Cacadu News October 2012 edition
Transcription
Cacadu News October 2012 edition
As diverse as the district • www.cacadu.co.za • Nov 2012 - Feb 2013 • Thirteenth Edition • Complimentary Executive Mayor Kekana presents ‘State of the Cacadu District’ to Auditor General Executive Mayor of the Cacadu District Municipality, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, presented a ‘State of the District’ report to the Auditor General of South Africa, Terence Nombembe, on the 2nd of August at the District Municipality’s offices. The visit to the District offices by the Auditor General and his delegation came on the conclusion of his provincial ‘doorto-door’ campaign. The event was also attended by the MEC for Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mlibo Qoboshiyane; Executive Mayor of the Amathole District Municipality, Cllr Nomasikizi Konza, who was representing the South African Local Government Association (SALGA); Cacadu District Municipality councillors and officials as well as Mayors from the local municipalities. “Our ambition is to be one of the leading districts in the country in terms of addressing national priority targets when it comes to rural development and supporting Outcome 9 [creating a responsive, accountable, effective and efficient local Government system],” explained Executive Mayor Kekana. continues on page 2... NEWLY INAUGURATED… Members of the new Cacadu District Geographical Names Committee (DGNC) and a delegation from the Eastern Cape Provincial Geographical Names Committee (ECPGNC), standing from left to right are; Zandisile Sakata and Luvuyo Mini (Cacadu DGNC); Linda Zileni (ECPGNC); Samkelo Janda (Executive Member - ECPGNC); Scebi Noah (Acting Chairperson – ECPGNC); Cllr Mncedi Mali (Cacadu DGNC); Kenneth Msengana (Head of Secretariat – ECPGNC) and Cllr Alfred Pannies (Cacadu DGNC). Sitting from left to right are; Cllr Sikhumbuzo Venene (Cacadu DGNC); Cllr Susan Jacobs (Cacadu DGNC); Cacadu District Municipality Portfolio Councillor, Yandiswa Vara (Chairperson - Cacadu DGNC); Cacadu District Municipality Speaker, Cllr Deon de Vos (Cacadu DGNC) and Cllr Thulani Grootboom (Cacadu DGNC). Among the tasks of the Cacadu DGNC will be to ensure that local communities participate in the standardisation of the geographical names in their areas. Premier Kiviet hands over 400 houses during Cacadu Exco visit A CLEAN AUDIT IS POSSIBLE… Auditor General of South Africa, Terence Nombembe, makes a point after listening to Executive Mayor Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana’s ‘State of the District’ presentation. It was a joyful day on the 4th of July when residents of the small farming community of Clarkson, in the Kou-Kamma Local Municipality, braved the cold and rainy weather to witness the handing-over of more than 400 houses. The deserving beneficiaries were handed their keys by the Premier of the Eastern Cape Province, Noxolo Kiviet, at the close of her two-day Executive Council Outreach (Exco) programme in the Cacadu District. She met with Cacadu District leaders and stakeholders at the Kirkwood Correctional Centre, in the Sundays River Local Municipality, the previous day to discuss government performance and service delivery, amongst other things. Clarkson residents once owned land in the area, before they were forcefully removed in 1977 and incorporated into the then Ciskei Bantustan (Keiskammahoek). They were brought back to their original lands after 1994 but faced challenges in accessing proper housing. Present at the handovers was the MEC for Human Settlements, Helen Sauls-August, and the MEC for Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mlibo Qoboshiyane. “I am so thankful for this house. It has come at the right time and I am going to feel warm and safe during this cold winter season,” said Jacob ‘Blackie’ Olifant (81), adding that he waited for a long time to realise his dream of being a home-owner. Another beneficiary was 62 year-old Nonceba Nonyathi who intended to share her new house with her 6 dependents. Premier Kiviet also launched a dairy project at Snyklip Farm, near Clarkson, which is set to boost the area’s local economy. Afterwards, the Premier, MECs, Cacadu District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, and KouKamma Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Sam Vuso, took part in a community interaction session in the Clarkson Community Hall. continues on page 3... w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Page 3 OUR HERITAGE Executive Mayor Kekana presents ‘State of the Cacadu District’ to Auditor General ...continued from page 1 By naming this old church found in Jansenville While unemployment and income distribution are still challenging in the District, Cacadu’s Human Development Index has improved due to better access to education, health and all municipal services since 2001 – even exceeding the provincial and national levels, she said. Executive Mayor Kekana explained that the Cacadu District Municipality is totally dependent on grant funding and interest earnings for its operating costs and outlined the District Municipality’s financial challenges to the Auditor General. “However, we honoured our commitment to funding projects already under way, even after we did not receive our Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG),” she said. Competition ends on 31 January 2013. The winner will be announced in the next edition of Cacadu News. The answer to the previous “Our Heritage Competition” was Nederduits Gereformeerde (NG) Church of Steytlerville. The winner was Sylvia Erasmus. Well done! Send your answer and contact details to Our Heritage Competition. email: cacadunews@cacadu.co.za Premier Kiviet hands over 400 houses during Cacadu Exco visit ...continued from page 1 Residents took the opportunity to raise issues around access to land and water for agriculture, crime and safety as well as poverty alleviation and employment creation projects for the elderly. for development after they were forcibly removed in the past. “We will need to follow up with the Eastern Cape Land Commission about the status of the audits of the land that is in question “We have heard all that has been said and will here,” he said. try to speedily address some of the issues that have been raised here today,” said MEC for MEC for Human Settlements, Helen Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Sauls-August, also pledged to look into the Mlibo Qoboshiyane, who also challenged possibility of setting up a satellite police local municipalities to fulfil their roles. station to curb crime in the area. “We are busy with the upgrading of the water treatment works in this particular municipality in order for the community to have access to safe and clean water,” he said, adding that the resolution of the land restitution issue was critical in order to give back land rights to communities Executive Mayor Kekana challenged residents to come together and organise themselves in order to find ways to start projects and cooperatives. Among these projects are initiatives to address rural electrification, performance management, auditing, infrastructure and economic development projects as well as Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) projects and Generally Recognised Accounting Practices (GRAP) improvement plans for local municipalities. Executive Mayor Kekana said that the Unqualified Audit Report for the past five years was a success that deserved recognition. Other successes included receiving the Vuna Awards, improved capacity building and support for local municipalities, reducing unemployment and improved public participation as well as improving access to water (95% of District households). “I must add that the Cacadu District came second in the Eastern Cape Province in terms of service delivery … although we did not receive the funding mentioned earlier on,” she said, to much applause. Noting some areas that still needed improvement, the Auditor General said that, “Whatever is still in the way – any matter of concern in your accounts, I believe that we have got all the ingredients to be able to take care of it. All we need to do is to get to a point where we don’t wait until the end of the year but we start on day one to make accountability part of the culture of our municipalities.” The Auditor General also challenged those who were present to show leadership and to seek guidance in any matters that they do not understand, ahead of the audit cycle, so as to improve accountability. “We were very happy about the efforts being made to improve on audit outcomes in the District and Province as a whole. It is very important that we keep the momentum if we want to become one of the leading Provinces,” said Nombembe. The occasion also saw the Cacadu District Municipality, led by Executive Mayor Kekana, committing itself to achieving a Clean Audit in the 2012-2013 Financial Year, including improved transparency and service delivery as well as financial and operational management. Efforts will also be made to ensure that the local municipalities also achieve a Clean Audit by 2014. “I think what has been presented here is evidence of sterling work done by the District Municipality… you must have courage and determination and show exceptional leadership as well as passion in order to realise the goal of a Clean Audit,” encouraged Qoboshiyane. He added, “I also think that the time has now come for the institutions of government to improve on admin and keep records of funds, discussions, resolutions and decisions taken… there must be a record so that we can account for our actions.” MEC Qoboshiyane emphasised that public officials should ensure adequate capacity, leadership and financial management in their offices to curb irregular activities, expenditure and procurement that hamper the effectiveness of local government and service delivery. Among other issues, Premier Kiviet urged for unity in order to build a strong South Africa. DONATION FOR ST PATRICK'S… Cacadu District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana (in striped top), donated R18 352 to St Patrick’s Primary School in Humansdorp in the Kouga Local Municipality on the 27th of July. Promoting access to proper education among communities remains a high priority of the Cacadu District Municipality. She is pictured here with (from left to right) Ms Sally Petersen (HOD at St Patrick’s Primary), Cllr Eugene Goliath, Mr William Booyens (Chairperson of the St Patrick’s Primary School Governing Body) and Mr Charles Williams (Educator at St Patrick’s Primary). Cacadu District Geographical Names Committee inaugurated The Eastern Cape Provincial Geographical Names Committee (ECPGNC) inaugurated a nine-member Cacadu District Geographical Names Committee on the 13th of September with the aim of improving community participation in local name change processes. The new District Geographical Names Committee (DGNC), which will be led by Cacadu District Municipality Portfolio Councillor for Tourism and Creative Industries, Yandiswa Vara, will include Cacadu Speaker, Cllr Deon de Vos, Cllr Susan Jacobs (Kou-Kamma Local Municipality), Cllr Sikhumbuzo Venene (Ndlambe Local Municipality), Cllr Thulani Grootboom (Sundays River Valley Local Municipality), Cllr Mncedi Mali (Blue Crane Route Local Municipality), Cllr Alfred Pannies (Camdeboo Local Municipality) as well as Mr Zandisile Sakata (Museums and Heritage officer, Albany Museum, Makana Local Municipality) and Mr Luvuyo Mini (Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture). “The establishment of the structure is a step in the right direction. It should however be noted that, while the local municipality speaker, or a delegate councillor or chief whip, might be the one participating in the DGNC, it is important that they also go back to their areas and form what are called Local Geographical Names Committees so that it is easier to disseminate information and promote consultation with local communities,” said Acting Provincial Chairperson of the ECPGNC, Scebi Noah. About the role of the Geographical Names Committees, Noah explained; “Usually, people say we are changing names, which is not what we are doing; we are simply standardising the names of our places. TAKING NOTE… From left to right, Eastern Cape Province Premier, Noxolo Kiviet; Cacadu District Municipality Portfolio Councillor Noel O'Connel; Kou-Kamma Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Sam Vuso; Kouga Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Booi Koerat and Cacadu District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, listen to Clarkson residents expressing their concerns. Page 2 SHELTER FROM RAIN AND COLD… From left to right, MEC for Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mlibo Qoboshiyane; Eastern Cape Province Premier, Noxolo Kiviet; housing beneficiary, Jacob Olifant, and MEC for Human Settlements, Helen SaulsAugust, at the handover. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a “What usually happens is that after we receive name change proposals, we conduct thorough research and come up with authentic solutions in an effort w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a to avoid causing misunderstandings and conflict in our areas.” He said name changes are necessary to reflect transformation. “The names should not be changed for the sake of being changed. However, we see the standardisation of names as part of service delivery – the restoration of human dignity. For example, imagine driving to my area, which is Xhosa, but finding its streets and settlements are all named in English. “Sometimes you have a single place name that appears in several other towns, then you also have places that are named in Xhosa, for example, and also have Christian names… So we research these things to find out why a single place is called different names by different people,” He also said although the names standardisation process is sometimes high-jacked by politicians in order to celebrate local heroes and heroines (which is acceptable), what is important is to first determine if a name-change is necessary. “For example, we have a place in East London called Gonubie, the original name of the place is eQunubeni [the Xhosa name for the Bramble Berry which grows along the banks of the Gonubie River]; because the English could not pronounce the original name, it resulted in today’s Gonubie – which has no meaning in Xhosa, English or Afrikaans, so a name change will be necessary to restore dignity to that area,” described Noah. As the Cacadu District Municipality looks to change its name to Sarah Baartman District Municipality, he said it was important for local councillors to form Local Heritage and Communications Forums, which represents all stakeholders in the community in order to promote wider participation in the name changing process. Page 3 EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR’S OPINION MAYOR’S MESSAGE Someone once said that unlike other resources, time cannot be bought or sold, borrowed or stolen, stocked up or saved, manufactured, reproduced, or modified. All we can do is make use of it. With the current pace of life and the amount of blocks to tick off the to-do list on a daily basis, we often don’t realise how precious it is. It is only when we make a conscious decision to “switch off ” that we comprehend how much more there is to life than work and immaterial things that add nothing to the bottom line of life. We spent the past long weekend camping at a nearby resort, totally removed from our comfort zone and usual routines. Strangely enough, this change is exactly what left me feeling relaxed and ready to tackle the remaining few months of 2012. As usual, I can’t believe that the year is almost at its end. In response to the last edition of Cacadu News, I received feedback from a couple of residents, specifically in response to the renaming of the Cacadu District to Sarah Baartman. As expected, some are opposed to the change, while others are in support of it. Nevertheless, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me with your feedback. My door is always open and I sincerely appreciate hearing your thoughts. In this edition of the paper, the last one for 2012, there are a couple of opportunities highlighted for the youth of the Cacadu District. Take note of the trainee accounts vacancy advertised on page 3 as well as the National Youth Development Agency bursary opportunities. We also included an update about fracking in the Karoo, news about Rietbron, Mandela Day activities, successful cooperatives within the District and one of the sporting ambassadors of the Cacadu District, Sulette Damons. I trust that you will enjoy this edition as much as I enjoyed compiling it. Best wishes for the festive season and travel safely. WRITE TO US Lynne Niemann, Cacadu News, Cacadu District Municipality PO Box 318, Port Elizabeth, 6000 e-mail: cacadunews@cacadu.co.za Tel: 041 508 7111, Fax: 041 508 7000 Produced by Ludla Publishing is published by the Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Cacadu News, the editor and publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of Cacadu News’s contents, neither the editor, the staff, the contractors nor the publisher can be held responsible for the accuracy of information herein, or any consequences arising from it. All copyright for material appearing in the Cacadu News belongs to Cacadu News and/or the individual contributors/clients and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the editor. E&OE Page 4 Managing Director- Graeme Lund Editorial Director - Graeme Lund Printed by - CTP Designed By - Ricochet Publishing Designer - Nadine Lombard Contributors: CDM - Executive Mayor Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, Lynne Niemann Ludla Publishing - Nceba Dladla, Graeme Lund, Tai Chishakwe, Charl Bosch, Other - GCIS, Tiani Marais CONTACT US graeme@ludlapublishing.co.za tel: 041 585 7499, fax: 086 656 7186 www.ludlapublishing.co.za Dear readers of Cacadu News As always, it is a great privilege to write to you as the Executive Mayor of the Cacadu District Municipality. With each edition of this community paper, it gives me great pleasure to read all the good news stories and learn even more about a District I thought I already knew so well. I sincerely hope that readers and communities within the District feel the same way as I do. I am proud to be born and bred within the boundaries of this District and even more so, to be at the forefront of leading its people to a better future. “Ndinebhongo neqhayiya ukuba yinzalelwane yesi sithili, kanti nangaphezulu, ukuba yinkokheli yabantu kwindlela esingise kwingomso elingcono.” It has been an exceptionally busy year for the District Municipality and it is with complete disbelief that I say that the end of the year is drawing nearer and we are only three months away from Christmas. The past few months have been quite significant for the institution with a number of key interactions with, amongst others, the Auditor General, Terence Nombembe. The Auditor General (AG) finalised his provincial door-to-door campaign when he, together with the MEC for Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mlibo Qoboshiyane, graced us with their presence on the 2nd of August. In the presentation I delivered to the AG and his delegation, I was able to bring to their attention the concerns we have