Picture: American RnB singer, Karyn White/Google

By OBAKENG MAJE

American RnB singer, Karyn White, who will showcase her talent at the much-anticipated Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival, is set to visit the Barolong Boora Tshidi Tribal Authority in Mahikeng on Thursday.

The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said the aim of White’s visit is to ‘meet and greet’ and pay homage to the tribal authority leaders as the owners of the land.

White, who touched down in South Africa last week Sunday afternoon, promised the revellers a great performance on Sunday. She is expected to perform at the Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival, which will take place at Mmabatho Stadium in Mahikeng.

A 58-year-old thespian who was popular during the late 1980s and early 1990s is known for several hit singles, including Superwoman, Secret Rendezvous, The Way You Love Me and the US Hot 100 No. 1 single, Romantic.

“It was a long flight to South Africa, but it has been worth it because this place is beautiful. I am looking forward to performing at Mahika Mahikeng.

“I will sing your favourite hits and the other songs you want me to perform. So, it’s gonna go down…hey,” she said.

The Los Angeles-born actress and composer is expected to share the stage with local powerhouses such as Judith Sephuma, Vusi Nova, Jaziel Brothers, Blaq Diamond, Mma Ausi, Freddy Gwala and many more.

The festival is backed by the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR) and will kick off with a comedy show on December 7, followed by Amapiano the following night, with Gospel music on December 9 and the main Jazz and R&B show on Sunday, December 10.

Tickets are available at Computicket and Ticketpro.

Numerous North West artists are part of the four-day extravaganza. The festival was launched at a star-studded event at Johannesburg’s Maboneng.

The department spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said: “The idea of a Gauteng launch is to promote the festival to people beyond the province. We want Mahika Mahikeng to be a key driver of the economy, to model what we say the arts play an important role in the economy.

“The department wanted the benefits from Mahika Mahikeng to be broad not only to for the artists but also for sectors such as catering, accommodation and fuel services.”

Sebolecwe said as things stand, the stage is set for the festival and they are ready to receive revellers from here and afar.

The Amapiano night will feature genre heavyweights such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Tira, Big Zulu and Kwesta.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: One of the suspects accused of killing North West prominent businessman, Ben Gumbi/Twitter

By OBAKENG MAJE

A murder case against Thabani Gwala (30) was postponed by the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court to 9 January 2024 for further investigations and to be combined with the first accused, Sibongiseni Ngubane (33). The duo was arrested and facing a charge of murder after they were linked to the murder of the North West prominent businessman, Ben Gumbi (49). Gwala was scheduled to make a formal bail application, which the state intended to oppose, but opted to abandon it.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said, the accused was arrested in Johannesburg on 16 November 2023, following a collaborative effort of a multidisciplinary team consisting of Hillbrow Tactical Response Team (TRT), Rustenburg Crime Intelligence and Rustenburg Detectives.

“The first accused was denied bail after the state successfully opposed it, and his case was postponed to 9 January 2024 for further investigations. Ngubane also is facing a premeditated murder charge for the death of Gumbi.

“According to the police, Ngubane was arrested by members of a multi-disciplinary team, which was established after the ruthless murder of Gumbi. He was arrested on 12 September 2023 in Germiston, after attending a court case in which he is facing a charge of armed robbery, wherein he is out on R3000 bail,” he said.

Mmothame further said Gumbi also has a pending case of possession of a firearm and ammunition in Alberton, wherein he was granted an R1000 bail. He added that, Gumbi was gunned down by men outside a restaurant in the Rustenburg Central Business District (CBD) on 23 August 2023.

“The suspects then fled the scene with a blue Volkswagen Polo car, which was found abandoned at the corner of Helen Joseph and Lourie Streets, a few minutes after the incident. The car was confirmed to have been stolen, and the number plates that were on the car were false.

“The police investigations are still underway to track down other suspects believed to be on the run,” said Mamothame.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: The Mrs South Africa finalist, Berlina Lekgethwane/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Mrs South Africa finalist, Berlina Lekgethwane said that even though she was not crowned the winner, she is thrilled to be part of the journey. Lekgethwane, who was honoured with the Women Empowerment Award and Mrs Personality Award said, this is unprecedented success in her career and she will use that to empower other women.

