Picture: Seventeen suspected stolen goats seized by the police/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Two men aged 39 and 43 were arrested for allegedly stealing 17 goats worth R25 000 in a farm in Kuruman on 7 March 2024. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col, Sergio Kock said the suspects were arrested by the members of Kuruman Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STESU).
Kock said the suspected stolen goats were retrieved hours later at a farm in Revilo.
“The police received a tip-off and followed it up. The members retrieved all 17 suspected stolen goats from a farm in Revilo in the North West hours later. The goats were positively identified and handed back to the rightful owner.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Kuruman Magistrate’s Court soon,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the Kuruman STESU members for their quick response and reiterated that they will continue to combat crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement.
Otola said they also encourage the community to participate in the “RATE OUR SERVICE ” QR online survey and assist the police in improving our service.
Picture: The Deputy Director of Business School at the North West University (NWU), Prof Leenta Grobler
By OBAKENG MAJE
The School Governing Body (SGB) elections are underway in various schools across the North West. However, it is alleged that many parents are not heeding to the call to partake in the elections.
The Deputy Director of Business School at the North West University (NWU), Prof Leenta Grobler, said it is imperative that the 2024 SGB elections be characterised by informed decisions.
Leenta said in the past years, her engagement with SGB elections was minimal, driven more by familiar names than an understanding of what the roles entailed. She further said, like many parents, she was ensnared by misconceptions that SGB positions were sought for personal gain, rather than the altruistic goal of enhancing educational standards.
“However, my perspective has shifted significantly. No longer do I see these elections as mere formalities, instead, they represent a vital opportunity for impactful governance in our schools. As we approach the 2024 SGB elections in South Africa, it is essential to understand the profound impact these bodies have on the operation and culture of our schools.
“This includes the impact on the quality of the education our children receive. Reflecting on my journey as a parent and my professional insights as the Deputy Director at the NWU Business School, I have come to recognise the critical role of informed participation in these elections,” said Leenta.
She added that, the reality is that SGBs are instrumental in shaping the educational environment – from curriculum alignment and school policies to infrastructure management and staff appointments. Leenta said these responsibilities go far beyond the trivialities that rumours and misconceptions often suggest.
“The SGB is the platform where concerns such as curriculum issues, bullying and the respect between teachers and learners can be addressed effectively, ensuring the best interests of the school and its learners are always a priority.
“This year, more than ever, it is crucial that we move beyond personal acquaintances when casting our votes. The pending Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill will introduce changes that demand SGB members, who are knowledgeable and capable of navigating new governance landscapes,” said Leenta.
She said the votes must support candidates who possess the skills to implement good governance practices, akin to those outlined in the King IV report, irrespective of whether such standards are mandated. Leenta said the centralising tendencies of the BELA Bill necessitate the election of SGB members, who are adept at legal work, policy analysis and advocacy.
“The emphasis should be on electing individuals who can balance national legislation requirements with the unique needs of their school communities, ensuring that every child’s right to a quality education is upheld.
“Drawing parallels between effective corporate governance and school governance, reveals the importance of principles such as ethics, accountability and stakeholder engagement,” she said.
Leenta said applying these principles within SGBs, can significantly enhance the decision-making process, ensuring that schools operate not only with transparency, but with a clear focus on delivering educational excellence. She said awareness and engagement are critical in ensuring a high turnout and an informed voting process.
“As we navigate these elections, it is paramount that we utilise every available platform to educate and mobilise our communities. The NWU Business School stands ready to support, equip and train elected individuals, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in school governance.
“My vision for the future of school governance in South Africa is one where engagement extends beyond the SGB elections. It envisions a community where every parent, educator and stakeholder takes an active role in the continuous improvement of our educational institutions,” said Leenta.
She said this collective effort can transform the schools into environments that not only confront challenges, but also foster innovation and excellence. Leenta said as they edge closer to the 2024 SGB elections, let they recognise the power of the participation.
“This is not merely an opportunity to vote, but a call to contribute to the foundational aspects of our education system. Let us choose candidates, who embody the principles of effective governance, those who are prepared to advocate for the best interests of our children and their future.
