Monthly Archives: April 2026

North West COGTA continues to propel its expenditure for greater use

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Picture: The North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi 

By OBAKENG MAJE

20 April 2026 – The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) continues to make progress on the expenditure and implementation of the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) with notable achievements recorded in infrastructure delivery across the province. The province has received a total MIG allocation of R2.19 billion, and the total annual allocation has been transferred to municipalities.

The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi said in the March expenditure report for the 2025/26 financial year, municipalities have collectively spent R1.3 billion, translating to 64% expenditure of the total allocation. Molapisi said he remains impressed about the expenditure performance of municipalities.

“The expenditure reflects ongoing investments in critical infrastructure such as water and sanitation, roads, stormwater systems, waste management, and community social facilities, which remain central to improving service delivery and the quality of life for residents across the province

“The progress recorded demonstrates that municipalities are increasingly improving their capacity to deliver critical infrastructure. We remain on course to ensure 100% expenditure of funds allocated after achieving 99% last financial year,” he said.

Molapisi further said several municipalities have demonstrated strong performance in infrastructure spending and project implementation, particularly in districts such as Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, where expenditure reached 82% of allocated funds, signalling improved planning and execution capacity. He added that six municipalities have been allocated additional funds in the financial year to further implement infrastructure projects in their localities.

“They are KgetlengRivier Local Municipality with R15 million, Maquassi Hills with R16 million, Ditsobotla received R37 million, Ratlou received R17 million, Lekwa Teemane received R12 million, Greater Taung received R19 million and the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality received R50 million.

“Some municipalities have lost portions of their allocation to other municipalities due to slow performance. In situations where problems persist, swift action is required to protect public monies,” said Molapisi.

He said the lost portions will have an impact on the ongoing infrastructure projects implemented by the affected municipalities. Molapisi said planned completion dates will now be prolonged into the new financial year.

“These actions are not intended to penalise municipalities, but rather to improve performance. The reallocation is to ensure 100% expenditure of the grant in the province. When funds are reallocated, it is done to maximise impact and ensure that infrastructure delivery continues without delays.

“In preparation for the 2026/27 Municipal Financial Year which commences in July 2026, the department has supported municipalities through the assessment of Draft 2026/27 Implementation Plans, ensuring alignment with grant conditions, infrastructure priorities, and compliance with the Division of Revenue Act (DoRA),” he said. 

Molapisi said this process is aimed at strengthening long-term infrastructure planning, addressing stalled projects, and ensuring sustainable service delivery. He said the department will convene a provincial MIG Workshop before the start of the next Municipal Financial Year to assess the State of Readiness for implementation of the MIG funded infrastructure projects.

“The aim is to ensure that municipalities finalise the appointment by end June 2026 so that construction can commence at the beginning of the financial year in July 2026,” said Molapisi.

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NWU professors secure prestigious national research chairs

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Picture: Prof. Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu and Prof. Rasheed Adeleke were awarded South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) chairs/Supplied 

By ZENOYISE JOHN

20 April 2026 – The North West University (NWU) has marked a significant academic achievement after two of its leading scholars, Prof Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu and Prof Rasheed Adeleke, were awarded prestigious research chairs under the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI). The announcement was made at a high-profile national launch hosted by the National Research Foundation (NRF), placing the two academics among a select group of researchers tasked with advancing innovation and addressing the most pressing development challenges in South Africa.

The research chairs form part of the Decadal Plan Aligned Research Chairs initiative for historically disadvantaged universities, universities of technology and emerging institutions. A total of 41 new chairs were announced as part of the broader strategy of the government to address historical inequalities in the higher-education and research landscape.

The launch brought together senior government officials, university leaders, deputy vice-chancellors and international delegates, underscoring the national importance of the programme. Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Blade Nzimande, highlighted its transformative intent. Prof. Aremu, a research professor at the NWU, is widely recognised for his expertise in indigenous knowledge systems, ethnobotany and plant biotechnology, with a focus on improving the productivity and conservation of medicinal plants and food crops.

Reflecting on the recognition, he said: “This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a reflection of years of collaborative work aimed at improving how we understand and utilise our rich plant diversity and systems. My research focuses on unlocking the potential of medicinal plants and food crops (often underutilised and neglected) through biotechnology, ensuring that we can enhance productivity while also preserving biodiversity and associated indigenous knowledge.”

