Daily Archives: April 24, 2025

North West Dept of Health celebrates AVW

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Picture: North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 April 2025- The North West Department of Health said it joins the continent in observing the Africa Vaccination Week (AVW) from 24-30 April 2025,through a campaign of tracking and inviting parents/guardians of children who may have missed immunisation doses.

North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari urges parents, guardians and care givers to monitor children’s “Road to Health” cards to ensure that all necessary vaccines for ailments such as Polio, Measles, Mumps and others are duly administered to children. Lehari said tracking children who missed immunisations involves systematically identifying and referring those who are not up-to-date with their recommended vaccinations.

“This is crucial for preventing serious diseases. Our health-care workers play a key role in identifying missed immunisations during home visits and at clinics by checking vaccination records. The campaign which takes place under the theme: “This week 24 – 30 April 2025, For All Is Possible”, is a powerful call to action.

“It affirms that, together, we can reach every last child, strengthen health systems, and restore and expand routine immunization services disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. It further aims to reach zero-dose children through accelerated implementation of big catch-up initiatives,” he said.

Lehari further said African Vaccination Week is celebrated annually as part of World Immunization Week. He added that, it is a renewal of a commitment by the World Health organisation (WHO) to achieving equitable access to lifesaving vaccines for every child, every community and every country.

“The campaign provides an opportunity to boost momentum and focus on specific actions such as raising awareness on how immunisation saves lives. Increasing vaccination coverage to prevent disease outbreaks, reaching underserved and marginalised communities.

“In particular, those living in remote areas, deprived urban settings, fragile states and strife-torn regions with existing and newly available vaccines and reinforcing the medium- and long-term benefits of immunisation, giving children a chance to grow up healthy, go to school and improve their life prospects,” said Lehari.

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Morweng concerned about kidnapping and ransom cases

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Picture: The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng

By BAKANG MOKOTO

24 April 2025- The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng has welcomed the arrest of suspects who allegedly have been involved in the kidnapping and subsequent murder of Hasani Daniel Maluleke (62), in Wilkoppies in Klerksdorp.

Morweng said according to the police, the group arrest followed the activation of multi-disciplinary units that were activated after the former girlfriend of the deceased was unable to reach him on his cell phone on 11 April 2025.

“Preliminary investigations established that Maluleka’s Mercedes Benz and Toyota Hilux vehicles were missing and that the house had been ransacked. Following police investigations, it came to light that a substantial amount of money was withdrawn from Maluleka’s bank account.

“The team’s efforts led to the arrest of Julia Kolobi at Extension 10, Jouberton Township, on 13 April 2025. The other four suspects were arrested in Sebokeng Township, in Gauteng Province and Kanana Township, near Orkney between 19 and 20 April 2025,” he said.

Morweng further said upon effecting the arrests, the team confiscated Volkswagen Tiguan and Golf vehicles, which are believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes. He added that the team recovered Maluleka vehicles’ keys, a laptop and unlicensed 9mm firearm with ammunition.

“In addition, the team recovered the victim’s Mercedes Benz in Evaton Township. I am worried by the cases that are linked to the recent one, where people are being kidnapped for ransom and forced to transfer monies from their bank applications linked on the phones,” said Morweng.

He said as the MEC for the department, he is worried about these types of cases as more often than not victims get injured or killed, if they do not comply.

“However, I want to assure the community that our police are on top of their game and we will crack the syndicate.

“My advice to our people is that they should always be on the alert, observe some suspicious movement and report to one of the family members or police more so when doing transactions and avoid secluded ATMs,” he said.

Morweng said following the arrest, the suspects have now been charged with murder. He said Julia Kolobi (47), Mcdonald Tsolo (39), Bongani Rampai (43), Thabo Motlatsi (50) and Kagiso Wageng (37), briefly appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 22 April 2025, facing charges of kidnapping, house robbery and murder.

