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South African Local Government Association (SALGA) – Mpumalanga Assembly

Encee van Huyssteen
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South African Local Government Association (SALGA) – Mpumalanga Assembly

On Monday evening, the first day of the Mpumalanga Assembly, SALGA took the opportunity to recognise and honour the outstanding contributions of various municipalities within the province. This celebration underscored the vital role that local government plays in driving development, fostering community engagement, and ensuring service delivery reaches every corner of Mpumalanga.

A Night of Celebration and Recognition

Speaking at the event, SALGA Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Nomsa Mtsweni, expressed her pride and appreciation for the dedication demonstrated by local government officials and their teams. “Tonight, we celebrate those who have transformed challenges into platforms for progress — leaders with integrity, vision, and resilience. We also pay tribute to the countless municipal officials, technical staff, community partners, and volunteers whose tireless efforts often go unnoticed but are the backbone of effective service delivery,” she said.

Highlights of the Excellence Awards

The awards ceremony highlighted exemplary achievements across several categories, encouraging municipalities to continue striving for excellence:

  • Best Geographic Information System (GIS): Awarded to Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, recognising innovative use of digital mapping technology to improve urban planning, service delivery, and infrastructure development.
  • Best Performing District Municipality on Local Economic Development Stakeholder Management: Presented to Nkangala District Municipality, acknowledging efforts in fostering partnerships among local businesses, government, and community organisations to stimulate economic growth.
  • Best Performing Local Municipality in Capacitating Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs): Awarded to Thembisile Hani Local Municipality for its successful initiatives in providing relevant skills training and support programmes that empower local entrepreneurs.
  • Best Municipality on Migration Management: Recognising Ehlanzeni District Municipality’s effective policies and programmes in managing internal migration and ensuring inclusive services for all residents.
  • Best Municipality on Municipal Health Services: Awarded to Nkangala District Municipality, highlighting improved healthcare delivery and health promotion activities at municipal clinics and outreach programmes.
  • Best Municipality on Arts, Culture, and Heritage: Presented to Nkomazi Local Municipality, celebrating its efforts to preserve and promote local cultural heritage through projects, festivals, and events.
  • Best Municipality in Combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide: Recognising Steve Tshwete Local Municipality’s proactive approach in addressing GBV through community awareness campaigns, support services, and partnerships.
  • Best District Development Model (DDM) Coordinating District: Awarded to Nkangala District Municipality for its exemplary coordination and implementation of integrated district development strategies.
  • Best Transport Forum Coordination: Presented to Ehlanzeni District Municipality, acknowledging its effective management of transportation planning and service delivery frameworks.

The event also recognised municipalities for specific operational excellence:

  • Runner-up for Implementation and Cascading of the Performance Management and Development System (PMDS): Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, for its commitment to staff development and performance accountability.
  • Best District Municipality on Implementation of PMDS: Ehlanzeni District Municipality, for embedding performance management into daily operations to improve service quality.
  • Best Local Municipality on Implementation of PMDS: Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, promoting a performance-driven culture amongst municipal staff.
  • Best Municipality in Addressing Climate Change and Biodiversity: Nkangala District Municipality, demonstrating leadership in environmental sustainability initiatives and climate resilience.
  • Best Municipal Environmental Management Team: Recognising Ehlanzeni District Municipality’s outstanding efforts in promoting environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
  • Best Municipality in Fire and Rescue Services By-laws and Performance: Multiple awards were presented to Gert Sibande District Municipality, Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, Victor Khanye Local Municipality, and Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality for their comprehensive fire safety regulations and effective emergency response services.

Significance of the Awards

These awards serve as a reminder that local governments are key drivers of community development and social stability. They motivate municipalities to continually improve service delivery, adopt innovative solutions, and foster inclusive growth. SALGA’s recognition aims to inspire a spirit of healthy competition and a shared commitment towards building resilient, prosperous, and better-performing local governments across Mpumalanga and beyond.

Looking Ahead

As SALGA’s Mpumalanga Assembly continues, the focus remains on strengthening governance, capacity building, and citizens’ participation. The organisation believes that through collaboration, transparency, and dedication, local governments can meet the diverse needs of their communities and achieve sustainable development goals.

