Picture: Some of athletes who participated in provincial School Sports Championships/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
1 April 2025- The young athletes who performed well during the Provincial School Sports Championships, will represent the North West province during the 2025 Autumn National School Sports Championships that will take place in Bloemfontein from 2 to 8 April 2025. Team North West is going to the National Championships with the support of the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR).
The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said they will be sending them off on the April 2 at Rio Hotel in Klerksdorp at 9am. Sebolecwe said the National Championships will include swimming, track and field activities with Learners with Special Education Needs (LSEN) and mainstream schools -Primary and Secondary Athletes.
“Events contested will be Javelin, Short Put, High Jump, Long Jump, Triple Jump, Discuss and swimming with participation by both mainstream and LSEN. The province will be well-represented with as Athletics Mainstream boys will have 27 representatives from Dr Kenneth Kaunda, 19 from Bojanala, 8 from Ngaka Modiri Molema and 6 from Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati.
“The province will be represented by 21 girls from Dr Kenneth Kaunda, 9 from Bojanala, 1 from Ngaka Modiri Molema and 1 from Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati on the Athletics Mainstream girls,” he said.
Sebolecwe further said 16 boys from Dr Kenneth Kaunda, 5 from Bojanala and 1 from Ngaka Modiri Molema, will represent the province on Athletics LSEN Boys. He added that 13 girls from Dr Kenneth Kaunda, 5 from Bojanala and 1 from Ngaka Modiri Molema will represent the province on Athletics LSEN Girls.
“In Swimming Female category, 8 girls from Dr Kenneth Kaunda and 9 from Bojanala will represent the province, while in Swimming Male category, 14 boys from Dr Kenneth Kaunda, 15 from Bojanala and 2 from Ngaka Modiri Molema, will represent the province,” said Sebolecwe.
1 April 2025- The South African Football’s (SAFA) Acting Head of Women’s Football, Dawn Lubisi, has launched the highly anticipated Women’s Football Strategy. Lubisi was appointed to the position on 1 November 2024, and has spent the past few months putting the finishing touches to a document that has been years in the making.
SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao said the Women’s Football Strategy is a guiding document that will supervise the continued growth of women’s football in South Africa from grassroots to elite. Monyepao said this include local to international, while also ensuring a defined pathway that will see the professionalization of women’s football and create sustainable programs.
“The aim of the strategy is to see the supervised and international growth of Women’s Football at all levels while also unlocking the high-performance culture of the national teams and installing the necessary structures to see them succeed beyond continental level.
“The Women’s Football Strategy was developed from October 2022 – May 2023 and further revised in late 2024. Various stakeholders, including two FIFA consultants, came together to identify the priority areas and framed the goals and actions that would eventually lay the foundation for the Women’s Strategy,” she said.
Monyepao further said the strategy aims to create a sustainable platform from grassroots to professional level, while also continuously empowering girls and women through football. She added that, the strategy is only the beginning.
“I am both honoured and privileged as a former Banyana Banyana player and manager to have been part of the journey in creating the first-ever SAFA Women’s Football Strategy, from start to finish.
“It has always been our dream to collaboratively develop such a document — a guiding framework for current and future leaders in women’s football to reference, enabling us all to elevate women’s football in South Africa to its full potential,” said Monyepao.
Meanwhile, Lubisi said: “We can only work to properly execute what we have set out to do and hope the fruit yield true. This is a very exciting time. Personally, I am grateful to be a part of this beautiful history we will be writing together.
“I am looking forward to this chapter and wish for it to be nothing but successful.”
Picture: The SASSA officials engaging with beneficiaries at Taung Mall/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
1 April 2025- It is alleged that only 43% of grant beneficiaries in the North West have transitioned to the new Postbank black cards. This was revealed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Hendriëtte van Huyssteen, who is also a DA shadow spokesperson on the North West Department of Social Development.
Huyssteen said they call on the North West Department of Social Development to work with Postbank to immediately increase service points and deploy mobile units to reach rural beneficiaries. She further said South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), has confirmed that as of mid-March 2025, only 43% of grant recipients in the North West had successfully made the switch, leaving thousands of vulnerable South Africans uncertain about their financial security.
“The North West has been particularly affected, with only 11 designated service points across vast rural areas. For residents in villages like Tshidilamolomo, Supingstad and Bray, the distances required to transition to the new card—ranging from 103km to a staggering 295km—are simply unmanageable for the elderly, disabled and financially vulnerable.
