Daily Archives: April 1, 2026

Stakeholder submissions will help tighten IMSI BILL 

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Committee, Dr Zweli Mkhize

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 April 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) this week concluded the public submissions process on the Intergovernmental Monitoring, Support and Interventions (IMSI) Bill. The IMSI Bill aims to tighten laws on national and provincial government support and interventions in municipalities.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Dr Zweli Mkhize said it seeks to remedy the challenges often experienced during interventions and provides clear rules for monitoring performance, defines what “executive obligations” are, and sets out the support or corrective steps that must occur before and during an intervention. Mkhize said the Bill also introduces systems to identify early warning indicators so that problems can be addressed before they become crises.

“The constitution already allows national and provincial governments to intervene when a province or municipality fails to deliver municipal services such as water and electricity.

“However, procedures for doing this have often been unclear, leading to disagreements about when, how and why interventions should occur,” he said.

Mkhize further said the committee on Tuesday heard oral submissions from stakeholders, including the South African Local Government Association, Kwenzokuhle Community Organisation, the Commission for Gender Equality, Afriforum, the Public Affairs Research Institute and political parties such as the Economic Freedom Fighters. He added that it noted that the wide range of views received will help strengthen the legislation and improve its effectiveness.

“The committee was not yet at a stage where it could indicate whether it agreed with, supported or rejected any of the submissions. Instead, the purpose of the engagement was to gather views from various stakeholders and use them to refine the Bill.

“This will enable the committee to help close possible gaps, clear up confusion and ensure that the legislation is as clear and robust as possible,” said Mkhize.

He said the committee noted that the various stakeholders had approached the Bill from very different angles. Mkhize said some argued that the Bill is necessary and timely, while others questioned whether it adds anything new to what is already provided for in law.

“The committee found these opposing perspectives valuable because they would help it weigh the full spectrum of views and, as far as possible, address concerns. Among the key issues raised during the submissions was the question of resources.

“Some stakeholders asked whether sufficient resources would be available to support the interventions envisaged in the Bill and whether the legislative framework would be matched by practical capacity on the ground,” he said.

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SANSBOC elects new leadership

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Picture: The new 2026 SANSBOC National structure/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

1 April 2026 – The South African National Small Bus Operators Council (SANSBOC) has successfully concluded its elective conference, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s constitutional governance process. SANSBOC said delegates from across all provinces gathered to the three elective conference at the Birchwood Hotel in Gauteng, where it elected new leadership who reaffirmed its commitment to transformation, empowerment and inclusive mobility within South Africa’s public transport sector.

SANSBOC president, Olivia Maponya said the conference was a resounding success, with attendees engaging in robust discussions and debates to shape the future of the organisation. Maponya said the newly-elected leadership is poised to drive the organisation’s mission forward, focusing on strengthening institutional stability and advancing the economic participation of small bus operators nationwide.

“This is a momentous occasion for SANSBOC. We are committed to working tirelessly to address the challenges facing our sector and to create opportunities for small bus operators to thrive.

“The conference demonstrated SANSBOC’s dedication to empowering its members and promoting inclusive mobility. With a clear vision and strong leadership, the organisation is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the public transport sector,” she said.

Maponya further said the event aimed to promote formalization and empowerment of small bus operators, with a focus on safety, transformation, and economic growth is eager to see the positive changes that will unfold under the new leadership. She added that the SANSBOC event concluded on a high note, with a special awards ceremony recognizing the outstanding contributions of the organization’s founders and veterans.

“These pioneers were honoured for their tireless efforts in shaping the transport sector and driving SANSBOC’s mission forward,” said Maponya.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, delivered a keynote address at SANSBOC Gala Dinner emphasized the importance of prioritizing learner safety and roadworthiness of vehicles, highlighting the significant role small bus operators’ play in providing essential mobility for learners, especially from disadvantaged communities. Hlengwa also stressed the need for a structured voice for small bus operators and expressed the government’s commitment to supporting the sector.

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NWU appoints founding Chief Director for the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine

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Picture: Professor Binu Luke/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 April 2026 – The North West University (NWU) has reached a significant milestone in its academic and institutional development with the appointment of Professor Binu Luke as the inaugural Chief Director of the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, effective 1 April 2026.

The university said this landmark appointment represents a major step forward in its strategic vision to establish a fully-fledged medical school that will contribute meaningfully to addressing South Africa’s healthcare workforce needs and strengthening the national health system.

Welcoming the appointment, NWU Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Bismark Tyobeka said the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine is set to become the country’s 11th medical school, with plans to welcome its first cohort of students in 2028. Tyobeka said on behalf of the North West University, he warmly welcomes Luke as the founding Chief Director of the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

“This is a defining moment for our institution and for the communities we serve. Professor Luke’s leadership, depth of expertise and alignment with our values of transformation, excellence and social responsiveness will be instrumental in shaping a medical school that is both globally competitive and locally relevant.

