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8 - 15 September 2011

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GDS 2040 FIXTURES PAGE 2

STORIES FROM THE AFRICAN CONTINENT PAGE 5

STAND BY GOD’S WORD PAGE 13

Join celebs in cleaning campaign Shugasmakx (top) and Penny Lebyane (bottom right) will join the city’s cleaning campaign.

SEE PAGE 3

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For distribution in your shop, school, church, building, police station, etc call +27 11 023-7588.

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INNER-CITY GAZETTE

NEWS

8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

GDS 2040 FIXTURES 46 Days to GDS Summit

Death street... the shooting victim lies dead near his car.

PIC : NOSIZWE TSHABALALA

Man shot dead in CBD Police suspect the gunman was hired by rival taxi owners Nosizwe Tshabalala nosizwe@inner-city-gazette.co.za

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n Wednesday morning this week a man was gunned down near the Anderson and End streets intersection in Joburg CBD. Witnesses said the man, believed

to be between 50 and 60 years old, was minding his business when an identified man walked up behind him and shot him twice in the back of his head.

After shooting and killing the man instantly, the suspect got into a white Toyota Cressida and drove off, the

witnesses said. Police said the man was a taxi owner, and they suspect that this was an assassination ordered by rival taxi owners. They recovered two nine millimetre pistol cartridges from the scene.

Warrant Officer Mbhele of the Johannesburg Central police said a

murder docket had been opened, but no arrests have been made yet.

He added that the identity of the victim could not be released since his next of keen had not been informed.

“This is an ongoing investigation and any assistance from the public will be appreciated,” he said.

If you have information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect call 08600 10111 or contact W/O Mbhele on 082 300 2443.

GDS TRANSPORTATION BRIEFS Compiled by Sizwe Mathe

Invest a billion in taxi industry Andrew Baker, a development consultant, said the city’s public transport must be in line with the global city region.

“Firstly we need to throw away the Joburg box and start thinking in terms of global city region – find ways to work within the broader global perspective,” he said.

Baker also took an unprecedented swipe on political leaders: “At the moment we are

led by whims and wishes. We are taking concepts from the outside, forcing them within us – we spend a lot of time trying to be political correct. We need to start thinking of value proposition,” retorted Baker.

“It would have been great to take 1 billion from Gautrain and invest it to the taxi industry. Please politicians listen to people who put you in power,” urged Baker.

Make public transport accessible Structures must be put in place to make public transport accessible to people living with disability. This submission was made

by Muzi Nkosi, the chairperson of the South African Disability Alliance (JADA).

“It is also important to subsidy the taxi industry to stimulate its operations and effectiveness,” added Nkosi.

The GDS 2040 draft document in transport

put the integrated modal plan, walking and cycling as an important mobility choices.

“The city has developed a Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) framework for major areas which will be implemented. This includes walking, cycling, rickshaws, wheelchairs, animal-drawn carts and recreational activities such as equestrian, rollerblades, skates and scooters,” reads the document.

Prioritise road maintenance During an employers and workers dialogue, a role of transport in promoting growth came under the spotlight.

Stakeholders from the private and the public sector agreed that the transport system in the city needs to be integrated.

Inadequate of public transport, role of transportation, and road infrastructure were identified as some of the niggling challenges in the public transport. “The City of Johannesburg was never made for

public transport; its spatial development remains a major challenge for effective transport system,” said Sipho Ndlovu from the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA).

In terms of maintenance, Ndlovu said: “It is useless to build strong infrastructure without investing to its maintenance. Additionally, accessibility remains another major challenge – we do not have the public transport in the city, not all people have access to it,” he remarked.

Transport key to economic growth During a transport dialogue at Park Station Clr Rehana Moosajee said the sector is a vital tool in empowering people.

“Transport issues cannot be discussed in isolation with other sectors, it has the potential to influence economic growth. It is also important to note that government alone cannot address challenges in the

transport sector, it needs the whole society,” added Moosajee.

COSATU Joburg chairman Charles Ryan added that the unsavory relationship between the employers and employees should not be left unattended. “Local government officials must ensure that allocated budget is used to the benefit of all citizens.”

8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

I NNER-CITY GAZETTE

Join celebs

NEWS

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Bravery display

in clean-up campaign

in heist drama

Own Correspondent Inner-city residents are urged to join popular Hip Hop artists Khuli Chana, Shugasmakx and radio and TV personality, Penny Lebyane in cleaning up the City of Joburg on 17 September.

The celebrities have agreed to take time out of their schedules and pitch in for Pikitup. Clean-up Day aims to increase awareness by educating the community about the social, environmental and economic benefits of keeping a clean city. “I enjoy driving and walking in a clean city. It’s good for our health, kids playing in the parks, property value and business,” Shugasmakx says.

“I am a proud South African and the environment is part of my heritage. I am part of the Pikitup Clean City Campaign, because l believe it’s my responsibility as a Jozi girl to do my part and to encourage others to do so,” Penny Lebyane says.

Thirty-three collection points have been identified around the city for Clean-up Day. Members of the public can participate by visiting one of the sites, use the refuse bags and gloves provided and help Pikitup collect litter in and around the area.

“People should dispose of the waste in their house, institution or business establishment in an eco-friendly manner.

