Author Archives: The Guardian

Women receive tools to produce food in Kabe

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Picture: The handover ceremony of essential tools, led by the North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, was attended by the North West MEC for Social Development, Susanna Basetsana Dantjie, the Chair of Chairs, Tebogo Modise from the Provincial Legislature, as well as the traditional leadership of Kabe represented by Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi

By OBAKENG MAJE

28 January 2026- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) have brought renewed hope and practical support to women in Kabe village, outside Mahikeng through the donation of essential agricultural tools. The department said this initiative is set to strengthen household food security, create livelihoods, and restore dignity within the community.

The North West MEC for DARD, Madoda Sambatha said by equipping women with the means to cultivate their own food, the programme promotes self-reliance and resilience. Sambatha said it also encourages sustainable farming practices that will benefit future generations.

“Beyond food production, these tools open opportunities for income generation and local economic growth.  The programme forms part of the department’s broader work to empower women and build sustainable food systems at the local level.

“This intervention is about more than tools; it is about restoring hope, dignity, and self-reliance. When we support women in agriculture, we are directly supporting families, fighting poverty, and strengthening food security,” he said.

Sambatha further said these women are not just beneficiaries, but producers and partners in the development of the province. He added that hunger and poverty expose communities, especially women and children to numerous social ills.

“By supporting food production initiatives such as this one, we are helping to strengthen the social fabric of our society. We will continue working closely with the North West Department of Social Development to ensure that these women receive the necessary support to make their projects sustainable,” said Sambatha.

He said the tool donation in Kabe marks another practical step by the provincial government to place women at the centre of agricultural development, ensuring they are not only recipients of aid, but active drivers of food production, economic participation, and community resilience. Sambatha said through rural development and food security programmes, this initiative will be expanded to communities across all four districts of the province.

“By equipping women with the tools and skills to cultivate their own livelihoods, we are fostering self-reliance, reducing dependency, and building resilient households,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Keabetswe Methikga, expressed deep gratitude for the support received from the department.

“These tools will truly make a huge difference in our lives. We have always loved working the land, but the lack of resources often discouraged us. After today, everything feels different. Even the birds that used to destroy our crops will no longer be a problem, because we now have nets to protect our gardens.

“Before this, we struggled to farm with very limited equipment. Some days we had to borrow, and on other days we couldn’t plant at all. With these tools, we can finally work the land properly, grow enough food for our families, and even sell produce to support our children,” said Methikga.

The traditional leadership welcomed the initiative and pledged their continued support.

Speaking on behalf of the Royal House, Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi said: “As custodians of the land, we are pleased to see the government working hand in hand with our communities. When our women are empowered to produce food, the entire village benefits.

“We commit ourselves to supporting all beneficiaries, encouraging active participation, and ensuring that these tools are used for their intended purpose.”

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SANSBOC commits to urgent scholar transport interventions

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Picture: Scholar Transport in North West/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 January 2026- Following the South African Human Rights Council’s (SAHRC) report on systematic challenges within Scholar Transport, the South African National Small Bus Operator Council (SANSBOC) in the North West, has committed to work together with the government in finding and implementing urgent solutions towards effective delivery of the service. On 28 January 2026, SANSBOC met with the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, as well as senior management of the department to make a commitment towards improving scholar transport in the province.

The SANSBOC chairperson, Final Kgodumo said as part of their submission to the department, they reflected on the key findings within the SAHRC report and these include amongst others routine use of unroadworthy vehicles, unsafe vehicle and frequent breakdowns, overcrowding leading to increased risks and exhaustion. Kgodumo said this includes systematic failures emanating from lack of contract management and enforcement, violation of the constitutional rights of learners to basic education, as well as the impact of transportation challenges on routine school attendance.

“SANSBOC wants to highlight that it takes these matters and many others as raised in the report seriously. The council undertakes to respond to all aspects that implicate its members and others that seek to improve the industry.

