Picture: The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo
By STAFF REPORTER
3 February 2026- The Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation will from 3 to 7 February 2026 embark on a regional oversight visit to the South African missions in the Southern African Development Community region. The Committee has a footprint in Zambia, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Angola, Malawi and Zimbabwe.
The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo said the committee will visit the South African High Commission in Lusaka. Mahumapelo said the delegation comprises by him, Moleboheng Modise Mpya, a member of the African National Congress, Ryan Smith member of the Democratic Alliance, Khanyisile Litchfield-Tshabalala, a member of Mkhonto Wesizwe Party and Nqobile Matilda Mhlongo, member of the Economic Freedom Fighters.
“As part of its oversight programme, the committee prioritises oversight over the implementation of Economic Diplomacy by focussing on the work of missions abroad relating to their efforts towards addressing the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality facing South Africa.
“The committee will also oversee the implementation of South Africa’s Foreign Policy. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is responsible for its 115 missions abroad. It is also responsible for developing and maintaining bilateral political and economic partnerships in the various regions of the world,” he said.
Mahumapelo further said the committee will also conduct in loco inspections on vacant state-owned properties and land as well as inspect the missions.
Picture: Acting SIU Head, Leonard Gaoretelelwe Lekgetho/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
2 February 2026- From the landscapes of Taung in the North West, a new chapter of leadership begins for the Special Investigating Unit (SIU). This comes after Leonard Gaoretelelwe Lekgetho was appointed as the acting SIU Head by the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa.
SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago said Lekgetho is a leader whose entire career has been a relentless pursuit of justice, integrity and accountability.
Kganyago said his appointment is one of continuity in the fight against corruption.
“It began on the front lines as a Special Investigator with the Directorate of Special Operations, also known as the Scorpions, where he honed his skills in investigating fraud, organised crime and cybercrime offences. Though the era of the Scorpions ended, his venom against corruption did not.
“Lekgetho brought that same unwavering resolve to the SIU, an institution symbolised by the cobra, an emblem of focus, precision, and decisive action. From Scorpion to Cobra, his transition was not a departure, but an evolution in service to the same cause,” he said.
Kganyago further said Lekgetho is not new at the SIU. He added that he is a long-standing leader at the Unit with over 20 years of experience.
“Within the SIU, Lekgetho rose through key leadership roles, from Chief Forensic Investigator to Projects Director, Chief National Investigations Officer, Chief Operations Officer and now the acting Head of the SIU. He has been the heartbeat of many SIU investigations.
“He continues to deepen his oversight of high-profile investigations and expand his strategic command, preparing him to lead the institution he has helped to shape. His extensive academic and professional training underscores his authority,” said Kganyago.
He said Lekgetho holds an LLB, a B.Sc. Honours in Geographic Information Systems and specialised diplomas in Criminal Justice, Cyber Law, Advanced Project Management and others. Kganyago said Lekgetho further strengthening his leadership are training at the FBI Academy in Washington D.C. and the Commonwealth Africa Anti-Corruption Centre,
protecting the public interest and assets through prevention measures and systemic investigations to eradicate fraud, maladministration, and corruption.
“This has equipped him with both a national and global perspective on anti-corruption strategy and institutional governance. As acting Head, Lekgetho pledges to guide the SIU with unwavering principles, operational
excellence, and a steadfast commitment to its mandate.
“He is a leader forged in the discipline of forensic investigation, dedicated to enhancing the Unit’s capacity, fostering collaboration with stakeholders, and ensuring the SIU remains a formidable and trusted force against corruption and maladministration,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lekgetho replaces former Head of the SIU, advocate Andy Mothibi who is now the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Head.
“Firstly, I want to congratulate Adv Mothibi most sincerely on his appointment as the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP). I also want to express my gratitude to him for the 10 years we have worked closely together.
“I am immensely grateful to have served under his leadership, as the SIU has transformed into a powerful entity for accountability, demonstrating impressive capabilities in intricate civil investigations, legal proceedings, and the recovery of public funds,” said Lekgetho.
He said Mothibi’s appointment as the NDPP will strengthen the SIU’s relationship with the NPA.
“We will carry the baton forward and strengthen the SIU as the guardian of the public purse,” said Lekgetho.
2 February 2026- The Northern Cape Department of Sport, Arts and Culture mourns the passing of one of South Africa’s most influential cultural voices, Dr Diana Ferrus. The department said Ferrus’ poetic brilliance and unwavering commitment to justice, identity and reconciliation have left an enduring legacy in South African literature and cultural life.
The Northern Cape MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mangaliso Matika said Ferrus was a gifted author, poet and mentor whose iconic poem for Sarah Baartman restored dignity and sparked national reflection, contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s journey of healing and unity. Matika said her work earned recognition both nationally and internationally.
