THE GREYTOWN GAZETTE

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28 March 2012

(to be editted shortly)

 

STREET NAMES

 

Just on nine years ago the freedom of Greytown was granted to the chairman of the House of Traditionaleaders KZN, the then Minister of Home Affairs and President of IFP, Mangosuthu Buthelezi. At that time, the IFP held  the majority in Council and had decided two years previously to recognise the  positive contributions made to society by "the Prince of KwaPhindangene in his fight for an open ,free, non-racial equal opportunity, reconciled society with democratic safeguards for all."
However the celebrations about democracy and freedom  were somewhat overshadowed by the "instant" renaming of Pine Street to Prince Mangasuthu Buthelezi Street as Dr Buthelezi and the Mayor unveiled the new street name. For the past nine years, this street name, and several others in the town have actually been illegal as the due process was never followed by the then Council - the public were not at any stage consulted . In terms of the Act covering street name changes , there is a very detailed proceedure to be followed to ensure the legality of the changes and the new names.
Umvoti Mayor,  PG Mavundla in response to criticism from the IFP in a statement published in yesterday's Witness stated "The process was never finalised by the previous  administration, therefore the newly elected Council(ANC/NFP) resolved, last year, to establish an ad hoc committee(with members of the different political parties) to start the process  afresh, ensuring that public participation takes place and to complete the full legal process."
Whatever names are selected will be done so democratically with full input from all -every political party and interested individuals -this will be followed up by the correct legal formalities.
Is it possible following the democratic process that Pine Street could very well be changed to Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Street!
ends
firearms seized in raids

Several high calibre firearms were recovered in Kranskop and Msinga following a search and seizure operation by Pietermaritzburg Public Order Police Task Team on Monday night.. The twelve member team was acting on information received on illegal firearms in the area .

In Kranskop they searched a house and recovered a shotgun and handgun and rounds of ammunition concealed in the house.

A 72 year old woman in the house was arrested and charged for possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. She appeared in Kranskop Magistrate Court last Tuesday.

The team then went on to the Nadi/Ngubevu area where they entered and searched the local induna’s house. The police found a .38 revolver, shotgun, handgun,.303 rifle, two .22 air rifles with modified barrels and an assortment of rounds of ammunition .The 47 year old induna was arrested and has been charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition -he appeared in Msinga Magistrate Court last Tuesday.

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Greytown Country Club news

Neil Read lost out on the draw money on Friday ( as he was not present at the time of the draw. R1400 can be yours on Friday but you have to be at the Club between 6:30pm - 7pm to find out if you are the lucky winner.

Wednesday’s Individual Stableford competition was very well supported and the day turned out to be a great success.

Results:

1st – P Caljouw on 39 points

2nd – J de Nysschen on 38

3rd – Doc Khumalo on 37 points oco

4th – B Zuma on 37 oco

5th J Anderson on 37

Nearest pin on 3rd – J Anderson

Nearest pin on 17th – M March

Longest drive on 10th – M v\d Berg

Ladies Longest drive – D Mason

Friday is Happy hour! Get your R20 ticket and you will go into the draw to win R1000 or a bottle of Chivas Regal. It also includes a free meal sponsored by Kwa No.1 bottle store. - Greytown Beer is sponsoring the SAB beer, . DJ Rob will be playing the music, put on your dancing shoes and celebrate the holiday with a big bang at the Club. Everybody welcome!

The “Chicken run” is playing every Friday afternoon with t-off starting from 4pm.6 holes is all you have to get through, to play in this social competition. Entry is R30 for members and non members. New Generation Lubricants is the sponsor of the chicken.

Results from 23 March: G Ngubane won the chicken

Mexican Cocktail evening is coming on Friday 4 May - please diarize the date and details will follow later

Dates to diarize

Fri 30 March – Happy Hour

Sat 7 Apr – Mascor Monthly Mug

Sat 14 Apr – Pannar Golf day

Sat 21 Apr – Club Champs

Sun 22 Apr – Club Champs

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HOTLINES... TO KEEP !

Please cut out and keep this list of Hotline numbers for use by the public as follows:

Presidential hotline: Deals with complaints about unresolved service delivery :tel: 17737;fax:086 681 0987/ 012-3238246

Crime Stop :Report crime anonymously :tel : 08600 10111

National anti-corruption:

National Anti-corruption hotline for the public service : TEL: 0800 701 701

Government employees pension and benefit fund

Pension and benefits queries anti-corruption hotline: tel 0800 117 669/ 0800 434 373

Public Protector:Investigation maladministration in Government tel: 0800 112040

Land rights, awareness and evictions :

Land rights violation of any nature including illegal eviction :tel: 0800 007095

SAPS evaluation: Complaints about poor service delivery : TEL 0860 130860

Child Line: : Report child abuse : tel: 0800 055555

S.A.Social Society Association (SASSA) :Reports fraud with social grants :tel: 0800 601011

People opposing women abuse (POWA)

Women Abuse : TEL 011-642 4345, After hours : 083 765 1235

Human Trafficking:Report cases of Human trafficking hotline operated by the Salvation Army and be heard:

tel: 0800 737 283/ 08000-RESCUE(731289)

This list has been issued by Lt Col Maphalala,Station Commander Greytown who states that members of the public are urged to noted these numbers and to make use as required.

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SPEAKERS CORNER... forensic  report to R20m to farmers

Umvoti Municipal Speakers, Councillor Ahmed Shaik reports on recent and important activities of the Council. There has been an increase in the number of visits to Umvoti by national, Provincial and local politicians over the past few week.These have been mainly connected to the proposed acceleration of the land reform programme to empower “new” farmers .On Friday, deputy Minister Rural Development , Lechesa Tsenoli, visited Kranskop and the Ithuba Sugar land reform programme -this successful cane, timber, lifestock venture is in sharp contrast to Umvoti’s failed Mooidraai farming project where millions were lost through mismanagement which left the beneficiaries destitute.

On the previous Saturday, MEC Agriculture, Meschak Hadebe presented over R20 million in tractors and livestock to the Eshane communities through the Amakhosi who preside in the area

An important happening is the tabling of the first KPMG report at an in committee Council meeting to take place this week. The forensic audit into the financial governance legal improprioties of the previous Council will be tabled for consideration - on Council resolution this becomes a public document.

