SAFA partners with PT SportSuite to usher in a new era of digital innovation in African football

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: SAFA House in Nasrec, Johannesburg

By OBAKENG MAJE

9 May 2025 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) and PT SportSuite are proud to announce a landmark digital partnership that marks a bold step forward in the digital acceleration of South African and continental football. PT SportSuite will serve as SAFA’s digital platform partner, delivering brand new web and media workflow platforms that will help deliver memorable fan-centric experiences across SAFA’s digital touchpoints.

SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao said this partnership represents more than just technology deployment – it’s the start of a long-term vision to digitally transform the South African football landscape, with SAFA becoming the first African national football body to embrace PT SportSuite’s Tier 1 digital media and fan engagement ecosystem. Monyepao said PT’s mission has always been to break down digital barriers for sports organisations of all sizes.

“The partnership with SAFA is a powerful statement of intent – aligning the ambitions of a forward-thinking national football association with a proven technology platform built to support innovation, monetisation and fan engagement at scale.

“At the heart of this collaboration is BiblioDAM – PT SportSuite’s AI-powered media workflow platform, which will serve as the central nervous system for SAFA’s media operations,” she said.

Monyepao further said BiblioDAM will enable the seamless collection, tagging, organisation and publishing of rich media content across all levels of South African football – ensuring SAFA can unlock the full value of its media assets, with full control and visibility. She added that, with automated media workflows, AI-powered player recognition, and a centralized cloud media environment, BiblioDAM will empower SAFA to streamline internal workflows, reduce turnaround times, and make better use of its media to tell compelling stories – from grassroots to the global stage.

“Through this partnership, PT and SAFA will co-develop a fully integrated SAFA digital ecosystem – combining the power of cloud technology, intelligent media workflows and fan-facing web and app platforms to deliver a scalable and future-ready digital foundation.

“The vision is clear: to create a unified digital fan experience that brings together all levels of the South African football pyramid – from national squads, leagues, clubs and sponsors to youth development and regional tournaments,” said Monyepao.

She said the SAFA digital ecosystem will also open new avenues for monetisation through commercial sponsorship activations, web and video advertising, and centralised media rights management – laying the foundation for a more sustainable and innovative model for African football. Monyepao said this is an exciting period for us at SAFA as they finalise the media and content side of their digital evolution.

“Now we look forward to having a public and fan-facing digital platform with our daily news, all national teams, all competitions, coach education and more – appropriately elevated in our brand-new website.

“PT’s AI-powered BiblioDAM will help better commercialise SAFA’s media rights and create a better relationship with fans through enhanced content deployment,” she said.

Monyepao said they are excited to work with a global entity like PT SportSuite with its roots in Mzansi as they perform such services for the likes of Six Nations Rugby, USA’s Major League Rugby and more to take them to the next level of media management in the content era.

Meanwhile, the PT SportSuite CEO, Rich Cheary: “We are energised to join forces with SAFA in a partnership that will redefine South African football’s digital landscape. At PT SportSuite, we craft innovative digital ecosystems that ignite fan engagement, empower communities, include sponsors and fuel sustainable growth.

“This collaboration is a bold step to ultimately transforming the South African fan experience and inspiring a digital renaissance in African football with flair and vision.”

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A woman who allegedly tried to kill her own daughter denied bail

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 May 2025- A woman (47) from Majemantsho village, near Mahikeng, briefly appeared in the Molopo Magistrate’s Court on charges of attempted murder and child abuse involving her daughter (14). It is alleged that in the early hours of 22 April 2025, the mother arrived home and asked the child to accompany her to an outside bedroom.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the North West, Sivenathi Gunya, she then allegedly poured acidic liquid on the child’s face. Gunya said the court heard that after committing the act, the mother transported the child to a local hospital.

“She was subsequently arrested and has remained in custody since then. During her bail application, the accused submitted an affidavit claiming she had no previous convictions, no outstanding warrants of arrest, and would not interfere with the complainant.

“However, the state opposed bail, submitting an affidavit from the Investigating Officer, which detailed prior incidents where the accused had allegedly threatened the victim’s life,” he said.

