XPRESS TIMES

Flood damage repairs get underway

Ominous warning for sloppy contractors

KwaDukuza Municipality will be taking decisive action against contractors who perform poorly on infrastructure projects. This was the ominous warning issued by the Mayor of KwaDukuza, Lindile Nhaca on Friday last week, when she handed over nine projects to contractors worth R38 million for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of infrastructure which collapsed in April 2022 as a result of floods.

“Contractors who perform poorly on municipal projects will be put to task as we no longer want to commit our money for waste. Shoddy workmanship and delays will become a thing of the past as we have taken a no-nonsense approach in dealing with contractors. The council will be dealing harshly with such tendencies as they amount to nothing but wasteful expenditure.”

Mayor Nhaca urged the community to be agents of their projects by reporting theft in construction sites, acts of intimidation and shoddy workmanship.

“We don't want a situation where these projects come to a point of deterioration within a period of three or twelve months - we strongly believe that such infrastructure projects are worth a lifespan of at least 25 years. We will spare no effort nor show remorse when dealing with poor workmanship. The council will

closely monitor the implementation of these projects to ensure that their quality is of high standard and delivery is made on time. We urge the community to safe-guide these projects and report acts of intimidation by those who constantly disrupt contractors on sites.”

Within the R38 million funding towards the nine projects, more jobs will be created and more opportunities will be open for local sub-contractors.

Mayor Nhaca spent the best part of the day delivering nine projects accompanied by a delegation of councillors as part of their oversight responsibilities. The following projects were handed over to communities:

• Yellowwood Industrial Area Bridge, Ward 16

• Sugra & Mbozamo Bridge, Ward 17

• Stormwater culvert bridges, Mfecane St, Ward 18

• Smithers Bridge, Ward 19

• Venus drive for the upgrade Culverts, Ward 26

• Kwamfonomdala Bridge, Ward 20

• Nkobongo Bridge, Ward 08

• Shisampama Pedestrian Bridge, Ward 28

• Etsheni Wooden Bridge, Ward 21

In July 2022, KwaDukuza

Municipality was allocated grant funding to the value of R109 million towards the rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads, storm-water and bridges that were damaged by floods.

TOUGH: KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca (centre) says shoddy workmanship will not be tolerated

REPAIRS: Ward 17 Councillor Tarzan Naicker speaking at the launch of the project to repair Mbozamo Bridge

ZMS learners excel in National Olympiads

Zakariyya Muslim School makes every effort to afford learners the opportunity to participate in a wide range of co- and extra- curricular activities. Though the previous two years had placed great limitations in such participation, this year the School ensured that learners were exposed to several sports and academic activities in which the

learners excelled.

In Term 3, learners from Grades 7 to 10 participated in the South African Mathematics and English Olympiads respectively. Just recently, the school received the good news that four learners had performed outstandingly in these prestigious national contests.

Sameera Vadia and Muskaan Ahmed Younus of

Grade 9 were placed joint second in the Top 5 performers of the Grade 9 category of the Mathematics Olympiad and Ziyaad Vally of Grade 10 was placed fifth in the Grade 10 category of the Top 5 performers.

In the English Olympiad, Azhar Bassa of Grade 8

performed exceptionally well and was placed joint second in the Top 5 performers in this category. All of these learners performed outstandingly to be placed in the Top 5 of respective categories. Learners from several Model C and Private Schools

participated in these contests. Indeed, a very great achievement by the ZMS learners who received medals and certificates and some received cash prizes as well. The SA Maths and English Olympiad Committee also sent letters of commendation from Mr

Gabit Bekakhmetov, a University of Oxford Alumni and Associate of the SA Olympiads.

Management. Staff and the Board of ZMS take pleasure in extending congratulations to Azhar, Sameera, Muskaan and Ziyaad on a truly outstanding achievement.

Search underway after Manor house robbery

Manhunt is underway following a robbery at a house in Stanger Manor yesterday (Tuesday). Reports indicate that five men entered the property and allegedly robbed the family of valuables, including cellphones, iPads, Laptops, a PlayStation 5 and jewelry.

Various reaction officers from local security companies attended the scene, however the suspects managed to escape in their getaway vehicle, a white Toyota Corolla Quest.

