Daily Archives: April 15, 2025

A wake up call to SA’s deepening water crisis

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

15 April 2025- The Water Research Commission (WRC) said the National Water Week is a wake-up call to South Africa’s deepening water crisis. The commission said climate change is driving extreme weather, threatening water quality, impacting water security, and placing even greater pressure on a system already struggling to meet demand.

The CEO of WRC, Dr Jennifer Molwantwa said millions of people living in poverty, unreliable access to clean water, are not just an inconvenience—it’s a daily threat to health, livelihoods, and survival. Molwantwa said water insecurity has a ripple effect, crippling the economy, disrupting education, worsening food shortages and undermining the country’s overall stability.

She further said with existing resources under strain, the time to act is now. Molwantwa added that, the National Water Week coincided with the 14th annual international conference on Water Reclamation and Reuse in Cape Town between the 16 – 19 March 2025, coming at a time when the world is fast-tracking the direct use of treated effluents both for industry, agriculture and domestic purposes.

“The conference serves as a catalyst for sustainable change, showcasing the critical role of water reuse and innovation in South Africa’s water security pathway.

“Current and future engagements and action on sustainable water resource management in the 21st century demands a holistic and adaptive approach, integrating diverse water sources and innovative technologies to ensure resilience in the face of unprecedented environmental and demographic pressures,” she said.

Molwantwa said recognising the interlinked challenges and solutions for an efficient reuse future National Water Week culminates in the globally recognised World Water Day on 22 March. She said the Water Research Commission (WRC) is marking these occasions by intensifying its focus on critical research and innovation areas vital for South Africa’s water security, including accelerating the adoption of decentralised water reuse technologies, advancing climate-resilient water infrastructure solutions, strengthening community-based water conservation initiatives, and prioritising research into the sustainable management of groundwater resources, particularly in drought-prone regions.

“The demands of contemporary water resource management have highlighted the need for a reassessment of traditional strategies. While indirect water reuse has historically served as a cornerstone of global water security frameworks, its efficacy is increasingly challenged by the compounded risks of anthropogenic climate change and rapid urban expansion.

“The frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters, coupled with the water demands of burgeoning urban centers, are a testament to the fact that conventional approaches are increasingly becoming inadequate,” said Molwantwa.

She said consequently, making water reuse an integral part of comprehensive water security strategies, is no longer a matter of strategic foresight, but an immediate operational imperative. Molwantwa said a series of reports released by the Department of Water and Sanitation in 2023, supports the renewed emphasis on innovative reuse and water resource management.

“They revealed that in municipalities countrywide, 46% of drinking water systems did not meet microbiological standards. The reports also highlight that the percentage of water treatment plants facing high risk went up from 65% in 2021 to 70% in 2023.

“Meaning more plants were in danger of failing. In addition, 51% of critical state systems have received some form of enforcement notices ranging from cases reported, notices and directives issued, and criminal charges laid,” she said.

Molwantwa said furthermore, 24% and 29% of the national system were at critical and high risk respectively. She said the Blue- Green- and No-Drop reports found that “water demand is expected to sharply increase over the next 20 years while the water supply is likely to decline, therefore anticipating a projected supply deficit of 17% by 2030.”

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SAPS ready to serve and protect residents during Easter Holidays

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Picture: The SAPS are ready to protect residents

By REGINALD KANYANE

15 April 2025- The acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga, has assured residents and visitors that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is fully prepared to protect and serve during the upcoming Easter holiday. Ngubelanga said a zero-tolerance approach will be adopted towards all forms of criminal activity across the province.

He further said the law enforcement operations will be bolstered by Community Police Structures, police reservists, and other relevant stakeholders. Ngubelanga added that priority will be given to combating serious crimes such as contact crimes, residential and business robberies, damage or tampering of essential infrastructure, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), drug and alcohol-related offences, and promoting road safety.

“Large public events will be closely monitored to ensure effective crowd management and the maintenance of public order. Alcohol and substance abuse will not be tolerated, given their role in contributing to violent and serious crimes.

