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INSIDE Consumer Eye INSIDE VACCINE: Grannies sent to INSIDE WATER SHORTAGE long-distance DISRUPTS centres COURTS Friday 4 June 2021 D E Q L www.weeklysamirror.news MIRRORWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... MREYMESMOBENR Mom’s plea after son’s death fall while working at Beyoncé’s 2018 FNB Stadium Mandela Festival left her struggling without breadwinner and with paltry compensation

2 WEEKLY SA MIRROR NEWS Friday 4 June 2021 Dr Nokwanda Congratulations, sir! Mzondo, acting You have been vaccination site vaccinated! medical manager. SMOOTH: Leratong Hospital’s vaccination site runs seamlessly as the aged trickle in and out without glitch The Covid 19 vaccination drive at Leratong hos- pital west of Johannesburg is in full swing as the elderly queue to get their jabs. Weekly SA Mirror visited the hospital this week where we found senior citizens from surrounding areas waiting patiently to receive their jabs. In an easy-to-follow programme from the gate, the security guard ushered us in and pointed us to a road that leads to the secluded part of the hospital where Covid 19 jabs are being administered to pen- sioners. White placards written in bold black letters were placed on the side of a little steep and curvey road that ultimately goes flat a few metres before reaching the site - clearly giving directions. After making a few inquiries, Dr Nokwanda Mzondo, acting medical manager in charge of the vaccination site, took us through a tour on the site where the senior citizens over the age of 60 were being attended to. Mzondo explained the processes from the first stage when the elderly arrive right through to the last stage. She took us to the first room from the gate within the secluded area of the hospital where she explained that the starting point was stage one. “Here (stage one) we do database capturing. We verify those already registered by putting their ID numbers on the system. We register those who are not registered and put them into the system. “We then move them to stage two where we give them information on the side effects of the Pfizer vaccine. We explain to them that it is a two-dose vaccine and that they should come back after 42 days for the second dose. We screen them. We then take their body temperature. We ask them if they are on chronic medication for contraindications such as blood clots to see if it is safe to vaccinate them. After they are vaccinated, they are requested to stay for a 15 minutes post-vaccination monitor- ing for observation.” We asked Mzondo if she had experienced any glitches so far. “Not really. It is only people who are rejected by the system when they register. Remember, the process was opened for essential services workers and health workers before. The system block eve- ryone from May 24 and allow only those over 60. We now have to turn away those who do not fit in the criteria”. Mzondo also confirmed that there was a trickle of white people coming in for vaccination. Lazarus Khambula, 71, from Kagiso, had al- ready registered online when he came to get a jab. His niece, he said, had registered for him. He said he had no problem vaccinating and was not scared of the process. Photos: Mohau Mofokeng Story by Vusi Xaba

Friday 4 June 2021 NEWS 3WEEKLY SA MIRROR JUSTICE DELAYED FOR CONCERT WORKER WHO FELL TO DEATH AT BEYONCE’S MANDELA INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL GRIEVING: husband-and-duo Beyonce and Jay-Z, and featured Progress in resolving Siya’s matter seems to update, regarding the proposed regulations for the A MOTHER’S CRY an array of local and international stars such as Cas- have been stalled by the Covid lockdown, where Events Technical & Production Services Industry. sper Nyovest, D’banj, Ed Sheeran, Femi Kuti, Sho courts are not operating with optimal staff, if what By Ali Mphaki Madjozi, and Usher, among others. the Department of Labour says, is anything to go Lack of transformation, says Freddie Nyathela Beyonce came, saw, and left us mesmerized with about. A spokesman for the department confirmed the president of South African Roadies Associa- her stage antics. Nearly three years after Siya’s fatal plunge, no that an inspection was conducted at Gearhouse tion, SARA, is to blame for the death of Siya. one has been brought to book – a situation which SA and found that the company failed to comply But somewhere in the Transkei a mother con- brings angst to his surviving ailing mother and his with the provisions of the Occupational Health and Gearhouse SA national maketing manager Ro- tinues to grieve over the death of her son, who fell only daughter. Safety Act, as amended, which led to the death of byn D’Alessandro, at the time, said this was the to his death while working as a rigger at the Man- Siya on duty. only fatality in the company’s more than 25 years dela concert featuring the American singer almost “All we want is justice for my beloved son. I of operations. three years ago. cannot understand why is it taking so long to have She said the matter had been referred to the someone prosecuted for the death of my son,” cries Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court for prosecution Asked for his comment Global Citizen’s direc- The concert was organised to honour the late out his 56-year-old mother, Thembekile Ngonze of Gearhouse SA. Meanwhile, Global Citizen 100 tor of public relations, Andrew Kirk, said they were former president Nelson Mandela’s 100th birthday Mandela gig was rocked by other incidents of this advised that Siya was experienced and that he was and presented by major partner, the Motsepe Foun- Adding to her grieve is what she dismisses as a nature – a second person sustained an ankle injury wearing all appropriate safety gear and equipment dation, with House of Mandela, Johnson & John- paltry compensation of R 70 000 that she received while equipment was being taken down a day after when he fell. son, Cisco, Nedbank, Vodacom, Big Concerts, Bill from the Department of Labour as compensation the concert while another lost his finger during the & Melinda Gates Foundation. for her son’s death). transit. Two other workers suffered injuries while equipment was being taken down after the concert. Siya Ngonze, a 36-year-old man from Butter- This amount was divided into amounts of R35 Industry players put the blame on lack of trans- and another person lost his finger during the transit. worth in the Transkei, was employed by a produc- 000 to be shared between her and Siya’s daughter. formation and the undermining of BBBEE laws of tion partner for the festival, Gearhouse SA, when A woman who was paralysed after a tent collapsed the country. Freddie Nyathela, president of South One of the people Lebogang Mogorosi was tak- he suffered fatal injuries from a fall while install- in a political event reportedly received close to a R1 African Roadies Association, said the industry en to the Milpark Hospital where he was admitted ing scaffolding and cranes at the FNB Stadium in million more than a decade ago. was a free for all with the department of employ- and later discharged. Soweto. The multi-starred event was headlined by ment and labour dragging its feet regards proposed Tears well her eyes when she remembers how regulations for the Events Technical and Produc- It is also not clear whether they received any she had to struggle to bury her son, having received tion Services Industry. Nyathela decried the de- compensated for their injuries.. about R39 000 from Gearhouse SA. partment’s delay to provide SARA with a progress DG for the department of employment and la- Life has turned for the worst for the ailing bour Thobile Lamati had not responded to our in- mother since her son’s death, who was the family’s quries at the time of posting, while NPA spokesper- breadwinner. son Phindi Mjonondwane said she was not aware of the matter. CAR TRACKER WITH By Thuli Zungu alert,” she related. Sending an email panic button twice and for the first LIMITED RANGE IRKS MOM Sandra Ndlovu is a very dissatisfied to their client service department time she received a missed call and an customer! This follows her recent also did not help as it was ignored, SMS panic alert. Later in the morning DEFECTIVE: No peace of mind as experience with a service provider she said. She then sent through a when she got to work, she called the system lacks ground-penetrating capacity who is responsible for the tracking WhatsApp message which was also CarTrack control room for a free test. device installed in her car. ignored. It was only after she logged Car owner Sandra Ndlovu into their website that she got their at- “The gentleman who assisted me Ndlovu, 43, from Kempton Park, tention. confirmed that they had received a east of Johannesburg, told SA Week- panic alert but when I requested him ly Mirror that in April 2019 she had “I then sent a message via a chat to check the location of the car as we bought herself a new Toyota RAV 4. platform that’s when I got assistance,” were speaking to my dismay gave me This was an upgrade for her as she she recalled. A technician was sent to a wrong location. He said my car was had been driving an older version of come exchange the unit as it was clear in Kempton Park yet I had it with me the same car. that the previous one was also faulty. at work. She said each time a technician ex- Upon receipt of her new car, she changed the unit she received a new “For me that was it. I immediately had CarTrack, who was her service certificate. After the 3rd certificate, called CarTrack and cancelled my provider transfer her tracking device Ndlovu said she began to have doubts contract with them. Instead of them from the old car into the new one as about CarTrack’s product. taking responsibility for their appall- per the insurance requirement. Ndlo- ing service they instead threatened me vu said she had always used CarTrack “I was even more worried about with a R2000 cancellation fee. since 2014. the negative implications of this on my insurance. The insurer clearly “Why should I be liable for a can- This was done. However, to states that the car has to be fitted with cellation fee for something that wasn’t Ndlovu’s dismay, two months later, a working unit at all times and that it of my own doing. I gave CarTrack so she was informed by the tracking unit is my responsibility, as the owner, to many opportunities to redeem them- company CarTrack that her unit was test and ensure that the device is in a selves but they failed me. Instead they faulty. working condition. have the audacity to call me, in the odd hours sometimes at 7pm or 8pm “They immediately booked a “As a consumer I also have a right demanding payment for a product technician to come fix it for me. I was to receive goods that are of good qual- they knew never worked. All I wanted then issued with another certificate as ity and in a good working order free was peace of mind hence I installed a per the requirements by the insurance from any defects. And that they must tracking device. Instead it has turned company,” explained Ndlovu. After be reasonably suitable for the purpose into my worst nightmare,” said an an- her ordeal of driving around with a they are generally intended for. Last, gry Ndlovu. defective unit, Ndlovu decided to put but not least, the goods have to be the unit and the tracking company into usable and durable for a reasonable CarTrack SA has agreed to cancel a test. She pressed her panic button. time,” said Ndlovu. Ndlovu’s contract. Their CEO Harry Louw told Consumer Eye that Ndlovu “To my surprise, there was no re- That is why Ndlovu felt that the would habitually test her device from sponse from CarTrack. I pressed the service from CarTrack was of poor an area with low GSM coverage. panic button again for two consecu- standard and that they had failed to “Ndlovu has terminated her contract tive days for more than two occasions deliver on their promise. and as a gesture of goodwill we have but still there was no response from waived the cancellation fee,” said their control room. Not even an SMS On the 12th June 2020, Ndlovu Louw. tested the unit again by pressing the

4 WEEKLY SA MIRROR NEWS Friday 4 June 2021 GRANNIES GRIPE OVER HIGHLIGHTS: DISTANT COVID JAB CENTRES Limpopo FRANK MAPONYA - OUR MAN IN LIMPOPO INEQUALITIES: Distance and access to technology pose challenge to over-60s HALAMBANI-TSWINGANANI car. According to Mojapelo, the driver of the The National Child Protection Week security vehicle who was sitting inside the By Pearl Rantsekeng does it matter if you have co-morbidities which make car gave chase and the suspects dropped the and Mzimase Ngqelu you statistically more likely to have a dangerous case (NCPW) started on a bad note in Limpopo money box as it spilled red and green ink. He of Covid-19 if you get the corona virus. But, where you when an 11-months-old baby boy was said the men took the direction of the south The national roll-out of vaccinations by govern- live could make all the difference. allegedly killed by his mother. The incident along the R81 road before the car in which ment has brought to the forefront the stark reality of happened at Halambani-Tswinganani village they were travelling lost control and hit a pole South Africa as a country with a tale of two cities. This Nicholas Crisp, the department of health deputy near Thohoyandou on Monday. Police said next to the Kremetart entrance. The men al- is no more apparent than in the long queues of people director general in charge of the system, told Business a 42-year-old woman had locked herself legedly jumped off the car and fled into the waiting to receive their jabs for the corona virus. Insider that despite early talk of a full booking system and the baby inside a hut where she started bushes. Anyone with information is requested where recipients would be able to select a slot and beating up the victim. Spokesperson for to contact Major General Maggie Mathebula Most whites especially from affluent areas, are cur- venue convenient to them, that was just not going to the police Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo on 082-499-1969, Colonel Cecil Machimane rently the main beneficiaries through no fault of their happen. said community members reportedly heard on 082-451-7181, or the Crime Stop number own except that they are privileged enough to have the frantic cries of the baby and rushed to 08600-10111. access to technology and transport. The majority of “That would make allocation of resources too com- house. He said after realising that the door blacks mostly the elderly, barely have plicated. Your address will determine if you get an in- was locked, the community members broke GA-PHASHA access to cellphones and are thus be- it down and rescued the badly-injured baby Three people died and five escaped with ing placed at a disadvantage to reg- vitation,” said Crisp. from its mother. The baby was rushed to the ister in the government’s Electronic He said in vaccine centre ser- Lambani Clinic but was declared dead on minor injuries in a head-on collision between Validation Digital System (EVDS). arrival. The woman was charged with murder two sedans on Wednesday. The accident hap- The few that do manage– the likes of vices, those who registered addresses and investigations are continuing. MEC for pened on the N1 road near Ga-Phasha village Beatrice within its catchment area are sched- Social Development Nkakareng Rakgoale in Botlokwa, north of Polokwane. Spokesper- uled for vaccinations. “In urban ar- has expressed sadness at the incident and said son for the department of transport and com- Mamabolo from Etwatwa West, eas, that is for people within 10km of social workers would provide psychological munity safety in Limpopo Matome Moremi- outside Daveyton – find themselves the vaccine site. In rural areas people support to all parties affected. NCPW started Tauyatsoala said the accident involved a VW sent to far-flung areas miles away who are within 30km of the site get on Sunday. and Renault sedans. He said preliminary in- from their places of residence. on the schedule. vestigations had revealed that the VW was PHAGAMENG overtaking on a barrier line. The three victims Mamabolo told Weekly SA Mir- “Your proximity to a vaccina- Three women have been arrested for al- were certified dead on the scene while the five ror that she was registered by her tion centre is more important than injured people were taken to Botlokwa Hos- daughter online about a week ago. On how old you are in the algorithm that legedly killing a man following a verbal dis- pital for treatment. Reckless driving has been Tuesday she received notification by determines when you get an SMS in- pute at a tavern in Phagameng, Modimolle. cited as a possible cause of the accident. SMS that she has to go to Kempton vitation. Then the date and time you Police said the incident happened on Tuesday Park Civic Centre, 36 kilometres away, for her jab on registered comes into play even when when the dispute begun between the man and BANDELIERKOP Friday. you are a member of a medical aid.” the suspects. He said one of the women al- A taxi driver has been arrested for alleg- Crisp said the catchment areas for centres may be ad- legedly took out a knife and stabbed the man. Luckily Mamabolo is one of the fortunate ones as justed as necessary. The other women, he said, allegedly used the edly killing a man and his son in a suspected she has her own transport. However, she was livid at “We may push that down to 5km in urban areas or same knife to take turns in stabbing the man, act of road rage. Spokesperson for the police being sent so far away when the local Joy Clinic, two go beyond 30km in rural areas.”. Some of those regis- who later succumbed to the stab wounds. The Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said the inci- streets away from her home, was one of the centres tered however, like Mamabolo say that is not the case, case against the women was postponed to next dent happened near Bandelierkop along the used for vaccinating. but Crisp says such anecdotes have simple explana- week for a formal bail application while inves- N1 road on Monday. He said the 33-year-old tions. tigations are continuing. taxi driver had driven into a filling station in “Can someone explain to me the rationale behind “Where you have a husband and wife who are not the area, apparently to avoid an altercation all this because I don’t understand. If I didn’t have a on the same day, what has happened is that they regis- MOPANI SUPER SPAR with a (white) man who was travelling in a car car how was I going to get to the civic centre. And why tered together, but a lot of other people may have been Police are offering a reward of up to R50 in the company of his son. The father and son was I not referred to Joy Clinic? Instead you have peo- registering at the same time, so you may have 30 or followed the taxi driver into the petrol station ple coming to Joy Clinic all the way from Soweto and 40 other people who submitted between the time the 000 for any information that can lead to the and he pulled out a gun and shot them. The son Tembisa. husband and the wife registered. arrest of four men who were responsible for died on the spot while his father was rushed “In other instances, incomplete addresses could shooting to death a security guard during a to a hospital in Makhado where he died on Does that make any sense ?,” Mamabolo asked. Ac- come into play. Wrong post codes, different suburbs cross pavement robbery in Giyani. Brigadier arrival. Mojapelo said the taxi driver is cur- cording to Business Insider SA, government’s EVDS with the same street name and similar geo-location Motlafela Mojapelo said the men had ar- rently under police guard in hospital after he system decides who gets vaccinated when and where trouble have all seen people placed into the wrong rived at the Mopani Super Spar travelling in a accidentally shot himself during the fracas and although walk-ins are at the moment still being served. catchment area,” said Crisp. white BMW double cab. He said two of them that a bullet was lodged in his body. He said He said those issues were being addressed. Accord- jumped off and allegedly accosted a G4S se- the matter was being investigated and that the Currently, in order to be in the queue for a Cov- ing to the department of health’s website, as of June 2, curity guard who had just collected cash from docket would be forwarded to the National Di- id-19 vaccine at all, you have to be either a healthcare the total number of individuals vaccinated was sitting one of the shops in the area. The men took rector for Public Prosecutions for a decision. worker or at least 60 years old. But, if you fall in that at 1 117 569. the money box and fled towards their parked general population group, it makes no difference if you are 60 and one day old or have lived for 99 years. Nor CASES DELAYED AS WATER SHORTAGES DISRUPT COURTS POSTPONED AGAIN: Residents up in arms as cases are not heard due to lack of water By Vusi Xaba on Wednesday but the case was postponed as poned to June 9. The service in this court is nounced but nothing was said about my case. MASSIVE water cuts at the Protea Mag- members of the public were not allowed to en- very bad,” Mbatha said. If I skip the next appearance date the mat- ter the premises due to the water shortage. istrate’s Court in Soweto have affected the de- Nomonde Nyandeni of Emndeni, had come ter could be withdrawn,” Nyandeni said. livery of justice and left thousands of the town- A court official had to read a court roll an- to attend a case in which she is a complainant. A woman who declined to identify herself ship residents attending the courts frustrated. nouncing postponements in the street behind She had opened a case against the accused fol- the court’s closed gate. Visibly frustrated com- lowing a robbery at her home on Christmas said a case involving her relative had been A high-profile case of Pastor Mpfariseni munity members who arrived at court to at- Day last year. Household items were allegedly postponed twice previously - the last time be- Makhubu of the United Fellowship Church is tend cases involving their relatives and friends stolen. ing May 25. A security guard at the gate said one of the cases that had to be postponed be- as well as complainants were heard complain- the court did not have water since last Friday. cause the court’s taps had run dry. Makhu- ing that the rescheduling of the cases had been “The suspect was arrested on December Another court employee said the water crisis at bu was arrested earlier this year following happening for a long time now. Sipho Mbatha 27. The court did not sit when he was supposed the court had been going on regularly for the an alleged violent confrontation between her of Mapetla, said he had attended a case of to appear previously because there was a bomb past three months. It appears though that the church members and law-enforcement agen- three of his brothers who are accused of rape. scare. Today there is no water. This is a waste water problem at the court was not related to cies. Police and members of the Johannesburg He told Weekly SA Mirror that the case was of time. I could be doing other things. It is very the water problem that had affected a number Metropolitan Police Department were called to postponed on May 19 due to the water short- frustrating. of areas within the City of Johannesburg. Are- the scene after a complaint about noise coming age. as surrounding the court have not complained from her church during a service as well as the ‘’Another thing now is that the court offi- about water cuts. breaking of Covid 19 protocols. “They are supposed to have applied for cials are supposed to issue me a letter to take to bail. Their case was postponed on May 19 to work as proof that I was in court. But they say The National Prosecuting Authority had Makhubu was scheduled to appear in court today (Wednesday) and it has now been post- they have problems issuing the letter. not responded to our inquiry by the time of go- ing to print. “I have heard postponement of cases an-

