Khwezi Times News

Khwezi Times News KTN is an independent daily news platform that covers community news in sport, health, lifestyle, education, entertainment, and business

π˜πŽπ”π“π‡ π”ππˆπ“π„πƒ π“π‡π‘πŽπ”π†π‡ π’ππŽπ‘π“ 𝐀𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 πŽπ… π˜πŽπ”π“π‡ πƒπ€π˜ π‚π„π‹π„ππ‘π€π“πˆπŽπHundreds of young people from across various communities came...
17/06/2026

π˜πŽπ”π“π‡ π”ππˆπ“π„πƒ π“π‡π‘πŽπ”π†π‡ π’ππŽπ‘π“ 𝐀𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 πŽπ… π˜πŽπ”π“π‡ πƒπ€π˜ π‚π„π‹π„ππ‘π€π“πˆπŽπ

Hundreds of young people from across various communities came together at Boland Park Stadium on Youth Day for an action-packed Sports Day aimed at celebrating youth empowerment, talent, and social cohesion.The annual event was hosted by local non-profit organisation Projects with Bikers in partnership with the Breede Valley Municipality (BVM) and the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM). Designed as a commemorative Youth Day initiative, the programme provided a vibrant platform for young people from diverse communities to participate in various sporting activities and showcase their athletic abilities.

Throughout the day, the stadium buzzed with excitement as participants competed in a range of sporting codes, demonstrating teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. The event not only celebrated the spirit of Youth Day but also highlighted the important role that sport plays in promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering unity, and creating opportunities for youth development. The success of the event underscored the value of partnerships between government institutions, community organisations, and civil society in creating opportunities that empower and uplift young people.

The day concluded with an exciting prize-giving ceremony, recognising outstanding performances across the various sporting codes. In the Junior Rugby division, AP United secured third place, Lucky Stars finished second, while Seven Legends emerged as overall champions. In the Senior Rugby division, A-Pack claimed third place, Blitzes took second place, and Barbarians were crowned champions. The Senior Netball competition saw Spoilers finish in third place, Injured Not Out secure second place, and Blitz Rokies claim the top honour. In the Junior Netball division, Avian Stars finished third, Simmies took second place, while View Angels were crowned overall winners.

In Junior Soccer, Hartvig Fire secured third place, Nerina Strikers finished as runners-up, and Skeema United lifted the championship trophy. The Senior Soccer division saw DS United claim third place, Rainbow Nation finish second, and Double-Foot Shooters emerge as champions. The Pool competition was fiercely contested, with Rocksolids finishing fourth, TM Blue taking third place, Nothing_Nice 1 securing second place, and TM Red being crowned overall winners. In the Dominoes competition, Ward 6 claimed third place, Tuindorp finished second, while Domi_K Avian Park walked away as overall champions.

πŽπŠπ€ππƒπ€ππ€ π˜πŽπ”π“π‡ πƒπ€π˜ π‚π„π‹π„ππ‘π€π“πˆπŽπ 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓 π’π“πˆπ‹π‹ 𝐎𝐍 π“πŽπŒπŽπ‘π‘πŽπ–The Okandaba Youth Development Agency (OYDA) is pleased to announc...
15/06/2026

πŽπŠπ€ππƒπ€ππ€ π˜πŽπ”π“π‡ πƒπ€π˜ π‚π„π‹π„ππ‘π€π“πˆπŽπ 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓 π’π“πˆπ‹π‹ 𝐎𝐍 π“πŽπŒπŽπ‘π‘πŽπ–

The Okandaba Youth Development Agency (OYDA) is pleased to announce another exciting Youth Day celebration aimed at promoting youth development, healthy lifestyles, and community engagement through sport and empowerment. The event will take the form of an inter-school sports tournament and will provide local schools with an opportunity to compete for top honours, exciting prizes, and community bragging rights.

The tournament will take place on 16 June at the Zwelethemba Stadium, commencing at 08h00 and concluding at 17h00. Admission fees are set at R10 for children, while vehicle entry will be charged at R30. The programme will feature a variety of sporting activities, including soccer and netball matches, as well as live entertainment, information exhibitions, and empowerment talks facilitated by various stakeholders and community partners.

