BY REGINALD KANYANE

OVER 90 young unemployed youth in Taung received their certificates after participating in short skills programme. The programme was organised by National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) in partnership with Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district municipality. The event was held at Mmabana Cultural Centre in Taung on Friday.

NYDA spokesperson, Lerato Gambu said graduates underwent training on the YouthBuild Skills Project. He said the programme targeted youth to create own enterprises.

“The aim was to impart skills to the youth who could play a part in the mainstream economy. The young people received skills in plumbing and welding. The training was for 6 months is accredited by Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA).

“The skill development programmes are mechanism to provide young people with skills. This will enhance opportunities for income. And will also create employment whilst simultaneously encouraging voluntary and service activities by young people to support community development,” Gambu said.

He said as part of its exit strategy for young people, the project focused on three development streams. Gambu said it consists of hard-skills training, enterprise development and further learning.

Greater Taung local municipality mayor, Kaone Lobelo said: “As the municipality we are dedicated to improving the lives of the youth. Most youth are unemployed and this was a good initiative. The programme will help to reduce vulnerability within the youth. We have also been providing learnerships and support to young people.

“A mission and vision of our municipality is to make sure the lives of our people are improved. We have to adapt to the unique needs of our young people. They are our future leaders and changing their lives is important. Nevertheless they are faced with mammoth task like socio-economic issues. So we need to play pivotal role to make sure they overcome these scourge,” Lobelo said.

One of the beneficiaries, Judith Mogomotsi said: “As young people and graduates of the Youth Build Skills Programme we are ready to confront our destiny. We appreciate all the guidance and support that the NYDA has given us.

“We believe this will not end here, but continue to benefit other young people across the province. We commit to become employers one day. We also want to give back to our broader communities. NYDA provide opportunities to all the youth especially in rural areas.”

NYS senior manager, Makume Tlaleane shared the same sentiments. He said they will continue to award learnerships to many young people.

“You are privileged to be amongst the graduates from this programme. As South Africa is celebrating 40^th anniversary of June 16, we welcome you. We will be celebrating the gallantry of young people who sacrificed their lives for better life to the others.

“You are now armed with skills to confront the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. As graduates, you have a responsibility to live up to the hopes of the community. And provide your community with job opportunities,” Tlaleane said.

He also urged all graduates to participate on their online platform called Mara Mentor. Tlaleane said that will create an interaction with captains of industry on how to grow their enterprises.

-TDN

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Picture: (North West FM presenter, Douglas Mosadi

BY REGINALD KANYANE

NORTH West FM presenter, Douglas Mosadi said he will not trade his radio job for anything. He said to him radio was a calling. Mosadi said he will continue to be a radio presenter as long as he lives.

“I always kept intrigued from the younger age. I think I was born to be a radio presenter. I used to listen to the likes of Aubrey Motloung and Sello Phiri on Radio Setswana then. I will sit with my friends and emulate those presenters. Some people think presenting is easy, however one need skill to do that.

“I started at Radio Mmabatho back in 1992. I was still young and I’ve learnt a lot over the years. I’ve realised that you need passion and to remain compelling, composed and confident to make it through. You also need to be relatable to your audience at all times,” Mosadi said.

A 37 year-old legendary presenter also works as a commercial DJ. He hosts afternoon drive at North West FM. Mosadi who was born in Dobsonville in Soweto also runs a communication company called DMOS Logic. His mother relocated him to Mahikeng because of unrest and riots in Soweto back then.

According to Mosadi, he went through renunciation process because of radio. He also worked for Radio Sunshine after the merger between Radio Setswana and Radio Mmabatho back in 1998.

“I moved to Radio Sunshine back in 1998 after the merger. However I was brought back to now Motsweding FM on the same year. I worked there and hosted various slots before I moved to North West FM last year. Sticking to the same profession boils down to passion.

“As a person you do not have to do things because of money. Money is not everything at the end of the day. If you do what makes you happy, then you are fine. However I learnt a lot on this journey,” he said.

Mosadi was involved in various social responsibilities over the years. He said the radio landscape has changed and he could easily intermingle with his listeners now.

“Changing the lives of the masses is what is important. I have been engaged in various community activities. Social responsibility helps uplift the society we form part of. We recently bought a stove and a freezer to one family in Jouberton, in Klerksdorp.

“I believe in changing the lives of our people. As a radio presenter, you need to take care and respect your listeners. You must always be informative and know what’s happening around you. The topics you bring on air must be fascinating too,” Mosadi said.

