburg Development Agency for timely completion of the first phase, it also testimony that urban regeneration is happening in the inner-city and is unstoppable,” he added.
5 - 19 MAY 2011
Above : Adv George Bizos and Mayor Masondo in Nelson Mandela’s former office. Below : The new look Chancellor House PICS : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY
5 - 19 MAY 2011
I NNER-CITY GAZETTE
REGION F LANDMARKS
NEWS
Violence is unnecessary and costly, peace is the only way - Julius Nyerere
Partnership to revitalise courts Agreement would ensure justice prevailed in all quarters of SA
J The present building in Loveday Street was designed by Leck and Frank Emley, the architects of The Corner House, built in 1902, and the National Bank Building in 1904. The foyer is dominated by huge simulated porphyry columns and a staircase leading to a colonnaded gallery. The walls are lined with portraits of mining magnates, parliamentarians, city bosses and presidents (Thabo Mbeki, Nelson Mandela and Amos Masondo have joined the parade). In those days the fourth floor consisted of rooms, much like a hotel. Now they are rented out as offices. The rest of the building is largely taken up with dining rooms, pubs, a billiards room and a library, all decorated in antique furniture, with gorgeous sweepingto-the-floor curtains, chandeliers, richly-patterned carpets, fireplaces, Persian rugs and brass and copper fittings. The stained-glass windows are wonderful, with patterns that are rarely seen these days. It boasts Africa’s longest bar, a half moon shaped bar in a large pub, at 32 metres, a great room to spend some hours in. There are the Rhodes Room, the Len Oates Room, the Leisk Room, the Anglo-Platinum Room; indicating the benefactors of the club. Hunting trophies punctuate the portraits on the walls, together with fox hunting scenes, original Punch cartoons, stuffed pheasants in a glass case, and a collection of bronze standard weights and measures of the old Oranje Vrij Staat Republiek. Mahatma Gandhi visited the club in the early 1900s. There is a small bronze statue of him. President Paul Kruger must have also visited. His miniature statue stands opposite Cecil John Rhodes in the entrance hall. It is an old-fashioned, anachronistic world. Staff refer to their colleagues and members by the rather archaic titles of Mr and Mrs.
ustice and Constitutional Development Minister Jeff Radebe has signed a cooperative partnership with Swiss Ambassador Rudolf Barfuss extending a project aimed at revitalising the small claims courts in South Africa. The Swiss government, through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, has been a partner of the department on the project for the past four years. It has now made available R10 million towards the project for a further four years. Speaking at the recent signing ceremony in Johannesburg, Radebe said the agreement would ensure that justice prevailed in all quarters of South Africa.
“Small claims courts are a powerful mechanism to provide access to justice, especially to the poor. Any person can approach the clerk of the small claims court at the local magistrate’s office and the clerk will provide advice,” Radebe said. Barfuss said the small claims courts were simple, cheap and effective. However, he said that there was a need to increase public awareness on the functioning of the courts. In 2007, the Swiss and the South African governments entered into an agreement to improve the functioning and efficiency of the small claims courts in South Africa. This led to the implementation of the Project to Re-engineer Small
WORLD CHRONIC FATIGUE AND IMMUNE DYSFUNCTION SYNDROME What is chronic fatigue syndrome? Debilitating and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue. The condition does not improve with bed rest. The flu-like symptoms associated with the disorder may last for years. Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors The exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown. Some researchers suspect it may be caused by a virus. Studies suggest that it may be caused by inflammation or genetics may also play a role. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is diagnosed after the health care provider rules out other possible causes of fatigue; including: * Drug dependence * Immune disorder * Infections * Muscle or nerve diseases * Other illnesses such as heart, kidney or liver diseases * Psychiatric or psychological illnesses, particularly depression * Tumours Symptoms Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are similar to common viral infections. They may last from months to years. Some individuals recover completely while other patients’ symptoms become progressively worse, symptoms may also subside and reappear later. Primary symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome include: loss or memory or concentration, sore throat, painful and enlarged lymph nodes, muscle soreness, joint pain, headache, sleep disturbance and extreme exhaustion. Other symptoms not part of the official diagnostic criteria are: abdominal pain, alcohol intolerance, bloating, chest pain, chronic cough, diarrhoea, dizziness, nausea, night sweats, psychological problems (like depression and anxiety disorders), dry eyes/mouth, earache, irregular heartbeat, jaw pain, shortness of breath, and weight loss. Some people may develop a low pressure (hypertensive) disorder that causes fainting. Treatment Currently there is no specific treatment available for chronic fatigue syndrome. However some medical treatments may help alleviate symptoms of the disease like Anti-anxiety medication, Antidepressants, Clonazepam, Exercise (patients may be encouraged to begin an exercise program with the help of a physical therapist, consistent exercise may help prevent or decrease muscle weakness, as well as increase the individual’s energy level), Hypertension medications and lifestyle changes (patients may be encouraged to avoid excessive physical and psychological stress, dietary restrictions. NB It is really important to have regular checkups.
