Latest news with #Govender
IOL News
2 days ago
- IOL News
Statement regarding article published in October 2019 – "Chatsworth man who scammed pensioners disappears"
The Daily News is committed to fair and responsible journalism. Image: File In October 2019, the Daily News published an article titled 'Chatsworth Man Who Scammed Pensioners Disappears.' The article named Mr. Morgan Govender as the individual who allegedly defrauded 21 pensioners in the Malvern area out of over R50,000, and further reported on a judgment obtained against him for the repayment of R150,000 he had allegedly borrowed. At the time of publication, the Daily News undertook its standard editorial checks and endeavoured to comply with the applicable standards of ethical journalism. The story was published in the belief that it served the public interest, particularly in highlighting concerns raised by vulnerable members of the community. However, Mr. Govender, the plaintiff in the matter, has since raised concerns that he was not afforded an adequate opportunity to respond to the allegations before the article was published. As a responsible media institution, the Daily News takes such concerns seriously. We recognise the importance of the right of reply, especially in stories that may impact an individual's reputation or dignity. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The Daily News is committed to upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity and transparency. We operate in accordance with the South African Press Code and our internal editorial policies, which include provisions to ensure fairness, accuracy, and balance in reporting. In light of the concerns raised, the Daily News wishes to offer a sincere and unequivocal apology to Mr. Govender. We confirm that there was no intention to cause harm or act with malice. The omission of Mr. Govender's perspective was not deliberate, and we regret any distress this may have caused him. We remain committed to correcting the record where appropriate and will continue to review and improve our processes to ensure that similar concerns are avoided in the future. Issued by: Editorial Team Daily News
The Citizen
2 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
RRVA and EcoSolutions team up for wildlife
In a hands-on effort to protect Randpark Ridge's biodiversity, the Randpark Ridge Village Association (RRVA) has teamed up with EcoSolutions Urban Ecology to install owl and bat boxes across the suburb's greenbelts, a project already showing results. This initiative, led and funded by the RRVA, aims to restore natural pest control methods while strengthening local ecosystems. By identifying key areas and coordinating expert support, the association is making sure the greenbelts are not only beautiful but also ecologically balanced. Read more: Rescued barn owl flies free again 'These boxes are more than just homes for wildlife; they're part of our vision for a greener, healthier Randpark Ridge,' said RRVA administrator Nerisha Govender. The boxes provide safe nesting and roosting spaces for owls and bats, two of nature's most effective pest managers. 'Just one barn owl can eat up to 1 000 rodents a year,' Govender said. Strategically placed owl boxes give these nocturnal hunters a quiet place to settle, helping control rodents without harmful poisons. Bats, too, are powerful allies in pest control. 'Insect-eating bats can consume hundreds of bugs in just one hour,' Govender said, including mosquitoes, moths, and crop-damaging pests. EcoSolutions, based in Randpark Ridge, supplied and installed the boxes, using their expertise to ensure correct placement, safety, and durability. The organisation also provides long-term maintenance, including monitoring activity and refreshing nesting materials. Together with EcoSolutions, the RRVA is proving that small, smart interventions can bring real balance back to urban nature and give residents a front-row seat to it. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
6 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Historic Tongaat temple embarks on a journey of renewal
Tongaat Hindu Samarasa Association, known as the Tongaat Sabha. Image: Supplied The historic Tongaat Hindu Samarasa Association, affectionately known as the Tongaat Sabha, is embarking on a journey of renewal following floods that challenged its very existence. Founded in September 1912, this 113-year-old temple has not only been a spiritual home for many but also a pillar for the broader Tongaat community. However, the impact of the floods has led to the need for financial and community support to uphold its legacy. Soobrie Govender, 66, the temple's chairperson for the past 17 years, said: 'We are situated in a low-lying area on High Street. Following the storms, sponsors assisted with painting projects and providing free labour. However, the carpets and storeroom furniture were destroyed, and the property requires regular maintenance. "But our devotees are mostly pensioners, so we don't get much financial support. We have, however, still endeavoured to replace the carpet with tiles. These are easier and cheaper to clean up after a flood. We need community support." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The process of the renewal of the Tongaat Hindu Samarasa Association, known as the Tongaat Sabha. Image: Supplied He added: "Our forebears unselfishly donated the land and funded the building for this wonderful temple for the benefit of the community. We are, therefore, striving to ensure the upkeep of the temple to keep our rich cultural heritage alive. We want to pass on this timeless value, our temple, to the younger generation." Govender said they also required artists to paint the deities (statues). "The objective of the organisation is to work in the interest of the broader community in matters pertaining to their social welfare, spiritual education and religion. Over the years, the sabha was a popular venue for cultural activities, weddings, eisteddfods and ceremonies. 'We host satsangs three times a week with about 100 devotees. As a Shiva temple, Maha Shivaratri is our highlight with about 300 devotees attending. A karate and judo institute has used this venue for its zen meditation classes, and it was used as an exam venue by Unisa. If you would like to assist the temple, call Soobrie Govender on 083 788 8485. The POST
