Daily Archives: November 26, 2024

Christiana School for the Blind caretaker who is accused of raping a learner remanded in custody   

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Picture: The rape accused, Mothelesi Tau/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

26 November 2024- A rape case against a caretaker at Christiana School for the Blind, has been postponed until 27 November 2024, for legal representation. Mothelesi Tau (38), is accused of raping a Grade 8 learner (18) at the school premises.

According to the highly-placed source at the school, this is not the first incident allegedly being reported against Tau. It is alleged that, however, the school management of the school swept other incidents under the carpet to protect him.

“Truly speaking, a lot is happening at the school. I think this is the third rape incident that took place at the school. Other incidents were swept under the carpet because they were protecting each other. I do not think Tau was the only one doing this.

“What is surprising is that, when Tau was on duty, used condoms were found. There are allegations that he also engaged in sexual activities with boys too. At some point he allegedly attempted to rape a member of School Governing Body (SGB), but nothing was done about it,” our source said.  

It is alleged that the affected learner is now under reprisal from the school principal for reporting the incident.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Tryphosa van Rooyen said: “A rape case was opened against Tau on 18 November 2024. According to our records, this is the first incident reported at the school.”

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said they acknowledge the serious allegations pertaining to the reported rape case at Christiana School for the Blind. Molokwane said they unequivocally condemn this incident and wish to reassure the community that justice will be vigorously pursued.

“The case was reported by a Grade 8 learner, who informed both a teacher and the principal of the incident. Following this report, a formal case was initiated and registered with the Christiana SAPS.

“In response to the allegations, the individual identified as a general worker was arrested on the same day. To uphold the integrity of the ongoing investigation, the department has recommended the precautionary suspension of the individual, pending the outcomes of the disciplinary processes,” he said.

Molokwane further said their primary concern is the safety and well-being of all learners. He added that they are committed to providing support to the affected learner, while ensuring a comprehensive investigation.

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(GCIS Sponsored Article): Driving economic growth: Government’s commitment to MSMEs

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Teaser: SPONSORED: The Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) is here to empower MSMEs with the support and resources they need to flourish

The South African government is dedicated to uplifting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as a cornerstone of economic recovery and growth. With a focus on inclusivity and sustainability, the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) introduces a suite of programs tailored to empower small businesses and co-operatives across the country.

In an exclusive interview with SAnews, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General (Acting DG), Nomonde Mnukwa, emphasised the deliberate steps the government has taken to foster the development of MSMEs, and the wide range of programs and initiatives aimed at empowering small businesses, co-operatives and informal enterprises.

She highlighted that the government’s support for small businesses is rooted in their significant contribution to the economy and the livelihoods of citizens. 

The National Development Plan places the responsibility of creating 90% of new jobs in the workforce in South Africa on the MSMEs.

“Government is very deliberate about providing targeted support to small businesses, including co-operatives, micro-enterprises, and informal businesses because we know that they are a major source of employment and a key contributor to inclusive growth”.

“MSMEs not only help put food on the table for many households but, when they grow, they also create jobs, helping to reduce unemployment,” she explained. 

Recognising the success of many economies around the world that thrive on robust MSME sectors, Mnukwa said the government has taken a similar approach by establishing a dedicated Department of Small Business Development.

She added that the government’s commitment extends beyond national programs, with provincial and municipal structures playing a key role in ensuring that MSMEs receive the necessary support to incubate growth and sustain themselves. 

“Provincial departments bridge a gap by assisting MSMEs in areas not reached by national programs. Additionally, local municipalities have established Local Economic Development units to offer financial aid and guidance at a community level. 

“The three spheres of government work together to ensure comprehensive coverage, extending their reach to support as many small businesses as possible across the country,” she said.

The government’s MSMEs strategy, the National Integrated Small Enterprise Development Framework (NISED), is also designed to address inequalities. The 6th Parliament also passed the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill which was signed into law by the President to advocate for the interests of small enterprises.

“There are special programs specifically aimed at previously disadvantaged groups, as well as businesses operating in rural or township areas, to tackle both unemployment and inequality,” she said.

Financial and non-financial support

Mnukwa highlighted key funding mechanisms available to MSMEs through the Department of Small Business Development. 

“The Department of Small Business Development, along with its merged entities – the Small Enterprise Development Agency and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency, now known as the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency – now offers a single point of access for both financial and non-financial support, simplifying the process for entrepreneurs.” 

