HUMANSDORP – A sinkhole has opened alongside the R102 near Boskloof, prompting lane closures and an urgent response from the Provincial Department of Roads just as a major rain system prepares to move into the Eastern Cape.
The timing has raised concerns that heavy rainfall forecast for later this week could worsen the damage and complicate repair efforts on one of the region’s important transport routes.
Incoming Rain Adds To Concerns
The South African Weather Service has already warned of disruptive rainfall across large parts of the Eastern Cape from Wednesday into Thursday.
Consequently, attention is turning to roads, bridges and drainage infrastructure that could come under pressure during the weather event.
While officials are still assessing the sinkhole, heavy rain has the potential to increase erosion. This could place additional strain on already weakened ground.
As a result, authorities are keen to evaluate the site and implement any necessary safety measures as quickly as possible.
Traffic Restrictions In Place
Temporary traffic control measures have been introduced at the affected section of the R102.
Traffic continues to move through the area. However, motorists should expect reduced speeds and possible delays.
Furthermore, drivers are encouraged to follow all temporary signage and instructions from traffic officials.
The route is widely used by commuters, residents and visitors travelling between Humansdorp and surrounding areas. Therefore, authorities are urging motorists to remain patient while investigations continue.
Roads Department Responds
According to Kouga Municipality, the Provincial Department of Roads has been informed of the situation and is treating the matter as a priority.
Resources have already been dispatched to the scene.
Officials will now assess the extent of the damage and determine what work may be required to stabilise the area and protect the roadway.
Meanwhile, municipal officials remain in contact with the relevant provincial authorities.
Monitoring Continues
Kouga Municipality says it will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as further information becomes available.
The municipality has also thanked residents and motorists for their cooperation.
For now, the message is straightforward. Approach the area with caution, and allow extra travel time. Remain aware of changing conditions.
With a significant rain system approaching the region, the next few days could prove important in determining the extent of the damage and the repairs that may follow.
Johannesburg, South Africa – High-flying BMX action took over the SkyLab BMX Park in Bryanston as the Park Lines BMX Tournament hosted the official 2026 South African BMX Freestyle Championships.
Sanctioned by Cycling South Africa and the UCI, the event attracted the country’s top BMX Freestyle riders. Competitors battled for national titles, UCI ranking points, prize money, and championship honours.
At the end of an action-packed day, Vincent Leygonie successfully defended his Pro Men’s title. As a result, he was once again crowned South African BMX Freestyle Champion.
South Africa’s Best Riders Gather In Johannesburg
The purpose-built SkyLab BMX Park at Jozi-X Adventure Park provided the perfect setting for the championship.
The course featured a range of ramps, transitions, and line options. Consequently, riders needed to combine creativity, technical difficulty, style, and consistency to impress the judges.
Both Amateur and Pro divisions were contested. Riders were scored on use of the park, amplitude, execution, trick variety, and difficulty.
Meanwhile, the Pro division offered more than national rankings. Riders also competed for a share of the R30,000 prize purse and Garmin Instinct 3 smartwatches.
Amateur Riders Showcase Emerging Talent
The Amateur Division highlighted the next generation of South African BMX Freestyle riders.
Several competitors were making their event debut. Furthermore, the division delivered one of the closest contests in recent years.
Eight riders advanced to the final.
Caromba Claims Amateur Victory
Johannesburg rider Sinjin Caromba delivered a standout performance in only his second BMX Freestyle competition.
He used the entire course with confidence and speed. His run included huge airs, creative transfers, 360s over both box jumps, a Nac Nac Seat Grab, and Tuck No-Handers.
As a result, Caromba earned the highest score of the division and secured victory. He will now move into the Pro ranks for the 2027 season.
Wodrich Continues His Progression
Patrick Wodrich returned determined to improve on his 2025 result.
His run featured big Backflips, strong combinations, and impressive amplitude. Consequently, he secured second place overall.
Heyns Completes The Podium
Cape Town rider Stefan Heyns impressed judges with a balanced and consistent performance.
His effective use of the park and variety of tricks earned him third place.
Pro Division Delivers Championship Drama
The Pro Men’s Division attracted South Africa’s top BMX riders.
With valuable UCI points on offer, competition was intense throughout the day. Ultimately, eight riders advanced to the final.
Fulton Impresses On Pro Debut
After winning the Amateur Division in 2025, Sean Fulton stepped up to the Pro ranks.
