Monthly Archives: March 2025

Ratlou mayor condemns violent protests

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Picture: Police on a standoff with community members in Setlagole/Screengrab

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

20 March 2025- The embattled Ratlou Local Municipality mayor, Matlhomola Jafta has expressed devastation following the spate of violent protests and vandalism of public infrastructure such as roads in Madibogo and Setlagole respectively. This comes after community members from Madibogo village went on the rampage on Tuesday and embarked on violent protest over poor service delivery.

Community members in ward 6, demanded that the municipality provide them with high mask lights, accessible roads, electricity and water.

However, Jafta said community members allegedly

chose to raise their frustration on lack of service delivery by engulfing in violent protests that include blocking of public roads with burning tyres and objects. He further said the community members also blocked access to public facilities, including municipal offices in

Setlagole.

“We condemn the incidents and further echo our frustration about the ongoing sporadic incidents that indirectly affect the economy of the small and growing municipalities like Ratlou. We call on the community members to desist from acts of violence.

“We urge them to heed the call to end violent protests as they adopt negotiations as an amicable way to resolve issues. The community amongst others, raised challenges ranging from poor internal roads infrastructure, lack of provision of housing, high-mast

lights and the fact that they are continuously grappling with lack of provision of drinkable water and proper sanitation in their area,” said Jafta.

He added that, the public order policing unit had since been called in to quell the situation that was

already getting out of hand. Jafta call on civil society, social partners and community leaders across the municipality to work with the municipal

authorities and follow lawful remedies, whilst seeking lasting solutions.

“The situation has been brought to normalcy following a meeting with the affected parties. We applaud the community leaders for their resolve to end the protests.

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A woman appeared in court for fraud

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By REGINALD KANYANE

20 March 2025- The accused, Victorina Moloi (45) has on Tuesday, appeared before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court facing two charges of fraud. The reports indicate that in February 2023, the complainant on the matter who is also a Financial Manager, was making online payments to the supplier when his email was intercepted.

This resulted in two payments deposited in the wrong bank account.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said the matter was referred to the Klerksdorp based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation for further handling. Gunya said the probe revealed that the money was deposited in the bank account belonging to Victorina Moloi.

“The business therefore suffered a total loss amounting to over R642 000. Moloi was arrested in Soweto on 17 March 2025. She appeared before court and was released on R2000 bail. The matter was postponed to 24 April 2025 for legal representation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Brigadier Silas Munzhedzi and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the arrest. They commended the investigation and prosecution team for their relentless efforts in fighting commercial crime and bringing perpetrators to book.

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Mosadi o a latofadiwang ka polao kwa Diplankeng o boela kgotlhatshekelo

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Ka OBAKENG MAJE

20 Mopitlwe 2025- Kgetsi ya polao kgatlhanong le Mietjie Babiki Fischer (44), wa kwa motseng wa Diplankeng kwa Magogong, gaufi le Taung, e boela kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno. Fischer o latofadiwang ka go ka go bolaya Boitumelo Sebekedi wa kwa motseng wa Lokaleng dibeke tse pedi tse di fetileng, o solofetswe go dira kopo ya beile. 

Go begwa fa Sebekedi a ne a latofadiwa ka go utswa Jojo tank, mme a tlhaselwa ke baagi. Go ya ka dipego, Sebekedi o ile a teketiwa ka ketane le go tlhabiwa ka thipa pele ga a ka bidiwa ka garawe.

Go begwa fa baagi ba ile ba mo tsenya mo kgetsing, mme ba mo latlhela kwa forong. Ene ya re morago ga nakonyana, go begwa fa baagi ba ile ba ntsha Sebekedi kwa forong eo.

Go begwa fa baagi ba ile ba mo isa kwa godimo le kwa tlase makgetlhonyana, pele ga ba mo tshela ka motlhapo le makgome. Go begwa fa sepodisi se ile sa tshwara basadi ba le bararo, fela ba le babedi ba ile ba ntshiwa gonne go se bopaki jo bo tletseng kgatlhanong le bone.

Sepodisi se ile sa tshwara Fischer, mme ba mo latofatsa ka polao.