She further said she is humbled by the honour received through the Women Empowerment Award as it aligns with her vision and Berlina Lekgethwane Foundation, which is about empowering women and young people to excel in their trades.

She added that the management of the Mrs South Africa beauty pageant voted for the Women Empowerment Award. In contrast, the Mrs Personality Award was voted for by her fellow contestants.

“I am grateful that, I demonstrated commitment to touching many lives, conducting motivational talks, empowering women, empowering and profiling local brands, including doing community work since day one.

“All this has not gone unnoticed as I was bestowed with prestigious awards such as Women Empowerment Award and Mrs Personality Award. The Women Empowerment Award left no question as to who among the other contestants has gone an extra mile in the core value of the Mrs South Africa beauty pageant,” said Lekgethwane.

She thanked all those who supported her in this journey, including her sponsors, various communities, and individuals who voted for her. Lekgethwane said this also goes to the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) departments, businesses that collaborated with her, the management of Mrs South Africa, and fellow queens who have become the sisterhood in this journey.

“I also would like to congratulate the crowned queen, the first and second princesses for their success. There is no time to waste, but to immediately step into putting the vision of my newly founded foundation into practice.

“The Mrs South Africa journey has led me to birth something that will become a legacy of the transformation is possible movement. The work of the Foundation has officially started and when we say transformation is possible, it will be seen with practical programmes that will impact lives,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

A man who was arrested for being in possession of 10 suspected stolen cattle at Ga-Mokake village, near Taung will briefly appear at Taung Magistrate’s Court on 6 December 2023 for bail application. The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said on 30 November 2023 at around 7:50am in Taung, the Rural Safety Police allegedly noticed two men at Ga-Mokake village loading cattle on a trailer towed by a white bakkie.

“The pair allegedly fled the scene when the police approached them. Nevertheless, one of them was arrested, whilst the other evaded the arrest. Right after arresting the suspect, a group of community members, who knew the accused, mobilised and allegedly threatened the police,” she said.

Myburgh further said the police immediately called for backup and the situation calmed down after the arrival of more police officers on the scene. She added that more cases are under investigation for intimidation and defeating the ends of justice.

“The police confiscated the bakkie, trailer, and 10 suspected stolen cattle. The ownership of the cattle is yet to be determined as they do not have clear brand marks on them,” said Myburgh.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated Rural Safety police for their attentiveness, bravery, and diligence in making sure that criminals such as these ones are put behind bars. Kwena warned that, an attack on a police officer, is an attack on the state and that it will not be tolerated.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

A 38-YER-OLD man who was arrested for human trafficking, assault, rape and compelled rape, possession of illegal drugs as well as being an illegal immigrant has been denied bail by the Kimberley District Court.

Adeyefa Adedamola Adetoye was arrested after an intelligence-driven multi-disciplinary operation led by the DPCI, Organised Crime, Intelligence, and other specialized units within the South African Police Service after the law enforcement agencies received a tip-off regarding the accused transgressions.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said during Adetoye’s arrest at one of the chain motels in Kimberley, two victims were found in his room.

Senokoatsane further said the victims aged 17 and 29, informed the police that, they had been trafficked from the City of Johannesburg in Gauteng to Kimberley in the Northern Cape.

“They alleged that, they had been locked in the hotel room and prostituted as sex workers by the accused. The police also found illegal drugs in the room belonging to the accused during their search.

“During his bail application, the court heard that the accused who is from Nigeria, does not have legal papers to be in South Africa as his permit expired in 2018. He also does not have a fixed address where he could be located and that he could be a flight risk,” he said.

Senokoatsane added that, the court also heard how the victims were lured by the accused and trafficked and exploited for sex work from one place to another. He said the case has been postponed to 30 January 2024 and the accused will be remanded in custody.

Meanwhile, Senokoatsane said the investigations led by the Directorate Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) are continuing in this matter. He said the NPA welcomes this decision by the Kimberley District Court to deny the accused bail as the country continues to celebrate 16 Days of Activism.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: Banyana Banyana player, Janine Van Wyk

By OBAKENG MAJE

Banyana Banyana player, Janine Van Wyk brought the curtain down on her illustrious career in spectacular fashion this week when she broke the African record for the most caps and in the process also helped the South African senior women’s national team secure qualification to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The African champions qualified for next year’s WAFCON in Morocco after beating Burkina Faso 2-0 (3-1 on aggregate) at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Monday (4 December 2023) afternoon. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw in Côte d’Ivoire a few days ago and coach Desiree Ellis’ charges completed the task on Monday, courtesy of goals from Linda Mothlalo and Nicole Michael.