“However, the council would also like to indicate that it has in the past raised similar problems as in the SAHRC report in relation to the defects in the management of scholar transport in the province. The council believes that the report has now brought to light many issues and calls on all stakeholders responsible to roll up sleeves towards radical change in the service,” he said.

Kgodumo further said noting its wider reach of at least 80% of public scholar transport offering countrywide, SANSBOC pledges to make an effort towards delivery of quality service and protecting the basic right of education to learners. He added that as an immediate response to the findings thereof, SANSBOC in North West has escalated the report to its national office.  

Kgodumo said together with the mother body, the council is currently putting measures in place. He said SANSBOC National Research and Business Advisory unit is in the process of compiling a detailed response to the report.

“The unit will also develop a discussion paper where all provinces will make proposals towards improving the scholar transport service. Plans are afoot to train operators on Learner Transport Operations, Policy Compliance and duty of care.

“The council also plans to put in place an industry self-regulation protocol which will require operators to meet certain requirements before they can be certified to operate and the council will be rolling out a training programme for Leaner Transport Drivers, which will include Basic First Aid, Fire Fighting, Evacuation Procedures, Managing Learner in transit, Understanding Human Factors and Hazard perception Testing,” said Kgodumo.

He said SANSBOC welcomes the SAHRC report and believes the directives proposed as well as the reforms tabled in the discussion with the department of COSATMA will go a long way in the improvements within the sector. Kgodumo said the council acknowledges that many as many other stakeholders come on board, more measures will be brought forward, and some changes can only be achieved in the long term.

“On delayed payments, the department has indicated that it is still engaging with Provincial Treasury for more financial aid towards payment of operators. Feedback in this regard is expected from the Provincial Treasury within 7 days.

“SANSBOC has urged the department to intervene urgently as persistent lack of payment is frustrating operators and this might affect scholar transport services and learners. SANSBOC also wishes to commend Morweng for his acknowledgement of the Council as one of the key stakeholders in advancing scholar transport in the province,” he said.

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DA demands Parliament debate film industry crisis as Tau goes silent on R663m in rebates

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Picture: Minister of Trade and Industry, Parks Tau

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI  

28 January 2026- The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for a debate of national importance in Parliament to urgently address the crisis facing South Africa’s film and television industry. The DA said it supports the hundreds of industry professionals marching to Parliament today to protest the non-payment of R663 million in rebates owed to them — a failure that threatens the survival of the industry and the loss of thousands of jobs.

DA spokesperson on Trade, Industry and Competition and Member of Parliament (MP), Toby Chance said they have written to Minister of Trade and Industry, Parks Tau to demand that he revive the Film and Television Incentive Programme and address the sector’s complaints. Chance said for over 20 years, this programme has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s film industry, attracting major global productions and creating high-value, high-employment opportunities.

“Camera operators, grips, sound engineers, producers, directors, actors, make-up artists, travel operators and many more professionals now face indefinite unemployment as production companies abandon South Africa for countries like Malta and Portugal, which offer thriving incentive programmes.

“The DTIC has allowed this programme to wither, with the last adjudication panel meeting taking place in March 2024. In response to a written question, Minister Tau admitted that lack of funds has stalled payments. This is unacceptable: companies spent millions of rands in good faith, relying on approved projects and promised rebates,” he said.

Chance further said that while Tau is willing to allocate billions to programmes with far lower returns, including a proposed Afreximbank loan to fund the Transformation Fund. He added that Tau must restart the Film and Television Incentive Programme immediately and pay all outstanding rebates. Further delays risk the collapse of a once-thriving industry and the erasure of South Africa’s world-renowned scenery and heritage from screens across the globe.

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Parents found guilty of child neglect

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Picture: Parents found guilty of child neglect/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

28 January 2026- The parents of an infant were each sentenced to five years imprisonment after they were found guilty of child neglect by the Kakamas Regional Court on 23 January 2026.

