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Ugu District Youth Development Council

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Ugu District Youth Development Council

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Empowering youth across all 85 wards of Ugu District through education, entrepreneurship, leadership, and community-driven development—uniting four Local Youth Development Councils under one vision for inclusive progress.

29/12/2025

*OFFICIAL STATEMENT BY THE UGU DISTRICT YOUTH DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL ON THE MURDER OF SNOH MBHELE-MBANDA*

The Ugu District Youth Development Council (UDYDC) notes with deep shock and profound sadness the brutal r**e and murder of Ms Snoh Mbhele-Mbanda, a 26-year-old young woman whose life was tragically cut short in Mehlomnyama.

The UDYDC unequivocally condemns this heinous, inhumane, and criminal act. Violence against women and gender-based violence in all its forms remain a serious threat to the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of women and young people in our district and country at large. Such acts undermine the constitutional values of human dignity, equality, and the right to life.

It is of serious concern that this incident occurred in close proximity to Mehlomnyama Police Station, yet no immediate arrests have been effected. The Council calls upon the South African Police Service and all relevant law-enforcement agencies to prioritise this matter, ensure a thorough investigation, and effect swift arrests of all individuals involved.

The Ugu District Youth Development Council wishes to place on record that it will not accept delays, negligence, or a lack of accountability in cases involving violence against women. Justice delayed is justice denied, and continued inaction only deepens public mistrust and perpetuates a culture of impunity.

The Council further calls on all stakeholders — including law-enforcement authorities, community leadership, civil society organisations, and government departments — to intensify coordinated efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide within the Ugu District.

The Ugu District Youth Development Council extends its deepest condolences to the Mbhele-Mbanda family, relatives, and the entire Mehlomnyama community. We mourn the loss of a young life and stand in solidarity with the family as they seek justice.

The protection of women and young people must remain a non-negotiable priority. Perpetrators of such crimes must be held fully accountable in accordance with the law.

Issued by:
Ugu District Youth Development Council

Chairperson: Nompilo Jeza
Secretary: Wonder Shinga
Contact: 078 168 8212

26/11/2025

The Ugu District Youth Development Council wishes its member Morena Mokoena , a wonderful and blessed birthday.

We appreciate your dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the development and empowerment of young people across the Ugu District. May you continue to lead with wisdom, courage, and a progressive spirit as we build a brighter future for our youth.

Happy Birthday, Mr. Mokoena

24/12/2024

Wonder Black-Man

09/12/2024

**For Immediate Release**

**Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council Stands Firm on Spaza Shop Registration Deadline**

The Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council (RNLYDC) has noted with great concern the growing calls for a six-month extension on the registration of Spaza shops. While we acknowledge the challenges faced by some operators, we must express our dismay that many of these calls are being spearheaded by foreign nationals. Reports indicate that a significant portion of these individuals are operating without valid legal documentation, effectively making them undocumented immigrants.

The RNLYDC strongly opposes any extension of the registration deadline. We believe that adhering to the established timelines is critical to restoring order and ensuring that the township and rural economies primarily benefit South Africans. Furthermore, we call upon the relevant authorities to take decisive action by identifying and deporting all undocumented individuals to their countries of origin without delay.

**Support for South African Entrepreneurs**

While addressing the issue of undocumented immigrants, we also recognize the need to support South African Spaza shop owners. Many of our local entrepreneurs, particularly in rural and township areas, face significant barriers to growth, including limited access to financial resources, mentorship, and business development services. The government must urgently implement programs designed to assist these individuals, ensuring they can compete fairly and sustainably.

We also wish to caution our fellow South Africans against engaging in illegal activities, such as registering businesses on behalf of foreign nationals. This practice not only undermines local economic growth but may also result in serious legal and financial consequences for those involved.

**Empowering the Youth: Taking Back the Economy**

The RNLYDC remains committed to the fight against youth unemployment, a challenge that continues to plague our communities. To address this, we will be conducting ward and cluster visits to engage with young people directly, providing them with tools, knowledge, and opportunities to reclaim the rural and township economy.

