Dolphin Coast Mail

27/07/2025

R1 million boost to build local soccer talent
Local football development in KwaZulu-Natal has received a major boost with a R1 million sponsorship deal signed between the SAFA eThekwini Region, the George Ramalu Trust, and Azelis SA — a leader in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients industry.
The George Ramalu Trust and Azelis SA, in pursuit of making a difference in sport and youth development, have extended their reach to provincial levels by becoming key sponsors of the George Ramalu Azelis Champions Cup.
The tournament is set to kick off with the Round of 32 on the weekend of 9 and 10 August, continuing over four consecutive weekends, with the finals scheduled for 31 August. The details of the fixtures will be released in due course.
George Ramalu was a revered football administrator, known for his tireless work in youth development during his tenure at SAFA National level in the era of Southern Natal.
His dedication to nurturing grassroots talent and promoting both men’s and women’s football continues through the Trust, which carries forward his legacy.
At a media launch at the Balmoral Hotel last Friday, SAFA eThekwini president Mazwi Mkhize expressed appreciation for the three-year sponsorship commitment from the George Ramalu Trust and Azelis SA.
“This is a sponsorship for both men and women. It is a sponsorship that is named after George Ramalu, a well-known football administrator during the days of Southern Natal,” said Mkhize.
“We are very pleased about this partnership because football, as you know, is sometimes treated as a stepchild. It is very difficult to get sponsorship in football, unlike other sporting codes that have no shortage of sponsorships.”
Mkhize added that the tournament is not just about winning, but about discovering and nurturing future stars. “We hope those who will be participating will make use of this opportunity… As long as we get one or two or three players in our national teams, we will be happy,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of uplifting communities through sport, particularly in under-resourced areas of the province.
Players and officials from local SAFA affiliates welcomed the initiative, saying it would provide much-needed exposure, competition, and development opportunities for junior and senior footballers, across both men’s and women’s divisions.
Boston Moonsamy, managing director of Azelis SA and a trustee of the George Ramalu Trust, was especially complimentary of the region’s tireless efforts to promote and grow the game in KwaZulu-Natal.
“We are indeed excited to be putting KZN’s talent on the map in South African football,” he said. “This is not just a cheque, it’s a long-term commitment to talent development and honouring a legacy that stood for uplifting others.”
He confirmed the partnership would run for an initial three years, but added there is already intent to continue well beyond that, based on the positive collaboration seen so far.
Trevor Moonsamy, also representing the trust and Azelis SA, said it was a privilege and an honour to carry forward the legacy of the late George Ramalu — a beloved football administrator who gave selflessly at national level to promote and develop both women’s and men’s football.
“Mr Ramalu believed in rising by lifting others — a motto that continues to guide our involvement today,” he said. “The tournament is more than just football. It’s about development, honouring legacy, and creating pathways. It’s eThekwini’s time to shine, to prove we have the calibre to represent the province and the country."
SAFA eThekwini general secretary Zama Buthelezi expressed confidence that the competition would be fair, professionally run, and a source of immense pride for KZN. “We are laying the groundwork for excellence. We believe the results of this initiative will speak for themselves."
Communities across the province are urged to come out and support their teams.

27/07/2025

Communities came together on Mandela Day to uplift those in need. Municipalities including KwaDukuza, Mandeni, Maphumulo, Ndwedwe and the iLembe District, alongside organisations such as the DA in iLembe, joined forces with businesses, schools, and NGOs to roll out clean-up campaigns, food donations, visits to the elderly, school and crèche renovations, and volunteering at local charities.

26/07/2025

Father arrested for brutal murder of young daughter
In two major incidents this past week, police have arrested a father for the brutal murder of his young daughter in Ndwedwe and thwarted a deadly ambush targeting a SAPS officer in Maphumulo.
In the first case, a 34-year-old man was arrested for allegedly assaulting his 8-year-old daughter to death in Wosiyane, Ndwedwe, last Thursday,
According to police, the father had been teaching the child the alphabet when he began beating her repeatedly with a belt. “The child sustained multiple injuries and bruises across her body. She tragically succumbed to her injuries and was declared deceased by paramedics at the scene.”
Ndwedwe police arrested the father and he has since been charged with murder. He is expected to appear in court soon.
In a separate incident, two suspects were shot dead during a gun battle with police in Maphumulo on Friday night.
Officers had been acting on intelligence regarding an alleged plot to assassinate a police officer, leading them to a homestead near the R74 highway.
“Upon approaching the premises, the suspects reportedly opened fire on the police, prompting a shootout in which both gunmen were killed. A firearm was recovered at the scene,” a police spokesperson said.
According to police, the two criminals were already wanted in connection with a previous attempted murder case involving a police officer.
Fortunately, no officers were injured during the confrontation.
Police officials have commended the swift response of law enforcement teams in both matters, emphasising their continued efforts to ensure the safety of vulnerable community members and their own officers.

