Picture: Residents getting water from a municipal truck/Generic
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
17 February 2025- The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, together with its Implementing Agent (Magalies Water) and Mamusa Local Municipality, said they are aware of the water supply challenges in Ipelegeng Township and some parts of Schweizer Reneke town. The municipality said it was compelled to halt further the abstraction after the level of the Wentzel Dam had reached critically low levels, prompting immediate suspension of operations as a result of the rapid depletion of water.
The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality spokesperson, Joseph Motlhasedi said if the operations were not implemented, this would otherwise have led to extensive damage to the pumps as they would cavitate. Motlhasedi said during an urgent meeting, which was held this morning, the District Municipality in consultation with its relevant stakeholders, have resolved to ensure that community receives alternative water supply in the interim.
“It was agreed that the municipality will deploy three additional water trucks as soon as possible to increase the current number of trucks. Eskom is currently at Rapoedi boreholes site replacing a broken transformer and fixing a borehole that is currently out of service and requires repairs.
“After this exercise is completed, the two boreholes will mitigate the impact of the water shortage within the jurisdiction at the reservoir by increasing the levels. The technical team consisting of Mamusa Local Municipality, Magalies Water and District Municipality, are currently busy shifting the abstraction point to a better location within the dam,” he said.
Motlhasedi further said the community is humbly requested to be patient, while alternative supply of water is rolled-out.
Picture: Learners during a campaign against bullying/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
17 February 2025- The police in Northern Cape engaged with approximately 150 Grade 8 learners from a high school in Douglas on Thursday. Members from the Kimberley SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences unit, Warrant Officer Shaniela Antonie, and Constable Harris Witbooi, addressed the learners.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said, they outlined their roles and concerns with the increased occurrences of bullying at schools. Kock said Antonie and Witbooi, also highlighted topics relating to the types of bullying, cyberbullying, and sexual offenses.
“The SAPS Provincial Forensic Social Worker Commander, Colonel Lezelda Raymond educated the scholars on teenage pregnancy, how to take care of their bodies and emotions, including general safety hints.
“Sergeant Anton Baartman from Douglas SAPS Social Crime Prevention and Dineo Speak from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), addressed the criminal aspect of bullying and explained the consequences they can face if found guilty of such an offence,” he said.
Kock further said the Sarag NGO and Department of Transport, Safety, and Liason Safety Volunteers, delivered motivational messages and pledged to support the police with initiatives in fighting the scourge of bullying at schools and in the communities. He added the police cautioned children against general criminal behaviour as it will limit their prospects.
“The police will continue with awareness programs and the sharing of information to support and empower victims of bullying and assist in eradicating this type of behavior from our schools and society at large,” said Kock.
Picture: The acting school principal in Taung nabbed for corruption/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
17 February 2025- The acting primary school principal (57) in Taung, was arrested by the members of the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team on Monday, for alleged corruption. It is alleged that during the period between January 2022 and November 2024, the suspect was an acting school principal when she offered the complainant a contractual post of Head of Department (HoD) at the same school.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said the reports allegedly indicate that, the complainant contract was duly renewed in 2022 and 2023. Mathebula said, however, in 2024, it was not renewed as another candidate was considered for the same post.
“The suspect reportedly informed the complainant that she would recommend to the department that he be given the acting principal post. Furthermore, the suspect allegedly informed the complainant that she would expect a payment of R4500 in monthly instalments for her acting allowance, which she would have forfeited.
“The complainant was subsequently hired as an acting school principal and allegedly started paying the suspect in February 2024, an amount ranging from R4500 to R5200,” he said.
Mathebula further said investigation revealed that the suspect was paid R30 500 in total. He added that, following an investigation, the suspect was apprehended and charged with corruption.
“She will appear in the Taung Magistrate’s Court on 18 February 2025,” said Mathebula.
Picture: Liquor seized during Operation Shanela/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
17 February 2025- More than 1000 suspects were arrested for various crimes during Operation Shanela. With heightened police visibility and crime prevention, combating actions like roadblocks as well as stop and searches were conducted.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said 1076 suspects were arrested. Myburgh said of 1076 arrests, 5 were held for murder, five for attempted murder, three for rape, six for robberies and 40 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“This includes 39 suspects nabbed for malicious damage to property, 142 for assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH), 69 for common assault, 24 for illegal mining, 18 for burglaries and many more other offences.
“Moreover, detectives conducted raids that led to the arrest of 505 wanted suspects for business robbery, murder, rape, assault GBH and house robbery,” she said.
