New research offers hope in Africa’s malaria crisis

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By PHENYO MOKGOTHU

13 March 2025- A new weapon in the battle against malaria is emerging, and this time not from a laboratory, but rather driven by machine learning.

Researchers at the North-West University (NWU) have leveraged artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate the search for life-saving drugs, a breakthrough that could shift the tide against this deadly disease.

The researchers have focused on a specific protein that is essential for the survival of the malaria parasite. By using machine learning, they have been able to screen thousands of potential compounds that could block this protein and prevent the parasite from thriving. This approach significantly speeds up the drug discovery process compared to traditional methods.

Malaria continues to be a major health crisis, particularly in Africa, where most cases and deaths occur.

Existing treatments are becoming less effective as the malaria parasite becomes resistant to commonly used drugs.

“We need to stay ahead of the parasite by continuously developing innovative treatments,” says Dr Fortunate Mokoena from the subject group Biochemistry and one of the lead researchers.

Machine learning vs malaria

Dr Mokoena emphasises the potential impact of their work. “By using AI and machine learning, we were able to analyse a vast number of compounds in a fraction of the time it would take using conventional approaches. This allows us to identify promising drug candidates much faster.”

The study identified several compounds that show strong potential in targeting the malaria parasite. “One compound, called FTN-T5, emerged as a promising candidate. In laboratory tests, FTN-T5 demonstrated its ability to kill the malaria parasite while remaining safe for human cells. However, further optimisation, including pre-clinical trials, is necessary before it can be developed into an approved treatment,” adds Dr Mokoena.

The use of artificial intelligence in drug discovery marks a significant shift in how scientists approach finding treatments for diseases such as malaria. Traditional drug development can take years, but AI-driven methods can streamline the process, identifying viable compounds more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Despite the progress, challenges remain. The researchers stress that additional funding and collaboration with pharmaceutical companies will be crucial in advancing these findings toward real-world applications. Clinical trials, regulatory approvals and large-scale manufacturing are still hurdles that must be overcome before a new malaria treatment reaches patients.

“These findings provide a strong starting point for developing new malaria drugs,” says Dr Mokoena. “Our goal is to create medicines that are not only effective but also have a lower risk of resistance. Our interest is to develop affordable medicines for neglected African populations.”

The research highlights how technology is transforming medicine, offering a glimpse into the future of drug discovery. If successful, this AI-driven approach could pave the way for faster and more efficient treatments, not just for malaria but for a wide range of infectious diseases.

Source: http://www.nwu.ac.za

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Lekgarebe le le batliwang la kwa Lokgabeng le bonwe kwa Pampierstad

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Setshwantsho: Omphile Kgosinyana/Facebook

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

13 Mopitlwe 2025- Ba lelapa la ga Omphile Kgosinyana wa kwa motseng wa Lokgabeng, gaufi le Taung, ba tlhalosisitse fa ba mo utlwaletse golo gongwe kwa Pampierstad. Se setla morago ga goee ba tlhalose fa ba sa itse kwa Omphile a leng teng, mme ba ikuela go baagi mo mafaratlhatlheng a farologaneng jaaka sefatlhego sa buka go ba thusa go batlana le Omphile.

Go begwa fa Omphile a ntse a dula kwa Extension 6, mono Taung.

Mmagwe Omphile, Gloria Seimelo, are ba batlana le Omphile mabapi le ngwana wa gagwe o amogetsweng kwa bookelong ka ntlheng ya pobolo.

“Re itumeletse dithuso tse re di boneng mabapi le go batlana le Omphile. Re ile ra amogela mogala go mongwe go tswa kwa Pampierstad, mme a re tlhalosetsa fa Omphile a le koo. O begile fa a dula le lekau, mme re tlhokile madi a go ya go mo tsaya.

“Ke belaela fa re ka dira jalo mo nakong e e sa fediseng pelo,” Seimelo wa tlhalosa.

