XPRESS TIMES

Bloodshed as 'drug wars' engulf Nonhlevu Secondary

By Musa Mnyandu

Learners coming to school smelling of dagga, thriving drug market among the learner population, and stabbing incidents; this has become the frightening scenario currently unfolding at Nonhlevu Secondary School, prompting the School Governing Body (SGB) to make an appeal to law enforcement authorities to step in.

A few weeks ago a learner from the school was reportedly viciously stabbed near Shavin's Trading Store in Etete, on his way back from school, resulting in him being disembowelled. The perpetrators were allegedly fellow learners from the school. A few days later another later sustained several stab wounds near Umfolozi TVET College's Groutville Campus, also allegedly by a fellow learner.

That was not the end of the nightmare, as police arrested two learners from the school on Wednesday last week, after they were allegedly found in possession of drugs. KwaDukuza SAPS communications officer Constable Siphesihle Myeni confirmed that the two learners were charged accordingly and were brought to court the following day.

However on the same day the two learners were appearing in court, another learner was viciously stabbed inside the school premises, prompting parents to question the safety of their children inside school premises.

SGB Chairperson Xolani Skade attributes the problem to rampant drug trade at the school. Skade has however pointed out that indications are that learners are being used by adult drug dealers who apparently recruit them to sell drugs at school, for a cut of the profit. Skade admits the school is fast becoming a den for drug dealers, resulting in drug wars. Skade is has vowed stern action against

learners found guilty of involvement in drugs, or in other serious transgression.

“We have a serious drug problem at the school, which has resulted in the growing incidence of violence, as drug dealers fight for territory. However we are making headway in addressing the problem. We have established an internal disciplinary committee to fast track cases arising from all the criminal incidents, and we can assure parents and the community that we will not hesitate to expel those learners who are involved in drug trade, and those who are embroiled in police investigations. Our school is a learning environment, not a drug market,” Skade stated.

Police raids

Community members have complained of learners, both male and female, indulging in dagga just before entering the school

HEADWAY: Nonhlevu Secondary School's SGB Chairperson, Xolani Skade

The Council for the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings has selected and announced 9 young scientists from South Africa to participate at the 72nd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting dedicated to Physiology/Medicine from 25 to 30 June 2023 in Lindau, Germany.

The nominating partner, the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) in partnership with the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) hosted a pretravel meeting and science communication training on 15-16 May 2023 for the selected young scientists to prepare them of what to

expert in the Lindau meeting in Germany.

In Lindau's quest to continuously strive to increase the quality and internationality of the candidates, their scientific review panel has selected 635 of the most qualified young scientists from more than 90 nationalities to participate in this year's Lindau Meeting. The selected young scientists will experience and contribute to the unique atmosphere of the Lindau Meetings. About 40 Nobel Laureates are planning to attend the meeting and welcome the outstanding qualifications and the great diversity of nationalities of the applicants.

ASSAf, as the official partner of the Lindau Foundation and with funding from the DSI, annually nominates young scientists to attend the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings which are designed as a forum for young scientists from all over the world to have an in-depth exchange with Nobel Laureates.

The academy and the DSI would like to congratulate the below listed 9 South African young scientists

who have been selected to participate at the 72nd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting:

- Dr Martin Justin Page, Stellenbosch University

- Dr Velaphi Clement Thipe, University of MissouriColumbia

- Dr Nabila Ismail, Stellenbosch University

- Dr Kamini Govender, University of KwaZulu-Natal

- Ms Claudia Christowitz, Stellenbosch University

- Dr Cosnet Lerato Rametse, University of Cape Town

- Dr Sunaina Indermun, South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA)

- Ms Ramakgahlela Betty Sebati, University of Johannesburg

- Dr Gina Leisching, Trinity College Dublin

During the pre-travel meeting, the 9 young scientists interacted with the alumni of the Lindau Laureate meetings who shared their experiences and the opportunities post participating at this prestigious life changing meetings. The meeting featured high-level speakers from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), and from partner organisations and entities i.e Mr Daan du Toit (Deputy

Director-General from DSI), Mr Imraan Patel (Deputy DirectorGeneral from DSI), Dr Aldo Stroebel (keynote speaker from the National Research Foundation), Prof Refilwe Nancy PhaswanaMafuya (ASSAf Council Member and Director at South African Medical Research CouncilUniversity of Johannesburg Pan African Centre for Epidemics Research), Dr Amitava

Bandopadhyay (Director-General of the Non-Aligned Movement's Centre for Science and Technology), and Mr Bheki

Hadebe (Director for High-End Skills, DSI).

