Picture: The newborn baby, who was stolen found unharmed/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE

A woman (21) briefly appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court today for allegedly stealing a newborn baby. Andiswa Bayi was arrested at her house in Greenpoint in Kimberley by the Kimberley SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit with the assistance of the Kimberley SAPS Crime Intelligence unit on Friday.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock said: “The baby was recovered and the police also found her clothes with Bayi. The baby underwent procedural medical observation and will be reunited with her parents.

“The baby went missing on 6 September 2023 at about 17:00 and Bayi was arrested and charged with kidnapping. The case was remanded to 19 September 2023 for a formal bail application and the accused will remain in custody.”

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By OBAKENG MAJE

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in North West said the victimisation of staff at Christiana Hospital is uncalled for. This comes in the wake of allegations that three employees were dismissed without following proper procedure.

The EFF provincial spokesperson, Fanon Moema said his party is deeply shocked by the resurgence of apartheid-era tactics that victimise those with dissenting views in this era of constitutional democracy under the ANC-led government.

“Three employees, who served the North West Department of Health in the capacity of professional nurses and workers’ representatives at the Christiana Hospital, have been dismissed from work without any adherence to disciplinary processes.

“Based on the information available to us, these employees were terminated from the department on 10 March 2023, with their salaries already halted at the end of February 2023. This indicates a premeditated decision to dismiss them, even before any official dismissal letters were issued,” said Moema.

He further said these three employees, Tsholofelo Makuapane, Sylvester Moruri and Masabatha Bonakele acted as union representatives at the hospital. Moema added that, their termination means they have lost their primary source of income, which they depended on to support their families, all in the line of duty defending workers’ rights.

“It is deeply disheartening that workers continue to face such adversities under a democratic government. They are subjected to dismissals without being granted the basic right to a hearing. It’s public knowledge that workers at the hospital took matters into their own hands to address the blatant corruption within.

“In 2021, these workers sought clarity regarding the sluggish progress tied to the hospital renovation contract. This delay ultimately culminated in the unfortunate complete burning down of the hospital, for which, to date, no one has been held accountable,” said Moema.

He said these workers, through their union representatives, aired their concerns to the department, demanding accountability. Moema said that, the department chose to turn a blind eye and proceeded to dismiss these vocal workers without granting them a hearing.

“At no juncture did the department provide these workers with a letter of intention to suspend or invite them to a disciplinary hearing, where they could present their perspective. It remains our steadfast view that, these workers are being victimised to silence their genuine concerns about the facility’s management.

“The affected workers, with the support of their union, have approached the labour court to challenge their unjust dismissal. Six months have passed, and these individuals remain without a salary, a strategy seemingly designed to exhaust their resources and will to see this challenge through to its rightful conclusion,” he said.

Moema said as EFF, they urgently demand the immediate reinstatement of these workers. He said the department’s rash decision, bypassing due process, seriously undermines its credibility.

“Furthermore, we call for a comprehensive forensic audit to expose any underlying misconduct within the North West Department of Health with a particular focus on the Christiana District Hospital and the Sekhing Community Health Centre,” said Moema.

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said: “The department is aware of the matter and it has been taken through the disciplinary processes. Their matters are before the MEC for final consideration. Since the MEC is still applying his mind on the matter, the department does not wish to comment any further.”

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Picture: Magalies Water logo/Google  

By OBAKENG MAJE

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Magalies Water, Sandile Mkhize said the water utility welcomes the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa (BCCSA) against the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) News.

The matter relates to the news report broadcast and published across SABC News platforms on 21 June 2023 alleging that, water quality non-compliance was recorded at the Mmabatho Water Treatment Plant. Mkhize said the plant, through an agreement with the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality (NMMDM), is managed and operated by Magalies Water on behalf of the district municipality.

“While Magalies Water is on record, admitting that prior to taking over the operations at the water treatment plant, which was previously operated and managed by the erstwhile Sedibeng Water, numerous operational challenges had affected water quality output, as was reported in the Blue Drop Watch Report for the 2021/22 financial year, the situation has improved.

“Within a reasonable time, through collaboration, many of the identified challenges were resolved. The NMMDM as the asset owner and a responsible arm of government, would have not continued to maintain a working relationship with Magalies Water at the detriment of the residents who are the primary recipients of this important service,” he said.

Mkhize further said the progress was consequently reported to the accounting authority – the Department of Water and Sanitation and this information was supplied to SABC News as well, during their own investigations relating to the allegations of continued water quality non-compliance.

