Monthly Archives: March 2026

‘Water crisis inhumane and unacceptable’

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By OBAKENG MAJE

12 March 2026- The Economic Freedom Fighter (EFF) in North West said the ongoing water crisis in Taung that is tormenting the communities is inhumane and unacceptable. EFF said for over a year, the people of Dryharts and other villages have been forced to survive without a reliable supply of running water.

The EFF Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Amogelang Matuane said families, elderly school children and small businesses, have been subjected to depending on water tanks as their only source of water. Matuane said these tanks are irregularly filled, often arrive late and in many instances, do not meet the basic needs of the growing community.

She further said this is not merely an inconvenience, it is a gross violation of the constitutional right to access sufficient quality water and a direct insult to the dignity of our people. Matuane added that water is not a luxury, but a basic human right.

“The continued failure of the Greater Taung Local Municipality and the North West Provincial Government to provide consistent water supply to Dryharts, exposes the deep levels of incompetence, poor planning, and collapse of infrastructure under the ANC-led administration. For almost a year, there has been no sustainable intervention, no clear turnaround strategy, and no accountability for those responsible for this crisis.

“The most disturbing aspect of this matter is that when the residents of Dryharts exercise their democratic right to protest and demand basic service delivery, they are met with police brutality. Instead of water supply being dispatched urgently, what is dispatched is law enforcement armed to suppress frustrated and thirsty residents. Instead of leadership engaging the community with solutions, the state responds with intimidation and force,” she said.

Matuane said this is a cruel response to a community that is simply asking for water to drink, cook, bathe, and live. She said a government that responds to legitimate service delivery protests with violence is a government that has failed its people.

“The people of Dryharts are not criminals. They are victims of municipal collapse. They are not asking for favours, but demanding what is rightfully theirs. The EFF calls for an urgent, transparent report from the Greater Taung Local Municipality and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs detailing the root causes of the prolonged water crisis, the status of water infrastructure in Dryharts, the budget allocated for water services, and the immediate timelines for the restoration of consistent water supply.

“Furthermore, there must be an independent investigation into allegations of police brutality against residents who have been protesting for basic services. The people of Dryharts cannot continue to live like refugees in their own Province. The EFF stands firmly with the community and will fight until there is a permanent, reliable water solution and accountability for both service delivery failures and the repression of residents,” she said.

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Picture: Community members grappling with water challenges/SABC

Four men sentenced to two life terms imprisonment for double murder  

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 March 2026- Four accused were sentenced to two life imprisonments each for two counts of murder by the Taung Regional Court. The accused, Tlotlego Ntlhaeng (26), Vincent Gaanabo (28), Gofaone Thari (24) and Oratile Modisamongwe (22) were sentenced to two life imprisonments each for two counts of murder of Kutlo Mogapi (20) and Tumelo Gaehose (22).

The sentences run concurrently.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said the charges stem from tragic incidents that occurred on 17 March 2024, in the Pudimoe Township, in Taung. Gunya said the investigations revealed that on the day of the incident, the four accused went to a local tavern accompanied by a friend who later turned into a state witness.

“They met Gaehose, attacked him and stabbed him to death. After the brutal attack, they left the tavern together with the witness, while on the way from the tavern, they met Kutlo Mogapi (the deceased) and his friends and attempted to rob them. The state witness tried to reprimand them.

“His attempts to stop them were unsuccessful, violence escalated, and they started to attack them. Mogapi was stabbed and succumbed to the injuries whilst on the way to the hospital. Police were called, all four accused were arrested on the same day, and they were denied bail,” he said.

Gunya further said all four accused pleaded not guilty to charges of murder. Representing the state prosecutor, Rebaona Mokgopa, addressed the court on the seriousness of the offence and urged the court to impose sentences which will serve as a deterrent to other like offenders and send a message.

“The court concurred with the state, noting that their actions were motivated by nothing but criminality. The court described their actions as senseless, gruesome, and heartless. All four accused were declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of the Firearms Control Act,” he added.

Welcoming the sentence, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Mokgopa and praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement.

“The NPA remains steadfast in ensuring accountability. Violent crimes will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face the full might of the law,” said Makhari.

