Latest news with #KwaMashu
IOL News
5 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Tribute to the late Dr SD Gumbi
Dr SD Gumbi Image: Supplied On Monday, the 14th of July, the Church, the broader Christian fraternity, and indeed the entire nation, were gripped by a numbing and unspeakable sorrow upon learning of the passing of a towering general in the Lord's army, Dr SD Gumbi. Like a mighty cedar felled in the forest of our faith, his departure has left a void that echoes across pulpits, sanctuaries, and spiritual corridors both near and far. Since that solemn hour, the Gumbi family, and we, their spiritual kin, have borne the crushing burden of grief upon our hearts. Our souls have not found rest. Our spirits sink under the weight of an unanticipated and deeply disorienting loss. Silent tears of lamentation have flowed down our cheeks, moistening not only our faces but our motherland itself. The cries of the bereaved resound not only in the atmosphere but deep within the innermost chambers of our being. Dr Gumbi was no ordinary man. He was a trailblazer in the modern history of the Church, a preacher of global stature and celestial depth. Although his church affiliation was with the Assemblies of God, he belonged to all of us. He was a man of tremendous humility who transcended denominational divides, a bridge-builder whose gospel bore the fragrance of unity and divine reconciliation. His name shall be etched in the chronicles of Church history, not merely as a preacher, but as a father, a reconciler, and a servant-leader par excellence. He had a great following, an anointed crowd-puller whose revivals drew multitudes and shifted atmospheres. He was highly respected across all ranks of the Church. Over two decades ago, our paths crossed during the great revivals of KwaMashu, organised by Pastor Hlongwa and the GCF Network. I was meant to close those meetings, and with characteristic humility, he chose to wait and listen to 'the young man from the Cape.' Video Player is loading. 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Next Stay Close ✕ I preached with every fibre of my being that night, and his response was unforgettable; he embraced me with such warmth and sincerity that a covenant was silently formed. From that day, we were inseparable. He stood by me in all my ministry endeavours, offering me platforms in Vosloorus, Katlehong, Thembisa, Rhema Church, and beyond. Our bond was further sealed when we discovered that my spiritual father, Dr JM Masebe, had once been his pastor in Standerton during the early 1960s. I had the honour of introducing him to UECA, where he became a beloved guest speaker, particularly at the Men's Conference. In 2013, he proposed and preached at the 40th anniversary of our church, an event saturated with God's glory. He returned again a decade later for the 50th celebration in 2023, still as fervent and filled with the Spirit as ever. He was set to consecrate me at my ordination and the launch of the Redeemed Apostolic Church, of which I am the founder. However, due to illness, he was unable to attend in person. In his stead, he delegated the sacred task to Bishop Dumisani Nkosi and sent a heartfelt video message along with words of wisdom, delivered through his son-in-law, Pastor Oupa Nkgau. Yet such was the weight of our spiritual bond that I later travelled to him personally, that he might lay hands upon me and impart his blessing. His body bore the marks of affliction, yet his spirit stood resolute and undimmed. In truth, I have lost not just a mentor, but lost a father. He was a masterful expositor of the Word, a man of profound insight, gifted with a unique guttural voice that thundered truth into hearts. His messages were laced with wisdom and humour, leaving indelible marks on souls. He was a unifier, a healer of schisms, and a trusted counsellor to churches in crisis. His gospel was pure, undiluted, and sound. Dr Gumbi was also a seasoned musician. He recorded a stirring album titled 'Amehlo AmAvulekile', a powerful spiritual offering released under Higher Dimensions Music, a recording label owned by myself and the gifted producer, Sizwe Zako. His voice in song, just like in a sermon, carried the weight of heaven and stirred the souls of men. Last year, sensing the twilight drawing near, he summoned me to his home in Standerton. Though his body was frail, his spirit was ablaze. He imparted wisdom, laid spiritual assurances upon me, and declared that the hand of God was strong upon my life. I thank God for that moment, it was a final fatherly benediction. Dr Gumbi has left behind a resounding legacy, a footprint in eternity, and a model of servant leadership we must all aspire to. The mantle has fallen. Who shall rise to carry it?'Now when David had served God's purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep...' (Acts 13:36). Indeed, Dr Gumbi has completed his assignment with honour. His indomitable soul rests in eternal peace. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mama Gumbi, his daughters Sibongile and Nomsa, and his cherished grandchildren. May the God of all comfort hold them close and may the memory of Dr SD Gumbi inspire generations to come. * Khaya Mayedwa is the Bishop and the Founder of the Redeemed Apostolic Church (RAC). ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.
