3 July 2025- The North West Provincial Government has refuted allegations that there is unused R383 million that is set to return to the National Treasury’s coffer. The NWPG said it can confirm that, as per the 2024/25 preliminary audit outcomes, 99.29% of its R54.2 billion was spent.
The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi spokesperson, Sello Tatai said this translates to a total expenditure of R53.9 billion. Tatai said this is a much-improved performance compared to the previous financial year, with only two departments spending below a threshold of 95%.
“The under-expenditure of R383 million which is made up of R176 million of the equitable share will be retained by the province. The remainder which is in the region of R207 million will be subjected to a rollover for the 2025/26 financial year.
“Already National Treasury has approved R172 million which will be re-appropriated through the November adjustment budget. These funds will be used for various infrastructure projects to address service delivery challenges and create various socio-economic opportunities for locals,” he said.
Tatai further said, therefore there is no R383 million which is going to be returned to the National Treasury as alleged by some in the mainstream and social media platforms.
Picture: The Minister in Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
3 July 2025- The Minister in Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said she presented the Budget Vote 14: Statistics South Africa for the financial year 2025/2026 and the medium-term expenditure framework (MTEF) period, as they start with the work of the 7th administration in earnest.
Ntshavheni said after the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana tabled the annual budget in compliance with the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act, Section 27 and sub-section 4 provides that “when the annual budget is introduced to the National Assembly, the accounting officer for each department must submit to parliament measurable objectives for each main division within the department’s vote.”
She further said the Statistician-General has complied with provisions of sub-section 4 and the Portfolio Committee of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation, having considered the Strategic Plan and Annual Work plan of the StatsSA, it is her honour to table the Budget Vote 14: Statistics South Africa.
Ntshavheni added that the MTEF allocation is R2.77 billion in 2025/26; and R 2.91 billion and R3.04 billion in the 2026/27 and 2027/28 financial years respectively, which is an average growth rate of 4,7%.
“The main divisions of Vote 14 are, MTEF allocation 2025/26, 2026/27 and 2027/28, Administration 742,7 779,1 and 814,3. Economic Statistics 310,5 325,0 and 339,7. Population and Social Statistics 307,7 322,8 337,4
Methodology and Statistical Infrastructure 166,1 174,0 181,8.
“Statistical Support and Informatics 306,7 322,3 336,9
Statistical Operations and Provincial Coordination 889,2 931,6 973,8. South African National Statistics System 48,4 50,8 53,1. Total expenditure estimates 2 771,3 2 905,6 3 037,0. We request parliament to support the budget vote 14 of Statistics South Africa,” she said.
Ntshavheni said it is important to support this budget vote because they are navigating a path in a world that is undergoing rapid and profound changes and this is equally true in the realm of statistics. She said global fundamental shifts are reshaping every aspect of human life, from the escalating impact of climate change to the swift advancements in artificial intelligence, the rise of digital economies, changing social dynamics, and global geopolitical tensions.
“In a world defined by rapid change, complex challenges, and competing narratives, official statistics provide us with one constant: the truth, told in numbers. They serve as a mirror through which a nation sees itself—not just how it is, but how it is evolving.
“From economic performance and health outcomes to education levels and environmental conditions, statistics are the evidence base upon which sound decisions are made. By accurately capturing and analyzing these trends, we can better equip ourselves to respond to the challenges and opportunities they present, ensuring that our nation remains resilient and forward-thinking in this ever-evolving landscape,” said Ntshavheni.
She said therefore, StatsSA must be able to measure these changes in a dynamic but yet verifiable manner. Ntshavheni said in this rapidly evolving digital and data-driven world, Stats SA remains unwavering in its commitment to the strategy of ‘Improving Lives Through Data Ecosystems.
“As the landscape of information technology and data analytics continues to transform, our focus is on harnessing the power of data to enhance the well-being of our citizens. Stats SA has commenced with the development of a digital business transformation strategy to guide the achievement of ambitious business goals enabled by technology.
“This strategy will align to “South Africa’s roadmap for digital transformation of government” that aims, amongst others, to enhance data exchange for improved access to information for improved service delivery,” she said.
Picture: SAFA Chief Medical Officer, Dr Thulani Ngwenya’s father
By REGINALD KANYANE
3 July 2025- The South African Football Association (SAFA) is saddened to hear about the passing of Elias Freddie Ngwenya, the father of SAFA Chief Medical Officer Dr Thulani Ngwenya. Ngwenya Senior passed away on 30 June 2025 and will be laid to rest on 6 July 2025 in Mpumalanga.
Ngwenya acknowledged the support and condolence messages that the family has received after the loss.
“Thank you very much for all the heartfelt messages I have been receiving since the passing of my father on Monday afternoon. He has gone to the waiting area to wait for the day when the trumpet will ring. Angisoli lutho…. We thank God for his life and great importance in my life.
“The will of God has been fulfilled, and it is very well with my soul. Ngwenya Senior was born on 25 December 1942 and his funeral service will start at 6am at KaNyamazane Alliance Church and he will be laid to rest at Rocky Drift Cemetery,” he said.
