Latest news with #Gqeberha
The Herald
14 hours ago
- Sport
- The Herald
Mfunzi targets better time in Choose to Challenge 10km at Baywest Mall
Sport Elite Bay runner wants to inspire other women to overcome personal battles Premium 30 July 2025 Top Nelson Mandela Bay female road runner Ntombesintu Mfunzi, who is battling diabetes, will be fighting for a sub-39-minute finish time at this year's Choose to Challenge 10km race on Saturday. The ninth edition of the popular Gqeberha race, which is organised by EP Athletics and the Legacy Project, starts and finishes at the Baywest Mall...
The Herald
2 days ago
- The Herald
Domestic violence among police officers needs urgent attention
Last Friday, a man shot dead two young women at a flat in Gqeberha 's Central before turning the gun on himself. The 32-year-old was a police officer stationed at the Algoa Park police station, and was allegedly off-duty at the time of the incident. While the double murder shook Nelson Mandela Bay, it has not been widely reported in other parts of the country. There have been many cases of police officers being involved in what appear to be domestic violence incidents in our country, but these do not seem to receive the level of media and public attention they demand. As a result, South Africans do not realise we are in the midst of a serious crisis of police officers being involved in the killing and maiming of their romantic partners and ex-partners. The reality of the situation is that while domestic violence is a pervasive issue affecting individuals and families across all layers of society, there is a troubling and often under-discussed phenomenon of the disproportionately high rates of domestic violence reported (and unreported) among police officers compared with the general population. While reliable data is difficult to obtain because of under-reporting, numerous studies, reports, and advocacy organisations in SA and across the world have documented this pattern. In the US, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that rates of domestic violence within police families may be two to four times higher than in the general population. Studies conducted by the National Centre for Women and Policing estimate that between 24% and 40% of law enforcement families experience domestic violence, compared with an estimated 10% in the general public. In SA, a concerning number of police officers are involved in domestic violence incidents, both as victims and perpetrators. In October 2024, the SA Police Service (SAPS) reported to the parliamentary portfolio committee on police that a significant number of its members were either victims or perpetrators of domestic violence, with 101 officers reported as victims and 191 reported as perpetrators of domestic violence. There is no question that these numbers do not reflect the extent of the problem given the under-reporting of domestic violence in SA in general. The situation is especially complex when it comes to reporting police officers due to barriers to reporting and accountability. Many cases against officers involved in domestic violence incidents result in verbal and written warnings instead of more serious disciplinary actions. Some cases are dismissed due to lack of evidence, while others are withdrawn or result in suspension for a short period. In a review of 93 cases involving SAPS members accused of domestic violence, data obtained from the Civilian Secretariat for Police between April and September 2023 showed that of nearly 200 officers who had been reported for domestic violence only three were dismissed. This is a dismissal rate of 1.8%. There are cultural and institutional factors which may explain why there are high levels of domestic violence committed by police officers. One of these is that law enforcement environments are characterised by toughness and emotional restraint. Officers may suppress vulnerability and emotional openness, making it difficult to communicate or defuse tension in personal settings without resorting to aggression or domination. Furthermore, policing is a highly stressful profession involving frequent exposure to trauma, violence, and crisis situations which can have lasting psychological impacts. Studies have found that repeated exposure to violence and traumatic events can result in post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health challenges. These conditions often increase irritability, impulsive behaviour and difficulties in emotional regulation, all of which are risk factors for perpetrating violence at home. While these factors may be understood, there is need to explore solutions to this unspoken-about crisis. But effectively addressing the high rates of domestic violence among police officers requires a multifaceted approach which includes independent oversight and accountability in the form of the establishment of independent review boards, or civilian oversight committees can help ensure impartial investigations and hold officers accountable for domestic abuse. Furthermore, there must be comprehensive support for victims through specialised support services and legal resources. Collaboration with domestic violence advocacy organisations can help ensure victim safety and empowerment. This is a national crisis we can ill-afford to continue ignoring.
The Herald
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald
Gqeberha, Palestinian artists unite on stage
The Athenaeum in Gqeberha pulsed with vibrant energy recently when a chorus of voices, movement and music filled the historic venue. NDILAPHA! — Finding My Place in the World , was a powerful youth-led performance and exhibition showcasing the creative outcome of a unique two-week exchange between the Palestinian Circus School and Masifunde ' s Academy of Creativity. Bringing together 40 young artists from SA and Palestine, the project invited participants to explore themes of identity, belonging and shared experience through circus, theatre, music and visual arts. During just 10 days, the group — many of whom had never travelled outside their communities — broke through language and cultural barriers to co-create a deeply personal and political showcase. 'Now I can say that everything is possible when you work things out together,' a 17-year-old participant from Walmer said, reflecting on the collaborative journey which saw teens from vastly different worlds becoming co-performers and friends. For another 17-year-old, from Ramallah, the exchange was both a revelation and a mirror. 'I already knew that people on the other side of the world lived differently from me,' the teenager said. 'But now I also got to see how similar we all are. 'I realised that I can relate to SA youth in so many ways.' Their final performance was a dazzling fusion of physical theatre, circus skills, choir music and spoken word, backed by an exhibition of visual artworks created during the exchange. Together they offered raw, honest insights into the way young people are navigating their worlds — marked by conflict, inequality, resilience and hope. 