Picture: Some of lodges are flooded in Bloemhof/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
10 April 2025- The Minister of Department of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina, will visit Bloemhof Dam to assess the infrastructure amidst evacuations due to flooding at downstream areas. Following the visit to the Vaal Dam on Wednesday, Majodina, will proceed to Bloemhof Dam on 11 April 2025, to assess the water resource infrastructure amid heavy inflows into the dam, as well as the high-water releases from the dam that have resulted in flooding in some areas downstream from the dam.
The Department of Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Wisani Mabasa said, over the past few days, Bloemhof Dam had to increase water releases to manage high inflows coming into the dam from the upper catchment. Mabasa said as at this morning, the dam is at 111.07%and water is being released at 2502 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s) through five radial gates.
“The controlled water releases are necessary to manage the rapidly rising dam levels and to also manage the sustained high inflows and ensure safe operation of the dam.
“The high-water level at Bloemhof Dam is due to the discharge of water from the upstream Vaal Dam, which is also over its full water supply capacity with 115.57%,” he said.
Mabasa further said the discharge of water is currently at 813.380 mᵌ/s and five sluice gates at Vaal Dam remain opened. He added that due to the water release, areas downstream the Vaal and the Bloemhof Dams are experiencing flooding and settlements built along the floodline of the Vaal River System have begun evacuating.
Picture: Residents receive services during Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded Program/Facebook
By BAKANG MOKOTO
10 April 2025- The residents of Siberia, Mooipan and Weltevrede villages are amongst those that are this week witnessing the provision of public services as the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) is rolling out the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme – Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded in Mahikeng.
The week-long service delivery programme targeting the municipality’s rural areas, will reach its peak on 11 April 2025, as the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, will be leading the collaboration of various provincial departments, State-Owned Entities (SOEs) and municipalities in rendering a broad range of essential services to the community. Communities will receive on-site services at Weltevrede Sports Ground, where a community feedback session will be held.
Mokgosi spokesperson, Sello Tatai said to support agricultural education and improve local farming practices, a donation of mini vegetable tunnels, alongside a demonstration of planting of seedlings will be held at Renalerona Secondary School and Obakeng Primary School in Weltevrede. Tatai said in addition, a livestock handling facility will be handed over for use by 86 farmers in Siberia, aimed at improving livestock management and promoting sustainable farming practices within the community.
“As part of the government’s commitment to improved maternal and child health, baby nappies and sanitary towels will be distributed to nursing mothers at the Weltevrede clinic.
“Along with these donations, comprehensive services including health screenings, eye care, mental health support, physiotherapy, and nutrition and dietetics services, will be provided onsite to address a variety of health needs,” he said.
Tatai further said in an attempt to ease accessibility to public facilities such as clinics and schools, the blading of internal access roads will be amplified. He added that efforts to increase access to free basic services will also include the registration of indigent individuals and the distribution of energy-saving bulbs to local communities.
“The Centralised Supplier Database (CSD) team will also be present to assist local SMMEs with registration, updating, and amendment of their registered companies,” said Tatai.
Picture: Police in Northern Cape hosting Easter Prayer Day/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
10 April 2025- The Northern Cape Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Corporate Services, Major General, Dr Thabo Mphuthi, accompanied by the Northern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Limakatso Koloi and the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality councillor, Jahn Pietesen, led the Provincial Easter Prayer Day Service held at the CRC Church in Kimberley today.
The event was attended by representatives from various government departments, including Correctional Services, South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Northern Cape Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Traffic Department, and senior officers and members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who gathered in unity to observe this sacred period through worship and spiritual reflection.
The SAPS Provincial Band inspired the congregation with uplifting music, while devotions and messages were delivered by SAPS Chaplains under the leadership of Colonel IJ Pudule. Religious leaders from multiple faith-based organizations also participated, delivering powerful reflections on the Seven Utterances of the Cross, enriching the spiritual significance of the day.
In her address, Mphuthi acknowledged and appreciated the prayers offered for the protection as they confront the inherent dangers of the profession.