OYDA extends an open invitation to learners, parents, educators, and community members to attend and support this important Youth Day initiative. The event promises to be a day of sport, inspiration, learning, and celebration of the potential and achievements of young people. For further information, members of the public are encouraged to contact the event organiser, Anga Tyira at 078 051 4145

ππ„πŽππ‹π„ 𝐇𝐀𝐕𝐄 π’ππŽπŠπ„π: π’π„ππ“π„πŒππ„π‘-π“π€ππˆ π„πŒπ„π‘π†π„π’ π•πˆπ‚π“πŽπ‘πˆπŽπ”π’ 𝐈𝐍 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 π‚π€ππƒπˆπƒπ€π“π„ π•πŽπ“π„It is now official: Namhla September-Tani ha...
15/06/2026

ππ„πŽππ‹π„ 𝐇𝐀𝐕𝐄 π’ππŽπŠπ„π: π’π„ππ“π„πŒππ„π‘-π“π€ππˆ π„πŒπ„π‘π†π„π’ π•πˆπ‚π“πŽπ‘πˆπŽπ”π’ 𝐈𝐍 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 π‚π€ππƒπˆπƒπ€π“π„ π•πŽπ“π„

It is now official: Namhla September-Tani has emerged as the people's choice after securing the highest number of votes during a well-attended Ward 18 public meeting held last night to select a ward councillor candidate ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE). Hosted at the Dutch Hall, the meeting drew residents in large numbers, reflecting the community's keen interest in shaping the future leadership of the ward.

The gathering formed part of a democratic process that afforded residents an opportunity to nominate and vote for their preferred candidate to represent the ward in the forthcoming elections. When the votes were counted, September-Tani emerged victorious with 69 votes, narrowly edging out Reverend Mthetheleli "Mankenke" Mkiwane, who secured 67 votes. The current Ward Councillor received 54 votes, while ANC Women’s League Liziwe Mdyada garnered 24 votes.

The outcome marks a historic moment for Ward 18. For the first time in the ward's history, a female politician has been selected to lead the ANC's electoral campaign and potentially become the ward's next councillor. September-Tani's victory has been widely welcomed by supporters, many of whom view her as a capable leader with a strong understanding of community challenges and development priorities. Her election as the preferred candidate also reflects growing support for women's leadership in local government and grassroots politics.

Shortly after her victory was announced, September-Tani issued a public message on social media thanking Ward 18 residents for entrusting her with the opportunity to represent them. Reflecting on her victory, she said the outcome was not a personal triumph but a victory for the entire community. β€œThis victory belongs to Ward 18 as a whole. I am certain when I say that this was God's choice. We are waiting to see how He wants to use me,” she said. Her message was met with widespread congratulations from residents and supporters who celebrated the historic milestone.

Should the ANC retain the ward in the November elections, she will become the first woman to serve as Ward Councillor for Ward 18, placing her at the forefront of development initiatives and community representation in the municipal council. With the nomination process now concluded, attention turns to the election campaign ahead, as residents prepare to decide who will ultimately lead Ward 18 into its next chapter.

𝐀𝐍𝐂 π–πŽπŒπ„πβ€™π’ 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐄 ππŽπŒπˆππ„π„ π‘π„π€πƒπ˜ π…πŽπ‘ 𝐀𝐍 πŽπππŽπ‘π“π”ππˆπ“π˜ π“πŽ 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 πŸπŸ–With only hours remaining before the ANC in Ward 18 r...
14/06/2026

𝐀𝐍𝐂 π–πŽπŒπ„πβ€™π’ 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐄 ππŽπŒπˆππ„π„ π‘π„π€πƒπ˜ π…πŽπ‘ 𝐀𝐍 πŽπππŽπ‘π“π”ππˆπ“π˜ π“πŽ 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 πŸπŸ–

With only hours remaining before the ANC in Ward 18 reconvenes its crucial public meeting to select a ward councillor candidate, community activist Liziwe Mdyada has emerged as a strong contender after being officially nominated and endorsed by the ANC Women’s League in the ward. Mdyada’s nomination has injected renewed excitement into the race, as party members prepare to determine who will carry the ANC banner in the upcoming local government elections.

Speaking on her nomination, Mdyada revealed that this is not her first attempt at securing the ward candidacy. She was first approached to stand for the position in 2021, where she contested the nomination process and finished as the second runner-up. On that occasion, the contest was won by the current Ward Councillor, Mabhuti Ricardo β€œDrago” Yayi. Now, five years later, Mdyada finds herself back in the spotlight, armed with the support of the ANC Women’s League and the backing of supporters who believe she can provide dynamic leadership and strengthen community development initiatives across Ward 18.

As an ANC member in good standing, she believes her candidacy came at the right time, having served as a Ward Committee member for a full term. Political observers say the outcome of the reconvened public meeting could significantly shape the future leadership direction of the ward, with residents expected to closely scrutinise the credentials, experience, and vision of each nominee. β€œThe only reason for me to agree to this endorsement is the desired ambition to bring service delivery to our people, and also to ensure that residents in this ward are kept frequently informed and updated on government information” she explained.

