Sambatha: “Youth development through agriculture is key”

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Picture: The North West MEC Madoda Sambatha, alongside executives from Shell South Africa, MTN SA Foundation and the founder of Earth Hub Africa during the launch of the Smart Farming Initiative in Schaumburg, Skeerpoort/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

23 June 2025- The North West MEC for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) said in a strong endorsement of youth development through agriculture, he expressed strong support for a new smart farming initiative that will empower 10 young agri-preneurs from the rural village of Schaumburg, near Skeerpoort.

Sambatha said the launch was held on 20 June 2025, at Earth Hub Africa, where the beneficiaries officially began their journey toward earning a National Certificate in Plant Production. He further said the initiative is led by Earth Hub Africa, in partnership with the MTN SA Foundation and Shell Downstream South Africa.

“As a grassroots agri-platform, Earth Hub Africa empowers smallholder and youth-led agri-enterprises by providing land access, training, and market integration. The smart farming programme introduces young people to modern agricultural practices, digital tools, and market-oriented farming techniques.

“It aligns with the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s vision of increasing youth participation in agriculture while promoting food security and economic self-sufficiency,” said Sambatha.

He lauded the Earth Hub Africa, MTN SA Foundation and Shell SA for their ongoing commitment to developing rural communities through smart agriculture, particularly in the rural areas. Sambatha added the partnership reflects the kind of innovation and collaboration.

“We need to truly uplift our people. These young agri-preneurs are the future of food security and economic resilience in our province. We affirm our department’s commitment to working closely with MTN, Shell, and other partners to ensure continued support for the beneficiaries, including mentorship and access to departmental programmes aimed at fostering growth in the agri-sector.

“In addition, we encourage both MTN and Shell to explore opportunities for expanding the Smart Farming Initiative to other districts within the province, allowing more young people to benefit from this impactful programme,” he said.

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, Jafta Lin Boya, expressed heartfelt appreciation.

“This is a life-changing opportunity. We come from a place where access to resources is limited, but today we feel seen and empowered. It is an opportunity to change our lives and our communities through farming.

“This initiative highlights the power of strategic collaboration in driving meaningful change and reinforces the department’s belief that young people are key to unlocking the full potential of agriculture in the North West,” he said.

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SANDF rocked by rogue network and assassinations scandal

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SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA – JULY 21: Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) inspect Ndofaya Mall after last week?s looting and violent protests on July 21, 2021 in Soweto, South Africa. The violent protests spread from KwaZulu-Natal after the incarceration of the former President Jacob Zuma. (Photo by Gallo Images/Sharon Seretlo)

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

23 June 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it demands the urgent release of the hidden Moorhouse Report. The DA said this comes after twelve South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members were arrested for a top investigator’s assassination.

DA spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans and a Member of Parliament (MP), Chris Hattingh said the report exposes rogue SANDF networks tied to torture, smuggling, and killings. Hattingh said they call for the immediate release of the Moorhouse Report, which the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) continues to conceal from Parliament and the public.

“This follows the arrest of 12 SANDF members in connection with the 2023 assassination of Hawks investigator Lieutenant Colonel Frans Mathipa. The arrests have intensified pressure for transparency, particularly regarding the report’s alleged findings on illegal SANDF activities.

“The Moorhouse Board of Inquiry was reportedly established after whistle-blower, Thulane Ndawo, a former Military Police officer, exposed illegal detentions, torture, and unauthorised operations in 2021,” he said.

Hattingh further said the report is believed to contain explosive details of rogue SANDF activity, including the 2019 theft of military rifles, the use of front companies and involvement in politically motivated killings. He added that, in November 2023, the DA submitted a Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) application to obtain the report.

“However, this request remains unanswered. Civil society organisation Open Secrets has also escalated the matter to the United Nations, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations.

“Mathipa, assassinated on the N1 in July 2023, had been investigating a 2022 kidnapping linked to military vehicles and the secret offloading of cargo from the Russian vessel Lady R at the Simon’s Town naval base,” said Hattingh.

He said Mathipa had just obtained a court order compelling the SANDF to release critical documents when he was killed. Hattingh said these developments point to the existence of a rogue network within the SANDF operating outside of lawful command structures, involved in kidnappings, arms smuggling, and assassinations.

