11 July 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) said it welcomes the successful return of Unit 4 at Medupi Power Station to the national grid, restoring 800MW of capacity after the 2021 explosion. The party said this is a significant breakthrough in the country’s journey towards energy security, industrial revitalisation, and inclusive growth.
The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu said they are particularly impressed that this milestone was achieved eight months ahead of schedule. Bhengu said this milestone reaffirms the correctness of the ANC-led government’s Energy Action Plan and the decisive leadership of Minister of Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.
“It proves that when leadership is aligned with ANC policy and guided by clear purpose, delivery follows to benefit the people of South Africa. The return of Unit 4 strengthens the electricity grid, supports the recovery of our logistics network, and enables growth in mining, agriculture, transport, and manufacturing.
“The ANC commends the engineers, workers, and Eskom management for their resolve and technical skill. We further reiterate the importance of continued investment in energy security integrating clean technology retrofits to affirm our commitment to a just energy transition that serves our people,” she said.
Bhengu further said Medupi’s recovery is a building block towards a more reliable energy supply, restored investor confidence and a capable developmental state that drives transformation. She added that the ANC will continue to lead this progressive developmental march with the people at the centre.
11 July 2025- A man (34) sentenced to life imprisonment by the North West High Court for murder, two counts of attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. This comes after the accused, Shakandinnyi Ndivhoswami Tshiovhe was convicted.
The Nationals Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said convictions relate to a violent incident that occurred on 7 April 2021 at Dr Steenkamp’s surgery in Block A, Mabopane. Gunya said Tshiovhe, along with a group of men, stormed the surgery in broad daylight and robbed the doctor and patients of their valuables.
“During the robbery, one of the patients was fatally shot and died at the scene from a gunshot wound. As the situation escalated, Dr Steenkamp, acting in self-defence, used his licensed firearm and shot Tshiovhe, who sustained a gunshot wound to the chest.
“Witnesses reported seeing Tshiovhe bleeding as he fled the scene with his accomplices in a white Toyota Quantum parked outside. The next day, police followed up on information obtained from a witness and visited Odi Hospital to investigate the Quantum,” he said.
Gunya further said surveillance footage led to the identification and arrest of Tshiovhe and another suspect. He added that on 5 May 2021, an identification parade was conducted, during which some victims positively identified both individuals.
“Furthermore, blood samples collected from the scene were forensically linked to Tshiovhe through buccal sample analysis. The case against the co-accused was later withdrawn due to insufficient evidence. Tshiovhe pleaded not guilty to all charges.
“However, in aggravation of sentence, state advocate Ferdinand Tlatsana argued that the gravity of the offences and the lack of substantial and compelling circumstances warranted the prescribed minimum sentence,” said Gunya.
He said the court concurred and imposed life imprisonment for murder, 15 years imprisonment for two counts of robbery, 10 years imprisonment for attempted murder, 5 years imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm and 5 years imprisonment for unlawful possession of ammunition. Gunya said all sentences are to run concurrently with the life sentence.
“Tshiovhe was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.
Welcoming the judgment, Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Tlatsana, the investigating officer, and all stakeholders involved in securing the conviction.
“These sentences underscore the National Prosecuting Authority’s unwavering commitment to fighting crime, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring justice for victims of violent crime,” she said.
11 July 2025- The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi has expressed deep concern after disruptions at a meeting meant to officially communicate the invocation of Section 139(1)(a) of the Constitution at Mamusa Local Municipality as resolved by the Provincial Executive Council.
In an unprecedented turn of events, community members demanded to meet Molapisi directly reporting alleged failure by council to follow due process in the appointment of senior officials and a lack of service delivery amongst others.
Molapisi further said he takes a ‘dim view’ and strongly condemns actions by community members. He added that although disappointed by the disruption, he still chose to listen to the community’s concerns.
“We urge them to allow the Department of COGTA to do its work and help fix the problems. In respect of matters currently before the court, including the reappointment of the Municipal Manager, we urge the community to allow due legal process to take its course, await outcomes and respect courts systems.
“An urgent meeting with councillors will be convened within seven days to address outstanding issues. In light of today’s events, I am more determined to carry out the Provincial Executive Council’s decision. The decision of EXCO will be communicated to the council and implemented without fail,” said Molapisi.
IMATU branch secretary in Schweizer Reneke, David Motswana said as the union, they welcome the decision. Motswana said two days ago, municipal employees embarked on a protest over unpaid salaries.
