By Zandile Khumalo

BAD news as Mzansi people need to brace themselves for eight hours of no electricity.

This is according to Eskom, which revealed it will be implementing load reduction as they continue to battle with illegal connections and cable theft.

According to the power utility, load reduction will be implemented throughout the country for eight hours from Monday, 21 October. The first reduction will happen between 5am and 9am, and again in the evening from 5pm to 10pm.

“Illegal connections and electricity theft burden transformer load. While load shedding remains suspended, Eskom implements load reduction,” the power utility said.

Continued pressure on our transformers and mini-substations due to illegal connections and electricity theft in some areas necessitate load reduction to avoid equipment damage.”

The announcement comes shortly after Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa celebrated over 200 days without load shedding a week ago. 

At the time, Ramokgopa attributed stability to the government’s generation operational recovery plan, which has helped improve the energy availability factor (EAF) to 63,96%.

During a media briefing on 21 October, Ramokgopa reiterated that despite Eskom’s load reduction measures, the system’s holding up well. He emphasised that focus is on shifting from simply counting the number of days without load shedding to ensuring interventions are in place to prevent its return.

Ramokgopa also noted that Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) has improved significantly, dropping from 33,79% to 25,5%. 

According to Ramokgopa, this indicates that the system’s health is improving.

“If you compare the UCLF recorded in the past seven days, you can see that we have been averaging about 10 500MW of capacity restored, which wasn’t available due to various reasons like units failing or units failing to perform at their optimal capacity. If you were to compare this to last year around the same time, you will see an improvement of 5 000MW, which is significant from where we started. That’s why we have been able to keep the lights on for a considerable time,” Ramokgopa said.

While he said this is not an achievement but a step in the right direction, Ramokgopa stated that the end goal is to have no load shedding

By Akhona Mlilwana

Nelson Mandela Bay was battered by heavy rain yesterday, prompting a massive response from emergency services and local authorities.

The severe weather conditions brought widespread disruptions, with reports of flooded roads, damaged homes, and stranded residents. The South African Weather Service recorded over 100mm of rainfall in some areas, exceeding the monthly average.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Disaster Management Centre activated its emergency response plan, deploying teams to affected areas.

Mandla Ngcongco, Municipal Disaster Management Chief. Said “We have mobilized all necessary resources to ensure public safety,”

“Our priority is to provide assistance to those in need and minimize damage.”

Local residents came together to support affected neighbors, offering shelter, food, and clothing.

Nonkululeko Moni (45) told Daily Kasi News “ It’s heartwarming to see our community unite in the face of adversity,”

By Phumlani Saul,Nomalungelo Booi and Zikhona Mbongo

THE first day of the 2024 National Senior Certificate examinations starts off on a high note.

Not even severe weather conditions and electricity disruptions in Gqeberha on Monday, 21 October could dampen pupils’ and teachers’ moods.

Pupils were forced to write their English paper one in dark exam rooms in eastern Gqeberha. 

Nkosana Ngalo and Thandolwethu Tshazibanzi from a Zanolwazi Secondary School in New Brighton said they wrote their first paper without power.

“The paper was as sweet as chocolate. However, power outages have disadvantaged us. It was dark in the exam room and we had to adapt and pretend as if nothing happened. The power outages have negatively affected us who’re doing CAT. We can’t use our computers,” said Tshazibanzi.

Nkosana said: “We had enough time to prepare for the exams. We wrote our first paper without power. We hope the Department of Education will address the power outages.

Eastern Cape Education spokesman, Malibongwe Mtima said they noted the power outages in numerous schools as well as the disruptive weather conditions.

In Kwadokweza, pupils said they showed the English paper three and Afrikaans paper flames.

Harry Mathibela (17 said he’s expecting an 80% pass mark. 

“The paper was easy. I’m confident that I will do well,” said Harry.

Lukhanyo Matshaba (19) said he enjoyed one section, which required them to write an obituary. 

“English paper three is relatively easy. I think I will score 75% and above,” said Lukhanyo .

