Picture: Dagga worth over R100 000 seized/Supplied
By AGISANANG SCUFF
23 September 2025- A suspect (27) was arrested by the police in Springbok following a successful drug-related operation conducted on Dr Isak Van Niekerk Street, Bergsig on 22 September 2025. The arrest came after the police received a tip-off regarding a vehicle allegedly transporting illegal substances.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the vehicle was located and searched, resulting in the discovery of a plastic bag containing dagga, with an estimated street value of R121 800. Magerman said the suspect was subsequently arrested.
“He will appear in court soon on charges related to dealing in drugs. The SAPS remains committed to combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety of our communities.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to their nearest police station, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or utilize the MySaps app,” he said.
23 September 2025- As the country marks the Integrated Public Service Month, the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) will reaffirm its commitment to building a professional, ethical and citizen-centred public service by launching the Implementation of 2025-26 Integrated Public Service Month Framework.
The launch, which will be led by the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, accompanied by the Public Service Commissioner and the acting Director General for Department of Public Service and Administration, will be held at Mahikeng Hotel School on Tuesday, under the theme: “Professionalising the Public Service to Build Trust and Restore Confidence in Government”.
Mokgosi spokesperson, Sello Tatai said the primary objective of the launch is to, among others, revitalise and enhance institutionalisation of Batho Pele Norms and Standards and increase awareness on the Public Sector Charter. Tatai said the provincial government has identified several programmes which will be implemented until the end of the current financial year as part of the 2025-26 Integrated Public Service Month programme.
“The launch, which will be arranged as a conference, will be attended by senior government officials, including provincial Heads of Departments, Chief Directors for Corporate Services, Batho Pele Coordinators and Thuntsha Lerole Coordinators,” he said.
23 September 2025- The Afrika Mayibuye Movement in the North West said it welcomes, albeit cautiously, the national government’s decisive intervention in the Ditsobotla Local Municipality. The movement said this action, which includes the expected appointment of a new mayor and speaker, is a crucial step toward restoring stability and service delivery for the people of Ditsobotla.
The Afrika Mayibuye Movement provincial spokesperson, spokesperson Lefa Mlungisi Chakela said the crisis in Ditsobotla has been a source of great concern for them and the community. Chakela said the ongoing political instability, financial mismanagement and complete breakdown of basic services have had a severe impact on the lives and dignity of their people.
“The municipality’s failure to address its over R1.6 billion in unpaid creditors and its default on payments to essential service providers like Eskom is unacceptable. We stand with the residents who have been living without reliable water, electricity and waste management.
“The failure of the previous provincial intervention under Section 139(5) of the Constitution underscores the need for a stronger, more direct approach from the national government,” he said.
Chakela further said the invocation of Section 139(7) is a necessary measure to assume control and implement a comprehensive financial recovery plan. He added that their support for the new leadership is conditional on their commitment to tangible change.
“We expect the incoming mayor and speaker to act with integrity, transparency, and a steadfast resolve to curb corruption, reverse irregular appointments, and prioritize the needs of the community. The new leadership must focus on implementing the financial recovery plan in collaboration with the national treasury and the multi-disciplinary team deployed by Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa.
“The people of Ditsobotla cannot be held hostage by political infighting. The time for empty promises is over. The Afrika Mayibuye Movement, as we prepare ourselves to contest municipalities in the upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE), will be watching closely,” said Chakela.
Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
23 September 2025- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi has committed to repair the dilapidated internal road in Khuma Township, near Stilfontein, which prohibits school children to attend schools and residents to do their daily errands during the rainy season. Mokgosi, who was accompanied by the Executive Mayors of Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, Nikiwe Num and City of Matlosana Local Municipality, Fikile Mahlope, handed over the Phase 1 of a newly-constructed 2km paved road and storm water project in Khuma Ext. 32 and 39.
He further said the handover was part of the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme – Thuntsha Lerole Phase 5 in the City of Matlosana Local Municipality. Mokgosi added that residents of Khuma, expressed their gratitude as the government officially handed over the paved road and storm water project saying it has given their area the necessary facelift.
“Even though residents are delighted about the completed road, the problematic section which was not part of Phase 1, must be constructed soonest. We appreciate the completion of the paved road.
“However, we have not included in the project the road which gets water locked during the rainy season. Through the City of Matlosana there will be re-allocation of resources and proper planning so that we resolve this matter permanently” he said.