Friday 4 June 2021 NEWS 5WEEKLY SA MIRROR Ouma and Kemmone are called Mother Theresa’s of the village because they care for the children. Photo: Boitumelo Tshehle HUNGRY NORTH WEST KIDS FLOCK TO ‘MOTHER TERESA’ FOR FOOD AND LOVE NEGLECT: Mother and daughter share family home and meals with strangers The pair take care of more than 20 children old only. Yet, Ouma is able to expend all the love house for the children. Sometimes a local church from the congested village of Dibate in Mahikeng and care to these children while unemployed and steps in to help them out with groceries. “No mat- By Boitumelo Tshehle – all rounded up while loitering, dirty and hun- her daughter, who is only able to eke out existence ter how small the food of the day seems, we share People call them mother Theresa’s of Dibate gry. Most have parents and homes, but prefer to from a meagre pay, that she is prepared to selfless- among ourselves,” she said. gather at the home of the Selepes because they are ly share with her extended family without fuss. villNorth west communities call her Mother The- guaranteed a decent meal and the attention they “It’s a routine in the Selepe family to wake up resa, after the Catholic nun and missionary who sorely need. Kemmone said they decided to take in these early in the morning and cook soft porridge before dedicated her life looking after the poor and sick. the children go to school; and after school, instead It is not just food these little children want What makes me happy of going to their respective homes, the children Ms Ouma Sele (58) of Dibate village, earned from this family, they seem to warm to parental is to see a smile on return back to for lunch. We cook samp and soup the moniker because of her charity work – along love given them by Ouma and Kemmone, who for them, sometimes dumpling and cabbage, it de- with her daughter, Kemmone (38) - in dedicating washes their dirty clothes, help them with school their faces, managing pends on what we have for that day. their lives to serving neglected children and or- homework and makes sure that they go to school that makes me sleep phans, and expecting nothing in return. tidy and their shoes polished. “What makes me happy is to see a smile on well at night. their faces, managing that makes me sleep well at The Selepe home is full of warmth and cama- night,” she said. The majority of these children raderie. The children also get to play and dance children after realising that most lived with par- receive a government child support grant, but then together, all under the beady eye of their foster ents who suffered from alcohol abuse, received it goes to their parents. “They do not help us with parents. When the sun sets, some simply refuse very little attention and love, and risked becoming anything, but again we did not ask them to help, to go back home, preferring to sleep over at the street kids or dropping out of school. because we are doing this because we love it,” Selepe home. she said. Although, Selepe secured guardianship “We just wanted to give these children the rights for the three orphans she was looking after, “We have emptied one room to cater for them. warmth they deserve. They are lovely children she did not get money for foster care. They sleep on sponge mattresses and a few blan- with a bright future ahead of them. It would not kets that were donated to us by white people,” sit well with me if I knew I could help but turned “I tried engaging the social workers with these said Selepe. a blind eye, instead,” she said. orphans, but they said they could not help because they needed to prove that both parents were dead. As handful the job of looking after these However, the challenge is that there is not “Their mothers died raising them alone. I would children is, these women never tire of welcom- enough room to offer these children decent ac- not know where to begin, family members also do ing the youngsters to their modest home. The commodation as they live in a two-bedroom RDP not know who fathered them,” she said. family’s kindness knows no bounds; there are house. In addition, the family struggles daily to even orphans among the brood, which includes a feed their flock. There is never enough food in the A good Samaritan Mmatankiso Modise re- five-months-old baby girl they have raised from cently donated clothes and shoes to the children. the time she was only three days old, after being abandoned by her mother, a resident at the village. North West Social development MEC Boitu- melo Moiloa promised to assist and send her team Another orphan, aged 12, is living with HIV soon. She has also requested for their contacts. and Aids. He takes treatment every month, having arrived at the Selepes when he was seven years Her spokesperson, Petrus Siko, has promised to give a detailed response on the matter.

6 WEEKLY SA MIRROR CONSUMER & LEGAL MATTERS Friday 4 June 2021 Consumer Eye AWARD-WINNING CONSUMER EDITOR LOOKS INTO YOUR COMPLAINTS GRANNY IN PICKLE OVER SALE OF HER R1.2M HOUSE LOST IN TRANSLATION: Dispute as two Estate Agents fight over Ms Lindiwe Thela nurses her mom, Ms Siphiwe Sibanyoni, the granny who has lodged a com- claimed there was, and that Huizermark should commission plaint with the Estate Agency Affairs Board about her treatment by Re-Max estate agency. have called to inquire whether they had a sole mandate, the first thing to do but did not do. Kobus AN 85-year-old granny is saddled with their agents were equipped, trained and qualified to Though Thela said there was no Re-Max “for du Plessis, the principal agent at Huizemark, said a king-size headache after she assign- make sure they handled all clients and transactions sale board” in front of the house, De Necker said by law and in terms of the code of conduct of the ing two estate agencies to sell her Estate Agency Affairs Board Act, Re-Max should house – only to end up with both de- have disclosed in their online advert that they had manding commission from her, even a sole mandate. though only one clinched the sale. Estate Agency Affairs Board is investigating When deciding to sell her property in the her matter. Rookaya Ballim, who responded on Ekurhuleni suburb of Leondale, an ailing 85-year- behalf of the Chief Executive Officer at the EAAB, old Ms Siphiwe Sibanyoni did not seem to have said they needed a power of attorney first before fully understood the terms and conditions con- they could engage with WSAM. Asked when did tained in the agreement she signed with an agent the rules change to require such to respond to me- from Re-Max. dia inquiries, she was yet to answer. In another twist, it appears both estate agents might be over- It appears the granny had unknowingly granted charging Sibanyoni for commission.Her contract Re-Max the sole mandate to sell her R1,2-million showed she was to be charged 8% and 8,5 percent house. Now the apparent oversight is a source of respectively, but, on calculation, to receive a com- tension between her and Remax, which now de- mission of R138 000 , Remax actually charged her manding 50% commission, even though the sale 11,42 % while Huizemark charged her 9.75% to be of her house was clinched by Huizermark. For the eligible for R117 000. A big difference from the sale, Re-Max is claiming R138 000, commission percentages they claimed they were entitled to. from Sibanyoni and Huizermark R117 000. Ms Sibanyoni’s Leondale that is at the centre of a commission row involving two estate agencies and her. Sibanyoni’s daughter, Ms Lindiwe Thela, said her mother had specifically told the Re-Max agent, exactly what was expected of them. SOLE MANDATE VS OPEN MANDATE Mary Kirumbi, that they wanted the house to be “We actually ask our agents to go the extra sold as soon as possible. • T​ he agent has a duty to explain whether property will be sold through open mandate, sole mile in all aspect,”she said. She said Sibanyoni had mandate or multiple. “My mother is not learned, that’s why I was ne- given their agent a sole mandate and that all infor- gotiating on her behalf. It is for this reason I even mation was clearly communicated before signing • O​ pen mandate is the case when a seller gives more than one estate agent the permission to told Mary that I would enlist the service of other of the said. sell his or her property. Its disadvantage is that the estate agency may not give enough time to agents to help expedite the sale,” Thela said. the property if it is an open mandate. “Knowing that the seller is an elderly lady, A sole mandate precludes the buyer from en- our agent communicated all information with her • ​A​ nother disadvantage is the seller runs the risk of having to pay more than one agent if and gaging another estate agent to sell their property daughter as well, which included our marketing when the property is sold. unless the sole mandate has expired or is termi- plan and sole mandate.” She said Remax had proof nated. Thela said the sole mandate was signed of communication from the daughter with this re- • ​Selling property under open mandate might not conclude best deal because of the scramble with her granny in her absence. She maintained gard, but when Thela demanded it, she failed to to close the deal before a competitor does. that Re-Max never mentioned anything about sole produce it. mandate, or warn her about giving another agent • S​​ ole mandate is given to one person and lasts for a certain period of time. In this instance, an the same mandate or even explain she would be li- “After clearly explaining the process and sole estate agent may still cooperate with other estate agents in selling the house. able to pay commission to both agents if she did so. mandate, the sole mandate was signed by the sell- er,” De Necker said. Over and above the commu- • M​​ ultiple listing is a system where a number of estate agents agree to share their listing of “I spoke to Mary in isiZulu,” Sibanyoni said. nication with the seller’s daughter, all best business properties for sale and share the commission, but the seller pays only one commission. Thela said she later called Huizemark and their practices and code of conduct of the EAAB were Source: Estate Agency Affairs Board agent, Mapaseka Somo, helped her to put the house followed in obtaining the sole mandate, she said. on the market. “I made her aware that Re-Max are the first agents I contacted,” Thela said. She said Somo checked Re-max’s advert on their online platform and confirmed that the house was an open mandate before accepting the mandate. “It was only later that Mary disclosed the status of sole mandate on their advert, something that was never there when I first open the link she sent me,” Thela said. She said the first Re-Max advert, dated November 15 2020, did not have a notice that they had a sole mandate. But it only surfaced recently when Re-Max demanded 50% of the commission after Huizenmark had successfully sold her moth- er’s house in January this year, she said. Though, she told both agents her mother want- ed R1,2 million after commission was deducted, she was shocked Huizemark claimed 8.5 % and Re Max 8%, which is R138 000 of the price of the house. “Complaining the Estate Agency Affairs Board has not helped. They only gave me a reference number and promised to respond within 30 days, but have not heard a word since March,” Thela said. Re-Max demanded R138 000 by the May 14 or threatened to sue her if she did not pay them, Thela said. “They did not even place a signage outside the gate to advertise that house is on sale” Thela. Jenny De Necker, broker owner at Remax, said