#SalgaMPAssembly25
#InspiringServiceDelivery
#Asisho

AfriForum temporarily blocks Nersa and Eskom settlement that would cost South Africans billions

Encee van Huyssteen
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AfriForum temporarily blocks Nersa and Eskom settlement that would cost South Africans billions

Eskom and the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa)’s controversial settlement agreement – ​​which would cost consumers around R54 billion over a three-year period – was today put on hold for the time being, thanks to AfriForum. Due to pressure from the civil rights organisation, Eskom agreed to transfer the case from the uncontested to the contested role. The agreement was to be ratified by a court order in the Pretoria High Court today. However, this move now creates the opportunity for AfriForum and other interested parties to join the case as parties. AfriForum believes that this settlement can be considered unlawful and unreasonable due to a lack of transparency.

Soundbite: Deidré Steffens (English)

AfriForum wrote to Eskom in September this year, requesting that this case be removed from the uncontested roll so that the organisation could join the case as a party. Eskom opposed the request, arguing that AfriForum did not have the right to intervene and that the public did not have a veto right. According to Eskom, this settlement did not require public participation.

If this settlement were to proceed, consumers would face rate increases of almost 9% per year.

Deidré Steffens, AfriForum’s advisor for Local Government Affairs at AfriForum, believes that the energy giant’s response is short-sighted as the public will be directly affected by this decision. “To say that the public, who must fund the decision, has no interest in the matter shows Eskom’s blatant arrogance, and it can no longer be tolerated and blindly funded.”

Eskom and Nersa must act transparently and responsibly, especially after Nersa’s several tariff missteps and Eskom’s uncertain financial management. According to AfriForum, Nersa is undermining public trust by attempting to conclude this settlement without public participation.

“This development is a victory for transparency and consumer rights. AfriForum will ensure that the public’s voice is heard and that Nersa and Eskom are held accountable for their decisions,” concludes Steffens.

Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Celebrated as a Historic Day for Mpumalanga’s Taxi Industry

Encee van Huyssteen
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Tuesday, October 7, 2025, Celebrated as a Historic Day for Mpumalanga’s Taxi Industry

Tuesday, October 7, 2025, will go down in history as a landmark day for the taxi industry in Mpumalanga. This significant milestone was marked by a groundbreaking deal between Santaco South Africa and Absa Bank South Africa, aimed at easing the financial burdens faced by taxi operators across the province.

Provincial Chairman and Deputy President of Santaco South Africa, Mr FJ Sibanyoni, announced that a special agreement has been signed that will drastically reduce the monthly instalments for the purchase of brand-new Toyota Quantums. Under this deal, taxi operators will now pay a flat rate of R12,000 per month, inclusive of insurance and tracker fees—a substantial reduction from previous payments, which sometimes soared as high as R18,000 per month.

This initiative comes as a relief to many taxi owners who have been struggling to keep their vehicles on the road. The high monthly instalments had led to numerous instances where banks repossessed taxis due to the inability of operators to meet their payment obligations, causing financial distress among local drivers and entrepreneurs.

Speaking to members at the Santaco offices in Middleburg, Mr Sibanyoni assured all eligible taxi operators that they should approach their nearest vehicle dealers with the required paperwork to take advantage of this new deal. He emphasised that this initiative is designed to support the industry, promote sustainability, and enable taxi owners to expand their businesses without the crippling financial strain that previously plagued them.

He also urged taxi operators facing difficulties to seek assistance from their local association leadership, who are ready to provide guidance and support through the process.

This development is seen as a significant step forward in empowering Mpumalanga’s taxi industry and fostering economic growth within the province. It demonstrates a commitment by industry stakeholders and financial institutions to work together in building a resilient and prosperous transport sector.

#MpumalangaAProvincesThatWorksForAll
#Santaco
#Vukta

Pretoria High Court condemn late Deputy President DD Mabuza in landmark R306m judgement in MTPA Case

Encee van Huyssteen
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Pretoria High Court condemn late Deputy President DD Mabuza in landmark R306m judgement in MTPA Case

The Pretoria High Court has delivered a scathing critique of the late Deputy President David Dabede “DD” Mabuza, condemning him even after death for his purported involvement in a corrupt and ruthless campaign aimed at dismantling a landmark conservation initiative and ejecting its founder from the region.