“This service stands as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith, centred around the theme: “The Power of the Cross.” In the midst of challenges, it is essential that we safeguard our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
“As we remain committed to delivering a professional and dedicated service, let us also strive to build bridges of hope and trust within the communities we serve,” she said.
During her keynote address, Koloi emphasized the importance of reflecting on the true meaning of Easter. She urged communities to celebrate responsibly and to prioritize safety at all times.
“We reaffirm the commitment of the government and law enforcement agencies to ensuring the safety and security of all communities and visitors to the province. We also commend the law enforcement officials for their exemplary service in maintaining public safety and order.
“The government will apply a zero-tolerance stance on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), particularly during this period. We call on men to take a collective stand against such heinous acts and to promote a culture of respect and accountability,” she said.
Meanwhile, the SANDF Commanding Officer, Colonel B Motlhabakwe, delivered the vote of thanks, and the prayer service concluded with benediction.
10 April 2025- Five men from Pofadder were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Upington for rape. The accused, Waybril Gertse (41), Graham Gertse (31), Virnit Priega (40), Alfonsus Visagie (55) and Andre Magerman (34) rape a girl (9), who is an orphan.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the young child was orphaned after the passing of her mother and grandmother. Kock said the accused was sadly raped by five accused between 2017 and 2020.
“She was placed in the care of her aunt, who reported the incidents to the Northern Cape Department of Social Development in Pofadder. Subsequently, an investigation was launched by the police.
“All the accused were arrested during September 2020, and bail was successfully opposed. The Northern Cape High Court sitting in Upington delivered a guilty verdict on 20 December 2024, and sentenced the accused on 10 April 2025,” he said.
Kock further said accused 1, Waybril Gertse was sentenced to life imprisonment, accused 2, Graham Gertse was sentenced to life imprisonment, accused 3, Virnit Priega was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment, accused 4, Alfonsus Visagie was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment, while accused 5, Andre Magerman was sentenced to life imprisonment.
He added that their names will be registered in the National Register for Sex Offenders and were declared unfit to possess firearms.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended Detective Sergeant John Nortje from Pofadder FCS for his unwavering dedication and meticulous investigation that led to these outstanding GBVF convictions. Otola reiterated that SAPS in collaboration with prosecutors, will continue to fight the scourge of GBVF and commended the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for their role in ensuring that no impunity is granted to the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.
10 April 2025- A 24-YEAR-OLD man was sentenced to 16 years imprisonment by the Springbok Regional Court for contravention of National Environmental Management Act (NEMBA) and contravention of the Northern Cape Nature Conservation Act. In December 2022, The Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team based in Springbok, received intelligence-driven information on illegal transportation and trading of the Conophytum plant (protected plant) in the Garies area.
The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe said as per information, the accused, Hanro Owies, was supposed to meet with the buyer next to a private farm on N7 route. Thebe said the investigation team proceeded to pick a spot next to the same route on N7 to Garies for observation duties.
“The accused came straight to the law enforcement motor vehicle under the impression that it’s the buyer and he was immediately placed under arrest with 2863 Conophytum protected plants, which were also seized.
“On count one of Contravention of Sec 50(d), transportation of 2863 protected plants without permit, the accused was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment. On count two for Contravention of Sec 50(f), trade of 2863 protected plants without a permit, he was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment.
“The sentence shall run concurrently. The court saw fit to declare Owies unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 (1) of the Firearm Control Act 60 of 2000,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) Provincial Head in the Northern Cape, Major General Steven Mabuela, commended the team for their timeous response in dealing with intelligence driven information received.
Picture: The Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George
By BAKANG MOKOTO
10 April 2025 – The Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George, has been elected to the executive committee of the Association of Secretaries General to Parliaments (ASGP) at the 150th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly. The Association is an organ of the IPU and has a 9-member executive committee.
The Association held its meeting on the sidelines of the 150th IPU Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where the South African Parliament is represented by a multi-party delegation led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza. The Assembly, which started on 5 April 2025, came to an end on Wednesday.