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Regular testing of glaucoma vital

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Picture: A patient testing for glaucoma/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 March 2025- North West Department of Health said it joins the global community to observe the World Glaucoma Week. The department said this year’s theme is: “Uniting for a Glaucoma-Free World” and focuses on bringing communities worldwide to fight together against glaucoma blindness.

The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari said Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness, but with early treatment, the damage may get limited and sight may be

saved. Lehari said Glaucoma Awareness Week is a dedicated to cast a spotlight on the growing

prevalence of glaucoma and the need for early detection and management.

“The awareness campaign seeks to educate the public about the disease, its risks, and the

simple steps individuals can take to protect their vision. Through community outreach, medical advocacy and public health initiatives, the month emphasises awareness as the first step toward prevention.

“This global call to action unites individuals, healthcare professionals and organisations in a shared mission to reduce the impact of glaucoma worldwide” he said.

Lehari urges members of the public to pay attention to

their eye health and to undergo regular tests. He said his department promote regular testing and also want glaucoma patients to get their relatives involved, as the chances

of them getting glaucoma are higher than someone with no glaucoma history in their

close family environment.

“An overview of glaucoma

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, often due to

elevated pressure within the eye. Left untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss,

starting with peripheral vision and potentially resulting in blindness.

“What makes glaucoma particularly insidious is its asymptomatic early stages, which often delay diagnosis until significant damage has occurred.

There are several types of glaucoma, with open-angle glaucoma being the most

common,” said Lehari.

He further said this form develops gradually and is often painless, making routine eye

exams critical for early detection. Lehari added that Angle-closure glaucoma, in contrast, presents

more abruptly and can cause sudden eye pain, blurred vision, and nausea, necessitating immediate medical attention.

“Other forms include congenital

glaucoma, secondary glaucoma, and normal-tension glaucoma, each with unique

characteristics that underscore the complexity of this condition,” said Lehari.

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Monna o latofadiwang ka go bolaya mmagwe ka garawe kwa Magogong, o tshwerwe

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Ka OBAKENG MAJE

13 Mopitlwe 2025- Monna (35) wa kwa motseng wa Modutung kwa Magogong, gaufi le Taung, o solofetswe go rotola matlho fa pele ga magistrata wa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la kamoso. Monna o, o ile a tshwarwa mabapi le polao ya ga mmagwe, Masego Irene Nkwane (56).

Go begwa fa go ile ga tsoga thefosano ya mafoko magareng ga moswi le mmelaelwa. Go ya ka dipego, mmelaelwa one a tsaya garawe le go kgenetha mmagwe ka yone.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mono Bokone Bophirima, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone are, kegtsi e butswe, mme mmelaelwa o lebagane ke kgetsi ya polao.

Go begwa fa mmelaelwa a ne a lebotsa phokoje morago ga tiragalo. Sepodisi se ile sa mo tshwara ka Laboraro.

Kgabagare, baagi ba ikuela go puso go ka tlhoma seteishene sa sepodisi kwa motseng wa Magogong, gonne o fetogile kgapamadi.

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‘Magogong turned into gangster paradise’

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Picture: Community members embarked on peaceful march/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

13 March 2025- It seems the infamous Magogong village, near Taung, has a significant problem with crime, particularly violent crime, with a high rate of murder, robbery and assault. Recently, the community members were prompted by the situation to embark on a peaceful march and submitted a memorandum of demand to the Taung Police Station.

One of community leaders, Mosetsanagape Blom said, their village has turned into a notorious gangster paradise and they do not feel safe anymore in their homes. Blom alleged that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has failed in executing their constitutional obligation. 

“Many incidents have been reported to the police with no responses. You will remember the famous case of Oratile Mothibi, who went missing back in 2022, after being abducted.

“As we speak, the case has gone cold. We demand that the case be reopened and assigned to a properly trained detective. The case falls under Gender-Based Violence (GBV) related crimes,” she said. 

Blom further said, there was another case involving a minor, Rethabile Molapo (13). She added that Molapo was kidnapped, killed and partially burned before being thrown into a pit toilet. 

