Danisha Patel Wins Gold and Chetan Nathoo Secures Bronze at UMG TTA Open 2025 in Pietermaritzburg

In a notable showcase of local talent, Danisha Patel from the Lenasia Table Tennis Association (LTTA) claimed gold in the women’s singles at the UMG TTA Open 2025, while her teammate Chetan Nathoo earned a bronze medal in the men’s singles and a gold in mixed doubles. The tournament, held from May 1-3 at Pietermaritzburg Girls High School in KwaZulu-Natal, attracted over 200 players from across South Africa and marked one of the sport’s premier events for the year.

Patel’s victory adds to her recent successes, including her first-place finish at the Johannesburg Table Tennis Association (JTTA) Open 2025. She highlighted the competitive spirit and camaraderie among players, noting the tournament’s well-organized format, which involved progressing from eight groups into knockout rounds. Despite challenges such as adjusting to the humidity in Pietermaritzburg, Patel emphasized that table tennis remains a fun sport that demands discipline and practice. “You won't know how good you are unless you try,” she encouraged aspiring players.

Chetan Nathoo also performed admirably, earning a bronze in the men’s singles after a strong run to the semifinals, where he was defeated by fellow national team member Liam Buekes. Additionally, Nathoo and Patel teamed up to win the gold medal in mixed doubles, showcasing their versatility and teamwork.

The event was praised by UMG TTA president Preshen Naidoo for its high level of play, sportsmanship, and the diversity of categories, including able-bodied and para events, as well as junior divisions under 11 to 19. Naidoo highlighted the tournament’s role in nurturing future talent and fostering growth within the sport, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and youth development.

Commenting on her performance, Patel expressed pride in representing Lenasia and the community’s potential to excel on national platforms. “It was a good overall tournament for me, and winning gold in mixed doubles with Chetan was a highlight,” she said. Nathoo reflected on the event’s success, stating, “Back to the drawing board for now,” as he aims to improve further.

This tournament underscores the rising prominence of table tennis in South Africa and the promising future of local athletes like Patel and Nathoo, whose dedication continues to inspire their community.

Photos: Supplied

Successful Joint Operation in Lenasia Seizes R1.8 Million in Counterfeit Goods

On 7 May 2025, a significant law enforcement operation was carried out in Lenasia, led by the South African Police Services (SAPS). The coordinated effort involved the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, the National Counterfeit Unit, Border Police, SARS, and brand protectors, targeting the sale of counterfeit merchandise in the area.

The operation successfully raided five shops and two kiosks known for selling counterfeit items, resulting in the seizure of goods valued at approximately R1.8 million. The confiscated items included:

- 2,079 counterfeit clothing pieces

- 533 counterfeit cellphone accessories

- 36 counterfeit toys

This initiative highlights the ongoing commitment of authorities to combat the proliferation of counterfeit goods, which undermine intellectual property rights and can compromise consumer safety. Law enforcement agencies in the region remain dedicated to disrupting such illegal activities to protect consumers and support legitimate businesses.

Photos: SAPS

Ext 13 Ward 10 Positive Meeting on Saturday (3 May 2025)

Ward 10 Councillor Nokuthula Nofemela hosted a successful and positive community meeting on Saturday, 3 May 2025, at Ext 13 Park in Lenasia. The event was specifically organized for residents of Ext 13 to promote community engagement and facilitate direct access to various city services.

Representatives from City Power, Environmental Services, City Parks, and other relevant entities attended to address residents' concerns. However, it was noted that the South African Police Services (SAPS) did not attend the meeting. PR Councillor Zahid Zadie Jainoodeem was also present, contributing valuable insights to the discussions.

The turnout was encouraging, and residents appreciated the platform to interact with their councillor and learn more about her active role in community development. Attendees were eager to ask questions, although some inquiries were mistakenly directed to the wrong departments, highlighting the need for clearer communication in future engagements.

