Khayelitsha motorists find themselves sharing the road with a four-legged traffic jam

By Phumlani Saul | Daily Kasi News
21 September 2026

KARIEGA — Forget the morning rush-hour traffic — residents and motorists in Khayelitsha, near Kariega, had a rather unusual obstacle to deal with on Monday morning when a herd of cattle decided to turn Ponana Tini Road into their own personal highway.

The cattle were spotted walking along and across the busy road, with some occupying the traffic lanes and forcing motorists to slow down and carefully navigate around them.

For a few moments, it was less rush hour and more “moo-hour”, as drivers found themselves waiting for the unexpected road users to clear the way.

Vehicles could be seen queuing behind the herd, while pedestrians watched the unusual scene unfold.

“It was a proper traffic jam — but with cows”

Resident Xolani Maseti described the scene as an unusual start to the morning.

“It was something you don’t see every day. We are used to cars and taxis on this road, but this morning the cows decided they also had somewhere to be.”

Taxi driver Azuzile Vena said motorists had to exercise extra caution.

“As a taxi driver, you have to be careful. You can’t just hoot at the cows or drive past them quickly because you don’t know how they will react. We had to slow down and wait for them to move.”

Driver Lutho Botomani Jekeleza said the herd effectively took control of the road.

“Honestly, the cows were in charge this morning. We were the ones waiting for them to cross. You just have to laugh and be patient because there is nothing you can do when they decide to occupy the road.”

An unusual traffic hazard

Although the incident provided motorists and residents with an amusing sight, livestock wandering onto busy roads can also create a serious road-safety hazard.

Drivers approaching animals on the roadway are encouraged to reduce their speed, maintain a safe distance and avoid actions that could frighten the animals.

It was not immediately clear who owned the cattle or how they ended up on Ponana Tini Road.

For motorists who thought Monday morning’s traffic was going to be business as usual, the cows had a different plan.

This morning, Ponana Tini Road belonged to the cows. 

Volkswagen’s milestone highlights its deep roots in the Eastern Cape

By Phumlani Saul

KARIEGA — Seventy-five years of Volkswagen in South Africa were celebrated in grand style on Monday evening, as political, business and automotive leaders gathered to honour a company that has become deeply woven into the fabric of Kariega and Nelson Mandela Bay.

The milestone gala brought together President Cyril Ramaphosa, Eastern Cape MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism Nonkqubela Pieters, Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, Volkswagen Group Africa Chairperson and Managing Director Martina Biene, and Volkswagen brand global CEO Thomas Schäfer.

But for the Eastern Cape, the celebration was about far more than marking a corporate anniversary.

For generations, Volkswagen’s presence in Kariega, formerly known as Uitenhage, has been closely linked to the economic fortunes of the city and the wider Nelson Mandela Bay region.

The automotive giant has helped establish the area as one of South Africa’s most important vehicle manufacturing centres, while providing employment, developing skills and creating opportunities for businesses connected to the automotive supply chain.

From workers on the factory floor to suppliers and businesses supporting the industry, Volkswagen’s influence has extended well beyond the gates of its Kariega plant.

The 75th anniversary was therefore also a celebration of the thousands of people whose lives and livelihoods have been connected to the company over the decades.

The message behind the celebrations — “Seventy-five years of driving South Africa forward” — reflected both Volkswagen’s industrial journey and the transformation of the communities surrounding its operations.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality highlighted Volkswagen’s long-standing partnership with local communities and its contribution to economic development, skills development and opportunities for young people.

For Kariega, Volkswagen has become almost synonymous with the city itself.

Its manufacturing operations have formed part of the city’s economic identity for decades, with generations of families building careers and livelihoods around the automotive industry.

The anniversary comes at a crucial time for the Eastern Cape, where the automotive sector remains a major pillar of the provincial economy.

Thousands of jobs and numerous businesses are directly or indirectly connected to vehicle manufacturing, making continued investment in the sector vital to the region’s future.

Monday night’s gathering also highlighted the importance of strong cooperation between government and industry as South Africa works to strengthen manufacturing, attract investment and create sustainable employment.

As Volkswagen looks towards its next 75 years, attention will inevitably turn to what the future holds for Kariega, Nelson Mandela Bay and the Eastern Cape.

The challenge will be ensuring that future investment continues to translate into jobs, skills, opportunities and economic growth for local communities.

For a province whose industrial story is inseparable from the automotive sector, Volkswagen’s 75th anniversary is much more than a birthday celebration.

By Phumlani Saul and Ayatollah Zuzile

Five people have died in a horrific head-on collision involving a Toyota Corolla and a VW Polo on the R334 road in Kariega on Sunday afternoon.

The deadly crash happened at approximately 5pm, according to Provincial Traffic.

