By OBAKENG MAJE

21 July 2026 – The North West Department of Education is delighted to announce that all schools in the province have officially reopened for term three of the 2026 academic year. The department said no incidents have been reported from all areas where schools are located.

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said her department continues to encourage parents and residents to prioritise teaching and learning by working closely with schools, ensuring that learners arrive on time every day and are prepared for their lessons. Motsumi said this term is one of the most critical academic terms of the school calendar, more especially for the class of 2026.

“Remember, preparations for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) are intensified. So, this is a critical academic term during which learners will need to demonstrate their understanding of the content covered in their subjects.

“On behalf of the entire department, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all learners back to school for term three. We are now in the most critical period of the academic year and we expect learners to demonstrate a clear understanding of the content in their various subjects,” she said.

Motsumi further said many educators have completed the syllabus and are now focusing on revision. She added that they encourage learners to work closely with their educators to address any areas they find challenging.

“They should take full advantage of this period by revising the work covered in class and seeking clarification on concepts they do not understand.

“Our target remains a 95% matric pass rate and I am confident that the Class of 2026 will rise to the occasion and help us achieve this goal,” said Motsumi.

She said her department further urges all learners to regularly attend classes, remain focused and make use of all programmes of intervention brought forward by the department.

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

21 July 2026 – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has reached a significant milestone in its fight against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) with more than one million animals vaccinated as part of an intensive province-wide campaign to protect livestock. The department said this will contain the outbreak and restore confidence in the livestock sector.

The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said mass vaccination programme, which commenced in March 2026, forms part of the national intervention aimed at vaccinating the provincial cattle herd and limiting the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease. Sambatha said as of 19 July 2026, a total of 1 033 615 cattle had been vaccinated against FMD, making the North West one of the leading provinces in implementing the national FMD vaccination programme.

He further said this achievement places provincial vaccination coverage at approximately 74% of the estimated cattle population, with the department remaining firmly on track to achieve its target of 80% coverage by the end of August 2026, a critical threshold in establishing herd immunity. Sambatha commended veterinary professionals, animal health technicians and support teams for their dedication in reaching this importantmilestone.

“Reaching more than one million vaccinated cattle is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the commitment, professionalismand hard work of our veterinary teams, who have worked tirelessly across all four districts of the province.

“This milestone brings us closer to our goal of vaccinating at least 80% of the provincial herd by the end of August and, ultimately, every eligible animal in the province,” he said.

Sambatha added that while they celebrate this progress, they must remain focused on the work that still lies ahead. He said this is not the finish line, but it is an important step in a much longer journey towards controlling and eventually eradicating the disease.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to Veterinary Services, farmers, industry stakeholders and every individual who has contributed to the success of this campaign. The milestone should not lead to complacency as the vaccination campaign is entering a critical phase.

“This achievement does not mean that officials or farmers can relax. We have completed a significant portion of the first round of vaccinations, but once this phase is concluded, we must return to administer a second dose to all vaccinated animals” said Sambatha.

He said full protection depends on completing the vaccination schedule. Sambatha said vaccination activities are continuing in affected and high-risk areas to ensure maximum coverage and protection of the provincial herd.

“So, farmers are urged to continue adhering to strict biosecurity measures and to ensure that all eligible animals are presented for vaccination.

“The department reiterates its commitment to working closely with livestock farmers, organised agriculture, traditional leaders and allstakeholders to safeguard animal health, protect the agricultural economy and secure the future of the province’s livestock industry,” he said.

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

21 July 2026- The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Region has accused the ANC Regional Task Team of flouting the organisation’s guidelines and sidelining it in the process. The ANCYL in the region alleged that organisational decisions and political programmes appear to be administered with limited consultation of constitutional structures. 

The ANCYL regional secretary, Kagiso Kgabo said this behaviour weakens organisational cohesion and confidence among the members. Kgabo said they have observed with growing concern regarding the current organisational environment within the ANC across their region. 

“As the democratically elected leadership of the ANCYL, we believe it is our revolutionary responsibility to speak whenever the organisational integrity of our movement is placed under strain. The ANCYL remains unwavering in its commitment to the unity, renewal and electoral success of the ANC. 

“It is because of this commitment that we cannot remain silent while organisational practices increasingly depart from the principles of collective leadership, consultation, transparency and internal democracy that have defined the ANC throughout its proud history,” he said. 

Kgabo alleged that on 7 July 2026, they formally requested an urgent engagement with the ANC Regional Task Team to introduce the newly-elected ANCYL leadership, but they were met with refusal. He said the continued refusal to engage the elected leadership of the ANCYL reflects a worrying deterioration in organisational relations and undermines one of the ANC’s most important constitutional components. 

“The ANCYL is deeply concerned by its continued exclusion from strategic organisational processes, including Regional Interview and Vetting Panel (RIVP) processes, political deployments and other activities directly linked to the 2026 Local Government Elections. The ANCYL cannot be expected to mobilise communities, defend the organisation and campaign for the ANC, while simultaneously being excluded from processes that determine the political future of the movement. 