It is time for the IDP and new budget to be drawn up for the next financial year, A series of public meetings will be held to get the input of as many residents as possible on the IDP - this exceptionally important document establishes the blueprint for development in all the wards. It is therefore vital that each Ward makes sure that its residents attend the public meetings to record their requirements and development for the next five years.

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Children’s Home April Fair

Its a fundraising fair on Saturday 28th April at the Greytown Children’s Home (Kinderhuis) and there will be lots of interesting items for young and old to buy.

The childen and house mothers will be hard at work baking tasty goodies to have with morning or afternoon tea and cakes, tarts, pies and rusk, all baked by them will be on sale.Light meals will be on sale from 12 noon onwards.As the Children’s Home is the main beneficiary of this fundraiser, all the food and baking is reserved exclusively for the Home -no other food stalls available.

Greytown has some outstanding artist and their works will be on display in an art and craft market in the garden.

With Mother’s Day just round the corner this will be a good opportunity to buy hand crafted gifts made by talented locals.

Other stalls already booked -tasty local cheese selections;farm fresh veggies; meats;dried fruit and nuts. A number of stalls are still available at R50 -please phone the organiser Kathleen Fabian on 072 474 9982 no later than 15th April to book. Stall holders are requested to take laong their own gazebos, chairs and tables.

MAke a note now, Saturday 28th April from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Greytown Children’s Home

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Readers write Sir,

Invitation to Schroeder-Müller Festival in Dundee

150 years ago at the end of April missionary Hans-Heinrich Schröder landed at Port Natal. The arrival of missionary Heinrich Müller in 1854 was celebrated at a Müller Festival 2004, a Müller book was published in 2009. Four Klingenberg granddaughters of Heinrich Müller married four grandsons of Hans-Heinrich Schröder late in the 19th century.

Family Schroeder - Missionary Hans-Heinrich Schröder & Margarethe Buthmann

1. Maria Schroeder & Friedrich Fröhling 2. Catharina Schroeder & August Küsel 3. Friedrich Schroeder & Luise Klingenberg 4. Johannes Schroeder & Maria Klingenberg 5. Georg Schroeder & Anna Klingenberg 6. Karl Schroeder & Dorothea Klingenberg

Family Müller- Missionary Heinrich Müller & Dorothea Schonecke

7. Louise Müller & August Klingenberg 8. Heinrich Müller & Henriette Schütze 9. Dorothea Müller & Wilhelm Niemeyer / Johann Klinthworth 10. Wilhelm Müller & Anna Martin / Mariechen Klingenberg 11. Maria Müller & Paul Volker 12. August Müller & Helene Volker .

The festival will take place on the 29th and 30th June this year. A detailed programmeof interest has been arranged -

Friday 29 June 9h00

.

Kindly inform and invite many relatives!

For more details and registrastion form email erich@dundeekzn.co.za or fax t 034 0212 3245 or tel 034-212 3425 Dundee.

Erich Muller

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SHADOW COLUMN

Greytown Gazette publishes a monthly Shadow Column listing events to take place throughout the year. Main objective is to notify the public of what is scheduled to take place, or about to, and to avoid,as far as possible, “double dating” -that is two events on the same day which could create problems not only for the organisers but also the public.

An appeal therefore to all Churches, ngo’s, sports bodies, clubs etc. to submit dates and event details to the Greytown Gazette for publication asap.

Looking at this month’s publication it appears that in the second half of the year the only “action” in Greytown will be closing for public holidays!

A quarter of the year gone...amazing that schools, churches, organisations etc. have not yet established dates for functions...or have and have decided to keep these dates secret so that various functions can clash!

APRIL

6th:Good Friday

9th:Family Day

14th:PANNAR golf day

10th:Second school term starts

22nd:Farmers vs Town tennis challenge

27th:Freedom Day

28thGreytown Kinderhuis open day and fair

MAY

1st:Workers Day

5th:Hermannsburg Shulfest

8th:Garden Club meeting

13th: Mothers Day

16th and 17th:Justine Open Day

18th:UAS agm

31st:”Oliver-Twisted” Wembley

JUNE

1st:”Oliver-Twisted” Wembley

8th:Kammaland Lucky Draw dinner

12th:Garden Club meeting

16th:Youth Day

17th:Fathers Day

22nd: Schools close

JULY

16th: Schools re-open

AUGUST

9th:National Women’s Day

14th:Garden Club meeting

29th: Kammaland Concert

31st: NGK Bazaar

SEPTEMBER

5th Secretaries Day

11th:Garden Club meeting

24th:Heritage Day

28th:Schools close

OCTOBER

9th:Schools reopen for fourth term

16th:Boss’ Day

NOVEMBER

13th:Garden Club meeting

DECEMBER

16th:Day of Reconciliation

25th:Christmas Day

26th:Day of Goodwill

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SARS SCAM - BE ALERT!

An urgent alert has been issued by SA Police Service on a scam currently in operation as follows:

SARS clients/taxpayers are receiving calls from people claiming to work for SARS, requesting the client to fax through a copy of their identiy document and bank statements for the past three months to update their details on the SARS system

On receipt of these, the con artisits are able to hack into your SARS or bank accounts to take whatever money available. .

Police would like to advise anyone who receives such a call not to do what the con artist are requesting.SARS policy regarding verification and changing of bank details, or any taxpayer details is requested in writing on a SARS letterhead. All documentation must be taken into the nearest SARS branch – NOT faxed or emailed and copies ID and bank statements also have to be originally certified and on the bank letter head.

Always check the authenticity of any document received from SARS at your nearest SARS office.

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ST CATHRYN’S NEWS

It was a weekend of trophies for St Cathryn’s golf club when they bagged a total of three cups. Like the Sharks, it was just a matter of time before they would walk home with some silverware. On Saturday 24th four of our golfers played in the Lilburn Memorial Cup, up at Eshowe. Playing in a Four Ball Better Ball competition, our A side : Piet Coetzee and Ruan du Plessis played against Eshowe and our B side : Brent Barkhuizen and Zane Padoa played against Amatikulu B.