He added that, Magalies Water’s Scientific Services, through its SANS 241 accredited scientific laboratory ensures that water treatment processes at the water treatment plant, result in potable water of the highest quality, which is certified as safe for human consumption and does not pose any health risks to the consumers.

“As Magalies Water, we launched a complaint with the BCCSA against SABC News and the judgment has vindicated the water utility’s position and reaffirmed its integrity as a reputable bulk water services provider. The SABC News’ approach, story treatment, and delivery fell short of the BCCSA’s Code of Conduct as Magalies Water’s complaint was based on fairness. So, we are not only relieved but also vindicated.

“It has always been our position that the SABC needed to act responsibly and not be sensationalist in its approach. The misrepresentation that Magalies Water suffered, extended to doubts in the minds of many, as it relates to our capacity, skills, and technical knowledge to improve water quality within the area of operation,” he said.

Mkhize said they appreciate the role of the media as the fourth estate and its watchdog function, however, it is critical that the conduct of journalists and editors alike is beyond reproach given their responsibility to society. He said to date, the water treatment plant is regularly monitored and tested for non-compliance.

“Where non-compliances are observed, Magalies Water immediately activates quality assurance processes in line with the water sector standards, to resolve such. In its judgment, the BCCSA found that the SABC News failed to comply with provisions of Section 12 (3) of the Code of Conduct, which reads “Clause 12(3) of the Code of Conduct determines if a person who has stated that he or she is not available for

comment or such a person could not reasonably be reached to comment on a public issue, it must be stated in the programme.

“If there is no response from a person or party whose issues are to be discussed, or if, as in this instance the response is not received timeously, the Broadcaster is obliged to mention this fact on air. Applied to the facts of this case, the broadcaster should have indicated that the complainant was asked for its comment, but that their response had not reached the broadcaster at the time of the broadcast,” he said.

Mkhize said the commission has assured Magalies Water that, the SABC News has been reprimanded in accordance with the ruling.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Three employees at the Christiana Hospital alleged that, they were unfairly dismissed for blowing the whistle on embezzlement of funds and maladministration.

It is alleged that, Tsholofelo Makuapane, Sylvester Moruri and Masabatha Bonakele were victimised after writing a letter to the North West MEC for Health, Madoda Sambatha’s Office demanding a forensic report over an investigation against the Supply Chain Management (SCM) and the then acting CEO at the hospital over embezzlement of funds allegations.

One of the employees who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said: “We are victimised for reporting any wrongdoings at the hospital. The investigations were conducted, but instead of the department tabling the report, we were fired without following proper procedures.

“We appealed the matter, but we are still languishing at home without any proper communication. What is happening now is a clear indication that the employer is retaliating against us instead of taking action and punishing the transgressors.”

According to this employee, their only mistake was to request the tabling of a forensic report. The employee alleged that, the then-acting CEO harassed them and even opened a protection order against them.

The National Public Servants Union (NAPSU)’s Provincial Organiser, Steven Mfanelo Nonzaba said they have tried in vain to have a consultative engage with the North West Department of Health to resolve the matter amicably. Nonzaba further said they would now resort to anarchy to get the attention of the department because it dismally failed to engage them in a civil manner.

“As per Labour Relation Act, we know that the resolution of 2019 is that, when someone is dismissed, there is an issue of an appeal and that is where it starts. After the appeal, all processes and procedures will be followed.

“So, as things have unfolded, we have arranged a meeting with the Office of Labour Relations from the provincial office and they said they were still busy with the report. I also contacted the legal department unit to check up on the status quo of the case,” he said.

He further said some officials told him that, the matter has been resolved and it has been transferred to the Office of MEC. Nonzaba added that, however, there was no correspondence, even though he wrote two emails requesting to meet with Sambatha.

“We think maybe the matter needs a political approach now with a little bit of anarchy. Some officials are sending us from pillar to post and now alleged that they cannot find the files of this case and they are engaging with Legal and Labour Relations units to trace them.

“So, we will go to any of Sambatha’s activities and engage with him for intervention. We know he is the people’s MEC, so it will not be hard to get his attention. We have been trying to approach this matter in a civil way, but the department does not want to come to the party.

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said: “The department is aware of the matter and it has been taken through the disciplinary processes. Their matters are before the MEC for final consideration. Since the MEC is still applying his mind on the matter, the department does not wish to comment any further.”