26/07/2025

KwaDukuza mayor submitted resignation: ANC clears up confusion
Claims that KwaDukuza mayor Ali Ngidi had defied the ANC’s directive to step down have been dismissed as inaccurate, with confirmation that he has submitted his resignation to the party’s provincial leadership.
Contrary to widespread reports suggesting that Ngidi was refusing to vacate his office, sources close to the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal confirmed that Ngidi had formally handed in his resignation to the provincial task team (PTT).
“Ngidi has resigned. The narrative that he’s resisting the ANC’s instruction is simply not true,” a senior ANC source told the Mail.
On July 2, Ngidi and his deputy, Njabulo Cele, were fired by the PTT after a damning internal report revealed unauthorised spending on luxury vehicles and other benefits.
The ANC had instructed both to submit their resignations to the KwaDukuza council Speaker, Dolly Govender, within two weeks.
While Cele’s resignation was formally acknowledged, confusion arose when Govender was quoted in media reports saying last week that she had not yet received Ngidi’s resignation letter. The delay has since been clarified as a procedural matter between Ngidi and the PTT.
It is understood the ANC is finalising the names of new candidates and is likely to elect a new mayor and deputy in the coming week.
“There’s a push to have the new mayor and deputy mayor sworn in before the end of July,” said an ANC source. However, there is no clarity on when Ngidi and Cele will repay money the ANC ordered them to return.

26/07/2025

Public urged to join mass Ganesha prayer
A SPIRITUALLY enriching journey awaits as devotees gear up to celebrate Ganesha Vaibhavam – The Glory of Ganesha on 9 August.
The celebration, hosted by the Sayuri Padayachee Charitable Foundation, in partnership with the Pretoria Bhajanai Mandram (Shree Ayyappaa Kshetram), promises a deeply symbolic and uplifting day of rituals dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The event will take place on Saturday, 9 August at Trubel Primary School in Tongaat, starting at 4pm.
Organisers describe the programme as an opportunity to embrace the rich symbolism and wisdom embedded in Sanatana Dharma.
“All pooja or ritual in Santana Dharma is filled with great symbology and knowledge,” the organisers shared. “It brings about an opportunity to direct our energy in a positive and uplifting manner.”
The day’s worship will begin with the 108 Havan Vidhi, a sacred fire ceremony where devotees will collectively perform 108 Havans. This will be followed by Abishegam, a ritual bathing of the deity, offering devotees the chance to witness the sacred abishegam of Shri Ganesha.
The celebration continues with a Spiritual Discourse, encouraging participants to explore the deeper meanings behind rituals and ask questions that enhance understanding and connection. Devotees will then experience the divine form of Ganesha through Alangaaram, where the murthi (deity) will be adorned in resplendent beauty.
During Aarathi, worshippers will perform the light-offering ritual and absorb the divine energy it creates. The procession known as Pradakshinam will follow, where the murthi of Shri Ganesha is carried in a joyful circle, accompanied by singing, dance, and shared expressions of Aananda shanthi (blissful peace).
The event concludes with Visarjanam, a symbolic farewell to Lord Ganesha, expressing gratitude for His presence during the pooja and eagerly anticipating His return the following year.
In the weeks leading up to the event, devotees are encouraged to prepare their minds and learn more about the rituals to be performed. Organisers invite all participants to register online and engage in the collective journey of learning and devotion.
To register for participation, visit: https://launch.webdo.co.za/ganesha-vaibhavam-2025/.
For details, contact Suren on 081 388 5017, Reggie on 083 765 8939, send an email to [email protected] or WhatsApp 076 430 6293.