Let us all make an effort and pitch in,” Khuli Chana says.

Security officer shot in a brave attempt to apprehend robbery suspects Crime Reporter crime@gazettelive.co.za

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Crime scene...police arrive at the site soon after the robbery.

Circled is one of the guns left by the criminals. PIC : SAPS

n Monday this week a security guard displayed exceptional bravery when he chased armed men who allegedly robbed a construction employer of R46 000 at a site near corner Sam Hancock and Joubert Street Extension in Parktown.

Hillbrow police corporate communications Officer Sgt Jenny Pillay says the employer was getting ready to pay his employees when about seven men burst into his office, pointed guns at him and demanded the money.

“He gave them the money, amounting to R46 000 in cash. As they fled the scene a security guard on the premises chased them and grabbed one of the armed men. The suspect dropped the gun and fled.

“The security guard pursued them and managed to grab a second suspect and disarmed him too. Another suspect then shot the security officer in the stomach, and after that all

of them managed to escape in a blue Toyota Camry,” Sgt Pillay says.

She adds that a Norinco and Vector pistols were found on the scene.

“The firearms have been sent for ballistic tests, and police are investigating an armed robbery case.”

The injured security guard was rushed to hospital in a serious condition, Sgt Pillay added.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects may contact Col Shesoka on tel 082 410 9449.

Meanwhile two suspects were arrested and detained at Hillbrow police station following an incident in which a man was robbed of R200 near corner Wolmarans and Twist streets in Joubert Park early this week.

Sgt Pillay says the victim grabbed both suspects, and police patrolling the area moved in and arrested the two men. “The cash was recovered and the suspects, aged between 27 and 29 face charges of Common Robbery,” Sgt Pillay adds.

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INNER-CITY GAZETTE

LEADER / LETTERS

COMMENT The South African government has appointed a task team to investigate the possibility of restrictions on alcohol advertising.

Scientists have investigated the perception that alcohol advertising causes higher consumption. One study indicated that advertisements are a significant interpreter of a teenager’s knowledge, preference and commitment to alcohol brands.

Young people report more positive feelings about drinking and likelihood to drink after viewing alcohol ads. In a study by marketing analyst Chris Moerdyk a ban on alcohol advertising could cost media companies revenue of up to R1.8 billion a year. An estimated R800 million would be lost to sports sponsorships and development grants, and forfeited marketing expenditure.

Moerdyk found that the ban would cost the SABC about R400 million; DSTV and ETV would lose R500 million; radio, with magazines and newspapers losing R900 million. An estimated 2 500 jobs would be lost, and a loss in VAT of about R280 million. The ban would lead to a short-term drop in branded liquor consumption of 5% to 8%, the research says.

Opponents of liquor advertising claim that alcohol causes accidents, lowers productivity and causes health and social problems.

According to the Centre on Alcohol Marketing and Youth, in addition to parents and peers, alcohol advertising and marketing have a significant impact on youth decisions to drink. The Department of Social Development is championing for this ban.

South Africa is ranked as world’s number 10 for alcohol abuse; this is not a positive reflection about this country.

Sport has been suggested to be a dominant media for promoting alcohol. But it will not be a wise decision to ban it because it has been associated with fun, with liquor accepted as an accessory.

Thanks for catching Bongani ‘We had to live with endless police raids in the streets and in our flats, so much that sometimes we could not even sleep at night’ Hillbrow cops...the community is relieved after they arrested Moyo, the writer says. PIC : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY

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s peace loving member of the Hillbrow community I would like to thank the police for eventually re-arresting the most wanted crime suspect Bongani Moyo.

For a long time the police had been searching for him in our neighbourhood, and we had to live with endless police raids in the streets and in our flats, so much that sometimes we could not even sleep at night.

Some people even died in the search for this man. Since he has now been caught, we are at least

relieved and also hope he won’t be able to escape again this time.

To those who knew where Bongani Moyo was but kept it a secret I must say they need to understand that hiding criminals leads to serious consequences that may badly affect their lives too.

At one time the criminal who was being sheltered suspected that the people who were hiding him were informing the police about his whereabouts. In that period two of that family’s members were shot dead, and it was believed it was that

same criminal who did it, because soon after that he disappeared with some of their belongings.

I would also advise members of the community never to protect people who rob, rape and murder other people, because it is simply wrong to do so.

Whenever you know where wanted criminals are quickly report them to the police so that the criminals can be removed from the community and we live in peace.

I bet no one wants to be robbed, raped or murdered, so let’s make

sure we do not hide criminals in our flats, even if they give us large amounts of money.

Remember that if they give you the money you become his accomplice, because you now have or spend money that was stolen from someone else.

At the same time remember that whoever was robbed may as well have been murdered and their family is grieving while you spend their money. It is just not right.

Babongile Dube Hillbrow

FNB’s Pay2Cell launched Moses Moyo moses@inner-city-gazette.co.za Inner city Gazette bankers, First National Bank (FNB), this week announced its latest innovation, Pay2Cell - a solution that allows FNB account holders to make payments to other FNB account holders using only the recipient’s cellphone number.