Over the years, Mdyada has built an extensive track record of community involvement and leadership. She currently serves as the Chairperson of the ANC branch in Ward 18 and has also played a key role as a member of the Project Liaison Committee, providing guidance and leadership on various community development initiatives within the ward. Highlighting her qualifications and experience, Mdyada said: β€œI have a Grade 12 certificate, a certificate in Social Auxiliary Work, and I have completed all the modules of the OR Tambo School of Leadership online programme. I also worked as a Foundation for Community Work (FCW) community worker for the Western Cape Foundation, conducting home visits within the community.”

Supporters believe her combination of grassroots experience, organisational leadership, and community service positions her as a candidate who understands the needs and challenges facing residents of Ward 18. As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Ward 18 this afternoon when ANC members gather to make a decision that could determine who ultimately represents the community in the municipal council chambers following the November local government elections. The outcome is expected to play a significant role in shaping the ward’s political landscape in the years ahead.

π†πŽπ•π„π‘ππŒπ„ππ“ πƒπ„π‹π„π†π€π“πˆπŽπ 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒 π’π“πŽπ‘πŒ πƒπ€πŒπ€π†π„ 𝐀𝐒 π‘π„π‚πŽπ•π„π‘π˜ 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐒 π†π€πˆπ πŒπŽπŒπ„ππ“π”πŒ 𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐃𝐄 π•π€π‹π‹π„π˜Efforts to restore critical in...
13/06/2026

π†πŽπ•π„π‘ππŒπ„ππ“ πƒπ„π‹π„π†π€π“πˆπŽπ 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒 π’π“πŽπ‘πŒ πƒπ€πŒπ€π†π„ 𝐀𝐒 π‘π„π‚πŽπ•π„π‘π˜ 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐒 π†π€πˆπ πŒπŽπŒπ„ππ“π”πŒ 𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐄𝐃𝐄 π•π€π‹π‹π„π˜

Efforts to restore critical infrastructure damaged by the recent severe weather event received a significant boost as a high-level, multi-stakeholder delegation conducted an extensive damage assessment across the Breede Valley. The assessment was led by the Disaster Management and Fire Rescue Services team from the Department of Local Government (DLG) and included representatives from the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC), Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency (MISA), Department of Local Government, Department of Infrastructure (DoI), and Department of Agriculture (DoA).

BVM’s technical delegation was spearheaded by Acting Director for Technical Services, Jean de Villiers, who currently oversees the Public Works and Integrated Services (PWIS) Directorate. A key focus of the visit was the severely affected Smalblaar Bridge in Rawsonville, where officials engaged in detailed discussions around repair and reconstruction plans. The proposed interventions include the rehabilitation of the bridge’s foundation and substructure, as well as the reconstruction of damaged sections of the superstructure to restore safe and reliable access for residents and road users. The delegation also inspected the access road leading to the Stettynskloof Dam and Water Treatment Works, where storm-related damage has hampered accessibility.

Planned recovery efforts include the re-gravelling of roads, repairs to stormwater culverts and side drains, construction of stone-pitched drainage channels, rehabilitation of culvert heads and wing walls, and the installation and repair of protective gabion structures. In addition, critical work is set to be undertaken on the bulk water pipeline servicing the Stettynskloof Dam. Planned interventions include rerouting river water flows, constructing an access ramp for pipeline repairs, restoring damaged pipeline sections, and designing and installing additional gabions and culverts to safeguard the infrastructure against future weather-related impacts.

The site assessment marks another important step in the municipality’s ongoing recovery efforts, with all spheres of government working collaboratively to ensure damaged infrastructure is restored swiftly and communities continue to receive essential services. The coordinated approach demonstrates a shared commitment to building resilient infrastructure and accelerating recovery following one of the region’s most challenging weather events in recent years. Meanwhile, while these preparations are underway, the Rawsonville bridge over the Smalblaar River remains closed till further notice.

π’πŽπ‚πˆπ€π‹ π–πŽπ‘πŠπ„π‘ 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏𝐒 π…πŽπ‘π–π€π‘πƒ 𝐈𝐍 ππˆπƒ π…πŽπ‘ 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 πŸπŸ– ππŽπŒπˆππ€π“πˆπŽπWith just three days remaining before the African National Cong...
11/06/2026

π’πŽπ‚πˆπ€π‹ π–πŽπ‘πŠπ„π‘ 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏𝐒 π…πŽπ‘π–π€π‘πƒ 𝐈𝐍 ππˆπƒ π…πŽπ‘ 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 πŸπŸ– ππŽπŒπˆππ€π“πˆπŽπ

With just three days remaining before the African National Congress (ANC) reconvenes its public meeting to select a ward candidate for Ward 18, a new name has entered the race, adding fresh momentum to an already competitive contest. Local social worker and community development practitioner Namhla September-Tani has officially emerged as the fourth nominee seeking the community's endorsement ahead of Sunday's crucial public vote. Known for her grassroots involvement and unwavering commitment to community upliftment, her nomination has sparked considerable interest among Ward 18 residents.