He added: “With this platform, I will be able to expand research into plant biotechnology and indigenous practices and their role in seed germination and the development of indigenous plants. More importantly, it allows us (in collaboration with indigenous knowledge holders) to translate scientific findings into practical applications that can benefit farmers, traditional medicine practitioners and the broader agricultural sector.” Prof. Adeleke, a full professor of Microbiology at the Potchefstroom Campus of the NWU, specialises in agricultural and environmental microbiology, including plant-microbe interactions and soil health.

Speaking on the achievement, he said: “This is exciting and shows that hard work pays off. It also affirms that the kind of research we are doing is relevant and making a difference.”

He added: “This will give me a bigger platform to do more and be more innovative. It allows us to strengthen collaborations, attract young researchers and build capacity in critical areas of agricultural microbiology.”

On impact, he said: “I target challenges faced by both commercial and small-scale farmers. Many of the issues they face – soil degradation, crop diseases and sustainability – can be addressed through understanding plant-microbe interactions and applying environmentally friendly solutions.”

“My focus is on sustainability and ensuring that people practise agriculture in a responsible manner. We need solutions that not only increase productivity but also protect our environment for future generations.”

NWU principal and vice-chancellor Prof. Bismark Tyobeka described the appointments as a proud institutional milestone, noting their alignment with the strategic focus of the university on agriculture and food security.

The university has invested in a state-of-the-art Living Lab for Sustainable Agriculture in Potchefstroom, with further expansion plans underway.

“Our Pienaarskraal Farm has also recently come into the national spotlight following the NWU Agriculture Farmers’ Day held on the Potchefstroom Campus. The event brought together stakeholders from across the agricultural sector. The work of these research chairs will complement the activities on our Molelwane Farm and Pienaarskraal Farm in both Mahikeng and Potchefstroom, where we have launched a joint collaborative project with the provincial government called the Agri Hub. Its objective is to capacitate farmers in the province with state-of-the-art methods in both animal and crop science, ultimately improving agricultural productivity in the region,” said Prof. Tyobeka.

He added that the NWU values the continued support of the NRF and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation in strengthening the research ecosystem in South Africa.

The SARChI programme remains a key national instrument for building research excellence, supporting postgraduate training and enhancing innovation capacity while addressing historical inequalities in higher education.

Source: ww.nwu.ac.za

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Road users urged to exercise extreme caution due to wet roads  

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Picture: A truck stuck in a mud/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

20 April 2026 – The Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works urges all road users to exercise extreme caution following recent rainfall in the Hantam Region of the Namakwa District. The department said several gravel roads in the area are currently wet, muddy, and highly slippery, posing a serious risk to motorists.

The Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong said these conditions increase the likelihood of accidents, vehicle breakdowns and significant damage to road infrastructure. Makatong said heavy-duty vehicles, particularly truck drivers, are strongly advised not to use wet and muddy gravel roads at this time.

“Doing so may result in vehicles becoming stuck and further deterioration of already vulnerable road surfaces. Motorists travelling on the Swartkop to Onderste Doornrivier (DR281) Road are advised not to turn off at the Hoezar Farm intersection, but continue straight onto the DR2978.

“This route provides a safer connection to the Van Wyksvlei–Brandvlei Road. The department appeals to all road users to cooperate during this period. Your compliance is critical in safeguarding lives, preserving infrastructure, and ensuring safe passage for all,” she said.

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A man sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for murder

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Picture: Close-up of man holding knife smeared with blood and still dripping/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

20 April 2026 – A man (21) was sentenced to 18 year imprisonment by the Port Nolloth Regional Court for murder. On 14 June 2025, there was an argument between the deceased’s brother and the accused, Devon Carlito Jospeh in Sizamile, Port Nolloth.

The Namakwa Police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said the deceased (16), intervened and was subsequently stabbed with a knife by the accused. Magerman said the accused was furthermore declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the outstanding investigative work done by Detective Constable Denver Van Den Heever, based at the Port Nolloth FCSS Unit. Andrews said the meticulous and dedicated efforts of Detective Constable Van Den Heever were instrumental in building a compelling case that secured this significant conviction and brought justice to the family of the victim.