The non-financial support includes capacity building, training, and assistance with business plans.

Financial support is provided through various funding models, including grants, blended finance (a mix of grants and loans), and low-interest loans with favourable rates compared to ordinary banks. 

In addition to these broad initiatives, there are sector-specific programs, such as the Small Enterprise and Manufacturing Program, which funds working capital and equipment for manufacturing enterprises, and the Spaza-Shop Support Programme targeted at township and rural entrepreneurs who own spaza shops, general dealers or grocery stores.

There is also the Amavulandlela Funding Scheme grant which offers an opportunity for South Africans with disabilities to enter the mainstream economy and build qualifying entrepreneurial enterprises. The grant provides credit facilities that range from a minimum of R50 000 to a maximum of R15 million.

“Each of these programs has different qualifying criteria, so it’s essential for applicants to check the specific requirements. However, at the informal level, such as in informal settlements, there are fewer requirements. Entrepreneurs don’t need to be registered with SARS [South African Revenue Service] or have a business bank account: if they have a valid ID, a personal bank account, and a trading certificate from the municipality, they can qualify. 

“This is based on the recognition that many of us were raised by mothers who supported us by selling vegetables or ‘amagwinya’ [vetkoek] on the streets, contributing significantly to the economy,” Mnukwa said.

Youth and women empowerment 

The Acting DG also stressed the importance of empowering the youth and women within the MSME space. 

The National Youth Development Agency – located in the Presidency – plays a pivotal role in supporting young entrepreneurs by offering both financial support and training to equip them with the skills to manage their businesses effectively.

In addition, the SheTrades program provides vital support to women-owned businesses, enabling them to access both domestic and international markets. The program assists women entrepreneurs with certifications, product listings at major retailers like Clicks, Dis-Chem, and Pick n Pay, and opens doors to new trading opportunities.

Agricultural and rural enterprise support

Mnukwa highlighted the work being done in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development to support smallholder farmers and rural enterprises. 

These efforts provide farmers with equipment, training, and market linkages, contributing to the broader goal of building an inclusive economy. She added that the government’s large-scale land restitution and redistribution program is also making headway, with 24% of South Africa’s farmland now owned by black farmers.

The comprehensive support for small businesses, Mnukwa emphasised, is not limited to financial aid but includes extensive training, mentorship, and market access initiatives. “The government is deliberate in ensuring that small businesses, especially those from disadvantaged communities, have access to the tools they need to grow and succeed,” she said.

There is also the National Rural Youth Service Corps programme which targets unemployed rural youth aged between 18 and 25 in possession of Grade 12 as part of the rural economy transformation strategy.

“The programme develops the skills of targeted participants through various skills development initiatives in partnership with other public and private sector institutions.

“It exposes participants to different skills fields which focus on instilling a culture of discipline, patriotism, community service as well as technical and vocational skills that equip participants with skills in construction, agriculture, household profiling, welding and records management amongst others,” she said. 

Through these varied programs and a strong focus on inclusivity, Mnukwa said the government aims to ensure that MSMEs continue to drive South Africa’s economic growth and create jobs, helping to reduce unemployment and address long-standing inequalities. – SAnews.gov.za

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SPONSORED: The South African government is prioritising support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP). Here’s how they’re driving economic growth: #Government #MSMEs #ERRP #SmallBusinessOwners.

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Three suspects nabbed for ‘stealing’ Telkom batteries

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Picture: Telkom batteries seized by the police/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

26 November 2024- Three suspects aged between 20 and 30, were arrested for possession of alleged stolen Telkom batteries worth approximately R15 000 on Monday. The suspects were arrested during the execution of safer festive season operations by the Prieska SAPS Crime Prevention members.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel, Sergio Kock said the police allegedly spotted three suspicious looking men carrying boxes and a backpack, whilst conducting patrols in the Prieska CBD. Kock said the police stopped and searched the suspects.

“They recovered 30 Telkom batteries that were allegedly stolen at a nearby Telkom building. The suspects are expected to appear in the Prieska Magistrate’s Court soon on charges of possession of suspected stolen goods.

“The police will intensify operations and have more boots on the ground during the festive season and beyond to ensure everyone is and feels safe,” he said.

