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IOL News
2 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Sea View Cemetery: A community's struggle for dignity and housing
Living side-by-side with gravestones is a way of life for residents of the Sea View settlement in Durban Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers LIVING in shacks atop gravesites is the lot of a desperate community of 400 people inhabiting the Sea View Cemetery on Coedmore Road in Durban. Their plight caught the attention of the KwaZulu-Natal Human Settlements Department that is attempting to have them relocated to formal houses and restore respect for the deceased. Spokesperson for the department, Ndabezinhle Sibiya, said the Sea View situation underscored the desperation of some communities that resorted to inhabiting sacred spaces. Those who call the cemetery home have built their dwellings in all the available space. In some instances tombstones are found in some shacks. It's common practice for inhabitants to walk on graves, children play on them, and some even sleep on them. 'The MEC, Siboniso Duma, has stated that it is incorrect for people to live on top of graves,' Sibiya revealed, emphasising the significant cultural implications of such a situation. "We must remember the spirit of ubuntu, as cemeteries are regarded as sacred spaces." 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 ✕ This sentiment reflects a broader call for dignity and respect towards those who have passed away, while also confronting the pressing housing crisis faced by many South Africans. The emergence of shacks around the Sea View Cemetery, particularly in the adjacent Kennville informal settlement, has prompted urgent action from the government. Sibiya acknowledged the acute land scarcity problem that complicates these efforts, yet affirmed that the integrity of cemeteries cannot be compromised. In pursuit of sustainable housing solutions, local traditional leaders in Inanda have offered land for new construction, although critical funding of approximately R1.7 billion is needed for essential bulk infrastructure improvements. Construction is already underway on a separate site in Cornubia, with an investment of R500 million allocated for housing development. Over the weekend, MEC Duma directed their Head of Department, Max Mbili, along with the eThekwini Municipality, to expedite the profiling of families residing in Sea View Cemetery, so that they could be relocated to the Cornubia site. Duma was mindful that since the dawn of democracy in 1994, efforts to provide housing for the needy people of Sea View had evolved significantly but with many complex challenges. 'After 1994, the government prioritised housing for those living in the area since 1981,' Duma said. He noted there were past initiatives led by prominent figures in the early 2000s, aimed at relocating families from this community to improved housing in Welbedacht, Chatsworth. However, the MEC lamented the unfortunate reality that some families returned to the vicinity, perpetuating new informal settlements. Sibiya said the current conditions at Sea View Cemetery were troubling, with families crammed into makeshift shacks. 'It's a troubling situation that we are working to address,' he said. Sea View resident Doris Zeka, 50, said she moved from Kokstad to th e cemetery about 30 years ago. She said many residents were from the Eastern Cape. Zeka acknowledged that living in a cemetery was 'not okay', but they were desperate. 'We don't have the means to leave and rent elsewhere,' Zeka said. She said her informal structure is built around a grave, and they placed a table on it. 'We want to leave because of the heat. It's too hot here,' Zeka said. On service delivery, she said they have illegally connected electricity, which officials disconnected at times. Zeka said the last time officials visited the area was last year, and they took photographs. Another resident, Buyelwa Ncedo from Tsolo, Eastern Cape, said she arrived in the area in 1995. She said that relatives of those buried in the graves they built on top of, realised it was a hopeless situation. 'They got tired because they realised there was no way they could see their relatives' graves,' Ncedo said. She said they had never attacked them or taken any action against them because they realised the place had become their home. The eThekwini Municipality's spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana, clarified that the Sea View Cemetery did not fall under municipal jurisdiction; the urgency of the situation has prompted outreach efforts. 'It is important to clarify that the Seaview Cemetery is not owned or managed by eThekwini Municipality,' said Sisilana. DAILY NEWS
IOL News
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Race day revelry: fabulous weather and growing excitement at the Hollywoodbets Durban July
