Mokgosi launch R600m road construction project


By OBAKENG MAJE

2 July 2026 – The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, accompanied by North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua, has officially launched the construction of a 33km road at Pitsedisulejang village in Moses Kotane Local Municipality in the Bojanala Platinum District. The construction of a R600 million multi-year road project includes five major bridges as well as upgrading of the road from gravel to tar.

Mokgosi further said the launch follows his State of the Province Address (SOPA) commitment to find lasting solutions to road infrastructure backlogs in rural and economically depressed communities. He added that, the project is equally confined within the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy, which is aimed at reincarnating economic activities across the four districts of the province and create jobs.

“This is a multi-year road infrastructure project that will link several villages of ward 1 and 2 in Moses Kotane Local Municipality. These villages include Debraak, Dwarsberg, Sesobe and Pitsedisulejang among others.

“These are rural communities that rely on farming as an economic activity and this road will ease the transportation of their produce,” said Mokgosi.

He maintained that the road will also resuscitate economic activities within the tourism industry. Mokgosi said these communities are also in close proximity to Madikwe Game Reserve as well as Pilanesberg National Park.

“I have not doubt that the influx of people into these areas due to flexible mobility will have a multiplier effect in the local economy,” he said.

Mokua has echoed Mokgosi’s sentiment, maintaining that the project will also create much needed jobs for locals and business opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs in the construction sector. She said over R130 million has been set aside for the development of Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) through sub-contracting and supply of material.

“We have made it clear that preference should be given to designated groups such as women, youth and people with disabilities. We must make it possible for these groups to participate meaningfully in our procurement spending,” concluded Mokua.

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Orlando Pirates FC player, Relebohile Mofokeng, joins Royale Union Saint-Gilloise


By REGINALD KANYANE

2 July 2026 – Orlando Pirates Football Club confirmed that it has reached an agreement with Royale Union Saint-Gilloise for the transfer of Relebohile Mofokeng. The club said while the two clubs have concluded negotiations over the transfer fee and structure of the deal, Orlando Pirates can confirm that the move remains subject to Mofokeng passing a medical examination and finalising personal terms with the Belgian Pro League side.

“The Club can also reveal that an agreement in principle between Orlando Pirates and Union Saint-Gilloise was in fact reached before the start of the FIFA World Cup. Both parties made the joint decision to hold off on any public announcement until after the tournament, wanting Mofokeng to focus fully on the World Cup with Bafana Bafana without the distraction of transfer talk and to allow the national team’s historic run to take centre stage.

“No further comment will be made at this time until the process between the player and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise has been fully concluded.”

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Saving Lives Institute to Conclude Youth Month with Hope and Future Plans


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 July 2026- The Saving Lives Institute will conclude Youth Month by reaffirming its commitment to empowering young people through skills development, entrepreneurship, and sustainable agriculture. The Institute said the growing challenges of unemployment and substance abuse continue to affect many young people across South Africa.

The Saving Lives Institute spokesperson, Mercy Mabunda, said recent unemployment statistics indicate that the North West remains among the hardest-hit provinces. Mabunda said that, as a result, the Saving Lives Institute believes that practical interventions are needed to restore hope and create economic opportunities for the youth.

“As part of this commitment, the Institute recently sent two young women to China for a one-month agricultural skills development programme.

“The knowledge and experience they have gained will be shared with young people through a “Each One, Teach One” initiative aimed at promoting agriculture as a viable career and business opportunity,” she said.

Mabunda further said agriculture has the potential to create jobs, improve food security and stimulate local economic development. She added that through this initiative, the Saving Lives Institute intends to encourage communities to make productive use of unused land by establishing food gardens and agricultural projects that can generate income and employment.

“Many young people are emotionally affected by unemployment and the lack of opportunities. This programme seeks to inspire them to become active participants in building their own future through entrepreneurship and agriculture.

“The two participants will return to South Africa on 2 July 2026 and will share their experiences and knowledge with the youth of Lebotloane during a community event on 4 July 2026, at Little Village Sassa Hall,” said Mabunda.

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A man nabbed for dealing in drugs


By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 July 2026 – The members of the Namakwa District Task Team, while conducting crime prevention patrols as part of the anti-illegal immigrants operations, acted swiftly on a tip-off received regarding alleged drug dealing at a premises in Swartbooi Street, Vaalwater Bergsig. Upon arrival, the police found a man on the premises.

A search and seizure operation was conducted, leading to the discovery of suspected tik , as well as cash believed to be the proceeds of drug sales.

The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Captain Magerman said a suspect (25), was arrested and is expected to appear in the Springbok Magistrate’s Court for dealing in drugs. Magerman said the police remain resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all inhabitants during this period.

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Action SA to pay a courtesy visit to the ailing former Bafana Bafana coach, Shakes Mashaba


By STAFF REPORTER

2 July 2026 – The Action SA president, Herman Mashaba will pay a courtesy visit to former Bafana Bafana coach and legend, Shakes Mashaba. Mashaba said this visit is intended to offer him and his family support and extend their well wishes as he battles illness.

“The visit forms part of Action SA’s commitment to recognising a patriotic South African who ha s contributed significantly to the country’s globally recognised sporting heritage.

“He has been an inspiration to millions of South Africans through his outstanding service to the development of the country’s robust soccer culture,” he said.

Mashaba further said, like many fanatics of the game, he left a lasting impression on the president during the 1970s. He added during the dark days of Apartheid, Mashaba made his debut at Orlando Pirates and finessed his skill to become a star player of the revered Buccaneers.

“The news of coach Mashaba’s medical condition came to my attention through social media. Now more than ever, Mashaba deserves our care, support and appreciation during this period of his life.

“Action SA extends its gratitude to the Mashaba family for granting with him and wishes him much-needed strength. Also for giving us permission to stand in solidarity with them,” said Mashaba.

Meanwhile, the President’s delegation is comprised of Action SA Gauteng Member of Legislature, Emma More, Action SA Joburg Caucus Leader, Marcel Coutriers , and Joburg MMC Candidates, Sarah Wissler , Zandile Dabula and Nandi Ndaba. The visit will take place at 2 Hantam Avenue , Helderkruin, Roodepoort, Johannesburg on Thursday at 1pm.

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