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Ngwana o tlhokafetse kwa Ranstad morago ga go ja mazimba

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Setshwantsho-papiso: Ngwana o tlhokofetse kwa Ranstad morago ga go ja mazimba

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

26 Ngwanatsele 2024- Kgang ya go tlhokafala ga bana ba ba jeleng mazimba a fetilweng ke letlha ya tswelela. Se se tla morago ga dipego tsa gore ngwana a le mongwe wa kwa motseng wa Ranstad, gaufi le Taung, o tlhokofetse ka Lamatlhatso morago ga dipego tsa gore o jele mazimba.

Go begwa fa Oarabile Nthibogelang (2), ga mmogo le ditsala tsa gagwe di le tharo, ba ne ba etela mongwe wa bagwebi ba kwa mebileng, le go reka mazimba.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Sarasanta Tryphosa van Rooyen are, tiragalo e ke ya di 23 Ngwanatsele 2024. Van Rooyen are bana ba, ba ile ba reka le go ja mazimba ao, mme ba ne ba tshimolola go menekega.

“Batsadi ba bana ba ba ile ba itsiswe, mme ba ne ba ba tabogisetsa kwa bookelong jwa selegae. Ka maswabi, Nthibogelang one a tlhokafala moragonyana, fa bana ba bangwe ba le bararo ba le mo tlase ga tlhokomelo ya dingaka.

“Kgetsi ya morago ga loso ile ya bulwa, mme dipatlisiso di tsweletse. Ga gona ope o tshwerweng go fitlha ga jaana,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.

Kgabagare, modulasetilo wa mokgatlho wa baagi wa South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) mo Greater Taung, Joseph Tanyane are: “Re le maloko a mokgatlho wa baagi wa SANCO, re sentse re le mo letsholong la go etela mabenkele a farologaneng, ga mmogo le dikgwebo. Maitlhomo a letsholo le, ke go lebelela gore a dijo tse ba di rekisang ga di a fetwa ke nako.

“Re rata gape go leboga masepala wa sedika wa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, ga mmogo le masepala o mogolwane wa Taung, gonne ba ne ba rulagantse letsholo le le ntseng jalo dibeke tse di fetileng.”

Tanyane are le bone jaaka SANCO, ene ele karolo ya letsholo leo. Tanyane are, jaaka mokgatlho wa baagi, ba sentse ba ikuela go batsadi go sefe bana madi.

“Seo se tla thusa gore bana ba se etele dikgwebo tse di farologaneng le go reka mazimba. Selo seo, se feleletsa se dira gore ba latlhagelwe ke botshelo. Re tlile go rulaganya letsholo le lengwe gape.

“Re tlile go mema mafapha a farologaneng go nna karolo ya letsholo. Re kopa baagi ban ne pudi matsepa, gonne  setshaba sa ga rantsho sa nyelela. Re batla gore fa re etela mabenkele a farologaneng, re be re latela molao morago,” Tanyane wa tlhaosa.  

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Shaleng triple murder accused abandon bail

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Picture: The triple murder accused, Olebogeng Mampe Kale/Facebook 

By OBAKENG MAJE

26 November 2024- A triple murder case against the accused, Olebogeng Mampe Kale (33), was postponed to 23 December 2023, by the Kgomotso Periodical Court for further investigations. Kale, whois accused of killing his father, Mosimanegape Kale (74), his mother, Phodisho Kale (68), and his younger sister, Bonolo Kale (27) in Shaleng village, near Taung on 15 November 2024, briefly appeared before the Kgomotso Periodical Court on Monday and abandoned his bail.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said the investigations revealed that members of the family were inside their shack, sitting around the coffee table when the accused entered and struck them over their heads with a knobkerrie.

“He allegedly fled the scene afterwards. All three victims were declared dead on the scene and Kale was apprehended by the police on 16 November 2024. The accused was remanded in custody until the next court appearance,” he said.

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‘Every one of us has a part to play in ending Gender-Based Violence’

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By CYRIL RAMAPHOSA

26 November 2024- Yesterday, marked the start of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children. Since its inception this global campaign has drawn support from organisations and activists in more than 187 countries, including in South Africa.

Violence against women and children in our country is pervasive. Women and children are being beaten, assaulted and killed in the streets, in the workplace, at places of learning, and in their homes.

Women and children are supposed to feel most safe within the home. Yet it is within the home where the majority of the world’s victims of gender-based violence die at the hands of men. A new report by UN Women.

has found that around 60% of victims of femicide in 2023 were killed in a domestic setting by someone close to them.

Intimate partner violence remains the most prevalent form of gender-based violence in South Africa. In the first South African National Gender-Based Violence Study, which was released by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) last week, a fifth of all men surveyed said they had committed sexual or physical violence against their partners.