Friday 4 June 2021 CONSUMER & LEGAL MATTERS 7WEEKLY SA MIRROR REFEREE FOR UNFAIR BUSINESS PRACTICES Forward looking: NTC chair PROTECTION: Tribunal judgments Advocate Joe Maseko have positive impact on consumers By Thuli Zungu vehicles using a credit from a credit provider like HIGHLIGHT JUDGEMENTS THAT MASEKO ADJUDICATED UPON It’s been four hectic years since Advocate a bank. 1. NCC VS Ford Motor Company Southern Africa Manufacturing PTY LTD 149111/2019 Maseko assumed the hot seat of being chairperson He says should the vehicle malfunction, and The Applicant is the National Consumer Commission (“NCC”). The Respondent is Ford Motor of the National Credit Tribunal (NCT). the supplier acts unscrupulously or engages in an unconscionable manner, more often than not this Company Southern Africa. The NCC received approximately 160 complaints from consumers His nomination to the position in 2017 hard- results in some consumers forced to continue to pay in relation to the Ford Motor vehicles.After conducting its investigation and engaging with the ly raised an eyebrow and was widely received as for years for a vehicle they do not even use. Respondent, the NCC filed a settlement agreement with the Tribunal where it was agreed that Maseko had already served six years as a part-time the Ford contravened the CPA by distributing certain “Kuga” model vehicles to consumers tribunal member and was no Johhny-come-lately to “There are, however cases, where a consumer with faulty cooling systems and it was further agreed that an administrative fine of R35 rigours and the sticking to detail which come with will abuse or misuse the item bought, and demand million be levied against Ford. The settlement further provided for processes that consumers the job. its replacement from an innocent supplier. Both can use to claim damages they may have suffered. The Tribunal confirmed this settlement as should not get away with it. For instance, a con- an order of the Tribunal. The Newcastle born Maseko readily and can- sumer who breaks the mirror of a vehicle and de- Impact of the Judgment on the consumer-credit market didly admits he was never under the illusion that his mands a replacement of the vehicle after say five This judgment has far reaching implications for all consumers in respect of the motor industry. job would be a walk in the park. months, is taking it too far, he said. It emphasizes the strength of the Consumer Protection Act in ensuring high quality and safer products are sold within the South African market. By not alienating the consumer from the He is the first to admit the immense challeng- Advocate Maseko said he was therefore eager settlement, it improves consumer confidence in the consumer regulatory authorities. es of adjudicating cases between consumers and to be in a position to tighten up what he had con- sometimes rouge companies and his approach to sidered areas with plenty of room for improvement. 2. NCR VS Aristo CC T/A JMK CASH LOANS - NCT/128380/2019/140(1) his tasks is not to “work hard”, but to “work smart”. This application was brought by the NCR, after initiating an investigation into the conduct He is currently working on research for trig- This impressive characteristic trait he exhib- gers that make a credit consumer overindebted or of JMK Cash Loans. The investigation was triggered by information obtained from the South ited spectacularly prior to his new position, when bankrupt. African Social Security Agency (SASSA) regarding the retention of consumer instruments and he was still a part time tribunal manner, where he the charging of excessive interest rates. The NCR established that the MJK charged 30% would juggle his time between running his family Over and above this, he is also compiling a interest per month on credit agreements and that the JMK was in possession of consumers’ business and doing tribunal work. guiding manual to conscientize suppliers and con- identity documents. The Tribunal held that the MJK indeed engaged in prohibited conduct. sumers in the supply and purchasing of motor ve- MJK was ordered to pay an administrative fine of R 800 000. But more than anything else, Maseko strives to hicles. Impact of the Judgment on the consumer-credit market treat each case with the same rigour and serious- This judgment confirms the consequences facing credit providers if there is a failure to ness it deserves. “I think both sides can do better than what is comply with the NCA. The retention of original consumer instruments is a prohibited action being obtained at the moment. The atrocities and and consumers are not obliged to comply with such requests from credit providers. They In his book there is no small or big matter when injustices pains the heart when one sees how justice specifically have powers to refer matters such as these to the NCR for investigation. it comes to adjudicating unfair business practices can be delayed unnecessarily, by avoidable fights and he is philosophical about it: were the culprits aware of their rights and those of their adversaries.’ “It’s like driving a car. Whether it is a Merc or and Uno, the rules are the same,” he says. “It is unconscionable to find businesses making Maseko detests what he calls the “disabuse” of enemies of their own clients,” he said. Conscious 3. NCR VS Ngoza Financial Services GOZA CC - NCT/128378/2019/57(1) the notion that size matters. of the need to educate the public on the importance The Applicant is the NCR and the Respondent is Ngoza Financial Services CC. This was of the NCT, Maseko said consumers and suppliers “It is a habit we develop and inculcate. Those need to know that “we take every matter large or an application to the Tribunal to cancel the registration of the Respondent for repeatedly who miss out on that lesson quickly sink into small with all seriousness” contravening the Act, the Regulations and the General Conditions of Registration, specifically quicksand in scandal and embarrassment,” he says in relation to affordability assessments, reckless credit agreements, cost of credit interest, matter-of-factly. “Justice does not look at the cost to the state pre-agreement disclosures and record keeping. The Applicant had reasonable suspicion for discharging justice. It is just the nature of the that the Respondent may have been conducting business as a credit provider in a manner The father of five who considers himself a “re- beast,” he said. Of late, he said, Covid-19 PPAs and that was contravening the Act. The Applicant had a reasonable suspicion. The Respondent’s covering perfectionist’, prides himself at the speed supplies seem to top the list of cases the NCT has conduct was declared as prohibited conduct in terms of Section 150(a) of the Act and the in which he is able to produce a very high-quality to adjudicate upon. Respondent’s registration as a credit provider was cancelled with immediate effect. The level of work, a skill he honed while doing con- Respondent was also ordered to pay an administrative fine of R50 000. sulting work. He said when a colleague produces a “Speed is crucial in dealing with our cases. Impact of the Judgment on the consumer-credit market judgment after months, he does so in a few hours or That was my approach at the CCMA, Public and This judgment continues to cement the rights of consumers when it comes to the lending maximum of two days. Private Sector Bargaining Councils, hearings with- practices of micro-lenders. In this instance, the Tribunal prevented the credit provider from in disciplinary hearings of clients, the Consumer operating its business. While he does not want to hog the glory solely court in Mpumalanga where I also served twice, for himself, Maseko prides himself with working first as a Member and then later as a Chairperson HOW DO CONSUMERS ACCESS THE NATIONAL with a team of highly conscientious and profession- of the Court. CONSUMER TRIBUNAL? al workers, who make the work load easier, he says. “I truly do not believe in doing tomorrow what • The consumer will first lodge a complaint with the National Consumer Commission ( NCC). What gets Maseko hot under the collar and de- one can do yesterday, ‘’ he said. • The NCC facilitates the redress of the consumer where their rights were violated by suppliers presses him are those cases of consumers who buy as stated in the Consumer protection Act. • The NCC investigates cases that have gone through the mediation process and could not be resolved. • The investigation process is followed by the NCC referring the dispute to be adjudicated by the National Consumer Tribunal. • The NCC promotes informal resolution of any dispute between the consumer and the supplier. • It does not directly or indirectly adjudicate disputes between the consumer and the supplier. • Cases that will not be immediately considered for investigation are redirected to suppliers, Alternative Dispute resolution Agents such as Ombudsman or Provincial offices of Consumer Affairs.

8 WEEKLY SA MIRROR FASHION Friday 4 June 2021 ONLINE SOCIAL MEDIA CLOTHING BRAND MAKES A STATEMENT FASHION BRAND: Combing sportswear and leisurewear an important trend in fashion. By Mpumi Brown ENVIROMENTAL SHOPPING: in Glamour Magazine South Africa, Fashion Fu- NATAi NATAi Future Aims: Africa is making a statement, with designers em- “I believe that fashion can be used for good, tures initiative, hosted by NATAAL magazine and Cheryl expresses that she would love NATAi bracing their own unique styles and modern take the British Council, and Ndeipi Magazine (Zimba- NATAi “to become accessible to people world of African Chic. Cheryl Nyasha Johnson founder because if done intentionally, it can play a signifi- bwean monthly publication). wide, but restrictions & challenges in delivery of NATAi.NATAi founded 2019 approaches fash- cant role in the revival of our economy by creat- WHO DOES NATAI. NATAI CATER FOR? make it difficult to cater to an international audi- ion with a eco-conscious and maximum drive to ing employment and resuscitating our dying local ence especially now that there’s a pandemic. embracing women. manufacturing and textile industries.” “Women, of all shapes and sizes feel confident, Right now our pieces are only available to sexy and effortlessly chic; we strive to bring our purchase in Zimbabwe and South Africa, but we’d Fast fashion has been one of the leading fac- NATAi NATAi combines stylish figure ac- clients an intentional shopping experience by con- welcome the opportunity to expand into other tors of waste and increased the environmental sec- centuating designs with intentional sustainable necting with our customers, building an open com- countries.” tor dramatically in the past 10 years; NATAi NATAi practices by manufacturing its pieces to order and munity and fostering relationships with the diverse SHOP LOCAL, SHOP BLACK OWNED BUSI- has the vision of creating a business model respect stocking a limited number of pieces in the show- women who wear our clothes in their day to day NESSES, the planet and it’s people. room in order to minimise waste. NATAi NATAi lives.” SHOP | www.natainatai.com distinguishes itself by using only locally sourced NATAi NATAi is on a “journey that encom- fabrics, incorporating natural fabrics in its designs passed a goal to create a sustainable fashion brand and repurposing fabric offcuts by donating them to that is built not only on profitability, but on kindness local craftswomen who make rugs and mats to earn towards garment workers, the environment and the their living. community in which the company operates in.” Above and beyond that, Cheryl explains that social media has aided in her growth as a business, being recognised for the work and being featured WILL SOUTH AFRICA REMAIN A DEVELOPING COUNTRY TO MAINTAIN LOW UNEMPLOYMENT RATE? IS SOUTH AFRICA READY FOR A-R POWERED SHOPPING EXPERIENCES? leverage technology and convenience of e- commerce; is South Africa ready to strip away By Mpumi Brown SHOP Feature on Instagram, Facebook Shop retail/wholesale shop assistants with the goal First world countries are embracing technol- feature and multiple social media collabora- of developing the standard of global retail ogy for retail stores and has led to a boom tions to make commerce readily accessible. growth?The answer simply is that South Af- of high online sales, new retail innovations INNOVATION 2: Self check out points be- rica is tackling to bridge the gap of innovative trends that have changed the market place. ing the newest technology which eliminates employment with retailers at the forefront of With COVID-19 affecting the fashion world, the third party tellers. These technologies the strategy. Considering the 3rd innovation; South Africa led to a decrease in sales and per- have been removed from the South African INNOVATION 3: E-commerce grocery plat- manent closure of leading retail stores, fash- retail store Pick n Pay 2016 due to increase forms, this looks at the growing with delivery ion business and increase of unemployment. of job losses. services, which offer quicker delivery time Adaptive innovation was the answer to bridg- INNOVATION 3: Augmented Reality (AR) and accessible with your mobile device. These ing the gap to the new customer behaviour for is the interaction of “product’s features us- have been exiting for some time nevertheless the retail space. These innovations include so- ing camera effects on a device. Fashion and the growth in retail stores has increased which cial commerce and AR Tellers home furnishing brands have provided some led to Checkers 60/60 which has aided in the INNOVATION 1: Social Commerce; the of the best early applications.” In the addition unemployment sector. Despite this growth in newest way to shop with online boutiques on to the incorporated digital runway shows by the retail space; South Africa still needs tech- social media platforms, shoppers are moving the likes of Haifa from Democratic Republic nological growth, develop infrastructure and to social commerce due to its seamless shop- of Congo. networking to be able to compete with first ping experience. This innovation has led to the world countries that embrace technological AND NOW THAT offline experiences innovations in the retail space without com- promising the employment rate.

Friday 4 June 2021 FOOD AND WINE 9WEEKLY SA MIRROR Wine-ly MAMMA MIA! Yours THIS SPIRIT TASTES JUST LIKE GRAPPA TUSSLE: Hayibo! Cut us some slack, it’s our grappa too, say South African distillers Giorgio Dalla Cia, the godfather By Len Maseko trade authorities, in much the same way that bubbly idiom that “one has suckled the stuff from the nip- of “SA Grappa” To stave off the notorious European wintry chills, producers anywhere outside the French region of ple”, it means no one is more McCoy than Giorgio the Germans ordinarily look to their favourite Champagne are precluded from using the name for Dalla Cia when it comes to producing top quality distilled alcoholic beverage called schnaps, and their sparkling wine. grappa. In the past, Dalla Cia has decried the leg- the Italians, mama mia, swoon over their peculiar islation forbidding non-Italians naming their spirit spirit fondly named grappa to warm themselves Yet, colloquially at least, many grappa-loving as grappa as counterproductive. “Because of their or to drink at leisure. South Africans still call the digestif by that name provincial, narrow way of thinking, the Italians have – without regard to the vestiges of the international lost a unique chance: survival depends on competi- Grappa is indigenously Italian just as pasta is. trade pacts fashioned in distant places like in Bel- tion and quality production,” he has been quoted as But then, like other cultures, it travels well, and has gium, the home of the European Union headquarters. saying in the past. threaded an extensive footprint among many nations. It is produced prolifically in the United States, South Surely the locals must, as they grab a glass of Indeed, local production has, according to My- Africa and in other countries which have fallen love grappa, saying: “Hayibo, it’s still grappa, even if you burgh, “created an awareness of the product and with this centuries-old spirit. call it by any other name.” an increase in grappa imports from Italy.” He, too, feels that the measure may backfire on the Italian Yet the Italians are not too happy that their in- For their part, the Italians still enjoy their spirit producers, since over-subsidisation and protection in vention is replicated elsewhere across the globe. In with much gusto – as always with espresso or drink Europe discourages competition and therefore excel- fact, they have been grumbling about the supposed it neat to chase away the intrusive chills of European lence. intrusion into their culture for decades. To add salt to winter. As they say, no Italian meal is complete with- injury, some South African grappa is rated among the out grappa. But even as the Italians claim it fervently, In fact, to cement the authenticity of their spirit, best in the world, thanks to some dedicated local pro- they are still whining, for there is still some grappa the Dalla Cia family declares in their website: “The ducers who have been distilling the stuff for many being passed around somewhere labelled in that production of Grappa - this unique Italian husk spirit years. Like Helmut Wilderer, who has been receiving name, even if it does not originate from Italy. - was such an inherent part of Giorgio’s childhood international accolades for his grappa over the years. that he was determined to continue the legacy on lo- For example, winemaker Giorgio Dalla Cia, who cal soil. This only became possible after 1994 when Grappa is the spirit distilled from the grape skins arrived from Italy in South Africa to join Meerlust the production of Grappa in South Africa was legal- and pips left over after the winemaking process. Since in 1978 and later left to join a family business, still ized.” the Italian’s protestations back in the mid-2000, the claims his heritage by producing – with his son, South African producers resorted – with some reser- George – grappa, and even call it by that name, for According to the family, Grappa is a husk spirit vations, of course – to calling it husk spirit. Back in their own brand of the spirit in Stellenbosch today. which gets its name from Graspa, an Italian term de- 2005, the European Union designated grappa as an scribing the fermented grape skins left over after the Italian product after negotiations with South African Well, Dalla Cia senior writes in the family busi- wine making process. ness website that his father, Vittorio, a wine mer- chant, “was one of the biggest producers of grappa Now, give that man his grappa! in Italy” decades ago. Now, when it is said in African 10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPPA Grappa takes the brrrrr out of winter.. Quon Rock’s Grappa packs • Grappa is an Italian spirit husky, grippy It is an Italian spirit that is made from the skins, pips, and stalks of grapes. bite • Grappa has a higher ABV (alcohol by volume) than wine Grappa typically contains anywhere between 38 and 60 percent alcohol by volume (ABV)! By PRICEY: elegant packaging grabs the eye comparison, vodka, rum, and tequila generally have only 40% ABV. • Grappa originates from Northern Italy When searching for South African good It was first made in the town of Bassano del Grappa. These days, regions such as Veneto, grappa on the web, the hunt is most likely to yield a few brands that have earned their keep Tuscany and Piedmont are best known for producing the grape spirit. as belonging to the top-quality grappa. • Grappa has been around since the 8th Century The spirit has been around long before whiskey, gin and even vodka! It is said that grappa For the spirit is still very much a niche product and few producers that craft it do it distillation originated in the middle east in the early 8th century. By 1100, it had found its way out of passion and some to as a tribute their to Europe. Italian heritage. • Grappa is a Product of Designated Origin Grappa is called ‘marc’ in France, ‘raki’ in Turkey, ‘orujo’ in Spain and ‘husk spirit’ in South Latest to release a grappa edition is Quoin Africa. The reason that this grape spirit has so many names is that it is a Product of Designated Rock, whose Husk Spirit is made from the Origin by the European Union, which dictates that the term grappa can only be used if the drink skins of “vine-dried Sauvignon Blanc grapes”. is distilled in Italy from the Italian grape pomace. • Grappa is best enjoyed after a meal The release is the idea of Quon Rock own- In Italian tradition, grappa is best enjoyed when served at room temperature after the meal. ers Vitaly and Denis Gaiduk, who are known • How to serve Grappa to be great lovers of grappa and had been con- Choosing the right grappa glass is key. The perfect glass is generally tall and narrow with a suming the stuff especially made for them by slightly wider opening at the top and a proper stem. the wine team at the winery since 2015. Last • When is it served? year, the two decided to share their romance It is traditionally served as an after-dinner drink. Italians like to enjoy with expresso or neat. for the stuff publicly – hence Quon Rock Husk • How to drink it Spirit, priced at R1 500 apiece. Two ways to enjoy the aromas of the grape spirit as you hold the glass and swirl its contents. The traditional way requires you to use your index finger and thumb to pinch the stem while your Talking about the spirit, winemaker bent middle finger supports the foot. The modern approach requires you to hold the foot of the Schalk Opperman is quoted as saying using glass using your index finger and thumb. vine-dried Sauvignon Blanc helped increase If tasting, stir gently and then smell before taking a sip. Grappa is not a one-shot drink. Instead, “the flavour profile and creates a very fra- take small sips and keep your glass filled one-third or less - this will keep the vapours further grant grappa”. away from your nose. What foods to pair it with Classic pairings are after-dinner treats fruit platters and desserts. Source: Pippa Pringle/On the Marque PR & Communications and internet

