Latest news with #MTPA
The Citizen
a day ago
- General
- The Citizen
Cockroach Mdluli saves 3m python from Mkhuhlu mob
In an act of bravery and dedication to wildlife, Cockroach Mdluli has once again intervened to save a 3m rock python from certain death at the hands of community members. The large snake was rescued on July 12 in Mkhuhlu near Hazyview, where it was found basking in the morning sun. Mdluli said residents, who had reportedly been spotting the python for some time, were determined to kill it. Their fear was amplified when it was discovered that the snake had been hiding in the ceiling of a local filling station. Just a day prior to its capture, the python had fallen from the ceiling but managed to escape unharmed into nearby bushes. ALSO READ: Barn owl nestlings rescued in MTPA sting in Mbombela When the python reappeared to enjoy the sun, a mob armed with sticks and stones quickly gathered, ready to strike. Fortunately, Mdluli was called and arrived just in time to prevent a tragedy. He safely captured the massive reptile, which was then released into the Kruger National Park. ALSO READ: Hssss…it's World Snake Day! Mdluli, well known for his snake-rescue efforts, used the incident to reiterate a vital message, especially during what he refers to as 'snake month'. He pleaded with the public to refrain from killing snakes and warned against attempting to catch them without proper training. 'Snakes also deserve to live – they are an important part of the ecosystem. It is completely normal for them to look for shelter and food in residential areas,' he said. 'They must not be killed.' His tireless commitment continues to highlight the importance of co-existence and conservation in communities often at odds with local wildlife. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
Hssss…it's World Snake Day!
You might wonder what the purpose of a fly, tick, mosquito or snake is, but on World Snake Day we are reminded exactly why. ALSO READ: Python removed from Barberton road property, missing dog thought to be eaten by it Today, July 16, encourages snake awareness, and snake safety and in support of this, Chris Hobkirk, a Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) worker and director of Lowveld Venom Suppliers, shared his view on the importance of snakes. 'Twenty-two years ago there were no reptile recovery services in the Lowveld and with 60% of snake species in the country coexisting in Mpumalanga, I saw an opportunity to help and train volunteers to remove snakes and other reptiles safely from homes, ' Hobkirk explained. He started working at the MTPA in 2005 and is a well-known snake catcher. 'Snakes are vital for natural biodiversity systems to keep rodents away, and play a key part in the food chain.' ALSO READ: WATCH: Ssspitting sssurprise in Kruger caught and released People have a lot of misconceptions about snakes, but without them there could be an increase in rodent populations, leading to potential problems like crop damage, and increased disease transmission. 'When you come across a snake, keep an eye on it before calling snake catchers, since they can move away quickly,' Hobkirk shared. He also encouraged people to respect these reptiles and not provoke them. There are about 4 000 snake bites reported annually and after a shortage of antivenom was reported by the South African Vaccine Producers during Covid, there is enough anti-venom for this next season. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Web Release
08-07-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Mauritius Awarded Three Top Honours at the World Travel Awards 2025
Mauritius has been recognised as a leading travel destination, awarded three prestigious accolades in the 2025 World Travel Awards as voted by experts across the travel and tourism industry. Mauritius' 2025 World Travel Award wins include: Indian Ocean's Leading Beach Destination 2025 Indian Ocean's Leading Tourist Board 2025 – Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority – Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority Indian Ocean's Leading Wedding Destination 2025 Recognised as one of the most prestigious awards in the travel industry, the World Travel Awards celebrate excellence across the tourism sector. These wins reaffirm Mauritius's broad appeal to international travellers seeking picturesque landscapes, crystal blue waters, rich cultural heritage and world class experiences. Avinash Kanti Teelock, Director of Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) said: 'We are honoured to be recognised by the World Travel Awards. These accolades are a true reflection of Mauritius' world class hospitality and vibrant culture. We thank all of our partners who continue to help make Mauritius such a special destination. Whether it's a beach holiday, a dream wedding, or simply experiencing the warmth of our culture and people, Mauritius continues to offer unforgettable experiences to visitors from around the world.'