Kgabagare, sepodisi se ganne go tshwaela mo tiragalong e, gonne ba tlhalositse fa seo se tla kgoreletsa dipatlisiso tsa bone mo kgetsing.

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Load shedding continues to be a nightmare in SA 

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Picture: A learner studying in the dark/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

20 March 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said the unannounced return of loadshedding will bring more economic devastation and leave families across the country in turmoil. The DA said it shares in the outrage of all South Africans at this bout of loadshedding with zero notice.

The DA spokesperson on Electricity and Energy, Kevin Mileham, who is also a Member of Parliament (MP), said they stand together in outrage. Mileham said this shows the incontrovertible need for a competitive energy generation market.

“The DA calls for Eskom’s immediate horizontal unbundling to break its monopoly and end its ongoing failure to meet South Africa’s electricity needs. South Africa needs new generation capacity to be built now. This is an immediate and pressing concern for our nation,” he said.

Meanwhile, Eskom spokesperson, Daphney Mokwena said, while they have made notable progress in their generation recovery efforts, Eskom faced the loss of five generation units before the peak period. Mokwena said consequently, Stage 2 load shedding was implemented at 6:25pm yesterday and will remain in effect until 5am today.

“We continue to prioritise planned maintenance to strengthen system reliability ahead of the winter months, while ensuring adherence to environmental and licensing conditions. In light of the ongoing system constraints, we urge the public to use electricity sparingly.

“Eskom sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused and will continue to provide updates as required,” she said.

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A man sentenced to 17 years imprisonment for rape, assault and kidnapping of his girlfriend

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

202 March 2025– In its ongoing commitment to combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), the South African Police Service (SAPS) welcomes the conviction and sentencing of a Colesberg man for rape, assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) and kidnapping.

On 29 July 2024, at approximately 6pm, the accused (44), went to his ex-girlfriend’s residence in Kuyasa, where he assaulted her by striking her on the head with a rock. He then forcibly took the victim (33), to his home in Colesberg, where he proceeded to rape her.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said following an intensive investigation, the accused was traced and arrested on 5 August 2024. Kock said he remained in custody until his sentencing in the Colesberg Regional Court on 18 March 2025.

“He was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for rape, 5 years for assault and 2 years for kidnapping. Additionally, the accused’s name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kock said the SAPS Provincial Management commends Detective Sergeant Willy Isaacs from the De Aar Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit for his exemplary investigative work, which contributed to securing this conviction and ensuring justice for the victim.

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Two men sentenced to a combined 22 years imprisonment for murder and attempted murder

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By REGINALD KANYANE

20 March 2025- Two men aged 24 and 55, were sentenced to a combined 22 years by the Sutherland Regional Court for murder and attempted murder. On 4 May 2024, the victim Eden Visagie (20), was visiting his girlfriend, at her place of residence at Skema.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said Visagie was involved in an argument with his girlfriend’s father, and decided to leave the premises. Pilane said a physical fight ensued in the street after the father followed and attacked the victim.

“During the fight, the suspect, Jandre Hanekom, joined in and stabbed the deceased several times with a knife on his upper body, and left him on the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

“The suspect was arrested later the same day and charged for murder. He made several court appearances while in custody. Hanekom was found guilty as charged and sentenced to 15 years direct imprisonment,” he said.

Pilane further said in an unrelated matter, Hendrik Prins (55), was convicted and sentenced to 7 years imprisonment for attempted murder. He added that on 3 May 2024, Eben Pieterse was enjoying alcoholic beverages with a group of friends at a residence in Hopland, Sutherland.

“The suspect, Prins, joined the group of friends, an argument broke out between them. He stabbed the victim on the head and on the upper body and fled the scene.

“The victim was rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment. The suspect was later arrested and charged for attempted murder. He was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Serapelo.

Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Skalk Andrews, praised the outstanding investigation, by Sergeant Barroleen Motha, for solving both cases in such a short space of time and ensuring that the perpetrators are handed a suitable punishment. Andrews said members of the public are encouraged to report any criminal activities through the MySAPS App or use the 08600 10111 Crime Stop number.

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Audit action plans in spotlight as Department of Social Development briefs committee

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By OBAKENG MAJE

20 March 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Social Development was briefed by the Department of Social Development and its entities – the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the National Development Agency (NDA) – on their audit action plans arising from the Auditor-General’s findings and recommendations.

