September 2020 FREE

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY Premier Water crisis Widows DARDLEA MEC investigates on the deserve to is well and irregular mend in be treated back at work Covid-19 Dr JS with dignity 2 expenditure 4 Moroka 12 15 It’s all systems go at Ebhudlweni! Jabulane Khumalo

WATERVAL BOVEN - Teaching and learning resumed without any hitches at Ebhudlweni Primary School in the Nkangala District Municipality. Mpumalanga Mirror visited the school on August 24, to check the school’s preparation. The school principal, AV Sobo, said they were prepared to receive Grade R, three and four learners on the day. “We’ve set up classrooms for learners in a MEC Gabisile Shabalala addressing the mainly female security officers. manner that there will be social distancing. 99 percent of them showed up and they’re all compliant with the regualtions expected of them. “We were provided with personal protective equipment. We’ve not had MEC SHABALALA URGES much challenges so far. However, we’re running short of three educators, which will be needed for the phasing in of other grades. We’re managing what we can at the moment,” he said. A programme is in place for other grades who will be phased in, in due course. The WOMEN TO EXPOSE ABUSE grades will have a rotational schedule where grades will alternate in the weeks to come. “We can’t take all the grades at a go, Bongani Hlatshwayo your own situations at work or at home if at our disposal in order to quell it. Those which will be detrimental. Our staff consists you’ve ever been abused either physically or bosses, boyfriends or husbands you’re of 17 members. We have three Grade R HAZYVIEW - Women’s abuse by their emotionally and speak out about it. protecting now, are continuing with their practitioners instead of four. We are working male counterparts, whether at work or “It may have been your seniors or abusive nature because they were let off the on getting another practitioner. at home, irrespective of how long ago it colleagues at work or in your affairs or hook by you. “There won’t be a time where all learners occurred, should exposed. marriage. It doesn’t matter how long ago it “Now is the time to stop them in their will be in one space. I want to assure parents This was the emphasis put forward by the took place. tracks and put an end to their dastardly acts that everything is in order for now and MEC for community safety, security and The fact is, it did happen and your rights and face the mighty wrath of the law, thus should not worry. We’re adhering to all liaison, Gabisile Shabalala on 25 August were violated. If as members of the security also saving multitudes of potential victims. regulations.” when addressing female members of the cluster you don’t expose such anomalies in Enough is enough. Meanwhile, Mpumalanga Education SAPS and traffic officers during a roadblock your life, how are you going to deal with the As we engage in the stop and search MEC, Bonakele Majuba was at Mafu operated mainly by female members in community’s abuse cases if you can’t deal operation, this is one of the messages you Secondary School at Tweefontein West in honour of Women’s Month. with your own? should share with females and encourage the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality “August is Women’s Month and this is an “The essence of my message to you stems them to join in the fight against gender to receive learners and monitor Covid-19 opportune time for each one of you to fully from the bitter fight we’re waging against based violence, whilst at the same time, compliance. exercise your rights as women. gender based violence against women and ensuring that road users comply with This is the time for you as members of children in society over the years. Covid-19 Regulations of wearing their face the security cluster, to also look closely at We’ve got to fight it with all we have masks, sanitizing, keeping a social distance and washing their hands regularly,” she concluded. During the roadblock, that was her main message as they engaged with motorists. A major problem surfaced of vehicles, mainly taxis with defected number plates, a ploy to dodge speed cameras from detecting the vehicle’s details, thus escaping being penalized for exceeding the speed limit. “These defected number plates are more prevalent among taxi operators and some private vehicles. Our mission is to penalize them by issuing traffic fines until they all revert to genuine number plates,” she added. She also paid a courtesy call at the Hazyview Private School next to the roadblock spot to check on their security apparatus and Covid-19 compliance. She addressed the learners and educators Gabisile Shabalala converses with passengers during the Operation Basadi and motivated the young ones on education roadblock in Hazyview. for a brighter future. Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth 2 Mpumalanga Mirror COMMUNITY September 2020 September 2020 COMMUNITY Mpumalanga Mirror 3 Khaya Frikky to set dance-floors ablaze Jabulane Khumalo I always feel a sense of freedom and a moment I am proud of,” he shares. KRIEL- A fresh local extended-play is out Frikky points out that growing up on digital platforms and boasts dance tunes in a small town made him realise how that will carry patrons into the new season. much he wanted to make his mark in the Khaya Mtshweni, popularly known entertainment industry. as Khaya Frikky has released his much- With this new EP, he feels it will earn anticipated EP titled TEN67. The him his rightful place in the calibre of the Mpumalanga-based performer describes his country’s prominent artists. new project as a rich Gqom sound. “I’ve been working on gaining support “My dancing and performing skills have at home and making sure I produce quality played a big part in transforming the Gqom sound rather than quantity. I want to make Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane. Members of the Executive Council who attended the briefing. genre since I started about five years ago. sure that the music circulates far and wide To date, I’ve performed on major festivals within the province to resonate with locals. including Emalahleni’s Colour Festival, The EP is available on all digital Mpumalanga Cultural Festival and Secunda platforms, Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and Premier investigates irregular Covid-19 expenditure Spring Party, to name but a few. other platforms. Make sure that you stream A few artists in the province produce and have fun while you at it,” he excitingly the genre that I’m in. Each time I perform, says. Jabulane Khumalo August 19 at the Government Complex SOPA that we will empower deserving regulations and the reopening of that she picked up irregularities on the SMMEs owned predominantly by youth, economic sectors brings with it a MBOMBELA - Premier Refilwe departments of Culture, Sports and women and people with disabilities. concomitant risk of a second wave of Mtshweni-Tsipane has appointed Recreation, Provincial Treasury, Co- We have noted, with serious concern, infections. independent investigators to scrutinise Operative Governance and Traditional that there was an inequitable distribution of The primary wave of infections has Xolile’s artisitic work is out of this world! expenditure in various departments and Affairs, including government agencies, resources to a limited group of entities. already had a devastating effect on the agencies since the Coronavirus outbreak. the Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Our investigators will assess the criteria provincial economy. Yoliswa Hlatshwayo What inspires your creativity? She revealed at a media briefing on Agency and the Mpumalanga Economic used to select the benefited few,” she All of us must ensure that the Growth Agency. explained. government’s limited resources are Xolile Mabuza(23) is a designer God because everything was “This pertains to expenditure patterns Mtshweni-Tsipane asserted that the utilised optimally and malfeasance is and a poet from Lihawu, outside created by him. Love, life, my and pricing with glaring discrepancies investigation will be completed in two eliminated,” she stated. Mbombela. She perceives herself relationship with my parents and which our preliminary investigations weeks. The media briefing was followed by as creative person, a thinker, two sisters; my niece and friends flagged. The investigations will be Should there be prima-facie evidence of a PowerPoint presentation. Head of writer, a spoken word artist and a especially my best friend Busisiwe conducted as a matter of urgency. corruption, they will request the Special Provincial Treasury, Gugu Mashiteng cricket lover. She tells us about her Mahlangu also inspire me. MANAGING COMPANY: As this Administration, we took a Investigating Unit to probe further. provided an expenditure analysis of the childhood and artistic background as conscious decision and announced during “The gradual lift-off lockdown implicated departments and agencies. well as her love for poetry. Who do you look up to? EUPHONIA INVESTMENTS Busi Mohlala. Are you from artistic For the art of persistence and Mpumalanga Working on background? persevering I look up to my Editor: parents, for the art of wisdom Fire’s Busi Mohlala leads My parents were present and and staying alive I look up to Bongani Hlatshwayo full time parents to my two sisters Goodenough Mashego and Carol Ms Busi Mohlala is breaking Ms Mohlala recalls her best and I. Their presence did not stop Sanderson. Cell: boundaries, rewriting the script memories within the WOF us from spending time with our For the art of creating and and changing the narrative as programme being many and 079-069-1092 grandparents. Growing up, we staying happy I look up to Busisiwe a crew leader in Mpumalanga very memorable. Email: would to sit around the fire with Mahlangu and all my other friends. Working in Fire’s Breyten team “I have had many great my grandmother during the maize [email protected] in the Highveld. moments in my career, however, harvesting season and roast maize. August is Women’s Month being awarded best crew leader How can the arts be used Gogo always told stories from to bring about change in and the theme this year is after completing my Type 2 the past every time we were sitting News Editor: “Generation Equality: Realising crew leader course, at Kishugu addressing societal issues around the fire. The way she told the like gender based violence? Yoliswa Hlatshwayo Women’s Rights for an Equal Training Academy in Nelspruit, stories was so beautiful and special. Future” and Ms Mohlala and her remains my favourite,” Ms At times she also used those One of the best ways to address counterparts continue to prosper Mohlala said. stories to scare us to go to bed when or fix things is to talk about them. in a male-dominated industry. With success, challenges are Sports Editor: we didn’t want to go to bed. to stay alive and figuring out what to As a black woman in South She joined the WOF bound to arise and Ms Mohlala Storytelling is artistic; the ability do with my life. Africa, I feel it is time we use our Jabulane Khumalo programme, as a firefighter, in remembers how during her to tell a story and help one see Again writing poetry saved me voices, God given talents to tell our 2010, having been recruited vigorous firefighting training through your eyes is art therefore and helped me realise that I didn’t stories and share all the fears we at the Graskop base and she for the Type 1 crew leader, Porto Shabangu Secondary In Tekwane South. I think it’s safe to say I’m from an want any of the things I thought I have. Layout Artist: worked her way through the she developed blisters because artistic background. wanted for myself. It can be through spoken word ranks to become a SHE-rep. Personal Protective Clothing Riaz du Preez poetry, music, short stories and Her work ethic was rewarded (PPC) is required to be worn at Learners up in arms against abusive educator How did you get into poetry? painting. I also feel that women when she was nominated to all times. What was the title of your first have started telling their stories, Yoliswa Hlatshwayo Another learner shared the same of informal disciplinary hearing procedure. go study a Type 2 crew leader “I had blisters on both feet written poem and what was it Physical Address: I started writing poetry at the age it’s just that the world is refusing to sentiments, revealing the constant name All cases should be heard in a formal course in 2013, which did and I couldn’t walk for two about? of 17 and I have not looked back. I hear them out. Sunrise Heights 27, TEKWANE SOUTH - “She tells us we are calling which has become a norm in the disciplinary hearing,” said Sambo. successfully, and was appointed weeks but with encouragement write mostly about things I couldn’t The title of my first solid poem By telling our stories I mean stupid and often compares us to monkeys. classroom. in that position in the same year. from my Regional Manager, 15 Koraalboom Ave, talk about: the pain, the lessons and was ‘YOU WONT DIE HERE”. In telling all sides of the story, We need another teacher to make it at the “She calls us stupid and compares us to According to the department, After years as a Type 2, Ms Vincent Lubisi, and WOF OHS, Nelspruit, 1200 experiences that have brought me to 2016 I was depressed and I felt like including the sides where our end of the year.” monkeys. It’s not right because even when investigations will start as soon as Mohlala got the opportunity I kept going, became strong, and where I am today. I was losing my mind so I started fathers, uncles, brothers, sons are The above words describe how some of we want to participate in class, we are often possible following due procedures to further her career, and continued with the course.” I began speaking when I started collecting all my traumas and guilty. the learners at Portia Shabangu Secondary gripped by fear of how she might react. that indicate that the investigation WOF gave the chance to “It was very difficult for me performing and that is how I found hardship from the past to help me The arts can be used to protect School feel about a female educator who Getting another teacher would be a solution officer must: study the Type 1 crew leader completing that course because my voice back after so many years feel that I have all the right to cry women if used correct and truthful they allege hurls insults and inflicts corporal because we cannot continue this way.” course, which she successfully after that, my husband and of been quiet. and die. and the truth calls us to stand Bongani punishment on them during lessons. The Department of Education was • Gather information from the completed. daughter were involved in a car I matriculated 2015 and applied I went as far as collecting the together and remove the entire Mpumalanga Mirror learnt through the not aware of the matter, however, an complainant(s) through written Ms Mohlala was appointed accident and I couldn’t cope, Hlatshwayo to different universities with hope pain of being bullied throughout my shield we are using to protect learners and parents that although corporal investigation will be conducted. statement. crew leader of the Breyten but with the support from WOF, to further my studies and all my school life and all the shaming and dangerous men just because they punishment is not allowed, they sometimes Media liaison officer, Gerald Sambo said • Forward relevant document together team, based and partnered with fellow colleagues and friends, I get pipe beatings from the educator. corporal punishment or any form of abuse with reports by the principal. applications were rejected; only one growing up being called ugly, I went are related to us. Msukaligwa Fire and Rescue, continued and completed it.” was successful and it was on the and collected that too. A concerned parent said a letter of is not condoned. “The department will not • Inform the Governing body and the which is under the Msukaligwa When asked what she Jabulane complaint was written to the principal, as hesitate to take action against any educator circuit manager about the allegation course I hated with so much passion. I started writing how I felt about What would be your words of Local Municipality. enjoys the most about her job I dwelled so much on all my everything that has happened to well as the circuit. This is after one learner who inflicts corporal punishment on the and confirm that the matter has been She leads a team of 19 and leading a team in ‘firey’ encouragement to the next Khumalo returned home after school with a swollen learners.” forwarded to the District Director. unsuccessful applications and me and all the things I felt people generation of women? firefighters who conduct situations, Ms Mohlala proudly rejection because there is something missed or didn’t know about me. hand after the class could not answer Sambo also stated that the department has • Inform the learners’ parents of the Integrated Fire Management stated she loves the challenges about rejection that makes you feel At the end of the poem I noticed Being a women means you are questions correctly. clear protocols in dealing with such issues incident (IFM) services, which include that always arise on the fireline like it has your name written on it that the things I felt people didn’t the sun, the moon and the stars are “This has gone on for too long and what’s in a school as cases of corporal punishment • The District Office will investigate and fire management planning, and all the new things she learns hence it belongs to you; well that know about me are the same things aligned on your womb before they Yoliswa bad is that even the class attendance for the must be reported to the principal if he/she is forward the report with recommendation detection, prevention, about her colleagues every day. drove me straight to depression and I didn’t know about myself and I fall on the sky. subject she teaches, is poor because others not a perpetrator. for the Head of Department, where the suppression of runaway veld “The fitness part I love as well Hlatshwayo most days felt like my life has come was amazed of how beautiful I am, You are important, beautiful, you have either dropped out or they simply bunk If he/she is a perpetrator, it must be educator is found guilty, disciplinary fires, dispatch and coordination, because daily fitness tests keep to an end. when I wrote the poem I wrote it as deserve to be in this world and you her lessons. She didn’t realize the damage reported to the circuit or district. action will be instituted and the matter and community fire awareness me healthy and WOF continues I think that was one of the most someone who wanted to die I then are the master piece from God’s she’s caused with the treatment she subjects “Under no circumstance should cases of will be reported to the South African activities. to develop its firefighters,” challenging times in my life trying titled it ”YOU WONT DIE HERE.” artwork. us to,” said a learner. corporal punishment be dealt with in terms Council of Educators (SACE). A mother to a daughter, Ms Mohlala concluded. Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth 4 Mpumalanga Mirror COMMUNITY September 2020 September 2020 ADVERTISEMENT Mpumalanga Mirror 5 Water crisis on the mend at Dr JS Moroka

