24 August 2026 – The North West of Education has strongly condemned the burning of a block consisting of five workshops and a storeroom at Sewagodimo Technical School in Pella Village, near Rustenburg on 23 August 2026. It is reported that the school held a camp for matriculants, which started over the weekend with classes ending on 23 August 2026, at 2pm.
The North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono said following the camp, a parents’ meeting was held and ended at 4pm. Mohono said the educators left the school premises at 5pm.
“At 5:53pm, the school management was alerted to a fire at the school. Management immediately contacted the South African Police Service (SAPS) and firefighters, who were dispatched to the scene. By the time they arrived, the fire was in its final stages of burning.
“The cause of the fire is still unknown and investigations are expected to determine what led to the incident. It is alleged that all five workshops, each consisting of a storeroom and a classroom, were completely destroyed by the fire. A separate storeroom located outside the block was also burnt down,” she said.
Mohono emphasised that the burning of another school in the province was totally unacceptable.
“I wish to take this opportunity to strongly condemn the fire incident that occurred at Sewagodimo Technical School in Pella Village. On 21 August 2026, a school hall was burnt down at Matlhare Mokautu Secondary School in Monakato Township.
“The burning of school properties is robbing our future generations of valuable educational resources, and I have repeatedly highlighted that the government has limited resources. We already have a backlog of schools that need to be built and renovated across the province,” she said.
Mohono further said now, her department is forced to redirect resources to repair schools that were previously in good condition. She calls on the community to provide information to the SAPS so that those responsible for this barbaric incident can be brought to book.
“The department dispatched a team of inspectors to assess the extent of the damage on 24 August 2026,” she added.
24 August 2026 – Seven Emfuleni Local Municipality employees briefly appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on charges of fraud, theft amounting to R150 000, money laundering, and tampering with essential infrastructure. The accused are David Seneekal (31), Caroline Smangele Maduna (39), Kenneth Zongezile Mahobe (35), Hlawutelo Baloyi (29), Pule Meshack Masilo (36), Andries Bafana Maduna (48), and Sibusiso Patrick Tshabalala (46).
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that between February 2024 and June 2026, when the Emfuleni Local Municipality would disconnect electricity of businesses and individuals whose accounts were in arrears. Mahanjana said the accused would approach affected business owners and residents and offered to reconnect their electricity supply in exchange for payment.
“After receiving money from the complainants, they would allegedly unlawfully reconnect the electricity and manipulate records to reflect a reduced amount owed on the affected accounts. However, in the following months, the electrical account would show the initial amount owed as per their initial bill prior to being approached by the accused.
“Their electricity however would remain connected due to the illegal connection. The complainants reported the matter to the municipality. After internal investigations, the municipality reported the matter to the police and the seven accused were arrested on 21 August 2026,” she said.
Mahanjana further said the matter was postponed to 31 August 2026, for a formal bail application. She added that the accused are all remanded in custody.
“The NPA remains committed to prosecuting corruption, fraud, and crimes that undermine essential public infrastructure and service delivery. Such offences erode public trust and prejudice communities that rely on municipal services, and the NPA will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to hold those responsible accountable,” she said.
Picture: Police conducting stop and search/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
24 August 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape, together with their counterparts from the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster, conducted Operation Shanela II operations across the province from 17 until 23 August 2026. The operations resulted in the arrest of 302 suspects for various crimes.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said operations conducted under the leadership and direction of senior officers at provincial, district and station level, were executed in collaboration with officials from various government departments, including the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Department of Health, Department of Home Affairs and Department of Social Development.
Litabe said the multi-disciplinary operations were aimed at stamping the authority of the state across all districts of the province and enhancing the safety and security of communities. He further said members conducted searches of 142 premises, 8372 persons and 4238 vehicles, traced wanted suspects, embarked on high-visibility patrols and conducted several roadblocks and Vehicle Control Points.
“The police also closed down 19 unlicensed liquor outlets for non-compliance and conducted compliance inspections at licensed dealers such as bottle stores, taverns and scrapyards. These activities resulted in the arrest of 302 suspects for various offences, including dealing in drugs, illegal dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, business robbery, murder, attempted murder, common assault, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH), burglary at residential and business premises, theft of motor vehicles, driving under the influence of alcohol and contravention of the Immigration Act.
“Detectives across the five districts conducted tracing operations which led to the arrest of 152 wanted suspects for an assortment of offences for which they were evading court appearances. The operations also resulted in the confiscation of hundreds of litres of liquor, cash believed to be the proceeds of crime, stolen copper cables, dangerous weapons and drugs and the recovery of suspected stolen items,” added Litabe.
He said a motor vehicle allegedly hijacked in Kathu on 21 August 2026, was recovered.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the police and participating stakeholders for their dedication and commitment in executing these operations. Otola said through sustained and collaborative operations and the enforcement of the SAPS Reset Agenda, Northern Cape SAPS will continue to disrupt criminal activities, apprehend wanted suspects and ensure that the people of the Northern Cape are and feel safe.
“We further call on communities to continue working with the police and other law enforcement agencies by providing information about criminal activities in their areas,” she said.
24 August 2026 – Isaquias Pedro Veneno (27) who was reported missing on 15 August 2026, at Olifantshoek Police Station, was found unharmed and reunited with his family in Olifantshoek on 24 August 2026. The police hereby thank the public for their assistance in locating Veneno and reuniting him with his family.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a person as missing.
24 August 2026 – The police in Mothibistad are investigating a case of murder following the discovery of the body of a man (19) alongside the N14 road, near Ganhaai village on 24 August 2026. The police received information from a community member who reported that a body had been found lying next to the road.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi said the police in Mothibistad, together with relevant role-players, promptly responded to the scene. Makoloi said upon arrival, the police found the body of a man who had sustained multiple stab wounds.
“The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) attended the scene and declared the victim deceased. It is believed that the deceased is from Kagung. The scene was processed by the relevant forensic services and the deceased’s body was subsequently removed for further examination.
“The motive for the murder is not known at this stage and police investigations are continuing. Anyone who may have information that could assist the police in identifying the perpetrator or determining the circumstances surrounding the murder is urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Phenyo Chwene on 082 416 1095,” she said.
Makoloi further said members of the public are assured that all information provided to the police will be treated with the necessary confidentiality.
Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, urges community members to come forward with any information that could assist police in bringing the perpetrator to justice.
24 August 2026 – A warrant of arrest has been issued against media personality, Molemo Katleho Maarohanye, who is affectionately known as Jub Jub. This comes after the Germiston Magistrate’s Court postponed Maarohanye’s case to 7 September 2026.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said the postponement follows the issuing of a warrant of arrest after Maarohanye failed to appear in court due to alleged ill health. Mohlatlole said the warrant was subsequently held over until the next court appearance.
“Maarohanye faces charges of discharging a firearm in a public place and pointing anything likely to lead a person to believe that it is a firearm. The charges arise from an incident involving an e-hailing driver in Edenvale on 14 June 2026.
“During the ensuing investigation, law enforcement officials seized a pellet gun at Maarohanye’s residence. The matter was previously postponed to allow for the completion of further investigations. The NPA confirms that the state is ready to proceed with the prosecution and remains committed to ensuring that the matter is dealt with fairly and in accordance with the law,” she said.
24 August 2026 – The accused, Stuart Scharnick (40) briefly appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on charges relating to alleged contraventions of the Firearms Control Act. The matter was postponed to 1 September 2026, for a formal bail application and the accused remains in custody.
Scharnick faces charges arising from an investigation conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) relating to compliance with firearm storage and registration requirements. It is alleged that police officials sought to conduct an inspection of the accused’s firearms and visited his residential address in Douglasdale.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said upon arriving at the address, they were unable to locate him and subsequently discovered that he had relocated to another residence without notifying the Central Firearms Registry of his change of address as required by law. Mohlatlole said the police then proceeded to the accused’s new residence, which belongs to his partner.
“During the inspection, officers allegedly found that one of his firearms was not stored in a prescribed safe, contrary to the requirements of the Firearms Control Act. The case was postponed to 1 September 2026, for a formal bail application.
“Scharnick remains in custody pending his next court appearance. The NPA remains committed to ensuring that matters involving alleged firearms-related offences are prosecuted fairly, efficiently, and in accordance with the law. Compliance with firearm control legislation is essential to promoting public safety and accountability among firearm owners,” she said.
24 August 2026 – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured a life imprisonment sentence in the Pretoria High Court against Retshidisotswe Khumisi (27) of Khutsong for the premeditated murder of his girlfriend, Ntsoaki Annah Hobson. The NPA said the sentence reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes against women are held accountable.
The NPA regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said during the early hours of 2 March 2025, an argument broke out between Khumisi and Hobson. Mahanjana said during the altercation, Khumisi repeatedly stabbed the deceased in the neck before fleeing the scene.
“Later that day, he handed himself over to the police. He has remained in custody since his arrest after the NPA successfully opposed his bail application. Khumisi pleaded not guilty to the charge and denied committing the offence.
“However, the state prosecutor Advocate Michael Shivuri presented compelling evidence that proved his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, resulting in his conviction for premeditated murder. During sentencing proceedings, Khumisi requested the court to deviate from imposing the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment.
“He submitted that although he had a previous conviction for possession of suspected stolen property, he should be regarded as a first-time offender in respect of violent crimes. He further relied on his personal circumstances, including having three minor children who depend on him, the period he had already spent in custody and his consumption of alcohol before the commission of the offence,” she said.
Shivuri argued that the accused had been convicted of a serious offence that remains prevalent in South Africa and that he had shown no remorse for his actions. He further submitted that Khumisi had abused a position of trust as the deceased’s partner and the father of one of her children.
“The devastating impact of the crime on the deceased’s family, noting that the accused had robbed the children of their mother and through his imprisonment, deprived them of their father’s presence. The offence had caused lasting psychological harm to the deceased’s mother.
“We have also placed before the court a Victim Impact Statement facilitated by Court Preparation Officer Kgomotso Lodi. In the statement, the deceased’s mother described how the loss of her daughter had profoundly affected her life and explained that she had never been the same since discovering her daughter’s lifeless body,” he said.
In delivering the sentence, Judge Jacobus Johannes Strijdom agreed with the state that the accused had shown no remorse and that the offence was extremely serious. Strijdom said the court noted that violent crime in South Africa has reached alarming levels and that those who commit such offences must face the full consequences of the law.
“The court further found that the deceased’s death had a devastating impact on her family and recognised that her life had significant value. We observed that the offence was committed in the family’s home, a place where the deceased was entitled to feel safe with her children.