“Luke is a distinguished South African physician and health systems leader with extensive experience across clinical medicine and provincial and national health governance. He holds multiple advanced qualifications, including MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (General Medicine), Dip HIV Management (SA), FCP (SA), and FRCP (London), reflecting both international and South African specialist recognition,” he said.

Tyobeka further said since 2023, he has served as Project Lead for the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine at NWU, while also holding key leadership roles within the North West Department of Health. He added that these include Technical Advisor to the Deputy Director-General for Hospital and Clinical Support Services, Programme Manager for tertiary services, and Head of Clinical Department and Chief Specialist in Internal Medicine at the Klerksdorp/Tshepong Tertiary Hospital Complex.

“Luke has played a pivotal role in strengthening healthcare systems in the North West, contributing to the development of specialist services such as oncology, interventional cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, nephrology, nuclear medicine, neurosurgery and advanced radiology.

“He has also been instrumental in advancing clinical training platforms and supporting the development of future healthcare professionals. His contributions extend to national policy and regulatory frameworks, including work with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) on internship training reform, accreditation processes and policy development,” said Tyobeka.

He said Luke currently serves on the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Human Resources for Health and played a key leadership role during the COVID-19 pandemic response in the province.

Meanwhile, Luke said: “The values of the Arch will be the guiding light as the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine begins its journey to produce fit-for-purpose doctors for our nation.

“Our curriculum and its delivery are intentionally designed to achieve this objective. The Desmond Tutu School of Medicine will prioritise the development of a responsive and supportive academic and clinical training environment, aimed at producing graduates who are clinically competent, ethically grounded and socially responsive.”

He said its academic programme will integrate foundational medical training with innovation in teaching, research and technology to address the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. Luke said his contributions to medicine, education and health systems have been widely recognised through numerous awards, including Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians (London), the Ken Huddle Role Model Award (2022), the South African Medical Association Extraordinary Service to Medicine Award (2024), and the African Health Excellence Award (2024).

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DARD employee allegedly nabbed for corruption

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By STAFF REPORTER

1 April 2026 – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said it has noted recent social media posts regarding the arrest of one of its employees, Seabelo Lebitse (43) and his subsequent appearance before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 31 March 2026, in connection with allegations of soliciting money from a service provider. The department said it wishes to assure the public, stakeholders, and employees that it remains firmly committed to the principles of integrity, accountability, transparency and good governance.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said a significant milestone has been reached as an internal investigation process was carried out and subsequently escalated to the appropriate authorities for further investigation. Setlhako said in addition, the department has activated its internal disciplinary processes in line with established protocols.

“The department emphasizes its zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption. It calls upon all stakeholders, employees, and members of the public to report any suspicious or unethical conduct through official reporting channels.

“At the same time, the department urges all parties to exercise restraint in circulating unverified information, as investigations remain ongoing. The dissemination of unsubstantiated claims has the potential to compromise the integrity of both the investigative process and judicial proceedings,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel, Tinyiko Mathebula said: “Lebitse is facing three counts of corruption. He was arrested on 31 March 2026, by the Klerksdorp-based Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation following allegations of having solicited gratification from a service provider.

“In October 2020, the accused allegedly approached a service provider, who had submitted documents to bid for a tender at the North West Department of Agriculture. Lebitse reportedly told the service provider that he would assist in facilitating the awarding of a tender on condition that he takes care of him.”

He said investigation revealed that the service provider paid Lebitse R10 000 for the purchase of his vehicle’s tyres. Mathebula said it was further established that the accused was paid R2000 and a further R1000 by the service provider on different occasions.

“The service provider subsequently entered into a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the department for the construction of a tunnel and installation of fishponds.

“Following an investigation, the accused was apprehended and charged with three counts of corruption. He appeared in court and was granted R5000 bail. His matter was postponed to 7 May 2026, for first appearance at the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Klerksdorp,” he said.

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Lesedi FM announces its new line-up

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Picture: Lesedi FM logo

By BAKANG MOKOTO

1 April 2026 – Lesedi FM, which is the heartbeat of Sesotho-speaking audiences, announced its 2026/2027 programming line-up with minimal changes, effective from 1 April 2026. Lesedi FM said embracing stability with strategic enhancements, this line-up builds on proven successes, prioritizing innovation in key segments to foster deeper connections and commercial growth.

SABC’s Head of Communications, Mmoni Ngubane said the station is one of the top 5 most streamed stations within the SABC portfolio. Ngubane said in a bold move to amplify morning energy, powerhouse duo Seipati “Twasa” Seoke and Nyakallo “Ba2cada” Leine return to anchor the flagship Thakgoha Breakfast Show from 6am to 9am.

“Their chemistry continues to set the day’s vibrant tone, now supercharged with beefed-up segments on environment, health, technology, comedy, and exclusive Sesotho features.