Mokgosi said residents further expressed their delight that a problematic area will now receive attention. He said the project forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to resolve service delivery backlogs in various communities across the province through the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme-Thuntsha Lerole.
23 September 2025- The Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul will lead the Provincial Heritage Day Commemoration, a significant event aimed at celebrating the province’s cultural richness and shared heritage. Saul said the commemoration will take place on Wednesday, at the Robert Gunda Stadium in Paballelo, Upington and will run from 8am until 3pm.
He further said held under the theme “Reimagine Our Heritage Institutions for a New Era,” the event will feature a dynamic programme that reflects the diverse traditions, identities, and histories that shape the Northern Cape. Saul added that he will deliver the keynote address and will be joined by Members of the Executive Council (MECs), the Executive Mayor of Dawid Kruiper Municipality and the Executive Mayor of the ZF Mgcawu District Municipality.
“The day promises to be a vibrant celebration of unity, inclusion and the evolving role of heritage institutions in modern society. The Provincial Heritage Day Commemoration, which will feature a programme highlighting the province’s cultural richness and shared history.
“The day will include key details such as the ceremonial renaming of Schroder Street to Alfred Qayiso Gubula Street. The proceedings will begin with the official announcement of the renaming of Schroder Street, this is an act of restorative justice and symbolic transformation of public spaces,” he said.
Saul said the official Heritage Day Ceremony is a celebration of their rich cultural diversity, unity in heritage and reflection on the evolving role of cultural institutions in the 21st century. He said the opening of the Northern Cape Provincial Indigenous Games will be immediately following the ceremony.
“We will also launch the 2025 Northern Cape Provincial Indigenous Games, taking place from 24–26 September 2025. These traditional games serve as an expression of our living heritage, promoting intergenerational learning and cultural pride.
“The media are invited to attend, cover, and amplify this important commemoration as the province celebrates Heritage Day by promoting unity, cultural diversity, and the rich heritage that shapes our shared identity,” said Saul.
23 September 2025-Parliament said it wishes to correct inaccurate media reports suggesting that the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) will only be tabled in January 2026. The parliament said this is incorrect and appears to confuse the process agreed to by the National Assembly (NA) in considering the MTBPS.
Parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said at its sitting, the National Assembly Programme Committee resolved that the Minister of Finance will table the MTBPS on 12 November 2025, in line with constitutional and legislative requirements governing the budget process. Mothapo said furthermore, the NA agreed that it will consider and adopt the MTBPS on 13 January 2026, following the conclusion of the necessary committee processes.
“This year’s later tabling and consideration of the MTBPS is the direct knock-on effect of the national budget itself having been tabled later than usual, owing to well-documented challenges already in the public domain.
“As a result, subsequent processes in the budget cycle, including the MTBPS, have had to be adjusted accordingly. Parliament has therefore ensured that these processes remain aligned with constitutional requirements, while accommodating the unavoidable delays without compromising scrutiny, accountability, or public participation,” he said.
23 September 2025- Bafana Bafana have partnered with two of South Africa’s trusted personal care brands, Shield and Vaseline, in a new powerful partnership under the banner of “The Ultimate Defence.”
This collaboration marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to support the South African senior men’s national team and the nation through a shared celebration of resilience, preparation, and belief in progress – values deeply embedded in both Shield and Vaseline.
Gareth Marshall, Sponsorship Lead at Unilever Southern Africa, expressed excitement following the announcement of the collaboration on 18 September 2025. Marshall said this partnership with Bafana Bafana represents a powerful alignment between our brands and the passion points that truly resonate with South Africans.
“Both Shield and Vaseline are synonymous with protection, performance, and everyday care – values that mirror the dedication and resilience exemplified by our national football team on the field.
“The partnership reflects the emotional connection between South Africans and football, where the beautiful game becomes a symbol of shared unity and pride. By highlighting the stories behind the team, their preparation, setbacks, and triumphs, Shield and Vaseline hope to ignite a deeper sense of belonging and support,” he said.
Marshall further said by associating with Bafana Bafana, they are not only connecting with millions of passionate football fans, but also fostering a sense of national pride and unity. He added that they see this as an opportunity to support the growth of South African football, elevate the fan experience and engage with our consumers in a meaningful way, all while reinforcing the message that with Shield and Vaseline, everyone can move with confidence and embrace the power of movement.
South African Football Association (SAFA) CEO Lydia Monyepao shared her enthusiasm following the announcement of the initiative.