“Instead, the accused violated that trust and subjected her to fatal violence. Accordingly, the court found that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify a lesser sentence and imposed the prescribed sentence of life imprisonment,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mahanjana said the NPA welcomes the sentence and believes it sends a strong message that GBV and crimes committed against women and children will not be tolerated. She added that the authority remains committed to prosecuting such offences without fear, favour, or prejudice and to securing justice for victims and their families.
24 August 2026 – A man (51) who was arrested for murder remanded in custody until 4 September 2026, for formal bail application. The accused, Thabang Jan Monouna, briefly appeared before the Bloemhof Magistrate’s Court today.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said the police in Bloemhof are investigating a case of murder following the fatal attack on a woman (89) at her residence on 21 August 2026. Skalkie said the victim’s son went to his mother’s house to check on her.
“Upon arrival, he found an unknown man inside the house in the kitchen. The man allegedly told the son that he was working for his mother. When asked about his mother’s whereabouts, the man allegedly claimed that she had gone to visit neighbours.
“The son went to the neighbours to look for her, but they informed him that she was not there. In the meantime, the unknown man left the premises. The son returned to the house and continued searching for his mother,” she said.
Skalkie further said the son subsequently proceeded to a backroom, where he found her with multiple serious injuries. She added that, the son immediately contacted an ambulance, and the victim was transported to a local medical facility for treatment.
“She was later transferred to a hospital in Vryburg, where she subsequently succumbed to her injuries.
“A man was traced and arrested shortly after the incident with the assistance of community members. He was charged with murder,” said Skalkie.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, applauded the police for their swift response and the prompt arrest of the suspect. Adams said his sincere sympathy with the family and friends of the victim.
“I will ensure that the perpetrator of the senseless killing of a vulnerable, elderly person feel the full might of the law as a result of his callous deed.
“The cooperation of the community contributes immensely to the prevention and solving of crime,” he said.
Picture: Afrika Mayibuye Movement delegation visits Barolong Boora-Tshidi Tribal Authority/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
24 August 2026 – The Deputy President, Thato wa Magogodi of the Afrika Mayibuye Movement led a delegation of Afrika Mayibuye Movement to meet the paramount chief of the Barolong Boora Tshidi, Jeffrey Kgotleng Montshioa in Mahikeng. Magogodi said the purpose was to introduce the movement to the traditional authority of the Barolong Boo-Ratshidi as a 21st Century Liberation Movement, concerned about the future of this country.
He further said the movement articulated its policies to the delegation of Montshioa and how it wants to cooperate with the traditional leadership system in South Africa, which has been undermined for the past 31 years by the current government. Magogodi added that the movement also articulated its general views on local governance and its stance on anti-corruption, amongst other issues.
“The movement also articulated its policy on land which was a source of concern to the traditional authorities across the country including the one led by Montshioa. Montshioa was very clear that as a traditional authority they are non-partisan, but fortunately their vote is their secret because they know what this country needs to be corrected
“Both entities agreed to stay in contact, for future cooperation within the confines of the neutrality of the authority and the interventions of the Afrika Mayibuye Movement. The meeting was cordial and both delegations exchanged pleasantries within protocol,” he said.
Magogodi said both Montshioa and the delegation of Afrika Mayibuye agreed the meeting pointed out the majority of matters of common interest and thus opened doors for future meetings.
Montshioa also raised frustrations about the Barolong land claim which has been dragging on for years after it was lodged.
“The claim is about the land where Mega City and residential areas are located. This area used to be a grazing land and maize plantation for our people, it was taken over by the previous government without any compensation,” he said.
In his response, Magogodi pledged to support the tribal office.
“As a child who grew up here, I know the story quite well, from the time the Bantustan regime stole your land to the time the complaint was registered, it is typical of the ANC government. Afrika Mayibuye also felt honoured to have been invited to the Barolong Boo Ratshidi to celebrate 25 years under Kgosi Jeff Montshioa. The organization also pledged to raise funds for the event,” he said.
Picture: NCOP members during project oversight visit/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
24 August 2026 – Members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) have commended the North West Department of Human Settlements for the progress made on the Tshunyane Housing project during an oversight visit on Tuesday as part of the NCOP Provincial Week. In 2010, the department appointed two contractors to construct 250 units across several villages around Mahikeng.
The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi said 40 of these houses were allocated to Tshunyane village, however, both contractors breached their contract terms by abandoning the site before completing the work. Molapisi said in 2022/2023, the department subsequently enlisted the services of the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) to conduct structural integrity assessments of all incomplete and blocked projects.
“The assessments were aimed at determining the extent of the outstanding work and to advise the department on appropriate remedial action. NHBRC recommended that all incomplete structures be demolished, including those in Tshunyane, as the structures had been exposed to adverse weather conditions for an extended period.
“The department appointed a contractor in January 2026 to demolish 38 foundations and 2 wall plates in Tshunyane village, at a cost of R799 200 00. The demolition process has already commenced and the contractor has started laying the foundations. The contract for construction is R8.7 million, with the project expected to be completed by the end of November 2026,” he said.
Molapisi further said the department will conduct an investigation with the intention of recovering funds from the previous contractors and implementing consequence management against the officials involved. He added that during the oversight visit, the department committed to providing members of the NCOP with regular progress reports on the Tshunyane housing project.
“We would like to assure the members of the NCOP that the department would closely monitor the project and submit regular reports to the NCOP until its completion. The department would also provide support to the contractor to ensure that the project is completed on time for the benefit of the community,” said Molapisi.
24 August 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said last week, they launched the third phase of the partnership between government and business to drive faster inclusive economic growth and create jobs. Ramaphosa said this partnership is but one example of the collaborative initiatives that the government has with social partners such as labour, business and civil society.
He further said over the last few years, they have forged partnerships across society to tackle a number of economic and social challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) to reviving and building key industries. Ramaphosa added that when they established the government-business partnership in 2023, the country faced severe crises that threatened economic progress.
“Load shedding, freight logistics constraints and persistent security challenges weighed heavily on businesses, workers and households alike. We recognised that while the state must set policy, regulate and deliver public goods, the expertise and resources of the private sector are critical if we are to build a resilient economy.
“Together, we resolved to address our nation’s most binding economic constraints. While the first two phases of the partnership were about stabilisation and structural reform, the third phase focuses on areas of the economy that can stimulate greater growth and job creation,” he said.
Ramaphosa said when they started, their immediate objective was to respond to the crises in electricity and logistics. He said they brought on board private sector capabilities through the National Energy Crisis Committee and undertook joint efforts in freight transport to halt the decline in these critical network industries.
“We mobilised support from business for the structural reforms that the government had embarked on and drew on its resources to build institutional capacity in the state. This work, together with the efforts of the relevant government departments and public entities, has helped us to achieve more than 400 days without load shedding.
“This has been possible thanks to a remarkable turnaround in generation led by Eskom, a rapid expansion in private generation capacity and significant progress toward a competitive electricity market. Operational performance at key ports has been strengthened through strategic partnerships and freight rail corridors have now been opened to private operators,” said Ramaphosa.
He said the partnership has also contributed to South Africa’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force grey list, prompting credit rating agencies to upgrade their outlooks and ratings for the country. Ramaphosa said these are real outcomes that demonstrate that social partnerships are more than meetings and presentations.
“They are practical, delivery-focused mechanisms that achieve measurable results. While the work done to date has laid a firm foundation, our growth rate remains too low to absorb the millions of South Africans seeking work.
“With around 8.5 million unemployed citizens by the official rate and roughly 300,000 net new work-seekers entering the labour force each year, we must accelerate our pace. The third phase of the partnership sets a clear target of lifting South Africa’s GDP growth above 3% a year and contributing toward the creation of one million new jobs by 2030,” he said.
24 Phatwe 2026 – Sepodisi se boloditse dipatlisiso mabapi le loso la mosimanyana wa dingwaga di le 15 wa kwa motseng wa Madipelesa, gaufi le Taung. Se, se tla morago ga magatwe a go teketiwa le go bolawa ga ga Tlhalefo Mokgosi.
Go ya ka tshedimosetso, go begwa fa Mokgosi a ile a teketiwa ke monna wa ga mmakgwebo mongwe teng kwa motseng o. Go begwa fa Mokgosi a ile a utswa dibotlolo tsa ga mmakgwebo o, mme a ya g di rekisa.
Go begwa fa monna wa ga mmakgwebo o, ga mmogo le ditsala tsa gagwe, ba ne ba tswa letsholo le go batlana le Mokgosi.
Go begwa fa ba ile ba mo teketa go utlwala.
Fela sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are go begwa fa Mokgosi a ne a kaya fa a opiwa ke tlhogo, mme ba lelapa la gagwe ba mo rwalela kwa bookelong jwa selegae. Van Rooyen are baooki ba ile ba kaya fa Mokgosi a na le dikgobalo tse di tseneletseng mo tlhogong.
“Go begwa fa Mokgosi a sa tlhalosa gore o bone jang dikgobalo tseo. Jaanong, diteko tsa morago ga loso di tla shupa gore Mokgosi o bone jang dikgobalo tseo. Dipatlisiso tsa sepodisi di tsweletse mo kgetsing e, mme ga go ope o tshwerweng go fitlha ga jaana,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.
Picture: Some of dagga seized by the police/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
24 August 2026 – Four suspects aged between 20 and 26, were arrested for dealing in dagga. This comes after the police received a tip-off at approximately 10:45pm, and followed up on the information.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the police proceeded to a residence in Commercial Street, Fraserburg. Magerman said upon arrival, they found four suspects allegedly busy packaging dagga into small bankies, suspected to be intended for distribution.
“The police seized dagga with an estimated street value of R6 700. A woman (21) and three men aged between 20 and 26, were arrested for dealing in drugs. The suspects are expected to appear before the Fraserburg Magistrate’s Court on 25 August 2026.
“In an unrelated incident, members of SAPS Port Nolloth discovered hydroponic dagga abandoned in the business area of Port Nolloth on 22 August 2026, at approximately 11am. The hydroponic dagga has an estimated street value of R60 600,” he said.
Magerman further said an enquiry has been opened and police investigations are continuing to determine the circumstances surrounding the abandonment of the drugs and to identify those responsible. He added that the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Namakwa District continues to strengthen its partnership with communities in the fight against crime, in line with the SAPS Reset Agenda, which places emphasis on visible policing, community participation, accountability and responsive policing.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, applauded the police for their swift response and importantly, expressed appreciation to the community members who continue to provide valuable information to the police. Andrews said the success of this operation demonstrates the importance of a strong partnership between the SAPS and the communities they serve.
