Monthly Archives: May 2015

VILLAGES, TOWNSHIPS AND SMALL DORPIES TO BENEFIT FROM GERMAN MULTI-MILLION RAND PROJECTS

NEWS Leave a comment

Schweizer-Reneke- A social investment agreement to the tune of R33 million has been signed with the German Development Bank for the construction of six community care centres in villages, townships and small dorpies, North West MEC for Social Development Fenny Gaolaolwe told the residents of Ipelegeng in Mamusa on Thursday.

“We are here to conduct an official project site hand over to the contractor who has been appointed to build a community care centre in this area. The construction of these centres including the one for Ipelegeng township will take ten months to complete. During this period and beyond we appeal to all community members to work hand in hand with the municipality, the steering community that is to be appointed with the involvement of the community and the municipality to ensure the smooth running of this project, Gaolaolwe said, adding that residents should stop burning the infrastructure that government has built when they participate in service delivery protests.

Calling for economic empowerment of local residents, Gaolaolwe said the contractor should ensure that the building material including the interlocking bricks to be used to build the centre are manufactured on site to impart skills and knowledge to the residents.

Any other materials for the construction of the centres, Gaolaolwe said should also be procured locally to boost the economies of village, townships and small dorpies.

The construction of the community care centres will start on the 06 June in Groot Marico in Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality, Letlhakeng in Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Lethabong in Rustenburg Local Municipality, Boikhutso in Ventersdorp Local Municipality, Ipelegeng in Mamusa Local Municipality and Kgomotso village in Greater Taung Local Municipality.

Gaolaolwe said community base model programme will be implemented in partnership with six non-profit organizations.

These organizations include Ikitsing home based care at Rustenburg service point, Ikageng Basha at Moses Kotane service point, Tshireletsego care and support at Ventersdorp service point, St Abram orphanage centre at Mamusa service point and lastly Malebogo home-based care at Taung service point.

Bokone Bophirima is the third province after Kwa-Zulu Natal and Limpopo to benefit from the German Development Bank funding initiative.
-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_

Rhino poached in North West

NEWS Leave a comment

Crime-Scene.jpg
BY OBAKENG MAJE
Rustenburg- The stock theft unit of the South African Police Service based at Phokeng Police station, in Rustenburg was summoned to a rhino poaching incident in a private game farm in Koster.

Captain Paul Ramaloko said upon arrival at the scene, police found a dehorned three weeks caucus of a  female grownup rhino.

“According to the owner, he last saw the rhino earlier this months. One of his employees in the farm saw the caucus while on this routine patrols in the farm” Ramaloko said.

He said preliminary investigations revealed that, a high calibre rifle was used to put the rhino down.

“It is not clear how the poachers gained access to the farm” he said.

No arrest has been made, and investigations are continuing. 
-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_

Taung man killed over R2

NEWS Leave a comment

60c5c766737548e993e5bf0c3decec40

STAFF REPORTER
North West police are investigation a case of murder at Molelema village, in Taung after a man was stabbed to death on Sunday.


According to information, two friends were involved in an argument and that led to a fight. Unconfirmed reports, they were involved in a brawl over R2.
Mpaeki Seleke was allegedly stabbed with a knife by his friend, whose name is known to TDN, but cannot be released amid court appearance and was taken to local clinic where he was confirmed dead.


North West police spokesperson, Colonel Emelda Setlhako could not confirm the atrocity as she said they have not received the matter yet.


“I cannot confirm the event as I have not received any matter of such, but i will inquire with Taung police then I will call you tomorrow morning for full details” Setlhako said.
A case of murder was opened at Taung police station and investigation continues.
-TDN 

ANC struggle icon ‘Mama Ruta’ laid to rest

NEWS Leave a comment

dr ruth image 2013
BY OBAKENG MAJE
South Africans paid tribute to the African National Congress fallen hero,
Mama Ruth Segomotsi Mompati at Vryburg, in North West on Saturday.

The funeral of Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, who passed away two weeks ago was buried at Huhudi cemetery, near Vryburg.

The funeral was hosted at Vryburg Dome Show-ground.

Amongst those who attended the funeral were South African president, Jacob Zuma, Deputy president, Cyril Ramaphosa, Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, African Union Commission chairperson, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and other ANC and Government officials.

The late ANC stalwart Ruth Mompati(89) was described as a nurturer, a guardian and selfless principled leader.

ANC veteran, Sophie De Bruyn said it is not possible to describe Mama Ruta in great details.

“She is among those who permanently stays in the hearts of her people. She has a vast history abroad and here at home. She left us with tools to contribute in improving other people’s lives” Sophie de Bruyn said.

