Limpopo Mirror 14 April 2023

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Freak storm destroys houses and orchards

By Elmon Tshikhudo and Andries van Zyl

A freak storm that ripped through a small part of the Vhembe region on Monday afternoon caused damage estimated at hundreds of millions of rands. It not only destroyed orchards on dozens of farms, but also uprooted trees and blew off the roofs of several houses.

The dark clouds started gathering on the horizon late on Monday afternoon, but in most parts of the region it produced nothing more than a few drops of rain and a few gusts of wind.

This was not the case, however, in places such as Maungani village just west of Thohoyandou. The storm also wreaked havoc in the Levubu area, especially on farms next to the Piesanghoek road.

When the paper visited households at Maungani village on Tuesday, the damage was still clearly visible, with mangled sheets of corrugated iron, once the roof of a building, lying in the open veld.

An initial assessment indicates that roughly 20 households were struck by the fierce storm. The storm lasted for less than two hours, but the affected parties will need many years to recover.

One of the unlucky families to suffer is the Mulaudzi family, whose four-room house had its roof destroyed during the heavy storm. Family member

Ms Merriam Mulaudzi said she had just finished cooking on an outside fire when the storm had struck. “I was alone at home, with my husband having gone to the graveyard to clean the graves. Around 16:00, a strong wind blew and was

soon followed by heavy rains. I became very confused when the roof lifted, and I could see the rainy skies. A few moments later, the roof was swept away. I ran to the passage for safety,” she said.

Mulaudzi described how everything in the house was very quickly soaked in water as the rain poured down. “The damage is excessive, and bear in mind this is the house we inherited from my motherin-law. I am doing odd jobs at Univen and there is no way we can afford to replace the roof,” she said.

Another resident who lost a lifetime’s worth of savings and possessions is Ms Livhuwani Makhwara. Her eight-room house that took her six years to build was destroyed by the intense wind and storm.

(Continues on page 2)

Community leaders Ms Azwifaneli Mapuleng (right) and Mr Edward Masithi (2nd from left) comforting house owner Ms Livhuwani Makhwara whose eight­room house was badly damaged. On the left is Vhamusanda Vho Dinani Masuagwala. Photo by Elmon Tshikhudo

Vhakoma Vho-Richard to face murder charge - page 3

Makhado Mayor’s wife dies - page 5

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Angela Brennan: 082 902 6271

brother was killed like a dog”

By Victor Mukwevho

The case against Zwidofhelangani Doreen Manwadu and her three co­accused took a dramatic turn when the court heard that Legal Aid lawyers are not keen to represent one of the accused, Ndalamo Nemakhavhani.

A Legal Aid lawyer, candidate attorney Makuya, told the court that Legal Aid lawyers who had initially agreed to represent Nemakhavhani had opted rather to withdraw from the case. She also told the court that a lawyer who had represented another accused, Pfunzo Ledzebe, during his bail application last week, advocate Lidovho, had not pitched up when they had appeared in court on Tuesday (11th).

Manwadu, who has her own lawyer, is accused of hiring Tshianeo Munyai, Ndalamo Nemakhavhani and Pfunzo Lidzebe to kill her husband, the late advocate James Manwadu, at their house at Maniini village on 12 November 2022.

Manwadu, who is accused number four in the case, appeared with Pfunzo Lid-

zebe (accused number two) and Ndalamo Nemakhavhani (accused number three), before magistrate Shirley Nemutandani.

Accused number one, Tshianeo Munyai, was not in court, and the court was told that he had to appear in another court as he had pending criminal cases in Giyani, Namakgale and Makhado.

Zwidofhelangani Doreen

Manwadu was arrested after investigators had found a paper trail, including bank statements that reflected payments amounting to R100 000 that were allegedly made by her to accounts of the arrested hitmen.

From the bits of information that became available about the case, the allegation is that investigators had also found phone records showing that she had constantly been in close contact with the hitmen shortly before her husband was killed.

On Tuesday, the late advocate James Manwadu’s elder sister, Ms Thinavhudzulo Manwadu, was spitting fire outside the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court. “As the family, we do

not know what my brother did to Zwidofhelangani that prompted her to [allegedly] kill him. My brother married her in 2002 and she came here with nothing, other than a Grade 12 certificate. She was not even working and became a housewife. He immediately taught her how to drive and bought her a new Ford Figo sedan. He loved her very much, without knowing that he was feeding a snake that would [allegedly] kill him one day,” she fumed.

“We are very devastated as a family. Doreen doesn’t even know the prize of a school uniform as my brother was doing everything for his children. Perhaps the justice system will help us in finding out why did she [allegedly] kill my brother. What did he do to deserve that? My brother was allegedly shot and died like a dog,” she added.

When asked what she reckoned an appropriate sentence for her brother’s killers would be, Thinavhudzulo said a life sentence without parole would be the right sentence.

The case was postponed to 21 June 2023 for further police investigations.

Freak storm leaves behind a trail of destruction

damage and the type of intervention those affected would need.

The freak storm caused damage estimated at hundreds of millions in the Piesanghoek area (Levubu). It struck roughly 13 farms and destroyed crops, and the rain was accompanied by hailstones, some

Mr Fritz Ahrens, chairperson of the Louis Trichardt Farmers Association, was one of the farmers who saw his avocado orchards being destroyed in a matter of minutes. He estimated his losses at more than R5 million. Ahrens added that the losses were especially devastating to many of the farmers as they were hoping for good crops this year to make up for some of the losses sustained from bad market prices and other problems in previous seasons. He was worried that the damage incurred would lead to more job

Mr Fanie Havinga, chairperson of the Soutpansberg District Farmers’ Union, described the storm as a disaster. He reckoned that the dam-

IDP/BUDGET REGIONAL CONSULTATIVE MEETINGS:

Notice is hereby given that Makhado Local Municipality will be holding an IDP/BUDGET

age ran into hundreds of millions of rands. Havinga also said that such a storm was a rare phenomenon in the region this time of the year. He said the intensity of such freak storms was increasing, which made many people wonder if this is not the effect of weather patterns that are changing internationally.

Last week, the South African Weather Service warned against changes in the weather patterns.

In its monthly Seasonal Climate Watch, it describes the effects of the La Niña pattern, warning that it may lead to a wet winter season for the northeastern parts of the country.

“The multi-model rainfall forecast indicates above-normal rainfall for the northeast of the country and below-normal rainfall for the south-

west during all predicted seasons. As most of the rainfall during winter is expected in the far southwest, the below-normal rainfall conditions in those areas are expected to have a significant impact,” the weather service said.

“The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently in a La Niña state, and forecasts indicate that it will likely return to a neutral state by autumn (Mar-Apr-May). However, ENSO’s impact is limited for the coming seasons until the next summer season, which may be impacted by an El Niño state if early predictions are correct. Caution is advised, however, as changes in the ENSO prediction may change during winter and only monitoring is advised at this stage,” the weather service said.

Agricultural sector, Tourism sector, Sanco, Community Development Officers, NGOs, Ratepayers Associations, Chairpersons Associations, Provincial Sector Departments and representatives of any interested groups are invited

All enquiries can be directed to the Chief Financial Officer or the IDP Manager at telephone number 015 519 3000.

TOP: From left: Ndalamo Nemakhavhani, Pfunzo Ledzebe and Zwidofhelangani Doreen Manwadu appeared before magistrate Shirley Nemutandani on Tuesday.

RIGHT: The late advocate James Manwadu’s elder sister, Ms Thinavhudzulo Manwadu, calls for the justice system to help them find out why her brother was shot and killed like a dog. PictureS: Victor Mukwevho.

“My

House owner Ms Livhuwani Makhwara (right) followed by ward committee member Mr Edward Masithi and Vhamusanda Vho Dinani Masiagwala (left) while assessing the damage at the Makhwara home. The family’s eight­roomed house was destroyed by the heavy winds.

Picture: Elmon Tshikhudo

One of the stores on a farm near the Piesanghoek road that got destroyed in the storm. Photo supplied

Vhakoma Vho-Richard Netshandama charged with murder

By Elmon Tshikhudo

Murder accused Ms Olga Richard Netshandama is facing another charge. The 40­year­old from Tshandama made headlines when she allegedly killed her lover, Ms Elinah Mabirimisa (38), on 21 March this year. Netshandama is also facing a charge of attempting to murder a former lover almost three years ago.

She appeared in the Sibasa Regional Court last Thursday (6th) in connection

with the 2020 incident, facing a charge of attempted murder. Her case was postponed to 1 June 2023 for trial.

The first incident allegedly happened on 30 June 2020 at Tshandama outside Thohoyandou. Netshandama is being accused of hitting another woman with an axe. She was arrested and has appeared in court on numerous occasions in connection with this incident but was released after paying bail.

Netshandama, who is better known as Vhakoma Vho-Richard, is alleged to have committed another crime while

out on bail. She allegedly followed her lover to a village called Motlhasedi in Lephalale, where she stabbed her three weeks ago. The knife she had allegedly used was found at the scene.

“She has already appeared at the Phalala Magistrate’s Court and her case was postponed to the 17th of April 2023, where hopefully she would apply for bail. For the Sibasa case, she is to appear at the Sibasa Regional Court for trial,” said Ms Mashudu Dzhangi Malabi of the Limpopo NPA.

Woman’s decomposed body found at Tshiozwi

By Kaizer Nengovhela

The decomposed body of a woman was found in a mealie field near Tshiozwi on Tuesday (11th). Members of the nearby community believe that she might have been killed somewhere else and dumped in the field.

When news about the discovery started circulating on Tuesday, the police had to battle to keep the big crowd that had gathered at the scene at bay. To complicate matters for the law enforcers, heavy rain showers poured down when the body was being loaded into the forensic pathology vehicle.