“The forthcoming SGB elections are a crucial juncture in our journey towards educational excellence. By participating actively and making informed choices, we can ensure that our schools are led by individuals committed to fostering an environment where every learner can thrive,” she said.
Leenta urges parents turn out in record numbers, fully informed and fully committed, to shape the education landscape in South Africa positively.
Picture: The rugby winning coach, Johan “Rassie” Erasmus/Google
By OBAKENG MAJE
The Rugby World Cup-winning coach and Director of Rugby, Johan “Rassie” Erasmus, is to be awarded an honorary doctorate by the North West University (NWU). The NWU Council, has approved the decision during their ordinary meeting on 16 November 2023.
The chairperson of the council, Bert Sorgdrager said, the request for the awarding of the degree Philosophiae Doctor (Honoris Causa) in the discipline coaching science, was made by the NWU’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
Sorgdrager further said the honorary doctorate will be bestowed on Erasmus in recognition of his innovative and exceptional management of the Springboks during their victorious 2019 and 2023 IRB World Cup campaigns. He added that, Erasmus’ significant standing in the international rugby coaching arena, his strong drive and focus on diversity and inclusion, and his commitment to social responsibility is outstanding.
“In addition to his visionary leadership, he has also shown an unwavering commitment to the Sport Transformation Charter – which is included in the Strategic Plan of the Department of Sport and Recreation – that has resulted in a systematic change in the development of talent and skills across the national rugby spectrum.
“Erasmus has shown himself to be a nation builder of whom the country can be proud. Rassie embodies the principles of resilience, determination and teamwork that we, at the North West University, hold dear in our educational mission. His contributions to South Africa, both as a rugby strategist and as a nation builder, serve as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, dedication and visionary leadership come together,” said Sorgdrager.
He said this esteemed recognition is not only well deserved, but also a testament to the remarkable contributions and exceptional impact Erasmus has made in the field of sport and innovative sports management.
Sorgdrager said Erasmus’ commitment to inclusivity and transformation in sport, has not only revitalised rugby, but has served as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and unity in a nation with a complex history. He said under his guidance, the Springboks not only achieved rugby greatness, but also became a unifying force, bringing together people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
“His emphasis on teamwork, discipline and dedication, has resonated far beyond the sports arena, offering life lessons that inspire not only aspiring athletes, but also individuals in their everyday lives.
“He has meaningfully used his sphere of influence to advocate for social change, fostering an environment in which diversity and inclusivity are celebrated, and differences are seen as strengths rather than weaknesses,” he said.
Meanwhile, Erasmus has on 7 March 2024, with much appreciation, accepted the honour bestowed upon him. The ceremony is due to take place on the Potchefstroom Campus of the NWU during the coming months.
Picture: Some of dagga worth R375 000 seized by police/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
Malawian man (30) was arrested for illegal dealing in dagga worth R375 000 on 7 March 2024. This comes after Kanoneiland police allegedly pounced on him and seized dagga.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock said, the police from Kanoneiland Visible Policing and Detectives, under the command of Warrant Officer Frederick Engels, allegedly received a tip-off and raided a suspected drug house in Geelkop, near Kanoneiland.
“The police searched the premises and found 15 bags of dagga with an estimated street value of R375 000,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the Kanoneiland police for the swift and professional action that ensured the arrest of the alleged dagga dealer. Otola also reiterated that they will continue to bolster efforts that are enhancing the police to squeeze the space for criminals to operate.
“We will also like to thank the community for assisting with information regarding criminality in their respective communities. We also encourage the community to participate in the “RATE OUR SERVICE ” QR online survey and assist the police in improving our service to the public,” said Otola.
Picture: The CEO of Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg, Portia Tlou engaging with patients/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital, Portia Tlou, has engaged on ‘management walk about’ to the Outpatient Department on 5 March 2024. Tlou said she did this in order to engage with patients and afford her an opportunity to get first-hand information from patients in relation to health services rendered.
She further re-assured patients that the hospital is committed to provision of quality health services and the interaction served as an assessment on which health services the hospital can expand to meet up with the needs of patients. Tlou added that this will also address the ever growing population in the district.