“She played a vital role in nurturing literary talent in the Northern Cape through her involvement in Writers Festivals held in the Province, where she guided and supported aspiring writers and authors with generosity and passion.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, fellow writers and the broader arts community. We honour her remarkable contribution to arts and culture, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” he said.
Picture: Items stolen from school recovered/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
2 February 2026 – The police in Mooinooi have successfully traced and arrested three suspects in connection with a business burglary that occurred at a local school. This comes after a business burglary was reported at a local Secondary School, where various items valued at more than R100 000 were stolen on 19 December 2025.
The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said after receiving a tip-off regarding a person suspected of selling stolen property, the police followed up on a tip-off and operational tactics were implemented to trace the suspects. Bobelo said on 28 January 2026, the police proceeded to the suspects’ respective residences, where searches were conducted.
“During the searches, suspected stolen property was recovered at all three locations. Items linked to the first suspect were found hidden under his bed. Those belonging to the second suspect were discovered in a washing basket, while at the third suspect, items were found inside a bag.
“Recovered items included several tablets, laptops, chargers, calculators, and computer monitors. The suspects aged between 16 and 17, are facing charges of possession of suspected stolen property and business burglary. The suspects appeared before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 30 January 2026, and remain under the custodian supervision of their parents/guardians,” he said.
Bobelo further said their next court appearance was scheduled for 2 February 2026.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, applauded the team’s continued commitment and expertise shown in their work. Naidoo emphasized that the police will continue to chase criminals and ensure that justice is served.
2 February 2026- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said the country’s reputation as a premier global tourism destination has been buoyed by a major milestone. Ramaphosa said between January and December 2025, approximately 10.5 million tourists visited South Africa, which is the highest number of international arrivals on record.
He further said this surpasses the number of visitors they welcomed before the COVID-19 pandemic and is a vote of confidence in a sector that continues to show great potential for further growth. Ramaphosa added that every visitor to the country contributes to the foreign revenue earnings, supports local businesses, bolsters local economies and helps to create and sustain jobs.
“It is estimated that tourism currently sustains 1.8 million direct and indirect jobs, with one job created for every 13 international arrivals. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, tourism contributes nearly 9% to our country’s GDP.
“South Africa’s expanding global tourism footprint, supported by intensive destination marketing and branding, is an important part of our country’s public diplomacy. The more tourists that arrive from a given country, the greater the likelihood of strengthening diplomatic relations with that country,” he said.
Ramaphosa said an increase in international visitors is also a vote of confidence in South Africa’s brand appeal and in their reputation as a safe, reliable, value for money tourism destination. He said as government, they are determined to strengthen the regulatory and policy environment to further grow the sector.
“We are equally committed to deepening collaboration with the private sector, labour and other stakeholders to further bolster the industry. The Tourism Growth Partnership Plan that was endorsed by Cabinet last year outlines a series of priority initiatives aimed at improving the performance of the sector.
“They include the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorisation system, which was successfully piloted during the G20 Summit last year, and is currently being rolled out in key tourism markets. We will also be strengthening the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme launched last year, which streamlines visa processes for groups whose applications are submitted by vetted tour operators,” said Ramaphosa.
He said a significant number of tourists from key markets like India and China are already using group tour operators for a more structured, tailored travel experience. Ramaphosa said improving connectivity is also being prioritised.
“We have seen an increase in direct flight routes to South Africa from key markets such as Australia and France. Tourists must be able to enjoy our country under conditions of safety. The deployment of additional tourism monitors and the establishment of a crime call centre by the private sector will help to further reduce crime directed at tourists.
“Major tourism infrastructure investments are expected to further boost the sector’s growth. At last year’s inaugural Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit, eight projects worth R1 billion were launched, signalling renewed investor confidence in our tourism sector,” he said.
Ramaphosa said their strategic destination marketing efforts continue, as does the focus on niche markets such as halal and green tourism to attract diverse visitors. He said as government, they are equipping citizens with skills to embrace the burgeoning tourism industry.
“For example, the Department of Tourism offers fully funded Mandarin language training for registered freelance and employed tourism guides to enable them to better support tourists from the growing Chinese market. We also continue to support the transformation of the industry through various support programmes.
“Retaining our reputation as a tourism destination of choice is a society-wide effort, one in which communities has a particularly important role to play. Every South African should be a tourism ambassador and every community a potential tourist attraction,” said Ramaphosa.
He said the country is rich in natural beauty, history and culture, with much of this potential untapped. Ramaphosa said working together as government, communities and tour operators, they can popularise and attract more tourists to regions and locations that do not traditionally feature highly as destinations for tourists.
“Working together as government, industry, communities and civil society we can realise even greater value from this jewel in our nation’s crown,” he said.