relating to poverty and the financial position of the District. Most notably, the Cacadu District Municipality formalised its commitment to the achievement of a clean audit in the 2012/2013 financial year. “Le Auditor General (AG) iphethe utyelelo lwayo obelungena iminyango ngeminyango nalapho ibihamba noMphathiswa WePhondo kuRhulumente waseKhaya nemiCimbi yezeMveli uMlibo Qhoboshiyane njengeendwendwe zethu ezikhethekileyo ngomhla we 2 ku Agasti. Kwimiba endithe ndayiphalaza kwi-AG nesigqeba sayo, ndiyibeke yecaca intlungu yethu yendlala nokushokoxeka kwezimali kule ngingqi yethu. Okona kubalulekileyo kukuba singuMasipala weNgingqi yeCacadu siye sazibophelela kuPhicotho-zincwadi olungena makhiwiniba kunyaka-mali ka2012/2013.” In a similar fashion, I presented the state of the District report to the Provincial ANC Lekgotla, which took place from 10 to 12 August. During the Lekgotla, it became clear that the Cacadu District is not considered as one of the 23 poor districts in South Africa, and as a result of my presentation, the Provincial Government will now lobby for Cacadu to be included in this list in order for us to further assist the communities of the District. I also spent time in Parliament, appealing to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) to assist with upgrading and maintaining the status of the infrastructure within the District. kucenga ukuba le ngingqi ifakwe kuluhlu ukuze nathi sikwazi ukuncedisa uluntu lwethu. Ndikwathathe ixesha ePalamente ndicenga ukuba iNational Council of Provinces (NCOP) incedise ukuvuselela nokuphucula amaziko akhoyo kule ngingqi.” We also played host to the Department of Human Settlements during a visit to inspect the quality of housing developments in a number of local municipalities, including Kouga, Makana and Ndlambe. The District Municipality was once again given an opportunity to highlight challenges experienced in this regard and I believe that the visit will lead to positive outcomes in the near future. “Sikhe samkela ukufika kweSebe lezoKuhlaliswa Koluntu ngethuba lize kuhlola umgangatho wezindlu ezakhiweyo koomasipala abaliqela, nekukho phakathi kwabo, iKouga, iMakana neNdlambe. UMasipala weNgingqi ufumene elinye ithuba lokuveza iigxaki ajamelene nazo kweli candelo nendithemba ukuba nalapha ezo ntetha zoozala amathokazi.” On another positive note, communities will be happy to know that emphasis was placed on the procurement of local services and labour, as opposed to well established companies that operate elsewhere. Lastly, I would like to remind all the Grade 12's in the District of what Mahatma Gandhi once said: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow and learn as if you were to live forever.” I am positive that you will give the upcoming examinations your very best effort. It will determine what your future might hold and open up many doors that might otherwise never open for you. All the best and I know that you will make us proud with excellent results and pass rates. “Phila ngokungathi uza kufa ngomso uze ufunde ngokungathi uya kuphila ngonaphakade.” Ndithemba ukuba nizakuzimisela kangangoko kwezi mviwo zizayo. Zizo eziyakubonisa ukuba ingomso liniphathele ntoni neziya kuvula iingcango ebezingasayi kuvuleka mhlawumbi. Ndininqwenelela okuhle ndisazi kananjalo ukuba niza kusenza sichwayite sigcolode ngeziphumo ezisemagqabini.” In conclusion I would like to thank the readers of Cacadu News for their support and wish them a blessed festive season, Christmas and New Year. Uitvoerende Burgemeester Kekana besoek Rietbron Die Uitvoerende Burgemeester van die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit, Rdl Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, en die Spreker, Rdl Deon de Vos, het onlangs Rietbron, in die Baviaans Plaaslike Munisipaliteit, besoek om Graad R leermateriaal aan die dorp se Bronville Laerskool te oorhandig. vandag ontvang het van die Uitvoerende Burgemeester. Ons glo dat die skenking ‘n groot verskil sal maak," het Evelynne April, Voorsitter van die Bronville Laerskool Beheerliggaam gesê. Rietbron, wat slegs toeganklik is deur grondpaaie, is 'n klein, arm gemeenskap wat relatief geïsoleerd is van die groter dorpe soos Willowmore (60km) en Graaff-Reinet (200 km). Die skenking by Bronville Laerskool het plaasgevind na ‘n gemeenskaps terugvoeringsessie met die Uitvoerende Burgemeester en die Spreker van Cacadu Distriksmunisipaliteit asook die plaaslike ANC Sub-streek-Sekretaris vir Baviaans, Adam Festus, en plaaslike leier van die gemeenskap, Raymond Solomons. "Ek dink dit was aan die einde van 2011 wat die skool aan die Uitvoerende Burgemeester geskryf het met die versoek om te help met die verskaffing van leermateriaal vir die Graad R leerders. Daarom is ons hier vandag," het Rdl De Vos gesê. Die donasie aan die skool het onder andere items soos kinderstoeltjies, tafeltjies, hoepels, poppe, balle, plastiek koppies en borde ingesluit. "Omdat ons gemeenskap arm is, het die skool finansiële uitdagings wat daartoe lei dat leerders nie die onderrig ontvang waarop hulle geregtig is nie," beskryf TB Jacobs, Senior Onderwyser by die Bronville Laerskool. "Ons het sonder sukses aan verskeie deure gaan klop, op soek na benodighede vir ons jong leerders, totdat ons die brief gerig het aan die Uitvoerende Burgemeester. Tot ons verbasing het sy vinnig gereageer en ons verseker dat sy tot ons redding sal kom... en hier is sy," het Jacobs verder vertel. Die skool, wat val onder die GraaffReinet-Onderwys Distrik, doen baie goed in sport - veral rugby, sokker en netbal, het Jacobs beskryf, en bygevoeg dat een van hulle ander uitdagings vervoer was na naburige dorpe sodat hulle kan deelneem aan ander sport geleenthede op ‘n gereelde basis. Ten spyte van die skool se ligging en beperkte hulpbronne, het die Graad 7 leerlinge van Bronville Laerskool akademies presteer en ‘n slaagsyfer van meer as 90% behaal verlede jaar, het Jacobs verder geïnspireer. "Ek is gelukkig en baie trots op wat ons Plaaslike Raadslid, Vivian Lapperts, het gedeel in April se sentimente. Die sessie was gehou in Rietbron se gemeenskapsaal en het plaaslike inwoners die geleentheid gebied om die Uitvoerende Burgemeester Kekana en hul gemeenskap leiers aan te spreek. "Ons het die geleentheid gebruik om terugvoering te gee aan die gemeenskap oor vordering wat ons gemaak het ten opsigte van ‘n paar uitstaande sake. Hierdie gebied was voorheen deel van die 'n Cacadu District Management Area (DMA), voordat dit geïntegreer was in die Baviaans Plaaslike Munisipaliteit. Die Distriksmunisipaliteit is steeds betrokke by verskeie gemeenskaps-ontwikkeling en infrastruktuur projekte wat ons destyds begin het," het De Vos verduidelik. Hy het gesê dat die inwoners 'n paar van die probleme wat hulle in die gesig staar na vore gebring het. "Hulle voel onder andere dat hulle nie dieselfde behandeling ontvang as voorheen nie. Ons het aan hulle verduidelik wat die huidige stand van finansies is in die Baviaans Munisipaliteit. Hulle het ook die Uitvoerende Burgemeester bewus gemaak daarvaan dat daar ‘n probleem is met die vervoer van pasiënte, wat ons sal aanspreek. Nog 'n probleem waarvan die gemeenskap ons ingelig het, het betrekking gehad tot die installasie van sonkrag geysers wat lek. Ons het hulle verseker dat ons die saak sal opneem met die betrokke kontrakteur," het De Vos gesê. Die Rietbron inwoners het ook die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit bedank vir die plaveisel wat gelê is en die baksteenmakery projek. INTRODUCING GRADUATES TO THE WORKPLACE… The Cacadu District Municipality has initiated a successful internship programme aimed at equipping recent graduates with workplace skills and experience. Cacadu District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana (seated) also urged local municipalities to establish similar projects for youth in their areas. Standing from left to right are Nwabisa Mapapu (from Ndlambe); Edwardene Kivedo (from Camdeboo); Linda Magquntulu (from Ndlambe); Ntsikelelo Gunguluza (from Ikwezi); Chuma Mabindla (from Kouga); Zizikazi Skepe (from Camdeboo); Thulisa Mpumlo (from Blue Crane Route) and Siphokazi Tom (from Makana). Absent from the photoshoot was Lauren Roman (from Kouga). Cacadu Internship Programme - Introducing graduates to the workplace During a recent Council meeting of the Cacadu District Municipality, the Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, introduced eight of the nine previously unemployed graduates who will be doing internships within various departments of the District Municipality. “While we were finalising the District Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Budget, a key issue that stood out was job creation,” explained Executive Mayor Kekana to members of the Council. Rietbron now connected with Cacadu and the world! The small community of Rietbron, in the Baviaans Local Municipality, is the latest town to be included in the Connect with Cacadu initiative. The latter is a project of the Cacadu District Municipality. “The access to internet services will benefit residents as it will be easier to connect with the outside world. Rietbron is a very secluded town," said the town’s new Librarian, Liesbet Matthee, adding that there are about 2 500 people living in Rietbron. “Kwangaxeshanye, ndinikezele ingxelo yeNgingqi kwi-ANC Lekgotla ebihleli ngomhla we 10-12 ku-Agasti. Ibekwe yacaca gca kule Lekgotla into yokuba iCacadu District Municipality ayifakwanga phakathi kweengingqi ezihlwempuzekileyo ezingama 23 eMzantsi Afrika, kodwa ngenxa yentetho endiyenzileyo, uRhulumente wePhondo uza LUCKY LEARNERS… Cacadu District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana (left) stands with a group of Bronville Primary School learners as well as local community leader, Raymond Solomons (standing third from the Executive Mayor), Cacadu Speaker, Cllr Deon de Vos, ANC Sub-regional Secretary for Baviaans, Adam Festus, local Ward Councillor, Vivian Lapperts and Senior Teacher at Bronville Primary, TB Jacobs. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a “After shortlisting and interviewing, interns were appointed for a period of two years in a number of areas, including Performance Management, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Information Technology, Engineering, Economic Development and Tourism, Rural Development, Corporate Services and Public Relations.” She added; “It is with great pleasure Launched in 2008, the Connect with Cacadu initiative brings free access to Information Technology services – email, internet, information on government services, computer tutorials, school curriculum based activities, life skills, health and Childline advice, amongst other things. Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana Executive Mayor Cacadu District Municipality and excitement that I report that the R1 million that was set aside by the Cacadu District Municipality for our unemployed graduates programme has yielded results.” No printed media is sold in the area and the nearest filling station is 80 km away. Cellular telephone reception is also poor, thus communication with the rest of society is a challenge at the best of times. Hopefully things are set to change,” said Matthee. She also said that the town’s residents have greeted the initiative with open arms, despite the fact that many are not computer literate. “Our first priority is to develop the computer skills of residents,” explained Matthee. She said that she was hopeful that exposure to the internet will result in residents accessing information on education, employment and economic opportunities. About her new job as Head Librarian, Matthee said that she is very excited and ready to improve the lives of the community. Residents can access the Connect with Cacadu service by registering at Rietbron Library, where they will get a library number. A special password will be assigned to them, after which they will be able to access the internet for 45 minutes at a time at no cost. More time will be allowed if required. “Together with the residents of Rietbron, we would like to thank the Cacadu District Municipality for this welcome initiative,” she said. Page 5 Cacadu vier Mandela Dag in Hankey Cacadu Municipality donates fire trucks and equipment The Cacadu District Municipality, led by Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, together with the Mayor of the Makana Local Municipality, Cllr Zomoxolo Peter, and other councillors and officials braved the cold on the 16th of July during a handover of fire trucks and other fire-fighting equipment to the value of over R2 million to the Makana Local Municipality at the City Hall in Grahamstown. Die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit se raadslede en amptenare, onderleiding van die Uitvoerende Burgemeester, Rdl Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, en Spreker, Rdl Deon de Vos, het op 18 Julie hul besigheidspakke verruil vir oorpakke. Mandela Dag was nie net ‘n geleentheid om Nelson Mandela se lewe te vier nie maar ook sy nalatenskap. as well as those who pass through our towns,” she said. The event was attended by Cacadu District Municipality Speaker, Cllr Deon De Vos, Cacadu Portfolio Councillor and Chief Whip, Cllr Vukile Balura, PR Cllr and Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) member, Cllr Eugene Goliath, Makana Local Municipality Councillors and members of the Makana fire department as well This handover was preceded by similar as a representative from Marce – the donations to the Blue Crane Route, company that built the trucks. Kouga, Ndlambe and Ikwezi local municipalities last year, while on the “We are very proud as the Makana 17th of July, the same donations were Municipality to receive this equipment,” made to the Camdeboo and Baviaans described Mayor Peter. local municipalities. The total value of the recent donations was just over R6 “The Cacadu District Municipality has million. obviously responded to the challenges facing Makana. We are very thankful “The purchase and handover by the and know that it will make a great Cacadu District Municipality was aimed contribution to our area … we would at improving the disaster management like to say thank you, not only for the and fire-fighting services in the local truck, but also for the support of the municipal areas,” described Kekana. Cacadu District Municipality,” he said on accepting the donation. Kekana said that unlike in the past, the District Municipality budgets for Mayor Peter also committed to the disaster, fire and safety management, maintenance of the equipment. with no grants or financial support being received from national government Speaking at the same event, William departments. Welkom, Manager of Makana Fire Services, said; “We really appreciate She also challenged the Makana Local the assistance from Cacadu in terms of Municipality to ensure that an Asset building capacity here with regards to Register is drawn up, where all the disaster management … if you look at the donated equipment can be accounted for aged equipment that is now being replaced, and maintained. this donation will really ensure that we render efficient services in our area. The “This equipment must be maintained Makana area is prone to bush fires and as it is there to serve our communities floods and we are now more prepared.” EQUIPPED FOR BETTER SERVICE… Standing from left to right are: Francois Triegaardt (Blue Crane Route Local Municipality), Howard Sikweza (Cacadu District Municipality Manager for Environmental Health Services and Course Organiser), Zoleka Somi (Cacadu District Municipality), Yoliswa Booysen (Camdeboo Local Municipality), Ambesiwe Bavuma (Sundays River Valley Local Municipality), Nomfundo Blom (Kouga Local Municipality), Nkululeko Tshayina (Ndlambe Local Municipality), Jeane Badatt (Kouga Local Municipality), Ncumisa Qolo (Blue Crane Route Local Municipality), Abongile Nontshikiza (Sundays River Valley Local Municipality) and Portia Mginywa (Makana Local Municipality). Seated from left to right are: Aretha Plata (Cacadu District Municipality) and Unathi Mtyobo (Ndlambe Local Municipality). Cacadu equips district Environmental Health Practitioners In an effort to improve the health and safety of local communities, the Cacadu District Municipality recently assisted in the training of Environmental Health Practitioners from across the District. Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP’s) from all nine local municipalities underwent training from 25 to 29 June 2012 in order to qualify as Law Enforcement Peace Officers (LEPO). to comply or prosecute those that refuse to comply with the notices. The training, which was offered through the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in Port Elizabeth, will enable the EHP’s to be appointed as Peace Officers in their respective local municipalities, which is a requirement of the Criminal Procedures Act, explained Howard Sikweza, Manager in the Environmental Health Department of the Cacadu District Municipality. He said the training came as a follow up to the provision of previous training in various other key areas like noise control and the like. Although usually working behind the scenes, the Cacadu District Environmental Health Department as well as local municipalities, play a vital role in maintaining a clean and healthy environment in the District. “After qualifying for appointment as Environmental Health Practitioners, they still needed to qualify as Peace Officers, which gives them the authority to enforce all legislation in their scope of practice be it the National Health Act; Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectant Act or National Environmental Management Act. In addition, they will also now have the authority to enforce municipal bylaws,” described Sikweza. FOR THE PROTECTION OF LIVES AND PROPERTY.... The Cacadu District Municipality recently handed over this fire truck and other equipment to the Baviaans Local Municipality. Standing at the back (from left to right) Cllr Eugene Goliath (Cacadu District Municipality); Cllr Vivian Lapperts (Baviaans Local Municipality); Jama Vumazonke (Baviaans Local Municipality Municipal Manager); Cllr Hendrik Booysen (Baviaans Local Municipality) and Cllr Ewald Laurens Loock (Mayor of the Baviaans Local Municipality). Standing in front (from left to right) Cllr Deon de Vos (Cacadu District Municipality Speaker); Cllr Margaret Fivaz (Baviaans Local Municipality); Cllr Gay Anne Hobson (Baviaans Local Municipality); Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana (Executive Mayor of the Cacadu District Municipality); Cllr Thembile Spogter (Baviaans Local Municipality) and Denzil Norkie (Marce - Fire Fighting Technology). Page 6 Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa under the Professional Body of Environmental Health Practitioners, EHP’s deal with, among other things, solid waste management, water quality monitoring, pest control, food safety and control, street trading, environmental pollution control, disposal of the dead as well as general environmental assessments. “In effect, the Peace Officers are entitled to serve any person not complying with, for instance, local by-laws with a notice “It is an NQF Level 5 course that is recognised and approved by the National Police Commissioner, under the Criminal Procedures Act, to deal specifically with the element of conducting legal prosecutions as well as how to approach