IOL News
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- IOL News
Mervyn Naidoo receives nomination for Standard Bank Sikuvile Award
The Daily News' Mervyn Naidoo has been nominated for a prestigious 2025 Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Award Image: Supplied Mervyn Naidoo of the Daily News is among the nominees for a prestigious 2025 Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Award. This recognition underscores Naidoo's commitment to storytelling, a craft in which he has excelled, delivering powerful narratives that resonate with audiences across South Africa. "I count it a great privilege and honour to be counted among some of country's leading journalists, who have also been nominated," said Naidoo Other accolades in his journalism journey includes Vodacom Journalist of the Year awards on two occasions; in 2022 for his engaging story on car culture, and in October 2024 for capturing the inspiring journey of a KwaMashu sailor and his all-women crew who triumphed in an international yacht race. His ability to weave tales—whether about local heroes, politicians, or the everyday triumphs and struggles of South Africans—demonstrates his passion for the profession. 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 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. Next Stay Close ✕ Throughout his career, Naidoo has embraced the nuances of narrative delivery, which he credits to his journalism studies and life's experiences. His dedication to honing his craft is evident in the articles he pens, engaging readers with compelling content that has garnered extensive attention on various social media platforms. Naidoo's contributions to journalism extend beyond writing; his leadership roles also includes various stints acting as News Editor, during his time with the Sunday Tribune. The Standard Bank Sikuvile Awards is organised by the South African National Editors' Forum (Sanef), has seen significant interest this year, with 437 entries submitted from across the nation, although slightly lower than last year's figures. However, judges noted an increase in the quality of submissions, particularly from the community media sector, which bodes well for the future of journalism in South Africa. This shift illustrates a sector that is nurturing talent and pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
The Herald
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald
Zakes Bantwini gets his qualification at Harvard Business School
Congratulations are in order for Grammy Award winner Zakes Bantwini who is celebrating his graduation from the prestigious Harvard Business School. Zakes, whose real name is Zakhele Madida, is known for his songs such as Osama, Imali and Clap Your Hands . He completed his studies at Harvard Business School in the business of entertainment, media and sport. The KwaMashu-born singer shared on his X account: 'Completing this executive education programme at Harvard Business School is more than a personal achievement. It's a powerful statement about where African creatives belong in every global conversation, every boardroom and at every table where the future is being shaped. Bucket list checked. #harvardbusinessschool #bems2025 ".
News24
09-06-2025
- Politics
- News24
‘It's not goodbye, but thank you' – Mondli Makhanya signs off after nine passionate years at the helm of City Press
It was back in the 1980s that the love affair began. This lowly newspaperman was just a youngster in the soulful township of KwaMashu. The house was always full of newspapers. During the week, it was The Natal Mercury and the Daily News. On Monday and Thursday, it would be (begrudgingly) Ilanga lase Natal. Begrudgingly because the newspaper that was founded in 1903 by John Dube, who later became the first president of the ANC, had been bought by Inkatha (the forerunner to the IFP) in 1987. Under the ownership of the Bantustan party, it was always spewing the gospel according to Mangosuthu Buthelezi and his band of bloodthirsty disciples, and denigrating the forces that were fighting apartheid. From the progressive segment there was what was called the 'alternative press', feisty and insightful newspapers such as the Weekly Mail, the New African, New Nation, UmAfrika and South. On Sunday would land City Press, the Sunday Times and the Sunday Tribune. It was always a veritable feast and, for a young news addict, it was also a huge distraction from schoolwork. Especially since some close comrades would arrive in the evenings and weekends to partake in the feast as everyone knew that there would be a newspaper buffet at the ready. The readings would inevitably be followed by much discussion and hectic arguments as we delved into the meaning of what we had consumed and what it all entailed for the revolution. It was during this time that the love affair with this wonderful institution began. At the time it was led by a giant intellect by the name of Percy Qoboza. The man was the legendary editor of City Press. His column, Percy's Itch, was unmissable for both its prose, penetrating insights and courageous positions. Reading Qoboza's writing was like walking through a well-manicured park that is replete with beautiful flowers, wild thorns, majestic trees and birds chirping beautifully in the branches. Did we forget the porcupines that could prick the thickest skin? The man's courage was beyond measure. He had been clashing with the apartheid regime since the early 1970s as editor of the outspoken The World newspaper, which was eventually banned in 1977, along with anti-apartheid organisations and other publications. Qoboza's detention, continued harassment and threats did not stop his fire. As editor of City Press, he moulded the publication in his image: fearless, uncompromising with truth, charismatic, entertaining and generally full of nonsense. It was that man whose work inspired this lowly newspaperman in those teenage years to want to be a member of this most noble tribe that we consider the highest species on earth. But the thought of ever sitting in Qoboza's seat was the furthest thing from the mind. The only ambition was to be nearly as good as this icon and to be nearly as full of sh*t as he was. In life, we all have heroes whose qualities we aspire to emulate. They become your lodestar because of all the positives they possess. Faultless not. Fallible lots. In my more than 35 years of journalism, of which 23 have been spent in the editorship of various newspapers, I have tried to follow the lodestar that was Percy Qoboza. I have