Monthly Archives: May 2024

Matolong man nabbed for allegedly assaulting his mother, MRM calls for a harsher sentence

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Picture: The suspect who is accused of assaulting his own mother  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in the North West said it is disappointed by the despicable and shameful act of a man (41) in Matolong village, near Taung who allegedly assaulted his own mother (73). MRM Provincial Interim Committee Convener, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele, commended the police for the culprit’s swift arrest.

Kgwele said this comes after the elderly son allegedly defied a protection order that his mother had earlier successfully applied against him.

“We are confident that the criminal justice system will send an unequivocal message that there is no place in our society for those who abuse and commit such atrocious acts against the most vulnerable in our society being the elderly and women. 

“Abuse of parents by their children is a sign of moral decay. So, we call on our communities to unite in action to reclaim Ubuntu as well as lost family and community values. The courageous step undertaken by the assaulted mother had demonstrated that the elderly do not have to suffer in silence,” he said. 

Kgwele further said the programme for the relaunch of MRM structures in districts and municipalities across the province, which was suspended due to the national and provincial elections and focus on promoting the Charter of Elections Ethics, will soon be expedited.

He added that this will ensure that intervention programmes targeted at the most vulnerable are implemented full steam in partnership with government, traditional leaders, churches and other civil society organisations. 

The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said: “The suspect has also been charged for contravention of a Protection Order under the Domestic Violence Act, 1998 (Act No. 116 of 1998). It is alleged that, on 2 May 2024, the suspect allegedly came home and assaulted his mother. 

“He was arrested on 3 May 2024, shortly after the incident was reported to the police.  He will appear before the Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday.” 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, said it is sad that an elderly mother was allegedly attacked by her own son, who is supposed to protect her. Kwena condemned the incident in the strongest possible terms and said police will continue to protect the most vulnerable and bring the alleged perpetrators to book.

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Government partnership with Danish Environmental Protection Agency to resolve water challenges in Dinokana  

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Picture: The delegation embarked on an oversight visit to Dinikana Water Scheme/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Department of Water and Sanitation(DWS) in partnership with The Danish Environmental Protection Agency from Denmark, Magalies Water Board and Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, conducted a site visit to the Dinokana Water Scheme recently. 

The visit was part of the South Africa and Denmark Cooperation Strategic government-to-government partnership in the water sector. The Department of Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa said a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), was signed in November 2015 by the Minister of Water and Sanitation and the Danish Minister of Environment and Food to improve the framework conditions of the South African water sector. 

Mavasa further said this initiative is also set to improve the investor attractiveness of the water sector in support of the realization of the Sustainable Development Goal 6.

He added that, Dinokana area has been selected for piloting of the implementation of protection zoning guideline, which aims creating a guidance document outlining knowledge-based management and precautionary management approaches that may be used to protect groundwater resources from pollution sources through delineation aquifer protection zones in Dinokana.

“This means an increased water resilience on human activities with less economic costs on treatment of drinking water, indirect protection of groundwater dependent surface water bodies such as wetlands, lakes and rivers and to assist on frequency of groundwater monitoring. 

“This also entails procedures for reporting compliance issues should contamination of water resources occur. The site visit consisted of a close examination of operation and maintenance of boreholes in Matlhase Wellfield to observe and monitor its water supply and its ground water quality,” said Mavasa. 

He said there was also an oversight of Dinokana in the Upper and Lower eye, which is the main source of water. Mavasa said the delegation assessed progress made in the upgrade of a spring water pump station under the Dinokana Water Supply Project launched by Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu in October last year. 

“The project funded under Water Service Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) also includes refurbishing Dinokana Upper Eye Pump Station. To date, the pump station interior, paintwork, broken pumps, leaking and non-functional valves and the control panel have been repaired, replaced, and restored,” he said.

Meanwhile, the chief of Bahurutshe Ba Ga Moiloa Tribal Authority, Kgosi Mosiameemang Moiloa, welcomed the visit by the delegation and said that he was anticipating the team’s findings and recommendations, which will ensure continuous flow of water in his land.