In a comprehensive 181-page judgment handed down on September 25, Judge Neil Tuchten laid bare a complex web of political misconduct. He awarded R306 million in damages to Grand Valley Estates, the principal entity behind the ambitious “Nkomazi Wilderness” project. The ruling cast a harsh spotlight on Mabuza’s alleged abuse of power, which the court described as an orchestrated effort to persecute Fred Daniel, a legitimate businessman and key architect of the project, who refused to partake in a large-scale land claims fraud.

The legal battle dates back over a decade, to 2010, when evidence emerged of a secretive “collusive agreement” involving the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA), the Regional Land Claims Commission (RLCC), and Mabuza, who served as Mpumalanga’s Premier and MEC for Agriculture before ascending to national politics.

Central to the case was Daniel’s achievement of consolidating 30,000 hectares of land, backed by R380 million invested by Kerzner International and the support of the Development Bank of Southern Africa. His vision was to develop a premier eco-tourism reserve, but the court found that his efforts were deliberately undermined after he exposed and refused to participate in a land-brokering scheme led by Pieter Visagé. According to court findings, Mabuza called Daniel and pressured him to admit land claims over the project area and to sell these claims to the Ndwandwe Trust, a move the judge characterised as coercive.

When Daniel refused, Mabuza allegedly leveraged his political influence to incite violence, instruct police to stay absent during protests, and create an environment of lawlessness to intimidate the project’s founder.

late Deputy President David Dabede “DD” Mabuza

Evidence revealed that about 150 protesters, bused in from Middelburg, descended on the site in August 2008, setting tyres alight and damaging fences, while police were ordered to refrain from intervening. Mabuza later addressed the crowd, reportedly promising them land—a move the court interpreted as fomenting unrest rather than protecting property rights.

A pivotal piece of evidence was a 13-minute phone call in late August 2008, during which Mabuza told Daniel that protection could only be guaranteed if he “admitted the land claims over the Project lands and sold them to the Ndwandwe Trust.” Judge Tuchten condemned this as a form of extortion, stating that Mabuza’s language suggested he was withholding police protection unless Daniel complied with his demands.

Further allegations described political interference within provincial offices, where officials, overheard by witnesses, planned to use land claims as justification to deny Daniel’s permits needed to operate his reserve. Evidence also pointed to violent sabotage, including a controversial raid in June 2008, where officials seized and ultimately shot a leopard and other animals from Daniel’s sanctuary—an operation the court found to be unjustified and timed to coincide with legal proceedings against him.

Judge Tuchten emphasised that the raid was a demonstration of how officials had moved beyond their lawful roles, becoming perpetrators of intimidation and cruelty designed to crush Daniel’s aspirations.

In his final order, the judge dismissed technical legal objections raised by the defendants, asserting that justice could only be served through the claim for damages. The R306 million awarded consisted of R38 million for the undervalued land sale and R268 million for projected future profits lost. The court also imposed a punitive costs order, holding the involved agencies jointly responsible for Daniel’s legal expenses, including the entire history of the case.

This ruling reveals a disturbing picture of political abuse and state-sponsored intimidation, with the court asserting that even after Mabuza’s passing, his actions remain a matter of grave concern.

Eskom Turns Profit for the First Time in Eight Years, Reinvests R23.9 Billion into Nation’s Infrastructure

Encee van Huyssteen
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Eskom Turns Profit for the First Time in Eight Years, Reinvests R23.9 Billion into Nation’s Infrastructure

Eskom, South Africa’s state-owned power utility, has announced a historic turnaround, posting a profit before tax of R23.9 billion for the year ending March 2025 — the first positive financial result since 2017. This remarkable recovery reflects the success of its comprehensive turnaround strategy initiated in FY2024, which has begun to restore both operational stability and financial health.

The impressive financial results are underpinned by a stronger EBITDA margin of 29.05%, surpassing the previous year’s 14.67%. The company also benefits from a 12.74% tariff increase and a 14% reduction in primary energy costs, thanks to improved reliability of coal-fired power plants and reduced dependence on expensive Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGT). These efficiency gains contributed to diesel savings of R16.3 billion annually.

Eskom also significantly reduced load shedding, with energy not supplied dropping from 13.2 TWh in 2024 to below 0.4 TWh in 2025. The total load shedding duration plummeted to just 175 hours — compared to 6,367 hours the previous year — with only 13 days of outages, compared to 329 days in 2024. Consequently, Eskom supplied electricity on 96% of the days in the reporting period, markedly improving service stability.