“They will remain in custody until their next appearance on 30 April 2025, for legal representation and a bail application. The body of Maluleka was retrieved by police divers from Schoonspruit River, near Orkney on Monday morning, 21 April 2025.

“Investigations into the matter continue. I would like to reiterate the call for communities to work with police to be able to win the battle against crime and lawlessness within our communities,” he said.

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ANC lambasts DA for fashioning itself as ‘the baas in the room’ amid VAT increase reversal

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 April 2025- The ANC said it reaffirm its longstanding commitment to transparent, inclusive and people-centred governance. The party said it has never supported a regressive tax policy that burdens the working class and the poor.

The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said the proposed 0.5% VAT increase was never the position of the ANC. Bhengu-Motsiri said faced with a changed parliamentary landscape, the ANC rose to the occasion by leading an unprecedented process of inclusive engagement—both within the Government of National Unity (GNU) and with opposition parties, who demonstrated a sincere commitment to nation-building.

“This moment has ushered in a new chapter in our democratic evolution—one where principled cooperation, not narrow political point-scoring, shapes the national agenda.

“We salute all political parties that put South Africa first and worked with maturity, humility, and integrity to reject any measures that would compromise the livelihoods of millions,” said Bhengu-Motsiri.

She further said the outcome is not a victory for any party—it is a victory for the people and for responsible, progressive leadership. Bhengu-Motsiri added that, it must be stated without ambiguity that the Democratic Alliance (DA) did not win in cabinet, in parliament, or in the courts.

“What they seek to brand as a “victory” is in fact the result of ANC-led consultations and consensus-building. The DA’s typical opportunistic attempt to claim victory is a continuation of their

typical insult to South Africans whom they consider voting cattle with no sense of thinking or reasoning.

“It further demonstrates their incapacity to understand principles of collaboration, persuasion and engagement on which our successful democracy is built, but continue to fashion themselves as ‘the baas in the room’ who must be solely unjustly glorified for any and all of South Africa’s successes since 1994,” she said.

Bhengu-Motsiri said, if the DA was genuinely concerned with the well-being of the South African people, it would not have tied its budget support to demands that roll back the gains of democracy—such as scrapping the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act, the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill, and the Expropriation Bill.

She said these demands reflect a party beholden to the interests of the privileged few, not the aspirations of the majority. Bhengu-Motsiri said the ANC rejects and condemns the DA’s approach, which is rooted in a dangerous ideology of racial superiority and the belief that South Africans must remain beholden to those who benefitted from apartheid.

“Their politics seek to entrench the legacy of exclusion, not dismantle it. Thanks to the ANC’s progressive leadership, a principled agreement was reached to explore alternative funding mechanisms.

“As a result, the National Treasury has withdrawn the proposed VAT increase that was scheduled for implementation on 1 May 2025. This is a clear and resounding affirmation of the ANC’s commitment to fiscal justice, developmental governance and putting the people first,” said Bhengu-Motsiri.

She said as they move forward, the ANC remains firmly committed to building a society founded on equality, shared prosperity, and sustainable economic transformation. Bhengu-Motsiri said let them continue to work together in unity and with purpose to build a better life for all.

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Five suspects nabbed for illegal mining

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Picture: Five suspects nabbed for illegal mining/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

24 April 2025- Five suspects were arrested for illegal mining by the Northern Cape multi-disciplinary teams during the ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining. The Operation Vala Umgodi was executed in the Namakwa District on 24 April 2025. The police allegedly received a tip-off regarding a group of people allegedly engaged in illegal mining activities in Buffelsrivier, Komaggas.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the identified location was approached and the suspects aged between 33 and 47 years-old, were apprehended, while allegedly engaging in illicit mining activities.

“An unpolished diamond, several mining implements, including bags containing suspected diamond-bearing gravel and sieves were confiscated. The arrested suspects are scheduled to appear in court soon.

