Daily Archives: November 14, 2024

Land Reform Committee receives update on transfer of state land 

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By OBAKENG MAJE

14 November 2024 – The Portfolio Committee on Land Reform and Rural Development yesterday received a briefing from the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development on progress with regard to the release of the state land, including the adjudication of land rights at Gwatyu farms, the transfer of state land acquired in terms of the Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy (PLAS) and a status report on the municipal commonage programme to promote access to productive land.

Section 25(5) of the Constitution places an obligation on the state to take legislative and other measures to foster conditions that enable equitable access to land.

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee, Albert Mncwango said the President, in his 2020 State of the Nation Address, announced that the state would release approximately 700 000 hectares (ha) of agricultural state land, i.e. 1 538 farms, for redistribution. Mncwango said the committee heard that at the end of the project, 659 602 ha were approved for allocation, while 24 660 ha (36 farms – Gwatyu farms in the Eastern Cape and the Rakgase matter in Limpopo) were withdrawn due to contestations from Gwatyu and legal challenges from Rakgase.

“We welcome the report but emphasise the importance of presenting detailed reports. This is to allow the committee to draw its own conclusions with regard to whether the programme is advancing the case of land reform, as articulated in the White Paper on South Africa’s Land Policy.

“This includes redressing the injustices of apartheid, fostering national reconciliation and stability, underpinning economic growth, and improving household welfare and alleviating poverty. Unfortunately, the report did not present details about the beneficiaries of the State Land Release Programme,” he said.

Mncwango further said the committee also heard that the transfer of PLAS state land was well underway to ensure that farmers have full tenure security and are able to secure capital and invest in their businesses. He added it involves beneficiaries of PLAS and those under rent-to-buy arrangements, known as Financial Assistance Land (FALA).

“Since March 2024, 209 projects have been approved for transfer and 11 of those have been transferred. The remainder are at advanced stages of conveyancing and registration. The department reported that the delays in transferring the properties is as a result of difficulties in obtaining rate clearance certificates from municipalities and beneficiaries’ failure to settle outstanding lease fees prior to the lodgement at the Deeds Office.

“The committee has learnt that the state land transfer programme is facing a number of challenges, including lessee non-compliance with the terms of the lease – in some cases they over-stock the farms or under-utilised farms,” said Mncwango.

He said there is also insufficient capacity in the Office of the State Attorney to process the transfers. Mncwango said in addition, some lessees still owe rent, electricity and water-use charges, and were unable to provide evidence to conclude reconciliation for the recapitalisation and development funds.

“The department indicated that it is working on solutions to address its challenges with the transfer of state land. Among the solutions proposed is engaging with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the South African Local Government Association on the delays in issuing rates and rate clearance certificates.

“The committee indicated that it would have been useful if the department had presented information about the 209 approved cases and the 11 transferred farms (indicating which ones were PLAS and FALA), so the committee could hear socio-economic data about beneficiaries and their land use,” he said.

Mncwango said the committee also sought to understand the extent to which the project results in economic upliftment for the beneficiaries. He said the committee also expressed concerns about administrative capacity to administer leases and the tenure insecurity that results in a lack of capital investments on farms. It welcomed the transfer of farms but cautioned the department about incidences in which farms were sold.

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A woman sentenced to five years for assaulting her ex-boyfriend

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By OBAKENG MAJE

14 November 2024- A woman (25) was sentenced to five years imprisonment by the Postmasburg Magistrate’s Court for assaulting her ex-boyfriend with a bottle. On 28 January 2024, the accused, Jocellyn Koopman assaulted her ex-boyfriend with a bottle at a club in Lime Acres.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said armed with a protection order, the victim, Poloko Madito (31), reported the incident to the police and the accused was subsequently arrested. Shemane said the case was assigned to Detective Constable Desmond Thabang Madito and guided by Emmauel Muruba of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

“The accused was convicted and sentenced in the Postmasburg Magistrate’s Court to five years imprisonment wholly suspended for five years,” he said.

Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District management applauded the investigating officer and the prosecution team for securing the conviction and sentencing of a domestic violence perpetrator and assured the public that the policing and investigating of domestic violence related crimes remains a priority for the police.

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Select Committee on Security and Justice on oversight visit to South African Navy

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By KEDIBONE MOLATSI

14 November 2024– The Select Committee on Security and Justice yesterday conducted its first oversight visit in the 7th Parliament to the South African Navy base in Simonstown in Cape Town, hailing the engagements as robust but productive.