He regarded education as very imperative. Mosadi is armed with BA Degree in Communication from North West University. He further added that he wanted to register for Master Degree because one must always expand his/her knowledge.

-TDN

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BY REGINALD KANYANE

ANC provincial secretary in North West, Dakota Legoete said that the party had completed its councilors’ nomination process and was ready for August 3.

Even in areas where there were disputes, the party said it had managed to clear those.

“We have completed the nomination process for councilors. However, we have received challenges from other areas. Some members alleged that there were elected members who were not eligible. But I can confirm that we have sorted that out.

“We are very adamant that our people will continue to vote for us. ANC as the ruling party will continue to ensure that local government works better for the people. We shall work with the people to continue giving effect to their constitutional rights and thereby advancing people’s power to determine their own destinies,” Legoete said.

He added that the ANC has ensured that those deployed in municipalities are capacitated and have the requisite skills to do their work. Legoete said in cases where some ANC councilors did not perform well, they encouraged communities to hold them accountable and report their concerns.

“We have acted on these concerns by replacing some councilors and strengthening others. The ANC remains the people’s movement. It puts people at the centre of its activities. For this reason, we have involved communities in the process of nominating candidates for the forthcoming 2016 municipal elections.

“This has helped in choosing the best candidates to be ANC public representatives. We believe that councilors must sign performance agreements. They must also report regularly to the communities on their work. This will give power to the people in holding their representatives accountable and making local government work better,” Legoete said.

Meanwhile, the DA in North West said they were shocked that ANC President Jacob Zuma continued to make empty promises to the people of the province. DA leader, Joe McGluwa said communities embarked on protests because of non-delivery of basic services.

Zuma was in Taung on Sunday during ANC provincial manifesto launch ahead of local elections. McGluwa said Zuma once again promised better medical care, jobs, basic services amongst other things.

“Just last week, residents of Christiana, Bloemhof, Ramoshana and other villages took to the streets to show their frustration over non delivery of services. They are asking for schools, clinics and jobs. The angry protesters said they were angry that the ANC could not deliver on basic services they were promised,” he said.

However, ANC alliances partners COSATU, SANCO and SACP said they believe that ANC will deliver and was the only political party that has changed the lives of the people for the better.

-TDN

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Vera Pauw,coach of South Africa during the South African Senior Womens Team training session on the 11 April 2014 at the Dobsonville Stadium ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

BY KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

BANYANA BANYANA head coach, Vera Pauw trimmed down her squad of 29. Pauw needed only 18 players plus 4 alternate players to make a final squad of 22. The squad will represent South Africa at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games which start in August.

Goalkeepers Mpho Tefo (Kanatla Ladies) and Yolula Tsawe (JvW FC), defenders Letago Madiba (TUT Ladies) and Jabulile Mazibuko (Tuks) as well as striker Andisiwe Mgcoyi (Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies) have been left out of the squad.

She said that was a toughest decision to make.

“The worst job of any coach in the world is to have to trim down the squad to the required official number. Unfortunately it is something that has to be done. If truth be told I hate my job when it comes to having to leave players out of the squad. And, sadly, I am well aware that I am destroying dreams so it is not something we take very lightly – we put very serious thoughts into the process that has been going on for weeks now,” Pauw said.

“But I would like to say to the players that are out of the squad, not all is totally lost because if there is a need for them to be recalled we will certainly do so. Should there be an injury they will be the first to be contacted so they cannot afford to lose hope or take it easy, they need to continue training so that if that call comes, they are ready. So the bottom line is the door is not closed on them.”

With five players out of the squad from the initial 29, the Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana will now have 26 players at the start of the next training camp with the addition of USA-based striker Jermaine Seoposengwe and goalkeeper Kaylin Swart. But only 25 players will travel to The Netherlands.

Midfielder Silindile Ngubane will not be part of the squad as she has a family commitment. However she is expected back in camp when Banyana Banyana returns from Europe.

Pauw has until 14 July 2016 to name her final squad of 22 players.