“The ANCYL is not merely an election campaign structure. It is the political school of the ANC and has historically produced generations of leaders who continue to serve the movement with distinction. The ANCYL has observed an increasing departure from the ANC’s long-established tradition of collective leadership,” said Kgabo. 

He further said the ANC has never been built on unilateral decision-making. Kgabo added that it has always been strengthened through consultation, accountability and collective leadership. 

However, ANC RTT coordinator in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati region, Walter Mabogola refuted the allegations and described them as absurd. Mabogola said the newly-elected ANCYL regional structure is being ‘weaponised’.

“The ANCYL structure refused to execute a mandate. So, what they are saying is hogwash. How can they say they are being sidelined while they refused to take a mandate? That structure is being used as a weapon by individuals to sow divisions. So, we deny the allegations in contempt they deserve,” he concluded. 

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

21 July 2026- Tributes continue to pour in for legendary actor, playwright, director and theatre practitioner Seputla Sebogodi who died aged 62. Born and raised in Pretoria, Sebogodi devoted his life to the arts and became one of South Africa’s most loved and respected performers. 

His career stretched over more than 40 years, during which he entertained, inspired and mentored generations of South Africans. He will forever be remembered for his iconic role as Kenneth Mashaba in Generations, a character that became part of South African television history. 

The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie said Sebogodi’s talent was also seen in productions such as Yizo Yizo, Scandal, Rhythm City, The River, The Republic and the internationally acclaimed film The Woman King.

McKenzie said long before television made him a household name, Sebogodi had already earned respect on the theatre stage as an actor, playwright and director. 

“He dedicated much of his career to developing young talent and telling authentic South African stories. His outstanding contribution to the industry earned him several honours, including a Shell Road to Fame Award and South African Film and Television Awards for his performances in Generations and The Republic.

“Bra Seputla was not just an actor, he was family to millions of South Africans who welcomed him into their homes for decades. Kenneth Mashaba became a legend because Seputla brought that character to life in a way that nobody else could. He opened doors for so many young artists and showed the world what South African talent looks like. We have lost one of the greatest to ever do it. We thank him for everything he gave this country. May he rest in peace,” he said.

Deputy Minister Peace Mabe shared the same sentiments. Mabe further said Bra Seputla’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched on stage, on screen and behind the scenes. Mabe added that he was a gifted storyteller, a mentor and a proud ambassador of South African arts and culture. 

“We have lost a true icon and our heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends and the entire creative community. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture extends its deepest condolences to the Sebogodi family, his friends, colleagues and the entire South African creative sector.

“His contribution to South African arts and culture will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” she said.

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Picture: The road maintenance in Extension 4, Kgakala Township, in Leeudoringstad/Supplied  

By AGISANANG SCUFF

20 July 2026 – The North West Department of Public Works and Roads has continued to improve road infrastructure in communities through its contribution to the Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, with road maintenance interventions undertaken on 17 July 2026, in Kgakala Extension 4, Leeudoringstad, near Wolmaranstad.

The North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua said as part of the department’s service delivery programme, the road maintenance team prepared and processed the base layers for a 200-metre internal road in Kgakala Extension 4, enabling the municipality to proceed with installing block paving bricks. Mokua said the department also bladed 0.3 kilometres of internal access roads in Leeudoringstad and undertook maintenance work on a targeted 2.5kilometre stretch of roads in Kgakala Extensions 7 and 8 to improve accessibility for residents.

“The interventions form part of the department’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe and reliable road network that enhances mobility, supports local economic activity and improves access to essential services. The department will continue working with municipalities and other stakeholders to deliver sustainable road infrastructure solutions that improve the daily lives of communities across the North West,” she said.

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Picture: The NWU’s Dale Beighle Animal Health Centre features modern facilities that support animal healthcare practical student training and veterinary services for surrounding communities/Supplied 

By PHENYO MOKGOTHU  

20 July 2026 – For many farmers and animal owners in the North West Province, access to animal healthcare can determine the health of their livestock, household income and food security. At the North West University (NWU), the Dale Beighle Animal Health Centre has become a link between academic training and community service, providing animal healthcare, while preparing graduates to serve South Africa’s agricultural sector.

Located on the Mahikeng campus, the centre provides vaccinations, surgeries, diagnostic services, disease prevention programmes and animal health outreach to surrounding communities. It also serves as a practical training facility, where animal health students gain experience before entering the workplace.

NWU’s Director of the School of Agricultural Sciences, Prof Simon Letsoalo, said these services have made the Dale Beighle Animal Health Centre a strategic community resource. Letsoalo said it strengthens livestock productivity, improves companion animal welfare, enhances public health and supports sustainable agricultural development across the North West.

He further said the centre provides primary animal healthcare to communities that have limited access to veterinary services. Letsoalo added that beyond treating livestock and companion animals, its work includes disease surveillance, vaccination campaigns, parasite control, reproductive support, nutrition guidance and biosecurity advice for farmers.

“These services help reduce disease outbreaks, while supporting livestock production and rural livelihoods. Its work also contributes to public health by monitoring diseases that can spread between animals and people such as rabies and ringworm.