A key factor in the improved profitability was the recovery of previously disallowed fuel levy rebates from the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which provided a notable boost to Eskom’s earnings. After accounting for this once-off recovery, Eskom recorded a ‘normalised’ profit before tax of R11.9 billion.

Eskom’s efforts in governance and internal controls are also bearing fruit. Around 90% of external audit findings from FY2021 to FY2024 have been addressed and closed, signalling progress towards better compliance, although some challenges remain.

Eskom Chairman Mteto Nyati highlighted the organisation’s transformation, stating, “Eskom is increasingly a sustainable, investable company ready to compete in a liberalised, competitive energy market. The crisis inherited in October 2022 is now a thing of the past, thanks to strategic recalibration and dedicated execution.”

The CEO, Dan Marokane, added, “Our stability and performance are vital for South Africa’s economic growth. We are committed to reinvesting profits into critical infrastructure—over R320 billion over the next five years—to ensure long-term energy security and support economic development.”

Despite these successes, Eskom faces ongoing challenges, notably municipal debt, which stood at R94.6 billion as of March 2025 — a 27% increase from the previous year. Many municipalities struggle to meet their payment obligations, posing risks to Eskom’s financial stability and wider industry reforms. The utility is exploring new interventions, including prepaid models and distribution agency arrangements to improve revenue collection.

Eskom also emphasises its focus on efficiency, launching the Cost Optimisation and Revenue Enhancement (CORE) programme, which aims to deliver over R50 billion in cumulative efficiencies by 2029.

However, the organisation’s financial integrity remains under scrutiny. Eskom received a qualified external audit opinion for FY2025 due to incomplete records linked to the Public Finance Management Act. Internal control deficiencies and uncertainties regarding its sustainability — heavily reliant on government support — continue to pose risks. To address these issues, Eskom has launched a three-year Audit Recovery Programme, ambitiously targeting comprehensive internal control improvements and striving for an unqualified audit opinion.

Looking ahead, Eskom’s leadership remains committed to executing its long-term Generation Recovery Plan, strengthening governance, and fostering a resilient, sustainable power sector. As the company stabilises, its strategic focus on efficiency, innovation, and transparent management aims to secure energy supply and contribute to South Africa’s economic revival.

For more details on Eskom’s FY2025 results and ongoing initiatives, visit the Eskom website.

Kusile Unit 6 achieves commercial operation, unlocking full 9600MW capacity across Eskom’s flagship stations

Encee van Huyssteen
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Kusile Unit 6 achieves commercial operation, unlocking full 9600MW capacity across Eskom’s flagship stations

Eskom is pleased to confirm that Unit 6 at Kusile Power Station has officially entered commercial operation, marking the successful completion of Eskom’s Build Programme. This milestone is a key component of the Generation Recovery Plan and ends the construction of South Africa’s two supercritical coal-fired power stations—Medupi and Kusile.

Together, these stations form the backbone of the country’s baseload electricity supply. With Unit 6 now online, Kusile and Medupi can deliver a combined 9,600MW when operating at full capacity, significantly strengthening South Africa’s electricity supply

Photo by Creamer Media’s Donna Slater

Commercial operation indicates that the unit has passed all required testing and optimisation phases and is now fully integrated into Eskom’s operational fleet. Although the unit has been supplying electricity to the grid since its synchronisation on 23 March 2025, its contribution had not been reflected in official reporting until now. From this point onward, Unit 6’s output will be included in the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) calculations, contributing to Eskom’s overall performance metrics.

This achievement also marks a key milestone in Eskom’s strategic goal to add 2,500MW of new capacity to the grid by March 2025 and represents a major step in completing one of the largest infrastructure projects in South Africa’s history.

“The successful commissioning of Unit 6 adds 800MW to the grid and completes our twelve-unit Megaprojects fleet. We extend our gratitude to employees and contractors for their commitment and perseverance in delivering this milestone. Despite the many challenges along the way, the successful handover of Unit 6 reflects the team’s resilience and dedication. We look forward to the added stability these megawatts will bring,” said Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom Group Executive for Generation.