Speaking about her decision to enter the race, September-Tani said her extensive experience in public service and community development has prepared her for the responsibility of representing the ward. β€œI have been actively involved in community development and have a rich background in public service and service delivery. As a Social Worker, working with people's challenges and helping them find solutions has always been part of who I am. I am a firm believer in human rights and will always fight for what is just and fair. I am ready to serve my community and contribute towards building a better future for all residents” she said.

A mother, wife, and daughter, September-Tani is no stranger to the realities of life in Zwelethemba. Having grown up in the community, she has experienced many of the same challenges faced by local residents while also embracing the values, resilience, and sense of belonging that come with being a proud Zwelethemba resident. Supporters believe her lived experiences and commitment to community development position her as a strong voice for the ward. Her entry adds another dynamic to a field that already includes incumbent Ward Councillor Ricardo Mabhuti Yayi, popularly known as β€œDrago”, community leader Liziwe Mdyada, and former Ward Councillor Mthetheleli Mkowane, affectionately known as β€œMankenke”, who is seeking a return to the position.

Explaining what sets her apart from the other contenders, September-Tani said her passion for development and community empowerment is at the heart of her leadership vision. β€œWhat makes me different is that I am a strong believer in development. I have moved around a lot and have witnessed firsthand the impact a ward councillor can have on a community. The position provides a unique opportunity to empower people and drive meaningful development. I am doing this for the people because I believe that true success is measured by how many others you uplift and empower. I am ready to take on that responsibility and serve my community with dedication and purpose” she affirmed.

Her supporters believe her professional background, coupled with her passion for community empowerment, makes her a strong contender in the race to become the ANC's candidate for Ward 18 in the upcoming local government elections. With the race now featuring four contenders, anticipation is mounting as Ward 18 residents prepare to make a decision that could shape the future leadership and development trajectory of their community. As anticipation builds ahead of Sunday's selection meeting, Ward 18 residents will have the opportunity to decide which candidate they believe is best equipped to lead the community and carry the ANC banner into the upcoming local government elections.

𝐔𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐓 ππ”ππ‹πˆπ‚ ππŽπ“πˆπ‚π„: π’π„π€π‘π‚π‡πˆππ† π…πŽπ‘ 𝐀 ππ€π“πˆπ„ππ“'𝐒 π‘π„π‹π€π“πˆπ•π„π’The Department of Health & Wellness is appealing to members of ...
11/06/2026

𝐔𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐓 ππ”ππ‹πˆπ‚ ππŽπ“πˆπ‚π„: π’π„π€π‘π‚π‡πˆππ† π…πŽπ‘ 𝐀 ππ€π“πˆπ„ππ“'𝐒 π‘π„π‹π€π“πˆπ•π„π’

The Department of Health & Wellness is appealing to members of the public to assist in reconnecting Ms Noxolisile Phindani with her family. The patient is currently hospitalised at the Worcester Hospital.

If you know Ms Phindani or have any information that may help us contact her family, please get in touch with our Social Worker at Worcester Hospital on 023 348 1100 or 023 348 1130.

Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.

𝐃𝐀 π‡πŽππ„π…π”π‹ 𝐃𝐄𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 πŸπŸ– ππ‘πˆπŒπ„ π“π„π‘π‘πˆπ“πŽπ‘π˜ π…πŽπ‘ π„π‹π„π‚π“πŽπ‘π€π‹ π•πˆπ‚π“πŽπ‘π˜Community activist and the Democratic Alliance’s aspiri...
10/06/2026

𝐃𝐀 π‡πŽππ„π…π”π‹ 𝐃𝐄𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐒 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 πŸπŸ– ππ‘πˆπŒπ„ π“π„π‘π‘πˆπ“πŽπ‘π˜ π…πŽπ‘ π„π‹π„π‚π“πŽπ‘π€π‹ π•πˆπ‚π“πŽπ‘π˜

Community activist and the Democratic Alliance’s aspiring Ward 18 councillor, Gigi Mrubata, says his party is gaining momentum and remains firmly on course for victory following what he describes as a significant setback for the ANC. Mrubata’s remarks come after the ANC failed to convene a scheduled public meeting in the ward last night, where party members were expected to elect a Ward 18 councillor candidate, but due to disruptions and ill-discipline of some members, the process was halted.

