Sihle Mavuso presents the latest news from KwaZulu-Natal.
Pietermaritzburg – Nearly 20,000 learners may face food shortages when schools in KwaZulu-Natal reopen on Tuesday, according to a warning from the National School Nutrition Programme Service Providers Association. This is because the Department of Education, led by Sipho Hlomuka, failed to pay nearly 200 service providers, with some payments outstanding since April this year.
Pietermaritzburg – Lukas Meyer, the new MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, has instructed his department to stop unnecessary spending. Meyer has banned the purchase of goodie bags for guests and politicians, as well as new banners and billboards. This order, issued in a departmental circular last week, aligns with KZN Premier Thami Ntuli’s call for careful spending to benefit the people of the province.
Newcastle – ActionSA has suspended Newcastle local municipal councillor Mzwakhe Mbatha and his driver Sizwe Mokoena following allegations of misuse of their official car. They are accused of using the vehicle to transport intoxicated women and for unauthorised trips. Mbatha and Mokoena have traded accusations over the matter, with Mokoena claiming he was forced to undertake the trips, a charge Mbatha denies.
Muden – A police operation in Muden (Ekombe area) resulted in the arrest of seven men found in possession of unlicensed firearms, including an AK47 and three pistols. The men will appear in the Greytown Magistrate’s Court soon.
Madadeni – The Madadeni regional court has sentenced a 44-year-old man for the rape of his 15-year-old neighbour in 2021. The victim, who is mentally disabled, continues to suffer from trauma and anxiety due to the ordeal. The perpetrator’s name has been withheld to protect the identity of the victim.
Pictured above: School lunch.
Source: Stock