“This partnership is a meaningful step forward in reinforcing the professionalism and preparedness of our national team, both on and off the pitch. It aligns with SAFA’s broader vision to inspire the next generation through excellence, discipline, and unity.
“We welcome brands like Shield and Vaseline who understand the deep cultural significance of football in South Africa and are committed to its growth,” said Monyepao.
The launch event took place at the Safehub in Jabulani, Soweto – a place known for its award-winning sport-for-development model that uses football to engage youth and connect them to education, health, and career opportunities. The day offered an immersive experience that captured the intensity of pre-match preparation and celebrated the emotional bond between South Africans and the beautiful game.
Through #TheUltimateDefence, Shield and Vaseline invite South Africans to become part of a united front, offering not just vocal support, but emotional and cultural protection to the team. It is about what happens before the whistle blows: the preparation, the sweat, the recovery, and the drive to keep moving and putting their skin in the game.
Shield provides the confidence to move without limits, while Vaseline offers protection through healing and care.
Together, these brands represent the drive to keep going and the resilience to bounce back, which are both qualities at the heart of both football and everyday life of South Africans.
To further rally national support, fans stand a chance to win an opportunity to support Bafana Bafana live during the AFCON in Morocco in December, with the competition already open. Details are available through Unilever South Africa channels.
23 Lwetse 2025- Babelwaelwa ba le bararo ba dingwaga di le 42, 52 ga mmogo le 70, ba solofetswe go rotola matlho fa pele ga kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno mabapi le ditatofatso tsa polao. Go begwa fa babelaelwa ba, ba latofadiwa ka go bolaya monna wa dingwaga di le 36.
Go begwa fa ba ile ba teketa monna o go fitlha a tlhokafala morago ga go mo latofatsa ka bogodu jwa leruo. Go ya ka dipego, banna ba, ba ne ba le babedi, mme o mongwe o ile a amogelwa kwa bookelong jwa sedika jwa Taung ka dikgobalo tse di masisi.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segoomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen are, sepodisi se ile sa bilediwa kwa lefelo la tiragalo kwa Etos Farm kwa motseng wa Choseng, gaufi le Pudimoe fa Lwetse a ne a tlhola matsatsi a le 20 ka ura ya bosupa mo mosong. Van Rooyen are batlhakela ba sepodisi ba fitlhetse moswi a rebegile sefatlhego ka dintho tsa go teketikwa.
“Go tshwerwe banna ba le bararo mabapi le ditatofatso tse, mme bone ba tlile go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno. Babelaelwa ba, ke baagi ba naga ya Afrika Borwa,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.
Kgabagare, go begwa fa moswi ele moaagi wa kwa motseng wa Maganeng, gaufi le Taung, fa mong ka ene yo a amogetsweng kwa bookelong jwa sedika jwa Taung ka dikgobalo tse di masisi, ele moagi wa Choseng.
23 September 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said this week, he will be attending the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Ramaphosa said the event is taking place at a time when the global rules-based system is profoundly fragile.
He further said eighty years since the UN Charter committed countries of the world to work together to advance peace, promote development and uphold the rules of international justice and protect human rights, the UN is under increasing scrutiny. Ramphosa added that according to the UN’s own data, the number of global conflicts is at the highest levels since the end of the Second World War.
“Nearly half of the world’s 1.1 billion population who live in acute poverty are in countries wracked by violent conflict. Global health and pandemic response and preparedness is under serious threat following the withdrawal of global health financing and aid.
“Although last year was the warmest year on record, the global climate response is faltering. Current climate action and country ambition is failing to prevent global warming. As the UN General Assembly convenes this week under the theme: “Accelerating Global Progress Through Intergenerational Collaboration” the stakes have never been higher,” he said.
Ramaphosa said the UN is struggling to meet its mandate as contained in the UN Charter. He said it continues to be hampered by competing national interests that impede collective action.
“There is a lack of political will among member states to address many challenges, including the chronic underfunding of peacekeeping operations.
“But by far the most serious hindrance to the UN fulfilling its mandate is the structure and operation of the UN Security Council. Despite changes in global power relations over more than half a century, the decision making architecture that has enabled the five permanent members to have veto powers has not changed since the end of the Second World War,” said Ramaphosa.
He said these five permanent members effectively make decisions on behalf of more than 85% of the world’s population living in countries of the Global South. Ramaphosa said they continue to use their veto powers to effectively paralyse collective action and prevent timely responses to crises, even in the face of clear violations of international law.