A first in South Africa, the solution omits the need to remember long account details and also allows the recipient to keep their banking details private. It is a central part of the bank’s shift to-

Distribution – 40 000 copies free door to door delivery weekly to all households and businesses in the Joburg 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 - 8210 Fax : 086 609 8601 Email : info@inner-city-gazette.co.za Website : www.inner-city-gazette.co.za Printed by Paarlcoldset(Pty)Ltd

8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

Ravesh Ramlakan ,FNB CEO, Cellphone Banking Solutions

wards electronic banking, as it allows a full basket of transactions without either cards or forms.

CEO of FNB Cellphone Banking Solutions, Ravesh Ramlakan says the bank is consistently looking at ways to use technology and innovation to bring convenience, and speed to its customers.

“Our customers no longer need to divulge their account details in order to receive a payment; all they need to do is provide their cellphone number. Peace of mind for our customer is vital to us, Pay2Cell offers our custom-

ers a quick and easy way to make payments instantly,” says Ramlakan.

The bank points out that with the development of such solutions it hopes that more and more customers will use Cellphone Banking. “We have a customer base of 7 million, of whom 3 million are Cellphone Banking customers,” he says.

‘But we are not only aiming to increase the number of Cellphone Banking users – we’re also focussing on providing innovative services to our customers,’ he concludes.

PAY 2 CELL : HOW IT WORKS Dial *120*321# and follow prompts

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8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

INNER-CITY GAZETTE

FOCUS ON AFRICA

Tension ahead of polling Kinshasa - This week police fired teargas to disperse hundreds of protesters who accuse the electoral commission of fraud in the run up to polls later this year.

This is the latest sign of growing tension before general polls in November, the second elections since the last war ended in 2003.

The demonstrators accuse President Joseph Kabila’s party of rigging polls in his favour by allowing for the multiple registrations of voters ahead of the polls.

The electoral commission admits that there are 20 000 duplicate registrations on a voter list of about 32 million people.

Fears over delays and spiralling costs for the poll are also mounting as much of the election equipment is still abroad and international backers, who played a prominent role in the general elections in 2006, are taking less interest in this year’s poll.

The demonstration had been authorised by city officials but police intervened when protesters became violent, according to chief of police Gen Charles Bisengimana.

Joseph Kabila

Govt bans rival party

Yasser Arman

Anti-govt marchers held Luanda - Police have arrested 24 people for mobilising a rally calling for the resignation of President Jose Eduardo dos Santos.

Around 200 youths gathered at Independence Square Jose dos Santos before police arrested a group heading towards the presidential palace.

Dos Santos has held power for over 32 years, and is one of the African leaders who face anti-government Harare - The Libyan amprotests inspired by uprisings in north Africa.

The crackdown left protesters, journalists and sev- bassador to Zimbabwe has left the country ahead of eral police officers injured.

Portuguese news agency Lusa cited one of the pro- the Friday deadline.

Ambassador Taher Eltest organisers as saying police acted with brutality.

Dos Santos’ MPLA party, which in 2002 won the 27 magrahi and staff drove to year-long civil war against UNITA; and obtained 82 Botswana on Thursday, afper cent of the vote in the 2008 general election, has ter securing transit permits long been accused of mismanaging the country’s oil to go into South Africa.

Deputy PM Arthur Murevenues. An estimated two-thirds of Angola’s 16.5 million people live on less than $2 per day in Africa’s tambara and Prof Welshman Ncube of the MDC second-largest oil producer after Nigeria.

The opposition UNITA accuses the government of -N have defended ZANU stripping the national elections committee of power. PF’s decision to expel the ambassador for defecting

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NEWS

Khartoum - The government has banned the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) party, closed its offices and arrested its leaders, as fighting continued in a key stronghold of the SPLM-North.

SPLM spokesperson Yasser Arman gave a list of leaders who have allegedly been arrested since Tuesday in places including West Darfur, Gezira, North Kordofan and Sennar.

“This was planned with the aim of eliminating the SPLM as a major democratic force in north Sudan,” Arman said.

Members said the government shut down all the offices of the party’s northern branch, including the one in Khartoum. Rabia Abdelati of the information ministry said there is no party that is called the SPLM in Sudan. The ex-rebel movement is now the ruling party of South Sudan, which formally split from the north on July 9, after decades of devastating conflict. Sudan’s deputy information minister, Sanaa Hamad, confirmed that Khartoum had declared the SPLM illegal in the north, saying it was not a legally registered political party following southern secession.

Talks to end civil war

Libyan ambassador leaves to the National Transitional Council (NTC). The expulsion of the envoy was a unilateral decision that exposed the divisions within the unity government and the MDC formations.

Ambassador Elmagrahi and members of his staff were given 72 hours to leave Zimbabwe after declaring their support for the NTC in Libya. ZANU PF officials said Zimbabwe does not recognize the

NTC as the legal authorities in Tripoli.

Mutambara and Prof Ncube have defended ZANU PF’s decision, saying Elmagrahi lost his diplomatic status by hoisting the rebel flag. The MDC-T of PM Morgan Tsvangirai disagreed with the move.

Sharif Ahmed

Mogadishu - Leaders have attended a reconciliation conference in an effort to end 20 years of turmoil and set up plans for a new government.

AU peacekeepers were deployed around the talks venue in the capital on Sunday.

President of the transitional government Sharif Ahmed said it was an historic event that would bring credible ideas to end Somalia’s troubles.