“Achieving commercial operation of Unit 6 within the planned timeframe is a testament to Eskom’s disciplined execution of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan. This milestone not only completes the Kusile build programme but also reinforces Eskom’s commitment to restoring energy security, enhancing grid stability, and investing in infrastructure that supports South Africa’s long-term economic growth. Since its synchronisation in March, Unit 6 has consistently met performance benchmarks, contributed to grid reliability, and helped meet electricity demand 97% of the time,” said Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane.

“Medupi and Kusile will remain central to South Africa’s electricity supply for many years to come. Both stations are designed for an operational lifespan of approximately 50 years. As we celebrate this milestone, we are also accelerating efforts to expand our renewable energy portfolio, complementing our baseload infrastructure. This is part of our broader strategy to repower the grid and reduce overall emissions,” added Marokane.

Kusile Power Station is the first in South Africa—and on the African continent—to implement Wet Flue Gas Desulphurisation (WFGD) technology. This ensures compliance with air quality standards and aligns with global best practices to reduce sulphur dioxide emissions.

Eskom remains committed to executing its Generation Operational Recovery Plan, enhancing governance, and future-proofing the organisation to ensure energy security, economic growth, and long-term sustainability for South Africa and the broader sub-Saharan region.

Pilots at Risk as Laser Pointers Are Directed at Aircraft

Encee van Huyssteen
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Pilots at Risk as Laser Pointers Are Directed at Aircraft

Local pilots have reported incidents in which laser pointers were directed at aircraft operating in the vicinity of Secunda. Such conduct is hazardous and may distract or temporarily incapacitate flight crews, creating a risk of serious accident or loss of life. The Bulletin received video evidence of an incident; authorities traced the source to a residence on Tsitsikamma Street. The precise address is withheld pending ongoing legal processes.

Regulatory Advisory:

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has issued a formal warning: the deliberate illumination of aircraft with laser devices is dangerous, unlawful and subject to severe administrative and criminal sanctions.

The green laser that is being pointed at the aircraft

Aviation Safety Risks Laser illumination directed toward aircraft or air traffic control personnel presents the following operational hazards:

  • Distraction and disorientation:
  • Laser exposure during critical flight phases (take-off, approach and landing) can divert pilot attention from essential flight duties.
  • Temporary or permanent visual impairment:

Direct exposure to laser radiation can cause flash-blindness or retinal injury, diminishing a pilot’s ability to control the aircraft.

  • Increased susceptibility at night: reduced ambient light amplifies the effects of laser illumination, elevating risk during night operations.

Interference with air traffic services:

Laser incidents may affect ground-based personnel and equipment, increasing the risk of miscommunication or procedural error.

Legal Framework and Penalties:

Under South African civil aviation regulations, directing any light source, including laser pointers, toward aircraft or air traffic control installations is prohibited. Offenders may be subject to: Substantial fines; and/or Criminal prosecution, which may include imprisonment of up to ten years, depending on the circumstances and applicable statutes.

Reporting Procedures SACAA requests that members of the public report laser illumination incidents through the Centralised Occurrence Reporting Portal. Reports should include: date, time, precise location, a description of the device used, and any available identification or descriptive information regarding the person(s) involved.

Guidance for the Public

  • Do not point laser devices at aircraft, air traffic control towers, or any aviation personnel.
  • Report any instance of laser illumination of aircraft immediately via the SACAA portal.
  • Promote community awareness regarding the hazards and legal consequences of misusing laser devices.
The warning label designs may not be the same. But the labels have to include: the starburst insignia, laser classification, maximum output
power (in mW), and wavelength (in nm).

Safety Guidance for Laser Pointer Users

Overview:

When used appropriately for visual aids, compliant laser pointers can be safe. Misuse, however, can result in eye injury and create hazardous situations. Where practicable, presenters should consider electronic on-screen pointer functions as a safer alternative.

Selection and Operation

  • Prefer low-power devices (Class 2) that emit less than 1 mW; these present a lower risk of injury from inadvertent, brief exposure.
  • Prefer red-wavelength devices (approximately 633–690 nm). Green and blue pointers (notably 532 nm green devices) have been shown in some inexpensive models to emit hazardous levels of infrared radiation due to inadequate filtering and may produce persistent retinal after-images; blue wavelengths (400–500 nm) also raise photobiological concerns.
  • Use a momentary-contact (spring-loaded) on/off switch. Devices with locking mechanisms that maintain continuous emission are discouraged.