Residents are urged to exercise maximum vigilance, especially as the Festive Season gets underway.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant, following a house robbery incident yesterday

Maharaj sponsors beach

for SADAFTA

Local businessman and community activist Mr Prem Maharaj put smiles on the faces of members of the Stanger and District Association for the Aged (SADAFTA). Maharaj, well known for his robust and candid engagements with issues affecting the community, sponsored an exciting breach excursion for the members.

The members had a fabulous day at the beach, dancing away to exciting music including Master KG's Jerusalema, DJ Avesh's Chal Gaye Nana, among other popular tracks.

The members extended their gratitude to Mr Maharaj for his generosity

DA launches Stanger Manor branch

The Democratic Alliance (DA) recently launched its branch in Stanger Manor (Ward 17). The party says it is on a quest to reaffirm itself in the area, after it lost control of the ward to the ANC in the 2021 local government elections.

“All political parties must be vigilant especially in marginal wards where voters from other wards register and vote to change the outcomes. This has become a common practice and is a crime.

“2024 will be a watershed moment in our country most likely to change for the better with coalition government that is accountable and focuses on service delivery and improve infrastructure development,” state Cllr Krsna Sing.

Missing man found murdered

By Xpress Reporter

Police have opened a murder case after the body of a 21-year-old man was found in Darnall, on Monday this week. According to IPSS Medical Rescue, paramedics descended on the scene after a body was spotted on the banks of a river near Darnall.

Upon arrival of emergency team's, it was established that the body was that of a man who was reported missing on Saturday.

“The body was found in the sugarcane about 50m above the river and it appears as if he had suffered multiple traumatic injuries,” stated IPSS Medical rescue.

Police are investigating the circumstances sounding the man's death.

SADAFTA members had a memorable time at the beach courtesy of Mr Prem Maharaj

BODY: The body of a missing Darnall man was found with severe trauma injuries

Pictured together with the new branch members and office bearers are Ilembe Constituency Secretary Krsna Sing (back row, 5th from left), former Ward 17 Councillor Madhun Sobram Sing (back row, far right) and Ilembe Constituency Chairperson Kathleen Naidoo (front row, 3rd from left)

Local learner immortalizes late grandmother

and consummate artist. With a pencil and paper in his hand, Kwanda's hands can produce magic, literally. His enormous portfolio of drawings provides ample testimony to his sketching prowess. Simply put, Kwanda Mthethwa is an icon waiting to shine through.

“My thoughts and feelings find expression through my artwork. It all started when I was in Grade 7, that's when I realized I have this tremendous love for art. I first sketched a picture of my class teacher and the talent continued to live and grow inside me. As I continued practising and mastering the tricks and ideas of drawing, I became more attentive and attracted to the craft.

Ilembe scoops prestigious awards

By Xpress Reporter

Ilembe District Municipality, famous for its perennial struggle to reliably supply water to communities within the District, has managed to scoop a number of Awards in November 2022..

By Happiness Gumede

The recent death of his grandmother left a void so deep that Kwanda Mthethwa (18), a matric learner from Nonhlevu Secondary School, decided to use his incredible artistic talent to immortalize her.

The sketch Kwanda made of his grandmother, the late Ms Nelisiwe Mthethwa, speaks of a great sadness, but also hints at a bond so strong not even death could break it.

Kwanda, a resident of Dube Village in Groutville, is a passionate,

“I am in high school now and a lot of teachers and school mates recognise my talent. I recently sketched a photo of my late grandmother and other paintings that I sell to people to earn money that helps me buy more painting materials,” Kwanda enthuses.

And Kwanda's goals for the future are highly guessable.

“I see myself in the next five years becoming a prominent and qualified artist, working progressively to fulfil my career objectives. I urge other aspiring artists to never take their talent for granted, to be willing to learn more and (to) grow their knowledge in whichever artistic medium they decide to focus on”.

Speaking during a media briefing held at iLembe Boardroom on Friday last week, District Mayor Cllr Thobani Shandu indicated that the municipality had garnered a total of eight awards in various service delivery categories, in just one month.

The District Municipality earned itself four awards at the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) Kamoso Awards recently, and four more awards were bagged at the KwaZulu-Natal Municipal Excellence Awards.