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Claims Courts. Phase 1 of the project started in March 2007 and ended in February. The minister agreed that small claims courts must be accessible by all at no cost. “The first six small claims courts were established in 1985 and there are now 224 such courts nationally. To date, over 136 000 cases have been dealt with by the courts, with 1 283 commissioners manning them throughout the country. Of these commissioners, 229 were appointed last year,” he said. He added that the monetary jurisdiction of the small claims courts
Minister Jeff Radebe
has been increased in 2010 from R7 000 to R12 000. About 60 courts are set to be established during the next two years. In a bid to ensure effective functioning of the courts, Radebe said his department will continue to train legal practitioners and that awareness would be created on the functioning of the courts, especially in the rural areas. BuaNews
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LEADER / LETTERS
INNER-CITY GAZETTE
Small things amuse small minds Doris Lessing
5 - 19 MAY 2011
Increasing train surfing COMMENT
This is a time when politicians engage in a fierce battle for the hearts of the electorate. Quite interestingly, the politicos promise the voters the same thing, good service delivery. Whenever there were elections, the politicians needed something to promise the electorate, so that they get voted into power. This is just their profession; they need to make a living. People go to the polls and vote for whoever they want, not necessarily because they believed in the campaign promises, which are often recycled from the previous campaign. The politicians may shout their heads off and spend millions of rands trying to buy or woe voters, or even try to coerce the voters; but at the polling station the voter will be alone and voting for the person or organisation of their choice. To date only a few incidents of electioneering violence have been reported, and also the vandalising of party posters, which is a common criminal feature of election campaigning. Another development is that there are no more no-go areas for anyone as it was in the recent past, and political organisations campaign wherever they want without fear or threat of violence. We hope the actual polling day will be peaceful, and that everyone will accept the results as tallied by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). And if any organisation feels otherwise, there are legal channels to deal with the matter without any need for agitation that might lead to violence. May the best party win. Distribution – 40 000 copies free door to door delivery fortnightly to all households and businesses in the inner-city. Inner-City Gazette welcomes editorial contributions from readers. They may raise new issues or respond to articles published in the paper. Contributions may be sent to the editor’s address below. Published by Inner-City Gazette 149 Pritchard Street, Johannesburg 2000 Tel : 011 023 - 7588 011 024 - 8513 011 024 - 8621 Fax : 086 609 8601 Email : info@inner-city-gazette.co.za Printed by Paarlcoldset(Pty)Ltd Website : www.inner-city-gazette.co.za PRODUCTION EDITOR Harry Ndlovu harryn@inner-city-gazette.co.za +27 11 023 7588 JOURNALIST Sizwe Mathe sizwem@inner-city-gazette.co.za ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Peaceful Nyathi - +27 76 870 3009 ads@inner-city-gazette.co.za Diana Chembe - +27 73 123 2289 diana@inner-city-gazette.co.za For Distribution purposes please call Nkosi on 078 070 9998. All rights and reproduction of articles, images and other items published in this publication are reserved in terms of Section 12(7) of the Copyright Act 96 (1978) and its amendments thereof.
Inner-City Gazette subscribes to the South African Press Code that prescribes news that is truthful, accurate, fair and balanced. If we do not live up to the code please contact the press ombudsman on 011 484-3612 or 011 484 - 3618 or ombudsman@presscouncil.org.za .
The train was overcrowded both inside and outside
Not for kids ...cigarettes on sale in the street.
Do not spoil the kids Many of the boys who smoke tobacco also smoke dagga and drink alcohol
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am particularly appalled by street vendors and shop attendants who sell cigarettes to schoolchildren. I have seen this happening so many times that I think I have to speak out now, and say action has to be taken against these adults who do not care about the health and social development of our children. Everyone knows that smoking is discouraged for everyone. It is dangerous for anyone to inhale the nicotine, the tar and many other chemicals found in the tobacco smoke. Many adult smokers are today quitting the habit, or struggling to reduce their smoking with the hope of being able to quit.
All those who sell tobacco to children are interested in is the money, and do not care what happens to the children’s health. At one moment I challenged one cigarette vendor about this and he said he considers the boy he had sold some cigarettes just as any other customer. That he wore a school uniform did not make him at least think about the safety of the child. He actually went on to say that if the boy’s parents did not stop him smoking tobacco that was not his fault, all he wanted was to do his job as a vendor. Unfortunately, many of the children who smoke also smoke dagga
and drink beer. They may as well graduate to more harmful drugs like tik, nyaope and whoonga. I can blame all this on adults who sell them the drugs and the beer too. Adults have to set a good example for our children to grow up to be responsible citizens and good leaders. The children need our support to grow up to be all that we expect from them. But if we spoil them as young as the school boys I saw smoking dagga, all we are going to get in the end are criminals who will be breaking into our houses, robbing and murdering us. Moline Sathekge Newtown
When I went to board a train at Braamfontein in Station a few days ago I was shocked by the disregard for obvious danger that was displayed by some young men. The train was full and those men rode the train clinging on its sides and the space between the coaches. This and train surfing is not something new in the rail transport system of the city, but on that day it was much worse because the train was both overcrowded inside and also outside. It was clear that if any of them slipped he would fall and die immediately. I wondered whether Metrorail has any enforceable regulations concerning this, and also whether the officials know how many people one train should carry. I also considered that if this happens every day, then there must be many people who get seriously injured or even die nearly every day. In view of this I ask Metrorail to review what I believe is a massive increase in the number of people risking their lives riding the trains in such a dangerous manner. Zandie Nkoane Johannesburg
Indigenous education for a better SA
South Africa has over 49 million people and a wide variety of cultures, languages and religious beliefs. Africans make 79.4% of the population, while white people 9.2%, coloureds 8.8%, and the Indian/Asian population 2.6%. 11 official languages South Africa’s constitution recognises 11 official languages. According to the 2001 census, isiZulu is spoken by nearly a quarter of the population, followed by isiXhosa at 17.6%, Afrikaans at 13.3%, Sepedi at 9.4%, and English and Setswana both at 8.2%. See the following table (Source: Statistics SA).