Myburgh further said during the operations, 300 premises, 2169 persons and 769 vehicles were searched. She added that 290 high visibility patrols were conducted including 264 stop and searches, while liquor premises and second-hand goods dealers were visited for compliance inspections.
“In total, 4966 actions were executed in different crime focus areas. In Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom, the police raided numerous liquor premises on 14 February 2025, leading to the closure of eight illegal liquor outlets.
“Throughout the province, 10 more unlicensed premises were shut down and 38 licensed liquor premises were inspected. Regarding second-hand goods dealers, 65 premises were also inspected,” said Myburgh.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, emphasized that police across the province will through Operation Shanela, which is focused on enhanced crime prevention and combating, continue to have a zero-tolerance approach for criminals. Asaneng said they welcomed the results achieved and urged members to continue to be consistent and dedicated in stamping the authority of the state to ensure the well-being and general safety and security of the communities.
Picture: North West MEC Madoda Sambatha and Jabulani Galubetse of JT Farm Fresh in one of the greenhouses the department has funded for production of vegetables
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
17 February 2025- The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said in a move to advance agricultural development and bolster small-scale farming in the province, he had officially handed over greenhouse tunnels worth R2.5 million to JT Farm Fresh.
Sambatha said the Bokfontein-based enterprise located in the Madibeng Local Municipality, received the investment on 14 February 2025, as part of the Provincial Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, (Thuntsa Lerole Reloaded) reinforcing the province’s commitment to sustainable farming and food security.
“The handover of these greenhouse tunnels aims to enhance the production capacity of TJ Farm Fresh Enterprise, enabling year-round cultivation of various crops and contributing to the local economy.
“The enterprise specialises in the production of vegetables, this initiative will greatly benefit the production with the new infrastructure, which is set to improve the quality and quantity of their crop yields,” he said.
Sambatha further emphasized the importance of empowering local farmers and entrepreneurs to contribute to the economic growth of the province, while ensuring that communities have access to fresh, locally grown produce. He added that, by investing in small-scale farmers like JT Farm Fresh, they are building a strong foundation for agriculture that can withstand challenges such as climate change and rising food prices.
“These greenhouse tunnels will help improve production efficiency and sustainability, ultimately benefiting the entire community. The support the department has given JT Farm Fresh is substantial towards ensuring the long-term success of small-scale farmers in the district.
“It assists in creating employment opportunities, and enhancing food security for local communities. The department will continue to work closely with emerging farmers in the province, providing them with the tools, resources, and guidance necessary to succeed in the agricultural sector,” said Sambatha.
Meanwhile, the JT Farm Fresh owner, Jabulani Galubetse, expressed his gratitude for the support received from the department.
“This support will significantly enhance our operations, allowing us to scale up our production and meet the increasing demand for fresh produce in the region,” said Galubetse.
Picture: Tswaing Local Municipality mayor, Norah Mahlangu
By OBAKENG MAJE
17 February 2025- The ANC in North West has placed Tswaing Local Municipality mayor, Norah Mahlangu on a one-month special leave. This comes after Mahlangu’ scandalous nude video, where she was found to be in a compromising position, went viral last week.
The video, where Mahlangu was seen taking off her bra and tights and playing with her punani, was immensely shared on various social media platforms.
The ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo informed Mhlangu of her suspension through a letter. In the letter that was seen by Taung DailyNews, that on or about 12 February 2025, the organisation was provided with Mahlangu’s indecent social media video, whereby she was seen engaging in unethical and immoral conduct.
Diremelo further said the conduct detracts from the character, values and integrity of the deployee of the ANC. He added that Mahlangu is further reminded that her immoral and indecent social media video, has the potential to bring the organisation into disrepute.
“Actually, the video has brought the organisation into disrepute after being circulated and seen by the members of the public. As a result of the above stated facts, you are hereby directed to take a special leave.
“This will allow the organisation to institute its own investigation regarding the circumstances leading to the leakage of the indecent and immoral social media video,” said Diremelo.
He said the ANC expected to be furnished with special leave by the close of business, 14 February 2025. Diremelo said there are terms and conditions that will apply during the period of her special leave.
“This includes not reporting for duty or visiting the municipality premises unless being invited by the chief whip of the organisation to attend council sitting.
“If you need to remove any belongings, such to be done after the arrangements with the office of the chief whip. You are expected to fully cooperate with the organisation during the investigation of the matter,” said Diremelo.
He said Mahlangu is expected not to interfere with the investigations and or any potential witnesses. Diremelo said from time-to-time, she will be provided with the progress of the investigation.
“The investigation report and its recommendations will be made available to you upon the conclusion of the matter,” he said.