“We demand the immediate, unredacted release of the Moorhouse Report, a list of implicated individuals and steps toward prosecution. We demand the disclosure of SANDF-linked front companies and a plan to dismantle rogue operations within the military.

“The truth must be exposed and those responsible must face justice,” he said.

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Ramaphosa urges dialogue to end Israel-Iran conflict

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By BAKANG MOKOTO

23 Jun 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA), Cyril Ramaphosa said he has noted with a great deal of anxiety the entry by the United States of America (USA) into the Israel-Iran war. Ramaphosa said it was South Africa’s sincerest hope that US President, Donald Trump would use his influence and that of the US government to prevail on the parties to pursue a dialogue path in resolving their issues of dispute.

“South Africa calls on the United States, Israel, and Iran to give the United Nations the opportunity and space to lead on the peaceful resolution of the matters of dispute, including the inspection and verification of Iran’s status of uranium enrichment, as well as its broader nuclear capacity,” he said.

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Cope table new proposals to improve governance in municipalities  

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Picture: Cope supporters during rally/Generic

By AGISANANG SCUFF

23 June 2025- The Congress of the People (COPE) has unveiled a bold plan to fix South Africa’s failing local government system. COPE’s Policy Proposal for Reforming South Africa’s Local Government System tackles governance instability, service delivery failures, corruption and modern challenges like climate change and technology.

COPE’s acting national chairperson, Pakes Dikgetsi said key reforms are stable governance that require two-thirds majority for executive removals and allow flexible coalition formation. Dikgetsi said professional administration is also key with permanent, depoliticised Municipal Managers with NQF9 qualifications.

“To deliver better services, ward-based dashboards, AI-driven maintenance and equitable infrastructure focus will be essential. We must have direct election of mayors, fewer PR councillors and stronger ward committees.

“On the financial health, sustainable revenue, anti-corruption unit and NQF7-qualified CFOs will be imperative. Modern solutions will include integrating traditional leaders, mandate climate plans and boost digital tools,” he said.

Dikgetsi further said their plan consists of comprehensive, evidence-based, and citizen-focused. He added that the practical timeline should be from 2025–2031, with clear accountability.

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SASSA stringent measures to have negative impacts on beneficiaries  

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Picture: SASSA card for beneficiaries/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

23 June 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Social Development said it wants to address an issue that affects nearly half of the population, the conditions imposed by National Treasury (NT) on SASSA’s 2025/26 budget. The committee said it also wants to touch on the real-world impact these measures are having on the poor, the disabled, the elderly, and the vulnerable.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Bridget Masango said the NT has attached strict new conditions to the allocation of funds to SASSA. Masango said these include quarterly reporting on suspended, cancelled or reviewed grants, income verification, including database cross-checks with South African Revenue Service (SARS), NSFAS, UIF and Home Affairs as well as biometric authentication for beneficiaries flagged as suspicious.

She further said Treasury argues these steps are essential to combat fraud and ensure value for money and failure to comply by SASSA may result in grant funding being withheld, a deeply concerning possibility for millions who rely on this support. However, Masango added that, as the committee, they are deeply concerned about these conditions, not because they oppose fraud prevention, but because the current implementation is causing delays, confusion, and deep distress among beneficiaries.

“Delays in grant payments are leaving many in limbo, unable to buy food or pay for transport. The requirement for in-person verification is disproportionately disadvantageous to rural communities and elderly caregivers who simply cannot afford to travel.

“Transport costs can reach up to R150 or more per trip, an unaffordable amount for some beneficiaries.

We are being flooded with WhatsApp messages, SMSs, calls and emails from desperate individuals and organisations that represent communities, who are unable to verify themselves. People are being excluded from the system and all of this, as far as we can see, is in the name of saving money,” she said.

Masango said SASSA has defended the verification process as necessary. She said they argue it prevents fraud and ensures accurate targeting.

“They have reminded beneficiaries of their duty to report changes in financial circumstances. That may be valid, but it cannot happen without balancing accessibility with fairness. To ensure accountability, SASSA will now submit quarterly reports directly to the committee, in addition to NT.

