Author: Dideka Njemla

By Dideka Njemla and Luvuyo Mjekula An angry and disappointed community of Makhanda will take to the streets next week in pursuit of justice for murdered Ntombizanele “Nopopi” Katiya and her grieving family. Katiya died at Settlers’ Hospital after she was severely assaulted by “unknown assailants”, according to the police. Police spokesperson Captain Marius McCarthy said in a statement that Katiya succumbed to her injuries. The officer said Katiya was brought to the hospital by her boyfriend. “The 42-year-old victim succumbed to the injuries and was certified dead at Settlers’ Hospital,” McCarthy stated. He said no arrests have been made,…

By Dideka Njemla Fifty years after completing matric, Michael J De Kock Willemse – now 72 – arrived at Rhodes University in 2020 as the oldest undergraduate student. Today, he has achieved his long-awaited qualification after approaching his academic journey with perseverance and commitment. Reflecting on a memorable achievement which required him to overcome many difficulties, Willemse says he did not anticipate the warm reception and recognition he received at his graduation ceremony on Wednesday. “I was shocked that so many people gave me a standing ovation. Even the dignitaries stood up. Some said beautiful words. Everybody has been fantastic…

For school learners, the April holidays provide a time to rest and play. And some even do holiday programmes. This holiday, Amazwi did something different, offering the elderly a programme of their own. Exhibition Officer Nozipho Madinda said the April School programme invited and accommodated senior citizens from McKaiser Old Age Home. “Amazwi opens its door to citizens of all ages. We cater to the community, and a huge part of that community includes the elderly.” Madinda said the programme aims to keep the elderly motivated to stay curious and explore new ideas. A range of activities were offered: reading…

By Dideka Njemla It is the season to recognise the hard work of students who have demonstrated immense dedication to their academic journeys. On Tuesday, the College of the Transfiguration welcomed us into their 2025 graduation season with a ceremony at the Christ Church Anglican Parish. The ceremony started with the seminarians assembled at the altar in unity as the harmonious voices of the choir uplifted the celebration with their hymns. “Immortal, invisible, God only wise, in light inaccessible hid from our eyes, most blessed, most glorious, the ancient of days, almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.” Paying careful…

 By Dideka Njemla  In collaboration with Grocott’s Mail and the School of Journalism and Media Studies at Rhodes University, we responded to the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) invitation to participate in its Human Rights Day and Democracy dialogue at Graaff Reinet. The dialogue aimed to improve and enhance youth voter engagement in the Eastern Cape.  According to the latest data from the most recent elections, the Commission reported that in the 2024 national and provincial elections, the Eastern Cape had the third-lowest voter turnout, at 53.40% nationally and 52.72% provincially. To address the issue of low turnout and encourage youth…