Most South Africans are multilingual and able to speak more than one language. English and Afrikaans speaking people tend not to have much ability in indigenous languages, but are fairly fluent in each other’s language (meaning only Afrikaans and English). A large number of South Africans speak English, which is omnipresent in official and commercial life. Language impact on education The South African Constitution guarantees learners the right to receive education in the language of their choice. Currently most educational institutions from all levels use English as the medium of instruction. Indigenous languages are taught as a subject mostly in township and rural schools. The indigenous language subject is taught until matric as a compulsory language, and thereafter dies, unless students choose Education Studies with focus on language. Current research suggests that learners entering school are able to learn best through their mother-tongue, and that a second language (such as English) is more easily acquired if the learner already has a firm grasp of his/her home language. Learners perform badly in their studies mostly because of lack of understanding of the language (English) used to deliver content. Before they can understand and absorb the content of the subject, they need to understand the language first, which delays and/or sometimes distracts their learning. This reality proves that many African students can perform well if their mother-tongue was used as a medium of in-
struction, just like Afrikaans and English learners who have proven to be the best performers, as institutions deliver educational content in their mother-tongue. Although English remains an important international and business language, this must not be in the expense of the indigenous languages. English is a language which can be learnt like any other, which we learn through communication. It can further be a compulsory subject for all levels of education so that apart from students learning in their indigenous languages, they may equally know how to express themselves in English. Indigenous language in the global world Some European and African countries have made strides towards addressing this matter. I once had an opportunity to do my IT National Diploma project in Germany’s Loerrach University of Cooperative Education in 2005/2006. They deliver every subject content in German. IT Programming, Networks, Biology, Mathematics, Tourism, Economics, Accounting, Business Management and etc are all delivered in German. English is just a subject which is compulsory for every student to learn. Some people believe that if we learn content in our indigenous languages this will disadvantage us in doing business, against the background that Germany as an example is a developed country which is highly successful in business. Even its government officials barely speak English in international relations meetings and conferences, but still disseminate the message to the world through interpreters. The National Youth Devel-
opment Agency together with the ANC Youth League hosted a World Festival for Youth and Students last December. Many delegates from different countries used their own languages in representing the youth and students from their respective countries. Technological devices interpreted those languages. The same happens during African Union, United Nations and many other international gatherings. Indigenous education is possible in SA too A majority of South Africans are Africans. IsiZulu is dominant in Kwa-Zulu Natal, isiXhosa in Eastern Cape, seTswana in North West, seSotho in Free State, sePedi, Tshivenda and Xitsonga in Limpopo. This provides the basis in which indigenous languages can be realised in our educational system. We can have English and isiZulu as a medium of instruction in the University of Zululand; isiXhosa and English in one of the universities in the Eastern Cape; seSotho and English in Central University of Technology in Free State, sePedi in University of the North Turfloop Campus, Tshivenda and Xitsonga in University of Venda, seTswana in one of the campuses of North West University. South Africa has a high potential to implement indigenous education, which is qualitative in building a better South Africa. “Akukwazi ukuba yithi kuphela okuthiwa sifunde isiNgisi nesiBhunu, kodwa ezethu izilimi abanye bangazifundi” says Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande.
5 - 19 MAY 2011
I NNER-CITY GAZETTE
FOCUS ON AFRICA
Weah weeps in poll loss Monrovia – Legendary footballer George Weah’s quest for the presidency ended in tears when he bowed to Winston Tubman, nephew of late President William Tubman, who led this country for 27 years under a de facto one party state. The retired soccer icon, a favourite of the urban poor, mainly the youths, could not hold back tears at his Congress for Democratic Change’s (CDC) three-day convention in Kakata, where he received 111 votes, compared to Tubman’s 118 votes. That therefore made him take second place as the vice presidential candidate in what many believe was an orchestrated surrender. He made no pretences either, saying he was making the decision with a ‘heavy heart.’ In previous interviews, Weah had barked at the notion of being second best, ruling out any rumour that he was preparing to settle for second place. But he told disgruntled followers that ‘politics is not static,’ meaning, he was now changing gear. In further placating his followers, he said that the CDC is his greatest job.
George Weah
Politicians ‘steal $600 billion’ Abuja - The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) alleges that $600 billion has been stolen from the nation’s coffers over the years. NLC president Abdulwaheed Omar, urged President Goodluck Jonathan to quickly check the growing corrupt practices. Omar said growing the national economy for job creation and people’s welfare, and addressing the nation’s monumental development challenges are in the self-interest of employers, government and labour. He decried the nation’s current economic realities, noting that its wealth had been hijacked by a few individuals. He said youth unemployment, which the World Bank estimates at about 40 per cent in the country is actually as high as 60 per cent. “With so much wealth and a population of about 150 million, our country continues to be import-dependent on commodities it can produce for our market.” He warned that unless the federal government acted urgently to tackle the problems, the workers would take their destiny into their hands.
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NEWS
Security high alert Nairobi - Security forces will remain vigilant in two main cities and along the border with neighbouring Somalia after the killing in Pakistan of Osama Bin Laden last week. Military spokesman Bogita Ongeri said security forces will remain vigilant in Nairobi, Mombasa Osama bin Laden and the border with Somalia, where Al Qaedaaffiliated Shebab militia have been fighting Somali government forces. “The killing of Bin Laden will not be the end of the war against terrorism. We will strengthen our security and intelligence networks.” Kenyan police started beefing up security 10 days ago after Shebab rebels threatened to bomb shopping malls and places of worship. Police increased patrols, stepped up security at government buildings and instructed shopping mall managers to do the same. They have also have repeatedly expressed displeasure with Kenya’s stance on the conflict. Al-Qaeda had claimed responsibility for the deadly 1998 truck bombing of the US embassy in central Nairobi that left over 200 dead and several thousand injured.
‘War criminals’ on trial Abdulwaheed Omar
MP sues radio station Gaberone - Ruling party MP Phillip Makgalemele is suing local radio station, Yarona FM, and its former employee, Macdonald Rakgare, for US$304 200 for defamation over a broadcast aired two years ago. Media reports says Yarona FM alleged that the MP was bribed while accompanying the under 23 national football team on a friendly match in China. It was reported that Mak-
galemele had confided to Major David Bright, who held a senior team position, that a certain Japanese person wanted to bribe the team. Botswana was to lose all their games and win some favours from this person in return. According to Rakgare’s source, the Botswana team would get their reward after Makgalemele agreed to the plan. Rakgare said Bright disagreed with Makgalemele’s
Ignace Murwanashyaka plan. Botswana lost only one game and won the tournament. The court heard that Yarona FM had offered Makgalemele an opportunity to explain the issue on air, but he refused the
offer. Rakgare said he went ahead with the news item after realizing that he would never get Makgalemele’s response. Rakgare is pinning his case on his key source Major Bright.
Kinshasa- Human Rights Watch says the trial of two Rwandan rebel leaders arrested in Germany for alleged crimes against humanity in DRC makes the world a smaller place for war criminals. This month judges in Stuttgart, Germany, heard evidence against Ignace Murwanashyaka and Straton Musoni, leaders of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR); a Hutu armed group that has been operating in eastern Congo since 1994. Human Rights Watch justice advocacy director Géraldine Mattioli-Zeltner says the trial of Murwanashyaka and Musoni is a powerful statement that courts thousands of miles away can play a decisive role in combating impunity. Human Rights Watch documented killings of civilians by the FDLR, many of whom were hacked to death with machetes. FDLR rebels burned homes, sometimes with their victims locked inside. FDLR attacks were regularly accompanied by rape.