“Community members are our eyes and ears on the ground and information provided by vigilant residents enables the police to respond swiftly and decisively to criminal activities. The fight against drugs requires a collective effort and that the SAPS Reset Agenda reinforces the importance of community-
centred, professional and accountable policing.
“Removing drugs from our communities is not only the responsibility of the police. It requires the active participation of all sectors of society. We encourage residents to continue working with the SAPS and to report suspicious and criminal activities,” he said.
Andrews said together, they can disrupt the drug trade and create safer communities for all. He said the SAPS in Namakwa remains committed to intensifying operations, following up on information and working closely with communities and other stakeholders to prevent and combat crime.
24 August 2026– The residents of the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality have expressed overwhelming support for the Water Services Amendment Bill (B24-2025), while calling for effective mechanisms to ensure that the proposed legislation translates into tangible improvements in water and sanitation services. The Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation conducted the first of three public participation sessions in the North West at the Depot Hall in Taung, where residents welcomed the Bill, emphasising that its success would ultimately depend on enforced effective implementation.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation, Leon Basson said the participants cautioned against the culture of well-intentioned legislation with poor or no implementation on the ground. Basson said they argued that poor implementation of the Bill diminishes the purpose of legislation and more importantly, denies communities’ constitutional rights to access quality water and sanitation services.
He further said a significant concern raised during the hearing was municipalities’ poor performance in providing reliable, quality water services. Basson added that participants expressed their hope in the Bill that it would lay new foundations of accountability and a culture of performance in the municipalities and of forcing water service providers to deliver on their obligations.
“Participants also welcomed the Bill’s provisions on consequence management for licence holders, stressing that the possibility of sanctions, including the forfeiture of a licence, could lead to water service providers improving their performance and ensuring better service delivery.
“Some community members described the Bill as a direct response to their longstanding concerns and prayers for improved water services. They argued that many of the challenges experienced by communities are rooted in poor governance and management at the municipal level,” he said.
Basson said calls were also made for stronger law enforcement to address alleged corruption within local government. He said participants argued that corrupt practices and poor governance contribute directly to failures in the provision of water services and that those responsible should be held accountable.
“Participants further called for improved communication channels through which residents can report poor or inadequate water services. They argued that effective enforcement of the proposed licensing regime would require communities to be able to provide information to the relevant licensing authorities about service-delivery failures.
“Participants also called for greater transparency, including public access to information on approved licence holders, as a means of strengthening accountability and enabling communities to know which entities are authorised to provide water services and what obligations they are required to fulfil,” said Basson.
He said the proposed enforcement powers of the Minister were also supported by participants, who also argued that the ability of the Minister to intervene where water service providers persistently fail to deliver quality services could help prevent lengthy delays in addressing serious service-delivery failures. Basson said although the public hearing focused on the provisions of the Bill, community members also used the opportunity to bring their immediate water challenges to the attention of the committee.
“In Taung, participants raised concerns about the perceived disconnect between the area’s water resources and the services received by local communities. Some participants told the committee that in spite of the existence of a dam with water in Taung, local communities do not sufficiently benefit from this water resource.
“They alleged that the dam supplies water to other areas. Another major concern was the overreliance on water tankers as a means of addressing water shortages. Participants argued that tanker provision is costly and often irregular, leaving communities without reliable access to water. Concerns were also raised over municipalities purchasing water tankers when, in the view of participants, those resources could be better utilised to address underlying infrastructure and service-delivery challenges,” said Basson.
24 August 2026 – The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Northern Cape delegation commended the provincial departments for the improvements it described as remarkable in implementing infrastructure projects since the last two Provincial Week visits. However, the delegation remains concerned about the persistent implementation gaps in areas, including municipal capacity, financial management and accountability as the central challenges confronting the province.
The Provincial Whip, Patrick Mabilo said while the delegation acknowledged pockets of progress, it highlighted the recurring patterns of contractor failures, project delays, reliance on consultants and inadequate financial management that continue to undermine service delivery and diminish public trust. Mabilo said the Auditor-General highlighted excessive reliance on consultants and R656 million in irregular expenditure across municipalities.
“Nine municipalities remain distressed with 30 of 144 senior management posts vacant. Non-revenue water stands at approximately 45%, resulting in an estimated R2.93 billion annual revenue loss. No water system achieved Blue Drop certification in the 2023 assessment.
“The visit of the delegation to the province was part of the annual Provincial Week of the NCOP – an oversight and public participation programme, to assess progress on previous recommendations and examine the state of service delivery in the Sol Plaatje, Siyancuma and Siyathemba local municipalities,” he said.
Mabilo further said during the visit, the delegation inspected water treatment plants, housing projects and a tiger-eye mining plant. He added that they have seen that the Northern Cape’s principal challenge is not the absence of plans or commitments, but weak implementation and follow-through.
“The effectiveness of the NCOP oversight process will depend on time-bound implementation of recommendations, regular reporting on undertakings and firm consequence management where commitments are not honoured. In the Siyancuma Local Municipality, significant delays plague the 150 low-cost Housing Programme in Griekwastad, Schmidtsdrift, Campbell and Bongani. The project, originally intended to take eight months, has now been running for approximately 24 months, with only 20 of 150 houses completed.
“The municipality has qualified audit opinions for four consecutive years, with R66 million in unauthorised expenditure and approximately R21.256 million in irregular expenditure. The municipality owes approximately R321 million to Eskom and water boards,” said Mabilo.
He said revenue collection sits at approximately 49%, contributing to cash-flow constraints. Mabilo said the Schmidtsdrift Communal Property Association raised serious concerns regarding insufficient post-restitution support, lack of financial and institutional capacity, and poor cooperation from government departments.
“The community also reported severe water shortages and a poor gravel road to Douglas that is used daily by learners. In the Siyathemba Local Municipality, the municipality has received qualified audits for five consecutive years, with R611 million in unfunded budget overspend (dating back to 2011) and R350 million in Eskom debt.
“The stalled housing development in Prieska remains a critical concern. Phase 2 of the project, comprising 200 units, has 61 incomplete houses following contractor default in 2023. The incomplete site has become a hub for vandalism and criminal activities,” he said.
Picture: Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality building
By BAKANG MOKOTO
24 August 2026 – The residents of Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality have overwhelmingly supported the Water Services Amendment Bill, particularly the solidification of provisions to suspend and revoke the licences of water service providers that fail to deliver quality water services. The residents expressed their views on the Bill during the second leg of the North West public hearings on the Bill held at the Mahikeng Civic Centre in Mahikeng.
Participants argued that due to the current challenges within the district, they are of the view that the licence of Ngaka Modiri Molema should be the first to be revoked with immediate effect as they spend countless days without water. They also argued that, in most cases, municipalities are not adequately capacitated to meet the standards of their licences, and that renders them unable to deliver quality services.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation, Leon Basson said they told the committee that their support for the Bill is largely based on the Bill’s potential to address the lack of access to quality water and sanitation within the municipality. Basson said they pointed out that their support for the Bill should translate into legislation that will work for the people.
“They called for the effective implementation of the Bill to ensure that it yields the expected fruit. There were concerns that were highlighted that the Bill does not specifically address the plight of rural communities and the quality of water they should expect.
“There was a proposal for a clause in the Bill which explains, among other things, the quality of water the people will receive, and sanctions for non-compliance by water services licence holders,” he said.
Basson further said participants expressed concerns over the continued overreliance on water tankers. He added that they argued that the financial resources used on water tankers could be used for a long-term water provision arrangement.
“Some participants told the committee that water tankers supply questionable water and expose communities to health hazards. Some participants raised concerns that the provision of quality water was overemphasised than the provision of sanitation services, yet both are equally essential.
“Similar to other hearings already held in other provinces, participants raised various challenges regarding the provision of water, with many of them highlighting that they depend on untested boreholes,” said Basson.
He said some participants told the committee that communities rely on very few boreholes, despite the rising number of people that results in more demand. Basson said participants also told the committee that they live without water for a number of days sometimes in their communities.
“They described that as a gross deprivation of their constitutional rights to water,” he said.
Picture: Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
24 August 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) believes that the exposed deployment of now even more insider cadres of Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader, Gayton McKenzie to key jobs in his department, shows that he is unfit to be a Minister. The DA alleges that McKenzie is not the PA’s leader when he is deploying insiders to taxpayer-funded jobs, he is meant to be the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture for all South Africans.
DA Member of Parliament (MP) and spokesperson on Sport, Arts and Culture, Leah Potgieter said this conduct cannot be allowed to stand. Potgieter said the DA will hold him to account in every way possible because all South Africans deserve a fair shot at opportunities, not just McKenzie’s insiders.
“Now at least 19 senior government jobs are occupied by Gayton’s own insiders, not by independent, non-political experts. Are South Africans to be excluded by McKenzie at every turn?
“The DA has long raised the alarm about his cadre deployment. PA members appointed to the previous Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE) adjudication panel or leading positions at entities such as the National Library of South Africa (NLSA), Boxing South Africa, and many others, is a practice that must end,” she said.
Potgieter further said she will not let McKenzie escape the rules and the law on this disgraceful cadre deployment.
24 August 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for urgent answers from Gamagara Local Municipality after allegedly a road contractor that received millions of rands in public funds, despite completing only a fraction of the work, disappeared. The DA said according to a Section 71 report received this week, R8.396 million was paid to Selenane in connection with the project.
DA Gamagara Local Municipality’s mayoral candidate, Henriette du Plessis said in June 2026, they raised concerns over the R15 million pothole-repair project after it emerged that work had been scheduled on roads showing little to no evidence of pothole damage. Du Plessis said to date, the contractor has only completed partial work in Hendrik van Eck Street and Frikkie Meyer Road.
“This could not have cost anywhere near R8 million. The contractor has since disappeared from the site, while the municipality has resumed filling potholes itself. The DA previously questioned the source of funding for the project, which was not included in the municipality’s budget.
“The municipality claims the money comes from disaster-response funding related to last year’s heavy rainfall. However, the municipality did not receive any disaster funding. The contractor’s apparent disappearance raises serious questions about a project already plagued by controversy,” she said.
Du Plessis further said despite the substantial payment, Gamagara has provided no clarity on the contractor’s whereabouts, the outstanding work or what steps have been taken to ensure the project is completed. She added that the DA is also still awaiting answers on why the municipality’s own road-repair team was not better capacitated to undertake the work.
“The DA has given the municipality a week to provide clear answers on the contractor’s whereabouts, the state of the project and the outstanding questions surrounding it. Should the municipality fail to provide satisfactory answers, we will consider further escalation. A DA-governed municipality will prioritise road maintenance and upgrades through better budget prioritisation and oversight.