“If you See something, SAY something. Report illegal mining to SAPS Crime Stop 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App,” he said.

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Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded reaches JB Marks Local Municipality

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

24 April 2025- Accelerated Service Delivery Programme – Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded will this Friday, be rolled out at JB Marks Local Municipality, where basic services will be rendered to residents of Ikageng Township in Potchefstroom and Tshing Township, in Ventersdorp amongst others.

The North West Provincial Government spokesperson, Brian Setswambung said communities will receive on-site services at the OR Tambo Community Hall, located in Extension 7 in Ikageng Township, where a Community Feedback session will be held. Setswambung said some of the services to be provided on the day include the official handing over of Bongi G Poultry Project in Lindequesdrift, along with the distribution of fertilizers to 40 beneficiaries.

“Two Non-Profit Organisations, Bambanani Youth Project and Lesego Old Age Service Club will also be handed over with cheques valued at R900 000 and R84 000 respectively.

“A total of 109 title deeds will be handed over to beneficiaries across the local municipality, while integrated outreach Primary Health Care services will be intensified onsite,” he said.

Setswambung further said the roll out of Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded activities will be led by the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, who will be accompanied by Members of Executive Council (MECs), as well as the local and district mayors.

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Five suspects were arrested for kidnapping and robbery

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Picture: The police divers retrieved the body of Maluleka/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 April 2025- A multidisciplinary intelligence driven operation involving the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, Organised Crime Unit,  Provincial Detectives, Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Klerksdorp Tactical Response Team (TRT) led to the arrest of suspects who were linked to kidnapping and robbery of Hasani Daniel Maluleka (62) in Wilkoppies, Klerksdorp.

The suspects have now been charged with murder after they led the police to a dam in the outskirts of Orkney, where the body of Maluleka was dumped after being killed.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said Julia Kolobi (47), Mcdonald Tsolo (39), Bongani Rampai (43), Thabo Motlatsi (50) and Kagiso Wageng (37), briefly appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 22 April 2025, facing charges of kidnapping, house robbery and murder. Mokgwabone said they will remain in custody until 30 April 2025, for legal representation and a bail application.

“The group’s arrests came after a team was activated after Maluleka’s former girlfriend failed to reach him on his cell phone on 11 April 2025. Preliminary investigations established that Maluleka’s Mercedes Benz and Toyota Hilux vehicles were missing and that the house had been ransacked.

“It came to light during investigations that a substantial amount of money was withdrawn from Maluleka’s bank account. The team’s efforts led to the arrest of Kolobi at Extension 10, Jouberton Township on 13 April 2025. The other four suspects were arrested in Sebokeng Township, in Gauteng Province and Kanana Township, near Orkney between 19 and 20 April 2025,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said upon effecting the arrests, the team confiscated Volkswagen Tiguan and Golf vehicles, which are believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes. He added that the team recovered Maluleka’ vehicles’ keys, a laptop and unlicensed 9mm firearm with ammunition.

“In addition, the team recovered the victim’s Mercedes Benz in Evaton Township. Subsequent investigations led to the retrieval of Maluleka’s body from Schoonspruit River, near Orkney on Monday morning, 21 April 2025, by North West Police Divers.

“Investigations into the matter continue,” said Mokgwabone.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, has commended the team for working tirelessly for days to make sure that these opportunistic, heartless criminals, including the organizing girlfriend, are put behind bars. Asaneng said this crime is yet a tragic reminder and indication of the moral depravity and gratuitous violence afflicting the society. 

“It is unfathomable that a law-abiding person who had worked so hard for years was brutally killed by greedy murderers when he was about to enjoy his retirement. This murder, including one that happened in Hartbeespoortdam, points to the emergence of a pattern of crimes, where unsuspecting men are lured by ladies or women who are working with criminal male partners.

“These modern day Jezebels must be warned that they will be found no matter what and will face the full might of the law,” he said.

