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Joint Stakeholder Media Alert

For Immediate Release

Saturday, 24 August 2024

Advancing veld fires in various parts of the Amathole District Municipality which include Mbhashe, Ngqushwa,  Amahlathi and Raymond Mhlaba LMs, has resulted in communities being displaced while others are being prepared to leave their homes at a moment's notice.

The Hogsback community under Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality has been placed on evacuation alert due to advancing wildfires in the area. An alert means that people do not need to leave their homes but should be prepared to do so at a moment's notice because of the potential danger to lives and health.

The first alert was received via the Greater Stutterheim Fire Protection Association at 09h00 on Saturday, 24 August 2024, warning of the Elandsberg Mountain fire ,which if not successfully contained, would propel for evacuation. 

Also of consideration is the three-day FDI forecast noting that should the fire burn across the Cathcart Road to Forestry, the only option available to save lives would be full evacuation of the Hogsback community.

Communities are urged to remain calm during this phase as all fire emergency personnel try to contain the fire.

Also, a continuous monitoring of the R67, especially around Nico Malan Pass is active to alert motorists of any danger as a result of smoke over the road.

ADM may consider a possible declaration of a state of Disaster due to four local municipalities ( under its jurisdiction ) experiencing veld fires at the same time.

Loss of property in terms of livestock has not been costed, as assessments continue. 

Updates will be provided on regular basis and communities are urged to keep a look out on the official joint stakeholders' social media platforms for accurate information updates.

Our 24-hr fire emergency centre number remains as follows:

Amathole District Municipality : 043 831 1275 |1084 | WhatsApp : 078 034 6401 

Raymond Mhlaba LM : 046 645 645 7402 / 066 471 6042 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Media Enquiries:

Amathole District Municipality:
Sisa Msiwa 079 889 4921 | WhatsApp- 071 215 8257 | Email- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | Web: www.amathole.gov.za 

Raymond Mhlaba:
Sivenkosi Mtiya 066 471 5895 | Email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | Web: www.raymondmhlaba.gov.za 

The evacuation alert is issued by the joint district disaster and emergency operations centre


CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION AND TRAINING AUTHORITY (CETA) PARTNERS WITH AMATHOLE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY TO EQUIP YOUNG PEOPLE WITH IN-DEMAND SKILLS

ADM HEADQUARTERS, MONDAY,12 AUGUST 2024


In a bid to address the crippling youth unemployment rate in the Eastern Cape, the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) has joined forces with the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) to launch a groundbreaking skills development project.


The initiative is set to kick off on 13 August 2024, at the Cuba Community Hall in Butterworth. It’s aim is to empower 170 young people with the skills needed to succeed in the construction sector, which is a key driver of economic growth and infrastructure development in South Africa.
Over the next 12-36 months, participants will undergo theoretical and simulation training, followed by workplace learning in various construction trades such as bricklaying, carpentry, and electrical work. The project will also provide stipends, personal protective equipment, and mentorship to ensure the learners' success.


The initiative is aligned with the National Development Plan and the National Skills Development Plan, which emphasize the need for skills development and job creation for young people.


Upon completion, learners will receive nationally recognized certificates and trade test certificates, significantly enhancing their employability and entrepreneurship prospects.


The project's outcomes are expected to have a positive impact to economic and social development of the district. This project bodes well with ADM’s developmental mandate and dedication of ensuring equal access to socio-economic opportunities for its communities.


Enquiries can be directed to Sisa Msiwa on 0798894921 | WhatsApp: 0712158257 | Email:
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 Issued by ADM Communications & Customer Care
 All correspondence to be addresse