17 February 2025- To achieve the levels of growth, the country needs to create enough jobs for its people, said the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa in his weekly letter. Ramaphosa said they need far more construction and more reliable and consistent infrastructure maintenance.
He further said that is why infrastructure development is a strategic priority for the government. Ramaphosa added that airports, roads, railways, public transit systems, water, energy and telecoms infrastructure all play a vital role in driving economic growth.
“Infrastructure development has a multiplier effect, driving productivity and job creation and improving the delivery of basic services. For many years, capital investment by both the public and private sectors was in decline.
“This was due, among other things, to a difficult economic environment, the diversion of resources through state capture, bureaucratic obstacles and low investor confidence,” he said.
Ramaphosa said following various reforms and initiatives, the infrastructure drive is gathering pace. He said a recent report by Nedbank, found that the total value of new projects announced by both the public and private sectors last year amounted to R445 billion.
“This was more than double the year before and represents the largest fixed investment in infrastructure in South Africa since 2021. It is significant that more than 78% of the value of this infrastructure investment was from government and state-owned enterprises.
“According to Statistics South Africa, capital spending by state-owned enterprises and national, provincial and local governments continues to rise. The private sector is lagging behind the state on infrastructure development spend,” said Ramaphosa.
He said, however, private sector entities announced investment plans in 2024, with a total value of R95 billion. Ramaphosa said these included an R18 billion mixed-use development in Gauteng, a R4 billion investment by Volkswagen to upgrade its Kariega facility in the Eastern Cape and a new private university for the Western Cape.
“During the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and debate, the government outlined a number of infrastructure projects underway across the country.
“These include projects in water and sanitation, human settlements, renewable energy, recreational, heritage and maritime infrastructure. They also include road rehabilitation, the refurbishing of state-owned buildings to attract investors, and upgrading health facilities,” he said.
Ramaphosa said Infrastructure SA, established under the 6th administration, leads infrastructure planning, management and delivery. He said the work of Infrastructure SA has enabled progress in the implementation of the designated Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPS) in areas such as energy, water and sanitation, student accommodation and transport.
“To date, 34 out of 50 SIPs are in the implementation stage, to the value of R281 billion. An additional pipeline of catalytic projects to the value of R21 billion will break ground this year.
“To ensure that construction projects get going faster and are finished sooner, Infrastructure SA has launched a project preparation fund worth R180 million to prepare and package infrastructure projects across government,” said Ramphosa.
He said recently revised regulations for public private partnerships will help to further unlock private sector expertise and funds for infrastructure. Ramaphosa said the challenge of the construction mafia that the industry has faced is being tackled head on by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“Its Economic Infrastructure Task Teams are making headway in dealing with this criminality. Last year, stakeholders attending the National Construction Summit on Crime-Free Sites agreed to collaborate to address construction-site disruptions.
“Some of the measures agreed on included enhanced security measures on sites, community engagement and the development of the emerging construction sector,” he said.
Ramaphosa said construction stoppages are on the decrease since these efforts commenced. He said the construction sector is a major source of employment.
“It accounted for the largest job increases between the second and third quarters of last year. As work continues pace on structural reforms to improve the business operating environment and facilitate investment, our country’s infrastructure build programme will play an increasingly prominent role.
“We will intensify our efforts to ensure that infrastructure investment by both the state and business drives economic recovery, growth and job creation,” said Ramaphosa.
Picture: The embattled Greater Taung Local Municipality mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe
By OBAKENG MAJE
17 February 2025- The embattled Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe, is accused of blocking a R5.1 million road construction project. This is a municipal project, which is an internal road from Extension 7 to 5, near Taung.
According to Kgosi Benjamin Kgwatlhang Moshweu, Gaoraelwe halted construction workers who were extracting soil in Khibicwane village.
“Indeed, it is alleged that the mayor has stopped the project. I heard that from the ANC ward councillor, Ntesang Montewa. As we speak, we are at the tribal office as council to have a consultative meeting regarding the matter.
“I asked Montewa why Gaoraelwe interfered in this project because that is the traditional authority’s prerogative. So, she said she has met with the municipal speaker, Grace Moipolai to engage Gaoraelwe on this matter,” he said.
Moshweu further said they have issued an official letter that gives the contractor permission to extract soil from the area. He added that they have been trying numerous times to engage Gaoraelwe, but their attempts were futile as he refused.
“Gaoraelwe told us that we do not have any rights to call him to our office as he only deals with the Batlhaping Baga-Phuduhucwana Tribal Authority. This really shows that he undermines us,” said Moshweu.
Meanwhile, the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) spokesperson, Ricky Oliphant said: “The mayor is aware of the allegation. He attempted to intervene in the situation, where the community wanted to stop the contractors from getting the soil from the borrow pit in Khibicwane.