The A side came in with a score of 48 points and our B side came in with a score of 45 Points. Piet and Ruan won the trophy for having the highest score on the day and then our team of four, with their combined scores, won the Lilburn cup. This trophy dates back to the 1930’s and Captain Piet Coetzee was not allowed to bring the trophy home to come and show the club on Sunday even after offering to have the cup repaired.

On Sunday 25th the first leg of the Bill Howard triangular was played against Mandeni and Darnall. The format being individual stableford and the team with the highest average wins the trophy, which looks like an exact replica of the Ryder Cup. St Cathryn’s had nine players in the field and Mandeni had eight. Darnall golf club made apologies as they could not send a team due to Zululand League fixtures.

Results:

St Cathryn’s 32.2 Points

Mandeni 27.88 Points

Best Golfer on the Day : Merwin Rabe 40 points

2nd Rikus Kloppers 38 oco

3rd Paul Du Preez

4th Peter Rommelspacher 37 points

5th Sheldon Knight 35 Points.

Most Golf : Wesley Terblanche and Johan vd Schyff.

Nearest to Pin 2/11 : Piet Coetzee

Nearest To Pin 9/18 : Paul Du Preez ( It was too close for a “gimme”)

Nearest to Pin for 2 on the 8th : Peter Rommelspacher.

Longest Drive on the 10th : Merwin Rabe.

All Golfers would like to thank” Organics for Africa, “ ( Guy and Linda Platt ) for sponsoring prizes, in the form of growing medium, potting mix and compost and vouchers to their indigenous nursery. Many of these compost and growing medium products went across the Tugela to Mandeni. .

Grateful thanks to Klaus Kluver, for the cash donation to the day.

April is Tuta Carriers club champs month to be played on 21st and 22nd April and a good opportunity of having a final Medal round practice is the Farmers Agri -Care Monthly Mug to be played on Saturday 7th April.

This Friday 30th, the braai fires will be lit, and we expect some visitors and campers, as the Crusaders Canoe Club will be hosting their two day race on the Tugela River, on Saturday and Sunday

So all who would like to bring and braai will be welcome. To book for meals please phone 083 269 1661.

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Umvoti Fire Protection Objectives

The Umvoti Fire Protection Association is focused on the achievement of the following objectives, for the benefit of its members and the broader community ;to inform and train communities on the risks of fire and to prevent and reduce the incidences of fire

To ensure :

* planning and resources are in place in Umvoti FPA area to protect and promote rural fire reduction,

readiness, response and recovery.

• fire suppression is coordinated and effective.

• minimum equipment and personnel standards are met or exceeded .

• landowners are educated on forest and rural fire prevention

• To implement a personnel fire fighter training program for all members to receive training of their choice from basic training to crew leader and specialized courses.

• Provision of quality maps to our volunteers / fire wardens to assist them in their work.

*Radio network coverage across Umvoti to effectively combat emergencies and for the

protection for our volunteers / members and the general community.

• To develop joint Development control arrangements to ensure Umvoti FPA and our Municipality work together efficiently.

• Our Executive committee and staff, in conjunction with KZNFPA and Working on Fire will be

working as a passionate,progressive and proactive team.

DO NOT START FIRES YOU CANNOT STOP!

PHONE CHARLES HADEN (FPO) ON 0761541090 Email: hadencf@gmail.com

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BAKE A BOBOTIE!

     As the cost of living soars so does the cost of providing tasty nutritional meals for a family. The  Greytown Gazette appeals to readers to submit family favourites that are nutritious, tasty and economical to make.
First is this Bobotie, from Lynda Drogemoller -pilchards, chick peas or mince can be jsed as the main ingredient.
Lynda has also done a costing -the following recipe will give four large servings and including all the ingredients, rice and tomoato and onion for the sambal  cost R28.17 to make as of this date.
 
Right-click here to download pictures. To help protect your privacy, Outlook prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. Bobotie Serves 4 Costing 	R28.17	as of March 2012   15ml	oil 450 g	Pilchards 2 cloves	garlic, crushed (10 ml) 200 g	onions (2), chopped 250 ml	finely grated carrot  10 ml	curry powder 5 ml	crushed coriander 2 ml	ginger 5 ml	turmeric 3 ml	cinnamon 5 ml	sugar Pinch	chilli powder 2 ml	dried herbs (15 ml fresh) ±5 ml	Salt & pepper (to taste)  15 ml	wine vinegar/ lemon juice 2 slices 	bread soaked in 50ml water, mashed  250 ml	maas 2	eggs Pinch	salt & pepper 2	bay or lemon leaves Replace with Chick peas or mince Use apple for sweeter or brinjal for more savoury All these spices can be left out if you increase the curry powder Stir-fry onion, carrot, garlic till limp add spices, cook to develop flavours add pilchards and break into pieces with spoon, stir through season with salt, pepper & vinegar add mashed bread, mix thoroughly spray pie dish with non-stick spray, spread mixture and flatten beat together maas, eggs and seasoning and pour over the boboti, tuck the bay leaves half sticking out of topping. bake uncovered at 180°C for 35 min until custard topping is firm  Serve with yellow rice, chutney, sliced bananas and tomato and onion sambal. 125 ml of rolled oats can be used instead Or  plain yogurt or sour cream Add chutney or apricot jam for more Malay flavour Included in costing

ENDS

 

21 March 2012

FARMERS FUN AND INFO GATHERING

Who said bowls was not for the fit and strong - having fun Francois van Rooyen,Andy Buchan, Dieter Meyer and Murray Mason.

Umvoti Agricultural Society and the Umvoti Fire Protection Association hosted a combined information evening at the Greytown Bowling Club on Wednesday, 14th March.

A fun game of ‘big man’s marbles’ was played with approximately 20 gentlemen on the greens. There was a good turn out of farmers and their spouses for the information evening, Dave Carroll spoke on G911 and the benefits of contributing to this non-profit voluntary organization, Dieter Meyer outlined the scope of the UFPA and different fire committees in the areas, and welcomed the new Fire Protection Officer, Charles Haden UAS president Andy Buchan listed current issues being dealt with through the UAS on behalf of farmers.