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INNER-CITY GAZETTE
NEWS / FEATURES
5 - 19 MAY 2011
New law favours smaller business Business Correspondent
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PIC : LUCILLE DAVIE
The Rissik Street post office
Post office restoration on track
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he first phase of the restoration of the Rissik Street Post Office is on track, following a devastating fire which gutted the historic building in late 2009, the City says. The City’s property arm, the Johannesburg Property Company (JPC), is overseeing the restoration process, which is expected to take
up to two years. The restoration costs are expected to be high, and JPC is hoping that the private sector will assist, through a public-private partnership. The post office was designed by former South African president Paul Kruger’s architect, Sytze Wierda, and is the only example of his
work in the City. The post office is part of the civic spine, together with the City Hall and the central library. A neighbouring building, the Barbican, is undergoing restoration, and its transformation is in stark contrast to the derelict state of the post office. Inner-city Press Agency
rade and Industry Minister Rob Davies says the new Companies Act, which came into effect at the beginning of this month, is a major piece of legislation and reform that favours smaller businesses. President Jacob Zuma signed it into law in April, and the Companies Regulations and relevant documents have been published and also came into force on 1 May. “It has a number of features to it and will improve the environment for business operation in South Africa, business as a whole will reap the benefits of the Act. There is a reduction, particularly on the regulatory burden on small, medium and micro enterprises. The requirement for financial reporting for small companies has been reduced considerably, in that they do not have to produce audited financial statements, but will need to have financial reporting at an appropriate low level,” Davies says. The major innovation is the introduction of a business rescue scheme, which means that instead of companies going into major judicial management as they do now; which is almost a route to eventual bankruptcy; a rescue process will be initiated. “Creditors can be held at bay while stakeholders work to rescue the company, which is a very important innovation,” Davies adds.
The signing of the Companies Amendment Act implies that the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), which was launched by the minister earlier this week, is open for business as of 1 May. The new Act does not allow registration of Close Corporations (CCs), and none will be registered as the Act has come into force. CCs that are already in the system will remain active indefinitely, unless they choose to convert into the new corporate regime of the Companies Act of 2008. “The Act does not apply retrospectively and people who applied for CCs before May 2011 will still receive their certificates,” Davies says. The commission will ensure that the regulatory framework for enterprises promotes growth, employment, innovation, stability, good governance and international competitiveness. The Act also gives the commission powers to investigate companies and to ensure that they comply with the legislation. This includes seizing documents and addressing corporate identity hijacking. Additional reporting by Bua News
Focus on economic transformation ‘Lack of synergy between the political and administrative aspects of governance affects service delivery in municipalities’ Political Correspondent
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resident Jacob Zuma is pleased with the provision of basic services in municipalities, though much more still needed to be done. Zuma says as part of undoing the legacy of the Group Areas Act and apartheid settlements, the government focuses on upgrading informal settlements to provide people with security of tenure and access to basic services. He says about 80 000 mixed-income rental housing units would be constructed to enable low-income earners to live closer to where they work. “In this way, we shall dismantle the apartheid landscape, which dictated where people should live and work on the basis of skin colour,” he says. Distressed municipalities would be given more effective support, Zuma says. “The one size fits all approach
President Jacob Zuma
does not work.” The government had to appoint qualified and experienced personnel, make the tender and procurement process transparent and improve levels of financial management and accountability, Zuma notes. “We must also find ways of better managing the relations between
councillors and municipal officials.” He adds that the lack of synergy between the political and administrative aspects of governance was affecting service delivery in municipalities. Zuma says political freedom ought to be accompanied by meaningful economic transformation and eman-
cipation; as such, the government has prioritised economic transformation and job creation this year. “To broaden economic empowerment to reach the masses, we are encouraging various forms of collective ownership of the economy, such as employee shareholding schemes, co-operatives and public ownership,” he says. Zuma urges all citizens to vote in the local government elections on 18 May. “Some issues will be attended to after the elections, to implement the local government turnaround strategy which was adopted by Cabinet. Many more South Africans still need water, electricity, sanitation, jobs and other basic necessities. That is why we must continue working together to expand access to services and reverse the legacy of apartheid and colonial oppression,” he says. Additional reporting by Joburg.org.za
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Determination earns success Sizwe Mathe sizwem@inner-city-gazette.co.za
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race Gatsheni’s laundry business in Hillbrow began as a vision following six years of working as a security officer. The mother of three children (pictured above)says she had to leave the job because of hostile conditions. “ I started by selling pap in Park Station but it did not work. Then in June 2006 something triggered my mind to start a laundry business. “I was driven by courage and determination to succeed. I placed hand-written notes about laundry services at Clifton Heights building in Braamfontein,” she says. Gatsheni adds that she started the company with only one washing machine. “In July 2006 I rented a place, at the end of the month I bought an extra washing machine.” She adds that being in business needs originality. “Passion makes the business successful. You must be a hard-worker, have a positive mind and be able to make sacrifices” Gatsheni now has 10 washing machines and a car. She also encourages small businesses to advertise in local newspapers. “Big companies advertise, this is why their businesses grow. Since I started advertising in the Inner-City Gazette my business has grown substantially.” Gatsheni adds that plans to open a dry cleaner are underway. For more information call 011 484 - 6094.
5 - 19 MAY 2011
INNER-CITY GAZETTE
7
COMMUNITY
Main Street’s radical rejuvenation ‘There are more people who pass through Gandhi Square in a day than there are employees in Sandton CBD’ Makoena Pabale
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he Olitzki Property Holdings (OPH) is breathing life and a new energy into the inner city, having thus far transformed Main Street, Fox Street and Gandhi Square into first class residential and business venues. This started in 1989 when Gerald Olitzki, a law practitioner at the time, decided to buy and develop a building in the heart of Joburg. He bought and developed a building on Gandhi Square, which was then known as Van der Bijl Square. OPH’s development manager, Stephen du Preez says Olitzki saw a unique gap in the market. “Many major companies were exiting the inner city at the time. In 1994 he entered into negotiations with the City of Johannesburg for a lease over Gandhi Square. The negotiations lasted for seven years, and he received the go-ahead in 2001. From then his company started working to rejuvenate what was known to be one of the crime hot spots in Joburg.” Du Preez adds that today the square is a thriving transport hub and a good number of high profile companies have their businesses stationed around the centre. “There are more people who pass through Gandhi Square in a day than there are employees in Sandton CBD,” Du Preez says. OPH provides its own private cleaning and security services. At the moment, maintenance work is being undertaken in the square’s underground parking. “This is routine work to ensure that first-class services are provided to users.”