“South Africa has been consistent in its calls for UN Security Council reform and for it to better reflect global realities. The current composition of the UN Security Council and its record of decisions seriously undermine the spirit of global cooperation and weaken the UN’s commitment to neutrality and its legitimacy.
“Efforts at reform, such as proposals to expand the permanent membership of the Security Council, improving regional representation, and restricting the use of the veto, have stalled and must be reinvigorated with urgency,” he said.
Ramaphosa said at a time of widespread poverty and underdevelopment, when human rights are under threat worldwide and where geopolitical tensions are creating instability across the globe, advancing multilateralism is more critical than ever. He said if the global, rules-based system is to have practical meaning, the UN must exercise its leadership role of global governance.
“The UN must actively enforce international law and human rights standards for all, and not the select few. The message South Africa takes to this year’s General Assembly is that if the organisation is to remain relevant and if the global, rules-based system is to endure, the UN must demonstrate in both word and deed that multilateralism is alive.
“Despite its many challenges, the UN remains humanity’s best chance at peace, security and sustainable development for all,” said Ramaphosa.
Picture: Amajita get a rousing send off to the World Cup/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
23 September 2025 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) in partnership with Bafana Bafana and Amajita sponsor, HONOR, held a send-off celebration for the SA U20 Men’s National Team in Johannesburg on Monday night.
The gathering was to honour the youth team for recent achievements, including being crowned the 2025 COSAFA U20 winners, lifting the CAF U20 Men’s Africa Cup of Nations trophy and also qualifying for the FIFA U20 Men’s World Cup in Chile, South America, in the process.
The event was attended by, among others, the Amajita squad, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan, SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao, SAFA NEC member Solomon Makhubela, who will also be the Head of Delegation in Chile, as well as the HONOR CEO Fred Zhou.
At the ceremony, McKenzie, on behalf of the State President, handed over the South African flag to team captain Asekho Tiwani.
“I’m telling you today, you’re going to come back with this cup. I believe in you, I believe in every one of you and on behalf of my President, Cyril Ramaphosa, I want to say that he said that there’s no doubt that you’re going to come back with the cup. Captain, lead us to victory,” he said.
Amajita have made four appearances at the FIFA U-20 Men’s World Cup – with their debut in 1997 (Malaysia), followed by qualifications in 2009 (Egypt), 2017 (Korea Republic) and 2019 (Poland). For the 2025 edition in Chile, they will be going there as African Champions after lifting the continental title in Egypt in March.
“This is the first time that we have an U20 team going to a FIFA World Cup as the Champions of Africa and therefore the best football team in Africa – having beaten Nigeria and Morocco in your march to be crowned the African champions.
“I agree with the Minister, you have it because you play France then the United States and New Caledonia in your group – you must get out of the group and once you get out of the group you have all the options in front of you,” said Jordaan.
He further said he wants to wish them all the best and acknowledge their hard work and contribution starting in Mozambique (COSAFA Cup), then to the AFCON and now going to Chile to the World Cup. Jordaan added that it’s a long journey, but they are committed and they are focused.
“On behalf of SAFA, the South Africans and our sponsors, I want to say congratulations, and we are looking forward to seeing this team perform in Chile – all the best,” he said.
For HONOR, linking up with Amajita was a no-brainer, owing to the team’s success and being the future of South African men’s football. The leading provider of smart devices is the proud sponsor of Bafana Bafana.
Zhou said: “It’s our great honour to be here tonight in this send-off celebration for Amajita. Honor is a Chinese company, and from the very beginning when we got to South Africa, we wanted to be the bridge between this country and China.
“Amajita represents the youth, and this was evident when we were at the Mall of Africa with young children wanting photographs with the players – this meant that the team had delivered, by giving hope and uniting everyone.”
Zhou congratulated Amajita on winning the AFCON. He said they are now off to Chile to fight for the World Cup.
“We became partners of Bafana Bafana and Amajita since March, and we haven’t lost a game – I know you are going to win. Just get out of your group and there are possibilities, we know you are going to represent South Africa well to a different world,” said Zhou.
The South Africans have been drawn in Group E where they will take on France, debutants New Caledonia and the United States of America in the group stages.
Amajita Head Coach, Raymond Mdaka said they know the magnitude of the assignment at hand and they are taking nothing for granted.
“We have prepared the best way we can, and we are looking forward to the challenge, which will not be easy, but one thing I can promise is that this team has character and we will fight with everything we have.
“Thanks to SAFA, the Minister, the South Africans for all the support and we will make the country proud,” said Mdaka.
The Guardian 