In Kariega, pupils from Nkululeko Secondary School in KwaNobuhle were also excited about the English paper three exam.

They said the paper was not difficult as they worked hard and were thoroughly prepared for it.

Siyabonga Mayisa (20) said the exam was good and enjoyable

I finished answering the exam on time and I’m ready for the other subjects,” he said.

Xolelwa Cona (18) said: “I love English and I will pass. I want to study journalism.”

Thambekile Klaas (18) said she wants to be a lawyer.

By Nomalungelo Booi and Azola Matros

Nerves of Steel: Class of 2024 Faces Ultimate Test

Nearly 900,000 Pupils Gear Up for Final-Year Exams, Eager to Prove Their Mettle

After months of grueling study sessions, endless cups of coffee, and sleepless nights, the moment of truth has finally arrived for the class of 2024. Monday marks the beginning of the eagerly anticipated – and dreaded – matric exams.

As the nearly 900,000-strong cohort prepares to put their knowledge to the test, emotions are running high. While some students are brimming with confidence, others are battling butterflies in their stomachs.

Sibusiso Nyanda (17) told Daily Kasi team “I’m feeling pretty nervous, to be honest,But I’ve studied hard, so I’m hoping for the best

Akhona Maseti (18), said “I want to study medicine at Wits,I know it won’t be easy, but I’m ready to give it my all.” Said Maseti

For many, these exams represent more than just a culmination of 12 years of schooling – they’re a gateway to a brighter future.

The Department of Basic Education has also reassured students that all necessary measures are in place to ensure a smooth and fair examination process.

To the matric class of 2024, the nation holds its breath as you embark on this critical milestone. Stay focused, stay calm, and show the world what you’re made of!The Department of Basic Education’s exam hotline (0800 202 933) is available for any queries or concerns.

BY PHUMLANI SAUL

GRADE 12 pupils call on God to help them during the 2024 National Senior Certificate exams.

WITH just One day left before the matric class of 2024 start their final exams, Assemblies Of God KwaNobuhle local held a prayer.

Matric pupils from different schools around Kariega, gathered at the church to ask for God’s intervention as they will sit down for the first paper in the final exams on Monday.

Pastor Ntamo of Assemblies of God “ God’s got you! Trust in Him, and your abilities, to excel.

Pray, believe, and conquer. Your future is in His hands.⁠ ⁠You are destined for greatness; go claim it with faith and hard work.

Teacher Mrs Makhongwana speaking to the students “ Believe in yourself, your hard work, and your dreams. Success is within reach.You’ve prepared, you’re ready. Now go conquer

“To my Matric class, remember: knowledge, perseverance, and determination equal success. I believe in you.”

Matric pupil Nkosiyethu Mthiyane (17) from Phaphani Secondary School said: “I’m ready for the final exams. I have grown, learned, and prepared. Now I will show the world what i’m made of”said Mthiyane

Mandisa Mthiyane (19) said she is glad that she was part of the church prayer.

“After today’s prayer I’m hopeful that I will do well. I will make sure I pray hard before every paper,” she said. 

“I’ve been studying hard throughout the year. I’m ready for the English paper on Monday

By Phumlani Saul

PEOPLE of Gqeberha finally had a show that represented them, but that has come to an end. 

After two seasons of drama, passion, and unforgettable storytelling, Mzansi Magic is closing the chapter on its praised telenovela, Gqeberha: The Empire.

This was recently announced by the channel. And there’s a brand-new show to replace Gqeberha: The Empire.

In a statement, the channel said since its premiere, the telenovela has enchanted audiences with its storytelling and the cast’s stellar performance.

