Highveld Chronicle Online

21/12/2024

[News Bulletin]MEC Mr. Speedy Mashilo and Mayor Vusi Nhlapho Hand Over Title Deeds to Emalahleni Residents

The MEC of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Mr. Speedy Mashilo, together with the Executive Mayor of Emalahleni, Cllr Vusi Nhlapho, handed over title deeds to residents during a ceremony held at Eznambeni Extension 11.

The project focused on beneficiaries from Empumelelweni and Siyanqoba, adding to the 3,188 title deeds already registered with the municipality.

MEC Mr. Mashilo emphasized the importance of title deeds, describing them as proof of ownership and security of tenure, which protect homeowners from illegal evictions.

Mayor Nhlapho said:
"We have a backlog of 16,340 where we need to respond positively to ensure that our people are given what’s rightly to them in a form of title deeds."

Residents also raised concerns about water and electricity services, calling for improvements in infrastructure.

The Department of Human Settlements confirmed that an additional 341 title deeds are being finalized to ensure more residents benefit from the program.

21/12/2024

[News Bulletin] JOINT DCS AND SAPS OPERATION AT WITBANK CORRECTIONAL CENTRE

20 December 2024

A joint operation between the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) was conducted at Witbank Correctional Centre on 19 December 2024. The raid, involving 38 Emergency Support Team members and 62 SAPS officials, aimed to eliminate contraband within the facility.

Officials confiscated homemade alcohol, drugs, cellphones, chargers, sharp objects, and illegal electrical wires. Offenders caught with contraband will face charges under the Correctional Services Act.

Acting Area Commissioner Mr. Mandla Gwambe commended the teams for their efforts and emphasized plans for future unannounced raids to maintain security. Despite challenging weather conditions, the operation was deemed a success, with authorities committed to ongoing crackdowns.

20/12/2024

20/12/2024

[News Bulletin] Today: Delmas Double Drowning Under Investigation

Police in Delmas are investigating a tragic incident where a suspect and a security officer drowned at Goedgedagt farm on 18 December 2024.

The suspect, accused of stealing potatoes, fled into a nearby dam. One of the security officers pursued him but struggled in the water. Despite rescue efforts by a colleague and a farm foreman, only one officer was saved.

Both the suspect and the second security officer were declared deceased. Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi extended condolences to the officer's family and warned against criminal activity, stating, “crime does not pay.”

19/12/2024

[News Bulletin] Cllr Nombuso Mokwana Brings Christmas Cheer to Ward 15 Elderly

In a heartwarming gesture this festive season, Hon. Cllr Nombuso Mokwana of Ward 15 spread Christmas joy by supporting 40 elderly residents. The initiative, which forms part of her commitment to inclusive community development, brought smiles and a sense of togetherness to those who often feel overlooked during the holidays.

This milestone aligns with the councilor's vision of ensuring that no one in the community is left behind. Ward 15's comprehensive database has been instrumental in addressing the needs of various vulnerable groups, including the disabled, child-headed families, the elderly, and the unemployed.

“This is about showing our elderly that they are loved and appreciated,” said Cllr Mokwana. "We are building a community where everyone is seen, valued, and supported.”

The event not only celebrated the holiday spirit but also highlighted the importance of unity and compassion within the ward.

19/12/2024

Emalahleni Municipality Delivers Food Relief to Vulnerable Households
19 December 2024

In a bid to alleviate food insecurity, the Emalahleni Local Municipality, in partnership with Seriti, distributed 100 food parcels to vulnerable households across the municipality’s 34 wards.

The initiative, led by Executive Mayor Cllr. Vusi Nhlapho, targeted families in need, offering vital support during challenging times. With a focus on fostering resilience, the program reflects the municipality’s commitment to addressing community needs and ensuring no household is left behind.

18/12/2024

Food Parcel Handover Brings Relief to Phola Community

On 18 December 2024, Mzimkhulu Mining, a member of the Mwelase Group of Companies, in partnership with the Mayor of Emalahleni Local Municipality, conducted a successful food parcel handover in the Phola community.

The initiative, part of Mzimkhulu Mining’s Social Labour Plan (SLP), saw the distribution of 350 food parcels and 124 maize meals to residents in need. The official handover took place at the Roman Catholic Church, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing community challenges.

Mzimkhulu Mining Manager Amos Nkosi reaffirmed the company’s commitment to uplifting local communities, while Sister Rachel from the People with Disabilities Forum (POWF) emphasized inclusion, stating, “Nothing for us without us.”

The Mayor of Emalahleni Local Municipality praised the partnership and directed the MMC of Development Planning to identify a location for POWF to operate, pledging to revisit the community in February 2024 to monitor progress.

This event underscored the positive impact of partnerships between local businesses and government in fostering social development and improving lives.

18/12/2024

18/12/2024

News Bulletin: Multi-Agency Road Safety Operation a Success

A joint multi-agency operation on the N12 highway proved successful as various stakeholders collaborated to enhance road safety, enforce traffic laws, and combat crime.

The operation was conducted by the Victor Khanye Local Municipality, Community Safety and Liaison Mpumalanga, Law Enforcement, Department of Safety, Security and Liaison, SAPS, Fire Department, Immigration Department, Department of Transport, Home Affairs, Transport Inspectorate, and SANTACO.

During the operation, vehicles were thoroughly inspected, and drivers were checked to ensure compliance with traffic regulations. The initiative aimed to not only improve road safety but also strengthen law enforcement’s presence in preventing criminal activities.

Officials praised the collaborative effort, emphasizing its importance in promoting safer roads and a more secure environment for all road users.

18/12/2024

News Bulletin: Ward 7 and 6 Unite for Successful Cleaning Campaign

On 18 December 2024, residents of Ward 7 and Ward 6 united for a Cleaning Campaign and Environmental Awareness Program, led by Councillor Rudolf Mekoa of Ward 7 and Councillor Tshepo Maseko of Ward 6.

The campaign focused on cleaning Mass Bin Extension 14 and Extension 9.

Councillors Mekoa and Maseko commended the community for their active participation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean environment and fostering community pride.

The initiative not only resulted in cleaner surroundings but also strengthened environmental awareness and unity among residents.

18/12/2024

17/12/2024

[News Bulletin] Nkangala District Municipality Concludes 16 Days of Activism Campaign

The Nkangala District Municipality has officially concluded the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), reaffirming its commitment to supporting victims across its six local municipalities.

As part of its 2024/2025 Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP), the municipality has prioritized GBVF programs, focusing on vulnerable groups, including women, men, children, older persons, the LGBTIQ+ community, and people with disabilities.

Under its Service Delivery and Infrastructure goals, Nkangala District aims to create safer, more inclusive communities, ensuring that combating GBVF remains central to its development agenda.

17/12/2024