Masilela was accompanied by Deputy Speaker, Sam Masango and MMCs from Steve Tshwete Municipality.
Traditional leader, Inkosi J Mahlangu welcomed the donation, saying it is painful to see helpless children with no support. He appealed for government to continue assisting struggling families and raised challenges of children born to undocumented foreign mothers struggling to get documents at Home Affairs.

READ | Ehlanzeni TVET College Signs MOU with Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature

The centre, operating since 2003, feeds and supports disadvantaged children. Dr Nkabinde-Matoane from the Nkangala Department of Social Development said the department funds the centre with R529 120 in the current financial year for 71 children. She said the department helps with laundry, gardening, sport and monthly monitoring by a social worker.

READ MORE | Premier commits to prioritise mining in Mpumalanga

Masilela said the legacy project aims to protect children’s self-esteem and help them attend school without hindrance due to lack of basics. She urged stakeholders to help families register children at Home Affairs to access grants and services, and warned against misuse of funds.

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Ramaphosa was delivering the Inaugural Nokuthula Simelane Memorial Lecture at the University of Mpumalanga on Thursday, 3 September 2026.

Simelane, 23, was a student and Umkhonto we Sizwe courier who was lured to Johannesburg, abducted by apartheid security police, tortured and murdered in 1983. More than 40 years later, her remains have never been found.
“For more than four decades, the Simelane family has not been permitted the basic dignity of laying their daughter to rest,” Ramaphosa said.

The President told the Simelane family, led by her sister, Minister Thembi Simelane, that their pain is the nation’s pain. He said the State owes the family the truth about where she is buried, after former Security Branch officers admitted to her capture, but gave conflicting accounts of her murder.

The lecture also launched the Nokuthula Simelane Foundation and the Centre for Gender and Intersectional Studies at UMP.
Ramaphosa described Simelane as young, but purposeful, who rejected apartheid at a young age and risked her life carrying messages between Swaziland and South Africa.

“She would not surrender to fear of arrest, of torture or of death,” he said. He said her legacy challenges young people today to find purpose, to vote, and to build the non-racial, equal South Africa she died for.

On justice, Ramaphosa rejected the notion that the work of the TRC brought the country’s transitional justice process to an end.

“There is a view that has taken root in parts of our national life- that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission concluded this business and that it is time to move on. We must resist this view. Without justice, there can never be lasting peace. We owe the Simelane family and every family still waiting for a grave to visit, nothing less than the whole truth,” he said.

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According to the South African Weather Service’s Seasonal Climate Watch dated 31 August 2026, El Niño will continue through the summer, bringing below-normal rainfall and high temperatures.

The department said winter rainfall areas have already experienced shortages, which could worsen as summer approaches.

In the agricultural sector, El Niño typically leads to dry conditions, heat stress, crop failure and livestock mortalities, especially where risk reduction measures are not in place. Low rainfall may also trigger water restrictions for irrigation farmers and increase pests and diseases.

While the 2025/26 season saw above-normal rainfall that improved dam levels and soil moisture in summer rainfall areas, farmers are now urged to conserve water and practise climate-smart agriculture.

Recommendations include:

• Using conservation agriculture implements to preserve soil moisture and prevent erosion
• Not expanding production unnecessarily and planting suitable, drought-tolerant cultivars listed in the National Varietal List
• Using water sparingly through water harvesting and drip irrigation, and irrigating in the morning or evening
• Keeping livestock numbers within the carrying capacity of the veld, practising rotational grazing and providing additional feed and water
• Regular scouting for pests and diseases, vet visits and vaccinations

The department said it will continue monitoring conditions and issuing monthly advisories and daily extreme weather warnings through SAWS.

Farmers are urged to comply with local water restrictions and follow early warning information for disaster risk mitigation.

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Parents have accused the school of gross human rights violations, saying female learners from Grades 7 to 12 were subjected to mass pregnancy screening without parental consent after a directive from the Bohlabela District for teenage pregnancy statistics.

According to a whistleblower who asked to remain anonymous, the testing was allegedly conducted without medical supervision, leaving learners as young as 12 to handle test kits themselves. One learner who allegedly tested positive was reportedly exposed to ridicule, instead of being referred for counselling and child protection support.

The crisis escalated this week when the school’s principal, Mr GL Montle, allegedly suspended a group of boarders via a parents’ WhatsApp group for arriving on Monday morning instead of Sunday afternoon. The learners were told to stay away until 6 September, 2026.

READ | 43 teenagers give birth on Christmas and New Year’s Day

This coincided with the Grade 12 September assessments. On Tuesday morning, a notice from the principal circulating on the school’s platform warned that a 22-seater taxi at the gate was disrupting the Life Orientation national paper.

“Take note that there is a 22-seater from yesterday that came back to disrupt the Matric exam. The paper cannot be delivered on time because of the security threat… Believe you me, our learners will write the paper today,” the notice read.

Mpumalanga Mirror understands the alleged suspensions directly prevented learners from writing the Life Orientation Common Assessment Task scheduled for today, 1 September.