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341 NPOs business plans approved

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Picture: North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie/Supplied  

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 March 2026- With a day left before the North West Provincial Treasury tables the budgets for the departments, the North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie said her department is ready to disburse funds to qualifying non-profit organisations at the beginning of the new fiscal year. Elated Dantjie has applauded her departmental officials for assessing and validating 341 business plans received from various NPOs within the sector in accordance with relevant mandates and prescripts.

She further said on yearly basis the department of Social Development embarks on ‘Request For Proposals’ which is a legalised process to urge NPOs that are operating within the province to submit their business plans in order to access funding for provision of social services such as crime prevention, residential care for older persons, prevention of HIV and Aids, substance abuse, care and support of families, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), service clubs and other social services.

Dantjie added that the aim is to partner with NPOs so as to extend the Departmental service delivery footprint in the province.

“I congratulate you for doing sterling work in processing NPOs business plans. Through your team effort, we will start the new financial year on the right footing whereby contracting with NPOs is almost concluded.

“This is a groundbreaking achievement for the department. You have worked around the clock to process the business plans and make them ready for implementation, by the beginning of the new financial year,” she said.

Dantjie said an amount of R239 million has been budgeted for NPOs which have signed Service Level Agreements with the department for 2026/2027 financial year – a move which will yield economic spin offs by creating job opportunities to 3 649 people across the province. She said her programme managers in her department should monitor compliance of NPOs with specific reference to the central system database.

“Non-compliance to central system database requirements might lead to delayed payments. We appeal to NPOs to return unspent funds to the department at the end of the financial year, not unless they have applied and got approval from the head of department to use such funds within the legal timelines,” said Dantjie.

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Nine persons accused of killing a TUT lecturer granted bail

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Picture: Some of nine accused persons in court/Screengrab 

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 March 2026- Nine persons who are accused of killing Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) lecturer, Madasi Sifundo were granted a R2000 bail each by the Soshanguve Magistrate’s Court. The accused, Koketso Molambo (37), Thapelo Mothemani (33), Solomon Maunatlala (32), Kholofelo Phasha (20), Kabelo Mothiba (43), Koketso Masuku (34), Lerato Matlala (37), Marry Dudu Mogale (43), and Maggie Phasha (56) allegedly killed Sifundo in a mob justice.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that on 25 February 2026, at around midnight, police received a complaint about a mob justice incident in Soshanguve Block L. Mahanjana said the members of the community were alleging that Sifundo had raped two minor children aged 9 and 12.

“Upon arrival at the scene, police allegedly found Sifundo lying naked and face down in the street. Emergency medical services were called and certified him dead at the scene. Following investigations, police arrested the nine accused on 27 February 2026.

“During the bail application, the accused, through their legal representatives, applied to be released on bail. The state prosecutor, Thandi Nduli, opposed the application based on the seriousness of the offence and the fact that the accused are known to state witnesses, which raises concerns that they may intimidate them,” she said.

Mahanjana further said the court, however, found that exceptional circumstances exist which, in the interest of justice, permit the release of the accused on bail. She added that the matter has been postponed to 29 April 2026 for further investigations.

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Police looking for missing woman

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Picture: The missing woman, Mjekie Sarah Tinisa/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 March 2026 – The police in Mahikeng request the community’s assistance in locating a missing woman, Mjekie Sarah Tinisa (70) of Tsetse village, near Mahikeng. The police said Tinisa was last seen by her friend on 7 January 2026.

The North West police spokesperson, Captain Majang Skalkie said a search commenced and extensive investigations were conducted around Tsetse village and surrounding areas without any positive results. Skalkie said at the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a green skirt with a white top and white shoes.

“She is dark in complexion with a slender build body and has white and black plaited long hair. The police request anyone who may have information regarding Tinisa’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Sgt Saeed Lahri, on 060 228 7572 or 018 397 5310.

“Alternatively, call your local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.

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‘Libraries are sanctuary spaces’

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Picture: The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi and North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi handing over a library/Supplied 

By AGISANANG SCUFF

11 March 2026- The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi officially opened a new Community Library in Thekwane. The collaborative efforts of the strategic stakeholders that comprises Rustenburg Chrome mine, Royal Bafokeng institute, Rustenburg Local Municipality and the department, culminated into the establishment of Tshukudu Community Library.