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Matolong man who allegedly demanded alcohol money from his mother and assaulted her, has been arrested 

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Picture: The suspect expected to appear in Taung Magistrate’s Court/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

A man (41) from Matolong village, near Taung, is set to appear in Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday for allegedly assaulting his mother and contravention of a Protection Order under the Domestic Violence Act, 1998 (Act No. 116 of 1998).

On Thursday evening (2 May 2024), the suspect allegedly came home and demanded alcohol money. He allegedly assaulted his mother and dragged her in the streets after she refused to give him money. 

The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said: “The incident occurred after a protection order was earlier granted against the suspect, who allegedly assaulted his niece. He was arrested on 3 May 2024, shortly after the incident was reported to the police. 

“The suspect will appear before the Taung Magistrate’s Court on Monday,” she said. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, said it is sad that an elderly mother was allegedly attacked by her own son, who is supposed to protect her. Kwena condemned the incident in the strongest possible terms and said police will continue to protect the most vulnerable and bring the alleged perpetrators to book.   

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The newly-built school a ‘beacon of hope’

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Picture: The Minister of DBE, Angie Motshega and North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, handing over a newly-built school to the community/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Minister of Department of Basic Education, Angie Motsekga said the R44.6 million newly-built Goakgang Primary School in Phasha-Maloka village, near Klipgat, will significantly improve the economic performance of the area. Motshega also applauded the contractor, Kontinental Engineering, for their outstanding commitment to community engagement.

“We applaud the contractor for involving community members in the success of this building project. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of ownership within the community and significantly improves the economic performance of the area.

“This marks yet another infrastructural milestone in North West. So, the department is proud to announce the official handover of the newly-built Goakganya Primary School. The journey towards this achievement, began in March-April 2020, with meticulous planning to replace a dilapidated structure,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi shared the same sentiments. Motsumi said the construction undertaken by the esteemed contractor, Kontinental Engineering, commenced in November 2022 and concluded in April 2024, resulting in the birth of a state-of-the-art educational facility.

Motsumi further said the school comprises an administrative block, Grade R classrooms block, Science lab block, 8x classroom blocks, nutrition centre, guard house, refuse yard, pump room, boundary fence and gate, school name board, signage, ablutions facilities (with new paving around them), covered walkways, combi court and football pitch, paved and covered parking, food garden, landscaping, domestic and fire water tanks.

She added that, a total investment in this project is a testament to the dedication of providing quality education infrastructure.

“Furthermore, the project has not only transformed the physical landscape, but has also uplifted the economy of the community members involved. The school is a testament to our department’s commitment to providing quality education facilities for all learners in the province.

“This school will provide a stimulating and conducive learning environment for our children. I also applaud the community members for volunteering to look after the school . This is the parental involvement we wish to witness in all our schools,” said Motsumi.

She said the handover of Goakganya Primary School marks a new chapter in the educational journey of the village and reaffirms the department’s pledge to leave no child behind in accessing quality education. Motsumi said this comprehensive infrastructure stands as a ‘beacon of hope’ and opportunity for generations to come.
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Police are looking for missing AJ Olivier

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Picture: The missing AJ Olivier/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The police in Kakamas are requesting the assistance of the public in the search of the missing AJ Olivier (21). The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Nelis Prins said Olivier was last seen leaving his residence in Kakamas on 30 April 2024 at around 6pm, driving his white Toyota Etios with registration number CHF730NC.

“If anyone recognise Olivier or his vehicle, is requested to contact Lt Col Nico Maree at Kakamas Detectives on 082 448 4439.
All information will be treated confidentially.
The public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a person missing,” he said.

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Murder and attempted murder case against Tshwaro Mangwegape postponed

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Picture: The former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

A murder and attempted murder case against the former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), has been postponed to 6 June 2024. Mangwegape, who is out on R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33) is back in court today. 

On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the establishment that was full to capacity. It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede.

Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them. Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.

Mangwegape’s case was postponed to 2 May 2024, while the state is still waiting for ballistic test results.