“We also encourage all road users—motorists and pedestrians alike—to adhere to road safety practices to reduce fatalities and serious accidents,” he said.

Ngubelanga said roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints will be strategically implemented to deter and detect offenses such as driving under the influence. He said specialized units, including the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, will be deployed to monitor water bodies such as dams and rivers, particularly during the rainy season.

“Residents and tourists are urged to exercise caution around water and avoid unnecessary risks during adverse weather conditions. Parents are reminded to be vigilant and aware of their children’s whereabouts at all times.

“Homeowners should take the necessary precautions to secure their property when traveling, and shoppers are advised to remain alert in crowded areas,” said Ngubelanga.

He said the public is encouraged to avoid carrying large amounts of cash, use debit or credit cards where possible and stay aware of their surroundings while shopping. Ngubelanga also extended his appreciation to community members for their continued support and collaboration in providing valuable information that leads to the arrest of criminals.

“We call on the public to remain the eyes and ears of the police and to report any suspicious activity to SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the My SAPS mobile application. All reports will be treated with the utmost confidentiality,” he said.

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Police need your assistance in locating missing Makgata

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Picture: The missing Seoki Philemon Makgata/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

15 April 2025- The police in Jan Kempdorp are requesting assistance in tracing Seoki Philemon Makgata (30), who was last seen on 21 December 2022, at his home in Jan Kempdorp. Seoki was last seen by his sister and was dressed in black tracksuit pants, black Adidas top with black boots.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the police request that anyone with information please contact Detective Sergeant Raneo Molelekeng on 060 976 9067 or contact the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or utilize the MySaps app. Kock said the public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a person missing.

“All information will be treated confidentially. The investigation continues,” he said.

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ANC welcomes ruling in COSAS 4 case

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

15 April 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) said it welcomes the landmark ruling delivered today by Judge Dosio in the Gauteng High Court sitting in Johannesburg, which affirms the inclusion of crimes against humanity in the indictment against the accused in the 1982 COSAS 4 case. The party said the judgment marks a decisive step forward in the long and painful journey toward truth, justice and accountability for the families of the fallen young revolutionaries, Eustice ‘Bimbo’ Madikela, Peter “Ntshingo” Matabane, Fanyana Nhlapo, and Zandisile Musi, who was injured at the time, but has since passed away.

The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said they salute the courageous persistence of the families, who for over four decades have carried the burden of unacknowledged pain—worsened by the silence of those responsible, who failed to account for their crimes even during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Bhengu-Motsiri said as they approach the trial phase, the ANC reaffirms its full support for the families and for the principle of accountability.

“We urge all South Africans to draw strength and vigilance from this moment. This is a reminder that the price of freedom was paid in blood, and that justice is a debt owed to those who died in pursuit of our democratic dispensation.

“In their honour, on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter we reaffirm that the “Doors of Learning and Culture shall be opened to all,” she said.

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A man sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for raping a minor

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By REGINALD KANYANE

15 April 2025- A man (57) from Augrabies was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment by the Kakamas Regional Court, for rape. The accused accosted a girl (11), in Augrabies on 27 November 2022, at approximately 6pm, when she was walking home. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said when the child refused to accompany him to the shop, he forcefully grabbed her into the nearby veld, where he raped her, then fled the scene. Ehlers said the victim reported the incident to her mother, who alerted the police. 

“The accused was subsequently traced and arrested. He was sentenced to 18 years direct imprisonment for rape and three months for assault common.

“The sentences will run concurrently. The Northern Cape detectives, together with state prosecutors, said they are progressing towards seeking justice for young victims of sexual offences,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga commended Detective Sergeant Jurie Mokgalagadi from the Kakamas Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit for successfully securing the conviction. Ngubelanga emphasized that crimes against children will not be tolerated and that all perpetrators will be held accountable to the full extent of the law.

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Fair and inclusive trade is important for growth and jobs in SA

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By OBAKENG MAJE

14 April 2025- The president of Republic of South Africa (RSA), Cyril Ramaphosa said trade between nations is a vital part of economic progress. Ramaphosa said that is why as part of the G20 Presidency, South Africa is promoting a trade agenda in which G20 members commit to measures to promote expanded, more inclusive and more sustainable value chains.