Mr Thendo Mavhandu, a passer-by who found the body, said he was taking a shortcut through the bushes on his way

home to Tshiozwi when he made the gruesome discovery. “I noticed this strange object that looked like a person,” he said. He went closer to inspect and saw a body in a bad state of decomposition. The smell was also really bad.

“This was a real person and must have been in the bush for some time,” he said. Mavhandu said that he had called people living nearby who had come out and called the police.

Police spokesperson Sgt Irene Radzilani confirmed that the body of woman was found in the bush. “We are pleading with the community to assist us in this regard,” she said. Radzilani said that a murder docket was opened. “We are making an appeal to whoever might have information about the incident to please notify the police nearest to them,” said Radzilani. Zoutpansberg Community Development Forum (ZCDF) chairperson Mr Patrick Sikhutshi said they were shocked about the gruesome murders of young women happening in Madombidzha and Tshiozwi. On 23 January this year, the body of a 15-yearold Grade 10 learner from Maneledzi High, Lungisani Phosa, was also found in a field in the area.

“We are seriously worried about the loss of life due to criminality. We call on the police and detectives in particular to follow up on these murders and bring the perpetrators to book”, he said. Sikhutshi encouraged community members to provide information that will lead to the arrest of the criminals.

No closure until DNA results arrive

By Kaizer Nengovhela

The family members of Mr Victor Maluleke (40), who went missing in July last year, are still waiting for his remains to be released, so that he can be buried.

The bodies of a man and a woman were exhumed at different locations at Gogobole and Rathidili (Tshikhwani) in the Sinthumule area on Sunday, 29 January, after five members of the Western Vhukovhela security unit, who were arrested for terrorising the local communities, had allegedly confessed to killing these people and pointed out to the police the sites where they had buried their victims in shallow graves.

The family members of Mal-

uleke say that, besides having to cope with the pain of having their loved one killed, they now have to live in suspense, not knowing whether the body is his. For almost three months now, the family have been waiting for the DNA test results that will confirm this.

The sister of Victor’s, Ms Azwindini Maluleke, said that her brother had gone missing on the night of 7 July and had never been seen again. “Our hands are tied by technical glitches, and we cannot bury him, because he has not been identified via DNA,” she said. She added that it was taking a toll on them, “as our lives have come to a complete halt”.

She said the family members were getting frustrated, because

they were not getting updates from the police. They were then told that the remains would go for DNA tests in Polokwane and since then they have been waiting for the results.

Azwindini said that they had been relieved when informed that the body had been found. “We hoped it would bring closure to the trauma we are facing. But it’s been a long time now since my brother’s remains have been lying in the mortuary.”

The police spokesperson, Lt Col Malesela Ledwaba, said the remains of the bodies were sent for DNA tests to Polokwane. Ledwaba urged the family to be patient and said they would get the result soon after the completion of the tests.

Still no ruling on Livhu’s bail request

By Elmon Tshikhudo

Livhuwani Madadzhe, better known as SABC Livhu, was told to wait in jail for at least another week before he will find out whether his application to be released on bail has been successful. He appeared in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court last Thursday (6th), but the case was postponed to April 13.

The controversial 38-yearold comedian and businessman stands accused of murdering his wife, Ms Lindelani Nengovhela. The lifeless body of Mia Muofhe, as she was called by her friends, was found in a water-filled pit outside their

house on 28 January this year.

A day before her death, she had withdrawn the assault charges she had laid against Livhu in November 2022.

Since his arrest, Livhu asked to be released on bail, much to the annoyance and frustration of family members and friends of Lindelani Nengovhela, as well as gender-based-violence activists.

A formal bail application was heard on March 27 and 28, but the presiding magistrate did not make a ruling. The case was postponed to April 6 for him to be able to apply his mind.

Last Thursday, the court premises was swarming as usual with community

members and members of the unified groups who had come to oppose the granting of bail to Livhu.

Following a very brief appearance by the accused, the case was postponed to 13 April because of the absence of the presiding magistrate who was not present from what was described as unforeseen circumstances.

The absence of the attorney who previously represented Livhu, Advocate Ntsako Hlungwani, also raised eyebrows, but apparently that was only because he was busy with another case. Another attorney substituted for him during the appearance.

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In happier times, Vhakoma Vho­Richard Netshandama (right) with her lover, Ms Elinah Mabirimisa. Photo supplied.

A forensic investigator, helped by a police officer, removes the body of the unknown woman who was found in a field.

Photo: Kaizer Nengovhela.

Mayors Munyai and Nenguda to fight for deputy chairperson seat

By Kaizer Nengovhela

The fight for the positions of deputy chairperson and deputy secretary of the ANC’s Vhembe regional council is intensifying. Two factions exist, each supporting their own candidates for the 20 May elections to be held at a venue still to be decided.

Following the murder of the previous deputy secretary and Collins Chabane mayor, Moses Maluleke, last year and the death of the deputy chairperson of the regional ANC, Adv Makonde Mathivha, two vacant positions in the regional structure exist. The Vhembe region is Limpopo’s second-biggest ANC constituency.

Sources from within the party said this week that two factions had openly pledged their support to their candidates. The faction led by the

current regional chairperson, Mr Tshitereke Matibe, wants Makhado Mayor Samuel Munyai to be deputy chairperson and Miyelani Chauke to serve as deputy secretary. The other faction, led by regional secretary Mr Rudzani Ludere, is backing Vhembe Mayor Dowelani Nenguda as deputy chairperson and Collins Chabane Mayor Shadrack Maluleke as deputy secretary. Dowelani Nenguda is generally considered as the favourite to fill the vacant position. He is the longest-serving regional member in Vhembe and is said to have support from many of the branches. Some of these branch members said that Nenguda brought stability to the Vhembe District Municipality and he had the ability to unite people along tribal lines. Munyai, on the other hand, has proven to be very popular with most branches.

Musina residents left in the dark by cable thieves

By Bernard Chiguvare

Parts of Musina, especially the Matswale township, were left in the dark for several hours last week. This time, however, this was not because of load­shedding, but because cable thieves had used the period of interruption to steal cables.

The power interruptions on Thursday and Friday had residents hot under the collar, with several calling for stronger action to curb the theft of copper cables. One resident remarked on a social media platform that this is the second time in a period of two weeks that they had to suffer from power interruptions because of cable theft. The Musina Municipality’s electricity team is normally quick to respond, but several hours are still needed to restore the electricity supply to affected areas.

One resident of the area called for more neighbourhood patrols, to try and stop the thieves. “Even at my place, they wanted to cut the cables, but I managed to go out and the thieves ran away. It was around 03:00 in the morning,” he said.

“The community must stand up together and do some patrolling at night, otherwise we will suffer more,” another resident commented.

The consensus was that the municipality, in collaboration with the police, must conduct regular inspections at all scrapyards to check what the thieves are bringing and to question whoever brings in scrap to the scrapyard. “Government must shut down all these scrapyards and arrest scrapyard owners who buy stolen cables,” one resident said.

Learners from Liphakha Primary School received a welcome donation in the form of shoes from a group of former learners who call themselves Matsa Northern Brothers. The shoes were handed over on 8 April. Photo supplied.

VDM’s executive mayor, Dowelani Nenguda.

Makhado Mayor, Samuel Munyai.

Some of the vandalised electricity poles in Musina. Photo: Musina social-media group.

Julia Munyai (48), wife of mayor of Makhado dies

By Kaizer Nengovhela

Julia Munyai (48), wife of Makhado Municipality’s mayor, Cllr Samuel Munyai, died on Saturday at her home in Tshakhuma after a long sickbed.

Munyai, who had worked at the Vhembe District Municipality’s Facilities Department for the past seven years, was described as a very dedicated employee.

The executive mayor of Vhembe District Municipality, Dowelani Nenguda, conveyed his deep and sincere condolences to the Munyai family and wished them strength and courage during these difficult times. He described the death of Munyai as a terrible blow to the community of Vhembe. “Our wealth is our employees, and we feel very bad when one of us leaves us unexpectedly,” he said.

The Speaker of Makhado Municipality, Cllr Dorcus Mboyi, said the people of Makhado and Vhembe region were in pain after losing one of their respected community members. “We know that it is very painful to lose a loved one. However, only the Lord is the one who knows why it happened like this, and we have to trust in the power of prayer to comfort the grieving family.”

The family spokes-

person, Mr Chris Mulaudzi, said he was overwhelmed by the support from the mayor’s colleagues, family members and friends during his mourning period. “We are deeply hurt by our big loss, but we are comforted by the great support that we are getting from the community. Words alone cannot express our thankfulness to everyone who comforted us during the time when we needed them most.”

Munyai will be buried on Saturday, 15 April at the Tshakhuma Mulangaphuma grounds. The service starts at 06:00. A memorial service will be held on Friday, 14 April, at the same venue, starting at12:00.

Granny Nemukombame celebrates 100 years

By Silas Nduvheni

Family members and friends gathered at the rural village of Tshitunguni on Saturday (8th) to celebrate the 100th birthday of granny Vho­Litshani Nemukombame.

Granny Nemukombame was born in Tshitanzhe village near Musunda in 1923 and was known for the exemplary way she raised her children, taking them to church every Sunday and also encouraging them to take education seriously.

Nemukombame was blessed with eight children, namely Sarah (Main-

ganye), Thihanedzwi, Thanyani, Tshisikhaiwe, Fhumulani, Mmbulaheni, Ntshavheni and Masala. She had to raise some of them as a single mother after her husband, Lungisani Johannes Nemukombame passed away in 1975.

“Life was hard raising children as a single unemployed mother, but I always prayed to God that, one day I will enjoy a better life, like others, if I encourage my children to take education seriously,” she said. She has relocated to Tshitunguni village, where she is spending much of her time ploughing in the mealie field near her house.

Granny Nemukombame said she never drank any alcohol in her life, and

she is a vegetarian. She enjoys mopani worms and apples. She also believes that one should exercise regularly and go to church every Sunday. She is a member of Thavhakhulu Reformed Church in Tshilamba.