South Africa - KZN - 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July Fashion on the main day. Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/ Independent Newspapers The sun is out and serious punters have already made their way to Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse for the Hollywoodbets Durban July. The racecourse is alive with fashionistas, punters, the who's who and racegoers from all around the country ready to enjoy horse racing action and lifestyle entertainment. The excitement is building as the fashionistas stroll in the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July. Image: Alyssia Birjalal 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 From grand helicopter entrances to minor road closures, traffic is already following into the racecourse setting Durban's Central Business District alive. Durban's weather did not disappoint, proving itself Africa's playground with winter practically forgotten. Although it rained briefly on Friday, the sky is now clear and cloudless. Fashionistas and punters still making their way can relax knowing that they can wear anything, from slippers to sneakers, the turf is moist and not muddy. Though it's still early, the race course is filling up, and the race-watching stands are already packed for early morning race action. Most marquees are already set up and slowly waiting for partygoers to fill them up. If you've been here before, the set-up is different. There's a lifestyle village and the ground is set up with various food trucks, drink stands and public bars, creating an inviting atmosphere. The stage is also set for the lifestyle festival side of the race with different performances scheduled throughout the day. The hats are giving at Hollywoodbets Durban July Fashion on the main day. Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/ Independent Newspapers
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Celebrating women's empowerment and excellence at Sinayo Global's Rise and Thrive Breakfast
Models showcasing Silomos Boutique designs. Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media It was a splendid morning at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Durban, Umhlanga, on Friday, July 4, as attendees gathered for the Sinayo Global's Rise & Thrive Breakfast event. Hosted by East Coast Radio's vibrant Carol Ofori, the atmosphere was electric, filled with delectable food, soothing melodies, high fashion and an exceptional congregation of influential individuals. The event showcased a line-up of remarkable speakers, including Sinayo Global's Chief Executive Officer, Babalwa Ngonyama, the inspirational public figure Norma Mngoma, and the uplifting speaker Nontetho Smith. Guests were serenaded by the soulful performances of Thembani Matika and Neliswa Chitha, who delighted attendees with music that resonated with the event's theme of empowerment and resilience. Adding flair to the celebration was a mini fashion show, featuring dazzling collections from renowned designers such as Sibu Msimang, Silomos Boutique, Indoni Fashion House and ZA Atelier. 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. 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Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media Attendees were offered the chance to purchase exquisite clothing while immersing themselves in a day celebrating the unstoppable force of women leading in various sectors, including business, entrepreneurship, government and the arts. The event fostered an environment for engaging with visionary entrepreneurs, industry trailblazers, policymakers and cultural icons dedicated to reshaping Africa's future. Each speaker offered insights rooted in their journeys, aiming to inspire the next generation. Among the talent, Chitha, hailing from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, shared her musical journey and ambitions. In a candid moment, she expressed, 'I am a musician, I sing, I do covers, and I have my own music that I'm working on currently. Sinayo invited me to be part of the entertainment.' Known for her soulful selections of jazz and blues, Chitha noted how her music is deeply influenced by the classics that raised her, reflecting a dedication to her roots. Reflecting on the knowledge gained from the event, Chitha stated, 'Sis Babalwa mentioned something about the purpose of being here, and that resonated with me. Sharing your story with the world is crucial; it allows you to realise your purpose.' Eager to break barriers in the music industry, she acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by women in entertainment and expressed a commitment to pushing her mission forward. Models showcasing Silomos Boutique designs. Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media In the fashion segment, Silomo Ntombela of Silomos Boutique spoke passionately about her journey into fashion, which began in 2008. Her designs for the upcoming Hollywoodbets Durban July (HDJ) reflect a harmonious blend of her Durban roots, drawing upon Indian and African heritage. "Using vibrant colours and traditional fabrics like sari cloth, I aim to create designs that truly stand out," she noted, expressing pride in her creative process. 'To witness my work come to life at such prestigious events is always overwhelming yet fulfilling.' Mngoma provided powerful insights into the entrepreneurial spirit, sharing how her struggles have shaped her business journey since it began in 2021. 'Every challenge is an opportunity to grow,' she affirmed, encouraging budding entrepreneurs in the crowd. Mngoma highlighted that resilience is crucial in navigating life's hurdles and urged all women to forge connections and support each other in their ventures. Norma Mngoma provided powerful insights into the entrepreneurial spirit, sharing how her struggles have shaped her business journey. Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media The Rise & Thrive breakfast was a precursor to the upcoming horse racing experience at the HDJ, featuring Sinayo's exclusive Hospitality Marquee. As a proud 100% black female-owned leader in luxury hospitality, Sinayo Global promises to curate exquisite experiences for its guests at this highly anticipated event, showcasing the opulence that is intertwined with South Africa's top-tier social gatherings.