While the committee welcomed progress in addressing the AG’s findings, it had reservations about the practice of officials implicated in wrongdoing, and resigning or transferring to other departments during investigations, thus avoiding responsibility. The committee questioned how this practice could be allowed to continue and demanded further explanation on what public sector laws said about such individuals.

The Chairperson of Committee, Bridget Masango said: “We understand people dying during investigations, but we are worried about the common practice of individuals who transfer to other departments when there are ongoing cases against them.

“How does it happen? I think we need a detailed report on that. We also call on the department and its entities to strengthen internal audits and to address the committee’s recommendations.”

Masango said they should not wait until issues are raised by the AG. She further said they welcome the commitment by the department and its entities to resolve the audit findings.

“So, we don’t see the same happening in the future. The committee also questioned SASSA on the payment of grants to deceased beneficiaries, a matter that was also raised by the AG.

“In response, SASSA said that while it was fully synchronised with the Department of Home Affairs, it still relied on citizens to report all deaths at Home Affairs offices. If they do not, the payment of grants will not stop,” said Masango.

She said the NDA reported on progress in resolving the AG’s findings and implementing the recommendations.

Meanwhile, the acting Minister of Social Development, Pemmy Majodina, who led the departmental delegation, assured the committee that the department and its entities are committed to improving their performance and audit outcomes.

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R55 billion budget allocation for North West   

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Picture: The North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE 

19 March 2025- The North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi said the 2025/26 Provincial Budget proposals that she tabled at the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) in Mahikeng today, are not just mere abstract numbers, but is intended to address the lived realities of millions, the silent struggles of the youth and the deferred dreams of generations, who placed their faith in the democracy.

Mosenogi said the budget allocated for 2025/26 financial year is R55.740 billion, which is geared towards addressing the priorities of government which are linked to goals of the MTDP. She said the provincial budget allocation grows to R56.352 billion in 2026/27 and R58.329 billion in the last year of the 2025 MTEF. 

“This translates to a cumulative allocation of R170.421 billion over the 2025 MTEF is available at the disposal of government for efforts to address the socio-economic challenges faced by our citizens in the province.

“The Provincial Budget comprises transfers from National Government made up of Provincial Equitable Share (PES) and Conditional Grants. The PES allocation amounts to R44.733 billion in 2025/26, R46.145 billion in 2026/27 and R47.659 billion in 2027/28,” said Mosenogi.

She further said the Provincial Legislature receives R522.583 million to enable Legislature to conduct oversight effectively and efficiently over the Executive and to promote good corporate governance. Mosenogi added that the Office of the Premier is allocated R519.498 million, which is meant to facilitate integrated governance, planning and accelerate service delivery in the North West province.

“The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management is allocated an amount of R2.446 billion to promote community and road safety, exercise civilian oversight of police and coordinate transport services.

“The Provincial Treasury’s allocation is R695.181 million to assist the department in providing leadership in the management of public resources. The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs to monitor and support local government and institutions of Traditional Leadership, the department receives R681.869 million,” she said. 

Mosenogi said the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), is allocated R1.013 billion. She said the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has been allocated R1.219 billion in 2025/26 financial year.

“The Department of Public Works and Roads is allocated R4.207 billion in 2025/26 and R7.271 billion. The Department of Health is allocated R17.040 billion to render accessible, equitable and client orientated healthcare services. 

“The Department of Human Settlements is allocated R1.848 billion in the first year of the 2025 MTEF. The allocation for the Department of Education in 2025/26 financial year amounts to R22.895 billion,” said Mosenogi. 

She said in an endeavour to ensure that sports, arts and culture activities are accessible to all in the province, the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation is allocated an amount of R776.063 million. Mosenogi said an amount of R1.876 billion is allocated to the Department of Social Development in 2025/26. 

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North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub to serve as catalyst for business

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Picture: The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, NWU Principal and vice chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka and other delegates/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

19 March 2025- The North West University (NWU) said the highly anticipated North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub will serve as a catalyst for business growth and innovation in the province. The state-of-the-art project site was officially handed over at the North West University (Mahikeng campus) on Wednesday.

