Picture: Someof cash found in possession of the suspects/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
Three foreign nationals aged 30, 34, and 43, were arrested for allegedly defrauding a woman R480 000. This comes after the suspects allegedly convinced a woman to make a loan and hand them over the money to them to pray for it to accumulate value.
The members of Upington Border Police followed up on a crime Intelligence tip-off about suspects in the process of defrauding a woman. ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sgt Omphile Masegela said they did a preliminary investigation, while trying to locate the victim to stop the transaction.
Masegela said on 18 July 2024, the victim was traced and confirmed that she made a loan of R600 000 and had already paid R480 000 in cash to the suspects the previous day.
“After searching for the suspects where they operate with no success, new information was received that they left Upington. They were apprehended on the N14 before reaching Olifantshoek with the assistance of ZFM High-Way Patrol.
“An amount of R345 000 was found in their possession. The police caution the public to avoid becoming victims by falling prey to such scams. The police will work tirelessly to clamp down fraudulent activities and scams in the ZF Mgcawu District,” she said.
Picture: Springbok players engage with learners/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
The future of South African rugby was inspired on 18 July 2024, when Engen in partnership with SA Rugby, successfully held the Engen Get into Rugby festival at the Mangaung Cricket Oval in Bloemfontein.
The nationwide programme targeted at boys and girls between the ages of 6–13 saw a total of 200 kids from ten different schools across Mangaung gathered for a fun-filled morning of touch rugby and interaction with three Springboks players.
Makazole Mapimpi, Kurt-Lee Arendse, as well as Thomas Du Toit, were the three world-champions that made their way to the Engen Get into Rugby to add to the excitement and to the next generation of Springboks, who were all-smiles from seeing and interacting with their heroes.
Speaking from the Mangaung Cricket Oval, Kurt Lee Arendse said it was encouraging to see the excitement of the youngsters.
“Today was such a special day for us as it reminded us of where we used to be at a certain time of our lives. Initiatives such as the Get into Rugby play a huge role in the development of rugby as this affords them an opportunity to be introduced to the sport at a young age.
“It was also encouraging to see the huge smiles and excitement on their faces and the joy they experience when playing rugby. This is one of the many reasons why rugby is important for the development of children. It brings joy and an opportunity to engage with children from different backgrounds,” said Arendse.
The Engen Get into Rugby festivals also offer young, aspirant rugby coaches, both male and female, an opportunity to develop their rugby coaching skills – a key aspect that aligns with Engen Sports’ values of creating a holistic platform for youth sport development.
Speaking on the importance of the programme from a coach’s perspective, Martin Lekhanya said the programme not only offers an opportunity for aspiring rugby players, but young coaches also having the opportunity to harness their skills of working with players and teams from a young age.
“This is one of the most important programmes in the development of rugby in South Africa. Not only does it expose children to rugby, but aspiring coaches are able to learn how to work and coordinate groups, which is key in being a rugby coach” said Lekhanya.
For more information on the Engen Get into rugby programme, visitwww.engensports.co.za
Primary Schools in attendance on Thursday, 18 July:
Picture: Learners receive bicycles at Mmakgaje Secondary School in Moshana village, near Zeerust/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng has reaffirmed his commitment to transform lives of the most disadvantaged in society. In upholding the legacy of Nelson Mandela, Morweng spent the day with learners of Mmakgaje Secondary School in Moshana village, near Zeerust.
During this occasion, he distributed 80 Shova Kalula bicycles to learners who walk no less than 3km to school. As a former learner at the school, Morweng is dedicated to ensure that the future of the current generation is secured.
“We should be relentless about limiting conditions that prohibit learning. Dr Nelson Mandela has instilled in all of us a great sense of humility and humbleness. Moreover, it is because of him that we fully comprehend that education is a great equator.
“A daughter of peasant can become a doctor. I leave you with those words of Tata Madiba, that you use education as a tool to reach for your dreams. That is the reason why we saw it fit to bring our campaign here today,” he said.
Morweng further encouraged them to prioritise their education against the social ills that many of them face. He added that many learners face the difficulty of having to travel to school by foot.
“Very often, on rough terrain and harsh weather conditions. The department, through the Shova Kalula bicycles limits these difficult conditions for learners, by making school easily accessible so that learning continues to uninterrupted.
“Shova Kalula is a programme aimed at accommodating learners, who do not qualify for scholar transport service but still travel a distance of 3-5km between school and their homes,” said Morweng.
