XPRESS TIMES

ANC defends Nhaca over 'Ramaphosa attacks’

By Xpress Reporter

The ANC leadership in the General Gizenga Mpanza Region has jumped to the defense of KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca, who attracted strong criticism at the weekend for failing to attend the party's Gala Dinner in Ballito which was addressed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

President Ramaphosa spent the day in KwaDukuza as the ANC officially launched its election and voter registration campaign ahead of the 2024 general election. Our reporter, who was embedded in the team covering the presidential visit, interacted with Mayor Nhaca on several occasions

during the various activities of the day. However a social media post lashed put at

Nhaca, accusing her of “snubbing” the Ramaphosa visit, due to her allegedly

having supported Dr Zwelini Mkhize as the party's presidential candidate in the December 2022 national conference.

However the ANC has dismissed the criticism as the “work of enemy agents against unity and cohesion of the ANC”.

The ANC, through a statement issued by regional Secretary Siphesihle Zulu and Regional Spokesperson Thandeka Ngidi, has confirmed that Nhaca, who is the member of the Regional Executive Committee (REC), was part of the Ramaphosa programme since the morning when she attended the initial

Vehicle plunges into river, killing two

By Xpress Reporter

Two people were killed after their vehicle veered off the road and plunged down an embankment into the river, on the R74 Bridge near KwaDukuza Mall. The accident happened on Sunday.

IPSS Medical Rescue says members of Search and Rescue made their way to the vehicle, entered the water and recovered one of the occupants. The driver was entrapped and had to be extricated from the wreckage. Both occupants were later declared deceased on the scene by IPSS Medical Rescue paramedics. The bodies were handed over to KwaDukuza SAPS mortuary strike were on strike.

briefing held at KwaDukuza Council Chamber.

“We wish to put on record that comrade Nhaca was part of the programme from the morning until the Stakeholder Engagement Programme. She was part of the political briefing before the commencement of the programme where PEC and REC members used the opportunity to brief the President and other NEC members about challenges affecting communities in KwaDukuza and the General Gizenga Region in general.

“Like other comrades in the REC, she requested to be excused from attending the

Gala Dinner due to inescapable long-planned activity. It is therefore taboo that she is singled out in such a manner by those hell-bent on sowing distortions about the African National Congress for not being available to attend the Gala Dinner.

“The ANC therefore categorically dismisses claims and allegations with contempt they deserve that comrade Nhaca does not support the presidency of President Cyril Ramaphosa. We view this as the work of enemy agents against the unity and cohesion of the ANC in the region,” the ANC stated.

College students fix gaping pothole

Pictured is KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca sharing a moment with a child at Lindelani Township (Ward 05), as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa's campaign in the area, on Saturday. She was later accused of “not supporting Ramaphosa's programme”.

Photo: Musa Mnyandu

Two people were killed after a vehicle plunged down an embankment, in Stanger

Students from the Technical Department of Shakaland Technical College decided to take matters into their own hands, and repaired the huge pothole in front of Dad's Pride Service Station (Colenbrander Road), much to the delight of motorists. Pictured are the students busy on the job. Well done to them.

“Some women choose to follow men, and some choose to follow their dreams. If you're wondering which way to go, remember that your career will never wake up and tell you that it doesn't love you anymore.”

Lady Gaga

“You've got to get up every morning with determination if you're going to go to bed with satisfaction.”

George Lorimer

“Take the attitude of a student, never be too big to ask questions, never know too much to learn something new.” Augustine Og Mandino

“People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing that's why we recommend it daily.” Zig Ziglar

“We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women's voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.” Sheryl Sandberg

Massive water project for rural community

Perennial water supply challenges will soon become a thing of the past for the rural community of Ndwedwe. This follows the launch by Ilembe District Mayor Thobani Shandu of a multimillion Rand water project.

The launch was done on Thursday last week, at Sonkombe Sports Field. It was presided over by Mayor Shandu, iLembe Deputy Mayor James Van Whye, Ilembe Speaker Dolly Shandu and Ndwedwe Mayor Samuel Mfeka.