The NWU principal and vice chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka said the milestone event marks a significant step in the province’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and driving inclusive economic growth. Tyobeka said the university is in partnership with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT) and the Young

African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI).

“The handover brought together government officials, academia, development agencies, and young entrepreneurs. The event signified the formal transfer of the building site, paving the way for the construction of a state-of-the-art Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub that will serve as a catalyst for business growth and innovation in the province. 

“As the province’s knowledge hub, the NWU will play a strategic role in driving economic development. The initiative will not only benefit students, but also empower entrepreneurs across the province by equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to transform their ideas into thriving businesses,” he said. 

Tyobeka further said universities are no longer just institutions of learning. He added that they have become dynamic hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship.

“The NWU is committed to fostering a culture of creativity, supporting startups, and facilitating knowledge transfer through research, technology, and networking.

“This will ultimately drive economic growth and address global challenges,” said Tyobeka.  

The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said the provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to the project by officially announcing funding support, reinforcing its dedication to creating sustainable economic opportunities and job creation for the province. 

Lenkopane who delivering the keynote address, emphasized the importance of investing in youth and innovation.

“The North West Provincial Government (NWPG) is proud to support this visionary project. This hub will serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering access to skills development, mentorship, and funding opportunities that are critical for business success,” she said.   

Echoing this sentiment, YAEI CEO, Risuna Maluleke emphasized the transformative impact of the project.

“The hub is more than just a building. It is a symbol of our collective belief in the potential of young people in the North West. YAEI is excited to see this vision come to life and to continue working with partners who share our commitment to empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs.   

“A symbolic site handover ceremony marked the official commencement of the hub’s development, generating a shared sense of excitement and optimism among stakeholders,” said Maluleke.

Meanwhile, the North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub is expected to be a game-changer, providing a space where ideas will flourish, businesses will thrive, and the province’s economic landscape will be transformed. 

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Stock-theft accused sentenced a combined 20 years imprisonment

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Picture: Stolen cattle seized by police/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

18 March 2025- Two accused persons sentenced by the Mogwase Magistrate’s Court for stock theft, related offences on 13 March 2025, for stock theft, related offences. The crimes were committed between February 2022 and April 2023 in Manamakgotheng village, near Mogwase.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said it was reported at the time of the incident that the accused, Isaac Mariri (43) and Tshidi Mpete (46), stole five cattle at Lesobeng cattle post near Lesetlheng village. Mokgwabone said the ensuing investigation including the execution of the search and seizure warrant, led to the discovery of five cattle carcasses at Mpete’s residence in Moruleng village on 9 April 2022.

“The police further recovered the Band Saw Machine, which was stolen at a butchery in Moruleng in November 2021. The accused who were arrested in Moruleng and later released on bail, were sentenced.

“Mariri was sentenced to three years imprisonment (wholly, suspended for five years), for possession of suspected stolen goods or fined R60 000. He was also sentenced to 10 years imprisonment or a fine of R240 000.00, failing to furnish identification documents while disposing of the stock,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said the sentence was suspended for five years on condition that the accused compensates the complainant R80 000, which will be payable in batches. He added that the accused were instructed to pay the victim a R20 000 on 13 March 2025, then a monthly instalment of R10 000 from 1 April 2025 until 01 April 2030.

“The accused were sentenced to two years imprisonment (wholly suspended for five years) or fined R40 000 for contravention of Section 120 (8) of the Firearms Control Act. Mphete was found not guilty on count 1 of housebreaking. However, he was sentenced to five years imprisonment for failing to furnish identification documents, while disposing of the stock/produce or a fine of R70 000 payable in batches,” said Mokgwabone.

He said Mphete was instructed to pay R10 000 on 13 March 2025. Mokgwabone said then a monthly instalment of R5000 with effect from 1 April 2025 until 1 May 2026.

“He was found not guilty on other counts. Both accused were declared unfit to possess firearms in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act, 2000,” he said.

 Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, applauded Warrant Officer Agnes Mediwane, the state prosecutor, advocate Kamogelo Moselakgomo and stakeholders, for securing a conviction for stock theft related offences, which are problematic in the province. Asanenf indicated further that the sentence is a warning that crime does not pay.

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