Provincial Traffic spokesperson Makhaya Komisa said the VW Polo was travelling from Motherwell towards Kariega when it collided head-on with the Corolla, which was travelling in the opposite direction.

The Polo was carrying three people — two men and one woman.

The Corolla had two male occupants.

Komisa confirmed that all five occupants were declared dead at the scene, including both drivers.

Emergency services and other authorities attended the scene as investigations into the devastating crash got under way.

The exact circumstances surrounding the collision, including what caused the vehicles to crash, remain unknown and are subject to investigation.

Various authorities are expected to assist investigators in establishing exactly what happened moments before the fatal impact.

A case of culpable homicide will be opened at Kariega SAPS for further investigation.

The identities of the five deceased had not yet been released at the time of publication.

By Zozibini Qhakuva and Phumlani Saul

Boxing fans and mourners turned out in their thousands on Saturday to bid a final farewell to two-time world champion Zolani “Last-born” Tete, exactly a week after the boxing great was fatally shot outside his NU17 home.

The 38-year-old boxing legend was accorded a Special Provincial Category Two funeral in recognition of his outstanding contribution to boxing and his impact on the Eastern Cape sporting community.

A huge marquee erected at Sisa Dukashe Stadium was packed with mourners, boxing fans, family members, friends and dignitaries who came to honour the life and legacy of the former world champion.

The emotional proceedings began shortly after 6am, when mourners gathered at a Buffalo Flats funeral parlour before accompanying Tete’s body on its final journey.

A long convoy travelled from Buffalo Flats through Reeston and along the Mdantsane highway, with supporters lining the roads, chanting the champion’s name as his casket passed.

The procession made an emotional stop at Tete’s NU17 home, where church members, neighbours and family gathered for a prayer service.

It was a painful final visit to the home where the beloved boxer was killed.

From there, his coffin was taken to his childhood home in NU12, the place where Tete first discovered his passion for boxing and began dreaming of becoming a champion.

‘WE’VE LOST YOU, MY BROTHER’

During the funeral service, Tete’s elder brother and retired boxer, Makazole Tete, described the late champion as the pillar of their family.

Makazole struggled to hold back his tears as he spoke about the sacrifices his younger brother made for the family.

“Zolani was like an older brother to me because everything our mother needed, Zolani would provide.”

Overcome with emotion, Makazole thanked his brother for everything he had done for him and their family.

“My brother, we’ve lost you. Where you’re going, you will find our mother. Your children still have a father because I’m here.”

‘HE WAS LIKE A SON’

Tete’s longtime manager, Mlandeli Tengimfene, also paid an emotional tribute to the champion.

Tengimfene revealed that their relationship went far beyond boxing, saying they worked together without a formal contract because it was built on trust and love.

“I worked with Zolani without a contract because our relationship was built on trust and love. To me, he was like a son and I saw his career grow in front of my eyes.”

He also thanked the people of Mdantsane for standing behind Tete throughout his remarkable career.

“I do not take credit alone. I also want to thank the people of Mdantsane for the support they gave him throughout his career.”

BOXING FAMILY PAYS TRIBUTE

The funeral was attended by a host of dignitaries, sporting officials, boxing legends and current champions.

Among those present were former sports minister Zizi Kodwa, Eastern Cape police commissioner Lt-Gen Vuyisile Ncata, Buffalo City Metro mayor Princess Faku, Boxing South Africa chairperson Ayanda Khumalo, CEO Tsholofelo Lejaka and former boxing world champion Vuyani Bungu.

Current boxing stars and legends, including IBF world champion Sivenathi Nontshinga and former world champion Welcome Ncita, also gathered to honour Tete.

One of the most emotional moments came when Tete’s children delivered a heartfelt tribute to their father, leaving many mourners in tears.

For Mdantsane and the wider boxing fraternity, the farewell marked the end of the physical journey of a champion whose name had become synonymous with pride, determination and success.

Tete was laid to rest at Cambridge Cemetery on Saturday afternoon, bringing to an end a week of mourning following his tragic death.

‘We don’t want to see another Zolani’ – family demands justice

By Zozibini Qhakuva

Four suspects linked to the murder of former boxing champion Zolani Tete have appeared before Eastern Cape courts as the victim’s family vowed to oppose bail.

Three of the accused made their first appearance at the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, following their arrests in Scenery Park and an earlier court appearance by another suspect on Monday.

Two of the accused abandoned their right to apply for bail, while the remaining two indicated that they intend to seek their freedom.

The two suspects applying for bail are expected back in court on 1 September, while the other two will return on 13 October.

WHEELCHAIR-BOUND SUSPECT’S PLEA

The court also heard details about accused Uzuzole Goqwana, who is paralysed from the waist down after suffering a gunshot wound in July 2024.

