ANC continues to implement the 55th National Conference resolutions

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

7 August 2025- The ANC said it convened its National Executive Committee (NEC) Ordinary Meeting from 1 to 4 August 2025, meeting under the guiding banner of the 70th Anniversary of the Freedom Charter. The former liberation party said its historic gathering took place in a period of profound reflection and decisive action as they continue to implement the resolutions of the 55th National Conference, to advance the commitments of its 2024 Manifesto and sharpen its movement’s posture in delivering the January 8th tasks.

The ANC Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula who addressed the media in Johannesburg on Wednesday, said the NEC met during Women’s Month, marking the 69th Anniversary of the heroic 1956 Women’s March and 30th Anniversary of the national day signifying the advances we have made in women emancipation and transformation. Mbalula said the ANC reaffirms its unflinching commitment to addressing the triple oppression of women in terms of race, class and gender.

“We celebrate this month focused on women leadership and economic participation under this year’s theme – “Building Resilient Economies for All.” This moment is not only a commemoration of historic victories but a clarion call to confront persisting gender inequalities, including the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBV-F).

“The NEC reflected on several developments characterising the political terrain since our last meeting, including the emerging dynamics in the Government of National Unity (GNU), public opinion trends, the National Dialogue preparations the critical challenge of unemployment, the high cost of living, infrastructure challenges and international trade tensions, particularly the unilateral punitive tariffs imposed by the United States,” he said.

Mbalula further said the NEC noted with appreciation the report on the Liberation Movements Summit and reaffirmed the ANC’s commitment to building a better Africa and a better world. He added that the shifting geopolitical landscape requires that South Africa assert its sovereignty, defend multilateralism, and pursue partnerships that advance inclusive development.

“The ANC rejects with contempt attempts by domestic reactionaries and foreign forces to destabilise our nation through misinformation and economic coercion.

The NEC welcomes and fully supports the decisive interventions announced by Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation and Trade, Industry and Competition in response to the imposition of punitive tariffs by the United States.

“These measures reflect a coherent and strategic approach to defending South Africa’s economic sovereignty while prioritising the livelihoods of our people. The comprehensive support framework, including the establishment of an Export Support Desk and mobilisation of targeted industrial resilience funds, demonstrates a government that is proactive in shielding its productive sectors from external economic shocks,” said Mbalula.

He said these actions are not isolated measures, but form part of a broader national effort to restructure their trade relations, promote industrialisation and ensure that South Africa’s engagement in the global economy is anchored in equity, dignity and national development priorities.

Mbalula said the NEC is particularly resolute that South Africa will not be coerced into reversing its progressive economic transformation agenda or compromising its sovereignty under the guise of opportunistic foreign pressures.

“The Democratic Alliance’s reaction to the Ministers’ announcement exposes a mindset that is out of touch with the aspirations of South African people. Their reckless calls for deregulation and abandonment of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment are a direct affront to the principles of the Freedom Charter, which demand that the people shall share in the country’s wealth.

“The DA’s posture reflects a deeply entrenched neo-imperialist mindset that seeks to subordinate South Africa’s sovereign right to chart its own economic destiny to the interests of foreign powers and domestic elites. The ANC will not retreat from defending the economic freedom of our people,” he said.

Mbalula said their government’s principled and deliberate approach remains firmly rooted in the struggle traditions that guided them to liberation and continue to guide them in building a sovereign, inclusive, and a just South Africa.

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Police in Northern Cape welcomes convictions in GBVF related cases

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

7 August 2025 – The Hopetown Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit said it has successfully secured convictions in cases related to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). The unit said in the first case which occurred on 24 February 2025, Lorenzo Kani (27) assaulted and attempted to stab his girlfriend (25) in the presence of his sister (47) in Hopetown.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the sister immediately reported the matter to the police. Kock said the accused pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years imprisonment for contravening a protection order and assault common.

“He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. In a separate incident on 13 May 2025, Beronique Olyn (23) displayed riotous and aggressive behaviour towards her parents and child in Hopetown.

“She was arrested for contravening a protection order and appeared in the Hopetown Magistrate’s Court. Olyn was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years. She was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Kock further said the SAPS Management has commended Detective Warrant Officer Paul Schoeman and Sergeant Frans Louw, for their commitment and thorough investigation, which, together with the collaboration of state prosecutor advocate Nicola van Niekerk, led to the successful prosecution and sentencing of the accused. He added that their efforts underscore SAPS’ unwavering dedication to combating GBVF and ensuring justice for victims.