According to mourners, they said true to her name Segomotsi, which means ‘Comforter’ in setswana, she was to play the role of mother, aunt, sister, friend and grandmother to hundreds of young and old who found themselves separated from their own as a result of apartheid brutality.

President Jacob Zuma has described the late ANC stalwart Ruth Mompati as an exceptional freedom fighter and a disciplined activist.

The 89-year-old died on 12th of this month, in Cape Town, at the Military hospital.

Mompati’s family representative, Sindisiwe Ngaba paid tribute to Mama Ruta and took mourners down memory lane as she spoke fondly about her.

“Mama Ruta’s life touched the hearts of many. She was a loving mother and grandmother to all and always carried herself elegantly” Ngaba said.

Ruth Mompati was described as firm, strict but structured, balanced and gentle human being who was also a devout Christian.

Her death marks an end of years of dedicated service to the ANC in exile and in post-Apartheid South Africa.

President Zuma delivered a eulogy in Mompati’s honour at her official burial ceremony in Vryburg in the North-West on Saturday.

Mama Ruta as she was fondly known by those close to her was regarded as an international icon as she played an important role in the struggle for the liberation of this country.

The President has urged women and young people to emulate Mompati.

“We gathered here to celebrate Mma Ruta’s life because she dedicated her life to the struggle. When people talk about Dr Ruth Mompati, they get motivated because she brought changes into their lives.

“We are grateful for producing such a revolutionary and selfless person. She was a towering giant in fighting for the freedom we enjoy today. She was an outstanding leader, who embodied values of unity, humility, honesty, hardwork and mutual respect,” Jacob Zuma said.

He encourages all South Africans to take those values and improve their lives.
-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_

North West contractors shine at Govan Mbeki awards

NEWS Leave a comment

supra-mahumapelo
BY OBAKENG MAJE
The North West Department of Local Government and Human Settlement hosted a delectable awards in honouring those who performed well in the construction industry within the province.

Govan Mbeki Awards event was hosted at Manthe stadium, in Taung and some of those who graced the event, was North West premier, Supra Mahumapelo, North West MEC for Human Settlement and Local Government, Collen Maine and Deputy Minister for Local Government, Zoe Kota-Hendrick.

Mahumapelo lauds those contractors who showcased a splendid performance and were head above shoulders.

“We would like to applaud those contractors who displayed marvellous work despite challenges they came across in building those indispensable houses. Most construction companies those who were hired by government; some of them are now blacklisted because they were chancers. The government of Bokone Bophirima took a resolution that, they will build RDP houses for elders only and to create many entrepreneurs within the youth as possible.

“This initiative was seconded by the late Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati who always encouraged the youth to go to school. Bokone Bophirima continues with Saamtreek saamwerk initiative. We need to explore and broaden the market because we have experienced an overflow within the construction industry, hence agriculture, tourism and culture are at the forefront agenda in our province,” Mahumapelo said.

Mahumapelo also took time to thank South Africans who paid tribute to the late struggle icon, Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati who was laid to rest on Saturday in Vryburg, North West.

He also said the government resolute to dedicate its chuck of financial muscle to small villages, townships and dorpies.

Deputy Minister Zoe Kola-Hendrick said the government promotes the awards among contractors to encourage them in delivering enormous work.

“We are here to assure government that we build houses value for money. The awards were great success and we will be having national Govan Mbeki Awards ceremony on the13th of August 2015 and on the 14 Agust 2015, we will be having Govan Mbeki Golf Day in Cape Town,” Hendrick said.

Rachel Molamu from Mercycon Construction & Projects, who was bestowed with The Best Woman Contractor award in the province said she was overwhelmed by the award despite challenges she faced.

“I feel very honoured because the construction industry is mostly male-dominated, so for me being awarded this shows that women have the ability to strive. We really appreciate the support shown by government, so to other women out there, come and give the males a run for their money and make undeviating changes in the world,” Molamu said.

Tsholofelo Mosalaesi(22) from Rustenburg was thrilled after being honoured as the Best Student in Construction.

“My hardwork finally paid-off and this only tells me to work very hard. I got BSC Honours Degree in Construction Studies from Wits University. I am inspired by the achievements,” Mosalaesi concludes.