His lawyer, Advocate Mike Maseti, told the court that Goqwana has no bladder or bowel control and relies on laxatives because of his condition.

Maseti raised concerns about his client’s treatment and medical needs while in custody, telling the court that Goqwana had taken laxatives before being transported to prison but had been unable to relieve himself.

The defence has asked the State to allow a district surgeon to examine Goqwana and argued that Westbank Prison may not be suitable for his medical condition.

Maseti told the court that Goqwana was not opposed to remaining in custody until his bail application, but requested that he be admitted to Frere Hospital, Cecilia Makiwane Hospital or another facility deemed appropriate by the court.

‘WE WILL OPPOSE BAIL’ – TETE FAMILY

Outside court, Tete’s former manager and family representative, Mlandeli Tengimfene, made it clear that the family intends to fight any bid for bail.

“We can’t have people arrested for such a murder roaming around our streets. For now, let our people be safe. We don’t want to see any other Zolani after this one.”

Tengimfene also spoke about an alleged feud involving one of the accused, saying the tensions dated back to 2019, when he and Tete were in LaFayette.

According to Tengimfene, the conflict appeared to fade during the COVID-19 pandemic before resurfacing, with police allegedly aware of the tensions.

‘REMEMBER THE CHAMPION, NOT THE MURDER’

While Tete’s family is demanding justice, Tengimfene says they do not want the boxing legend’s legacy overshadowed by the circumstances of his death.

Instead, the family wants South Africans to remember Tete for the remarkable career he built inside and outside the boxing ring.

Tete was a three-time world champion and etched his name into boxing history in 2017 when he stopped Zhanat Zhakiyanov in just 11 seconds in Belfast — one of the fastest knockouts ever recorded in a world title fight.

For his family, the focus now is on celebrating the champion’s life.

They want Zolani Tete remembered not for how he died, but for the champion, father, role model and community figure he was.

By Zozibini Qhakuva

A 22-year-old wheelchair user from Mdantsane has appeared in court in connection with the shocking murder of boxing champion Zolani Tete.

Uzuzole Goqwana was arrested on Saturday over his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Tete, who was gunned down outside his NU17 home in Mdantsane on Friday evening.

Goqwana is one of four suspects arrested over the weekend following the deadly attack. Tete’s female passenger was also shot during the incident and remains in hospital.

In a heartbreaking twist, Tete’s two children were inside the vehicle when the gunmen allegedly confronted the boxer at his gate. Thankfully, the children escaped unharmed.

Goqwana is expected back in court on Tuesday, where he is set to join the other three suspects facing charges linked to the murder and attempted murder.

Two suspects arrested in Scenery Park, KuGompo City, on Sunday appeared in the KuGompo City Magistrate’s Court on Monday. Their case was postponed to Tuesday, when they are expected to appear in Mdantsane alongside Goqwana and another suspect arrested in Mdantsane on Sunday.

The arrests have sent shockwaves through the boxing community and Mdantsane, as investigators continue to piece together what led to the champion’s deadly shooting.

This is a developing story.

By Daily Kasi News Reporter

GQEBERHA –  is set to experience the highly successful Mr Bully Tour for the first time when it arrives in the city as part of Chilli Youth Fest 2026 (CYF26).

Africhili Entertainment, organisers of Chilli Youth Fest 2026, has partnered with Lacabra to bring the tour to the Eastern Cape on 4 September 2026 at The Gallery on Produce.

The Mr Bully Tour has already made its mark in several South African cities, including Durban, Richards Bay and Cape Town, and is continuing to grow its presence among the country’s youth entertainment audience.

The Gqeberha edition is expected to combine music, youth culture and entertainment, with a lineup featuring Inkosi Yamandebele, Lacabra, Blue Papi and Lowfeye, as well as performances by emerging talent from the Eastern Cape.

Organisers say the event will also place a strong focus on youth and student participation.

Several Nelson Mandela University societies are expected to be involved through collaborations, activations and cultural exchange opportunities, creating a platform for students and young creatives to participate in the event.

According to Africhili Entertainment, the partnership with Lacabra forms part of a broader vision to create platforms that support and empower young creatives while bringing major entertainment experiences to audiences across South Africa.

With the Mr Bully Tour now heading to Gqeberha, organisers are anticipating a strong response from the city’s youth and entertainment community.

The event is expected to be one of the notable youth entertainment events on the Eastern Cape calendar in September.

EVENT DETAILS

📅 Date: 4 September 2026
📍 Venue: The Gallery on Produce, Gqeberha
🎤 Performing: Inkosi Yamandebele, Lacabra, Blue Papi, Lowfeye and Eastern Cape emerging artists

For media enquiries, partnerships and sponsorship opportunities, contact Africhili Entertainment.

