Author Archives: The Guardian

Female rangers recognised during World Female Ranger Week

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Picture: Female rangers in North West/Generic

By AGISANANG SCUFF

1 July 2026 – The North West MEC for Department Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane joined the global conservation community in marking the conclusion of World Female Ranger Week, celebrated annually from 23 to 30 June. Lenkopane paid tribute to the remarkable women who dedicate their lives to protecting the biodiversity, safeguarding the wildlife and preserving the natural heritage for future generations.

She further said this year’s commemoration highlighted the courage, resilience and professionalism of women rangers who continue to break barriers in a profession historically dominated by men. Lenkopane added that throughout the week, the international themes encouraged the sharing of experiences from the field, celebrated women overcoming obstacles, recognised the importance of partnerships and allies and concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing women in conservation.

“As a province endowed with exceptional biodiversity and world-renowned protected areas, the North West acknowledges that women rangers are more than protectors of wildlife. They are custodians of our ecosystems, educators within our communities, ambassadors for conservation and role models for young women aspiring to careers in environmental management.

“The contribution of women rangers extends beyond anti-poaching operations, daily monitoring biodiversity, enforcing environmental laws, visitor management, environmental education, scientific support, habitat restoration and community engagement,” she said.

Lenkopane said during her 2026/27 Budget Vote Speech, she reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening the conservation sector and improving the conditions under which their rangers serve. She said rangers remain the backbone of biodiversity protection and the first line of defence against environmental crimes that threaten the provincial natural heritage.

“The department remains committed to progressively improving ranger support systems, investing in conservation capacity, enhancing skills development, strengthening operational resources and creating an enabling environment in which 1/2 every ranger can perform their duties with dignity, safety and pride.

“This commitment applies equally to the women who continue to serve with distinction under often demanding conditions. To every woman ranger serving in our provincial reserves, protected areas and conservation institutions, I extend my deepest appreciation,” said Lenkopane.

She said their dedication, professionalism and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. Lenkopane said they should continue to strengthen their vision of building the North West into a leading biodiversity economy and conservation province.

“As we conclude World Female Ranger Week, let this not mark the end of our appreciation, but rather the beginning of an even stronger commitment to recognize, support and invest in the women who protect our environment every day.

“Together, we must continue creating opportunities for more women to enter the conservation profession, to lead within our institutions and to shape the future of environmental stewardship in South Africa. To every woman who wears the ranger’s uniform with pride, thank you for your courage, your resilience and your unwavering commitment to protecting the biodiversity that sustains our province and our nation,” she said.

Lenkopane said their service is an inspiration and they will continue to shape a greener, safer and more sustainable future for generations to come.

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Mmabana Foundation takes North West talents to the world stage

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Picture: Taung-born musician, Ntsiki The Guitarist

By BAKANG MOKOTO

1 July 2026- The 52nd National Arts Festival is underway in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, running from 25 June to 5 July 2026. As one of Africa’s premier celebrations of arts and culture, the festival brings together some of the country’s finest creative talent.

This year, Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sport Foundation proudly selected and funded six production teams to represent both the entity and the North West on the national stage. The first three productions are The Suit and the Dress, Ntsiki the Guitarist and Marimba Melodika and have already captivated audiences with outstanding performances, showcasing the diversity and excellence of North West’s creative sector.

Mmabana Foundation spokesperson, Kgalalelo Molotsi said Ntsiki the Guitarist hailing from Magogong village, near Taung, performed to packed audiences, impressing festival-goers with his exceptional musicianship and soulful contemporary sound. Molotsi said another crowd favourite has been Marimba Melodika from a talented youth ensemble from Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom.

“Their energetic performances extended beyond the theatre as they brought the vibrant sounds of African marimba music to the streets and marketplace of Makhanda, delighting audiences with their infectious rhythms and musical brilliance.

“The Suit and the Dress delivered a deeply moving theatrical experience, tackling powerful themes through compelling storytelling and emotional performances. The production resonated strongly with audiences, leaving many visibly touched by its heartfelt narrative,” she said.

Molotsi further said the festival continues with three more exciting productions representing the province. She added that the Unbreakable Spirit, an energetic dance production celebrating resilience, unity and youth, is currently on stage, captivating audiences with its dynamic choreography and powerful performances.

“Festival-goers can also look forward to two upcoming productions, Africanism, Comedy Show, promising laughter and entertainment and Sober, a thought-provoking theatrical storytelling production. Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sport Foundation remains committed to developing, nurturing and promoting artists from the North West by providing opportunities to perform on prestigious national platforms.