“We will also make public procurement more transparent by requiring disclosure of all goods and services procured, including contracts awarded and contract prices. Gamagara residents deserve accountability. Every rand intended to improve local roads must be used to fix roads, not line pockets,” said du Plessis.
Picture: Warona Setsome crowned 1st Princess Little Miss Universe/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
24 August 2026 – A Grade 5 learner, Warona Setsome (10) from R.B. Dithupe Primary School in Welvedagt Township, near Zeerust was crowned as the 1st Princess Little Miss Universe. Warona received the prestigious title at the Little Miss Universe pageant held in the Philippines on 19 August 2026.
She only started modelling in 2025 and within a very short space of time. Warona had the opportunity to walk for international fashion shows and designers, participate in events, develop her skills as a motivational speaker to children and became a host and young public figure.
Warona’s mother and manager, Kedijang Hendrietta Setsome highlighted how she saw her daughter’s interest in modelling and supported her dream.
“What started as a young girl’s interest in modelling has grown into something much bigger. I saw her potential and decided to nurture it, supported her and gave her every opportunity to grow. As her manager, I have had the privilege of walking alongside her, prepared her and watched her develop not only as a model, but also as a confident young girl who understands the importance of using her voice and platform positively.
“The journey to Little Miss Universe was not easy. Warona became unwell during the competition, but despite not feeling her best, she showed incredible determination. She continued to participate and represented herself, her family, the North West and South Africa with grace, discipline and commitment,” she said.
Kedijang further said Warona gave every activity her absolute best and carried herself with such strength and professionalism. She added that watching her push through those difficult moments and still perform at her best, is something that made her even more proud of her.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono, commended Warona for this outstanding achievement, describing it as a source of pride for her family, school, community and the North West. Mohono said Warona’s achievement is a testament to the talent, determination and potential of young people in our province.
“We are extremely proud of her for representing North West and South Africa with distinction on an international stage. Last month, we had Mbulelo Tolom from Klerksdorp, who represented the North West and the entire country in the Spelling Bee competition held in China, where he obtained 6th position.
“This achievement shows that this province has talent that can conquer the world in different areas. On behalf of the North West Department of Education, I extend our warmest congratulations to Warona,” she said.
Mohono said may this achievement inspire her to continue pursuing her dreams and encourage other young learners to believe in themselves and strive for excellence. She further congratulated Warona’s parents, teachers and everyone who supported her throughout her journey, noting that their encouragement and commitment played an important role in helping her reach this significant milestone.
“The North West Department of Education wishes Warona continued success as she carries the title of 1st Princess at Little Miss Universe and looks forward to celebrating many more achievements throughout her journey ahead,” said Mohono.
Picture: A missing teenager, Thembeka Mqweba/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
22 August 2026 – The police in Taung request the community’s assistance in locating Thembeka Mqweba (19). Mqweba was last seen on 24 July 2026.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said a search commenced and extensive investigations were conducted around the surrounding area without any positive results. Skalkie said at the time of her disappearance, Mqweba was wearing a black track suit pants with a black top. She has a slim-built body and has black afro hair.
“The police request anyone who may have information regarding Thembeka Mqweba’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Kgosiyagae Monchoe, on 076 510 9418.
“Alternatively, they can call their local police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.
Picture: The North West MEC for Treasury, Kenetswe Mosenogi
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
21 August 2026 – The North West Provincial Treasury today convened all 22 municipalities in the province to assess their readiness to submit the 2025/26 annual financial statements to the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA) by the legislated deadline of 31 August 2026. The engagement forms part of the province’s drive to achieve full, credible and timely compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).
The North West MEC for Treasury, Kenetswe Mosenogi said Section 126(1)(a) of the MFMA requires each accounting officer to submit annual financial statements to the Auditor-General within two months of the end of the municipal financial year. Mosenogi said in the 2024/25 cycle, 21 of the 22 municipalities in North West submitted their Annual Financial Statements on time.
“Several of the statements submitted contained material misstatements and were not adequately supported by documentation. The Provincial Treasury has identified the credibility of financial data and municipalities’ reliance on consultants to prepare their statements, as key areas requiring attention ahead of the 2025/26 deadline.
“Today’s session set four objectives such as to achieve 100% submission of annual financial statements across the province, to improve the credibility of financial statements, to improve compliance with legislated timeframes and to improve accountability,” she said.
Mosenogi expressed that each municipality was required to account for its state of readiness, outstanding work, key risks, responsible officials and corrective action. She further said municipalities need to strengthen their internal review processes ahead of submission.
“Municipalities need to pay more attention to the credibility of their financial data and reduce their unsustainable reliance on consultants. Active participation by internal audit units and audit committees, reviewing financial statements before they go to the Auditor-General, will help us improve our audit outcomes.
“The gathering was attended by executive mayors, municipal managers, chief financial officers, managers responsible for financial management and internal audit officials and they all committed that their respective municipalities will be ready to submit their 2025/26 annual financial statements to the Auditor General of South Africa on 31 August 2026,” added Mosenogi.
She said the Provincial Treasury, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), have committed to working together to close support gaps and address risks in the remaining weeks before the deadline.
Picture: The Chief Director of NWU Business School, Prof Joseph Sekhampu/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
21 August 2026 – The Chief Director of NWU Business School, Prof Joseph Sekhampu said South Africa has created a local government system in which some municipalities may have become too failed to fail. Sekhampu said voters can replace councillors and governing parties, but municipal debt, damaged infrastructure and weak revenue systems survive elections.
He further said when municipalities fail, their financial burdens do not disappear. Sekhampu added that they migrate to Eskom, National Treasury and other parts of the state.
“Attempts to punish dysfunctional municipalities often hurt the residents who depend most heavily on essential services. South Africa has spent years pulling municipalities back from the cliff, but the institutions rescuing them may eventually lose their footing too.
“South Africa’s weakest municipalities acquire a form of protection from the severity of their own failure. As financial distress deepens, its consequences spread beyond councillors and officials to residents, creditors and other parts of government, making intervention progressively more necessary,” he said.
Sekhampu said in ordinary markets, extreme weakness increases the probability that an institution will disappear, while in local government, it can increase the probability that its liabilities and responsibilities will migrate elsewhere. He said South Africa has created a local government system in which some municipalities may become too failed to fail.
“By December 2025, municipalities reported owing creditors about R161 billion, while Eskom separately reported municipal arrears of R110.5 billion. Meanwhile, a large proportion of municipalities had adopted unfunded budgets during the 2024/25 financial year.
“National Treasury’s debt-relief programme captures the contradiction. Its 71 participating municipalities owed Eskom R85 billion by December, yet only 15 had consistently met the programme’s conditions. The government is now implementing arrangements under which financially distressed municipalities can delegate electricity distribution and revenue collection to Eskom, shifting responsibilities that they can no longer adequately fulfil,” said Sekhampu.
He said Nelson Mandela Bay in the Eastern Cape illustrates how difficult financial consequences can become to locate. Sekhampu said its Municipal Public Accounts Committee has recommended writing off roughly R23 billion in historical irregular expenditure accumulated between 2009 and 2021. Sekhampu said this is not R23 billion in newly discovered theft or money that has suddenly disappeared.
“The institutional significance is that political leaders change, officials leave and councils turn over, while the municipality survives to carry unresolved decisions made by people who may no longer be there. Moqhaka in the Free State reveals the problem from the creditor’s perspective, with its debt to Eskom reportedly reaching about R2.45 billion while the municipality participates in the debt-relief programme and continues to struggle with an unfunded budget.
“Eskom cannot behave exactly like an ordinary creditor because aggressive enforcement could threaten the provision of electricity to communities, while continued accommodation transfers financial pressure to Eskom,” he said.
Sekhampu said municipal distress therefore changes the incentives of creditor and debtor alike, allowing local financial weakness to migrate through the machinery of the state. He said the National Treasury encountered the same dilemma directly in July when it temporarily withheld equitable-share transfers from municipalities following persistent breaches of financial management rules.
“The intervention was intended to impose fiscal discipline, but Parliament warned that withholding the funds could jeopardise basic services, particularly for indigent households. By the end of the month, the remaining allocations to some municipalities had been released following further engagement and compliance processes.
“This exposed the constraint at the heart of municipal enforcement: once the costs of punishment migrate from the institution being disciplined to residents who depend on essential services, the pressure to restore funding becomes increasingly difficult to resist,” he said.
Sekhampu said Makana in the Eastern Cape and Ditsobotla in North West show how municipal recovery can itself become a prolonged condition of government. He said Makana had a financial recovery plan in place by 2015, yet five years later, the Eastern Cape High Court directed the province to implement the plan and dissolve the council.
“In June 2026, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) was still finding constitutional violations arising from persistent water and sanitation failures. Ditsobotla has endured eight unsuccessful interventions, the dissolution and re-election of its council, and eventually the escalation of responsibility from the provincial to the national government under the rarely used section 139(7) of the Constitution.
“The details differ, but the institutional pattern is remarkably similar: recovery plans accumulate, councils and administrations change, and higher spheres of government intervene while the municipality carries its underlying weaknesses forward,” he said.
Sekhampu said this history matters as South Africa approaches the November local government elections. He said elections make political failure consequential by allowing voters to remove those responsible, but Makana and Ditsobotla expose the limitations of treating electoral turnover as institutional renewal.
“Councillors and governing parties can be replaced while debts, damaged infrastructure and weak revenue systems pass into the next term. Whoever takes office therefore inherits not only responsibility for governing the municipality but also the accumulated consequences of previous administrations.
“This resembles a soft budget constraint, although officials need not consciously expect rescue for the mechanism to operate. Enforcement eventually reaches a point at which its costs migrate beyond those responsible and towards residents who still require essential services, making some form of intervention entirely rational,” said Sekhampu.
He said the challenge is to preserve those services without equally protecting officials, contractors and others responsible for avoidable financial failure, because repeated accommodation can otherwise make future discipline harder to sustain. Sekhampu said the protection created by municipal indispensability has a limit that South Africa has barely contemplated.
“A municipality approaching the edge can be pulled back because Eskom carries its arrears, National Treasury restructures its obligations, another sphere of government intervenes or residents absorb the consequences of deteriorating services.
“The system appears resilient because the fall keeps being interrupted. However, resilience built on transferring failure is not the same as eliminating it. If enough municipalities arrive at the edge together, their accumulated failures will eventually test the capacity of the institutions standing behind them to absorb the fall,” he said.
Picture: North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono
By AGISANANG SCUFF
20 August 2026 — The North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono has called for a culture of accountability, integrity, collaboration and decisive service delivery, declaring that there is no room for complacency in serving the province’s learners and education community. Mohono was addressing the department’s senior management team during her inaugural meet and greet at Seasons Wedding and Conference Centre in Mahikeng.