specific courts,” said Sikweza. “The Department specialises in identifying anything that could cause harm to communities, for example communicable diseases… After conducting assessments, the team puts in place measures to control or contain the spread of those diseases in order to prevent residents from ending up at clinics and hospitals,” said Sikweza. Hulle het die dag spandeer by die Ethembeni Care Centre in Hankey, in die Kouga Plaaslike Munisipaliteit en was vergesel deur lede van die Kouga Plaaslike Munisipaliteit, ‘n lid van die Parlement, Mlungisi Johnson, asook plaaslike inwoners. "Ethembeni was in Augustus 2001 gestig omdat daar soveel sosiale uitdagings was in die gemeenskap - soos armoede, dwelms en die gevolge van MIV/Vigs," beskryf Cynthia Alle, Ethembeni se Projek Bestuurder. "Ons tree hoofsaaklik op as 'n plaaslike dagsorgsentrum vir ongeveer 100 kinders, tussen die ouderdomme van een en vyf, en 'n naskoolsentrum vir omtrent 50 skoolgaande kinders, waarvan die meeste deel is van die pleegsorg program. Ons is ook betrokke in tuissorg vir sowat 83 MIV/Vigs-pasiënte in ons gemeenskap sowel as die ondersteuning van ongeveer 70 bejaardes en gestremde persone. Die sentrum het 10 versorgers vir tuissorg doeleindes en 4 vir nasorg," het sy gesê. Alle het ook gesê dat terwyl die sentrum hoofsaaklik befonds word deur die Departement van Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling, hulle nog verskeie operasionele uitdagings ervaar, soos byvoorbeeld die tekort aan 'n landlyn telefoon vir die sentrum, wat kommunikasie makliker sal maak met hul borge. Met die hulp van die Kouga Plaaslike Munisipaliteit, was die sentrum se toilette, klaskamers, vloere en mure skoongemaak en geverf. Verder is die sentrum van nuwe krane, toilet sitplekke, vensters, deure, slotte en skoonmaak middels verskaf. Buite was die gras gesny, nuwe swaaie en sandputte geïnstalleer en ‘n paar vrugtebome geplant. Martin Windvogel, Superintendent van Reiniging en Parke (Gamtoos area) van die Kouga Plaaslike Munisipaliteit het gesê: "Ek is bly dat die Kouga Munisipaliteit kon bydra tot die sukses van hierdie geleentheid en sodoende die kinders se lewens verbeter. Ek is dankbaar vir my span wat grotendeels bygedra het tot die sukses van hierdie inisiatief." Die kinders het ook elkeen 'n McDonalds ete ontvang terwyl ‘n plaaslike groep met die naam van Hankey PAD gesorg het vir vermaak deur musiek en optredes. "Ek wil graag dankie sê aan die Uitvoerende Burgemeester en haar personeel," het Hankey inwoner, Lena Potgieter gesê, terwyl Natalie Felix, ook ‘n inwoner, gesê het: "Dit is 'n goeie inisiatief en presies wat ons kinders nodig het! Ek hoop dat dit hulle ook sal inspireer om soos Madiba te wees en altyd ander te help." Kouga Library spends grant on improvements With the help of a library grant from the Cacadu District Municipality, the Kouga Library, situated in Loerie in the Kouga Local Municipality, has managed to refurbish and buy more equipment – improving the services offered to the community. “We managed to buy a Library Magnetic Security System, install a boundary wall (palisade fencing), a mobile computer station, home theatre systems and DVD players, desktop computers, reading tables and chairs,” said Linda Jack, Libraries Co-Ordinator in the Kouga Local Municipality. challenges of enhancing their services, providing adequate space for reading, securing their extensive book collections as well as increasing access to online resources. “The grant from the Cacadu District Municipality is a good thing as it helps the libraries to acquire necessary equipment that the municipalities cannot afford,” explained Jack. “On the down side, access to the grant does not come easy due to cumbersome supply chain management regulations. This is an unfortunate reality faced by She said the library also installed three air libraries applying for this grant.” conditioners, floor rugs and bought two vacuum cleaners to help maintain a clean The refurbishments and the new equipment environment. are expected to aid the Kouga Library in promoting access to information by local Most modern libraries are faced with the pupils and residents in the Loerie area. Die plaaslike Masimanyane baksteenmakery het groente geskenk in ondersteuning van die Ethembeni-program. Met die sny van Mandela se verjaardagkoek deur die Uitvoerende Burgemeester was almal weer herinner aan die bydraes wat Madiba gemaak het ten opsigte van die bevordering van 'n sorgsame en verdraagsame samelewing. "Ons wil die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit en die Kouga Plaaslike Munisipaliteit bedank vir wat hulle gedoen het vir ons sentrum vandag,” het Alle gesê. Plaaslike Wyksraadslid, David Ntshiza, het ook dankie gesê aan almal wat betrokke was by hierdie spesiale dag vir die kinders van Ethembeni. Die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit wil ook graag die verskeie borge bedank wat betrokke was, insluitende Boomtown Strategic Brand Agency, Intengu Communications, Aspire Solutions, Ludla Publishing en Dees Promotions. BUCKETS AND MOPS… Cacadu District Municipality Municipal Manager, Ted Pillay (standing left), and Cacadu District Fire Services Co-ordinator, Jacobus Spangenberg, clean floors in one of Ethembeni’s classrooms. He said the Cacadu District Municipality has adopted a model, which places EHP’s closer to communities by appointing its local municipalities as agents of rendering Municipal Health Services, while CDM provides funds, support and all the necessary tools of the trade they need to operate efficiently. “Residents of the District are therefore urged to approach their local municipalities to report problems like poor water quality or even foodstuffs that are being sold that is unfit for human consumption. The EHP offices at the local municipalities are equipped to deal with these matters, with the District Municipality in support of them at all times,” Sikweza concluded. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a SPECIAL DAY… Ethembeni’s children enjoy a McDonalds lunch courtesy of the Cacadu HERE IS TO MORE YEARS… Cacadu District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, cutting the cake in celebration of the global icon’s 94th birthday at Ethembeni District Municipality. Care Centre. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Page 7 www.travelcacadu.co.za Travel Cacadu: Experience our World of Seven Wonders An unforgettable experience in Makana When someone mentions the word ‘game reserve’, most people will automatically think of the big five, game drives on the back of a big green Land Rover or sleeping inside a luxury lodge or chalet. It is something most of us dream of only to have it shattered by the high price tags that usually accompany such excursions. At Temba Game Reserve and Olive Park Lodge, I found that you can realise your game reserve dream without breaking the bank. Temba Game Reserve is located on the R343 turn-off from the N2 - some 11 kilometres before Grahamstown and adjacent to the Thomas Baines Nature Reserve, in the Makana Local Municipality. I learnt that the reserve area used to be owned by Piet Retief. Between 2006 and 2008, Austrian-born, Peter Repinz, bought three patches of the former farm-land and fused them to create the Temba Game Reserve and the surprise, behind the bathroom glass-door Olive Park Lodge. Repinz currently co- was a fully-enclosed outside shower – owns the reserve with his sons, Pierre ideal for the warm summer months. and Eugene. The Lodge is well equipped and suited As there are no large predators on the for small and large private functions, farm, guests are free to walk around the weddings, buffets, braais, corporate reserve for as long as they wish – guided conferences, Christmas parties (10 to 100 walks with Andre Rautenbach, the people) or even for business meetings. General Manager, can also be arranged. The dining area is spacious and able to cater for any number of guests at any Temba Game Reserve also offers Land time. Guests can also relax at their fullyRover game drives to guests. There stocked bar. The indoor fireplace and are plenty of animals and birds to see, the outside boma are both perfect for a whether on-foot or on the game-viewer, relaxing evening after an exciting day including Zebra, Wildebeest, Bushbuck, spent exploring the reserve. Waterbuck, Springbuck, Giraffe, Warthog, Fish Eagle, Crown Eagle, At present, Temba Game Reserve is Knysna Loerie and Storks, especially under-going development with more now that summer is approaching. attractions and features being added - the emphasis is on creating a family Olive Park Lodge offers seven beautiful, destination of choice. Guests staying at furnished and comfortable suites. I found Temba Game Reserve may also enjoy my bed noticeably huge and very cosy, access to the Big Five at Pumba Game while the en-suite bathroom offered both Reserve for an entire day without paying shower and bathtub facilities. To my an additional charge. An exceptional restaurant in St Francis Bay St Francis Bay, in the Kouga Local Municipality, with its long beaches, wide river estuary and beautiful suburbs, is a delightful village that offers plenty of fun for the whole family. Of course, this is a holiday destination and many of the businesses struggle to survive outside of the holiday season. One business that seems to flourish all-year-round is Trattoria San Francesco on the first floor of The Village Shopping Centre. This eatery offers standard Italian fare in a conventional environment with the secret of its success being that it is exceptionally well-run. Consistent good service and great food is what draws my family to the Trattoria again and again. Our kids love their pizzas and the staff members of Trattoria are tolerant of the children’s loud laughter and adolescent table manners as are many of the other patrons, many of them dining with kids of their own. I learnt their pizzas are cooked in gasfired ovens, giving the crust a lovely crispiness. The pizzas have thin crusts, are reasonably ‘large’ and prepared from fresh and high quality ingredients. My oldest daughter loves pepperoni and says that Trattoria San Francesco has the best she has ever tasted. Their pasta is tasty and well prepared. The salads are fresh, Page 8 Repinz added that future plans include a swimming pool, bird hides and a cityto-sea hiking trail that will stretch from Grahamstown, across neighbouring farms and game reserves and along the Kariega and Bushmans River before ending on the Wild Coast - the return route will take hikers via more game reserves. Temba Game Reserve & Olive Park Lodge is the epitome of luxury and comfort. In fact, you get the impression that you are staying at an ultra-luxurious and much more expensive nature reserve. This ability to combine affordability with comfort makes the Temba Game Reserve experience truly unique. It is no wonder that previous guests wrote comments like, “…epic, we will be back…” and “…stunning…” in their completely full guest-book. There is no doubt that paying less, gives you so much more back. substantial and artfully put together. Above all, I have found Trattoria always spotlessly clean and neat. This is always a sure sign that the owners and management are proud of their establishment and willing to do something extra to ensure that the dining experience is excellent. You will never sit at a table with a dirty table cloth or an empty salt cellar. www.travelcacadu.co.za On a wonderful Saturday morning, we drove down to Tsitsikamma Village, situated just a few minutes away from the Storms River Bridge in the Kou-Kamma Local Municipality. We were introduced to another couple who were going to share in our exciting expedition - an offroad trail on Segway scooters. We were given a short tutorial on how to ride a Segway. After your first circle in ‘tortoise mode’, you are ready to try a run at a faster speed. Welcome, our instructor, was really fantastic, wellinformed and very well-practiced. The Segways work via sensors on the platform - to go forward, you shift your weight forward and to move backwards, you shift backwards. Welcome could reverse with no hands! He also taught us a few tricks, like weaving in and out of beacons, going forward at full-speed and stopping suddenly, just to ensure we were able to respond quickly. After a final test, we all lined-up and we were off. Yes, we tried to speed ahead, but the Segway slowed us down for safety - this is one amazing piece of machinery. Welcome only ‘freed’ us when we reached the road on which our expedition was to start. It was so much fun, I cannot explain to you how it felt - it is something that you have to experience! The Segways are like robots, it is almost an unnatural feeling they can balance on their own and can do Their wine list is relatively short and perfectly suited to Italian dishes. On a recent visit, I was pleased to see that the Tokara Sauvignon Blanc is now part of the menu. Trattoria San Francesco also serves another great Italian – Illy coffee. If you are a sports fan or a smoker, there is a pub next door designed to satisfy your needs. There are also tables on the veranda for those perfect evenings or hot, sunny afternoons. full 360 degree turns on the spot – they are like a push scooter with a brain! You just hold on and guide them. Our tour took us atop the Storms River Bridge where we could admire the landscape before us - this area has something truly magical about it. After replenishing on still water and Bar Ones, we were on our way to the 4x4 part of the route. We eased our way down the side of the mountain, through the valley and under the bridge – it was so much fun until we had to climb the mountain on the other side! Escape into Addo Recent rains had dug potholes and the road was rather slippery. One Segway seemed to have a mind of its own - we laughed all the way as the gentleman battled to keep it out of the holes. Finally on the other side, we rode through an informal settlement. Strange as it may sound, I found this experience informing as it is not every day that I take a township tour. We smiled and waved at one another as everyone went about their Saturday routines. The children seemed rather taken aback by the Segways, though. We then proceeded with our tour to the Tsitsikamma forest, where one can also enjoy a zip-line tree-top adventure. This is something I would want to try on my next expedition to this area - zipping from tree to tree! After our forest tour, we took a short drive through to the village. With sad faces, we had to return our Segways for the next group of lucky visitors. I had so much fun that if I had the money, I would invest in one in a heartbeat. My review does the Segway no justice as one cannot fully capture the feeling on paper. You will have to visit Stormsriver Adventures for your own exciting experience! Realising how often our boys went away on weekend activities - fishing trips, 4x4 trips and the rest, my friend and I decided it was time for us girls to have some fun too! We decided to visit a secluded area where we could really enjoy an authentic South African experience and most of all, relax. We found Addo Palace Safari Guesthouse, situated just off the R342 on route to Patensie, in the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality. It was perfectly suited for our escape. As our getaway date approached, we could not hide our excitement. Everything had been so carefully planned that by the Wednesday, we knew what we would be taking along from food stuffs and drinks to clothing and the weekend’s activities. While Addo Palace is fully equipped for self-catering stays as well, my friend and I opted for the Bed & Breakfast option, which left us in charge of our own dinner. At 14:30 on the following Friday, we hit the road; music blaring and singing at the top of our lungs - girls just want to have fun! Driving through the lovely countryside road after making a pit stop at Nanaga Farm Stall, we found Addo Palace - easily accessible even with my little Ford Ka. As we turned onto the dirt road leading to the lodge, we were greeted by a buck before he turned around and trotted in the opposite direction. Trattoria San Francesco staff know their stuff. Polite, efficient and on the ball, their manners perfectly complemented the food they served us - we left the restaurant with a well-rounded and wholesome feeling. To top it all, the bill is always reasonable. On our arrival, we noticed that Addo Palace is just as beautiful as seen on the website. While we climbed out of the car, I noticed that two fires had been prepared for us to keep away the winter’s evening My family and I eat out a lot and constantly try new eating establishments but this is one restaurant to which I always return. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Experience our World of Seven Wonders Off-roading on a Segway in the Tsitsikamma! For years now I have watched these two-wheeled self-balancing vehicles on tv - movie stars whizzing around on them on set and even delivery guys using them on their inner-city runs. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would get to ride one! I finally did at Stormsriver Adventures… Travel Cacadu: w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a cold. We were warmly welcomed by the Lodge Manager, Steven, who also kindly gave us a tour of the place. Addo Palace has three lodge offerings the Main Lodge, Zebra Lodge and Kudu Lodge. The last two are ‘outside’ lodges. All the rooms are African themed, yet with a sense of elegance - the two outside lodges offer a more rustic experience than the Main Lodge. After our tour, we poured some wine and went to sit down at one of the fires in the boma. We watched the sun set with only birds singing and the occasional distant howl of jackals in the background – it was magnificent! As it started getting dark, we decided to make our way up to the Main Lodge to prepare our dinner. After dinner, we went to our rooms – both fitted with a double bed and a jet bath, with bubbles waiting on the side. We immersed ourselves in long, candle-lit bubble baths. We spent the rest of the evening relaxing in the comfy leather sofas watching DVD’s in the lounge, which is also used to host business conferences from time to time. The next morning we woke up feeling refreshed after sleeping in what I can call incredibly comfortable beds. Before heading home, Steven and his partner served us with a delicious breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, fried tomato and toast with orange juice and coffee. Eating outside, with a stunning view of the mountains, was a treat in itself. Addo Palace is a fantastic getaway and perfect for a little romance too. Page 9 Vroue bemagtig in Cacadu Ubuhlobo Project and Cacadu partnership take learners to Germany The 30th of June 2012 marked an important occasion for five youngsters from the Cacadu District. The day started off with a meeting at the District Municipality offices to ensure that everything was in order for the learners before they left for Germany as part of a three-week work-camp programme, arranged by the Ubuhlobo Project. Municipality), Thembekazi Vumazonke (Kouga Local Municipality), Sesethu Masimini (Camdeboo Local Municipality), Delré Sweetland (Baviaans Local Municipality) and Charlotte Boesack (Makana Local Municipality), who were accompanied by Welmary Franse from the Ikwezi Local Municipality. The Ubuhlobo Project originates from “Enjoy the journey and the reunion the Suidliche Weinestrabe District in with your German friends that you met Germany and is led by Rolf Meder. in 2011. Remember to remain humble and when you come back, we want you The project team visits the Cacadu to tell us and your peers what you have District on a four-week long learnt… We know that you will benefit programme, teaching first-aid, HIV/ from this opportunity and make the Aids and TB prevention as well as most of it,” she urged. teenage pregnancy awareness at local The Cacadu District Municipality schools, annually. provided the learners with travel bags, “As we say goodbye to these children, about R5 500 per learner as travel I am filled with mixed emotions. As allowances, and made sure that their always, it is best to concentrate on the passports and visas were in order. positive things that this journey will yield – to learn about and experience “I think one of the immediate lessons Germany,” said Executive Mayor Kekana. learnt was how foreign exchange markets work and the conditions that The five learners were Christopher affect the strength of the national Van Rheenen (Kou-Kamma Local currency,” said Cllr De Vos, adding that it was a privilege for the Cacadu still connected as friends and worked District Municipality to be participating together,” said Thembekazi Vumazonke. in the project once again. Christopher Van Rheenen agreed, “I urge you to go and learn a lot “It was a very enjoyable trip. I was while you are there. Ask yourselves, very fascinated by the advances in ‘what will be my contribution to my German technology – an industry that community when I return’ … we don’t I would want to be in myself… With need a lot of money to effect change, the exposure that I got, I now want to we just need commitment and effort,” pursue a career in engineering.” he inspired. “What I learnt in Germany was that I At the airport, the learners were needed to stand on my own two feet also accompanied by Makana Local and not sit and wait for opportunities Municipality Mayor, Cllr Zamuxolo to come my way. To achieve anything Peter, their families as well as teachers. in life, I need to work hard. This is a lesson I think many young people On their return, on the 17th of July, from my community need to learn,” the learners said they learnt a lot in explained Charlotte Boesack. Germany and were grateful to the Cacadu District Municipality and the Speaking to Cacadu News, Ubuhlobo Project for the opportunity. Christopher’s father, Chrisian Van Rheenen said, “I’m very thankful to “My trip to Germany was unforgettable the Cacadu District Municipality for as it was the first time I flew in an giving my son this opportunity to go aeroplane. I also experienced a new and learn abroad – an opportunity that culture and the families who hosted us I never had growing up. I believe this were very welcoming and treated us experience has taught them a lot and well… We took part in various activities that they will share it with their friends there and despite our language barrier, and inspire them.” Aberdeen Piggery project creates sustainable incomes It is the embodiment of government’s unshaken commitment in its drive to eradicate poverty, for as long as there are communities without clean water, decent shelter or proper sanitation and rural dwellers that are unable to make a decent living. Based on these commitments, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform is developing rural areas by focusing on improving people’s economic and social status through addressing hunger and poverty. When farmers grow more food and earn a higher income, they can achieve self-sufficiency and live better lives. One particular project is the Aberdeen Piggery, which is located at Lotusville, just outside of Aberdeen in the Camdeboo Local Municipality. Originally started by 16 members, with only 11 remaining today (10 men and 1 female), the initiative has four piggery structures, with 100 units per structure, a borehole and is well-fenced. The Aberdeen Piggery business has successfully created opportunities, including jobs to address poverty and unemployment in Aberdeen – a small town that is faced with a high rate of unemployment. About 27 other casual Page 10 job opportunities have also been created through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), in conjunction with this project. Sy was vergesel deur die Cacadudistriksmunisipaliteit se Spreker, Rdl Deon de Vos, en ander raadslede van die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit sowel as afgevaardigdes en raadslede van die distrik OFF TO GERMANY… Standing from left to right, Christopher Van Rheenen, Thembekazi Vumazonke, Sesethu Masimini, Cacadu District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana, Delré Sweetland, Charlotte Boesack, Welmary Franse and Luvuyo Madlakana, Special Programmes Unit Officer at the Cacadu District Municipality. se nege plaaslike munisipaliteite. Tydens die geleentheid was die rol van vroue, teenoor sake soos werkloosheid, armoede, ongelykheid en MIV/Vigs weereens bevestig, die vroue was ook gemotiveer om aktief betrokke te raak in die 74 wyke van die Distrik. Die seminaar was toevallig gehou, skaars ‘n maand nadat Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma aangestel is as die eerste vroulike Voorsitter van die Afrika-Unie. Sleutel-spreker, Nophiwe Ludidi, Projek Bestuurder by die Eastern Cape AIDS Council, het gesê dat as vroue aan die stuur kan wees van die land, 'n nuwe nasie gebore kan word - 'n nasie wat vry is van armoede en werkloosheid, omdat vroue lig dra en hoop skep vir 'n beter toekoms. The Performance Management System, custom-designed software for the Cacadu District Municipality and its nine local municipalities, has been successfully adopted by all the local authorities, said Cacadu District Municipality’s Senior Performance Management Officer, Graham Terblanche, who also oversaw the development of the system. “The Performance Management System is an automated tool to help us measure and monitor performance in a more effective and efficient way and enables us to use the information and the data to report to the Mayoral Committee and Council,” explained Terblanche. “The main purpose is to measure the performance of the District Municipality [as a service provider to local municipalities] in order for poor performance to be identified and corrected and to account to communities with regard to what we set out to do in our Integrated Development Plan”, said Terblanche. The roll-out of the project started on the 1st of July 2012 and Terblanche expressed confidence that the system will be implemented in all the municipalities before the end of the 2013 financial year. "Die betrokkenheid van al die Burgemeesters van die Plaaslike Munisipaliteite, asook die Sprekers en Munisipale Bestuurders, dui daarop dat ons graag die besluite wat hier geneem word wil implementeer in die Distrik," het die Uitvoerende Burgemeester gesê. Sy het bygevoeg dat die geleentheid nie net bedoel was vir die bespreking van probleme wat vroue in die gesig staar nie, maar ook as 'n platform om bewuswording te skep oor wat staatsdepartemente en ander instansies soos die Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), Coega Development w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Uitvoerende Burgemeester Kekana het die nege plaaslike munisipaliteite uitgedaag om ingestel te wees op die behoeftes van vroue - as die fakkel draers en leiers in die stryd vir die verbetering van gemeenskappe. Sy het ook gesê dat dieselfde fokus gevestig moet word op die jeug en gestremdes in die Cacadu Distrik, met die klem op die stigting van jeug forums en om te verseker dat hulle deel uitmaak van die vooruitsigte wat reeds gestel is. Mandela Day “The main challenges at local authorities are the lack of capacity, knowledge and understanding of Municipal Performance Management because, unlike in the business world, there are no formal qualifications available in Municipal Performance Management,” described Terblanche. Hence, the system’s effectiveness will contribute to proper decision-making and “clarification of goals and priorities”. With this system, problem areas such as underperformance can be identified early and rectified, he said. Terblanche also remains hopeful that the new system will contribute towards defining job roles more effectively and improving accountability and transparency by officials and local authorities. He also hopes that it will lead to increased communication across institutions, provide officers with a platform for learning and development as well as assist in the continual assessment of the performance of the Cacadu District Municipality and its local municipalities. TIME OUT… Blue Crane Route Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Majorie Scott (left), spent time with elderly people in the Blue Crane Route Municipality. REPLENISHING… The elderly enjoy a warm meal and entertainment as part of the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Majorie Scott’s, 67 minutes effort. Mayor of the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality, Cllr Majorie Scott, took some time out of her busy schedule to attend to the elderly in all three towns of the local municipality. This was part of her ‘67 minutes’ in celebration of Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday on the 18th of July. Mandela’s birthday, also celebrated as the International Mandela Day, provides an opportunity to give something back to communities in fulfilment of Madiba’s wish to make a difference. JUST LANDED… Christopher Van Rheenen, Charlotte Boesack and Thembekazi Vumazonke arrive at Port Elizabeth International Airport on 17 July after their three-week work-camp in Germany. Corporation (CDC), die Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) en die National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) aanbied om werksgeleenthede vir vroue te skep en uiteindelik, om werkloosheid en armoede te verlig. “We started with the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality and so far, we have also been to Makana, Kouga, Ndlambe and the latest one, Sundays River Valley,” said Terblanche, adding that he received positive feedback on the tool from performance officers in these local municipalities. David Cuthu, a member of the project, notes that the success of the business demonstrates the saying of “Together we can do more to create sustainable, equitable and vibrant rural communities.” Government remains steadfast in its commitment to assist the most vulnerable communities. The Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform has been mobilising partnerships between the three tiers of government, business, civil society and residents in rural communities and continue to provide a competitive edge in their collective efforts to bring meaningful and lasting changes to the lives of poor communities. Ludidi het vroue uitgedaag om leierskap posisies in te neem en besluitnemers te wees indien geleenthede in toerisme, landbou en mynbou sou voorkom. Custom-made for Cacadu’s Blue Crane Route Mayor visits the elderly to mark performance success “One of our core functions is to capacitate and assist the local municipalities that fall under our jurisdiction. By providing this tool to them, they will also be able to measure and monitor their own performance more efficiently. A mentor was also appointed by the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform with the aim of improving the pig production and income generation. The members of the project have also received training in agricultural production, marketing and sales. In 2009/10, the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform also supported the project with the supply of 95 piglets, feed and vaccines as well as equipment such as spades, rakes, wheelbarrows and a water tank. The Camdeboo Local Municipality, through its Local Economic Development (LED) plan, provided the group with land for a period of 10 years. Uitvoerende Burgemeester van die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit, Rdl Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana het gedurende die geleentheid verduidelik dat die doel van die inisiatief was om vroue te inspireer om op te staan en hulself te laat geld. He emphasised that this one-of-a-kind system has been specially developed for the Cacadu District Municipality and its local municipalities. Contributed by: Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) The Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP) is a collective strategy of government in the fight against poverty, hunger, unemployment and lack of development in rural areas. Ter viering van vrouemaand, het die Cacadu-distriksmunisipaliteit ‘n seminaar gehou met die doel om vroue van die distrik te bemagtig. Die geleentheid is gehou by Mentors Kraal in Jeffreys Bay, Kouga Plaaslike Munisipaliteit, van die 5de tot die 7de Augustus 2012. INTRODUCING THE GAME-CHANGER… Cacadu District Municipality Senior Performance Management Officer, Graham Terblanche, points out the new IDP and Performance Management System. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a The Mayor visited and spent her ‘67 minutes’ with the elderly residents (60 years and above) of Somerset East, Pearston and Cookhouse over three days. The occasion also provided her with an opportunity to interact with the older people and their care givers. She endeavoured to make Mandela Day a memorable one by organising various fun activities. “We have a responsibility to love and care for the aged members of our communities,” inspired the Mayor. The elderly joined the Mayor in song and dance before receiving a warm meal. Mandela Day is a call to people everywhere to spend time doing something good for others within their communities, not only on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, but every day of the year. Page 11 WHAT TO DO: SEVERE WINDS Gale force and stronger winds often occur along coastal regions, but also during thunderstorms.These winds are sudden and can cause much damage. COMMUNITY In this edition of Cacadu News, we focus on the local Community Development Workers of the Ndlambe Local Municipality. There are nine wards in the municipality, however at the time of going to print, two wards were still vacant – one, after the unfortunate passing away of the CDW. Precautions • Stay indoors where possible and keep away from windows facing the direction of the wind. • Listen to the radio or TV for warnings. • If travelling in a vehicle, be aware of sudden cross winds, especially between buildings. • Be aware of the possibility of fallen trees or power lines and flying debris. • Small boats must stay away from the sea and seek the shelter of a harbour, river estuary or protected bay. Nontombeko Nkwiti (CDW Co-ordinator) Serves Ward 1 Contact: 072 730 0853 Did you know? Exotic trees are easily uprooted by strong winds, especially after prolonged periods of rain. Indigenous trees are recommended. CALENDAR OF EVENTS Bathurst Oxbraai Starts 29 Dec 2012 Kenton Music Festival Bathurst 31 Dec 2012 082 837 0870 This is one of the biggest parties in the Eastern Cape and not to be missed. Over 8000 people are expected to descend on Bathurst. 3 - 4 Dec 2012 31 Dec 2012 NieuBethesda Rob - bobhamer@net4u.co.za kentonmusicfest.co.za The Kenton Music Festival is the only all day music festival, which takes place on New Years eve. Situated on a beautiful farm overlooking the Kariega River, this natural amphitheatre will play host to South Africa’s hottest musicians. Humansdorp Country Festival New Years Festival of Lights Kenton-on-Sea Humansdorp IRB Sevens World Series Nelson Mandela Bay 042 295 1361 The second Humansdorp Country Festival offers various distance running/walking, mountain biking and road cycling races, which includes a shorter roue for kids and a 25km family fun ride, a 25km and 45km mountain biking race and the 50km and feature 100km road race. In addition to the sporting events, the Humansdorp Country Festival will include a Potjiekos competition, a police dog show, helicopter rides, a Miss Humansdorp Country Festival competition, a cultural show and a fashion show hosted by local artists.There will also be a Big Screen TV in the Beer Garden. 8-9 Dec 2012 www.irbsevens.com The South African leg of the IRB Sevens Rugby World Series, the third in the series, will take place in Port Elizabeth at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Entertainment during the tournament includes top local DJ’s and bands. Together with the fever of the 20 rugby 7’s teams, the vibe around the tournament promises to be a solid 48 hours of rock the party! 049 841 1729 The New Year’s Eve Lantern Parade is a truly inspiring community event run every year. A powerful symbol of hope and beauty, the parade crosses cultural and religious barriers in a joyous celebration. Come and make your own lantern at one of our workshops, then join the parade for a magical night walk through starry Nieu-Bethesda in the Eastern Cape! Page 12 w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Betty Tshula Serves Ward 3 Contact: 084 321 3814 Mtutuzeli Tobi Serves Ward 4 Contact: 073 211 9106 Xolelwa Njadayi Serves Ward 5 Contact: 073 083 5985 Tabisa Isaac Serves Ward 8 Contact: 073 764 9195 Nolonwabo Mani Serves Ward 9 Contact: 084 577 8340 ICDW ityala ithemba eBhatisi EZAMA ukufumana izisombululo zeengxaki ezijamelene nabahlali kwindawo yakhe, uXolelwa Njadayi , oyiCommunity Development Worker eBhatisi, kuMasipala waseNdlambe usebenza nzima ukuqinisekisa iimpumelelo yeeprojekthi zakhe ezimbini – eyesitiya semifuno neyeentsimbi zokuhombisa. “Le projekthi yesitiya ibizwa Zukhanye nto ethetha ukhanyo. Ndiyiqale ngoka 2010 le projekthi namabhinqa asibhozo awayengaphangeli ekuhlaleni efuna endlela zokugxotha ikati eziko, “utshilo okaNjadayi. “Bakuza kum becela uncedo, ndawa ndivuka ndifuna umhlaba wale projekthi yesitiya. Ndiye ndafumana iziqanaqwana zomhlaba ezingasetyenziswayo ngakumbi kwicawa yasekuhlaleni. Emva kokunkqonkqoza kwiminyango ethile, ude wafumana umhlatyana wokulima kwibandla lamaWisile eBhatisi. Okwemifuno esitiyeni, iZukhanye ikwaqalise amanye amaphulo ophuhliso ekuhlaleni. “Ngesi sitiya semifuno, la makhosikazi akwazile ukuchukumisa impilo ekuhlaleni ngokuthi anikele ngemifuno ukwenzela iSoup Kitchen iinkedama zasekuhlaleni eziphila nogawulayo nentsholongwane yakhe i-HIV. Ndikhuthazwe yile projekthi ndaza ndasebenzisana namakhosikazi asakhulayo angama 20 ukwenza iBathurst Craft Project. Aba basetyhini basebenzisa iintsimbi ukwenza izinto eziqhelekileyo zibe zizinto zefashoni ezinexabiso,” okaNjadayi uxelele le mvaba. Waleke ngelithi ukwancedise ngokufumanela la makhosikazi uqeqesho ngezoshishino ngabaqeqeshi abasuka eRhawutini nabathi bafike ngamaxesha athile ukuza kukhangela inkqubela kananjalo nokuthengisa umsebenzi wabo. “Emva koko, ndiqhagamshelene neSebe lezoLimo noMasipala waseNdlambe ndifuna uncedo lwezixhobo nezinye izinto ezingundoqo ukuqalisa ngale projekthi yesitiya,”utshilo. “Ndiyayithanda iBhatisi, ndikhulele kuyo yaye ndifuna ukuyibona iphuhla…Kwakho, ndikhuthaza uluntu nokuba luphina ukuba malume ngeenyawo luzame ukuziphilisa. Asinakusoloko sijonge ukuphiwa amalizo liSebe lezoPhuhliso loLuntu kuba, Ngoncedo lwakhe, iZukhanye ikhule ungaphiwa ipasile yokutya namhlanje, uza kangangokuba la makhosikazi kungokunje kuthini ngomso yakungabikho?” Ubuzile. athengisela iivenkile zasekuhlaleni ezifana no Spar kunye noPick n Pay. La Nangona eyincoma inkxaso yamaSebe makhosikazi sele ade aseka nekomiti karhulumente, uthe la masebe angenza yezolawulo kangangokuba namhlanje ane- ngcono ngokuthi ancedise iiCDW akhawunti yebhanka agcina kuyo ingeniso. ngokwenza lula iindlela zokufaka izicelo “Ndibone le projekthi njengendlela zemali yeeprojekthi, aze athobe ixesha yokuncedisa la makhosikazi ukuba enze ubani alithatha ukulinda ukuphunyenzwa ingeniso enokuwanceda wona nentsapho kwesicelo sakhe. zawo. Njengazo zonke iidolophana ezincinane, abahlali balapha bajamelene OkaNjadayi ulebele ngelithi, iinjongo nemiceli-mngeni efana nendlala zakhe ngoku kukudala amathuba nentswela-ngqesho – nezithi zona zinyuse okuncedisa ulutsha nabantu abadala ukuba izinga lobundlobongela nezinye iingxaki balwe ngempumelelo neengxaki zabo zoluntu,” kucacise uNjadayi. ngeeprojekthi. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a CREATIVELY CRAFTING INCOME… Xolelwa Njadayi, Community Development Worker for Bathurst, in the Ndlambe Local Municipality, has been working tirelessly to see her two primary projects - a vegetable garden as well as a beading and crafts venture, takeoff and change the lives of local residents. Beading creatively transforms ordinary items into beautiful products, earning crafters a living or a supplementary income for those that already have primary jobs. Page 13 Pearston youths step ahead RECIPE Umsila Wenkomo (Oxtail Stew) from Mandela’s Kitchen In this edition of Cacadu News, we share with you a recipe that will remind many of ‘ukutya kwasekhaya’ (home cooking in Xhosa). This oxtail stew recipe is among Madiba’s favourites and is among 62 that are featured in Tastes from Nelson Mandela’s Kitchen, which was written by Xoliswa Ndoyiya, Nelson Mandela’s long time personal chef, and Anna Trapido. According to Ndoyiya, Mandela mostly enjoys traditional dishes. We hope you enjoy it too… Ingredients •3 kg oxtail (excess fat removed) •1 teaspoon paprika •1 tablespoon barbecue spice •5 large carrots, peeled and sliced •250 grams green beans, sliced •4 medium potatoes peeled and quartered •60 grams oxtail soup powder (use 2 beef stock cubes if not available) •Salt and white pepper to taste Method 1.Put the oxtail in a large pot and add just enough water to cover. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and cook until the water has evaporated. The meat will start to brown in its own fat. 2.Add the paprika and barbecue spice with enough water to cover the oxtail. Cover it with a lid and cook over a low heat until the oxtail is tender (about 2 hours). Keep checking that there is still enough liquid to cover the meat, adding more water when necessary. 3.Add the carrots, beans, potatoes and soup powder (or stock cubes) and cook until the vegetables are soft (about 30 minutes). 4.Season to taste and serve. This dish serves 6 to 8 people. Recipe courtesy of Ukutya Kwasekhaya: Tastes from Nelson Mandela’s Kitchen by Xoliswa Ndoyiya with Anna Trapido; Published by Real African Publishers. It was a joyful moment when two students, Jonathan Bebe and Desire Seister, from Pearston in the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality, graduated with their fellow Umzi Wethu Foundation peers on the 27th of July at a ceremony that was held at the Raymond Mhlaba Skills Centre in Parsons Hill, Port Elizabeth. The duo was among 177 students who obtained various Conservation and Hospitality-related qualifications after studying for a year with Umzi Wethu, a project of the Wilderness Foundation in Somerset East. The project, which started in 2008, aims to enable the employability of motivated young people who has been affected by HIV/ Aids and poverty. The project offers skills training and job placement in the hospitality and eco-tourism sector. “This is a very important day in my life,” said the 23 year-old Jonathan, his only regret being that his struggling parents were not there to celebrate with him. “But, I’d like to thank my former teacher at Pearston, Mr Jan Witbooi, for advising me to take up the course,” he added. Jonathan’s elder brother, Sydney (39), who took a day off work to see him graduate, could not hide his joy. “I took the day off because I wanted to congratulate Jonathan – a hard worker and the first graduate in our family. Of course, I am not surprised, he deserves it,” said Sydney, adding that he previously asked Jonathan to join him as a factory worker but that he refused. “He had been looking at the bigger picture – to better not only his situation but that of his community as well,” he concluded. Seister, who graduated from a Hospitality related course, admitted that the graduation day signaled a “wonderful breakthrough” for her. “I’ve always wanted to be a professional cook,” said an elated Seister, telling Cacadu News that she was going to start an internship with the Wilderness Foundation and was very excited about it.” She shared some advice, aimed at other girls in her community. “I’d like to say to young women out there that they must know what they want in life and work hard to get it,” she said. Sydney wished that other youth from the small town of Pearston could learn from them by having the courage to obtain skills and education for the betterment of their community. He also challenged the youth to seek opportunities in their own areas and not always look at leaving in the hope of a better life elsewhere. “These formerly vulnerable young people are now well equipped with both life skills and work skills, and are set to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of their communities,” said the Director of the Wilderness Foundation, Andrew Muir. According to Muir, the Umzi Wethu project is unique in that it combines the transformative power of nature with life skills and work skills to build well-rounded, skilled and confident individuals who can be mentors and examples to those around them. Ikwezi comes together for Madiba On the occasion of Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday on the 18th of July, Ikwezi Local Municipality, the Department of Social Development and the Department of Correctional Services joined hands with local schools (Department of Education) in 67 minutes of public service to commemorate the day. School also benefited from the day. “The day was spent cleaning Jansenville’s S.A.W.A.S. Memorial Hospital, assisting school kids in cleaning their school yards and the Jansenville Park. We also provided them with refuse bags and organised our refuse trucks to collect the rubbish,” described Nolusindiso Tyilo, Community Services Intern at Ikwezi Municipality. “We also visited the hospital because we wanted to give hope to the patients, including a young girl who has not received a single visitor since she was admitted … there’s a lot of work that needs to be done at the hospital so we wanted to assist in every way we could.” She added, “We also participated in an event held for the elderly in our local township, organised by the Department of Social Development… we pampered them and played games to brighten their day.” Gcinibuzwe Combined, Jansenville High School and Jansenville Primary Page 14 “Our wish is that Mandela Day should become an everyday thing, where people can use at least 67 minutes of their day to touch someone in need.” Kirkwood, in the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality, recently celebrated 100 years in existence. The town was established in September 1912. the Cacadu District Municipality moving its headquarters from Port Elizabeth to Kirkwood in the near future. The town and the surrounding areas, including the townships, were abuzz with activities linked to the centenary celebrations, which took place from the 21st to the 24th of September. The Mayor also said that the celebrations were a reminder that a lot still needs to be done in the war against poverty, illiteracy, inequality and unemployment. “Working together, we can do more,” he said. Among the activities of the weekend was a Centenary Dinner for invited guests, hosted by the Honourable Mayor, Mbulelo Kebe. “We realised that the 100 year milestone was something to celebrate as a town,” said Mayor Kebe. He added that the muncipality formed an organising committee, which he believes, did a splendid job. During the programme, Dr Tertius Delport, Advocate Kemp and other historians told stories of what they knew about their town. As part of the kick-off to the celebrations, a parade was arranged on the 21st of September. People waved and saluted as the convoy of cars, led by drum majorettes, moved through the town to the Kirkwood Supporters Club. The Mayor said that the municipality was very happy to be a part of the development of what was established 100 years ago. A prayer meeting was organised for the Municipality’s Grade 12 learners, while other learners were engaged in sports, arts and cultural activities. “The town has grown to attract more people; accommodates all sectors of society and embraces the democratic principles enshrined in this country’s constitution. I am proud about that,” said Kebe, adding that they were also encouraged by the prospects of seeing “A gospel music festival was arranged at the rugby stadium in celebration of the town. It was exciting to see interdenominational churches working together like that,” said Councillor Stef Delport, a member of the organising committee. Bayahluma Sewing Project in Jeffrey’s Bay in the Kouga Local Municipality and Vondeling Optel Craft Primary Cooperative in Willowmore, Baviaans Local Municipality, has succeeded in creating opportunities for their members to better their lives. Above: 67 MINUTES FOR MADIBA… Standing (from left) Ikwezi Local Municipality Councillors Johnny Lewis and Wayne Seekoei, who were part of the municipality’s Mandela Day effort, with (in the middle row from the left) Khululwa Ngcwangu, Monica Dyakumeni, Nolusindiso Tyilo and inmates from the Jansenville Correctional Centre. Left: DAY OUT… Some of the local learners took these elderly ladies from Jansenville’s Old Age Home out and brought some sunshine to their day. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a The Mayor of the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality, Cllr Mbulelo Kebe, recently handed over yet another batch of RDP houses to 52 deserving families in Bersheba. we are still in the process of finalising the contractor. “We are making efforts to better the delivery of housing,” described Kebe, adding that more houses would be handed Bersheba is a poor area located just over before the end of the year. outside of Kirkwood. Most of its residents live in either makeshift or mud structures. “We are working on the delivery of As such, the handover on the 1st of August about 293 houses, as part of this project. 2012 brought hope for proper housing to However, we decided to hand them over many. as soon as they were completed because if they remain unoccupied, vandalism “We have similar projects operational usually occurs,” he said. in all areas of the local municipality but today we are here in Bersheba. We made The Department of Human Settlements a promise that we will deliver houses to has invested around R26 million to rectify the people who deserve them,” said Mayor these houses, according to Kebe, while Kebe. the Sundays River Valley Municipality, as the project facilitator, has been involved The handover comes only a few in identifying beneficiaries as well as months after a similar event in Moses ensuring that local youths benefit from the Mabida where another 100 homes were project. handed over by the Minister of Human Settlements, Tokyo Sexwale. “We have appointed mainly local contractors to work on the project, with “Some residents might recall the media the bulk of them being young. As such, reports in 2009 where the municipality we have ensured that young people also was highlighted due to a lack of housing benefit - especially in skills development,” in the area. After that, those houses were explained Kebe. referred to the Department of Human Settlements where we engaged with the Regional Director of the Provincial MEC, Helen Sauls-August. Department of Human Settlements in the Cacadu District, William Perks, said “Fortunately, she said she would assist us there were similar projects planned for the and three contractors were appointed to District, all with a focus on the creation of build houses in Moses Mabhida, Bersheba jobs and skills development opportunities and Addo - it is only in Paterson where for the youth. Cacadu District cooperatives doing well Two cooperatives, operating within the Cacadu District, are showing positive growth, adding weight to the Executive Mayor, Khunjuzwa Eunice Kekana’s encouragement for residents to establish cooperatives in order to create sustainable jobs in their communities and households. “We chose these schools because we wanted to instil this date in their minds while they were still young so that they will always know that on Mandela Day they too can make the lives of other people better,” said Tyilo. Tyilo inspired, “We saw this special day as the perfect opportunity to make an impact on the lives of our local community … to practice selflessness and try to make a little difference in the world just as Nelson Mandela did. Sundays River Valley Sundays River Valley celebrates Kirkwood’s Mayor hands over 52 100 Years houses in Bersheba These two projects received financial support from the Provincial Department of Social Development, with assistance from the Cacadu District. Formed by a group of six women and one man, the Bayahluma Sewing Project situated along Bantu Holomisa Street in Jeffrey’s Bay, makes traditional dresses, shoes, school uniforms and tracksuits for their local market. They also received four sewing machines and two overlockers from the Kouga Local Municipality, w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a which enabled them to increase their production capacity. “Local residents and schools support us,” said the group’s Chairperson, Norma Dela, adding that the cooperative also recently started making T-shirts, which are selling well. The Vondeling Cooperative has boosted the income of the women of Vondeling, according to Anele Pefile, the Department of Social Development and Special Programmes’ officer for the Baviaans Area. HER FIRST VISITORS… Jane Roberts (52), receives her first visitors, Sundays River Valley Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Mbulelo Kebe, Provincial Department of Human Settlements Regional Director in the Cacadu District, William Perks, and local Ward Councillor, Bukelwa Snoek, into her new home. The project, which knits decorative angels with wire, beads and ostrich feathers generated an income of over R2.6 million in the past year, Pefile said. Vondeling crafts are sold across South Africa with some exported to world markets. “The project of nine women and one man is the source of income for 32 families in Vondeling. It is in line with the Baviaans Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and is supported by the Cacadu District Municipality,” said Pefile. KEYS TO YOUR NEW HOME… Sundays River Valley Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Mbulelo Kebe, hands Ntombizodwa Mupa (50) the keys to her new three-room RDP home. Looking on is Provincial Department of Human Settlements Regional Director in the Cacadu District, William Perks (left) and local Ward Councillor, Bukelwa Snoek. Page15 GCIS and Baviaans Municipality celebrate Women’s Month Contributed by: Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) In celebration of Women’s month, Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS), in partnership with the Baviaans Local Municipality, held a Women’s day event in Steytlerville. The theme of the event was 56 Years of Women United against Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment. programmes as well as how residents can access them. The focus was on creating awareness around government’s priorities towards encouraging the participation of women in the economy as well as promoting rural development. Councillor Gay Hobson of the Baviaans Local Municipality noted during the event that the focus in 2012 was on addressing the challenges faced by rural women. She made specific mention of programmes like the female farmer of the year award as an example of empowering women in agriculture. At the event, the Provincial Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform presented various programmes aimed at empowerment and explained the benefits and how to access the programmes. The department also encouraged residents to participate in its cooperative initiatives and food security land care projects that are meant to alleviate poverty and empower communities, especially women and the youth. Representatives from the Provincial Department of Social Development, which has various poverty alleviation initiatives operational in Steytlerville, also communicated their department’s GCIS took the opportunity to present the mid-term achievements of government and highlighted government programmes that could lead to improving the lives of people in the District. Councillor Thembile Spogter, also from the Baviaans Local Municipality, said that the municipality is working hard to change the lives of local women and promised that they will continue to support them with the hope that they will make use of the information presented to them during the event to change their economic and social status for the better. The women that attended the occasion expressed their appreciation for the event to the Ward Councillors as well as the departments that were present. Somerset East Boys and Girls Brigade appeals for instruments The Somerset East Boys and Girls Brigade marching band, in the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality, is appealing to local residents and businesses for funds to aid it in procuring new instruments. “The Boys and Girls Brigade was first established in South Africa in 1889, while the Somerset East Boys and Girls Brigade, which is affiliated to the Port Elizabeth branch of the Eastern Cape Battalion, was established in 2003,” said Company Captain, Raymond Michaels. He said the Brigade serves the Blue Crane Route area of Somerset East, Pearston and Cookhouse. “We rely on donations and fundraising to keep us going. In 2008, we were lucky enough to receive a trumpet and a trombone, however, we are now in desperate need of new instruments – usually we get a R300 donation when we perform in the community but it is not enough since we still need to cover costs like transportation.” “While we are usually seen performing at various local community events, Page 16 we are often also invited to perform at funerals of members of the uniformed forces,” explained Michaels. Boys and girls can join the Somerset East Brigade from the age of 7 years to 21 years. Blue Crane’s Vosloo Hospital ends Women’s Month on a high note The Andries Vosloo Hospital successfully concluded the women's month celebrations of the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality with a Women’s Health Awareness Outreach Programme that was held on the 30th of August. “While the country has been abuzz celebrating women during the month of August, at our institution, Andries Vosloo Hospital, we decided to conclude the month with promoting women’s health. This was in keeping with the Health Minister’s [Dr Aaron Motsoaledi] call for community involvement, preventative medicine and a target to increase life expectancy,” said Dr Luvuyo Bayeni, Clinical and Acting Hospital Manager at Andries Vosloo Hospital. He said all the efforts to emancipate women will never succeed if women were still suffering from various ailments and illnesses that could have otherwise been prevented. “The event was a great success as we managed to achieve our objectives. We educated women from various communities of the Blue Crane Route Municipality about topics, including cervical and breast cancer screening, HIV/Aids and TB infections, contraception and career planning,” described Bayeni. He added, “Ms Ayanda Titi, a registered nurse, also attended the event and demonstrated to the women how to do breast examinations and also encouraged women to make use of our clinics to have regular pap smears done in order to screen for cancer.” The event also received support from the ‘Perform or perish’ was the message from Gabriel Plaatjies to the youth of the Cacadu District as his team polished up on their routines before performing at a Mandela Day event held in Hankey on the 18th of July. Zwelonke Women’s Manyano, an interchurch women’s group consisting of more than 100 elderly ladies.