Daily Kasi News will continue to bring readers updates on Chilli Youth Fest 2026 and other major entertainment events in the Eastern Cape.

By Lolwethu Leeu

Music, fashion and electric performances unite festivalgoers — with Simmy stealing the spotlight.

GQEBERHA — The One Tribe Experience proved that the party can begin long before the first artist takes to the stage on Saturday evening.

Long queues formed outside the venue as festivalgoers waited to collect their wristbands, but the atmosphere was far from dull. Strangers chatted, laughed, helped one another find the correct queues and quickly turned the waiting area into a social space.

“One Tribe doesn’t start on stage. It starts outside, with strangers becoming friends.”
— Siphokuhle Mehlo, festivalgoer
Once inside, the atmosphere changed up another gear as crowds from across Nelson Mandela Bay arrived in numbers to enjoy a day filled with music, fashion and entertainment.

Festivalgoers came dressed to impress, with colourful and stylish outfits adding to the spectacle.
“Everyone was dressed to the nines. The outfits, the energy and the confidence were everything. Everyone came ready to show out.”

The music kept the crowd moving throughout the event, with festivalgoers describing the atmosphere as energetic and electric.
However, the event was not without its challenges. Some festivalgoers raised concerns about the facilities, particularly the long queues at the general bar and the condition of the toilets as the event progressed.

Food options were also limited, with only one food stall available, resulting in long queues and little variety for hungry festivalgoers.
Despite these concerns, the overall mood remained positive, with crowds dancing, socialising and enjoying the entertainment.

One of the biggest highlights for festivalgoers was undoubtedly the performance by Simmy.
When the singer took to the stage, colourful blue, green, red and purple lights illuminated the venue as the crowd erupted.

Dressed in red with long braids flowing down her back, Simmy quickly had the audience singing along to her songs.

Phones were raised in the air as fans captured the performance, while others danced or simply stood watching the singer command the stage.

Anothando Williams Told Daily Kasi News “Simmy did not disappoint. The moment she hit the stage, the whole room shifted. People were singing every word, dancing and watching her in awe.”

Her interaction with the audience also stood out, with fans responding enthusiastically whenever she pointed towards the crowd.
“She made you feel like she was singing directly to you. That connection with the crowd was incredible.” said Anothando

For many, Simmy’s performance captured exactly what the One Tribe Experience was about — bringing people together through music.

“From the first note to the last, it was pure goosebumps. That was the moment One Tribe really felt like one voice.”
Despite some areas needing improvement, the festival delivered a memorable experience for many attendees — bringing together music lovers, fashion enthusiasts and friends under one roof.

One Tribe connected. One Tribe danced. And, for many festivalgoers, One Tribe delivered.

By Phumlani Saul

Three young men found shot dead in Peace Village as police launch manhunt

KARIEGA – Shock and grief have engulfed the Kwanobuhle community after the bodies of three young men were discovered with gunshot wounds in bushes opposite Thuthula Street in Peace Village on Monday morning.

The gruesome discovery was made at approximately 09:35 after police were alerted to the scene. The victims were later identified by their families as Alwaba Toba (17), Ayabonga Jantjie (20), and Bonginkosi Matunbu (22).

According to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, all three victims had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
“Upon arrival, police found the bodies of three males, all of whom had sustained gunshot wounds. The deceased were later identified by their families as Alwaba Toba (17), Ayabonga Jantjie (20), and Bonginkosi Matunbu (22),” said Gantana.

Police say the motive for the killings remains unknown, and no arrests have been made.
A case of murder, comprising three counts,

has been opened at SAPS Kwanobuhle and is being investigated by the Serious and Violent Crime Investigation (SVCI) Unit.

By Phumlani Saul and Aron Khuselwa

NEW BRIGHTON – A routine patrol turned into a major crime bust on Saturday afternoon when Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Police, working alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS), arrested 10 suspects and recovered an illegal Taurus .38 Special revolver during a joint operation.

The break through came after officers stopped a white Chevrolet LDV that had caught their attention for being dangerously overloaded, with several passengers travelling in the rear load bin.

A thorough search of the vehicle uncovered the revolver hidden beneath a mattress. No ammunition was found.

Six adults remain behind bars at New Brighton SAPS, while four minors are expected to be released into the care of their parents or guardians once the necessary administrative procedures have been completed.

Police also established that two of the adult suspects are undocumented foreign nationals, resulting in additional charges being added to the case.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the recovered firearm is registered to a gun shop. SAPS detectives are now working to establish how the weapon ended up in the possession of the suspects.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality praised the Metro Police officers for their professionalism, vigilance and swift response, saying the successful operation reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to removing illegal firearms from the streets and tackling violent crime.

Authorities have reiterated that every illegal firearm recovered is a significant step towards creating safer communities across Nelson Mandela Bay as investigations continue.