XPRESS TIMES

Nhaca defends Govender over Rocky Park protest

By Musa Mnyandu

There is a glimmer of hope for service delivery in KwaDukuza, This

comes after Mayor Lindile Nhaca presented the municipality's Adjustment Budget in Council last week, which showed an increase in capital expenditure budget for the fiscal year in progress.

Initially, the Municipality had approved R510 million for capital projects for the Year 2022/23. However, Nhaca explained, this amount has since been adjusted to just over R600 million. This follows the receipt of R109 million intended for flood damage repairs.

Nhaca warns that the Municipality is continuing to incur massive energy related losses, with current figures showing a loss

Ray of hope as KDM ups capital budget

to Council of more than R160 million, which remains a burden for ratepayers and customers.

“Property Rates and Property Rates were increased by an overall R39 million after considering that there are new developments being registered and new rates accounts being opened, and that the midyear property rates category had a positive variance of R11 million from budgeted revenue.

“The savings are a result of the timing of the filling of vacant positions, resignations, and untimely loss of municipal officials.

“The critical posts have been re-evaluated and the recruitment & selection processes are underway with vacant positions to be addressed prior to year-end.

Although the overall employee-related category has been decreased, the overtime budget has been increased by approximately R3 million,” Nhaca said.

Corrupt officials

Mayor Nhaca also touched on the thorny issue of Rocky Park, where invasions occurred recently, resulting in violent protests. The Mayor strongly condemned

certain councillors and municipal officials, whom she accused of colluding with community groups with an intent to cause mayhem and target municipal property. Nhaca added that it was unacceptable to note that there was widespread reluctance amongst members of Council to speak out against the Rocky Park invasions, and the resulting chaos in the area.

“I would like to call all councillors to support the legal process of allocating the human settlements including these flats to the qualifying beneficiaries and original beneficiaries on the list. In the same vein, I will be instructing the Municipal Manager to implement consequences management in order to act on corrupt officials that are party to the invasions at the Rocky Park Flats.

“It is very depressing to have seen circulating video footage depicting a woman

burning an election T-shirt depicting a photo of the Speaker of this august council. This was also part of the Rocky Park protest. Madam Speaker, you do not deserve such treatment, no matter the circumstances. I stand united with you and I call upon all peace-loving citizens in condemning such injustice to women in leadership,” Nhaca said.

Nhaca went on to remind councillors that Council had an obligation to deliver decent housing to deserving beneficiaries, while refusing to entertain those elements whom she described as “opportunists”.

KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca

“Acid suspect” abandons bail amid siege

By Xpress Reporter

The suspect in the gruesome acid attack case has abandoned bail application, amid raging picketing outside KwaDukuza Magistrate's Court. The woman from Charlottedale appeared briefly in court on Wednesday last week, where she was expected to apply for bail. She was arrested following the widely publicized attack on Groutville High School

Thabethe, who was doused with a substance suspected to be dangerous acid. Thabethe sustained serious burn wounds throughout her body, and is currently receiving treatment in hospital.

The woman's two daughters were still being sought by police, in connection with the same matter.

In a picket

General Gizenga Mpanza Region, hundreds of schoolchildren joined ANCYL, EFF and community members to put pressure on the court to deny the woman bail. The case was postponed to April 25. Outside court, protestors called for justice for the victim, whose life has been severely disrupted. ANCYL Regional Secretary Xolani Skade said it was disappointing to see women

being involved in acts of heinous violence, especially against such a young girl.

“As the ANC Youth League in this region we want to see justice happening in this matter. Secondly we want to oppose bail for the accused in this case. Also, we are saying that those who are implicated in this matter, and are still out there, must be arrested, so that justice will be served.

“We are also calling for an end to gender based violence.

We are here with young people to ensure that justice is done, and we want to monitor this case until the end.

“As ANC and the ANCYL we wish to stress that we strongly condemn acts of violence within communities. We wish to encourage and instil in our communities the spirit of tolerance and respect for each other. In the absence of a strong moral compass, incidents such as this one will keep occurring. We urge

people to respect each other, show tolerance and learn to resolve disputes in a civilised manner,” Skade stated.

The protestors were joined by senior leaders, including KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca, ANC Regional Secretary Siphesihle Zulu, Member of the KZN Legislature Phumlile Zulu, ANC REC member Notha Maphumulo and ANC Regional Organizer Thulani Ngcobo, among others.

Uproar over “selective loadshedding”

Community forms committee to engage KDM

By Xpress Reporter

A new committee has been constituted to engage KwaDukuza Municipality over severe loadshedding in the area, with emphasis on why some areas are receiving “preferential” treatment with regard to switching off.