“The entity encourages members of the public to follow its social media pages for daily festival updates, behind-the-scenes content and highlights from each production. Tickets for festival productions are available at: https://tickets.nationalartsfestival.co.za/en/events/1341/unbreakable-spirits,” said Molotsi.

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Police continue to be on high alert

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Picture: Police during March and March protests/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 July 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape remain on high alert and continue to monitor developments following peaceful marches held across the province’s five districts in relation to anti-illegal immigration operations. Law enforcement agencies, including the SAPS and other relevant stakeholders, remain operationally prepared and have maintained an increased presence through enhanced visibility and sustained deployments to ensure the safety and security of communities.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien said while the majority of activities proceeded peacefully, the police confirm that several arrests have been made in connection with incidents of looting, attempted looting, illegal immigrants and business robbery and related unlawful activities reported during the course of the operations. Gamieldien said those arrested will be processed in accordance with the law and will face the necessary legal procedures.

“The SAPS Northern Cape reiterates that the right to peaceful protest is protected. However, criminal conduct, including looting, damage to property, and any acts that threaten the safety of communities, will not be tolerated.

“The members of the public are urged to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement officials and report any suspicious or unlawful activities to the SAPS,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola cited that the Justice and Security cluster stakeholders will continue with high-density operations, monitoring of hotspots and coordinated deployments with all relevant law enforcement partners to maintain peace and stability across the province.

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83 illegal immigrants nabbed for contravention of immigration laws  

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By REGINALD KANYANE

1 July 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) together with its law enforcement partners, remains deployed in full force across the North West as authorities continue to monitor and respond to incidents linked to today’s protest action. The police said between 6am and 6pm, on 30 June 2026, a total of 83 undocumented migrants were arrested, while 17 suspects were arrested for looting and public violence-related offences reported in Pudimoe and Letlhabile.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said SAPS members, supported by law enforcement partners, remain on high alert and continue to respond to every incident of violence and criminality to ensure stability, maintain public order and safeguard communities across the province. Myburgh said the situation remains under control with deployments continuing at identified hotspots and other strategic locations.

“The police will continue to act decisively against anyone involved in criminal conduct, violence, intimidation, looting or damage to property,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo said the PROVJOC (Provincial Joint Operational Centre) remains fully activated and operational. Naidoo said that essential services, businesses, ports of entry and economic activities continue to operate normally, while police members remain deployed to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

“We would like to thank the members of the public for their cooperation and urged them to remain calm and continue with their normal daily activities. Communities are encouraged to report any criminal activity or threats to their nearest police station, anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or via the MySAPS App on their smartphones,” she said.

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North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi applauds protesters for ‘good behaviour’

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Picture: Protesters in Itsoseng Township, near Lichtenburg

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 July 2026 – The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi has welcomed the report from the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS), confirming that public order and peace prevailed across the province during marches held on 30 June 2026, in support of the national campaign against irregular migrants. Mokgosi commended the marches organisers and participants for conducting themselves peacefully and responsibly, with looting and public violence related offences reported only in Pudimoe in Taung and Letlhabile.

He further said 17 suspects linked to these unlawful activities were arrested. Mokgosi also thanked the SAPS members supported by the law enforcement partners for their coordinated efforts in maintaining a visible presence throughout the day and for ensuring the safety of communities and businesses across the province.

“Acknowledging the memoranda handed over to authorities by some communities during these marches, including from Itsoseng Township, near Lichtenburg and Zeerust, we committed to ensure that the concerns raised by the communities are given due consideration and responded to.

“According to the PROVJOINTS, out of the approximately 40 locations identified as potential hotspots for the marches across the province, only 13 recorded protest activities. We urge communities to continue conducting themselves in an orderly and lawful manner beyond today,” he added.

Mokgosi said communities are further urged to refrain from any acts of abuse, intimidation or vigilantism directed at irregular migrants and to allow the relevant government authorities to address such cases through the relevant processes.

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Street vendors and small business operators urged to exercise extreme caution

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Picture: Street vendors and small business operators 

By STAFF REPORTER

29 June 2026 – The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade, Sonja Boshoff has called on small business operators and street vendors to exercise extreme caution on 30 June and to avoid exposing themselves to unnecessary danger. Boshoff said the concerns many South Africans have regarding the impact of illegal immigration are genuine and deserve to be heard.

She further said these concerns point to systemic failures that require decisive and lawful action by the government. Boshoff added that, however, no grievance can ever justify vandalism, intimidation, assault or any other form of criminal conduct.