The Chairperson of Select Portfolio, Jane Mananiso said that, among other things, the committee wanted to familiarise itself with the Navy’s services and operations and to engage on its 2023/24 annual performance report and 2024/25 performance indicators.

“We are a new committee. We wanted to hear first-hand the challenges that they have and how we can assist from our side. The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is the backbone in efforts to secure South Africa from external threats.

“In the value chain of the security cluster, the SANDF assists with maritime safety, border patrol, and air and land space monitoring, among other valuable functions,” she said.

Mananiso further said the naval base was chosen for the committee to receive a comprehensive introduction to the work of the Navy and its programmes, staffing, challenges, infrastructure, maintenance of its assets and how the budgetary constraints impact on operations.

She added that at the start of yesterday’s proceedings, they invoked Rule 127 of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), wherein a committee can, at the start of a meeting, deliberate on whether to close the proceedings to the public if it deems that the information to be presented is of a confidential nature and impacts on the security of the country.

“The committee deliberated behind closed doors on the matter and resolved that the meeting with the Minister of Defence, Angie Motshekga and the department, would be closed to the public. However, thereafter, the physical oversight and walkabout would be open to all.

“The committee heard that the Navy is working hard to provide combat-ready vessels and platforms for the defence of the country, as well as to satisfy its international commitments. It is further committed to eradicating all acts of maritime criminality within South Africa’s domain and surrounding waters,” said Mananiso.

She said, however, years of underfunding have resulted in the scheduled upkeep, maintenance and repair of vessels not taking place as required. Mananiso said the committee was informed, severely compromising the Navy’s ability to “fight and win” at sea.

“The committee was told that South Africa has 3 924 kilometres of maritime borders, with 96% of South Africa’s imports and exports moving by sea.

“The Navy indicated that its “Operation Corona” maritime coastal patrols are a deterrent for illegal, unregulated and uncontrolled fishing, but the monetary value of these forms of fishing exceeds that of legal fishing,” she said.

Mananiso said the committee noted that the Navy is working with other departments to put a stop to this criminality. She said the committee also heard that the Navy did not achieve its target of hours at sea for the 2023/2024 financial year due to prolonged maintenance and repairs to its vessels.  

“This is mainly due to capacity constraints at Armscor dockyard, which is further compounded by procurement challenges. The committee urged the Navy to establish a better working relationship between itself and Armscor.

“Regarding maintenance of Navy facilities, the committee requested more information on the relationship and functions with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI). The committee heard that day-to-day maintenance and emergency repairs were devolved from the DPWI to the Department of Defence,” Mananiso.

She said the committee also requested information about transformation relating to women, disability and LGBTQ+ and the committee was assured that programmes exist within the Navy to ensure inclusion and mainstreaming. Mananiso the committee also did a walkabout of the naval base, boarded the SA Drakensberg and visited the dry dock and the maintenance workshop.

“We have seen the picture and it shows the capabilities. We encouraged them for future plans for some services to be digitalised in the workshop. This is one of the spaces where it really shows you must find a way to deal with procurement matters. It was also highlighted to us that the new Bill in terms of procurement assists them to find a better way of dealing with procurement.

“The committee will forever advocate for more budget. We have emphasised, too, that they need to better prioritise. They have committed to meet the targets where they underachieved. We are committed to work with them,” she said.

Mananiso said they requested a detailed report on procurement and supply chain matters so we can ascertain if everything is above board or if consequence management should be meted out. She said they are moving in the right direction, irrespective of the challenges.

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Brother sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a woman

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By REGINALD KANYANE

14 November 2024: Two brothers were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Hopetown Regional Court for raping a woman (31). Kobus and Abraham Syster aged 25 and 31 respectively, raped a woman on 2 January 2024.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said two accused gained entrance to the victim’s home and took turns raping her, while her boyfriend was asleep. Sam said the duo then fled with the victim’s belongings.

“The brothers pleaded guilty and were both sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and an additional 12 months for theft, both sentences to run concurrently. The court also declared both suspects unfit to possess firearms and instructed that their names be recorded in the National Register for Sex Offenders,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Otola, praised the prosecution and investigating teams led by Advocate Nicola Van Niekerk and Detective Sergeant Ricardo Kock, for their thorough and meticulous investigation of the case ensuring the life-long incarceration of the accused. Otola reiterated that partnerships are key in the fight against GBV.

“As we approach the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, police will be bold in their approach and support the theme: “30 Years of Advancing collective action to end Violence against women and children.”