“Gaoraelwe insisted that there should be consultation before the drawing of the soil for the project, which is taking place in another section of the community. The mayor is the custodian and face of service delivery in the municipal area.”
Oliphant said to that extent, he cannot stop the project. He said Gaoraelwe spoke to all concerned as part of his effort to resolve the problem.
“The road construction project, which is 800m long, its duration is four months and is expected to be completed by the end of April 2025,” said Oliphant.
Picture: The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha
By OBAKENG MAJE
17 February 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls on the North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, to urgently address the critical feed crisis at the Armoedsvlakte Livestock Research Station in Vryburg. According to the DA, the station, which is home to approximately 700 livestock animals, is facing severe nutritional shortages due to the department’s failure to procure the necessary feed, lick, and salt supplements.
The DA Constituency Head in Naledi Local Municipality, Hendriëtte van Huyssteen said the department’s administrative failure threatens both the health of the livestock and the station’s vital agricultural research. Van Huyssteen said, to ensure the health of livestock and the attainment of research objectives, Armoedsvlakte requires 2028 bags of feed, lick, and salt annually.
“These supplements are essential for maintaining the animals’ health and productivity, particularly during the winter months when natural grazing is insufficient. Shockingly, only 360 bags were procured for the entire 2024 year—a mere 18% of the required amount.
“This severe shortfall has dire consequences, including mineral deficiencies, malnutrition, arthrosis, and even death during calving.
This crisis is a direct result of provincial-level administrative failures. Budget votes under the guidance of Sambatha, have been misallocated, with funds meant for feed, lick, and salt procurement being placed on the wrong budget vote,” she said.
Van Huyssteen further said this misalignment has effectively tied the hands of the department’s supply chain office, preventing timely procurement. She added that, the DA cannot and will not sit idly by while such negligence continues.
“The MEC must be held accountable for this mismanagement. We will call on him to explain why these budget vote misallocations have persisted since his appointment and what immediate corrective steps he plans to implement.
“Furthermore, we demand a comprehensive plan to ensure that procurement processes are streamlined and that feed, lick, and salt are delivered on time for each season,” said van Huyssteen.
She said to escalate the matter, the DA will formally report the department’s administrative shortcomings to the National Minister for Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, for his monitoring and intervention, where needed. Van Huyssteen said it is crucial that national oversight helps rectify the issues at a provincial level and ensures that such failures are not repeated.
“It is unacceptable that poor governance continues to hinder agricultural progress and job creation in a province with the highest unemployment rate in South Africa at 53.6%.
“The DA will continue to fight for a well-functioning, accountable government that prioritises the needs of its people,” she said.
Van Huyssteen said they believe in a future, where the agricultural sector thrives, job opportunities are abundant, and every resident of the North West province has the chance to live a life of dignity and prosperity.
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said they wish to clarify that the claim of a feed crisis at the Armoedsvlakte Livestock Research Station is inaccurate and exaggerated. Setlhako said the department has consistently procured the necessary feed, including lick and salt supplements, to support the well-being of the livestock.
“While the department, like any other government entity, has faced budgetary constraints, they remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring adequate nutrition for all animals at the station. The department acknowledges the budgetary constraints that have impacted the provision of feed.
“However, we wish to clarify that while there have been challenges, there has not been a severe shortage of feed. The department remains committed to ensuring that available resources are allocated equally to these critical state-owned farms,” said Setlhako.
She said the department has consistently procured feed for the animals at Armoedsvlakte and remains committed to their well-being. Setlhako said there has never been a failure to meet these requirements.
“In addition to previous procurements, a purchase order has been issued to secure additional feed, further supplementing the existing supply at the farm.
“For the current financial year, over six hundred bags of essential feed, including lick and salt supplements, have been procured for the farm in question. An active purchase order is in place to secure additional bags of this feed,” she said.
17 February 2025- A man (24) was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court for murder. According to information, Jody Mckuur brutally killed Eugene Bronston Daniels (29) in Roodepan on 23 May 2024.
This comes after Mckuur and his cousin, Evahn Peters (27), had an argument with Daniels that escalated into a fight. Mckuur fatally stabbed the deceased.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said: “Both accused were found guilty and accused number 1 was sentenced to 14 years and 9 months imprisonment for murder, and accused number 2, was sentenced to 3 years imprisonment for assault common, with an option of a R600 fine, wholly suspended for five years.
“The duo was declared unfit to possess firearms. The Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Mojalefa Setlai, was commended for his thorough and meticulous investigation of the case.”
Sam further said 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. He added that all information will be handled confidentially.
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