The Mpumalanga Department of Education says it was not aware of the allegations but is taking them seriously.

In a response, spokesperson Gerald Sambo said the allegations of this nature which touch on the dignity, privacy and right to basic education are viewed in an extremely serious light. We have a zero-tolerance approach to any practice that violates the Constitution.”

The department confirmed it will deploy a team from the Bohlabela District to investigate.The department’s absolute priority is that no learner is prejudiced academically. Arrangements are being made to ensure that all Grade 12 learners scheduled to write are given unhindered access,” Sambo said.

The department added that if non-consensual testing is confirmed, psychosocial support will be provided and mandatory referrals made to Social Development and health authorities. It also reminded schools that suspensions must follow Section 9 of the South African Schools Act and that publishing minors’ information violates POPIA.

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The shift is at the heart of this year’s Tourism Month programme, launched at Loskop Nature Reserve on Monday, 31 August, 2026 by the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT).

Speaking at the launch, DEDT MEC Jesta Sidell, said the programme, running under the theme: “Growing South Africa’s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era,” would focus on using technology to change how Mpumalanga showcases its attractions and connects tourism businesses with travellers.

“We are expanding digital marketing platforms, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), and using social commerce tools to connect regional tourism operators directly to global and local travelers,” said Sidell.

READ | Province sees rise in tourist numbers over festive season

The digital push is also expected to create opportunities for smaller operators, particularly those in rural and township areas, to reach potential visitors.

“Our digital transformation must be inclusive, ensuring that small tourism businesses, emerging products and community tourism enterprises can participate meaningfully in the digital economy,” she added.

Targeted digital training will be rolled out during this month to help tourism entrepreneurs strengthen their online presence and make better use of digital platforms. The campaign will also encourage South Africans to explore more of what the province has to offer. “We want South Africans to travel more, stay longer and spend locally,” said Sidell.

As part of the month-long programme, visitors will be able to explore selected provincial nature reserves at reduced or waived entry fees during Sho’t Left Travel Week and Mahala Week, including Loskop, Blyde River Canyon and Manyeleti.

Other activities include the Mpumalanga Tourism Expo, Tourism Careers Expo, Tourism Educators’ Seminar, Barberton Makhonjwa Mountain Marathon and Provincial Tourism Day in Dullstroom on 26 September.

ALSO READ | Triland wins Best Foreign Award at the Fikani Tourism Fair

The campaign aims to increase visibility to draw more visitors and spending to the province, while creating greater opportunities for local businesses and communities.

The post Mpumalanga takes a digital turn this Tourism Month appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

The gesture formed part of the association’s activities, which also included donating sanitary towels to young women at local schools.

Muzi Sibeko, chairman of the drivers’ committee under the association, said the decision was aimed at showing appreciation while taking a stand against gender-based violence (GBV).

READ | Pienaar taxi operators wrap up Women’s Month in style

“We felt it was important to celebrate women in a unique way because we know that many women are facing gender-based violence. When women speak about being abused by men, we want them to know that we do not support such behaviour. We are saying, ‘Not in our name,” said Sibeko.

He said the association also sought to address the challenges faced by young women in the community who cannot afford sanitary products.

READ MORE | Female-only law enforcement roadblock in honour of women

“We also donated sanitary towels to young girls at local schools because we knew that some could not afford these essential products, which could make it difficult for them to attend school,” he said.

Another driver, Lucky Dlamini, called on men to protect women and children and take a stand against violence. “As we wrap up Women’s Month, we are calling on men to protect our women and children. We are saying no to gender-based violence,” he said.

The association hopes the initiative will have a lasting impact and encourage more men to protect and support women and children.

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The DA held a media briefing led by its Caucus Leader, Bosman Grobler, who welcomed Chuene. Grobler described him as a valuable member of the party who brings experience and will strengthen the DA’s work in holding the executive accountable.

READ | Provincial EFF in solidarity with its leader on defamation case

Grobler said that, although Chwenyi comes from a local government background, he will adapt to his new role as he gains experience. “I think it’s really something you learn as you go along. One thing I’ve personally learned about Cyril is that he takes the time to read documents. I think it’s one of the most important things an MPL can do. He was just in the Speaker’s office and was handed all the relevant legislation, as well as the members’ rules and order book.

“If you work through that, you know what you’re allowed to do and what you’re not allowed to do. Ultimately, you understand your mandate. From there, you learn on the job. Representing people in local, provincial or national government is essentially the same thing – it’s just at different levels of government.”

Grobler added that Chuene’s extensive experience in local government would serve him well in the provincial legislature.
“I have no doubt that he will hold the executive accountable. One of our key responsibilities is oversight. We receive reports and read them, but as the late Ellen Susman used to say, ‘Go and see for yourself.’ You need to verify whether what departments report is accurate and whether it reflects the reality on the ground. I am confident that Cyril will do that and serve very well.

“If you take up a position as a councillor, MPL or MP and choose not to work, you are not going to excel.”
Grobler said he knows Chwenyi to be a hard worker and a self-motivated individual. He added that the DA requires public representatives who can identify issues, conduct research and perform effective oversight.

