Picture: (Banyana player, Amanda Dlamini)

Banyana Banyana midfielder Amanda Dlamini says that while they were disappointed that their team did not progress to the quarterfinals of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, a solid foundation has been laid.

Dlamini is one of ten players that recently returned from the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and was also at the 2012 London Olympic Games. The others are Roxanne Barker, Nothando Vilakazi, Janine van Wyk, Noko Matlou, Leandra Smeda, Amanda Dlamini, Refiloe Jane, Nompumelelo Nyandeni, Robyn Moodaly and Sanah Mollo.

In selecting her squad for the Rio Olympics, Banyana Banyana head coach Vera Pauw mixed experience with a bit of youth in the team. Striker, Linda Motlhalo was the youngest at 18.

“Some of the players are under 20 or just above, and it looks like we have a solid future in the national team. It is just a matter of how we are going to rope the other players in,” Dlamini said.

“It is also about refreshing the consistency until we have a proper squad that will qualify for the World Cup. We also want that team to move reach the quarterfinals at the Olympics and perhaps even to the semifinals.

“I honestly believe that we do have a bright future with this team. It is just a matter making sure the ground we need to perform on is well laid at a very competitive level, apart from the big competitions like the Olympics.”

Some of the young players Dlamini referred to were Kaylin Swart, 21, Stephanie Malherbe, 20, Thembi Kgatlana, 21, Linda Motlhalo, 18, Jermaine Seoposenwe, 22, Lebogang Ramalepe, 24, Refiloe Jane, 24, Roxanne Barker, 25, Andile Dlamini, 24, Shiwe Nogwanya, 22 and Robyn Moodaly, 22.

They can all still features at the next Olympics Games which will take place in Tokyo in 2020.

Dlamini says they are disappointed that they did not get the desired results in the tournament when they did not progress to the next stage. But she believes they have made their mark as a team.

“Yes, obviously we are very disappointed purely because I know the quality that is in this team and the ability we have shown is just amazing. But having said that, we achieved something we had never done before.

“Firstly, we have always wished that we can have proper preparations towards big tournaments, and for the first time ever we played world champions USA and also played back to back matches against the Netherlands, not forgetting New Zealand –  something that has never happened before,” said Dlamini.

“Because of the performance we displayed in the last couple of months, nations are now willing to play Banyana Banyana. Also, with the performance that we showed at the Olympic Games – people won’t ignore us. We hope to have more of these games with the top nations. If other teams have qualified for major tournaments, they will want to play Banyana Banyana, so it’s good exposure. I am pleased in that regard but disappointed that we couldn’t make it to the next round.”

Banyana Banyana’s next major assignment is the 2016 Africa Women Cup of Nations. The 12th Edition will be staged in Cameroon between 19 November and 3 December.
A total of eight teams will play in the tournament – hosts Cameroon (11th appearance), Egypt (2nd), Ghana (11th), Kenya (1st), Mali 6th), Nigeria (12th), South Africa (11th) and Zimbabwe (4th).
NB: Mali replaced Equatorial Guinea after they were disqualified for fielding an ineligible player.

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THE Education and Sport Development department in North West said it was happy that it hosted a successful Maize Cup at Moruleng Stadium, Moruleng on Saturday.

This was the second edition of the tournament.

MEC Sello Lehari said that bringing Premier Soccer League giants like Orlando Pirates to Moruleng help boost soccer development in rural areas.

“We hosted a wonderful match between Soweto Giants Orlando Pirates and Platinum Stars. The Maize Cup was formerly known as Bokone Bophirima Maize Traingle Cup. Last year we featured all three maize producing provinces like Free State and Mpumalanga. However, because of unforeseen challenges, those provinces could not partake in the tournament this year.

“We decided to continue with this project because the idea was born from this province. This is a thematic profile attempts to broadly introduce some of the current themes related to physical education and sport for children and youth. It is also part of fifth administration’s vision. We have five concretes which are economy-drive for the province,” Lehari said.

He added that matches like these boost small to micro medium enterprises (SMMEs).

Lehari further said they invited former professional players to run sport clinics in Moruleng on Friday before the game.

“Despite economic successes achieved across South Africa, people in rural areas continue to live in abject poverty. Hence North West premier Supra Mahumapelo came up with Village, Towns and Small Dorpies (VTSD) initiative. We need to empower our people from far-flung areas too.

“We also want to condemn those political parties who said the event is just a wasteful expenditure. People in the province are mostly affected by a myriad of economic problems. This includes pockets of poverty, inequality, insufficient economic growth,” Lehari said.

Lehari dismissed as misguided views by opposition political parties that alleged that the tournament was a waste of money after it reportedly cost government R7m to stage it.