The meeting which was attended by more than 150 people, took place at KwaDukuza People's Park on Saturday, the 25th of February 2023. Wellknown local community activists and businesspeople were part of the meeting.

Residents lambasted KDM over what they described as “intense” loadshedding for KwaDukuza, while neighbouring towns and cities appeared to be enjoying a much better loadshedding regime. Demands were made for KDM, in particular Executive Director for Electrical Engineering Sibusiso Jali, to be more transparent about what appears to be “selective implementation of loadshedding” in the area.

Local councillors also came under fire for their perceived reluctance to assist communities when severe loadshedding happens.

Speaking in a Council meeting held last week, KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca sought to explain the issue of what is generally referred to as “biased implementation” of loadshedding in KwaDukuza. Nhaca told Councillors that she was fully cognizant of the plight of businesses who are adversely affected by implementation of loadshedding during peak business hours.

Nhaca explained that as a result of loadshedding exemptions

granted by Eskom to the local General Justice Gizenga Mpanza regional Hospital and Hesto Harnesses, a perception of bias had grown, with certain individuals capitalizing on the said perception to drive a wedge between the municipality and the community.

“The General Gizenga Hospital has been experiencing technical issues with its in-house generators. Hesto harnesses experienced a similar situation and thereafter wrote a motivation for an exemption on loadshedding.

“Electricity is ordinarily directed from one point of supply, a substation which is connected to a vast network that incorporates households. At this point in time, it would be impossible to isolate electricity from the point of supply to the identified source as well as to households. “The infrastructure is designed with the principle of natural selection and that which favours an approach that is holistic in terms of supply,” Nhaca elucidated.

She added that the same

principle applied to the areas close to Avon Peaking Power Plant, which are also not affected by loadshedding. She said the power plant fed electricity into the national grid, and consequently it require constant supply in order to keep operating and generating electricity to augment the national grid.

“In the Stanger point of supply, Eskom switches off Gledhow, Glenhills and Lavoipierre lines leaving the Priority-1 substation live since there are no switching devices for this substation. I trust this is a clear and sensible explanation of the issue of biased loadshedding,” Nhaca said.

The meeting on Saturday culminated in the formation of a committee to take forward the community's grievances,

On Monday the 6th of March 2023, the committee urges members of the community to join it in handing over a memorandum to the municipal leadership. The handover is planned for 8:30am, with the point of convention being the Civic Building, opposite Absa Bank.

ANC Regional Secretary Siphesihle Zulu, Legislature Member Phumlile Zulu and ANCYL Regional Secretary Xolani Skade are seen with learners outside court

KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca (middle) is seen with protestors outside KwaDukuza Magistrate's Court

Pictured are members of the new committee (from L to r) Nishal Rajdav, Balan Manickum, Ashe Sukdeo, Fazel Essop, Walter Schotter, Etienne Naude and Aslam Moosa. ASbsent from the photo is Jenny Sonar.

Pictured is the crowd that attended the meeting at KwaDukuza People's Park

learner Londi

organized by the ANC Youth League in the

DA concerned about Ilembe

The Democratic Alliance (DA) Caucus in Ilembe Council has recorded its concern, following the departure of Chief Financial Officer, Mahendra Chandulal.

Chandulal, whose contract had expired several moths ago, has been retained on a month-to-month basis, until yesterday (Tuesday, 28 February 2023), when Council was expected to

appoint an acting CFO, while the process to fill in the position gets underway.

DA Caucus Leader in the District Council, Cllr Krsna Sing feels that Chandulal should have re-applied foe

the job, and should have been considered for another term of employment.

Singh has also expressed suspicion that political pressure could have been brought to bear, to force Chandulal out. The position of CFO, Singh argues, remains

Security firms conduct successful foot patrols

critical as it guarantees financial stability and accountability for the municipality.

“The DA believes he turned the finances of the municipality around and had good grip keeping it afloat. The council that relies heavily on grant funding for projects and other expenditure with very little of its own revenue can barely survive if not managed well.

“The DA is concerned that to hire water tankers the budget has increased from R11 million to R 25 million. This includes its own fleet on repairs and maintenance. Another area of concern is security services an increase of R 9.9 million to R 38 million. Are we getting value for money? This two issues will be closely monitored by the DA,” Cllr Sing stated.

The high crime rate in KwaDukuza and surrounding areas is receiving increased attention of late, with local private security companies doing their bit to keep the community safe.

This past weekend saw a huge foot patrol operation being mounted, involving various

security firms. The operation, which was done on Saturday, began at 18:30 and was wrapped up just before 20:00.

The role-players included CPF Sector 3, CPF Sector 4, ADT Security, K2 Security, Ultimate Security, Eye Spy Security, Eagle Eye Security and Black Tiger Security.