The meeting was facilitated by Superintendent-General, Lengane Bogatsu and provided Mohono with an opportunity to engage senior management on the department’s programmes, priorities, challenges and progress. Officials heading various divisions, including Finance, Curriculum, Management Services, Infrastructure and District Performance, among others, presented detailed briefings on their respective programmes and progress.
“The department must work as one team, with all hands on deck to improve education delivery. Regarding infrastructure, we have identified serious challenges requiring urgent attention and we call for greater empowerment of districts.
“Certain responsibilities should be decentralised from Head Office to districts, where this would accelerate the implementation and monitoring of outstanding projects,” she said.
Mohono further called for the department to embrace technology and adapt to the rapidly changing technological environment to improve efficiency and service delivery. Scholar transport was another area highlighted, with Mohono indicating that her department would explore stronger collaboration with the Department of Community Safety and Transport Management to address related challenges.
“ We would also like to reaffirm passion for food security, informed by my academic work and PhD in Agricultural Economics. There is a need for a holistic approach to the well-being and development of learners.
“I would like to challenge the department’s leadership to move with urgency and purpose,” she added.
Picture: A person of interest, Shadrick Makoosi alias Pain/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
19 August 2026 – The Kimberley Serious Violent Crimes Unit are investigating a murder case following the alleged fatal stabbing of a man (62), on 7 August 2026, at approximately 10:15pm at Samaria Shacks, Kenilworth in Kimberley. It is believed that the person of interest depicted in the photo, can possibly assist with the investigation.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the young female ran to the shack of an elderly victim after she was assaulted. Shemane said, however, the elderly man was fatally stabbed after he attempted to intervene.
“The person of interest is known as Shadrick Makoosi alias, “Pain” and believed to be from Lesotho. Anyone with information that can assist the police in locating the person of interest depicted in the photo attached, can report to the nearest police station or contact the Investigating Officer Detective Sergeant Immanuel Jeffries on 082 302 0407 or alternatively contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App.
“All information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” he said.
19 August 2026 – The Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul said following thorough consultations, he decided to accept the resignation of the Northern Cape MEC for Public Works and Roads, Fufe Makatong. Saul extended his sincere appreciation to Makatong for her service to the people of the Northern Cape during her tenure as a Member of the Executive Council (MEC).
He further thanks Makatong for her contribution to the work of the provincial government and wishes her success in all her future endeavours. Saul added that the resignation of Makatong has necessitated a reshuffling of the current Executive
Council.
“So, I have accordingly appointed the Bentley Vass as MEC responsible for Roads and Public Works, Lebogang Motlhaping as MEC responsible for Cooperative Governance, Human
Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Newreen Klaaste as MEC responsible for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural
Development and Land Reform and Mirriam Kibi as MEC in the Premier’s Office, responsible for Children, Women,
Youth and Persons living with Disabilities.
“These changes take place at an important time for the Northern Cape, as the province
continues to make significant progress in growing its economy, creating employment and
improving the lives of its people,” he said.
Saul said the province has recorded the highest decline in unemployment in the country in the second
quarter of 2026. He said according to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey for Quarter 2 of 2026, the
province’s unemployment rate stands at 28.7%, representing a 1.7 percentage-point decrease from the previous quarter and a 4 percentage-point decrease compared to the same period
last year.
“This progress is a clear indication that we are making major strides in our efforts to expand economic opportunities and create sustainable employment for the people of the Northern
Cape.
“While we welcome this positive development, we recognise that much more work
remains to be done, particularly in addressing the high levels of unemployment among young
people and ensuring that economic growth translates into meaningful opportunities across all
communities,” said Saul.
He said they remain focused and firmly committed to achieving their targets of growing the Northern
Cape economy to a R200 billion GDP and creating 60,000 new and sustainable jobs by 2030. Saul said reshuffling of the Executive Council is therefore intended to further strengthen the capacity
of the provincial government to respond to the challenges facing the province, accelerate the
implementation of government programmes and build on the progress already achieved.
“Therefore, I call on all Members of the Executive Council and the public service to
continue working with dedication, integrity and urgency in fulfilling the mandate entrusted to
them by the people of this province.
“The Northern Cape Provincial Government remains committed to being of service to the
Picture: The picture depicting Mahika Mahikeng logo/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
19 August 2026 – The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR) said it condemns in the strongest terms the improper and unauthorised use of its intellectual property by any individual, entity or collective. The department said it reserves the right to take appropriate legal action to protect its good name and symbols from being used for dubious purposes.
The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said an electronic poster currently circulating on social media, calling for a meeting to discuss Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival, gives the impression that it has the support of the organisers of Mahika Mahikeng, that being ACSR. Sebolecwe said the department calls on the organiser(s) of the meeting to retract the poster using the Mahika Mahikeng logo and desist from doing so in the future.
“ACSR enjoys the protection of the law and that includes the protection of its logos or name(s). The organiser(s) of the meeting do not have the authorisation to use the Mahika Mahikeng logo and are therefore transgressing the law.
“The department will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone or entity using any of its Intellectual Property and Trademarks in an improper manner. We therefore distance ourselves from such a meeting and urge members of the public not to be misled,” he said.
Sebolecwe further said they warn members of the public to respect state property, intellectual or otherwise.
Picture: North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi leads NCOP engagement on GD Montshioa Airport overnight
By REGINALD KANYANE
19 August 2026 – The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi has led an National Council of Provinces (NCOP) engagement on oversight of GD Montshioa Airport. Tlhapi, accompanied by Head of the Department, Dr Hans Kekana, said the purpose of the engagement was to present the department’s plans on the development of GD Montshioa and Pilanesberg Airports.
The NCOP is currently conducting its long week oversight over key public infrastructure and service delivery projects as part of the annual NCOP Provincial Week programme.
The 2026 Provincial Week, an annual flagship oversight and public participation programme of the NCOP, is taking place under the themes: “Confronting the Challenges Facing the Timely Delivery of Viable Public Infrastructure to Communities”and “Building Viable Municipalities for Enhanced Delivery of Basic Services to Communities.”
“This year’s programme marks an important report-back phase in the NCOP’s oversight cycle. The programme includes site inspections, engagements with provincial executives, municipalities and other stakeholders, as well as direct interaction with communities to verify progress and identify outstanding service delivery challenges,” she said.
Picture: The North West Public Works and Roads’ Head of Department (HOD), Moses Kgantsi/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
19 August 2026 – The North West Department of Public Works and Roads has on Monday, convened a Technical Executive Management Committee to strength it’s institutional capacity following the concurrence of its new structure. The committee discussed the job evaluation process following the Minister of Public Service and Administration’s concurrence with the new organisational structure in March 2026.
The North West Public Works and Roads’ Head of Department (HOD), Moses Kgantsi said one of the conditions of the concurrence is that newly created and redesigned posts be subjected to job evaluation, which is meant to systematically determine the relative worth of different posts within an organisation. Kgantsi indicated that the department embarked on a review of its organisational structure to align it with its constitutional mandate, strategic objectives and service delivery requirements.
“During consultation on the new structure and the Minister’s recommendations, additional operational gaps were identified. Amongst the additional positions identified was a Directorate to specifically deal with state buildings’ compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS) requirements.
“With this unit, we envisage reducing and ultimately doing away with the closing of government buildings by the Department of Labour due to noncompliance with OHS standards which leads to the use of private leasing as an alternative which is something that government is working towards reducing,” he said.
Kgantsi further said linked to the above gap was the department’s struggle to reach its revenue collection targets hence the additional proposed Directorate for Property Sales and Rentals. He added that they are currently dealing with the challenge of not having a dedicated maintenance budget as a department that would enable them to ensure OHS compliance for their 140 state buildings.
“Elevating this Property Sales and Rentals unit to Directorate level will ensure there is a dedicated unit to focus on revenue collection so we can motivate for the Provincial Treasury to ringfence the monies collected towards maintenance of state properties.
“The meeting further discussed the recruitment of critical vacant posts. We are currently accelerating the filling of prioritised critical vacant posts and thus far we have made 50 appointments during July and August. We are ramping up our recruitment drive to contribute to the reduction of the unemployment rate,” said Kgantsi.
He said more than 100 vacant posts are still to be filled and are at various stages of recruitment across the department’s head office and the four district offices.
Picture: North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
18 August 2026 – The newly- appointed North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Virginia Tlhapi said unity is strength and calls staff members to pull together inquest of moving the department forward. In her meet and greet meeting with Mahikeng based senior management and staff, Tlhapi said there is nothing that beats commitment and hard work which enables seamless service delivery to communities.
Meanwhile, the Head of Department (HoD), Dr Hans Kekana assured Tlhapi that the Team COSATMA has a spring in their steps and will ensure that as she hits the ground running, they will sprint for her. Kekana said Tlhapi will meet other staff in other districts at a date still to be determined.
Setshwantsho: Mokgweetsi wa sejanaga sa Polo VW o thudile setlhare
Ka OBAKENG MAJE
18 Phatwe 2026 – Mokgweetsi (30) wa sejanaga sa modiri wa Polo Volkswagen o letse a rwaletswe kwa bookelong jwa selegae morago ga go bona dikgobalo. Go begwa fa mokgweetsi o, a latlhegetswe ke taolo ya sejanaga mo tseleng e gaufi le Masimo kwa Extension 6, gaufi le Taung mo bosigong jwa maabane.
Go ya ka dipego, mokgweetsi o, o ne a sega tsebe sejanaga sengwe ka motsi wa tiragalo e, mme a thula setlhare.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are go begwa fa mokgweetsi, a ne a le mongwe mo sejanageng. Van Rooyen are mokgweetsi o ile a itemogela dikgobalo le go rwalelwa kwa bookelong go bona thuso ya potlako.
Picture: Newly-appointed speaker of North West Provincial Legislature, Viola Motsumi/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
18 August 2026 – The former North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi was elected as the new speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) on Tuesday during a special sitting. Motsumi becomes the 8th speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature since the advent of democracy in 1994, and the first former deputy speaker of the Legislature to subsequently ascend to the position of the speaker.
Delivering her maiden address following her election, Motsumi pledged to protect the dignity and constitutional authority of the Legislature, uphold the rights of Members and preside over the House fairly and impartially, irrespective of political affiliation. She placed strong emphasis on the Legislature’s constitutional responsibility to exercise oversight and hold the Executive accountable, stressing that robust oversight should not be regarded as hostility towards government.