“SMMEs benefited from this project including taxi industry. Sport is the only metaphor that can be used to fight socio-economic issues like teenage pregnancy, crime, unemployment, inequality, and alcohol and substance abuse. The fundamental cause of these problems is scarcity. There are unlimited wants and needs that must be addressed with scarce resources,” he said.

Bakgatlha Ba Kgafela chief, Kgosi Kagiso Pilane shared the same sentiments. He said that a match like this will benefit the community.

“We are so grateful to host the match of this magnitude consecutively. We would like to see the tournament remaining in our area. It boosts our local economy development and many locals generate income.

“All guest houses were full-booked and all businesses were functional. We should use what we have to address our social and economic problems effectively and efficiently. The primary objective of the VTSD framework policy is to develop an economic strategy towards accelerated and sustainable shared growth for North West province using entrepreneurship as a pathway,” Pilane said.

Orlando Pirates won the Maize Cup after beating Platinum Stars 3-1 in penalties.

Source: http://www.thenewage.co.za

NORTH West premier Supra Mahumapelo said he followed all required legislative processes in destabilising the Provincial Council on Aids (PCA). This comes up after Democratic Alliance provincial leader, Joe McGluwa said they will seek explanation from Mahumapelo on dissolving the PCA.

McGluwa said since 2001, the North West Provincial Council on AIDS has been making great strides in coordinating HIV/AIDS programmes.

“The body mobilised all available resources in the province to combat this outbreak. With over 441 816 people living with HIV, the establishment of the Aids council was vital to fight the epidemic.

“Statistics reveal that the province has experienced an increase in new HIV/AIDS infections and deaths. Up to 5 000 people die annually from HIV-related diseases,” McGluwa said.

He added that PCA was such an important body directly mandated to combat the spread of HIV and AIDS.

However, Mahumapelo refuted that and defended his decision. According to Mahumapelo, he resolved the body because there was a need for an all encompassing structure that will pay dedicated attention to all diseases and not HIV/AIDS only.

“The Reconciliation, Healing and Renewal forum has in this regard been established to perform this function. This will include carrying on with the work previously done by the PCA. However, this will have added responsibilities to also pay attention to other ailments in the province.

“Furthermore, we have chief directorate located in the health department which also pays attention to HIV/AIDS issue. Health department extract shows that the province is on course with regard to its efforts to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic,” he said.

Mahumapelo further said all health facilities provided antiretroviral and TB treatment. He also added that the number of patients initiated and remain on ART has increased from 147 782 in 2012/13 to 190 861 in 2015/16.

“This is attributed to 2014/15 policy change. That allows treatment initiation at less than 500 CD4 count. This benefits pregnant women and children below the age of 5 irrespective of CD4 count including co-infected patients.

“TB treatment success rate has also improved from 76.6% in 2012 to 82.1% in 2015. The health department is currently decentralising MDR treatment to Primary Health Care. This will assist in order to de-institutionalise stable patients and bring follow-up treatment closer to communities,” Mahumapelo said.

Source: http://www.thenewage.co.za

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Picture: (Taung Magistrate Court)

BY REGINALD KANYANE

A MURDER case against Maphoitsile man from Taung, Boitumelo Seoposengwe will resume on August 15 for sentencing. Seoposengwe will appear in Taung Regional Court after he allegedly killed his son, Remoratile Sehemo, 5, back in 2015 during Christmas Eve.

Seoposengwe was ordered by court to undergo psychiatric check-up. Taung Regional Court wanted to test the mental stable of the suspect before they could hand down the sanction.

South African Civic Organisation regional secretary in Dr Ruth Mompati region, Mika Moeti said they were satisfied so far how the case was handled. Moeti added that even though it was taking long, justice will be served at the end.

“The suspect allegedly hanged his own son during the Christmas Eve at his house back in 2015. The relationship between Seoposengwe and his girlfriend soured and that prompted him to commit murder. We urge people to make use of institutions available than opting to murder,” Moeti said.

Seoposengwe allegedly went to fetch his son under the false pretence that he wanted him just for Christmas holiday visit. He allegedly hanged Remoratile in his back room. Remoratile body was found by one of his friend and informed the family.

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JOHANNESBURG – Obliteration! That’s how Wayde van Niekerk’s world record performance in the 400 metre final at the 2016 Rio Olympicshas been described.

Van Niekerk has won Team South Africa’s first gold medal at the Games.

Lining up in lane eight – the worst lane on the blue track of the Olympic Stadium – the sprinter ran a perfect race on Sunday night to cross the line in 43:03 seconds.

Van Niekerk beat his rivals Kirani James of Grenada and American LeShawn Merritt into second and third, respectively.

The pair was expected to push the Western Cape-born athlete hard, but the real race was only ever between van Niekerk and the clock.