10 WEEKLY SA MIRROR OPINION/ANALYSIS Friday 4 June 2021 Comment ACT, STOP REHASHING THE PROBLEMS In his reply to the Debate on The Presidency FLASHBACK: The World’s June 16 front page, Budget Vote in Parliament on Thursday, which featured Sam Nzima’s iconic picture of President Ramaphosa spoke with welcome the injured 13-year-old Hector Pietersen being candour about the current challenges facing carried by Mbuyisa Makhubo, accompanied the country. He said the most immediate of by the boy’s sister Antoinette, caused inter- these was the impact of the COVID-19 pan- national outrage at the time. The copy of this demic, “which has caused massive damage to edition is reportedly missing from nearly all economies around the world – and…set our public libraries in South Africa. own economic progress back many years”. Philanthropists, the Gift of The Givers, drill a borehole at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital in Coronationville, Johannesburg He said the pandemic had made South Afri- West, securing 7 000 litres of water for use of the institution, which has been hit by water shortages. cans poorer, and caused widespread hunger that has directly affected the health of hundreds of ‘NIGERIANS LIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA thousands of people. Indeed. MUST RESPECT THE LAW’ Worse, as he pointed out, the government’s task of growing an inclusive economy and Nigerian media personality and strate- Adetunji Omotola about 3 out of 10, and a lot of the negative has been transforming our society had consequently be- gist Adetunji Omotola describes his about general perceptions of Nigerians as drug come much more difficult. Most significant is experience living in South Africa UNITY: Omotola calls dealers etc. that he was just as forthcoming about the gi- since 2001. He has also lived in the on his compatriots to gantic own goals scored by his government in United Kingdom. build a bridge towards Seeing what his brothers and sisters experi- destroying its own gains, through a series of Recalling his early days in South Africa, Omo- cultivating good enced in the community affected his experience in terminal failures of governance in various state tola talks about the time when he was working as a relations with South South Africa and this led to him forming organisa- organs in recent years. financial advisor and the only Nigerian in one of the Africans tions in the hope of building a buffer. largest financial services companies in Africa. Indeed, as he once again conceded, these the sense that we were not part of the infrastructure. “The experience has been far more positive self-created weaknesses and shortcomings “As a Nigerian living in South Africa, I have We did not understand the history that deeply, there than it is negative but because I am empathetic to hampered the task of building a new society had a very good experience largely. I have worked were no ties, so my sense is that it’s tough to be what is going on in my community. and achieving a better life for all. Thus, this in financial services, financial services company a Nigerian in South Africa. But, its not that tough candid assessment truly begs the question, a where I topped the company. I was the most suc- because if you have lived in other climes, you will I feel that maybe we can push it up to about rhetoric one, indeed: that how come the very cessful financial advisor in that company in 2006 get a sense of what I mean. 5/10 because I relate to the pain my people feel, government given the mandate to change the after only two years in the company. So, I was top my brothers and sisters. That is why I set up the lives of the citizens for the better and grow the of the country out of 4000 brokers in the Insurance But, in totality, my experience of being a Nige- Guild of Nigerian Professionals in 2015, Nigerian economy to prosperity, went on to act against space.” rian in South Africa has been a mix of great experi- Diaspora Television in 2017, Xenophobia Victims its own mission by wreaking havoc in the ences. In fact, I say that South Africa because of the Support Fund in 2019 so that I can build some kind very instruments it sorely needed to assist it in Omotola had some difficulty in winning the beauty of this great nation, the diversity, the cosmo- of buffer. achieving the national goals? trust of some of his SA, clients but pushed through politan nature, infrastructure, there are no mosqui- to become a successful financial advisor. The mis- toes here, there’s electricity, there are white people, I have come up with another concept called the This question is, of course, asked with a trust came with the negative perception that some Indian, coloured, foreigners. So, for me, as a global Immigration, Economics, and Integration and we tear in one eye, seeing that we have heard a South Africans had towards Nigerians. citizen, I have learned to adapt; I have learned to are planning an All-Nigerian Conference to begin series of confessions from the protagonists to show interest in the culture. to reduce the burden of the negativity. It’s not easy this effect, mainly about what went wrong; why “It was quite difficult to unwind. I remember because we do not get a lot of support from Nigeria things were still going wrong; yet still, some- a case in 2005 when a South African wanted to in- But it has been tough because one is still bound our home country, because the politicians are not thing should be done about it; and, better still, vest R5000 with me for five years. They said: “I am by their people. So, I am a lot more Nigerian than I very interested in those who are not able vote, those action will be taken sooner than later. Given quite shocked that I will give a copy of my ID card/ am a global citizen, because I’m tied to my name, who are outside of the country. that the wheels of government always turn as book to a Nigerian.” So the perception of Nigerian tribe, country because I grew up in Nigeria. So, if I fast as that of a car with a flat tyre, so we can is quite difficult, so that is something I always re- have to scale it up. So, there is a disconnect between the politicians expect the public sector’s speed to tackle long- member.” on the one hand, the corporates in our host country, standing national priorities henceforth. I say that the positive experiences for me have diaspora, globally and that is where I want to move A lot of the negative been about 7 out of 10 and the negative have been the needle.” We must say it was rather painful to hear has been about the president in Parliament uttering the follow- “Give or take, I think SA is a beautiful country. ing words: “And perhaps the most debilitating general perceptions of I think the fact that they embrace Nigerians and the of factors has been corruption, nepotism and Nigerians as drug people of the world is a pass. But, again, we also patronage in many parts of the state and the pri- dealers etc. have a fragile community where we are still divided vate sector.” by tribe, class, earners, who knows what, who has Omotola’s turning point was his determination access to knowledge, who has access to this person Perhaps? Mr President. Really? Why are to succeed in the job that he was doing even though and that person, and which part of the country you you still tentative about corruption, patronage he does admit that it was difficult in the early days. come from. and nepotism in the state apparatus – particu- larly – having been the most debilitating factor “In spite of my being a Nigerian the fact that I So, my sense is that in totality it’s up to us to for the nation? was a professional gave me an advantage because build a bridge to South Africa our hosts. I love this of my level of education, my knowledge of the in- country, I love Nigeria, I love Africa, I love the Disappointingly, it is this passiveness in dustry I was in, and the desire to work hard to be world. It has been a great experience.” government speak that obfuscates, creates leth- successful. argy and fussiness in getting things done, when Even though Omotola was shot during an unambiguity and decisiveness is much needed So, in the early days, it was difficult but I was armed robbery in 2003, and still has a bullet in his to instil a unified sense of purposefulness to- determined to succeed in the job that I was doing arm, he maintains that South Africa is a great coun- wards addressing pressing challenges facing and I was one of the few blacks. I was the only Ni- try. And says that in understanding each other there this country. gerian in the company that I worked for. When I can be growth. joined that company there were one or two black Yet, almost everything is falling apart in people and they were not doing great. But because “I’ve been shot in 2003, I have a bullet in my our beloved country. of my networks, my markers, and skills I was able arm because I went to help a Nigerian to get docu- to get business. mentation and I was in his store when armed rob- As we speak, the country is in the throes bers came and shot me. I ran to Nigeria and came of a crisis. Communities, including businesses, But as I grew, and of course maybe at an advan- back. Yes, there are historic problems like in other are enduring electricity blackouts daily as a re- tage I had studied a lot about South Africa, I read a countries. Things get heated up and it looks bad and sult of load shedding, causing massive disrup- lot of South African literature when I was young. I can be bad. tions and loss of revenue. was very interested in protest literature as a young- ster. I come from an art background, sociology, and “That’s why we came up with Immigration, Worse, water shortages are causing also topography so it was a little bit easier. I could feel Economics, and Integration, we must build the chaos in the townships, with the health institu- bridge with our host, learn the language, respect the tions the hardest-hit. The transport infrastruc- law, we must work hard, we must empathise with ture is also in a mess. the people. We can’t always come up with the basis that we are better. In Parliament Thursday, Ramaphosa quoted the following stanza from his 2021 State of the We are not better because if we were better why Nation Address: “I compared our nation to the would we be here.” fynbos of the Cape, which emerges from the • Omotola wine consultant and media personal- most intense flames even stronger than before.” ity who also works as a contributor to various Let the Government heed the lesson from media platforms: radio, television, and print. its own epiphany, let it lead by example by He has lived in this country since 2003. emerging from the flames of its failures and dis- asters – with a renewed sense of determination. v 073 871 1415 [email protected] PEARL RANTSEKENG.................... Editor MOLEFI MIKA ..................Deputy Editor THULI ZUNGU ................ Associate Editor GUGU SIBIYA ................. Lifestyle Editor

Friday 4 June 2021 OPINION/ANALYSIS 11WEEKLY SA MIRROR LADUUUUMA! ZZ SCORES A MASTER’S!!! Legendary South African sports broadcaster, Masondo re- especially with the dawn of ‘Goooo-aaaaal!. “This compelled me to adopt the Zama “ZZ” Masondo, affectionately known as calls that racially democracy. The discourse is style and introduce the longest Laduuuuuuuumah! “Mr Laduma”, is officially a Unisa alumnus in polarised commu- made more relevant by the with similar energy, and I embellished it with my his 70s. Masondo recently graduated cum laude nities and teams ever-changing nature of Af- deep baritone.” With a smile, Masondo says: “The with a Master of Arts in African Languages. He meant that fans rican languages in general whole country was abuzz, with everybody trying says: “Knowledge is power, and you are never could not interact and isiZulu catch phrases to adopt it as a generic word so that they can avoid too old to acquire any form of education.” with each other used in sport presenting in paying royalties to me.” and were often in- particular.” He adds: “Soc- Masondo was admitted through the Recogni- tolerant of one an- cer has managed to unite the TREMENDOUS STUDY SUPPORT AT UNISA tion of Prior Learning process. His master’s su- other at stadiums. country and revive the flame Masondo singles out specific Unisa academics pervisor, Professor Stanley Madonsela, who is “Lack of access to of happiness, particularly in also the Acting Chair of the Department of African stadiums for black the black communities. The for encouraging and guiding him relentlessly, as Languages in the College of Human Sciences, says commentators was 2010 FIFA World Cup also well as for the study support that they and the uni- that Masondo’s application went through a vetting also a thorny is- united many South Africans versity at large offered him throughout his journey. process by the department’s Higher Degrees Com- sue as some areas from different racial groups, “Among others,” he says, “I would like to thank my mittee, which recommended that he be admitted were designated for an interaction which was pre- supervisor, Professor Madonsela whose guidance for the qualification. Madonsela explains: “He was whites.” He ex- viously prohibited by apart- and unfailing enthusiasm has been a tremendous admitted on the basis that he holds an undergradu- plains that since heid laws.” source of encouragement. His door was always ate degree majoring in African languages. His vast the endorsement open for discussions and advice, and he never gave experience in the language and development sec- of South Africa’s A HIGHLIGHT NEVER TO up on me.” Madonsela says: “It has been a fulfilling tor as a sports commentator and his contribution in eleven official lan- BE FORGOTTEN journey for me to supervise Mr Masondo. We had coining a great deal of soccer terms and phrases in guages post the a good relationship, which served as the basis for isiZulu were considered valuable traits.” democratic elec- Laduma!, meaning “It’s good performance, a way to promote collaboration tions in 1994, it a goal!”, is one of the most and the success of his studies. At the core of our Masondo began his career at the South African has been easy to popular catch phrases that relationship were mutual respect, cooperation and Broadcasting Corporation in the early 1980s as a embrace African Masondo coined and it has communication, encouragement, inspiration and translator/writer. His love for education and the languages in sport become popular also in Bra- the creation of ideas.” Masondo says that the for- drive to empower himself made it possible for him commentating. zil. He says: “The purpose of mer Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the univer- to keep improving his qualifications. “It is clear this invention was to bring sity, Professor Mandla Makhanya, also encouraged that everyone should have something to fall back TRANSFORMA- uniqueness, excitement and him with a phrase “Imfundo kayikhulelwa” mean- on in life,” he says. Over and above his job as a TION IN SPORTS fun to my soccer commen- ing, “You are never too old to acquire education”. sports commentator, Masondo resumed his activi- BROADCASTING tary style. Its roots can be “Furthermore, I am grateful that the university ties as a skills service provider in tourism and hos- traced back to the 1990s awarded me a bursary, which provided financial pitality. “My wife played a vital role as she had the Masondo when I was travelling a lot, means to complete the project,” he adds. same qualifications that I possessed,” he says. states: “Language sending local clients on pre- development is Zama “ZZ” Masondo packaged overseas tours and Masondo says that his academic experience Briefly reflecting on the past, Masondo re- covering the matches of our was superb. “Unisa is an internationally acclaimed marks: “Sports in South Africa was considered to misconstrued to be national team, Bafana Bafana.” university with the best reputation among distance be a racial thing, and as a result sports commen- associated with the academic field and other related Masondo recalls: “In 1992 during my tour in learning institutions,” he says. “I take every oppor- tating in African languages was not so popular.” environments, but this mind-set can be misleading Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, among the places I visited tunity to recommend the institution to my fellow He adds: “Due to economic sanctions that were as there is much that sports commentating can do was Maracana Stadium to watch an encounter be- students, nationally and internationally.” imposed by most countries against South Africa to contribute towards language development.” His tween Sweden and Brazil. I was privileged to be because of its apartheid policies, sports teams and master’s study explored the relationship between offered a position in the commentary booth.” He His message to the South African youth is to African commentators were excluded from inter- language and the catch phrases predominantly says that he listened to a Brazilian commenta- never give up on a good thing. “Education is good national events. This took away the opportunities used in soccer. He explains: “Transformation in tor shouting with tremendous energy the longest and empowering,” he concludes. “Take it from me, for African languages to develop in the sporting the broadcasting field has taken a new twist in SA, it is not easy but doable.” fraternity.” Nancy Legodi, Unisa By Sandile Memela LIFE ligent photography and ever enquiring enthusi- asm. “Above all, Motlhalefi has been a trusted Motlhalefi Mahlabe is not a well- THROUGH THE EYE OF THE LENS colleague and friend through thick and thin,” said known and celebrated specialist Sichel. It is not clear how Mahlabe ended up at the arts photographer in his home- ARTS PHOTOGRAPHER: Capturing Market Photo Workshop. But soon after comple- land, South Africa today. Few the arts, theater, dance and some music tion he burst onto the Tonight pages with pictures will remember his picture byline. that displayed his sophisticated eye. However, at a Yet he was a pioneering pathfinder and one Motlhalefi Mahlabe a pioneering pathfinder and a socio-cultural photographer social and interpersonal level, he was soft spoken, of the finest in socio-cultural photography who cool, calm and collected. He possessed a beauti- captured the soul of the nation through his camera was hard to imagine The Star Tonight’s specialist continent, has tragically lost a gently spirited ful manner that revealed that he was not the kind lenses. arts writer, Addrienne Sichel doing any story that legacy leaving artist in a highly competitive pro- of man that wished to attract attention to himself. would not be accompanied by a picture taken by fession, who tracked the evolution and captured Mahlabe died on Saturday, 29 May 2021 fol- Mahlabe. He had the kind of eye that captured the essences of South African contemporary African It was this self-effacing quality that endeared lowing a short illness. He was 55 years old. At spirit and soul of the artist on stage. His colleague dance and cultural performance in diverse com- him to self-appointed cultural gurus, the creative the peak of his career, he was, in any way you and mentor, Sichel lamented his passing. munity and theatrical contexts. community, dancers, actors and few other figures look at it, a man that possessed outstanding talent that saw themselves as custodians of the soul of and skill. When you really think about it, he was, “The world, and specifically our country and “This he achieved with his insightfully intel- the arts. Of course, there was no guarantee that indeed, the kind of 21st century African photog- Mahlabe’s artistry would turn him into a celebrity raphy artist who comes from the school of hard in his lifetime. I do not remember him winning knocks. Coming from the Northern Cape, he was any award. As if being the first African specialist knowledgeable and insightful in the art of pho- arts photography was not enough, he was solidly tography and could speak with confidence and grounded in the kind of effective and impactful authority on what made up a very good picture. photography that could stand out on its own with- He epitomized the caliber of professional photog- out any text. Many of his pictures told a story and rapher who has been churned out by The Market could be stand-alone captions. Photo Workshop over the last 30 years or more. The latter was the brainchild of iconic documen- It is not clear when and why Mahlabe sudden- tary photographer, David Goldblatt to train a new ly chose to end his promising career at The Star. breed of African photographers. He desired to en- But immediately after that, his life took a turn for courage Africans to capture their own experiences …er, the worst. He packed his bags to return to to tell their own stories. Warrenton in the Northern Cape. These Market Photo Workshop men and Perhaps the most tragic thing about this pio- women have, over the years, proved to be fo- neering pathfinder is that his legacy may be buried cused, disciplined and hard working in their cho- with him. His remarkable career and contribution sen career and, no doubt, above average in their to arts photo-journalism is not widely recognized. understanding of the role of the photographer in Not that he was the kind of man who sought capturing history. Mahlabe was among the first awards and prizes. But he was a rare member to graduate and make headway. He was, indeed, of the photographic fraternity for over a decade. exceptional in photography in that for years, he During that time, he could have been provided was perhaps the only specialist arts photography with the necessary material support and space to emerge from the African community. to do photographic essays on theater and dance. Worse, the kind of assignments that he got to do He stood out at a time when African photog- with Sichel deserved to be expertly showcased, raphers focused on sports, beauty contests, glitter- taken more seriously, or even mounted in muse- ing events and struggle violence in the township. ums with a book or two published. Sadly, that In contrast, he displayed his potential and skill by never came to pass. single minded focus on arts photo-journalism that saw him channel his energy and time to capturing There is no doubt that Mahlabe had done the arts, specifically, theater, dance and some mu- some outstanding pictures on the quality and spir- sic in a manner that it had not been done before. it of artistic excellence that have contributed to the history and heritage of this country. But there In fact, it is hard to imagine any other African was something inexplicable that led him to give photojournalist who really put his mind to focus- it all up. The arts photography fraternity is all the ing on theater and dance, specifically, in the way poorer for his passing. He did the best he could that Motlhalefi did. There are a few others like under the most trying circumstances. former City Press chief photographer, Bra Mike Mzileni who turned their lenses on jazz but not on Mahlabe was buried on Thursday, 3 June theater and dance. In the 1990s and early 2000s, it 2021 following a short service at 1185 Magile Street, Ikhutseng, Warrenton Northern Cape.

