Monthly Archives: May 2024

Maano Secondary School in Masutlhe gets facelift  

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi announces new changes at Maano Secondary School/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she is proud to announce the official conversion of Maano Secondary School in Masutlhe II village, outside Mahikeng, to an Agricultural Focus School on 17 May 2024. Motsumi made this announcement during the second-last instalment of the Thuntsa Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery program led by the acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi. 

She further said Maano Secondary School, previously a public ordinary school, was selected as one of seven Agricultural Focus Schools in Ngaka Modiri Molema in 2023, with the aim to equip learners with the skills and knowledge they need to participate in the agricultural economy and develop a love for farming.

Motsumi added that North West is an agrarian province and the establishment of agricultural schools is crucial to enforce these skills and love for agriculture amongst our learners. 

“This will ensure a brighter future not only for our learners, but for the entire province’s agricultural sector. The school received a R2.5 million from the Maths, Science, and Technology Conditional Grant, to establish its agricultural production lines. 

“Currently, the school boasts of a crop production, poultry production (including broilers, layers, free-range chickens, and egg housing), goat production, and plant production in the form of orchard,” said Motsumi. 

She said the conversion of Maano Secondary School coincides with the distribution of National School Nutrition Program (NSNP) utensils to the school. Motsumi said other schools in the Ngaka Modiri Molema district that benefited from the NSNP, include Kebonang Secondary School, Kgosi Kebalepile Secondary School, St. Mary’s Special School and Motheo Thuto Secondary School.

“We also visited Boitsanape Technical School, which is currently refurbishing its school furniture. The school is additionally providing training to its General Assistants to help them further develop their skills.

“The department remains steadfast in providing its learners with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. By fostering a love for agriculture and equipping students with the necessary skills,” she said.

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Police ready for General National Elections 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

Millions of South Africans will be going out on 29 May 2024 to cast their votes in various voting stations across the country. However, sometimes violence erupts in some voting stations due to intolerance between political parties. 

However, the police in Northern Cape said they are well prepared to deal with any violent situation. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the police will be out in full force to ensure that the General National Elections (GNE) will be safe and secure for all citizens.

Ehlers said to ensure personal safety during the elections period and beyond, they will implement precautionary measures that need to be adhered to. She said no intimidation, threats and incitement of violence in any form, including on digital platforms will be allowed.    

“Sharing false information, rumours, or threats online or in person is discouraged. Under the Cyber Crimes Act, Act 19 of 2020, individuals who use social media and digital platforms to send threatening or inflammatory messages, incite violence, or cause harm to others, may be criminally charged.  

“Offenders may face charges of intimidation and incitement of violence. Any person who threatens to destroy property belonging to a group or person will be guilty of a criminal offence.  People found guilty of contravening the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, Act 18 of 2015, will be convicted, fined or may be sentenced to imprisonment,” she said.

Ehlers further said any person who tampers with, damages and destroys essential infrastructure is guilty of contravening the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, Act 18 of 2015. She added that those found guilty will be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years imprisonment or fined. 

“The police will act upon the unauthorised removal or concealment of any voting or election material.                                Unauthorised damage or destroying any voting or election material, defacing or unlawfully removing any billboard, placards or poster published by a registered party or candidate.

“Incidents of this nature are deemed an Electoral Offence in terms of the Electoral Act, Act 73 of 1998.  Offenders will be subject to a fine or 10 years imprisonment,” she said. 

Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) said: “Some of the Bill of Rights in South Africa’s pioneering constitution grants all citizens aged 18 and older the right to vote, but the question often asked is whether voting will really make a difference. Of course it does. 

“Voting gives you an opportunity to be part of decision-making that affects your life and the future of our country. If you don’t vote, others will make the decisions for you. History shows that democracies in danger of losing their freedom register frighteningly low voter turnouts.” 

IEC said in thriving democracies, people vote in large numbers and the people’s voice remains supreme. It said people should vote because they can. 

“You may take your right to vote and all other rights in our constitution for granted, but 30 years ago most of the people in our country were not allowed to vote. Many of them were arrested and jailed for demanding this most basic human right. Others were tortured and killed. Because of their sacrifice, today you can vote simply by presenting yourself at a voting station with your ID during a registration event that puts you on the voters’ roll for life, and lets you vote in every future general and by-election in your area.