“The police are encouraging the public to rate the police efforts in fighting crime by participating in the “RATE OUR SERVICE” online survey to assist the police in improving services and to report criminal behaviour via the MySAPS App and 08600 10111. All information will be handled confidentially,” he said.

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A farmer left dejected after his 53 cattle struck lightning

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Picture: The cattle of a farmer struck by lightning/Facebook

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 November 2024- In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the livelihood of Ngaka Modiri Molema farmer, Christopher Maema, was severely impacted when a lightning strike tragically claimed the lives of 53 of his valuable cattle on his farm located 40km North West of Zeerust town on 10 November 2024.

Despite this devastating loss, Maema found solace in the unwavering support extended by the North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, who personally visited his farm on 13 November 2024, to show solidarity and offer encouragement.

Expressing deep empathy for Maema’s plight, Sambatha acknowledged the severe financial and emotional toll of this unexpected event.

“It is heart-wrenching to witness the challenges faced by our farmers, especially when nature strikes in such an unforeseen way. Upon learning of the incident, the department promptly dispatched a team to Maema’s farm.

“The team conducted a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the damage and is currently compiling a comprehensive report to guide support efforts in the wake of this unfortunate event,” he said.

Meanwhile, Maema said through this show of solidarity, the department reaffirms its commitment to the farming community, ensuring that no farmer stands alone in the face of hardship.

“I am visibly moved by the department’s gesture and I expressed my gratitude. Having the support of our leaders and the department has given me a renewed sense of hope. I know I am not alone in this and as a man, I will have to soldier on,” he said.

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Two learners stabbed at Meriti Secondary School  

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi addressing learners at Meriti Secondary School in Rustenburg/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 November 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said they are deeply concerned following the unfortunate incidents that took place at Meriti Secondary School in Rustenburg on Tuesday, where two learners from Grade 9 and Grade 10 were stabbed in separate, but related incidents that are believed to be linked to gangsterism.

Motsumi said one of the learners was attacked outside the school premises by a gang of four individuals, reportedly expelled and suspended former learners of Meriti Secondary School. She further said the learner ran towards the school for protection, and in the ensuing chaos, the gang followed him into the school premises and stabbed another learner.

“Both learners were immediately taken to local hospitals for medical treatment. One of the learners sustained four stab wounds and is currently recuperating at home. The department has assured that both affected learners will be allowed to complete their examinations upon recovery.

“The police were called to the scene to address the incidents and ensure the safety of the school community. We convened an urgent meeting with the School Governing Body (SGB), parents and the school management on 13 November 2024, to address the safety concerns and establish measures to prevent future occurrences,” said Motsumi.

To strengthen security at the school, she announced that four security personnel will be deployed to guard the school, with their deployment commencing on 14 November 2024. Motsumi emphasised the importance of maintaining a safe and conducive environment for learners as they continue with their academic activities, particularly during the examination period.

“The safety and well-being of our learners and educators are paramount. We have taken immediate action to deploy security personnel to safeguard the school premises and restore calm. I urge all members of the school community to remain calm and cooperate with the measures being put in place as we ensure by all means that those responsible get apprehended and justice is served.

“The department continues to work closely with law enforcement and other stakeholders to address any form of violence in schools and promote a safe learning environment for all learners and teachers during this examination period and beyond,” she said.

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Police call on illegal miners to come to the surface

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Picture: The police at a shaft, where illegal miners are stuck underground in the disused mine/Supplied  

By REGINALD KANYANE

14 November 2024 – The Operation Vala Umgodi task team in North West continues to call upon illegal miners, who are still underground in the Stilfontein area, to return to the surface. In line with safeguarding lives, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and South African National Defence Force (SANDF), have allowed water and food to be delivered to those underground, so that they can safely resurface.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the police and other safety officials, will remain in place in the North West until all illegal miners resurface and are arrested. Mokgwabone said the SAPS call on these illegal miners to resurface so that they can get relevant help or aid, including any medical attention that may be required.

“We appeal to the community in the area to allow the police space to do their job. The SAPS will not allow criminality to thrive. To date, more than 1000 individuals have resurfaced from illegal mining activities, and efforts are ongoing to ensure that those who remain underground resurface.

“Today, only three illegal miners have resurfaced. The SAPS will continue to stamp the authority of the state without fear or favour,” he said.

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Diabetic patients in North West to have access to high quality care

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Picture: North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 November 2024- The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari added his voice to millions around the world to mark World Diabetic Day. Every year on November 14, World Diabetes Day (WDD) is observed to raise awareness of this worldwide health issue.