Some residents relax at the base of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the rejuvenated Gandhi Square.
The underground parking garage is expected to open to the public in July, according to the Johannesburg Development Agency’s development manager, Celestine Mouton. Main Street has been radically overhauled, and in keeping with the wealth of mining houses in the road, it has been given a distinct mining
look. Mining pieces dot the eight blocks that have been refurbished. The historic mining headgear has been moved to the street from Langlaagte, where it was vandalised, together with mounted coco pans and underground coaches. The street is a delight to stroll down, especially on weekends
when it is quiet, and safety is guaranteed with a street guard for every block. It is now an ideal place for a breather from the hustle and bustle of the CBD. Another of OPH’s success stories is Fox Street, which has a number of restaurants taking up ground floor space, and their tables spilling
out onto the walkway. “The aim is to try to get the people out of the office and into the sunlight. That is why we have fully pedestrianised some walkways and semi-pedestrianised other blockss. This allows restaurants to set up their tables and umbrellas outside,” Du Preez says. joburg.org.za
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Sizwe Mathe sizwem@inner-city-gazette.co.za As a result of hard work and a good saving plan a vendor has managed to buy two expensive motor vehicles and a house. The vendor, Mercy Mokgetle started selling vegetables at the Yeoville Market in 2003 after her mother’s death. With two siblings to look after, she had the huge responsibility upon her shoulders. Mokgetle, a mother of two children, says the stall in the market used to be occupied by her mother. “As the difficulties became more apparent; I and 10 fellow traders in the market formed a stokvel. We started by saving only R20 per day, and later increased the amount to R100, depending on proceeds from the business. We then collected the
money and shared it among ourselves using a timetable prescribed by all the members.” Since she started working at the Yeoville market she has saved enough to be able to buy two cars and a house in Spruitview. “I bought the house in 2008, then the Audi 6 in 2009, and the Corsa Utility last year,” she says. Mokgehle adds that the ABSA sponsored stokvel helps her a lot. “It helps me to invest money for the whole year. It is important for traders to join stokvels so that they can save money for their children.” Even though her mother has long passed away, the success she enjoys consoles her heart. “I wish she was still alive to witness my success.” Mokgehle encouraged fellow traders to start cultivating the culture of saving and investment.
Success story...Mercy Mokgetle at her stall in Yeoville Market. PIC : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY
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INNER-CITY GAZETTE
COMMUNITY
5 - 19 MAY 2011
BASA awards nominations Own Correspondent
PIC : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY
Part of the Oppenheimer Park in Rissik Street.
Landmark city park reopens ‘The early history speaks to the genesis of Joburg and the modern transforming city seeks to embrace its entire people’ Lynley Main
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he Joburg metro has re-opened the Openheimer Park in Rissik Street. At the recent relaunch of the park, Mayor Amos Masondo said it celebrates the old and the new. The park improvement was done under the Inner City Charter, which was developed in 2007 by the City and an assortment of stakeholders to regenerate the area. Its focus includes public spaces, public art and promoting culture and heritage. Through the work of the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), the public environment was targeted for upgrading, and Ernest Oppenheimer Park was one of the first projects to be tackled. Also found in the park are sculptures
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that include a herd of leaping bokkies, designed in the image of the original impala stampede that was restored and now stands at the Anglo-American headquarters in Main Street. The cast iron herd in the park has been settled on a plinth. “The early history speaks to the genesis of Joburg and the modern transforming city seeks to embrace its entire people. This park lies at the centre of the inner city core, immediately adjacent to the Rissik Street Post Office, and is strategically located on the pedestrian link between Park Station and Gandhi Square,” Masondo said. It was originally the site of the Standard Theatre, where early mining pioneers went to be entertained, but in later years was transformed into a park. It struggled through the period
of deterioration in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Clr Masondo said that period was characterised by crime and grime and other ills. “But very few will contest that we have gone a long way to address these challenges. Interventions such as the development of Gandhi Square, Mary Fitzgerald Square, Mandela Bridge, the Main Street pedestrian upgrade and the Constitution Hill precinct are a few examples.” The park has a basketball court to cater for children who live in this area, but have very few opportunities for play. An amphitheatre and public toilets are other features sure to attract visitors, according to Masondo. There were a number of partners instrumental in bringing the park to life, including the Department of Devel-
opment Planning and Urban Management, the JDA, Inner City Partnership Forum and creative artists, consultants and contractors. “Johannesburg may have been founded as a mining town and grew into the continent’s most prominent centre of commerce, economic growth, culture, entertainment and creative excellence; but like a human being, its heartbeat and spirit need to be properly nurtured as we move into the future,” Masondo said. Sir Ernest Oppenheimer was a diamond and gold mining tycoon who bought into and controlled De Beers, as well as founded Anglo-American. He moved to Johannesburg late in his life, but by that time the Oppenheimer name had already come to be associated with the growth of the country’s mining industry.