The ASGP was founded in 1939 as a consultative body of the IPU and seeks to facilitate personal contact between holders of the office of Secretary-General in any Parliamentary Assembly, whether such Assembly is a Member of the Union or not. Its task is to study the law, procedure, practice, and working methods of different parliaments and propose measures for improving those methods and securing cooperation between the services of different parliaments.
When asked to do so, the Association also assists the Inter-Parliamentary Union on subjects within the scope of the Association.
George said his election is a testament to the confidence the world and members of the IPU have in South Africa. He said this indicates that the country has much to offer to the world regarding leadership, governance, peace and security, mediation of conflicts, and climate change.
“South Africa is a global player, and the world recognises that. The role of the administrative leadership of parliaments is imperative. The administrative arm of parliaments needed to complement the oversight arm to ensure the delivery and welfare of our people,” said George.
He further said the ASGP as an administrative arm needs to ensure that the IPU achieves its goals. George added that they still have a long way to go on the African continent when it comes to attaining democracy in the true sense and resolving conflicts.
“There are good flashes, but governance and parliamentary oversight still need some attention.” The conference heard, for example, that in some countries, members of parliaments got persecuted for executing their function of monitoring the executive.
“The IPU’s work is concerned with building strong democratic parliaments, advancing gender equality and respect for women’s rights, protecting and promoting human rights, contributing to peace-building, conflict resolution and security, fostering inter-parliamentary dialogue and cooperation and promoting youth empowerment,” he said.
George said this includes mobilising parliaments around the global development agenda and bridging the democracy gap in global governance. He said the administrative arm of parliaments needed to complement the oversight arm to ensure the delivery and welfare of our people.
“The ASGP as an administrative arm needs to ensure that the IPU achieves its goals. He highlighted the role of the administrative leadership of parliaments.
“We still have a long way to go on the African continent when it comes to attaining democracy in the true sense and resolving conflicts. There are good flashes, but governance and parliamentary oversight still need some attention,” said George.
His election coincides with Didiza’s election to Chair the Africa Group (a lobby caucus with the biggest membership within the IPU).
Meanwhile, the conference heard, for example, that in some countries, members of parliaments got persecuted for executing their function of monitoring the executive. The IPU comprises 182 member Parliaments, with the acceptance at this Assembly of the parliaments of Kazakhstan and Belize. Its headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland.
Picture: Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson
By REGINALD KANYANE
9 April 2025- The Select Committee on Security and Justice today resolved not to entertain an engagement with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) officials for a briefing on the infrastructure and maintenance plans after the Minister, Deputy Minister and Director-General (DG), failed to attend the meeting. This is despite the Minister, Dean Macpherson, undertaking to delegate the DG to lead the delegation.
The acting Chairperson of the Committee, Pitso Noe said they were informed only last night that the DG also could not make it to the meeting. Noe said no explanation was offered and instead, the Deputy Director-General led the delegation, much to the dissatisfaction of the committee.
“The committee also raised concerns that the DPWI only submitted its presentation documents for the briefing on 7 April, thereby missing the deadline for submission, which was 4 April.
“The committee could not proceed with its business, due to the absence of the Ministry. We strongly felt that Parliament is being undermined by the executive as it has become practice that Ministers will fail to appear before parliamentary committees as required by the Constitution and rules,” he said.
Noe further said the committee unanimously agreed that the matter will be escalated to the Chairperson of National Council of Provinces Chairperson (NCOP), to be reported to the Deputy President, as the leader of Government Business. He added that the committee wants to express its disappointment and dissatisfaction with the manner in which the Ministry has handled the meeting.
“They resolved to defer the meeting to a date within 21 days that will be suitable for the Minister to appear and expect the Ministry to honour and account to Parliament about the maintenance of government infrastructure and plans to improve service delivery to the JCPS,” concluded Noe.
9 April 2025- The North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management said it has noted with concern and alleged disturbing conduct by individuals who are soliciting money from the public under the guise of securing positions for them in the Road Traffic Learnership. The department said it has been made aware of an incident, where a certain individual is allegedly pretending to be an official of the department and soliciting money from unsuspecting job seekers, claiming it is for the transportation to the Traffic Academy in Free State.