“Also, the investigations yield no positive results. We demand that the investigating officer in the matter be removed as he lacks compassion, dedication, professionalism and respect. He consistently fails to report to the deceased’s parents regarding the progress of the investigation,” said Blom. 

She said they are disgruntled after the police arrested seven community members, who were accused of burning the traditional healer to death. Blom said the crime was committed by community members in retaliation. 

“So, it is injustice to keep those arrested in detention for crimes committed by the community. Therefore, we demand that they be released immediately from detention as their release is in the best interest of the community,” she said. 

Recently, a man was arrested for allegedly killing his mother with a spade, while a woman was nabbed for allegedly killing a man, whom they accused of stealing a Jojo tank. 

Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng said: “Even though there was a general decrease in crime, contact related crimes increased by 2.3%. Malicious damage to property contributed most cases which are 1969 cases. 

“This is 48 more cases compared to the previous year, which is a 2.5% increase.”

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24 000 job opportunities for young people in North West 

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi and Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour, Judith Nemadzinga-Tshabalala/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 March 2025- More than 24 000 job opportunities are expected to benefit the youth as the North West province forges ahead with finding solutions in addressing the scourge of unemployment in the province. This emerged during a roundtable discussion between the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi and Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour, Judith Nemadzinga-Tshabalala, organised labour, business and civil society in Rustenburg.

Mokgosi said the initiative, which is a collaborative work between the North West Provincial Government (NWPG), and the Department of Employment and Labour, will be implemented through Labour Activation Plan (LAP). He further said the LAP initiative is funded by the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), aiming to enhance employability, enable entrepreneurship, and preserve jobs through skills training, enterprise development, and other various intervention measures. 

“The much-anticipated announcement which will be made by Minister Makhosazana Meth on 14 March 2025, forms part of the province’s ongoing efforts to nip youth unemployment in the bud.

“This initiative has been on the pipeline for some time and I am happy that it is coming to fruition. This is one of the policy announcements I made during the State of the Province Address (SOPA) to help find solutions to high levels of unemployment in the province,” he said. 

Addressing delegates Deputy Minister Nemadzinga-Tshabalala, insists that the government has through LAP targeting over 24 000 young people in the North West.

“The roll-out of this programme is in full swing in various provinces and North West is the latest beneficiary. 

“Young people will be trained in various fields such as engineering, agriculture and artisanal work in preparation for the job market and consequently placed at various industries,” said Tshabalala. 

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Hartswater triple murder accused jailed    

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Picture: Daniel Brand (his wife, Breggie Brand, and their daughter Elsabie Brand)

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 March 2025- Three accused persons were sentenced to a combined 97 years imprisonment by the Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley for three counts of murder, robbery, kidnapping and defeating the ends of justice. On 26 July 2020, the victims, Daniel Brand (83), his wife, Breggie Brand (73), and their daughter Elsabie Brand (54), were at their residence at Plot 2M9 Farm in Magogong, near Hartswater.

They were violently attacked by the accused, Donald Mothusimang Seoloseng (25), Tsepo Visagie (43) and Tshepaone Melato (24). The victims sustained various blunt and sharp force trauma injuries to their heads and bodies.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the victims were robbed of two vehicles, a Nissan Micra and Mazda 5, three laptops, their cell phones, and a handbag with personal belongings. Shemane said they were found dead on 28 July 2020.

“The suspects were arrested by the Provincial Detectives and Hartswater K9 members, while on their way to sell the deceased personal belongings. The investigating officers, Colonel Jeffrey Kanakang and Lieutenant Colonel Basil Buys, recovered all stolen property.

“The Northern Cape High Court sitting in Kimberley, sentenced Melato, Seolesang and Visagie 43 each to 25 years imprisonment for murder, 15 years each for robbery with aggravating circumstances and 5 years each for defeating the ends if justice and 2 more years for Seoleseng, for escaping from lawful custody,” he said.