He rode confidently throughout the competition and secured a respectable fifth-place finish.
Peters Shows His Class
Cape Town’s Malcolm Peters once again demonstrated his ability.
His run included a Backflip Turndown, Tailwhip, multiple Flairs, and a smooth 360 over the spine. Consequently, he finished fourth overall.
Nkosi Extends Podium Streak
Johannesburg rider Nkosinathi Nkosi continued his run of strong performances.
His score was built on technical tricks and excellent course use. As a result, he secured third place.
Loubser Produces Technical Masterclass
Murray Loubser returned to Park Lines after missing the 2025 event.
Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most versatile BMX riders, he packed his run with technical combinations and difficult trick variations.
Ultimately, his consistency earned second place.
Leygonie Defends National Crown
Defending champion Vincent Leygonie was in outstanding form throughout the event.
His championship-winning run combined huge amplitude with flawless execution. Highlights included multiple Barspins, Backflip variations, Tailwhips, quarter-to-quarter transfers, and a 360 Tuck No-Hander over the spine.
Consequently, Leygonie posted the highest score of the day and secured his second consecutive national title.
Best Trick Contest Closes The Show
The crowd-favourite Insta360 Best Trick Contest provided a spectacular finish.
A thrilling battle developed between Malcolm Peters and Vincent Leygonie. Both riders pushed the limits in pursuit of victory.
However, Peters stole the show with a Backflip Opposite Tailwhip over the big box. Remarkably, it was a trick he had never landed before.
He stomped the landing cleanly on his first attempt and claimed the Best Trick title.
BMX Freestyle Continues To Grow
Park Lines organiser Ryan van der Spuy said the event continues to play an important role in BMX development across South Africa.
He highlighted the strength of the Amateur division and the progression shown by young riders. Additionally, he praised the high standard of the Pro competition.
According to Van der Spuy, the level of riding continues to improve every year. Therefore, the future of South African BMX Freestyle looks extremely promising.
Communities across Kouga and the Eastern Cape are once again preparing for heavy rainfall after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued an Orange Level 5 warning for disruptive rain expected on Wednesday and Thursday.
The warning comes less than a month after devastating floods caused widespread damage across the region, leaving many residents, businesses and farmers still dealing with the aftermath.
Forecasters say a cut-off low pressure system will move across the country during the middle of the week, bringing persistent rainfall, cold temperatures and the possibility of localised flooding to several parts of the province.
Eastern Cape in the Firing Line
According to SAWS forecaster Ayabonga Tshungwana, the weather system is expected to affect large parts of the Eastern Cape, particularly the Sarah Baartman and Amathole district municipalities.
Rainfall is also expected across Nelson Mandela Bay and surrounding areas.
The Level 5 warning indicates a moderate likelihood of severe impacts, with heavy and prolonged rainfall capable of causing significant disruption in vulnerable areas.
In addition, residents can expect a sharp drop in temperatures. Light snowfall remains possible over higher-lying areas later in the week.
Disaster Teams on Standby
Municipal disaster management teams across the region have been placed on alert as authorities prepare for possible flooding, dangerous road conditions and infrastructure damage.
Residents are encouraged to clear drainage channels around their properties, secure loose items and stay informed through official communication channels.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution and avoid driving through flooded roads, streams or low-water bridges.
Ground Still Saturated
The latest warning carries particular significance for Kouga, where extensive flood damage was recorded during the severe weather event of May 2026.
The earlier storm system delivered exceptional rainfall across the region, causing rivers to rise rapidly and damaging roads, bridges, electricity infrastructure and stormwater networks.
Large sections of the Gamtoos Valley agricultural sector also suffered major losses.
With soil conditions still heavily saturated in many areas, additional rainfall could lead to rapid runoff and renewed flooding.
Kouga Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman said municipal teams are clearing stormwater systems and preparing for the approaching weather system.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions as further rainfall could quickly affect low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Safety Remains the Priority
Emergency services remain on standby throughout the province as authorities monitor conditions closely.
Residents living near rivers, streams and flood-prone areas are encouraged to stay alert, follow official weather updates and make safety their highest priority over the coming days.
After one of the most destructive weather events in recent memory, communities across Kouga will be hoping the approaching system passes with far less impact.
Like the water he spent a lifetime helping to treat for communities across Humansdorp, Kerneels “Tai” Lejander’s life has been marked by resilience, strength, and quiet consistency.