Also attending the conference were the president of Somalia’s breakaway Puntland region, Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud; the leader of the semi-autonomous central Galmudug region; and members of a pro-government Sufi militia, Ahlu Sunna Wal Jamaa.

However, neither Somaliland, which broke away in 1991, nor al-Shabab fighters, who fled Mogadishu but control most of the south and centre of the country, were represented at the meeting. The talks focused on improving security, national reconciliation, a new constitution, governance and parliamentary reforms.

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COMMERCIAL

INNER-CITY GAZETTE

8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

Eating place

for all kinds Nosizwe Tshabalala and Duduzile Choba news@inner-city-gazette.co.za

A

mong the eating places that attract many customers in the Joburg CBD is Mzitho’s Kitchen.

This eatery started 17 years ago by Muzi ‘Mzitho’ Mzizi. He says he began his business by pushing a trolley in Braamfontein, selling boerewors rolls.

“I did that for about seven years before I found premises I could lease on Reservation Street in Braamfontein. After operating in Braamfontein for several years I realised that more people in the Joburg CBD wanted and loved the food.

I then opened a branch in Rissik Street to cater for those people.”

He says he has managed to open three branches in Johannesburg and one in Pretoria, which has created jobs for over 25 people.

“We also feed the needy in the surrounding areas,” he adds.

He explains that the essence of his service is to cater for everyone, from the person washing cars on the streets to the one who owns businesses.

“Our prices are reasonable enough for everyone to afford, portions are generous and the food is well presented, with the pap on a separate plate from the meat and salads. The service is great, the cooking staff and cashiers are very friendly.”

Mzitho’s Kitchen can be reached through tel +2711 339 4370 .

I NNER-CITY GAZETTE

7

COMMUNITY

Internships for city students Sizwe Mathe sizwem@inner-city-gazette.co.za

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he Inner-City Gazette newspaper has agreed on a three month contract with Jeppe College to provide internships for courses that include graphic design, marketing and journalism to their students.

Currently under the internship programme are 11 students; three from Damelin College in Braamfontein and eight from Jeppe College.

The paper’s MD, Sithembile Peaceful says the newspaper took it upon itself

to provide a platform for the students to hone their skills.

“It remains our objective to contribute towards job creation and skills development. Our team takes the students on a journey of practical learning. We are willing to accommodate these students and are optimistic that they will take advantage of the opportunity we provide,” she says.

Even though the newspaper does not have a substantial budget, she says the experience gained during the period of internship can open doors for the students in their respective careers.

She also cautions the students against complacency. “They should focus on their studies with a positive attitude and work hard,” she says.

Jeppe College journalism intern Dintle Motlala says: “I cannot wait to take advantage of the opportunity, and I am hopeful that my stay will not end after the internship period,” she adds.

The newspaper started offering internships last year when it took in students from around the inner-city.

For more details contact the publisher on 011 023-7588 or e-mail publisher@ inner-city-gazette.co.za

Interns Zinhle Phakathi (above) and Sithembile Hadebe (bottom).

Self styled footwear manufacturer Dorothy Mabelebele dorothy@inner-city-gazette.co.za

H

aving failed to secure employment Paul Langa (pictured left) came up with an idea that involved repairing shoes, and later started manufacturing them.

Langa designs and manufactures traditional shoes and sandals from a small room in the Metro Mall in Simmonds Street.

He says he no longer wants to do anything else for a living except design and make traditional shoes.

“This has become my sole business. Here customers find different kinds of traditional shoes, and they may as well buy on credit as I allow deposits,” he says.

Langa says he had to do this because he had to support his family.

“I could not just sit and do nothing because I had not found a job. What I do now puts food on the table for my family and they never go hungry,” he adds.

Langa says in winter few customers buy his products, which makes it difficult for him to pay the rent.

“I also have to pay my assistants, and also buy materials which I use to make the shoes, so it is not easy but I cannot give up,” he adds.

He also urged young people to start their own business rather than stay at home doing nothing, or commit crime. “Starting a business is not easy because you may need money to cover for the necessary inputs. If you do not have the money you may ask the banks to lend you some, and start from there,” he explained.

Langa can be reached through telephone 072 691 3894.

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INNER-CITY GAZETTE

NEWS / FEATURES

8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

MZALA’S THOUGHTS Jabu Nxumalo

Skorokoro of a city I suppose it is only ‘world class’ in Rosebank and Sandton

Wits University student Mzwandile Sobantu (left) and SANCA spokesperson Freda Dibetso (right address the gathering. PIC : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY

Drug awareness drive ‘Drug dealers should be sentenced to death’ Dintle Motlala and Sizwe Mathe news@inner-city-gazette.co.za

T

his week Hillbrow community organisation MES hosted a drug awareness campaign at the BG Alexander Hall.

The event was attended by stakeholders who included SANCA Rand Central, New Life Centre, Hillbrow SAPS and Wits University social work students.

Andrew Foster, a former drug addict, said the introduction of drug tests in high schools will assist to

reduce drugs abuse. “Drug addicts are never happy, they are always angry, but they need assistance from friends and family,” said Foster.

He added that during his 10 year drugs ordeal he spent more than R 800 000. He submitted that drug dealers should be arrested, tried and once convicted sentenced to death.