The purpose of the operation was to create visible policing

during the high risk periods of loadshedding and to ensure safety of communities, in particular in areas regarded as crime hotspots. The operation focused on areas such as Stanger Manor, Highridge, Oceanview, Warrenton and Windy Heights. The operation was a huge success as no crime was reported in the affected areas during the patrols.

Foot patrol operations involving various security companies kept communities safe during loadshedding

By Xpress Reporter

Outcry over prolonged weekend power outages

By Xpress Reporter

KwaDukuza Municipality has failed to respond and explain the reasons for power outage that lasted for 24 hours, at the weekend. The outage affected several areas in Ward 16. Residents demanded answers on the delay in sending out electricians to attend to the fault.

Some residents said KDM Control Room had informed them that a cherry picker would be required, which meant the fault could not be repaired on time.

What angered the residents the most is that, after 24 hours of blackouts, the electrician reportedly spent just ten minutes to resolve the fault. Residents demanded to know why it took the KDM Electrical Department 24 hours to do a 10-minute repair.

At the time of going to press on Tuesday, KDM had not provided any answers.

Former Mayor appointed acting Municipal Manager

Former KwaDukuza Mayor Thulani Khuluse (pictured) has been appointed as the acting Municipal manager for Maphumulo Municipality. Khuluse, who has pledged to work with staff and Council to improve the lives of the people of Maphumulo, is the Director of Corporate Services for the same municipality.

N2 accident leaves pedestrian dead

By Xpress Reporter

A pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle on the N2 Highway near Salt Rock, on Sunday. IPSS Medical Rescue says the driver of the vehicle, a bakkie, sustained serious injuries during the accident, and had to receive emergency treatment before being transported to a suitable medical facility. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

A pedestrian was killed after being knocked by a vehicle

District

Thobani Shandu has handed over 20 laptops to the Department of Education in Ilembe District. Mayor

Shandu met with District Director Dr Musawenkosi Madondo on Thursday last

By Xpress Reporter

A vehicle hijacked in KwaDukuza on Thursday night was recovered the following day at Hazelmere in Verulam. The Ford Ranger bakkie was reportedly taken at about 22:30, and just after 7am the following morning, a vehicle tracking company provided coordinates for the location of the vehicle to law enforcement agencies.

Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) says its officers,

week, to hand over the computers.

The municipality said ten of the laptops were to be handed over to the District's top ten performers for the Matric Class of 2022, while ten were for use by the Department.

Shandu commended the Department for achieving 83.9% pass rate for the 2022 academic year, while Dr Madondo revealed that Department aims to achieve nothing less than 90% pass rate for the current school year.

By Xpress Reporter

The ANC in the General Gizenga Mpanza Region is mourning the death of Councillor Nkanyiso Nxumalo (37), who was the ward councillor for Ward 15 under Mandeni Local

Municipality.

Cllr Nxumalo succumbed to a short illness on Wednesday, 22nd of February 2023.

ANC Regional Secretary Siphesihle Zulu has described the deceased as a selfless community leader, whose life touched many people within his community.

“We bow our revolutionary banner in honour of his selfless (dedication) to the creation of a just and equal society. He had a short but well lived life. The ANC conveys its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the entire mass democratic movement,” Zulu stated.

Mandeni Local Municipality has also paid a moving tribute to the late councillor, saying he was dedicated to improving the lives of the people of Ward 15.

“As a member of Mandeni Local Municipality Council, Nxumalo never missed an opportunity to represent his people and bring forth their plight in order for them to get much needed assistance.

“The Municipality mourns his passing and wishes to convey its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fellow councillors as well as everyone who crossed paths with his gentle soul,” the Municipality stated.

Hijacked vehicle recovered, suspect in jail

joined by SAPS, converged on the property in question, and found the vehicle parked in the yard. RUSA added that a man was spotted leaving the vehicle and entering a house located a few meters away.

“Officers surrounded the property and apprehended the individual. Fifty log books, vehicle licence disks

and copies of certified identity documents were recovered inside his house. Some of the log books were registered to new models luxury vehicles. Receipts from scrap yards for engines and other vehicle spares were also located. The suspect became evasive during questioning. He is believed to working in conjunction

with crooked employees at licensing offices to re-register stolen and hijacked vehicles,” RUSA stated. The suspect was handed over to Verulam SAPS for further investigation.

The late Cllr Nkanyiso Nxumalo

A Ford Ranger bakkie hijacked in KwaDukuza was recovered in Hazelmere, Verulam

roads a nightmare for motorists

By Xpress Reporter

Xpress Times has been inundated with calls and messages from local residents complaining about the pathetic state of our roads. Many of KwaDukuza roads have become a pure nightmare for drivers, with huge potholes that often remain unfixed for months. Motorists say the roads

pose a serious safety hazard as vehicles are forced to perilously negotiate their way around gaping potholes, while some roads have whole sections washed away, and nothing being done to effect repairs.

