Category Archives: NEWS

ANC in North West prepares for its highly-anticipated ANC provincial elective conference    

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Picture: ANC Top 5 in North West

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 January 2026- The ANC in North West said it will hold its 10th Provincial Elective Conference on 26 until 30 March 2026. This comes after the ANC Provincial Executive Committee’s decision taken during the Provincial General Council outcome held at Madiba Banquet Hall, in Potchefstroom on 29 until 30 November 2025.

The ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo said all branches in the province were represented, resolved unanimously and agreed with the PEC that the 10th ANC Provincial Elective Conference must be held on 26 – 30 March 2026. Diremelo said in the PGC, the approved roadmap outlined that membership cut-off date was on 31 December 2025.

“The resolution of the PGC affects 403 potential branches in the province. In other words, the current ward boundaries (2021 maps) as per the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) apply. The recent publication of the maps by the MDB leading to the Local Government Elections which must be held anytime from November 2026 – February 2027, do not apply for the purposes of convening the 10th ANC Provincial Elective Conference.

“Where members and/or branches have sought to realign ANC branches according to the recent publication of maps by the MDB outside the directive of the ANC PEC, that process must be reversed,” he said.

Diremelo further said Rules 7.2 as read together with Rules 19.9.12.1 and 21 of the ANC Constitution, 2022 are clear where the authority lies in so far as establishment and/or re-establishment of branches is concerned. He added that all branches are directed to begin convening their pre BBGMs/BGMs to attend to membership challenges and any other matter/s pertaining to the convening of successful BBGMs/BGMs.

“Branches must also start submitting dates for their BBGMs/BGMS, the deadline for convening these meetings en route to the 10th ANC NW Provincial Conference is 15 February 2026. All branches with membership challenges must contact the ANC NW Membership Officer, Cde Yonela Mtwa on 084 275 6541 or at mtwaayonela@gmail.com,” said Diremelo.

The current ANC deputy chairperson and North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi is contesting for the provincial chairperson position, while the current ANC provincial chairperson, Nono Maloyi wants to be elected for the second term amid factional politics at play.

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Agri X Fusion 2026 launched to align research and industry for South Africa’s red meat sector

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Picture: Gerhard Diedericks and Koos Nel (Agri X Group), Corlia Oberholzer (RMIS), Prof Simon Letsoalo (North-West University School of Agricultural Sciences – Mahikeng Campus), Lwandisa Makapula (IDC) and Prof HB Klopper (Agri X Group)/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 January 2026- Agri X officially launched the Agri X Fusion Series of Events in Pretoria, starting with the Red Meat Value Chain, marking the first in a series of initiatives designed to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry and secure the future of South Africa’s agricultural value chains. The Agri X Fusion Red Meat Value Chain event will be held on 4–5 March 2026 at the North West University (Mahikeng Campus), bringing together producers, researchers, feedlots, processors, industry bodies, policymakers and value-chain partners in a first-of-its-kind, outcomes-driven initiative.

Agri X Director, Gerhard Diedericks said with rising input costs, climate pressure and biosecurity risks and shifting export markets, stronger coordination between research, industry and policy has become a business necessity rather than a long-term ideal. Diedericks said Agri X Fusion 2026 will address the most pressing challenges facing the major value chains, ensuring closer alignment between industry needs, research priorities, innovation investment, and skills development.

“The Fusion Series is designed to move beyond discussion and produce tangible outcomes, including research pilots, commercial partnerships, skills initiatives, and innovation projects aligned with real industry needs. The programme in March covers genetics, feeding strategies, biosecurity, market access, climate resilience, and value-chain competitiveness.

“Structured matchmaking sessions will enable direct collaboration between industry stakeholders, researchers, and key role players, ensuring that discussions translate into practical action,” he said.

CEO of Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), Dewald Olivier said they welcomed the initiative saying: “The sustainability and competitiveness of South Africa’s red meat value chain depend on stronger alignment between industry needs and research capacity. Agri X Fusion 2026 provides a bridge to tackle real challenges with evidence-based

solutions.

“RMIS fully supports this platform as a crucial step toward securing the future of our industry. Programme for Action and Impact Day one will feature expert presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions. Day two will also focus on pre-booked, one-on-one meetings, allowing participants to engage directly with industry leaders, researchers, and potential business partners, translating insights into concrete collaboration and strategic partnerships.”

Olivier further said these sessions are structured around predefined industry needs and research capabilities, ensuring that meetings are purposeful and geared toward concrete collaboration and follow-through. He added that, in parallel, Agri X has developed a digital collaboration platform (http://agrix-fusion.com/) to support the Fusion initiative before, during, and after each event.

“The platform will help connect stakeholders, structure engagements, and carry conversations forward into practical projects and partnerships. The web platform will evolve into the full app-enabled platform as the initiative grows. The invitation to platform also creates structured visibility and partnership opportunities for sponsors, funders, and solution providers seeking credible access to industry-led innovation and applied research.

“All industry role-players are invited to attend, sponsor, or partner with Agri X Fusion 2026 to enhance visibility, secure high-value networking opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to shaping South Africa’s red meat sector,” said Olivier.

The Red Meat Value Chain event is the first in a national Fusion Series that will extend to other strategic agricultural value chains over the next two years.

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Opinion: The pain of being labelled Goolam: Convicted without evidence

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(Note: Mr Cornelius Tanana Monama is the spokesperson to the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodin. He wrote the above content in his personal capacity and the utterances shared here do not represent The Guardian Newspaper nor its associates. The content remains of Mr Monama) 

By Cornelius Tanana Monama

29 January 2026- The news of Goolam’s death is opening old wounds. For far too long, I lived under the shadow of a lie. I was wrongly accused with malicious intent of being the person behind the notorious “Goolam” Twitter account – a baseless allegation built on nothing more than suspicion and rumour.

That falsehood inflicted deep and lasting pain, isolating me within government circles and within the very movement I continue to serve with unwavering dedication. People I once regarded as friends, comrades and respected leaders began to treat me as a pariah – a persona non grata. I carried that anguish alone, wrapped in the heavy silence of loneliness. My life and the lives of my family were threatened.

Fear became my constant companion. At first, when the accusations came from those in opposing camps, I tried to brush them off and take them in stride. But when my own comrades and leaders joined the chorus, echoing the same unfounded claims without a shred of evidence, my modest world was shattered.

Doors to opportunities were slammed shut in my face. In meetings, I endured snide remarks meant to unsettle and humiliate me. When I crossed paths with certain leaders, their looks carried unmistakable contempt and hostility. If looks could kill, I know I would have died a million times. I sat in meetings, cutting a lonely figure – defeated, withdrawn, my spirit quietly eroded.

Not one of those who chose to believe the lie paused to seek the truth. In that moment, I learned what it means to stand accused of a crime I did not commit. Not one asked the simplest, most fundamental question: Where is the evidence? Instead, I was convicted in the court of public opinion without trial, publicly skinned alive and left to the wolves by people I thought were my comrades and leaders.

My feelings, my truth, my side of the story simply did not matter. Yet, in my heart of hearts, I knew that one day – perhaps not even in my lifetime – these lies would be subjected to honest scrutiny, and that only history would be capable of absolving me. I have always trusted the moon would be my witness.

I have borne this wound quietly for far too long. The last two years have been the loneliest and most painful years of my life. Today, I hope and pray that those who placed me in this cruel position will one day find it within their hearts to acknowledge their error. This is all that justice and simple humanity demand. Apology is about healing.

It is about restoring what was so unjustly torn apart. And it is about reclaiming the dignity that every human being deserves.

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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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