The 24-year-old did what no man has been able to do for almost 17 years, and that was to beat Michael Johnson’s long-standing world record time of 43:18 seconds.

“He has obliterated Michael Johnson’s world record,” was how one commentator reacted.

It was also the first 400 metre final in which all three medallists ran below 44 seconds.

Van Niekerk’s victory was witnessed by his girlfriend, mother, father and other people close to him who were in the stands.

His win pushes Team SA’s medals tally to seven – one gold, five silvers and one bronze.

It’s not often that anyone overshadows sprinting great Usain Bolt, who won his third straight 100 metre Olympic gold medal less than 30 minutes after van Niekerk.

Wayde van Niekerk – Olympic champion, world champion, world record holder.

Source:www.ewn.co.za

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That’s the claim by Celebville sources who said the former kwaito hitmaker’s life was changed dramatically by a car downgrade . . . and a love break.

Sources close to Msawawa said his love journey with older tycoon lady, Angela Gwala, recently hit a rocky stretch.

One source claimed: “He used to drive expensive cars, but Angela took all the cars away as they were her property. She owns a car hire company.

“Now he’s driving a Polo 1.6 which belongs to his elder sister. He’s not making a lot of money. He sometimes gets gigs but usually at small events.”

Another mole said: “They should have been married by now. But things aren’t going so well with them.”

This informant claimed Angela read Msawawa the riot act after rumours that he’d been playing away from home.

His friends claim that Msawawa has been trying to please Angela – but she’s allegedly showing her Ben 10 the cold shoulder.

One industry insider claimed: “Msawawa has been begging Angela to forgive him, but it seems the businesswoman has had enough.”

Sunday Sun quizzed Msawawa’s dad, known as Bab’ Dlamini. He refused to talk, saying his son would blame him if anything was revealed in the media.

“I’m sorry, I can’t comment,” Bab’ Dlamini said. “Please talk to him. He knows what’s going on.”

When the SunTeam called Angela, she said she and Msawawa haven’t broken up – they’re just “taking a break”.

Msawawa couldn’t be reached for comment. He didn’t respond to our SMSes.

– Sunday Sun

BY REGINALD KANYANE

The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in the North West province expressed concerns about allegations that the mineral resources department was involved in “Capture of Mines” around Rustenburg for the benefit of the Gupta Company, JIC Mining Services using political connections.

Provincial chairperson, Paul Sebegoe said this follows the closure of four mining shafts in the area over the past three months.

“We call on the Office of the Public Protector to investigate the issuing of Section 54 notices to mines that have given JIC notice to terminate its contracts due to financial non-compliance.

“We are therefore sending a strong warning to Minister Mosebenzi Zwane that we are fully aware of the shenanigans taking place since his arrival at the department. We are warning him to desist from his agenda as he will be met with fierce resistance from communities around mining areas,” he highlighted.

Sebegoe vowed that SANCO will fight the victimization of the mines using state resources. He added that it was not a coincidence that when JIC related contracts are for review, there was a sudden pressure from Mineral and Energy department on issues of compliance.

“SANCO will not tolerate the livelihood of communities to be compromised at the expense of the quest of those who seek to capture mines for the benefit of the politically connected few. The closure of the shafts will result in retrenchments and job losses that will negatively affect the local economy and communities.

“These mines are the only remaining source of livelihood for communities within the mining area. We will not allow anyone to mess with them. We still have unresolved issues with mining communities being deprived ownership shares and expect the state to protect our interests instead of advancing the interest of a few politically connected individuals at the expense of workers and our communities,” he underscored.

Sebegoe said they fully support maximization of safety measures and it cannot be a coincidence that when JIC related contracts were being reviewed, then suddenly mines are being issued with section 54 notices.

“This is a clear abuse of political power and it will not be tolerated,” he said emphatically.

Sebegoe alleged that the strategy was to pressurise mining companies such as Royal Platinum Mines to work at a loss so that they are forced to sell-off mines that have a future with rich ore body. He also alleged that section 54 notices that was uplifted on the August 11, was invoked the next day.

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Maize Cup 

Result: Platinum Stars 0-0 Orlando Pirates  (Pirates won 3-1 on penalties)

Date: 13 August 2016 

Venue: Moruleng Stadium

Felipe Ovono proved to be the hero for Orlando Pirates, as they defeated Platinum Stars 3-1 on penalties in the Maize Cup on Saturday afternoon.

The Buccaneers enjoyed most of the possession in the opening exchanges with the likes of Oupa Manyisa and Mpho Makola pulling the strings in the middle of the park.

Dikwena eventually got going after the 20-minute mark and they should have found themselves one-goal up but Ndumiso Mabena fired horribly over the crossbar with only Jackson Mabokgwane to beat.