Shemane said the defeating the ends of justice and escaping from lawful custody will run concurrently with murder the robbery sentences.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, welcomed the judgment and reassured communities that crimes against the elderly remain the priority of the police in the province and will be vigorously policed and investigated.

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Dikemedi tse pedi kwa Tigerkloof di tla tswelela go dirammogo 

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Setshwantsho: Sekolo se se kopaneng sa Tigerkloof 

Ka OBAKENG MAJE 

13 Mopitlwe 2025: Mokhuduthamaga wa Lefapha La Thuto mono Bokone Bophirima, Viola Motsumi, are seemo se ritibetse kwa sekolong se se kopaneng sa Tigerkloof kwa Vryburg. Motsumi are ba kgonne go rarabolola mathata a ileng a tlhagisiwa ke lekgotlha-tsamaiso (School Governing Body) la sekolo kgatlhanong le maloko a Boto (Board of Directors). 

Ene ya re ka 2024, modulasetilo wa lekgotlhatsamaiso la sekolo kwa Tigerkloof, Dr George Balebe, a tlhalosa fa maloko a Board of Directors kwa sekolong, a itshona-tshona nko mo tsamaiso ya sekolo. Balebe one a bua se go tletse kwa kopanong ya makgotlha-tsamaiso a dikolo kwa Mmabatho Convention Centre kwa Mahikeng ka 2024. 

Se, se ile sa rotloetsa Motsumi go ka tlhama komiti eneng ya go batlisisa magatwe a.  

“Lefapha le ka netefatsa gore lekgotlha-tsamaiso la sekolo kwa Tigerkloof, le ile la tlhagisa matshwenyego mabapi le go itshona-tshona nko ga maloko a Board of Directors mo tsamaisong ya sekolo. Fela, o tla gopola botlhokwa jwa go kopanya dikemedi tseo tse pedi. 

“Jaaka lefapha, re tla netefatsa gore fa e sale gona le dikemedi tse pedi kwa sekolong eleng Board of Directors le lekgotlha-tsamaiso la sekolo (School Governing Body), fa e sale sekolo se tlhamiwa,” Motsumi wa tlhalosa.  

Fela Motsumi are, maikarabelo a dikemetsi tse pedi tse, a farologane. Motsumi are le fa go ntse jalo, dikemedi tse, di dira mmogo. 

“Go botlhokwa gore o itse gore sekolo sa Tigerkloof, se agilwe mo lefatsheng le le poraevete, mme seo ka bo sone, se dira gore go nne le kemedi ya Board of Directors. Go tlaleletsa mo go seo, diphaphosi tse baithuti ba dulang mo go tsone, le tsone ga se tsa lefapha. 

“Tirisano-mmogo e, e ile ya lebisa kwa dikatlegong tse di farologaneng. Seo, se akaretsa go golagana le ditheo tse di farologaneng go ralala lefatshe. Jaanong, lefapha le bone go le botlhokwa gore dikemedi tse pedi tse, di tswelele go dira mmogo, gonne maikarabelo a tsone a le botlhokwa,” Motsumi.

Motsumi are jaanong, Board of Directors e tla tswelela go dira kwa Tigerkloof, gonne e netefatsa fa go na le tsamaiso le lolame kwa sekolong. 

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A Trailblazer in Theatre and Beyond

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Picture: World renowned Stage Manager, Thunyelwa Thambe/Facebook 

By THAPELO MOKHUTSHOANE 

13 March 2025- In the ever-evolving world of theatre, where the technical and creative aspects have long been male-dominated, Thunyelwa Thambe (40), stands as a force to be reckoned with as continues to reshape the narrative and pioneering a new era for women in the industry. 

Thambe, who is armed with a National Performing Arts Diploma from the Market Theatre Laboratory, has seamlessly transitioned from a stellar performer to a sought-after stage manager and lighting programmer.  Her journey is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the arts, making her a beacon of inspiration for the next generation.