“Oversight is not hostility. Accountability is not an act of opposition. And scrutiny is not disrespectful. A strong Legislature does not weaken the government. A strong Legislature helps the government govern better. We commit to creating an environment in which Members can ask difficult questions, disagree and engage in vigorous debate, while respecting the Rules, the Constitution and the dignity of the House.
“There is a need for the Legislature to remain connected to the everyday realities of the people of the North West, including their concerns about employment opportunities, education, healthcare, roads, water, responsible use of public resources and the delivery of government services,” she said.
Motsumi further said the Legislature must continue taking Parliament to the people and ensure that no citizen feels that the institution is distant from their daily struggles. Reflecting on the responsibility entrusted to her, she added that the speaker’s chair does not belong to the individual occupying it, but to the institution and ultimately to the people.
“The speaker’s chair does not belong to the person who occupies it. It belongs to the institution. And the institution belongs to the people. So, I pledge to pursue an institutional rather than personal legacy, with the objective of strengthening the Legislature and making it more democratic, accountable, accessible and effective.
“I will seek to make this House larger than any one of us. More democratic, more accountable, more accessible, more effective and more worthy of the people of Bokone Bophirima,” said Motsumi.
She concluded her maiden address by committing herself to serving the House with humility, protecting its dignity, upholding its Rules, defending its constitutional authority and ultimately leaving the institution stronger than she found it. Following the conclusion of the special sitting, Motsumi also presided over the swearing-in of Rosina Ntshetsana Komane as a new Member of the North West Provincial Legislature representing the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), in accordance with Section 107 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
“Komane fills the vacancy in the Legislature following the passing of the late Primrose Bogatsu last month,” she said.
Picture: A medical doctor, Kingsley Idugboe/Twitter
By OBAKENG MAJE
18 August 2026 – A medical doctor, Kingsley Idugboe who allegedly assaulted a cleaner at Taung District Hospital has been suspended. This comes after the North West Department of Health has finalised its investigation into the matter.
On 8 July 2025, Idugboe allegedly assaulted a cleaner, Kegomoditswe Monogwe (58). Monogwe previously told The Guardian Newspaper that there was a certain doctor who was staying at the doctors’ residential area within the hospital vicinity and gave her some belongings when he moved out.
However, it is alleged that Idugboe took those items instead.
“So, there was a confrontation between Igduboe and I that led to an assault. We were fighting for the key of the house and he bit my finger. I reported the matter to the hospital management and also opened an assault case at Taung Police Station.
“I spoke to the doctor who said I should take the belongings from the house and alluded that he never gave Igduboe any right to take them,” she said.
However, Monogwe raised some concerns after Igduboe returned to work. She alleged that she feels like her case was not taken seriously as the hospital management has not communicated with her the outcome of the investigation, including the police as there was no arrest.
Now, the North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said: “We can confirm that the department has conducted an internal investigation following allegations of assault involving a medical officer, Idugboe to a cleaner at Taung District Hospital.
“The investigation has since been finalised and adverse findings were made against the implicated doctor. The recommendation was that disciplinary action should be taken against the implicated medical officer. The department has approved the investigation report.”
Lekgethwane further said the findings and recommendations of the investigation were formally communicated to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Taung District Hospital for implementation. He added that, for the record, the complainant was interviewed during the course of the investigation and was fully-informed about the process.
Meanwhile, by the time of going to press, the CEO of the Taung District Hospital was still studying the outcome of the hearing and the verdict and is yet to share a report with the provincial department.
18 August 2026 – South African journalism has earned regional recognition, with two media professionals honoured for excellence at the 2026 Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards in Durban on Monday.
The awards, presented on the sidelines of the 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, celebrate outstanding journalism that advances understanding of regional integration, development and cooperation among SADC Member States.
Government has congratulated the two South African journalists on their achievement, describing the recognition as a reflection of the important role the media plays in strengthening regional understanding and cooperation.
The awards recognise media practitioners in four categories: Photo, Print, Television and Radio Journalism.
Siyabulela Duda, a photojournalist at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) clinched second prize in the photo category, while Seakga Relebogile Tladi from Spunik Radio Africa, who works as a radio reporter, was awarded second prize in the radio category.
“Government extends its warmest congratulations to Messrs Duda and Tladi for this important achievement and for demonstrating the professionalism, creativity and commitment that characterise the best of South African journalism.
“Their recognition is also a reflection of the important role played by the media in strengthening regional cooperation and promoting greater public understanding of the SADC agenda.
“Through compelling visual storytelling, radio journalism and other forms of reporting, journalists help connect citizens across the region and bring the work of SADC closer to communities,” the GCIS said in a statement.
Duda was awarded second prize of US$1,000 for his entry captioned: “Former Deputy President of South Africa, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, congratulates newly inaugurated Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House in Windhoek, Namibia”.
The photo appeared under the headline: “Women’s Hour”. The entry highlighted the SADC region’s progress in placing women in high-level decision-making positions, including the Presidency.
Tladi won second prize of US$1,000 for his entry: “SADC Solidarity and Sanctions in Zimbabwe,” which analysed the impact of sanctions imposed on the Republic of Zimbabwe, a SADC Member State, and Zimbabwe’s resilience in the face of these sanctions.
The entry featured officials from SADC Member States, including Lesotho, Namibia and Zimbabwe, who highlighted SADC’s solidarity with Zimbabwe and called for the lifting of the sanctions.
“The South African Government further commends all South African journalists who continue to report on regional and continental developments with integrity, professionalism and dedication.
“Government believes that a vibrant, ethical and professional media is essential to advancing informed public discourse, strengthening democracy and deepening people-to-people solidarity across the Southern African region,” the GCIS said.
The Government of South Africa wished Messrs Duda and Tladi continued success in their respective careers and congratulated them once again on this well-deserved recognition at the SADC Media Awards. – SAnews.gov.za
18 August 2026 – South Africans continue to grapple with unemployment. This comes after Statistics South Africa showed that a narrow definition of unemployment has risen by 0.9% to 33.6% with the number of unemployed persons rising by 345 000.
The statistics showed that the expanded definition of unemployment rose overall by 0.1% to 43.8% with a total decrease in the number of employed persons by 16 000. Particularly concerning losses were seen in community and social services (57 000), mining (26 000), and agriculture and manufacturing (15 000 each).
According to the statistics, the job losses in provinces included the Western Cape (48 000), Gauteng (22 000), and North West (15 000). However, the positive gains were recorded in trade (70 000), construction (39 000), finance (11 000), Mpumalanga (41 000), Eastern Cape (13 000) and Free State (9 000).
The Democratic Alliance (DA) provincial leader, Freddy Sonakile said: “The ANC has failed the North West. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey delivers a devastating verdict on the ANC government’s handling of the North West economy.
“The province’s official unemployment rate has jumped from 35.3% to 38.1% in just one quarter, an increase of 2.8 percentage points, among the largest increases recorded nationally. Even more alarming, the North West now has a combined unemployment and potential labour force rate of 56.0%, the highest in South Africa.”
Sonakile further said the 56% figure tells the real story. He added that it includes not only those officially unemployed, but also people who want to work yet are no longer actively looking or are otherwise part of the potential labour force.
“More than half of the province’s potential workforce is effectively locked out of meaningful economic participation. The economy is moving in the wrong direction. The North West shed 15,000 jobs in the second quarter of 2026, placing it among the provinces that recorded employment declines.
“These are not merely statistics. They represent households losing income, businesses struggling to survive and people losing hope that there is a future for them in the province. Yet what has the ANC government offered?” asked Sonakile.
He said another summit, another strategy, another task team and another announcement. Sonakile said municipalities are failing, infrastructure is deteriorating, businesses face red tape, basic services remain unreliable and the provincial government continues to make excuses for an economy that is simply not creating enough jobs.
“The irony is that the North West has everything it needs to succeed. We have mining, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing and our strategic proximity to Gauteng. What we lack is a government capable of turning these advantages into sustained economic opportunity.
“The problem is not a lack of potential. The problem is a lack of competent government. The DA will take a fundamentally different approach. We want a North West where municipalities work, infrastructure supports economic activity, businesses can operate without unnecessary political and bureaucratic obstacles, procurement is transparent, investors have confidence and small businesses are given room to grow,” he said.
Meanwhile, ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo said they are deeply concerned about the alarming unemployment rate in the province, which stands at approximately 56%. Diremelo said this level of unemployment, particularly among young people, remains one of the most pressing socio-economic challenges confronting the province and requires urgent and coordinated intervention.
“The ANC therefore directs the Executive Council (EXCO), municipalities and private-sector partners to fast-track the implementation of already planned and established employment drives, job-creation programmes and economic development initiatives aimed at fighting the scourge of unemployment.
“Government at all levels must work closely with the private sector to unlock economic opportunities, support investment, empower small and emerging businesses and ensure that employment programmes translate into sustainable jobs for the people of the North West,” he said.
19 August 2026 – The North West University (NWU) has officially unveiled the new NWU FC playing kit and announced its squad for the 2026/2027 Motsepe Foundation Championship season, marking a historic new chapter in the University’s sporting journey. The unveiling and squad announcement took place at an event attended by senior university leaders, government representatives, football administrators, sports leaders and other stakeholders who gathered to celebrate NWU FC’s transition into professional football.
The occasion follows the NWU Eagles’ successful promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after a remarkable campaign in Mthatha, where the team secured its place in South Africa’s professional football ranks. The event was formally opened by NWU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Dr Joe Molete, while the purpose of the occasion was outlined by the Executive Director for Corporate Relations Marketing and Sports and Chairperson of Eagles Sporting Excellence (Pty) Ltd, Clement Manoko.
The programme brought together prominent representatives from the University, government and the sporting fraternity, including North West Provincial Sports Confederation President Mr Thebe Sekoto, Executive Mayor of Mahikeng Local Municipality Cllr Tshepiso Mphehlo, North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation Mr Wessels Morweng, and NWU Council Deputy Chairperson Pastor Piet Tlhabanyane. The programme also included the official NWU FC team announcement for the 2026/2027 National First Division season, as well as messages of support from key stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address and officially unveiling the new kit, NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka described the occasion as more than a sporting event, saying it represented a new chapter for the University and the province.
“Today, we are not only unveiling a football kit. We are unveiling a new chapter in the history of the North-West University and the province at large. NWU FC’s promotion was the result of years of deliberate investment in student-athletes, discipline and belief in sporting potential.
“The NWU Soccer Institute, established in 2007, has progressively created a pathway linking sporting talent with academic development and professional opportunity. Over the past three years, 109 players have participated in the programme, with nine progressing into professional football,” he said.