Identification and Labelling:

Only use laser pointers that carry a clear regulatory warning label indicating class and output power. Avoid unlabeled devices, as these may exceed safe power levels.

Operational Safety Practices

  • Direct the beam solely at inanimate targets (e.g., presentation screens). Never point a laser at a person, animal, or reflective surface. Reflections can be equally hazardous.
  • Do not view laser beams through optical instruments (binoculars, telescopes, microscopes), which can concentrate energy and increase the hazard.
  • Keep laser devices out of reach of unsupervised children.
  • Ensure the device ceases emission immediately upon release of the switch; do not employ pointers fitted with locking mechanisms that sustain the beam.

Avoiding Accidents.

Even low-power lasers can produce glare, flash-blindness or after-images sufficient to cause accidents.

To reduce risk: Never aim laser pointers at aircraft, vehicles, drivers, or law enforcement officers. Do not aim laser pointers inside occupied buildings or toward public thoroughfares.

Conclusion:

Deliberate or negligent use of laser pointers toward aircraft is a serious public-safety and legal matter. Compliance with regulatory requirements, adoption of safe equipment and operational practices, and prompt reporting of incidents are essential to protect pilots, passengers, air traffic personnel and the broader public.

Major Investigation into Illegal Hunting with Dogs Successfully Conducted

Encee van Huyssteen
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Major Investigation into Illegal Hunting with Dogs Successfully Conducted

TLU SA can confirm that a significant investigation into illegal hunting with dogs took place on 21 September 2025, successfully carried out by local farmers, Ermelo SAPS, the SAPS Cattle Theft Unit, and the Animal Welfare Society (DBV/SPCA).

The operation resulted in the arrest of 24 suspects, who are currently in custody at Ermelo SAPS, as well as the seizure of 50 dogs. Of these, eight dogs are being cared for by the DBV, while the remaining forty-two have been returned to their owners, subject to the condition that the dogs remain in their possession until the case is finalised. Several vehicles used in the unlawful hunting activities, including two minibus hire vehicles, two dog trailers, and one light delivery vehicle, were also confiscated.

“This successful investigation is a clear example of how collaboration between farmers, law enforcement agencies, and animal protection organisations can make a significant difference,” said Ronnie Schilling, Regional Manager for TLU SA in the Eastern Cape. “All parties were fully aware of the legal requirements and regulations pertaining to hunting with dogs, and there were structured procedures in place that enabled the investigation to proceed smoothly. It serves as an important reminder to farmers and hunters that operating within the law is not only a legal obligation but also ensures the protection of everyone’s interests.”

TLU SA emphasises that this case is the second major investigation of its kind within just a few weeks. The organisation is calling on local communities to act responsibly and ensure that all hunting activities comply with the law. Structures, procedures, and comprehensive knowledge of the rules and regulations are not optional; they are essential.

“We see this success as proof that when all stakeholders work together and respect the rules, substantial achievements can be realised. It is also a call to farmers to always ensure their structures and knowledge of the law are up to date before engaging in any hunting activities,” Schilling concluded.

Land Invasion at Kinross Ext 30 Sparks Controversy and Uncertainty

Encee van Huyssteen
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Land Invasion at Kinross Ext 30 Sparks Controversy and Uncertainty

The development in Kinross, known as Ext 30, has been controversial from its inception. Overseen by the Department of Human Settlement, the project has now been invaded by people desperate for land to build their own homes, leading to chaos and conflict at the site.

From the beginning, the development was marred by poor workmanship and planning. Funds intended for Ext 30 were also diverted to a similar project in Charl Cilliers, raising concerns about mismanagement and misallocation of resources—issues that will be explored further.

The Bulletin spoke to several individuals at the site, some claiming they were official beneficiaries of the development and showing correspondence confirming their successful applications. However, questions about the true ownership of the land have now arisen.

Adding to the dispute, a man claiming to be Malilesa has reportedly arrived and told everyone that he is the owner of the land. During a telephone conversation, an anonymous source told the Bulletin, “Malilesa has arrived and told everyone he owns this land. They are starting to destroy the shacks!”

Contradictory information has emerged from another source, which stated that Malilesa did not claim ownership but was opposed to illegal shacks near his land, which borders the development site. The situation remains unclear, as the Bulletin has yet to verify these claims and intends to speak directly with Malilesa.