He further said he recently came across an inspiring story of a farmer from Elukwatini in Mpumalanga that highlights how deepening G20 trade can support the growth of local industry. Ramaphosa added that, in February 2025, Bongani Thobela, took part in the world’s largest fresh produce trade fair in Germany, a G20 member and the third largest market for South African exports.

“There, he was able to meet potential buyers and has since secured an export license and sent samples of his produce to Germany and China. He was part of an initiative by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition to support local producers to attend international trade fairs and exhibitions to expose them to international markets.

“This reflects our conviction that greater exports of a more diverse variety of goods and services are essential for the growth of our economy and the creation of more jobs. We are committed to measures that support industrial development and bolster the value of our exports,” he said.

Ramaphosa said at the same time, they are pursuing a trade policy that uses international trade agreements to secure fairer terms, promote market access and facilitate expansion into new markets. He said developing economies such as theirs are vulnerable to volatility in international trade.

“This is particularly the case in the face of unilateral actions and coercive measures that undermine multilateral agreements and the global rules-based trading system.

“We are therefore working in different ways to make our domestic industries more resilient. To bolster the value of our exports we are strengthening the regulatory regime,” said Ramaphosa.

He said, for example, last month, they signed the Plant Health Act into law. Ramaphosa said this will improve domestic biosecurity and ensure there is greater alignment with international export requirements.

“We are intensifying our efforts to diversify destinations for South African goods, products and services. Last year marked a number of ‘firsts’ for South African agricultural exports. We gained access to the Thailand market for apples for the first time in 16 years and exported our first container of avocados to Japan.

“This month, we also gained market access for South African table grapes to the Philippines. We are deepening relations with countries and regions with which we have regional and bilateral trade agreements that provide preferential trade terms,” he said.

Rampahosa said these include the Southern African Customs Union and the Southern African Development Community Free Trade Area. He said they are working to make effective use of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Last year, we commenced trading under the AfCFTA. A shipment of ‘Made in SA’ consumer goods, copper, cement, electrical and pharmaceutical goods and fresh produce left the port of Durban for markets elsewhere on the continent.

“At last month’s European Union-South Africa Summit in Cape Town we signed a trade and investment package worth around R90 billion. This package will support the export of more SA-made products into the EU,” said Ramaphosa.

He said they are increasing investment in domestic industries that contribute to exports. Ramaphosa said the 2025 Budget allocates increased funding to boost manufacturing and agro-processing, as well as for incentive programmes that strengthen local value chains and open access to key international markets.

“As we undertake all these measures, South Africa will continue to advocate for a level playing field in global trade. Trade must remain free, predictable and governed by a rules-based system.

“This is particularly critical for developing economies, many of which remain locked into the lower end of global value chains. South Africa endorses the reform process underway within the World Trade Organisation (WTO) that seeks to address deficiencies in the global trade regime that work against developing economies,” he said.

Ramaphosa said South Africa remains committed to maintaining favourable relations with existing trade partners and to forging new trade relationships. He said as government, business and labour, they will continue to deepen their collaboration as they navigate a global trade environment that has become increasingly complex.

“Our ultimate goal is to secure favourable trade terms that advance our national interest, drive inclusive growth and create jobs for the South African people,” said Ramaphosa.

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Magalies Water addresses increased hyacinth growth in the catchment

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Picture: Water hyacinth is a significant problem at Hartbeespoort Dam, causing several issues like poor water quality, hindering boating, and posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems

By BAKANG MOKOTO

15 April 2025- Water as an Implementing Agent (IA) on behalf of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) for the Water Resource Management Plan in the upper Crocodile West River Catchment and the Hartbeespoort Dam, continues to make strides in addressing the long-standing challenges of poor raw water quality and increased hyacinth growth in the catchment. To achieve these objectives, Magalies Water said it has registered substantial progress in improving the quality of raw water and curbing the growth rate of Hyacinth by meticulously implementing its ten-point strategic plan announced at the beginning of the project.