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20 newly-trained firefighters recruits welcomed  

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Picture: Twenty firefighters recruits welcomed/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

7 August 2025- The executive mayor of the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Motseokse Maje said firefighters play a crucial role in fire safety. Maje said they are the first responders in emergencies, suppressing and controlling fires.

This comes after the district welcomed 20 newly-trained firefighters recruits. The event was held at the Taung Fire Emergency offices on Wednesday.

“It is with immense pride and heartfelt joy that I stand before you today on this momentous occasion as we welcome home our 20 young heroes — the newly trained firefighter recruits of the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality.

“As the district, we have faced the devastating impact of wildfires in recent years. Our farms, our land and indeed our livelihoods have suffered. Despite support from partners like Working on Fire, our limited capacity has often made it difficult to respond as swiftly and effectively as we would have liked,” he said.

Maje further said that today, they stand here not to lament the challenges of the past, but to celebrate a powerful step forward. He added that, last year, the district took a bold and visionary decision — to invest in their own youth by sending 20 young people for specialized training in fire fighting.

“Today, we officially welcome them back to their community, not just as ordinary citizens, but as trained, uniformed and dedicated firefighting professionals. To the parents and guardians here today, I say thank you.

“Thank you for trusting us with your children. Thank you for allowing them to serve this district with bravery and dignity. You have raised young men and women who are not only protectors of the land, but symbols of hope and change,” said Maje.

According to Maje, from January 2026, these recruits will be permanently employed as full-time fire fighters by the municipality. He said this is not just employment — it is the purpose.

“It is an opportunity. It is the beginning of a lifetime of service.

We are proud beyond words. This initiative is not only about saving our farms and protecting hectares from destructive veld fires, but also about fighting youth unemployment and restoring dignity to our communities through skills development and meaningful work.

“Let me also take this moment to express our deepest gratitude to the MMC for Community Services, Boitumelo Setlhabetsi-Mokone, for the sterling leadership shown throughout this project. Your commitment and foresight have made today possible,” he said.

Maje said this is Setlhabetsi-Mokone’s victory too. He said to the brave recruits, they are the torchbearers of a safer district.

“Wear your uniforms with pride. Serve with integrity, discipline and humility. This is the beginning of a new chapter in your lives — one that requires strength, commitment, and selflessness.

“Let this be a reminder to all young people in our district: When we work together, we can create real change. Opportunities exist — and your local government is working tirelessly to create more. I remain committed to investing in our youth, strengthening our disaster and emergency services and building a district that is not only safer, but also more inclusive and economically empowered,” said Maje.

He also encourages them to continue to walk this journey — together — to a stronger, safer and more prosperous Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District. Maje congratulated new firefighter recruits once again.

“We are proud of you. We believe in you. And we stand with you,” he said.

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Wayde Jooster upbeat before CHAN tournament

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By REGINALD KANYANE

7 August 2025 – Wayde Jooste believes that the South African team that is representing the country in the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) has settled down and is now a unified group ahead of their opening match of the tournament on Friday. Coach Molefi Ntseki’s charges open their account against Algeria on Friday afternoon and Jooste said the amount of time they have spent together in camp has helped build a strong spirit among the players.

“I don’t think it’s been that tough (to become a unified group), honestly, because the majority of us have played against each other in our respective leagues and some of us have actually been teammates in different clubs.

“So, I feel like the fact that we were together in (camp) in South Africa before coming to Uganda, it also helped us a bit to bond together as teammates,” he said.

Jooste further said most importantly, they have become a little family because, like he said, they have been together in South Africa and now that they are in Uganda, the bond within them just becomes stronger and stronger. He added that local observers have been curious about Ntseki’s charges since arriving here on Sunday afternoon.

“They are happy to remain an unknown quantity until they take to the field for the first time on Friday. It’s a very good thing that we are an unknown quantity because they won’t know what to expect from us.

“So yeah, it’s a very good thing that they don’t really know much about us. It will count in our favour and it will be an advantage for us going into the group stages,” said Jooste.

The CHAN tournament is being held in East Africa in three countries – Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda – between 2-30 August 2025 and Ntseki’s charges are based in Kampala during the group stages of the tournament.

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A nurse, Boitumelo Motimeng celebrates 20 years of excellence

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Picture: Picture: A professional nurse, Boitumelo Motimeng/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

7 August 2025- Being a good nurse requires a combination of essential qualities and skills such as empathy, strong communication, critical thinking and attention to details. If you are looking for all these attributes do not look further than Boitumelo Motimeng (42), a qualified nurse at Taung District Hospital.