“The constitutional right to protest is fundamental to our democracy, but it must always be exercised peacefully, responsibly and within the confines of the law. The rights of those who protest must be balanced with the rights of others to safety, dignity, freedom of movement and the protection of their property.

“The committee has called on street vendors, particularly foreign nationals operating in affected areas, to avoid confrontation with protesters and to exercise heightened caution until the situation has stabilised,” she said.

Boshoff said the unofficial deadline of 30 June, set by anti-illegal immigration activists, has generated significant public attention, with demonstrations taking place across parts of the country over the past two months. She said while the frustrations expressed by many communities cannot simply be dismissed, any attempt to take the law into one’s own hands must be unequivocally condemned.

“The current situation highlights the urgent need for the government to demonstrate that immigration laws are being enforced consistently, fairly and without fear or favour. Government must communicate a clear and credible plan beyond the 30 June deadline.

“Failure to do so will create risks, uncertainty and allow legitimate public concerns to be exploited by opportunists or political actors seeking to incite instability,” said Boshoff.

She also called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to uphold the constitution by acting professionally, impartially and without political interference. Boshoff said the police have a constitutional duty to protect every person within South Africa, to facilitate lawful and peaceful protest, and to act decisively against violence, intimidation, looting and criminality, regardless of who is responsible.

“Lawful protest must never be obstructed, but equally, the rule of law must prevail, and those who commit criminal acts must be held accountable. We urge all South Africans to act responsibly and peacefully.

“Our democracy is strongest when the constitution is respected, the law is applied equally and grievances are addressed through lawful processes rather than violence. South Africa must remain a country governed by the rule of law, where public order and human dignity are protected without exception,” she concluded.

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Molapisi applauds Ratlou Local Municipality for outstanding audit outcome

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Picture: North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

29 June 2026 – The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi has during the presentation of his departmental budget vote at the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), applauded Ratlou Local Municipality for their outstanding progress in municipal audit outcomes for the 2024/25 municipal financial year. Molapisi said Ratlou Local Municipality has registered a noteworthy improvement by moving from a disclaimer to a qualified audit opinion.

He further said the municipality successfully compiled and submitted its Annual Financial Statements (AFS) without the assistance of consultants, resulting in an estimated saving of R3 million, while simultaneously strengthening internal institutional capacity. Molapisi added that they are indeed very proud of what Ratlou Local Municipality has achieved.

“This is a clear demonstration that municipalities can produce and submit quality Annual Financial Statements without the use of consultants. We need to invest in the important skills and build internal capacity to achieve greatness. This remarkable achievement by Ratlou Local Municipality was also highlighted by the Auditor General Tsakani Maluleke when she was appearing before parliament recently.

“Maluleke praised the municipality for paying attention towards better performance, accountability and better institutional capacity. Several municipalities in the province also registered improved audit outcome demonstrating that municipalities are responding positively to the support provided by the department,” he said.

Molapisi said Moses Kotane, JB Marks, and Greater Taung Local Municipalities improved from qualified to unqualified audit opinions, joining the Bojanala Platinum District, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District and Moretele Local Municipality in the 2025/26 financial year.  He said Lekwa-Teemane moved from a disclaimer to an adverse outcome and Mamusa moved from adverse to qualified opinion.

“There are concerted efforts by the department to elevate three best performing municipalities to receive clean audit. As part of its ongoing support initiatives, the department, together with the Provincial Treasury, are implementing the Clean Audit Support Programme targeting Moretele Local Municipality, Bojanala Platinum District Municipality and Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality.

“The programme is designed to assist municipalities attain unqualified audit opinion without material findings for the 2026/27 financial year. The province also recorded a remarkable reduction in disclaimer audit opinions, from nine municipalities in 2020/21 to only one municipality in 2024/25 financial year,” said Molapisi.

He said the provincial government remains committed to ensuring that municipalities strengthen governance systems, improve financial management and account responsibly for public funds.

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Mokgosi to introduce contractors for various projects

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

29 June 2026 – The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, accompanied by the North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua and North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi, will on 30 June 2026, officially introduce contractors appointed to implement two strategic infrastructure projects aimed at improving access to public services in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Bojanala Platinum District. Mokgosi said the first engagement will mark the official introduction of the contractor appointed to construct the Mabeskraal Community Library, followed by the introduction of the contractor for the upgrading of the Dwarsberg to Pachsdraai Road through Pitsedisulejang.

“The official introduction of the contractors will take place at Batlhako Ba Matutu Administrative Offices (Mabeskraal Village) at 10:30am. In second activity, introduction of Contractor for Dwarsberg to Pachsdraai through Pitsedisulejang road will take place at Barokologadi Ba Ga Maotwe Tribal Offices (Pitsedisulejang Village) at 1pm,” he said.