“This achievement can be attributed to hard work, cooperation from departments in the municipality and the political principals. Complying with the EPWP Policy of the municipality is what has bared these fruits. Through the leadership of Notha Maphumulo, the EPWP Champion in the District, iLembe has managed to perform very well over the years, reporting to the national Public Works on time and spending grants. There has never been a time where grants have not been spent as far as EPWP is concerned.

“This achievement

means a lot not just to the municipality but the beneficiaries of the programme as it addresses not just service delivery but unemployment and the eradication of poverty. Recently, this executive committee adopted the EPWP Policy regarding the duration of workers on the EPWP programme from 12 months to 24 months,” stated the municipality through Mayor Shandu.

Training and development

In the KZN Municipal Excellence Awards, the District Municipality scooped the Best Performing District, obtaining Positive Audit Outcome Financial and Non-Financial Performance 2022/21 Financial Year and the Best Positive Sustained Sound Financial Management 2021/22.

“There are other various strides made that this financial success can be attributed to including the implementation of the audit action plan to eliminate repeat findings, Continuous training and development of Finance staff on Generally Recognized Accounting Practice (GRAP) standards and Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts (MSCOA) regulations, having a funded and credible budget, well -disciplined Financial Management and adherence to MFMA, financial regulations and local government legislation etc. All that is left is to work hard to achieve a clean audit outcome,” Shandu stated.

Body of drowned swimmer washes ashore

The disappearance of a bather while swimming at Blythedale Beach on Thursday last week, has ended tragically, after the body of the swimmer washed ashore, six days later.

Emergency services company Medi Response, along with SAPS Search

and Rescue and KDM lifeguards recovered the body, after it washed ashore at Zinkwazi Beach.

The swimmer had reportedly been swimming at an unprotected beach in Blythedale, when the person was swept out to sea. Intensive efforts to rescue the distressed swimmer drew a black.

Traffic cop in murder suicide tragedy

A traffic officer shot dead his girlfriend, before turning the gun on himself, on Friday last week. The shocking incident happened in Sundumbili Township, and reports from the scene indicate that the shooting followed an argument between the couple.

IPSS Medical Rescue reports that when paramedics arrived on the scene, they found that the female had been shot in the head. She was declared deceased on the scene.

“On arrival of paramedics the man and his girlfriend were found lying in the road, both with a single gunshot wound to the head. Paramedics assessed the female and she was found to have sustained fatal injuries and was declared deceased on scene. The man was found to still be breathing and was treated by an IPSS Medical Rescue Advanced Life Support paramedic. He died on route to hospital,” stated IPSS Medical Rescue.

IMMORTAL: Young artist Kwanda Mthethwa with a portrait of his late grandmother, Nelisiwe Mthethwa

Pictured wit the Awards won by the District Municipality are (L to R) Municipal Manager Cingisa Mbola, Deputy Mayor James van Whye, EXCO member Mxolisi Mthiyane, Council Speaker Dolly Shandu, Mayor Thobani Shandu and EXCO member Hlengiwe Makhatha

TRAGIC END: The body of a missing bather washed ashore at Zinkwazi Beach last week

By Xpress Reporter

School Buzz

Special moment for Grade R graduates

Manor Primary recognizes excellence

Grand farewell for Grade 7 learners

By Xpress Reporter

KwaDukuza Council Speaker Dolly Govender has underscored the importance of parental involvement in their children's education. Govender was speaking at the Awards Day function hosted by Stanger Manor Primary School on Friday last week.

Govender, who was the guest of honour at the event, enjoined parents to play an

active role in their children's education, and desist from letting teachers take all the responsibility.

“Both parents and teachers have an important role to play in the lives of children. When a child brings home a bad report, the parent should also take the blame. (As parents) you should be involved. Do not come to school at the end of the year to blame (teachers) for your

child's performance,” Govender said.

The Speaker further stressed the importance of instilling discipline in chikdren from an early age, instead waiting until the child starts school.

Top performing learners from all grades were awarded on the day, with many parents in attendance to congratulate the recipients.

Awards Day at Gledhow Primary

It was a bittersweet moment for Grade 7 learners from Ensikeni Primary School as they bade farewell to their teachers and fellow learners last week.