Jabulane Khumalo frustrating, long overdue issue. It’s not fair to complain about one thing every SIYABUSWA - Residents of Dr JS Morola day,” he said. Local Municipality have been experiencing Mpumalanga Mirror sent an enquiry water shortages for years. to the municipality’s spokesperson, Some residents have vented out their Masabata Ramatsetse, who noted in a frustrations towards the municipality. Others statement that the municipality is aware pointed out that water tankers do not even of the water provision challenges. arrive in their areas. “Factors such as the climate change, Recently, the municipality said it planned the poor and inadequate/unpredictable on redirecting water pipes in Wards seven summer rainfall over the past few and eight. This is due to the Mthambothini years and the persistent heatwaves, Bridge Refurbishment Project in August. high temperatures, wastage and overconsumption, has affected our water resources and strained in a way that it Maganagobuswa has could not fully enable the municipality had water shortage for to meet its service delivery obligation of supplying residents with water,” read the a while now and those statement. water tanks they don’t The statement went on to statey that even come most affected are high lying areas such as Mbibane, Libangeni, Madubaduba, Maphanga, Makometsane, Loding, Troya The affected areas were Thabana, and Ukukhanya, due to their geographical Ramokgeletsane, Mabuyeni, Mrhawini and location. Mthambothini. Municipality’s solution to the water “Maganagobuswa has had water shortage crisis: for a while now and those water tanks they A large amount of budget is channelled don’t even come. Hope this time things will to be injected in water projects to solve be done accordingly,” said Ntombenhle the water crises. As an intervention, Ngwenya. the resuscitation of the old line of the Meanwhile, Mochichila Mojela of Mthombo line to source water from Ramokgeletsane, said they only receive Loskop Dam and other water reticulation water on weekends through the Senotlelo projects, will be fast-tracked as soon as water pipe. know if this is done on purpose or not. possible to ensure that residents get water. “The rest of the sections are waterless due “Section B of Ramokgeletsane has not Communities are urged to save the little to the pipe at Weltervrede. However, my been getting water for eight years and water they have at their disposal, while concern is why we get water on weekends this frustrates the community and the harvesting water when it rains and re-use even before the pipe burst in Nkosini. I don’t leadership in the Ward needs to attend to this the water.

Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth 6 Mpumalanga Mirror COMMUNITY September 2020 September 2020 ADVERTISEMENT Mpumalanga Mirror 7

UMP Vice Chancellor, Prof Thoko Mayekiso. Gijima bridges the digital gap at MP university Yoliswa Hlatshwayo and variants, have an equal opportunity to access education regardless of the pandemic. MBOMBELA - To bridge the gap and to We believe education is power, a key to assist students with to be on par with the success, differentiator, ceiling breaker, it rest of the world, Gijima and the Robert instills responsibility and unleashes one’s Gumede Family Keni Foundation donated potential to greater heights,“ she stated. 300 laptops to non-funded students at the UMP’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Thoko University of Mpumalanga recently. Mayekiso expressed gratitude to the This follows after Minister of Higher Gumede family and Gijima for their Education, Blade Nzimande’s announcement generosity coming to the institution’s rescue. that all National Student Financial Aid “When the country was placed on Scheme (NSFAS) beneficiaries’ students Lockdown level 5 in March, all campus would receive laptops and data to ensure based activities were put on hold. We had they can attend online classes during the to resort to online teaching and learning Covid-19 pandemic. without any warning. We were fortunate Chief Marketing Officer for the Gijima as an institution because we had embraced Group, Roberta Gumede, a true believer and online teaching and learning as far back as advocate for education herself, said it was 2016. special for them as a family to donate the “We have always considered ourselves laptops worth multi-million rands. a 21st century institution and from the “It was exactly 11 years ago that my inception of UMP, it was important that chairman, who is also my father, heeded to we embrace technology. Our aim is to be the call of the establishment of a university Prof Thoko Mayekiso, SRC President, Comfort Msimango and Gijima Marketing Director, an African university leading in creating in the province. Today, students much like opportunities and sustainable development Roberta Gumede. himself, are given an opportunity to study in through innovation. their home ground and serve their province, NSFAS’s recent announcement to unfund “This means it will be difficult for “We are grateful for the donation as they instead of exporting their talents to other 5000 students due to not meeting the students to study while funding themselves will benefit our students who are not funded capital cities such as Gauteng and KwaZulu- minimum requirements and the Covid-19 at university. As Gijima and the Keni by NSFAS. We’ll go through our lists to Natal,” she said. pandemic, things have become stringent as Foundation, we felt it was highly imperative determine the recipients from our students,” Gumede also mentioned that with some parents have lost their jobs. to ensure that students from all backgrounds she concluded. Provincial Parliamentary Village taking shape to save costs MBOMBELA - Taxpayers can breathe (MPLs) and Members of the Executive Village near the old airport along the for the Department of Public Works, Roads a sigh of relief that the high cost of Committee (MECs) will soon be reduced Kaapsehoop Road is progressing well. and Transport, Cyril Dlamini. accommodating Members of the Legislature with the construction of the Parliamentary This was confirmed by the spokesperson He said there are currently 31 housing units being built that will accommodate MECs and MPLs. “There are 31 housing Units for Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs), including Members of the Executive Council (MECs. The project is currently approved at R 394 million. Basically, the provincial government be saving approximately R595 000 being spent on monthly rentals for the Members. The project is anticipated for completion in the first quarter of the 2021/22 financial year,” he added.

When asked about other infrastructure development initiatives are currently in process in the province? “The Department is currently implementing various projects throughout the Province which include 227 sanitation projects, healthcare facilities such as Middelburg Hospital, Bethal Hospital, various upgrades in Rob Ferreira Hospital, Pankop Clinic and KwaMdladla Clinic, as well as 16 transport infrastructure projects, Parliamentary Village under construction. amongst others,” concluded Dlamini. Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth 8 Mpumalanga Mirror COMMUNITY September 2020 September 2020 COMMUNITY Mpumalanga Mirror 9 Nkomazi Local Municipality: 2020/2021 Budget Summary