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Monna o atlholetswe dingwaga di le 15 morago ga petelelo

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Ka REGINALD KANYANE

20 Moranang 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 27 o atlholetswe dingwaga di le 15 kwa ntlo lefitshwana morago ga petelelo. Mmeteledi, Thulani Mathuka o ile a tshwarwa morago ga go betelela mosadi wa dingwaga di le 41.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, mokaptein Majang Skalkie are tiragalo e, ke ya di 30 Sedimonthole 2024 ka ura ya 9:55 mo bosigong. Skalkie are go begwa fa mosadi o, a ne a lebile kwa legae la gagwe go tswa kwa ntlung e rekisang nnotagi fa a ne a kgorogelwa ke molatofadiwa.

“Go begwa fa Mathuka a ile a mo gogela kwa mogwafatshe wa gagwe kwa a ileng a mo betelela gone. Mathuka o ile a tshwarwa fa kgwedi ya Sedimonthole e tlhola matsatsi a le 31 ka ngwaga wa 2024.

“Fa kgwedi ya Moranang 2026 e ne e tlhola matsatsi a le 14, Mathuka o ile a tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya sedika ya Koster kwa a ileng a bonwa molato le go atlholelwa dingwaga di le 15 gone,” Skalkie wa tlhalosa.

Kgabagare, mokomishinara sepodisi wa nama-o-tshwere mono Bokone Bophirima, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, o ile a akgola mmatlisisi wa kgetsi, Detective Constable Beauty Mogapi. Naidoo are sepodisi se tlile go tswelela ka go bolotsa ntwa kgatlhanong le tshotlakako ya bong.

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Copper cables worth R100 000 consficated

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Picture: Six rolls of copper cables confiscated by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

20 April 2026 – Damage of and or tampering with essential infrastructure remains a priority for the police in the Northern Cape. Efforts by the police to curb and prevent these related crimes were evident when members of D relief of the Kimberley Flying Squad responded to a report of a white Nissan NP 200 bakkie allegedly transporting stolen cables en route to Kimberley via the R367 road from the direction of Douglas during the early hours of Friday, 17 April 2026.

The Flying Squad members responded and proceeded to the location that the identified vehicle was travelling. The bakkie was spotted , pursued and stopped. As the vehicle came to a standstill, the passenger exited the vehicle and fled into veld, while the driver was apprehended and the vehicle searched.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien said upon searching the bakkie, the police discovered six rolls of copper cables, which the driver could not account for. Gamieldien said the estimated value of the copper cables amounts to R100 000.

“The driver was subsequently arrested. A case of possession of suspected stolen property was registered at Kimberley station for further investigation. Damage to essential infra-structure is economic sabotage and every citizen has a role to play to prevent it.

“The continuous damage and theft of especially copper cables severely constrain economic growth. The police calls on the public to report suspected vandalism or theft of infra-structure immediately to law enforcement by contacting the SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App,” he said.

Gamieldien said all information will be kept private and callers can remain anonymous.

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“We must defend and build democracy across the world”

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By STAFF REPORTER

20 April 2026 – The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said as they prepare for Freedom Day on 27 April 2026, they reflect on their journey to deepen democracy and advance human rights for all. Ramaphosa said 30 years after they adopted their new constitution, South African society remains grounded in a culture of human rights, the rule of law and the expression of people’s will through regular elections. 

He further said what they have built and continue to build in this country is distinct. Ramaphosa added that this places a responsibility on South Africa as an active member of the international community to advance the constitutional values beyond the borders. 

“This is why I was proud to represent democratic South Africa at the 4th meeting of the ‘In Defence of Democracy’ initiative in Barcelona, Spain this past weekend. The initiative was launched by Brazil and Spain in 2024 to confront the threat posed to democratic institutions by extremism, polarisation, disinformation and other forms of intolerance.

“This initiative, which brings together countries from across the world, has become especially critical at this time. In many places, democracy is under threat,” said Ramaphosa.

He said the principles of solidarity, cooperation and friendship are being challenged by the resurgence of narrow nationalism, prejudice and intolerance. Ramaphosa said conflicts and wars rage across the globe.

“Some of these are linked to battles over resources, while others have their origins in colonial-era divisions shaped by violent conquest. 