In a glittering farewell ceremony, the school invited educator Mrs Mdletshe from

Principal Mr Mathenjwa exhorted learners to represent the school with pride at secondary level, by

excelling in their studies, like they have done at Ensikeni.

Mathenjwa congratulated the learners for attending extra lessons ain the two months prior to their final examinations.

Gledhow Primary School hosted their annual Awards Day last week. Pictured are the Grade 6 top performers and their educators.

FAREWELL: Ensikeni Primary School bade a hearty farewell to the Grade 7 Class as the learners last week

AWARDS: Principal Dr AP Narain (far right) is seen congratulating Grade 6 top 3 winners, (L to R), Zoe Sewduth (3rd), Uzziah Naidoo (2nd) and Deeya Moodley (1st)

KwaDukuza Council Speaker Dolly Govender sis seen handing over the award to one of the top performers. Photo: Banith Singh, Broadway Videos

Principal Dr AP Narain (far right) is seen congratulating the winners on the day.

Photo: Banith Singh, Broadway Videos

SPECIAL: Gledhow Primary School held a glittering graduation ceremony last week for the school's Grade R learners, who will be moving up the rung to Grade 1 next year. Pictured are the graduates together with HOD Mrs J Pillay and educator SR Gopaul.

the nearby Lethithemba Secondary School to prepare the learners for the high school environment, which they are about to enter,.

Ilembe unpacks Festive Season water contingency plans

As a water service provider, iLembe faces a lot of challenges during the festive season due additional demand on services resulting in high water usage which then contributes to high volumes into the sewerage system.

Last Monday, at a special sitting of the executive committee, Technical Services presented a report on the state of readiness of the municipality to handle the additional load that comes with the holiday season. Both Umgeni Water and Siza Water were consulted in the preparation of this report.

The municipality says a clear leave plan for operations and maintenance team members is in place outlining who will be available for duty during the period and following the submission of leave applications in all sections, we confirm that plumbing teams will be balanced and the shift system will continue as normal. Leave approvals were carefully considered to ensure there is balance and work continues normally. Contact details of the staff that will be available during this period has been made available to councillors.

District Mayor Thobani Shandu told a media briefing last week that despite the additional demands during this period, there would unfortunately be no additional resources deployed to areas. Sewer trucks will be operating as normal in areas where they ensure de-sludging is done to avoid spillages. Water tankers will continue following their daily delivery schedules for the relevant areas. Councillors also have contact details of water tanker drivers. Due to the outcry caused by delays on repair of water trucks and vans, Mechanical and Electrical Contractors will be on standby, Shandu pointed out.

“An agreement has been entered into

with the excavator hiring company regarding making the excavator available at short notice, should the need arise. This will assist in dealing with the breakdowns on the peaking power pipelines. The fleet department has been engaged to facilitate the speedy repairs of TLB's and vans that are currently off the road.

It must be noted that, while iLembe is ready for the Festive Season, there are risks which may affect the plans including;

“Maphumulo Water Works has limitations in dealing with high turbidity. The rainy season increases turbidity levels resulting in low production at the Water Works.

Hazelmere Water Scheme supplying Ndwedwe Res 2 is on an operating rule where water is opened and closed to alternate supply in different areas.

Power supply interruptions which may be worsened by thunderstorms.

“Load shedding impacts are always more than the scheduled outage hours due to the system being drained empty during the outage,” Shandu stated.

The municipality is also warning communities within the District to remain cautious, as the District is prone to natural disasters, especially during summer months.

“Recent lightning statistics suggest that Maphumulo and Ndwedwe local municipalities are adversely affected during severe thunderstorms and it is for this reason that the District continues to intensify its efforts, towards ensuring that vulnerable communities exercise risk avoidance behaviour and take precautionary measures at all times.

“Members of the community are urged to alert the ward committees of any hazard during the festive season,” Shandu said.

Pedestrian killed in accident

A pedestrian was killed after being struck by a motor vehicle, on the M4 near Engen Garage in Ballito, on Friday evening.

Medi Response reported that,

Help find natural parents

KwaDukuza Child Welfare is searching for the following natural parents. Should anyone have information on any of the listed individuals, kindly contact the relevant Social Worker on 032 5512129.