The District Municipality says as part of the R16 million uMshwathi Bulk Water Supply Scheme, boreholes will be drilled in several wards as an interim relief measure for communities faced with constant water provision

challenges.

The areas expected to benefit from the project include Nhlangwini, Nsuze, eMaromeni, KwaThayela, KwaLuthuli, Impilo, Bhidakhona, Etsheni, Ntabamhlophe, KwaMhlongo, Matholamnyama and Ndondolo/KwaGcabashe.

Ndwedwe Mayor Samuel Mfeka said the main challenge in Ndwedwe was not lac of infrastructure, but scarcity of water sources.

“Our biggest problem here in Ndwedwe, is not that there is no infrastructure. The infrastructure is there, there is just not enough water sources. As the local leadership, we could not rest due to complaints from the affected ward councillors. We are here today to bring solutions,” Mfeka said.

On the same day, iLembe held the third instalment of the Taking Council to the People program in Ndwedwe and gathered with ward committees to engage and capacitate them on council business and matters that are important to improve service delivery.

Pictured (L to T) are Ilembe Deputy Mayor James Van Whye, Ilembe EXCO member Bheka Dlamini, Ndwedwe Speaker Mduduzi Cele, Ilembe Mayor Thobani Shandu, Ndwedwe Mayor Samuel Mfeka and Ilembe Speaker Dolly Shandu

in for distressed family

When former DA councillor Madhun Sobram Sing overheard a conversation between his son, Cllr Krsna Sing and a couple in distress, he immediately jumped into action.

The couple, Poobal Naidoo (65) and his wife Anuja Naidoo, had their house on Willow Road being flooded. Sing says the assumption at this stage is that the cause of the flooding was construction work being undertaken on Manor Drive (R74). He says the couple had been sent from pillar to post when requesting assistance from authorities. Feeling utterly, the couple eventually approached Cllr Krsna Sing for intervention.

Sing Snr (Madhun) immediately contacted his cousin Jairaj Sing who was previously in the plant hire business. Jairaj Sing agreed to meet the family the following day.

“We met the family assessed the

situation and arranged for the TLB. By the afternoon the TLB cleared the mud and diverted the water track. I could see the pain etched on their face it was virtually impossible to perform their son's yearly ceremony on Thursday. I went the extra mile and sponsored the marquee, chairs and table. With all the pain and suffering they endured I wanted them to have a dignified ceremony in memory of their son.

“I am glad they returned cleaned the house that was full of mud. At least we brought hope when there was despair,” said former councillor Madhun Sing. Meanwhile Cllr Krsna Sing has escalated the matter through the DA's Member of Parliament on Transport Sharon Hoosen for the department's immediate investigation and a permanent solution.

Public urged to support Project L3

Public support is being sought as KwaDukuza Child Welfare Society gears up to host its annual Child Protection Parade, as part of the Society's Project L3 (Love, Love and Learn).

Project L3 is an innovative fundraising project that was launched by the Society in 2016. It seeks to promote child protection and encourages community participation in the fight against child abuse. The theme colour is “green”, which is the national theme colour for child protection and symbolizes growth and development.

The project is commemorated annually on the Friday Human Rights Day, which for this year will be this coming Friday, 17th of March 2023. The Society would like to raise as much awareness as possible on the seriousness of child abuse within communities.

The Society's parade through KwaDukuza CBD will involve schools business houses and many other organizations from around KwaDukuza. The theme for the day will be “Child Protection”, and all participants are encouraged to wear the Project L3 colour

theme (green). Participants will be expected to wear green t-shirts, preferably the Project L3 specific ones. Participants are also encouraged to bring banners and posters carrying the message of Child Protection.

“Should you be (unavailable) to participate in our parade, we encourage the community to wear green on this day (17 March 2023) to promote child protection awareness. The stock is available for purchase at KwaDukuza Child Welfare Society,” the Society stated.