“Such people are murderers; many lives have been lost, kids commit suicide and families perish; they do not deserve to be part of our society,” he added.

MES spokesperson Kevin Mnone

hailed the campaign as a success.

“We need to build close relationships with all stakeholders in the inner city, increase awareness about drug abuse and establish a drugs centre in Hillbrow,” he said.

Mzwandile Sobantu, a Wits University student, encouraged the youth to participate in sport. “It will keep them away from the cruelties of street life,” he added.

Freda Dibetso, SANCA Central Rand social auxiliary worker said drug addicts must utilise drug rehabilitation centres around them.

“Let us unite against drug abuse; it is a complex problem which needs innovative solutions,” she said.

Phillip Takawira, Joburg New Life facilitator, said his organisation has dealt with women and children using drugs to stimulate prostitution.

“Saving one life of an addict will make a huge difference,” he added.

For more details contact, New Life: 011 024-4128, SANCA: 011 0520406 and MES: 011 725-6531.

Report any suspicious drug dealings anonymous via SMS to 32211 or call crime stop 08600 10111.

Survival from recycling DTI says this provides great opportunities for unskilled workers

Zinhle Phakathi zinhle@inner-city-gazette.co.za

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Full load...a man drags his trolley to the recycling depot PIC : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY

any poor people survive from collecting and selling waste materials to recyclers. Those are men and women who collect recyclable materials from the streets, dustbins and landfill sites; and take them to recycling agents, where they sell them.

The waste material collectors can earn between R20 and R150 a day for salvaging waste materials. For most of them this is their only source of income, with the unemployment rate at 20.7% in South Africa.

The Department of Trade and Industry says this provides great opportunities for unskilled workers, as the recycling industry could provide about 350 000 jobs.

One of the waste material

collectors is a Soweto man who declines to be named.

He says for a long time he had been looking for a job but could not find one as he did not have the necessary qualifications.

“I then came to the Joburg CBD to do this job. My wife and children think that I have good job, they do not know that this is what I do. I leave home every Mondays dressed in a suit and tie so that my family and the community won’t know what I do for a living. I hide my overalls in a bag. When I get to town I go into the public toilets and change. I sleep under a bridge or anywhere else until Friday. After getting paid about R500 or more for the week I go home,” he says.

For information regarding a pilot recycling project call Pikitup on 011 712 5200 or email info@pikitup.co.za

The other day I was sitting in SAMWU offices in Frederick Street when all was revealed about how Jozi has deteriorated. Looking towards Faraday Station there is this deserted white building with broken windows, surrounded by many buildings of similar nature - neglect.

This is a different picture from the picturesque view of Jozi that one gets when approaching the city from either side of the M2 highway. The façade that is the ‘world class African city’ proudly embossed in the offices of the city council in Braamfontein dissipates in the cold winter air of Jozi.

This depressing picture stayed with me as I left SAMWU offices driving towards Jeppestown. This sight is similar throughout, be it Joubert Park or Doornfontein, which must now be aptly renamed Masakaneng. Dilapidated and neglected buildings seem to be the order of the day. Fattis Mansion in Jeppe and Loveday streets, once popular with the middle class, is now a shadow of its former self. I was happy though to see Monnis Mansion, just across the road, getting a facelift. But it seems to be one in a million.

One does not know what the plan is for the Carlton and Joburg Sun hotels, which were once the pride of Jozi.

There are many buildings facing a similar fate as these structures I have just mentioned; and Hillbrow - where do I start? I personally haven’t heard any word of comfort from the authorities about the future of these building, some quite monumental like the former post office in Rissik Street.

My heart bleeds when I think about once beautiful structures that lit the skyline of Hillbrow when, for example, Abel Road was still it. Ponte City and High Point to mention but two were once the envy of the city. Today they are headquarters of slime and grime.

I mean there is this cream white building in Jeppe and Rissik street that has stood empty and locked since, I kid you not, 1992 and is now brown.

Such is mind boggling in the context of a housing problem or rather crisis in the city. Again maybe I have been sleeping, but have not heard a murmur from the city officials.

Of course I have heard and observed some efforts to rejuvenate the city by turning some of these building to flats, but how many have succeeded?

Let’s give it to the big capitalists the banks. While milking poor citizens dry with their exorbitant prices, they have at least maintained some sanity in Jozi, with some new aesthetic structures. But of course this is informed by their selfish accumulation patterns, and therefore not an innocent investment to the city but, yes of course, better than having the sore sight of Fattis Mansions, even though these don’t address the housing problem.

I’m crying out to the city authorities to share with us their vision for the city in as far as these derelict buildings are concerned. What were the leanings of the Mayor’s recent trip to New York?

I’m no city planner or architect, but if this problem is not arrested now, I foresee a bleak future which might entail demolishing a huge number of these buildings. And that might just be a better option than this skorokoro we are forced to live in. I suppose it is only ‘world class’ in Rosebank and Sandton. jabu.nxumalo@gmail.co.za

8 - 15 SEPTEMBER 2011

I NNER-CITY GAZETTE

Ward 64 clean-up campaign Sizwe Mathe sizwem@inner-city-gazette.co.za

I

n response to the call to volunteer cleaning their neighbourhood this week Berea residents cleaned the Alec Gorschel park.