KOUGA – Like the water he spent a lifetime helping to treat for communities across Humansdorp, Kerneels “Tai” Lejander’s life has been marked by resilience, strength, and quiet consistency.
Water adapts, flows, and sustains life – and in many ways, so too has Lejander throughout his 35 years of dedicated service in the Water Division of Kouga Local Municipality.
At 60 years old, the artisan plumber recently celebrated an extraordinary milestone: 35 years of municipal service. Yet for Lejander, the achievement is not only about the years behind him, but about the people, lessons, and purpose that shaped the journey.
From Farm Life to Municipal Service
“When I started in 1990, I was one of the youngest men in the department,” he recalled with a smile.
“I am thankful for everything my principals and managers taught me through the years. I learned a lot from the people I worked with. As a young man, the older staff members always motivated me.”
Affectionately known as “Tai” among colleagues and friends, Lejander grew up on a farm outside Humansdorp as the second youngest of six brothers. Much like water finding its course through rocky terrain, his path in life was not always smooth. He left school at the age of 15 to work on Honeyville Farm and help support his family.
It was during those humble beginnings that he met the woman who would become his wife. The couple married in 1987 when he was just 21 years old.
“We were very young when we got married, but we are still standing strong today,” he said proudly.
Together they built a family and raised three children. Though the family endured the heartbreaking loss of their eldest daughter, Lejander’s faith and determination carried him through life’s most difficult seasons.
A Calling Greater Than a Childhood Dream
Growing up, he dreamed of becoming a policeman, but life had other plans.
“I believe God had something else planned for me,” he reflected.
That purpose would unfold in the municipality’s Water Division, where Lejander steadily rose through the ranks through hard work, discipline, and a willingness to learn.
“I started as a general worker,” he said. “Back then, the men working on the bakkies earned better wages. People notice your work ethic, even when you do not realise it. When there was an opening on the bakkie team, Kobus Grobbelaar saw my dedication and gave me an opportunity.”
From there, Lejander obtained his driver’s licence, joined the standby team, and continued gaining experience until he was eventually appointed as a foreman. Although he briefly worked on the sewage team, his journey ultimately flowed back to the water treatment plant – the place where he built a legacy of dependable service.
The Quiet Strength Behind Essential Services
Over the decades, Lejander became known as someone communities could rely on. Like water itself – essential, steady, and often unnoticed until absent – his work ensured residents had access to one of life’s most basic needs.
“I am grateful and proud that I could work here for all these years,” he said. “I want people, especially my children, to be inspired by my service here.”
Family, Fishing, and the Next Chapter
Outside of work, Lejander treasures his role as a family man. He is a proud grandfather to three grandchildren and remains deeply connected to his 88-year-old mother, Lena Lejander. Fishing, another lifelong passion, gives him peace and time to reflect.
Now approaching retirement, he looks forward to spending more quality time with his family – embracing a slower pace after decades of serving the people of Kouga.
Advice for the Younger Generation
But before stepping away, Lejander hopes to leave younger generations with a lesson drawn from his own life journey.
“These days you cannot be picky when it comes to jobs,” he advised. “Look after your job and enjoy what you do. Even if the salary is not what you expect, hold on because you do not know what the future holds.
“It is not always moonshine and roses at work. Choose your battles. Sometimes you want to respond, but in those moments it is better to keep quiet. Have determination, dedication, and passion for your job. And always remember that respect is a two-way street.”
A Legacy That Will Continue to Flow
After 35 years of loyal service, Kerneels Lejander’s story remains a powerful reminder that, much like water, the people who quietly sustain communities every day are often the ones who leave the deepest impact.
Newsflash From St Francis Property Owners NPC (SRA) – Groyne Project Update: Storm Impact, Repairs And Dredging Progress
01 June, 2026
Between 5 and 7 May, a significant cut-off low- pressure system impacted large parts of the Western and Eastern Cape, resulting in widespread flooding, road closures, infrastructure damage, and evacuations across multiple regions.
The weather system generated sustained and shifting wind conditions ranging from south-easterly to south-westerly directions, accompanied by substantial rainfall that led to regional dam overflows. The event has been widely described as a one-in-a-hundred-year storm occurrence.
During the initial phase of the storm event, swell energy was predominantly driven by south and east swell directions, coinciding with a neap tide cycle.
While sections of the coastal protection infrastructure sustained damage, particularly in areas where construction activities remain underway, the groyne system performed effectively in protecting the revetment and broader shoreline infrastructure under highly challenging oceanic conditions.