One of her children, Ms Sarah Mainganye Ravele, is the principal of the Lufule Primary School, along the Punda Maria Road from Thohoyandou. She was very excited to be present to celebrate her mother’s centenary. She thanked God for allowing her mother such an extended life and said that they all hoped that she still had many more years to live.

Ms Ntovholeni Mudau (left), granny Vho­Litshani Nemukombame (cutting her birthday cake), and one of her children, Ms Fhumulani Nemukombame, photographed during the celebrations.

The late Ms Julia Munyai, wife of Makhado Municipality’s mayor, Samuel Munyai. Photo supplied.

Importance of heritage protection emphasised during Matsila Day

By Kaizer Nengovhela

Hundreds of residents from around Vhembe and outside the district gathered at Matsila kraal on Saturday, 8 April, for the annual Matsila Day celebration.

Traditional dancers from Vatsonga and Vhavenda cultural groups entertained guests during the event. The event was also graced by dignitaries such as Prof Luka David Mosoma, chairperson of the Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights Commission (CRLRC), businessman Mike Nkuna, Thovhele Vho-Mailausumbwa Midiyavhathu Tshivhase and many Vatsonga and Vhavenda traditional leaders.

Vhamusanda Vho-Livhuwani Matsila said in his welcoming speech that no heritage would exist if parents did not become responsible and take charge of their children’s lives.

“Our country is rotten to the core; youths roam the streets aimlessly and engage in unbe-

coming activities. We have the responsibility as parents to restore what is being taken away from our children by teaching them traditional dances and our culture, which is fast fading away,” he said. Matsila added that need existed for cultural schools as they would teach the young ones their roots and their identity. He said each of the royal council meetings would also focus on the building of a cultural school.

Thovhele Vho-Tshivhase spoke about the importance of culture and how the royal youths should conduct themselves in their daily lives. He said the day would remain an integral part of the Vhavenda nation and that it would be celebrated forever.

“The Vhavenda nation is not a lost nation. This is the reason why we give ourselves time to come and gather here. We are now urging parents to allow their children to attend such events, where they will learn more about their culture,” he said. Tshivhase urged traditional leaders to be united in the preservation of culture. He encouraged families to teach their young ones the history of the Vhavenda people, where they came from and where they were heading, so that this would not be forgotten. He emphasised the importance of special cultural days.

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“Other nations have their special days to celebrate their culture. We cannot be left behind, and we will continue to be in the forefront of cultural revival,” he said. Tshivhase commended Matsila for coming up with the initiative of reviving culture through traditional dances.

New two-bed high-care room at Zoutpansberg Private Hospital paves the way for the new 90-bed facility

By Andries van Zyl

The Zoutpansberg Private Hospital is living up to its motto

“We dare to Care” with the recent addition of a two­bed high­care unit that will in future help them to deliver a higher level of care to patients.

The management of the hospital is extremely happy with the approval, which was recently granted by the BHF (Board of Funders), a statutory body responsible for the

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issuing of medical incenses.

This follows a stringent inspection. “We decided to start phasing in the high-care room as part of our already approved licence for the new hospital’s 10-bed ICU ward. For this, however, we needed approval,” said the hospital’s clinical director, Dr Anton Stroebel.

As indicated, the new 90-bed Zoutpansberg Private Hospital currently under construction adjacent to the existing hospital will feature a mixed 10-bed ICU/high-care

ward.

This will mean that ICU patients, such as critical accident cases and people needing life support, can be treated locally instead of transferring to Tzaneen, Polokwane or even Gauteng.

As for the high-care room, the hospital could start taking in patients from 1 April. “But there is still a process that needs to be followed,” said Stroebel. He was referring among other things to the claims process for medical schemes,

their own billing processes and even what stock needs to be kept in the high-care room. “We are therefore starting with low-risk high-care patients and working our way up to high-risk high-care patients,” said Stroebel. The room had already housed its first patient this past week.

The hospital’s matron, Majha de Lange, was especially exited about their newest addition of services, which also allow the hospital to do more complicated surgeries in theatre as they now have staff specifically trained to attend to after-surgery treatment. They are the only hospital in Louis Trichardt currently offering this service.

“The benefit is that we can now observe an unstable patient much better. This also means that we can keep patients longer, meaning that if a normal patient’s condition worsens, we can now move them to the high-care room, rather than transferring them,” said De Lange. Patients waiting for an advanced ambulance service can now also be held for longer.

Patients in die high-care room will receive round-the-clock observation with hourly check-ups. The room also features its own emergency medical trolley, fully equipped with everything needed to treat a high-care patient. This includes the room’s own oxygen supply and even a defibrillator, in case of a heart attack. “Everything is just for this one room,” said De Lange.

As from 1 April, the Zoutpansberg Private Hospital now boasts a two­bed high­care room for more serious medical cases. This followed the recent approval by the Board of Health Funders (BHF). Pictured at one of the beds in the room are the private hospital’s clinical director Dr Anton Stroebel (right) and the hospital’s Matron Majha de Lange.

Photographed after the event are, from left to right, Prof Luka David Mosoma (chairperson of the CRL Rights Commission), Thovhele Vho-Midiyavhathu Tshivhase, businessman Mike Nkuna, Vhamusanda Vho­Livhuwani Matsila, Eddy Mbedzi and Hosi B Nkuzana. Photo: Kaizer Nengovhela.

Thovhele Vho-Midiyabathu Tshivhase (centre) leads the traditional leaders as they dance the tshikona Photo: Kaizer Nengovhela.

The Nyavhumbwa wa Dakaila cultural group entertained the guests. Photo: Kaizer Nengovhela.

Gundo Apostolic Church holds annual general conference

By Elmon Tshikhudo

The Gundo Zion Apostolic Church, with its headquarters at Masakona outside Louis Trichardt, held its annual general conference over the Easter weekend.

The conference drew congregants from all branch-

Aaron Thidiela celebrates his birthday/graduation in style

es of the church. Among the guests who attended the event were Vhamusanda Vho-Pfarisenu Mawela of Sereni, the Masakona Traditional Council’s chairperson, Vho-Vhatukana Rambau and Queen Priscilla Masakona.

Speaking during the function, the church’s leader,

Archbishop Lesly Ramalamula, called on those present to put God first in all they do. “As a country, we are living at a time when depression has taken over and become a major killer. Many are committing suicide and so many lives have been lost as a result. Know that God has answers to all our problems, and I implore all of you to seek spiritual intervention when you are overwhelmed with challenges,” he said.

The highlight of the conference was when the archbishop welcomed Vhamusanda Vho-Pfariseni Mawela as a new member of the Gundo Zion Apostolic Church. He was given special church regalia as a way of welcoming and honouring him.

The chairperson of the Masakona Traditional Council, Mr Vhatukana Rambau, spoke of the importance of the partnership between the church and royalty. “The church has a duty to pray for the leaders, especially traditional leaders, for peace in our villages,” he said.

By Frank Mavhungu

Last Saturday was a memorable day for a resident of Thohoyandou, Mr Mbulaheni Aaron Thidiela. He celebrated his 69th birthday during a ceremony held at the Vhufuli branch of the United African Apostolic Church (UAAC). During the ceremony, he also celebrated the doctorate in theology he had completed at the Zambian Gideon Robert University.

The executive mayor of Vhembe District Municipality, Dowelani Nenguda, delivered a keynote address during the ceremony. He encouraged the other members of the church to follow in Mr Thidiela’s footsteps.

Aaron Thidiela’s elder brother, Mr David Thidiela, who is chairman of Black Leopards Football Club and leader of the Vhufuli branch of the UAAC, said that Aaron had done both the Thidiela clan and the church proud.

When addressing the congregation, Mr Aaron Thidiela said that his achievement was the result of his dedication and perseverance over the past years. Apart from the fact that he grew up in a Christian family, Thidiela was an athlete in his younger days. Hans Coetzee, as he was known during his heydays, started to play football in the streets of Vhufuli village at the age

of 10. His school mates from Vhufuli Primary School know him as one of the best athletes in the area. He carried the school’s hopes for several years when it came to the 100-metre and 400-metre sprints during athletics meetings.

After completing his primary education, Thidiela left athletics and focused more on his favourite sport, football.

He played for several teams, including Gooldville Young Tigers, before he retired in 1977 after sustaining a serious knee injury. He worked as an administrator at several football clubs, including Phungo All Stars and Black Leopards before he said goodbye to the sport to become a full-time pastor of the UAAC at the Vhufuli branch.

Art & Entertainment

Veteran musician addresses issues of gender-based violence

By Victor Mukwevho

Veteran traditional and reggae musician, Gregory “The guitar man” Rangolo’s latest offering, Rolitshana, is doing very well in the music industry.

The straight-talking musician from Tshitereke village, which is situated next to

months after its release, it was being played on most radio stations. That encouraged me to work on my second album, called Vhamutivhili. It also made an impact in the music industry as music promoters started inviting me to play at music shows all over the Limpopo Province,” he said. In 2009, he released another Vhahashi, which also did well in the music industry.

album, which was released in December last year, is called Ro, which literally means, “if couples no longer love each other, they must agree that they are

Romeo Ndou wants to empower youth to dream big

done, and stop fighting and killing each other”.

“This is my best album to date. It is addressing issues of gender-based violence. A lot of people are dying today in the name of love. We must all agree that if love flies out of the window, it is done. We have to learn to let go. What is the reason for killing someone who has decided to move on with their life?” he asked.

Rangolo said that for people to separate when things are not looking good in their relationship is better than to wait until they kill each other. “As artists, we have the duty of educating and entertaining the community. It is therefore my singular responsibility to warn people against the danger of holding on to the myth that pains helps to make love stronger. If it is not working, call it off when you are still alive,” he added.