PROVISIONAL BANYANA BANYANA SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS

1. Roxanne Barker                 Unattached                                             Cape Town

2. Andile Dlamini                   Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies FC           Johannesburg

3. Mapaseka Mpuru                HPC                                                       Pretoria

DEFENDERS

4. Lebohang Ramalepe            Maindis FC                                            Polokwane

5. Nothando Vilakazi               Palace Super Falcons FC                       Johannesburg

6. Janine Van Wyk                    JVW FC                                                Johannesburg

7. Noko Matlou                        Maindis FC                                            Polokwane

8. Lerato Kgasago                    Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies                 Johannesburg

9. Nomathemba Ntsibande      Springs Home Sweepers                        Johannesburg

10. Bambanani Mbane             Bloemfontein Celtic Ladies                   Bloemfontein

11. Lebogang Mabatle              TUKS                                                     Pretoria

MIDFIELDERS

12. Mamello Makhabane              JVW FC                                                 Johannesburg

13. Amanda Dlamini                     University of Johannesburg                   Johannesburg

14. Silindile Ngubane                   Durban Ladies FC                                   Pietermaritzburg

15. Refiloe Jane                            VUT Ladies                                             Vaal

16. Leandra Smeda                       UWC Ladies                                            Cape Town

17. Nompumelelo Nyandeni         JVW FC                                                  Johannesburg

18. Bongiwe Thusi                        Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies                   Johannesburg

19. Linda Motlhalo                       HPC                                                          Pretoria

20. Stephanie Malherbe                 Texas A & M University                          USA

STRIKERS

21. Sanah Mollo                            Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies FC               Johannesburg

22. Shiwe Nogwanya                     Bloemfontein Celtic Ladies                      Bloemfontein

23. Thembi Kgatlana                     UWC Ladies                                              Cape Town

24. Chantelle Essau                       Palace Super Falcons FC                            Johannesburg

US-based players

25. Jermaine Seoposenwe             Samford University                                       USA

26. Kaylin Swart                            Des Moines Menace University                    USA

-TDN

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As a way of minimising the threat of job cuts in the North West mining industry, the major companies operating along the platinum belt must guard against relying too much on machines to perform tasks that can be achieved by human labour.

This is the view of the Workers Association Union (WAU), which strongly feels that mining stakeholders must collectively look at practical ways to preserve jobs with the view of breathing more life into a sector that has been experiencing instability.

WAU general secretary Elifas Ngoepe said the desire by mining companies to make more profits is leading them to consider slashing jobs in favour of machines, thereby significantly reducing the expenses associated with paying out salaries, medical aid and other financial obligations.

Ngoepe said that if such a practice was intensified, it would not only lead to more people losing their employment but could also provoke labour unrest, which would create more complications in the industry. “I would urge employers to prioritise policies that are aimed towards either preserving the jobs that are already there or increasing them.

Machines must not replace miners,” Ngoepe said. “There are cases in which machines are made to do the work of 10 people and this is obviously unacceptable from the perspective of the workers because obviously they will be discarded,” Ngoepe said.

He said that the continued preference of machines over human beings could also result in the quicker depletion of minerals. “We are saying that as many people as possible, especially workers and the communities that these companies do business in, must benefit from the minerals that are in this country.

“Now, how can this happen if machines are given priority? With machines, the threat of minerals running out is increased and this will come with many problems, especially to other industries that rely on these mining activities,” Ngoepe said. Meanwhile, recent data from Statistics SA regarding the labour situation in the country for the first quarter of 2016 has drawn mixed feelings from WAU.

According to Statistics SA, employment declined quarter on quarter in the mining, construction and trade and finance sectors. However, on a yearly basis, employment rose by 30000 jobs in mining, according to Statistics SA. “I think those jobs in the mining must be temporary jobs because we all know that the sector is experiencing tough times at the moment,” Ngoepe said.

Courtesy: The NewAge Newspaper

South Africa-focused platinum producer Lonmin reported a core profit on Monday after cost savings, and said it expected firm chemical and car industry demand for the rest of the year despite the Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal.

Its shares rose more than 14% in early trading, outperforming the wider mining sector, which was around 2% higher.

Lonmin seems to be surviving the ongoing platinum group market storm, which has been falling consistently in recent periods.

The latest report from Statistics South Africa showed that the mining sector shed 18% in March, largely due to declines in the platinum group metals (PGM), iron ore and manganese ore.

PGMs contributed a massive 27% to the fall in overall mining production and output. Lonmin’s shares have lost around 90% value over the past year, as a result of strikes, rising costs and plunging platinum prices.

In December, the company raised R6.2bn by selling new shares. In its first-half results statement, Lonmin said it had cut losses per share to 1.8 cents from a loss of 164.6 cents the same time a year ago, and reported a core profit of R561m versus a loss of R93m in the first half of 2015.

Cost-cutting is ahead of schedule, with close to 70% of the full-year target of savings of R700m already achieved.

Lonmin CEO Ben Magara said he did not anticipate any further job cuts at current market conditions, but added conditions could change.

