Latest news with #Mkhize
The South African
5 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Kings Park pool R42 million upgrades on track
The iconic Kings Park Swimming Pool in Durban is undergoing a long-awaited R42 million upgrade and is set to reopen to the public by June 2026, eThekwini Municipality officials confirmed this week. The 100-year-old pool, which has been closed since November 2024, is receiving a full revamp in two stages. Project lead Zakhi Mkhize from the municipality says Phase One – focused on emergency repairs following storm damage earlier this year – will conclude by the end of July. 'Phase Two starts now and will run for a full year, until June [2026]. This includes not only structural work but a facelift to enhance the architectural and aesthetic appeal,' said Mkhize. She added that upgrades would also address compliance and safety issues, including projection and water level regulations, to ensure the facility meets modern standards. Kings Park Pool is located in a vital sport tourism hub, adjacent to landmarks such as Moses Mabhida Stadium and Durban Country Club. The area is known as Durban's 'sports precinct', hosting both international and local sporting events. 'This facility is one of a kind. Its revival will complement the city's sports infrastructure and help draw tourism, while providing a high-quality public space for recreation and training,' Mkhize said. Municipal officials have committed to strict maintenance planning once the upgrade is completed, aiming to prevent further costly refurbishments in the future. Locals and athletes alike are eagerly awaiting the reopening of the revamped pool, which has long been a favourite venue for competitive swimming and community recreation in the city. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Politics
- The Citizen
MPs meet to address language exclusion in schools, but end up clashing over language use themselves
The committee chair reminded MPs that fighting over language use contradicted the work of the committee. Picture for illustration purposes only. Members of Parliament (MPs) at the Good Hope Chamber on 9 March 2023. Picture: Gallo Images/Die Burger/Jaco Marais On Thursday, the portfolio committee on basic education met to address allegations of language exclusion and racial profiling during admission processes in Western Cape schools, among other issues. However, they ended up fighting among themselves due to language use. EFF MP Lencel Komane had just started making his submissions in Sesotho when the newly appointed MK party MP, Siphetho Mkhize, raised a point of order. He said that although he understood it was Komane's right to speak his language, he also wanted the portfolio chair to know he could not understand a word of what Komane was saying. 'I want to put it on record that I cannot understand what he's saying,' said Mkhize. 'Undermining' This did not sit well with EFF MP Mandla Shikwambana, who called out Mkhize for his point of order. 'What point of order? He [Komane] has the right to speak his own language, and he [Mkhize] is undermining. He [Mkhize] can't raise a point of order because he can't understand, but must check if there is an interpretation. This is an official language,' said Shikwambana. ALSO READ: 80% of Grade 3 pupils cannot read for meaning in any language: Ramaphosa notes SA education's grim reality Things descended into chaos just before committee chair Sedukanelo Tshepo David Louw intervened. He said: 'Honourable Mkhize, you were wrong to just enter without raising your hand. We are allowed to speak, and we have an interpreter who is going to assist in terms of translating all languages. You are new to the committee, but we've been dealing with this situation; it's our culture, even parliamentary meetings, we do have interpreters, and when we do not have them, we find a means to explain. 'There is nothing wrong if anyone wants to communicate in their language. We're here dealing with Bela [Basic Education Laws Amendment] and language, we're speaking of indigenous languages that we must include as well, so let's not contradict our stance as the committee, because we want to explore and be exemplary.' 'All languages are equal' However, this did not defuse the situation, as Komane still came in with a few words of advice to Mkhize. 'It's something we need to learn. If you go to China, you must give yourself time to learn what the Chinese do. You must not go to China and hope the Chinese will change the rules of China. It is highly impossible,' said Komane. Shikwambana still did not understand why it was a black MP who was complaining about another black MP using their language while white MPs were quiet. ALSO READ: 'Every SA language should be protected' – Marc Lottering on Afrikaans' 100th anniversary 'What interpretation are we waiting for? Half of Komane's presentation was done in English. I feel very bad when this is done by Africans. He spoke English here, so what is it that this guy did not hear? Even these English people here are quiet; these Africans are the ones saying, 'I did not hear.' What is it that he did not hear because Komane spoke in English? We can't be treated like this by Africans as well. There is no language that is superior to another here. They're all equal,' he said. 'Racial profiling' in schools In the same meeting, MEC for education in the Western Cape, David Maynier, addressed MK party MP Pinky Mngadi's allegations that some schools in the province were racially profiling pupils in their admissions processes. ALSO READ: Gauteng schools face scrutiny over language and admissions policies 'How is the Department of Education addressing allegations of racial profiling in school admissions, and what action has been taken against schools that violate children's constitutional rights through language exclusion?' she asked. She said her party would write a letter calling for his removal 'to end this island they have created and the apartheid they are exercising'. Maynier dismissed the allegations, calling on parents or anyone with evidence of such incidents to come forward so that the department could launch an investigation into the matter. 'We do not tolerate racism in our schools and department. I want to be very clear about that. I would encourage, if any parent or MP has any evidence of a case, to please ensure that you lodge a complaint. If any parent has witnessed any case of discrimination, they should come forward, provide evidence of the allegation so that we can investigate the matter,' said Maynier. READ NEXT: Language or legacy: Afrikaans at a crossroads after 100 years
The Citizen
23-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
La Mercy honey entrepreneur buzzes her way to success
La Mercy honey entrepreneur buzzes her way to success While most kids were dodging bees at picnics, La Mercy resident Zabambo Mkhize was running toward them, eyes wide with curiosity, not fear. Fast forward a couple of decades and that childhood fascination has blossomed into a buzzing business, Saddie Farmers. Today, Mkhize tends to over 30 hives and produces a sweet range of honey-infused products. 'I have always been curious about how bees live and their role in the environment,' she said. Ask her about bees and you won't get a short answer. It is like asking a pianist to name their favourite song. One minute you are learning how a hive works; the next, you are knee-deep in agricultural science, local folklore and the ecological importance of these tiny, tireless workers. 'Bees live fascinating lives, and to care for them properly, you need to understand their needs,' said Mkhize. She said location is key, bees need food and the quality of honey depends on where the hive is placed. That, in turn, determines what you can do with it. Mkhize did not just stumble into beekeeping, she immersed herself in research and spent years soaking up knowledge about bees. Her journey truly began when she reached out to a local beekeeper in her hometown of Umzimkhulu. He became her mentor, helped her find a supplier and even allowed her to keep her first two hives on his property. That marked the beginning of her journey. Today, Mkhize owns around 30 hives, sells raw honey and crafts handmade products such as face soap, body cream and candles, all naturally infused with honey. In 2023, she expanded her skills by training in bee removal and began experimenting with honey-based cosmetics. Next on her list? Bee therapy. Her love for bees runs so deep that she even embraces their sting, claiming it has healing properties. 'I am not sure which hurts more, an injection or a bee sting,' joked Mkhize. Next time you swat a bee away, remember, that little insect could be the star employee in someone's small business empire. You can contact her at 083 770 8370 or visit to place your order. Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news. Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you're on desktop, scan the QR code below. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
22-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
MaMkhize's Mbabane takeover: Glamour arrives but can it deliver substance?
Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize, centre, addressed supporters at CODEC Hall in Ezulwini this past weekend, marking the start of her ambitious presidency at Mbabane Highlanders AM FC — and a bold new chapter in Eswatini football. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix COMMENT Over the weekend, excitement rippled through the football landscape in Eswatini as Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize, the prominent figure behind the now-defunct Royal AM, officially stepped into her role as president of Mbabane Highlanders AM FC. It surely felt less like a football announcement and more like the start of a new era — one driven by image, ambition, and no small amount of controversy. This pivotal moment unfolded during a spirited gathering at CODEC Hall in Ezulwini, south of the capital, Mbabane, where a packed audience listened as Mkhize laid out her ambitious vision for the club. Her address resonated deeply with attendees, making the front pages of local newspapers. Mkhize's appointment has become a hot topic across the nation, stirring the enthusiasm of fans and football stakeholders alike, who are keenly awaiting the potential impact of her leadership. Her passionate call for unity among the various factions within Eswatini emphasised the importance of collaboration. She urged everyone to strive towards building a strong brand capable of showcasing Eswatini on the global football stage. But while many supporters quickly pledged allegiance to Mkhize's presidency, not all responses were positive. Some supporters took to the club's official Facebook page to voice their unease. Their concerns are not unfounded. Mkhize's track record in South African football is not merely colourful — it's chaotic. Royal AM, the club she previously owned, crashed out of the Premier Soccer League under a cloud of unpaid wages, legal wranglings, and an ongoing battle with SARS. Her appeal to have the club reinstated was rejected by the courts, and the football community south of the border has largely turned the page on her chapter. Now, she's attempting to write a new one in Mbabane. But is Eswatini ready — and is she? Her takeover brings immediate talking points. Will her son, Andile Mpisane — who once started matches for Royal AM despite glaring fitness questions — feature in the Highlanders squad? How much control will she exert, especially with Bheki 'Rubber' Simelane remaining on as Director and Governor? And perhaps most importantly: is this a short-term publicity surge, or the foundation for genuine long-term reform? Highlanders are no ordinary club. One of the oldest and most followed in Eswatini, their history is steeped in tradition and community loyalty. Injecting big personalities and South African flair might generate headlines, but it could also alienate loyalists who value substance over spectacle. That said, Mkhize is not to be underestimated. Known for her business acumen and resilience, she is expected to bring a dynamic and fresh perspective as the club aims for resurgence. As she embraces this new chapter with Mbabane Highlanders AM, Mkhize finds herself at the forefront of a movement aimed at reshaping Eswatini football — challenging existing norms and pushing for inclusivity. Still, the warning signs are too loud to ignore. Football isn't built on media buzz and motivational speeches. It's built on structure, consistency, and trust — none of which defined her Royal AM tenure. If she brings the same volatility to Mbabane, the consequences could be damaging, not just for Highlanders, but for Eswatini football at large. Mkhize is betting big — again. This time, the stakes involve more than just reputation. They involve a country's footballing aspirations. Whether Eswatini football likes it or not, MaMkhize will change the game — for better or worse.
The Citizen
20-07-2025
- The Citizen
Duo charged with possession of illegal firearms
THE uMkhanyakude District task team and Hluhluwe SAPS arrested two men for possession of illegal firearms in different areas last Friday. The men, aged 47 and 51, were nabbed during intelligence-driven operations in the KwaMsane and Hluhluwe areas. ALSO READ: Multi-stakeholder imbizo to address rampant crime The 47-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and eight rounds of ammunition. uMkhanyakude Cluster police spokesperson Lieutenant Sibusiso Mkhize said, after the arrest the operation proceeded to the Hluhluwe area where the 51-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and 11 live rounds of ammunition. ALSO READ: Police narrowly survive mob attack 'Both suspects appeared in court on Monday last week, and were remanded in police custody pending further investigation. They are expected to appear on Tuesday, 22 July for a formal bail application,' said Mkhize. Acting district commissioner Brigadier Jeros Thango praised the work done by the SAPS to serve justice in uMkhanyakude District. Don't have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here: HAVE YOUR SAY Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. For news straight to your phone invite us: WhatsApp – 060 784 2695 Instagram – zululand_observer At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