Storm Impact, Repairs And Dredging Progress
Repair work is currently underway on the angled groyne, while construction continues on both the Peter Crescent and Anne Avenue groynes. Progress on the Peter Crescent groyne has reached approximately 50 metres of its planned 175-metre total length, while the Anne Avenue groyne currently stands at approximately 150 metres of its planned 175-metre length.
Although some sand loss occurred during the storm event, dredging operations continue uninterrupted. Sand replenishment activities remain focused in and around the angled groyne area while construction progresses on the remaining structures.
The broader coastal protection program continues to advance steadily, with ongoing emphasis on shoreline resilience, infrastructure protection, and long-term coastal stabilisation outcomes for the St Francis Bay coastline.
The forecasts srill have some time to change and possibly downgrade somewhat, but…
Just as residents were starting to dry out from the last round of rain, another significant weather system is lining up for the Eastern Cape.
The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 5 warning for disruptive rainfall across large parts of the province on Wednesday and Thursday, with Kouga firmly in the firing line.
For many residents, the concern is not simply the amount of rain expected. It is the fact that the region is already saturated.
Dams are full. Rivers are running high. Roads have taken a hammering over recent weeks. Another substantial rainfall event could quickly turn existing problems into bigger ones.
Roads Could Take Another Knock
Motorists travelling around Kouga may want to allow extra time and exercise patience.
The R330 between St Francis Bay and Humansdorp has already developed numerous potholes following recent rain, while sections of Da Gama Road in Jeffreys Bay continue to show signs of weather-related damage.
Should the forecast rainfall materialise, road conditions across the municipality are likely to deteriorate further.
Flood-Prone Areas Under Watch
Low-lying parts of Aston Bay will once again be closely watched during the coming days.
The Gamtoos Valley is another area of concern. With the Kouga Dam currently sitting at full capacity, additional inflows could place increased pressure on waterways throughout the catchment.
Across the broader region, authorities are monitoring the potential for localised flooding, overflowing stormwater systems and damage to infrastructure.
Cold, Wet and Potentially Dangerous
Weather forecasters expect a combination of heavy rain, cold temperatures and strong weather conditions associated with a cut-off low pressure system.
Higher-lying areas could even experience snowfall.
While winter rain is part of life in the Eastern Cape, weather officials have warned that this particular system carries the potential for significant impacts, including flooding, traffic disruptions, mudslides and damage to property.
A Good Time To Prepare
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, check drainage around their homes and keep a close eye on weather updates over the next few days.
If conditions worsen, staying off the roads and avoiding flooded crossings could prove the safest option.
For now, the message is simple.
Keep an eye on the forecast, keep the umbrellas handy and keep the gumboots close by. Kouga could be in for another very wet week.
Today most of the public still see a Financial Planners job to be picking investments, portfolio management and managing money. In reality, this task is not even second to what a real planner should be doing. A real financial planners’ primary role is exactly what the title says, financial planning.
The truth is that a portfolio has no other rational function than as a servant of a plan. The highest and noblest function of an advisor is planning for their clients. Likewise, the widely accepted assumption is that the primary determinant of investment success is portfolio performance, but it’s not, investor behaviour is, and this is where a real financial planner adds immeasurable value.
The second most important function of a planner is as a behaviour modifier, helping clients refrain from making emotional big mistakes that will destroy their well thought out plan. This is not to say that one’s investment portfolio is not important, it is, but only to the extent that it funds your plan which consists of your own unique personal goals and dreams.
Simple examples of goals are a retirement income that you can’t outlive or funding your grandkids tertiary education. These goals will vary and be unique to every person or couple. Everyone’s plan will be different, so should the accompanying investment portfolio based on a client’s available resources available and time.
This misunderstanding by most is understandable as the financial services industry serves itself with the narrative it spreads through it’s marketing strategies, implying that “they” have the golden bullet when it comes to investing. Another truth that I will touch on another time is that long term real-life returns are more dependent on asset allocation than fund selection.
Make sure that you have a plan that drives your investment portfolio, not the other way around. I see so many situations where the client’s money is the “client” and not the individual/couple or their family. Trust me if you don’t have a real plan, it is probably because this part takes time, honest and sometimes tough conversation and needs an understanding of who YOU are.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice in any way or form. It is important to consult a financial planner to receive financial advice before acting on any information contained herein. Client Care and PWM and its directors, officers, and employees shall not be responsible and disclaim all liability for any loss, damage (whether direct, indirect, special or consequential) and/or expense of any nature whatsoever, which may be suffered as a result of, or which may be attributable, directly or indirectly, to the use of, or reliance upon any information contained in this article.