'I realised the world isn ' t black and white, it ' s colourful — you just need to find the perfect shade,' a 16-year-old participant from Palestine said. Another, aged 17, said: 'When we finished the show I felt so proud of us.' Beyond the stage, the young artists built relationships grounded in mutual respect and curiosity. Daily rehearsals were punctuated with shared meals, storytelling sessions and open discussions which helped dismantle assumptions and build empathy. 'It was a rich human experience which brought together young people from different backgrounds to learn from one another,' Gaza-born facilitator and artist Al Arab Almoughanni said. 'The shared activities and open discussions helped build strong relationships based on respect and appreciation.' At its heart, NDILAPHA! — which means 'I am here' in isiXhosa — became a declaration of presence and purpose. It was less about performance and more about connection, healing and finding one ' s place in a complicated world. The initiative was made possible through support from Masifunde Learner Development, the Palestinian Circus School, and the Civil Peace Service of the GIZ, funded by the German ministry for economic co-operation and development. In a time when borders, both literal and figurative, continue to divide, NDILAPHA! stood as a bold reminder of what is possible when young people come together to listen, learn and create. The Herald
The Herald
3 days ago
- The Herald
SABC launches radio campaign to end GBV
The Gqeberha Pride Festival and nonprofit Transforming Women and Youth in Social Trends (TWYST) Foundation, have welcomed the SABC 's anti-gender-based violence (GBV) campaign. The broadcaster said on Saturday the campaign would run on the SABC ' s 19 radio stations with the aim of creating awareness about the damage caused by GBV. This would be done through programmes geared towards educating the youth, caregivers and communities at large. The message is: 'If you see it, speak out. If you're hurting, reach out. Because doing nothing is not an option. GBV. It ends with you. Call 0800-428-428 to report abuse or get help.' TWYST founder Ntombozuko Jafta, from KwaNobuhle, welcomed the SABC's initiative, saying it came at a time when she had started to feel defeated by the scourge of violence against women. In June, a 12-year-old-girl was killed in Motherwell and two girls were found burnt in KwaNobuhle just days apart. 'GBV is getting worse,' Jafta said. 'Two sisters were gunned down while they were sleeping in Kariega, and while we were looking at a report about that a police officer shot his ex-girlfriend and their friend before killing himself in Central. 'There are also cases which are not reported. 'While we are protesting, you find people telling you that the neighbour raped their younger sister and threatened to kill them if they told anyone. 'There are cases of children with disabilities who cannot talk. 'Unlike our small protests in Motherwell, Kariega or Despatch, our voices will now be on the airwaves and this will have a huge impact on the people on the ground.' The Herald Nelson Mandela University Citizens of the Year Awards 2022 winner in the gender-based violence category said men needed to be in the forefront in the fight against GBV. SABC group executive for radio Nada Wotshela said: 'As the country grapples with GBV, which has become a national emergency affecting women, children, men and members of the LGBTQ+ community, the public broadcaster felt it was important to lend its voice and platforms in further fighting this deadly societal disease through our platforms. 'We will be amplifying various stakeholders ' efforts through specially curated daily content on this matter.' According to Sicebise Social Inclusion programme manager Mbulelo Xinana, the SABC's campaign forms part of the national strategic plan on GBV. Sicebise Social Inclusion hosts the annual Gqeberha Pride Festival, which serves as an awareness campaign against GBV, especially on issues of violence against the LGBTQ+ community. 'The best way to fight GBV is to raise awareness which is how you make a change by interacting with stakeholders to make a difference,' Xinana said. 'When we talk about GBV we must acknowledge that violence against the LGBTQ+ community is GBV. 'One of the things not talked about much is the intimate partner violence, because being in the LGBTQ+ community is already taboo. 'How do you even report such an issue not knowing how it would be handled? 'Those are [some of the] issues that we are looking into as an organisation.' The Herald
The Citizen
7 days ago
- The Citizen
Gqeberha pastor denied bail in murdered 12-year-old sister-in-law case
Pastor Sonwabo Nqayi remains behind bars after being charged with the premeditated murder of a 12-year-old schoolgirl in Motherwell. The Motherwell Magistrate's Court has denied bail to a Gqeberha pastor accused of kidnapping and murdering his 12-year-old sister-in-law. The prosecution successfully opposed the bail application of 39-year-old Sonwabo Nqayi, the pastor and founder of the Holy Burning Fire Ministries of God, on Thursday. Nqayi made his first appearance in court on 30 June, facing premeditated murder, kidnapping, and defeating or obstructing the course of justice charges. Pastor in court in connection with sister-in-law's death He was arrested in connection with the tragic death of his 12-year-old sister-in-law, Lithaliyanda Ntini. The Grade 6 pupil went missing after she left her home on Luzipho Street, NU10, Motherwell, on 24 June 2025 at approximately 4.45pm to visit a shop. ALSO READ: 'There is no white genocide happening here,' says Trump's top pastor after SA visit Lithaliyanda never returned to her home and was last seen wearing grey tracksuit pants with a purple jersey. A few days later, the girl's charred remains were discovered in bushes near Khabonqaba Street, NU6, Motherwell, in the early hours of 27 June 2025 at approximately 2.10am. It is alleged that on 24 June, the accused kidnapped the minor and took her to nearby bushes, where he allegedly murdered her and set her body alight. Girl allegedly murdered and set alight 'While we commend the swift arrest in this case, the brutal nature of this child's murder has deeply shocked our officers and the community,' said acting Eastern Cape provincial commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, when Lithaliyanda's body was found. 'We have full confidence in our investigative team and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to ensure justice for Lithaliyanda and her family.' Bail denied NPA regional spokesperson Luxolo Tyali said the state opposed bail because the matter was premeditated, and there was a likelihood that he would evade trial and use his influence to threaten witnesses. ALSO READ: Omotoso 'not a fugitive from justice', NPA says as Nigerian pastor leaves SA The Motherwell Magistrate's Court ruled in favour of the prosecution. The matter has been remanded to 28 August 2025 for further investigation. 'The NPA remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that justice is served for victims of violent crime, especially those who are most vulnerable in our society,' Tyali said.