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Picture: The president of Republic of South Africa

By CYRIL RAMAPHOSA
 
Every September, South Africa marks Public Service Month to draw attention to the vital role of the people who work in the country’s administration in improving people’s lives. The task of building a better South Africa is enabled by the diligence, care, ethical conduct and innovation of the country’s 1.2 million public servants.
 
As they deliver on government’s mandate, public servants are expected to observe the Batho Pele principles such as courtesy, openness and transparency, maintaining service standards and giving best value. Public servants sign up to codes of conduct when they enter employment, whether they are in national departments or provincial and local government.
 
Public servants must uphold the standards expected of them, especially at points of service. They are expected to advance social and economic development through the services that they provide to citizens.
 
We often think that public servants are lacking in the provision of services to citizens and yet there are areas of distinction in the public service that don’t make the headlines.
 
One speaks here about the committed civil servants behind frontline service counters, in our community clinics, at our border posts, in our foreign missions around the world, in our police stations and in our classrooms and at the forefront of scientific endeavour in our various institutions.
 
These public servants get on with their tasks in relative anonymity, serving the South African people with diligence. One hears about situations when things go wrong, but one doesn’t hear about the thousands of people who every day apply for ID cards and passports in Home Affairs offices around the country, and who receive their documents in less than two weeks. Little is reported about the improvements brought about by the new Branch Appointment Booking system and e-service.
 
While many citizens daily experience the orderliness, professionalism and courtesy of frontline service officials, the headlines and online debates are often reserved for public servants involved in corruption or mismanagement. It is correct that these activities be exposed and action taken against those responsible.
 
We also need to recognise where progress is being made.
 
In Parliament last week, I outlined the commendable work underway in departments to discourage corruption, including the completion of over 11,000 lifestyle audits of public servants in national government. This work must continue, because we cannot build an accountable, professional civil service as long as there are individuals who see public office as a vehicle for self-enrichment.
 
At the same time, we must give credit where it is due to the vast majority of civil servants who rise each day to prepare to go to work serving the South African people with honesty and integrity.
 
Later this year, government will gazette several regulations to guide the implementation of the framework for the professionalisation of the public service that was adopted by Cabinet last year. These regulations will contribute to greater stability in the leadership ranks of the public service, ensure that recruitment processes are more rigorous and that prospective public servants undergo competency testing before taking up positions.
 
The implementation of the framework will improve the conditions of service for public servants and bring stability to departments that have undergone prolonged periods of uncertainty and flux. A better trained civil service that attracts suitably qualified individuals will engender greater public confidence.
 
As we recognise the critical work of the public service and as we commend the many public servants who diligently serve the nation, we know that there is much room for improvement.
 
It is for this reason that we have embarked on far-reaching public service reforms that will help build a state that is both capable and developmental; a state that both provides citizens with efficient frontline services and improves the quality of their lives.
 
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Picture: Water infrastructure in North West/Google

By OBAKENG MAJE

The permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) embark on oversight visits in their respective provinces this week to assess infrastructure projects as part of the Provincial Week programme, under the theme: “Building Viable Provincial and Municipal Infrastructure for Effective Delivery of Services to Communities.”

The National Assembly (NA) spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said the 2023 Provincial Week is a week-long high-impact oversight programme aimed at assessing progress in the building of sustainable human settlements to improve the quality of life for the poor and building viable water and sanitation infrastructure for the effective delivery of services to the communities.

“The programme grants Permanent Delegates to the NCOP an opportunity to return to their respective provinces to assess progress made in the delivery of services to citizens and also provides them with an opportunity to contribute to addressing challenges facing the communities.

“The NCOP delegates, together with their provincial legislature counterparts, will spend the week conducting oversight visits to infrastructure projects including bulk water supply plants, roads upgrades, and water treatment plants,” he said.

NORTH WEST PROVINCE NCOP PROVINCIAL WEEK PROGRAMME 11 – 15 SEPTEMBER 2023

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Picture: Some of the items confiscated during Operation Shanela/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

More than 70 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Shanela. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said Operation Shanela, which is a multi-disciplinary density operation remains intentional in stabilizing crime. 

Sam said this was evident in the operational successes achieved during intensified operations across the province from 7 until 10 September 2023 with a sharp focus on the reduction of contact and violent crimes in hotspots, which netted a multitude of successes.

“Actions and police activities executed during the operations included, Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), stop and searches, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections, drugs and other commodities smuggling and tracing operations by detectives.