The young players of St Francis Soccer Club recently enjoyed a memorable and educational outing to Port St Francis, thanks to an initiative organised by the Kromme Enviro Trust.
The visit provided the boys with an opportunity to learn more about the local maritime industry while gaining insight into some of the organisations that play an important role in the St Francis community.
Learning About the Fishing Industry
The day began with a guided tour of Port St Francis led by Ant Sherren, who introduced the group to the local fishing industry.
Sherren shared valuable information about the harbour, commercial fishing operations and the contribution the industry makes to the local economy. The visit helped the youngsters gain a better understanding of an important sector that supports many families in the area.
Discovering the Work of the NSRI
The next stop was the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) station, where the boys were welcomed by Garth Shamley.
During the visit, they learned about the lifesaving work carried out by NSRI volunteers and the vital role the organisation plays in keeping people safe on the water. The presentation highlighted the importance of teamwork, dedication and community service.
A Special Treat to End the Day
To round off the outing, PJ from the St Francis Ski Boat Club treated the young visitors to a delicious meal of calamari and chips.
The lunch provided a perfect ending to a day filled with learning, exploration and community engagement.
The Kromme Enviro Trust thanked all the hosts for their generosity, hospitality and willingness to share their knowledge with the boys.
Special thanks were also extended to SPAR for its ongoing support in helping create valuable opportunities and experiences for the young players of St Francis Soccer Club.
Kouga Local Municipality reinforced its commitment to smarter governance and improved service delivery when it hosted the Eastern Cape Municipal ICT Summit in Jeffreys Bay from 7 to 8 May 2026.
The summit brought together municipal leaders, ICT professionals and governance experts at Mentors Country Estate to explore how technology can strengthen local government and improve services for residents.
Municipal Leaders Focus on Digital Transformation
Held under the theme Connected, Intelligent, Secure and Citizen-Centric Municipalities, the summit attracted delegates from municipalities across the Eastern Cape.
Representatives from the Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), Provincial Treasury and several ICT industry partners also attended.
Welcoming delegates, Kouga Deputy Municipal Manager Dawie de Jager said collaboration and innovation remain essential as municipalities adapt to growing service delivery demands and rapidly evolving technology.
Governance and Service Delivery Take Centre Stage
Eastern Cape COGTA Head of Department Dr Vuyo Mlokothi delivered the keynote address, highlighting the Local Government Professionalisation Framework and the importance of strengthening governance systems and institutional capacity.
Throughout the summit, delegates examined how ICT can improve governance, financial management and operational efficiency.
Discussions focused on:
Cybersecurity resilience
Integrated municipal systems
ICT governance structures
Alignment with the Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts (mSCOA)
Protection against cyber threats, fraud and corruption
Kouga Recognised as a Digital Benchmark
A major highlight of the summit was Kouga Local Municipality’s web-based Collaborator system.
The platform supports electronic records management, correspondence tracking, workflow management, council agenda automation and policy management.
Kouga Showcases Smart Technology
Kouga also demonstrated how artificial intelligence is being used within the system to improve administrative efficiency and strengthen records management processes.
As a result, Kouga was selected as a benchmark municipality for its electronic document management system.
Challenges and Opportunities Identified
Delegates acknowledged several challenges facing municipalities across the province.
These include:
Limited funding for ICT modernisation
Fragmented digital systems
Cybersecurity vulnerabilities
Digital skills shortages
Participants agreed that strong ICT governance, integrated systems and sustained investment are essential to building efficient and citizen-focused municipalities.
Industry experts from organisations such as ISACA South Africa, Orion Cyber and Konecta shared insights into digital transformation, smart city development, governance frameworks and risk management.
Action Plan for Future Innovation
The second day of the summit focused on systems integration and compliance matters.
Topics included records management, free basic services administration, municipal human resources planning and e-recruitment systems.
The summit concluded with a programme of action aimed at strengthening ICT governance, improving institutional coordination and accelerating digital innovation across Eastern Cape municipalities.
Kouga Local Municipality reiterated its commitment to using technology to build smarter, more efficient and more responsive local government for residents.
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