Lonmin shed more than 5 000 jobs through its restructuring processes in a bid to cope with escalating costs and falling metal prices.

“These results reflect the positive momentum in Lonmin, we have delivered on our promise to restructure and cut high cost production in this oversupplied market while simultaneously reducing costs and improving cash flows,” Magara said.

He said on a quarter on quarter basis, Lonmin has reduced unit costs to R10 390 a PGM ounce and improved the net cash to R1 781bn.

“There is still a lot of hard work ahead as we squeeze out more costs and drive operational improvements and our key risks remain safety and its related stoppages and relationships.

“Lonmin has long life, shallow mining assets and unrivalled processing expertise and an invaluable mine to market business,” he said. – with Reuters.

Picture: (Gospel artist Shobi Reetseng flanked by his backup artists, Lebo Phiri (Right) and Maipelo Nkwe (Left)

GOSPEL artist Shobi Reetseng said that he welcomed the move by SABC to play 90% local music.

He said local artists will benefit from the initiative. The 37 year-old musician said the music industry needed to be revamped.

“We high appreciate the move by SABC COO, Hlaudi Motsoeneng. This is a big injection to local artists especially up and coming. We need to make sure we are part of changes within the landscape of music. I have released two albums so far and I am working on my third one.

“It had not been easy to market our music across. However the decision brings out light. We also want to commend North West premier, Supra Mahumapelo for coming up with development strategy. As local artists, we do not have to leave the province for greener pastures anymore,” Reetseng said.

Taung-born artist said his both albums were well-received by the masses. Reetseng said gospel music is an important aspect of every society.

“Gospel music can tell stories, release emotions, build bridges and break down barriers, but above all music is entertaining. There are various forms of music, but not many have a rich history as gospel music. The importance of gospel music has been relevant in African music for many years.

“Gospel music promotes a spirit of hope and provides an outlet to worship God. We use gospel music to impact in the lives of many. I have been involved in many community projects and try to bring that beacon of hope within the society. We are marred with unemployment, inequality, teenage pregnancy and demoralised society. However with gospel music we tend to bring that needed hope and help the youth to uphold morals and values,” he said.

Reetseng said North West provincial government in partnership with culture, arts and traditional affairs department (CATA) have promised to assist local artists. He said a database has been created within the department and service points across the municipalities.

“We want to commend the CATA and North West premier, Supra Mahumapelo for listening to our grievances. However more can be done by supporting our local artists. Each service point within the municipality has the local artists’ database. We will urge them to make use of it.

“Mahumapelo announced that they will build recording studios at each district. We also urge the CATA department to assist in marketing our music. One can have a fine product, but marketing is needed,” Reetseng said.

-TDN

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THE SA National Civic Organisation (Sanco) in the North West wants a probe after a farm worker died from work-related injuries.

The deceased, Jan Rammekwa was allegedly left to die from a leg injury at a farm near Ventersdorp. Apparently, there was no immediate call for help after the injury that led to Rammekwa losing his life.

Sanco provincial chairperson, Paul Sebegoe said farm workers needed to be treated as human beings.

“The injury was allegedly caused by a harvesting machine. We wish to convey our condolences to the Rammekwa family. They lost their loved one in this tragic incident. An investigation will also assist to prevent similar incidents. We urge authorities to investigate whether an occupational health and safety plan was in place as well as adhered to.

“We are deeply concerned about allegations that Rammekwa and his supervisor were ensued in an argument prior the incident. Rammekwa’s leg was chopped off by the harvesting machine. It is allegedly that the machine was switched on deliberately. The deceased was allegedly looking for something that was stuck in it,” Sebegoe said.

He added that the delay in getting Rammekwa medical assistance was disturbing. It is said to have taken longer than necessary to inform the deceased’s family as well.

“If found to be true, the supervisor who is said to be a suspect in the matter should be immediately locked up. Violation of human rights, racial abuse and callous murders warrant harshest sentences. That will serve as a deterrent to others within our farming communities,” Sebegoe said.

According to report, the deceased’s brother-in-law, Patrick Pholo shared the same sentiments. He alleged that Doornplaat Group, which owns farms in the area had not communicated timeously with them regarding the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident of his brother.

He said the wheel of justice must roll. Rammekwa was buried on Saturday at Tshing location, near Ventersdorp.

-TDN

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NORTH West premier, Supra Mahumapelo performed a sod-turning at a site where three families affected by the multi-million rand Taung Bridge will be built.