Rangolo said that his elder brother, Mofolo Rangolo, who is also a musician, had taught him how to play the guitar when he had been about seven.

When asked about his long dreadlocks, he said that he had last cut his hair in 1993 when he had joined the Rastafarian religion. “Like Samson in the Bible, my strength lies in my hair,” he concluded.

By Elmon Tshikhudo

A young man from the rural village of Tshisahulu outside Thohoyandou is making inroads in the competitive field of voice­overs and

entertainment. The 20­yearold Romeo Ndou, better known as Romeolyzer, is expanding his own brand and he also tries to serve as an example for other young men and women in the region. Besides being a voice-over artist, Romeolyzer is a popular musician, an actor, poet and former radio presenter. His journey into the entertainment world started at the age of nine when he began imitating reggae music artists. At the age of 14, he fell in love with

Romeo Ndou, better known as Romeolyzer. Photo supplied.

Venrap music and worked with other artists in this genre. As if that was not enough, he ventured into acting in dramas three years later.

In 2020, while in Grade 12, he expanded his field and added poetry. Poetry was not his final destination as he went on to be a radio presenter at Nzhelele FM and later at Vuwani FM in 2021 and 2022 respectively.

“I am a Jack of all trades and I master all of them. I am a hard worker, and today I own my own voice-over company, Romeolyzer Voice Overs (RVO), which is doing very well. We are doing voice-overs for many clients around South Africa," he said.

Ndou added that he had the dream of empowering and inspiring youths in Vhembe. “We are creating an atmosphere where the youth will benefit in terms of employment,” he said. He added that they used young people in their marketing and production teams.

“I am here proving to the youth, especially here in the Vhembe region, that nothing is impossible as long as one has the desire to succeed,” he said.

Traditional and reggae musician Gregory “The guitar man” Rangolo. Photo supplied.

Mr MA Thidiela (right) poses for a photo with Prof NE Singo during the ceremony. Photo: supplied.

Photographed during the conference are, standing from left to right, the newly welcomed church member Vhamusanda Vho­Pfariseni Mawela, church leader Archbishop Lesly Ramalamula and the chairperson of the Masakona Traditional Council, Mr Vhatukana Rambau. Seated are the wives of the leaders. From left are Queen Annah Mawela, Queen Priscilla Masakona and Mma Bishop Sandra Ramalamula. Photo supplied.

Muanetshi working on her debut album

By Maanda Bele

Fans of Muanetsheli

Muimbi can look forward to a new album, which will contain many of her popular singles. The artist spent most of her Easter holiday in a studio, working on her first house music album that is expected to be released later this year.

Thendo Mashapha, who is best known by her stage name of Muanetsheli Muimbi, said that she was working with well-known musicians from the Vhembe area on the new album. The album will include singles such as Athifari Khotho, Ndono Kangwa and Dzinwe Thama

The 20-year-old from

Tshilamba village outside Thohoyandou surprised her fans earlier this year when she released her first gospel song, titled Tshilidzi tshau Muanetsheli is also a talented dancer and an entertaining performer.

“I have always been a great dancer, even as a child. I used to love music and dancing in front of the mirror, pretending that I am performing in front of a large audience,” she said. She aims to gain international recognition.

“I am working very hard to make sure that I get recognised in the music industry. I want my music to be played on TV, and I will not give up until I get there,” she added.

Lutroo Da-Music spreads unity

By Thembi Siaga

Hulisani Masakona from Muledane, known as Lutroo Da­Music, holds the belief that unity among musicians can contribute to building a music community that is supportive, which will lead to increased creativity and collaboration.

Since the release of his latest single, Can't Hide It, last month, it has been making waves in the music industry. He collaborated with Osome Feyn, Mass The Difference and Mizo Phyll in recording the song.

He said the inspiration for the song came from a memorable evening at Marshal Cafe where several artists were gathered, hanging out, and socialising. “The experience made me realise that we could achieve much more as a collective than as individuals, which is the central message of the

Siavhe making name in local radio industry

By Kaizer Nengovhela

Phumudzo Siavhe, a presenter at community radio station Vhembe FM is making a name for himself in the local broadcasting industry.

Siavhe’s show, Mutingati, airs weekdays between 10:00 and 13 :00 and he also does the sport previews on Saturdays from 13:00 to 15:00.

Siavhe, who hails from Ha-Mashau, started his primary schooling at Phinimini and completed his Grade 12 at Maligana High School. He also obtained a diploma in marketing from a Johannesburg college.

His radio career started in 2014, when he joined Makhado FM, where he stayed until 2016. He then took a break before starting at Vhembe FM in 2019.

“The station manager of Makhado FM and his team were very impressed with my talent and could not believe that I had no previous experience in radio. They immediately issued me with an appointment letter and asked me to start working the next day,” he said.

Roklas Nelwamondo wants to help change industry

Renowned radio presenter Rotondwa Roklas Nelwamondo joined Phalaphala FM on 1 April to present the Vhurereli show, airing on Sundays from 19:00 to 21:00.

Nelwamondo has been in the broadcasting industry for the past 13 years, having started his career in radio at Musina Community Radio in 2010. In 2012, he joined Univen FM, where he occupied different positions for the next 11 years, until March this year.

song - that together we can achieve greatness and emerge victorious,” he said.

Over the years, this rising musician has developed a unique sound that blends different genres effortlessly.

He began his artistic journey during his primary school days, where his former music teacher discovered his talent and nurtured it. Since then, he has been on a musical journey, continuously growing.

Thus far, he has released three albums, namely Hulisani one, two, and three, and several singles.

Last November, he released a single named Properly, featuring Afro-beats Nigerian artist Zaiam, who is based in Canada.

Besides his musical endeavours, Lutroo Da-Music is also passionate about giving back to the community. He plans to use his newly founded media and entertainment record label, "Da-Music Group," to offer services such as song writing, tutoring, and vocal coaching to young and upcoming artists.

Pfuramathupho’s book is now an international read

By Elmon Tshikhudo

In 2021, award­winning poet and author Ms Phathutshedzo Netshivhulana published her first book, titled Pfuramathupho, whose target audience were mostly Tshivenda­speaking people. As time went by, the persistence of readers of other nationalities to have the book in English prompted her to translate it into English. The book, with its English title At the Heart of Sorrow, was published towards the end of 2022, and has since catapulted the author to international status, with orders flooding in from most African countries and as far afield as Russia.

The novel by this 25-year-old girl from the rural Tshaulu village is based on a true-life story, giving an insight into student life and the dangers involved for young people.

As to why she had decided to translate it to English, Phathutshedzo was quick to point out that her book could help many university students and many of them do not understand Tshivenda. “We translated it to reach a broader reading audience, and received global critical acclamation,” she said.

Phathutshedzo holds a bachelor’s degree in urban and regional planning but says her journey towards obtaining her degree had not been an easy one.

“In the book, I share with the readers how my expectations about university life turned into a series of traumatic experiences and how I overcame them. The book gives parents a flash of what some students get subjected to, as it addresses the issue of gender-based violence at higher-learning institutions. It identifies the different types of abuse, causes, and measures that can be

“The world of radio is evolving daily, and we have to learn new things. As a presenter, it is also very important to listen to the radio, read newspapers and magazines and to watch television to get updates on news around the globe. Because I’m working for a local community radio station, I also make sure that I provide a lot of local content for my listeners.”

He advises aspiring young radio presenters to love their work. “If you join the radio industry for fame, just know that you are definitely lost. Do what you love most in order to have peace of mind. For me, the love of radio supersedes anything else and I never drag myself to work,” he said.

He encourages young people to always keep themselves up to date with current affairs, so that they do not remain ignorant in a society where knowledge plays such an essential role. “Ignorance is no excuse. Youths need to take full responsibility for their own lives, or else they will find themselves living unfulfilled lives,” he said.

Nelwamondo was born and bred in Lwamondo. He started his schooling at Mutende Primary and matriculated from the Thasululo Learning Centre. After school, he studied for his diploma in marketing at the Tshwane North College.

He says he has always been madly in love with national radio. “I am so glad God granted me my wish. Every day I get to sit in my chair behind the microphone is a blessing. I love my work. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life.”

He says that radio has taught him always to be prepared to learn. He is very thankful for the support he has received since he ventured into the broadcasting industry 13 years ago, especially from his listeners.

He ascribes his success to passion and dedication. “Radio has changed a lot over the years. We need to realise that media content has to get aligned with what is actually happening out there. It’s also hight time that the media corporations consider hiring people who are ready to make the necessary changes in the industry,” he said.

Nelwamondo describes himself as an optimist who is always ready to try and experience new things. “My personal objective is to establish myself in a dynamic environment where my theoretical knowledge and practical experience can be fully utilised,” he said.

Phathutshedzo Netshivhulana’s Tshivenda novel, Pfuramathupho, has been translated into English. Photo supplied.

taken to avoid it. My dream and wish is that the Department of Education prescribe it for the Grade 12 learners, as this will come in handy and prepare them for varsity life and how to conduct themselves during their tertiary years,” she said. She says that translating the book into English was the best decision she could have made. “The English version is making waves internationally. Since its release, sales have surged, and I can confidently say that I am starting to reap the fruits of my labour. I now have readers in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Russia, which is no mean

feat for a rural-based young author.”

For book orders and other information, Phathutshedzo can be contacted on 072 493 9114, or follow her on her Facebook (Phathutshedzo Netshivhulana).

Phumudzo Siavhe is making a name for himself at Vhembe FM. Photo supplied.

Lutroo Da­Music tries to spread unity among artists in his latest song, featuring Osome Feyn, Mass The Difference and Mizo Phyll. Photo supplied.

Roklas Nelwamondo joined the Phalaphala FM team on 1 April this year. Photo supplied.

Thendo Mashapha, who is best known by her stage name, Muanetsheli Muimbi. Photo supplied.