“At the gathering in Barcelona, I said that we cannot allow ourselves to be bullied into silence when the dignity and human rights of others are being trampled on. We made a call for the United Nations to reassert itself in global affairs,” he said.

Ramaphosa said for democratic values to thrive, all institutions of global governance need to be reformed so that all the countries and peoples of the world are represented. He said it has become clear that bodies like the UN Security Council are powerless to intervene in conflicts and prevent genocide. 

“The gulf of inequality within and among nations is a serious challenge to democracy. The laws, rules and institutions that support democracy must ensure that people’s lives are improved. All people must have an equal opportunity to contribute to decisions that affect them. 

“That is why we called on leaders to support the establishment of an International Panel on Inequality, which will evaluate alternative policies for addressing inequality to inform governments, policy makers and the international community,” said Ramaphosa. 

He said the establishment of the panel was one of the recommendations of the groundbreaking global inequality report produced by a committee of independent experts that South Africa commissioned during its G20 Presidency. Ramaphosa said the ‘In Defence of Democracy’ initiative is aligned with their foreign policy and they are committed to supporting its work. 

“The erosion of democracy in other parts of the world affects South Africa too. Our economy and society feel the effects of conflicts beyond borders, intensified geopolitical tensions and the weaponisation of trade, foreign direct investment and aid. 

“The erosion of democracy has contributed to mistrust of the very values of equality, human rights and freedoms that characterise progressive societies. This mistrust is evident even in our own country,” he said. 

Ramaphosa said they mark Freedom Day next week. He urged South Africans to recommit themselves to defend and strengthen democracy. 

“We must continue to work together to overcome the challenges of poverty, inequality and underdevelopment, which undermine our democratic gains. We must not go the way of societies that have lost faith in democracy and that are increasingly anchored in the rule of the strong and the erosion of human rights. 

“Our experience with building a united nation from a deeply fractured past means that we must cherish our democracy and be part of the struggle to defend democratic values across the globe,” said Ramaphosa.

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Three suspects arrested for possession of copper cables

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Picture: Copper cables confiscated by the police/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

20 April 2026 – The police from Hanover responded swiftly to a complaint from local farmers requesting assistance after several men were reportedly spotted running in different directions on a farm on 17 April 2026. The police said upon arrival at the scene, with the assistance of farm workers, police arrested two suspects aged 31 and 43 at approximately 4:48pm.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the suspects failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for their presence on the farm. Shemane said further were allegedly part fleeing the scene.

“At approximately 6:18pm, the farm owner contacted the police again to report that a third suspect (35) had been apprehended.

“The suspect was found in possession of copper cables, estimated to be worth a millions of rand, which had already been cut and prepared for transportation,” he said.

Shemane further said all three suspects have been arrested for possession of suspected stolen copper cables. He added that they have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges being added.

“Tampering with or the destruction of essential infrastructure remains a priority crime focus for SAPS in the Northern Cape.

“Members of the public are encouraged to report any criminal activities to their nearest police station, contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App,” said Shemane.

He said all information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

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N12 road reopened following tanker incident

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Picture: N12 road reopened following tanker incident

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

20 April 2026 – The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) said is pleased to inform motorists that the N12 Freeway in Bassonia has been officially reopened to traffic in both directions. Following the fatal collision and subsequent gas tanker fire that occurred yesterday, emergency teams have successfully completed the high-risk decanting process and the necessary mop-up operations.

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson, Superintendent Xolani Fihla said the roadway has been declared safe for public use, and all previously active diversions at the R59 Reading Interchange and Comaro Road have been lifted. Fihla said they would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the dedicated teams, who worked tirelessly under hazardous conditions to secure the scene.

“We also thank the public and the residents of the Southern Suburbs for their extreme patience and cooperation while these essential operations were carried out,” he said.

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Accused to appear for conspiracy to commit crime and contravention of Immigration Act

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By REGINALD KANYANE

20 April 2026 – The Hawks said Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi (45), Khonsou Seba Capo Chichi (18) and François van der Merwe will appear in the Pretoria Regional court on 20 April 2026, following their arrest on 13 April 2026, in an intelligence-driven operation in Brooklyn by the members of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s Crimes Against the State (CATS) assisted by the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section and Crime Intelligence’s Counter Terrorism based in the Head Office for allegations relating to facilitation of illegal movement into Zimbabwe through the Limpopo River.

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