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
eThekwini bypasses meters due to shortage
THE eThekwini Municipality has admitted to deliberately bypassing electricity meters in Durban due to a critical shortage, raising concerns about revenue loss, accountability, and the long-term sustainability of the city's electricity system. Some households in Durban are receiving electricity without functional prepaid meters, as municipality technicians have been instructed to bypass metering systems. However, the municipality said meter procurement process is at an advanced stage. Spokesperson for eThekwini Municipality Gugu Sisilana said, 'As we are currently unable to replace meters, we are compelled to bypass them temporarily to ensure continued service to customers. During this period, customers will be billed based on estimated charges. The shortage of meters should be resolved in the next few months.' The ongoing shortage of electricity meters in Durban has now affected a family in Merebank. The couple, Kathereeku and Sarasvathie Govender, had their electricity supply cut off after their prepaid meter stopped working in September last year. Also read: Wentworth woman loses everything in house fire According to the family, their ordeal began at that point, when the prepaid system failed and has yet to be replaced. Sarasvathi said they immediately reported this to eThekwini Municipality. 'The workers from eThekwini arrived at our home to fix our meter, however, instead of replacing it they told us that eThekwini Municipality is facing a severe shortage of electricity meters. They told us that they will bypass the meter,' said Govender. Also read: Wentworth woman loses everything in house fire The family stated that the municipal team did not explain the potential financial implications, and they now fear that they might eventually be held liable for a large, backdated electricity bill. The Govenders also expressed confusion about where their current electricity supply is coming from, as no explanation was provided when the bypass was implemented. The Southlands SUN visited the property last week, and upon inspection saw two electricity meter boxes. 'There is one that is functioning and supplying electricity to the bottom building. According to the family, the second meter supplies electricity to an additional building on the property. 'However, this meter has become ineffective, resulting in a lack of electricity supply to that part of the premises,' Govender added. Sisilana said the current policies of the municipality does not permit two meters per property. 'However, this could have been a historical fitment where the City used to install a second meter on the same property which has a separate dwelling unit,' said Sisilana. For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Fashion and culture fusion at the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July
Naliyani Uma Govender is an ambassador for the Hollywoodbets Durban July. Image: Supplied As anticipation builds around the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, local racegoers are ready to showcase their interpretations of this year's theme, 'Marvels of Mzansi'. The annual racing event will take place at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. - Naliyani Uma Govender, an entrepreneur, model and reality TV personality, said her outfit was inspired by South Africa's national treasures. 'Without giving too much away before the big reveal, I can say it is a piece of wearable art that pays homage to both my heritage and the natural beauty of our country.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Govender, who is also an ambassador for the event, said she started planning her outfit about a month ago. 'I sat down with my team and discussed the theme. I didn't want to just dress to impress. I wanted to represent. Every detail, from the fabric to the makeup and hairstyling, ties back to the essence of South Africa and my identity as a proud South African Indian woman.' She said her dress was designed by William Harry de Beer of Willet Designs Couture. 'His vision aligned perfectly with mine. We began with mood boards, research on cultural symbols, and experimented with dyeing methods to get the exact look we envisioned. 'The silhouette of the dress is fluid and regal. We worked with custom-dyed fabrics flown in especially for this, using artisanal techniques to achieve the most natural, ethereal effect. The colours are soft yet striking, and everything from the structure to the texture has been calculated to express grace, power, and meaning.' She added that her dress cost about R100 000. 'It is a couture, bespoke piece with imported materials and intricate detail. It definitely falls into the luxury bracket. But for me, this look is more than just an outfit. It is an experience and a statement.' Govender said she looked forward to the event. 'The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race. It is a celebration of fashion, culture and creativity in the African context. I love how it brings people from all walks of life together in one iconic space. It is a place to be bold, expressive. 'I have been attending since my early twenties, and each year feels more exciting than the last. What keeps drawing me in is the electric energy, the mix of glamour, music, racing, and storytelling through fashion. It's where culture meets couture and now being one of the faces of the Hollywoodbets Durban July is a match made in heaven.' Govender added that she looked forward to seeing how others interpreted the theme. 'The theme is such a beautiful, open canvas. My advice for those who want to dress to the theme is to think proudly South African. In respect of accessories to elevate your look, I would say Ndebele and proudly South African designer jewellery. For makeup, be inspired by our African sunset.' Govender said it would not be the Durban July without placing a few fun bets. 