We believe that Spaza shops play a vital role in sustaining local economies and must be set aside for South Africans, with a particular emphasis on creating opportunities for the youth. By prioritizing youth entrepreneurship and fostering an inclusive economy, we aim to build a brighter, more sustainable future for our communities.

**A Firm Stance Against Xenophobia**

It is essential to emphasize that while we strongly oppose the exploitation of our economy by undocumented immigrants, the RNLYDC does not condone xenophobia or any form of violence or discrimination. Our actions and statements are guided by the principles of legality, fairness, and community development.

We encourage all stakeholders, including local government, civil society, and community members, to join hands in addressing these pressing issues. By working together, we can create an environment where South Africans, especially the youth, have equitable access to opportunities that allow them to thrive.

**End**
For media inquiries, please contact:
**Wonder Shinga**
Secretary, Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council
Tel: 078 168 8212 or 071 621 1920

25/11/2024

Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council Empowers young people(November 20, 2024) – The Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council hosted a successful Youth Empowerment Program on November 20, 2024, at the UVongo Town Hall. Over 350 young people, including Grade 12 learners, unemployed graduates, and unskilled youth, attended the event.

The program featured a diverse range of stakeholders who presented their programs and initiatives to empower young people. Key highlights included:

Education and Skills Development: Mr. Thembalihle Shusha of Esayidi TVET College emphasized the importance of higher education and encouraged young people to pursue their studies, regardless of their academic background.
Entrepreneurship and Economic Development: Mr. Mondli Ncane, a representative from the UGU District, highlighted the government's focus on supporting small businesses and encouraged young people to take advantage of opportunities in the rural and township economies. He also introduced the UGU District Youth Portal, a valuable resource for young people in the region.
Community Development and Social Impact: Representatives from Peasants NPC and Nsika Yethu NPO congratulated the organizers for the impactful program and expressed their commitment to working with the Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council on future initiatives.
Government Programs and Support: Mrs. Magubane from the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality Youth Development Office presented various programs available to young people, while the Department of Employment and Labour shared information on their initiatives to assist young job seekers.
Business Incubation and Mentorship: Mr. Cele from Esayidi Business Incubator offered support to young entrepreneurs, and Mr. Chetty from the UMzimkhulu Group shared his inspiring journey as a successful young business owner.
Government Leadership and Commitment: The Ray Nkonyeni Municipal Speaker, Cllr Gumbi, outlined the municipality's youth development programs, and the Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour, Honorable Phumzile Mgcina, discussed national initiatives aimed at empowering young people.
The event concluded on a positive note, leaving participants inspired and equipped with valuable knowledge and resources. The Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council remains committed to empowering young people and creating a brighter future for the community.

Wonder Shinga
Secretary
071 621 1920

11/11/2024

Countdown Has Begun – Young People, Get Ready!

The time is near! On 20 November 2024, join us at UVongo Town Hall for a transformative Youth Engagement Program with Deputy Minister Phumzile Mgcina. This is your chance to connect with leaders, explore career and business opportunities, and hear directly from influential voices on youth empowerment, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Get ready to be inspired, to engage, and to take your first steps toward a brighter future. Don’t miss it – this program is built for you!

08/11/2024

Invitation to the Unemployed Youth Empowerment Program

The Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council warmly invites all young people to join us for the Unemployed Youth Empowerment Program. This event will feature presentations from key organizations, including the Department of Employment and Labour, Esayidi TVET College, Bargain Wholesalers, SEDA, NYDA, Department of Agriculture, Peasants, Insika Yethu NPO, and the Ugu District Youth Office, among many others.

We’re honored to welcome Deputy Minister Honorable Phumzile Mgcina as part of our panel, alongside representatives from Esayidi Business Incubator, local business owners, and officials from the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality.

This event is especially valuable for young people in business, aspiring entrepreneurs, job seekers, and anyone looking to gain knowledge and skills for economic empowerment. Join us for this first-of-its-kind gathering and be part of the change.

Date: 20 November 2024
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Uvongo Town Hall

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow!