“Lesedi FM is turning mornings into must-listen moments that drive loyalty, boost ad revenue, and create real impact. Tholoana Moletsane will now present the mid-morning show alone, bringing unwavering commitment, energy and optimism to the airwaves,” she said.

Ngubane further said a media industry favourite especially in radio, Thuso Motaung, has consistently driven audience growth and revenue for Lesedi FM over the years. She added that his unique creativity keeps him relevant regardless of age, with advertisers showing strong interest and confidence in his performance.

Meanwhile, Lesedi FM Business Manager, Mamontha Motaung said: “The Sunday show he presents, Makgulong A Matala from 9am to 12pm, maintains a massive and loyal following. The station is actively evolving beyond its traditional role as a radio broadcaster and repositioning itself as a dynamic, multi-platform, experiential lifestyle brand with significant monetisation potential.

“This shift signals not only resilience, but also a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the changing media landscape and audience expectations.”

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PSA Committee concerned about cost and capacity in rolling out lifestyle audits

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 April 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration today noted the practical challenges, including high costs and the administrative burden involved, in implementing lifestyle audits across the public sector. The committee received briefings from several provincial governments, including KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Northern Cape, Western Cape and North West on their efforts to implement lifestyle audits.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Jan de Villiers said the meeting forms part of the committee’s ongoing oversight to hold departments accountable for implementing the lifestyle audit framework in the public service. De Villiers said they noted that while progress has been made, lifestyle audits remain at an early stage of institutionalisation.

“We are still working towards making lifestyle audits a standard and embedded practice within the public service. There is not yet a uniform approach applied across provinces.

“However, I commend the progress that provinces have made in developing and using lifestyle audits. There is a need to strengthen gaps identified in the Department of Public Service and Administration’s (DPSA) framework,” he said.

De Villiers further said the committee noted from the presentations that lifestyle audits appear more effective when conducted by independent bodies rather than by departments. He added that it seems more appropriate that independent bodies lead and implement these audits, whether the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) or external audit services.

“It is difficult for ethics officers or internal departmental officials to act as the “police” of their own institutions. The committee noted that the SIU is not properly empowered, where there is only a secondment, and that a presidential proclamation remains the most effective way to ensure that the SIU is fully empowered.

“Regarding internal capacity and other administrative challenges, the committee noted difficulties officials faced in accessing the required financial records. Lifestyle audits often present a significant volume of work,” said de Villiers.

He said it is important to explore how this can be more effectively automated. De Villiers said they must look at how technology can be used to streamline the auditing process.

“The technical processes between the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Auditor-General (AG), National Treasury and even the banks are still being developed. There must be ways to make compliance easier for auditees, as obtaining the required documentation, such as bank statements, can be complex and costly.

“On the issue of costs, the committee noted that lifestyle audits are costly to implement and should be budgeted for accordingly. There may be a need for legislative and budgeting reform through the National Treasury regarding how provinces are expected to fund these audits,” he said.

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Brave and selfless nurse assist an injured customer

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Picture: A dedicated nurse, Boitumelo Motimeng assisting injured customer/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE  

1 April 2026 – A brave and dedicated nurse from Taung District Hospital, Boitumelo Motimeng has demonstrated selfless service by acting immediately to save an injured customer. This comes after a customer was allegedly attacked by alleged nyaope boys outside Shoprite Supermarket in Taung on Monday.

Motimeng, who was a customer at the time, saw what was happening and without hesitation, he assisted the bleeding customer. He said the incident took place at around 6pm.

“I went to Shoprite Supermarket to buy a few groceries. While I was busy shopping, I heard some noise outside the shop. So, I went outside to observe what was happening.

“I saw a man bleeding after allegedly being stabbed by a sharp object on his head. I managed to arrest the bleeding with a first aid kit and called an ambulance for further management,” said Motimeng.  

He urged that nurses be equipped for 24 hours because when people see a nurse, they see hope. Motimeng also applauded the Emergency Medical and Rescue Service (EMRS) personnel for their swift response.

“The ambulance arrived right on time and the patient was ferried to Taung District Hospital for further medical assistance. Apparently, the patient was robbed by these nyaope boys who were always hovering at the main entrance of Shoprite Supermarket.

“They took his personal belongings such as a bag with clothes, cell phone and other documents. We advised him to open a criminal case with the police,” he said.

He said those hooligans are well-known and they immediately ran away after assaulting him. Motimeng warned unsuspecting customers to be wary of these lawbreakers as they are violent and dangerous.

“We also call on Shoprite Supermarket to take safety and security of their customers into consideration. We will highly-appreciate that, if they can beef-up security outside the store.

“They should also ensure that these nyaope boys stay away from Shoprite Supermarket’ main door. What surprises me is that you will always see security guards inside the shop and that makes it difficult for them to manage these hooligans,” he said.