12 WEEKLY SA MIRROR SKILLS DEVELOPMENT Friday 4 June 2021 IKUSASA SKILLS DEVELOPMENT CAREER GUIDE HELP FOR WELDERS TO GROW THEIR BUSINESSES TO CREATE JOBS UPSKILL: MERSETA DEADLINE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES TO APPLY FOR GRANTS Bongiwe Mkhwanazi By Bongiwe Mkhwanazi WE CONNECT KAU WITH MERSETA FOR Public private partnership to About 180 members of Lukhozi Business HELP empower government auditors Chamber in Soweto and Zuurbekom are des- The Merseta Client Liaison Office (CLO) ex- perately in need of help to grow their busi- plained to Kau what procedures to follow to be UPGRADE: advice. The training would be conducted through nesses, create jobs and ultimately contribute to eligible for a discretionary grant. Broad-based skills SAIGA’s training academy, which supported the (NSDS) National Skills Development Strategy. • The CLO sent Kau a link which will allow him to programs to focus on state with capacity development programmes. auditing and accounting Jack Kau a 49-year of Zuurbekom, west of complete the requisite forms, which he has since He said, as part of the agreement, members and Soweto, said when he decided to join the weld- filled; Staff reporter associates of the two institutions would be able to ing trade and design household steel products, he • This process allows him to effectively appoint An initiative to provide government officials attend all courses, programmes, workshops, con- realised there was a potential to absorb the un- whoever is going to be his skills development fa- ferences, seminars and related activities hosted by employed youth into the economy by developing cilitator. and other professionals with opportunities to up- ABASA or SAIGA, including attending the recent- their skills. • The Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) will as- grade their accounting and auditing skills has been ly announced SAIGA Annual Conference sched- sist him to load the documents on to the system. launched. uled to take place in November this year. Kau, who studied a small business course, has This process takes 5 days waiting period to allow a registered company. He is tax compliant and is Merseta to review the documents and once the The Southern African Institute of Government “This means that members will be assisted registered with the Construction Industry Devel- SDF is approved, his company will become par- Auditors (Saiga) said signed a memorandum of with online learning training including data for opment Board. But he has since realised that he tially active. The system will give him a password, understanding with the Association for Advance- them to be able to access learning programmes would need more than an affiliation to the appro- which he can change any time, before he allowing ment of Black Accountants of Southern Africa online, wherever they are in the country,” he said. priate trade board if he wants to build his small him to log in to update company information and (Abasa) on Monday this week, kicking off a mas- business. add employees. sive scheme largely geared at helping with capacity Morena, said that due to the COVID-19 pan- • Once the stage is approved, he will be fully active. challenges in the public sector. demic, members would transition to online learn- Already, he said he encountered other dif- • He will then proceed to apply for a discretionary ing. The transition would require changes in teach- ficulties when seeking assistance and collabora- grant. Speaking during the announcement, in Rose- ing and learning practices to accommodate online tion with entities that purport to support the ad- • He can then proceed to apply for grant. bank, Saiga chief executive officer Russel Morena virtual learning environment. vancement of small-to-medium micro enterprises • Depending on the information loaded on the sys- said this initiative would provide government of- (SMME). When he lost his employment 10 years tem he could apply for discretionary grant. ficials, members and associates with access to “Our vision is to be a leading professional or- ago, he identified the opportunity to supply alu- • If a workplace approval is done, then the company broader-based training and development courses, ganisation that pursues a collaborative approach minium windows and gates to the local commu- can apply for mandatory and discretionary grants including research, and related activities. and leverage the combination of core competencies nity. • Where a company is rated as a non-levy company, of its stakeholder to increase member value in ad- it only qualifies for a discretionary grant. Morena said some of the skills programmes dressing needs of our professionals. He discovered burglar-proof gates and doors • Once approved, he could start training his people. would include training in government auditing and were driving boom in the local construction in- FURTHER FUNDING INTERVENTION accounting, specialised qualifications, certification “As such, from a SAIGA’s perspective this dustry, especially in the new extension s of Protea AVAILABLE programmes for the Registered Government Audi- partnership with ABASA will help contribute to- Glen and surrounding areas. • The grant is approved in accordance with the inter- tor (RGA) professional designation and technical wards upskilling individuals to be more account- vention that Kau wants for his business. able in their roles in the public sector. “This Mem- But then a challenge faced by local small • Depending on his workplace skills programme, orandum of Understanding (MoU) will also help business people to capitalise on the boom was Kau can opt to train his employees, or bring in un- enhance the visibility of both institutions to the lack industrial machinery. employed people, train them and let them go. broader public,” he said. • One of the interventions is apprenticeship where His focus was to supply both the household he could train them until trade test level, and there- ABASA president Ashley Dicken said his or- and metal industrial sector with myriad turn-key after they get red sealed. ganisation aimed to upskill and empower members solutions to both segments of the local market. • He could choose a specialized skills program, and associates with latest quality training across skills set qualification or specialized qualification different sectors with the tools they need to suc- “This industry requires you to have an auto- grant program. ceed in the current work environment. mated machine that will give you the capacity to • He could offer learnership where his people could supply speedily and efficiently” he said. These become artisans. ABASA, President, Ashley Dicken with SAIGA, President, Philip Rakgwale and SAIGA CEO, Russell Morena. machines will also benefit both industry and com- • If he has trained his employees for a period of 4 munity by having quality products that are not year, he can opt for a program of artisan recogni- found within the traditional hardware.” tion of prior learning (ARPL), where the employee can be taken to a trade test centre for assessment When he started this business, he had noth- to identify the gaps in their knowledge. If there are ing, but now employs 9 matriculants whose ages no gaps, he is then trade tested and becomes a red range from 21 to 27, including a disabled student, sealed artisan. The approved process can take up Libina Khakhathu, with a welding qualification, to three weeks while the rest of the youth have on the job train- • He can apply for these programmes as the need ing. He operates his business at Mittal Builders, arises. 3307 Protea Boulevard, Protea Glen Ext 2 • The closing date to apply for these programmes is June 30 2021 “We need continuous training that will make • To qualify for equipment, he will have to approach us stay relevant within the ever-changing environ- the National Youth Development Agency and ment,” he said. would need to have had his business assessed first before he could get funding. Kau said he has the clientele that is above their capacity. To tackle the problem, he has built a relation- ship with Wispeco to absorb learners to be taught theory while he concentrates on offering on-the- job experience. “On a good business month, we make up to 100 000 and sometimes we meet dishonest cli- ents, who take advantage of us by not paying us, especially because we use e-wallet as a mode of payment,” he said.

Friday 4 June 2021 PERSONAL FINANCE/BOOKS 13WEEKLY SA MIRROR WRITING A WILL A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH ACT NOW: Dont wait until you gone It is no secret that most South Africans were worth of an estate. is important for all those with assets to leave an If the person dies without a Will, then the es- awakened to the importance of a will with This means that for the purposes of winding updated will behind to ensure that it reflects the tate will be administered under intestate succes- the public reading of one belonging to the wishes of the deceased. She believes that winding sion rules. late Zulu queen regent Mantfombi Shiyiwe up an estate of such a magnitude, more than R40 up a loved one’s estate takes time, but she high- Dlamini Zulu which was broadcast live 000 will be gone, straight off the bat. The execu- lights the steps that need to be followed to finalise This means that your estate will be divided on TV. Despite the commotion and controversy tor of the estate is also entitled to a fee on all in- the estate. amongst your surviving spouse, children, parents which ensued, it was commendable that the great come earned post the date of death. or siblings according to a set formula, says Lete- wife to the late King Goodwill Zwelithini did not CONSOLIDATE COSTS ane. put off financial issues off to a later date which This can have serious consequences for the The most pressing and immediate cost facing could have further put a spanner in the works loved ones left behind it is important for all those NOTIFY THE NOMINATED EXECUTOR among the royal households. with assets to leave an updated will behind to en- families after the death of a loved one is the fu- The responsibility of notifying the nominated sure that it reflects the wishes of the deceased. She neral and the associated costs, says Esther Ochse, What is obvious is that a death of a family believes that winding up a loved one’s estate takes product head at FNB Money Management. executor falls to the family of the deceased. They member can be expensive and none of us wants time, but she highlights the steps that need to be .”Most funeral homes will not be prepared to wait should provide the executor with the necessary to see our loved ones saddled with serious cash followed to finalise the estate. for payment and will require a substantial deposit information and documents needed to administer shortfalls when they have to wind up our estates. before proceeding with arrangements.” the estate, including details of all the assets and Purposes of winding up an estate of such a liabilities in the estate. The executor will require Shocking is a research finding by Sanlam that magnitude, more than R40 000 will be gone, To settle these costs, Ochse says one needs all this information to give effect to the provisions over 46% of the deceased estates it administers straight off the bat. The executor of the estate is to first determine whether the deceased held a fu- of the deceased’s Will or the Intestate Succession have insufficient cash to cover all debts, costs, also entitled to a fee on all income earned post the neral policy. Act. cash bequests and taxes payable during one’s life- date of death. time, and income tax, capital gains tax and estate If the deceased may have had an immediate SECURE THE DAY-TO-DAY LIVING EXPENSES duty upon death. Research by Sanlam found that over 46% of expense benefit on any life cover policy, this, she Once the bank account is frozen, debit orders the deceased estates it administers have insuffi- believes, may go some way to offsetting the im- As senior legal adviser for Sanlam Trust Da- cient cash to cover all debts, costs, cash bequests mediate costs. are not processed further. vid Thomson says “we should all become more and taxes payable during one’s lifetime, and in- Executors are not able to pay creditors for familiar with the costs involved at death.’ come tax, capital gains tax and estate duty upon However, in instances where no funeral cover death. This can have serious consequences for the is in place, then the estate is liable for the reason- several months after death and it is recommended “It’s important to understand that costs are loved ones left behind. able cost of the funeral, she says. that heirs plan to maintain the payments to avoid classified as {a) administration costs, which ac- potential adverse interest charges and possible le- crue as a result of the death and are mostly paid David Thomson, senior legal adviser for San- GET A COPY OF THE LAST VALID WILL gal collection charges. in cash, and {b) claims against the estate – this lam Trust, says we should all become more famil- As the legal document which outlines the means the costs the deceased was liable for at the iar with the costs involved at death. PENSION AND RETIREMENT SAVINGS time of death.’ deceased person’s last wishes, obtaining a copy Pension funds benefits are normally not dealt “It’s important to understand that costs are of the latest Will is the most essential part of the “Tax is the exception to this”, he says. What classified as a) administration costs, which ac- process. with by the executor. The family needs to ap- is also important is to consider that the average crue as a result of the death and are mostly paid in proach the Pension Fund directly to deal with the cost of winding up an estate is 3.5% of the gross cash, and b) claims against the estate – this means The Will is the document needed to determine deceased’s retirement savings. The family does value of the assets, plus VAT which is 15%. - the costs the deceased was liable for at the time of the distribution of assets, the naming of benefi- not need to wait for the Letters of Executorship to that’s R35, 000, plus R5 250 VAT on a R1 million death.” Tax is the exception to this, he says. ciaries, and the devolution of the estate. It should begin this claim process. also name the executor of the Will. Matlhodi Leteane of FNB Fiduciary says it AUTHOR MADLY ALL THE HIGHS AND LOWS IN LOVE WITH OF SELF-PUBLISHING HIS BIRTHPLACE VERSUS CONVENTIONAL AND ITS PEOPLE PUBLISHING PROFILE: Thabile were self-published between 2017 and 2020. The TM: “In 2017, I self-published the book, God serv- “It is not easy to get published with Mange loves ordinary other books are Women Abuse – A cancer killing ants or money grubbers? This is a book about the mainstream book publishers. people who are doing our nation, Men Abuse – A silent scourge and God prosperity preachers. The book attempts to ex- They set high standards. If your extraordinary things servants or money grubbers? pose the money pastors’ modus operandi and work does not measure, they reject Victor Mecoamere: Kindly introduce yourself. the tactics they use the Bible to authenticate you. By Victor Mecoamere Thabile Mange: “I was born in Kagiso 2 Central, their extortion and make this appear as it is a The opportunity of self-publishing As it is well known, writers are, proverbially, legitimate Christian practice; which is not. The is that anyone can write and publish keen observers of human behaviour. These thes- which was previously known as Zulu Jump. I book, Kagiso Women Making Waves – On their their own books. The challenge is pians also tend to have affinities with certain would like to describe myself as being a quiet Own Terms was published in 2018. This book that the standard, especially the places, and these could be where they might and shy person; but also being an honest and profiles twelve ordinary women from Kagiso content and editing tends to be poor. have been born, where they might have spent outspoken individual, as well. I also believe who are doing it for themselves. I published With self-publishing, the cost lies bittersweet years as youngsters, or as adult- in justice and fairness. I am also an aspirant Women Abuse – A cancer killing our nation in with the writer; but it is reasonable. hoods. filmmaker; and I love watching political docu- 2019. Women abuse is a crime against human- The biggest challenge with self- mentaries. I work for the City of Johannesburg ity. However, those who commit this sin always publishing, though, is distribution. Author Thabile Mange, who was born and bred as an operations manager in the water affairs seem to walk free, and without a care, in the Interestingly, people talk about in Kagiso, west of Johannesburg, is no exception. department’ technical call center. I attended streets of our country. Then, in 2020, I pub- publishing online as being an the Thembile Primary School and the Kagiso lished Men Abuse – A silent scourge. Victims answer to the distribution challenge. His almost overwhelming love affair with the Senior Secondary School. I obtained a degree of men abuse are rejected by society; and it is as Two of my four books are published area is carried in his columns that he used to write in Communication Science from the University if they are suffering from leprosy. On the other online, but I am yet to receive a cent for a Sunday tabloid and for a now defunct online of South Africa. hand, perpetrators don’t suffer the indignity that for these. To keep the standard of newspaper. He is also active on social media, es- VM: How would you describe Kagiso, and what the victims suffer. my books high, I use the services of pecially Facebook, highlighting social, economic, would you say makes the place unique? a good editor. My daughter Karabo, cultural and political issues, and oftentimes decry- TM: My birthplace, Kagiso, is a beautiful area. VM: What drew you into writing? a graphic designer, does the book ing service delivery inefficiencies and deficiencies. True to its name in Setswana, Kagiso is peace- TM: I was inspired by a Catholic priest, the late Fa- covers. Regarding printing, it would ful. Although Apartheid had attempted to divide be ideal to print books per order. He has also profiled several outstanding wom- us along tribal lines, naming some of the areas ther Mantsobisi Shomang. In the nineties, our However, this is expensive. It’s en of Kagiso in Kagiso Women Making Waves – as the Nguni and Tswana sections, we have re- priest, Father Shomang introduced a newsletter cheaper when you print in bulk. On their Own Terms, one of his four books, which mained united. Kagiso has a rich history, politi- in the church. For the record, I have since left I always buy about fifty copies, cally and otherwise. As an example, I am busy the Catholic Church, though. I regard myself as unless the demand is high. I may be with a book of one of the unsung struggle he- a social commentator. proverbially selling from the boot of roes from Kagiso, Mike Matsobane, who was in VM: Few writers encourage readership develop- my car, but have yet to run at a loss.” jail with the Rivonia Trialist including Govan ment, hence fewer and fewer people are ac- Mbeki. tively buying and reading books; how do you to the Kagiso Public Library. Therefore, any VM: Tell us more about each of your four books. play a proactive part in this? community member wishing to read any one of TM: For my part, I have contributed all my books my books, can borrow them from the library. I have also given books, at no cost, to individu- als. Additionally, two friends of mine always buy five to ten books from me, and they then give these books to other deserving individuals.