“This will allow Parliament to play a proactive oversight role, especially after lessons learned during the card replacement crisis that took place recently. The committee acknowledges the R1.6 billion increase in the 2025/26 grant allocation, intended to fund above-inflation increases,” said Masango.

She said they also note SASSA’s intensifying efforts to fight fraud, such as the rollout of biometric systems, a new tender to assist with identity verification and digital upgrades, including office Wi-Fi, self-service kiosks, and action against fake SASSA websites. Masango said as the committee, they are calling for accessible alternatives for rural and remote communities such as mobile units, remote verification, and community outreach must be prioritised.

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EFF donates school shoes to disadvantaged learners at Pelongwe Primary School

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Picture: EFF leadership in North West donating schools/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

23 June 2025- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in North West said it is committed to social justice. This comes after the party donated school shoes to underprivileged learners at Pelongwe Primary School in Takaneng village, near Taung recently. The EFF Deputy Secretary in North West, Justice Dabampe said about 30 learners will benefit from this initiative.

He further said the school through Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign (QLTC) gave them the list. Dabampe added that they will return to the school next week to get confirmation of the list of learners who will benefit.  

“We did not take the pictures of learners as we believe that, we should not parade them more especially that this is a genuine course. We have today donated school shoes as part of ensuring that we contribute to the conducive environment of teaching and learning.

“We also did an oversight at Pelongwe Primary School and we identified some of the key challenges, which are not limited to the general collapse of infrastructure. The Grade R learners do not have furniture and a proper playground. Toilets are not working properly, some classrooms are in the verge of collapse,” he said.

Dabampe said the school is not a full service school, yet has a need to have such services. He said they will ensure that the North West Department of Education intervenes as the children cannot and will not be subjected to such fire conditions.

“Donating school shoes is crucial for enhancing children’s access to education. These will also boost their confidence, and promote a sense of dignity and belonging. The initiative addresses the practical need for proper footwear, protecting children from the elements and potential hazards while walking to school.

“Furthermore, we urge other role players to take part in these kinds of initiatives. School shoes are a vital part of the school uniform, and donating them can significantly impact a child’s self-esteem and confidence,” he said.

Meanwhile, the CEO of Adopt-a-School Foundation, Steven Lebere said: “Adopt-a-School Foundation is tackling the need of many school children for school shoes. School shoes are part of school uniform wear in South Africa.

“In partnership with local sneaker brand Bathu, Adopt-a-School is driving a school shoes donation campaign to restore dignity and ease the walk to school for learners. But Adopt-a-School isn’t taking this step alone. The organisation is calling for individual and corporate donations to make a difference.”

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Brace yourself for very cold weather

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

23 June 2025- The South African Weather Service (SAWS) said another intense cold front is expected to hit the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape and the Western Cape from Wednesday to Friday. SAWS said an intense cold front is expected to make landfall on 25 June 2025, over the south-western parts of South Africa, bringing a significant shift in weather conditions across the region. 

The SAWS spokesperson, Oupa Segalwe said the system is expected to result in impacts such as heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday. Sgalwe said these include wet and slippery roads that may result in dangerous driving conditions.

“Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures. • Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees. Cold to very cold conditions can be expected along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape.

“Gale force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights between 5,5 to 7,5 metres, along the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape, will lead to disruptions to fishing and port operations, an increased risk of vessels capsizing, accidents at sea, and hazardous shoreline conditions,” he said.

Segalwe further said coastal residents and beachgoers are urged to exercise caution. He added that as the system progresses eastwards, it will affect the Eastern Cape, a region already vulnerable to weather related impacts.

“The key concern is the strong damaging winds expected across most parts of the province on Thursday. Interior winds are expected to pick up and spread over the remainder of eastern provinces on Thursday and Friday, with daytime temperatures dropping to the cold category. 

“The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required,” said Segalwe.

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Company fined for failure to submit tax returns

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

23 June 2025- The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said it welcomes the imposition of a hefty fine by the Ventersdorp Magistrate’s Court on CJC Precast (Pty) Ltd, represented by its Director, John Christopher Conroy (60). CJC Precast faced 65 counts of contravening Section 234(d) of the Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011 – failure to submit tax returns.