 Magalies Water spokesperson, David Magae said the primary goal of this initiative is to develop an adaptive integrated Water Resource Management Plan that aims to safeguard and improve water access and quality for all users, review and implement the Hartbeespoort Dam integrated biological remediation programme, implement the local Hartbeespoort Dam Resource Management plan in terms of Section 116 of the National Water Act, as enshrined in the National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998, as amended in 2014.

Magae said the guiding objectives comprise of management of alien invasive species, water quality status quo determination, mapping, water quality monitoring, profiling of the dam and pollution tracking.

“This includes implementation of hyacinths and algae remediation, modelling contaminants attenuation rates by hyacinth, algae, and sediments, revamping controls in the dam inlet, stakeholder engagement, research and innovation to remove contaminants.

“Curbing the nutrient loading at the source and integrated water resource management plan. The eradication of water hyacinth is the primary objective for Magalies Water, driven by a commitment to mitigating the proliferation of this invasive species,” he said.

Magae further said in the past four months, water hyacinth coverage has surpassed 25%, prompting focused efforts from Magalies Water to manage and reduce this encroachment. He added that the significant increase in water hyacinth biomass can be attributed to the extreme meteorological conditions experienced from September to December 2024.

“Prolonged high temperatures, decreased dam levels, and facilitated enhanced light penetration into the aquatic environment, thus activating the germination processes within the hyacinth seed bank at the bottom of the dam. 

“Subsequently, substantial rainfall contributed to the upstream transfer of nutrients into the Hartbeespoort Dam, further exacerbating the favourable conditions for water hyacinth growth,” said Magae.

He said comprehensive contingency plans were enacted to enhance removal capacity in response to the situation. Magae said this involved mobilizing extra machinery alongside the augmentation of manual labour resources.

“Furthermore, advanced biological removal methods were deployed, incorporating nanobubble technology within the dam. This technique facilitates the introduction of oxygen-infused nanobubbles at the dam’s inlet, effectively promoting the reduction of contaminants through mechanisms such as oxidation (targeting ammonia), precipitation (for metal removal), and oxidative stress exerted on algal species and cyanobacteria.

“We significantly reduced hyacinth coverage by implementing a comprehensive and aggressive multifaceted strategy, lowering it to a remarkable 10.48%,” he said.

Magae said this outcome is a testament to the effective integration of various methodologies over the past several months. He said Magalies Water performs systematic water quality profiling and assessments at the dam and multiple upstream locations, aggregating data from over fifty-three (53) monitoring points monthly and quarterly.

“Analysis of the data collected over the past two years confirms that the dam remains hypereutrophic, characterized by elevated nutrient concentrations alongside significant levels of chlorophyll and algal proliferation.

“These findings indicate persistent contamination from upstream activities, which remains the foremost challenge to water quality management in the area,” said Magae.

He said Magalies Water, in collaboration with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), will continuously strive to keep hyacinth levels below acceptable limits. 

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Lenkopane enhances support for local businesses

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Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane during an oversight visit to Mahikeng Trade Fair Market together with DEDECT officials/Supplied  

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

15 April 2025- The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, has enhanced support for local businesses during an oversight visit to Mahikeng Trade Fair Market. Lenkopane conducted an oversight visit to the Mahikeng Trade Fair Market as part of her aftercare programme aimed at supporting local enterprises.

She further said the visit focused on assessing the condition of the facility that accommodates small businesses and exploring opportunities to enhance their operations. Lenkopane added that the Mahikeng Trade Fair Market, which houses 20 small factories, serves as a flagship initiative, which highlights the provincial government’s continued commitment to promoting sustainable local economic development.

                                                                                  “My visit formed part of the Thuntsha Lerole Programme under the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, a proactive initiative aimed at boosting economic growth through comprehensive aftercare services.

“These services include site evaluations of funded projects to assess business viability, identify operational challenges, and enhance support mechanisms for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and cooperatives,” she said.