traffic intersections in Naas and Tonga in Budget and IDP for the 2020/21 construction of a 3 km road in Jeppes replaces asbestos pipes with PVC order to ease traffic flow in those areas. Financial Year Reef. • Mbuzini, extend existing reticulation, In an effort to improve community • A further R3 Million has been designated The state of the municipality address is construction of gravity line and social facilities and infrastructure, It is accordingly my pleasure to present for the construction of a Bus Route in library. always a special occasion, not only because upgrading of WTW the municipality has constructed the 2020/21 Medium Term Revenue and Goba. • A further R 19.5 Million is being it allows us an opportunity to communicate • Langeloop water reticulation, 14 community social facilities and Expenditure Framework (MTREF) for the • R5.6 Million has been allocated for disbursed towards the construction of the hard IDP and Budget choices that we Bhekisisa and Sbokeng, 15 km infrastructure. 2020/21 to 2022/23 financial years. the construction of a Bus Route in the KaMhlushwa Library. would have made in consultation with our • Schoemansdal North, extend existing The MTREF proposes a consolidated Buffelspruit. people, but the occasion is also important reticulation, upgrading of bulk pipeline These facilities include the following: budget of R1.3 Billion for the 2020/21 7.3 Roads because it provides us with an opportunity and reservoir, refurbishment of gravity financial year, which will grow to R1.5 Billion 4. Community Facilities The Department of Public Works, to take-stock and reflect in retrospect on the line • 4 waste transfer stations, in the two outer years. Roads and Transport in the Province will service delivery advances of the previous • Upgrading of Driekoppies stadium, It can be pointed out that the 2020/21 • R11.9 Million towards the construction of be implementing several road projects in year; and to use the experiences and 2. Electricity • Construction of Mangweni Stadium, Budget makes provision for an operating the kaMdladla Community Hall. Nkomazi during the financial year. lessons learnt to improve our approach, • upgrading of Mbuzini Stadium, budget of R1 Billion and a capital budget of • R2.5 Million has been designated for the R118.5 Million has been allocated for the in the agenda to uplift the socio-economic The municipality has during the period • Boschfontein Community Hall, R318 Million construction of the Mgobodzi Upgrading of the Dludluma Road, we are circumstances of our people. under review, provided 1,512 new • Construction of Kasibhejane Block B Community hall. advised that the project will include an 8 km households with access to electricity Community Hall 1. Water Services • R3 Million will be disbursed for the Ring Road. Bursaries For Tertiary Study services and the backlog of households • Upgrading of KaMhlushwa Stadium construction of the Block C, • R200.1 Million has been allocated for without electricity was standing at 3,839. In the current financial year, we will be Community Hall. the upgrading of the Mananga to The municipality has taken a decision to The outcomes of this analysis and allocating as follows; • R3 Million is being appropriated towards Ngwenyeni via Steenbok road. We are offer full bursaries for needy and deserving The interventions that we have made interpretation is always helpful in enabling the construction of the Driekoppies advised that the project will include an young Nkomazi learners who are pursuing have made a positive impact in the us to improve our service delivery • R34.3 Million towards the installation Community Hall. 8km Ring Road as well. tertiary studies. following villages: approaches and to develop carefully of 16 km Water Reticulation Network, 2x • R7.3 Million has also been allocated for Currently we funded a local student Tackling Poverty And Unemployment crimes are committed. considered mitigation measures to Reservoirs (2.5ml each) and 5. Electricity the design of the Steenbok Road studying a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil We are also informed that when Police • 280 households at Gretane increase and expand the impact of our construction of Water Treatment Works • R2 Million has also been allocated for the Engineering – on completion, can contribute Our local mines, technical services, textile, stations are closed temporarily to attend • 110 households at Thambokhulu interventions within our communities. (5ml/per day) in Mjejane. • R4 Million towards electrification and design of the Tsambokhulu Road to our service delivery programme, not only retail and manufacturing sectors should be to incidences of Covid-19, a spike in the • 120 households at Sebukeng • R37.4 Million towards the upgrading of upgrading of electrical infrastructure • R83,2 Million has been allocated for an here, but the province as a whole. manned by local labour and entrepreneurs. number of cases occurs, which means • 250 households at Tonga View and Current Capital Projects Water Treatment Works (4ml/per day)- networks around Nkomazi. 8.2 km brick paving upgrade to the Nkomazi should only source external that the advent of Covid-19 has become a Kamaqhekeza Naas/Block C. • We will be investing an amount of Louisville road. Driver’s License Programme goods and services when same cannot be window of opportunity which criminals exploit • 880 Hlalanikahle Most of them are incomplete, but we are • R13.2 Million to upgrade the Regional R5 Million to develop an electricity produced and/or supplied locally. to advance their nefarious activities. There • 180 households at Ericsville glad to report that we have already hit-the- Bulk Scheme in Driekoppies. substation in Extension 21 in Malalane. 7.4 Agriculture, Education and Health This programme ensures that needy and We believe that once we have locally is a reported increasing trend of the stealing • 150 households at Mbangave ground-running on most of them and most • R13.8 Million will be deployed in Jeppes • R2 Million will go towards electrification • The Department of Agriculture will deserving young people who need drivers’ developed the skills, competencies and of Telkom poles by some criminals. • 150 households at Hospital View of them are nearing completion stage. Reef to the construction of an Elevated projects in Marloth Park. be allocating R36 Million towards the licenses, but cannot afford the driving school facilities that are required by the local The Police have advised us that these • Upgrading of Komatipoort Substation tank and a Booster pump to supply Zone • R4.9 Million from the INEP programme Mpumalanga Rural Skills and Learnership fees, are assisted with the funds to help economy, the next phase would be to crime incidents are being closely monitored Outlined below are some of the 10 and to extend the existing reticulation will also be invested in electrification Programme, together with several other them realise their goals and acquire their ensure that our local factories, government and that Joint-operations and station 3. Sanitation projects that are currently under in Zone 10, 11 & Phigogo. The project projects around Nkomazi. interventions that will benefit the youth and driver’s licenses. institutions, Mines, Malls and Shopping operations are being rolled-out frequently in implementation: will also install a Booster pump for farmers within Nkomazi and other parts of The programme managed to support centres are encouraged to source a order to decrease these incidences of crime The backlog was standing at 6 461, we water supply to kaMakhwelintaba where 6. Local Economic Development the province. about 10 young people from Nkomazi with percentage of their goods and services from in our communities. had to develop a three-year strategy in • Construction of Mdladla a distribution line & water reticulation • The Department of Health will also funding to acquire their driver’s licenses. We the local suppliers that we produce. the municipality to address the backlogs community hall - 57% infrastructure will be installed. • R 2.3 million in order to finance a be undertaking several renovations and believe that in the upcoming financial year, In the event that we discover that there Service Delivery Mandate and provide the needy households across • Construction of Mgobodzi • R12.5 Million has been designated for project that will conduct local business constructions in the following health facilities: more young people will be assisted. are specific goods and services that Nkomazi villages with access to decent community hall - 82% the upgrading of the Sibange Regional analysis research, economic recovery are required by the local, national and As a leadership collective, we believe that sanitation services. • Construction of Municipal stores in Water Scheme and implementation plan. • Ntunda Clinic Economic Development international market, that we are in a position the approaches that we continue to employ, Malelane - 93% • A further R13 Million will be allocated • KaMdladla Clinic to produce, but we lack the required skills, are adequate to meet the magnitude of the Some of the villages that benefitted • Paving and fencing of Malelane towards the construction of Marloth Park 7. Provincial Projects • Schulzendal Clinic We are aware that there are international competencies, registrations and equipment mandate that we have assumed. from this programme during the stores - 20% Water Treatment Works 2ml/d package • Middelplaas Clinic and national efforts underway to implement to take advantage of that opportunity, we period under review include: • Construction of Mabundzeni Bus plant. 7.1 Special Economic Zone • Shongwe Hospital the Mega-Special Economic Zone should: 1. Water Route - Site establishment • R4 Million towards the refurbishment of • In order to start the implementation • Tonga Hospital development here in Nkomazi. But we we should be unapologetic in making the • Jeppes Reef • Construction of Buffelspruit Bus the Steenbok Water Treatment Works. of the project, R15 Million has been have to challenge ourselves as the people necessary efforts to initiate a deliberate In the programme for the provision of • Skoon Plaas Route - 75% • R31.4 Million has been allocated allocated for the roll-out of the post- • The Department of Education will also of Nkomazi and ensure that the biggest development programme with the sole aim water services, a total of 14,055 new • Buffelspruit • Construction of Schoemansdal towards the refurbishment of existing designation Implementation Plan of the be undertaking several renovations and beneficiaries and producers of of developing these resources and to households have been provided with water • Schulzendal Bus Route Phase 2 75% bulk infrastructure and extension of Nkomazi SEZ will entail the construction of circuit offices, class rooms, locally consumed goods and ensure that in time, we have those services. • Joe Slovo • Refurbishment of existing bulk water reticulation in Buffelspruit. establishment of the SEZ entity and the school toilets and other school infrastructure services are our local community skills, competencies and equipment We believe that these projects have • Mzinti, infrastructure and extension of • R5.2 Million has been allocated for the development of the SEZ implementation in a number of schools and education members. locally to be able to produce the drastically reduced the water services • Magudu reticulation in Buffelspruit - 45% construction of a Sewer Plant in Orlando, strategy. facilities around Nkomazi. As a local authority, we identified goods and to create jobs in backlog which was estimated at 21 666 • Mgobodzi • Extension of reticulation and Komatipoort. • A further R 48.4 Million has been have a statutory role to that market. households in the whole of Nkomazi. • Block C Construction of a reservoir in allocated for the initial phases of 8. COVID-19 create an environment with We have to recognize at the same • Steenbok Goba - 92% 2. Sanitation the SEZ. the participation of local time that, in our collective agenda Some of the key projects that we have • Khombaso • Water supply in R26.4 Million towards the various projects stakeholders and to change the socio-economic implemented under water services • Mandulo Mkwaru-Mkwaru - 100% • R 11.1 Million towards sanitation projects 7.2 Community facilities that we will roll-out in order to contain the communities, to ensure circumstances of the people include: • Mbangwane • Ntunda, Nyathi, Shongwe, Tonga in various villages around Nkomazi. • Social Development department will spread of Covid-19 in Nkomazi. that an eco-system of Nkomazi, many successes and • Mbuzini Refurbishment of WTW’s - 60% be launching two massive projects in which is favourable for local mistakes will be made. • Upgrading of Tonga WTW additional • Tsambokhulu • Upgrade of Naas Water Scheme 3. Roads Mbuzini. An amount of R6.8 Million has 9. Municipal Tariffs and Revenue economic development If Nkomazi has to succeed, 8ML/day • Ericksville Phase - Site establishment been allocated towards the enhancement is developed and it will have to tailor some • Construction of Mandulo 2MI ground • Construction of Sibange WTW • R23.5 Million for the construction of Bus establishment of an Early Childhood expanded of the solutions based reservoir In total, 4 446 new households have been Phase 1A - 65% Route phase 1 road in Mbuzini. Development and Retention Centre. I wish to report in this regard that we have within and on their suitability and • Masibekela Bulk Water supply provided with access to sanitation. • Sibange bulk line, elevated tank and • R7 Million has been deployed to the • R28 Million is allocated for the Planning, already completed the main framework beyond our applicability in the • Construction of Langeloop water ground reservoir - 35% upgrading of Schoemansdal Bus Route. Design and, Construction of the Mbuzini document on the operational plans around space. Nkomazi environment. reticulation (eSigayweni) 4. Roads and Storm water systems • Schoemansdal bulkline and • R7.6 Million has been allocated to the Social Development Branch Office. the implementation of the Revenue Those • Steenbok bulk water supply 10ML reservoir - 70% construction of Bus Route phase 1 in • R32 Million is allocated for the planning, Enhancement Strategy. Our communities include the Safety And • Construction of 2MI reinforced concrete Nkomazi municipality during the same • Driekoppies bulkline and