Van Wyk was deservedly given a standing ovation by her colleagues after earning her 185^th cap and breaking the record for the most caps (men and women) on the continent that was held by Egypt legend Ahmed Hassan for over a decade.

Van Wyk said: “It wouldn’t have been a joyful one without a win and qualifying for another WAFCON. It was not about me but the whole team. Yes, we celebrate the 185 caps, but we had a very important match coming here and we knew it was not going to be an easy one, especially after drawing away from home.

“Overall, this has been the cherry on the cake after a great career for me and a great moment for reaching this milestone. What better way to do it with the national team at home.”

She further said it has been a long journey with Banyana Banyana. Van Wyk added that, there have been many ups and downs, but these are the moments that one strives for and to achieve every single dream that you have planned out for yourself from a young age, and just reaching this last one is a great fulfillment for me.

“So, thank you for all the support,” she said.

Ellis also wished Van Wyk well after the many achievements and heights she has scaled during her illustrious career.

“I want to say congratulations to Janine after a long career. I think this is well-deserved. She has given her all and always wore her heart on her sleeve.

“This couldn’t have happened to a more deserving player. Good luck and welcome to the space. It is not easy but we wish you all the best and hopefully, your coaching career can be as successful as your playing career.”

Meanwhile, SAFA President, Dr Danny Jordaan hailed Van Wyk, describing the roving defender as one of a kind.

“You will never find another Janine van Wyk again and I want to express the country’s appreciation for all the entertainment she provided during her long stint with Banyana Banyana.

“We relish the great moments she provided and I know Janine is not lost to South African football. We will support her in whatever way she wants to plough back into women’s football. Whether through coaching or any career that will enhance women’s football in the country, she is a living legend,” he said.

Banyana Banyana’s long-time sponsors also applauded Van Wyk after a storied and long career.

Sasol Senior Manager: Group Brand and Sponsorship, Nozipho Mbatha said on behalf of Sasol, they want to congratulate Janine for reaching this milestone. Mbatha said the caps she has received are more than any other footballer in Africa.

“We want to also thank her for her dedication, her contribution, and most importantly her leadership in the development of women’s football.  

“We say may those who come after her build on the footsteps of what she has already built, and we look forward to seeing what else she has to contribute off the field towards the growth of South African women’s football,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: Four accused persons, Donald Seolesang, Tshepo Visagie, Kgomotso Mpumlwana and Tshepaone Melato in treble murder case

By OBAKENG MAJE

The trial in a treble murder case against four accused persons, Donald Seolesang (23), Tshepo Visagie (39), Kgomotso Mpumlwana (46), and Tshepaone Melato (22) has been adjourned by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley until 24 April 2024.

Seolesang, Visagie, Mpumlwana, and Melato are facing various serious charges, which include three counts of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances as well as kidnapping. They are accused of killing the elderly couple, Danie Brand (83), his wife Breggie (73), and their daughter Elzabie (54), who went missing in Hartswater on 26 July 2020.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the bodies of the three victims were found days later around Taung after an intense multi-disciplined police operation that was assembled to locate their whereabouts.

“During their numerous court appearances, Mpumlwana, applied for bail in the Hartswater District Court and the prosecution successfully opposed the bail application. The other accused abandoned their bail applications.

“In this matter which began in 2022, the state has closed its case. The defense started its case with accused number one, Donald Seolesang taking the stand to defend his case and it ended with the accused being cross-examined by the prosecution led by Senior State Advocate Adele Van Heerden and State Advocate Mary-Ann Engelbrecht,” he said.

Senokoatsane further said during Seolesang’s cross-examination, the high court heard how he had to travel from one village to another to wash the victim’s car, which was full of blood believed to be that of the three victims. He added that the court also heard how the accused went about selling the victims’ properties such as a laptop to members of the community. 

“The court also heard how the accused were driving from one destination to another, with the victims’ car without any worry of what they had done. 