“From Anele Matoti’s portrayal of the funny yet complex Msimelelo to Unathi Guma’s portrayal of the strong-willed Funeka, the series has consistently delivered compelling characters. Nozuko (Kay Bikitsha), Thulani (Thembinkosi Ngcukana), and Season 2’s addition of Bongile Mantsai as the menacing Hlumelo Mxenge have only deepened the show’s storylines. Its ability to track the growth of characters and weave intricate storylines has captured viewers’ imaginations from the start,” the statement read.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the producers, cast, and crew of Gqeberha: The Empire. Their unwavering dedication and exceptional talent have delivered spellbinding storylines in one of the most fiercely competitive primetime slots. As we approach the grand finale, we eagerly anticipate witnessing the culmination of this extraordinary journey,” Shirley said.

She said she’s grateful to the Eastern Cape Provincial Government for its crucial support, which has helped the production flourish. 

Shirley highlighted the stellar work of multi-award-winning production company, Tshedza Pictures, and the entire cast and crew, whose delivery has kept viewers interested since the show’s inception in January 2021.

The telenovela was recently nominated for two categories at the Saftas. She said winning awards is a new thing for them.

Actress Zikhona Sodlaka, who stars in Gqeberha: The Empire, previously spoke about how proud she was of the show, especially because it’s about her hometown. 

“This is another soapie for South Africa, but it’s a province that has never had a show created there yet. It’s a home of legends. It’s a province that has produced presidents and some of the most powerful people of our time,” Zikhona said

By Daily Kasi News Reporter

FOUR wanted suspects linked to the Lusikisiki mass murders have been arrested.  

The arrest comes 24 hours after police in the Eastern Cape launched a manhunt for the suspects. 

According to police spokeswoman Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the men, whose identities have been revealed, are believed to be linked to a mass shooting that claimed the lives of 18 people in the area.  

The suspects are Songezo “Mashiya” Vuma (20), Bonga “Rico” Hintsa (31), Aphiwe “AP” Ndende (25), and Lwando Anthony “Abi” Shakes (31). 

On 28 September, at two neighbouring homesteads in Ngobozana Village near the town of Lusikisiki, at least 18 people were killed, and five others were injured.  

Mathe said communities rallied together and informed the police of the suspects’ whereabouts, leading to their arrests.  

She confirmed that all four suspects are now in police custody. 

This brings the total number of suspects arrested to five.  

He appeared before Lusikisiki Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 15 October, where he abandoned his bail. 

Meanwhile, national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola lauded Mzansi for their support in providing information on the whereabouts of the wanted suspects in the Lusikisiki mass murders. 

“Those who shared the pictures of these suspects on social media, to all the journalists and media houses that played their watchdog role, we are indebted to you.  

“This is what the SAPS can achieve when the whole country rallies behind our men and women in blue. We thank you, South Africa, for assisting us to stamp the authority of the state,” Masemola said. 

He also commended the investigating team for their determination in solving this case.  

Masemola said they wouldn’t reveal where the suspects were found and arrested at this stage, as this may jeopardise the investigations. 

By Daily Kasi correspondence

RENOWNED South African rapper Kwesta, real name Senzo Vilakazi, is back with new music.

The Ngud’ hitmaker released his first solo single in years, Dlala Vilakazi, a few weeks ago. This marks his thrilling return to the studio after a two-year break. 

Kwesta told Daily Kasi  he didn’t plan to stay away from the music scene for so long but is ready to make a big impact once again.

Speaking about his new single, he explained that it doesn’t carry any deep message. It’s simply about bringing joy to his fans, he said.

There’s no deep message behind it. It’s just me saying I’m back in the studio, making music. I wanted to put out a song that makes people happy and sends good vibes out. I’m no longer as young, and some of my upcoming music will reflect that it’s me embracing that fact,” he said.

At 36, Kwesta is comfortable with his evolving sound, and admits there was no specific reason for his two-year break.

“When something hits me to make music, I do it. If nothing hits me, I don’t. It’s as simple as that,” he said.

Reflecting on his previous work, including his joint Kwaito album Speak N Vrostaan and the solo album g.o.d guluva, Kwesta is excited to dive back into hip-hop

I’ve always enjoyed experimenting. During lockdown, we worked on Speak N Vrostaan, and when the restrictions eased up, we released it. It wasn’t like I planned to stay away for long,” he said.