List of Project L3 products available:

• Badges R5

• Wrist Bands R10

• Bottles (BPAfree) R20

• Adult T-Shirts R60

• Kids T-Shirts R40

• Caps R50

The parade will take place on Friday, 17th march 2023, commencing at 9am, from Dawnview Primary School. For more information, or to purchase any of the listed Project L3 products please contact Portia Mngomezulu on (032) 551-2129.

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.

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2 bedroom outbuilding to let in Stanger Manor. R3200 excl water & lights. Contact 082 305 3464 / 074 343 4146.

1 Large bedroom, kitchen, toilet/shower. Fully tiled, burglar guarded. Stanger Manor. Contact 067 827 5865.

Stanger Heights. 1

Bedroom, kitchen. R3000 pm. Including water/lights. Contact 072 907 7041.

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.

Help find natural parents

• KwaDukuza Child Welfare is looking for the natural parents of Amkela Mngoma born 2021-0901. The natural mother is Nompumelelo Mngoma. Anyone with information please contact social worker Miss TH Ndaba on (032) 551-2129.

• The Department of Social Development wish to be assisted in locating the mother of Gumede

Khethiwe. Anyone with information is urged to contact Social Worker Miss K Mkhwanazi on (032) 552-5246.

• The natural parents of Melusi Cele born 04/06/2020. The natural father is Mr Sibongiseni Nkosingiphile Mkhize and the natural mother is Ms Thezaphi Cele.

Kindly contact social worker, Ms S Mkhize on (032) 551-2129 regarding the abovementioned case.

• The natural father Mr Sibu Mkhwanazi of Nothando Nonjabulo Bhengu born 10/10/2015. The natural mother is Ms Angel Abigail Bhengu.

Kindly contact social worker, Mrs S Govender on (032) 551-2129 regarding the abovementioned case.

• The natural parents of Hlelelwa Smanga Makhaye born 22/01/2016. The natural mother is Mbali Promise Makhaye.

• The natural father of Simphiwe Dladla born 12/06/2009. The natural mother is Sisanda Dladla.

Kindly contact social worker, Mr M.M Zwane on (032) 551-2129 regarding the abovementioned case.

• The natural fathers or family for the following case: Smangele Beauty Magwaza born 22/11/2005. The natural mother was Happiness Zodwa Magwaza. She died on 09/02/2022.

• Langalakhe Sibonga Skhakhane born 20/02/2011 and Ntombifuthi Nobuhle Skhakhane born 30/01/2007. The natural mother was Londiwe Skhakhane. She died on 17/09/2022.

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If you meet the criteria please drop off a CV of no more than two pages and a short motivation letter at the Xpress Times office. Alternatively, email your CV to timesmedia2009@gmail.com

20 March Protest call by EFF

It has been noted that as the date 20 March gets closer there is a build-up of quite a few WhatsApp messages relating to calls for people to stay away from work, being it office based, or working in a business or scholars attending school etc.

All these messages currently floating around are being closely monitored by State Security nationally and provincially and threat analysis is evaluated and security plans will be put in place based on the threat levels. SAPS and KDM will also be deploying members to safeguard the Business Houses and the residents of KwaDukuza.

CBD CPF, local security companies and Neighbourhood Watch Groups are also going to be rolling out a security plan that will be implemented in preparation for the 20th of March 2023.

Under no circumstances will lawlessness be entertained in the Ilembe KwaDukuza area.

Everyone has a Constitutional right to protest so long as permission has been obtained and they abide by the law.

A appeal is being made not to distribute WhatsApp messages on public platforms that will unnecessarily create panic and hysteria. If any messages seems to lean towards posing as a serious threat kindly forward it privately to me for verification with the authorities for checking on the authenticity and threat level of the messages to action further.

This helps tremendously in keeping and prevailing a sense of calm and gives all law enforcement agencies, CBD CPF, security companies and Neighbourhood Watch groups space to better manage the situation on the ground on that day. We as role players remain committed to be directed by Cluster Commanders and the Station Commander on that day and will be in a state of readiness. Stay safe out there and be blessed always.