The NPA regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said between February 2019 and June 2024, the company failed to submit both Value Added Tax (VAT) and Company Income Tax (CIT) returns. Gunya said this was despite multiple telephonic reminders from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) on 18 May 2022 and 16 August 2024, as well as written notices.

“After several court appearances, Conroy elected to pay an admission of guilt fine totalling R32 500 for failing to fulfil his tax obligations as the company’s Director. This matter forms part of the broader Honey Badger Project, a key initiative aimed at holding individuals and companies accountable for tax non-compliance,” he said.

Meanwhile, welcoming the outcome, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Advocate Dineo Mathule for her diligence in bringing the matter to a successful conclusion. She also acknowledged the collaborative effort of all role players involved in the case. Makhari said the NPA, through its Specialised Tax Unit, remains committed to ensuring accountability and reinforcing a culture of tax compliance under the Honey Badger Project.

“Criminal prosecution remains a key instrument in addressing wilful non-compliance with tax laws,” she said.

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Orlando Pirates appoints Moroccan coach

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Picture: Newly-appointed Orlando Pirates FC coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

23 June 2025- The Orlando Pirates Football Club said it is pleased to announce the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as the new Head Coach. Pirates said Ouaddou takes over the reins ahead of the new season, replacing Jose Riveiro at the helm following his decision to step down to join Al Ahly, after a successful three-year tenure.

“Born in Alnif, Morocco, the 46-year-old brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a tactician. A former Moroccan international, Ouaddou earned 68 caps for The Atlas Lions and enjoyed a distinguished playing career across several top European leagues.

“His deep understanding of the game, coupled with a strong leadership profile, positions him well to lead the Buccaneers into a new era. Ouaddou, who is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of the week, will be assisted by Mandla Ncikazi and Rayaan Jacobs, Helmi Gueldich and Tyron Damons,” said Pirates in a statement.

Pirates said pre-season preparations will officially kick off on June 27.

Mayfair-based club said as part of preparations for the upcoming campaign, it will embark on their third consecutive international pre-season tour to Marbella, Spain. Pirates said the training camp – set to run from July 8 to July 20, will see the team engage in high-level friendly matches against European opponents including Bolton Wanderers (England), Pafos FC (Cyprus), Las Palmas (Spain), and Granada (Spain).

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A probe after the death of a patient at Witrand Hospital   

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Picture: The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari visiting Witrand Hospital

By OBAKENG MAJE

23 June 2025- The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari today visited Witrand Hospital following reports circulating on social media regarding the alleged death of a long-term patient at the facility. Lehari was accompanied by the Interim Superintendent-General, Mosela Mokhutshwane-Kaudi, alongside other senior officials from the department.

He further said his visit formed part of the department’s ongoing Re Bona Ka Matlho oversight programme, which aims to proactively engage health facilities and respond swiftly to emerging issues of concern. Lehari added that Witrand Psychiatric Hospital is one of the province’s leading specialized institutions, providing care for individuals with intellectual disabilities, psychiatric conditions, and patients requiring physical medicine and rehabilitation services.

“Given the hospital’s significance, the allegations shared on social media warranted immediate attention and verification. During the visit, we engaged the hospital’s management team to gather preliminary information.

“It was confirmed that the matter has already been referred to law enforcement authorities and is currently under active investigation. In addition to this, we directed the establishment of an internal investigation team composed of senior departmental officials,” he said.

Lehari said the team, consisting of the Provincial Head of Clinical Services, Legal Experts and experienced Health Service Managers, will thoroughly investigate the allegations and provide a comprehensive report within two weeks. He said as a department, they take these allegations with the utmost seriousness.

“The safety and dignity of patients in our care are non-negotiable. While we await the outcome of the police investigation, we are conducting our own internal inquiry to ensure that the facts are established and that any necessary actions are taken swiftly and responsibly.

“The department is committed to transparency, accountability, upholding the rights and dignity of all patients in its care. The department will fully cooperate with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and any other relevant authorities in order to support a complete and conclusive investigation,” said Lehari.

He said his department expresses its deepest concern over the matter and assures the public that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of both internal and external investigations.

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