“Elections have consequences and you have the power to decide on the quality of life you want for yourself and your community, and even future generations. Voting is your chance to stand up for the issues you care about. This is your life – take the time to help decide what’s best,”

It said voting rather than just venting on social media or protesting is the best way to make your voice heard and make a positive input on the issues that concern you. Not voting is giving up your voice. 

“Elections are decided by the people who go out and vote. If you don’t vote, someone else will make the decision for you. If you don’t vote you get stuck with other people’s choices – and you can’t even complain about it because you let it happen. 

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Banyana Banyana coach announces squad for international friendlies against Senegal

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WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND – AUGUST 02: Hildah Magaia of South Africa celebrates with teammates after scoring her team’s second goal during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group G match between South Africa and Italy at Wellington Regional Stadium on August 02, 2023 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

By OBAKENG MAJE

Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis has announced her squad for the two international friendly matches against Senegal in the coming days. Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions, Banyana Banyana will play two away international friendly matches against Senegal during the FIFA break in their backyard on 31 May and on 4 June 2024.

“I think October last year really showed what a core group is all about, when we had so many players missing because of injuries, exams and visa issues. We are always looking at the depth and the versatility within our team, and we have made some changes to the squad for the upcoming fixtures against Senegal.

“I think this selection presents an exciting opportunity for us to assess and explore the potential of other players within our core group. We are not only investing in the future of the team, but we are also providing opportunities now for all players to grow and to contribute to the success of the team,” she said.

Ellis further said they are really look forward to seeing the players in action on the field and they are excited about what they can bring to the team. She added that, the purpose of the trip is to utilize the FIFA dates and stay active in preparation for the WAFCON when CAF confirms the dates of the tournament.

Ellis won the Women’s Coach of the Year accolade at the COSAFA Awards a few days ago after seeing off competition from Zambia’s Bruce Mwape and Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies’ Jerry Tshabalala.

The highly decorated Banyana Banyana coach was also conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology last month. The revered Ellis received the honour on 25 April 2024 in Cape Town.

The next WAFCON will be held in Morocco, but the dates of the start of the Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana’s defence of their continental title are yet to be announced.

Meanwhile, the Sasol Group and Sponsorship, Dean Somerset said: “This team consistently demonstrate strength and determination, to excel at the highest level of the women’s game.

“We have full confidence that they will approach this upcoming game with the same vigour as they continue to be the epitome of our sponsorship mantra, #LiveTheImpossible.”

Somerset said they would like to congratulate the squad chosen to represent Sasol Banyana Banyana in the upcoming international friendly against Senegal.

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A man jailed for violating protection order 

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By REGINALD KANYANE 

A 52-YEAR-OLD was sentenced to a one year imprisonment for contravention of a protection order. Dikeletso Shashape contravened the conditions issued against him by insulting an elderly woman (50), whom he was in a domestic relationship with. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the protection order was issued against Shashape on 8 December 2022.

“The victim who was in possession of a domestic violence protection order, reported the contravention to the police and the accused was arrested.

“The court imposed a one year imprisonment to Shashape for contravention of a protection order. He has also been declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, applauded the Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Oageng Moilwa, for ensuring that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) are brought to book.

Otola also reminded the public that contravening the terms of a protection order is a criminal offence and welcomed the court’s decision to impose an imprisonment sentence.

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A man who terrorised community sentenced to 20 years imprisonment 

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

A 30-YEAR-OLD man was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the Kimberly Regional Court for robbery. Allesandro Swanepoel who is affectionately known as Pankies, terrorised the community of Roodepan, near tuck shops in White City.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said Pankies’ modus operandi would be to prey on victims that were walking alone in the streets and rob them of their belongings.

“The court heard that he violently robbed two victims of their cell phones between 15-18 May 2023 in and around White City, Roodepan.

“The court sentenced him to 15 years imprisonment for count one of robbery and 4 years for count two and declared him unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the Investigation Team of Roodepan Detectives, Warrant Officer Marvin Arends and Sergeant Vincent Phiri, for the thorough investigative work, and ensuring that justice is served for victims of property and contact crimes. 