Mrubata said his campaign is centred on putting residents first, ensuring that community concerns are addressed and that Ward 18 receives priority attention in development initiatives and service delivery programmes. β€œOur focus is on improving the quality of life for residents through better services, stronger community engagement, and meaningful development,” he added. The race for Ward 18 is also attracting interest from the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), which has selected Evangelist Mtetho Tshunungwa as its councillor candidate.

Meanwhile, the ANC has yet to announce when the postponed candidate-selection meeting will be reconvened. Asked about the way forward, Boland Regional Task Team (RTT) Coordinator Hector Yabo declined to comment, responding only with a brief β€œno comment” to enquiries from the publication. With election campaigning expected to intensify in the coming weeks, the battle for Ward 18 appears set to become increasingly competitive.

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒 π“π€πŠπˆππ† ππ‘πŽπ€π‚π“πˆπ•π„ 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏𝐒 π“πŽ 𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐁 𝐋𝐀𝐖𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐈𝐍 π•π”π’πˆπ’πˆπ™π–π„ π’π„π‚πŽππƒπ€π‘π˜The leadership of Vusisizwe Secondary School (V...
10/06/2026

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒 π“π€πŠπˆππ† ππ‘πŽπ€π‚π“πˆπ•π„ 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏𝐒 π“πŽ 𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐁 𝐋𝐀𝐖𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐈𝐍 π•π”π’πˆπ’πˆπ™π–π„ π’π„π‚πŽππƒπ€π‘π˜

The leadership of Vusisizwe Secondary School (VSS), in partnership with the School Governing Body (SGB), convened a special meeting with parents yesterday to address growing concerns over learner safety, discipline, and incidents of lawlessness at the school. The meeting comes in the wake of a series of troubling incidents reported on the school premises, including violent altercations among learners allegedly linked to gang-related activities.

School leadership expressed concern over what they described as an emerging trend of gangsterism, which is increasingly affecting the learning environment and the well-being of both learners and staff. Addressing parents, school leaders emphasised the importance of a united approach in combating misconduct and restoring a culture of discipline and respect within the institution. They called on parents and guardians to play a more active role in monitoring their children's behaviour and in supporting initiatives that promote positive values and responsible conduct.

The school presented a Code of Conduct to parents, which will guide expectations for learners, and those who fail to abide by its requirements will eventually be excluded. Parents have been given until Friday to sign the Code of Conduct, and those who fail to sign will not be allowed to enter school premises as of next week until the document is signed by a parent or guardian. Members of the SGB, under the leadership of Mandisa Tani, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the safety of learners remains a top priority.

School management and the SGB reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that VSS remains a safe and conducive place for teaching and learning, while urging all stakeholders to work together in confronting the challenges facing the institution. The meeting concluded with a collective pledge from parents, educators, and the SGB to collaborate in fostering a culture of discipline, accountability, and academic excellence at the school.

09/06/2026

𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃 πŸπŸ– π‚π€ππƒπˆπƒπ€π“π„ ππ”ππ‹πˆπ‚ π’π„π‹π„π‚π“πˆπŽπ πŒπ„π„π“πˆππ† 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐄𝐃 π€πŒπˆπƒ πƒπˆπ’π‘π”ππ“πˆπŽππ’

A public meeting convened earlier to elect a Ward Councillor candidate for Ward 18 was halted following disruptions and a lack of discipline from a group of attendees. Proceedings were interrupted before the programme could officially commence when a cohort of participants began singing and chanting, creating an atmosphere that organisers deemed unsuitable for the orderly conduct of the meeting.

Efforts to restore calm and proceed with the agenda proved unsuccessful, prompting officials to suspend the gathering. The disruption highlighted the tensions and heightened interest surrounding the candidate selection process, with community members turning out in significant numbers to participate in the proceedings. Frontrunners for the race is currently between the current Ward Councillor, Ricardo β€œDrago” Mabhuti Yayi, and former Ward Councillor, Mthetheleli β€œMankenke” Mkiwane, who is aiming to make a return to the position.

Despite the setback, organisers reiterated the importance of maintaining decorum and respecting democratic processes to ensure that all attendees have an equal opportunity to engage constructively. By all indications, the contest for the Ward 18 candidacy has generated considerable public interest, reflecting the importance residents place on local leadership and representation. ANC officials are expected to announce the way forward once consultations with relevant stakeholders have been concluded.

Address

79 Daniel Street
Worcester
6852

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Khwezi Times News posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Khwezi Times News:

Share