Pray the News
Mayor boots MBDA into touch – The Herald Monday, 7 July
Background
Nelson Mandela Bay mayor Babalwa Lobishe has terminated the mandate of the metro’s development agency to manage the city’s world-class stadium, just one week before the Springboks Test match this weekend. Lobise wrote to the Mandela Bay Development Agency on Friday, saying her decision was binding and would take effect immediately. ‘Henceforth, the stadium management will be reporting to the capital budget and financial accounting”, she said. The capital budget and financial accounting refer to the metro’s budget and treasury department. In response, MBDA board chair Glenda Perumal issued a letter later on Friday, calling for further discussions with Lobishe. “In the spirit of constructive engagement and the interests of the city and the MBDA, we request an opportunity to engage with you urgently to understand the rationale behind your decision and to allow us an opportunity to present our position”, the letter said. Lobishe did not respond for comment. MBDA chief executive Anele Qaba said the agency had been caught off guard. He said the municipality had never expressed any dissatisfaction with the agency’s performance. The MBDA was appointed by the municipality to manage the stadium in 2016. The initial mandate started on January 1, 2027, for three years, with a subsequent extension through to June 2023. It now operates on a month-to-month basis.Developments Following the Announcement
The MBDA filed an urgent application with the Gqeberha High Court on July 8, 2025, seeking an interdict to prevent the municipality from taking control of the stadium and disrupting staff operations. On July 9, 2025, in a significant about-turn, the municipality agreed in court to allow the MBDA to continue managing the stadium for an additional 90 days, ensuring no immediate disruption to the Springboks Test match. This decision alleviated fears that the event might be jeopardized.
Prayer Guidelines
Unity and Collaboration
Scripture: Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we pray for unity between the MBDA and the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Bind their leaders and teams together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Remove any divisions, misunderstandings, or mistrust that hinder their ability to work as one for the good of the city. May their partnership reflect Your heart for harmony and shared purpose. Amen.
Clear Communication and Transparency
Scripture: Colossians 4:6 – “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Prayer: Father, we ask for open and honest communication between the MBDA and the municipality. Remove barriers that lead to confusion or secrecy. Grant them the grace to speak with clarity, kindness, and truth, fostering trust and mutual understanding in all their dealings. May their transparency build confidence in the community they serve. Amen.
Integrity and Accountability
Scripture: Psalm 15:2 – “The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart.”
Prayer: Father, guide the MBDA and the municipality to operate with integrity and accountability in all their actions. Protect them from corruption, favoritism, or self-interest. May their decisions regarding the stadium and other shared responsibilities reflect righteousness and fairness, earning the trust of the people they serve. Amen.
Resolution of Conflicts
Scripture: Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Prayer: God of peace, we lift up any tensions or conflicts between the MBDA and the municipality, especially regarding the recent decision about the stadium. Soften hearts, calm tempers, and inspire solutions that honor both parties and serve the greater good. Raise up peacemakers to bridge gaps and restore harmony. Amen.
The Community
Scripture: Jeremiah 29:7 – “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you… Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”
Prayer: Father, we pray that the partnership between the MBDA and the municipality will bring prosperity and blessing to Nelson Mandela Bay. May their collaboration lead to successful events, economic growth, and opportunities that uplift the community. Use their work to glorify You and reflect Your love for this city. Amen.
Compiled by GAP Ministries
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