By Anathi Singeni

A POOL of kak is what you see when you enter Nomvula Mayedwa’s yard.

Nomvula, who owns a tavern, is frustrated by this as it’s chasing customers away and killing her business.

The businesswoman from Alexandra, Eastern Cape, said she’s been to the local municipal customer service centre several times, but still sitting with a river of kak.

I’m losing money because I can’t accommodate my customers. Who would want to swim in this river?” Nomvula asked.

“It’s knee-deep and we have no control over it. The only people who can help are the municipal workers, but they’re not willing to stop this problem,” she said

Nomvula said the problem is the manhole, which she suspects, is blocked. She’s worried the problem will continue if it is not attended to.

Patrons would love to chill at my place on payday, but now there’s kak water everywhere. We inhale, eat and sleep with kak. This is traumatic and we wish the municipality solves this problem.”

Nomvula’s neighbour, Lindiwe Makaziwe, has the same problem as the water is flowing into her yard.

“We’ve put bricks to step on as we get in and out of the house. This is bad. It’s also bad for our health. I have small kids who can’t play outside because of the kak river in our yards,” Nomvula said.

Eric Ashton spokesman of Municipality, said workers will be sent to assess the problem.

“If the problem is in her yard, she needs to pay someone to fix the problem, but if it’s outside the yard, the municipality will take over,” Ashton said.

By Voyolwethu Suswana

Suspect in Quintuple Murder Dies in Police Standoff

The man accused of brutally killing five people in a mass shooting on Tuesday night met his demise yesterday in a dramatic standoff with police.

The 30-year-old suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was cornered by a joint team of crime intelligence, specialized units and visible policing in a Tsewu Street house, mere meters from the scene of the previous night’s carnage.

Eyewitnesses describe the intense scene: “Police surrounded the house, ordering him to surrender. He refused, pointing his gun at officers. That’s when they opened fire.”

Police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, confirmed: “Our officers acted swiftly to prevent further bloodshed. The suspect was fatally wounded.”

Tuesday’s rampage left five victims dead and a community reeling. The motive remains unclear.

VICTIMS IDENTIFIED

1.⁠ ⁠Nombulelo Mafilika (25)
2.⁠ ⁠Lungile Mabulu (30)
3.⁠ ⁠Thembisile Ngcaweni (28)
4.⁠ ⁠Siyabonga Nogemane (22)
5.⁠ ⁠Ayanda Qotoyi (29)

Police are investigating possible links to gang activity.

“We urge anyone with information to come forward,” Colonel Naidu appealed.

Residents expressed relief and shock: “Justice has been served, but the pain remains.” – Local resident

By Zikhona Mlimlwana and Akhona Thys

NELSON MANDELA BAY – The relentless rains lashing the city have claimed two lives, leaving families shattered and communities reeling.

Amidst the floods and devastation, a tragic electrocution incident has stunned residents of Booysen Park. A local woman, identified as Natasha, 35, was fatally electrocuted when she accidentally hit her head on a low-hanging, wet illegal electrical wire while seeking shelter at the community hall.

Eyewitnesses describe the horrific scene told Daily Kasi News: “She was trying to get to the hall to charge her phone and find safety. The wire was hidden by the floodwaters… It was like a silent killer waiting to strike.”

In a separate incident, a 42-year-old man from Kwazakhele was electrocuted while attempting to repair a flooded electrical connection in his home.

As the death toll rises, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality faces mounting pressure to address the city’s crumbling infrastructure and illicit electrical connections.

“We urge residents to exercise extreme caution and report any illegal connections to authorities,” said Municipal Spokesperson, Mthubanzi Mniki

Stay safe, Nelson Mandela Bay!

•⁠ ⁠Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas
•⁠ ⁠Report illegal connections to 0800 111 081
•⁠ ⁠Follow evacuation instructions from authorities

By Phumlani Saul

Residents Left Homeless, Powerless and Terrified

Heavy rains have unleashed chaos in Nelson Mandela Bay, sweeping away bridges, roads, and dams. Thousands are now seeking shelter in churches and community halls, clutching only the clothes on their backs.

Kariega resident Lydia Mey, (54) told Daily Kasi News recalls the horror of June’s floods. “We didn’t think twice, we just left,” she said, comforting her sleeping daughter in a crowded community hall.

Shafiek Sathorar, (43),fled his Jones Street home with his paraplegic wife. “Last time, we lost everything. We can’t risk it again.”

The SA Weather Service’s Level 6 warning remains in effect, with Kariega, Despatch, and Kwazakhele among the worst-hit areas.

n Kariega, Willow Dam and the Cat River Canal overflowed.

Most of the homeless are now being housed in community halls.

Residents in flooded Kariega streets were evacuated and taken to Sunshine Special School or De-Mist NG Kerk.

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