“It is not for the first time that municipal employees go months without getting their salaries. However, some municipal employees embarked on a protest because they do not want the legitimate Municipal Manager, Rantsho Gincane in the cocoon,” he said.
SAMWU branch secretary, Lebogang Tutubalang shared the same sentiments. Tutubalang said: “You will remember that Section 139(1)(a) of the South African Constitution allows a provincial government to intervene in a municipality when it fails to fulfill its executive obligation.
“This intervention involves issuing a directive to the municipal council, instructing them on how to meet their responsibilities. So, we will not stand in the way of MEC to implement a mechanism to ensure the municipality upholds its constitutional and legal duties.”
Tutubala said the implementation was done after analysis and they welcome that.
Picture: Two Ford Rangers involved in a head-on collision
By OBAKENG MAJE
11 July 2025- The police in Northern Cape said they are investigating a culpable homicide case. This comes after five people died in a horrible car accident on N18 road between Magogong village and Taung.
According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane, two Silver Ford Double Cab Rangers were allegedly involved in a head-on collision. Shemane said the incident took place at 1:39pm. Shemane said four people, who were traveling in one of the Ford Rangers (a man aged 63, woman aged 56 and two girls aged 8 and 16) died on the scene.
“In the other Ford Ranger, a driver (22) died on the scene. The deceased were declared dead on the scene by paramedics. Police investigations continue to determine the cause of the accident.
“Anyone who might have information that can assist the police with their investigation can contact Hartswater SAPS on 053 474 2087 or on 053 474 2155 or call SAPS crime stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App. All information will be treated confidentially,” he said.
Picture: orlando Pirates FC player, Monnapule Saleng
By OBAKENG MAJE
11 July 2025- The newly-promoted Orbit College FC coach, Pogisho Makhoye said they welcome back their former star player, Monnapule Saleng (27). This comes after Orlando Pirates FC loaned Saleng to his former club for the 2025/2026 season.
“This marks a significant reunion between Saleng and us. You will remember that Saleng played a pivotal role in the team. So, I am happy that he is back because he is like a son to me.
“I’m very happy to have my son back. I still cannot believe it. I think I will believe it when I see him when we return to training on Saturday or when the club unveils him,” said Makhoye.
He further said he personally pushed for the loan deal, having asked Orbit’s management to negotiate with Pirates to bring Saleng back to Rustenburg, where his professional journey began. Makhoye added that Saleng is one of the players he asked management to engage Pirates about, at least on loan.
“I’m so happy the deal went through. I was so excited to read it when Pirates announced it yesterday. Our connection with Saleng stretches back to eight years ago when I first discovered the young talent and brought him to Orbit College FC.
“I discovered the boy when he was young. I brought him to Rustenburg. I worked with him for three years. That’s why I say he’s like a son to me. I made him the player he is today. No one knows this player more than me,” he said.
He said this deep bond and understanding of Saleng’s abilities gives him confidence that the winger will thrive in familiar surroundings. Makhoye said Saleng previously played under him at Orbit before he moved to Free State Stars FC and later joined Orlando Pirates in 2021.
Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
10 July 2025- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi officially handed over the newly-constructed Tlakgameng Primary School in Tlakgameng village, near Ganyesa. Motsumi said the milestone marks a significant investment in education, with the school valued at R69.8 million.
She further said the newly-built Tlakgameng Primary School features 21 classrooms, a fully equipped library, a science laboratory, a Grade R facility, an administration block, security fencing, and a nutrition center, all designed to improve the learning environment for learners. Motsumi added that the facility is part of the department’s ongoing commitment to enhancing school infrastructure across the province.
“The community and school leadership play a critical role in maintaining the school’s facilities. It is essential that we all take collective responsibility to care for this school. I urge the community, learners, and School Governing Body (SGB) to safeguard this school against theft and vandalism.
“We also appeal to all stakeholders to respect the teaching and learning process and avoid disruptions, particularly during service delivery protests. The handover of Tlakgameng Primary School is one of several planned during Mandela Month, reinforcing the province’s dedication to providing quality education and nurturing safe, supportive learning environments,” she said.
Picture: Banyana Banyana coach, Dr Desiree Ellis/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
10 July 2025- Banyana Banyana coach, Dr Desiree Ellis said is expecting nothing, but a win from her charges when they face Tanzania in their second match of the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on 11 July 2025, at the Oujda Stadium in Morocco.