Catergory WinnerName of the company
Best Rural Project Zola Mangwaca(winner)White Leopard
Best Informal Settlement Upgraded Programme Cecil HarrisCH Enterprise
Best Woman ContratorRachel MolamuMercycon Construction
Best Youth ContractorThokozane LittlerMadimong Trading & Services
Best Integrated Residential ProgrammeAshraf SoomarSunset Bay Trading
Best Enhanced People’s Housing ProcessStanley NyanyiraiUtshani Fund (NPC)
Best Project in non-subsidy marketGerrie Brits(Den Akker Projects)
Best Student Awarded Bursary Tsholofelo MosalaesiWits University
-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_

R3m SABC choir sings Hlaudi’s praises

NEWS Leave a comment

2 15:19MpHlaudi Motsoeneng. (File, City Press)

Hlaudi Motsoeneng. (File, City Press)

Johannesburg – The SABC choir had cost the public broadcaster R3m in its 2014/15 financial year, Communications Minister Faith Muthambi said on Friday.

She was responding to a question from the DA in parliament.

The minister however underplayed the choir singing praises to its Chief Operation Officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng during a staff meeting, saying “it only happened once” and without coercion.

For more http://www.news24.com

 

Thugs terrorise clinic staff and patients in Magogong

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: (Magogong clinic that operates 12-hours after thugs attacked staff and patients)

Picture: (Magogong clinic that operates 12-hours after thugs attacked staff and patients)

BY OBAKENG MAJE

The community of Magogong village, in Taung is crestfallen after their beloved local clinic turned into a “war zone’ by thugs in their area. According to residents in the area, the Magogong clinic operates only twelve-hours a day and that cost them.

Magogong community leader, Tebogo Morwe claims that the reduced time of the clinic from 24-hours to 12-hours was forced by escalating crime in the area.

“We were led down by Taung Police Station because we tried to engage with them to fight crime in the area, but nothing came forth. We need a satellite police station in the area because the lives of the residents are at risk now,” Morwe said.

He said that thugs once pounced and attacked each other.

According to North West Department of Health, they took that decision based on safety of the staff.

The department’ spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said the gangsters endangered the lives of the staff and they tried to engage different stakeholders, but they failed to reach any agreement.

“Magogong clinic indeed operates 12 hours and seven days a week. This is due to the fact that the gangsters were attacking each other at the clinic and they were endangering staff and other patients. The meeting was conveyed between the police, community and the feuding groups but all efforts failed” Lekgethwane said.

He said when they tried to open the case with the police and community guarding the clinic, that did not help.

“Our guards are unable to deal with this problem. We only need assurance of safety and we will adjust our service at the clinic. Staff members are also not willing to work there due to threats and intimidation” Lekgethwane said.

-TDN

Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_

Modiri FM Programmes Manager to take the station to greater heights

NEWS Leave a comment

Photo1221

BY OBAKENG MAJE
Modiri FM is a community Radio started more than three years ago. It is a community radio station that brings development to the life-style of everyone in South Africa.

Modiri FM’s Programmes Manager, Matthews Mokgaje said it is a platform where government, local municipalities and Dikgosi inform the geographic community about local projects and developments.

Modiri FM is broadcasting from Atamelang at Ngaka Modiri Molema district.

“We are surrounded by different villages in areas like Tswaing, Ratlou, Mahikeng and also Naledi local Municipality. During our first year of broadcast, Modiri FM presenter managed to win the best community radio deejay award at South African Traditional Music Award(SATMA) through the efforts being taken by the station,” Mokgaje said.

He said Modiri FM was the only station that won that type of category within the North West province.
Matthews Mokgaje who is affectionately known as Lefika in entertainment fraternity, was born back in the mid 70’s from the christian family at Kopela village.

“I started my school days at Kopela Primary school and went to Ramokonyane Middle School. I completed my matric at Phatsima High School at Atamelang near Delareyville” Mokgaje said.

Mokgaje said he was inspired by former radio personalities from Mmabatho FM and Radio Sunshine. They were creative and innovative. I am a humble person who believes in me and working hard to achieve good results” he said.

Mokgaje who has completed Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication at North West University (Mafikeng Campus), said he started internship program at Radio Teemaneng in Kimberly.

“I was unemployed for a period of two years, but I never lost hope. In 2005, I started Mafikeng Community Radio Station in conjunction with Modisaotsile Bantsheng. That was the most difficult part of my life, because there was no funding to run the project” he said.

Mafikeng FM produced so many radio presenters and some are currently working for various national radio stations like Motsweding FM, North West FM and different institutions.

Mokgaje embarked on another initiative by starting Modiri FM which is currently one of the best community radio stations in North West.

-TDN

Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_

E-mail:mmokgaje@gmail.com

website: www.modirifm.co.za

Contact: 0736651849

Facebook: Matthews Mokgaje

Mashamaite shines at 2014/15 PSL Awards

NEWS Leave a comment

9ec4fb0bad0a4907877e75cadc7bb71f
Kaizer Chiefs defender, Tefu Mashamaite took top honours on Sunday night, 17 May 2015 as the Premier Soccer League rewarded top achievers at the 2014/15 #PSLAwards held at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.