• The natural parents of Bongi Khathula born 15/10/2009. The natural mother is Pitso Maphumulo and the natural father is Vusi Gcabashe.

Kindly contact social worker, Miss

L.L Ntuli regarding the abovementioned case.

• Sicela ukufuniswa ubaba kaSinegugu Mbewane owazalwa zingu 25/05/2010 ongaziwa. Umntwana uzalwa nguNolulama Mbewane ohlala eNkobongo Area in KwaDukuza, kanti ungowokuzalwa eHarding (Eastern Cape). Ongaba nolwazi uyacelwa ukuba axhumane nosonhlalakahle uMiss S Mbewane kule nombolo: (032) 552-5246, ngezikhathi zomsebenzi.

despite advanced life support interventions, the victim was declared deceased on the scene, due to the extensive injuries sustained.

A pedestrian died after being hit by a vehicle on the M4 in Ballito

Ilembe District Mayor Thobani Shandu

How to deal with matric results anxiety

With matric results being published, it is widely known that it will be a difficult time for some learners who will not have done well. A clinical psychologist offers some insights into how learners can deal with this sort of anxiety.

It goes without question that there would a lot of anxiety amongst those who are waiting to receive their matric exam results and that for some, the moments after receiving their Matric results are anxiety-filled as well.

Clinical Psychologist, Khosi Jiyane says that there is a variety of factors that form part of these difficult emotions amongst learners, some of which include, parental aspirations, peer pressure and a high level of optimism.

She adds that there are some who may have already resigned themselves to the possibility of failure based on how they experienced the disruptive exam period.

Jiyane advises that parents should pay close attention to their children's emotional state while they wait for their results and how they respond

upon receiving unfavourable results.

According to Jiyane, disappointment would at least be that, despite having failed, they are invested in their efforts to succeed and had confidence in themselves, whereas the opposite reaction would be a major cause for concern since it would mean that they are disengaged.

She further points out that it is just as important to anticipate disappointment which is where a supportive role becomes important in containing that disappointment.

The clinical psychologist also emphasizes the importance of being realistic and consistent when

pursuing goal for those starting their matric journey in 2022.

It's also important for Matrics to remember that getting bad Matric results is not the end of the world and there is still a second chance with Matric rewrites and such.

The day of receiving your Matric results can be a very overwhelming day for so many reasons. Should Matriculants need help or find that their mental health is being affected, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is always available to assist.

You can reach SADAG by dialling 0800 12 13 14.

Source: Careersportal.co.za

Clinic commemorates World Aids Day

Pictured are guests at the Wold Aids day event hosted by Hlomendlini Clinic last week

Adhering to anti-retroviral treatment is still the best way to tame the HI virus. This was the resounding message at the World Aids Day commemorative event, hosted by Hlomendlini Clinic last week.

The event was attended by the DA's Ilembe

Constituency head, Cllr Kathleen Naidoo, who reiterated the message about the importance of ARVs in fighting HIV/Aids, and ultimately reducing Aids related mortality.

Other speakers at the event focused on other aspects of the HIV/Aids pandemic and

related diseases, and their management.

World Aids Day is commemorated annually on the 1st of December, as a reminder to the rest of the world to keep the momentum going, with regard to the fight against HIV/Aids.

Tips to plan an affordable family holiday

Rule 1

Affordable family holiday planning is important when trying to save money in the process. In order to make sure that your next family holiday is truly affordable the first rule, above all others, is to save up in advance. This way there is minimum spending and interest on your credit card saving money by avoiding price hikes during the holidays, peak season and summer breaks.

Rule 2

Including the kids in the holiday planning process helps avoid sulking sessions and will set aside an afternoon for a nap, a stroll, shopping or simply kicking back to read a book. Let each family member choose one thing within a budget that they want to do then make it a rule that everyone joins in.

Rule 3

Begin planning your affordable holiday as soon as you know the dates you will be going and where you are going to. Make the necessary appointments for vacations three months in advance and get discount rates while

ensuring that your travel documents are valid to avoid unforeseen costs and missing out.

Rule 4

Thanks to the Internet making bookings are simple, fast and cost effective by proving the means to research the nest possible rates. Compare prices in advance in order to find the cheapest prices. Book your flights as early as possible to get the best flight fees. Bookings online makes planning your holiday convenient and affordable. The best part is it's possible to get great deals at the last minute.