Speaking during a clean up campaign at Ward 64 Councillor Phineas Madisha warned communities against littering and vandalising facilities, and warned criminals that their time in the park has ended.

The campaign was attended by community members, City Parks

COMMUNITY

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‘Parks must be locked during the night to avoid vandalism, they should not be a haven for criminals’

and representatives of the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU).

Parts of Pretoria Street in Hillbrow were cleaned and illegal advertising posters removed.

The campaign was a culmination of Monday meetings held in the ward, and is part of an ongoing programme to last until December this year.

Clr Madisha said the programme entails cleaning, health, and crime awareness campaigns.

“The formal proposal will be made to City Parks to introduce full time security guards. All parks must be locked during the night to avoid

Gunman nabbed in high-speed chase Crime Reporter crime@gazettelive.co.za This week Hillbrow police arrested a 32 year-old man for possession of an unlicensed firearm after a high speed chase in the neighbourhood streets.

Corporate communications officer Sgt Jenny Pillay says police officers patrolling in Berea noticed a suspicious vehicle in Tudhope Avenue and ordered the driver to pull over.

“But the vehicle sped off, and the officers chased it up to Yeoville, where they finally caught up with the driver in Webb Street,” she says.

Sgt Pillay adds that upon searching the man they found him in possession of an unlicensed Norinco pistol and six live rounds of ammunition.

“The suspect also could not give any explanation as to where he obtained the firearm, and was arrested.”

She adds that the suspect was profiled and linked to violent crimes.

“Investigations continue and the firearm has been sent for ballistic examination. The suspect faces charges of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.”

ARRESTS BY HILLBROW POLICE BETWEEN

29 AUG AND 5 SEPT Assault GBH-19, Assault Common 24, Fraud 4,Theft 13, Dealing in Dagga 1, Possession of firearm 4, Business Robbery and attempted murder 1, Robbery with other weapon 2, Intimidation 2, Theft and bribery 3, Possession of Drugs 7, Counterfeit copyright Act 5, House breaking and Theft 4, Malicious damage to property 9, Shoplifting 5, Perjury 1, Reckless and Negligent Driving 7, Robbery Common 10, Driving without license 3, Attempted theft of motor vehicle 1, Rape 3, Possession of dangerous weapon 4, Drunk and Driving 3, Business Robbery 1, Dealing in suspected stolen cable and bribery 1, Possession of suspected stolen property 5, Trespassing 1, Attempted murder 1. And illegal immigrants 27, and B crimes (which include loitering, public drinking, and gambling) is 36.

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vandalism, they should not be a haven for criminals.

Government has provided us with facilities; therefore it is our responsibility as the community to safeguard them. If there are criminal activities taking place in the park, report them to the poClr Madisha (front row red top) poses with the residents. PIC : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY lice,” he added.

Clr Madisha called for comwe thank all of them for their con- malo, commended the councillor munity participation in other cam- tribution,” he added. for mobilising the cleaning up of paigns to come. “We will engage ZAPU spokesperson Busani Bha- the park. with urban inspectors to ensure that lagwe said through such campaigns, “All we need now is to support the all buildings in the ward comply the councillors are able to commu- campaigns,” he added. with city bylaws. The response we nicate with foreign nationals.

Ward 64 covers Berea, Bertrams, received from the business commuA resident, who stays next to the Highlands and Yeoville. For more nity in the ward is commendable; Alec Gorschel park, Mafisa Nxu- contact Madisha on 071 542 7791.

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Sublime magic comes to Joburg

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African story contest Arts Correspondent

A

Arts Correspondent

G

rammy-nominated songstress Tori Amos (pictured left) will be performing in Johannesburg this November, as part of her international Night of Hunters tour.

The flame-haired Amos shot to fame in the early 1990s as an alternativerock singer-songwriter who used the piano as her primary instrument.

She has achieved international renown for her searing and painfully honest lyrics, and also her willingness to experiment sonically and thematically, selling more than 12 million records worldwide and picking up eight Grammy nominations in the process. Among her many recognisable songs are the hits Professional Widow, Crucify and Silent All These Years.

Amos is also a noted humanitarian a co-founder of RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), an anti-sexual assault organisation.

Her latest album, Night of Hunters, is due in September and it looks set to continue her legacy of groundbreaking recordings, inspired by selected classical pieces spanning the last 400 years.

She says she has used the structure of a classical song cycle to tell an ongoing, modern story. “The protagonist is a woman who finds herself in the dying embers of a relationship.

In the course of one night, she goes through an initiation of sorts that leads her to reinvent herself, allowing the listener to follow her on a journey to explore complex musical and emotional subject matter. One of the main themes explored on this album is the hunter and the hunted, and how both exist within us,” she explains.

Her Night of Hunters tour kicks off in Helsinki, Finland on 28 September and will take in several cities across Europe as well as the US. Her South African dates are presented by Charl van Heyningen Enterprises, a classical promoter who recently branched out into bringing out non-classical artists such as folk singer Imogen Heap, who enjoyed sold-out concerts in Joburg earlier this year.

Van Heyningen says the aim is to bring out artists of substance, rather than commercial acts that the larger promoters generally focus on.