On Monday this week, a team from Xpress Times took a drive through some of the surrounding areas where

pathetic roads were photographed by our reporters in areas such as Glenhills, Townview, Rocky Park, Newtown, Oceanview, Indian Village and Stanger Manor. The situation, as depicted in the small collage of photos that we took the liberty to publish, is the same everywhere. Although KDM was given plenty opportunity to explain this pathetic situation and offer a way forward, at the time of going to press yesterday (Tuesday), no response had been received.

KwaDukuza EFF Councillor Thobisile Nkosi, who served as the member of the Executive Council (EXCO), has been sworn in as the new Member of the KZN Legislature. This follows her recent election as the EFF Deputy Provincial Chairperson. Nkosi has resigned as KDM councillor and EXCO member. Pictured is Nkosi (right) being sworn by Legislature Speaker Nontembeko Boyce.

Digital skills for rural youths

The Moses Kotane Institute in partnership with Enterprise Ilembe have agreed to equip the youth of Ndwedwe with digital skills. The agreement was

announced on Friday last week.

Moses Kotane Institute provide various services: •Research and Development Services.

• Economic and Statistical Services

• Knowledge Management Coordination of activities related to strategic sectors.

Pictured are councillors and officials during the announcement of the agreement

Foreign nationals arrested in joint operation

Two foreign nationals were placed under arrest this week, following a joint operation conducted in the area of Ballito. The suspects are accused of preying on elderly single

women in the area.

The operation resulted in the seizure of a Lexus vehicle, 36 pieces of rock cocaine, 3 laptop computers, five cellphones, totalling an estimated value of

R500 000.

The Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations' AntiGang Unit is heading up the investigation, and the operation involved SIU team, Umhlali

SAPS, Durban K9 Unit, National Crime Intelligence and other role-players.

Cassim takes over ailing Eskom

By Xpress Reporter

Eskom has announce the appointment of Calib Cassim as its interim Group Chief executive Officer (CEO), following the controversial departure of Andre De Ruyter last week.

Cassim has been serving as Eskom Chief Finance Office since 2018. He is a registered chartered accountant.

The embattled power utility said Cassim will lead the Eskom

management team until further notice.

“With over 20 years of service in Eskom, his qualifications and extensive experience have provided Mr Cassim with a deep understanding and appreciation of the Eskom business and the electricity industry, especially regarding the challenges facing the financing of operations and future expansion of the industry,” Eskom stated.

Ilembe councillors attend SOPA

Two foreign nationals were nabbed during a joint law enforcement operation

Eskom's interim CEO, Calib Cassim

A number of local councillors were part of the opening of the KZN Provincial Legislature last week, where Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube delivered the State of the Province Address. Pictured (left) is Ilembe councillor Nerish Singh together with Elma Rabe, Member of the Provincial Legislature

Khuzwayo-Dlamini returns as Mayor

Councillor, Zibuyisile Khuzwayo-Dlamini, has been elected as the new Mayor for the Maphumulo Local Municipality.

Councillors voted for a new Mayor during a special council meeting held on Thursday, 23 February 2023 at the Municipal Council Chambers. This followed the ousting of Cllr Siboniso Nyatikazi, through a motion of no confidence.

Khuzwayo-Dlamini is a long-serving member of the Maphumulo Municipal Council, having previously served as Mayor during the 2016-2021 term.

Mayor Khuzwayo-Dlamini thanked the Councillors led by the Speaker of Council, Cllr Sinenhlanhla Chili for entrusting her once again

with the honour of serving the people of Maphumulo.

Khuzwayo-Dlamini has vowed to hit the ground running.

“There is a lot of work that needs to be done, service delivery, and local economic development to create job opportunities for our community is at the top of our priorities. It is my hope that through a united front as Council, we will be able to diligently serve the people of Maphumulo,” she said.

Meanwhile, the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal has welcomed the change of guard at Maphumulo Municipality, saying the IFP Had utterly failed to govern the municipality.

Search for drowned man extended to Tinley Manor

“We must hasten to point out that wherever they are, IFP leaders are all staring at political oblivionconsidering the fact that this is yet another humiliating defeat within three days.

“The crushing defeat has not only disrupted the burgeoning IFP-DA relationship. It is destroying this coalition which represents nothing else but the beginning of ethnic divisions. This was enforced under the apartheid regime especially here in KZN, the ANC said.

Holi Celebration at Sanathan Mundal

The Holi celebration will take place at Shri Sanathan Mundal, at 21 Greyridge Drive, Stanger Heights on Monday the 6th of March 2023, commencing at 6pm.