Regards

Mr Salim Tootla Chairperson

• Mnqobi Gift Melokuhle Keswa born 06/04/2014. The natural mother was Princess Buhle Keswa. She died on 07/11/2021.

Kindly contact social worker, Ms A. Sentoo on (032) 551-2129 if you have any details on the fathers or paternal family.

• Umnyango wezenhlalakahle KwaDukuza ucela ukufuniswa abazali baka Nokubongwa Emihle Ngcobo. Igama likamama ngu Nobuhle Ngcobo ongaziwa ukuthi ukuphi, wanyamalala ngo 2015 ubaba naye akaziwa ongaba nolwazi athinte usonhlalakahle u TP Hlongwa ku (032) 552-5246 ngezikhathi zomsebenzi.

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• The Department of Social Development wish to be assisted in locating the mother of Gumede Khethiwe anyone with information can contact Social Worker Miss K Mkhwanazi on (032) 5525246.

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• The Department of Social Development wish to be assisted in locating the father of Bhuleni Njabulo Roberts his mother is Bhuleni Thandeka who passed away on 2010-11-20 anyone with information can contact Social Worker Miss K Mkhwanazi on (032) 552-5246. Advertising

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International Day to Combat Islamophobia

Islamophobia is a fear, prejudice and hatred of Muslims that leads to provocation, hostility and intolerance by means of threatening, harassment, abuse, incitement and intimidation of Muslims and non-Muslims, both in the online and offline world. Motivated by institutional, ideological, political and religious hostility that transcends into structural and cultural racism, it targets the symbols and markers of being a Muslim.

This definition emphasises the link between institutional levels of Islamophobia and manifestations of such attitudes, triggered by the visibility of the victim's perceived Muslim identity. This approach also interprets Islamophobia as a form of

The world is today observing the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

racism, whereby Islamic religion, tradition and culture are seen as a 'threat' to the Western values.

Some experts prefer the label 'anti-Muslim hatred,' fearing that the term 'Islamophobia' risks condemning all critiques of Islam and, therefore, could stifle freedom of expression. But international human

rights law protects individuals, not religions. And Islamophobia may also affect non-Muslims, based on perceptions of nationality, racial or ethnic background.

Following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 and other horrific acts of terrorism purportedly carried out in the name of Islam, institutional suspicion of

Muslims and those perceived to be Muslim has escalated to epidemic proportions. Numerous states, as well as regional and international bodies, have responded to security threats by adopting measures that disproportionately target Muslims and define Muslims as high-risk and at risk of radicalization.

In states where they are in the minority, Muslims often experience discrimination in accessing goods and services, in finding employment and in education. In some states they are denied citizenship or legal immigration status due to xenophobic perceptions that Muslims represent national security and terrorism threats. Muslim women are disproportionately targeted in Islamophobic hate crimes.

Combating Islamophobia

Many Governments have taken steps to combat Islamophobia by establishing anti-hate-crime legislation and measures to prevent and prosecute hate crimes and by conducting

public awareness campaigns about Muslims and Islam designed to dispel negative myths and misconceptions. The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution sponsored by 60 Member-States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which designated 15 March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. The document stresses that terrorism and violent extremism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group. It calls for a global dialogue on the promotion of a culture of tolerance and peace, based on respect for human rights and for the diversity of religions and belief.

Another pedestrian accident claims life

By Xpress Reporter

Too many pedestrians are losing their lives on North Coast roads, after being struck by vehicles. In one f the latest incidents, a pedestrian tragically died after being knocked down on the N2 Highway near Ballito.

IPSS Medical Rescue says despite efforts by advanced life support paramedics, the victim was declared on the scene. The cause of the accident is a subject of a police investigation.

Here are some tips to

enhance pedestrian safety:

• Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.

• Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.

• If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.

• Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.

• If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where

you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.

• Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.

•Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.

As a general rule, pedestrians and cyclists are NOT ALLOWED on highways/freeways.