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Weevils alone will not permanently eradicate Hartbeespoort Dam’s hyacinth problem

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Picture: Professor Wynand Malherbe from the North West University’s (NWU’s) Water Research Group in the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

24 April 2025- While the release of weevils into the hyacinth-infested waters of the Hartbeespoort Dam is a welcome development, these insects alone cannot be expected to permanently solve the dam’s pollution problem. Professor Wynand Malherbe from the North West University’s (NWU’s) Water Research Group in the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management said the use of weevils must be part of an integrated plan to resolve the issue.

“They can help treat the symptoms of the problem, but they won’t address the root cause – which is nutrient-rich inflows and poor water quality in the catchments of Hartbeespoort Dam.

“Weevils can help combat the rapid spread of water hyacinth, but that reinvasion will reoccur if the underlying causes are not addressed,” said Malherbe.

He further said on the one hand, the use of weevils is part of a scientifically backed method of restoring ecological balance without the use of chemicals. Malherbe added that research from the Centre for Biological Control at Rhodes University has shown limited risk to the ecosystem.

“On the other hand, biological control of this kind is not without its challenges. These weevils are unable to survive the region’s cold winters, which naturally limits their population and prevents uncontrolled spread.

“They also take time to become effective and their performance is affected by environmental conditions such as water quality, temperature and pollution, making outcomes difficult to predict from year to year,” said Malherbe.

He said biological control works best when combined with mechanical removal and in some cases, the use of selective herbicides. Malherbe said it is a very effective method to control water hyacinth in the long run, but it will never fully eradicate the problem.

“Ongoing management and coordination are essential. Water hyacinth will return in the new season, so continuous efforts and monitoring are essential.

“Without proper oversight, there’s also a small risk that the biological agents could impact indigenous systems, especially if mismanaged,” said Malherbe.

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Tsela-fefo ya N12 e tswetswe bontlha-bongwe

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Setshwantsho: Tsela-fefo ya N12 ga e tsamaege

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

24 Moranang 2025- Lefapha la Tshireletsego ya Baagi, ga mmogo le Tsamaiso ya Dipalangwa le tsibosa bakgweetsi ba dijanaga fa ntsela-fefo ya N12 go tswa kwa Klerksdorp go ya kwa Potchefstroom, e tswetswe ka bontlhabongwe. Se se tla morago ga dipula tse di maatla.

Sebueledi sa Lefapha la Tshireletso ya Baagi ga mmogo le Tsamaiso ya Dipalangwa, Charles Matlou are go begwa fa metsi a le mantsi a tletse kwa tseleng eo, mme e sa tsamaege. Matlou are batlhakela ba pharakano ba teng ko tseleng eo go ela maemo tlhoko.

“Go fitlha ga jaana, batlhankela bao, ba butse tsela mohama ele go netefatsa fa dijanaga di efoga metsi ao. Badirisi ba tsela ba kopiwa go nna le tirisano-mmogo,” Matlou wa tlhalosa.

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Family support crucial for mothers suffering from Postpartum Depression    

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By OBAKENG MAJE

24 April 2025- The North West Department of Health said Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a serious mental health condition that affects new mothers, often leading to emotional distress and in severe cases, harmful behaviours. The department was responding to a media inquiry sent by The Guardian Newspaper (formerly known as Taung DailyNews), after a woman allegedly killed her newborn baby in Khibitswane village, near Taung a few weeks ago.

According to the allegations, a woman who is mentally-ill, threw her baby in a canal after experiencing Postpartum Depression (PPD). This sent shivers up the spines of many as they alleged that they know the woman as stable and not mentally-ill.    

However, the North West Department of Health spokesperson, Lucas Mothibedi said, while the majority of mothers experience mild “baby blues”, PPD is more intense and can last for months, if untreated. Mothibedi said mothers experiencing PPD can take several steps to manage their condition.

“Seek professional help and consulting a healthcare provider for therapy or medication can be crucial. Build a support system by talking to family, friends, or support groups because that can help alleviate feelings of isolation.

