The Eastern Cape Provincial Government is determined in assisting and creating enabling environment for development of young people in the Province .

Recently Premier Oscar Lubabalo Mabuyane met Lindiwe Nokhele - owner of Gandundu Guesthouse and an inspiring young woman, who started building her uniquely Mpondo lodge strategically located along the route,and have a potential of contributing to tourism growth and attraction in the Province.

After being retrenched by the hospitality industry, Lindiwe packed her backs from eThekwini and came back home to Lusikisiki, to start from scratch and make something of herself.

She started by selling ulusu (tripe) by erecting a table outside the Correctional Services Building. Though she admits that she was a little embarrassed, she fully embraces the humble beginnings she had to go through.

Currently Lindi Nokhele manufactures and sells sanitizers and home detergents. She also professionally cleans couches and mattresses.

With hospitality being her passion, Gandundu - as a nickname given to her by her late brother,always wanted to own her own guesthouse that emulates the beautiful Mpondo culture. With assistance from family members, her own savings, loans and the overall support from her community, Lindiwe managed to build her dream guesthouse.

She had applied for assistance from Government, but it was taking too long.

Recently Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane proudly handed over a cheque of over R900K to Gandundu Guesthouse. This will assist the business to finish off building and furnishing the place.

Premier Mabuyane was inspired by the passion and determination that Lindiwe has and says that she will be a role model to many of the children in her community.

Also Lindiwe was just grateful for this generous gesture by Provincial Government and looking forward to creating sustainable jobs for people in her community.

Gandundu Guesthouse will officially open in July.