The ANCYL spokesperson in North West, Molebang Mohlomi said in a statement that, they condemn violence meted against patrons at the Meat Brothers. Mohlomi said it is alleged that security guards and bouncers unleashed live ammunition towards unarmed civilians, who were trying to gain access to the establishment.

“This barbaric behaviour bothers public safety. This shows how business owners lack respect for their clients. A clinical approach to review licences of public places must be applied to ensure those who are bestowed with the responsibility to protect patrons are PSIRA compliant. 

“We have sent our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. Equally so, we call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily resolve this brutish crime,” he said.

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Africa’s Travel Indaba reaches aground-breaking achievements 

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Picture: The Minister for Tourism, Patricia De Lille/Google

By OBAKENG MAJE 

Minister for Tourism, Patricia De Lille said with a fully sold-out floor space, Africa’s Travel Indaba has reached a ground-breaking achievement as it will see an unprecedented participation of 26 African countries exhibiting this year. De Lille said this is testament to the pivotal role the trade show plays in advancing the continent’s growth.

She further said this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba, will take place from 14 to 16 May 2024 and will be preceded by Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONday) on 13 May 2024. De Lille added that this is an important gathering of the global tourism sector and other related industry stakeholders.

“Over 26 countries will be exhibiting this year, including Angola, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia and Rwanda. 

“Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zanzibar and Zimbabwe, will also form part. These countries represent a total of 344 products that will be showcased, an increase of 14 % compared to last year’s 301 products,” she said.

De Lille said Burkina Faso, Eritrea, and Guinea, are the three new entrants. She said overall, a total of 55 countries are participating in this year’s event, including all newcomers.

“In total, this year’s event will see more than 1 030 exhibitors showcasing their products and tourism offerings and more than 890 buyers attending the event from all over the world. The buyers include inbound tour operators, foreign travel agents, destination marketing companies, online booking agents and airlines.

“As usual, the department will be funding the participation of 120 South Africans’ small to medium enterprises to exhibit their tourism offerings at this year’s Africa Travel indaba. This will help them gain exposure to a wide-ranging network of tourism trade industry players from all over Africa and the world,” said De Lille.

She said this is Africa Travel Indaba’s ongoing mission and commitment to driving the continent’s economic development and fostering collaboration and growth is clear. De Lille said she is pleased to welcome the new countries that are joining them in exhibiting at the trade show for the first time. 

“We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership. The increase in the number of countries can be attributed to several key factors, including the fact that in the past few years, tourism has also emerged as a cornerstone of sustainable development strategies across the continent.

“Africa’s Travel Indaba provides a platform for African tourism product owners to meet with global buyers. With a record number of participating countries this year, buyers will have a wide variety of products and experiences to engage with,” she said. 

According to De Lille, she is confident that Africa’s Travel Indaba will continue to be a fertile environment for closing business deals that nurture partnership and drive growth. 

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Action SA calls on government to address unemployment among graduates 

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Picture: Action SA calls on government to create more jobs for graduates  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

Action SA has called on the government to reflect on perpetuating the prevalence of unemployed university graduates in South Africa. This comes after an outcry as the unemployment rate, especially amongst the youth, reaches an all-time high. 

Action SA Team Fix SA member for Higher Education, Dr Tutu Faleni said, the government should reflect on issues that perpetuate the prevalence of unemployed graduates in South Africa. Faleni said the celebration of Workers Day came at a time when the country is at an all-time high regarding the unemployment rate, including graduates from Higher Learning Institutions. 

“The 2024 National Elections serve as a time of reflection on what has been achieved by the government regarding the creation of an economy that allows graduates produced annually by the higher institutions of learning to get employed and use the skills gained. 

“These are young people, the majority of whom made huge personal sacrifices to obtain a higher education training and qualification, with hopes that their country will award them employment opportunities,” he said. 

Faleni further said it is disheartening to see these university graduates join the continuously expanding pool of unemployment, to an extent of taking their plight to the streets in protest. He added that, this country cannot continue awarding unemployed graduates with a R350 social distress grant, instead of fixing the economy to enable employment opportunities. 