'I have my eye on a couple of favourites, but I will keep that under wraps for now, maybe for luck.' Neevan Daniels Bullyraj. Image: Supplied - Neevan Daniels Bullyraj, a teacher and bridal stylist, said he decided to style himself this year. 'I believe that the true Mzansi spark dwells within yourself and you just need to channel it. Being proudly Indian and South African, I wanted to bring a bit of my Indian culture to the race course. I designed and styled my outfit from the material choice to the strategically placed motifs. I will be wearing tailored palazzo pants and a white formal vest. 'I decided to skip a cape and go for a five-metre shawl anchoring rich royal Indian heritage. The concept of royal Indian heritage stems from the Maharajas of India. The Maharajas were always draped in some of the most elaborate jewels curated in world history. I will also accessories with royal and regal Indian jewel pieces. 'I have always been told that my style is extremely unique and far from mediocre. I like to think that my lookbook is filled with only aesthetically unique pieces. The Durban July is the one event I can accelerate on this and have fun embracing a theme and fusing it with my personality and alter ego,' he said. Bullyraj said he looked forward to the fashion, networking with people from all over the country, and enjoying the glamorous atmosphere created by the event. He added he would take a few bets. 'I hope that I not only win with a good fit, but also with the right horse.' Jennifer Reddy. Image: Supplied - Jennifer Reddy, the CEO of a national chartered accountants firm, said her outfit was aligned to the theme, showcasing a chic and fashionable look that represented the country's cultural diversity. 'I will be wearing a two-piece outfit that includes my favourite colour, pink. It features a ruffled, high-waisted skirt paired with a fashionable designer top, adorned with unique cut-out, puffed sleeves. 'I always have a specific idea of what I want to wear, so choosing my outfit didn't take long. I usually visit my favourite shops to find pieces that match my vision. For this event, I purchased my outfit from The Space, a store known for selling unique pieces by African designers. The designer of my outfit is Confidence Designs,' she said. Reddy said she was excited about the event as it offered a chance to dress up and enjoy a day filled with entertainment. 'The Durban July is an event that many in South Africa eagerly anticipate. I have been attending for the last few years, and the combination of world-class racing, stunning fashion, and exhilarating entertainment makes it an event not to be missed. This year, I am particularly looking forward to celebrating our rich culture and heritage through fashion, as well as enjoying the great entertainment.' Reddy added she left the punting to her husband. 'I rarely win, however, I have heard that the favourites for this year are Eight on Eighteen and Madison Valley. I hope they perform well in the race.' Shiv Ramsander Image: Supplied - Shiv Ramsander, a music producer, DJ and event host, said it took him about a week to plan his outfit. 'Keeping the theme in mind, I tried to ensure that my coat was hero-like, while still keeping to our Mzansi culture. I will be wearing a black chino pants, white shirt and a formal black velvet coat with some detailing on it. I will complete the outfit with shiny black shoes.' Ramsander said he had been attending the event since 2019. 'It is definitely a calendar event for me. It is a day that allows me to express myself through fashion as I love dressing up. It is also an event where you get to experience many things in one place such as good vibes, trendy fashion, good food and, of course, the horse racing aspect. I am also excited as I will be performing in one of the tents at the event and will thereafter host an after-party at another venue.' Ramsander added that his bet was on Sparking Water, winner of the 2022 Hollywoodbets Durban July. 'I love a good success story and will definitely be rooting for Sparkling Water to take home the title for the second time.' TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram Image: Supplied - TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram, a marketing executive, dancer and model, said her dress was a depiction of South Africa's flora. 'I believe South Africa's flora is definitely one of the marvels of our country. I will be dressed in an elegant, yet bold floor-sweeping dress. It is a fitted silhouette with intricate beading throughout the entire dress. The rich, jewel-toned colours such as purple, orange and green in floral patterns on a black background create a beautiful effect. 'It also has attached cape sleeves which adds a touch of drama to the dress. To complete my look, I will use nude high heels and a few pieces of simple silver accessories,' she said. Sukuram said she spent about two weeks trying to find the perfect outfit. 'I wanted an outfit that goes with this year's theme. I originally purchased the dress from an evening wear boutique, but later had a lot of adjustments done and pieces added on by designer, Rishay Nohor of Rishay Nohor Studio.' Sukuram said she would attend the event for the first time. 'Growing up I watched my parents get ready to attend the Durban July. It was something that I looked forward to experiencing one day. I am now looking forward to experiencing the exhilarating atmosphere for the first time. 'I also can't wait to see the fashion and all the different ways that people have interpreted this year's theme. However, I am probably going to give the betting a skip and just soak in everything else that the event has to offer.' Denver Naicker Image: Supplied - Denver Naicker, a TV presenter and retail manager, said he was excited about this year's theme. 'I will be dressing to this year's theme, which really allows us to show off our African culture to the world. I started planning my outfit about a month ago. To match the theme, I will be wearing an 'Indian-meets-African' inspired coat.' Naicker said he looked forward to the fashion shows and meeting people. He added that he had yet to decide on which horses he would bet on. THE POST