Meanwhile, SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao said: “We as SAFA, join in mourning his passing and trust that God will grant Ngwenya and the family healing and comfort. May his soul Rest in Peace.”
3 July 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans has expressed deep concern over the ongoing challenges faced by military veterans. The committee said many of them remain in limbo due to delays in receiving their service-related benefits from the Department of Military Veterans (DMV).
The Chairperson of the Committee, Dakota Legoete said during a briefing on the amended Strategic Plans, annual performance plans, and the 2025/26 Budget of the DMV and the Castle Control Board (CCB), the committee stressed that the absence of a permanent Director-General undermines the department’s ability to deliver on its mandate and to manage its budget effectively. Legoete said the committee also highlighted the dysfunctional organisational structure as a major frustration.
“We urgently need the appointment of a Director-General. The current Acting Director General is uncertain about her future, which compromises accountability and decision making. The continued delays in making this appointment destabilise the department and make it difficult for us, as the oversight committee, to track the department’s expenditure and performance.
“The committee said it was sad that the DMV, through its inability to put its stakeholders first, continued to return unspent funds back to the National Treasury. Members of the committee pointed out that on various occasions veterans were reaching out to them complaining after waiting for more than a year for their benefits,” he said.
Legoete further said of specific concern is the roll-out of the pension benefit where it appears that the DMV and implementing agent, the Government Pensions Administration Agency, appear to lack a coherent and responsive plan to serve them. He added that the committee also raised serious concerns about the DMV’s failure to establish a functioning internal audit unit which is an essential tool for financial accountability and risk management.
“The committee highlighted the need for urgent intervention by the executive to turn around the DMV, starting with the appointment of a permanent Director-General, re-evaluating the organisational structure, addressing the findings of the Auditor-General and developing a more responsive department,” said Legoete.
2 July 2025- Three City of Tshwane officials, Sphiwe Kleinbooy Mahlangu (45) from Soshanguve, Thomas Baloi (41) from Pretoria North and Daniel Kubayi (50) from Hammanskraal, appeared at the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court. They are facing a charge of theft of essential infrastructure transformer worth R7 million.
It is alleged that on 7 November 2024, in the afternoon, Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) and the police received a tip-off regarding a theft that was taking place at Claudius Substation in Laudium. When they arrived at the scene they found cranes, trucks, and a City of Tshwane-marked truck at the substation.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said when the police requested proof of work authorization and it could not be produced, eleven people were arrested on the scene and ten were later released from police custody. Mahanjana said Madimetja Jacob Malebane (38) a City of Tshwane official who was also arrested on the day appeared at the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on 28 November 2024 and was released on bail.
“During investigations by the police, it was found that Mahlangu, Baloi, and Kubayi left the scene before the police arrived. Warrants of arrest were issued and the three accused were arrested at their workplaces on 1 July 2025.
“The matter was postponed to 4 July 2025, for a Schedule 5 bail application. The three are remanded in custody,” she said.
Picture: Chief Director: Former Land Restitution Support – North West, Lengane Bogatsu
By BAKANG MOKOTO
2 July 2025- The Commission on Restitution of Land Rights in the North West said it extends its heartfelt farewell to Lengane Bogatsu, who has served with distinction as Chief Director: Land Restitution Support – North West. This comes after Bogatsu was appointed as the new Head of the North West Department of Education —an esteemed role in which he is expected to continue his legacy of ethical leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.
The acting Regional Land Claims Commissioner in North West, advocate Kenneth Matukane said during Bogatsu’s tenure with the Commission, he played a pivotal role in advancing the land restitution agenda with integrity, foresight, and a profound sensitivity to the historical injustices and socio-economic realities of land dispossession in South Africa. Matukane said Bogatsu has led with clarity and purpose, ensuring that land claimants not only received what was rightfully theirs but that the process was conducted with dignity and fairness.
“His departure marks the end of a powerful chapter for us, but we are proud to see him take on a new leadership role in the province. The Commission in the North West recorded notable progress in the finalisation of land claims under Bogatsu’s leadership.
“He forged strong partnerships with traditional leaders, farming communities, and intergovernmental stakeholders—ensuring that land restitution served not only as redress but as a catalyst for sustainable development,” he said.
Matukane further said his people-centred and collaborative leadership style was particularly evident in his efforts to support post-settlement development, ensuring that land beneficiaries were equipped with the necessary support services to thrive. He added that, while the Commission marks the departure of a dedicated and principled leader, it also celebrates this important milestone in Bogatsu’s career.
“We are confident that he will bring the same spirit of service and justice to the education sector as he did to land reform. Our province is fortunate to retain his leadership within the public service.
“The Commission on Restitution of Land Rights – North West extends its sincere gratitude to Bogatsu for his exemplary service and leadership, and wishes him continued success in his new role,” said Matukane.
Meanwhile, Bogatsu said: “Restitution is about more than returning hectares—it’s about restoring identity, opportunity, and hope. I am humbled to have been part of that journey with the Commission.”