“This supports the one health approach, which recognises the connection between animal, human and environmental health. Healthy livestock translate directly into improved household income, food security and rural livelihoods, making the centre an important contributor to agricultural development in the province. The centre also plays a leading role in training animal health technicians,” he said.

Letsoalo said students receive practical exposure through clinical diagnosis, surgery, laboratory diagnostics, farm consultations, disease investigations and community outreach. He said the experience prepares graduates to work in government veterinary services, research institutions, the livestock industry and private practice after graduation.

“This practical training responds to South Africa’s need for skilled animal health professionals, particularly in rural and agricultural communities. Students graduate work-ready because they have already gained practical experience in diagnosing diseases, handling animals, conducting farm visits and working directly with livestock owners,” said Letsoalo.

He said this strengthens veterinary capacity, while improving services available to communities. Letsoalo said community engagement remains part of the centre’s work.

“Staff and students participate in vaccination campaigns, deworming programmes, sterilisation initiatives, animal welfare awareness campaigns and farmer education workshops. These activities extend services beyond the university campus while strengthening relationships with surrounding communities.

“Looking ahead, the university plans to strengthen animal health sciences through expanded clinical services, research and community engagement,” he said.

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Ka BAKANG MOKOTO

20 Phukwi 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 45 o kolopetswe dingwaga di le 15 kwa ntlo-lefitshwana ke kgotlhatshekelo ya sedika ya Madikwe mabapi le ditatofatso tsa maiteko a polao ya lesea la gagwe la dikgwedi di le 10. Go begwa fa go ile ga tsoga kgakgauthano ya mafoko magareng ga rragwe lesea le, le mmagwe kwa motseng wa Tlokweng, gaufi le Madikwe fa kgwedi ya Ferikgong e ne e tlhola matsatsi a le 4 ka ngwaga wa 2024.

Go ya ka sebueledi sa sepodisi mono porofenseng ya Bokone Bophirima, Colonel Adéle Myburgh, monna o, o ile a tsaya lesea le mme a le latlhela fa fatshe ka motsi wa kgakgauthano. Myburgh are mmagwe lekgarebe le, one a ntewa ka thobane ke rragwe lesea fa a ne a leka go tsereganya le go sireletsa lesea le.

“Le fa lesea le sa tswa dikgobalo ka motsi o, maiteko a ga rragwe a ne a bontsha a le kotsi. Ke ka moo a ile a bulelwa kgetsi ya maiteko a polao. Go begwa fa mosadimogolo (69) o, a ile a itemogela go robega ga matsogo a le mabedi morago ga se.

“Go begwa fa monna o, a ile a tshwarwa morago ga matsatsi a le mabedi. Monna o, ga ipona molato mo ditatofatsong tsotlhe di le pedi, fela bosekisi bo ile jwa neelana ka bopaki jo bo tseneletseng kgatlhanong le ene,” Myburgh wa tlhalosa.

Myburgh are monna o, o kailwe fa a sa tshwanelwa ke go tsholo sethunya. Myburgh are gape monna o, o ile a atlholelwa dingwaga di le supa mabapi le go teketa mosadimogolo ka maikaelelo a go ntsha dikgobalo.

Kgabagare, mokomishinara wa sepodisi wa nama-o-sa-tshwere mono porofenseng ya Bokone Bophirima, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, o akgotse mmatlisisi wa kgetsi e, Detective Sergeant McDonald Mosekwane go tswa kwa kantorong ya babatlisisi kwa Madikwe. Gape, Naidoo o akgotse mosekisi Advocate Zola Mpayipheli ga mmogo le batsaya karolo botlhe.

“Se, se tla romela molaetsa o gagametseng go botlhe ba ba diragang bosenyi kgatlhanong le bana le basadi,” Naidoo wa tlhalosa.

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

20 July 2026 – A man (43) was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for by the Madikwe Regional Court for rape. The court heard evidence that a victim (32) went to a nearby tavern and was approached by the accused, David Disemelo while on her way home on Friday evening, 7 February 2020.

The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said Disemelo strangled and raped the victim on a public road before fleeing the scene. Bobelo said the matter was reported to the police who managed to trace and arrest him after the incident.

“Disemelo was found guilty of rape and sentenced to ten years direct imprisonment by the Madikwe Regional Court on 17 July 2026. In another incident, Tshepo Puna Ndlovu (37) was found guilty and sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Bafokeng Regional Court for attempted rape.

“Evidence presented before court revealed that a victim (43) hosted her boyfriend and Ndlovu at her house in Tlhabane Township, near Rustenburg on 8 March 2025. After the departure of her boyfriend, Ndlovu stayed longer and suggested to have sex with the victim,” he said.

Bobelo further said upon her resistance, Ndlovu assaulted her with fists and the neighbours came to the rescue after hearing cries for help by the victim. He added that the matter was reported to the police and Ndlovu was arrested shortly after the incident.

“Ndlovu was denied bail and remanded in custody until his conviction on 15 July 2026,” said Bobelo.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, thanked the Investigating Officers, Sergeant Taolo Makgotlho and Constable Dikeke Mokebe, as well as the prosecution team for their cooperation and diligence in securing the sentences. Naidoo warned that all perpetrators will face the full might of the law.

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