You are cordially invited to attend this celebration. Enjoy the evening wit songs, music and dance. Meals will be provided.

All are welcome.

For any information, please contact the President Mr Rabi Hanuman on (083) 465-3303.

By Xpress Reporter

Search operations aimed at recovering the body of Phoenix resident Shaun Ramsunder (29) were extended all the way to Tinley Manor Beach late last week, following his drowning while swimming with his friends at Umhlanga Main Beach, early last week. Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) launched its helicopter on Thursday to make a low level sweep between Virginia Beach and Tinley Manor Beach on Thursday.

“According to experts, based on tide and wind

direction, the body could have drifted from the initial scene. The search crew would be using this information and expanding the search between Virginia Beach and Tinley Manor both North and South of the drowning scene,” RUSA stated.

At the time of going to press, the young man's body had still not been recovered.

Newly elected Maphumulo Mayor Zibuyisile Matozi KhuzwayoDlamini

School Buzz

Please preserve wetlands, learners told

By Xpress Reporter

Learners at Gledhow

Primary School had the rare opportunity on Friday last week to learn about wetlands. This came after KwaDukuza Municipality chose the school to host the Wetland Awareness Programme, held under the theme “It's Time for Wetlands Restoration”.

The programme was hosted in collaboration with the KZN Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental

Affairs (EDTEA) and Umgeni Water.

Ms Dudu Ngidi from Umgeni Water explained to the rapt learners the importance of wetlands to the ecosystem, saying they act as a “natural sponge” for ground water, thus ensuring smooth flow of water, in addition to acting as natural purifiers of ground water.

Ngidi stressed that overgrazing, as well as pollution, posed a serious threat to wetlands, and urged learners to act as ambassadors for the

Learners celebrate month of love

Local learner shines at provincial championships

preservation and conservation of these natural features.

She added that destruction of wetlands could lead to less pure ground water, as well as unreliability of water supply.

Gledhow Primary School was chosen because the school was built on a wetland, many decades ago.

Principal Mr K Hansraj thanked KDM, Umgeni Water and EDTEA for bringing enlightenment about wetlands to his school.

Stanger Heights Primary inducts Prefects

A learner from Radha Roopsingh Primary School, Lindelani Praisegod Xaba, has made the school and the entre community of KwaDukuza proud by winning in the KZN provincial athletics championships, in the Under-12 category (100 metres).

The competition was held

on Friday last week, at Kings Park Stadium in Durban./ Xaba was representing iLembe District.

“We are very proud of Lindelani Xaba. This achievement is not only for him but for the whole community of Etete. This goes to show the importance of having sports at school, to expose learners to these opportunities. We may never know, he might grow to become the next Usain Bolt,” stated Principal Mr NV Zungu.

New Prefects for Glenhills Primary

Pictured are the guests, educators led by Principal Mr K Hansraj (back row, 4th from left) and some of the excited learners

Seen is the wetland found behind Gledhow Primary School

Gledhow Primary School inaugurated the school's new Prefects this week. Seen (front row, L to R) is Deputy Head Boy Samkelo Phahla, Head Boy Jevonn Yelulmalai, Head Girl Thandiswa Nxumalo and Deputy Head Girl Beverly Zamanwe. They are seen with educators and Principal Mr K Hansraj (extreme right)

Learners from North Coast Primary School took a moment recently to celebrate Valentine's. Pictured are Grade 3 learners.

Pictured is Lindelani Xaba from Radha Roopsingh Primary School

Glenhills Primary school held their Prefect inauguration on Friday 24 February 2023. Seen with Prefects are members of management and educators.

Stanger Heights Primary School held their Prefect Induction on Friday, 24 February 2023. Seen are prefects with educators, Ms R Sewdular, Mr AM Budhram as well as Heads of Department: Mrs VM Somai, Mrs S Buthelezi, Mrs S Vishnu; Deputy Principal, Dr G Dehaloo and Principal, Mr NG Ngcobo

Classifieds

ACCOMMODATION

Ayer Rock Guesthouse Stanger's preferred choice for quality, tasteful executive accommodation. Contact 032 551 6503 or 071 685 7126. Email ayerrocksa@gmail.com. www.ayerrock.co.za.

Community Notice

Weekly satsangs are held on Mondays from 6:30pm - 7:30 pm.

Shree Hanuman Temple, 19 Rose Road, Stanger Manor. Transport, contact us on 073 152 8910 or WhatsApp us.

FACTORY PREMISES TO LET

Moola Industrial area, 120, 250 and 500 square metre. From R3500 pm. Available immediately. Prepaid electricity.