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Dipatlisiso ditsweletse morago ga go thubiwa ga kereke ya UCCSA

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Ka OBAKENG MAJE 

Sepodisi sa Taung se tlhalositse fa ele nnete kerekeng ya UCCSA mono Taung e thubilwe, ebile go utswitswe dilwana. Go ya ka sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen, mongwe wa baeteledipele ba kereke o tlhalositse fa a itsisitswe ke mongwe wa baagi gore kereke ya bone e thubilwe. 

“O tlhalositse fa a ne a sianela kwa kerekeng, mme a fitlhela kgoro ya kereke e robilwe. Ene ya re fa a lekola dilo tsa kereke, one a fitlhela fa go utswitswe thapo ya motlakase. 

“Go fitlha ga jaana, kgetsi ya go thubela mo tulong ya kgwebo (business burglary) e butswe. Fela, ga gona ope o tshwerweng. Dipatlisiso mo kgetsing e, ditsweletse,” Van Rooyen wa tlhalosa. 

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Setshwantshwo: Kgoro ya kereke ya UCCSA e robilwe

ANC concerned as criminals stole electrical cable leaving residents in the dark

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Picture: The electrical cable allegedly stolen in Rustenburg/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The ANC in Rustenburg said it is concerned with the high rate of crime. This comes after the criminals allegedly stole the 11kv electrical cable that serves the Greater Boitekong area. 

The ANC Rustenburg LET spokesperson, Terry Bogopane said the incident took place in the early hours of today. Bogopane said they unequivocally condemn the theft. 

“This egregious act follows a similar occurrence on Monday, where the entirety of Rustenburg Town and Waterfall East, was submerged in darkness. These treasonous acts of sabotage transcend mere criminality. They represent a calculated attempt to sway the results of the impending 2024 General National and Provincial Elections. 

“The systematic and persistent destruction of public infrastructure constitutes a blatant assault on the pillars of our democracy. The economic repercussions of these power cuts are profound and far-reaching. Businesses, particularly small enterprises, suffer significant losses due to interrupted operations and increased costs,” he said.

Bogopane further said the impact extends to every corner of the communities, affecting job creation, public safety, and the overall quality of life. He added that in stark contrast to these acts of vandalism, the ANC-led government has made commendable strides in stabilizing the national grid, successfully curbing load shedding for the past 53 days. 

“This achievement has been a beacon of hope for our economy and a testament to the government’s commitment to energy security. The ANC-led Rustenburg Local Municipality, under the vigilant leadership of mayor Sheila Mabale Huma and her executive team, is working tirelessly to restore power to the affected areas.

“We call upon all members of our communities to stand united with law enforcement agencies. By providing crucial information, you are not only aiding in the capture of those responsible for these heinous crimes but also playing a pivotal role in protecting our public infrastructure,” said Bogopane. 

He said together, they can defend the gains made by the ANC-led government and ensure the continued stability of their national grid.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General, Sello Kwena, called on community members to report all criminal activities taking place in their areas. Kwena was addressing the residents of Ipelegeng Township, near Schweizer Reneke, during the Crime Prevention Imbizo on Tuesday. 

“We know all criminals within our communities. Please, let’s work together with the police to combat crime. We need to report all criminal activities taking place in our vicinity and stop buying stolen goods,” he said.

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Delegates tackle NPOs challenges 

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Picture: Some of the delegates during the NPO Summit/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE

The owners of Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs), who are part of the NPO Summit, which is underway in Sun City Resort in Rustenburg, hailed resource mobilization, compliant business plan, advanced training and standardized monitoring framework as remedial measures to some of the current challenges faced by their organisations. 

They also cited over reliance on one donor and unqualified personnel as major challenges in their day-to-day operation of their NPOs.

Presenting feedback from the commission composed of various NPOs, Dineo Maribeng said, NPOs owners should have delegation of authority in their financial dealings and refrain from borrowing money from the NPOs.

“Make sure that the financial resources that you receive from the government are used effectively for the benefit of the communities. 

“NPOs can do fund-raising and apply for funding from other donors, other than the Department of Social Development,” she said.

The North West Department of Finance Assistant Manager, Lerato Leseka, urged NPOs to refrain from changing their directorship, the bank details and contacts without effecting them on the Central System Database. Leseka said this is a great challenge and it has become a norm in most NPOs.  

“The department is the only entity in the province, which undertakes the CSD outreach campaigns across the province,” he said.