Tlhapi, accompanied by the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, officially handed a new library to the community of Thekwane on Friday, during the Provincial Thuntsha Lerole Programme in Marikana.  She said Tshukudu Community Library epitomises the commitment of the private sector collaboration with Government in developing and uplifting industry-hosting communities through infrastructural community development.

“Tshukudu Community Library offers a welcoming and inclusive environment designed to meet the diverse needs of Thekwane community. The library features a reception area and a dedicated librarian’s office, Internet and Wi-Fi access for patrons and ablution facilities for convenience.

“This includes a shelving area housing more than 2 500 books, a kitchenette for staff use, a children’s and toddlers’ collection area with age-appropriate resources, computer stations for research, study, and digital access and a specialized section equipped with resources and assistive technology for people living with Disabilities,” she said.

Tlhapi further said on behalf of the North West Provincial Government and the people of Thekwane, they convey a sense of gratitude to the Rustenburg Chrome mine and Royal Bafokeng institute for their courtesy and commitment to social investment. She added that they sincerely appreciate their strategic stakeholders in safeguarding the future of Thekwane by honouring their community with this invaluable information graveyard, it is now their property and they should protect it with their own lives, because protecting it, is securing the future of their young people.

“Libraries are sanctuary spaces, a place where silence and tranquillity meet and offer comfort and inspiration. Within the library walls, people can find comfort and peace that allows them to unlock their dreams and awaken their true potential,” said Tlhapi.

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More job creation in provincial public health sector

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Picture: A CHW addressing patients/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 March 2026- The North West Provincial Government has in the last two years increased efforts to create job opportunities. As of early this year, the province has shown significant improvement in its labour market, with the official unemployment rate decreasing by 6.2% points year-on-year.

Delivering the 2026 State of the Province Address (SOPA) during the official Opening of the North West Provincial Legislature in Mahikeng, the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, lauded the provincial department of Health for contributing to the provincial employment statistics through the absorption of over 4500 Community Health Workers on a full time and temporary basis.

Mokgosi said CHWs across the province now have a confirmed employment status, either through permanent absorption into the public service or through fully standardised contractual arrangements with regulated remuneration.

“Of these, 2564 Community Health Workers who hold a matric qualification have been permanently absorbed into Level 2 posts, while 1999 workers without matric have been fully contracted and are receiving standardised pay. The department has further confirmed full back pay compliance for non-matriculant Community Health Workers.

“The Ngaka Modiri Molema and Bojanala Platinum Districts collectively account for 69% of the provincial Community Health Worker workforce, with Ngaka Modiri Molema contributing 42.6%, followed by Bojanala Platinum at 26.5%. Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Districts are at 17.3% and 13.5% respectively,” he said.

Mokgosi further commended the creation of opportunities for young people through their enrolment under the Nelson Mandela–Fidel Castro (NMFC) Medical Programme. He added that as a provincial government, they committed to send 31 unemployed young people from across the North West into the Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro (NMFC) Medical Programme to pursue medical studies in Cuba, and this was achieved.

“An additional thirty young people will undergo this programme in the next financial year. There are plans by the provincial administration to continue to collaborate with SETAs, Organisations in the Skills industry, as well as business to build skills capacity and human development in the province,” said Mokgosi.

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North West Department of Education develops new plans for the future

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Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 March 2026- A two days Strategic Planning Lekgotla for the North West Department of Education took place at Seasons Wedding Centre in Mahikeng, from 9-10 March 2026. The Lekgotla was attended by the executive and senior management of the department to tighten the operational and administrative strategies that drove the education system forward.

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said a focal point of the Lekgotla was to analyse, adjust and give more service delivery meaning to the annual performance plan, annual report and action plan towards schooling 2030, with more emphasis on goals and objectives that will be reached through achievable indicators and targets. Motsumi said more importantly, the main objectives of the Strategic Planning Lekgotla are to review the Branch Lekgotla resolutions, rationalise Branch indicators, align targets to budget, sign off Branch APP and review TIDs, SOPS and AOP.

“The 2026 Lekgotla is intended to address all the challenges and identify key deliverables that are clear, realistic, measureable, attainable, time bound and open for easy monitoring and implementation going forward.

