Service delivery affected at a clinic in Cokonyane as community members embark on protest demanding completion of R6m park home project

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Picture: Patients denied access to Cokonyane clinic

By OBAKENG MAJE

16 September 2025- Patients were significantly affected by community protest at a clinic in Cokonyane village, near Taung on Monday. This comes after some community members blocked and denied those who came for medical attention access to healthcare services.

The disruption of essential treatments such as medication collection was experienced as nurses were also removed from the facility.

One of the community members, Charlie Sejamoholo said they embarked on protest because they have written numerous letters to the North West Department of Health raising their unsatisfactory remarks regarding the delays on the park home construction project , but they were ignored. Sejamoholo alleged that the contractor missed a deadline to complete a park home and there is no consequence management implemented by the department.

“We are not against the construction of the park home, but we want the project to be completed timeously. So, the contractor comes and goes as he pleases. So, we are sick and tired of his actions.

“We suspect that the contractor has bribed some of the departmental officials hence they cannot remove him and appoint a capable person for the project,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari spokesperson, Tshegofatso Mothibedi said: “The department is aware of the matter and a site meeting has been arranged for Tuesday to address the community queries. The park home clinic was supposed to have been completed in April 2025, but the project has incurred delays due additional works which include among others to demolish the old clinic built with asbestos material and that the contractor was experiencing financial challenges.

“The expected completion date is 15 December 2025. The original contract amount is R 6 389 560.23 (R6m) VAT Incl. and the department has approved the Variation Order No.01 to the total amount of R 478 125.00 VAT Incl. for the removal and disposal of Asbestos containing material.”

Mothibedi further said the department is aware of concerns raised by the community members, who demanded to be addressed by management and threatened to close the clinic hence a site meeting has been arranged for Tuesday. He added that they will address the community queries today.

“Action has already been taken. The contractor was previously put on terms (default notice was sent to the contractor on 24 April 2025 by the department hence the contractor has approached the department to consent a Deed of Cession agreement between the main-contractor and its sub-contractor as a relief of the main-contractor’s cash-flow challenges.

“The department has approved the Deed of Cession agreement on 10 September 2025. This decision is aimed at ensuring that the project proceeds smoothly and meets the expected quality standards and timelines. The department is committed to closely monitor the contractor’s performance in order to reach completion of the project,” said Mothibedi.

He said currently, health services are rendered through a temporary structure/park home installed in the same site of the Cokonyane clinic.

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Two men sentenced to a combined 16 years imprisonment in separate GBH matters  

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

16 September 2025 – The police said domestic violence continues to have devastating effects on families and communities, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and long-lasting psychological scars. The police said in two separate and unrelated cases, the Kimberley Regional Court convicted and sentenced Itumeleng Bergman (30) and Moithusimang Gema (25) to 10 years and 6 years’ imprisonment, respectively.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said evidence presented in court revealed that on 18 August 2024, Bergman attacked his aunt (50) during an altercation in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley, pouring a bottle of acid on her face and causing severe injuries. Sam said in the second case on 18 September 2024, in Witdam in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley, Gema stabbed his father after being refused permission to watch television while other family members were asleep.

“Both accused were found guilty of assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) and sentenced accordingly,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended the investigating officers, Detective Warrant Officer Stephen Wax and Constable Zanele Hlongwane, for their dedication and meticulous work, which contributed significantly to the successful convictions.

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Committee lauds Women Boks

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Picture: Women’s Boks during a game

By AGISANANG SCUFF

16 September 2025- The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture congratulates the Women Boks on their achievements and progress at the ongoing World Cup in England, despite their loss to the New Zealand Black Ferns. The committee praised the remarkable progress made by the Women Boks, evident in their quarterfinal appearance at the World Cup.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Joe McGluwa said: “Their performance against mostly professional and semi-professional teams is commendable. SA Rugby must develop strategies for professionalism and conditioning of elite players.

“We need significant improvement in teams participating in the women’s Currie Cup, where only the Blue Bulls have a professional setup. The committee acknowledged the involvement of sponsors supporting representative teams, but financial rewards for women players should follow.”

McGluwa further said while they do not demand equal pay to the Springboks, it is essential that women be able to play rugby comfortably without financial burdens. He added that they call on South Africans to support women’s rugby, making it a sport of choice for women.

“Talent identification must start in schools, going beyond mere compliance and tick-box exercises,” said McGluwa.