booster Mgobodzi. design and construction of the Youth and stakeholders will be given a reasonable secondary Security reservoir at Madlala period improved access to public road pump Phase 1B - 86% • R 3 Million will be allocated to the Development Centre in Mbuzini. opportunity to contribute to the document. value chain • Gravity Main Malelane infrastructure by constructing about 59.2km • Construction of elevated tank and construction of the Bus Route in The Department of Culture, Sport and We will also from our limited resources be activities No community • Upgrading of Raw Water, Filters and of municipal roads and storm water within its booster pump to supply Jeppes Reef Mangweni. Recreation will be undertaking several commissioning an amount of R7.3 Million to like product can realise Clarifiers (Komatipoort) communities. Zone 10, Extend existing reticulation • R3.5 Million has been allocated towards projects in Nkomazi during the support the implementation of the revenue picking and economic • Mzinti bulk water supply upgrade at Zone 10,11 & Phigogo, Install the construction of a Bus Route in financial year. enhancement activities during the financial loading, field prosperity • Mzinti water reticulation and pump These projects have benefitted the booster pump for water supply to Masibekela. • R19.5 Million is allocated for the year. haulage from in an station upgrade following communities: kaMakhwelintaba - 76% • R4.4 Million has been allocated for the construction of the Schoemansdal farm to factory, environment • Hoyi water reticulation • Construction of Mjejane Ground Municipal Tariffs For The 2020/21 processing, which is • Construction of Mananga water • Shulzendal Reservoir, Booster Pump Station, Financial Year packaging, ravaged by reticulation • Mbuzini -Durban + Nkungwini Elevated Tank, Operators facility and branding, crime and • Block B (Nkanini) Water Reticulation • Mafambisa fencing - 79% The general annual tariff increases for marketing, social instability. (15km) • Tonga-Block A and B • Construction of Water Treatment municipal services will be adjusted as shipping, distribution What we • Louisville Water Treatment Plant • Boschfontein Package Plant, Raw Water follows: and exporting of those have found • Old Tonga Bulk Pipe, Reticulation and • Driekoppies Abstraction Pump Station, • Property Rates increases by 6.5%; Agricultural products. concerning about Storage • Schoemansdal Raw Water Booster Pump Station • Electricity increases by 10.1%; Subject We believe that these crime • Upgrading of Existing WTW • Jeppes Reef and Pipe Works in Mjejane - 8% to approval of our municipal tariff by the local economic reports, is not (Hectorspruit/ Mjejane) • Buffelspruit • Mbuzini- extension of existing National Energy Regulator of South Africa activism is a catalyst only the increasing • Extension of reticulation Driekoppies • KaMhlushwa East Gate reticulation of gravity line and (NERSA); to job creation, skills numbers, but we and Middelplaas upgrading of WTW and • Refuse removal increases by 6.5%; development and also concerned • Magudu Water Reticulation We have to point out that within the same construction of 2ml reservoir at • Water, Sanitation and other services will social development. about how those • Dludluma, extend existing reticulation, period, we installed traffic lights at the main Mbuzini – 99% increase by 6.5 %. Executive Mayor, Cllr Johan Mkhatshwa. Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth 10 Mpumalanga Mirror COMMUNITY September 2020 September 2020 MUNICIPAL NEWS Mpumalanga Mirror 11 GSDM committed to support local municipalities ERMELO - Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) remains focused on its mandate to support local municipalities to provide excellent services and development. During the State of the District Address (SODA) for 2020, District Executive Mayor, Cllr Muzi Chirwa made a commitment that GSDM would continue to support local municipalities with service delivery fleet which is needed by the municipalities in the provision of basic services, especially in rural areas. On 12 August 2020, GSDM lived up to its promises. Seven 10 000lt water tankers amounting to R10.3m, were handed over to the local municipalities to help improve the Operation Basadi Roadblocks prove to be effective provision of water to communities without access to running portable water, particularly amid the corona virus outbreak. Chirwa led the handover event supported Jabulane Khumalo She went on to say that their male by the District Whip of Council, Cllr Trevor counterparts are supportive of the Nkosi, Member of Mayoral Committee ROCKY’S DRIFT – The Mpumalanga operation. for Infrastructure and Technical Services, Department of Community Safety, She also pointed out that men should Cllr Dumisile Nhlengethwa and the acting Security and Liaison conducted an be able to support women at work, home Municipal Manager, Mr Ephraim Thabethe. Operation Basadi Roadblock along and help spread the word in the fight The handover meant that the infrastructure the R40 from Friday 21 August to against gender-based violence. belongs to the seven municipalities commemorate Women’s Month. “We have seen in our province and the and would be the responsibility of the The operation included members of country that femicide cases are growing municipalities. the South African Police Service, South in numbers. So, we need women to be in Chirwa urged municipalities to take good outbreak. fight against the spread of the pandemic help improve service delivery in the local African National Defence Force and the forefront and support each other. care of the infrastructure being handed over. “The Corona Virus is real and we all within the District. He further said that the municipalities. Mpumalanga Provincial Traffic Law They must fight the scourge and report He pleaded with the municipal leaders to need to make sure that we adhere to the provision of water must be prioritised in Chirwa urged everyone to remain Enforcement, among others. to the police and not withdraw cases. ensure that the water tankers were used for government’s health protocols in order to order to ensure that everyone is able to wash committed to the fight against the spread The MEC of the department, “This is one of the programs that we the purpose for which they were purchased curb its spread,” said Chirwa. hands regularly. of the Coronavirus by continuous wearing Gabisile Shabalala and the Head of the are rolling out to empower women. Our for, which is to make people’s lives better. He called on both the political and Leaders from the local municipalities of face masks, regular washing of hands Department, Busisiwe Nkuna were also province is not immune to this scourge He added that, the water tankers are also administrative leadership of the seven local expressed their appreciation for the support with soap or alcohol based sanitisers and present to oversee the operation. and we need to fight it until the very aimed at helping to fight the Corona Virus municipalities to remain vigilant in the received, which is anticipated that it will observing social distance at all times. “This is the month where we celebrate end,” she concluded. women and showcase our capacity. Our female officers have been equally trained like their male counterparts. Municipalities pledge to improve infrastructure This was to assure members of the BETHAL - Following challenges related an Implementing Agent (IA) for the Thabethe and Municipal Manager of GMM community that we can carry out Stop to electricity at Bethal and Emzinoni, the management of electricity in Bethal/ at the GSDM Office complex. and Search, as well as educate our Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) made a Emzinoni, hence on 12 August 2020, the The MOU provides all the activities which communities about road rules and request for assistance from the Gert Sibande GSDM and GMM concluded a five-year the GSDM, as an implementing agent, will regulations. District Municipality (GSDM). Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). be responsible for. “This operation is not the first of In this regard, the local municipality The MOU was signed by both the District The priority is to ring fence the business its kind. Every year we make sure we has since appointed the GSDM as Acting Municipal Manager, Ephraim by appointing a service provider (SP) have one. We’re also going to have the that would inject seed capital and run the operation in other districts where women business for a period of five years under the will be leading the operation,” said supervision of the GSDM. Shabalala. During the five-year period, the service Cllr Busisiwe Sekhonde. provider will collect revenue, pay the monthly account for Eskom on behalf of the GMM. New speaker It will also improve the state of the infrastructure by providing more reliable elected for GSDM electricity supply to customers, improve the revenue collection and improve customer ERMELO – A new speaker for the Gert service. Sibande District Municipality has been GSDM, as an Implementing Agent, will elected to replace the late speaker, Joshua help negotiate repayments of the current Nkosi who succumbed to the coronavirus Eskom account on behalf of the GMM recently. The Acting Municipal Manager of Gert Mr Felani Mndebele (Municipal Manager of GMM) and Mr Ephraim Thabethe (District Acting moving forward, but the GMM will still be responsible for its current debt. Sibande District Municipality, Ephraim Shabalala assures safety for tourists in the province Municipal Manager). Thabethe convened the sitting of the Council of GSDM on 14 August 2020 and presided over the election of the new Speaker of Bongani Hlatshwayo monitors must submit reports on a daily EDM refutes “bribery for tender” allegations Council. basis at our police stations because it’s Cllr Busisiwe Sekhonde emerged as the ROCKY’S DRIFT – The tourism vital for us to have those reports on the MBOMBELA – The rumour mill has to be preferred on any tenders issued by new speaker. The election of Cllr Sekhonde sector can rest assured that the safety of safety situation in our towns and tourist pointed its guns on the Ehlanzeni District our district municipality. followed a vacancy that was created by the their clients, tourists, both domestic and destinations so that the same information, Municipality’s (EDM) municipal manager “Ehlanzeni District Municipality passing of the late Cllr Mangaliso Joshua international, are in safe hands in the can be disseminated among tourism for allegedly soliciting bribes from understands the frustrations brought by Nkosi in July 2020. province. practitioners as a guidance tool. service providers from the institution, but the COVID-19 pandemic, especially on In her acceptance speech as the new This was spelled out by the MEC for “Safety monitors along tourism routes are he has flatly refuted those allegations. the business sector. elected Speaker of Council, Cllr Sekhonde community safety, security and liaison, very important to monitor the situation and According to EDM’s Communications However, we wish to warn all South appreciated the confidence and responsibility Gabisile Shabalala on 21 August that there give us feedback, always. Police, too, have Manager, Lucky Ngomane: “The Africans not to fall into a trap of bestowed upon her to provide political and are contingency plans at hand to ensure the come into the very space. Municipal Manager of Ehlanzeni District fraudsters who would invite them to administrative leadership to Council. safety of tourists. We’ve also engaged NGOs to also tap Municipality Mr Sgananda Siboza is pay any monies to receive tenders from “These are the big shoes left by the late “In conjunction with the department of into assisting in quelling attacks on tourists saddened by the recently circulated government. Cllr Joshua Nkosi, but I trust that we will economic development and tourism under along our routes. information that involves his name on The District Municipality views such continue working together and that we will the leadership of MEC Pat Ngomane and “Most of the time when tourists drive soliciting bribes to bidders who wish acts as unacceptable and malicious to remain as united as we have been,” said Cllr other stakeholders privately, we have along our routes, there’s no visibility of to be preferred on tenders issued by the the business community who are badly Sekhonde. meetings that are deliberating on issues of tour monitors, that leads them into stopping District Municipality. affected especially during this hard time. Council congratulated the Speaker safety for tourists. and requesting directions from the wrong “As an administrative leader of “The municipality wishes to indicate in her new role. Prior to the new role, “In our department, we have hired safety people. Ehlanzeni District Municipality, Mr that people who attempt to conduct Cllr Sekhonde served as a Member of monitors. The issue of safety monitors really We are going to address that issue and Siboza wishes to distance himself themselves as fraudsters, will be reported the Mayoral Committee responsible needed to be revived and activated because have unified operation by all stakeholders from this defamatory and fraudulent to the police and will face the power of for Community and Social Services. it has to comprise young people who need to involved in tourism. information that seeks to rob citizens the law. The election of the new Speaker was be patrolling towns and giving us reports on “We are surely going to stop the attacks who have interests in their business As a result of the said information, the conducted virtually. It was conducted in a daily basis. on tourists because it’s detrimental to endeavours of their lawful conduct. district municipality has opened a case at line with Section 36, 37 and 39 of the Local “So, we are going to ensure we implement our tourism industry’s growth and our We are assuring the community that Nelspruit Police Station which is currently Ehlanzeni Municipal Manager Sgananda Government: Municipal Structures Act 1998 our turnaround strategy. These safety economy, too,” she concluded. there is no bribe required from any citizen under investigation,” stated Ngomane. Siboza. (Act 117 of 1998). Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth 12 Mpumalanga Mirror COMMUNITY September 2020 September 2020 COMMUNITY Mpumalanga Mirror 13 No more irregular expenditure, Bushbuckridge promises