In Lindau, the young scientists will experience a six-day

programme with numerous lectures and panel discussions. They will also have the opportunity to meet the biggest science names in physics when they are introduced to the Lindau Nobel Laureates. The young scientists are set to travel from 23 June 2023 to the Lindau Laureate Meeting in Germany and they will be accompanied by the Executive Officer at the ASSAf, Prof Himla Soodyall.

One of the young scientists, Dr Kamini Govender, would like to dedicate her remarkable achievements to her eversupportive sister, Dr Sovishnee of General Justice Gizenga Mpanza Regional Hospital, and also to her father, Captain PV Govender.

KZN police seize hundreds of firearms

Relentless operations by police in KwaZulu-Natal have seen the arrests of 9 016 suspects for a variety of crimes including murders, attempted murders, rape and various types of robberies, including carjacking.

A total of 2 620 suspects were arrested for contact crimes. One hundred and fifty five of them were nabbed in connection with cases of murder, including a farm murder. One hundred and twenty two more

suspects were bust after they were linked with cases of attempted murder. With murders committed with the use of firearms having shown signs of increase in the province, targeted operations at intelligence-identified areas were conducted and a total of 325 firearms, inclusive of 29 rifles and 19 shotguns were removed from society in the month of May. Over 3 000 rounds of ammunition of various calibre were also recovered.

Open on Friday 16 June 2023 from 9am

The war against Gender-Based Violence has also been intensified and the police's efforts in curbing the scourge has resulted in the arrests of 213 suspects for rape, 27 people were nabbed for sexual assault whilst seven more suspects were arrested for attempted rape. Nine suspects were also put behind bars for sexual offences. Investigators from the police's Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Units (FCS) across the province have been hard at work and more than 11 life imprisonment sentences were attained in the month of May. One hundred and forty nine more people were arrested as a result of contravention of the Domestic Violence Act.

Fifty-seven suspects were arrested for house robberies,

20 people were nabbed for carjacking and 33 suspects were bust for business robberies. Still on contact crimes, 1 245 suspects were arrested for cases of assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm. Six hundred and twenty four knives, 28 machetes, 21 fighting sticks and 2 axes were seized in the process. On the stock theft front, 17 suspects were arrested for theft of all stock. Thirty one cattle, 24 goats and nine sheep were recovered.

Drugs have also been identified as one of the contributing factors in the commission of crime. Dedicated teams of detectives and visible policing have managed to arrest 1 577 suspects for drug-related crimes and 34 people were also arrested for kidnapping.

The Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has

reiterated that high density operations have become a norm and will continue in order to create a safe and secure environment for all residents of KwaZulu-Natal and visitors alike. He challenged police officers to be patriotic enough to go the extra mile in ensuring the safety and security of people of KwaZuluNatal.

“Criminals cannot do as they please, lawlessness cannot be the order of the day and no one can walk all over us as law enforcement officers. We have a Constitutional mandate to combat and prevent crime and that should be in our minds every time we report for duty. No area is a no-go area, noone is untouchable and we must make our presence felt. We must enforce the law to a point where criminals run out of breath,” said Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi.

Pictured are some of the young SA scientists who will attend the 72nd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting

KDM to host Digital Literacy Workshop

KwaDukuza Municipality in partnership with the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) invites local entrepreneurs to attend to the one-day Digital Literacy Workshop, aimed at empowering entrepreneurs with skills and knowledge to meet the demands of the 4th industrial revolution era.

The workshop will be offered by experienced NEMISA facilitators, through an on-line platform by using Microsoft app that consists of five modules as follows:

• Usage of computers and digital devices to market business services

• Access information through online platforms

• Maintaining effective digital

Mchunu accelerates interventions in water crisis

rapport and efficiency

• Empowerment on safely, impactful and responsible participation

• Collaborate and manage the content aimed at boosting the business operations

Details of the workshop: -

Date: 22 June 2023

Time: 09:00 -16:00

Venue: KwaDukuza CBD (actual venue to be further communicated)

Entrepreneurs wishing to attend are urged to confirm attendance on or before 19 June 2023 with : nomathamsanqan@kwadukuza.gov. za or ntombizodwag@ kwadukuza.gov.za

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has reiterated the department's commitment to work with municipalities to resolve the challenges laid bare in the Blue, Green and No Drop Watch Reports, whose findings were released on Tuesday last week.