Motimeng, who is celebrating 20 years of excellence in the profession, said he is thrilled by these achievements. He said he was passionate about nursing from an early age.

“I’m thrilled to share my story with The Guardian Newspaper. I was born and raised in Manthe village, near Taung, a place I am proud to call home. Growing up, I witnessed the impact of quality healthcare on families and communities, which inspired me to pursue a career in nursing.

“So, my desire to become a nurse stemmed from a personal experience. I have first-hand experience on what a different compassion and care can make. I pursued nursing to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” said Motimeng.

He further said what inspired him daily is seeing patients recovering and knowing that he made a positive impact. Motimeng added that it is a privilege to serve his community.

“As a nurse, I believe patients deserve respectful, empathetic, and professional care. My advice to fellow nurses is to prioritize patient-centered care, remain kind-hearted and improve their skills continually.

“There challenges that we come across as professional nurses at our work places such as managing workload, limited resources, and maintaining patient trust. Despite these, we strive for excellence. We also have successful stories and for me what stands out is managing a vaccination site, combating spread of communicable diseases for sale of community immunity,” he said.

Motimeng is currently working as a coordinator for a nursing/health programme (infection prevention & control), where he oversees patient care and mentoring junior staff. He said being a nurse in rural areas means being part of a close-knit community, where healthcare is often a challenge.

“However, it is rewarding to make a difference in people’s lives, despite these challenges. Reaching 20 years of service feels like a dream come true. I am definitely proud of my achievements and looking forward to continuing to serve our people with diligence.

“In the next five years, I would like to see myself in a leadership role, driving healthcare improvements and mentoring the next generation of nurses. I would also like to encourage other nurses to practice the Health Ministerial goal and be guided by the Batho Pele principle,” said Motimeng.

In 2010, he was elected as the Best Nurse in Marylyn Lehana Awards in North West. Motimeng also entered the national competition for the Best Nurse and occupied the 2nd position.

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North West Gambling Board lambasts Kasi Hustlers for ‘peddling’ lies

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

6 August 2025- The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) said it noted with concern the post circulated by a Facebook page known as Kasi Hustlers, which contains misleading and inaccurate information regarding the process of obtaining a gambling license and the legal framework governing gambling operations in the North West. The NWGB said process of obtaining a gambling license is governed by the National Gambling Act, 2004 (Act No. 7 of 2004) and the North West Gambling Act, 2001 (Act No. 2 of 2001).

The NWGB acting Corporate Relations Manager, Lerato Mokgoje said any person or entity intending to operate gambling activities within the province, must apply for and be granted the appropriate license by the North West Gambling Board. Mokgoje said the process involves stringent checks, public participation and full compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements.

“The authority to issue fines and impose penalties for illegal gambling activities lies solely with the North West Gambling Board as mandated by the Act. The South African Police Service (SAPS), on the other hand, is empowered to confiscate illegal gambling machines and assist in enforcement, but they do not issue fines.

“This distinction is critical and mustbe correctly understood by the public. So, the content shared by Kasi Hustlers not only misrepresents the role and powers of the NWGB and law enforcement agencies, but also creates confusion among community members who wish to operate legally within the sector,” she said.

Mokgoje further said spreading false information undermines efforts to ensure responsible gambling and combat illegal operations. She added that they urge the public to verify any information relating to gambling licenses, compliance processes and regulatory enforcement directly with the NWGB through our official platform.

“The Board remains committed to transparency, public education and stakeholder engagement to ensure that all citizens are properly informed. The NWGB continues to enforce compliance with the law and protect the integrity of the gambling industry in the province.

“Misleading information hampers this effort and may expose individuals to unnecessary legal risk,” said Mokgoje.

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Visser appointed as new head coach for Blind Proteas

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Picture: The newly-appointed Blind Protea coach, Stephen Visser/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

6 August 2025 – Blind Cricket South Africa (BCSA) said it is thrilled to announce the appointment of Stephen Visser as the new national Head Coach of the Blind Proteas. The Blind Cricket South Africa said Visser’s appointment was effective from 1 August 2025.

The Blind Cricket South Africa President, Frankford Williams said Visser’s tenure will run until the conclusion of the 2027 T20 World Cup, marking a significant step in the team’s preparation and pursuit of international success. Williams said Visser was specifically head-hunted for this pivotal role, reflecting BCSA’s confidence in his unique abilities and vision for the team.