The father (39) man and the mother (32), were arrested in Kakamas on 21 September 2025, after their daughter was found in a poor physical condition and also showing signs of neglect.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the infant was admitted for medical tests at the Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington, after she was removed from her parents care by social workers, prior to their arrest. Litabe said they were both released on warning and the child was placed in the care of her grandmother.

“Both sentences for the couple, were wholly suspended for five years. Sergeant Derick Dippenaar of the Kakamas Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit was assigned to investigate the case,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Zweletlanga Fatman Mgcawu District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, commended Dippenaar for his diligent investigative work ensuring that the parents are held accountable for the neglect of the child.

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Over 1000 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: A red Polo Vivo and firearms seized by police/Supplied 

By AGISANANG SCUFF

28 January 2026 – The police said high density safer festive season Operation Shanela II continues to bear fruits as over 1000 suspects were arrested for various crimes in the North West. The police said in collaboration with other stakeholders, they have worked hard to ensure that members of the community in all five districts are and feel safe.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said weekly actions and activities, which commenced on 19 until 25 January 2026, included Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), stop and searches, roadblocks, tracing of wanted suspects, foot and vehicle patrols and compliance inspections that were conducted across the province.

Tselanyane said the weekly operations saw 1083 suspects arrested for crimes ranging from, among others, dealing in drugs, illegal dealing in liquor, robbery, murder, rape, assault GBH, assault common, burglaries at residential and businesses premises, theft off/out of motor vehicle, malicious damage to property, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and illegal migrants.

“Furthermore, the dedication and commitment of the detectives to bring those who thought they can evade the long arm of the law, resulted in the tracing and arrest of 268 wanted suspects for serious crimes including murder, rape, assault GBH and illegal possession of firearms.

“In a notable incident, police received information about suspects, who are in possession of unlicensed firearms, suspected to be involved in a spree of robberies, reported in Delareyville. The information was operationalised and on 23 January 2026, at around 10pm, the Provincial Tracing Task Team, Lichtenburg K9 as well as Mahikeng Crime Intelligence, pounced on them, when the vehicle they were traveling in had a puncture on the road between Delareyville and Vrisgewaagte,” he said.

Tselanyane further said four accused, Kegomoditswe Samuel Mooketsi (28), Mangaliso Godfrey Tubatsi (31), Falakhe James Khumalo (30) and Letlhogonolo Christopher Mosala (34), were immediately arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearms after a search of their vehicle, a red Volkswagen Polo, led to the discovery of four firearms (all pistols) with serial numbers filed off as well as 22 rounds of ammunition.

He added that they all appeared before the Delareyville Magistrate’s Court on 26 January 2026 and were remanded in custody until 10 February 2026, for a formal bail application.

“Investigation into the matter continues and linking the accused to other cases is imminent,” said Tselanyane.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, applauded the police for their ongoing dedication and professionalism displayed during the Safer Festive Season Shanela 2 operations. Naidoo emphasised that police in the province will continue to pursue criminals relentlessly and ensure that justice is served.

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Police looking for two missing men

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Picture: Two men, Lebohang Emmanuel Makhutla and Pule Ignatius Sibanda who went missing/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

28 January 2026 – The police in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom request the community’s assistance in locating a Lesotho national, Lebohang Emmanuel Makhutla (37) and Pule Ignatius Sibanda (36). The police said Makhutla and Sibanda were last seen on Tuesday morning, 18 November 2025, when they allegedly went to hunt for wild animals near the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), 4 Artillery base, but never returned home.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said a search commenced around the area and extensive investigations were conducted, without any positive results. Morake said at the time of his disappearance, Makhutla was wearing a navy-blue, long, track suit pants and track suit top.

“He is dark in complexion, has a muscular built body, is 1.55m tall and has short, black hair with a moustache and a very short beard. Sibanda was wearing a silky, navy blue, track suit pants and silky, grey, track suit top with black dots.

“Furthermore, he was wearing brown soldier boots and a navy blue bucket hat. He is dark in complexion, has an average built body, 1.65m tall with a bold head and a moustache, with a very short beard,” she said.