Contact 082 404 1635

LAND FOR SALE

238 Roja Road Darnall, 493 square metre. Price: R220000 neg. Tel: 066 239 5875, 073 085 3185.

Contact Nishara for all your classifieds, service guides, legal notices, birthday message, memorium, vacancies, etc on 032 552 2165

FLATS TO

PROPERTIES

VACANCY

STORE MANAGER REQUIRED AT BALLITO

-3 Years Liquor experience essential.

-Must have an existing client base.

-Must have a valid driver’s license.

-Must be highly motivated and driven.

Please email CV’s to : admin4@liquorbarn.co.za

VACANCIES

Sales and Telesales Rep Required

-3 Years Bulk Liquor sales experience essential.

-Must have an existing client base.

-Sales Rep must have a valid driver’s license.

-Must be highly motivated and driven.

-Commission based, so unlimited earning potential.

Please email CV’s to : vacancies@liquorbarn.co.za

A vacancy exists at a factory in the Isithebe area for an Electroplating Operator.

Requirements:

* Matric pass or equivalent

*Have previous experience in an electroplating environment

* Be able to work shifts

Cv’s can be emailed to reception@rosati.co.za

Social grants will go up in April, while SRD grant has been extended until 2024

budget speech, last week.

by 5.1% to R1125

• Care dependency grants rise to R2085 from R1985

• Child support grants go up by 5.2% to R505

• Grant-in-aid rises to R505 up by 5.2% National Treasury budget documents said although the SRD grant will continue, government is considering options to provide alternative social protection to those receiving it.

“In 2023/24…R400 million is allocated to the South African Social Security Agency to administer it. Government is still considering alternative options to provide appropriate social protection for the working-age population that can replace or complement the current grant.

“Funds spent on the grant are lower than projected in 2022/23 due to improved means testing,” the department said.

Godongwana was tabling the national

FATS FOODS FATS FOODS Gizenga Street 079 981 5505 LAYERED MASALA LAMB or CHICKEN BIRYANI FRIDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY WITH TENDER LAMB SAMP &SAMBEANS EANS P & B WITH TENDER LAMB R50 L R40 M R75 L R55 M WITH RICE OR BUNNY CHOW LAMB CURRY LAMCURY B R WITH RICE OR BUNNY CHOW

“R66 billion is allocated to Social Development over the medium term, with R36 billion to fund the extension of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress [SRD] grant until 31 March 2024. R30 billion will be used for inflation-linked increases for other social grants,” Godongwana said.

The Minister presented the 2023 National Budget in Cape Town on Wednesday,

The increases to social grants are as follows:

• The old age grant will go up from R1985 to R2085

• The old age grants for those over the age of 75 will increase to R2105

• Grants for war veterans increase to some R2105 from R2005

Treasury explained that in the medium term, social development is expected to receive some R1.1 trillion over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for “social grants and welfare services, and to strengthen advocacy for the empowerment of women, youth and people living with disabilities”.

The child care and old age grants continue to receive the largest proportion of government's spending with the state anticipating growth in beneficiaries over the next three years.

“Expenditure on social grants will increase from R233 billion in 2022/23 to R248.4 billion in 2025/26 due to increases in the number of recipients and the value of the grants.

In the estate of the late PRATHIBHA NURBADH, Identity Number : 5505230105085, Date of Birth : 23 MAY 1955, TH Date of Death : 28 SEPTEMBER 2021 of 14 Mahatma Gandhi Street, KwaDukuza, 4450, Estate No. 4171/2022/DBN.

Creditors and Debtors in the above Estate are hereby required to file their claims with and pay their debts to the undersigned within 30 days from the date of publication hereof.

DATED AT KWADUKUZA THIS 23rd DAY OF FEBRUARY 2023.

DEBBIE PILLAYATTORNEYS

ATTORNEYS FOR EXECUTOR OFFICE 5, INZAR HOUSE 9 LINDLEY STREET KWADUKUZA

LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

Notice is hereby given in terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Deed of Transfer Number T 59042/2004 in favour of MARIA MYEZA, Identity Number 600222 0845 08 5, unmarried in respect of:

ERF 4760 GROUTVILLE REGISTRATION DIVISION FU PROVINCE OF KWA ZULU NATAL IN EXTENT 264 (TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY FOUR SQUARE METRES) which has been lost or destroyed.

within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice.

TH

• Disability grants go up to R2085

• The foster care grant increases

“Excluding the COVID-19 social relief of distress grant, social grant coverage is expected to increase from about 18.6 million beneficiaries in March 2023 to 19.6 million beneficiaries by March 2026,” the department said.

Ilembe adopts Adjustment Budget

Ilembe District Mayor Thobani Shandu

profit sharing set aside by Siza Water for the District Municipality as per the concession agreement.