Meanwhile, the school principal, Phutulogo Mokgotu welcomed the gesture, adding that the school will be able to meet their desired pass targets of 90% in the upcoming National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination.
“We have re-focused our efforts to ensure that learners attend their extra classes, as well as weekend lessons. This is now very much possible by the mobility solution presented by the department,” he said.
Picture: North West MEC for Public Works and Transport Management, Elizabeth Mokua visiting Tsholetsa Disability Care Centre in Tlhabane, Rustenburg/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua handed over the caretakership agreement to the Tsholetsa Disability Care Centre in Tlhabane, Rustenburg. Mokua said this is the first of its kind for the department.
She further said the centre operates from one of the department’s under-utilised buildings that was previously Iteko Special School. Mokua added that the caretaker agreement means that the department will still own the building, while the Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) that runs the centre will be renting it at no cost.
“This arrangement will run for 36 months with an option for renewal. The centre, which has 76 beneficiaries, runs a number of skills development programmes that are aimed at empowering persons with disabilities.
“These include, among others, arts and crafts, aluminium manufacturing; brick-making; gardening as well as entrepreneurship and financial literacy courses. I would like to commend the centre manager and founder, Richard Tlhogwe, for his bravery and vision.
“As we commemorate the day dedicated to a true selfless leader, Nelson Mandela, we should appreciate the work that you are doing that embodies the principles of Tata Madiba,” she said.
Mokua said instead of Tlhogwe to just focus on himself, he made a bold move and chose not to just empower himself, but also extended services by assisting people with disability and many others related designated groups from the area.
She said poverty continues to be a thorny issue that needs to be eradicated and said the centre was doing well in the fight against the scourge by establishing a vegetable garden that contributes to food security in society.
“Tsholetsa is not only uplifting beneficiaries at this centre, but it is also uplifting the standard of living in the section in which they are located by developing their capacity and putting food on the table,” said Mokua.
Meanwhile, Tlhogwe expressed his appreciation to the department, saying that the caretaker agreement was a culmination of a journey that started many years ago when he decided to create a platform not only for persons with disabilities like himself, but also for the unemployed youth in his area.
“A lot of us are talented, but we did not have a platform or place where we would be allowed to express and showcase our talents. Establishing this centre was one way of creating a one stop centre, where people can hone their skills while also making a living,” he said.
Picture: The Netball South Africa players visit Lerato House Centre as part of Mandela Day celebration/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
On Nelson Mandela Day, the compassionate team at Netball South Africa (NSA), dedicated their day to volunteering at the Lerato House in Arcadia, Pretoria. It was a heart-warming day filled with acts of kindness and community engagement.
The Netball SA president, Cecilia Molokwane said the theme for this year that guided NSA’s decision was: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” Molokwane said Lerato House stands as a refuge for girls who have endured the horrors of child prostitution, child trafficking, and sexual abuse.
“Within its walls, it offers a secure and nurturing sanctuary for girls aged 8 to 18, who have faced such traumatic experiences. NSA’s Mandela Day event displayed the team’s commitment to giving back to the community and empowering vulnerable groups.
“On this Nelson Mandela Day in the Government of National Unity (GNU), we reflect on the values of Ubuntu and servant leadership that Madiba embodied. As organisation and sportspeople, we are committed to uniting, giving back to our communities, and making a positive impact on the lives of our people,” she said.
Molokwane further said to perform acts of kindness not out of obligation, but because of genuine desire. She added that it is important to celebrate this day with love, unity, and tranquillity.
Meanwhile, Lerato House Centre Manager, Elizabeth Mashego said: “NSA’s visit was a beacon of hope for our girls. We are grateful for their kindness, compassion, and dedication to making a difference.”
Picture: North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari painting a wall at Ga-Motla Clinic in Moretele/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari has today made his contribution to the Nelson Mandela ideals of servant leadership by leading a team of stakeholders to revamp Ga-Motla Clinic in Moretele.
Those who attended the event included the Moretele Local Municipality councillors, Executive Managers of the Department, community leaders, nurses, and Community Health Workers (CHWs).
While addressing participants before activities could start, Lehari gave a background of his relationship with the community of Ga-Motla and the importance of ploughing back to the community he comes from.
“I grew up in this community and this clinic has been here serving our people for years. We need to improve on it and that is why I am here today. We are going to revamp its paint work, fix fencing, clean it inside out, help sort out filing and anything that needs my attention.