Nominations are on for this year’s 14th Business Day Business and Arts South Africa Awards. Closing date for entries is 20 May and the awards day is 29 August. There are 15 categories, 12 of which are open for general entry. They cover a wide range of creative media, including architecture, design, visual arts, dance, theatre, physical performance, fashion and music. BASA CEO Michelle Constant says: “If the arts can be used to drive change in the individual user and larger corporate, it means a more holistic approach to the world around us.” Endorsed by Anglo-American, the award categories are: Innovation Award, First Time Sponsor Award, Increasing Access to the Arts Award, International Sponsorship Award, Sustainable Partnership Award, Media Sponsorship Award, Single Strategic Project Award, Small Business Award, Sponsorship In Kind Award, Youth Development Award, Mentor of the Year Award, Art Champion Award and Chairman’s Premier Award. Pranill Ramchander, the head of corporate communication and branding at Anglo American SA, says their involvement in the BASA Awards is part of a vision that sees arts as an indispensable part of South Africa’s progress towards being a nation which embraces diversity across all platforms. Judges for the 2011 BASA Awards include Andrew Human, the chief executive of the Loerie Awards and editor of Destiny Man. For more contact BASA on 011 832 3000/3039/3042 or email info@basa.co.za
Safety tips for pensioners AllPay, a private entity owned by Absa, facilitates and pays government social grants in various parts of the country – Gauteng, Free State, Eastern and Western Cape. The safety and security of each customer is a top priority for this organisation. Using advanced technology and biometric fingerprint verification, AllPay disbursement centres ensure that pensioners and social grant recipients receive their monthly grants each month, and on time However, further technological developments have been made, in line with South African banking standards, in order to facilitate the access of these communities to basic financial services and products. One of these products is the debit card – called Sekulula (which means “it is now easy”). The Sekulula debit card is specifically designed for the social grant recipients. Managing executive, Moses Khanyile offers a few safety tips to recipients who are often easy targets for criminals. Khanyile says one should always keep in mind the following: • Never give your PIN
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Pensioners collect their cash at an Allpay paypoint.
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number to anyone for any reason – not even to Absa staff members. Memorise your PIN number. Don’t write your PIN number on the card, or anything you keep with your card. Make sure no-one else can see you input your PIN number at the ATM. Do not ever accept any help from strangers when using the ATM.
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Never hand your Sekulula card or AllPay social grant card to any money lenders, loan sharks or anybody else. Check out for suspicious looking people standing around. Rather pass by and come back later. Put your money safely away before leaving the pay point or ATM. Check that your money is correct before leaving the
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ATM or the AllPay payment unit and that you have received a receipt. You do not have to arrive at the pay point at 05:00 in the morning the payment team will be there from 08:00 to 15:00 every day during the payment cycle. Do not place your AllPay social grant card next to radio/TV speakers etc as it damages the chip on your AllPay social grant card. If you feel unsure or unsafe rather arrange with a trustworthy person to accompany you to collect your grant. Do not tell people (especially strangers) that you are collecting money. Do not allow anyone else to touch the money at the payment unit – not even the payment staff, officials, guards or volunteers. Be vigilant when leaving the pay venue. If someone follows you draw the attention of the SAPS patrolling vehicle. Take the shortest and safest route home. Keep safe
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5 - 19 MAY 2011
Ready for the election showdown...some of the ANC candidates for the 2011 elections (local).
All set for the polls Bongani Nkosi
A
t least 24 new political parties will contest the upcoming local government elections. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has welcomed the emergence of the new organisations as an indication of flourishing democratic participation. “Multiparty democracy is thriving in our country,” said Dr Brigalia Bam, the commission’s chairperson. South Africans will go to the polls on 18 May to elect their new local government officials. A total of 121 political parties will contest the elections across the coun-
try. This is an increase from the 97 parties in 2006 and the 79 in 2000. Participation of independent candidates, those without political-party backing, is also on the rise. The total number of independents stands at 748 this year, up from 667 in the previous local elections. The surfacing of new parties and independents has increased the number of candidates to 53 596, compared to 45 179 in 2006 and 30 477 in 2000. “The increase in parties and candidates participating in the upcoming election is an indication of a broadening in electoral participation at local level, and is encouraging as far as the entrenchment of democratic
processes is concerned,” Bam said. Needless to say, a large number of candidates represent well-established political parties. The African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) dominate the candidates list, with 9 403 and 7 117 respective candidates countrywide. The ANC is the only party that will have candidates contesting in all the country’s 278 municipalities, while the DA will be contesting 272 municipalities. Some ANC members have decided to go independent after being dissatisfied about candidates’ selection. Most of the new organisations join scores of others that only contest in
Set for the polling fray...some of the DA’s inner-city candidates for the elections.
their respective provinces. They operate as organisations hoping to have future influence over how their communities are governed. New kids on the block The National Freedom Party (NFP) is the only recently formed organisation contesting outside its founding province. The NFP was launched by Zanele kaMagwaza-Msibi, who led a splinter group from the Inkatha Freedom Party just three months ago. It has 2 591 candidates in eight provinces. More than 50% of its members are in KwaZulu-Natal, where it was founded. The Congress of the People, an ANC break-away party founded
in 2008, is also comparatively new in the IEC’s books as far as local government elections go. Although somewhat troubled, the party enjoys the third largest representation with 5 929 candidates in all nine provinces. It will contest in 214 municipalities. Though it has had a chance to establish itself since its founding in 2007, the African People’s Convention will participate in nationwide local elections for the first time this year. The party, a splinter from the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, will contest in all provinces with 2 158 candidates. Women participation There’s a ‘slight’ increase in the number of women running for election in their areas. More than 19 700 women will stand as candidates, compared to 15 718 in the 2006 elections. This means 37% of the candidates are women, a 2% increase from 2006. “I am happy that a slight increase in the percentage of women candidates has been recorded,” Bam said. Women remain the majority on the IEC voters’ roll, which has more than 24.5-million South Africans registered on it. “I am very proud of women. Despite keeping the home fires burning, women consistently retained their overall majority in terms of the voter participation gender split in the voters’ roll,” said Bam. With just more than a month to go, campaigns are gaining momentum. All major parties have launched their manifestos and embarked on all-out electioneering. “The IEC is proud of all who will be garnering votes to consolidate our democratic gains and deepen our democracy,” Bam said.
5 - 19 MAY 2011
INNER-CITY GAZETTE
THE ARTS
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Joburg artists (from left) Chomee, Mandoza and the Liquideep duo are in the nominations list.