Andy Mason also informed the farmers about the farm competition that is being held next month prior to the UAS annual general meeting on 18th May. Farmers and smallholders are encouraged to enter this fun competition by phoning G911 or emailing uas@umvoti.co.za .

A big thank you to Greytown Bowling Club for use of their premises as well as a generous donation from Farmers Agricare.

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GAP YEAR WITH A DIFFERENCE

!

Jamie Owen, son of Dr Terry and Carol Owen, formerly of Greytown.

Exciting!Challenging!Adventurous! A cycle ride from Khartoum to Cape Town .This is Jamie Owen’s gap year having completed his degree at Cape Town university, he is taking time out to discover “things that I otherwise would never have known” , Having met up with two varsity friends who cycled from from London in Khartoum, they will pedal their way Southwards through Ethiopia,Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana with the final destinations the wellknown Forresters Arms in Cape Town for one great big welcome home party! Estimated arrival time in Cape Town is October.

For anyone interested in following the ride log on to www.along4thecycle.blogspot.com which Jamie updates whenever he can find an internet cafe!

At the start he comments from Khartoum”our plan from here to head south east, following the Nile towards the Gallabat border post where we will cross into Ethiopia .Leaving behind the dry, flat, sandy terrain of Sudan and facing up to some pretty serious ascents, as we start climbing into the Ethiopian plateaus. Hopefully our legs will survive the onslaught so that we can continue towards Addis Ababa” Here the fourth member of the “Along 4 the cycle” group will join them as they make their way towards Kenya.

Jamie is looking forward to the tour to discover a whole more about the diverse cultures, beliefs, terrains, climates, lifestyle, wildlife, politics etc that Africa has to offer.

Follow his exciting adventures on his blog.

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GREYTOWN SPORTS FOUNDATION WINTER SPORTS CLINIC

Greytown Sports Foundation held its annual Coaching clinic last weekend. 249 learners attended the clinic. with 36 coaches from various parts of KZN. The overall vibe was positive and encouraging as the clinic continues to grow. These clinics enable the youngsters

children to learn on a first hand basis the skills and technique needed in various sports. All coaches are still active sportsman involved in the development and use of the latest training methods.This clinic would not be possible without these excellent coaches

A spokesman for GSF said “it is with great appreciation that we have yet again received the financial and logistic support from PANNAR SEED. We are truly privileged to have the continuous support of this outstanding company.”

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KILLER ROAD CLAIMS MORE  VICTIMS
 
A family outing to Pietermaritzburg ended in tragedy when Dr Heseki Ngubane and his wife Delsey were killed and two of their children injured in an accident on the notorious Pietermaritzburg/Greytown killer road.Four other people lost their lives in the accident, including a nine month old girl.
The Ngubanes  and their 11 year daughter, Gamelihle and 12 year old son Ngethaba had been to Liberty Mall to purchase a play station for Ngethaba.In the early evening on the way back to Greytown, in the vicinity of the Albert Falls turnoff,according to a Police report,the driver of a  BMW lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the Mahindra being driven by Mr Ngubane.The impact split the BMW in two and all four occupants, were killed.
Dr and Mrs Ngubane died on impact -the two children were injured and taken immediately to hospital - they are both stable and recovering from their injuries.
Not only is the Ngubane family devastated at their great loss but so are many members of the community in Mbovini and Greytown.Dr Ngubane, who obtained his PHD at the University of  Zululand was a long serving  and highly respected  Principal of Muntu High School in the Nadi area - Delsey was also a much loved and respected teacher at Esimanyama Primary School. They stayed in Mbovini during the week to be close to their schools and with their family in Greytown over weekends. The couple were committed Christians and staunch active members of the Church of Christ.
The couple's oldest daughter, Bukekakahle ,who is a third student at University of Free State, in an interview with the Greytown Gazette said that the family was totally shattered at the loss of their loving parents who did everything they could for their children.She said they were determined all the children would have a good education -three are still at school  and an older brother at the University of Zululand. She said that she had asked God to give her and her siblings the strength and guidance to cope without their parents.
  Bukekakahle said her father had been busy researching and writing a book on the history of the Ngubane family and she is determined that this will be completed.
There was a huge turnout of mourners at the funeral service fro the couple which was held at Mbovini last Saturday.
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BRUTAL MURDER AND SUICIDE

The Fandeleki family of Greytown is in a state of shock following the brutal shooting of their 21 year old daughter Lumka on Sunday night. The family was in the lounge of their Ferguson Street home and Lumka in her bedroom. At about 8.30 her father heard shots and found his daughter had been shot several times through the open window. She was taken to hospital where she died.

The body of 28 year old Constable Musa Kheswa was later found outside the house -it is alleged he had shot himself. The post mortems were carried out on Tuesday.

It is reported that Lumka had broken off a relationship with him sometime ago.

-

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EASTER MARKET AT RENCKEN CENTRE

Rencken Centre is to hold its popular Easter Craft Market and open day on Saturday 31st March from 9am -2pm at 21 High Street Wartburg. A range of Easter goodies, fresh vegs, crafts, cakes etc. are on sale.

The Easter Craft Market has been going for 6 years with the purpose of raising funds for the ongoing maintenance of the Centre.

Rencken Centre is a home for mentally challenged adults situated in picturesque surrounds in Wartburg and is regarded as a “home for life” establishment for 20 residents. Since its opening in 1990 the Centre has built up an excellent reputation.

Enquiries: Lynne or John 033 5031332

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St Cathryn’s news

Many older golfers who always remarked that,” it never rains on a golf course, ” would have had their theory proved wrong last Saturday.. Farmers Agri - Care monthly mug was played in what was a beautiful late summer / early autumn golfing Saturday when at about 13h15 the heavens opened and buckets of rain fell. The golfers got twice as wet as the fish in the dam. Match referee for Saturday, captain Paul Els, kept his cell phone nearby to make that all important call to the club house to stop all play however the golfers kept going. It was a storm without lightning or thunder or wind- just a bucket or two of rain between holes ten and eighteen. A few of the golfers hoped that the ‘Nebal und Mist” from Hermannsburg would save them from the rain, but the golfers persisted on and got all eighteen holes in.