“The trial will resume on 24 April 2024, in the High Court and the accused continue to be incarcerated at the Kimberly Prison until the conclusion of their trial,” said Senokoatsane.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: A gardener planting/Genric

By OBAKENG MAJE

North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has today launched a week-long training program for gardeners employed under ECDs across the province at the Kgora Training Centre in Ramatlabama. Motsumi said the trainees are deployed in the 40 pocket centres of excellence in the Early Childhood Development directorate and are the first group of ECD gardeners to receive training. She further said, that upon successful completion, they will be awarded certificates recognizing their newly acquired skills.

“This initiative marks the first step in upskilling and empowering this vital group of young workers. The program is offered under the supervision of the Department of Agriculture but is conducted by the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

“It aims to equip the gardeners with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. The training covers various aspects of horticulture, including plant identification, soil management, pest and disease control, and sustainable gardening practices,” she said.

Motsumi added that, this training program is a significant investment in the youth and the future of agriculture in the province. She said by equipping these young people with the necessary skills, they are not only empowering them to earn a living but also contributing to food security and economic development in the province.

“This initiative is just the beginning. Following the success of the gardeners’ program, similar training opportunities will be offered to other ECD participants, including administrators and storytellers.

“The department is committed to the holistic development of the youth. This comprehensive training program will provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to our society,” said Motsumi.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

American RnB singer, Karyn White said she will have revellers eating from the ‘palm of her hand’ on Sunday. White arrived in South Africa last week Sunday afternoon for her much-anticipated performance at the Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival, which will take place at Mmabatho Stadium in Mahikeng.

A 58-year-old thespian who was popular during the late 1980s and early 1990s is known for several hit singles, including Superwoman, Secret Rendezvous, The Way You Love Me and the US Hot 100 No. 1 single, Romantic.

“It was a long flight to South Africa, but it has been worth it because this place is beautiful. I am looking forward to performing at Mahika Mahikeng.

“I will sing your favourite hits and the other songs you want me to perform. So, it’s gonna go down…hey,” she said.

The Los Angeles-born actress and composer is expected to share the stage with local powerhouses such as Judith Sephuma, Vusi Nova, Jaziel Brothers, Blaq Diamond, Mma Ausi, Freddy Gwala and many more.

The festival is backed by the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR) and will kick off with a comedy show on December 7, followed by Amapiano the following night, with Gospel music on December 9 and the main Jazz and R&B show on Sunday, December 10.

Tickets are available at Computicket and Ticketpro.

Numerous North West artists are part of the four-day extravaganza. The festival was launched at a star-studded event at Johannesburg’s Maboneng.

The department spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said: “The idea of a Gauteng launch is to promote the festival to people beyond the province. We want Mahika Mahikeng to be a key driver of the economy, to model what we say the arts play an important role in the economy.

“The department wanted the benefits from Mahika Mahikeng to be broad not only to for the artists but also for sectors such as catering, accommodation and fuel services.”

Sebolecwe said as things stand, the stage is set for the festival and they are ready to receive revellers from here and afar.

The Amapiano night will feature genre heavyweights such as Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, Tira, Big Zulu and Kwesta.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

By OBAKENG MAJE

A 48-year-old man has been sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court for attempted murder. On the morning of 14 August 2023 at Kanana village, near Tlhabane, Sindisa Matomane (48) went to his ex-girlfriend’s house and found her sleeping.

Matomane then took out a sharp object and stabbed her several times on her face and body.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the woman subsequently screamed for help until she lost consciousness. Mamothame further said the accused fled the scene after the incident.

“The complaint was rushed to a hospital to receive medical attention and she was admitted for two months. The accused was arrested on the same day and he was denied bail. He pleaded not guilty to the charge,” he said.

Mamothame added that the court declared Matomane unfit to possess a firearm.

In aggravation of the sentence, the state prosecutor, Zangweni Zimema, urged the court to consider the prevalence of domestic violence, as well as the physical and emotional trauma suffered by the complainant.

Magistrate Segakweng Moeng agreed with the state and remarked on the brutality the accused exerted on the complainant and that he showed no remorse for his action.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the prosecutor, Sergeant Karabo Monyatsi from the South African Police Service (SAPS), and all role players who ensured that the perpetrator was brought to book. She further lauded the neighbours for acting swiftly, saving a life.

taungdailynews@gmail.com