If it matters to you, it matters to us

Ilembe Mayor Councillor TP Shandu tabled the 2022/2023 Adjustment Budget in a special sitting of council on Tuesday (yesterday), which was subsequently adopted by Council.

times north coast

Other items included the Siza Water Five Year Review and Profit Sharing where Council was appraised of the

times north coast Xpress If it matters to you, it matters to us For best results at discounted rates, contact Ahmed Desai on 083 6900 707 or Cookie on 032 552 2165 Advertising that gets results I am collecting bread tags for school. I need by September 2023. BREAD TAGS WANTED Please drop off at Xpress Times office (12 Lindley Street)

We appreciate your continued support.

Councillor’s Corner

Unacceptable levels of violent crime

The KwaDukuza police precinct tops the list of rape cases, and also recorded the most cases.

According to the (recent) quarterly crime statistics released by the South African Police Service KwaDukuza Police Station appears among the 30 stations with the highest number of cases country wide. Another local station featuring prominently was the Tongaat Police Station.

The number of rape and murder cases reported across Ilembe region is a cause for concern.

KwaDukuza topped the list of rape cases followed by Umhlali, Sundumbili, Nyoni, Ndwedwe, and followed closely by Newark and Mandeni.

KwaDukuza also reported the most murder cases.

The latest being a businessman and just son being fatally shot by alleged armed robbers. Due to the swift response of the local security companies and SAPS an unconfirmed number of suspects were arrested, as they fled the business premises following the alleged robbery.

This incident occurred on a weekday in the central business district of KwaDukuza.

The son sustained a gunshot wound to the head and had to be airlifted to a Durban hospital for specialized medical care. Unfortunately he demised. The father is still in a critical condition having also sustained a gunshot wound to the arm. During a recent cabinet sitting gun violence was highlighted.

A cabinet statement afterwards said recent “heinous and cold blooded attacks” highlight the prevalence of gun violence and its impact on communities.

Cabinet has reassured that the SAPS is being strengthened to prevent crime. This includes putting more police in the streets and setting up specialized teams to focus on specific types of crime. As promised, South Africa will also use data-driven methods in a more sophisticated way to identify and target crime hotspots.

The SAPS is intensifying operations to detect and remove illegal firearms and ammunition from the hands of criminals.

As citizens we anticipate this and await with baited breath to see this unfold as too many innocent lives have been lost. Crime is spiralling out of control.

The Democratic Alliance is horrified by the latest crime statistics which reveal an increase in overall crime while violent crime remains unacceptable.

Cllr Kathleen Naidoo Ilembe Constituency Chairperson.

Collision results in two fatalities

By Xpress Times

Two people were killed after two vehicles collided on the N2 Highway, near the Mandeni off0ramp, on Sunday.

IPSS Medical Rescue has reported that a vehicle travelling south had apparently lost control, before colliding with a vehicle travelling in the opposite direction. The vehicle then rolled about 150 metres.

“On arrival of IPSS Medical it was found that 2 occupants of one vehicle had

sadly declared deceased on scene by medics. A further two passengers were treated by IPSS Medical Rescue's Advanced Life Support paramedics for serious injuries and were transported to a nearby facility for further care.

“One occupant of the second vehicle was treated for moderate injuries and was transported by IPSS Medical to a suitable facility,” stated IPSS Medical Rescue.

At the time of going to press, the cause of the accident was being investigated by relevant authorities.

bring back your lost lover, swollen body, promotion at work and many more.)

INTERNATIONAL SPIRITUAL POWER

Traditional Healer DR LIKONDE 073 344 1114

Only man that can solve your problems with no side effect. Any challenge that you facing in your life Likonde he is the solution. Likonde can help you things like:

* Bring back Lost Lover no matter how long she/he went 1st same day * Boost your business * Court Cases * family matters

* Clean your yard or fortification * Body protection / property * Lotto and casino * Love attraction to have anyone you want in your life * Pass exams * Get a job / replaced to your old job * Lidibo / lucky charm * Body booster and many more

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

THANK YOU MAMA

MEET PRIEST GRAHAM

THE GREAT HEALER

With amazing natural powers he serves his clients with great confidence, intergrity and absolute trust, he is very much dedicated to whatever he does on this field.

He deals with delicate and complex state of affairs within and beyond spherical human life.

* Fractured relationships and long term marriages that are non-functional and completely disconnected.

* Sickness which can’t be traced by medical practitioner.

* He opens and re-install seized and blocked luck so that you can get the most out of your windfall.

* Generation bondage that had blocked your success and destroying your families for a number of years but can’t figure out what it is.

* You are tired and you want to give up on your precious life, everything you try is folding up on you because of the sequence of unexpected difficulties approaching you?