“I believe discerning South African audiences will be thrilled to see an artiste of Tori Amos’s exceptional stature on our stages. Rolling Stone magazine has voted her one of the best live performers of all time, so we can expect something special from her performances.”

These solo performances will take place on 12 and 13 November at the Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Casino; and on 17 November at the Grand Arena, GrandWest Casino.

THE ARTS

Gcina Mhlope has dedicated her life to preserving African storytelling as a means of keeping history alive and encouraging literacy in South Africa.

s part of the the Sibikwa arts centre’s Stories Without Borders Festival from 17 to 20 September the organisation will host a story telling competition.

Renowned South African storyteller Gcina Mhlope will demonstrate the magical art of storytelling, before immersing herself in the craft of others.

She will preside as a guest judge during the competition. Influenced by her grandmother’s tales when she was a child, Mhlope has dedicated her life to preserving African storytelling as a means of keeping history alive and encouraging literacy in South Africa.

Any one may enter the storytelling competition, as long as they are 15 years or older. Stories, which can be told in any of the official South African languages, must be less than seven minutes long. Entry is R25 and prizes are: 1st prize: R2 500; 2nd prize; R1 500; 3rd prize: R1 000; most promising: R500.

The festival, which aims to highlight the important role of the ancient tradition of storytelling; the lifeblood of every culture, includes professional storytellers from South Africa and the continent.

These include Theogene Niwenshitu (Rwanda), Paulo Xavier Zun-

guene (Mozambique) and Krista Komba (Tanzania). In addition to the storytelling, plays, musicals and workshops will keep young and old enthralled.

These include Kwela Bafana, a musical story bringing to life the sights and sounds of South Africa in the 50s, directed by Sibikwa founders Phyllis Klotz and Smal Ndaba, with musical direction by Themba Mkhize and choreography by Todd Twala and the award-winning Door, a play of stories and dreams, presented by Ubom!

Eastern Cape Drama Company.

There will also be a spontaneous show by Clowns Without Borders; local favourite stories told by professional storytellers as well as stories and songs from faraway places; fun time – face painting, jumping castles, candy floss and clowns and The Land of the Cranes, an adventure into the African Serengeti presented by Ubom! Eastern Cape Drama Company.

There will also be Tlou, The Elephant Story, a story about the life of a young African elephant, presented

by Bontekanye Botumile from Botswana; open mic slots, a chance for you to tell your story; and teachers’ workshops on the power and importance of play and the use of drama as an effective teaching tool.

For more call 011 422 2132.

Talented dancers grace the Hotel production...Fana Tshabalala and Thandi Tshabalala (left) and Muzi Shili with Fana (right).

Voyeuristic view at the hotel An exciting multimedia piece that fuses an array of dance styles with visual and theatrical storytelling Arts Correspondent

E

xpect dance with a fanciful twist when Mark Hawkins’ acclaimed new work Hotel checks in for a two-week run at the Market Theatre from 27 September to 9 October.

Earlier this year, audiences at the 2011 Dance Umbrella witnessed the premiere of this genre-crossing piece, which was commissioned for the festival by Moving into Dance Mophatong (MIDM).

Hawkins has since further shaped and developed Hotel into a more fully rounded state-of-the-art multimedia production for the forthcoming season, which is co-pre-

sented by the Market Theatre and MIDM. The production features some of MIDM’s most talented dancers, complete with hightech audiovisuals (courtesy of PENMAC), music composed by Philip Miller, set design by Andrew Botha, lighting design by Nic Michaletos and costumes by Robyn De Klerk.

Hawkins, a respected and decorated choreographer known for his boundary-busting work with the Fantastic Flying Fish Dance Company, has now created an exciting new multimedia piece that fuses an array of dance styles with visual and theatrical storytelling.

“It’s been about 10 years since Flying Fish

was last at the Market Theatre, and I’m really looking forward to returning with a full-scale work. Hotel combines dance theatre and visual theatre. The starting point of my work is not about choreography or finding a new style or step; it’s about creating a picture,” Hawkins says.

This he certainly achieves in the hour-long Hotel, an intriguing, atmospheric and often amusing work that draws inspiration from French poet Guillaume Apollinaire’s poem of the same name.

It is crafted around the notion of a hotel with different rooms housing different stories. Hawkins says life always happens in compartments and usually the true stories of

life take place behind closed doors.

“People, thoughts and ideas check in and check out, and our mind becomes our hotel, a place shrouded in secrecy and anonymity,” Hawkins adds.

This engaging work mashes up styles, influences and eras with a theatrical flourish, and should appeal to anyone who values innovative, genre-crossing entertainment.

MIDM is funded for HOTEL by the National Lottery Distribution Fund, the National Arts Council of South Africa and Rand Merchant Bank.

The production runs at the Market Theatre’s Main Theatre in Newtown from 27 September to 9 October 2011.

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SPORT

Two Oceans marathon registration opens soon The event is expected to attract yet another record field Sports Correspondent

O

Bakkies Botha needs to recover soon to get ready for more difficult matches.

Boks won’t risk Botha He may not play against Wales because he is worth way too much for the rest of the competition

Brenden Nel

S

pringboks assistant coach Dick Muir has confirmed that Bakkies Botha would be sitting out the opening match against Wales, because he suffers from acute chronic tendonitis, a recurrence from an old Achilles’ heel injury he suffered a few years back.