Barry Oehme, Klaus Kluver and Mike Harrison were not in the field so we missed our senior citizens on the course…..or maybe they checked the weather forecast out.. , smart aren’t they? What these senior golfers missed out on was lovely green mealies for snacks at the bar afterwards!

Results:

1st BigBoy Ngonyama nett 66

2nd Merwin Rabe nett 67

3rd Mbongeni Khumalo nett 69 oco

Best Stableford points: B.Ngonyama 43 points.

Captains Putter: Peter Rommelspacher

Nearest to Pin 9/18: Oscar Ndawonde.

Two Clubs : P.Els, P. Rommelspacher and O.Ndawonde.

Four of our players are playing in the Lilburn Cup at Eshowe on Saturday 24th - the team to play is yet to be finalized. On Sunday 25th we will take on the papermakers from Mandini and the sugar farmers from Darnall right here at St Cathryn’s. The format is Individual Stableford and the team with the highest average will be the winners.This competition is also known as the Bill Howard Triangular Series. Entry fee of R125.00, includes green fees, halftime and a light lunch. So even if you are not a member at St Cathryn’s but are a registered golfer of a club then you are most welcome to play for our team. Limited prizes will be awarded to players and thank you to Guy Platt who has come forward and offered prizes for the day.

The course is playing well at the moment and even Piet Coetzee had a few better than normal comments …….just the fairways that are very thick but not long.

With these thick lush fairways the ball does not give those extra few yards on the golf course. The greens got a light verti-cutting again on Monday and are showing a healthy shade of green. The pines on the 7th fairway are having a final de-branching to get air and sun through to the seventh green. The pines on the 4th fairway will be next on the list for treatment and then we all sit back and await the winter. The de-branching is normal practice for pine trees for saw log production.

Friday night supper : Macaroni Cheese and Salad. Bookings by Friday 10h00 PLEASE!!!! To book for golf and or meals please phone or sms Piet 083 269 1661 or 033 4441945

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Armed robbery foiled!

Acting on a tip off that three men were about to rob the filling station, a Field Security guard, stationed at Jamludi in Kranskop, immediately contacted his company. Field Reaction unit personnel responded and managed to apprehend one of the suspects. The other two got away in a white Nissan Sentra.Kranskop SAPS were alerted and investigations are continuing.

It is alleged that the three would be robbers are from the Nhlangana area.

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GREYTOWN COUNTRY CLUB NEWS

Dave Holland lost out on the draw money last Friday as he was not present at the time of the draw. R1200 can be yours this Friday but you have to be at the Club between 6:30pm - 7pm to find out if you are the lucky winner.

Wednesday 21st is a public holiday and what a fantastic opportunity to come and spend some relaxing time on the golf course. An Individual golf competition with sponsored meat hampers as prizes is on the agenda for this holiday! R100 entry includes your green fee and half time tea and sandwiches. T-off from 9am. Everybody is welcome.

The “Chicken run” is playing every Friday afternoon with t-off starting from 4pm. 6 holes is all you have to get through, to play in this social competition. Entry is R30 for members and non members. New Generation Lubricants is the sponsor of the chicken.

Dates to diarize

Wed 21 Mar – Sponsored golf competition @ 9am

Fri 23 March – Chicken run @ 4pm

Fri 30 March – Happy Hour

Sat 7 Apr – Mascor Monthly Mug

Sat 14 Apr – Pannar Golf day

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14 March 2012

WHO CARES/ WE BIGGER THAN YOU"
Whilst the Greytown/Pietermaritzburg road is known as the "Killer road" the Greytown/Muden road is rapidly surpassing it  as  a devastating disaster waiting to happen as many as 15 abnormal loads a day travel on this narrow curving stretch. This road is not designed of this type of traffic
 Whilst road users do not want to be confrontational with Provincial and Municipal traffic officials and are more than willing to work with them to try to find a solution Muden residents have  now had enough. Several hundred have signed a petition demanding official action within two weeks before taking further action.  Daily road users, bringing children to school, places of  employment, general shopping ;children in danger walking to school;etc. are faced with:
abnormal loads travelling at high speeds on the narrow road;
abnormal loads without escort vehicles in front or no escort vehicle at all;
abnormal loads in convoy and pulling out at snail pace to pass each other;
escort vehicles on the wrong side of the road pushing on coming vehicles off the road;
abnormal load drivers ignoring, or unaware of the potential dangers of misty and rainy conditions on this road;'
break up of  the road into crater like potholes, especially on the passes.
The petition has been motivated by Ansie Driemeyer who submitted the appeal together with the signatures of Muden community members ot Umvoti RTI traffic chief Mr Phungulu with the request that it be presented to the Minister and Department of Transport.
Chairman of the Umzinyathi Region Taxi  Council, ,Jeffrey Ngobese , has expressed his Council and all its members full backing of the petition.
Suggestions made to ease the situation in the short term:traffic control be intensified and more vigilant particularly in regard to speeding;compulsory stops so that traffic stuck behind can safely pass; and in the long term -roadbe upgraded to make it safer and wherever possible the road widened.

In addition to the abnormal load petition, the petition for better policing on the "Killer road" is in the process of being finalised for submission to the Department of Transport.

ENDS
POLICE CHIEF REJECTS ALLEGAITONS

A lot of interest has been generated in Greytown and surrounds by a report in Ilanga,26th February on the activities of top ranking staff, particularly in regard to employment of family members, in the Greytown Police Cluster.

Report headline is’ They get drunk and “sing’! This refers to the allegation that certain Police members have paid R 6000 to be employed and claim therefore, they cannot be fired for being drunk, not doing work etc. as they have paid R6000 to get the job.The report goes on to mention the names of the senior Police personnel, It alleges that close family members of these senior staff members have been employed in a number of positions (names have been made available).Those outside the families apparently pay R6 000 to these Seniors to be employed and then claim they cannot be punished for being drunk on duty etc as they would demand the bribe back if they were fired.

Other personnel point out that this bribery andis hindering the normal day to day work at the stations as some police and admin staff are”untouchable” and cannot be reprimanded or punished for any dereliction of duty.