IOL News
09-06-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Louis Massyn makes history with record 50th Comrades Marathon finish
INCREDIBLE ACHIEVEMENT Louis Massyn (right) became the first person to complete the Comrades Marathon 50 times, finishing the 89.98km race at age 74 in 11 hours, 53 minutes, and 14 seconds, in Durban, on Sunday. Picture: Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Media Anyone who has finished the Comrades Marathon will tell you what an incredible feat it is to make it to the finish line, and in Louis Massyn's case his efforts are nothing short of super-human as successfully earned his 50th medal at the gruelling ultra marathon on Sunday. The 74-year-old made his way over the finish line in 11 hours 53 minutes and 14 seconds in the 89.98km down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Making it with just over six minutes before the 12-hour cut-off, Massyn is now the first person to complete the race 50 times. He was assisted by much younger runners on either side of him as he was hunched over and battling to keep his balance, when he was caught on camera at the finish line. Having entered his first Comrades in 1973, the only years he didn't compete were in 2020 and 2021 when there was no race due to the Covid pandemic. He also missed out in 2022 when he did not make it to the start line due to a knee injury.
IOL News
07-06-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
How arrogance can lead to a politician's downfall
Higher Education Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane's recent shocking display of unadulterated arrogance was deeply concerning. Image: File/Sibonelo Ngcobo/Independent Newspapers 'Politicians are like monkeys in that 'the higher they climb, the more revolting are the parts they expose'.' — Gwilym Lloyd George, 1st Viscount Tenby A disturbing display of arrogance Tebogo Letsi, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education: 'Question: In your own view, Minister, what makes a person credible?' Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, Minister of Higher Education and Training: 'What makes a person credible chair is exactly how it is defined when you goggle… eh… encyclopedia. You will see what it means, exactly that.' Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee: 'You are not going to answer us, Minister.' Minister (unashamedly chewing food in her mouth and disdainfully looking to another direction): 'I have responded, chairperson.' 'It is an old tale, as old as the conduct of human affairs, which was summed up pretty definitively by Lord Acton well over a century ago: power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.' On arrogance, the French proverb states: 'None are more haughty than a commonplace person raised to power.' Charles Haddon Spurgeon similarly noted: 'None are more unjust in their judgements of others than those who have a high opinion of themselves.' The recent shocking display of unadulterated arrogance by the Minister of Higher Education and Training was deeply concerning. Her despicable, shameless, and discourteous conduct — exemplified by chewing food while responding to critical questions during a live televised parliamentary session — reflects her ignorance of how a public figure should carry herself. 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 ✕ Arrogance is the most dangerous leadership flaw. Believing one is infallible or smarter than everyone else inevitably leads to underestimating others or overestimating one's own knowledge. It is the Achilles heel of those who are smart but think they are more clever than they really are. As Jeff Immelt says, '[T]op leaders cannot allow weak spots to be blind spots.' Arrogance often manifests as disparaging and objectionable behaviours targeted at others, ranging from aloofness and not listening to more serious actions like dismissing, deceiving, belittling, and hostility. According to Johnson et al's study, 'Acting superior but actually inferior? Correlates and consequences of workplace arrogance,' arrogant behaviours may be performed as a façade to mask incompetence. Nkabane may be an effective politician, but lacks the gravitas of a true leader. This is what happens when people are rushed into positions they're not ready for. Speed in rushing things in politics kills. The ANC's conspicuous silence regarding the minister's egregious behaviour is both shocking and concerning. The ANC should have reined in Nkabane and instructed her to apologise to the nation. Failure to publicly restrain her will have serious political ramifications. I won't call for the minister's sacking. I believe in giving people second chances because no politician is immune to the arrogance of power. As the saying goes: 'Good judgement comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgement.' The failure of both the minister and her senior officials to answer straightforward questions indicates deeper problems within the department. The minister's supercilious behaviour has created a 'perfect storm' troubling our democracy. Gifted leaders are frequently endowed with self-importance and a sense of imperious assurance. American organisational and management psychologist Hodges L Golson suggests a four-quadrant approach with brainpower on one axis and arrogance on the other: Low competence and low arrogance: Unlikely to rise to high ranks High competence and low arrogance: Solve problems without being offensive Low competence and high arrogance: Dangerous because they don't realise their limitations High competence and high arrogance: Interesting because of competing forces of "great potential and great danger" These leaders 'win any individual battle but often lose the war' due to their destructive impact on morale and relationships. What Nkabane clearly lacks is intellectual humility — a quality essential for effective leadership. Intellectual humility involves: Awareness of one's limitations and biases Willingness to revise views based on evidence Open-mindedness and curiosity Realism about one's flaws and capabilities Teachability and adaptability In political contexts, intellectually humble individuals demonstrate greater openness to opposing views, investigate misinformation more thoroughly, and endorse more moderate positions overall.