Botha will be conspicuous in his

absence from the side, leaving Danie Rossouw to partner Victor Matfield at lock.

Muir said the Boks knew the value of their big lock, and were keen to have him fit for the rest of the competition. If that means missing the opener, then so be it.

“He is struggling with his Achilles, but he is such a big man and obviously puts a lot of pressure on it. Bakkies is so important for

us in the remainder of the competition that we won’t be taking any unnecessary chances with him. We’ll take it week for week, but I think he will be out for this week,” Muir said.

Muir added that other injured players like flanker Schalk Burger, deputy captain Victor Matfield and winger Bryan Habana are already expected to be available for selection. supersport.com

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nline entries for the 2012 Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon, open on 5 October 2011.

The event takes place on 7 April 2012, and is expected to attract yet another record field if this year’s figure of over 30 000 entrants across all the distances is anything to go by.

This year the entry process is split.

From 5 October 2011, participants will be able to enter online for the 56km ultra marathon and the fun runs only. Entries for the 21km half marathon will open on 9 November, which is also when entry forms for both events will be available in sports stores around the country.

Entries for the trail runs will open on 18 January 2012, and trail enthusiasts wanting to secure their spot in this event will need to enter as soon as possible, as entries sold out in less than a day for this year’s event.

Due to a renewed interest among the ultra marathon running fraternity, participants are encouraged to get their qualifying marathon done as soon as they can, and to submit their entry to avoid disappointment.

The qualifying window is 1 September 2011 to 7 March 2012.

South African entrants wanting to run the ultra marathon must belong to a registered running club and have a valid provincial licence number, as no temporary licences will be issued for the 56km event.

The race organisers have also extended the seeding times for the various starting batches and introduced a new route for the first ten kilometres of the half marathon, which will see participants make their way to the M3, up Edinburgh Drive and back onto the old route in Constantia, which will help to alleviate the congestion experienced at the start.

Online entries close on 7 March 2012 or when 16 000 entries for the half marathon and 11 000 for the ultra marathon are reached; whichever comes first.

Participants may enter online at www.twooceansmarathon.org.za.

Alternatively, entry forms can be downloaded from the website, or picked up from leading sports shops and running clubs countrywide from November 2011.

The race office is also excited to announce that runners will now be able to downgrade, upgrade, substitute or do seeding changes online, at the event’s new website. supersport.com

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PSL appoints new prosecutor Sports Correspondent

Derby day at FNB...the new train service is expected to ferry more soccer fans to FNB stadium.

PICS : INNER-CITY PRESS AGENCY

Free transport to derbies A minimum of 10 trains have been secured to provide an express service with minimal stops to ferry at least 2 000 passengers per train to Nasrec Station Soccer Correspondent

T

he Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has reached an agreement with Stadium Management South Africa to provide train services for the next two Soweto Derbies at FNB Stadium.

According to the agreement PRASA will provide free train services to valid match ticket holders for the two September derby games on the 10th and 17th respectively.

PRASA spokesperson Lucky Montana said they have taken this initiative with Stadium Management South Africa to provide reliable, safe and convenient service to ensure that soccer lovers travel in the same manner of comfort as they experienced when they went to watch matches during the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. “It is our intention to get South Africans moving by using passenger rail not only for work travel, but also for social travel,” he said.

Valid ticket holders will be able to park their vehicles free of charge at PRASA stations and travel on the train to FNB stadium.

“We have ensured that all security measures are in place at both our stations and inside our trains so that our passengers can enjoy their journey with peace of mind,” Montana added.

He explained that valid match ticket holders will be able to catch the train at the main hub stations,

Pretoria Station, Centurion Station and Johannesburg Park Station. The routes covered by the train journeys include Pretoria, Springs, Johannesburg, Naledi and Vereeniging.

A minimum of 10 trains have been secured to provide an express service with minimal stops to ferry at least 2 000 passengers per train to Nasrec Station, which is only a five

minute walk from the FNB Stadium and back.

PRASA, through its operator Metrorail, has provided final timetables and routes for the MTN 8 Final scheduled for Saturday. Valid Match ticket holders can however expect the last train for the MTN 8 Final to arrive at Nasrec at 19:30; 45 minutes before kick-off.

“We will ensure that our technical team is ready to receive and ferry passengers to the game in a hassle and congestion free fashion to and from Nasrec Station through our dedicated Metrorail Service. We will continue to provide a service that is exactly the same as that provided during the 2010 FIFA World Cup” added Montana.

Advocate Ntietso Mofokeng (pictured above) has been appointed as the PSL’s new head of legal matters.

PSL CEO Zola Majavu said Mofokeng formerly occupied the position of Group Executive: Legal Services, at the SABC. She will serve as the PSL prosecutor as well, taking over from Majavu. Mofokeng’s qualifications include: LLM (UNISA); LLB (National University of Lesotho); BA (Law) (National University of Lesotho); ICSA Diploma in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance (UNISA); Nedbank Management Development Programme (University of Stellenbosch).

The PSL also appointed Luxolo Mantambo as media manager. He will work in the League’s PR department, responsible for the website and exploring new media avenues. Mantambo previously worked for FIFA in their New Media Division as well as their Communication and Public Affairs Division.