“Aeroville and Cookhouse High also sent their Grade 11 and 12 learners, who were joined by Grade 12 learners from Johnson Nqonqoza Senior Secondary School,” said Bayeni. “Hankey Performing Arts Development, or H-PAD for short, was started on the 27th of October in 2010. I was in my second year, studying towards a Diploma in Performing Arts, when my father, Clifton Plaatjies - who is also a musician - asked me if we could start this group. We were concerned that there was nothing concerning the arts happening in our local community,” inspired Plaatjies, who is also the group’s Director and Choreographer. Various interactive sessions were held by different speakers, who also taught the young girls about various career options available and different forms of contraception options and services available at local Primary Health Care (PHC) and Allied Health Services centres. Bayeni said that the outreach was important as there has been a significant rise in Cervical Cancer amongst women above the age of 50 and also picked up symptoms in a number of High School girls. “We also sought to address the rise in teenage pregnancies, coupled with the increase in new HIV infections and the challenges of youth unemployment as well as seeking solutions to postmatric drop outs,” he said, adding that the hospital was also fostering relations with the community through the Zwelonke Women’s group in order to reach as many members of the community as possible with its programmes. As for the role men play in safeguarding women’s health, Bayeni said, “Whether we like it or not, girls do not fall pregnant on their own, neither do they infect themselves with HIV, which means that if men, starting from high school, could take responsibility to abstain from sexual activity or practice safe sex, we could reduce the rate of infections and pregnancies amongst our youth.” “The Somerset East Boys and Girls Brigade help to keep local youths occupied over weekends, thereby keeping vices that plague our communities at bay. “Currently our membership consists of 32 boys and 7 girls as well as seven officers,” he described, adding that plans were underway to launch another brigade for the Aeroville community, just outside of Somerset East. He said that the youth of Hankey, like in many poor communities across South Africa and the District, were sometimes falling prey to peer pressure, drugs and alcohol abuse as well as teenage pregnancies and crime because they do not have access to enough activities to occupy their time. ‘PERFORM OR PERISH’… Members of the Hankey Performing Arts Development (Hankey PAD) are (standing from left to right) Veronica Booysen, Hailey Hart, Carita Koeberg, Gabriel Plaatjies, Beaudine Kleinbooi and Francisca Claassen; (kneeling from left to right) Nelmari Fortuni, Anecia Fortuni and Clifton Plaatjies. Ifele italente eJansenville IJANSENVILLE eyidolophana ekummandla weKaroo kuMasipala waseIkwezi asiyo ndawo enokufaniswa nenokuba likhaya lomculo kodwa oko akubanga sisithintelo kubantu abatsha abahlanu balapha ukuba bangalandeli amaphupha abo. Ngomnyaka ka2008, u-Unathi “No. 1 Artist” Stokwe no-Avis akwaziwa njengo MAD Hlanjwa baseka iqela iFriendly Friends kwakunye neMasimanyane Music Productions. Namhlanje eli qela libandakanya uLuvuyo Stofile, Silumko Maya noMninawa Seyise. Ethetha ne Cacadu News ngomhla we 10 ku-Agasti, uStokwe (25) uthe isizathu sabo sokuseka eli qela luthando lwakhe lomculo. Ucula neli qela ekwangumqulunqi walo ngokunjalo namanye amaqela entambula asakhasayo. Uthe ukuqala kwabo phantsi kwakungelula. “Kwakunzima kodwa uthando lwenza izinto zenzeke.” Estudiyo uneKhompyutha, imicro kunye nezipika kodwa okubalulekileyo kukuba ziphumile ii-album ezimbini – eyokugqibela isemaphethelweni okudidiyelwa. I-Album yokuqala uSiyakubonga yamkelwa kakuhle yaye ngokwalo kaStokwe, isathandwa. Eyesibini ethi The Emphasis ididiyelwe kunyaka ophelileyo ibe iza kuphuma ngoMnyhadala omkhulu eJansenville ngomhla we 22 kaDisemba. Michael said that if funds permitted, he would like to see every community of the Blue Crane Route Local Municipality forming part of the Boys and Girls Brigade movement. Banking details for donations are as follows: Standard Bank Somerset East Account: Somerset East Girls and Boys Brigade Account Number: 186928092 ‘Perform or Perish’: Hankey PAD Ethetha nge-Album yakhe ezayo, uthe uhlobo lwayo yi-Afro Fuse, oko kukuthi ngumxube womculo weVangeli, i-Afro pop ne RnB. Nangona eli qela lime ngomculo wevangeli ubukhulu becala, eli cwecwe litsha lithwele zonke iindidi zomculo nto eyenza ukuba lamkeleke kubantu abaninzi. COMPANY HALT!… Members of the Somerset East Boys and Girls Brigade break for a photo at one of their rehearsals. The marching band is appealing to local residents and businesses for funds to aid it in procuring new instruments. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Ukuseka kwakhe inkampani yokudidiyela umculo kwabanga kukuba lo kaStokwe w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a ufuna ukunceda ezinye iimvumi ezisakhulayo. Okwabo kukudala amathuba eminyhadala yomculo, ukushicelela amacwecwe, okungaphezulu kwako konke, ukukhuthaza abantu abatsha. Icebiso lakhe kwabo banqwenela ukungena emculweni kukuba “thanda umculo, ufune iproducer engakwazi nje ukuqulunqa koko ecingayo ngokinjalo nezibhebhethela kude iziyobisi kuba ziyalibulala ilizwi.” Phakathi kwezinye iinkathazo ezijamelene nabantu abatsha hlanjenje, uStokwe akaboni abaqulenqi nje bodwa, kodwa nobusela bomculo ngokuzenzela kwa nezo mvumi sele ziphumelele ezithi zibe umculo wezo zisakhulayo kuba umculo zingeka wubhalisi kwi-South African Music Recording Association, ziwenze owazo. Nangoza engumntu weGospel umthetho wakhe, uStokwe sele esebenze neemvumi eziliqela yaye enako ukusebenza naye nabanina nakuluphina udidi lomculo. Kungokunje ubala iqela iSoul Brothers yaseGraaff- Reinet noThulani waseSteytlerville phakathi kwamaqela asebenze nawo njengomqulunqi. Ukwasebenzd noDuces Wild, Ozatainment, Boeties van die Hostel kunye noTBo Tash. UStokwe ucela uMasipala ukuba aqinise ukusekwa KweSebe lezeNkcubeko nobuGcisa kumasipala ukuze kukhawulelwane neengxaki zentswela-mali namaphiko kubantu base-Ikwezi. “Likho iqela lethutyana, kodwa ngange libe sisigxina ukuze lisebenze kakuhle likwazi nokunyusa ingxowa yokusincedisa,” utshilo. Ukuba kukho igcisa elinga lingancedwa ukuashicelela umculo kuba linetalente, maliqhagamshelane nalo kaStokwe kuFacebook: Phantsi kweli gama; Unathi Nelson, Email: nelson.unathi3@gmail.com kungenjalo mtsalele ku: 073 687 3859. “We are trying to make a difference in people’s lives by introducing them to the arts. Hankey PAD is there to show the youth that there is a future in doing whatever they are good at. After all, we cannot all be doctors or politicians. “So if someone has a good voice and can sing well, they should not fold their hands and do nothing with their lives because they have failed academically. Education is still important and we encourage young people to try and achieve academic excellence as well as further their studies, but if you have not succeeded in school, we say use your talents,” described Plaatjies. He said H-PAD has built a reputation in its community and is usually invited to perform plays, dances and music at various community events. They have also performed as far as Jeffrey’s Bay, where they were invited to entertain guests at a Youth Day commemoration event. “We try to include messages of hope and social change in these performances as we try to challenge our community, especially young people, to transform themselves,” explained Plaatjies, who graduated with a 3-year Diploma in Performing Arts from Stage World Theatre School in Port Elizabeth. The nine-member group, which is composed mainly of local high school learners does not have its own facility and usually rehearses at Hankey High School. “At the moment, we are not earning an income from our performances as we are not formally registered yet. So despite our financial situation, we are soldiering on because in the greater scheme of things, our aim is to make a difference in our community. It has been our greatest joy to see young people with low self-esteem come out of their shells and perform in public,” explained Plaatjies, adding that he hoped that the municipality as well as other sponsors can support them in future. Plaatjies challenged the youth of Cacadu to put in a little more effort, dedication and perseverance into whatever they do – either you perform whatever vocation you have chosen or you perish! Construction set to start soon on Ikwezi Youth Centre Construction is due to start soon on the new Ikwezi Youth Centre in Klipplaat and is likely to be completed by the end of next year, Ward 4 Councillor, Lundi Ntame, told Cacadu News. “The project is aimed at the youth in the Klipplaat area. We have a critical shortage of skills among young people and as such, the Ikwezi Local Municipality to build a centre to serve the youth,” inspired Cllr Ntame. He said that the objective of the Youth Centre is to create a space where the youth can be skilled and equipped in trades such as plumbing, bricklaying, painting and electrification as well as in the use of computers and the internet. “We are creating a place for our people to get skilled and accredited so that when they go in search of work they stand a better chance of employment or exploiting opportunities to create their own livelihoods – so we are uplifting them!” he said. The centre will also offer services such as typing, photocopying and email, amongst others, to all local residents. The project site is currently a derelict structure near Klipplaat’s railway, which will be demolished and a new modern building built in its place. “After meeting with all stakeholders, we are anticipating that the contractor should be on site and building before the end of the year,” described Ntame. “As the municipality, it is our intention to discourage the youth from dropping out of school, using drugs and banned substances, falling pregnant and becoming involved in crime … we would like to assist young people lacking business or work skills… which is why we are excited about the Youth Centre,” explained Ntame. The building of the Youth Centre is being funded by Pretoria Portland Cement Company (PPC), while the Ikwezi Local Municipality has undertaken to build a bakery next to the centre for young people who want to be involved in the confectionary industry, described the Councillor. According to Ward 4 Committee, Deputy Chairperson, Theo Ketshem, the Ikwezi Youth Centre is the result of the vision of the Mayor, Sizwe Mngwevu, to try and address challenges faced by the youth in the Ikwezi area. “We appreciate his leadership and efforts in ensuring that our young people obtain skills and opportunities through the various Local Economic Development programmes of the municipality,” he told Cacadu News. Page17 Klipplaat Hydro Village Project benefits residents Contributed by: Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) In an effort to turn around and improve their lives, a group of 30 Klipplaat residents in the Ikwezi Local Municipality, launched the Klipplaat Hydroponics Village in 2008, through the Klipplaat Development Forum (KDF). While the Karoo region has a thriving mohair goat farming sector, game farms and agri-tourism, Klipplaat has limited economic and job opportunities, a harsh climate and endemic power and water shortages. supplying tomatoes to all Spar shops in Graaff-Reinet, Somerset East, Kirkwood and Uitenhage, the Port Elizabeth Market, Somerset East’s Fresh Produce Market, Mark vir die Huisvrou in GraaffReinet, and the local shops in the Ikwezi and Baviaans local municipalities. The project has served as a vehicle for job creation, addressing poverty and unemployment in Klipplaat. Members of the cooperative have also undergone training in agricultural production, marketing and sales, production and Undaunted, members of the KDF maintenance, conflict management, came up with different initiatives negotiation and environmental before approaching the National Youth conservation. Development Agency (NYDA) for funding for a Klipplaat Hydroponics While the Department of Agriculture Village (KHV) to grow tomatoes using gave the group a grant for three tunnels, hydroponic tunnels. fencing and two 12-metre long storage containers, the Ikwezi Local Municipality Hydroponics is a process of growing provided the project with 16-hectares plants, especially vegetables, in a soilless farmland, which is located on the R337 medium until they are ready to be sold. between Klipplaat and Jansenville. The local municipality also donated three This project has changed the economic tunnels through its Local Economic status of the Klipplaat community, said Development (LED) effort. the Programme Manager of Sustainable Rural Development in the Eastern Cape The NYDA provided the cooperative (SURUDEC), Nik Hugow, noting that with three tunnels, a cold room, and a the Klipplaat Hydroponics village is 2-ton bakkie, while SURUDEC, which an example of a community-driven is European Union (EU) funded, added in partnership with a nearby commercial eight more tunnels, an ablution block, a venture such as African Bio-resources. packing shed and a container office. Through hard work, production volumes at the Klipplaat Hydro Village have reached about 128 tons of tomatoes per season (80% of the produce is first grade) from its sixteen tunnels. The cooperative is also considering growing other products such as peppers. To ensure the success of the project, the Cacadu District Municipality supported the cooperative through funding a mentorship programme, presented by African Bio-resources. The Klipplaat Hydroponics Village is a great symbol of hope in an economically Currently, the Klipplaat Hydro Village is impoverished region of South Africa. BUMPER HARVEST… Members of the Klipplaat Hydroponics Village project packing tomatoes for delivery. Ibhanka enguvimba ikhupha amarherheba anoMandela kungentsuku zatywala IN HONOUR OF AN ICON… The colours of the new denominations remain the same as the current banknotes. IRHULUNELI yeBhanka YoMzantsi Afrika enguVimba UNkosk.Gill Marcus wazise ngemali engamaphepha ezakuba nobuso bowayesakuba NguMongameli weli Nelson Mandela ukumhlonipha. Zinomxholo othi: “Akekho onjengaye” ezi mali kulindeleke ukuba ziqale ukusebenza ekuzeni kuphela konyaka ka2012; zinobuso bukaMadiba ngaphambili kwakunye nezilo ezaziwa njenge”Big Five” ezikho ngoku kwimali ezingamaphepha. “Sinovuyo ukukhupha ezi mali zingamaphepha zintsha ezibonakalisa ukuzingca koMzantsi Afrika njengeSizwe nokuhlonipha intandane yeHlabathi,” okaMarcus uxelele iintatheli ePitoli. Nangona la marherheba esalingana nala akhoyo – ukukhusela abangaboniyo kuza kubakho ukhuseleko olungqingqwa olubandakanya iiwatermarks, microprinting kwakunye namanani awodwa. “Oku kukukhusela kwiimali zomgunyathi ezithoba amandla emali yokwenene, zisiba iibhiliyoni With a high number of unemployed graduates in South Africa, finding a job, even with a good degree in hand can be challenging and frustrating. Still, graduates can take up opportunities like volunteering, internships and experiential training to better their chances of finding employment, urged Nolusindiso Tyilo. The 27-year old is doing her internship in the Community Services Department of the Ikwezi Local Municipality. “There is a common misconception amongst students – they believe that a degree guarantees that they will get a job with a good salary as soon as they walk out of the university doors. She told Cacadu News how disappointed she was when she left university after graduation and was unable to find employment. Page 18 Ukwathe oku kuthathwa njengendlela elungileyo yokusebenza kumazwe ehlabathi ukuba ibhanka yangaPhakathi iphucule ukhuseleko lwemali yawo engamaphepha rhoqo emva kweminyaka emithandathu nesibhozo. Amaphepha kaMandela aza kuba nombhalo ongqindilili ukulungiselela abangaboni ngokuphelelyo. OkaMarcus ucacisile ukuba la maphepha madala asaza kuba semthethweni kanye oku kwala matsha. “Ngoko ke nokuba unamaphepha eR200 okanye iR200 enoMandela, ayalingana,”utshilo. Kuza kwaziswa kungekudala ukuba ezi mali zinoMadiba ziza kuqala nini na ukusebenza. Unemployed graduates urged to consider internships “Thus, most graduates would never consider volunteering or doing an internship as it is seen as a waste of time. Most graduates want to earn a big salary immediately and sometimes choose to wait until they find that job,” described Tyilo, who graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Social Sciences from the University of Fort Hare in Alice in 2008. GRADUATES TAKE ADVANTAGE OF INTERNSHIPS AND LEARNERSHIPS… Nolusindiso Tyilo, intern at the Community Services department of the Ikwezi Local Municipality, seen here with Agnes Lizwane, Special Programmes Unit Officer in the Ikwezi Local Municipality, says internships and learnerships are a great way for graduates to gain critical workplace experience. zamarandi emali zamazwe ehlabathi zikwathoba umgangatho weyona mali, ngokwenza njalo ziphazamisa uhlumo kwezoqoqosho…Senze kangangoko ukuqinisekisa ukuba azinakukotshwa, “ ucacisile okaMarcus. “The months that followed after I left the campus were terrible. My dream of an immediate and well-paying job slowly started turning into a nightmare as the months went by. “Early in 2009, I started volunteering with the Department of Social Development in the Fort Beaufort area,” said Tyilo. She added that volunteering gave her valuable workplace experience. “But, since I was not being paid, I could no longer afford the transport costs and stopped volunteering in December of that year - I still had not managed to get a job,” she remembers, adding that she was even considering going back to university out of frustration. Tyilo then described trying various ways to create an income - even sold chips and sweets to children, while waiting for a job. “It was a frustrating experience and I was getting desperate. I had a degree, but no work experience,” she