14 WEEKLY SA MIRROR MOTORING Friday 4 June 2021 ALI MPHAKI’S PEUGEOT 3008 GARAGE STRUTS ITS STUFF PERFECT FACELIFT: BEST SMELLING CAR ON OUR ROADS By Ali Mphaki gorgeous looking 3008. It has always been a blind spot why the French For most of us of a darker hue south of the Mother Continent it is ordinarily ac- who are popularly known for their sartorial el- cepted that English was never our friend. egance on fashion ramps have not been able to When you add a French phrase or have their car manufactures exhibit the same swag word into the mix, our brains immedi- with their cars on our roads. Peugeot seems to have ately shift into parking mode and our tongues twist come up with an emphatic answer to this perennial into a knot with our vocal chords a scene reminis- question. Fan or no fan most will agree that the cent of the chaos we witnessed at the Pan African 3008 is one of the sexiest Peugeots to hit the road Parliament this week. in recent times – and it smells good too. Take a word like lazier faire, for instance. Then If the Basotho were correct in observing that there is Francois. Bordeaux. Or more intriguingly, the eyes are the window to the soul, then the 3008 the name Peugeot. To prove this theory, just ask any with its edgy styled frameless grille, LED daytime three people in the kasie to pronounce Peugeot and running lights and smoked LED tail-lights immedi- chances are you going to get into a traffic jam of ately draws you in. three or more different names of the French model. The exterior visual stimuli are not restricted as Pijo, Phijot, Pheijo, Phewujot, you’d hear them it continues to the interior, where you are welcomed proudly say. Common sense dictates better stay in into an impressive cabin with high quality materi- neutral and avoid sounding smart to avoid being als boasting a 10-inch central infotainment system, knocked off your high horse; there is no master of An overhead parking camera, magic folding seats, pronounciation is their common refrain. and wait for it, the boot opens with a wave of the foot thanks to a hidden sensor in the tailgate. It’s an open secret that in recent times the Peugeot brand may have been missing from the Enthusiasts will be pleasantly surprised that radar suffering from what beleaguered ANC politi- one of the exclusive gadgets found in the Peugeot cians refer to as a “trust deficiency’ with the cus- 3008 is a button for a choice of three different fra- tomers. Crystal clear is that one need not to be an grances – undoubtedly making it the best smelling Einstein to observe that Peugeot have been dish- car on our roads. The top of the range GT models is ing out unfashionable products which have failed endowed with an eight-pointed seat massager. to capture the imagination of the highly discerning motoring public. I for one still have to come across The 3008 can easily fit in five adults, although them gals going crazy over a bloke snugged behind those at the back may feel at bit cramped while boot the wheel of a Peugeot!! space galore increasing from 517 litres to 1,670 li- tres with the rear seats folded. The common com- But times a’changing and critics of the brand plaint about the 3008 is its seating position which have now been forced to stop and make a U-turn in of necessity wouldn’t suit everyone. The giant the way they relate to the Peugeot brand. The name pillars at the rear can also impeded visibility. The Peugeot is unfortunately back in vogue and now 3008 is offered in three derivatives; The 3008 Ac- on everyone’s lips thanks to the new and strikingly tive 1.6, the 3008 Allure 1.6 and top of the range GT-line 1.6. THE FX4 BROADENS RANGER LINE-UP DEAL BREAKER: It offers a distinctive new model for discerning, lifestyle-oriented customers. By Ali Mphaki considering how far the evolution of the car radio once the app has been paired with their Ranger. and 4x4 derivatives. It is absurd that not that long ago -- less than has come. The app communicates with the FordPass Con- The FX4 badge was first introduced on Rang- 100 years to be exact - there were people up in nect modem that is embedded within the vehicle, arms when the car radio was first introduced No doubt the modern car boasts audio sys- regardless of where they are – if both the smart- er in South Africa in 2017 as a limited series and by Chevrolet in 1922. So worked up were the tems which are so spontaneous that one is tempt- phone and the vehicle have internet connectivity. returns to the fold offering bespoke styling cues opponents of the sound system in cars they ed to forget how it used to be so frustrating to that set it apart from the rest of the Ranger line- even went to crazy lengths of making ridicu- have your favourite cassette tape jammed in the This makes it possible to lock and unlock the up. A black mesh grille derived from the Ranger lous claims that music will distract drivers stereo. Ingress any modern car and you would be doors, start the engine to activate the climate con- Thunder is complemented by the distinctive which may lead to accidents. wowed by seamless state of the art entertainment trol system, find the vehicle’s location and even sweep of the integrated LED daytime running system available. access information such as fuel level and oil life. lights along with the LED headlamps. Worse still, they argued vociferously, music Based on the popular 2.0-litre Single Turbo XLT may lull drivers to sleep. From those days of the These days you have cars with 10 or more Double Cab, the Ranger FX4 is available in 4x2 Black mirrors and door handles add to the early 1930s to the present it’s been a somewhat speakers pumping chest thumping bass and silky upmarket image, which is further reinforced by stop and go, a high and low winding road for the trebles, enough to annoy the neighbours whilst the eye-catching 18-inch multi-spoke black al- car radio. also enough to host a mini street bash. loy wheels that replace the 17-inch versions fitted on the XLT. The cabin incorporates a soft-touch Today’s children will laugh their lungs out Gone are the days when a trip by car was a leather trimmed dashboard with red stitching. when they learn that initially the idea of a car boring moment of silent contemplation. Enters radio included smallanyana telephone poles on the new Ford Ranger FX4, a vehicle defined as Embossed FX4 logos on the front seats add each corner of the car with antennas strung be- a distinctive new model for discerning, lifestyle- a further splash of dynamic flair. The FX4 has tween the poles. oriented customers. a high level of standard specification, including dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless Pas- Also, the car radio of yesteryear was just With the new FX4 Ford signals the introduc- sive Entry and Passive Start, a rear-view parking cumbersome taking up most passenger space tion of FordPass Connect and the FordPass app camera as well as front and rear sensors to aid with no designated space for the speakers which in South Africa – Ford’s innovative connected manoeuvrability in tight parking spaces. would be tucked in the boot or placed behind the service, which is now standard on all Ranger XL, PRICING driver’s seat. Senior citizens will also remember XLS, XLT, Wildtrak and Ranger Raptor mode 2.0 Single Turbo FX4 10AT 4x2 R618 900 the defunct 8-track cassettes with a wry smile FordPass is an app that customers can download 2.0 Single Turbo FX4 10AT 4x4 R687 900 on their smartphones, allowing command and control of various vehicle functions remotely

Friday 4 June 2021 ENTERTAINMENT 15WEEKLY SA MIRROR NOT SO QUIET 2 GRIPPING: A movie worth a sequel Some of Phumlani Ntuli’s works ARTICULATING SOCIETY’S ASPIRATIONS THROUGH GIFT WRAPPING A MASTER: heid regime used to send gift wrapped presents to activists. Imagine the curiousity and excitement if you received it. “Then check the hateful agent’s an- Obsession started ticipation of his victim opening the nicely wrapped parcel. True to expectation, kaboom the explosion! These dastardly deeds were evil wrapped in fan- Film: A Quiet Place part 2 some of the most gripping of the film. with cutting old tasy.” Release date: 28 May Emily Blunt takes a bit of a back seat but “It’s strange how certain things are taken for Director: John krasinski granted in some quarters while for others in-acces- Genre: Horror, post apoca- non the less delivers a powerful and heart- newspapers sibility remains a barrier of privilege.” Actors: lypse felt portrayal of evelyn, showcasing her act- Recently Ntuli stumbled upon negatives of pho- Millicent Simmonds, ing prowess with two particularly stand out tos he assumed were forever lost. These go back to Emily Blunt, Cillian scenes one of them being with Noah Juke’s the time when he used to keep a scrap book. “They Murphy, Noah Jupe. Marcus. By Gugu Sibiya brought back memories of my cousin’s stint as the Reviewer: SONKE SIBIYA Stepping up to the protagonist role Milli- Visual artists like Phumlani family photographer. It is also a chance to use them cent Simmonds gives us another exceptional in my works. “Adding a video to showing of her talent and range as Regan as Ntuli are blessed with the the mix has been invaluable. I use While the magic of the first film can never we see her character struggle with the loss of gift of articulating society’s the captured material of my work be recaptured, a quiet place part 2 never the her father and the void it has left within her aspirations as well as inter- to enhance my art presence through less succeeds in giving us plenty of chills and family and the emotional journey towards ac- rogating and capturing events promotions at workshops and fes- thrills keeping the viewer highly invested cepting it. around them. It is precisely tivals.” For the uninitiated, Ntuli’s thanks in particular to its focus on character for this reason that for as long work is complex. Collectors on the development and stellar performances from A quiet place part 2 also shows us the as he remembers, he has al- other hand are beating a path to his its returning cast and powerful new edition world before the monsters destroyed eve- ways been drawn to art. door. “Art collectors are mad about Cillian Murphy. rything through the use of flash backs that “It all started with my ob- my works. There’s been an out- feature most of the movie’s action and visual session of cutting images from pouring of love and interest from Staying true to the post apocalyptic gen- effects the culmination of which can be com- old newspapers. I would spend all over. “ re the director John Krasinski expands the pared to Steven Spielburg’s ‘ War of the hours meticulously putting “Perhaps my efforts alongside world within the movie giving the viewer a worlds’ or Doug Liman’s ’Edge of tomorrow’. them together in a beautiful col- those of fellow artists, are pay- full look at the ravaged and torn world that The foundation of the film largely remains the lage. “When my cousin started ing off. We’ve been involved in the first movie only gave us glimpses of and al- same as its predecessor employing the use of taking pictures, it got more ex- research that will be beneficial to most like full emersion therapy the wide rang- sound and scenery to create a constant feeling citing. I used those photos to our work . We host art exhibitions, ing and panning shots of the ravaged scenery of tension and unrest. tell a story,” Ntuli says, taking Artist Phumlani Ntuli workshops, participating in learn- allow the viewer to place themselves in this post apocalyptic waste land leaving little to no With the expansion of the world within us back to the origins of his love erships, residences and exchange room for disappointment in the standard set the film and the edition of new characters, for collages. He believes that he was drawn to col- programmes. I really enjoyed one of those in the by other post apocalyptic movie giants. Krasinski introduces a multi storyline ap- lages because unlike art supplies, photos and news- Democratic Republic of Congo where I spent three proach and while the emotional journeys of papers were readily accessible to him. months.”other fascinating and empowering experi- Picking up from where the last movie left the respective characters allows for the the “The desire to express myself far out weighed ences were in Tanzania and Zimbabwe. off the abbot family mother Evelyn (Emily film to end on a good note for the characters the limitations of my surroundings.” Belonging to With a Masters degree from the university of Blunt), daughter Regan (Millicent Simmonds) the constant cross cutting of the narratives as a rare breed of collage artists, Ntuli initially experi- Switzerland, Ntuli added : “I’m all about taking and son Marcus (Noah Jupe) decide to leave well as the seemingly abrupt ending doesn’t mented with techniques such as wood. He recalls any opportunity that comes my way. Acquiring as and venture out into the world in search of allow for the viewer to achieve the full emo- how noble it was to work on. Once again it was a much knowledge as I can, thereby inspiring other a new place to call home along their journey tional experience that some may have been question of accessibility. With a far away look, the young people. You learn a lot from fellow exchange of survival the family encounter another sur- hoping for. multi-disciplined artist affirms : “I use gift wrap- students. Exposure to other languages, cultures and vivor Emmett ( Cillian Murphy) and wether ping paper, photos and videos as a medium of ex- techniques, broadens your mind and enhance your this man can be trusted is the reason for most Having said that I still feel like a quiet pression. “Ironically, growing up I never once got a skills. Most important, you appreciate your country of the film’s tension and suspense. place part 2 is still a remarkably good movie gift wrapped present for my birthday or on Christ- like never before.” With young people like Ntuli a testament to what can happen when great mas nor was I ever a star at my own birthday party kicking doors to get in and make their mark, our Murphy hands in a phenomenal perfor- writing meets great acting and while some with a fancy cake. My parents couldn’t afford that.” country is going to be in good hands. A young man mance as Emmett, giving life to this deeply might see part 2 as not as scary as its prede- A sad but honest recollection of a childhood devoid who’s going places, we’ll be cheering for him on troubled and damaged man and making him cessor it definitely makes up for it with grip- of privileges. “Listening to stories of how the apart- the sidelines. into an all too relatable character with his ping emotionally satisfying performances and scenes with millicent simmonds’s regan being well developed and relatable characters a definite must watch for any movie goer. Lost in Thought over DIAPARO TSA MAMA mom’s last choice outfit’ TICKET PRICE: R50.00 THREE CARDS: Death, grief and survival. AGE: ​ 13 BOOKINGS: ANTHONY EZEOKE 011 832 1641 ext 203/ 083 246 4950 Theatre Play: Diaparo tsa Mama. who are 29 and 23 years old. Writer/Director: Rorisang Motuba. It’s set on the eve of their mother’s funeral. finality of it. Actresses: Lerato Gwebu & It’s the event, that’s always bringing their real- Ziaphora Dakile Grief striken and heart broken they don’t have the luxury of mourning in a corner until they’ve done ity back to the present - a deceased parent. Sadly, Diaparo tsa Mama is an emotive theatre pro- right by her. Siblings: Leraro Gwebu and Ziiaphora Dakile life is dealing the three cards - death, grief and duction that fuses melancholy, nostalgia and in a scene from Diaparo tsa Mama survival. Rorisang Motuba chose a heavy subject celebratory feelings. It’s bound to take back a Faced with the mamoth task of choosing longer just the clothes but the history around for her play. lot of people to that moment of realisation that clothes their mother will wear to her funeral, it them. It’s memories, it’s words left unsaid and the a loved one is really gone. dawns on them just how hard the process is go- However, Diaparo Tsa Mama is a reality all ing to be. families come face to face at one point or another. Staged from May 26 - June 27, Diaparo is a It reminds one of our mortality and the love we play that was curated under the banner of Salute As they go through a ritual often reserved for have. the Playwight. Its a third in a series of 10 30-min- mature women, searching for an appropriate outfit ute dramas that will be shown online throughout to bid her farewell in, they are torn. They appreci- Hence even in death we still want to do some- the year. This season also comprise a mixture of ate this will bring them closure as they grapple thing beautiful like dressing our loved ones in South African and Continental works. with their thoughts. their nines. An integral part of the 45 years celebration of What do you choose? How do you know if Life and death co-exist and that’s how it is! the Market theatre. The story revolves around two she approves even though these clothes were her equally exciting is the fusion of digital and live sisters played Lerato Gwebu and Ziaphora Dakile favorites when she was still alive. All they know stage production that should go a long way to- it has to be perfect! What the sisters hadn’t reck- wards broadening the audience of this season’s oned with, is the avalanche of emotions. It’s no shows.