Lehari said the World Diabetes Day offers a chance to highlight the importance of diabetes as a worldwide public health concern and the individual and group efforts required to enhance the disease’s detection, prevention, and treatment.

He further said the theme for this year: “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”, reflects their dedication to lowering the risk of diabetes and making sure that everyone with the disease has access to fair, thorough and high-quality care.

“Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. It is classified in 4 types known as type 1, Type 2, Gestational and prediabetes.

“During type 1 diabetes, your body produces little or no insulin. Type 2, insulin is not adequately used by the cells in your body. One kind of diabetes that appears during pregnancy is called gestational diabetes,” said Lehari.

He added that after the baby is born, this kind of diabetes usually disappears. Lehari said on the other hand, you are more likely to get type 2 diabetes in the future.

“If you have had gestational diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can occasionally be identified during pregnancy. With prediabetes, blood glucose levels that are higher than usual but not high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes are found in people with prediabetes.

“You are more likely to get type 2 diabetes later in life if you now have prediabetes. Diabetes increases the risk of kidney, nerve, heart, and eye damage. Symptoms of diabetes includes increased thirst (polydipsia) and dry mouth, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss, numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, slow-healing sores or cuts and frequent skin and/or vaginal yeast infections,” he said.

Lehari said it can be managed by routine blood glucose tests, controlling blood pressure, controlling cholesterol, quitting smoking, creating a healthy diet, getting physical activity, reaching and maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough sleep and constantly taking diabetes medication including blood pressure and cholesterol medication.

He said long term complications of diabetes include cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) issues such as, but not limited to heart attack, stroke, skin infections, sexual dysfunction due to nerve and blood vessel damage, such as erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness, hearing loss and amputations.

“The prevalence of diabetes mellitus has rapidly increased in South Africa, from 4.5% in 2010 to 12.7% in 2019. Of the 4.58 million people aged 20–79 years who were estimated to have diabetes in South Africa in 2019, 52.4% were undiagnosed,” said Lehari.

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A man who decapitated his girlfriend sentenced to life imprisonment

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 November 2024- A man (33) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the De Aar High Court for killing his girlfriend, Roylene Mondsinger (33). On 3 November 2022, Pheral Bamberg and his girlfriend, were sitting with friends at their home in Carnarvon, when an argument ensued after their friends left.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said Bamberg attempted to leave to go to her mother’s house when the accused assaulted her. Ehlers said Bamberg decapitated her, leaving her body in the kitchen, and went to sleep in the bedroom.

“The victim’s mother made the shocking discovery the following day and immediately alerted the police and the accused was subsequently arrested. Bamberg was denied bail and remained in custody until his conviction and sentencing on 13 November 2024 in the De Aar High Court.

“The excellent collaboration between Carnarvon Detectives and the state prosecutor, secured the life sentence handed down to Bamberg for the brutal and heinous murder of Mondsinger,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the investigating officer, Detective Constable WJ Heyns, and Advocate T Engelbrecht for securing the appropriate sentence. Otola reiterated that domestic violence related incidents will not be tolerated and police will heighten their efforts during the festive season and beyond to ensure that victims are protected and perpetrators feel the full wrath of the law.

“The SAPS encourages communities to report criminality via the MySAPS App, or 08600 10111 and the National Extortion Hotline at 0800 911 011.  All information will be treated confidentially. #If you see something, say something,” she said.

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A man sentenced to eight years for stabbing his girlfriend  

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By REGINALD KANYANE

14 November 2024- A man (25) was sentenced to eight years by the Danielskuil Regional Court for attempted murder. Thabiso Maphala stabbed his girlfriend (22), four times with a knife on 202 November 2023, at Finsch Hotels Hostels in Lime Acres.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said two years of eight years in the attempted murder case has been suspended for five years on condition that the accused is not convicted of attempted murder during the period of suspension. He said Maphala was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.  

Meanwhile, the acting ZF Mgcawu District Commissioner, Brigadier Peet Coetzee, lauded the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Zamubuntu Ngebulani and state prosecutor, Kenneth Motsatsi for the collaborative efforts and ensuring justice for the victim of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Ngebulani encouraged communities to participate in the “Rate Our Service” online survey to assist the SAPS in improving their service to the public.

“We also encouraged the public to report crimes via the MySAPS App, 08600 10111, and the extortion hotline at 0800 911 011. All information received will be handled confidentially,” she said.

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