“Most of the patients were ecstatic about the services offered by the hospital while few raised concerns regarding the queuing and filling system. As the hospital, there is a need to improve the queuing system, through prioritisation of the elderly and people with disability.
“This will include school children and terminally-ill patients. The hospital is reviewing the filling system with the view of enhancing its efficiency. So, all concerns raised by the patients will be monitored and addressed in order to attain expedited provision of quality health services,” she said.
Tlou said they appreciate feedback that was given to them by the patients. She said it gives them the opportunity to go back to the drawing board to better their services.
Meanwhile, on regular basis, Tlou said she conducts management by walk about in the hospital to have first-hand information in the operations of the hospital either during the day or at night. She said this also ensures that, constant interaction with the staff and patients is ensured.
It has been a week since the operation at Taung Taxi Rank went back to normal. However, the Taung Taxi Association spokesperson, Tshidi Letlhaku said they are not happy with the decision.
According to Lelthaku, they had a consultative engagement with the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Gaoralwe, who allegedly forced them to return to the taxi rank or face the risk of their taxis being pounded.
“We had a consultative engagement with the municipality, however, the meeting was fruitless. We abandoned the taxi rank because of various criminal elements and some challenges we encountered. Now, the mayor has made a decision that we should return to the taxi rank.
“He promised that the municipal employees would go and clean the rank. However, this is hurtful because last week, our members were shot at by police, while we had an engagement meeting with the Taung Police Station commander,” he said.
Letlhaku further said, however, that matter was not even part of the agenda during a meeting. He added that the question remains, what will they say to the taxi operators because they represent them.
“Truly, I do not condone the issue of barricading roads because many livelihoods are affected. So, we will see what will be on the table in our next consultative meeting on 13 March 2024,” said Letlhaku.
The Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe said they have established a committee that will deal with all challenges raised. He said the role of the committee will be dealing with selling of drugs, buying and selling of suspected stolen properties or items and those who steal and rob people in town.
“The wrath of the law will take place against all transgressors. This committee will be led by me and other stakeholders, including taxi associations and hawkers. One of the things we agreed on is that the municipal cleaners from the department of services will thoroughly clean the taxi rank before taxi operators ascend to it.
“Some of our plans are long term and we will have a follow-up meeting on 13 March 2024 at the municipal offices at 10am. From now on, there will be strict access control at the rank and we will not allow anyone to enter the rank if s/he is not a commuter or a hawker,” he said.
Gaoraelwe said things will be done differently from now on in terms of access control at the taxi rank. He said they have also involved taxi owners because they have realised that one of the contributing factors to crime is that some of the taxi operators are allegedly involved in these criminal activities.
“We had our own intervention measures through municipal patrollers, but we have experienced budget constraints. We can only do this much as the municipality, like ensuring that public toilets are working, taxi rank is clean and the patrollers manage access control.
“Remember, even though the taxi rank belongs to the municipality, the primary users are commuters and taxi owners. There were allegations that some of the taxi owners are part of the syndicate that is operating within the rank.
“So, this needs to be addressed internally, because taxi drivers and owners cannot manage the challenges alone. So, we need a joint effort from all other stakeholders,” said Gaoraelwe.
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management spokesperson, Lucas Mothibedi said: “The department has been alerted that, there’s been challenges at the Taung Taxi Rank. We have coordinated with police and they have briefed us that they have been attending to some of these issues.
“Our intervention team from the department also picked up some of the issues. We are in constant engagement with all parties involved, including taxi operators and the police to resolve this issue expeditiously.”
Picture: The fugitive, Pedro Francisco Cossa/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
A man (42) who was allegedly involved in the murder of Stephen Moagi is sought. The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Amanda Funani said, the North West Provincial Organised Crime Unit are searching for Pedro Francisco Cossa.
Funani said that Moagi was allegedly driving his vehicle in the early hours of Wednesday (19 April 2017), travelling from work to home between Sun City and Thekwane, outside Rustenburg when approached by an unknown man.
“Whilst driving, he was approached by an unknown vehicle and the suspect started shooting at him. Subsequent to the shooting, Moagi was discovered dead inside his vehicle by a passer-by. The North West police are offering up to R50 000 reward to any person, who can assist the police in the arrest and successful conviction of a Mozambique national, Pedro Francisco Cossa.