“I also encourage participants to be of service to the community because it is what Ntate Nelson Mandela was all about. Nelson Mandela International Day is the day that is recognized not only here in our country, but all over the world,” he said.
Lehari further said it is the day that even the United Nation recognizes and has it on their calendar. He added that in saying so, he invited everyone to mark the Nelson Mandela International Day by making a difference in their own communities.
“This call recognizes that everyone has the ability and the responsibility to change the world for the better. This is the day for all of us to take part in an activity that will inspire change and improve the material conditions of our people”, said Lehari.
The Grade 12 learners from Reivilo High School in Taung, who were allegedly found guilty of engaging in irregular practices to obtain an unfair advantage during the writing of the 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, said it is devastating to be in limbo, while waiting for a decision from the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
It is alleged that accounting learners cheated and the North West Department of Education withheld their results. However, one of the affected learners who refused to be named for fear of reprisal, alleged that even though they cheated during the final examinations, teachers were also involved.
“The question paper was leaked by certain teachers and we had to fork R3000 per learner. So, I’m still sitting at home without knowing my fate. It is true that our results were withheld and the department said, we will only be eligible to write the accounting question paper in November 2025.
“We are prohibited from writing the subject for two years. They said we will only be allowed to write the November 2024 examination, once the sanction period has expired,” she said.
She said this has affected her livelihoods because she does not know what the future holds for her anymore. According to the learner, nothing has been done to those teachers who were implicated in cheating, but only learners were forced to bear the brunt.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said: “Remember, this particular issue lies with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) now. They are the ones in charge and investigating it. So, that means as the MEC affected, I must find ways to write to the DBE and request a final report on the matter. Indeed, this issue deals with the future of Grade 12 learners, who were affected including teachers who were implicated.
“So, we must find closure as a matter of urgency, more especially as we prepare for the National Senior Certificate examinations for 2024 academic year. We need to make sure that this matter reaches its finality.”
Picture: Renowned broadcaster and former SABC news anchor, Dr Ezekiel Masego Matjila/Twitter
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West University (Mafikeng campus) has today bestowed an honorary doctorate to the renowned broadcaster and former SABC newsreader, Masego Ezekiel Matjila. The NWU said in a statement that Matjila has demonstrated significant dedication in promoting the Setswana language at the SABC.
“He started his career more than 30 years ago as an on-air radio personality for Radio Setswana, which later became Motsweding FM after merging with Radio Mmabatho. During this time, he also managed the archives for Radio Setswana, the Afrikaans Service, Radio Ndebele (Ikwekwezi FM), and Radio Swazi (Ligwalagwala FM).
“His exceptional broadcasting skills and language proficiency, led to his appointment as a Setswana sports commentator for SABC Topsport (SABC Sports). He was later seconded to the News department, where he worked as a Sesotho, Sepedi and Setswana prime-time news presenter from 1993 until his retirement in 2021.”
The university further said Matjila also served as a bulletin editor and executive producer. It added that he advocated for more multi-lingual youth programmes on SABC2, noting that Setswana, Sepedi, and Sesotho-speaking youth were underrepresented.
“Matjila’s efforts at the SABC earned him numerous awards, including Best News Writer (SABC, 2008) and Commentator of the Year: AFCON 1996.
“His contributions to South African society, particularly in promoting the Sesotho, Sepedi, and Setswana languages in broadcasting, are noteworthy. The honorary doctorate from the NWU recognises these significant contributions.”
Matjila said: “I am so humbled to receive this kind of accolade. I am so happy and I wish I could jump in joyous celebration.”
Meanwhile, the North West Premier, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi congratulated Matjila for his impeccable work in promoting Setswana in broadcast media and in particular news. Mokgosi said Bra Eazy as Matjila is affectionately known in the news and communications fraternity, grew up at Mogotlhwaneng village, near Moretele and joined SABC in the early 80’s as an on air presenter for the erstwhile Radio Setswana.
“After the country’s democratic breakthrough, the latter was merged with then Radio Mmabatho culminating in the formation of Motsweding Fm broadcasting from the provincial capital of the North West Province, Mahikeng.
“During this period, Dr Matjila transitioned to a Television News Anchor on SABC 2, where he also served as an Executive Producer and Editor for the Setswana, Sesotho and Sepedi bulletins until his retirement in 2021,” he said.
Mokgosi said Matjila is credited for his proficiency in Setswana, where he also used folklore and allegory in many of the news stories he broadcast. He said Matjila’s claims in promotion for the Setswana language in the mainstream media was meticulous.