Gunya further said the prosecution argued that releasing the accused on bail would endanger the safety of the child, given that she is the biological mother and the primary alleged perpetrator. He added that, the state prosecutor also emphasised the trauma and fear the child experienced during the incident, urging the court to prioritise the victim’s protection.

“The court concurred with the state and ruled that the accused is not a suitable candidate for bail. Bail was denied and the matter was postponed to 1 July 2025, for further investigations,” said Gunya.

Meanwhile, the identity of the accused is being withheld to protect the identity of the minor victim.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A man nabbed for allegedly killing his mother, brother 

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

9 May 2025- A man (25) briefly appeared in Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court facing two counts of murder. It is alleged that the accused, Brazea Daniel Mogudi, allegedly killing his mother, Dikeledi Mogudi (54) and his brother, Ntathile Mogudi (16).

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana, it is alleged that on 4 May 2025, at approximately pm, in Henley on Klip, a neighbour heard a commotion coming from the Mogudi residence. Mahanjana said when the neighbour went outside to investigate, he saw the accused on top of his younger brother, who was lying on the ground.

“The accused’s mother was nearby, screaming for help and shouting, “He is killing him!” The neighbour called out to the community for assistance. Although members of the community responded, they were unable to enter the property as the gate was locked.

“By the time help arrived, the accused had already fled the scene. The police, Community Policing Forum (CPF) and emergency services were called to the scene, however, both victims were declared dead on arrival,” she said.

Mahanajana further said that, shortly after the incident, the accused allegedly reported himself to the Meyerton Police Station, where he was subsequently arrested. She added that the matter has been postponed to 12 May 2025, for the accused to consult with his attorney.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

SA mourns the deaths of a journalist, Aserie Ndlovu and his partner

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The late journalist, Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli

By REGINALD KANYANE

9 May 2025- The heartfelt condolences messages continue to pour in to the family of slain journalist, Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli. This comes after a gruesome discovery of their decomposed bodies in a thicket, outside Rust De Winter in Limpopo, nearly 72km from where they were last seen three months ago.

The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong said on behalf of the Presidency and Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), they express their deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the late journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhluli. Morolong said according to information provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the police have discovered two lifeless bodies believed to be that of Ndlovu and Mdhluli.

“The couple has been missing since 18 February 2025.

Their discovery is the result of a lengthy and thorough investigation by a multi-disciplinary team of law enforcement agencies.

“This effort has led to the arrest of four suspects, who are currently in police custody. We commend the SAPS, and all agencies involved for their dedication. Government condemns this brutal and senseless act of violence,” he said.

 Morolong further said, on behalf of the Presidency and the GCIS, they condemn this senseless, barbaric and brute act of violence. He added that Ndlovu served the public through his work in the media sector, contributing meaningfully to democracy by informing and educating citizens.

“The loss of both Ndlovu and Mdhluli is a tragedy that highlights the need to continue strengthening efforts to combat violent crime. As the Presidency and GCIS, we extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims,” said Morolong.

He said the government reaffirms its commitment to the safety of all citizens and the protection of media practitioners, who play a vital role in upholding transparency, accountability, and democratic values. Morolong said on 4 May 2025, he met with the family of the late Ndlovu to offer his support and solidarity.

“I will soon pay a similar visit to Capital Live FM in Mamelodi, the station Ndlovu founded, to share words of comfort with the staff and honour his legacy,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a joint statement, the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) and the National Press Club (NPC) have expressed shock, disbelief and sadness over the deaths of renowned media practitioner, Ndlovu and his partner, Mdhluli.

The Chairperson of the African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF), Elijah Mhlanga said the couple’s remains were discovered on Thursday morning at an advanced stage of decomposition. Mhlanga said the forensic team have positively identified the remains and confirmed that Ndlovu and Mdhluli were murdered and dumped in a veld in the Kwa Mhlanga area.

“The media fraternity across South Africa has, for the past two and half months, laboured with the agony of not knowing where the couple had gone. We joined hands and the chorus of our voices in calling for communities and law enforcement agencies to find the couple.

“Following the formation of the task team, more resources were allocated, leading to a breakthrough in the case. This resulted in the arrest of five suspects, three of them appeared in court on Wednesday,” he said.