Sexism is at the root of these crimes: the belief that men and boys are superior to women and girls. We must therefore address head-on the idea that women are the ‘property’ of their husbands and boyfriends, and that they can be beaten, abused and even killed at whim.

We must address the economic dimension, where men think they have the right over the bodies of their wives because they are breadwinners, or because they finance the lifestyles of their girlfriends. Many women find themselves trapped in situations of economic dependence, feeling they have to put up with abuse because the alternative is destitution.

The fight to end gender-based violence must begin with prevention.

This means, among other things, that we must address the way many men and boys are raised and the way they are socialised.

Last year, I participated in a Young Men and Boys Indaba. What struck me during this engagement is the important role of socialisation. These young men had an inherent sense of empathy towards their female relatives and classmates, and understood that men and women have equal rights.

But at some point in their lives, they were exposed to a form of toxic masculinity in which ill-treating women is seen as macho and manly. Treating women with respect is seen as weak or ‘simping’. It is deeply troubling to witness how this has taken hold among the younger generation and online.

Ending gender-based violence begins with changing the narrative. Women’s rights and gender equality are non-negotiable. They are not culturally relative or open to interpretation.

Young men and boys must be educated on the importance of equality between men and women. They must appreciate the value of healthy relationships as opposed to transactional arrangements. Young men must be taught the importance of consent.

We therefore applaud the many men who have come forward to sign the Pledge for South African Men to End Gender-Based Violence, either in person or online. We encourage more men to make this stand by signing the pledge and through their daily conduct towards women.

Gender-Based Violence thrives in a climate of silence. Women are often told by family members or religious, traditional and community leaders to go and ‘work things out’ with husbands who are beating them. This must stop.

Other men are sometimes part of the problem. By remaining silent when they know that their friends, classmates or co-workers are abusers, they are complicit in the crime. Perpetrators of such acts should be isolated. It should be made clear that their actions are unacceptable and reported to the police.

We need to create safe spaces – whether in schools, religious settings, workplaces or police stations – where women can speak freely about experiences of abuse, and where they can find care and support.

Workplaces must strictly enforce laws against sexism in the workplace. There must be far greater consideration and accommodation of female workers when it comes to working late and to providing more security in isolated work facilities.

Just as gender-based violence affects everyone, so too we must all work together to overcome it. We need all community, civic and religious formations to form part of this effort. At this time of activism, we must mobilise businesses, trade unions, academic communities and public servants to get involved.

During this year’s 16 Days of Activism let us continue to work together to make our country safer for women and children.

We must all play our part. We must all speak up and speak out. Gender-based violence and femicide have no place in our society. | SONA 2024

None of us must look away.

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A policeman found in his vehicle with gunshot wounds

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Picture: Constable Mojalefa Mogwebi/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

26 November 2024- An off-duty policeman, Constable Mojalefa Mogwebi was allegedly shot dead in Kanana Township, near Orkney on Sunday morning. Mogwebi’s lifeless body was found in his vehicle by neighbours, who alerted the police.

According to the North West police spokesperson, Colonel Amanda Funani, Mgwebi was allegedly killed in the early hours of Sunday morning, 24 November 2024. Funani said the deceased was stationed at Jouberton Township, near Klerksdorp and was found with gunshot wounds on his upper body.

“Mogwebi was last seen by his cousins, whom he dropped at their residential places after attending a family gathering in Klerksdorp on Saturday. The motive of the incident is unknown at this stage.

“Investigations into the matter by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation continue,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, conveyed his profound condolences to the family, friends, relatives and colleagues of the late constable. Kwena said that, it is sad to lose a member due to murder and that the incident will have a direct impact on service delivery to the communities.

“I have instructed the investigators to leave no stones unturned in ensuring that those who are responsible are brought to book. The public is urged to report crime by calling the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or using the MySAPS application. Extortion-related incidents can be reported on the Extortion Hotline: 080 091 1011,” he said.

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A woman arrested for selling her baby

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Picture: A baby playing/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

26 November 2024- A woman (32) briefly appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on Monday for human trafficking, conspiracy to commit robbery and making a false statement to the police. The charges stem from allegations that, on 10 November 2024, the mother sold her two-year-old son to unidentified individuals.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said, on 13 November 2024, the woman allegedly reported a false case to the police, claiming that her son had been kidnapped by unknown men in a vehicle.