“The 28 VCPs and 7 roadblocks were held across the province during which 2855 vehicles and 4141 persons were stopped and searched. 374 compliance inspections were conducted at second-hand dealers, firearm dealers, liquor premises, formal and informal businesses as well as mines,” he said.

Sam further said numerous operational successes were achieved and 78 suspects were arrested for crimes ranging from murder, attempted murder, robbery, assault, burglary, theft out of motor vehicle dealing and possession of drugs, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and illegal possession of firearms.

He added that, the police actions also resulted in the confiscation of alcoholic beverages and numerous dangerous weapons that could have had dire consequences if not policed.

“In the Namakwa District, police dug out drugs and discovered some stashed in vehicle tyres, which led to the arrest of the suspects,” said Sam.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola indicated that crime and violence place a heavy burden on the criminal justice system, health care system, and state expenditure.

“These operational successes limit the negative effects and the destructive impact of crime and therefore encourage the women and men in blue, communities as well as all stakeholders to keep on holding each other’s hand in ensuring a safe and secure Northern Cape,” she said.

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Picture: The North West Department of Education communication team/Supplied    

By OBAKENG MAJE

The North West Department of Education Communication Directorate unit had a two-day consultative engagement at Sparkling Water Hotel in Rustenburg to sharpen their communication strategies.

The North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said communication function is the heartbeat of every organisation and effective communication may contribute to organisational success if it is well-coordinated and organised.

“Communication builds employee morale, and the satisfaction of stakeholders and promotes two-way communication with the public. Now that the year is over in a few months, the Grade 12 learners are currently writing their Preliminary Examinations.

“The Communication Directorate decided to review its communication strategy and adjust it to the current developments. Our new communication strategy will assist us in communicating the Last Push campaign, World Teachers Day, Grade 12 Final Examination, Launch of the Early Childhood Development programme, School Governing Bodies Elections, School Infrastructure programmes, etc,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting Superintendent General, Dr Shadrack Mvula in his address, insisted that the communicator’s role should be to popularize the activities of the department.

“Our department is doing so many good things and the public needs to know about our performance. Therefore, it becomes the responsibility of the communicators to popularize those activities. Communicators need to be sharp and should be aggressive when they perform their duties.

“You need to know your operational environment and understand protocol. In your stories, learners should be the primary beneficiaries and remember that teamwork is of paramount importance,” he said.

The strategic session received presentations from Refiloe Mokoto on Risk Management, Dr Peter Kgatitsoe on Strategic Planning, Kagiso Merementsi on Priorities of Strategic Planning with regards to Government Communication and Information Services and Brian Setwambung on Priorities of the 6^th administration.

According to Mvula, the directorate will implement the new communication strategy after an intensive consultation process within the highest authorities of the department.

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Picture: Mud houses in North West a challenge/Google

By OBAKENG MAJE

The acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi said coordination of services among departments and other spheres of government is critical. Maloyi said most services require more integration from the beginning until the end.

He said this during his meeting with both Human Settlements and Corporative Governance senior officials in Potchefstroom on Sunday. Maloyi further referred to the provision of services such as water, sewer, houses, and many others, which remain a serious challenge to communities.

“Issues such as the recent challenges of sewer spillages in Mahikeng. Through my intervention, the matter was attended to with the urgency it received and it is almost resolved. The Presidential District Development Model (DDM) program remains key in delivering services to the North West community.

“We need to work as one and remain united as ever. We are one government and we need to be seen working as such. This is a relay we need to keep the momentum and be seen to be working towards the same goal, which is to deliver as according to government mandate and the promises made to the North West communities,” he said.

He added that, they cannot fail the people because they working in silos. Maloyi urged North West Department of Human Settlements officials to work around the clock by prioritising the eradication of mud houses across the province.

“Currently, the department has already counted more than 30,000 mud houses and still awaiting other numbers from local municipalities. The department has therefore committed to eradicating about 1356 during the current financial year at a budget of over R198 million.

“Most milestones were recorded in Mahikeng and Moretele Local Municipalities. The meeting further focused on other key departmental service delivery programs such as the progress recorded in Deelpan village, which was hit by two devastating floods in the past few months. I was pleased to see a number of government departments sending emergency services to Deelpan, while lasting solutions were still being sorted,” said Maloyi.

He was also pleased that they have moved with speed in appointing a contractor in Deelpan, who will soon start to construct over 100 houses in phase one of the project.

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