I wish we had the opportunity to just erase some of our memories. I wish there was a button to restart life. How I wish we could stop knowing some of the individuals we know.
But guess what? Life wouldn’t be as exciting and fascinating if we had those possibilities.
We use our memories to invoke spirit. We use our memories to relive those times. We use our memories to entrust our body to pin down our motions from those moments we lived, let alone how we physically threaded through the moments of hurt, excitement, depression, or any other feeling we felt.
From myself to you my fellow followers
With each morning, great is his faithfulness, his mercies begin afresh. in the note of 2024, I wish you all a happy new year.
Let us all work hard to achieve success, to prioritise ourselves, and to maintain our health.
Here’s what’s to be in 2024
by Ande Nonginya
A disease to the nation, killing our brothers and sister’s furure. photo:2023
A street drug that has originated in South Africa, Nyaope, a highly addictive mixed drug. In the KwaZulu Natal province it has taken a verge in destroying the youth, as it has targeted youngsters between the ages of 15-25. It fuels crime and it ruins communities such as Umlazi, KwaMashu, and Lamontville etcetera. The easy access to Nyaope because of its price has contributed to the wildness of the Durban Streets.
In the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, Dumo, a 27-year a victim to the devastating grip of Nyaope addiction, caused by peer pressure and easy accessibility, with the harsh journey, revealing the consequences he is facing as “iphara” (a street term for Nyaope addicts) and his triumphs over fighting for his life.
“I started smoking at the age of 17, doing my first year at college. It was just doing coca(cocaine), at first it was a groove thing to have energy not knowing I would lend in here (the streets”, says Dumo.
Dumo’s story reflects the struggles of many young people in KZN. Growing up in a township with limited opportunities, Dumo could not resist the temptations of Nyaope. The drug was cheap and easy to get, making it hard for him to say no. small bags of Nyaope and the acceptance of other addicts made him feel a part of something but were dangerous at the same time.
Under the influence of Nyaope, Dumo’s life quickly fell apart. His physical and mental health declined, and he found himself involved in crime. Desperate for money to support his addiction, he resorted to theft, which jeopardized his freedom and the trust of those around him. Nyaope took away Dumo’s joy, dignity, and hope for a better future.
When compared to other drugs, the price of Nyaope is quite low, making it affordable to those who may not have the financial resources to buy more expensive medicines. This low price, along with its addictive nature, creates a cycle of addiction from which users struggle to break free. It is said that its places are in the CBD, South Beach, St Georges and on Clark in Davenport.
The rise in crime and drug-related violence, as well as the financial strain that addiction puts on people and society as a whole, are significant fears that communities must confront.
“my family could not handle me after three failed attempts of rehab, I still went back after some weeks and stole a radio at home after they refused to give me money.” Says Dumo. Hence, the social order of those affected frequently breaks down, leaving long-lasting and difficult-to-heal scars.
Nevertheless, combating the threat: The fight against drug abuse necessitates a multifaceted approach that includes law enforcement, healthcare experts, and community engagement activities. Understanding the causes of addiction is critical because it enables for the implementation of tailored therapies, education, and support networks at various levels.
One of the reasons for its scary fame is its ease of access. Nyaope is often sold in little plastic bags, making it hidden and portable. Young individuals are frequently targeted by dealers because they are more vulnerable and quickly misled by peer pressure and socioeconomic circumstances.
by Ande Nonginya
Isipho Gcolotela, a 5-year old kidnapped.
Isipho Gcolotela, a 5-year-old girl was reported missing in the mid hours of the day September 18 on social media. Her images were widely circulated on social media shortly after her disappearance. That is thought to have been the major tool that helped her be discovered.
On Monday morning, September 19, 2023, a guy from KwaZulu Natal was stumbled upon with a missing 5-year-old child, Sesam Isipho Gcolotela, in Mthatha CBD. Many people had seen her images, so when they saw a man walking with her in town, they interrogated him. That’s when they realised, he was actually walking with the missing child.
As the man was being led away by the police, some concerned Mthatha citizens were able to capture him and conduct “Street justice.”
He was severely beaten, and it appears as if he was dead as a result of the beatings. Some wanted to burn him to teach other people traffickers a lesson. According to eyewitnesses, this man claimed he stole the girl in order to sell her in Durban. Human trafficking remains one of the many crimes whose perpetrators are rarely arrested or punished. Many victims of human trafficking are never found after going missing.
“We are no longer safe in our community’s people should keep an eye on their children,” says Sihle Vilakazi.
Mthatha residents were relieved to learn that the infant was still alive. She was transported to the police station and kept safe until she could be reunited with her family. The 5-year-old daughter went missing on Sunday morning 18 September 2023, in Qweqwe, an area roughly 20km from Mthatha CBD.
By Ande Nonginya
Photo ://General Pactitioner. Dr Moerane in
the emergency unit saving lives.
In the heart of a small community, Mandela Park stands a figure that plays a key role, a businessperson and a general practitioner that gives out to the residents; Dr Mamothei Ida Moerane. Dr Moerane has dedicated her life into serving the people of the community, which she provides medical skills and a firm support.
“It is only you Black child, who can be helpful and embrace those who need love and support. I am doing it for the people,” states Dr Moerane.
Dr. Moerene’s journey began in Mount Fletcher, a small village in the northern part of the Eastern Cape, where she was raised by her grandmother. Despite financial issues, her unstoppable drive to pursue a career to lift her family out of poverty was the motivation for her decision to study medicine, which lit her path. Despite all odds, she was accepted into a prominent medical school with an outstanding education. Dr. Moerene’s passion for healing, and her wish to have influence in communities that do not have the privilege, encouraged her ahead.