The reports, which were presented by the Department's Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips, indicated that there has been a decline in drinking water quality and an increase in nonrevenue water since the last drop reports were issued.

The Green Drop Watch Report indicated that 50% of the municipalities, whose waste water treatment systems were found to be in a critical state in the 2022 Green Drop report, have failed to develop and implement plans to improve them.

The Department of Water and

Sanitation (DWS) has issued noncompliance notices to 90 municipalities instructing them to correct the shortcomings identified in the Green Drop Report.

The 2022 full Green Drop Report, released in April 2022, found 334 out of 850 municipal wastewater systems in 90 municipalities in critical condition, receiving Green Drop scores of 30% and below.

Reacting to the reports, Mchunu said the Department would have to adopt a more robust approach in its interventions, especially where it deems it crucial.

“The Department is in the process of strengthening its role as the regulator of water services. This includes developing more comprehensive and more stringent norms and standards for water service and standardising its regulatory processes so that it is more consistent with its regulatory actions.

“The results of the reports indicate that legislative reforms may also be required to ensure that water service providers are professionally managed, capable, efficient and financially viable institutions. The Department is in the process of consulting with water sector stakeholders regarding such reforms,” Mchunu said.

To address the challenges highlighted in 2023 Watch

Reports, the Department is supporting and intervening in many municipalities across the country to improve water and sanitation services.

Mchunu said he has agreed on improvement plans with Mayors, and the Department is assisting municipalities with grant funding to address infrastructure deficits.

The Department and the Water Boards are also assisting municipalities with technical expertise and management support.

Mchunu said at a meeting called by President Cyril Ramaphosa recently, the President raised concerns on whether the department had adequate plans to accelerate service delivery, not just in terms of quantity, but to improve quality.

Mchunu said the department already had some proposals, even before the President called the meeting. These include capacitating the department to give it the legislative muscle it needs when it comes to intervention in municipalities.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation is responsible for planning, development and management of water resource infrastructure, and for the management of catchments, as well as for setting minimum norms and standards for water and sanitation services,” Mchunu said.

Glenhills Primary celebrates Fathers' Day

Food for Life gears up for Mandela Day

Mandela Day-18 July, South Africans are called to spend 67 minutes working for the good of others. Everyone has the ability and responsibility to change the world for the better. Food For Life Africa, KwaDukuza branch, takes on the task of cooking 108 pots and distributing over 27000 meals to the underprivileged on Mandela Day.

“You can help us honour Madiba's humanitarian legacy as a gesture of charity. This is when we offer you an opportunity to reap the full benefit of sponsoring, preparing, cooking

and distributing the love and mercy to needy people in our communities,” stated Food for Life.

Companies may also get involved by getting their employees together as a team building exercise. Families and friends o any other social group may also get involved, to sponsor one or more hundas of vegetable breyani at the cost of R1350 per hunda.

Each hunda will feed approximately 250 people. Food For Life Africa KwaDukuza is a non-profit organization

registered section 21company with a SARS section 18A certificate.

Those making donations are requested to send proof of payment to kwadukuza@fflafrica.org

Food for Life KwaDukuza banking details:

Name: Food For Life Africa

KwaDukuza

Account number: 4099685839

Bank: Absa (632005)

Account type: CHEQUE

ACCOUNT

Ref: Please use your email address or cell number

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu

The Soul Buddyz at Glenhills Primary School reminded learners about the importance of Fathers and how to appreciate their father figures on Fathers' Day. Seen with the Soul Buddyz is Principal Mr H Hurilal, Mr M Govender, Mr MF Thabethe, Mr T Govender, Ms PJ Bissesser and Mrs T Naidoo

Maphumulo hosts Youth In Business Workshop

Maphumulo Local Municipality held an informative Youth in business workshop on Friday, 9 June 2023 at the Municipal Council Chambers.

This workshop was designed to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in business.

Pictured are spme of the participants in the Youth In Business Workshop to supporting the growth of our local economy and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. I believe that young people like you are the future of our Municipality's economic prosperity, and I am excited to see what you will achieve in the years to come. We believe that young people have the creativity, energy, and passion needed to drive innovation and growth in the business world. This workshop is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to turn your ideas into successful businesses.”

The workshop covered a range of topics including business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and legal requirements. Participants were given the opportunity to engage with representatives from government institutions, state-owned enterprises and private institutions who shared valuable insights from business funding, company registrations and more.

In addition to these topics, participant also had the opportunity to network with other young entrepreneurs, share their experiences, and gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of starting and growing a business.