“He replaces Asheta Mahabeer, whose contract as Head Coach concluded after the recent bilateral tour to India.

We are enthusiastic regarding his appointment. We are delighted to welcome Visser to the Blind Proteas family.

“His passion for the game and commitment to fostering talent will be invaluable as we aim for excellence on the international stage, particularly with the 2027 T20 World Cup on the horizon,” he said.

Williams further said they also extend their profound gratitude to Mahabeer for her dedicated leadership and significant contributions to the Blind Proteas during her tenure. He added that they are confident that Visser will build upon the strong foundation she helped lay.

“We believe that he is the right person to lead our team to new heights. Visser brings a wealth of coaching experience to the role, including his significant involvement in the launch and coaching of the North West Blind Cricket Club, which began on 1 September 2022.

“His dedication to developing visually impaired cricketers at a provincial level, coupled with his strategic acumen, will be crucial as the Blind Proteas prepare for upcoming challenges,” said Williams.

He said the Blind Proteas have consistently showcased remarkable resilience, determination, and competitive spirit on the international stage, participating in various World Cups and bilateral series. Williams said BCSA is confident that under Visser’s leadership, the team will continue to inspire and achieve remarkable feats, striving for even greater success.

“Blind Cricket South Africa (BCSA) is the governing body for blind cricket in South Africa, dedicated to promoting and developing the sport for visually impaired athletes across the country.

“BCSA aims to provide opportunities for blind cricketers to participate at all levels, from grassroots to international competition, fostering inclusivity, skill development, and national pride,” he said.

Meanwhile, Visser said: “I am incredibly honoured and excited to take on the role of the Head Coach for the Blind Proteas. This is a unique opportunity to work with an exceptionally talented and determined group of athletes.

“I am committed to building on the team’s strengths, enhancing their skills and preparing them to compete at the highest level, culminating in a strong performance at the 2027 T20 World Cup.”

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NWU takes science to Kuruman with a message of innovation

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Picture: The North West University (NWU) principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka

By BAKANG MOKOTO

6 August 2025- The North West University (NWU) said it will continue with its ongoing concerted efforts to position science as a force for inclusive growth and opportunity. The university visited the Thabo Moorosi Multi-Purpose Hall in Mothibistad, near Kuruman, during its third annual Science Day on 6 August 2025.

The North West University (NWU) principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka who addressed learners, educators and community members, said the background of individuals should not determine their future. Tyobeka urged learners to come up with innovative ways.

“You are not too young to invent. You are not too rural to innovate. And you are certainly not too poor to dream big. The event was held under the national theme: Science, Technology and Innovation are for Everyone”.

“The event brought science out of the laboratory and into the community. The outreach initiative aimed to expose learners in under-resourced communities to science careers and innovation tools,” he said.

Tyobeka further said they are not just building a smarter nation, but building a fairer one. He added that they need a nation where science does not speak to people, but with them.

“We are not just building a smarter nation. We are building a fairer one. We need a nation where science does not speak to people, but with them. Supported by Anglo American’s Kumba Iron Ore, the Science Day featured robotics demonstrations, science exhibitions and career conversations between scientists and school learners.

“The event forms part of NWU’s broader effort to build inclusive education ecosystems and inspire the next generation of scientists. Citing national economic data, there is a necessity for the urgency of the initiative,” said Tyobeka.

He said South Africa’s unemployment rate is around 32.6% and the bottom 40% of the population earns only 11.5% of the national income. Tyobeka said the situation is not good, but they must continue to work harder to address these problems.

“The innovation should not be limited to urban centres only. “A learner in Kathu, Kuruman, or Kimberley is no less curious than their peers in Cape Town or Cambridge. But access to scientific tools, mentorship, and exposure makes a world of difference.

“We call for science policy to reflect the voices of marginalised communities. Real progress means making sure every child, no matter where they come from, has a fair shot at success,” he said.

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Urban management operations underway in Region 7

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Picture: MMC for Environment and Agriculture Management at the City of Tshwane, Obakeng Ramabodu

By REGINALD KANYANE

6 August 2025- The City of Tshwane said it wishes to inform residents that planned urban management operations will be implemented across region 7 from 7 until 8 August 2025. The City said tree pruning activity will take place on 7 August 2025 in Ward 105, Masada Road and 8 August 2025, in Warr 105 Langkloof and Sokhulumi.

The Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Environment and Agriculture Management, Obakeng Ramabodu said grass-cutting will be done on 7 August 2025 in Ward 102 Zithobeni Hall and on 8 August 2025 in Ward 102, Mothibe Drive. Ramabodu said the maintenance of their stormwater system will take place on 7 August 2025 in Ward 103 and Ward 104, Ekangala B and Dark City, respectively.

“On the 8 August 2025, in Ward 103 and Ward 104, in Langkloof and Sokhulumi, operations on the maintenance of the stormwater system will continue. Maintenance of cemeteries will be done on the 7 August 2025, at the Regional Cemetery in Cullinan, Ward 103.

“Grading operations will be done on 7 August 2025 at Watchtenbietjieskop, Access Road, Ward 105, while road markings will be done on 7 August 2025 in Bronkhorspruit, Mulder Street, Ward 102. Other important operations such as fixing potholes in Wards 103 and 105, are part of the operation taking place on 7 & 8 August 2025,” he said.

Ramabodu further said Tshwane Region 7 Operations and Coordination will host the “Re A Spana” programme for Sokhulumi and Langkloof, on 8 August 2025. He added that, the Mayoral Service Delivery Intervention Programme will be focused on, among other activities, potholes patching, road marking, stormwater channels unblocking, grass cutting, litter picking, library exhibition and display, cleaning of illegal dumps, EPWP registration, emergency awareness in areas around Sokhuklumi and Langkloof,” said Ramabodu.

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North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi accused intimidation and unfair treatment   

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Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi

By OBAKENG MAJE

6 August 2025- The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union in the North West said it has noted with great concern and disappointment the recent public remarks made by the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi during a meeting in Vryburg with Grade 12 underperforming schools. This comes after Motsumi calls on underperforming teachers to either resign or face suspension.

SADTU provincial secretary, George Themba said as the union that represents the interests and rights of educators, they find such statements to be reckless, demoralizing and counterproductive to the stability and morale of the education system. Themba further said teachers are the backbone of public education and continue to serve under extremely challenging conditions, including overcrowded classrooms, under-resourced schools and limited support.

“Instead of threatening educators, we call upon Motsumi to engage with relevant stakeholders, including unions in good faith and through established structures to address concerns or grievances.

“A blanket call for resignations or suspensions undermines due process, promotes fear and risks violating the principle of fair labour practice as enshrined in the constitution and the Labour Relations Act,” he said.

Themba added that they reaffirm their commitment to quality public education and the professional conduct of its members. He said they stand ready to work with the North West Department of Education to address legitimate concerns through constructive dialogue, but they will not hesitate to defend their members against intimidation and unfair treatment.

“SADTU finds it unacceptable that a public representative would resort to threats and intimidation rather than constructive engagement to resolve matters affecting educators.

“We call on Motsumi to desist and refrain from such utterances when engaging with educators. We urge the department to foster a climate of respect, engagement and accountability,” said Themba.

He said the future of the learners and the integrity of the education system depend on it.

Meanwhile, the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi accompanied by Motsumi, visited Milner Secondary School in Klerksdorp for an interactive session with principals and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) of underperforming schools in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District. Motsumi said the visit forms part of ongoing efforts by the government to assist underperforming schools to develop measures, strategies and remedial action plans that will assist them to improve their performance.

“The session also focused on tracking performance for both term 1 and term 2 to swiftly attend to challenges impeding all schools performing below the targeted threshold. Of the 230 schools in the district, nine performed below the targeted threshold of 70% averaging between 50 and 68% in the 2024 National Senior Certificate Examinations.

“Various measures are being implemented to cover the lost ground. We have noticed a slight decline in our mid-year examinations hence these intervention measures. This district has a potential to produce good quality results that can make them and the province shine,” she said.

Motsumi further said the problem of inconsistent performance should be addressed with immediate effect.

Meanwhile, with only two weeks left before preparatory examinations, Mokgosi said the intervention measures employed by the department to improve learner performance are encouraging.

“”As the provincial government, we support all these measures. The department must put all the stops in ensuring that all the resources are mobilized to assist both teachers and learners prepare thoroughly for the upcoming examinations.

“Critically all mechanisms must be activated to provide support and monitor progress in the remaining quarters of this academic year,” he added.  

Meanwhile, the visit by Mokgosi followed Motsumi’s interactive session with teachers and management of various schools in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District’s grappling learner performance. The sessions will extend to both Ngaka Modiri Molema and Bojanala Platinum Districts.

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