The Citizen
13-06-2025
- The Citizen
Mpumalanga premier warns against interruption of government projects
The Mpumalanga premier, Mandla Ndlovu, has warned against the interruption of government projects at the Mthethomusha Nature Reserve near the Mpakeni Settlement. This as the government is spending R4m on infrastructure upgrades and R10m on drilling and the installation of water ponds there. The projects are under threat as the Ward 24 councillor, Mandla Siboza, and members of the local Traditional Council were intimidated by suspected syndicates, who demand a share in the projects. Siboza was attacked at his home in Daantjie (Oggo Section) near the nature reserve on May 31 at around 02:00. His house and vehicle were fired at with high-calibre firearms and he later told Lowvelder Express that he believed that the attack was a warning against his involvement in the projects at the nature reserve. ALSO READ: Bail for seven in Lydenburg shoot-out case Siboza's belief was echoed by the Office of the Premier when calling for the government projects to continue without interference. 'Any interruption of government projects will not be tolerated,' warned Ndlovu. He said the project was designed to provide water to wild animals and to upgrade infrastructure, to prevent them from crossing into local villages and farms. 'The project is under threat as a local councillor and members of the Traditional Authority are intimidated to accede to the demands of people who want a share,' added Ndlovu. He has so far met with the security cluster, led by the MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Jackie Macie, and the acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, in Mbombela on Tuesday, June 3. The MEC for economic development and tourism, Makhosazana Masilela, and other senior government officials also attended the meeting. 'Perpetrators of these threats must be arrested to face the full might of the law. The victims must lay criminal charges for police investigation,' said Ndlovu. He added that the Mthethomusha project would benefit communities living on the edges of the reserve, through job creation and contract opportunities. 'The project will provide water for elephants that break out of the nature reserve in search of the natural resources outside,' said Ndlovu. The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has confirmed that the projects at Mthethomusha were ongoing. 'R4m is being spent on infrastructure that includes the building's renovation and entrance gate, while R10m is for the bulk water and resuscitation of water ponds for the animals,' said the MTPA's spokesperson, Simphiwe Shungube. Police investigators have so far met with Siboza on several occasions in order to connect the dots after this publication had reported about his belief that his attack was related to the projects at the nature reserve. No arrest has been made in connection with the shooting at Siboza's home thus far. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
29-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
R4.5b development plans for Witbank Dam catches everyone off guard
R4.5b development plans for Witbank Dam catches everyone off guard The news that the Nkangala Economic Development Agency (NEDA) is going to give Witbank Dam a facelift worth R4.5b has left everyone gobsmacked. The municipality was not aware of the plans to develop the dam into a world-class waterfront destination. They have written to all the role players to get more insight into the announcement that was made at the prestigious Africa Tourism Indaba 2025 in Durban earlier this month. The announcement was made by Dr Moeketsi Mosola, Chief Executive Officer of Neda, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) on May 14. Mosola said the development of the Witbank Dam and the nature reserve is the brain child of Executive Mayor, Hounable Cllr Thomas Ngwenya. Ngwenya requested Neda to develop a concept around what can be done. The board of Neda commissioned a concept study for the development and approved it. As a result, this was approved as part of the Mega Catalytic Projects to be pursued by the Neda. The concept document has been approved by Neda board for public consultation including stakeholders such as Emalahleni Municipality, the local communities, business, and workers. Mosola said Neda's plans include two hotels, a modern shopping and restaurant experience, luxury boat cruises and the reconstruction of the game reserve next to the dam. 'This development is not just about infrastructure; it's about restoring pride and excitement in our community while attracting investment,' said Mosola. With the MOU signed and sealed, Neda and the MTPA indicated that collaboration with stakeholders and environmental impact assessments will get off the ground. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with phased openings over the following years. Breaking news at your fingertips … Follow WITBANK NEWS on our website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or TikTok Chat to us: info@ At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