Delivering a keynote address, Mayor Zibuyisile Khuzwayo-Dlamini committed to supporting young entrepreneurs to achieving their goals. “As the Municipality, we committed

Said Mayor Khuzwayo-Dlamini.

Maphumulo Local Municipality Youth Development Office recognizes the important role that young entrepreneurs play in driving economic growth and job creation in our community. By providing them with the tools they need to succeed, we are helping to build a more vibrant and prosperous future for our municipality.

This successful workshop hosted by Maphumulo Local Municipality Youth Development Office was held in partnership with the Office of the Premier, COGTA, EDTEA, Department of Agriculture, Enterprise ILembe, Provincial Department of Finance, ILembe Chamber of Commerce and more.

House gutted by fire

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has tested 6264 serum samples for measles since epidemiological week 40, 2022, of which 1060 (17%) were confirmed positive. In the past week (week 21 up until week 22, 24/05/2023) there have been 28 laboratory-confirmed measles cases detected across the country, of which the majority were from Limpopo (22).

The percentage of samples testing positive (PTP) increased from 19% (11/58) of samples tested in week 20 to 28% (19/69) of samples tested in week 21.

In week 22 (week ending 03/06/2023), Limpopo province reported a total of eight (8) new measles cases, while a sporadic case (1) was reported in Gauteng. Sporadic cases continue to be seen in Mpumalanga,

South Africa faces measles outbreak

KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape. North West and Free State province last reported cases in week 19 and week 20 respectively.

Nationally, the reproduction number as of 2023-05-25 was estimated to be 0.84 (0.36 1.6), suggesting that infection incidence is likely decreasing. There is a 68% chance that the reproduction

number was below 1 as of 2023-05-25.

Outbreak overview

confirmed measles-positive cases are shown in Figure 1. From epidemiological week 40 of 2022 to week 22 of 2023, 1054 laboratoryconfirmed cases were reported from eight provinces with declared measles outbreaks; Limpopo (476 cases), Mpumalanga (109 cases), North West (217 cases), Gauteng (176 cases), Free State (32 cases), Western Cape (16), KwaZulu-Natal (21) and Northern Cape (7) (Table 1)The number of blood samples and throat swabs submitted to the NICD for measles serology and PCR testing increased from 58 in week 20 to 69 in week 21.

A house in Ballito was gutted by fire this past Sunday. Two people were treated for smoke inhalation after a house was gutted by fire at a Ballito estate, on Sunday.

IPSS Medical Rescue, IPSS Search and Rescue and KDM fire Department responded to the scene, and found that the blaze had been extinguished by a quick thinking neighbour.

IPSS Medical Rescue

further revealed on scene indications are that the fire may have been started by an electrical appliance.

“IPSS Medical treated two occupants on scene for smoke inhalation. Fortunately both occupants did not require transport to hospital,” stated IPSS Medical Rescue.

No transparency in senior appointments

Ilembe municipality steamrolled two senior appointments (this week), the first being Senior Manager for Community Services, and the second being Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

The DA objected to the appointment citing lack of detail information of the candidates and scores. In normal practice and good governance the shortlisted candidates' qualification, experience and scores are the main factors when considering such appointments. To our surprise only the shortlisted candidates' names appeared in order of preference.

This is unacceptable. The agenda was electronically distributed ten minutes after the Council meeting had started.

The DA will pursue (this matter) through GOGTAsince the resolution will need MEC's approval. It is the prerogative of Council to make the final decision after following due process.

With the level of corruption in appointment and qualifications vetting it leaves much to be desired why these appointments were steamrolled.

The DA recorded its objection that was based on lack of detail information about the candidates.

CLLR KRSNA SING

DA Caucus Leader Ilembe District Municipality

The NICD is warning of a growing measles crisis in SA

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.

VACANCY

Code 14 driver for ready mix concrete with PDP required. Contact 083 419 1349 or 083 756 9996.

TO LET

Stanger Manor, No 9 Warren Road. 2 bedroom house, lounge, kitchen, toilet/bathroom. R3000 pm. Excluding lights/water. Contact 084 704 4828.

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.

HOUSE TO LET

FACTORY PREMISES

Director of

Family Day Picnic for Grade R learners

Bongimfundo Primary School held a Family Day picnic for Grade R class on Friday, 9th June 2023. Pictured are some of the learners with their parents.

