Emalahleni Local Municipality Awards Contractor for New Container Mall in Cacadu

    Story: Linda Magazi

    In a significant development for the community of Cacadu, the Municipality of Emalahleni has officially awarded a contract for the construction of a new Container Mall at Zulu Square.

    This decision follows the controversial demolition of informal shacks in the area last year, which sparked concern among local business owners about their treatment by the municipality.

    The Emalahleni Municipality clarified that the demolition was aimed at revitalizing the town, which has struggled with issues related to high crime and pollution that deter potential investors.

    Officials emphasized that this project is not about dismantling businesses but rather creating a cleaner, safer environment for commerce.

    Local residents were actively involved in the decision-making process, attending meetings where they could pose questions and express their views.

    The municipality anticipates that the new Container Mall will generate job opportunities and support local entrepreneurs, particularly those currently operating in the bus rank and around town.

    Importantly, the municipality is committed to ensuring that the benefits of this initiative remain within the community, aiming to bolster the local economy rather than favoring outside interests.

    As construction plans move forward, a meeting with affected tenants is scheduled to discuss their temporary relocation and provide updates on the project timeline.

    The community is encouraged to stay engaged as this initiative unfolds, promising a new chapter for Cacadu’s economic landscape.

    Learners at W.Z Tofile Primary School received school shoes from former students of the school

    Story: Linda Magazi 

    Former W.Z Tofile Primary School students from Manzimahle in Sakhisizwe Local Municipality, donated school shoes, shoe polish, toothbrushes and toothpastes to twenty learners at the school.

    Former learner Mr. Bulelani Zantsi who is a principal at Mzimvubu S.S.S in Cofimvaba, handed over the donation on behalf of his former school mates with the headman of Manzimahle who expressed his hope for other schools schools to benefit from such initiatives.

    Zantsi said they want those who built this school to see the legacy they have left behind.

    W.Z Tofile School principal Mr. Zinja said they are happy as the school as most of their learners come from underprivileged households.

    Community of Indwe under Emalahleni Local Municipality is still devastated about the brutal killing of a young woman Anita Gigaba

    Story: Linda Magazi 

    The community of Indwe under Emalahleni Local Municipality is still devastated about the brutal killing of a young woman Anita Gigaba who was burnt and brutally killed recently.

    Mandla Cetywayo, member of Siyazidla NgekhayaLethu Organisation said as the community they are unhappy about the killings of people and lack of knowledge about the progress in investigation on ongoing cases.

    The community is pleading for justice.

    In remembrance of all the victims the community is planning a candlelight ceremony.

    The community is pleading for justice for all the victims who were brutally murdered.

    Maqhina Family Disappointed by Court Case Postponement

    Story: Linda Magazi

    The Maqhina family is expressing their frustration after the murder case of Khayalethu Maqhina has been postponed once again.

    The case, which has been ongoing since the tragic killing in April 2020, faced a setback due to the absence of a required report from social workers, which is necessary for the court’s proceedings.

    In August, three suspects were found guilty, but the sentencing, initially scheduled for October, has now been delayed. The presiding judge voiced dissatisfaction with the continual delays, highlighting the emotional and financial strain this ongoing case is placing on the family and the community.

    Mr. Luvuyo Mooi, speaking on behalf of the Maqhina family, stated that while the postponement is disheartening, they remain resolute and will return to court on November 11 to hear the sentencing.

    Adding to the family’s support, Emalahleni Municipality Mayor Cllr Nontombizanele Koni and members of the Women’s Caucus were present in court, demonstrating solidarity with the Maqhina family and other affected families during this challenging time.

    Community members are encouraged to stay informed as this case progresses, as it highlights the ongoing struggle for justice within the community.