The Head of the Department, Dr Hans Kekana has called on all community members who had been conned off by these mischievous people to lay charges with the police.
“This is illegal conduct by those who seek to take advantage of unemployed young people who are in the market for job opportunities.
“The department would like to put on record that it follows guidelines and procedures outlined by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) on employment processes,” he said.
Kekana said this includes the recruitment of candidates on the traffic learnership. He further said, applicants/ candidates would not be requested for money to cover any costs or to secure a position in the programme.
“The public is advised to be cautious of these criminal elements and to report any suspicious behaviour to their nearest police station,” said Kekana.
Picture: The North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
9 April 2025- The North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie said civil society organisations should comply with legislation if they are to receive funding from government and its entities. Dantjie told delegates from various Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) during “Re Thuse Re Go Thuse” NPO support roadshow, which is underway in Rustenburg Civil Centre.
She further said 150 representatives from the National Lottery Commission, the South African Revenue Services, the Provincial Treasury, the National Development Agency and National Department of Social Development are part of the day long NPO roadshow. Dantjie added that, “Re Thuse Re Go Thuse” is a flagship programme that underscores commitment to fostering a robust and effective NPO sector that is capable of delivering essential services to communities across the province in partnership with sister departments and State-Owned Entities (SOEs).
“While we acknowledge the role of civil society organisations in changing the lives of our people, we must also enforce compliance to legislation so that there is transparency and accountability in the social sector. All NPOs must comply with the NPO Act.
“They must adhere to tax requirements and their information on Central Supplier Database (CSD) must be accurate. Non-compliant NPOs face possible deregistration and they will not receive any financial resources from the funders,” she said.
Dantjie said the compliance to the NPO Act is strategically aligned with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Recommendation 8, which addresses risks related to money laundering and terrorist financing in the sector. In Bojanala, 5221 NPOs are deemed compliant, while 727 have already been de-registered from the system due to non-compliance to the NPO Act.
“We scheduled to take Re Thuse Re Go Thuse NPO roadshow to Brits on Thursday at 9am,” said Dantjie.
Picture: SANDF soldiers seen during #Cwecwe march/Generic
By BAKANG MOKOTO
9 April 2025- The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has noted with concern the video purporting to show South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members providing security with the South African Police Service (SAPS) at #JusticeForCwecwe protest match in Matatiele.
The committee will urgently demand the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, and the Chief of the SANDF to verify the authenticity of the video and provide an urgent report on the circumstances of the presence of the SANDF.
The co-chairperson of the committee, Malusi Gigaba said while employment of members of the SANDF is a prerogative of the President and the Minister, Section 18 (2) and (3) of the Defence Act stipulates that if the President or the Minister employs members of the SANDF internally as per Section 201 (2) of the Constitution, they must inform Parliament promptly.
“This has not been done, hence the demand for an urgent report. The committee’s concern emanates from the fact that the protest did not represent any extraordinary occurrence nor was there a threat to life. The report by the Ministry of Defence and the Chief of the SANDF must include reasons of the employment (If there was one), why Parliament was not informed and cost associated with the employment,” he said.
Phiroane Phala, who is the co-chairperson of the committee also shared the same sentiments. Phala said the SAPS handles protest on a daily basis and they have the requisite skills and training to handle such situations.
“We are of the view that employment of the SANDF should always be under extraordinary circumstances, especially considering the stretched budget the defence force is operating with,” he said.
Meanwhile, the SANDF spokesperson, Siphiwe Dlamini said: “The SANDF has noted with concern reports and allegations that of a so-called deployment in Matatiele to monitor a community march against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
“We wish to state that the SANDF has members in the area on border safeguarding duties and nothing else. We would like to express sincere regret regarding the incident, where soldiers were seen during the march against GBV in Matatiele.”
Dlamini said the SANDF is a gender sensitive organisation and supports gender programs. He further said they are cognisant of the unacceptable high levels of GBV and the prevalence of violence against women and children, and support any intervention by institutions and citizens aimed at dealing with violence against our women and children.
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