“The transition that was intended to enhance security, has instead highlighted a failure in planning and service delivery. Despite multiple deadline extensions, the final cut-off on 20 March 2025, had been repeatedly presented as a hard deadline that could not be extended under any circumstances,” said Huyssteen.
She further said a DA Member of the Provincial Parliament (MPP) in the Western Cape and spokesperson on Social Development, Wendy Kaizer-Philander, confirmed that just two weeks before the cut-off, Postbank officials went so far as to inform the Western Cape Standing Committee on Social Development that beneficiaries should “throw away their SASSA gold cards”, as they will be useless after the deadline.
Huyssteen added that, however, SASSA has now confirmed that the deadline for transitioning to the Postbank black card has been extended yet again until 30 May 2025, providing beneficiaries with additional time to make the switch.
“This is an unacceptable failure in governance. The DA has long championed competent and people-focused service delivery, ensuring that no South African is left behind.
“In the Western Cape, where the DA governs, the provincial government worked alongside Postbank and local authorities to mobilise communities and assist grant recipients efficiently,” she said.
Huyssteen said this proactive governance stands in stark contrast to the mismanagement witnessed here in North West. She said in the meantime, grant recipients who still have the gold cards must not delay.
“They have two options like visiting their nearest service point for transition to the new Postbank black card or they can open a bank account with another financial institution and visit a SASSA branch with a bank confirmation letter to update their banking details.
“The DA in North West will continue to hold the government accountable and fight for better service delivery to protect the rights and dignity of our province’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Huyssteen.
Meanwhile, SASSA regional officials in the North West engaged with beneficiaries at Taung Mall last week. They said their office was promoting SASSA services and assisting with payment methods.
“Different financial institutions assisted with new bank accounts and bank statements, while the Customer Care Unit assisted with all Covid-19 SRD Grant related enquiries.”
31 March 2025- A man (38) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court, for murder. This comes after the accused, Trevor Nolan, who is a street dweller, brutal murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Monica Matrose (28).
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana said Nolan and Matrose, were homeless and frequently staying at the corner of Park and Wessels Streets in Sunnyside. Mahanjana said on the night of 9 December 2023, at approximately 22:00, the couple had an argument that escalated into violence.
“Nolan stabbed Matrose multiple times in the neck and chest with a pair of scissors before fleeing the scene. Despite her injuries, Matrose managed to crawl to another street dweller and inform him of the attack. Tragically, her body was discovered at the same location in the early hours of the following morning.
“Nolan was arrested two days later, on 11 December 2023, and has remained in custody since. During his court appearance, Nolan pleaded guilty, but sought a lesser sentence, arguing that he needed to care for his three other children. However, the state prosecutor, Mpho Monyane, urged the court to impose the maximum sentence, highlighting the brutal nature of the crime and the fact that Matrose was pregnant with Nolan’s child at the time.
“Monyane also brought to the attention of the court Nolan’s previous convictions of serious crimes, which include housebreaking and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Additionally, the prosecutor emphasized the high prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in the jurisdiction,” she said.
Mahanjana said the NPA welcomes the sentence, reaffirming its commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide. She said Magistrate Mthimunye concurred with the prosecution, stating that Nolan had failed to protect the mother of his unborn child and that his other children were already under the care of social workers.
“Mthimunye found no substantial and compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence, ruling that life imprisonment was appropriate,” said Mahanjana.
Picture: Minister of Water and Sanitation, Penny Majodina/Google
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
31 March 2025- The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) said it values opportunities for intergovernmental dialogue and welcomed the recent National Water and Sanitation Indaba held on 27 and 28 March 2025. The Indaba provided a platform to confront the country’s deepening water challenges and reaffirm the importance of collaborative governance.
SALGA spokesperson, Tebogo Mosala said they commend the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa and his Deputy, Paul Mashatile, for their thoughtful and measured contributions, which reflected a clear understanding of the water sector’s complexity and the urgent need for aligned and cooperative action across all spheres of government. Mosala said their recognition of the need for inclusive engagement and sustainable solutions set the tone for meaningful discourse.
She further said, however, SALGA must express serious concern regarding statements made by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Penny Majodina, during the proceedings. Mosala added that, despite previous commitments, including one made by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in August 2024, to establish an inclusive intergovernmental structure that formally acknowledges the role of local government in the water sector, no tangible progress has been made.
“This continued delay raises legitimate questions about the department’s willingness to uphold the spirit of cooperative governance as enshrined in the constitution. At the Indaba, SALGA restated a fundamental constitutional truth. A local government is not a subordinate entity, but an equal and autonomous sphere of government.