“Prioritize self-care by engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, and proper sleep. This can improve mental well-being,” he said.  

Mothibedi further said communicating openly by expressing emotions and concerns to trusted individuals can reduce stress too. He added that relatives play a vital role in supporting mothers with PPD.

“They can offer emotional support by listening without being judgmental and providing reassurance that can help mothers feel understood. Help with daily tasks by assisting with childcare, household chores, and meal preparation can also reduce stress,” said Mothibedi.

He encourages those affected to find professional help. Mothibedi said if symptoms persist, gently encourage seeking medical assistance.

“Be aware of symptoms and intervene, if the mother exhibits signs of severe distress. Persistent sadness or mood swings are symptoms of PPD. PPD symptoms vary in severity and may include persistent sadness or mood swings, excessive crying, difficulty bonding with the baby.

“This includes withdrawal from family and friends. Loss of appetite or overeating. Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleep). Intense irritability or anger. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt and thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby,” he said.

Mothibedi said there is limited publicly available data on the number of PPD cases handled across healthcare centres in North West, South Africa, for the 2024/2025 financial year. He said, however, studies indicate that PPD is a significant concern, with prevalence rates ranging from 3.8% to 69.9%, depending on various factors.

“PPD is not rare—it affects approximately 1 in 7 women globally. In South Africa, the prevalence is estimated to be around 30.6%, making it a significant public health issue.

“PPD requires urgent attention and intervention to prevent tragic incidents. Raising awareness, providing accessible mental health services, and fostering community support can help mitigate its impact,” said Mothibedi.

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SA U15 Boys and Girls teams prepare to make their mark on the continent

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Picture: Learners participating in Under 15 School Tournament/Generic

24 April 2025 – The South African U15 Boys and Girls teams that will represent the country at the CAF African Schools Football Championship this month were given a special send-off at the Jabulile Secondary School in Orange Farm, Johannesburg, on Thursday. The tournament was staged in Accra, Ghana, from 21 – 26 April 2025 and the South African teams travelled to the West African country on 19 April 2025.

The send-off function was attended by representatives from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, the Department of Basic Education, Gauteng and Free State Provincial government officials, the South African Football Association (SAFA) and SAFA Schools Football.

SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan wished the teams well ahead of the tournament and reiterated that schools remain the basic basis of all South African football teams.

“We start there in the schools. We wish the players, technical teams and officials well ahead of this assignment in Accra and they have our support,” said Jordaan.

Meanwhile, the SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao thanked Jabulile Secondary School for hosting the send-off function and said she hoped the event inspires the learners in the school to elevate to greatness and rise to the South African U17, U20, U23, Banyana Banyana and Bafana Bafana teams.

“We thank the Gauteng Provincial Government for their unwavering support in our various football activities, the Department of Sport, Arts & Culture and the Department of Education. Without your support we would not have access to the pool of talented players in our various schools, and also ensure that they participate in sport.

“Sport, in particular football, changed my life. It teaches life skills, values and builds lifelong camaraderie. Let’s remember that the late President Tata Nelson Mandela said, ‘Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does,” said Monyepao.

U15 girls coach Ntombifuthi Khumalo said: “It is challenging because we are the champions and we have to defend the cup. What I did as a coach and my technical team, and the support from the Department of Sport, Arts & Culture, the Department of Education and the Federation SAFA is to give a chance to a child who deserves it, who has the talent to be a part of this team.”

The U15 Boys’ team will be looking to make history by lifting their first continental trophy.

SA U15 Boys coach Selekedi Mogale: “It will be history for them and it will be very exciting, it will be a good benchmark for South African football, although it’s not the end or the beginning of their journey. The U15 level gives us this great opportunity to play against other countries at continental level. But we all know that if we can carry through the results right up to Bafana Bafana, it will be such an honour and great pride.”

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