“Most significantly, the departmental priorities should encapsulate our statements that we stated in the 2026/ 2027 Annual Performance Plan of the North West Department of Education. Incorporation of the SONA, SOPA and provincial programme of action is taken into consideration,” she said.

Motsumi further said the Lekgotla is redirecting management of the department to realise and implement the vision statement of the department in line with the set priorities of government and the current service delivery demand throughout the sector. She added that the Lekgotla has been joined by NECT to present on the important expectations and key identified challenges to be addressed by the department.

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Department shifts focus to integrated human settlements

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Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi hand over RDP houses to beneficiaries/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 March 2026- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, accompanied by the North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi, recently handed over six houses to rightful beneficiaries at Bokamoso and Thekwane villages in the Rustenburg Local Municipality.

Handing over the houses last Friday, Mokgosi said the gesture was not only about giving beneficiaries a roof over their heads, but also about restoring their dignity and ensuring that they have security, worth and a sense of purpose. He described this as an important aspect of living a dignified life.

“The handover came at the right time as we celebrate Human Rights, urging us to accelerate the fight against inequality and discrimination in all its forms. Government is prioritising housing developments that are fully integrated with infrastructure and social amenities.

“This approach aims to address historical spatial inequalities by ensuring that new housing developments have access to basic services and social amenities. This vision will only be realised, if all stakeholders adhere to the principles of the District Development Model (DDM),” he said.

Mokgosi further said for many years their focus has been on the number of houses built. He added that while this helped to reduce the housing backlog they are facing, they have realised that in doing so, they sometimes overlooked other basic services such as reliable water supply, sanitation and electricity.

North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi, echoed the Premier’s sentiments, stressing that access to basic services remains a critical part of the government’s housing mandate.

“Our mandate as the department goes beyond simply building houses. It is about creating sustainable human settlements and improving the quality of life for residents by ensuring that they have access to basic services.

“Government now aims to ensure that new housing projects are connected to infrastructure and social amenities in order to create communities where residents can live, work and access services without being isolated,” he said.

Molapisi urged the beneficiaries to take care of their new homes, as they are investments for their future and that of their loved ones. He said this was made possible through strong coordination between local and provincial governments in an effort to create sustainable and integrated human settlements.

Irene Taunyana (79) pensioner, who had been living in a house built from precast walls, was one of the beneficiaries who received her house during the visit to Thekwane village. Taunyana, who was overjoyed, could not hide her excitement when she received her new home and sang at the top of her voice.

“This is a miracle. My life has just changed, and this generous gesture will help restore my health forever. What the government has done for me is a clear signal of how it cares about us, its citizens,” said Taunyana.

Meanwhile, out of a total of 250 housing units in Bokamoso, 161 houses have been built, while in Thekwane 43 houses have been built out of a total of 50 houses. The Department of Human Settlements has reaffirmed its commitment to providing citizens with adequate housing connected to essential services.

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Dantjie set sights on departmental clean audit

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Picture: North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie

By OBAKENG MAJE

11 March 2026 – North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie has challenged her department to achieve a clean audit at the end of the upcoming financial year. Dantjie, addressing management at the departmental strategic lekgotla in Klerksdorp has been impressed by the improvement registered in the current financial year.

“There have been pockets of excellence, but we need to fully crack our mandate on development of our communities. We are duty-bound to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of those who rely on our services.  

“We ought to be having a visible impact on the lives of the people of the province. We need to be intentional about improving the lives of the vulnerable in our communities. Therefore, we must ensure that our annual performance plan (APP) is aligned to government priorities as guided by the National Development Plan as well as the medium-term development plan,” she said.

Dantjie further appealed to senior managers to delve deep into the real reasons for any underperformance.  She added that they must be accountable and take correctional measures.  

“We urge the managers never to delegate accountability. Every post that you occupy calls on you to take full responsibility and account for what you signed up for. It cannot be acceptable for senior managers to hide under delegating, when we need immediate responses.

“The three-day lekgotla that there should be no deviations on targets that it was unnecessary to deviate on. Avoidable deviations and underperformance should find no space in our plans. The outcomes of this session are binding to all employees of the department,” said Dantjie.  

She said when they get back to their workstation, they should make sure that these are part of key performance areas in the work plans of each employee. Dantjie said her department of social development’s strategic planning lekgotla will end on Thursday.

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