16 WEEKLY SA MIRROR TRIBUTES Friday 4 June 2021 COLIN “JIGGS” SMUTS: THE POET OF DOORIE DOFFS HIS FOR THE LAST TIME SELFLESS: The unheralded iconic patron of South African arts By Len Maseko reality of our starkly unequal society. Outside the In 1977, when the country somewhat returned “JCIGOLGINS” It’s 1974, we arrive at Flaxbro House in Braam- school, the harsh realities of segregation prevailed to normalcy, albeit temporarily, classes resumed. fontein. My friend Robert Magwaza and I are with a vengeance. But, in June that year, a new upsurge of unrest dis- SMUTS breathless from the long walk from the famous rupted schooling again during the commemoration Dorkay House on the east side of Joburg city. Then came June 16 1976, causing great up- of the 1976 student uprisings, leading to the clo- Colin ‘Jiggs’ Smuts is from Johannesburg heaval to our young lives. The conflagration that sure of schools in Soweto and other parts of the where he grew up and still resides. He complet- Dorkay House was a legendary cultural followed conjured a wave of political conscientisa- country. ed his schooling in the United Kingdom where hangout, where the famous artistsS like Hugh tion and youth activism we had never witnessed he spent a few years involved in just about every Masekela, Miriam Makeba and Letta Mbulu prac- before. The youth rose against apartheid tyranny Concerned about the situation, Jiggs made ‘struggle’ of the 60’s, including anti-Apartheid, tised and gigged in the 1960s. Situated on Eloff and expressed their life-defining experience alternative education arrangements for us. He Vietnam, Palestinian and student protests. In Street, it had fallen into a state of disrepair in the through a new genre of art – “protest theatre”, raised funds for me and three other Open School 1962 he visited East Germany during the height late 1970s and was now a shadow of its glorious which was accompanied by poetry, music and art. students to study O-Levels through Turret College of the Cold War. past. The Open School became a reservoir of this form with the University of London’s General Educa- of art, which flourished across the country – much tion External Authority in 1978 and 1979. His life has been committed to the Struggle, However, we were happy to have made it to to the consternation of the system. empowering children and young adults through Braamfontein. We were looking for a place in town This meant abandoning Bantu Education education and cultural programmes. He joined that offered training to budding actors and musi- Open school produced their own volume of system. Once again, Helen Suzman and other the Open School in 1974 and developed a full cians, and had been told earlier Dorkay House no protest poetry, theatre, art and music, which we benefactors dipped into their pockets to fund our and part time school, using art as a vehicle to longer provided any training workshops, so they took around the Reef townships, and a book was education. We became the first group of students bring academically disadvantaged children pointed us to the Open School in Braamfontein compiled and circulated overseas. It depicted from the townships to dump Bantu Education to up to the standard of Model C schools within instead. Flaxbro House turned out to be a nonde- photographic images – captured by the students study through an international education system a year. As Director of the Community Based script building on the outside, two or three-storey themselves – of the atrocities committed by the while still in the country. Development Programme, training NGOs in the high, situated in Bertha Street, just off Jan Smuts apartheid security forces against the masses. The townships in management followed. Street – the home of Open School of Arts. works were produced under the guidance of anti- No doubt Jiggs and Open School contributed apartheid activists like Clive Nettleton, Eddie Wes, immensely to the struggle for the liberation in this In addition, he organised the conferences We arrived to the warm hands of a long-haired, including one of South Africa’s best photogra- country – and played no less a role towards many ‘Culture and Resistance’ in Gaborone in 1982 bearded hippy figure, who was ambling about the phers, David Goldblatt. young people’s development. and ‘Culture in Another South Africa’ in 1987; interior of the building. This would be our first in- as well as the Southern African Arts Trust Fund, troduction to Open School director Colin “Jiggs” Some of the images were published in Staffrid- Ex-student and actor Mavuso Tshabalala, who which became the UDF Cultural Desk of which Smuts, the ever-smiling chain smoker and genial er magazine and newspapers like The World and lives in Switzerland, said he was shocked to hear he became Secretary General. He co-founded hippy with the heart of gold. Weekend, Transvaal Post and The Voice at the of Smuts’s death as he had hoped for a reunion the Writers Forum which became The Congress time. with him and other former students before the of South African Writers, is a past Chairperson Open School instantly felt like a home, and had pandemic. “I am still unable to accept that Jiggs of the Bag Factory Artists’ Studios, and helped magic aura about it. Browsing through the school’s The calibre of school’s teachers was awe-in- is no more”. set up numerous other organisations. brochure, we noticed that it offered drama, music, spiring. They included the late painter Nat Mok- creative writing, photography, art, ballet, extra- gosi, veteran actor Charles Molefe Molelekeng, Smuts’s remains were cremated at the Braam- Colin is also a writer, known as the ‘Poet tuition matric classes, karate, pottery workshops. educationist Clive Nettleton, pianist Lancelot fontein Crematorium on May 25. of Doories’. He has written novellas such as We were entranced. We enrolled a few days later, Mothopeng, the son of the former PAC president Nights of Immorality and has had both fiction bringing our friends along as well. Zeph Mothopeng. Another ex-student and writer, Boitumelo, and non-fiction articles published in local and says of Smuts: “Two years ago, I met Colin at the international publications. We already had had some headstart in acting in And there was Les Carelse, the suave ballet University of Johannesburg. This must have been ragtag stage plays like Xesha, Shaka and “Your sins teacher, poet and author Chris van Wyk, feisty more than 40 years since many of us the youth of He is also the co-editor of Hidden Histories: will find you out” in Soweto, along with childhood Abdullah Ebrahim (formerly Dollar Brand), who ‘76 left Open School. Within seconds, we were The impact of South African Community Art friend and now seasoned actor Sello ka Maake taught us karate and how to meditate. Other visi- recalling so many of the students and teachers of Centres in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, which is due Ncube. We also boasted stints as extras in King tors included American ballet dancer and teacher our time there. We reminisced about the good old for publication this year. Solomon’s Treasure, in the halo of Hollywood ac- Clive Thompson, musician Roger Lucey, the late days of true humanity, in the worst of times under tors like Britt Ekland and Richard Chamberlain. Selby Ntuli of Beaters and Harari fame, black con- apartheid rule. It was a sheer joy to meet again. sciousness stalwarts Sammy Tloubatla and Jackie His sharp mind and love of people, weaved to- The Open School presented us with a new, Hlapolosa. gether with his sense of humour, will forever be rare window of opportunity. The buzz and creative remembered!” energy, reminiscent of the American teen musical Many students had fled their homes in fear of drama movie Fame. detention – myself included, by virtue of being part Meanwhile, during our occasional encounters, of the Soweto Students Representative Council Jiggs and I joked and chuckled over the glass of There was no other place like it. It was unique, leadership under Tsietsie Mashinini in 1976. his favourite Sauvignon Blanc, recalling Open unencumbered by the vagaries of apartheid which School anecdotes with nostalgia. suffocated the aspirations of many a township For months, Jiggs secretly accommodated a youth at the time. Indeed, it was a melting pot of group of youths who fled the townships at Flaxbro Sometimes I am niggled by the thought of cultures, with kids of all races coming together to House in 1976. Before then, we had spent several how my life and that of other youths touched by play in a social experiment simply far ahead of cold nights, sleeping in the veld. He got individu- Smuts would have turned out, had we not encoun- its time. The Open School bubble created a wel- als like then veteran MP Helen Suzman, journalist tered the Doornfontein hippy called Jiggs. The come buffer for children against the contamination John Kane-Berman and other good Samaritans, to raconteur, who in the 1970s jigged, smoke stuck of politics of race. Yet, there was no escaping the donate money for our food. We lived at Flaxbro between the lips, glass of brandy in hand, to the House for close to a year. strains of Bob Marley’s ditty Exodus. I still wonder. LIFE WILL NEVER THE SAME WITHOUT JIGGS By Robert Magwaza MENTOR: He played his famous words for don’t tell anyone. To my As I recovered from the shocking news of huge role in moulding surprise in 1977, he sent me to a Leadership Colin “Bra Jiggs” Smuts passing a week ago, the 1976 youth Training Programme in KZN. A total new ex- and the frustration of being unable to attend perience and different leaning environment, his funeral, being and let down by technical I finished my first session in pain because of coming from the dreaded Bantu Education glitches trying to attend the funeral virtually. that man’s strictness. That was the last time he background. After completion, he offered me saw the back of my head. I tried music and we a job as the assistant director, my first full I then thought of how times have changed formed a band called the “Links”, a band that time job. The moments spent under his guid- since I set my foot at Flaxbro House in Braam- always impressed “chicks” in the audience. ance cannot simply be written off. fontein. As a young man full of ambition, I wanted to be an actor, not just an actor, but Through Jiggs I joined a photography A day after the funeral, I played Bob Mar- a famous one. Having done a self-assessment, workshop little knowing that it the class that ley’s album Exodus, as my tribute to this man as an actor in a school drama and township defined my destiny. who had so much influence in my life. I re- “plays”. I wanted to pursue this dream. That member how he used to “dance”; pulling his is when together with childhood friend, Len Then came June 16, 1976 riots, and at the beard every he played that music. Maseko, we undertook this trip to Braamfon- time we were still students then in the thick tein. of things in Soweto. A word was going around A tribute that came as a reminder how that the “system” police had come to our times have changed. Not being able to attend- There we welcomed by this gentleman school and took the register witch had home ing a funeral of a man who has played such with long bearded man with long hair that addresses. a role in putting our lives together. The man went all the way to his shoulders. It was years who united us with all the friends we had some later when then I looked back at the things We were the forced to sleep at the nearby even today. We had friends in Coronationville, I had done since joining The Open School, veld. When Bra Jiggs got to hear about it that Wits University and places like Parktown. which was youth programme of The Institute the open the doors of the Open School and we Some of those white friends we used to smug- of Race Relations. slept there with a number of our friends that gle to Soweto and escort them out of the town- we could not leave behind. ship in the early hours because it was a crimi- There I was involved in a number of activi- nal offence for them to be in townships. ties; I was the first chair of the School Repre- Bra Jiggs always told us to “keep Zap”, sentative Council (SRC). I then joined a kara- Our last meeting at his house was very te workshop, which was conducted by his old emotional as we recalled those halcyon days. time friend Dollar Brand (Abdullah Ibrahim). We sang songs we used to sing as we enjoyed oxtail cooked by his son, Themba.

Friday 4 June 2021 TRIBUTES 17WEEKLY SA MIRROR B O T S WA N A UNIVERSITY MOURNS THE PASSING OF CHANCELLOR LINAH MOHOHLO The University of Botswana is saddened by the passing graduate students. As an experienced leader, Ms Mo- on of its Chancellor Ms Linah Mohohlo. Ms Mohohlo hohlo also served the country in different capacities passed on in the morning of June 2, 2021 at Bokamoso locally and internationally. Private Hospital in Gaborone. She began her career at Bank of Botswana in 1976 MohohloMs Mohohlo was appointed Chancellor as Secretary. Ms Mohohlo rose through the ranks in of the University of Botswana in 2018, making her the operational and policy areas of the Bank whereupon first woman to hold the position and the fifth Chancel- 23 years later in 1999, she was appointed Governor lor of the University of Botswana since its establish- (ex-officio Chairman of the Board) and served for 17 ment in 1982. She had a firm and grounded under- years to 2016. She was also Non-executive Director of standing of the University which she served in various the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for Botswa- capacities over the years, notably the UB Foundation na, and a member of the International Monetary and where she served as the Deputy Chairman of the Financial Committee (IMFC 2000-02) representing Board of Trustees. the IMF Africa Group 1 Constituency. Ms Mohohlo had earlier in her career worked for the IMF in the Among her achievements as the Deputy Chairman African Department and Monetary and Exchange Af- of the University of Botswana Foundation Board of fairs Department. Trustees, she was able to secure funding from abroad for the First-in-the-Family Graduate Scholarship Pro- Her international engagements also included serv- gramme in areas of Economics, Finance, Business and ing the United Nations as Eminent Person in a number related disciplines at Masters degree level at the Uni- of capacities, being a member of Tony Blair’s Com- versity of Botswana. mission for Africa and of the Africa Progress Panel. Ms Mohohlo’s active participation in the affairs of the The programme has since its inception benefited World Economic Forum culminated in co-chairing the 20 graduate students. Furthermore, Ms Mohohlo WEF for Africa in 2011. May her soul rest in peace. played a key role in raising funds for the UB Founda- tion Endowment Fund which so far has benefitted 242 Botswana University communique By Maureen Isaacson SMUTS: “UN-BANG” body else.” BUT NOT UNSUNG They shouted at him, saying the connections Colin “Jiggs” Smuts, who has died aged 76, never shrugged off his signature 1960s jargon. SELFLESS: The poet, author used drama, between the Soweto student representative coun- When fundraising for many community projects, literature, art to fight for non-racialism cil and the Open School proved his involvement in he was on the hunt for “dough” and “bread”; with the June 1976 uprisings in Soweto. “‘I don’t know the English academic Denise Newfield, he fixed Jiggs Smuts, George Bizos and Margaret Contrera what you’re talking about,’ I shouted back. ‘I’m “gigs”. In Smuts parlance, men were “cats”; wom- a typical South African. I like brandy … and shit en were “chicks”. He referred to his own writing Doornfontein was Johannesburg’s first resi- EXCHANGING POLITICS FOR COMMUNITY talk.’” genre as “rap-write”, meaning he wrote the way he dential suburb. Smuts’ poem Doornfontein (1975) WORK “rapped”. The critic Andries Oliphant said Smuts’ was a prescribed work at the University of the Wit- In the 1980s, he exchanged his allegiance to strategy of rap-writing in Nights of Immorality watersrand for 21 years. It responds to the way the Smuts was an underground operative of the communism and other political “isms” of left- (1998), an autobiographical collection of loosely apartheid system shunted people out of their homes then-banned ANC and Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) ist politics for community work and organisation. linked stories, pointed to South African literature’s in the name of development: “they moving us all and during the 1960s joined “every struggle”, in- He organised key conferences including the 1982 future in its use of orality. out / of town / making scars on our / lives and in cluding against apartheid, the war in Vietnam and Culture and Resistance in Gaborone and Culture Josie / but Doorie will / always be Doorie /ek sê.” the invasion and occupation of Palestine. In what in Another South Africa in 1987. He served on the A joker and raconteur, his stories centred on he described as “a career-limiting” move, at a 1963 Southern African Arts Trust Fund, which became the struggle years, and his deep sense of betrayal Although Smuts was “white on paper” he at- recruitment drive for MK, he asked the ANC lead- the United Democratic Front Cultural Desk, and by corrupt “comrade MPs”, who had forgotten the tended schools that the apartheid system had des- ership, “Are you going to lead us into the bush?” became its secretary general. He was a co-founder struggle for non-racialism. In 1999 Smuts wrote, “I ignated as “coloured schools”. The large sign an- Having blown his chances of employment in the of the Writers Forum, which became The Congress have never felt so coloured in my life as under our nouncing Newtown Coloured Primary School ANC, he returned to South Africa in the late 1960s, of South African Writers. new democratic government. We have retrogressed reminded him daily of race classification. He at- when he changed his classification from white to 40 years to the late 1950s and the early 1960s in our tended Coronation Coloured High School until coloured. This roused the suspicions of the state As director of the Community-Based Develop- race relations.” 1960 when, after the Sharpeville massacre, he left Security Branch (SB). Why would he want to relin- ment Programme from 1998 until his death, he ini- for the United Kingdom with his mother and sister. quish white privilege? tiated management training for non-governmental Smuts’ friend, the actor and playwright Rajesh His father and some siblings followed later. organisations in townships, among many other Gopie, aptly dubbed him “unbung and unsung” In SBs, in Staffrider magazine in 1992, Smuts initiatives. As founding secretary and the driving (also the title of one of Gopie’s plays). Smuts used “From Coronation High delinquent to first recounted his surveillance by agents of the state: force behind the Nadine Gordimer Foundation, that title for an online conversation in April 2021, house captain and head boy of Henry Compton “Are these bastards following me? They don’t even he organised events such as the Nadine Gordimer where he delivered an entertaining account of his Secondary School” is how Smuts describes his allow one to have a decent hangover!” Returning Annual Lecture. In 1977, with Newfield and Jona- life. “Bang”, explained Smuts, means “frightened” transformation in London. Having realised the An- from a trip to Europe in 1977, he was interrogated than Paton, Smuts set up a poetry panel at Wits for in Afrikaans [and is pronounced “bung”], therefore glican Church’s complicity in apartheid, he ditched by SB men with “eyes like glazed marbles”. Was students. Over 20 years he invited many star par- “unbung” means fearless. “Unsung” referred to his role as boat boy and took up with new “broth- the Open School a front for the ANC? Was Smuts ticipants such as Mongane Serote, Sipho Sepamla, those like himself, whose tireless commitment to ers” from across the globe. Despite British xeno- recruiting soldiers for MK? Why did he give the Chris van Wyk and Frank Meintjies. the struggle remains unrecognised. phobia, he thrived at school, becoming enamoured Black Power salute at the Mdali festival in 1972? of DH Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover. After Smuts’ jargon was deceptive; though he sus- Smuts, however, was remembered in tributes graduating from City of Westminster College with Smuts: “Everybody gives the salute. Why tained a mix of masculinist township gangster talk after his death as “a light”, “a torch” and “a force”, O levels, he served as secretary to the West Indian shouldn’t I?” SB interrogator: “So you’re Black and 1960s UK lingo, he was in no way stuck in the for his considerable legacy in arts and culture. Student Centre Soccer Team and Drama Club. Power?” past; he heeded the wisdom of young South Afri- cans. He was, however, passionately interested in As director of the Open School from 1974 to Smuts: “I’m Black Consciousness like every- history across the globe, saying it was important to 1998, Smuts sought to develop a new education know where we come from. He co-edited Hidden model that would instil critical thinking in children Histories: The Impact of South African Community through art, music, drama and literature. The Open Art Centres in the 70s, 80s and 90s, to be published School published 17 works of writing and artwork this year. including Two Dogs and Freedom: Black Children of South Africa Speak Out (1987), which became He married three times. His marriage to Dol- an international bestseller. phine Alexandra Holmes in 1968 yielded a son, Themba. A second brief marriage was succeeded FROM DELINQUENT TO HEAD BOY by a third, to Drucilla Elizabeth Cresswell, for Colin Ellis Smuts was born in Doornfontein, Jo- seven years. He described her as his “soulmate”. He never recovered from her sudden death in July hannesburg, on 2 November 1944. His father, Lou- 2010. is John Smuts, was the son of a Chinese man from Guangdong Province, China. Louis was classified A passionate lover and a fighter, Smuts’ often white by the apartheid government as he passed self-deprecating stories reveal his awareness that, “the pencil test” (his hair was straight enough for like all of us, he was a flawed being. His stepdaugh- a pencil to pass through it). Under the race clas- ter, Rona Holmes, said he mellowed during his last sifications of the time, Smuts’ mother, Eileen Elma years, owning his story, warts and all. We have lost Ellis, would have been classified coloured but was to emphysema a great friend and mentor, a party reclassified white according to her husband’s sta- animal, who was unafraid in creating change and tus. Smuts was one of five siblings, four of whom opening doors for students for several decades. chose to live dual lives as “play whites”. He was May he not remain unsung. also known as Bra Jiggs after the American comic • This article first appeared on June 2 2021 strip figure in Jiggs and Maggie because Smuts shared Jiggs’ shock of “stand-up” hair. on the New Frame publication website; https//:www.newframe.com/sharp-read-colin- smuts-unbung-but-not-unsung