Joburg nominees dominate SAMAs ‘The variety of artists is reflective of our commitment to profiling all the genres of SA music’ Mbhazima Lesego waka’Ngobeni
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oburg artists dominate the nomination list for the MTN sponsored South African Music Awards (Samas) to be held on 20 and 21 May. Hip-hop trio Teargas has been nominated for best music video of the year for the smash-hit Goodfellaz, featuring HHP and PRO. The trio is up against multi-award winning Freshlyground’s parody Chicken to Change and The Parlotones’ Life Design and The Stars Fall Down. MTN South Africa’s brand and communications acting general manager, Natasha Basson says a nomination for the SAMAs is an indication of true merit and success.
“The range of categories and sheer variety of artists is reflective of our commitment to profile all the genres of South African music. What we are especially excited about this year is the number of new artists coming to the fore,” Basson says. Also from Joburg are artists who include Nhlanhla Nciza, Benjamin Dube, Danny K, Nothende, Theo Kgosinkwe, Stoan and Speedy, Howza, Chomee, Slikour, Mandoza, Thebe, Louise Carver, DJ Mahoota, Black Coffee and the Jaziel Brothers. Nominees for best urban pop album are Chomee for Fly The Flag, Ernie B St Clair for I Am Universal, kwaito maestro Howza for World Premier, eccentric trio Kwela Tebza
for Gauteng Made In South Africa/ Mzansi and Ntombi Ngcobo for African Sexy. There are over 50 categories in the Samas; however, the most-watched are for album of the year, duo or group of the year, female artist of the year, male artist of the year, newcomer of the year and the MTN record of the year. Joburg artists have been nominated in all these categories. DJ Kent, Liquideep, Tumelo and Zakes Bantwini are other Joburg artists who have been nominated for best urban dance album. Nominated for best rap album are Amu for The Principal; Kwesta for Special Rekwest; Slikour for his third solo offering, Ventilation Volume 3 (VV3); Tuks Senganga for his comeback
album Tshwanelo; and Tumi & The Volume for Pick a Dream. Best kwaito album nominees are L’vovo Derrango for Irresistible; Mandoza for Real Deal; Professor for University of Kalawa Jazmee; Sosha for 745 Mission; and Thebe for Mujomba. DJ Kent, Loyiso Bala, Professor, Theo Kgosinkwe and Zakes Bantwini have been nominated for male artist of the year. The female artist of the year nominees are Karen Zoid, Louise Carver, Nianell, Siphokazi and Thandiswa. Jay has been nominated for newcomer of the year, along with Kwesta, Liquideep, Locnville and Nomsa Mazwai. Liquideep’s popular tune, Alone, has been nominated for re-
cord of the year, along with Jozi’s It’s A Party, the Jaziel Brothers’ Woza, and Loyiso’s Wrong For You, to list a few. Other categories in which Joburg artists have been nominated are best traditional/African adult contemporary African DVD, best urban DVD, best producer, best engineer, best adult contemporary album: English, best pop album: English, best pop album: African, best urban pop album and best urban dance album. A Sama is the highest music accolade an artist, band or producer can get in South Africa. The awards cross all genres and include production, engineering and video. They are sponsored by MTN and beer company Heineken.
A journey of love, jealousy and betrayal Never seen before in SA, this is a breathtaking blend of traditional and modern Irish dance, jazz, Arabian dance, ballet and tango
Madiba pics...some of the images to be exhibited.
Madiba photos in works expo ‘The paintings have a transcendental quality, rich in layers and colours, yet conveying the all important message that brings out the dream of a free South Africa’ Romaana Naidoo
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hotos of SA’s former president Nelson Mandela have been playfully modified using silkscreening and splashes of colour, to create a three-dimensional effect for an exhibition of works by artist Beezy Bailey. The revitalized images will be exhibited as part of an exhibition entitled Icon Iconoclast, which is to be opened by former minister of intelligence, Ronnie Kasrils, from 5 May to 16 June at the Everard Read Gallery in Rosebank.
It pays tribute to Mandela, as well as the late Andy Warhol, the American artist who spearheaded the pop art movement. Kasrils says Bailey captures the iconic figure with wit and the irreverence of a genuine iconoclast. “This collection is a vivid, touching and illuminating journey around Madiba that teases, tantalises and transfixes the viewer in an effervescent celebration.” Bailey accredits his inspiration for the exhibition to Warhol’s silkscreen images of celebrities; his paintings of famous faces such as
Marilyn Monroe, Mick Jagger and Mao Zedong are well known. Bailey used photographs by Bob Gosani from before Mandela’s imprisonment, and those by Benny Gool from after his release to create the same effect. “The symbolic tapestry of South Africa’s haunting landscape, secretive mists, visceral imagery of birds and broken shacks weave and float around the elusive, multidimensional charisma of a man who has always reminded us that love is central to liberation and the masses, not great men, are the true creators
of history,” Kasrils says. Photographs in silkscreen format were printed onto canvas, which were then painted on by Bailey. “The exhibition also celebrates the liberation of South Africa through the use of images portraying other heroes such as Joe Slovo. The paintings have a transcendental quality, rich in layers and colours, yet conveying the all-important message that brings out the dream of a free South Africa.” For more information call 011 788-4805 or visit the gallery’s website www.everard-read.co.za.
Arts Correspondent
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his dance show, presented at the Joburg Theatre between 3 and 22 May, evokes an incredible feeling of energy and emotion as Ireland’s passion pounds the stage in a spellbinding tale that has brought overseas audiences to their feet. The show, called Dance of Desire takes you on a mythological journey of jealousy, love and betrayal. Never seen before in South Africa, this stunning and original show is a breathtaking blend of traditional and modern Irish dance, jazz, Arabian dance, ballet and tango. Featuring All-Ireland champion dancers and a selection of Ireland’s finest musical virtuosos, this incredible show has won the acclaim of critics and wowed audiences of all ages worldwide.
INNER-CITY GAZETTE
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THE ARTS
5 - 19 MAY 2011
Tale of love and self discovery In the love triangle she has to choose between the woman she loves and the man she loves Thandeka Malinga, Jeffrey Mntonga, Gontse Ntsheng and Noxolo Tshabangu in Loving Lulu.