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Police need your assistance in solving a murder case

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Picture: The deceased, Kenny Itemogeng Olyn/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

15 September 2025- The police in Roodepan are investigating a murder case following the discovery of the body of Kenny Itemogeng Olyn (35), in the veld near Midlands Farm in Kimberley on 31 October 2024. The police said Olyn was last seen with his friends near “by die hoek” liquor outlet in Galeshewe Township, in Kimberley on 27 October 2024.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the police request the assistance of the public in solving this case and request anyone with information to contact the Roodepan SAPS or contact Detective Sergeant Mojalefa Setlai at 071 793 8583 or the SAPS Crime Stop line 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.

Sam said all information received will be treated confidentially.

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37 suspects nabbed for various crimes during Operation Dinaledi

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Picture: Search and Stop campaign/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

16 September 2025- In an effort to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and address serious and violent crimes in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing in the Northern Cape, Major General Johnny Besnaar, led Operation Dinaledi from 11 until 14 September 2025, in Kuruman and surrounding mining areas.

Besnaar was supported by the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Provincial Heads and members of various provincial components including Pro-Active Policing, Public Order Police, the SAPS Airwing, Kimberley Search and Rescue, Provincial Finance, Provincial Internal Audit, Provincial Corporate Communication, as well as the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Stations, District Crime Intelligence, Ga-Segonyana and Municipal Traffic Departments and private security companies.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the high-density operation focused on removing illegal firearms and dangerous weapons, tracing of wanted suspects, conducting compliance inspections at formal and informal businesses and engaging with communities across the district. Shemane said simultaneous roadblocks were conducted on strategic routes leading to and from the targeted towns, with air support provided by the SAPS Airwing in Kimberley and the Free State.

“A total of 219 vehicles were stopped and searched, resulting in fines amounting to R67 500 for road traffic violations, while 2 657 persons were searched. At identified crime hotspots, police arrested 37 suspects for offences including murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), sexual offences, rape, theft of motor vehicle, malicious damage to property, drug-related crimes, driving under the influence and contravention of immigration laws.

“The police also confiscated alcoholic beverages, dangerous weapons, drugs and a suspected stolen vehicle. On Saturday, Besnaar, accompanied by the Provincial Search and Rescue Unit with air support from the SAPS Airwing, conducted foot and aerial searches for missing Boemo David Ditshetelo (65), who was last seen on 3 September 2025 in Maruping, Kutlwanong Section, Kuruman,” he said.

Shemane further said the search for Ditshetelo is ongoing. He added that Besnaar applauded the efforts of all multi-disciplinary teams involved, emphasising that the police remain committed to ensuring that perpetrators are brought before court and to restoring public confidence.

“He further assured communities that such operations will continue without interruption. As we approach the Festive Season, police in the province will intensify their operations and execute targeted intelligence driven actions in our quest to address crime.

“The police appeal to anyone with information on criminal activities to contact their nearest police station, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” said Shemane.

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A man nabbed for being in possession of drugs

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Picture: Drugs and money seized by the police/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

16 September 2025- A man (33) was arrested for being in possession of drugs by the POLICE IN Kathu, near Kuruman on 15 September 2025. The vigilant police were busy with stop and search duties when they stopped a man who was close to his shack in possession of sachets of dagga.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mosimaneotsile Letsapa said the police proceeded to the shack, where they found more drugs including dagga, mandrax and Tik as well as cash believed to be the proceeds of drug sales. Letsapa said the suspect will appear in the Kathu Magistrate’s Court soon on charge of possession of drugs.

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Husband sentenced to life imprisonment for murder

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

15 September 2025- A man (42) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Benoni Magistrate’s Court for murder. The accused, Mpho Motsoso was sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of his wife, Precious Mapuleng Mochadibane (39).

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said the couple had been separated after Mochadibane told Motsoso she needed peace. Mahanjana said on 29 January 2023, Motsoso went to the house they had shared, where the deceased was with her mother and their two children aged 16 and 7.

“He attempted to start a fight, but the mother intervened and told him to sleep in an outside room. The following morning, he entered the house wanting to bathe. He fetched a knife from the kitchen and stabbed the wife in her bedroom, while she was sitting on the bed reading a Bible.

“The attack occurred in front of their children. He then took her car keys and bank cards, drove away and later withdrew money. He proceeded to a sangoma in Klipriver for “spiritual cleansing,” where police arrested him after tracing the vehicle via its tracker,” she said.

Mahanjana further said since his arrest, Motsoso remained in custody after the NPA successfully opposed bail. She added that in court, he pleaded not guilty and chose to remain silent.