New classes and decent toilets for teachers needed at Elim Primary

By Bernard Chiguvare

Elim Primary School’s governing board (SGB) is pleading with the Limpopo Department of Basic Education to build new classrooms as the current classrooms pose a danger to the learners.

Shigombe Primary awarded as the cleanest school in the province

By Elmon Tshikhudo

The chairperson of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa in Vhembe, Dr Gulukhulu Mathebula, has called on communities to take their cue from Jilongo village just outside Malamulele. This is where Shigombe Primary School is situated that had won the prize for the cleanest school in Limpopo.

Mathebula, who is very passionate about establishing a clean environment, was speaking during a function where stakeholders at the school were shown the prizes won by Shigombe Primary in a recent cleanliness competition. The school was presented with a certificate and a cheque of

R15 000 by the Vhembe District Municipality’s mayor, Cllr Dowelani Nenguda, for being the cleanest school in Vhembe. The school also won R20 000 for being the provincial champions.

Dr Mathebula said that the success of the school should not end there. “You must assist the local village as well as the entire Collins Chabane Local municipality,” he said and added, “a clean environment invites tourists, while unclean surroundings chase them away”.

He mentioned the world-renowned Kruger National Park and said communities neighbouring it should also be clean. “The village [Jilongo] was very clean from the time I was minister in the former Gazankulu homeland. The

school is taking its cue from the village, and congratulations to them,” he said.

The local traditional leader, Hosana John Jilongo, praised the management of the school under leadership of principal Ms Julia Mabasa for the achievement. “Both the school management and the school governing body have done us proud. That is the fruit of working in unison with the traditional council. We work as a team, and they also help to keep the village clean,” Hosana Jilongo said.

Jilongo said this was not the first time the village’s commitment to a clean environment was recognised. “In 1991, our village was chosen as the cleanest by the then Gazankulu government,” he said.

Tourism Vhembe Guide

The Zoutpansberger and Limpopo Mirror are publishing a comprehensive Vhembe Tourism Guide, to highlight the vast array of local tourism treasures. We hope that this publication, which will also be freely available online, will assist in promoting the industry and

stimulating the local economy.

Listings in the directory are free of charge for bona fide tourism institutions, such as lodges, hotels, restaurants, game farms and even tourist guides. A free listing is limited to 40 words, an e-mail or web address and a phone number. The directory includes detailed maps indicating where each of the places can be found.

The guide will be distributed as part of the newspapers, reaching an estimated 40 000 readers in the Vhembe district. The guide will also be available in digital format on our websites, where we reach around 118 000 unique visitors per month. (Feb 2023 Google Analytics stats).

Each listing will be indicated by a number on a map. A short description and contact details will then follow in directory format under the map.

“In 2021, the Limpopo Department of Basic Education visited the school for assessment after the previous SGB wrote several letters to the department, but nothing has been done yet. For the past two years, the current SGB was giving the department time to give feedback on their visit in 2021, but it seems this is going to take forever,” said Thompson Mahlaule, the chairperson of the SGB.

Mike Maringa, spokesperson for Limpopo Department of Basic Education, said the panel of contractors to renovate schools and construct new blocks had been appointed in December and the assessment process was underway. Maringa further said all the earmarked and assessed schools would be attended to in due course.

According to Mahlaule, the school is one of the oldest around Elim and was built in 1932. The school caters for pupils from Grade 5 to 7 and has an enrolment of 298 learners, which also means that it currently has too many learners for the number of classrooms.

Limpopo Mirror visited the

school last week. The windows in the classrooms were broken and some of the walls showed signs of cracking. Some of the desks used by the children are broken, while the ceilings of some classrooms have started to collapse.

Currently, the boys have no place to practise playing football. A football pitch is in the process of being erected. The principal’s office is very small and does not even provide space for filing or any other furniture.

“This is really a danger to the learners and the teachers,” said Mahlaule. He added the SGB felt the department should try and build modern toilets for the teachers as they are currently using pit toilets.

We also offer options for those who want to have a more comprehensive listing.

OPTION 1

There is a 5cm x 6.3cm full colour option, for R620 (VAT incl). Here is an example of such an advert: OPTION 2

There is also a 10cm x 6.3cm option, for R1 200 (VAT incl). Here is an example of such an advert:

EVEN BIGGER OPTIONS

For businesses that need more visibility, we offer half page adverts for R4 200 (VAT incl) & full page adverts, for R8 000 (VAT incl).

Showing off the dummy cheques are, from left to right, the school principal, Ms Julia Mabasa, Mr Risenga Elias Chauke (SGB), Ward 36 Collins Chabane councillor Ms Lisbeth Mthebula, local traditional leader Hosana Jilongo, Vhembe Contralesa chairperson Dr Gulukhulu Mathebula and cleanliness project coordinator Ms Vongani Nelly Maluleke. Photo: Elmon Tshikhudo.

Mr Thompson Mahlaule (left) and Ms Hkhensani Mahlathi, the deputy chairperson of the SGB, pointing at the teachers’ pit toilets. Photo: Bernard Chiguvare.

We do not want shoddy work from contractors, warns Vhembe mayor

By Silas Nduvheni

Six contractors were awarded appointment letters last Thursday and will soon commence with work on the Vondo Water Treatment Upgrade and Infrastructure Project.

The six contractors include Eternity Star Investment CC from Polokwane, Tovhowani Khorommbi of Todani Pty Ltd and Infraburo Engineers. They will start working on the R355 million bulk water supply project, which is to take approximately 12 months to complete.

The handing-over event was held at the Tshivhase Tribal Council offices in Luaname in

Mukumbani village on Thursday (6th) and several traditional leaders and community members witnessed the event.

Local senior traditional leader Thovhele Kennedy Midiyavhathu Tshivhase expressed his concern over contractors who are just present on site shortly after being appointed but never finish their work, leaving communities with serious water shortages. He thanked the district municipality for embarking on this project as he believes it will alleviate the water shortages in the area. “We also understand that, when water projects such as these are implemented in my villages, rural unemployed communities will get jobs,” said

Thovhele Tshivhase.

The executive mayor of the Vhembe District Municipality, Dowelani Nenguda, said the district was the official water service authority and they would be working around the clock to make sure that villagers without water got clean water from their taps.

Nenguda said that they had to secure the involvement of traditional leaders before the start of such projects. “We don’t want white elephant water projects here in Vhembe District. We are ready to fast track the delivery of clean water to our communities. I urge the contractors to start working hard and do quality jobs,” said Nenguda.

By Elmon Tshikhudo

Nnyawedzeni Agnes Ramukanda Tshifura would have celebrated her 64th birthday last Tuesday (4 April). Sadly, her life was cut short and she died on 9 May 2021. This, however, did not mean she was forgotten by her loved ones, and they continue to celebrate her birthday, even if they do so at the cemetery at Mbaleni where she was buried.

“You were our rock, and we know you still are even though

New state-of-the-art Living Gospel church to be built at Tshilivho

Advertorial by Elmon Tshikhudo

A dream of one of the founders of the Living Gospel World Mission Church started to become a reality the past weekend when the sod-turning ceremony for the church’s new auditorium took place.

The ceremony was held on Sunday (9th) at the church’s headquarters in Tshilivho and the guests included traditional leader Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli, Vhembe District Municipality mayor Dowelani Nenguda, Thulamela mayor Sarah Rammbuda, Ms Meriam Ramadwa - who is a member of the National Legislature - pastors and bishops.

The president of the church, Pastor Robert Kharivhe, said the new building would be the culmination of a dream by the founder of the church, Dr Masole Ragimana. The new auditorium will be able to host 4 000 people. “It will be one of a kind, with a ground-floor seating of 2 500, and 1 500 will be accommodated on the first floor. This excludes the youth and Sunday school halls,” he said.

Pastor Kharivhe said that this was one of the fastest-growing churches in the world, with more than 300 branches in 17 countries. “We are very excited to see the church growing on a daily basis, with many coming to the fold of God. Not long ago, the church could not accommodate all of us,” he said.

Pastor Kharivhe told the congregants and special guests that they had initially acquired a space that could accommodate just over 100 people, but it very quickly became too small. As the church kept on growing, they realised that they would have to embark on a major construction project.

“God is doing wonders here, and we

have every hope the project will be completed soon,” he said.

The new building site was blessed by Bishop Sophie Khorommbi of the Charis Missionary Church. The construction work is set to commence immediately.

In her passing and greeting sentiments, Thulamela Mayor Rammbuda said the new state-of-the-art church was in line with their vision of making Thulamela a city by 2030. She pledged all her support to make the project a success.

Speaking during the function, Vhembe’s Mayor Nenguda called on the church as an international and world church to continue uniting countries that sometimes do not see eye to eye. Nenguda also urged the church to pray for peace in the world, starting in its own district.

“We as leaders often engage in petty squabbles, and service delivery suffers. Pray that we have peace and that we provide water on a daily basis,” he said. He praised the leadership of the church for coming up with such a big initiative.

In his message, senior traditional leader Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli praised the current leadership of the church for fulfilling the vision of the late church founders, Pastor Matsidiso Evelina Ragimana and Pastor Dr Masole Petrus Ragimana. “We are here to celebrate this huge milestone. When the founders of this church passed on, I had serious doubts as to whether this church would continue, but the opposite is now the case as we are about to witness one of the best developments in this area. Please do not demolish the old building, but keep it as a reminder and a legacy for future generations,” he said.

The project coordinator, Mr Tshianeo Mathidi, said that the building would be funded from the contributions of the

church’s members. He said that they had no individual targets for congregants as everyone’s contribution was a matter between the individual and God.

you are not physically here with us anymore. We love and miss you so much, and we know that you continue to watch over us from heaven,” said her daughter, Ms Tinny Ramukanda Manwadu.

Tinny was accompanied by her two brothers, sister-in-law and their children when the family visited the grave. They spent the day cleaning her grave and its surroundings.