Morake further said the police request anyone who may have information regarding the pair’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Constable Karim Sheik on 082 416 1015. She added that, alternatively, they can call their local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111.

“Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” said Morake.

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Operations affected as Tshepong Hospital flooded

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Picture: Tshepong Hospital flooded/Screengrab

By BAKANG MOKOTO

28 January 2026- The operations severely impacted the Tshepong Hospital on Monday due to floods, allegedly causing the suspension of services, evacuations and damage to infrastructure. It is alleged that the floods affected the casualty area, with long-term issues stemming from drainage problems.

One of the eyewitnesses who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said: “Patients, including those in high-risk areas like maternity, had to be moved and some hospitals faced temporary closure or partial shutdowns.

“We have experienced the same back in 2021, but the North West Department of Health seems not to address this matter.  The stormwater systems at the hospital are failing to handle the volume, leading to water entering buildings.”

The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari said the flooding affected parts of the Emergency Department (Casualty), Outpatient Department and the Radiology Department. Lehari said immediately after the incident, the Hospital Disaster Management Plan was activated, resulting in a swift and coordinated response to ensure patient safety and continuity of care.

“Patients in affected areas were promptly assessed and safely relocated to appropriate admission wards and other functional sections of the hospital, including Radiology. Ambulances from other hospitals transferring patients were diverted to Klerksdorp Hospital casualty as a temporary measure.

“Through the collective efforts of hospital staff and emergency services, the Emergency Department was cleared of water and was fully operational again by 3am on 27 January 2026. We commend the rapid response by all involved parties,” he said.

Lehari further said they are encouraged by the decisive and professional manner in which this incident was handled. He added that the immediate activation of disaster management protocols ensured that no patients were harmed and that essential services were restored within hours.

“This reflects our commitment to protecting lives, even under challenging circumstances. Our department reassures the public that the hospital remains fully functional and continues to provide uninterrupted healthcare services to the community,” said Lehari.

Meanwhile, the CEO of the Klerksdorp–Tshepong Hospital Complex, Thulane Madonsela, together with the Hospital Executive management had a debriefing session with affected staff members and also expressed appreciation to all responders. Madonsela said he wishes to thank their dedicated Team KT, the local municipal fire department and Kopanong Mine for their prompt assistance and teamwork.

“Their support was instrumental in stabilising the situation and restoring functionality to critical departments.  While operations have since normalised, the department acknowledges the need for long-term interventions.

“This is a reoccurring disaster and it has been raised with all key stakeholders before with a view to prevent future occurrences. This incident has now highlighted the urgent need to improve storm water drainage infrastructure at Tshepong Hospital,” he said.

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A man sentenced to three life sentences imprisonment for raping stepdaughter

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By KEDIBONE MOALETSI

28 January 2026- A man (39) was sentenced to three life terms of imprisonment by the Mogwase Regional Court for the rape of his stepdaughter. The accused was arrested following a case registered at Mogwase Police Station, where he was charged with four counts of rape.

The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said according to evidence presented before court, the victim, now 24 years old, reported that she was repeatedly raped (between the age of 13 and 22) by her stepfather from 7 October 2014 until 6 December 2023. Bobelo said the sexual abuse occurred over a period of nine years and on numerous occasions, to the extent that the victim could no longer recall the exact number of incidents.

“In February 2024, the victim bravely reported the matter to the police after she could no longer endure the prolonged emotional and physical trauma. The accused was subsequently arrested and formally charged. On Tuesday, the accused was found guilty and sentenced accordingly.

“He was not found of rape on count one, but found guilty on count 2, 3 and 4, where he was sentenced to life imprisonment each. The court further ordered that Counts 3 and 4 run concurrently with Count 2, resulting in an effective sentence of three life terms of imprisonment,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, congratulated the investigating officer, Sergeant Balungile Makaya and the prosecution, whose commitment and diligence played a critical role in securing this conviction. Naidoo emphasized that perpetrators of sexual offences—especially those who abuse positions of trust within families—will be held fully accountable and be removed from society.