“However, Prosecutor Girly Mahlangu led compelling witness testimony that secured a conviction. During sentencing, Motsoso asked the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence, citing his status as a first-time offender with no history of violence.

“Mahlangu opposed the request, stressing that he showed no remorse and committed a heinous act against his wife, whom he was meant to love and protect, in full view of their children,” said Mahanjana.

She also submitted a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) facilitated by Court Preparation Officer Nelia Radebe, in which the deceased’s mother and children detailed the psychological trauma they suffered. Mahanjana said the statement revealed that the eldest child failed Grade 12 that year due to the impact of the murder.

Magistrate Lesufi agreed with the State that Motsoso had shown no remorse and found no substantial or compelling circumstances to justify a lesser sentence, imposing life imprisonment.

“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence, reaffirming its commitment to prioritising the prosecution of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide cases, and sending a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated,” she said.

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Ramaphosa encourages North West to exploit public-private sector partnerships

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Picture: The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By OBAKENG MAJE

15 September 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a meeting of the national executive with the provincial executive council of the North West. Ramaphosa said the engagement was held under the theme: “A Nation that Works for All,” formed part of a series of engagements between him and provinces aimed at enhancing intergovernmental coordination and improving service delivery in line with the priorities of the 7th administration.

“In accordance with the constitutional imperative for deepening cooperative governance, the meeting affirmed close cooperation in ensuring the successful delivery of critical infrastructure such as the rebuilding of roads, provision of water infrastructure and energy availability for powering the province’s industrial ambitions.

“The meeting recognised the improvements that have been achieved in the governance of the province. The national executive pledged to work closely with the provincial government to ensure the resolution of challenges currently plaguing municipalities in the province,” he said.

Ramaphosa further welcomed the demonstrated level of developmental ambition by the province. He encouraged the province to exploit public-private sector partnerships in the furtherance of development in the province.

“Previous sessions between the national and provincial executives include meetings with the Executive Councils of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Eastern Cape and most recently, the Northern Cape.

“It is envisaged that the National Executive would have met with the leadership of the remaining two provinces, Free State and Western Cape, by the end of this financial year,” added Ramaphosa.

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A chance to make inputs to National Minimum Wage adjustments as the deadline looms

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Picture: NMW Chairperson Imraan Valodia

By AGISANANG SCUFF

15 September 2025- The Department of Employment and Labour said the deadline for written submissions to possible adjustments to the NMW for 2026 is fast approaching – this follows the National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission’s invitation to all interested parties or stakeholders to make written submissions.

The department said NMW Commission had invited written inputs on 19 August 2025 and said it will publish its annual report and recommendations concerning possible adjustments to the National Minimum Wage to the Minister of Employment and Labour later in 2025, in accordance with Section 6(2) of the NMW Act, No. 9 of 2018.

NMW Chairperson Imraan Valodia encourages interested parties to have their say in the possible adjustment. Valodia said the National Minimum Wage is the lowest remuneration rate that employers are obligated and legally permitted to pay their employees for each ordinary hour worked.

“It is illegal for employers to pay their employees less than the minimum threshold. The NMW was first introduced for implementation in South Africa in 2019. The minimum wage is currently fixed at R28,79 for each ordinary hour worked.

“The current rate was announced in February 2025 by the Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth. The Commission is responsible for annually reviewing and recommending adjustments to the national minimum wage,” he said.

Valodia further said it also investigates and reports annually to the Minister on the impact of the national minimum wage on the economy, collective bargaining and income differentials, making this information available to the public. He added that representations should reach the directorate: Employment Standards, Department of Employment and Labour, Private Bag X117, Pretoria, 0001, or be sent to nmwreview@labour.gov.za by 18 September 2025.

“In addition to making representations on NMW, the Commission is appealing to interested parties to complete a survey questionnaire on the link: https://forms.office.com/r/jXFtcZag90?origin=1prLink, and the link can also be accessed on the Department of Employment and Labour’s website and social media pages,” said Valodia.

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Debate on collapse of local government

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

15 September 2025- The North West Legislature Speaker, Dr Desbo Mohono to preside over House Sitting for debates on Heritage Day and collapse of local government and the North West Premier, Mokgosi’s response to oral questions. Mohono will preside over Legislature House Sittings, where Members of all Political Parties represented in the Legislature will Debate on Heritage Day. 

She further said the debate will also focus on how the collapse of local government is driving environmental damage and what this means for the future of their natural resources and the wellbeing of residents. Mohono added that Mokgosi will also respond to oral questions sent by Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs).

“The House Sitting will be held at the Legislature Chamber on Tuesday at 9am,” she said.

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