This comes after an agreement was reached between the bridge project contractor and three families whose homesteads have to be moved to give way to the bridge project.

Mahumapelo said they have reached an agreement with residents to be relocated. He said three houses will be demolished so that the bridge can be completed.

“We are performing sod-turning for three houses. We have reached an agreement with the residents to be relocated. The housing project will run co-currently with the bridge project. The bridge cost R81m and that is a high tech.

“The aim is to improve the lives of the people and we want to make sure that there are improvements. As government, our mandate is to change the lives of the people and assist them from abject poverty,” Mahumapelo said.

Public Works MEC, Madoda Sabata said the housing project for three beneficiaries will be completed in July.

“We want to complete this project as soon as we can. We have identified the site and all systems go. Public works will be monitoring the project and we will also make sure our people are well-catered for.

“The houses bulk materials cost R4m. So there houses will be well improved ones. We have intervened after we received complaints from the residents that the bridge project was trapped. Mahumapelo received a complaint from a listener from Motsweding FM during his visit. We have ironed everything and we continuing with both projects,” Sambatha said.

Agnes Mokgosi said: “We are very grateful that finally we will receive houses. The bridge project has been delayed because of miscommunication with the public works department.”

Another beneficiary, Kedibone Kgopodimetsi said: “We looking forward to receive our houses. We believe that with Mahumapelo’s intervention, everything will go accordingly.

Baga-Phuduhucwana Tribal Authority paramount chief, Aobakwe Mankuroane said: “It is a good initiative to see improvements within the Taung area. Many people have lost their live because of that bridge. Having bigger and improved bridge will reduce deaths.

“We will also work together with all stakeholders to make sure all the projects run successfully. Both projects have created job opportunities for our locals,” he said.

-TDN

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Picture: (President Jacob Zuma addressing ANC members in Taung)

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma promised improved service delivery to thousands of ANC supporters who gathered for the ruling party’s provincial manifesto launch in Taung yesterday.

  More than 30 000 people filled up Taung sports ground to listen to their provincial and national leaders. Besides President Zuma, the ANC also deployed its national treasurer, Zweli Mkhize and NEC member, Humphrey Memezi. Party provincial chairperson, Supra Mahumapelo led several activities in and around Taung before the rally and was on hand to drum up support for the ANC.

  In his address, President Zuma said that South Africa celebrates 20 years since the adoption of the constitution in May 1996, a document he said enjoins all people to build local government that has capacity to deliver.

  “We will provide democratic and accountable government for local communities. We will also ensure the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner. The ANC will also promote social and economic development. We will also promote a safe and healthy environment.

 “We will also encourage involvement of communities and community organisations on matters of local government. We have also ensured that those deployed in municipalities are capacitated and have the requisite skills to do with their work,” he said.

  Zuma added that all ANC councilors will be recalled if they fail to deliver their mandate. He said they encourage the communities to hold councilors accountable and report their concerns.

  “We have prioritised the necessary measures to empower the youth. We will also come up with major plans to create job opportunities amongst the youth. So the local government is in your hands. Together we can build better communities.

  “The ANC also encourage the municipalities to deal with illegal corporations. We will assist our people especially in rural areas to access lands for farming. We also urge the farmers to treat our people with dignity and integrity. Their lives need to improve and see positive changes within their lives,” he said.

  Zuma also indicated that the ANC will engage with traditional leaders, private sectors and all stakeholders in quest to improve the lives of the people. He said they will install wi-fi in villages that will benefit the youth. 

  The president discouraged municipalities from outsourcing basic services to consultants.

“ANC will promote and encourage dialogue in social-economic issues. We will also strengthen the working relationship with private sectors and all shareholders. Municipalities play a key role in economic dimension. We will make sure that our people receive medical attention. Improve treatment are also provided by clinics for diseases like TB, HIV and other chronic diseases.

  “In five years time we will improve the healthcare basics. We will also build more clinics and provide shelter to four million households. We will continue to further improve the basic services to informal settlements residents. The party will also improve roads and ageing infrastructures,” he said.

ANC alliance partners were in full force. Cosatu provincial chairperson, Solly Lekhu said: “We support the manifesto launch and we believe ANC will continue to lead. We want the party to minimise in-fights and also fight corruption. Service delivery is derailed by those issues.”

  Sanco provincial secretary, Packett Seaketso shared the same sentiments. “We still have water challenges, sanitation and poor service delivery. We want the party to focus on those issues. Let’s us intensify service delivery and go back to basics.”

-TDN

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