“The sentence reflects the seriousness of sexual violence, particularly those committed against children,” he said.

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Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality shows financial stability

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Picture: The executive mayor of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Motseokae Maje 

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 January 2026- The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality has been declared a functional municipality. This comes after it has stabilized its financial situation.

The Municipal Manager of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Ronnie Jonas said in recent years, the municipality was regarded as dysfunctional, operating on an unfunded budget and at times had its equitable share grants withheld by the national treasury.  Jonas said the municipality was also placed under section 139 (1) of the constitution.

“The section dictates that when the municipality cannot or does not fulfill an executive obligation in terms of legislation, the relevant provincial executive may intervene.  The provincial treasury department has now removed the municipality from the financial recovery state.

“This as the municipality is now operating on a funded budget. The municipality is also able to utilize its allocated capital grants. We attribute this to hard work and dedication by municipal officials. We have done very well in terms of the first Municipal Infrastructure Grant,” he said.

Jonas further said for the first six months period, the municipality is currently standing at 78% of the allocated amount. He added that with regard to the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), the municipality has also tremendously improved and is currently standing at 81% of the allocated grant.

“We are also doing well in terms of the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) for the first six months. The municipality is currently standing at 41% of the allocated grant by the national government,” said Jonas.   

Meanwhile, the executive mayor for the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Motseokae Maje said the achievements of the municipality are in line with their objectives set, when they resumed office. Maje said they are proud that through these years, they have registered some progress with regard to the achievement of these objectives.

“Amongst others we have seen our municipality technically being removed from a financial recovery to a municipality, now financially stable. We are further proud that we have also improved our delivery capacity. We have realized over the past two years our ability to utilize our conditional grants to the extent that we have been awarded some additional funding during the course of the financial year.

“Authorities within the municipality have also reported a significant improvement on the audit outcomes of the 2025/2026 financial year,” he said.

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A man sentenced to two life sentences for double murder

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By OBAKENG MAJE

28 January 2026- A man (29) from Dithakong village, near Kuruman has been sentenced to two terms of life imprisonment for the brutal murders of his half-sister (33) and her son (11). The accused was further sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the sentencing was handed down by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kathu on 27 January 2026. Litabe said the tragic incident occurred at Dithakong village on 22 January 2025.

“It is alleged that the accused went to the deceased’s residence to demand money. When his request was refused, he asked for food and waited while the deceased prepared a meal. While waiting, the accused sent the deceased’s son to a nearby shop to buy cigarettes.

“Once the child had left, the accused demanded that the deceased give him a bank card that belonged to his stepmother. When she refused, he became violent, dragged her to the bedroom and fatally stabbed her in the neck. After the attack, he searched the house, found the bank card, locked the house, and fled the scene,” he said.

Litabe further said while on his way home, the accused realised that the child had not yet returned from the shop. He added that the accused went back to the house and waited.

“Upon the child’s return, the accused killed him in a similar manner. He then locked the house and left the scene again. Three days later, the mother of the deceased visited the residence and discovered the bodies inside the house in an advanced state of decomposition. The police were immediately alerted.

“Cases of murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances were registered at Bothitong Police Station and the matter was assigned to Detective Constable Katlego Tom. Through intensive investigations and information received, police identified the accused as the prime suspect,” said Litabe.

He said the accused was arrested four days after the incident and was found in possession of the bank card he took from the deceased, her cell phone and blood-stained clothing. Litabe said the accused remained in custody until sentencing.

“In addition to the two life sentences, the accused was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances and was declared unfit to possess a firearm. He will serve the full term of the sentences imposed,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended Detective Constable Tom for his dedication and professionalism. Baloyi congratulated Tom for the outstanding work and for ensuring that justice is served for the innocent lives that were taken in such a brutal manner.

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