Mhlanga said he is terribly sad. He said they held out hope that despite the number of days that the couple had gone missing, they would still be found alive.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the families of our brother and sister,” said Mhlanga.

The acting Chairperson of the NPC, Antoinette Slabbert said they have undertaken to continue supporting the family during this difficult time, including attendance of the court cases of all the suspects.

“We are confident in the work of the authorities, that they will use all the available resources to bring to book everyone that was involved in the killing of our colleague and his partner.

“We will be in court on Friday where the media application for access to cover the media will be heard. The application was brought by the AMCF and NPC on behalf of the media houses,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Maema rejoins SA camp as Ntseki welcomes several reinforcements ahead of Malawi clash

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Bafana Bafana interim coach, Molefi Ntseki

By OBAKENG MAJE

9 May 2025 – South Africa has received crucial reinforcements ahead of their African Nations Championship (CHAN) second leg qualifier against Malawi at Loftus Stadium on Sunday. Coach Molefi Ntseki was a happier man at training on Thursday afternoon as he had Neo Maema, Ndumulelo Maphangule, Victor Letsoalo, Siyanda Msani, Simon Ramabu and Kamogelo Sebelebele in full swing.

Ntseki missed the services of these players in the first leg a few days ago, in a game that Malawi won 1-0 at home in Lilongwe. The South Africans played a tough training match against Motsepe Foundation Championship side Casric Stars at Loftus on Thursday, and Ntseki said he was happy to see these players in camp in Pretoria this week.

“I think the first one was us playing the game we played in Malawi and the plan was to get a goal and not to concede. Unfortunately, we struggled with the game management.

“Obviously, when you have players that are not playing regularly in their teams and some of them without teams, we ended up conceding that odd goal in the last three minutes of the game. But that did not make us feel bad about the team. We came out of that game with the best lessons that we needed to take into the next game,” he said.

Ntseki further said coming back to South Africa, they made requests to the clubs to release players, especially clubs that are not playing this weekend. He added that they are aware that Chippa played Sundowns, Pirates played Golden Arrows, and then there is also the Nedbank Cup final this coming weekend.

“I was very happy when the clubs availed their players, and he now has a stronger and more balanced team ahead of Sunday’s clash. The teams responded very positively because they ended up sending six of the players that we needed in camp,”said Ntseki.

Meanwhile, tickets are available at Ticketpro and other participating outlets. Ticketpro – South Africa vs Malawi – 11 May 2025.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Seven undocumented foreigners nabbed

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Seven illegal foreigners nabbed/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

8 May 2025- The fight against the eradication of undocumented persons compels the police through Operation Vala Umgodi to utilise all measures to fight the scourge. The multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team detained seven undocumented foreigners aged between 20 and 50, at a vehicle check point (VCP), near the Ikapa mine in Kimberley on Tuesday.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said suspects were detained in order to be processed and verified by the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services officials before being formally charged and presented to Court for deportation. Sam said a farmer (27), was warned to appear in court to answer on allegations of contravening the immigration statutes for employing illegal immigrants with an option of paying an admission of guilt fine of R17 500.

“The police are pleading with the public to respect and conform to the prevailing immigration laws and regulations, as it is a crime to employ and or harbour illegal immigrants,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

The police are looking for a stolen trailer

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: A stolen trailer/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 May 2025- The Upington Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU) is investigating the theft of a white franic trailer that was reportedly stolen in Postmasburg between 28 until 29 April 2025. The trailer is a 2015 model with registration number, CML 598 NC.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said, anyone with information that can aid the police in tracing the stolen trailer and possible  apprehension of the suspect(s) is urged to contact the investigating officer,  Detective Sergeant John Manzana of Upington Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit on 054-337-3126, or on 076-013-3218, or alternatively call SAPS Crime Stop Number on 08600 10111 or report via MySAPS App.

“All information received will be treated confidentially,” said Shemane.

taungadailynews@gmail.com

DA honours World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

8 May 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, they honour the selfless NGOs, civil society groups and volunteers who form the heartbeat of humanitarian response across the Western Cape. The DA said these are the first responders in times of disaster, the steady hands delivering food in winter and the compassionate presence for victims of violence and displacement.