Photo: UNHCR

Another pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle

Bavuma moves on from T20 World Cup trauma

Bavuma's charges brushed aside the West Indies by 284 runs an hour before tea on the fourth day to claim a 2-0 series win and retain the Sir Vivian Richards Trophy. The Test series success was South Africa's first in nearly a year after a drawn series in New Zealand at the start of March last year was followed up by a 2-0 home dusting of Bangladesh and consecutive series losses against England and Australia away.

Sandwiched in between those Test series losses that cost the Proteas a place in the World Test Championship final was the T20 World Cup implosion where SA exited the tournament after losing their last group game to the Netherlands. Bavuma had cast a crestfallen and emotional figure in the OR Tambo International Airport and with him ascending to the Test leadership, he relinquished the T20 captaincy. He was in a far different space after celebrating his first Test series win as captain.

"What happened in Australia took place a long time ago, if I could put it that way," Bavuma said. "In the reference to what happened in the T20 World Cup, I'm past it now. It's

happened and I've moved on from it.

"I'm here now and my mind is in a different space now. I'm happy with how my team has played and in the manner that we gained the victory."

Bavuma missed the England tour through injury, but was again called upon to play firefighting knocks in the 2-0 loss in Australia.

On accepting the Test match leadership, he joined a select band of leaders who made a pair on their

Volleyball gaining momentum in KZN

Volleyball in KwaZulu

Natal is fast gaining its momentum back under the astute leadership of both local stalwarts Adhil Khan and Kruba Jaram. Presently KZN is preparing for the U17 tournament and the female beach volleyball extravaganza.

The KZN Blitz U17 tournament takes place this Saturday, March18 at Hoy Park Durban with medals and trophies on offer. The tournament is opened to all schools and districts and is opened to all schools and districts. Closing date for entries is today (Wednesday), 15 March 2023.

South Africa will also be hosting the Lux Super 16 Women's Beach Volleyball Tournament to commemorate International Women's Day. This is scheduled for the weekend of 24-26 March at New Beach, Durban. The entry fee will be R500 per and prize money of R100 000 is up for grabs.

leadership debut. Of those, he became the first to win his first leadership game despite a double blob, which he swiftly followed up with his 172, his first Test 100 in more than seven years. Bavuma said he took lessons from the Australia tour that he hoped he applied well on his return.

"It was tough in Australia and as players, we were all under pressure," Bavuma said. "There were things that I learned in Australia and when I returned from the tour, I sat down and thought through them. "I looked at where I needed to improve my game and I hope the results were there for everyone to see in the England ODI series and the 100 I made. "However, in cricket, you learn something new every day.”

KZN volleyball in partnership with Volleyball

KZN is offering clubs free accommodation for the top 16 clubs with shuttle service from King Shaka International Airport. Closing date for entries is 22 March 2023. For more information contact Adhil Khan on 071 123 4007 or Kruba Jaram on 071 884 7774.

English Premier League Results

Bournemouth 1-0 Liverpool

Leeds United 2-2 Brighton

Everton 1-0 Brighton

Leicester 1-3 Chelsea

Tottenham 3-1 Nottingham Forest

Crystal Palace 0-1 Man City

Man United 0-0 Southampton

West Ham 1-1Aston Villa

Fulham 0-3 Arsenal

Newcastle 2-1 Wolves

Ilembe cricket fixtures

DATETEAMOPPOSITIONTIMEVENUEUMPIRELEAGUE

19 MarManor BDoringkop12pmGledhowAshrafiyaT20 B

18 MarAshrafiyaNkobongo3pmGledhowDoringkopT20 B

19 MarIlembeAcc9amGledhowKZNPremier

This Day In History, 15 March

15 March 2006 : The former Iraqi leader, Saddam Hussein, began his formal defense in his trial for crimes against humanity by saying that the court was a 'comedy'. The judge closed the hearing to the public when Hussein told the Iraqi people to 'resist [the] invaders'. Hussein and seven co-accused were being prosecuted for the deaths of 148 people in the Shi'ite village of Dujail, which followed a 1982 assassination attempt on him.

Proud Proteas with skipper Themba Bavuma