Earlier today, law enforcement officials from GMM Law Enforcement and Kinross SAPS were present at the site and scheduled a meeting with the “invaders” for noon tomorrow. Despite this, the construction of new shacks continued unabated.

Several pressing questions remain unresolved:

  • Why was the project never finalised? It is understood that a proposed sewer pipeline had to be rerouted due to a land dispute, causing some sections to run uphill, which compromises infrastructure integrity.
  • Why were land allocations made four to five years ago without subsequent action? This delay has contributed to the chaos and confusion at the site.
  • Can an individual claim land ownership without proper sale documentation? There are concerns about land being sold without clear proof, raising questions about legitimacy.
  • What about the state of infrastructure? A representative from Tiger Business Enterprises, the company responsible for roads and utilities, indicated that insufficient funds prevented the proper completion of roads and culverts. Cement ditches were built as interim structures, which vehicles now struggle to traverse. While two areas were tarred, they were never connected by any access roads.

Allegations have also been made that some plots were sold by a local councillor, further complicating land ownership rights and trust in local governance.

The Bulletin is committed to seeking answers to these urgent questions. The issues surrounding the Charl Cilliers development and another project just outside Leandra also warrant investigation, as they may reflect broader governance and planning challenges within the region.

As this situation unfolds, the community and beneficiaries deserve transparency and justice. The ongoing saga at Kinross Ext 30 highlights the need for accountability and proper land management to prevent similar conflicts in the future.

DA Calls for Department of Education and MEC to Account Over Handling of GBVF Case in Mpumalanga

Encee van Huyssteen
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DA Calls for Department of Education and MEC to Account Over Handling of GBVF Case in Mpumalanga

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mpumalanga is demanding accountability from the Department of Education and MEC Lindi Masina regarding their apparent inaction concerning a troubling case of gender-based violence and the department’s response to a senior SADTU official involved in violent assault allegations.

On 29 May 2025, Bheki Nkosi, the Secretary of SADTU at the South Highveld Region, was arrested in Bethal on charges of assault causing grievous bodily harm after he assaulted his girlfriend, Nqobile Sihlangu, a fellow teacher and SADTU member. Nkosi’s actions reportedly included multiple assaults, and he was subsequently detained for three months, with his bail application denied multiple times due to the severity of the charges.

Bheki Nkosi, the Secretary of SADTU at the South Highveld Region

Despite the seriousness of the case, allegations have surfaced that Nkosi violated a Protection Order, which barred him from contacting or harassing the victim, by obtaining a cellphone and continuing to threaten and harass Sihlangu from custody. Nkosi’s continued employment as the SADTU South Highveld Regional Secretary has drawn criticism, especially after SADTU’s Provincial Secretary, Walter Hhlaise, confirmed Nkosi’s transfer from Bethal to eMalahleni and his ongoing duties—beyond the scope of the original allegations.

The DA expressed its concern in a written plea dated June 13, 2025, calling on SADTU and the Department of Education to conduct internal investigations and suspend Nkosi until his court case concludes. The party also urged the department and union to develop policies addressing gender-based violence, noting that SADTU currently lacks a dedicated GBVF policy.

Further disappointment was added when SADTU refused to sign the EDU 9 form, delaying the transfer of Sihlangu to another school in her hometown of Nkomazi, contrary to her wishes. The organisation’s apparent leniency toward Nkosi and lack of policy measures against GBVF reveal troubling attitudes that could undermine efforts to combat gender-based violence within educational institutions.

The case remains pending, with Nkosi released on R2000 bail and scheduled to appear in court again on 18 November 2025. The DA plans to hold a picket outside the court in support of the victim and to send a clear message that gender-based violence cannot be tolerated in any setting, including education.

Annerie Weber, MPL DA Spokesperson on Education, Mpumalanga Province

Annerie Weber, MPL and DA Spokesperson on Education for Mpumalanga, emphasised, “This case highlights the urgent need for heightened accountability and the implementation of comprehensive policies to fight GBVF within our education system. Both SADTU and the provincial Department of Education must act decisively to show zero tolerance for such violence and protect the rights and safety of our teachers and learners alike.”

The DA calls on the provincial government to intervene promptly, ensure disciplinary action is taken against Nkosi, and implement policies that support victims of gender-based violence in schools.

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