for the past nine years had the fortune of sitting on the chair that Qoboza sat on, steering the ship that a great captain once steered. It has been a privilege to work with teams that greatly loved this republic and understood the ethos that Qoboza and those who followed him left us. Together we exposed malfeasance during the rule of the Gupta dynasty when their loyal servant Jacob Zuma gave the greasy family control of the country and its resources. We broke big political stories and unpacked complex political and judicial processes. We covered South Africa's recovery from that traumatic period as the country's engine spluttered back to life. We were empathic as we told stories of the still downtrodden masses who are being failed by the democracy they strongly believe in. We fought for the sustainability of the rule of law. We helped South Africans manage their lives through informed advice pages. We were at the centre of policy debates about how to achieve inclusive growth and be a fair society. We gave the South African cultural sector a massive boost and entertained society with exclusive and in-depth forays into Celebville. We were in the backline, midfield and front row of sports coverage as we captured triumphs and heartbreaks in prominent and obscure sports disciplines. To be a journalist in South Africa comes with the joy of being a chronicler of a nation being moulded. We have had a ringside seat in one of the great dramas of our times where a nation was born out of fire and became a poster child of what humanity could achieve if we put our minds to it. The ringside seat also gave us privileged insight into how easily that great feat can be undone, as we witnessed when the randy, corrupt polygamist took us to the edge of doom. We have been able to share in joyous moments when our artists and sportspeople conquered the world. We have also witnessed tragedy when the state failed its people and even oversaw a bloody massacre. But being a journalist in this country comes with an added duty of being part of that nation-building project. We have had the responsibility of helping our once-divided country forge a nation and live up to the Constitution's opening line that 'South Africa belongs to all who live in it'. This lowly newspaperman is proud to have been editor in chief of a City Press that rose to the challenge of being more than just a newspaper. A newspaper that was a nation-builder, an activist, a dutiful citizen and an uncompromising defender of the Constitution. The City Press that I hand over to a new editor has vast horizons ahead of it. At the beginning of this year, we took a big leap by becoming a purely digital publication, having published our final print edition at the end of December. This has opened up wide vistas that will ensure we are here to serve South Africa way into the future. This leap is enabling us to tell stories in more creative and innovative ways as we continue our mission of being a servant of this nation's people. It is now time for me to move to a role within the Media24 stable, where I will be more available to all the excellent publications in South Africa's biggest and most influential media organisation. So, this is not a goodbye to City Press. I will still be very much part of this great institution that I fell in love with back in the 1980s. This is just a thank you to you, the readers, for having walked this path with this lowly newspaperman. And as billions of humans have done since the time of the pharaohs and the writing of Ezekiel chapter 37, this lowly newspaperman urges: Always, always, always love Orlando Pirates Football Club.
News24
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
KwaMashu-born runner, Nate Ngcobo, beats paralysis odds in Comrades Marathon
Instagram He was among the 22,000 who took to the streets of KZN this past weekend. He finished the 98th Comrades marathon in just under 8 hours. From Pietermaritzburg to Durban, Nate Ngcobo paced himself through the 90 km. Surprisingly, after completing the race before 2 pm on Sunday, Nate was still full of fun. Joking around with Drum at the Omo marquee after the ultramarathon, he says that all he needed after his victory was ice cream. 'I had an ice cream when I got here, I needed the hydration. What's left is an ice bath or cold shower and rest.' Despite it being his 7th Comrades Marathon, Nate is still as optimistic, competing with nobody but himself, like it's his first time, each time. 'I would wake up around 4 am to watch the Comrades Marathon when I was growing up but I didn't have any ambition to participate in it because I was fully focused on soccer.' From a very young age, he was athletic and sporty in school. 'I have been in sports and athletics all my life, but how I got into running is that I had a terrible accident almost over two decades ago, which left me paralysed for months,' he tells Drum The athletic DJ takes us back to the heartbreaking day. 'I was back home in KwaMashu, Entuzuma, it was drizzling a bit, and I was driving with my friend. The next thing I know, the car was rolling. The friend came out of the accident with no scratches, but it threw me out, and I bumped my head on the road, so I had to get an artificial bone in my spine for support.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thembinkosi Nate Ngcobo (@natejpy) He was left heartbroken after he was told, upon being discharged from the hospital, that he would never be able to participate in contact sports, which included soccer. To recover, he invested in physiotherapy and ended up pivoting into running. Read more | Galxboy takes on Africa's richest square mile with new flagship store 'Here's how I discovered running: I went to the gym regularly and spent a lot of time on the treadmill. There were some guys who were playing squash at the gym's workshop, and they saw my running pace and saw something in me. Then they invited me to run with them outdoors and join their club. A year later, I fully recovered, and I participated in my first Oceans Marathon and Comrades Marathon. What began as recovery became a purpose. Today, he runs with joy, strength, and gratitude. For Nate, running is not just therapy — it's his anti-aging drug. Joining him at the marquee, Caster Semenya proudly commends the resilience of all the other runners at the marathon. 'Being at Comrades this year is a powerful reminder that greatness isn't just about winning - it's about showing up and staying the course. Resilience means pushing through, even when it hurts, keep playing on,' says Caster.