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62 doctors appointed in North West

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Picture: A doctor on duty

By REGINALD KANYANE

1 April 2026 – The North West Department of Health said it is pleased to announce significant progress in the appointment of unemployed doctors, who are bursary holders and have completed their community service before December 2025. The department said this milestone marks a critical step in strengthening the province’s healthcare system and ensuring improved access to quality healthcare services for all residents.

The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari said out of a total of 66 bursary holders allocated within the District Health Services (DHS) branch, 62 doctors have already been successfully appointed, representing an impressive 94% completion rate. Lehari said in addition, within the Hospital and Clinical Support Services (HCSS) branch, 29 out of 35 allocated posts have been filled, achieving an 83% appointment rate.

“Notably, a total of 61 Medical Officers commenced duty on 1 March 2026 in the DHS branch, while 29 Medical Officers started work within HCSS facilities during the same period.

“These placements significantly bolster capacity across district hospitals and primary healthcare (PHC) facilities, where 25 and 41 doctors have been deployed respectively,” he said.

Lehari further said it should be noted that, while efforts were made to absorb all these unemployed doctors, there are those who were offered appointment letters but rejected the offers as they were already employed elsewhere. He added that, the progress is a direct outcome of focused interventions by the department, including structured engagements with key stakeholders such as the South African Medical Association Trade Union.

“These engagements have been instrumental in resolving bottlenecks, improving coordination, and accelerating the absorption of unemployed doctors into the public health system.

“We welcome this achievement. We are highly encouraged by the progress made in appointing our bursary-funded doctors who have completed their community service,” said Lehari.

He said this is a clear demonstration of commitment to not only invest in the training of healthcare professionals, but to ensure their meaningful absorption into the system. Lehari said they extend their sincere appreciation to all stakeholders, including SAMATU, departmental officials and facility managers, whose collaboration has made this possible.

“These efforts are critical in strengthening service delivery, reducing patient waiting times, and ensuring that our communities receive the quality healthcare they deserve.

“We emphasise that the initiative contributes meaningfully to job creation and the fight against unemployment, particularly among young medical professionals,” he said.

Lehari said it also advances the implementation of the province’s Human Resources for Health Strategy, which seeks to ensure the optimal distribution and utilisation of healthcare workers. He said the department remains committed to finalising the remaining appointments and ensuring that all qualifying doctors are integrated into the health system without delay.

“Ongoing interviews for additional bursary holders who completed community service between December 2025 and March 2026, will further enhance staffing levels across the province.

“This achievement underscores the North West Department of Health’s unwavering commitment to building a resilient, responsive, and people-centred healthcare system,” said Lehari.

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A body of a woman found in a deep freezer

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Picture: A body of a woman found in a deep freezer/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 April 2026 – The police in Upington have registered an inquest docket for investigation following the discovery of the body of a woman (46) in a freezer at her residence in Upington on 31 March 2026, at approximately 4:16pm. The preliminary information indicates that the deceased was reported missing by her husband on 31 March 2026, at approximately 10am.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said after a search was launched, her body was discovered inside a deep freezer located in a storeroom at their residence on the same day. Litabe sais all information and reports will form part of the ongoing investigation that is currently underway.

“An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death. Anyone with information can contact the Upington Detective unit at 0543373435 or the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Moffat Silingile on 082 495 4615, or alternatively via the MYSAPS APP or the SAPS Emergency number 08600 10111.

“Information will be treated confidentially,” he said.

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Bafana rue missed chances in defeat to Panama

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Picture: Bafanq Bafana players against Panama/Supplied

1 April 2026 – Bafana Bafana were left to rue missed opportunities after suffering a 1-2 defeat to Panama in an international friendly match played at a sold-out DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Tuesday night.

Just as they did in the first match between the two nations in Durban on Friday, the South African senior men’s national team created a litany of opportunities but could not find the final touch that would have won the game for the hosts. The two nations drew 1-1 in the first match at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Jose Cordoba opened the scoring for the Central American side in the 59th minute but United States of America (USA)-based Mbekezeli Mbokazi equalised with a thunderous strike that rattled the back of the net in the 64th minute. The scenes of elation and exhilaration would not last for long as Jiovany Ramos scored the winner for the visitors in the 77th minute.

Coach Hugo Broos said the team would work on solving the problem in the weeks that are remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June. The global tournament will be hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.

“This is something we have to work on and it has to do with the confidence of the players. When you get the chances we got today and last Friday, it was a little too much to miss them all. I think in the two games we had 10 chances and we only scored two times. This is not enough. You can work on it, but it is also difficult to work on it (fully) because the players are gone tomorrow and I will only see them back at the end of May,” he said.

Bafana Bafana will return to Johannesburg on Wednesday while Panama will begin the long trek back to Central America on the same day.

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