“During the police investigation, it was uncovered that the kidnapping claim was false. The woman later confessed to fabricating the story. She was subsequently arrested on 19 November 2024 and has been in custody since her arrest.

“The whereabouts of the child remains unknown, and police efforts to locate him are ongoing. The case has been postponed to 29 November 2024 for a possible bail application and the state intends to oppose her release on bail,” she said.

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ANC: “Crime has negative impact on social stability and economic growth” 

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

26 November 2024- The ANC said it cautiously welcomes the 2nd Quarter Crime Statistics Released by the South African Police Service (SAPS) on 25 November 2024. The ANC said the release of these statistics serves not only as an act of transparency and accountability, but also as a call to action for all South Africans.

The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi-Bhengu-Motsiri said these figures lay bare the grim realities of crime and its impact on social stability, economic growth, and investor confidence. Bhengu-Motsiri said these challenge them to work collectively as a nation to combat the brazen criminality instilling fear in the communities.

“The ANC believes that addressing crime requires a unified effort. Communities, through active participation in Community Policing Forums (CPFs) and patrols, alongside organs of civil society, must remain central to the National Crime Prevention Strategy.

“Mobilizing these resources will strengthen efforts to reclaim our streets and protect our people. Key highlights of the 2nd Quarter crime statistics include decrease on murder cases by 5.8%, robbery decreased by 8.8%, sexual offences have decreased by 2.5%, including rape that has decreased by 3.1%.

“While these decreases signal progress, the ANC remains deeply concerned about the persistent levels of crime, particularly those linked to the proliferation of unlicensed firearms and drugs. These issues demand urgent attention and decisive action,” she said.

Bhengu-Motsiri further said the scourge of illegal mining must also remain a priority. She added that the intensification of Operation Vala Mgodi is crucial in addressing this threat, which undermines economic stability and contributes to illicit financial outflows.

“The release of these crime statistics coincides with the launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign. This alignment reminds us of the urgent need to address the violence plaguing women and children, who remain among the most vulnerable members of our society.

“The ANC calls for renewed commitment to curbing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and protecting the rights and dignity of all people. Working alongside communities, civil society, businesses, and other stakeholders, the ANC reaffirms its commitment to building safer and more secure communities,” said Bhengu-Motsiri. 

She said the government must prioritize investing in crime prevention through increased budget allocations to bolster efforts against criminality and safeguard the state’s security. Bhengu-Motsiri said they acknowledge the valuable contribution of the private security industry, which has become a key partner in crime prevention.

“Initiatives such as Operation Shanyela, the deployment of Crime Wardens (Amapanyaza), the work of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (The Hawks), in collaboration with private security actors, are yielding positive results in the fight against crime.

“As we approach the festive season, the ANC urges heightened vigilance from both communities and the police. Efforts must be intensified to prevent crimes such as mall robberies, house break-ins, and Cash-In-Transit heists. Suspicious activities should be promptly reported to law enforcement agencies. The ANC applauds the tireless and patriotic service of the South African Police Service,” she said.

Bhengu-Motsiri said they salute the bravery of officers who risk their lives to serve and protect the communities and honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. She said the killing of police officers is an attack on the democratic state and must be met with the full might of the law.

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Banyana Banyana ready to face Jamaican Girlz

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Picture: Banyana Banyana players 

By REGINALD KANYANE

26 November 2024- African Champions Banyana Banyana departed for Montego Bay, Jamaica, on Monday to play their last two international matches of the year. The international friendlies against the Jamaicans are part of the Sasol- sponsored South African senior women’s national team’s preparations for the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which will be played in Morocco from 5 until 26 July 2024.

Coach Desiree Ellis’ charges will take on the Reggae Girlz on 29 November and again on 2 December 2024. These games mark a good year of preparation against contrasting opponents after two away matches against Senegal in June 2024, and against Denmark and England last month.

Safa.net can reveal that Ellis has been forced to make three late changes to the squad she announced last Thursday. Hilda Magaia and Karabo Dhlamini have been ruled out due to injury and will be replaced by Thubelihle Shamase and Antonia Maponya.

Lonathemba Mhlongo has been called up in place of Sibulele Holweni, who misses out due to illness.

The squad will arrive in Montego Bay on Tuesday, 26 November 2024, in the evening and will have to adjust to a lengthy seven-hour difference, before beginning their preparations for their first match on 29 November 2024, at 8pm local time, 3am (SA time).

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