Picture: Two men nabbed for dealing in illegal diamonds
By BAKANG MOKOTO
2 February 2026- The police in the Namakwa District said they are vigorously committed to dismantling illegal mining activities currently experienced in the area. The police said during ongoing disruptive actions, their members in Port Nolloth dealt illegal diamond trading a hard knock when they apprehended and arrested two men while operating from a parked vehicle.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said on 30 January 2026 at approximately 11:10am, a tip-off was received, claiming that two men were selling diamonds from their vehicle in town. Magerman said the police acted swiftly and located the identified Nissan Light Delivery Van opposite the beach.
“Upon searching the vehicle, members discovered a substantial amount of unpolished diamonds concealed in the steering wheel cover of the vehicle. The value of the diamonds is yet to be determined. Two men aged 25 and 34 respectively, were arrested and are expected to appear in the Port Nolloth Magistrate’s Court soon on charges related to the illegal possession of unpolished diamonds.
“The arrest demonstrates the commitment of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Namakwa District to combat illegal diamond dealing and related crimes.
2 February 2026- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa will on 3 February 2026, deliver a keynote address at the Innovative Building Technologies (IBTs) Summit. The summit is a two-day event at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.
Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said the gathering brings together government, the building and construction industry, academia, investors, and civil society to advance innovative solutions for the delivery of sustainable human settlements.
Magwenya said held under the theme: “Mainstreaming Innovative Building Technologies for Sustainable Human Settlements”, the IBT Summit aims to accelerate the adoption of Innovative Building Technologies (IBTs) to enhance the delivery of housing across South Africa.
“IBT’s offer viable and cost-effective alternatives that enhance efficiency through lightweight structures, energy-efficient designs, prefabrication, and environmentally sustainable construction methods.
“The Summit comes at a critical time as South Africa continues to confront a significant housing backlog, rapid urbanisation, and the increasing impacts of climate change,” he said.
Magwenya further said the objectives of the IBT Summit include strengthening policy integration for IBTs within human settlements, fostering collaboration and investment between government, the private sector, non-profit organisations and international stakeholders and showcasing disruptive innovation in construction. He added that the Summit will promote IBT’s as solutions for disaster-resistant and climate-resilient housing, supporting community rebuilding efforts and ensuring better preparedness for future crises.
“In addition, it aims to raise awareness among beneficiaries, policymakers, and industry stakeholders about the affordability, speed, and sustainability of Innovative Building Technologies.
“The President’s participation in the IBT Summit affirms government’s commitment to addressing inequality and reversing pre-1994 spatial planning patterns, as articulated in the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA),” said Magwenya.
Meanwhile, the Summit will take place at Nasrec Expo Centre, Johannesburg on Tuesday at 10am.
2 Tlhakole 2026- Monna wa dingwaga di le 44 o solofetswe go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno mabapi le ditatofatso tsa polao. Go begwa fa banna ba, ba tlile ka konteraka kwa motseng wa Modimong, gaufi le Taung.
Go begwa fa go ile ga tsoga nganginyaso magareng ga bone fa ba ne ba itisitse kwa ntlung e rekisang nnotagi ka Lamatlhatso.
Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen, are go begwa fa mmelaelwa a ile a tlhaba motswasetlhabelo wa dingwaga di le 33 ka thipa. Van Rooyen are go begwa fa mmelaelwa a ne a tshwarwa le go latofadiwa ka polao.
“Mmelaelwa o solofetswe go tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo mo letsatsing la gompieno. Dintlha tse di shupang se se tlhodilweng polao, di tla netefadiwa fa dipatlisiso ditswelela,” van Rooyen wa tlhalosa.
2 February 2026- The North West Provincial Legislature will be conducting oversight week in various municipalities under the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District from 3 until 6 February 2026. The Legislature said the program is aimed at strengthening oversight and public participation and to promote accountability and transparency in government.
The North West Provincial Legislature’s Manager: Communications, Library and Registry Services, Vuyisile Ngesi said during the program, Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) will interact with different provincial departments and Members of the Executive Council (MECs), mayors, accounting officers and members of the Municipal Public Accounts Committees (MPAC). Ngesi said different portfolio committees will conduct oversight visits to various projects in the district to check their status quo and challenges therein.
2 February 2026- The North West Department of Education said it wishes to warn and caution the public about an individual who calls Small, Medium and Macro Enterprises (SMME) operators, under the pretext of being a departmental official working within the Supply Chain Management Unit and demands R100 000. The department said it is reported that a number of SMME operators have been calling the department trying to confirm if this is true or not.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi condemns the actions of the individual who is calling the SMME operators. Motsumi said on behalf of the department, she strongly condemns the actions of this individual who is trying to extort R100 000 from the community members.
“I am calling those who have received these calls to report the matter to the police. Let them be found and rot in jail. The department is currently looking at the processes of instituting legal actions against those behind this horrible action,” she said.
The Guardian 