Mashamaite won three of the four categories he was nominated in. The Amakhosi defender walked away with the 2014/15 Footballer of the Season, Absa Premiership Player’s Player of the Season and the Absa Premiership Defender of the Season. Mashamaite won a total prize money of R450 000.

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, Teko Modise who also had multiple nominations, scooped the Absa Premiership Midfielder of the Season (R50 000) and the Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament (R150 000).

SuperSport United’s Dove Wome won the Telkom Knockout Player of the Tournament (R200 00) while Kaizer Chief’s George Maluleka was named as the MTN8 Last Man Standing (R80 000).

Full list of the PSL Awards Winners below:

FOOTBALLER OF THE SEASON: R250 000
Tefu Mashamaite (Kaizer Chiefs) – WINNER

CHAIRMAN’S AWARD
Botha Smila

ABSA PREMIERSHIP
Absa Premiership Players’ Player of the Season – R150 000
Tefu Mashamaite (Kaizer Chiefs) – WINNER
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

Absa Premiership Goalkeeper of the Season – R50 000
Moeneeb Joseph (Bidvest Wits) – WINNER
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

Absa Premiership Defender of the Season – R50 000
Tefu Mashamaite (Kaizer Chiefs) – WINNER
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

Absa Premiership Midfielder of the Season – R50 000
Teko Modise (Mamelodi Sundowns) – WINNER
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

Absa Premiership Young Player of the Season – R50 000
Phumlani Ntshangase (Bidvest Wits) – WINNER
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

Absa Premiership Coach of the Season – R75 000
Stuart Baxter (Kaizer Chiefs) – WINNER
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

Absa Premiership Absa-lutely Awesome Goal of the Season – R50 000
Menzi Masuku (Orlando Pirates) – WINNER
(54’ Orlando Pirates vs SuperSport United – 29 April 2015)
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

Absa Premiership Top Goalscorer – R25 000
Moeketsi Sekola (Free State Stars)
(Plus an additional R10 000 if the winning candidate is an Absa account holder)

NEDBANK CUP
Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament: R150 000
Teko Modise (Mamelodi Sundowns) – WINNER

Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player of the Tournament: R50 000
Tashreeq Morris (Ajax Cape Town) – WINNER

TELKOM KNOCKOUT
Telkom Knockout Player of the Tournament: R200 000
Dove Wome (SuperSport United) – WINNER

MTN8
MTN8 Last Man Standing: R80 000 George Maluleka (Kaizer Chiefs) – WINNER

NATIONAL FIRST DIVISION
Top Goal scorer of the Season: R50 000 Phumelele Bhengu (Thanda Royal Zulu)

MULTICHOICE DISKI CHALLENGE
Player of the Tournament
Dikgang Ngcobo

MATCH OFFICIALS:
Referee of the Season: R50 000 Shumani Phillip Tinyani – WINNER

Assistant Referee of the Season: R40 000
Peter Chauke – WINNER
For more http://www.supersport.com

POLICE FOUND BODY OF A MISSING GRANNY DEAD

NEWS Leave a comment

60c5c766737548e993e5bf0c3decec40
BY OBAKENG MAJE
Madikwe police found the body of a 72-year-old woman who was reported missing three weeks ago in Brakkuil village, Madikwe.

The body was found on Friday, in the afternoon inside a pit toilet  approximately 500 meters away from her place. 

North West police spokesperson colonel Sabata Mokgwabone said it is alleged that no one stays in the yard where the body was found except that relatives come and visit the place and leave. 

The old woman was last seen  alive on  Wednesday, 29 April 2015.        

“The community members were suspecting that the woman was killed for muti and confronted the old woman’s 30-year-old male grandchild about her whereabouts. The  grandchild allegedly informed the members of the community  that a 50-year-old tavern owner was responsible for the missing of his  grandmother” Mokgwabone said. 

The 50-year-old man’s tavern was allegedly burnt down and liquor stolen.  The incident led to apprehension of three suspects;  Lekgetho Matsela (22), Sam Modimola (39) and Jack Modimola (45) who appeared in  the Madikwe Court on Monday, 11 May 2015 for  Arson and burglary.           

“We want to assure the community that the body of the old woman was found intact without any body part missing. The relatives were also called when the body was removed to come and identify it.  They also witnessed that no body part was missing” he said. 

The community is urged to remain calm, avoid taking the law into their own hands and allow police investigation to take place. 

Anyone with information that may lead to arrest of the suspects, can contact Madikwe Police Station on (014) 553-9024/21 or  SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Alternatively, anonymous tip-off can be made through Crime Line sms 32211.
-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_