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North West businessman, Brown Mogotsi denied bail

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Picture: The North West businessman, Brown Mogotsi

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 June 2026- The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has successfully opposed a renewed bail application by the North West businessman, Oupa Brown Mogotsi in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court. Mogotsi faces multiple charges arising from an alleged staged shooting incident in Vosloorus.

The acting National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said his renewed bail application was brought based on alleged new facts after his initial bail application was dismissed on 2 June 2026. Mohlatlole said in opposing the application, the state argued that no genuine new facts had been presented to the court and that the issues raised had already been considered and determined in the previous bail proceedings.

Senior state advocate, Thami Mpekana further submitted evidence in the form of a witness statement alleging that Mogotsi maintained communication with individuals outside the correctional facility through his wife. Mpekana added that it is alleged that she approached a witness and requested a statement relating to an address.

“The state alleges that Mogotsi orchestrated the shooting of his own vehicle before making false statements to the police and under oath concerning the circumstances of the incident. He faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, discharging a firearm, defeating or obstructing the administration of justice, and perjury.

“In dismissing the application, the court found that the information presented did not constitute new facts, but amounted to a rehashing of evidence that had already been considered during the initial bail application. Mogotsi’s case was postponed to 8 July 2026, for the allocation of a trial date. The NPA welcomes the court’s decision, which reaffirms the importance of protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system and ensuring that judicial processes are not undermined or abused,” he said.

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More boots on the ground in North West ahead of June 30

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Picture: More police officials deployed ahead of anticipated June 30/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 June 2026 – After weeks of detailed and integrated planning, the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) under the co-Chairperson leadership of the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, would like to assure the people of North West that comprehensive and coordinated operational plans have been activated to ensure the safety and security of all residents, visitors, businesses and travellers during the planned demonstrations relating to anti-foreigner sentiments and irregular migration.

Naidoo said the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) has intensified operational planning and coordination across the province. He further said a heightened police presence and other security entities have been deployed at identified areas, including major routes, business districts, ports of entry and other critical infrastructure, to maintain public order and respond swiftly to any incidents.

“The PROVJOC (Provincial Joint Operational Centre) is fully activated and operational on a 24-hour basis from 27 June 2026. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is ready and prepared to police any planned demonstrations across the province and there will be no shutdown tolerated.

“Essential services, businesses, ports of entry and economic activities will continue to operate, while police members remain deployed to ensure the safety and security of all community members. We would like to reiterate that SAPS fully respects and will protect the constitutional right of every person to assemble, demonstrate and protest peacefully and within the confines of the law,” added Naidoo.

However, he warned that any acts of violence, intimidation, public disorder, malicious damage to property, looting, road blockades, attacks on businesses, disruption of essential services or interference with critical infrastructure will not be tolerated and will be dealt with decisively. Naidoo said all irregular migrants are reminded to comply with the country’s immigration laws and must possess valid documentation authorising their presence in the Republic.

“The police in cooperation with the Border Management Authority, the Department of Home Affairs and other relevant government departments, will continue to support lawful operations aimed at identifying and addressing violations of South Africa’s immigration legislation. We would also like to remind individuals, organisations and community structures that they do not have the authority to enforce immigration laws or take the law into their own hands.

“Immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of authorised state agencies acting within the framework of the law. Furthermore, temporary transit processing centres were established in each district for irregular migrants, who want to go home,” he said.

Naidoo said in Bojanala Platinum District, they can go to Ben Marais Hall in Rustenburg and Madibeng Sports Ground in Brits, in Ngaka Modiri Molema, they can go to Moshawane Community Centre in Mahikeng. He said those who are in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District can go to Kismet Community Hall in Vryburg, while in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, can go to Philemon Masinga Stadium in Khuma, Potchefstroom Trim Park, Matlosana Recreational Centre in Klerksdorp and Wolmaransstad Town Hall.

“Lastly, xenophobia, vigilantism, hate speech, or any criminal conduct directed at irregular migrants or any member of the community will not be tolerated and anyone found inciting violence, encouraging criminality or using social media or any other platform to mobilise unlawful acts will be investigated, and where sufficient evidence exists, appropriate legal action will be taken.

“We appeal to members of the public to remain calm, continue with their normal daily activities and refrain from circulating unverified information or misinformation that could create unnecessary panic or inflame tensions. Communities are encouraged to report any criminal activity or threats to the nearest police station, anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” said Naidoo.

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