Arts Correspondent
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resented at the Market Theatre’s Barney Simon Theatre between from 2 May to 19 June the play Loving Lulu is a tale about love and self-discovery. Written by Bruce Koch and Noxolo Tshabangu, this is a hilarious and moving new South African play that was developed as part of the Market Theatre’s DOEN new writing programme. It is a classic love story with two people from different backgrounds and belief systems who fall in love. The conflict is that
these are women: one homosexual and the other not. It contains a love triangle involving two women and one man. But this time it’s a woman who is being fought over. She has to choose between the woman she loves and the man she loves. When Buyi meets Lulu, she has much to lose. Her lobola negotiations are in their final phase, after which she would be traditionally married to Gaff, her childhood sweetheart. For Lulu, falling in love is like jumping off a cliff, something she never intends to do. But fate in-
Promoting culture ...some of the members of the MUKA theatre group.
tercedes and lives are irrevocably changed. The play’s director, Yolandi Michaels says: “We explore the journey of relationships; the struggle of choice; and as we interrogate the boundaries of identity, we touch on the prejudices that thread through our society. Intimate and engaging, Loving Lulu will challenge the audience to be open to walking their own paths with sincerity.” The cast includes Noxolo Tshabangu as Lulu; Thandeka Malinga as Buyi; Jeffrey Mntonga as Gaff and Gontse Ntsheng as Mpumi.
PIC: INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY
Theatre group off to Europe Sizwe Mathe sizwem@inner-city-gazette.co.za Hillbrow based theatre group Most United Knowledgeable Artists (MUKA) will be heading for Germany next year, the group’s director Brian Nyoni says. “We will be doing stage plays, musical dance and drama workshops in schools,” he said. The group was formed in 1995 by youths living in the streets of Johannesburg soon after the end of apartheid. The group conducts workshops in theatre, singing, dancing and acting. “We work with community or-
ganisations, participate in conflict resolution, drug and alcohol abuse campaigns, and educate the community about socials ills like HIV/ Aids. Our membership is free and open to everyone from the age of eight upwards,” Nyoni explains. He adds that the main objective of the group is to keep the youth away from the streets, create employment, and promote culture and heritage through performing arts. “On selected occasions we invite motivational speakers to empower young women.” He adds that community theatre in Hillbrow has advanced remarkably. “People are reluctant to go to the-
atre houses, but they enjoy it when it comes to them.” Nyoni says the group is sponsored by National Lottery, Anglo American, De Beers, Missio Aachen, Kinder Kultur Karawane, all in Germany and the National Arts Council. Nyoni encouraged parents to allow their children to be part of the group. “We also teach them moral values and self-esteem,” he adds. Nomfundo Ndlovu, 20, says community theatre talks about issues effecting youth. “It boosts our mental strength and takes us away from drugs and alcohol abuse.” For more info call 079 723-9946.
5 - 19 MAY 2011
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Coach Benoit Kayombo (standing right) with some of the Community Football Club members. PIC: INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY
Soccer development at city park Sizwe Mathe sizwem@inner-city-gazette.co.za
Y
ouths aged between 13 and 15 from the Berea, Yeoville, Bertrams, and the Johannesburg CBD neighbourhood are offered soccer skills training by the Community Football Club at the End Street North Park on Saturdays and school holidays. The club’s coach, Benoit Kayombo, a former Congolese TP Mazembe football club player, holds a SAFA Introductory Course certificate. He says the boys have shown great enthusiasm since they started training in February this year. “Many boys of their age have
been exposed to drugs and alcohol, so playing soccer keeps them away from such social ills,” he says. Kayombo adds that the club has registered to play in the Mayfair soccer league. “The City of Johannesburg is pregnant with talent; we have Messis and Ronaldos here, and the authorities need to help discover talent at local level. It is important for SAFA to expand the soccer development academies in the country. We must start guiding these youngsters at a tender age and build their psychological acumen,” he says. He adds that development is a ‘tripartite alliance’ between
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couches, school teachers and the parents. “If these three elements unite we can build better communities; because discipline remains our major problem as development coaches.” Though the club struggles to get a sponsor, Kayombo says the team has grown dramatically. “If we could have sponsorship, we would extend the coaching service to girls too, as they have also shown interest in playing soccer,” he adds. Youths who are under the age of 15 years who are interested in playing soccer may contact Kayombo on 072 154-0937, or visit the training ground.
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TO MY MOTHER JOYCE NCHEMBE When I think of all the good things in my life. I always start with you Because you ‘re so precious . I couldn’t ask for anything more in a Mum Because you encompass everything I could ever need or want… You’re my mentor, my Confidant, My helper and my Friend.
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A view of Mbombela Stadium during a FIFA World Cup match last year.
Nedbank The winner pockets R6 million and a Cup final’s spot in the CAF Confederations Cup new venue Sports Reporter At a media function this week it was revealed that the Nedbank Cup final will be played outside Gauteng for the first time since the inception of the tournament. The PSL confirmed that Nelspruit’s Mbombela Stadium will stage the final, where the winner will pocket R6 million and a spot in the continental CAF Confederations Cup. PSL CEO Kjetil Siem said upon tender they received very good bids from municipalities around the country. “But in the end the bid received from the Mbombela Municipality was impressive and got the nod.” During last year’s FIFA Soccer World Cup Mbombela Stadium staged four matches, and has since hosted a number of PSL matches. The recent match between BidVest Wits and Kaizer Chiefs attracted 41 222 spectators, which exceeded the record set during the FIFA World
Cup by 7 508 spectators. Andy Scott, head of Nedbank Group Sponsorships said since its inception the Nedbank Cup has had a strong developmental focus. “By taking the 2011 final to Mbombela Stadium we are extending the reach of this prestigious event and exposing the people of Mpumalanga to the magic of the Nedbank Cup.” Executive Mayor of Mbombela, Lassy Chiwayo also expressed his excitement at this year’s venue for the Nedbank Cup Final. “Following the hosting of four World Cup matches at Mbombela Stadium last year we look forward to hosting a match of this magnitude. We welcome all soccer fans to our wonderful venue and we are going all out to make this a momentous occasion,” Chiwayo added. The final will take place on 28 May at 15:00. The PSL will release further details on logistics for the final close to the date of the game.
Winners...Bidvest Wits players celebrate soon after winning last year’s Nedbank Cup.