BUSHBUCKRIDGE - “We’ll pay more money stolen. official is still in the court of law and the regularly. SCM officials will be regularly attention to monitoring all processes of our “We DID NOT invest municipal money Special Investigating Unit is pursuing the trained on proper deviation processes deliverance in order to ensure we’re spot-on in VBS bank like other municipalities case. and procedures be followed as and when in efficiency concerning service delivery who did so. NB: Fruitless and Wasteful “From an accountability and good required and service providers be paid within our municipality. It’s been minor Expenditures refers to expenditure that governance point of view, the within the 30 days period. hitches, but that’s all in the past,” executive was made in vain and could have been municipality, through the “Management is tasked mayor, Sylvia Nxumalo explained to the avoided had reasonable care been taken. Accounting Officer and with the responsibility communities, allaying their fears. Such expenditures include interest, myself as Mayor, took to appoint key critical She was responding to widespread legal or litigation costs. Like the ones I reasonable steps to positions in finance, to complaints from various quarters after explained above. ensure that we prevent have procurement plan the last ordinary Council meeting held “For me financial year 2015\16, irregular, fruitless in place that will help on 6f August 2020, whereby, they were the municipality incurred fruitless and wasteful in the implementation inundated with media enquiries with regard expenditure for amount of over R355 expenditures in the of the IDP and the to Council resolution on the report about the 000 like in 2014\15 the reasons for the near future. budget and summarily consideration and the closing off of irregular fruitless and wasteful expenditure in “Part of the comply with expenditures, unauthorized expenditures, 2015\16 FY are the same in 2014\15 FY. recommendation Municipal Finance wasteful and fruitless expenditures incurred The reasons for the same finding is that from the Management Act and by the municipality. some of the legal cases overlapped to the Disciplinary other related pieces She said: “The Municipal Public Account next FY before they could be finalised. proceedings and of legislations,” Committee (MPAC) has been established by “Again, some of the interest charged the MPAC, was concluded the Widows deserve to be treated with dignity the municipality Council in terms of section by Rand water were billed while the that proper and executive mayor. 79 of the Municipal Structures Act. municipality was in a protected dispute regular Supply Chain The purpose of the committee is to concerning amount charged by Rand Management controls WHITE RIVER – The annual Widowy perform an oversight function on behalf of water. So Rand Water continuously and system be Dialogue was this year held in a different council. charged interest on monthly basis up until improved atmosphere because of the advent of the “The committee has performed its the period Rand Water was taken out of coronavirus – it was thus dubbed: “Virtual investigations with the assistance of a Bushbuckridge. Widowy Dialogue.” service provider and in-house internal “Eskom as well, charged us interest for The dialogue had a cross-section of audit to ensure that Council take an invoices not paid within 30 days. This stakeholders that contributed to the success informed decision. The municipality has is because of the grey area in legislation of the gathering which has gained so much incurred an irregular expenditure for the and policy matters. Eskom gives us 15 popularity ever since it was introduced by financial year 2016/17 and 2017/18 which days to make payment. After the 15th day the MEC for Social Development, Thandi was investigated without payment, Shongwe a few years ago when she was still by the investigator interests are the Speaker of the Provincial Legislature. and submitted Maganagobuswa has charged while Outlining this year’s event, MEC recommendations to had water shortage for National Treasury Shongwe said: “Today we are hosting our MPAC. says that we need Widows Forum, whereby, we’ve invited “The outcome from a while now and those to pay our clients about 150 widows across the province to the investigations water tanks they don’t within 30 days. Bushbuckridge Executive Mayor, Cllr Sylvia Nxumalo. engage them on issues that affect them as outlined that the even come “The widows, especially on how they are coping municipality benefited municipality after they lost their husbands. We also come from the planned incurred up with solutions on how to assist them, projects as planned in the approved IDP. unauthorised expenditure for the 2017/18 going forward. The irregularities noted by the investigator financial year. The expenditure incurred “As the Department of Social emanated from minor breaches of the supply emanated from the employee related Development, we are responsible for chain processes. cost. The posting of the salary expenses inviting all the stakeholders that participated “Let me again explain the accounting to salary votes were finalised after the during our annual event. We give them term; irregular expenditure, which simply special adjustment due to challenges with clarity and direction on many issues on means expenditure that was not incurred mapping the votes in the payroll system gender equality, SARS, Human Rights, DSD in the manner prescribed by legislation, in to the Financial Management system. and other stakeholders involved. other words, somewhere in the process that There was a Management oversight in BUSHBUCKRIDGE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY “We hope that all the challenges they have led to the expenditure, processes did not considering the special budget adjustment today, they will receive clarities today, save up for all the women gathered here and We’re quite aware that widows are a Human Rights Commission, Commission comply with applicable legislations. For before the end of the financial year to say we launched the structure back in provided solutions, thereof. We want to see vulnerable sector. on Gender Equality, South African an example, inaccurately prescribing of 2017/18. 2014 and it chaired by Mrs Norah Fakude- a change in their livelihoods by ensuring “When they lose their husbands, their Revenue Services, Women Lawyers minimum local content on certain bids such “The Municipality overspend vote for PUBLIC NOTICE Nkuna, a renowned businesswoman. She a bright future for their children through in-laws immediately pounce on them by Association, Department of Justice and as supply of uniforms and furniture. employee related cost with an amount will share her experiences on how she coped education and stability within their families. confiscating assets from them. We want DSD Families Unit. “Other instances relate to non-adherence of R45 172 819.05 for the financial year MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC with the loss of her husband and turned out “We also want to see their inheritances them to give them protection from a There was also an opportunity for to minimum number of days bids were 2017/18. to be such a success in business. from their husbands are well protected. As legal perspective on how they can protect current testimonies from two widows who advertised for due to emergency (21days The MPAC did conduct an oversight on “We have victims who have been abused it is, here we’re sharing experiences and we themselves and the wills left behind by their shared virtually with the audience their instead of 30days) hence the irregular all projects implemented and their report CORRECT REFERENCE FOR MUNICIPAL SERVICES PAYMENT during the process of being widowed, they are also taking resolutions on how they can husbands,” she said. experiences which were later deliberated expenditure findings. For the Financial is available on the website. In that report, shared their experiences and we opened move forward. This year’s presentation included the upon. year 2016/17, the municipality incurred there are pictures of bridges built and an irregular expenditure to an amount of streets done. So money was not wasted, R27 million. In 2017/18 financial year, but put in good use. Bushbuckridge Local Municipality urges all customers to use the municipality incurred an irregular “Summarily, the investigation report a correct reference number (Account Number) when making Social Development hosts virtual Boys Assembly expenditure to the value of R15 million. DID NOT reveal any misuse of money In 2018/19 financial year, we incurred an or fraud for that matter, but indicated Jabulane Khumalo a woman. A man has to gain control of his through violence.” She went on to say that her department payments for municipal services through EFT, internet and emotions and have a vision of a violent free MEC Shongwe added that such platforms would develop more programmes like irregular expenditure to a value of R23 that there was value for money in most MBOMBELA - The Department of Social society. Men need to work towards resolving must be mainstreamed in all municipalities the Men and Boys Assembly to be more million. projects if not all. We can still show the cellphone banking. Development hosted a Virtual Men and conflicts by expressing themselves and not in the province. accessible in local municipalities. “The municipality incurred a fruitless projects like paved streets, built small Boys’ Assembly to tackle gender based “Issues of gender-based violence need and wasteful expenditure for the financial bridges, installed water articulations violence against women and children on dialogues like these and we need to have year 2014\15, 2015/16, 2016/17, 2017/18 projects, renovated community hall, August 14 at Casambo Exclusive Guest another one for women. We need to leave no and 2018/19. In the main, the municipality built toilets, installed high mast lights, The municipality is committed to ensure that all payments Lodge. stone unturned, everyone must be involved incurred the fruitless and wasteful connected communities to electricity grid, The virtual assembly was live in and engage other stakeholders that are expenditures from three sources namely: refurbished and newly built boreholes, received from customers are allocated to the correct account all districts as well as the MEC of the building our society. Eskom account (where interest was charged and many more projects like renovated department, Thandi Shongwe, who spoke on “All inputs that were made by the boys are for late payment). traffic centers, built sports facility, and number. gender-based violence and grooming of boys much appreciated. We need to give our boys “Rand Water account for interest charges, extended sewer plants. growing into responsible men in society. support and sustain this programme. We we will remember that the municipality “Our newsletter also on a quarterly Sifiso Mashiloane from Ehlanzeni District, must do follow-ups and make sure that we was involved in a protracted legal wrangle basis, reports and gives feedback on all shared his view with the facilitators: “Not all have them on our database. with Rand Water in which the municipality projects implemented by the municipality. All incorrect references will be rejected by the bank as of the abuse stems from family history, but others In doing so, we need to be involved in could not agree with Rand Water billing Likewise, councillors are also expected are pressured from other ills of society. assisting in their studies, community work statements. While discussing the Rand Water to give feedback to their respective 1st of September 2020. For information please contact the Some use violence to gain control in their and their families well-being. billing, interest was charged by Rand Water. constituencies. households, which is not the way to do “We will know when they have persona “Litigation and legal costs, all monies As the Executive Mayor, together with Income Manager, Ms Thabisile Ndhlovu on 072-300-2182. things. My advice to young men is to refrain challenges and be open to the Men’s Forum. charged against the municipality after legal my mayoral committee, we also continue from abuse because femicide numbers are They must be able to cough out whatever cases were finalised. giving feedback to the community of high as it is.” issues they have with other men. Some companies took the municipality to Bushbuckridge through mayoral imbizo’s. In Gert Sibande District, Nkosinathi This way they will be able to interact with court for various reasons or matters. Some “From the Auditor General and Special ISSUED BY: BLM COMMUNICATIONS UNIT Clement Sithole says a good man shows other young men who will groom them. cases the municipality won them, but others Investigating Unit reports, officials of a positive attitude towards others and, in They need people who they can relate, were lost, hence we have to settle such the municipality were taken through PUBLIC NOTICE: 03 /08/2020/017 particular, women. to simplify issues and overcome them,” cases at a costs. Let me clarify some of the disciplinary hearing in the 2016/17 “A good man does not raise his hand on concluded Shongwe. jargons, so that we are clear that there is no financial year. One case involving one Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth 14 Mpumalanga Mirror ADVERTISEMENT September 2020 September 2020 COMMUNITY Mpumalanga Mirror 15 DARDLEA MEC is well and back at work