“Cossa is believed to be still living in South Africa. Anyone who may have information, can contact the investigating officer, Captain Winnie Rekate of the Organised Crime Unit on 082 416 0838 or Crime Stop 08600 10111. You can also send anonymous tip offs via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she added.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named a 32-member preliminary squad for the FIFA Series international friendlies pilot project in Algeria later this month. The FIFA event will run from 18 to 26 March 2024 and it will be the first time that Broos reunites with his team since beating DR Congo 6-5 on penalties in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place play-off to win bronze at the continental tournament in Côte d’Ivoire last month.
Coach Broos’ charges play the first match against Andorra at the 19 May 1956 Stadium in Annaba, Algeria, on Thursday, 21 March 2024. They then face the hosts at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers on Tuesday, 26 March 2024 before returning home on the following day.
The Bafana Bafana coach will announce his final squad for the event in the coming days.
I must confess upfront that I am neither a legal guru or a para-legal expert in any legal field or whatsoever. However, that in no way precludes me, as a concerned bona-fide resident of Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality, from entering the fray as far as the topic at hand is concerned.
This whole “hot potato” web-like entangled debacle, begs a million-dollar question: “WHO IS FOOLING WHO?” in what looks like a somewhat well calculated and ill-timed political ploy equivalent to a “A SCHOOL BOY CHECKMATE MOVE IN A CHESS GAME”. In this whole dramatic U-turn twist of unfolding scenarios, is the amount of public interests generated by this burning issue.
My personal take on the issue in question (two cents worth, if you might judge it) is basically from a layman perspective. It is common course that in the event a vacancy exists for the position of a Municipal Manager, the affected council in line with its adopted “RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION POLICY” subsequently develops an “ACTION PLAN” as a guiding road map towards the filling of that vacant post.
I have no slightest doubt that the step-by-step processes of that Action Plan (outlining specific time-bound tasks), was followed to the latter by the institution concerned. Of key importance and particular interest amongst those requirements, was COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT OUTCOMES report as conducted by the duly independent GIJIMA.
For each of the shortlisted/appointable candidates of the 11 applicants, three were reportedly shortlisted and subsequently interviewed for the position of the Municipal Manager. Reference is drawn to copies of competency assessment reports purportedly from Gijima (assumed to be legitimate and true reflection documents in my view) for two of the three interviewed candidates, competency assessment report for Mr Eric Gaborone, clearly stated he is suitably qualified to be appointed in any of senior managerial positions below Municipal Manager post based on his overall scores (rated as “BASIC”). Competency assessment report for Mr Tshepo Bloom, clearly stated that he performed satisfactorily and based on his overall performance was thus suitably qualified for appointment as Municipal Manager (rated as “Competent”).
NB: As to how the constituted Shortlisting/ Interview Panel (either by OMISSION or COMMISSION) turned a blind eye to this discrepancy of note, leaves much to be desired. One is therefore inclined to state without fear of contradiction that the interview panel’s final report with recommendations on suitability of the three candidates (in order of preference) tabled before Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality council, was a PRE-LOBBIED DONE DEAL.
NB: Councillors were, in fact, sold a dummy and lured into endorsing the report) oblivious of the fine print inputs from Gijima. It is vividly apparent that submission of “swapped” interviews documents (included a FAKE or TEMPERED competency assessment report, denoting changed report from Basic to Competent) to the NW Department of Local Government seeking the CONSENT of the MEC tantamount to MISREPRESENTATION OF FACTS.
Authenticity of the two competency assessment reports for the very one and same candidate (currently appointed as MM) as purportedly issued by Gijima is now a subject of litigation. As to who solely manufactured the other seemingly tampered or fake competency assessment rating Mr E. Gaborone’s overall performance as “Competent” remains to be seen.