The DA spokesperson on Social Development in Western Cape, Wendy Kaizer-Philander, who is Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), said they bring shelter, support and hope. Kaizer-Philander said they are indispensable to the resilience of the communities.

“The DA-led Western Cape Government is proud to stand alongside them, not just in recognition, but in meaningful partnership. Over the past five years, the Department of Social Development has extended practical support to over 2 700 organisations through the NPO Help Desk and Institutional Capacity Building Programme.

“Collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme is further strengthening the capacity and sustainability of this vital sector. In 2024 alone, an allocation of an additional R3 million to boost emergency response efforts. Last year, almost 33,000 individuals accessed psychosocial support and over 19 500 families benefited from our Family Preservation Programme,” she said.

Kaizer-Philander further said these are not just statistics. She added that they represent lives transformed through cooperation, compassion and community spirit.

“To every volunteer, organisation, and leader working at the grassroots: we see you, we thank you, and we honour your service. You are the lifeblood of a just and caring society. Together, government and civil society working in lockstep, we are stronger,” said Kaizer-Philander.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Be wary of scammers targeting service providers

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

8 May 2025- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development have been alerted to fraudulent activities involving individuals impersonating departmental officials and targeting service providers who previously submitted bids for the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES), specifically for shade nets and cattle feed. The department said these fraudsters have been using the numbers 071 287 2164 (Mr Khumalo) and 076 745 9884 (Mr Modiba) to falsely identify themselves as department officials.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said they are demanding R3000 from service providers, claiming that the payment is required to secure PES-related orders. Setlhako said this is a deliberate and unlawful scam.

“The PES Phase 3 programme concluded in the previous financial year and no ongoing procurement processes are associated with it. The department does not request, nor accept, any form of payment in exchange for awarding contracts or tenders. Any such request is fraudulent and must be treated as a criminal act.

“We strongly urge service providers not to engage with these individuals, not to transfer any funds, and to report any suspicious communication immediately to the Department or the South African Police Service. We commend those service providers who acted responsibly by reporting these fraudulent attempts and verifying the legitimacy of these claims,” she said.

Setlhako further said their vigilance plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of public programmes and protecting businesses from exploitation. She added that the department remains committed to ensuring fair, transparent and ethical procurement practices.

“We are working closely with the relevant authorities to identify and hold accountable those responsible for this scam,” said Setlhako.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

MRM: “Naked strip searches of women miners abhorrent and dehumanising”

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The miners underground/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

8 May 2025- The Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in North West on Tuesday condemned the alleged naked strip searches of women miners by security guards at Kopanong Gold Mine, near Klerksdorp describing them as abhorrent, dehumanizing and racist. The MRM Provincial Interim Committee Convenor, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele said they are concerned that worst atrocities in the workplace that undermine equality, dignity and human rights are still being perpetuated against black women workers who have had to bear the brunt of decades of inequality, unfair discrimination, exploitation and abuse particularly in male dominated industries like mining.

Kgwele said it is worrying that some mining companies are instead improving the safety of women in the workplace subjecting them to slave and apartheid era inspections of their private parts for stolen gold particles instead of employing modern search technologies that respect workers’ rights and human dignity.

“The harsh as well as hostile working conditions that women miners experience underground require a more supportive security environment and employment practices that guarantees their well-being and dignity when they resurface. We call on the Departments of Employment & Labour, as well as Mineral and Petroleum Resources and the South African Human Rights Commission to investigate the incidents to ensure that such barbaric practices are rooted out and those involved held accountable.     

“The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) must in promoting a human rights culture within the security industry also take punitive measures if the allegations are proven to be correct,” he emphasised.

Kgwele further said it is disgraceful that women miners are subjected to searches that wife of mine bosses cannot be comfortable with. He added that, the Charter of Positive Values championed by MRM is committed to the promotion of the spirit of Ubuntu and opposes any form of physical, emotional, and or psychological abuse or ill-treatment of another human being.

“This also includes working for the physical security and protection of all people as well fighting against the physical and emotional harassment of women that result in rape and other forms of abuse.

“MRM will strengthen partnership with trade unions within the sector and undertake Workers Dialogues to entrench workers’ rights to address exploitation and abuses particularly those of women in mining and the private security industry,” said Kgwele.    

taungdailynews@gmail.com