Ilembe ward committees under scrutiny

The five Council Speakers deployed in the Ilembe family of municipalities met at the Ilembe Auditorium recently, to review the functioning and functionality of ward committees, and to plan for the year ahead. Pictured (L to R) are the Speakers, Mduduzi Cele (Ndwedwe), Phindile Sishi (Mandeni) Dolly Shandu (District Municipality), Sinenhlanhla Chili (Maphumulo) and Dolly Govender (KwaDukuza).

Cellphone found

A lost cellphone was found at Farm Choice, Lindley Street (opposite David's Fish Shop). Please call at the shop.

NOTICE

In the estate of the late ASHRAM SINGH, Identity Number : 580108 5180 087, Date of Birth : 8TH JANUARY 1958, Date TH of Death : 25 FEBRUARY 2023 of 58 VALLEYVIEW, INDIAN VILLAGE, KWADUKUZA, 4450 and Surviving spouse : SAROJ SINGH, Identity Number : 580117 0119 081, Date of Birth : 17TH JANUARY 1958. Estate No. 4101/2023

Debtors and creditors 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 12TH DAY OF JUNE 2023

MORGAN PILLAY, REDDY & CO ATTONEYS, NOTARIES & CONVEYANCERS SUITE 1, MORGAN COURT 33 MAHATMA GANDHI STREET KWADUKUZA, 4450 PH : 032 552 5812

in respect of the land and building or buildings situated at Portion 528 of Lot 56 Number 931 Registration Division FU Province of KwazuluNatal in the KWADUKUZA MUNICIPALITY AREA,

Services

“Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I’ll miss you, until we meet again.”

You and your family are invited to the 15&16th Day Memorial Service Date : Tuesday, 20 June 2023

Venue : Stanger Siva Sungam Hall (Downstairs) Time: 5-6 supper will be served Service from 7-8pm Prayer will continue the following morning at 36 Primrose Street, Stanger Manor Sadly missed by his loving wife Indira,

& Kumeran, sisters and a host of family and friends.

(b) An undivided share in the common property in the scheme apportioned to the said section in accordance with the participation quota as endorsed on the said sectional plan which has been lost or destroyed.

All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds at Pietermaritzburg High Court Building, 300 Pietermaritz Street, Pietermaritzburg within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice.

Applicant:ROBYN KIM GARBADE HANSMEYER, VAN EEDEN & CHETTY ATTORNEYS Ground Floor Margate Sands Building

BABA APAWO

Legendary former Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker dies at 78

Former Bafana Bafana head coach Clive Barker has died at 78. Barker had been suffering from Lewy Body Dementia. He is famous for coaching South Africa to Africa

Cup of Nations glory on home soil in 1996.

In March this year, it was revealed that Barker had been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia (LBD).

Barker's family confirmed his death in a statement on Saturday morning.

"It is with profound sadness that the family of former Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker announce his passing on Saturday, 10 June after a brave battle with Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)," the statement read.

In January, Barker was also admitted to a Durban hospital where he was treated for an aneurysm, which affected blood flowing from his heart.

The late Bafana coach Clive Barker

The family statement continued: "We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the medical professionals who cared for Clive over the past six months. "He fought a brave battle, and we are relieved he is now at peace.

"Clive will be remembered by

South Africans for his role in helping to bring a nation together around the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations, but for us he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and he will be dearly missed. "We have been overwhelmed by the enormous outpouring of

Stolen bakkie recovered in Ndwedwe

love and support for Clive since he was first diagnosed with LBD, and this is a testament to the coach, friend, and mentor he was to not only several generations of footballers, but also anyone who crossed his path in the sport he so dearly loved. "We will provide details of the memorial service in the coming days and ask the family's privacy be respected at this very difficult time."

In a coaching career that spanned 42 years, Barker mentored teams including AmaZulu, Manning Rangers, Durban City, Durban Bush Bucks, Santos Cape Town, Wits and, as his last assignment, Maritzburg United, which came to an end in 2016.

Barker led Durban City to two back-to-back league titles in 1982 and 1983 and the Durban Bush Bucks to the honours in 1985.

A Nissan NP300 bakkie tha had been reported stolen in the area of Tongaat was recovered by Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), on Monday this week.

RUSA says the company's r received a call from tracker requesting assistance in locating the vehicle.

According to Tracker, the vehicle's tracking device was emitting signals from the area of Mavela, in Ndwedwe. Reaction officers proceeded to the said location and found the bakkie abandoned din a small dirt road. The battery had been stolen. Police are investigating the matter.

A stolen bakkie was found abandoned in Ndwedwe