It was agreed that upcoming meetings would continue to be held in the park setting to foster greater participation and community involvement. Councillor Nofemela emphasized the importance of the Local Residents Association (LRA) engaging with residents on their objections to the demarcation board, ensuring that community voices are considered in local governance decisions.

Representatives from Environmental Services, City Power, Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), and City Parks provided explanations of their roles and services, helping residents better understand the functions of these departments. While some questions posed by attendees were complex and will require follow-up, the meeting overall fostered a sense of collaboration and strengthened relationships between residents and their local officials.

This gathering marked a positive step toward more informed, engaged residents in Ward 10, paving the way for ongoing community development and better service delivery.

COJ Expected to Experience a Severe Cold Front

The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (COJEMS) has issued a warning to residents about a significant drop in temperatures forecasted from Friday, May 2, 2025, through the weekend, as per the South African Weather Services.

This cold front may lead residents to increase the use of heating devices such as heaters, imbaulas, paraffin stoves, and candles, which can elevate the risk of home fires.

Safety Advisory from COJEMS

“We therefore urge all our residents to use heating devices safely, including heaters, imbaulas, paraffin stoves, and candles. It is crucial not to leave these devices unattended while in use to prevent fire incidents during this extremely cold weather,” said COJEMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi.

Important Safety Tips:

- Keep burning candles out of reach of children and pets.

- Never leave young children unattended in a room with a lit candle.

- Store candles, matches, and lighters safely away from children.

- Use containers with safety caps to store paraffin.

- Avoid illegal electricity connections; report any to authorities.

- Never leave a heater unattended while in use to prevent fires.

Emergency Preparedness

COJEMS has deployed monitoring teams across all seven regions of Johannesburg, alongside crews from 29 fire stations, to remain on high alert and respond swiftly to any emergencies during this cold spell.

Community Engagement

Residents are encouraged to visit the COJEMS BeSafe Centres for free life and fire safety education. These centers operate from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 16:00, throughout the city.

Emergency Contact

For life-threatening emergencies, contact the COJEMS emergency call center at 011 375 5911

Stay safe and ensure your home is prepared for the cold front!

SASSA Launches Verification Drive, Delays May 2025 Payouts for Some Grant Recipients

Photo: Facebook 

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced a slight delay in May 2025 grant payments for certain recipients as part of a targeted verification initiative aimed at enhancing data accuracy and minimizing ineligible grant disbursements.

This verification effort focuses on individuals using alternative identification methods instead of the standard 13-digit South African ID. In collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, SASSA discovered that many of these recipients have valid ID numbers that are not yet reflected in its system.

Affected individuals are required to visit their nearest SASSA office to update and verify their information. Failure to do so may lead to grant suspension or eventual termination.

SASSA is also reviewing cases identified through the bulk means test, which detects undisclosed income entering recipients’ bank accounts—potentially affecting their eligibility. As per Regulation 30 of the Social Assistance Act, grants can be reassessed if a change in the beneficiary’s financial circumstances is suspected.

“We will be ramping up monthly verifications during the 2025/2026 financial year,” said SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi. He added that the agency is also investigating possible collusion between staff and external actors in attempts to exploit the grant system.

“These are preventative actions to protect the integrity of our operations and combat fraud,” Letsatsi concluded.

SASSA urges all affected beneficiaries to comply promptly with the verification process to ensure uninterrupted access to social grants.

SA's Very Own Danisha Patel Wins 1st place in the Women's League at Joburg Open 2025

Photo: Supplied

Danisha Patel, a renowned South African table tennis champion and dedicated player from the Lenasia Table Tennis Association (LTTA), once again demonstrated her exceptional skill by clinching 1st place in the women's league at the Joburg Open 2025. The tournament was hosted by the Johannesburg Table Tennis Association (JTTA) from April 26 to 28, 2025, in Alberton.