MEC Shongwe has appealed to communities not to ostracise people who are affected by the virus, and he encourages those who are positive to declare and not infect others

ERMELO – High profile politician, Vusi Shongwe has played open cards with his recent hospitalisation for Covid-19 related symptoms. Shongwe, who is the MEC for agriculture, rural development, land and environmental affairs (DARDLEA) had his office confirm that he was admitted at Ermelo Medi Clinic where he was treated for Covid 19 symptoms. According to a statement issued by departmental spokesperson, Zanele Shabangu: “MEC Shongwe has since been discharged after he responded well to medical treatment. MEC Shongwe was admitted after coming into possible contact with an infected person while he was carrying out his government duties. “At that point, there were fears that MEC Shongwe might have also been infected. He was then referred to Ermelo Medi Clinic where he was kept under observation and strict treatment. “MEC Shongwe has appealed to communities not to ostracise people who are affected by the virus, and he encourages workers who work under pressure to which will assist to boost the immune Shongwe is back at work with immediate those who are positive to declare and not contain various medical situations and system,” he said. effect. infect others. lately the Covid 19 virus. Shongwe has persuaded society to “We must work because if we do not, He commended medical staff who daily He commended all frontline workers, invest on immune boosters. there would be no food and people will have to risk their lives to treat and counsel doctors, nurses, police and traffic officers. The Department of Agriculture, starve,” he said. patients who visit medical centres for “I am back at home and I am in good Rural Development, Land and He reiterated the importance of social treatment and tests,” she stated. health, ready to serve the people of Environment Affairs has been declared distance, wearing a mask and washing Shongwe spoke highly of frontline Mpumalanga. I am taking medication an essential service, and as such, MEC hands. Mpumalanga residents to receive more Glencore free WiFi EMALAHLENI - Access to information makes it easier for people to access much has become even more integral as the needed information and school content on country faces the devastating effects of the internet. the COVID-19 pandemic and it is on this “With the COVID-19 pandemic, it has backdrop that Glencore is connecting become even more important for us to communities by increasing their free WiFi offer support through as many initiatives as to 1GB of data per person, per day; from possible. 500MB. So far, this has included us stepping in Glencore Free WiFi allows up to 250 users to assist with critical needs such as health at each hotspot to seamlessly connect to the care, education, access to water and food internet and gain access to information, and and we have also seen the need to assist educational content. communities with access to information COVID-19 has presented a massive which is where this WiFi initiative comes challenge to all South Africans, but this in,” explained Glencore Coal’s Head of challenge is even greater in communities Regulatory and Community Affairs, Noel where access to basic needs is scarce and Pillay. limited. “We truly believe these hotspots With e-Learning as one of the few will make a substantial difference viable solutions to students who in these communities and cannot go to school, Glencore’s especially to those who need to WiFi initiative download or live stream their learning material through the internet,” he said. Glencore currently has 19 free WiFi hotspots across three local municipalities. To ensure that this initiative reaches as many community members as possible, an additional 10 hotspots will be added in areas where there is high Thubelihle. to Glencore for continually working with foot traffic making it “These areas were specifically targeted us as the community and engaging us in easier for the people because they have limited access to free good faith. in those areas to internet and we know what a great challenge We truly value Glencore’s constant access the free this poses to community members. support and it is our wish to see their social Wi-Fi. In addition, we have tried to spread the investment in our community continue to These additional reach evenly across the greater Emalahleni grow and help serve our needs. Keep up hotspots will go to area. the good work Glencore.” he added. communities in We are positive that this will go a long 4 900 people currently make use of Kwa-Guqa, way to relieve some of the strain of high the Glencore free WiFi daily with users Lynnville, data costs for these communities,” said consuming more than 7000GB of data Ackerville, Glencore Coal’s Acting Community monthly. Klarinet, Manager, Ian Troskie. These numbers are sure to increase Clewer, Nimrod Gaskin, a community member, as Glencore is currently working on Rietspruit, enthusiastically welcomed Glencore’s free expanding with 10 additional hotspots in Kriel and WiFi initiative saying, “We are so thankful the Greater eMalahleni area.

Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth Mpumalanga Mirror - Reflecting the truth MIRROR

SPORTSeptember 2020 SPORTS AWARDS ON THE CARDS

Yoliswa Hlatshwayo

Sportsmen and women in the province stand a chance to win at the Mpumalanga Sports Awards (MPSA) on 27 September. The nominees for the annual event, set to take place on September 27 virtually, were announced last month. This is after public and sports federations submitted nominations of their candidates in various categories. The Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation’s Communications Manager, Sibongile Nkosi, said the response was way better than last year with all districts well represented. “We set the ball rolling with a call for nominations from both the federations and the public. The nominations were done via email, WhatsApp and on the Mpumalanga Sports Awards website. The next step was shortlisting of finalists based on the information and portfolio of evidence that was submitted during the nomination process,” said Nkosi. MEC for Culture, Sport and Recreation Lindiwe Ntshalintshali with 2019 sportsman of the year winner, Banele Mhango and South Each nomination was required to be African Football Association President, Danny Jordaan. accompanied by a portfolio of evidence. After that process, judges shortlisted School Team of the Year: Sportswoman of the Year with der Berg, Sabelo Masango, Njabulo finalists. Morgenzon Landbou Akademie, Disabilities Cumbane and Thulani Mthombeni Voting codes were allocated to all the Vezulwazi Secondary and Lehlogonolo Molapo, Faith Malope and nominees in the categories that will be voted Motoaneng Primary School Prudence Kwanyama People’s Choice (Sports Star of the for by the public, which are: sports journalist Year) of the year, sports presenter of the year, Developing School of the Year Sportsman of the Year Rika Rossouw (MPSA2014), sports fan of the year, people’s choice, sports Morgenzon Landbou Akademie, Lucky Sekome, Jan Degenaar and Nico Keo Mokolopo (MPSA2015), star of the year, sports photographer of the Mbangwane Primary School and van den Berg Geraldine Janssens (MPSA2016), year and sports radio programme of the year. Khula Secondary Lehlogonolo Molapo (MPSA2017, The voting line is 41539 and SMS costs Sportsman of the Year with Faith Malope (MPSA2018), R2. The second round of the adjudication Newcomer of the Year Disabilities Prudence Kwanyama (MPSA2019), process will take place after the closing date Lindokuhle Gamede, Sabelo Sabelo Masango, Njabulo Cumbane and Lucky Sekome (MPSA2020), of the public voting on September 20. Masango and Christo Nagel Thulani Mthombeni Jan Degenaar (MPSA2021), The judges will count the votes, which Nico van der Berg (MPSA2022), will be verified by an independent auditor. Sports Fan of the Year Volunteer of the Year Sabelo Masango (MPSA2023), Winners will be announced on September Thabo “Manyovu” Mnisi Xolani Gumede, Andiswa “Bono” Sifunda Njabulo Cumbane (MPSA2024) and 27 on SuperSport. (MPSA2009), Mandla “Mgijimi” and Ambros Sikutu Thulani Mthombeni (MPSA2025) Sindane (MPSA2010), Innocent Nominees: Mawelela (MPSA2011), Elvis Team of the Year Sports Photographer of the Year Mthembu (MPSA2012) and Coal City, Embalenhle Rugby Club and Manqoba Soko (MPSA2026), Sport Journalist of the Year Masoka “Macicabovu” Fundama TS Sporting Jabulane Khumalo (MPSA2027) and Sipho Mlotha (MPSA2001), (MPSA2013) Mbekezeli Mbuli (MPSA2028) Nhlanhla Mthembu (MPSA2002), Coach of the Year Zita Goldswain (MPSA2003), Sports Administrator of the Year Dumisani Tshabalala, Nakedi Serumela Sports Radio Programme of the Year Mfanaukhona Shongwe (MPSA2004) Melony Degenaar, Sibusiso Mhlanga and Muzi Makhatini VOC FM Sports (MPSA2029), and Busisiwe Mokwena (MPSA2005) and Aggrey Mokoena Emalahleni FM Sports Programme Sports Star of the Year (MPSA2030) and Ligwalagwala FM Sports Presenter of the Year Sportswoman of the Year Rika Rossouw, Keo Mokolopo, Geraldine Drive Sports Centre (MPSA2031). Thembelihle Dladla (MPSA2006), Rika Rossouw, Keo Mokolopo and Janssens, Lehlogonolo Molapo, Faith Michael Shabane (MPSA2007) and Geraldine Janssens Malope, Prudence Kwanyama, Lucky Indigenous Games Team of the Year Joseph Tsima (MPSA2008) Sekome, Jan Degenaar, Nico van Hungry Lions and Pholophoti Kgati Team Rough Terrain

Jabulane Khumalo Down The Line, this is a re-introduction Players have come out and accused the of awards. with a refreshed approach, with a provincial organisation of racism with the white players It all comes down to awarding the I’m pleased to be back on the back perspective, taking sports to another level as implicated in some incidents. best and any athlete who brings their page after being away for about two well as the name change of the column. We still have a long journey ahead of us A-game constantly. I wish all finalists months since I’ve left Mpumalanga News, The coronavirus pandemic wreaked and competitiveness has no colour. the best and may the best win! a regional newspaper in the Lowveld. havoc and things have slowly gotten back The racial tensions we have as a country Remember, not winning should not For those who are not familiar with me, to the swing of things. Football leagues are are also manifesting themselves in sports. invalidate how good one is. I’d like to introduce this sports column finalising the season. We need to do better and we can do it. It simply means there’s time to reflect to you where we will analyse local and Rugby has also had their run in their Meanwhile, the annual Mpumalanga and improve to have a better chance of national sports. league. However, we’ve seen transformation Sports Awards are back and finalists are winning the following year. To those who used to read Right issues in cricket. keen on knowing their fate in this year’s leg Stay positive.