“Disappointingly, Majodina’s response to this assertion dismissed both its legal basis and practical importance. Particularly troubling was the outright rejection of SALGA’s call to avoid criminalising municipalities and instead, pursue joint solutions that address systemic service delivery challenges,” she said.
Mosala said Majodina’s endorsement of punitive legal action against municipalities not only undermines collaborative problem-solving, but also threatens to drain public resources, delay service delivery and discourage skilled professionals from entering the local government sector. She said of even greater concern was the Majodina’s reported remark, who allegedly said if it means violating the constitution, let them violate the constitution to give the people water.
“Such a statement, made by a Cabinet Minister, is deeply alarming and contradicts the core principles of constitutional democracy. The absence of a retraction or clarification reflects a disregard for the rule of law and undermines public confidence in government institutions.
“If genuine concerns exist about constitutional limitations, the appropriate course of action is legislative reform, not unconstitutional conduct. SALGA also used the Indaba to highlight ongoing dysfunction in Water Boards, whose operational inefficiencies and unilateral tariff setting continue to erode municipal sustainability,” said Mosala.
She said water boards often operate with limited oversight, yet their decisions have direct financial and reputational consequences for municipalities, which are ultimately held accountable by the public. Mosala said the imposition of above-inflation bulk water tariffs, without due consultation, has exacerbated household debt and deepened municipal financial distress an untenable situation for both governance and service delivery.
“SALGA calls on the Minister to reconsider and retract statements that are inconsistent with the values and obligations of our constitutional democracy. Upholding the Constitution, respecting intergovernmental partnerships and strengthening institutional accountability are not optional, they are non-negotiable foundations for sustainable water governance.
“We remain committed to being a constructive partner in addressing South Africa’s water and sanitation challenges. However, for progress to be made, we must work in good faith, within the law, and with mutual respect across all spheres of government,” she said.
31 March 2025- A 27-YEAR-OLD Zimbabwean national briefly appeared in the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court today, facing multiple charges, including six counts of murder for five men and one woman, five counts of attempted murder for four men and one woman, and two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances. It is alleged that on 22 March 2025, at approximately 3am, in the Marry Me Informal Settlement in Soshanguve, a group of 12 patrollers were sitting on the street when they were approached by five unknown men, one of whom was armed.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said the men allegedly opened fire, shooting one patroller and assaulting others with rocks and wooden poles before setting them on fire. Mahanjana said four patrollers died at the scene, while others were transported to the hospital, where two more succumbed to their injuries.
“Following an intensive police investigation, the accused was arrested on 24 March 2025, in an unrelated case, where he was charged with possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of ammunition, and being in the country illegally.
“While in custody, he was identified during an ID parade and subsequently charged with the murders, attempted murders, and robberies. The case has been postponed to 1 April 2025, to be joined with the existing matter,” she said.
31 March 2025- The Northern Cape SAPS Provincial Crime Investigation Services (CIS) said a business robbery investigation that took place at a private mortuary in Kuruman on 17 March 2025, at approximately 1:30am, is still underway. The police said investigations indicate that unknown men entered a guard room at the funeral home and assaulted, tied up and blind folded the security guard.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the suspects allegedly fled with three corpses, including two men and a ten-day-old baby girl. Kock said to date, there have been no arrests and the missing corpses not recovered yet.
“The investigating team are working tirelessly and following all leads regarding the case. Anyone with information that can assist the police in the apprehension and arrests of the perpetrators can contact Lieutenant Colonel Doggy Magugu on 082 469 0578 or contact the SAPS crime stop number 08600 10111 or alternatively utilize the Mysaps App.
“All information will be treated confidentially,” he said.
31 March 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy commended the work done by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy on the approval of the South African Renewable Energy Master Plan, which addresses the pressing challenges related to energy supply. The approved plan represents a significant collaborative effort, involving industry stakeholders, civil society and government entities over the past five years.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy, Nonkosi Mvana said the plan aims to not only tackle immediate energy needs, but also promote long-term sustainable growth through the development of renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar and battery storage, while also incorporating emerging technologies, including green hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels.
Mvana said during the presentation, committee members commended the department for the extensive work undertaken in developing the master plan.
“Members recognised the comprehensive approach taken and the commitment shown to addressing the multifaceted challenges in South Africa’s energy landscape.
“The committee expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts that have brought together various stakeholders, ensuring that the plan reflects a broad spectrum of perspectives and expertise,” she said.
Mvana further said the committee members raised pertinent questions about the plan’s implementation and enquired about measures to ensure that local businesses and communities’ benefit from renewable energy projects, emphasising the importance of job creation and skills transfer. She added that, the members questioned the department’s strategy for addressing regulatory barriers that may hinder the growth of rooftop solar installations, noting the need for streamlined processes to encourage residential participation in renewable energy.