Kick-off for this encounter is 9pm SA Time (8pm local time in Morocco).
Both teams came into this fixture on the back of contrasting results – the South African senior women’s national team defeated Ghana 2-0 on 7 July, while Tanzania lost 1-0 to Mali in the other Group C clash played on the same day.
It’s been 17 months since South Africa faced the East Africans, where Ellis’ charges won at home and away (0-3, 1-0) in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games qualifiers in Dar es Salaam and Mbombela respectively. But Ellis said that is all in the past as the Twiga Stars are desperate for victory to stay alive in the 2024 WAFCON.
“Victory will see South Africa move a step closer to qualifying for the knockout stages. Obviously, we want to get a win to cement our place in the second round. The last group stage match will determine who goes top, but we have seen in the matches over the last couple of days that there are no easy games.
“We have played Tanzania before, but that goes out of the window, it means nothing. We also know that they need to win to stay in the competition, so we need to make sure that we don’t concede because we are going to create opportunities and then take those opportunities,” she said.
Ellis further said they need to be a lot more clinical in the attacking third when they are there. She added that they had a couple of chances against Ghana that could have sealed the game, and they hit the crossbar after that.
“We need to concentrate a lot more on what we need to do to make sure we get those things right. To be honest, it’s going to be a tough one, we have played them before. What Tanzania needs in this competition is a win to keep them in the run and help them out of the group stage.
“As a team, we just need to stick to our game plan. I have played against them, while at Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in the Champions league, so it is going to be a tough one. We know each other and it’s like we are friends. However, we are not friends,” said Ramalepe.
Tanzania coach Bakari Shime has admitted that they have their work cut out against the defending WAFCON champions. Shime said this is the first time the East Africans return to the WAFCON after an absence of 15 years.
“We last played in the 2010 edition and bombed out in the group stages. This is a different match from the opener against Mali. South Africa are the defending champions, and it is not easy to play against them.
“But, we are well prepared to play against them according to their ability. I will give them much respect on the field and they will give them much respect, and then we’ll do everything carefully,” he said.
Shime said they lost two matches against South Africa in the 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers, but if you remember those matches, you will recall Tanzania’s performance in both games. He said yes, they are the defending champions, more experienced than them and they take every caution in this game.
Meanwhile, Ghana will go toe-to-toe with Mali in the other Group C match to be played at the Berkane Stadium.
Setshwantsho: Sejanaga sa Ford Raptor se amegile mo kotsing
Ka OBAKENG MAJE
10 Phukwi 2025- Batho ba le batlhano ba tlhokafetse mo tsela-kgolo ya N18 magareng ga Taung le Hartswater mo letsatsing la gompieno. Go begwa fa sejanaga sa Ford Raptor se se pududu ka mmala, mme go begwa fa se ne se lelekisiwa ke sepodisi morago ga dipego tsa gore se utswitswe, se ile sa thulana le van ka dinko.
Go begwa fa batho ba le bararo ba ba neng ba palame van, ba ile ba tlhokafala fa banna ba le babedi ba ba neng ba palame Ford Raptor le bone ba ile ba tlhokafala. Kgang e, e setse e tswelela, mme sepodisi ga ise se neelane ka pegelo e feletseng.
10 July 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said he will on Sunday address the nation on developments arising from a public statement by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi that details allegations against senior political and South African Police Service leadership.
Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa was attending a BRICS summit in Brazil on 6 July 2025, when Mkhwanazi outlined numerous allegations at a media briefing. Magwenya said he undertook to attend to this development on his return from Brazil, in view of the implications for national security.
“Ramaphosa has been seized with this matter in recent days and will, following various consultations, take the nation into confidence at 7pm on 13 July 2025. The President’s message will be broadcast and streamed on various platforms,” he said.
10 July 2025- A coordinated effort by the Northern Cape Tracking Team has led to the successful arrest of a wanted murder suspect (64) in Mossel Bay on 9 July 2025. The police said Sergeants Cedric Nelson and Given Mokoena, with the support of Da Gamaskop SAPS, Mossel Bay SAPS and the Western Cape Sea Border Unit, acted on information regarding the whereabouts of a suspect.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the suspect was wanted for the brutal murder of his sister, which occurred in Kimberley in 2020. Sam said the suspect was traced and apprehended in Heiderand, Mossel Bay.
“He is expected to appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court soon,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the successful outcome of the inter-provincial partnership that led to the apprehension of the wanted suspect, who has been evading law enforcement.
The Guardian 