Greytown Gazette requested comment on these allegations from the Greytown Police top command and allegations has been requested for publication and the following reply was received :

”This office has taken note of the allegation appearing in the Ilanga dated 2012-02-26 with regard to the alleged corruption at greytown SAPS (Cluster).

The Cluster Commander, Col D.Z.Khumalo , in his personal capacity and on behalf of the other members mentioned in the paper hereby wishes to categoriaclly state that the allegation appears to be driven by certain disguntled members/employees for whatever reasons known only to themselves.

Due to the fact that the assault on the integrity and character assassination of the abovementioned person have far reaching repurcussions, the Provincial office has been requested to conduct an investigaiton into the authenticity of the allegation.

In essence the allegaiton is rejected with the contempt it deserves.”

ENDS

PLEASE DON’T SPIT

A close encounter with a Mozambican spitting cobra “Ufezi”turned a quiet Saturday morning for Sue and Andre Strydom into a somehwat hectic one. On hearing one of their dogs Wurzel(a feisty Jack Russell) change the tone of her barking, they went into the studio to check. What at first Andre thought was a lurking bullfrog tunred out to be over a metre long spitting cobra which spat at Wurzel”s eyes. Sue rushed dog to vet whilst Andre coped with the, by now , very angry reptile.

According to Greytown’s resident herpetologist , Nico Herbst, these snakes are not commonly found int he Greytown area. But he surmises that , they make their way on to the warm engines of vehicles in Muden at night and so get transport, unknowingly by the drivers, to Greytown!

.ENDS

Supper theatre entertainment

There are just 20 tickets left for the “candlelight’supper theatre to be held on Saturday 24th March at the Senior Service Centre. Tickets for this fundraiser (for the Centre) are R50 each -take along a picnic supper and drinks for an evening of fun and entertainment. A group of talented Greytonians directed by Libby Churchill will be performing a range of light hearted to more serious items.Its an evening of informal fun - so phone Gerald now at the Senior Service Centre, in the mornings on 033 413 2801 to book-the cut off number is 60.

Starting time is 6.30 for 7.

ENDS

HAPPY 90TH IVAN!

Long-time resident of Greytown, Ivan Pepper, turned 90 on 12th March. He celebrated this momentous occasion with his family at the weekend.

Ivan was born in England, and came to South Africa when he was 11 years old. He served in the UMR during the Second World Warr, after which he was deployed to the Umvoti Mounted Rifles office in Greytown. He married Ione Tatham in 1947 and they had 4 children. Ivan worked for SAPPI from 1951 until he retired, when he and Ione returned to Greytown.

ENDS

ANGUS BUCHAN’S ORDINARY PEOPLE...THE MOVIE OF

.

‘Angus Buchan’s Ordinary People”, the film which explores the phenomenal impact of the Mighty Men Conference on the lives of ordinary people opens on the South African circuit on 5th April. Last year a number of Greytonians were excited to be involved in and to watch the shooting of the first part of the film which sets the scene with Angus and family.

Then the film moves on to tell the dramatic story of how the lives of three ordinary South African men changed forever after their attendance at Mighty Men 2010 at Shalom.. These three stories tell are interwoven with the message and ministry of Angus Buchan.

There is Lucky Nzimande (Lucky Koza),a misguided criminal who naively attempts to hi-jack the vehicle of two ex-special force policemen on the way to the Mighty Men Conference; André Cloete (Jaco Muller) ,an alcoholic young man on the brink of self-destruction; and John Peters (Anton Dekker) a middle aged panel beater, whose life is falling apart .

Other cast members are David James, Kate Normington, Robin Smith and Norman Anstey.South Africa composer and musician Mauritz Lotz and Internation Christian artist Micahel W.Smith contributed to the musical side of the film which was shot in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Limpopo and Greytown.

Film director , FC Hamman said “The making of Ordinary People was - and still is - an amazing and life-changing journey. It was a pleasure working with a very dedicated crew and some of our most talented actors. Angus Buchan is an inspiration to me and I am fortunate to call him my personal friend”.

Following the premiere of the movie on 29th March it will open in circuit in Musgrave,Shelley Beach and Gateway on 5th April

ENDS

GREYTOWN COUNTRY CLUB NEWS

Dave Odendaal lost out on the draw money on Friday as he was not present at the time of the draw. R1200 can be yours this Friday but you have to be at the Club between 6:30pm - 7pm to find out if you are the lucky winner.

The “Chicken run” has started again. Due to popular demand, we will be playing 6 holes every Friday afternoon and t-off starts from 4pm, to play in this social competition. Entry is R50 for members and non members. New Generation Lubricants is the sponsor of the chicken, thank you Richard! Please support this event.

Friday 9 March we had a very successful happy hour celebration! Greytown Beer Distributors sponsored the SAB beer at half price and the Link Seed rugby festival contributed to the success of the evening. Thank you to Greytown High School for choosing the club as your venue, we really appreciate your efforts in involving the Club in your festivities. Thank you to F Fischer and D Swart.

Squash AGM is on Wednesday 14 March - all squash players please attend

Dates to diarize

Wed 14 Mar – Squash AGM

Fri 16 March – Chicken run

ENDS

St cathryn’s news

St Cathryn’s had a visit from the KZN Ladies Golf Association and after a lengthy discussion as to how and when the course was built and by whom they went out to play the course. All this happened to give the ladies section an official course rating. The weather played in their favour and Liekie Steyn our ladies golf captain, accompanied them for the day.

Comment about the fairways – (as the ladies were used to playing on courses with cynoden fairways, which are much” thinner” to walk on), was that the kikuyu got very thick at some places on the fairways. Kikuyu tends to get very thick and very ‘thatchy”in late summer to autumn and on the bigger, high budget courses the whole fairway gets a severe verti-cutting, some thing we only do on our greens, on the smaller courses. Other suggestions from them were to make the ladies play their 14th hole from the men’s 5th tee box adding 25 meters or so to the hole. A final stroking is awaited as we need to get the new official distance for the now new 14th hole.

The scores that were handed in from the ladies that day were Liekie Steyn 87 off a 21 handicap, Karin Schroder 88 off a 16 Handicap and Barbara Rotterveel 89 off a 9 Handicap. The fourth lady in the tea party was Yvonne Otto and she took notes about the course on the way.