The day’s activities included the singing of birthday songs, the cutting of a birthday cake and dancing in celebration of the birthday.

Tinny said that the bond the family had had with her late mother could not be broken even in death. “It has been yet another year without you, and it feels just as hard as the first year did. It has been tough, but we have been trying to stay strong for you,” she said.

The late woman’s first-born, Rifhiwa Ramukanda, said the day had indeed been an emotional one. “There are no words that can describe the feeling for your loss, especially for your mother. May her soul continue to rest in peace,” he said.

Family members celebrating the birthday at the grave. Photo supplied.

Even after the death of a loved one, a birthday can be celebrated

The executive mayor of the Vhembe District Municipality, Dowelani Nenguda (seated), and Thovhele Kennedy Midiyavhatu Tshivhase (second from left) pose for a photo with contractors Mr Edwin Komana, Mr Tovhowani Khorrommbi and Mr Rudazani Netshampofu after their appointment letters to work on the Vondo Regional Water Scheme were handed over. Photo: Silas Nduvheni.

Unveiling the plan for the new church are, from left to right, Vhembe Mayor Dowelani Nenguda, church president Pastor Robert Kharivhe, Ms Maureen Kharivhe (president's wife), Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli and Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rammbuda. Photo: Elmon Tshikhudo.

Church president Pastor Robert Kharivhe leads the procession, followed by Vhembe Mayor Dowelani Nenguda, Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rammbuda and other dignitaries to the site where the new church is to be built. Photo: Elmon Tshikhudo.

Project coordinator Mr Tshianeo Mathidi (right) leads the guests. From left to right are Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rammbuda, Vhembe Mayor Dowelani Nenguda and church president Pastor Robert Kharivhe. Photo: Elmon Tshikhudo.

The president of the church, Pastor Robert Kharivhe, leads the dignitaries when performing the sod-turning ceremony. Photo: Elmon Tshikhudo.

Bishop Sophie Khorommbi of the Charis Missionary Church. Photo: Elmon Tshikhudo.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION FOR A PROSPECTING RIGHT APPLICATION FOR MODISON MINING (PTY) LTD IN TERMS OF SECTION 16 OF THE MINERALS AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT, 2002 (NO. 28 OF 2002) (MPRDA), TRIGGERING

NEMA EIA GNR 983 OF 2014, AS AMENDED.

DMRE Ref No: LP30/5/1/1/2/14908 PR

Modison Mining (Pty) Ltd Modison Mining (Pty) Ltd has lodged an application for an Environmental Authorization (EA) for a Prospecting Right (PR) for Chrome and Ergy Investment (pty) ltd has been appointed as an environmental assessment practitioner (EAP) to undertake the environmental regulatory processes and conduct a Public Participation Process (PPP) in support of the application.

Project nature and location: The proposed Prospecting Right (PR) application is over the farms Killaloe 235 MS, Gulliver 237 MS & Zuleika 238 MS situated in the Musina Local Municipality, Vhembe Magisterial District of the Limpopo Province.

Activities to be undertaken: The proposed activities will allow the applicant to prospect for Chrome and it will trigger Listing Notice1 activity 20 of GNR 983 EIA Regulations 2014, as amended.

Registration as an interested and affected party(I&AP): Should you wish to participate or receive more information regarding the project, or to receive the related Basic Assessment Report (BAR-EMPr) for review and comments kindly send your contact details below:

CONTACTS PEOPLE FOR PARTICIPATION AND REGISTRATION AS I&AP FOR ERGY INVESTMENTS (PTY)LTD:

Moses Mushi (assistant EAP) / Mukondeleli Makoya (reg EAP)

Emails: iammoses.muxi@gmail.com / mhmakoya@gmail.com

Cell: +27 76 848 7581 /072 617 5078

10B summit View, 56 Summit Road Midrand, 1618

The Draft BAR-EMPr is made available for public review from the 30th March 2023- 30th April 2023 and all written comments must be received no later than 30th April 2023 to be incorporated in to the final BAR.

Collins Chabane Local Municipality Proposes formalization of Madobi, Kutame and Vuswayi townships in Collins ChabaneLocal Municipality, Vhembe District

Notice is hereby given in terms of the regulations published in Government Notices No 40772, amended 7 April 2017, under the National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998) as amended, of the intent to carry out the following activities.

In terms of Listing Notice 1(GN327) and 2 (GN325), promulgated in 2014 under the National Environmental Management Act (Act No 107 of 1998) EIA regulations 2014 as amended. Listed activities will be triggered by proposed developments and therefore a Basic Assessment and Scoping reports will be undertaken and submitted to the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism.

Location: The proposed formalization is to take place at Kutame, Madobi and Vuswayi villages, situated in Collins Chabane Local Municipality.

Activity Description

GNR 327 Listing

Notice 1; Activity No. 9

GNR 327 Listing

Notice 1; Activity No. 28

The development of infrastructure exceeding 1000 metres in length for the bulk transportation of water and stormwater

Residential, mixed, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional developments where such land was used for agricultural, game, equestrian purposes or afforestation on or after 01 April 1998 and where such development:

(i) Will occur inside an urban area, where the total land to be developed is bigger than 5 hectares; or

(ii) Will occur outside an urban area, where the total land to be developed is bigger than 1 hectares; excluding where such land has already been developed for residential, mixed, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional purposes.

LEFT: The U/15 side of Gogobole Madrid FC beat Hollywoodbets Mabaleng Development U/15 1­0 in the final of the Collins Sebola Group Under 15 Cup the past weekend. The match was played as a curtain raiser for the final match in the Hollywoodbets Easter Soccer Challenge 2023. The sponsor of the U/15 tournament, Mr Collins Sebola of the Collins Sebola Group, said that they were always quite willing to contribute to such development initiatives. He said that events such as these could open doors for talented young soccer players. Photo: supplied.

VHEMBE District Municipality

PUBLIC NOTICE

AMENDED / REVISED SERVICE DELIVERY AND BUDGET IMPLEMENTATION PLAN (SDBIP) 2022/2023

Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 54(3) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act (Act 56 of 2003) that the Revised Top Layer Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP) for the 2022/2023 financial year was approved by Council on 31 March 2023.

The amended SDBIP 2022/2023 copies will be available in Vhembe District Municipality’s Website at www.vhembe.gov.za or alternatively they may be perused during office hours (from 08h00 to 16h00 Monday to Friday at the following municipalities’ customer services desks. Vhembe District Municipality, Thulamela Local Municipality, Makhado Local municipality, Collins Chabane Local Municipality and Musina Local Municipality

Any inquires related to the notice can be directed to the Office of the Municipal Manager: Strategic Management unit @ (015) 960 2092/071 509 3146

TSHIKOVHA N.C - ACTING MUNICIPAL MANAGER

NOTICE OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION FOR A PROSPECTING RIGHT APPLICATION

FOR MODISON MINING (PTY) LTD IN TERMS OF SECTION 16 OF THE MINERALS AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT, 2002 (NO. 28 OF 2002) (MPRDA), TRIGGERING NEMA EIA GNR 983 OF 2014, AS AMENDED

DMRE Ref No: LP30/5/1/1/2/14884 PR

Modison Mining (Pty) Ltd Modison Mining (Pty) Ltd has lodged an application for an Environmental Authorization (EA) for a Prospecting Right (PR) for Chrome and Ergy Investment (pty) ltd has been appointed as an environmental assessment practitioner (EAP) to undertake the environmental regulatory processes and conduct a Public Participation Process (PPP) in support of the application.

Project nature and location: The proposed Prospecting Right (PR) application is over the farms Lintie 86 MS, Brindisi 10 MR, Suez 12MR, Muntok 206MR and Dardanellen 382 MR situated in the Musina Local Municipality, Vhembe Magisterial District of the Limpopo Province. The proposed area is located approximately 25 km North West of Alldays town.

Activities to be undertaken: The proposed activities will allow the applicant to prospect for Chrome and it will trigger Listing Notice1 activity 20 of GNR 983 EIA Regulations 2014, as amended.

Registration as an interested and affected party(I&AP): Should you wish to participate or receive more information regarding the project, or to receive the related Basic Assessment Report (BAR-EMPr) for review and comments kindly send your contact details below:

CONTACTS PEOPLE FOR PARTICIPATION AND REGISTRATION AS I&AP FOR ERGY INVESTMENTS (PTY)LTD:

Moses Mushi (assistant EAP) / Mukondeleli Makoya (reg EAP)

Emails: iammoses.muxi@gmail.com / mhmakoya@gmail.com

Cell: +27 76 848 7581 /072 617 5078

10B summit View, 56 Summit Road Midrand, 1618

The Draft BAR-EMPr is made available for public review from the 30th March 2023- 30th April 2023 and all written comments must be received no later than 30th April 2023 to be incorporated in to the final BAR.

Proposed Formalization of Valdezia Township situated in Makhado Local Municipality

Notice is hereby given in terms of the regulations published in Government Notice No. GNR 38282 of December 2014 under the National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998) as amended, of the intent to carry out the following activity: In terms of the Listing Notice 1 (GN R327), promulgated in 2014 under the National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998) EIA regulations 2014 as amended, Listed activities will be triggered by this development and therefore it requires a Basic Assessment Report to be Submitted to the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, environment and Tourism

The proposed Valdezia Township formalization and associated infrastructure triggers the following listed activities according to the NEMA: EIA Regulations of 2014 as amended on 7 April 2017.