“We also believe that the state’s ultimate goal should be to provide services and foster the environment necessary for socio-economic prosperity and upward mobility, rather than being directly involved in job or income creation. 

“Action SA believes that drastic steps should be taken to provide employment to the many unemployed university graduates who have not in their lifetime enjoyed the benefits of full time employment,” said Faleni. 

He said they believe that increased access to education should be accompanied with an increase in economic opportunities to achieve prosperity and upward mobility for unemployed graduates.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi said: “As department, May Day serves dual purposes – a celebration of workers’ rights and a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that trade unions, the communist party and other labour organisations played in the struggle against apartheid.

“Workers’ Day in South Africa carries its unique cultural significance. The public holiday has come to symbolise not only the sacrifices made in an arduous journey towards fair employment standards but also the fierce battle against apartheid, where trade and labour played a crucial role.” 

Nxesi said given that South Africa’s working classes were the most oppressed under apartheid, the fight for improved working conditions and the battle to dismantle systematic segregation became inextricably linked. 

He said prior to the 1994 elections, labour and trade groups frequently used Workers’ Day as a rallying symbol against segregation and oppression of the apartheid regime, organising demonstrations and fostering widespread resistance. 

“This day serves as a testament to their resilience and determination,” the department said,” said Nxesi.

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The department aims to bridge the gap between commercial and emerging farmers  

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Picture: The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono, together with Head of Department, Thupi Mokhatla, handing over tractor to Daniel Soya at Goedgevonden village/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono said in an effort to bridge the gap between the commercial, emerging and subsistence farmers, her department handed over agricultural mechanization to Daniel Soya in Goedgevonden village, who is a soybeans producer. 

Mohono said this was part of the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, Thuntsa Lerole.

“The mechanization, which includes a tractor, planter and harvester amongst others, is one way of addressing food insecurity in the province. The use of agricultural mechanization is significant for smallholder farmers because it advances production efficiency, reassures large-scale production, and increases the quality of farm produce.

“We are committed to ensuring that farmers have access to contemporary agriculture mechanization that would enhance their productivity in this competitive environment,” she said. 

Mohono further said they want to maximize and increase the potential net worth of the agriculture sector and improve its contribution to the agricultural sector. She added that, to contribute towards achieving provincial priorities, mechanization encourages large-scale production and enhances the quality of farm produce from smallholders.

“Without proper mechanization, the development of the sector with smallholder black farmers as meaningful participants in the economy will be greatly affected, thus farmers will be compelled to change land use from agriculture to other lucrative non-agricultural uses. 

“The implements were one way to address food insecurity and the mechanization would increase household food production,” said Mohono. 

She said agricultural mechanization has significantly aided, which is an enhancement of the farming community in the overall economic upliftment. Mohono said the usage of agricultural mechanization by smallholder farmers has produced an increase in farm returns than those with no agricultural mechanization usage.

Meanwhile, Soya said: “I am very grateful to the department as the cost of mechanization was not affordable. They contributed with mechanization so that I can grow my own produce and maximize food security. 

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Police are searching for a missing girl

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Picture: The missing girl, Maletlhogonolo Hlongwane/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The police in Ventersdorp are searching for a missing girl, Maletlhogonolo Hlongwane (5), who allegedly went missing on 28 April 2024 at around 6am. The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said, Hlongwane and her sibling (3), were left alone at home in Goedgevonden village by a parent, who allegedly went to a local tavern. 

“When a parent arrived back home, Hlongwane was nowhere to be found. An intensive search was conducted around Goedgevonden, but that did not yield positive results. Hlongwane, who is dark in complexion, was last seen wearing a red tracksuit top, peach trousers and no shoes. 

“The police request anyone who may have information that can assist to locate her to contact Sergeant Cecilia Batantse or Capt Willem Smit on 060 967 3966 / 082 772 6453 or the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number on 08600 10111,” she said.

Myburgh further said alternatively, information can be shared via MySAPS App from your smartphone. She added that a case of child neglect is also under investigation against the parent.

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