The letter of the MEC for Local Government, Human Settlement, and Traditional Affairs, calling for REVOCATION OF COUNCIL RESOLUTION ON DISPUTED APPOINTMENT OF KMLM MUNICIPAL MANAGER in my own view is pro-actively legally sound and rational, rather than being reactive as others might think. Should the MEC wait for the COURT OF LAW to pronounce itself on this matter? (my answer is a big NO)
What is it that KMLM is supposed to do now to save itself from imminent humiliation and embarrassment in the face of this unfolding saga? The simple route is to convene an urgent Special Council sitting, resolve not to defend this wrong-doing in court (with legal costs), rescind the council resolution on the fraudulent appointment of the current MM and endorse Mr Tshepo Bloom as a duly deserving appointable candidate for MM position of KMLM.
Failure to do this will result in the municipality having to incur huge financial costs (salary plus benefits for the remaining term of office) likely to be claimed by Mr T. Bloom as he was unfairly prejudiced. I rest my case Norman Moncho Concerned resident KMLM.
(Note: Mr Norman Moncho is an ordinary resident of Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality and views shared here, does not represent Taung DailyNews nor its associate. They remain the views of the author and Taung DailyNews does not agree nor disagree with them)
Picture: North West MEC for Finance, Motlalepula Rosho/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
North West MEC for Treasury, Motlalepula Rosho said the provincial fiscal framework consists of equitable share, conditional grants and own revenue is amounting to R53.700 billion for the 2024/25 financial year, R55.086 billion for the 2025/26 financial year and R57.348 billion for the 2026/27 financial year.
Rosho said this culminates into a total allocation of R166.134 billion over the MTEF. She further said the social cluster, consisting of Education, Health, Human Settlements, Social Development, Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, is allocated an amount of R42.842 billion in 2024/25.
She added that, the North West Department of Education receives R21.932 billion, Health is allocated R16.522 billion, Human Settlements’ budget is R1.826 billion, Social Development allocation amounts to R1.811 billion, whilst Arts, Culture, Sports & Recreation receives R750.401 million.
“Within these allocations, the special provisions are made for construction and maintenance of health facilities, the province will be spending an amount of R705.561 million through Health Facility Revitalisation Grant in the 2024/25 financial year. An amount of R1.6 billion is allocated for medicine and medical supplies.
“This allocation will ensure that people of the North West, have access to medicine and medical supplies as and when they visit hospitals and clinics. An amount of R1.304 billion is allocated for Education Infrastructure Grant, to fast-track the implementation of school infrastructure,” said Rosho.
She said this will include the elimination of backlogs with the focus of increasing classes, improving sanitation at schools by building toilets, that provide learners with adequate and dignified sanitation. Rosho said the budget of R702.874 million has been allocated for the delivery of Learning and Teaching Support Material (LTSM), inclusive of stationery, textbooks and workbooks to 1445 schools and 32 public special schools around the province for 2024/24 financial year.
“An amount of R664.104 million is allocated for the National School Nutrition Programme to benefit 750 000 learners annually, where breakfast will be introduced to certain schools in the most disadvantaged communities.
“The Sanitary Dignity Programme (SDP) is allocated an amount of R19.341 million in 2024/25 to support over 252 000 learners’ in quintiles 1 to 3 schools as well as in special schools. This programme provides girls with uninterrupted education and instils confidence and self-esteem allowing them to reach their full potential,” she said.
Rosho said social welfare services to the communities, including services to people with disabilities, as well as for implementing social behaviour programmes, is allocated an amount of R270.088 million. She said the largest share of this allocation is funding earmarked for Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs), amounting to R240.088 million.
“An amount of R155 million is allocated to transform community library services mainly for previously disadvantaged communities. An amount of R1.556 billion is for development of houses and servicing of the sites through the Human Settlements Development Grant (HSDG) and Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership Grant (ISUP).
“Due to the reduction to the HSDG and ISUP funding over the MTEF and increasing need for housing coupled with backlogs in this sector, the Executive Council has endorsed a process to solicit R2 billion through front-loading/pledging of future Human Settlements grants,” said Rosho.
She said the pledging will be done in line with the Borrowing Powers of Provincial Government Act 48 of 1996 read together with the Division of Revenue Act in an effort to aggressively expand housing delivery in the face of pending grants reduction.
Rosho said the Economic Cluster consisting of Public Works & Roads, Agriculture and Rural Development and Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, has been allocated a consolidated budget amounting to R6.224 billion in 2024/25.
The Guardian 