Tyobeka further said the programme’s achievements include Varsity Football Championship success in 2019, ABC Motsepe provincial championship titles in 2022 and 2026, culminating in promotion to the National First Division. He added that the University has also seen its football programme receive individual and team recognition, including Team of the Year, Coach of the Year and Player of the Year accolades.
“The move into the Motsepe Foundation Championship represents an important transition for NWU FC. Professional football requires the University and its football structures to operate at a higher level of governance, compliance and operational excellence.
“We have crossed from university and amateur competition into a professional league environment. That requires a corresponding shift in how we govern, manage and support this team. Professional football demands stronger governance, compliance, infrastructure, financial discipline and operational excellence,” said Tyobeka.
He said the promotion of NWU FC carries significance beyond the football pitch, strengthening the University’s visibility, creating opportunities for partnerships and bringing the institution closer to communities. Tyobeka emphasised that sport is an important part of the NWU value proposition, contributing to discipline, leadership, resilience and character while creating opportunities for talented young people.
Setshwantsho: Setlhopa sa Cameroon FC se ikgapela sejana
Ka REGINALD KANYANE
18 Phatwe 2026 – Barulaganyi ba tonamente ya kgwele ya dinao e e neng e tshwaretswe kwa lebaleng la Mighty Boys FC kwa motseng wa Manthe, gaufi le Taung, ba re ba itumeletse thologelo e ba e boneng. Barulaganyi ba, ba ne ba tshwere tonamente ya ditlhopa di le robedi ya matsatsi a le mabedi.
Mongwe wa barulaganyi, Charlie Ramonnye are balatedi ba kgwele ya dinao ba iponetse lobebe lwa kgwele ya dinao. Ramonnye are thologelo e ne e usa pelo, mme e tla rotloetsa batshameki go godisa talente ya bone.
“Ke rata go leboga baagi botlhe ka bophara ba ba nnileng karolo mo tonamente e. Ntle le bone, re ka be re sa kgona go nna le tonamente e e atlegileng jaana. Ntlhakgolo ya tonamente e, ke go gopola bomme, gonne ke kgwedi ya bone e. Ntle le bomme ga gona tswelelo-pele.
“Ke ka moo re batlang go romela molaetsa go bomme botlhe gore ba itse fa ba le botlhokwa ebile ra ba rata. Gape, re ikuela go borre go ka emisa ka tshotlakako go bomme le bana. Re kopa bomme botlhe ba ba itemogelang tshotlakako, ba buele kwa ntle gore ba thusiwe,” Ramonnye wa tlhalosa.
Ramonnye gape o lebogile ditlhopa tsotlhe tse di neng di tshotse karolo mo tonamenteng e. Are setlhopa se se fentseng tonamente e, sa Cameroon FC sa kwa motsesetoropong wa kwa Pudimoe, se ikgapetse mausa-usa a diranta a lekana le R20 000, ga mmogo le dimetale tsa gauta di le 20.
“Seo se akaretsa le sejana. Setlhopa se se latlhegetsweng kwa makgaola-kgannyeng sa Lovely Movers FC, se ikgapetse R10 000 le dimetale tsa selefera di le 20. Re itumeletse thologelo le bannaleseabe ka kakaretso.
“Ke ikuela go balatedi ba kgwele ya dinao go netefatsa fa ba nna teng gape mo ngwageng o tlang,” Ramonnye wa tlhalosa.
Motsamaisi wa setlhopa se se fentseng tonamente sa Cameroon FC, William Galetlhobogwe are: “Re motlotlo go tsholetsa sejana se, mme re leboga thata gore re be re fitlheletse mo re fitlheletseng teng morago ga matsapa. Tonamente e tsamaile sentle le fa re ne re sa itumelela ka mokgwa o moletsaphala a neng a tsamaisa motshameko wa rona ka teng letsatsi pele ga le.
“Re nagana gore go na le fa a neng a re gatelela gone. Fela rona re ditau, re ile ra lwana go fitlha kwa makgaolakgannyeng le go a fenya.”
Mokatisi wa setlhopa se se latlhegetsweng kwa makgaola-kgannyeng sa Lovely Movers FC, Jacob Tshilo are o ne a sa tla ka batshameki ba gagwe ba ba feletseng. Fela Tshilo are ba ne ba tshameka le setlhopa se se popota.
“Basimanyana ba tshamikile ebile ke rona ba re neng re sireletsa sejana se. Re ne re tshameka le setlhopa se se popotsa, mme re tla leka gape mo ngwageng o tlang,” Tshilo wa tlhalosa.
17 August 2026 – The accused, Lucas Mmakgathi (49), who was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by the Madikwe Regional Court following his conviction for the murder of his son (2). On 4 May 2024, Mmakgathi requested permission from the child’s mother to spend time with the child in town.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said trusting his intentions, she agreed. Mabasa said, however, the accused carried out a calculated and deceptive plan by taking the child to a nearby bush instead, where he used his shoelace to strangle the child to death.
“He was arrested the following day. During sentencing proceedings, state prosecutor, Zola Mpayipheli, argued that the accused’s actions demonstrated extreme cruelty, hatred, barbarity, and a complete disregard for human life.
“The state emphasised that the accused had deprived the child of his most fundamental constitutional right, namely the right to life,” she said.
Mabasa further said in his guilty plea, the accused told the court that he became angry after the child’s mother informed him that he was not the biological father of the child. She added that he claimed that feelings of hatred and anger prompted him to commit the offence.
“The court further heard that the accused watched as the child took his final breath. This testimony left members of the deceased’s family and those present in court visibly distressed and emotional.
“Following his testimony, the accused was referred for mental evaluation, which found him fit to stand trial. The state submitted that the accused’s guilty plea should not be viewed as genuine remorse, but rather as an attempt to secure a lesser sentence,” said Mabasa.
He said the prosecution further highlighted the seriousness and prevalence of crimes committed against women and children and urged the court to impose a sentence that reflected the gravity of the offence. Mabasa said the court agreed with the state’s submissions and found that the accused posed a danger to society.
“In imposing sentence, the court remarked that the accused should be removed from society for a considerable period. While taking the guilty plea into account, the court sentenced him to 25 years’ direct imprisonment and declared him unfit to possess a firearm.
“In terms of Section 299A of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977, the accused will not be considered for parole unless the prescribed communication has been made with the victim’s family and their views have been considered,” he said.
Commenting on the outcome, Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the swift response of the South African Police Service (SAPS), as well as the efforts of the prosecutor and the court in ensuring that justice was served.
“This sentence reflects the seriousness with which our courts regard violent crimes against children. The successful prosecution of this matter demonstrates the commitment of the criminal justice system to protecting vulnerable members of society and ensuring accountability for those who commit such horrific acts.
“The NPA continues to prosecute hundreds of matters involving domestic violence, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), and crimes against children across the country,” Makhari.
She said NPA remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators who violate the rights, dignity and safety of women, children and other vulnerable persons are held accountable and face the full consequences of the law.
Picture: The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha
By AGISANANG SCUFF
17 August 2026 – The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), Madoda Sambatha will officially launch seven agricultural value-adding and market access facilities across the province as part of the department’s continued efforts to support farmers and grow the agricultural sector. Sambatha said the facilities located in Mogogelo, Bloemhof, Taung, Kgomo-Kgomo, Tlhatlhaganyane and two in Mahikeng, are aimed at improving agricultural production, supporting agro-processing and creating better market opportunities for smallholder, emerging and commercial farmers.
He further said the project includes five vegetable pack-houses, one Lucerne pack-house and one red meat abattoir. Sambatha added that these facilities will help address a lack of processing, storage and marketing infrastructure, which has often limited farmers’ ability to grow their businesses.
“The vegetable pack-houses will offer services such as grading, sorting, washing, packaging and storage. The Lucerne pack-house will provide baling, packaging and storage services, while the abattoir will assist livestock farmers with slaughtering and meat processing.
“The facilities are expected to boost local economic development by creating employment opportunities and supporting business growth in rural communities,” he said.
Sambatha said with improved infrastructure and better access to markets, farmers will be able to increase production, expand their operations and create more jobs. He said the department believes these investments will strengthen the agricultural value chain, support the commercialisation of emerging farmers and contribute to the growth of the provincial economy.
“The launch will be at MOR Farming in Bloemhof at 9am,” said Sambatha.
17 Phatwe 2026 – Mosadi wa dingwaga di 62 o tlhokofetse morago ga go thulwa ke sejanaga kwa motseng wa Rooiwal, gaufi le Taung. Go begwa fa mokgweetsi wa sejanaga se, a ile a inaya naga morago ga tiragalo.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo porofenseng ya Bokone Bophirima, Colonel Anne Magakoe are tiragalo e, ke ya letsatsi la Tshipi. Magakoe are motswasetlhabelo o ile a rwalelwa kwa bookelong jwa sedika jwa Taung, kwa a ileng a tlhokafalela teng ka ntlheng ya dikgobalo.
“Ga gona ope o tshwereng go fitlha ga jaana. Dipatlisiso tsa sepodisi mabapi le go batlana le sejanaga seo ga mmogo le mokgweetsi, di tsweletse,” Magakoe wa tlhalosa.
17 August 2026 – Sepodisi sa kwa Kimberley sa lephata la dikgetsi tsa tiriso ya dikgoka tse di tseneletseng, e batlisisa kgetsi ya polao. Se, se tla morago ga go tlhabiwa le go bolawa ga moithuti wa kwa Phatsimang TVET College.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi kwa porofenseng ya Kapa Bokone, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane are go begwa fa moithuti o, Keotshepile Gift Ntopo (21), a tlhabilwe kwa ntlenyana ga lefelo le le rekisang nnotagi (Nightclub) mo mosong wa letsatsi la Tshipi. Shemane are ga gona ope o tshwerweng go fitlha ga jaana.
“Dipatlisiso mo kgetsing e, di a tswelela,” Shemane wa tlhalosa.
Kgabagare, go begwa fa Ntopo a tswa kwa motseng wa Magogong mono Taung.
17 August 2026 – Three illegal immigrants were arrested during an intelligence driven-operation by the Vryburg K9 Unit for the alleged possession of suspected drugs and defeating the ends of justice. The operation was conducted on 14 August 2026, in Noord Street, Vryburg.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said the suspects’ citizenship status was verified with the Department of Home Affairs in Vryburg.
Magakoe said during the operation, the police allegedly seized more than 600 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine, heroin and more than 600 tablets with a combined estimated street value of approximately R155 000.
“The police also seized cash. The suspects aged between 34 and 37, are expected to appear before the Vryburg Magistrate’s Court, facing charges relating to the alleged possession of suspected drugs and defeating the ends of justice.