Rule 5 Get as much discount and your cards, accounts and memberships can get you and if possible pay your vacation in advance. This is another method to save additional money when planning a vacation.

SA commemorates Skin Cancer Awareness Month

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), South Africa has the second highest incidence of skin cancer in the world after Australia, and one of the highest incidences of melanoma the most dangerous form of skin cancer worldwide.

Every year, at least 20 000 South Africans are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancers cancers that occur in the skin that are not melanoma and approximately 1 500 are diagnosed with melanoma. Skin cancer a highly preventable and treatable disease is caused by chronic exposure to sunlight and affects anyone, regardless of skin colour, gender or age. This Skin Cancer Awareness Month from 1 December to 31 January be sun smart and educate yourself about the dangers of the sun and its rays.

Tips to reduce your risk include:

• Sunburn can occur within 15 minutes. The damage caused is permanent, irreversible and increases your risk of skin cancer.

• Avoid sunbeds and sunlamps. They can elevate your risk of skin cancer. Use an effective sunscreen with an SPF of between 20 to 50. Apply it liberally to all exposed skin.

• Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside. Re-apply regulalry (every two hours) and after towel drying, perspiring or swimming.

• Wear protective clothing such as wide-brim hats, loose fitting shirts and sunglasses with an ultraviolet (UV) protection of UV400

• The sun's rays are most dangerous between 10am and 3pm. Avoid direct sun exposure during this time and stay in the shade or under an umbrella as much as possible. Remember, you can get sunburn on a cloudy day - UV light can still penetrate light cloud cover.

• Carefully check your skin monthly for spots, marks or moles.

• Warning signs for skin cancer include: asymmetrical marks, moles that change colour, grow big or have irregular edges. Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any of these changes early detection of skin cancer is vital.

• Get screened at your local CANSA care centre. Be sun smart and practice good and responsible sun care throughout the year.

Rule 6

Kids might appear to be highly energetic, which they are, but when it comes to going on holiday they like to go and stay put at one location. Pick a location and make it your holiday home for the entire vacation. Get to know your destination, enjoy the time making new memories and discover new places.

Rule 7

Instead of a brief visit take advantage of last-minute travel deals if you're planning a longer holiday. When searching online, search smart. For example,

instead heading of to a beach in Florida, search for an affordable beach holiday somewhere a bit low key. Keep in mind that island style vacations and warm weather locations are usually the most popular and in turn that often makes them more expensive.

Rule 8

If you've got boys a hotel or accommodation that prohibits diving or splashing in the pool, it is just simply never going to work making both the kids and the parents miserable. On the other hand, consider that if you've got a girl (who is obviously not a

tomboy) and loves dress up then remote camping is not the option for you. Pick a place that incorporates everyone's interests and a location that everyone would love to visit. It could be a city with a great museum exhibition or a dolphin sanctuary.

Rule 9

So you might not be up for a hectic daily holiday schedule of hiking, tennis, game viewing, water sports, fishing, horse riding and snorkelling but one this is for certain, if you have kids then they sure will. An active vacation keeps children

occupied; interested and engaged. Try picking places to stay that have onsite entertainment and activities. Check the age requirements for activities before booking. Rule 10

Self-drive holidays are a cheaper holiday option for families. If getting out in nature is your thing and the bush calls you off road or if you set on car cruising the coastline from Durban down to Cape Town, then browse on Drive South Africa to find out how to get there or routing tips.

Source: Drivesouthafrica.com

iLembe receives huge boost

Pele 'stable', 'no worsening'

Doctors treating Brazilian football legend Pele said on Saturday the 82-year-old remained "stable" after developing a respiratory infection with his condition not having deteriorated over the last 24 hours.

Pele, who was hospitalised last week amid ongoing cancer treatments, "has had a good response to care without any worsening in the clinical picture in the last 24 hours," doctors at Sao Paulo's Albert Einstein Hospital said in a statement. Doctors made no reference to media reports earlier on Saturday that the three-time World Cup winner, widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, was receiving end-of-life care.

Pele was admitted to hospital earlier last week for what doctors said was a "re-evaluation" of the chemotherapy he has been undergoing since surgery to remove a colon tumour in September last year.