Activity Description

GNR 327 Listing Notice 1; Activity No. 9

GNR 327 Listing Notice 1; Activity No. 27

The development of infrastructure exceeding 1000 metres in length for the bulk transportation of water and stormwater

The clearance of an area of 1 hectares or more, but less than 20 hecteres of indigenous vegetation, except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for-

(i) The undertaking of a linear activity; or

(ii) Maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan

GNR 327 Listing

Notice 1; Activity No. 27

GNR 325 Listing

Notice 2; Activity No. 25

The clearance of an area of 1 hectares or more, but less than 20 hecteres of indigenous vegetation, except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for-

(i) The undertaking of a linear activity; or

Maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan

The clearance of an area of 20 hectares or more, but less than 20 hecteres of indigenous vegetation, except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for-

(i) The undertaking of a linear activity; or

Maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan

Applicant: Collins Chabane Local Municipality

Davhana Geotech Solutions is appointed by Acute Innovation SA to be independent Environmental Assessment

Practitioners to undertake the Basic assessment report and Scoping report for the proposed projects (EIA). The reports will be submitted to the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET)

All interested and Affected Parties (I&Aps) may submit their names, contact details and written interest or comments relating to the above development to the contact persons given below within 30 days of the date of publication of this advertisement or 17 May 2023.

EAP Contact details

Name & Surname Email Cell

Vhangani Mugeri Vmugeri17@gmail.com 081 464 0109

Vincent Tshingwala vincent@dgeo.co.za 073 033 8921

GNR 327 Listing Notice 1; Activity No. 28

Residential, mixed, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional developments where such land was used for agricultural, game, equestrian purposes or afforestation on or after 01 April 1998 and where such development:

(i) Will occur inside an urban area, where the total land to be developed is bigger than 5 hectares; or

(ii) Will occur outside an urban area, where the total land to be developed is bigger than 1 hectares; excluding where such land has already been developed for residential, mixed, retail, commercial, industrial or institutional purposes.

Proponent: Makhado Local Municipality

Basic Assessment (EIA) process is being undertaken by Davhana Geotech Solutions (PTY) LTD and an application for authorisation for this project will be submitted to the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET).

All Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) may submit their names, contact details and written interest or comments relating to the above development to the contact persons given below within 30 days of the date of publication of this advertisement or 17 May 2023.

EAP Contact details

Name & Surname Email Cell

Vhangani Mugeri Vmugeri17@gmail.com 081 464 0109

Vincent Tshingwala vincent@dgeo.co.za 073 033 8921

Our first winner!

The first winner of our spot­the­ball competition is Mr Ratshibvuma Ramaru. Because no winner was determined the previous week, Mr Ramaru wins R600, instead of the usual R300.

Bungeni Masters crowned as Dzindou’s champions

By Kaizer Nengovhela

Bungeni Masters were crowned as the 2023 Dzindou Farming Masters Soccer Tournament champions the past weekend. The tournament was held at the Mashamba Grounds and catered for 16 teams from the Vhembe region.

The winner had to be determined through a penalty shoot-out, as Bungeni Masters and Wayeni Masters had played to a goalless draw. Bungeni were triumphant in the shootout, winning by three goals to one.

Dzindou Farming has been sponsoring the tournament for two years. The prize money, amounting to R60 000, was distributed to eight teams participating in the Easter tournament. The new champions went home with R20 000, two new soccer kits, gold medals and a floating trophy. The runners-up, Wayeni Masters, received R15 000, two new soccer kits and silver medals.

The third-placed team, Mpheni Masters, received R9 000, a new soccer kit and bronze medals. The fourth position went to Mashamba Masters, who went home with R5 000, while the four teams beaten in the quarter-finals went home with R1 500 each.

According to the sponsor, Mr Elvis Maremeni, they will possibly increase the sponsorship.

“The sponsorship is a token of appreciation for the support we are getting from our local communities,” he said. Maremeni congratulated the organisers and said that the tournament´s administration was running smoothly.

The organising committee’s chairperson, Mr Nathaniel Mushaku, said having sports-loving businesspeople such as Dzindou Farming was a good thing. According to him, sports promote discipline and good health.

SP T THE BALL? Can you

WEEK 3 ...

ENTER NOW - YOU COULD WIN R300

Safa Vhembe’s DC fines teams for misconduct and deduct the points

By Kaizer Nengovhela

The disciplinary committee of Safa Vhembe found Phalama All Stars guilty of assaulting a referee and fined the team R6 000. The incident happened when All Stars played against Sambandou United Professionals. All Stars also forfeited the points.

The meeting of the disciplinary committee took place in Thohoyandou last Thursday.

During the meeting, United Professionals were fined R1 000 for failure to provide security at their home ground. Luvhalani Sunshine Pirates appeared before the DC to answer to a charge of causing an indirect abandonment of a league match. They were fined R5 000 and forfeited the league points to their opponents. Mulindathavha Ocean Swallows failed to provide a soccer kit during their league match

against Mukondeni Shooting Stars and they forfeited the league points to Swallows. They were fined R2 000.

Merwe United were fined R3 000 for not marking the ground properly in their match against Mukhomi Real Madrid. They forfeited three points to United. Marhavi FC were found guilty of assaulting the match officials and fined R5 000. This happened when they played against Shumba FC. Marhavi forfeited the league points to Shumba.

Valdezia United failed to mark the ground properly and caused the indirect abandonment of a match. They were fined R2 000 and forfeited three points to Tshipuseni All Stars. Ribungwane FC received a fine of R2 000 for the indirect abandonment of a match by failing to provide a soccer kit when they played against Bungeni Young Tigers. They forfeited points to their

opponents.

Tshakhuma Blue Birds were found guilty of causing the abandonment of their match against Kurhuleni Happy Fighters. They received a find of R2 000, and they also forfeited the league points. Mbahe Freedom Rebels failed to mark the field of play when they played against Mukula Avalon and were fined R2000. They also forfeited the league points to Avalon.

Tshivhadzwa Peace Makers were found not guilty after arriving late for their match against Kwena FC. This match will be replayed at a neutral venue.

The Safa Vhembe general secretary, Mr Samuel Matodzi, said that they must try and finalise all the cases before the end of the season. He said that they wanted all teams going for promotional play-offs to proceed without any outstanding charges against them.

Vhembe ready to host provincial wheelchair-basketball tournament

By Victor Mukwevho

Name & Surname:

How to enter:

Clearly mark the block in which you think the ball is with a cross, fill in your name & telephone nr and send us your entry. You can hand deliver the entry form at our office at 16B Joubert Street, Louis Trichardt, or you can take a photo and WhatsApp it to us at: 072 822 3262. Closing date for entries: Monday @16:00

All correct entries will be entered into a draw and one lucky person will win R300. If we receive no correct answers, the prize-money will roll over and the following week’s prize money will be R600.

Winners will be contacted after the draw and the money will be sent to the phone number provided using Standard Bank’s Instant Money Service.

Terms and conditions: The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

Cellphone nr: X

Only correct answers will go into the lucky draw. One entry per person.

WINNER WEEK 2

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER! RATSHIBVUMO RAMARU

SOLUTION - WEEK 2

The Limpopo Province’s Club Wheelchair Basketball Championship will be held at the Thohoyandou Indoor Sports Centre this coming Saturday.

According to the liaison officer of the Vhembe 12 Wheelchair Basketball Organisation, Mr Vhumbani Innocent Masakonai, the main purpose of hosting the tournament is to encourage up-and-coming wheelchair-basketball players to learn the ropes about the game. Masakonai is also the coach of the Vhembe Wheelchair Basketball squad. “We are also inviting members of the community to come in big numbers to see how good local disabled basketball players are. We are also trying to showcase their skills to the business community as we are in need of a sponsorship,” he said. He added that they would also be selecting a provincial squad during the tournament.

Players of Bungeni Masters celebrate with the winning trophy. From left to right are Russell Thwala, Wisani Ngwenya and Xikombelo Khoza. Photo: supplied.

The organiser and coach of the Vhembe Wheelchair­Basketball squad, Mr Vhumbani Innocent Masakonai. Picture supplied

Maindis Ladies on the road to try and collect points

By Frank Mavhungu

After registering their first victory this season, Maindis Ladies will be away to try and collect more points this weekend. They will undertake a long journey to the Northern Cape on Saturday. Their match against Richmond United Ladies will be played at the Galeshewe Stadium in Kimberley.

After losing their first seven matches, Maindis had beaten Thunderbirds Ladies 1-0 at the Giyani Stadium two weeks ago to restore the team’s lost pride.

A quick glance at the track record of Richmond United shows that Maindis will be lucky if by chance

they manage to come back home with a point in hand. Richmond United are still to drop a point on their home soil this season. They are currently lying in the fifth position on the log standings with 15 points, six behind the log leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies.

The head coach of Maindis Ladies, Mr Sipho Mabuza, has vowed that they are going to break the clean record at home of Richmond United. He said that their victory over Thunderbirds Ladies had injected a spirit of self-confidence in the players.

The other Limpopo-based side, First Touch Academy, will travel to Johannesburg. Their match against the University of Johannesburg

Ladies FC will be played at the UJ Campus Stadium. The newcomers, Copper Belt Ladies, will visit Thunderbirds Ladies at the Mahikeng Stadium in the North West. City Lads will host Mamelodi Sundowns at the Tsakane Stadium in Johannesburg.

Royal AM will be waiting for JVW FC at the Chatsworth Stadium in Durban. The University of Western Cape Ladies will entertain TS Galaxy Queens at the UWC Campus Stadium. Coal City Wizards will fight for league points against University of Pretoria Ladies at the Absa Tuks Stadium in Pretoria, while TUT FC will play against Durban Ladies at the TUT Campus Stadium in Pretoria.

Mapuloni Stars clinch Easter Weekend Cup

By Victor Mukwevho

Tshibvumo Football Academy must have wondered what they had done wrong to the football gods to deserve such harsh punishment when they lost 9­8 on penalties to Mapuloni United Stars in the final of the Easter Weekend Football Tournament, which was played at the Tshakhumba Grounds on Good Friday (7th).

The final match started very late because of logistical challenges, and some players could not see well during the penalty shootout as it was getting dark.