“In a separate operation in Colridge, Vryburg K9 executed a search warrant and confiscated one replica firearm with ammunition. The investigations are continuing and no arrest was made with regards to the firearm,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, commended the Vryburg K9 Unit and all role players for their continued efforts to disrupt the circulation of suspected illicit substances and other criminal activities in communities.
Picture: A man arrested for dealing in drugs/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
17 August 2026 – A collaborative, multi-disciplinary and intelligence-driven Operation Basadi led by the Provincial Head of Pro-Active Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, resulted in the arrest of a suspect (26) for alleged drug dealing in Greenpoint, near Kimberley on 14 August 2026. The operation was conducted by a multi-disciplinary team comprising various provincial components and units, including Provincial Operational Response Services, Provincial Operational Command Centre, Provincial Firearms, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods, Provincial Emergency Services, Provincial Corporate Communication and Liaison, Kimberley K9 Unit, Kimberley Flying Squad, Kagisho SAPS and Crime Intelligence.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the operation was conducted in two phases, with the first phase focusing on school safety in Galeshewe Township. Shmane said the police conducted a search at a high school in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley during which various unauthorised items were confiscated from learners.
“During the second phase, the police proceeded to Greenpoint, where search warrants were simultaneously executed at three identified suspected drug premises. However, no drugs were found at two of the premises, but at the third location.
“A suspect was subsequently arrested for alleged dealing in drugs. The police confiscated mandrax tablets and a substantial amount of cash during the operation. The suspect is expected to appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s court soon,” he said.
The Provincial Head of Pro-Active Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi, commended the multi-disciplinary team for their professional conduct and commitment during the execution of the operation. Kopeledi also reiterated that the police will continue to conduct intelligence-driven operations without respite to eradicate the scourge of drugs and other criminal activities, especially Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV&F), while ensuring the safety and security of communities.
Picture: Two suspects arrested for possession of drugs/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
17 August 2026 – The two suspects aged 28 and 32, were arrested by the police attached to the Danielskuil Visible Policing and Detective Units for possession of suspected drugs. The suspects were arrested during a high-density Operation Shanela II conducted in Danielskuil on 14 August 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the police were conducting routine visible policing patrols between 4pm and 4:30pm, when they noticed two men at a hiking spot behaving suspiciously. Shemane said when the police approached them, they allegedly threw an unidentified parcel away.
“The police immediately retrieved the parcel and conducted a search of the area, as well as the two suspects. During the search, the police discovered suspected mandrax tablets in their possession.
“The suspected mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of R30 000 were seized, along with cash found in the possession of the suspects. The two suspects aged 28 and 32, were arrested for possession of suspected drugs and are expected to appear in court soon,” he said.
Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, commended the police for their vigilance and alertness, which led to the successful seizure of the drugs before they could reach communities. Sebili further cited that police will continue unabated in their efforts to eradicate the illicit drug trade in the district and ensure that those involved in the distribution of drugs are brought to justice.
17 August 20226 – Three suspects were arrested for stock-theft by the Kuruman Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit. It is alleged that the suspects stole 25 sheep from a farm in Van Zylsrus.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said on 14 August 2026, the Kuruman STES Unit received information from the police in Van Zylsrus regarding the alleged theft of 25 sheep from a farm. Shemane said the livestock was allegedly stolen between Thursday evening and Friday morning.
“The information regarding the vehicle allegedly used during the commission of the crime was shared with the STES Unit as the vehicle was believed to be travelling towards the Kuruman area.
“The members of the Kuruman STES Unit subsequently spotted a bakkie and trailer matching the description of the vehicle in Kuruman. The police followed, stopped the vehicle and instructed the occupants to disembark,” he said.
Shemane further said four men were found inside the bakkie. He added that a sheep was also found at the back of the vehicle covered with nets.
“Three of the occupants attempted to evade arrest. However, one suspect was apprehended at the scene. The ensuing investigation led the police to an abattoir in Olifantshoek, where 24 sheep that had already been slaughtered were recovered.
“All 25 stolen sheep with an estimated value of R38 800, were successfully recovered. A driver (61), and a man (33) were arrested. A third suspect (35), was subsequently arrested in Van Zylsrus. The police are continuing with efforts to trace the remaining suspect who evaded arrest,” he said.
Shemane said the bakkie and trailer allegedly used in the commission of the crime were seized by the police for further investigation. He said the trio is expected to appear in court soon on charges relating to stock theft.
Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended the members of the Kuruman STES Unit for their swift response, which resulted in the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of all 25 stolen sheep. Baloyi reaffirmed that the policing of stock theft activities remains a priority in the district and efforts will be intensified to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
Picture: Some of the drugs seized by the police/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
17 August 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and government departments, conducted a week-long multi-disciplinary and intelligence-driven Operation Shanela II from 10 until 16 August 2026. The operations formed part of ongoing efforts to prevent and combat crime, disrupt criminal activities and enhance the safety and security of communities across the province.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said as part of the intensified operations, female police officers conducted high-density policing activities under Operation Basadi, supported by their male counterparts across all five districts of the Northern Cape. Shemane said the concerted operations included vehicle control points (VCPs), stop-and-search operations, roadblocks, the tracing and arrest of wanted suspects, foot and vehicle patrols, as well as compliance inspections at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, farms, mines, and formal and informal businesses.
“During the week-long operations, a total of 8252 persons and 4039 vehicles were stopped and searched at VCPs and roadblocks across the province. A total of 223 suspects were arrested for various offences, including robbery, possession and dealing in drugs, murder, attempted murder, burglary, malicious damage to property, stock theft and offences relating to undocumented persons, among other serious and priority crimes.
“The ongoing efforts by detectives to trace wanted suspects also yielded positive results with 46 wanted individuals arrested during the operations. As part of compliance enforcement measures, 21 unlicensed liquor premises were closed for non-compliance with relevant legislation,” he said.
Shemane further said compliance inspections were further conducted at second-hand goods dealers, liquor outlets, mines, farms and formal and informal businesses to ensure adherence to applicable legislation and to disrupt activities that may contribute to criminality. He added that during the operations, police also confiscated thousands of litres of alcoholic beverages, drugs, dangerous weapons, counterfeit goods, copper and cash.
“In commemoration of Women’s Month, the police in the Northern Cape have further strengthened its partnership with AVBOB, a private-sector stakeholder to address the scourge of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV&F) through collaborative awareness and intervention initiatives.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the police and all law enforcement and government partners, who participated in the operations across the province. Otola also expressed her appreciation to communities for their continued cooperation and assistance in the ongoing fight against crime.
“We remain committed to strengthening partnerships with our communities and external stakeholders to address crime effectively and ensure the safety of all people in the Northern Cape. We will continue to review our operations and adapt our strategies to improve service delivery and enhance the fight against crime,” she said.
Otola said the police in the Northern Cape will continue to conduct intelligence-driven and high-density operations in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to prevent and combat crime and to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
16 Phatwe 2026 – Sepodisi sa kwa Ganyesa se batlisisa kgetsi ya morago ga loso. Se, se tla morago ga gore go bonwe legata la motho kwa nageng kwa Phelandaba Section, kwa motseng wa Tlakgameng, gaufi le Ganyesa ka letsatsi la Tshipi.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono porofenseng ya Bokone Bophirima, Colonel Anne Magakoe are sepodisi se ile sa amogela tshedimosetso mabapi le legata la motho le le bonweng kwa nageng. Magakoe are sepodisi se ile sa itelekela kwa lefelong leo, mme ba ile ba tsaya legata leo, le go le isa kwa mmoshareng wa puso.
“Go tlile go diriwa ditlhatlhobo mo legateng leo, le go netefatsa bong jwa lone. Go tla batlisisiwa le gore ke la ga mang, fela go fitlha ga jaana, tshedimosetso eo ga e se e netefadiwe.
“Ga nkitla re itshela moriti o tsididi mabapi le dikgonagalo tsa polao. Ga gona ope o tshwerweng go fitlha ga jaana. Fela dipatlisiso tsa go netefatsa sebakwa sa loso di tsweletse,” Magakoe wa tlhalosa.
16 Phatwe 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 46, o solofetswe go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mabapi le ditatofatso tsa go thuntsa mo phatlhalatseng le go tshola sethunya se se seng mo molaong. Go begwa fa mmelaelwa o, a ile a tshosetsa bahiri (tenants) ba gagwe kwa motsesetoropong wa Pudimoe, gaufi le Taung ka Lamatlhatso bosigo.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono porofenseng ya Bokone Bophirima, Colonel Anne Magakoe are mmelaelwa o tlile go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung ka Mosupulogo. Magakoe are dipatlisiso di a tswelela.
16 Phatwe 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 48 o tlhokafetse morago ga go nwela mo metsing kwa motseng wa Mokgareng, gaufi le Taung. Go begwa fa tiragalo e, e le ya Lamatlhatso.
Sebueledi sa Sepodisi mono porofense ya Bokone Bophirima, Colonel Anne Magakoe are sepodisi se ile sa bilediwa kwa lefelong la tiragalo, mme ba fitlhela monna o, a nwetse mo molapong. Magakoe are kgetsi ya morago ga loso e butswe.
“Dipatlisiso tsa go sa le gale di shupa fa monna o, a tlhokofetse morago ga go nwela mo metsing. Dipatlisiso tsa morago ga loso di tsweletse,” Magakoe wa tlhalosa.
14 August 2026 – The police in the Namakwa District continues to intensify efforts to combat the illegal trade in drugs and protect communities from the devastating effects of substance abuse. On Wednesday, the members of SAPS Brandvlei acted swiftly on a tip-off regarding a vehicle allegedly transporting dagga in the Brandvlei area.
The Namakwa District Police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Charles Magerman said the police operationalised the information and spotted a white Toyota Tazz in Burger Street, Brandvlei. Magerman said a search of the vehicle was conducted, resulting in the discovery of several ziplock bags containing skunk dagga, with an estimated street value of R67 500.
“Three suspects aged between 28 and 46, were arrested and are facing charges of dealing in dagga.
“The suspects are expected to appear in the Calvinia Magistrate’s Court in due course,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa DistrictPolice Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the police for their swift and decisive response to the information received. Andrews also expressed his appreciation to the community for providing information that enables the police to disrupt the illegal drug trade.
“Drug dealers have no place to hide in our communities. We will continue to act on information received and ensure that those who profit from the illegal drug trade are brought before the courts.
“We urge community members to continue working with the police by reporting suspicious activities,” he said.
Andrews further said the police in the Namakwa District remains committed to preventing and combating drug-related crimes and calls on members of the public to continue providing information to the police.
The Guardian 