A Talent Nurtured from Childhood:

Every great artist has an origin story, and for Thambe, it all began with the unwavering belief of her twin brother, Mncedise Thambe, who first recognized her natural flair for performance. Encouraged by his support, she ascended to the stage, embracing her first love—performing. The Mahikeng-born artist’s undeniable talent quickly set her apart, earning her the Best Newcomer Actress Award for her role in Kwa Sangoma.

Her career flourished as she delivered unforgettable performances in productions such as Esuthwini, Maru, The Story of an African Choir and The Very Next Breath. Each role deepened Thambe’s artistic expression and solidified her reputation as a remarkable stage actress. 

From Centre Stage to Backstage Mastery

While many performers remain tethered to the spotlight, Thambe’s insatiable curiosity led her to explore the technical and production aspects of theatre. This pivot was anything, but accidental.

During her studies in 2005, she volunteered as a stage manager for the Market Theatre Laboratory’s Saturday showcases—a move that would later define her career. 

By 2007, her dedication earned her a coveted position as a Stage Management Trainee at the Market Theatre Foundation.

Her growth was meteoric. Over the next decade, she managed over 100 productions, becoming a Resident Stage Manager and a critical pillar in the theatre’s operations. 

Thambe’s expertise became a vital ingredient in some of the most renowned theatre productions, ensuring seamless transitions, impeccable lighting, and flawless stage execution.

Elevating Theatre on Global and National Stages

Thambe’s expertise soon transcended the confines of the Market Theatre, taking her talents to prestigious national and international stages.  She became a trusted Stage Manager and Lighting Programmer for, The National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, Joy of Jazz

Dance Umbrella and Legends Celebrating Mandela’s Centenary (2018) at Joburg Theatre, where she collaborated with icons like Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Abigail Kubheka, and the late Jonas Gwangwa. 

*To read more about Thambe, visit RTFLive Magazine on Facebook. 

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Mokgokong elected as NWU chancellor 

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Picture: Bert Sorgdrager, Council chairperson, Dr Anna Mokgokong, chancellor and Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 March 2025- The North West University (NWU) has confirmed that the renowned business leader and entrepreneur, Dr Anna Mokgokong has been appointed as a chancellor for the second term. The NWU Council elected Mokgokong as the new chancellor for the second term during a prestigious event in Potchefstroom on 12 March 2025.

Mokgokong said as chancellor, she serves as titular head of the NWU, and all qualifications awarded by the university are formally conferred by her. She further said it is an honour for her to be afforded the opportunity to serve a second term as chancellor. 

“This gives me an opportunity to continue to serve the NWU. As I embark on my second term, my sense of purpose and determination for what we need to achieve together has never been stronger. I am eager to build a legacy that will bear testimony to my tenure.

“I believe that no job is ever truly finished. We can always do better and aim higher. We can always work harder – because what we are working for is greater than ourselves. This belief has been a hallmark of my career, and it will continue to guide me in the years to come,” said Mokgokong.

She is the co-founder and Executive Chairperson of Community Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd, a 100% black-owned company that was established in 1995. Mokgokong is a true social activist who has made immense contributions to the transformation of the companies on whose boards she serves.

“In addition, contributing to my extensive business knowledge and acumen to the NWU, I have served on the boards of several JSE-listed companies and as president of the South African Women Entrepreneurs Network (SAWEN).

“As a former president of the International Women’s Forum of South Africa (IWFSA), I was inducted into Women Entrepreneurs of the World in 1998, which is an independent, international network of the world’s most powerful and successful entrepreneurs,” she added.

Mokgokong said over the years, she has received numerous accolades, the latest from African Women in Business (AWiB) in partnership with Regenesys Business School, which presented her with the prestigious Outstanding Leadership Award during the Inaugural AWiB Conference awards ceremony in August 2024. She obtained a BSc from the University of Botswana, and an MBChB from the Medical University of South Africa. 

“I am the first woman to have received an honorary doctorate of commerce from Unisa,” said Mokgokong. 

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of NWU Council, Bert Sorgdrager, congratulated Mokgokong on her re-election and expressed his gratitude for the active role that she plays within the NWU community. 

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