said. That led to her taking up an internship with the Ikwezi Local Municipality in 2011, when the opportunity availed itself. “I have learnt a lot in the Ikwezi Local Municipality and am now confident that I can fulfil my duties in any organisation - I now have some experience to offer on top of the academic qualification,” Tyilo said. She challenged other graduates, “You may think that because you have a degree, you should not be living on an internship stipend, but without work experience it will take time and plenty of patience to get where you want to be.” w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Karoo fracking to proceed after government lifts moratorium On 7 September, cabinet announced the lifting of an 18-month moratorium that was imposed on the exploration of shale gas in the semi-arid Karoo in April 2011. ‘Hydraulic fracturing’ or ‘fracking’ has received mixed debate among stakeholders, including residents and farmers of the Karoo region – part of which falls within local municipalities situated in the north of the Cacadu District, which is said to have some of the world’s biggest energy reserves. Fracking involves pressurised water, chemicals and sand being pumped underground to release gas trapped in rock formations, hence it has been opposed by landowners and environmentalists who say that the process can pollute water supplies as well as ruin the Karoo environment, its eco-systems and its agricultural sector. However, fracking has been increasingly taken up in the United States, releasing huge quantities of natural gas and setting an example that other countries with shale gas reserves, including South Africa, are eager to follow. An initial study commissioned by the US Energy Information Administration, said South Africa has around 485 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of technically recoverable shale gas, most of which is located in the Karoo. The reserves, which rank as the fifth largest among 32 countries in the study, could be a long-term solution for the country’s energy problems, which relies on coal to produce 85% of its electricity. According to a study, commissioned by Shell and carried out by research firm Econometrix, developing just a tenth of South Africa’s estimated resources could also boost the economy by R200 billion ($24.2 billion) a year and could create around 700,000 jobs. Speaking at a post-Cabinet Lekgotla briefing on 7 September 2012, Minister in the Presidency, Collins Chabane, said the report on fracking, submitted by Mineral Resources Minister, Susan Shabangu, was accepted by the government’s highest decision-making body. “The Cabinet endorsed the report's recommendations about lifting the aforementioned moratorium. The Cabinet further Makana Tourism celebrates Tourism Month with its popular Amazing Chase Roughly schooled on the television show The Amazing Race, Grahamstown’s own Amazing Chase attracted twelve teams comprising 33 people eager to decipher clues in and around the town. Restaurant and Tapas Bar, and Jenny Gopal Optometrists. And not forgetting Videotronic who allowed Makana Tourism the use of its PA system for the morning. “Contestants have to figure out clues about Grahamstown, its landmarks and history. It’s a fun morning’s outing for the whole family and contestants are encouraged to walk or run the route rather than to drive or cycle it,” said Sue Waugh, Makana Tourism’s Director. Makana Local Municipality Councillor, Brian Jackson, who opened the Chase and later presided over the prize-giving ceremony, said that Grahamstown should be immensely proud of the efforts of its local business community and thanked the teams for their sterling efforts in the 2012 Amazing Chase. This year, the route, comprising 18 clues, led teams to discover the grave of a soldier who fought at the Battle of Waterloo; 3 carved mice in the Cathedral and the oldest bank in South Africa. Tasks along the way included playing bowls, completing jigsaw puzzles and counting the bicycles in a popular local sculpture. The three teams that completed the Chase were ‘Road Runner’ (1st in the car category), ‘Shiloh and the Bodyguards’ and ‘Twin Stars’ (1st and 2nd respectively in the walk/run category) who all won cash prizes for their tremendous efforts. A number of special prizes won by teams and individuals on the day, were very generously donated by Omni Technologies, Mustek, Revelations Coffee Shop, The Spur, Wimpy, Grahamstown Electrical Distributors, Hill Street Manor, The Mustard Seed, Cadar Printers, Brochure Management, Historic Cottages, The Graham Hotel, Connocks Butchery, Albany Sports, PG Glass, Pick ‘n Pay, Casa de Loco w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a He also thanked the members of Fingo Festival who had set up their sound system for an ‘open mic’ session on Church Square, for local musicians. The music contributed to the general fun and excitement of the day. Waugh also expressed appreciation to Victoria Girls High School learners and members of Makana Tourism who ably assisted the various teams as marshals; Makana Tourism committee members who helped to obtain the prize sponsors; The Farmer’s Market, Bargain Books and the Grahamstown Bowling Club for organising and managing three of the tasks in the Chase. mandated the Minister of Mineral Resources to hold a series of public consultations with interested and affected stakeholders to provide further details,” Chabane said. Minister Shabangu imposed the moratorium on fracking in the Karoo region more than 18 months ago and set up a task team to investigate its feasibility, as well as its impact on the environment and job creation. While local petrochemicals group, Sasol, put its shale gas exploration plans on hold in November last year, international oil companies Shell SA, Bundu Gas & Oil and Falcon Gas & Oil have requested exploration licences to search for shale gas in more than 250,000km² of the Karoo. Shell SA, which was to submit its application to explore a 90,000km² part of the Karoo at the time of going to print, welcomed the government’s decision to lift the moratorium. Among its proposed key drilling sites could be the areas around Murraysburg, Beaufort West and GraaffReinet (Camdeboo Local Municipality). The company said it could spend as much as $200 million (about R1.4 billion) in the exploration phase, depending on how long it lasted and how many wells were sunk. However, it could take up to two years before the first of its six exploration wells can be drilled as an environmental impact study would have to be completed first and local communities consulted. Chabane said shale gas may be an important factor in securing South Africa’s energy resources – a consideration that played a large role in Cabinet’s decision to lift the moratorium. Exploration rights are likely to be issued by the end of 2013 and drilling is expected to start by 2015. If the holes drilled are able to produce acceptable amounts of gas, between 30-500 tcf, production may begin in 2022 and will likely continue for the next 20-30 years. Presently, there are no applications for shale gas exploration in the Baviaans Local Municipal area, although an Indian consortium recently obtained prospection rights for oil in the area. Absa Wildsfees and Sundays River Municipality join hands for Mandela Day Former President Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday was celebrated in style in the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality this year. The day benefited school-going children, thanks to the Absa Kirkwood Wildsfees, which is held annually in the municipality. “This year, we invited Gauteng-based motivational speaker, Lesedi Mamabolo, to talk to the Grade 11 and 12 learners from two high schools in Kirkwood and Addo, but unfortunately he missed his flight to Port Elizabeth,” said Absa Kirkwood Wildsfees Director, Jenni Honsbein. During his intended visit, Mamabolo was supposed to launch an anti-litter campaign in the valley – a project which is being sponsored by the Absa Kirkwood Wildsfees as part of its outreach programme to break the cycle of poverty. “Litter is just one of the symptoms of poverty and a community that has lost pride in itself and its surroundings. We would like to encourage young people to take control of their environment – and their futures – through motivational talks and an on-going anti-litter campaigns in partnership with the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality,” explained Honsbein. Local youths are also encouraged to ‘rise and empower themselves through education.’ “We often play the blame-game, blaming the family, the lover, the friends and the environment for always making us feel inadequate, but the truth lies in the fact that you are in control of what you take in and what you take out of life,” wrote Mamabolo in a statement that was read to the youth. He said the cycle of poverty in areas like the Sundays River Valley will only be broken when people take control of their lives. “We believe that it has to start with educating the youth and giving them hope for the future,” said Honsbein, adding that the anti-litter campaign and anti-waste campaign will be run throughout the rest of the year, and will be partly funded through proceeds from the 2012 edition of the Absa Kirkwood Wildsfees. The Sundays River Valley Local Municipality is also involved in the campaign to ensure a clean and hygienic environment for residents and livestock. This will in the long run also make the Valley more attractive to tourists. Plans for next year’s Amazing Chase are already underway. “Based on the feedback received from this year’s Chase, the route will be slightly shorter with more physical activities and will be restricted to walking and running only. I am looking forward to an even bigger Chase in 2013,” said Waugh. ‘Team Extreme’ … Sitting in front (from left to right) Murray Stretton (8), Erin Powers (8), Cate Stretton (8), Catherine Williamson (7) and Justin Powers (standing at the back – left to right) with Susan Waugh (Director Makana Tourism) and Cllr Brian Jackson. Page19 Planning to enrol at a University, University of Technology or a Further Education and Training College (FET) in 2013? Get more information on how you can apply for the NYDA’s Bursary Programme at www.cacadu.co.za or visit www.nyda.gov.za or any NYDA office in your area. Hurry!!! Closing date for applications: 2 November 2012 SEE FULL ADVERT ON PAGE 3 Role Model: Nonjongo Vatyana Equipping the next generation of leaders In this edition, Cacadu News looks at a teacher, Nonjongo Vatyana who is an inspiration and our role model. WHEN she first came to teach at Samkelwe Senior Secondary School in Addo in the Sundays River Valley Municipality; all she wanted to do was to make a difference in the lives of the future leaders in the classroom, and the way things are at the moment, it seems Nonjongo Vatyana is succeeding. Taking a cue from her first name, Nonjongo, which means ‘one with a goal’, this English and Life Sciences teacher believes the school should be a centre of excellence and should inspire children to want to do something to better their lives and those of their communities. EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION… Nonjongo Vatyana (far right) poses for a photo with some of the learners at Samkelwe Senior Secondary School in Addo in the Sundays River Valley Municipality. “I believe in the power of education to transform lives for the better,” said Vatyana. When she came to the school about five years ago she found the learners demotivated and without the drive to achieve greatness. But through YOUTH Have an opinion? Send us an email: cacadunews@cacadu.co.za Cacadu News asked the youth of the Cacadu District what they would do to improve the lives of residents in their community if they were Mayor of their town for one day. Here is what some of them had to say: her continued persistence and love for her job, many of them now see the light. Learners from the school attend classes during the weekend and in the afternoon to ensure that they pass their grades. Those who lacked motivation to go beyond grade 12 are now inspired to study further. They are enrolling at universities all over the country; and this is thanks to the efforts of their tireless teacher. She is also encouraging learners, especially Grade 12's to become computer literate and obtain their Driver's license. Vatyana holds a B.Ed. Honours Degree from the then Port Elizabeth University, currently known as Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University; a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from the University of Transkei which is now known as Walter Sisulu University of Technology; and a Secondary Teachers Diploma from Lumko College of Education. Vatyana has also enrolled to study Labour Law at NMMU. Francina Berens, is currently unemployed and lives in Jansenville. She stated that if she were mayor for a day, she would give the local residents the authority to voice their problems about any issue that might occur. She would set the problems straight hence improving the municipality for all. Lusito Louw (21) is currently unemployed and lives in the Ndlambe Local Municipality’s Alexandria. “In the new areas, there are only two street lights and it gets very dark in these areas. The roads are in a bad condition all over. There are also people living in temporary shacks for too long and there is also no electricity and also no access to clean water in these shacks. I would improve the streets and start more youth programs, to keep the youth from doing bad things,” he told Cacadu News. Maritza Slabbert, 15, is a learner and resides in Jansenville. Her ideal if she was mayor for a day would be to help those less fortunate than her by giving them water, food and a roof over their heads. She would also help the less fortunate children by teaching them about God and hand out Bibles to them. Nathaniel King (27), unemployed, also lives in Alexandria. He said, “First there is no service delivery; there is rubbish lying everywhere and this does not seem to worry the municipality; they come to clean it up when it best suits them. I would try and improve on this and also to create more job opportunities as it is a big problem in this area”. Richard Maxham, 31, resides in Jansenville and sells oranges and other fruits and vegetables in Jansenville. He pointed out that he would address the town’s water problem but that he would also repair and fix the roads leading to and from the townships as they are in a very bad condition. Christiaan Wentzel (19) is unemployed and lives near Alexandria. He told Cacadu News, “I would improve our roads and children tend to get knocked over as there are no stop signs in our neighbourhood. I would also do something to help the police fight crime like establishing a night watch programme to protect small children from being raped and abused”. Leolyn Maarman is 17 years old and is currently unemployed. The biggest problem according to him is gang related troubles in the area. He would like to help the youth who have ties to these gangs by establishing a youth camp where the Word and teachings of God can be learned. He would also like to help those who don’t have houses by giving them a roof over their heads. Daniël Botha (11) is a scholar in Alexandria. “If I was mayor for one day, I would clean the roads and make the white stop sign lines on the roads brighter so that motorist would stop when children are crossing the road and help the children that get raped.” Jean Vosloo is 18 years old and unemployed. Like Maarman, he also pointed out that gang-related violence is a problem in the area and that he would like to help these people by sending them to the above mentioned youth camp to rehabilitate them. He also pointed out that the water quality in the area is not of the best standards and that he would address this issue if he was to be mayor for a day. Megan Coeries (12) is also a scholar in Alexandria. She said, “I would give the people houses and clean the area for them and pay off their debt. I would give the children living on the streets a better life by sending them to a place where they can be adopted and also sponsor those who are experiencing money problems.” Elgin Jantjies, 19, would make it his mission to repair the roads of the area which are in a bad condition. He also pointed out that the local play park is in a bad state and that he would repair this park to make this accessible for the children in the area to play in. He would also like to eliminate the gangster problems in the area and pointed out that the town historic War monument building has been falling apart and that he would like to restore it as the monument is in the middle of town where everybody can see it deteriorating. Kuhle Gongqoba (12) another Alexandria scholar told Cacadu News, “I would help the children on the street by giving them money and the opportunity to go to school and also give them proper clothes. I would take these children to the clinic when they are sick and provide food for families and improve the living area.” Have something to say? Send us an email: cacadunews@cacadu.co.za CAREER Help to build a better quality of life for communities as a Civil Engineer If you have travelled on a road, visited a stadium or opened a tap, then you have been in contact with some of the work performed by a Civil Engineer. Most of the important things that make our communities a better place to live and work in have been creatively planned, designed and built by Civil Engineers. This includes infrastructure such as bridges, stadiums, office blocks, convention centres, dams, major pipelines and transportation systems (roads, railways, airports and harbours). Civil Engineers also use their technical skills to manage construction processes to ensure that the job is being built in line with the design and that the project is completed within budget and on time. If you are a creative, yet logical thinker, mathematically inclined, a good decision maker, able to solve problems systematically and take responsibility for assignments and like to take on challenges, while developing South Africa’s communities, then this is a career worth pursuing. You will need to have matriculated with subjects like Mathematics, Physical Science and English in order to enrol at an Institute of Technology for a National Diploma in Civil Engineering. After completing your Diploma, you can enrol for a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) Degree in Civil Engineering at a university. You can also choose to Page 20 study towards a BTech Civil Engineering Technologist. Practical experience is necessary before graduate engineers can get recognised by the Engineering Council of South Africa. Aspirant Civil Engineers can contact the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in Port Elizabeth, UNISA, the University of Cape Town or the University of Pretoria for more information. Civil Engineers can choose from various specialisations, including Structural Engineering (bridges, roads, towers); Transportation (roads, traffic control, airports); Water (dams, pipelines, sewage systems, water purification); Geotechnical (foundations, excavations, landfills); Construction Management; Urban Engineering (municipal services, town development and maintenance); Railway and Harbour (railway networks, harbour facilities); Environmental Engineering (impact studies, social and natural environments) as well as Informatics (data capturing, computers for enhancing civil engineering activities). Bursaries in Civil Engineering are also available for deserving students through various government departments or companies like BHP Billiton, Acellor Mittal/Iscor, BKS Incorporated, the Department of Science & Technology, the Department of Water Affairs & Forestry, Exxaro, Murray & Roberts, the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation and Investec Bursary Scheme, amongst others. Qualified Civil Engineers can choose to work in the public sector for National or Provincial government departments. Local municipalities also require the technical skills of Civil Engineers in order to successfully deliver services to residents. Chantelle Swemmer is 20 years old and works on a chicken farm in Jansenville. If she was mayor, she would send “her” representatives from the municipality into the town who then report back and list the problems that needs to be rectified. She would then react by resolving these problems and improving the life for all. There are also many opportunities available in the private sector, where Civil Engineers can work for themselves as consultants or contractors on various projects. Institutions of higher education, like technical colleges and universities also employ Civil Engineers as academics and researchers. Antonia Jacobs (12) a scholar in Alexandria said, “I would help the children living on the streets by providing better health care and I would make sure that they attend school and get there with no problems. I would also make sure that they get proper jobs and to always keep the environment clean.” CIVIL ENGINEERING IN ACTION… The magnificent Van Stadens Bridge is a good example of the work of Civil Engineers. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a Page 21 SPORT Fun in the Sun! COLOUR ME IN! KIDS THE OARSOME GOLDEN BOYS… James Thompson (second from left), an alumni of St Andrew’s College in Grahamstown, Makana Local Municipallity, poses with fellow Lightweight Men’s Four rowing teammates - Matthew Brittain, John Smith and Sizwe Ndlovu, after securing the country’s third gold medal at the 2012 London Olympic Games – South Africa’s first ever in rowing, at Eton Dorney on 2 August 2012 in Windsor, England. James studied at St Andrew’s Prep School in 1999 and 2000 before moving on to St Andrew’s College where he began rowing and Matriculated in 2005. FIND THE WORDS w i n t b s w i m HELP ME FIND MY FRIEND THE DONKEY a i r e e l a c e r u n p a n f e s m j e l c u f c u m e a a h g j r m m r p y w n u e m u m b r e l l a e r e o j w o y m r s u n s c r e e n James’ paternal grandparents, James and Elizabeth Thompson, who retired to Port Alfred, in the Ndlambe Local Municipality, are known to have built one of the earliest boathouses on the Kowie River, which has now been donated to the St Andrew’s Rowing Club. Young James spent many of his school holidays rowing on the Kowie. Picture courtesy of SUPERSPORT Van plaaslike sports geleenthede na die 2012 Olimpiese Spele beach ice-cream play summer sun sunscreen swim umbrella warm Sulette Damons se potensiaal as 'n hokkie speler was reeds meer as 'n dekade gelede raakgesien deur haar skool afrigters by die Union Hoërskool in Graaff-Reinet, Camdeboo Plaaslike Munisipaliteit. en was ook ‘n eerste span tennis speler. Haar leierseienskappe is ook erken op 'n vroeë ouderdom, toe sy verkies is as kaptein van beide die skool en die Provinsiale hokkiespanne. Sy was ook 'n skool prefek in haar matriekjaar. Damons is tans 'n lid van die Proteavrouespan wat Suid-Afrika by die Olimpiese Spele in Londen verteenwoordig het en haar verhaal is inspirerend om die minste te sê. "Sulette het 'n merkwaardige karakter. Sy is vasberade om te slaag en tog is sy beskeie en vriendelik op alle gebiede," het ‘n voormalige afrigter gesê. Sy is die jongste van 3 dogters wat groot geword het in haar ouerhuis, 'n huis met slegs 2 vertrekke in die Umasizakhe lokasie. Sulette het vir die eerste keer die Oostelike Provinsie verteenwoordig op die hokkieveld as 'n onder-13 speler, in Graad 6. Sy het uitgeblink in die provinsiale spanne regdeur haar skoolloopbaan en is gekies om die SuidAfrikaanse Skole-span te verteenwoordig in haar Graad 11 en 12 jaar, en was die kaptein van die span in 2007. "Damons het hier haar vaardighede geleer – deur met haar hond te gaan stap en sokker te speel met die seuntjies in die dorp," het haar ma Frances Buffels gesê. Later was sy as 'n huiswerker in diens geneem deur 'n Graaff-Reinet familie wat aangebied het om Damons se opvoeding by Union Hoërskool te borg. Dit was met hierdie geleentheid dat Damons haar potensiaal kon vervul as 'n hokkie speler. Sy het uitstekende onderrig ontvang in haar vormingsjare van toegewyde afrigters by die skool. Damons vaar egter nie net goed in hokkie nie maar het ook die Oostelike Provinsie verteenwoordig in atletiek toe sy jonger was The Cacadu District Municipality’s Environmental Health office recently held a Waste Minimisation Project in the Ikwezi Local Municipality, where learners from local schools were encouraged to demonstrate their understanding of how to recycle common waste. “Municipal Health Services is a core function of the Cacadu District Municipality, which has an obligation towards ensuring and maintaining a safe and hazard free environment throughout the District – waste management is part of that obligation,” said Aretha Plata, Environmental Health Practitioner at the Cacadu District Municipality. She said during an environmental health survey, it was revealed that the waste management plan for the Ikwezi Local Municipal area was not being implemented and as a result, the area was increasingly being polluted with domestic waste material. “Clean-up campaigns are normally Page 22 conducted throughout the area, in conjunction with the schools, but this time, a strategy to create awareness through education was adopted for this specific project,” explained Plata. The learners were requested to make posters illustrating the principles of waste minimisation with the theme of reduce, recycle and re-use. “Creativity and neatness were among the factors that were taken into consideration, while the overall objective was to evaluate the level of understanding of learners about waste minimisation,” described Plata, adding that the project also allowed learners to obtain environmental information through their research. Three schools in Ikwezi, namely Gcinubuzwe Combined, Brandovale Primary and Wolwefontein Primary, took part in this competition. By encouraging residents to take better care of the environment, Plata said they hoped that, in the long run, the project will contribute to increased tourists visiting the area. Sy het 'n BA in Sportwetenskap ontvang in Maart van hierdie jaar en is tans besig om onderwys te studeer. "Die ondersteuning van Union Hoërskool, LODRIC K JANSEN The winners, who walked away with a branded school bag, pencil case and water bottle, were as follows: 1 3 2 4 Brandovale Primary School: 1st Prize (Fernando Paulse) 2nd Prize (Lodrick Jansen) 3rd Prize (Debronisha Makwena) Wolwefontein Primary School: 1st Prize (Micel Ambraal) 2nd Prize (Lesley-Ann Ruiters) 3rd Prize (Wayne Scheepers) Gcinubuzwe Combined School: 1st Prize (Zikhona Stok) 2nd Prize (Sabelo Maarman) 3rd Prize (Jomo Erasmus) KWENA MA RECYCLED MASTERPIECES… RONISHA B DE The Cacadu District Municipality’s Environmental Health office recently ran a completion where it requested Ikwezi Local Municipality learners to make posters illustrating the principles of waste minimisation with the theme of ‘reduce, recycle and re-use’. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a 1. VICTORY OF THE KUDUS… Cacadu District Municipality Portfolio Councillor, Notizi Vanda, Ikwezi Local Municipality Councillor, Asanda Mboneni, and Ikwezi Local Municipality Special Programmes Unit Officer, Agnes Lizwane, stand with the Baby Kudus who won the netball tournament. 2. VICTORS… Cacadu District Municipality Speaker, Cllr Deon De Vos hands over the winner’s trophy to the captain of the Kudus Rugby team after their 18-7 win over the Brumbies in the rugby tournament. 3. SILVER MEDALISTS… The Brumbies Rugby team pose for a photo after coming second in the rugby tournament. 4. NEW SILVERWARE … Cacadu District Municipality Speaker, Cllr Deon De Vos, and Portfolio Councillor, Notizi Vanda, Ikwezi Local Municipality Councillor, Asanda Mboneni, and Ikwezi Local Municipality Special Programmes Unit Officer, Agnes Lizwane, join the Kudus Rugby team after their win in the rugby tournament. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a die Ou Unionites Vereniging en lede van die Graaff-Reinet-gemeenskap het gehelp om Sulette se sukses as 'n hokkie speler moontlik te maak," sê haar ma. "Sonder Union Hoërskool, sou Sulette nooit so ver gekom het nie. Ek is baie dankbaar en trots." Union Hoërskool en die Ou Unionites Vereniging het dit ook moontlik gemaak vir Damons se ma om te reis na die 2012 Olimpiese Spele in Londen om haar te ondersteun. "Ek is baie opgewonde en dankbaar vir hierdie wonderlike geleentheid," het sy gesê. Tydens haar opvoeding by die Potchefstroomse Universiteit, het sy beide die Universiteit en die Noordwes Provinsie hokkiespanne verteenwoordig. Sulette is gekies vir die Suid-Afrikaanse onder 21span in 2008 en het haar debuut vir die Senior Vroue Protea-span in 2010 gemaak. June 16th Commemorated in Ikwezi WARREN MANISA Cacadu encourages ‘greening’ with Ikwezi kids competition Only two South African teams qualified to compete at this year’s Olympic Games: the South African Men’s Lightweight Four and the Ladies Pairs. DESTINED FOR BIGGER THINGS… Sulette Damons (in green and white) tussles for the ball. By following her passion for sport, especially hockey, she has managed to transform her life from being an ordinary township girl into one of South Africa’s high profile sportswomen. On the 23rd of June, the Ikwezi Local Municipality, through the Department of Community Services and the Special Programmes Unit (SPU), with support from the Cacadu District Municipality, organised various activities to celebrate the contribution of the youth to the struggle for a better society. the youth closer to the activities of the municipality,” said Lizwane. The tournament was attended by Ikwezi Local Municipality Councillor, Asanda Mboneni, as well as Cacadu District Municipality Speaker, Cllr Deon de Vos, who is also championing the district’s Moral Regeneration Movement, and Portfolio “Leading up to the main event, we held a Councillor, Notizi Vanda, who thanked ‘Youth in Business’ summit in Jansenville members of the public and the various teams in partnership with the Eastern Cape for attending the event. Development Corporation (ECDC). Cllr Vanda also encouraged young people We also organised a march to commemorate to take advantage of opportunities like the events of 16 June 1976 with various local these. Cllr Vanda added that her generation stakeholders, including the Department of had very limited opportunities during the Social Development, amongst others, and apartheid era. handed out pamphlets inviting residents to a sporting tournament,” described Agnes “At the end of the day, we were very excited at Lizwane, SPU Officer in the Ikwezi Local the success of the tournament,” said Lizwane. Municipality. The local Baby Kudus emerged as the The 16th of June was declared National winning team after beating the Baby Youth Day in memory of the protesting Brumbies 12-8 in the netball category, while youths, including Hector Peterson, who the Brumbies under-16 rugby team trumped were shot dead by the apartheid police in the Kudus 16-6. However, the senior Soweto in 1976. Today, the whole month of Brumbies lost 18-7 to the senior Kudus. June is Youth Development Month. “Cacadu District Municipality sponsored “On the 23rd of June, young people the tournament with trophies for the winning participated in a soccer, netball and rugby teams as well as gold and silver medals for tournament themed ‘Youth in Sport’. Our each member of the winning teams,” said objective with this event was to bring Lizwane. Page 23 SPORT Sundays River Valley Record number of locals take part in the boxing on the rise There are seven boxers from the Cacadu District Municipality representing the Eastern Cape in the South African Amateur Boxing Organisation (SANABO) Championships, scheduled to take place in the Free State in the middle of October. Three of these boxers hail from the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality, said the Sports and Recreation Officer at the local municipality, Simphiwe Nana, recently. “Ironically, these boxers, namely Gladman Baartman, Michael Daries and Sivuyile Gxekwa all come from my gymnasium,” said Nana, who heads the Fighting Stars Boxing Club in Kirkwood’s Moses Mabhida Township. He said his club is usually challenged by the Mzamo Boxing Club as well as the boxers from the prison in Kirkwood. Nana explained that they are now ready to face boxers from outside of their shores as part of their development plans. Nana revealed that part of the plan to develop the sport is the arrangement of a boxing tournament to be held at Mzamomhle Community Hall in Moses Mabhida Township on the 20th of October. He said this tournament is an initiative of the Department of Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture and will involve boxing clubs from Nelson Mandela Bay and the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipalities as well as the Makana and the Ndlambe Local Municipalities. Nana urged followers of the sport to support their boxers in action. Cacadu District boxing represented in an international tournament against Germany Eastern Cape Boxing Amateur Organisation (ECABO) welcomed a boxing team from Lower Saxony, in Germany, in a boxing match held at Raymond Mhlaba Sports Complex, Motherwell, in Port Elizabeth in September. This international boxing tournament was the result of a Twinning Agreement between the Provincial Eastern Cape Government with the State of Lower Saxony. In this agreement, the two governments would share best practices and experiences in the area of youth development, the improvement of coaches, athlete development as well as sport administration, said Provincial MEC for Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture, Xoliswa Tom. The visitors, according to the MEC, were here to sharpen the skills of the Eastern Cape boxers in preparations for the Olympics in Rio 2016. While this province managed to send two boxers to represent South Africa in the London Olympics in 2012, the plan was to increase that number to at least to four. The German team met ECABO boxers in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, the OR Tambo and the King Sabata Dalindyembo Municipalities on the 19th, 22nd and the 24th of September respectively. There were 12 bouts, with nine males and three females taking part in the tournament. Page 24 One of the bouts involved a boxer from the Cacadu District, Zikhona Skeyi, from the Makana Local Municipality. The bout between this lass from Grahamstown and her opponent, Elena Walendzik, was voted as the best of the tournament in the female category. 2012 Baba Baviaans The 2012 edition of the Baba Baviaans cycling race saw a record number of locals saddling-up for the 20 km race and the ultimate prize of being able to participate in the ASG Trans Baviaans 24hr Mountain Bike Marathon. He added; “Apart from this, the participants who get into the main Trans Baviaans race are provided with other essential gear such as cycling clothes and helmets, among other things, to be able to compete in the event.” As a local community cycling development initiative, the Baba Baviaans, which took place on the 30th of June in Saaimanshoek, has since 2004 been held before the main race and only residents of Willowmore and the Baviaanskloof can take part in it, said Wikus Van de Walt, Race Director at Ecobound Events – the organisers of the ASG Trans Baviaans and sponsors of the Baba Baviaans. Eco-bound is also working to develop cycling among local Baviaans children. “This year, we had three teams that gained automatic entrance into the Trans Baviaans, after winning the Baba Baviaans. These were team Spider (Thomas Willemse, Karel van der Ros and Rozario George); Team Kloof Manne (Willem Maganie, Eliot Prins, Ricardo George and Hans Jumat); and Team Wazza Boys,” said Van de Walt, adding that about 47 aspirant mountain bikers (42 men and 5 women) had entered the race. He said that two of the three teams went on to finish in good positions. Out of the 367 teams that cycled the 2012 ASG Trans Baviaans – from Willowmore to Jeffrey’s Bay, Team Spider finished a respectable 229th, while Team Kloof Manne finished 306th. Only two riders of Team Wazza Boys, Kallie Booysen and Jonathan Jumat, managed to finish the race. “Over the past eight years that the program has been running, we have contributed an average of six mountain bikes per year (a total of 48) to the Baviaanskloof / Willowmore communities,” described Van de Walt. “The program has expanded over the years to also include the kids... During the Baba Baviaans, we also have a ‘mini’ sports day for the kids where many prizes such as soccer balls, rugby balls and toys are handed out,” said Van de Walt. The Baba Baviaans has also become a platform for community development. “This year we also received the assistance of an Optometrist, Werner Fourie, also a Trans Baviaans participant, who tested the eyes of local community members during the Baba Baviaans. “He handed out in the region of 250 pairs of glasses, ranging from sunglasses to reading glasses to at least 35 pairs of prescription glasses. The latter were delivered to the various recipients later during the Trans Baviaans event,” described Van de Walt. He was also optimistic about the future of the Baba Baviaans, stating that; “At the moment, we plan to continue with the Baba Baviaans annually as it contributes hugely, not only to the development of the sport, but to the social upliftment of the local community. At the moment, this is a private initiative and it can be so much more, better and bigger if local government can get involved.” “This was by far the best bout although she lost on points. Zikhona showed good potential for the future,” said Thembekile Gacula, Public Relations Officer of the South African National Amateur Boxing Organisation. “She might have lost but she is a clean fighter with lots of potential. Zikhona has never lost a fight against a South African boxer before and I am very proud of her,” said Gerald Hlalele, a boxing trainer and member of the Makana Local Municipality Development of Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture. Gacula observed that the German team, which won seven of the nine bouts against their Eastern Cape opponents in Port Elizabeth, was a much better, stronger and experienced team. He was hopeful however that our team, being assisted by the Eastern Cape Sports Academy, was progressing well with their preparations. RISING LOCAL CYCLING CHAMPS… Kallie Booysen; Peeres Maganie and Carol-Ann George show-off their Mountain bikes, which they won in the 2012 Baba Baviaans. “In no time at all we will be ready to beat the best in the world,” said Gacula. w w w. c a c a d u . c o . z a