“In response, the department highlighted that a key component of the master plan is to establish partnerships with local businesses, ensuring that they are included in the supply chains for renewable energy projects.
“The department said it is committed to implementing targeted training programmes that will equip local communities with the necessary skills to participate actively in the renewable energy sector,” said Mvana.
She said regarding regulatory barriers, the department acknowledged the challenges posed by the current registration processes and assured the committee that they are exploring legislative reforms aimed at simplifying these requirements to facilitate broader adoption of rooftop solar. Mvana said in addition, members of the committee sought clarity on the department’s approach to environmental sustainability within the master plan.
“The committee expressed concerns about the lifecycle management of renewable energy technologies, specifically regarding the decommissioning and recycling of solar panels and batteries.
“Questions were raised about the strategies in place to ensure that the shift toward renewable energy does not inadvertently lead to new environmental issues,” she said.
Mvana said the department responded by highlighting its commitment to a circular economy model, which includes comprehensive plans for the recycling and decommissioning of renewable energy technologies. She said the department said it is collaborating with industry experts to develop best practices for managing end-of-life products, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into every stage of the renewable energy value chain.
“Furthermore, the department said it is actively researching innovative recycling technologies that will minimise waste and maximise resource recovery. The committee welcomed the department’s initiative to actively engage with various stakeholders, including the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the Industrial Development Corporation, to leverage climate funding and support the development of a robust renewable energy industry,” said Mvana.
31 March 2025- In light of the recent and tragic incident involving a child who was allegedly raped at a school in Matatiele, the Chairperson of the Multi-Party Women’s Caucus, Lindelwa Dunjwa, said she is obligated to address this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves.
Dunjwa said the incident is not just a crime against an innocent child, but it is a stark reflection of the broader issues of Gender-Based Violence and systemic failures in protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
She further said it is disturbing to witness the impact of such violence on children, who should feel safe and secure in their educational environments. Dunjwa added that schools are meant to be places of learning, growth and safety, yet this incident reveals a tragic breach of that trust.
“I want to express my heartfelt sympathy to the affected child and her family. The mother’s courageous decision to share her experience on a local community radio station highlights the need for transparency and accountability from the authorities tasked with ensuring the safety and welfare of our children.
“I am appalled to hear about the unfair treatment and lack of care that the family has experienced from the Department of Education and law enforcement agencies. This is not an isolated incident, but it is part of a systemic failure that demands immediate attention and reform,” she said.
Dunjwa said the committee stresses that they must foster a culture, where victims are heard, supported and treated with the dignity they deserve. She said as a society, they must acknowledge the intersectionality of GBV, especially as it pertains to women and children.
“The committee is committed to advocating for comprehensive policies that address these issues, ensuring that all children, particularly girls and those with disabilities, are protected from violence and exploitation.
“We must also advocate for resources that empower schools to implement effective safety measures and support services for victims. Furthermore, the committee calls upon the government to engage with community leaders, educators and parents to develop preventive measures that can be implemented in schools across the nation,” she said.
Dunjwa said these measures should include training for teachers and staff on recognising and responding to signs of abuse, creating safe reporting mechanisms and ensuring that mental-health support is readily available for victims and their families. She said this incident should serve as a wake-up call for all of them.
“It is a reminder that we cannot afford to be complacent in our fight against GBV and the systemic issues that enable it. We must work together – government, civil society and communities – to ensure that every child can attend school without fear of violence or discrimination.
“The boy child cannot be left outside of the discussion. It is crucial to stress the importance of educating boys and young men about respect, consent and healthy relationships,” said Dunjwa.
She said education plays a pivotal role in shaping attitudes and behaviours and they must actively engage boys in conversations that challenge harmful stereotypes and norms that perpetuate violence. Dunjwa said by instilling values of empathy and equality from a young age, they can empower boys to become advocates for change within their communities.
“Creating a culture of accountability and respect among young men is essential in the fight against GBV and femicide, ensuring that future generations contribute to a society, where all individuals can live free from fear and violence,” she said.
Picture: The police divers retrieved the body of a toddler in a canal/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
31 March 2025- The body of a boy (3) was retrieved by Upington Search and Rescue Diving Unit SAPS in Kakamas today. This comes after a toddler allegedly drowned in a canal in Alheit on 30 March 2025, after he was last seen playing around the area.
The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said: “An inquest docket is registered for further investigation.”
The Guardian 