Tshibvumo Football Academy had their opponents with their backs against the wall from the first whistle, dishing out top-shelf football, but their

Will Morning Stars shine over Sealene Ladies?

By Frank Mavhungu

After a break of two weeks, teams affiliated to the Limpopo Stream of the Sasol Women’s League will be in action again this weekend. Eight matches will be played at different venues throughout the province on Saturday afternoon, while only one fixture is scheduled for Sunday afternoon.

Lacoste Morning Stars, who had lost their first two matches, have another tricky hurdle in front of them. They will undertake a journey to Phalaborwa on Saturday afternoon. Their match against Sealene Ladies will be played at the Lulekani Stadium. Sealene Ladies started the new season on a high note. They are currently leading the pack after winning their first two matches.

Rodadau FC will entertain Sisters FC at the Tshitungulwane Grounds outside Vuwani. Just like Sealene Ladies, Rodadau are still to lose a league match to date. They opened

the season with a 2-1 victory over Real Mighty Ladies at the Xikukwani Stadium outside Giyani. Their second match was against Merwe United Ladies, whom they also beat by the same margin.

Tshandama Young Stars will be on the road this weekend. They will pay a visit to Real Mighty Ladies at the Xikukwani Stadium. Merwe United Ladies will host the newly promoted Masakona Liberty Experience at the Merwe Grounds outside Malamulele. Merwe United are still to deposit a point into their league account so far. Mandebele Happy Fighters will test their strength against the University of Limpopo Ladies at the Groblersdal Stadium.

The only match scheduled for Sunday will be between Phomolong Ladies and Two for Joy Ladies at the Lulekani Stadium in Phalaborwa. The other fixtures are Kanatla Ladies vs Seven Stars Ladies, Ramatlaohle Ladies vs FC 50 Stars United and Marumo Gallants vs Schoonoord Chiefs Ladies.

undoing was trying to walk the ball into the net. Mapuloni FC’s goalkeeper, Mashudu Slaga, was also in a class of his own, saving several goal-bound shots taken from close range.

Tshibvumo’s central midfielder, Sibusi Ndou, left winger Muvhuso Rambuda and striker Takuwani Makatu were a marvel to watch. They had their opponents running for cover when attacking, but instead of shooting for goal when in good scoring positions, they wanted to walk the ball into the net, which was not possible as Mapuloni United Stars were playing defensive football and deployed at least six players at the back. The scoresheet was still blank at the break.

In the second half, Tshibvumo continued to dominate the game but

was very wasteful. In the 67th minute, Muvhuso Nedzanani dribbled past three defenders before passing the ball to Omphulusa Nemakhavhani, who had only the keeper to beat, but he miraculously hoofed the ball over the bar. The teams played to a 1-all draw and had to take penalties to decide the winner. The underdogs, Mapuloni United Stars, won the penalty shootout 9-8. After the game, the coach of Tshibvumo Football Academy, Mr Mashudu “Kenya” Lidovho, said that his players had played very well during the game. “I can’t blame my players for losing the final today. Lady luck was not on our side. I also realised that we need a target man upfront. We created a lot of chances, but failed to bury at least one of them,” he said.

Black Leopards destroy Vhadau Vha Damani

By Frank Mavhungu

Black Leopards revived their hopes to escape the relegation axe at the end of the season by beating Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila FC (TTM) 2­0 in their Motsepe Foundation Championship League match that was played at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Sunday.

The score was not a true reflection of the game as both sides had squandered numerous scoring chances.

During an interview with the head coach of Black Leopards, Mr Owen Da Gama, shortly after the game, he was quick to mention that the victory had brought some relief to their camp. He admitted that the struggle was still far from over as their target was to win all four their remaining matches. Although their aim was to collect the maximum points in their remaining matches, they were taking one match at a time, he said.

The former TS Galaxy mentor re-

vealed that their next target was to beat Hungry Lions FC, with whom they will rub shoulders at the Windhoek Draught Stadium in Kimberley next Saturday (22nd). Coming back to Sunday’s game against TTM, Mr Da Gama said that they could have scored at least three goals during the first half, had it not been for the fact that their strikers were panicking at the goal finish.

Mr Da Gama’s counterpart from TTM, Thato Haraba, admitted that they had lost to the better side. According to him, the score could have been different, had they managed to convert their chances.

Lidoda duvha had moved a step up on the log standings with the victory. They are now lying in the second-last position on the log standings with 21 points, one ahead of TTM, who have dropped to the bottom of the log. Black Leopards are six points behind the other relegation candidates, Platinum City Rovers and MM Platinum FC.

Tshepo Matsimbi and Douglas Mapfumo scored for Leopards in the last half.

Players and officials of Mapuloni United Stars display the trophy they won during the Easter Weekend Football Tournament held at Tshakhumba Grounds, Ha­Rammbuda, on Good Friday.

Thapelo Maleka of Black Leopards (left) and Xolani Phewa of TTM chase the ball.

Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

The head coach of Maindis Ladies FC, Mr Sipho Mabuza. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

The captain of Two for Joy Ladies, Tondani Muhovha. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

getting closer to axe, with time running out

By Frank Mavhungu

With four matches remaining before the end of the current league programme in the Motsepe Foundation Championship League, the future of Black Leopards

FC is still hanging by a thread.

The former pride of the Vhembe District is fighting for survival in the second­last position on the log standings.

Although Lidoda duvha managed to win last Sunday’s match against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila

FC, played at the Thohoyandou Stadium, the team’s future as an

affiliate of the Motsepe Foundation Championship League looks bleak.

A quick look at the team’s remaining fixtures shows that Black Leopards have a mountain to climb. They will play two matches away from home in a row before they come back home to wrap up their league programme.

Lidoda duvha’s next fixture will be against Hungry Lions, whom they will meet at the Windhoek Draught Stadium in Kimberley next Saturday (22nd). Beating Hungry Lions will not be an easy task for Black Leopards. Apart from the fact that they will be playing in front of their home crowd, Hungry Lions still stand a chance to secure a place in the promotional playoffs. They are currently lying in the fourth position with 43 points, seven behind the pace setters, Polokwane City.

That will be followed by another trip to Potchefstroom, where they will lock horns with Platinum City Rovers at the Olën Park Stadium. The fact that City Rovers are also a relegation candidate is reason enough for Leopards to believe that this will be a tough challenge.

They will come back home to host Cape Town All Stars at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Sunday, 7 May. The Thohoyandou outfit will wrap up their league programme with a home match against Venda Football Academy.

VFA and Hungry Lions in thrilling 1-1 draw

By Frank Mavhungu

Venda Football Academy (VFA) did not use their home­ground advantage to their own benefit when they played to a 1­1 draw with Hungry Lions in their Motsepe Foundation Championship League match that was played at the Thohoyandou Stadium last Saturday.

Although VFA managed deposit a point into their league account, the head coach of the team, Mr Joel Masutha, was disappointed with the result. He said that the draw was as good as a defeat when considering that they were playing against a team that had travelled about 1 000 kilometres

to be in Thohoyandou. Hungry Lions are based in Kimberley, in the Northern Cape.

Mr Masutha, or “The Prophet” as he is widely known, said that his team’s performance had been far below par throughout the first half. He reckoned that his team was lucky not to concede an avalanche of goals during the first 45 minutes of the game. He added that they had only started to play their normal attacking football after he had made two changes to their starting line-up. At that stage, the visitors had already stamped their authority on the game.

Hungry Lions took the lead in the 57th minute through Angelo Van Rooi. He went loose from the left wing and

SAFA terminates Thulfa’s membership for disobedience

By Frank Mavhungu

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has terminated the membership of one of its affiliated members, Thulamela Local Football Association (Thulfa), with immediate effect.

According to the statement issued by the association’s regional structure, SAFA Vhembe, the decision to terminate the LFA’s membership temporarily was reached after the LFA had defied instructions from the mother body on several occa-

sions.

The statement indicates that the LFA’s entire executive committee was suspended as well. As a temporary measure, the association has appointed Mr James Maluleke and Mr Aubrey Ramukumba as administrators, with immediate effect.

The relationship between Thulfa and SAFA gradually turned sour after the LFA’s elective congress, which was held middle of last year. The elections were followed by a dispute that was lodged by the losing group. The region ruled in favour

of the losing group, prompting the other group to take the matter up to national level. The national dispute-resolution structure ruled in favour of the region. According to the statement, the LFA has continued to defy the instructions, despite the ruling by the national structure.

During an interview with the president of SAFA Vhembe’s regional association, Mr Jabulani Ndove, he reiterated the fact that they were compelled to take such a decision to save football in Thulamela. He said that his executive committee had the

power to suspend membership of their affiliate members temporarily and that the power to terminate the membership permanently rested with the congress. Mr Ndove added that they would soon hold an extraordinary regional congress.

The secretary of the suspended Thulfa executive committee, Mr Humbulani Makungo, said that they were not going to put the matter to rest and that his executive committee was still going to sit and explore other possible ways to pursue it further.

beat the keeper with a ground cutter. The goal seemed to be a wakeup call to VFA’s technical staff. They responded by introducing Onke Moletshe and Rotondwa Mutsivhuli, who replaced Wanga Khorommbi and Kgothatso Mariba respectively. VFA’s equalising goal came via Rhulani Manzini in the 76th minute.

The head coach of Hungry Lions, Basie Hendry, was full of joy after the game. He said that a point away from home was as good as gold to them. VFA are still lying in the fourth position from the bottom of the log, despite the fact that they had deposited a point into their account. Hungry Lions still have an outside chance of securing a place in the promotional playoffs.

Athini Jodwana of VFA protects the ball, while Baxolise Khotso of Hungry Lions watches from behind. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

The president of SAFA’s Vhembe Regional Association, Mr Jabulani Ndove. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.

The head coach of Black Leopards, Mr Owen Da Gama. Photo: Frank Mavhungu.