18 WEEKLY SA MIRROR SPORT Friday 4 June 2021 TEAMWORK ELUDES SOCCER MASTERS AND LEGENDS NO GOALS: Ego’s and personalities a challenge How do you know if an organisation is mori- of both Salfa and Samfa had unintended conse- One can only hope the legends and masters Masoja Cele bund? The answer is simple: When their web- quences – dividing ex professional soccer players would iron out their differences and all work to- site was last updated years ago. This is the sad into two factions. The inability of ex soccerites to wards the same goal. Those who are in power TOUCHLINE reality facing the once promising South Afri- speak in one voice created a discord until Safa, the must accept the necessary change. Change, when MUSINGS can Masters and Legends Football Association, football mother body had to intervene. it comes can only mean progress. Samlfa, blessing as many of ex-footballers find it difficult This led to the ultimate merger of both Salfa Though with all the gloominess and rumblings to make ends meet. “But more than anything else, Formed two decades ago with, among others, and Samfa, to form the South African Masters and within the structure, there are still positives to the association has just become a glorified burial two significant objectives; To unify all former foot- Legends Football Association in 2012. Mathathe glimmer about. The sweat of the few hard work- scheme,” complains a member speaking on condi- ballers under one body; and To create job opportu- was elected president in 2013, a position he still ing members has not been abruptly thrown out the tion of anonymity. nities for members considering the sad plight and occupies. The Samlfa constitution stipulates a five- window, however, as seen with the recent signing living conditions of players after their active days. year term for office bearers, which Mathathe has of a partnership with one of South Africa’s most exceeded by three years already. There had been celebrated funeral parlour B3. The parlour pro- It was soccer boss Jomo Sono and the late Veli no elections for national office bearers since. The vides assurance and offers burial services for the Mahlangu who were instrumental in pioneering the late striker Philemon Chippa Masinga still appears legends and their spouse. The gesture came as a formation of the Samlfa, then known as SA Leg- as deputy president on their website. The organi- ends Football Association, Salfa, as early as 1990. Youth Development: Masters and legends have a role to play... Photo: Mohau Mofokeng sation claims it’s This was af- got structures in ter they were ap- all nine provinces proached by for- including region- mer soccer player al structures, but Jacob “ Buddha “ most of these ex- Mathathe who with ist only in name. Alfred “ Dance “ Malete took over It is also not the baton when known if the as- Sono and Mahlangu sociation has stepped aside due ever lifted a fin- to their busy sched- ger in satisfying ules. There was their mission in much excitement terms of research, among legends and education and masters around the dissemination of country when Sam- information to all lfa played their first international in 1994 against structures within soccer. Classes for members to the Black Stars of France led by Roger Milla both be enrolled as professional coaches have also not home and away. taken off. Some members of the association say progress has been stalled by alleged greed, selfish- Whilst Mathathe and them continued with their ness and behavior resembling tackles from behind” association Samlfa, another group of ex profes- from some of the key members. sional players were also working on creating their Were the shenanigans within the association to own structure. This group included the likes of Ir- play themselves out in the field of play, some of the vin “Pepe“ Dire, Vusi “ Computer” Lamola, Ralph protagonists would have long earned the wrath of “ Ndabazabantu” Hendricks and Lucky Stalliano the referee and suffered the ignominy of being red- were part of their executive. carded. And while this is happening, most former players continue to wallow in poverty and misery. They called their association South African Masters Football Association, Samfa. The birth MIRRORWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... For more information on Mirror advertising Contact: JABU SOKHELE-NXUMALO on 073 871 1415

Friday 4 June 2021 FOOTBALL LEGENDS 19WEEKLY SA MIRROR SPORTS: Briefs FLASHBACK: MIKE “CITY” SOKE BIG STAGE: He was spotted by jomo sono who immediately recruited him to join Bucs AKANI SIMBINE Brilliant defender: Mike “City” Soke also plied his trade for white team Highlands Park. Photo: Supplied THE South African 100m champion and By Masoja Cele Khomane into a central defender. So I was signed game.’’ reigning Commonwealth Games gold medallist Playing for Orlando Pirates is every young- to plug the vacant right back position. It was a After his loan spell had expired at Park, he went Akani Simbine will start his buildup to the To- tough call though, as Khomane was a no-nonsense kyo Olympics on 10 June when he competes in ster’s dream, but when a soccer great recruits you right back. back to Bucs to pursue his dream of playing next to the Diamond League meeting in Florence, Italy. it comes with massive pressure than your initial the man he kindly called his mentor, Sono, but only aspiration. Affectionately known as “City”or “Mickey” to spend more time warming the bench. Simbine is not the only Olympian who will in football circles, Soke stood his ground and sur- be competing. Wenda Nel is racing the 400m This is the story of former Orlando Pirates util- prised all and sundry with his brilliant command of Soke flatly refused another loan move that the hurdles at the same event. Werner Prinsloo, ity defender Mike ‘City’ Soke, whose professional the right back position. Pirates management initiated and was willing to Simbine’s coach, wants the sprinter to slowly football entry was initiated by none other than the quit football and concentrate on his studies. hone his skills over the next few weeks in races. legendary Ephraim ‘Jomo ‘ Sono himself. ‘‘I was surprised with the transition from previ- It is a recipe that has worked in the past. Ac- ously playing in the middle of the park to the pinna- He managed to complete my matric class and cording to Prinsloo, there is a very thin line This happened when school football was still in cle of performing at right back at such a big team. I ended up joining Kamuzu Young Zebras, a team between being race fit and over-raced. Prinsloo vogue in the 70s. mean Pirates was made of superlatives soccer stars. formed by Pirates legendary goalkeeper Patson said the Covid-19 pandemic complicated plan- Banda. ning Simbine’s international racing schedule. – “Ooh yes, I was spotted by Jomo Sono back in “The fact that I was surrounded by stalwarts www.teamsa.co.za 1977. It was during my former school Thutolore like Sono, Khomane, Tshabalala, Oscar ‘Jazzman’ Soke played at Zebras for two years but the High School match against Molapo High at Mead- Dlamini, Johannes ‘Big Boy’ Kholoane, Chilliboy team couldn’t sustain its existence for too long for IRWIN LaROCQUE owlands grounds,” he says. ‘’Nobby Styles’’ Koloba and many others gave me certain reasons. That’s when I decided to quit the FIFA and the Caribbean Community (CAR- enough courage to pull all the stops,” he says. game. Soke adds that Sono explained to him that given ICOM) this week signed a memorandum of a chance, he believes I could make it at Pirates. But The Soweto born former star promising career The retired football personality believes the understanding (MoU) to strengthen their col- firstly, Sono wanted me to play for his Invitation at Bucs was cut short after failing to command a modern game can’t be compared to the football he laboration, with the aim of promoting sports team that was to play a friendly match in Nelspruit. regular game time. During the 1979 season he was played three decades back. integrity and social responsibility while further- loaned to Highlands Park. ing the development of football in the region. The Invitation side included the likes of Stan- “These are two different eras,” he says. ley ‘Screamer’ Tshabalala, the late Michael ‘JC’ Soke adds: ‘’I joined the “Mean Machine” as “However, if I were to choose, definitely I’ll The landmark agreement was signed by Yende, his kid brother Julius ‘KK’ Sono, William the team was affectionately known in football cor- pick the football of my generation. I still miss the CARICOM Secretary General Ambassador Ir- ‘Spear’ Makhoba just to name a few. We played ridors. They were predominantly a white side then. elegance of greats like the late Patrick ‘Ace’ Nt- win LaRocque and FIFA President Gianni In- two friendly matches in Nelspruit and won both. soelongoe , the late Percy ‘Chippa’ Moloi, Nelson fantino at a virtual ceremony attended by the ‘’Yet again, white players like Bobby Viljoen, ‘Teenage’ Dladla, Joel ‘Ace’ Mnini, Des Backos, presidents of the national football associations Soke played as a defensive midfielder at school Stuart ‘Cool and The Gang’ Lilley, Des Backos, Lawrence ‘Nyamazane’ Chelin, Keith ‘Mthakathi’ of CARICOM countries, Ministers of Govern- and at his amateur team Meadowlands Republican Gordon Igesund, Martin Cohen to name a few, were Broad and Sono, the list is endless. These are the ment and Representatives of the countries, as Brothers. However, under Sono’s eye the Mead- just as helpful as the black players like Jerry Sadike players who entertained the fans throughout with well as Concacaf President Victor Montagliani. owlands born player was deployed in a different and Phil Ntsoseng. their silky skills. Soccer is about entertainment and role. Coming back from Nelspruit, Sono took him goals. Sadly, today we lack both,” he says. For- “We are delighted to enter into this agree- directly to Pirates. “The only setback was that we black players mer Pirates dribbling wizard Johannes ‘’Big Boy’’ ment with the Caribbean Community, the aim were forever booed by the supporters especially Kholoane holds Soke at high esteem. of which is to leverage our sport as a catalyst ‘’Fortunately enough, when I signed for the when we played the big Soweto teams. They ‘It’s unfortunate he couldn’t be a regular at Pi- for social development in the region. Football Buccaneers they had a problem with the right back branded us “sell-outs” because we were playing rates,’’ Kholoane said. has an incredible following in the Caribbean position as they had converted Johannes ‘’ Yster’’ for a white team. But, for us it was just part of the and there is still great potential for additional growth. I am very happy to see that the coun- tries understand the opportunities this brings in terms of social benefits for their communities and we are looking forward to working hand in hand with them around this common goal,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. – fifa.com HUGO BROOS Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has dis- missed a social media post doing rounds as fake news. The Facebook post alleges the Belgian mentor might be unhappy with the way some things were done. ‘’I do not want to comment on fake news because that individual who posted that does not need to be taken seriously. My team and I are happy and looking forward to the challenge offered to us to lead Bafana Bafana,’’ said Broos from Belgium. He said since the advent of so- cial media, there were lots of fake news being spread around and this particular post needed to be dismissed with the contempt it deserves. A post on social media suggested that coach Broos’ agent didn’t like ‘’how SAFA manages his duties’’ and was likely to terminate his Bafa- na Bafana contract. ‘’This is laughable to say the least,’’ he concluded. – www.safa.net NAOMI OSAKA Naomi Osaka received support from her country Japan, her sponsors and leading sport- ing figures on Tuesday after the world No. 2 withdrew from the French Open in a row about media duties, saying she had been suffering from depression and anxiety. One of the big- gest names in sport, Osaka stunned the tennis world when she pulled out of the Grand Slam on Monday after being fined $15,000 US and threatened with expulsion for declining to face the media after her first-round match on Sun- day. Tennis players are required to attend news conferences if requested to do so; Grand Slam rules allow for fines up to $20,000 if they don’t show up. While her original stance had earned the Japanese 23-year-old little backing from her fellow professionals, most saying that dealing with the media was part of the job, her with- drawal triggered a wave of support from around the world. - Reuters

MIRROR SPORTWEEKLY SA Insight to connect the dots... FOOTBALL TOUCHLINE MUSINGS: LEGENDS ‘SOCCER SERIES p19 18 LEGENDS p LOSE POINTS’ SUPPORTERS FLEX POWER KWENZENJANI: PROTEST MARCHES A NEW DEVELOPMENT IN OUR SOCCER Eiish: Kaizer Chiefs fan pondering a season went wrong By Ali Mphaki Interestingly, on receiving a memo from game between Manchester United and Liver- But their emotional investment is unques- A new trend is developing among soccer disgruntled Chiefs fans, Jessica Motaung – the pool at Old Trafford when the fans stormed the tionable and should count for something. marketing manager and member of the Mo- stadium, is a case in point. fans who embark on protest marches against taung family which owns the club, sounded With Covid-19 restrictions barring fans their favourite teams. First it was Kaiser philosophical: On the local front, however, the question from the stands, where they could shout, sing, Chiefs fans. On Saturday, a march pencilled which begs an answer is what does it really boo players etc. social media seems to have of- for the Orlando Stadium by a section of Or- “Kaiser Chiefs does not belong only to the mean to say “Khosi for Life” or “Once a Pirate fered fans an escape valve for their pent-up lando Pirates fans who are reportedly unhappy Motaung family. Kaiser Chiefs is a big fam- always a Pirate”, “Don’t follow me, follow the emotions. This week’s posts and tweets were, about coach Josef Zinnbauer failed to materi- ily,” she said. Her remarks, however, were Birds” or “Ezenkosi”? etc. among others, dominated by the failed Pirates alise. Who is next? is the question. The Pirates interpreted as a snub at earlier comments by march. An interesting observation was to see “march” was doomed to failure from the start. her brother, Bobby Motaung that: “Chiefs is a “Football fans are fools,” as wryly ob- how fans use the royal “we” when referring to This became clear when prominent supporter family business!”. served by Susan Krauss, a Professor Emerita their clubs. Meanwhile at the Orlando Stadium Joyce ‘Mama-Joy’ Chauke, among others, dis- of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the Uni- security personnel described their Saturday as tanced herself from the planned protest. Among the myriad cries from Chiefs’ fans versity of Massachusetts Amherst. normal, following the no-show of the marchers. is “transparency”. Quoted in a Joburg daily Mama-Joy said ‘In a nutshell, when it comes to football, A security guard probably irritated by it’s not up to the fans to get the coach fired. They urge Chiefs boss Kaiser Motaung to intelligent people act stupid”, posits the prof. scores of journalists and individuals filling engage more with the fans using instruments questions about the doomed march blurted “It’s up to the chairman and management. like social media etc. They want their voices “And yes, that probably includes you” as out. “If they don’t want to fire him then he will con- heard. Folly to underestimate the power of quoted in her latest book The Search for Fulfil- tinue as Pirates coach,” said the Bucs fan. fans. ment. “Mabkhakabhaka kwenzenjani?” The postponement of a Premier League True, fans may not have the financial mus- cle, know-how, etc to run a modern day club. QUIET: Orlando Pirates security men stand outside Orlando Stadium, ahead of the club’s fixture against TTM. The hyped-up march by disgruntled Bucs fans reportedly did not materialise, except for a few curious individuals who came to witness the advertised procession. Photo: Mohau Mofokeng