“As the province, we congratulate Dr Matjila on this important accolade. He played an instrumental role in keeping us abreast of the developments in the country and abroad through a language that we can understand.
“With a career spanning over three decades, we maintain that Dr Matjila served the country with distinction. Part of the nation building project after 1994 was equitable representation of all languages and cultures in our public broadcaster,” said Mokgosi.
He said broadcasters like Matjila, were torch bearers in seeing to the success of this project and for that, they thank him. Mokgosi said Dr Matjila is expected to be one of his guests of honour at the official opening of the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) in the next few days.
Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi painting a classroom at Stadt Primary School in Mahikeng/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has joined the global village in celebrating Nelson Mandela Day. In honour of this significant day, Motsumi spent her 67 minutes of community service at her alma mater, Stadt Primary School, where various stakeholders, including Old Mutual, North West University, National Education Collaboration Trust (NECT), Boxer Supermarket, Sparkling Waters, and Rosewood Hotel, extended a hand to donate services to the school.
She said as part of the celebration of former President Nelson Mandela’s birthday, they rolled their sleeves and painted the Grade R Block. Motsumi’s actions were mirrored by other stakeholders present, demonstrating a collective commitment to community service.
“We would like to commend the public-private partners for their generosity and dedication to building the South Africa that Nelson Mandela envisioned. The contributions made today are a testament to the power of community and partnership.
“These generous donations and acts of service not only enhance the lives of our learners, but also build the foundation of a better future for all. Together, we are fostering the South Africa that Nelson Mandela hoped for, one of unity, education, and opportunity,” she said.
Motsumi further said her department pleads for continued partnerships with stakeholders to profile the history of Stadt Primary School and ensure its legacy endures. She added that with an enrolment of 1050 learners, the school stands as a beacon of education and history.
“The day’s contributions included donations of sanitary towels, 100 pairs of shoes, food parcels to identified families, stationery, reading books to promote literacy and enrich the school library, as well as facilitated the painting of three Grade R classrooms,” said Motsumi.
Meanwhile, among the notable stakeholders, a community leader and former learner at the school, Dr Lekgenyane, adopted a learner at the school and committed to rendering psychosocial support to all learners continuously. Stadt Primary School, the first school in the Barolong area and former Batswanaland and it was built in 1878 and serves as a heritage site.
Picture: Public Protector, Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka/Google
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
Public Protector, Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka said the principles of South Africa’s constitutional democracy, established in 1994, adding that the rule of law, transparency, and accountability are the bedrock of the nation’s democratic framework.
Gcaleka said this during her lecture at the North West University (Mahikeng campus) on 11 July 2024. She further said the role of the Public Protector is to uphold and strengthen South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
“Community engagement is essential for ensuring that the government remains accountable and responsive to the needs of its citizens. The Public Protector’s Office is a vital avenue for citizens to express concerns and grievances regarding public services.
“The responsibilities of the Public Protector’s Office extend beyond oversight and it plays an important role in fostering a culture of transparency and responsiveness in public administration,” said Gcaleka.
She also discussed the importance of effective complaints management frameworks. Gcaleka outlined how these frameworks are designed to ensure accessibility and fairness in handling public grievances.
“We are making it easier for citizens to lodge complaints and ensure that their complaints are handled efficiently and justly, so that the Public Protector’s Office can more effectively address issues of maladministration and corruption.
“Our overview of the constitutional and legislative mandates, includes investigating instances of maladministration, enforcing executive ethics, combating corruption, protecting whistle-blowers and regulating access to information,” said Gcaleka.
She added that these functions are crucial for maintaining the integrity of public institutions and for protecting the rights of citizens. Gcaleka said their role is to ensure that public power is exercised in a manner that is consistent with the constitution.
“The role of citizen responsibility and political engagement, especially in the context of coalition governance is imperative. Informed voting and participation in political discourse are essential for ensuring that government officials are held accountable.
“Additionally, we need to be wary against undue influence in coalition agreements. There is a need for vigilance and transparency in these processes. We must be vigilant to ensure that coalition agreements do not undermine the principles of democracy,” she said.
Gcaleka concluded her lecture with a call to action. She urged citizens to strengthen civil society, promote inclusive governance, and safeguard democratic principles.
“We are committed to upholding the values enshrined in South Africa’s constitution. This commitment is essential for building a more just and equitable society, where the rights and freedoms of all citizens are protected,” said Gcaleka.
The Guardian 