Wonder Black-Man

06/11/2024

Last night, from 18:00 to 19:30, the Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council held a key planning meeting with the Youth Development Forum of Ward 03 at KwaMasinenge Crèche. This meeting was part of our ongoing commitment to support and uplift the community, with a specific focus on preparing for a major upcoming event on November 20, 2024. This event will feature the Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour, Honorable Phumzile Mgcina, as our guest of honor, and is set to address some of the pressing issues facing the youth in Masinenge.

The choice of Masinenge is significant, as it is a community facing numerous social and economic challenges. With its high rates of school dropouts, unemployment, crime, and teenage pregnancy, Masinenge has become emblematic of the struggles faced by many informal settlements in the region. These issues have deeply affected the lives of young people in the area, limiting their opportunities and contributing to a cycle of poverty and hardship. Through this program, we hope to offer resources, education, and hope, addressing not only the symptoms but also the root causes of these challenges.

The planning meeting was instrumental in refining our approach, ensuring that the program will provide maximum impact for the youth and broader community. The agenda included strategies for promoting educational re-engagement, creating pathways for employment, and tackling the barriers to opportunity that young people in Masinenge face daily. The council also discussed safety and logistics to ensure the event is accessible and secure for all attendees.

We believe that this program, with the support and participation of Deputy Minister Mgcina, will be a transformative experience, bringing together leaders, youth, and community members in a shared mission to foster positive change. We hope this initiative will serve as a catalyst, inspiring and empowering the youth of Ray Nkonyeni to envision and pursue better futures.

Wonder Black-Man

31/10/2024

Media Statement
Issued by Wonder Shinga, Secretary of the Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council

Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council Engages Youth Leaders in Preparation for Program with Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour

Today, the Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council (RNYDC) convened an important preparatory meeting in Gamalakhe, Cluster 04. This strategic gathering brought together Youth Development Forum representatives from Wards 05, 26, 27, and 28. The purpose of the meeting was to lay the groundwork for an upcoming youth-focused program, which will be addressed by the Honorable Phumzile Mgcina, Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour.

This gathering took place at Gamalakhe KasiFied, a dynamic community venue owned by a young entrepreneur. The choice of venue underscores the RNYDC's commitment to uplifting youth-owned businesses and fostering community-based economic opportunities. Our local young entrepreneurs are a powerful force, and we aim to create spaces that celebrate their contributions and reflect their aspirations.

Today's meeting focused on ensuring that the voices of young people from Ray Nkonyeni Municipality are fully represented in discussions on employment and labor. The RNYDC believes that the upcoming program will provide a valuable platform for young leaders and community members to engage with the Deputy Minister directly, addressing the urgent need for employment opportunities, skill development, and sustainable pathways to economic empowerment.

As the RNYDC, we recognize the ongoing challenges facing our youth, including high unemployment rates, limited access to resources, and barriers to entrepreneurial growth. Our role in this upcoming event is to advocate for meaningful solutions that reflect the lived experiences and aspirations of our youth. In collaboration with the Department of Employment and Labour, we look forward to discussing how to best support our young people in achieving their professional and personal goals.

The RNYDC remains dedicated to its mission of youth empowerment, social development, and economic growth within Ray Nkonyeni Municipality. We are honored to have the opportunity to host Deputy Minister Mgcina and to facilitate conversations that can lead to transformative outcomes for the youth of our community. We extend our gratitude to all participants, stakeholders, and community members who contributed to the success of today’s meeting.

For further information, please contact:
Wonder Shinga
Secretary, Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council

27/10/2024

The Ray Nkonyeni Local Youth Development Council convened today, with key discussions centered around the upcoming program scheduled for 20 November 2024. This event is designed to support unemployed youth in our community and foster connections that can drive real change.

The program will feature leaders from both Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM) and Ugu District Municipality, alongside representatives from various government departments and local business owners. Setting this event apart is the anticipated presence of the Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour, whose participation underscores the significance of our collective mission to address youth unemployment.

This initiative will offer young people the chance to engage with decision-makers, explore employment pathways, and gain insights into available resources and opportunities for growth.

Address

UGU District Youth Development Council
Port Shepstone
4240

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