26/07/2025

KDM manager on attempted murder rap - wife in coma
A SENIOR KwaDukuza Municipality official and ANC leader, Mlekeleli Gcabashe, has been arrested and charged with attempted murder after he allegedly brutally attacked his wife, Sinenhlanhla Gcabashe, with a hammer in a shocking act of gender-based violence.
The violent assault, which unfolded in public view, provoked immediate outrage as community members reportedly turned on Gcabashe and assaulted him before police arrived.
The attack, which occurred in broad daylight last Tuesday at the couple’s residence in Verona Flats on King Shaka Street, left the victim in a coma with multiple head injuries. She remains hospitalised in a critical condition.
According to police, officers were alerted to a violent domestic dispute.
When they arrived, they were informed that the victim had already been rushed to the hospital.
“At the facility, police identified the unconscious woman and located eyewitnesses, who alleged that Gcabashe struck his wife multiple times with a hammer. Bystanders reportedly intervened and assaulted Gcabashe before police arrived and placed him under guard. He is being detained on charges of attempted murder,” KwaDukuza police said.
Mlekeleli Gcabashe, a manager in the municipality’s Disaster Management Department, appeared in the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court on Friday with a bandaged hand.
He claimed through his attorney that he, too, required medical attention after being attacked by angry flat residents. Gcabashe has been remanded in custody and is due to appear again on Friday.
The alleged attack has sparked outrage from political parties and civil society.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in KwaZulu-Natal condemned the “vicious attack” on Sinethemba.
The EFF demanded Gcabashe’s immediate suspension from all municipal and ANC duties.
“The EFF condemns the incident in all its forms. We further demand that on top of the charges he has been charged with, both the ANC and KwaDukuza Local Municipality suspend him with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the investigation.
“Our women and children continue to die at the hands of ruthless men every day. The EFF will not remain silent while women, children and vulnerable communities continue to suffer the scourge of GBV.”
The African National Congress General Gizenga Mpanza Region said it “views the allegations in a very serious light, particularly as they arise during an ongoing and urgent national effort to combat gender-based violence and femicide”.
Regional coordinator Nkosenhle Mngadi said should the allegations be confirmed or where sufficient prima facie evidence exists, the ANC will not hesitate to act decisively in accordance with Rule 25 of the ANC Constitution, which specifies disciplinary action against members who face serious charges or bring the organisation into disrepute. �The ANC stressed that any act or alleged act of violence against women is “unacceptable and inconsistent” with the party’s values and disciplinary code.
“The ANC holds firm the principle that all its members, regardless of position or standing, must always uphold the values of dignity, respect and protection of human rights — especially the rights of women and children,” said Mngadi.
The ANC Regional Task Team is expected to receive a preliminary report and engage with its KwaDukuza sub-structure to ensure due process.
“We reaffirm our commitment to a society free of violence and to being part of the broader national effort to end the scourge of gender-based violence. The ANC, as leader of society, continues to work with law enforcement and civil society in protecting the rights and dignity of all South Africans. We further call for calm, restraint and respect for legal processes as the matter unfolds.”
KwaDukuza Municipality confirmed that both individuals involved are municipal employees, but maintained the matter occurred outside municipal premises and outside working hours.
“This matter is under police investigation. At the moment, KwaDukuza Municipality doesn’t have the facts surrounding the incident,” said KDM spokesperson Sifiso Zulu. “The matter is cause for serious concern. However, police must be allowed to investigate and bring it to a court of law.”
Police have confirmed that the suspect is under tight surveillance and investigations are ongoing.
Anyone with information regarding the case or seeking support related to gender-based violence can contact the SAPS GBV Command Centre at 0800 428 428.

26/07/2025

Dolphin Coast Mail 25 July 2025

20/07/2025

20/07/2025

Winter Fair 2025 raises record R2 million for KwaDukuza Welfare

The 2025 KwaDukuza Child Welfare Society’s Winter Fair has been hailed a resounding success, raising a record-breaking R2 million to fund vital services for vulnerable children and families across the region. Thousands packed the Winter Fair grounds, soaking up the festive atmosphere filled with colourful stalls, sizzling street food, and laughter echoing from the bustling fun fair rides.
Families enjoyed live performances, thrilling games, children’s activities, and a vibrant mix of local shopping and entertainment that brought the community together in celebration.
“Thank you for your support to our fundraising event. Our annual Winter Fair 2025. I am proud to announce the realisation of our target. We raised R2 000 000,” said Trishen Govender, Treasurer of the Society.
The funds raised will directly benefit KwaDukuza Child Welfare, an organisation that has served the community for decades by providing critical support such as early childhood development programmes, family counselling, nutritional support, foster care services, and child protection initiatives.
In a heartfelt message, Sooraj Maharaj, Winter Fair Director, reflected on the significance of the event, “Our success lies in the hearts we touch and the people we serve every moment of our endeavour to make a better life for our most vulnerable, the future of our country... The success of Winter Fair 2025 goes out to the entire team… There is no task too monumental... The SUCCESS … was bringing everyone together under one banner and that is ‘CHILD WELFARE.’”
Leadership staff also acknowledged the role played by the Society’s president, Sandeep Oudhram, whose guidance was described as truly transformational.
Patron Kiren Gokar added, “Under your guidance, Mr President, this event has become more than just a fundraiser — it became a celebration of community, hope, and the power of collective action.”
Jyothika Bangtu, a past beneficiary of the KwaDukuza Child Welfare system and former board member, offered her heartfelt congratulations, “This accomplishment is a reflection of your tireless dedication, strategic leadership, and shared passion for the welfare of our children… You are not only raising funds — you are raising hope, building futures, and restoring dignity for the children who need it most.”
The massive turnout reflects the strong community support for KwaDukuza Child Welfare’s mission to protect and empower children in need. Organisers are already looking ahead to next year’s event as they continue to provide nurturing environments, early interventions, and life-changing care for youth and families across iLembe District.