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The Citizen
4 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
Raising awareness about Foetal Alcohol Syndrome to protect future generations
Children are said to be the future of the nation, but unfortunately some of them are born with abnormalities caused by alcohol consumption, drug use and smoking before they are born. May being 'Child Protection Awareness Month', the Mondlo Methodist Church took the initiative to raise awareness about Foetal Alcohol Sydrome (FAS), which is a condition that results from alcohol exposure that can affect an unborn baby. The invited guest at the event was Dr NN Ntshangase, a paediatrician from Piet Retief. According to the congregation, the church – as the light and the salt of the world – has a major role to play in the fight against drug and substance abuse to protect the people of God and unborn babies. A short sermon was conducted by local preacher Mr Mbatha. His Scripture reading was from John 13:34, 'A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you.' After the sermon, children displayed placards and gave a prepared speech to the congregation. In her address, Dr Ntshangase explained all the developmental abnormalities caused by alcohol consumption, saying that alcohol acts a toxin to the development of all foetal tissues and organs. The baby's brain and nervous system are the most vulnerable parts. She said FAS may see growth retardation; organ damage (especially the brain, arms, eyes and heart); abnormal facial features; and behavioural problems. Ntshangase then urged all young people not to use drugs, because it's not only their lives that are being destroyed – they are ruining future generations as well. The vote of thanks was done by church steward Dr TP Nkosi. ALSO READ: Raising awareness for deaf children The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
05-05-2025
- The Citizen
Pastor killed on eve of Easter weekend
Tragedy struck in Gluckstadt a day before the Easter long weekend; a time that is eagerly anticipated by millions of Christians worldwide. On Thursday, April 17, 60-year-old Pastor Meshack Madide was shot by two men while returning home. Despite being rushed to a nearby clinic by community members, Madide died as a result of his injuries. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds. ALSO READ: Man shot dead after attempted robbery The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
27-04-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
Squatters invade greenbelt area in Heeren Street
A concerned resident reached out to the Vryheid Herald to report illegal squatters occupying the corners of Heeren and Mason streets. The squatters have set up shelters using tarps and tree stumps, strategically placing them in the bushy area to conceal their presence from the public. A journalist contacted Ward Councillor Cllr Elaine Rodway, who said she was currently engaged in discussions with the mayor regarding the issue. Rodway said, 'Over the past few weeks, there have been several reports of instances where residents have noticed shacks being erected in this area. According to my knowledge, I do not believe permission was granted for this land to be occupied and it seems highly unlikely that makeshift shacks would comply with any building codes in place under the NBRBS Act [National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act]. Section 4(1) of the NBRBS Act strictly prohibits the erection of any building without drawn plans and the prior approval of the municipality. 'It is imperative that the municipality take quick and decisive action when these occupations take place to avoid possible legal ramifications which could occur if the matter is not attended to with some semblance of urgency. 'With all that being said, however, it is also important to acknowledge the plight of the homeless with a sense of compassion and humanity. I hope we can find a resolution that may offer an alternative for the provision of temporary emergency accommodation, if possible. I am still very much in favour of establishing a much-needed homeless shelter in AbaQulusi and I believe this incident highlights the need for it. I believe the mayor is investigating the matter, but no feedback was available at the time of going to print.' According to the South African government website, both state land (land under the control of a national or provincial government or municipality) and privately-owned land can be invaded unlawfully. Government has a constitutional duty to ensure – where required and with available resources – that all citizens can enjoy their basic rights to access to land and housing. Where large-scale invasions occur, government has a similar duty to assist private landowners to protect their land. Where unlawful occupiers (whose basic rights are not at risk) have to be evicted, the private land owner must, without delay, approach the court for an eviction order in terms of the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act, 1998 (Act 19 of 1998). This law is currently administered by the Department of Human Settlements and will be transferred to the Department of Rural Development & Land Reform (DRDLR) in due course. Individuals in need of housing can approach the local municipality or, if necessary, the provincial or national Department of Human Settlements for assistance. ALSO READ: Illegal dumping, litter and sewage chokes Ncandu River The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