Patel is celebrated not only for her prowess on the table but also for her commitment as a coach, inspiring aspiring athletes within her community. The competition featured a diverse array of competitors, including junior players and South African champion Chetan Nathoo, all representing LTTA.

Reflecting on her tournament experience, Patel shared, “The event was a successful tournament hosted by JTTA. A lot of hard work and team dedication went into it. I played in the group stage and then moved straight into the knockout round of 32.” She also highlighted the challenges of balancing her coaching duties with her playing schedule, noting, “Johannesburg hosts an open tournament each year, with each province organizing its own event as part of a ranking system. I won the 2024 open, so this year I was defending my title. My challenges included managing long days at the hall while coaching juniors.”

Vikas Kesan, chairperson of LTTA, expressed immense pride in the club’s members. “Huge congratulations to all our talented members who represented LTTA! We've received glowing feedback from fellow club chairpersons and players, who were thoroughly impressed by the exceptional skill and sportsmanship displayed by our players,” he stated. Kesan further praised the diverse talent within the club, emphasizing the dedication of junior stars, seasoned veterans, ladies, and senior men, all of whom brought pride to LTTA. 

Special recognition was given to top performers, including Patel, who secured 1st place in the women’s category, and Chetan Nathoo, who finished 2nd in the men’s category. “Your achievements were particularly noteworthy, and we're beaming with pride at your success. You've set the bar high, and we're excited to see what the future holds for you both!” Kesan remarked.

In closing, Kesan thanked all members who participated in the Joburg Open, saying, “You've made us proud, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for LTTA!”

Danisha Patel’s victory underscores her individual talent and exemplifies the strength, dedication, and spirit of the Lenasia Table Tennis Association.

Veterinary Day Celebrated at the Joburg Zoo

Photo: Dr. Arnold Kanengoni, a former zoo vet and current lecturer at the University of Pretoria, and Dr. Calvin Smith, a practicing veterinarian at the Joburg Zoo

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Joburg Zoo marked Veterinary Day—a special occasion dedicated to honoring the veterinarians who care for both wildlife and beloved domestic animals. Organized by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), the event featured a breakfast gathering from 9 AM to 12 PM, giving attendees a chance to celebrate and show appreciation for the dedicated professionals behind animal care.

During the event, two veterinarians were interviewed: Dr. Arnold Kanengoni, a former zoo vet and current lecturer at the University of Pretoria, and Dr. Calvin Smith, a practicing veterinarian at the Joburg Zoo. Both offered thoughtful insights into the unique demands of their profession.

Dr. Smith explained that treating wild animals often mirrors caring for domestic pets, but with additional complexity. “Most of these animals can’t be handled without immobilizing them,” he said. “They receive annual vaccinations and health checks, and with over 500 animals in the zoo, it takes a dedicated team to manage their care.”

He stressed the importance of teamwork in zoo veterinary work: “We have animal caretakers and keepers who alert us if something is wrong. From there, we assess the situation to determine if intervention is needed.”

Dr. Smith also discussed the risks associated with anesthesia in wild animals. “Every time you anesthetize something, there are many possibilities for things to go wrong,” he noted. Close monitoring of vital signs is critical to ensure the animal’s safety during procedures.

Dr. Kanengoni spoke about the demands of veterinary training. “Becoming a vet involves six years of study, and you must master a wide range of species,” he explained. “It’s not just about dogs and cats—you need to be prepared to treat everything from reptiles to rhinos.”

Both doctors encouraged aspiring veterinarians to pursue their passion, regardless of whether their path leads to exotic or domestic animal care. “There are always opportunities to help local wildlife, even if you’re a small animal vet,” Dr. Smith noted.

As the morning wrapped up, Dr. Kanengoni left young animal lovers with a powerful message: “It’s essential to have a passion for animals and understand the realities of the profession. It’s not just about loving animals—you must be ready for the challenges too.”

The celebration at the Joburg Zoo served as a powerful reminder of the essential role veterinarians play in safeguarding animal health—and the importance of inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.