When you fight back their magnitude keeps on increasing without boundaries. Unchain yourself there is always a way out to every situation and Priest Graham is the way out.

Two people died after two vehicles collided near the N2 Mandeni off-ramp

Ocean Queen sponsors iLembe cricket team

Ocean Queen Seafood has sponsored the KwaZulu Natal Premier Cricket League outfit iLembe for all their home game matches played at the Gledhow Cricket ground. This past weekend iLembe took on Berea Rovers in a rain interrupted affair. The match was called off at 1 pm with iLembe on 18 for no loss. New signing Chad Scott was on 12 not out and Mohamed Ismail on 6 not out. President of iLembe Cricket Union thanked Minesh Maraj for his generosity.

Women's T20 World Cup fan park at KwaDukuza Mall

The iLembe hub in conjunction with KwaDukuza Mall and Sanchez Spur hosted the Hollywood Bets Dolphins Woman's team last Friday, 24 February 2023.

The event saw 40 cricketers both

KDVA set to resume 2023 activities

With the constant threat of load shedding, the executive of the KwaDukuza Volleyball Association decided at the council meeting held last week, to resume the commencement of the 2023 volleyball season as early as possible.

The KDVA volleyball academy is scheduled to commence this Saturday, Match 4. Players and coaches wishing to participate are required to meet at the association courts at 10:00.

The competitive league is set to kick-off next week, March 9 with the opening tournament allowing new and all teams to complete their club and player requirements in time.

Also the KwaZulu Natal Volleyball Association is ready to commence with its Super league, opened to interested clubs from all districts registered. All necessary forms are available with the secretary of KDVA.

From left to right: Dolphins Coach and players with President of iLembe Cricket Union Desigan Pillay with KwaDukuza Mall manager Joseph Sebidi

iLembe Cricket team manager Narend Singh collecting lunch for the team from Ocean Queen Seafood

boys and girls from the Mandeni Hub and KwaDukuza Hub enjoy the exciting semi-final with the coach and players from the Hollywood Bets Dolphins team.

Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. Steve

Jobs

Concentrate all your thoughts upon the work in hand. The sun's rays do not burn until brought to a focus.

Alexander Graham Bell

The strongest actions for a woman is to love herself, be herself and shine amongst those who never believed she could. Unknown

Whenever you see a successful woman, look out for three men who are going out of their way to try to block her.

Yulia Tymoshenko

Heroic Proteas fall short

U11 Krish Maharaj Memorial league set to commence

the U11 cricket league in memory of his father.

South Africa's heroic women fell on the wrong side of history at an electric Newlands on Sunday, losing a thrilling T20 World Cup final to the powerhouse Australians by 19 runs. It was always going to be a tough ask against a side that has now competed in seven straight T20 World Cup finals, winning six of them, but the Proteas fought with all they had from start to finish. It was not the result

they or the 14 000 crammed into this iconic cricket venue wanted, but this group had already achieved something that no other South African team - men or women, T20 or 50-overs - could before. This was the first time a senior Proteas had ever contested an ICC World Cup final, and there was a real belief that they could pull off the improbable. Nobody had backed them in their

iLembe District mini cricket coaching / fixtures

Educators are to take note of the following:

1. Each school is required to bring in their Mini Cricket equipment.

2. Educators are to accompany their learners and ensure that they are at the venue punctually.

3. Completion of consent forms for all learners is the responsibility of the educator.

4. Transport is the responsibility of the respective schools.

5. Learners are to bring their own lunch and beverages.

6. Educators will be responsible for the management of discipline of their learners.

7. Parents are most welcome to be present at the sessions. These sessions will be beneficial to learners and will most definitely contribute to their growth and development. It is hoped that all schools will take advantage of this opportunity that has been provided.

Suveer Maharaj, son of the late Krish Maharaj, has once again joined has with the iLembe Primary Schools Cricket league and sponsored

Desigan Pillay, president of the iLembe Cricket league thanked Maharaj for his continued support and his foresight of developing young crickets of the area. The league kicks of this week with six schools participating. The schools are North Coast Primary, Dawnview Primary, Stanger Primary, KwaDukuza Primary, ZMS, Sundumbili Primary and Stanger Manor Primary.

semi-final against England two days before, but the momentum had gathered since then, and that was largely down to the South African cricket public that fully bought in. It would have been a fairytale ending, but despite Laura Wolvaardt's (61 off 48) best efforts, the Proteas could not chase down the 157 they needed for victory. They were 137/6 at the end of their 20 overs.

Cloudy with rain Partly Cloudy Partly Cloudy Partly Cloudy Partly Cloudy

Suveer Maharaj hands the commemoratory shield to President of iLembe Schools cricket Desigan Pillay

The Proteas during the World Cup final