Picture: Ditsobotla Local Municipality office buildings in Lichtenburg North West Province
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
2 July 2025- The embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality held a workshop to review its Local Economic Development (LED) strategy with the purpose of ensuring that the economic potential of the municipality is maximized and the resilience of the macro-economic growth is enhanced through increased local economic growth, employment creation and development initiatives within the context of sustainable development.
The three-day workshop held from 24 until 26 June 2025, was successfully attended by all Ditsobotla Intergovernmental Relations stakeholders. The workshop was held at Afrisam Boardroom and was attended by SALGA, DEDECT, NWPTB, COGTA, STATSSA, NWDC, MISA, NWKSMMEs from the Municipality.
The Ditsobotla Local Municipality mayor, Molefe Morutse, the Municipal Manager, Olaotse Bojosinyane, and the Senior Managers were also in attendance. Mortise said the workshop was initiated subsequent to the municipality, realizing that its LED strategy was adopted in 2016 and had since not been reviewed to ensure that it aligns with the economic changes of the country.
“Therefore, the 2016 LED strategy is outdated and no longer meaningful. The event was a historic milestone because it signified the municipality’s commitment to fostering economic growth and development within its jurisdiction
“The workshop is a clear public declaration of the municipality’s priorities and a call to action for different stakeholders to participate in the implementation of the strategy, to allow and encourage local people to work together to achieve sustainable economic growth and development, thereby bringing economic benefits and improved quality of life for all residents within Ditsobotla,” he said.
Morutse further said workshop was facilitated by officials from the Municipal Institute of Learning (MILE) from Ethekwini Municipality in KwaZulu Natal Province. He added that, workshop focuses on the pillars of economic development and was subdivided into the Commissions on Transport & Infrastructure, Mining & Manufacturing, Information Communications Technology & Business Enterprise, and Tourism & Agriculture.
“These commissions presented to the workshop the feedback on their discussions on the last day of the workshop. We would like to thank all the participants who contributed to the success of the workshop irrespective of the challenges they had to come across.
“We have done it even though it was impossible to hold the workshop. We also urge everybody to continue to contribute to the positive change of the municipality,” he said.
Picture: Job Shimankana Tabane Hospital in Rustenburg
By REGINALD KANYANE
2 July 2025- The Job Shimankana Tabane Hospital in Rustenburg said it is implementing the electronic appointment system, which aims to expedite service delivery through timeous retrieval of files. The hospital said this will also result in the Records Department operating 24 hours with effect from 14 July 2025.
The hospital acting CEO, Ellen Moromane this is to reduce duplicate files and adhere to waiting time. Moromane said the hospital is appealing to patients to honour scheduled appointment dates on their appointment cards.
“Patients are advised to adhere to their appointment dates, as failure to do so will result in rescheduling. The hospital is committed to provision of quality health services and honouring scheduled appointments will attain such.
2 July 2025- The police in North West has refuted allegations that, truck drivers are under attack in Wolmaradtad. This comes after the North West Times publication, published a post on its Facebook page warning motorists to be cautious.
However, the North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba said they are aware of that social media post circulating and indicating that truck drivers are under attack. Manyoba warned that, the post was not issued by or on behalf of the SAPS.
“The media post is baseless and without any credible information. As such, the SAPS would like to reassure the general public, truck operators as well as the business community that posts such as this one should not be taken seriously, but also that those who maliciously disseminate or spread information that is false and unverified, will be dealt with harshly.
“What these individuals are not aware of is that these false information or posts have serious repercussions on stability and particularly economic, not only of Wolmaransstad, but also of the country at large and the N12 arterial national road, which services provinces like Limpopo, Gauteng, Northen Cape, North West and Western Cape,” she said.
Manyoba further said the police want to reassure the residents of Wolmaransstad, including business operators that their premises and business will not be allowed to be used by thugs or criminals to cause mayhem, intimidation, and robberies. She added that, this regard, they are calling upon the community through the Community Police Forum (CPF), Business Against Crime (BAC), as well as other civil society structures in and around Wolmaransstad to work with the police to report any act of crime or criminality.
“It is important that strong Public Private Partnership be established to prevent and combat crime,” said Manyoba.
2 July 2025- The accused, Klaas Makobela (39) and Olekeng Lerefolo (46) are expected to appear in the Potchefstroom Magistrate’Court 7 July 2025, following their arrest on 28 June 2025. The accused were charged with possession of a suspected robbed or stolen motor vehicle, which was initially reported in a case of kidnapping in Extension 11, Ikageng Township, Potchefstroom on Saturday evening, 21 June 2025.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba said the pair will face charges of kidnapping and robbery after the police Task Team established to investigate the incident managed to locate a victim (30), who escaped from their clutches without his vehicle. Manyoba said it was reported that they kept him hostage in a house in Jouberton Township, Klerksdorp, for days while making several ATM withdrawals from his bank account.
“The police investigations on the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping are on-going and the possibility of further charges or more arrests cannot be ruled out.
“Thankfully, given previous incidents of kidnapping that ended in the tragic loss of lives, the victim was found unharmed as this is largely due to the swift reporting by the victim’s family and the police’s decisive response,” she said.
The Guardian 