Looking into the future, Kwesta reassured his fans that there is even more music in store.

“The project I’m working on is already done, and this isn’t my last single for the year. I’m thinking of releasing more singles, even an album maybe. I want to give people that groove, and have a lot of features lined up, plus my own music that’s coming.”

Kwesta also commented on the genre fusion, citing that he’s cool with amapiano artists dabbling in hip-hop and vice versa.

“At the end of the day, we’re all artists,” he said.

By Nomalungelo Booi

SINOXOLO Kana (27), from Zinyoka Informal Settlement near Gqeberha , is gatvol.  

This is after cops allegedly moered him for no reason. 

He told Daily Kasi News on 12 October 2024, he went to a nearby shebeen in his kasi to get a few beers to drink at home but met with cops who were already ordering the shebeen to close.  

Sinoxolo said they moered him with a sjambok, and a female cop hit him with a brick on the chest.  

He showed the DK-Team his buttocks that still have sjambok marks. 

“I was not even in the shebeen but walking towards it when a cop approached me. Before I could say much, two other cops arrived from a pathway between the shacks and asked me why I was outside. I explained that I wanted to buy booze and go back home since I was already drinking at home,” Sinoxolo said.

“They responded with a sjambok on my back. The female cop hit me with a half-brick on my chest, then I fell to the ground, and she kicked me on my 4-5.” 

He added that while on the ground, the beating didn’t stop until another cop asked them to let him go.  

“They told me to run and not look back. So, I ran, but I was in pain.Sinoxolo, who arrived in Gqeberha in May this year, said this felt like “a rude welcome to Gqeberha”

He said while they were beating him, he asked for forgiveness, but they didn’t stop.  

“I was asking them to forgive me for whatever they may think I had done, but they didn’t listen to my cries,” he said. 

After the beating, Sinoxolo went home and told his brother, who was gatvol about the incident and posted it on social media.  

However, he didn’t know the officers’ names who moered him, and didn’t see the vehicle they were driving, so he ended up not opening a case.  

Sinoxolo added that he hasn’t opened a case for as fear of being targeted by the same cops

Meanwhile, police spokesman Captain Frederick Van Wyk said: “In order for him to get assistance, he must go to the nearest cop shop and open a criminal case.” 

By Anoxolo Zenzile

Friday night’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium witnessed an electrifying performance by Bafana Bafana, who demolished Congo-Brazzaville 5-0. However, the jubilant atmosphere was temporarily disrupted by two pitch invasions during the first half.

A near-capacity crowd of 35,000 enthusiastic fans cheered on the South African team as they dominated the match, showcasing their skills and determination. The convincing win has boosted Bafana Bafana’s chances of advancing in the tournament.

Unfortunately, the excitement got the better of some overzealous supporters, who breached security and invaded the pitch twice before halftime. The incidents prompted concerns about stadium safety and the potential risks for players, officials, and spectators.

In response to the incidents, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium management has pledged to identify and implement long-term solutions to prevent future pitch invasions. The stadium’s authorities have assured fans that additional measures will be taken to strengthen security protocols.

“We apologize for the unfortunate incidents and acknowledge the concerns raised,” said a stadium management spokesperson. “We are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all spectators. We will work closely with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure that our venue remains a secure and welcoming environment for international football events.”

Despite the disruptions, Bafana Bafana’s outstanding display on the field was the main talking point. The team’s attacking prowess and solid defense earned them a well-deserved victory, sending the crowd into raptures.

Coach Hugo Bross praised his team’s performance, saying, “The players showed tremendous spirit and discipline. We’re delighted with the result and look forward to building on this momentum.”

As Bafana Bafana continue their Africa Cup of Nations campaign, fans will be eagerly awaiting their next match, hoping for a repeat performance without any security concerns.

The stadium management’s proactive stance on enhancing security will be welcomed by fans, players, and officials alike, ensuring that future matches are played in a safe and festive atmosphere.