The Farmers Agri- Care Monthly Mug is to be played this Saturday 17th, and if the daunting task of Medal is not your game then play in the individual stableford competition which is played simultaneously on the day. On the Sunday the 25th we are starting the first rounds of the New “Bill Howard Triangular “competition against Mandini and Darnall. What makes this competition unique is firstly the cost of only R125 per player includes, half time, a light meal and green fees. Please note each club can have as many players per team but the result of the winning team will be determined on the highest average for the day. Come be part of this fun day where we meet the paper makers and the cane farmers from the coast. Also note there will only be three prizes awarded for the best three scores on the day. If any company would like to be part of our fun day and be the “Sponsor “please feel free to contact Piet for more details.

Rogue Steel have come forward and supplied beautiful “Rogue Steel/ St Cathryn’s “Competition flags and they really look smart. This will now add a new dimension to the day as the flags are in the “stiff” position given the feeling that the wind is pumping at the green.

This Friday 16th supper will be Bunny Chow and salad with Heidi’s delicious curry.

To book for golf and / or meals please phone 083 269 1661 or 033 4441945.

ENDS

 

7 March 2012

FAKES! FAKES! AND STILL MORE FAKES!

Hundreds of items of fake designer label clothing and watches, as well as “Zambuc” ointment were confiscated in Kranskop and Greytown last week by the Crime Intelligence Unit (Kranskop and Greytown), which was assisted by various agents appointed by the different Brandmark and copyright holders from Johannesburg.

In the raids hundreds of items of fake Addidas, Nike and Puma clothing were confiscated as well as Puma watches.

Further investigations lead to the discovery of hundreds of fake ZAM-BUCK ointment containers which so closely resembled the original tins that a very close inspection was needed to notice the difference. One cannot even imagine what poisonous chemicals went into the manufacturing of these fake products ! .

Some of the culprits opted to pay huge compensation to the official copyright holders, instead of having to appear in a criminal court.

The illegal importation of counterfeit goods is costing the country millions in lost revenue as the importers do not pay any import duties nor do they pay any taxes on these goods.The fakes are made in “sweat shops” using dangerous chemicals with no regard to anything or anybody.

An appeal is made for assistance in locating the importers and/or location of warehouses/distribution centers being used to store these illegal imports. Such information which will be treated as highly confidential can be sent to Warrant Officer Tim Steyn via e mail (steyn timothy@saps.gov.za);tel : 033-444 1608

ends

'INSANITY" TO TRY TO  REPLACE CABLE SAYS TELKOM

Copper cable theft is having a devastating adverse impact on the South African economy through an estimated R5 billion rand a year in indirect costs. Essential services provided by Telkom, Eskom and Transnet are being seriously disrupted by this “fast growing industry” - which, as with rhino poaching, appears to have floored the authorities on ways to stop it and to catch the thieves

In Umvoti this has been an ongoing problem for many months - cable thefts have left Muden, Seven Oaks, Kranskop residents without landlines -and last week Greytown itself was the target. Business owners, in Dr Gordon Street, were left in dire straits when kilometers of Telkom cable were stolen during the night of Sunday 26th. They were faced with this crisis as they opened up to trade on Monday morning. A spokeman for those affected said that most were entirely dependant on telephones and Internet to conduct business-the loss of these facilities could spell economic suicide for some. Compounding the frustrations of being telephoneless is the fact that the majority of these businesses employ private security, which together with the local Police apparently have not been aware or noticed any of the activity required to steal cable.

Not only does the loss of Telkom communications drastically affect the trading capacity of these and all the other businesses deprived of this service, but also farmers, small holders, residents, face a major security problem. Telephone and internet communications are vital and it is totally unacceptable, that Telkom is apparently not taking action to replace the stolen cables and has more or less washed its hands of the problem which has been growing out of all proportion over the last two years. Telkom spokesman Pynee Chetty admitted the company is as badly affected by cable theft as its customers and that despite burying cables, employing security, Telkom was unable to police the problem. He said the decision not to replace stolen cable was made after serious consideration and the realisation that it was “insanity” to feed into an ongoing problem

Robin Barnsley, president KZN Agricultural Union stated “We have met with Telkom several times and its response has been totally unsatisfactory. We have been told that if there is no economic return on an area, Telkom is not re-installing copper cables.”. Figures released last month report over 72 000 reported incidents of copper cable theft in 2011.January and February thefts have been higher than last year with the increase in the price of copper being a potential driving force, particularly for the sophisticated syndicates which export the stolen cable. Subsistence thieves steal a few metres at a time to sell to scrap merchants.

Cable theft has been identified as a priority crime that the police has been tasked with.Telkom said they had gathered that the cable thieves worked at night, armed with trucks, pulleys, industrial cutting tools and tractors to flatten the pylons and poles to get hold of the copper. Desperate thieves are also targetting ESKOM overhead and underground cables in the Midlands area with the theft of transformers being prevalent in Greytown and surrounding areas

There have been tentative moves over the past ten years to set up a Chamber of Business in Greytown -surely it is more than time for such a formal body to be established to discuss and take positive action as an organised group to solve the Telkom, Eskom, increase of abnormal loads leading to the rapid deterioration of the town and district roads; and other problems which are making it more difficult for businesses to survive. (Anyone interested is asked to leave name and contact details at the Greyown Gazette]

ENDS

EASTER BRUNCH WITH GARDEN CLUB

With Easter just a few weeks away, Umvoti Garden Club is delighted to be hosting renowned caterer Gail Meyer as the speaker at the next meeting next Tuesday 13th March. The meeting will be held at the newly renovated an d quite delightful establishment, “The Old Coachhouse”, 208 Durban Street

Having resided in Johannesburg for many years where she ran her own catering company, “Pestle and Mortar”, Gail Meyer has recently relocated to Pietermaritzburg. Despite moving from the busy metropolis Gail has retained her links with the catering profession. She now imparts her expertise and novel ideas to an even broader following as in the quarterly food-lovers magazine, “Plum”.