On the second and last day of the summit, the acting Head of Department (HOD), Fezile Ngqobe, vowed to establish an appeal system for the NPOs on funding matters, and establish a partnership with the NWU on how his department can contribute to the development of the NPO sector. 

Ngqobe said they will put a system in place to provide feedback on monitoring and compliance of NPOs. 

“We will further engage the delegates on the implementation of the resolutions of the summit. Skills training for both officials and NPO Forum members is required to enhance the smooth running of the sector.  

“Other than that, we should undertake community outreach to share information with NPOs so that we empower them. Our officials should go to the NPOs and correct the business plans on time before they are processed,” he said. 

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The residents demand job opportunities from the mine 

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Picture: The residents of Ledig march to the Bakubung mine/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The residents in Ledig village, near Rustenburg, have submitted the Memorandum of Demands to the Bakubung Platinum Mine on 16 May 2024. The residents demand that the mine give them a plan with timeliness, which will ensure that learnership candidates, who were trained years back by the mine, are included in the recruitment process.

They also demand that Small Micro-Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) be given equal opportunities to participate meaningfully in the procurement of the mine.  

The Bakubung Ba Ratheo Tribal Authority spokesperson, Disele Phologane said they also say no to retrenchments. Phologane further said the community cannot afford more retrenchments, which contribute to the current high rate of unemployment. 

He added that residents demand a plan of action with timelines on issues relating to water, roads and infrastructure, which should also be prioritised.

“The memorandum emphasised that things need to change and call on better living conditions for residents. They are the host community and we have had engagements with the mine before COVID-19 pandemic, but nothing has been done on how to deal with these issues. 

“The engagements resulted in an action plan that was signed by the mine to fulfil all the demands. However, it is shocking that the mine has ignored that plan. We demand a meeting with mine management to develop and agree on a strategic plan that will help us find solutions to all the issues raised going forward,” said Phologane.  

He said the community leaders will come after seven days for a response.

“It was of utmost importance that the protest was conducted in a peaceful manner because the aim is to fight for the rights to life, dignity, equality and safety for all people. The mine has seven days to call a meeting. Community leaders will continue to engage and update the residents on all discussions that will be held.  

“This is a critical step to ensure that the mine benefits all and most importantly to ensure that those who are tasked in regard to the implementation of the action plan are held accountable,” said Phologane. 

Meanwhile, the Bakubung Ba Ratheo acting General Manager, Stanley Lebethe accepted the memorandum. Lebethe assured the residents that they will review it and give feedback in due course.

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Five alleged victims turned suspects arrested for kidnapping

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

Five suspects aged between 24 and 42, briefly appeared before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 14 May 2024, after being arrested for kidnapping. It is alleged that five suspects who are Zimbabwean Nationals, saw an advert on Facebook about the sale of maize meal in Klerksdorp. 

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Amanda Funani said the suspects then allegedly made arrangements on 7 May 2024 and ultimately drove from Pretoria to come and buy the product. She said on arrival in Klerksdorp, they were taken to Extension 19 in Jouberton Township, near Klerksdorp to collect the maize meal. 

“While the victims were waiting inside the house, people who pretended to be police officials, allegedly entered and robbed them of their money. The suspects who did not harm the victims, fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash. 

“A case of common robbery was opened at Jouberton Police Station. An attempt to meet with the scammers by the victims, who also became suspects on 9 May 2024, was made. However, they used a woman now to act as a potential client and agreed to meet at a certain garage in Klerksdorp,” said Funani. 

She further said the suspects allegedly spotted the alleged scammer (40), then grabbed and put him inside their vehicle and drove off to the direction of Lichtenburg. Funani added that the suspects’ vehicle was stopped by the police near Lichtenburg. 

“The victim managed to disclose that he had been kidnapped. The suspects were, as a result, arrested while the kidnapped victim was handed over to the police at Jouberton Police Station for common robbery. Tsietsi

 Ncipha briefly appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 10 May 2024 and was granted a R2000 bail. 

 “Five suspects were taken to Klerksdorp and made first appearance before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 14 May 2024, for Kidnapping. Xolani Ncube, Milton Nyoni, Mandla Ntshongolo, Joel Moyo and Kalvin Tshuma, are expected to appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court again on 20 May 2024, for bail application,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated the police in Lichtenburg and the Detectives in Klerksdorp and Jouberton, for working together in making sure that the suspects were arrested.

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