Cavin Johnson’s charges grew stronger as the half went, as Robert Ng’ambi started having a lot more influence on the encounter.

However, Mabena’s chance in the 24th proved to be the best opening of the half, as the score remained goalless as the sides entered the break.

Muhsin Ertugral opted to make four changes at the start of the second half, as he introduced goalkeeper Felipe Ovono, Mahlatse Makudubela, Patrick Phungwayo and  Luvuyo Memela.

The clash had a typical pre-season feel to it, as neither side showed any real attacking intent in the respective final thirds.

The Buccaneers squandered a golden chance after 60 minutes when Tendai Ndoro played Thabo Matlaba through on goal, however the full-back could only fire straight at Mzimela from close range.

Mzimela frustrated the Buccaneers once again in the 81st minute, as the Dikwena shot-stopper rushed off his line to thwart Ndoro on the edge of the box.

With time running out, Ertugral introduced Ayanda Nkosi for Ndoro as they searched for a winning goal.

However, neither side could break the deadlock in the closing stages, forcing the game into a penalty shoot-out, where Ovono proved to hero, pulling off two saves to help Pirates win the cup.

Here’s how they lined up:

Platinum Stars: Mzimela, Gumede, Mlilo, Zulu, Mnguni, Mere, Ng’ambi, Mabena, Botes, Gwabeni, Tshabalala.

Orlando Pirates: Mabokgwane, Chabalala, Gyimah, Sikhakhane Matlaba, Sarr, Makola, Qalinge, Rakhale, Manyisa, Ndoro.

Source: http://www.soccerladuma.co.za

BY REGINALD KANYANE

RnB singer Busisiwe Twala promised to dazzle the fans at Moruleng Stadium, Mogwase on Saturday. Cici as Busisiwe is affectionately known in the music fraternity will share the stage with another singer from 999 Music stable, Chomee.

Bokone Bophirima province will host a second edition of Maize Cup. Provincial government spokesperson, Brian Setswambung said Soweto giants Orlando Pirates FC will face it off against the defending champions and host, Platinum Stars FC.

“We are delighted to have two top teams competing in this cup. This is the second edition of the Maize Cup and we are looking forward to an outstanding day of entertainment for local and travelling fans.

“Education and sport development department hosted a development clinic for 200 kids on Friday. The match will provide football-starved fans with top quality pre-season action. It will also be a good opportunity to see some of the new recruits ahead of the 2016/2017 PSL campaign from both teams,” Setswambung said.

He added that preceding the main match, some youth development action will keep the fans entertained. Setswambung saidBojanala Women will play against Ngaka Modiri Molema Women(U19 Girls).

“Dr Kenneth Kaunda will play against Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati for Under 15 boys,” he said.

Runaway hit maker, Cici said: “I promise fans absolute entertainment. And I also want to convey a message of gratitude to all women across South Africa. I think it is about time we as women start supporting one another. We also need to understand that by so doing, it does not dampen our success.

“I personally think we live in a patriarchal society. The role of women is very marginalised and limited. However, I feel that we have a long way as society to address this matter.”

 The match will kick-start at 3pm.

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For the North-West University Mafikeng Campus student, Musawenkosi Donia Saurombe (23) age is nothing but a number as she is set to become the youngest most educated person in Africa when she will be graduating in October. 

The Golden Key International Honour Society in Tucson, Arizona recently confirmed that she is to be the youngest most educated woman in Africa with a PhD.  This is testimony that indeed our country is working towards breaking the chains of poverty through education.

Musa recently submitted her PhD thesis in Industrial Psychology and is about to break the record for being the first student at the Mafikeng Campus to complete a PhD at the age of 23 making her the youngest female PhD graduate in Africa.

Musa is one of the few academics to have taken part in the annual international summit of the Golden Key International Honour Society which was recently held in the USA.  At the summit she was granted the opportunity of presenting her research which gave her international recognition.  She also serves on the executive management for Golden Key Mafikeng Campus, which is responsible for organising and directing community service events for the organisation.  This ensures that the Golden Key Committee reaches out and makes impact in the communities. 

Her persistent attitude keeps her focused on her vision and drives her to achieve her purpose in life, “I am defined by my African name ‘Musawenkosi’ which means ‘God’s grace’ and indeed my life continues to be a story of God’s Grace” she said.

“My message to women is that before you are a woman, you are a human being and always remember that you were created with intricacy and precision.  We each have a purpose on this earth and it is our duty as women to fulfil our purpose.  We must stop trying to be like men or better than them because there is a much more profound work that necessitates our diligent application, therefore we must not let ourselves be distracted in a futile quest to be better than others, but rather to be better than the woman we were yesterday. We are destined for greatness”, she concluded.

Source: http://www.nwu.ac.za