It is often said that simple food well presented makes a memorable meal and, combined with an attractive setting, creates an occasion and drawing from her depth of experience, creativity and passion for food Gail will be sharing some of her innovative ideas for table décor and food on how to serve a delicious Easter brunch to family and friends.

It is very exciting to have someone of Gail’s calibre and expertise as the speaker for Garden Club so members and guests are encouraged to come and enjoy a most stimulating presentation. Because this meeting is at a private establishment please remember to bring your own chair. Members are reminded that 2012 membership fees are due and the programme for the year is available.

Why not bring a friend to introduce to the fun of Garden Club?

ENDS

NEW FIRE PROTECTION CHIEF

Umvoti Fire Protection Association (UFPA) are pleased to announce the appointment of Charles Haden as the new Fire Protection Officer (FPO). Charles will be contacting all landowners in the Umvoti district over the next few months leading up to the fire season. He will be updating details of each landowner with regard to the UFPA, UAS and the Fire Control areas. If anyone has any queries please contact Charles on 0791541090 or hadencf@gmail.com. Any queries can also be addressed by any of the committee members whose contact details appear below.

UFPA Chairman: Dieter Meyer - 0828779576

Greytown: Murray Mason - 0823751023

Ahrens: Ruben Surendorff - 0828561759

Seven Oaks: Corne Geldenhuys - 0824551669

Kranskop: Rolf Koningkramer - 0828096221

ENDS

AMAZING LINK DAY

It was with grave misgivings the Greytown Bowls Club committee viewed the grey and drizzly start to Sunday morning with the Link Seed fun day scheduled to take place.

However 47 bowlers and would be bowlers rocked up and between squalls of rain 14 teams took to the greens .There were some short -some wide -and some long shots but there were also quite a few touchers on the white ball, and a whole load of fun.

Winners for the day: closest score 10 -10 and the teams were Cherry Wulfsohn, Philip Waller and Danie Strydom, Roy Harris, Trunelle Smith and Rens van der Watt.

Biggest /lowest score -teams were Erika Fischer, Penny Waller and Yvonne Smith and Roy Thomson, Nico Herbst and Ruane Redelinghuys.

Many thanks must be made to John Lagerwall; Gerald Clarke;organising committee: Erika Fischer, Karen Cordy; Jack Drew and Roy Thomson; Jack Mason, Pam and Bryan Paul.

But most of all to Piet and Alta Herbst and Nico and Delia Herbst of Link Seed for their enthusiastic support and sponsorship. Link Seed have thrown the gauntlet down to all local businesses to support sport by organising fun teams to play on Fridays - the floodlights are ready and working and so weather permitting see you on Friday!

ENDS

GREYTOWN COUNTRY CLUB NEWS

Cynthia Ryan lost out on the draw money on Friday (2 March)) as she was not present at the time of the draw. R1100 can be yours on Friday (9 March) but you have to be at the Club at 6:30 or you will miss out.

Mascor monthly mug played on Saturday and once again we had a good turn-out of players.

Results:

1st – G Schwarz on 62 nett

2nd – M Khumalo on 70

3rd – B Zuma on 71

Best stableford went to D Ryan on 35

Reminding all members that the Club AGM is on Wednesday 7 March at 6pm in the Pannar lounge. We are requesting all members to please attend. The bar will be closed on that evening during the AGM.

The “Chicken run” has started again. Due to popular demand, from the 9th of March you can come and join the golfers for only 9 holes and t-off at 4pm to play in this social competition. Entry is R50 for members and non members. New Generation Lubricants is the sponsor of the chicken, thank you Richard! Please support this event.

Friday 9 March we will be having Happy Hour again! Greytown Beer Distributors is sponsoring the SAB beer at half price. Greytown High School is having their Link Seed u/15 Rugby weekend and a “spitbraai” at the Club. The function will start after the Rugby from 9pm and tickets will be sold at R25 each. Everybody is welcome to come and enjoy this event with us at the Club. DJ Rob will supply the much enjoyed entertainment.

Dates to diarize

Wed 7 Mar – AGM

Fri 9 Mar – Link Seed “Spitbraai” @ R25

Wed 14 Mar – Squash AGM

4ENDS

SPORTS FESTIVAL AT WARTBURG

Over 800 learners from 24 schools in KZN will take part in a sports festival at Wartburg Kirchdorf School on Saturday 10th March from 8:30 a.m. Object of this festival is to provide small to medium schools with an opportunity to play in pre-season “friendly” matches against schools they do not normally play against. The emphasis is on sporting, friendly competition and camaraderie — there are no prizes, no trophies and that equals a lot of fun!

Schools playing include: Wartburg Kirchdorf, Maritzburg College 3rd’s, Thomas More, Kokstad, Weston, Greytown, Wembley, Linpark, Pongola, Kingsway, Scottburgh, Carter, Howick, Durban Academy, Alex, Ixopo, New Forest, Grosvenor, Werda, St Henry’s, Ladysmith, Estcourt, King Edward and Kloof senior schools.

There will be food and refreshments will be on sale throughout the day -it is hoped that parents and friends will be there to support this event.

ENDS

TRIBUTE TO SISTER FRIEDA NENE

12 November 1925 – 25 February 2012

Sister Frieda Bongiew Thokozani BT Nene, was born on the 12th of November 1925 at eWosi area Kranskop. At an early age she worked for a family of Lutheran Missionaries as a nanny. Seeing this very wise young girl, they sent her to school and she later became a nurse graduating on the 6th of May, 1949. She subsequently qualified as a midwife in 1957. She was then promoted to Deputy Nursing Manager at Ntunjambili Hospital where she retired in 1988 after a long service of thirty eight years which included stints at Ceza and Edendale Hospitals.

Sister Nene was a pioneer in the field of nursing as she was the first nursing sister at Ntujambili Hospital. Renowned for her humility she also served as a member of different guilds in her church at Ntunjambili and at Diocesan level.

She was married to the late Thembinkosi Ackim Nene on the 2nd of February, 1951. She is survived by three sons Thubelihle, Nhlanhla (the National Deputy Minister of Finance), Sandile, daughters-in-law and many grandchildren that she loved so much.

She was laid to rest last Saturday at Ntunjambili.

ENDS

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