After completing her studies, Dr Moerene made a commitment to serve the people most in need. Dr. Moerene’s clinic has become a lifeline for the residents of Mandela Park. She pushes for an approach to healthcare in addition to providing critical medical services. She organises courses on diet, fitness, and mental health because she believes in the power of prevention. Dr. Moerene’s goal is to uplift the entire community by empowering individuals to take care of their health.
By A. Nonginya
photo: Ande Nonginya// iie Rosebank college ground floor donating site.
Rosebank college Durban campus- In an effort to address the need for blood in medical emergencies, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) hosted a highly successful blood donation drive at the IIE Rosebank College on November 8th, 2023. The event aimed to encourage students and staff to donate blood and create awareness about the importance of regular blood donations in saving lives.
Sebestian, a third-year student at IIE Rosebank College, shared his experience, saying, “Donating blood today made me realize how a small act of kindness can have a huge impact on someone’s life. I feel proud to be part of this initiative and hope it inspires others to do the same.”
The event proved to be a remarkable success with an overwhelming response from both students and staff, who eagerly volunteered to roll up their sleeves and contribute to a noble cause.
Under the supervision of SANBS medical professionals, individuals went through a thorough screening process ensuring their eligibility to donate blood. Those who met the required criteria proceeded to the donation area, where highly trained and experienced technicians skillfully collected the blood units while adhering to strict safety and hygiene protocols.
One of the Lecture at IIE Rosebank College, expressed her appreciation for the initiative, stating, “It’s heartwarming to witness such an enthusiastic response from our college community. By coming together and donating blood, we have the opportunity to make a great impact on the lives of those in need.”
The blood donation drive not only aimed to support blood supplies but also fostered a sense of not being selfish to the community among the participants. Students and staff recognized the power of their contributions, understanding that a single blood donation has the potential to save three lives.
SANBS officials were delighted with the success of the blood donation drive, mentioning that the collected units would make a meaningful difference in meeting the critical need for blood within the healthcare system. The donated blood will go through a testing process before being appropriately distributed to hospitals and clinics.
In light of the overwhelming response and the positive impact occured by the event, SANBS and IIE Rosebank College are considering organizing regular blood donation drives in the future, with the goal of putting a culture of voluntary blood donation and saving countless lives.
As the drive came to an end, the participants walked away with a profound sense of fulfillment, knowing that their selfless act of donating blood would directly contribute to the well-being and survival of those in need.
For more information on upcoming blood donation events and how to get involved, interested individuals can visit the SANBS website.
Ande Nonginya
The entity celebrated this major milestone with a series of events, such as the major Durban Fashion Fair themed “Shades of Liberation” at the Durban ICC from 22-24 September , 2023.
The DFF showcased 550 locally produced goods and services as its aim is to showcase emerging fashion designers and facilitate access to market. The event was well attended to see the wonders of designers improving fashion.
The DFF was presented by a number of fashion designers including Nosipho Cele, Zama- the black elegant stopper, Hloniphile Mdladla, Carita Adams, Babongile Mkhize and Enhle Babes couture.Pinkie Nala clothing, a fashion is art that was embodied with African roots with different ethnicities. Pinkie Nala clothing appeared with a green, a color of nature, the essence of sparkling details with 5 models.
Brand Mposh exclusive by Nosipho Cele, a young designer, opened the runway with ilembe by baba Mbuso khoza with light blue and white details. “I have been designing since 2009 now. The music was inspired by the brand (African Souls) and nature. It’s about balance in life, this collection means peace because it’s soft,” says Nosipho.
Enhle babes couture est 2016 closed the show at 6 pm. The African that was shown stopped the show when she gave an esthetic symbol of African colors and details. She represents the African cultures with her own crown and enjoys the liberation.
By Ande Nonginya
The 18th of July each year, is a day to honor the legacy of Nelson Mandela, an anti-apartheid activist and the first black president of South Africa. In the Eastern Cape province, where Mr Nelson Mandela was from, the president of South Africa Mr Cryril Ramaphosa honored this day by the statue unveiling commemorating the ex President Mr Mandela at Nelson Mandela museum in Umtata, (2023).
The premier of the Eastern Cape province, Oscar Mabuyane, also stated that, “by the end of this month we are handing over a state of the art hospital in Ntabankulu Sipetu hospital at R600 million and the road construction. That is how we can celebrate Nelson Mandela.”
Mandela Day is an important reminder of the role each person can play in making a difference and building a better South Africa. It serves as a celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life and a call to continue his work in creating a more equitable society.
|| trophies and medals that we’re handed out to the winners of the day.
By Ande Nonginya
Rosebank College once again came alive with excitement and energy as the institution marked its Sports Day event on the 9th of June, 2023 at Hoy Park in Durban.
The day started with an opening ceremony that set the tone for the day’s activities, with a presentation of the various sports and events scheduled for the day. The netball, male and ladies soccer, and chess fields were neatly organized and marked, and the track was looking sharp and ready for action.The students, dressed in their sport categories, were full of enthusiasm and togetherness as they prepared to compete against each other.
The judges, student representatives and officials were equally motivated, ready to ensure that the events went on as planned with speed and accuracy.The Soccer fields were next in line, and the games were fantastic to watch, as the DBN team took the trophy.
Netball brought its unique blend of teamwork and coordination, as the players exhibited great skill and determination. The PMB team put up a strong performance, with sharp and precise passes, as they won by a significant margin.
The chess tables were not left behind. The matches here were tight, and a lot of fun to watch as the teams went all out for the win.
The day ended with an award ceremony, where the winners were recognized and awarded for their excellent performances across the various events.