                                                                                      Lenkopane said a collaborative venture between DEDECT, the North West Development Corporation (NWDC), the Mahikeng Local Municipality and the Mahikeng Trade Fair Market, represents a foundation in the province’s efforts to empower local entrepreneurs, stimulate job creation and contribute to the broader provincial economy. She said during the aftercare service tour, they also visited several successful empowerment beneficiaries.

“Among them was Mum to Be Wellness Centre (Pty) in Setumo Park, Mahikeng, a wellness spa offering personal care services using DEDECT-funded equipment, which remains in pristine condition.

“In Montshioa, Chomza Technologies showcased its progress after receiving funding for the installation of a network tower located in Ramatlabama village, significantly improving connectivity in the surrounding communities,” said Lenkopane.

                                                                                     She said in Moletsamongwe village, Mahikeng, Lonaka Projects Group demonstrated its growing footprint in agriculture through poultry, egg production and vegetable farming. Lenkopane said the business has shown commendable progress, bolstered by resources provided by the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA).

                                                                                    “In a further show of support for informal and micro enterprises, DEDECT also hosted a flea market in Kopela village, featuring six informal traders and four Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs).

“The programme also profiled 14 MSMEs, the majority of which are women-owned, connecting them to developmental opportunities and support services,” she said.

                                                                                   Lenkopane said the department will continue with aftercare services and engagement platforms throughout the province to continue to empower local businesses and reinforce its mandate to create a sustainable and competitive business environment in the North West.

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North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi to engage with Captains of Industries in pursuit of discuss economic growth

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By REGINALD KANYANE

15 April 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi will on 16 April 2025, host a roundtable discussion with Captains of Industries to discuss areas for collaboration towards the successful and comprehensive implementation of key 2025 State of the Province Address (SOPA) pronouncements. The engagement will afford the provincial government and business sector the opportunity to also explore strategic enablers and barriers to economic growth in the North West province, focusing on sectors that are dominant in the economy of the province including Mining, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Tourism, ICT, Engineering and Construction.

The North West Provincial Government spokesperson, Brian Setswambung said: “Hosted in collaboration with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), the roundtable will underscore ways of creating sustainable job opportunities and alternative strategies to alleviate poverty in line with the 2025 SOPA injunctions.

“The roundtable discussion will be attended by Captains of Industries, Members of Executive Council (MECs), Premier’s Economic and Investment Advisory Council and Heads of Departments.”

Setswambung further said this engagement will be followed by Premier’s maiden Charity Golf Tournament, which will be attended by prominent golfers from business fraternity and professional organisations. He added that, the proceeds from Premier’s Charity Golf Tournament will be awarded to a school in Moretele Local Municipality, Kgomo-Kgomo, and another in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, where Mokgosi, together with MTN and Metropolitan will donate laptops, sanitary towels, and Wi-Fi for the Grade 12 learners.

“The two-day programme with Captains of Industries will be held in Sun City Resort, near Rustenburg on Wednesday, where Mokgosi will engage in Premier’s roundtable discussion with Captains of Industries from 2pm to 5pm.

“On Thursday, Mokgosi will embark on Premier’s Charity Golf Tournament at Sun City Golf Course

Tee-Off from 9am,” he said.

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A Cape Town tourist went missing in Augrabies  

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By OBAKENG MAJE

15 April 2025- A tourist (66) from Cape Town has been reported missing in the Augrabies Falls National Park. This comes after the individual booked into the park on 10 April 2025.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said it is believed that he went hiking on 11 April 2025. Ehlers said when he failed to return at 4:30pm, the park rangers became concerned and promptly reported the matter to the police in Augrabies.

“His personal belongings and vehicle were still at the park. A comprehensive search operation was immediately launched into his disappearance. The police from Augrabies, SAPS Airwing, Upington Search and Rescue Unit, Upington K9 Unit and a drone pilot are actively involved in the ongoing search efforts.

“Anyone who may have information that could assist in locating the missing person is urged to contact Captain Robert Turner at 082 770 4208 or Sergeant Tshepo Marungwana at 084 298 5101 or the SAPS Crime  Stop Number 08600 10111,” she said.

Ehlers said all information will be handled confidentially.

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