READ MORE | Msibi’s next move revealed as he joins newly-formed SDP!

“There’s no doubt in my mind that he will be able to step into his role and make the best of it,” said Grobler.
Meanwhile, Chuene said he has an extensive political background, although he only joined the DA in 2019. He served on the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) in the Mbombela Local Municipality for two terms.

“My educational background is in public affairs and local government, and I hold a postgraduate qualification in the field. Therefore, it was not difficult to grasp the issues. Since 2021, we have made a significant impact. We have exposed a great deal of corruption, including matters involving some provincial departments. As a result, people have trust in the DA,” he said.

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The Commission urges all political parties and candidates who intend to participate in the elections to ensure that their candidate nomination details and all required information are completed and submitted well ahead of the deadline. This will enable a seamless transition to post-nomination processes.

The Commission advises that the stipulated date and times are based on the Election timetable which cannot be changed nor be negotiated. After 17h00 on Friday, no changes will be permitted. This means the Online Candidate Nomination System (OCNS), will not be available for submissions beyond the cutoff time.

READ | IEC investigates by-elections fraud in Nkomazi

Similarly, no political party or independent candidate will be allowed to enter the IEC Offices after 17h00 with the intention to submit candidate lists. The Commission encourages prospective independent candidates and political parties to visit the IEC website at www.elections.org.za or contact the Contact Centre at info@elections.org.za or on 0800 11 8000 for more
information.

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Held in celebration of Women’s Month, the event is a full day dedicated to women who love adventure, 4x4s, and the outdoors. Entry is free and open to all ladies — whether you own a 4×4 or just want to experience off-road culture.

The event aims to empower women in the off-road space by creating a safe, fun and supportive environment to learn, drive and connect.

Event highlights include:

• Guided Off-Road Trails: Trail drives for beginner, intermediate and advanced drivers with expert support on standby
• Expert Advice: Tips on driving, recovery, vehicle prep and safety from experienced female and male off-roaders.
• Camping: On site camping for those who want to spend evening.
• Fun Challenges

“Where the road ends, the story begins. This Women’s Month, we want the story to be about the ladies,”said radio personality and Face of the event, Nobuhle Ndlovu.
“This event is about showing that off-roading isn’t just for the guys. It’s about confidence, skill, and community. We’re calling on all ladies to come get dirty with us.”

The event is hosted by leading 4×4 community platforms at one of Mpumalanga’s top adventure destinations, Sudwala Funscapes, with media and imaging support from Vee 4×4.

EVENT DETAILS:

Date: Saturday, 22 August 2026
Venue: Sudwala Funscapes, Mpumalanga
Time: Gates open 08:00
FREE ENTRY

For more updates follow: @OffRoadChronicles @TeamKRAG @Vee4x4 ,@buhlesradiodj, @SudwalaFunscapes on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

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The Ligwalagwala FM’s Siyadvumisa host, Given Mathabela, spoke out after the case was postponed again in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on Monday, saying each court appearance forces the family to confront the pain of his daughter’s death.

“All these postponements are tiring and emotionally draining, it honestly feels like secondary victimisation. The State really must get their house in order,” he said in a statement posted on his social media platforms.
He said every court appearance serves as a painful reminder of the circumstances surrounding his daughter’s death.

“Every visit to court, is a painful reminder of the gruesome murder, when do we even begin to heal?” he said.
The case was postponed after the State informed the court that the indictment needed to move the matter to the High Court remains unsigned.

Katlego Mokoena (19) and Lungelo Sithole (19), who are accused of murdering the 20-year-old, appeared in court on Monday. Mathabela was allegedly stabbed to death by the duo at her home in Mataffin in November last year.

The State told the court that it is now in possession of the indictment, which sets out the charges the accused are expected to face in the High Court, but the document has not yet been signed.

The matter had previously been postponed to allow the State to finalise the indictment after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) indicated that the investigation had been completed and the case was ready to proceed to the High Court.

READ | Lusanda Mathabela Murder: Ex boyfriend denied bail

During the proceedings, defence attorney Bontle Lebotse, representing Mokoena, pointed out that the State was now in possession of the indictment, although it remained unsigned.

Advocate Patt Sekatane, representing Sithole, questioned the lack of progress saying: “I will put it in a nutshell that nothing has been done. Because there’s no signature, there’s no date. Normally the indictment comes with the date which directs you which date you must go to the High Court,” he said.

Magistrate Patrick Morris also expressed his disapproval over the delay and urged the DPP’s office to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.

ALSO READ | Family of brutally slain teen seeks justice!

“This is a very serious matter. And I expect the DPP’s office to also treat this as a very serious matter. The public are sitting and looking at what is happening in court. And I can tell you now that they are not happy,” said Morris.

The magistrate gave the State until 25 August 2026 to return with the signed indictment and warned that he did not want further delays.The case was postponed to 25 August 2026 for the indictment. Mokoena and Sithole remain in custody.

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