Meanwhile, players at the ongoing World Cup in Qatar, expressed their support for Pele.

France striker Kylian Mbappe on Saturday tweeted: "Pray for the King."

England captain Harry Kane offered his support for Pele at a press conference ahead of his team's last-16 tie against Senegal. "We send our best wishes to him and obviously all his family as well," said Kane. "He is an inspiration amongst our game and an incredible footballer and incredible person. We wish him well.”

iLembe District Cricket Union T20 league gets underway this Saturday, 10 December with newly promoted and last season's B league champions Darnall Cricket Club taking on Oceanville Cricket Club at 12:00 and defending champions Manor A taking on Dawnheights Cricket Club at 15:00.

This season's league competition sees a whopping R10 000 sponsorship boost from the Director of Prestige Real Estate Jemendra Haripershad. He had this to say: “It is through sports that we hope to achieve unity and a sense of team work in our community. Participation in sports has numerous benefits and we hope to empower the youth and create a positive impact on

their lives. We hope to foster positive relationships in our community and to enhance self-confidence, physical and mental well-being through their participation in cricket. These form the building blocks of a foundation which will see the youth progressing resiliently into adulthood.”

President of iLembe Cricket Union Desigan Pillay thanked Prestige Real Estate and Haripershad for his philanthropy and said: “We thank Jemendra for his continued support and generosity. This huge boost will inject enthusiasm and passion towards the game of cricket and ensure that competition is played at high intensity and skill.”

Jemendra Haripershad, Director Prestige Real Estate hands over the sponsorship to Desigan Pillay President of iLembe Cricket Union

Pele recuperating in hospital

Blitzboks drawn with Fiji for Cape Town Sevens

England crush Senegal hopes to book France

England set up a titanic World Cup quarter-final against holders France as Jude Bellingham's masterclass inspired a 3-0 win against Senegal in the last 16 on Sunday. Gareth Southgate's side survived a nervous start at the Al Bayt Stadium before Jordan Henderson and Harry Kane put Senegal to the sword with a pair of clinical finishes before halftime. Bukayo Saka scored England's third, but it was Bellingham's prodigious workrate and burgeoning quality in possession that allowed them to turn the tide.

Dubai Sevens champions South Africa return home this coming weekend for the Cape Town Sevens and will contest a tough Pool A which includes Fiji.

The Blitzboks powered to a record 10th win in Dubai on Saturday as they beat Ireland 21-5 thanks to two converted tries from Shilton van Wyk

and another from Siviwe Soyizwapi. It saw the Blitzboks top the World Sevens Series log alongside Australia after two rounds.

France are currently third on the log, and they too are part of Pool A for the tournament in the Mother City alongside Canada.

This Day In History, 07 December

In 2002, Saddam Hussein made his formal statement denying any possession of weapons of mass destruction while just two years later, in 2004, Hamid Karzai was elected the first President of Afghanistan.

Bellingham set up Henderson's opener and the Borussia Dortmund midfielder was involved again when England captain Kane bagged his first goal in this World Cup. Kane has now netted 11 times at major tournaments, overtaking Gary Lineker as England's all-time top scorer in those competitions. But at the tender age of 19, it is Bellingham who has emerged as England's driving force. He is the first teenager to assist in a World Cup knockout stage game since 1966, having already announced his arrival on the global stage by netting his first England goal in the 6-2 rout of Iran in their group opener. Just two years after he

was playing in the English second tier with Birmingham, the precocious Bellingham was totally unfazed against Senegal in the biggest game of his life.

England will need another command performance from Bellingham if they are to extend their stay in Qatar beyond the last eight. Eyeing a third successive semi-final appearance at major tournaments, England will return to the Al Khor desert on Saturday to take on the red-hot Kylian Mbappe and company after France brushed aside Poland 3-1

on Sunday. Euro 2020 runners-up England have won only one of their last eight meetings with France, who pose a significant threat to their hopes of winning a first major title for 56 years. The depth of attacking talent available to Southgate could be crucial and, defending his decision to drop Marcus Rashford for Saka despite the forward's double against Wales, he boasted "we have an embarrassment of riches in all areas of the pitch".

Blitzboks in action

England players celebrate victory

First democratically elected President of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai