Additional Foot and Mouth Disease cases reported  

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Picture: Foot and Mouth Disease surge in North West

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 March 2026 – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said it wishes to alert communities, farmers and stakeholders to a further rise in Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) cases across the province. The department said as of 6 March 2026, three additional cases have been confirmed, bringing the total number of infections from 158 to 179.

The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality remains the most affected, with 58 cases, followed by Bojanala Platinum District with 53, Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District with 35, and Ngaka Modiri Molema District with 33. Sambatha said this surge in cases signals the relentless advance of the disease and the urgent need for a united response, with government, farmers, and communities joining forces to defend the livestock sector, the backbone of the regional economy.

“Of the 100 000 doses of the Biogenesis Bago FMD Virus Vaccine received in late February, a total of 53,110 animals have already been vaccinated. Vaccination efforts are intensifying, and in the coming weeks, more animals are expected to be vaccinated as another batch of vaccines arrives.

“We call on the farming community to strengthen biosecurity measures by enforcing strict controls on the movement of people, vehicles, and equipment in and out of farms, and by ensuring the responsible movement of livestock. “Strong biosecurity remains our first line of defence. This disease does not move on its own, but people and animals spread it,” he said.

Sambatha further said he therefore appealed to the farmers to work with Veterinary Services to control movements of animals within and out of the province and to report any suspicious cases of FMD immediately. He added that farmers are urged to report suspected cases to their local State Veterinarians, Private Veterinarians, Animal Health Technicians, or Extension Officers for swift investigation and control measures.

“Early reporting is critical to curb the spread of outbreaks and prevent further losses in the livestock industry. By acting quickly and responsibly, communities can help contain the outbreak and protect the agricultural economy, food security, and rural livelihoods.

“The department assures all communities, whether in high-risk districts or smaller villages, that vaccines will reach them. As the vaccination campaign gains momentum, additional consignments of FMD vaccines are expected in the near future,” said Sambatha.

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Eskom marks 300 days without loadshedding

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Picture: Eskom power station

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 Mar 2026 – Eskom said South Africa has now reached 300 consecutive days without loadshedding, achieved at midnight on 12 March 2026, a significant milestone underscoring the continued recovery and strengthening of Eskom’s generation fleet anchored on the Generation Recovery Plan. Eskom said this achievement reflects the sustained upward trajectory in plant performance, supported by an Energy Availability Factor (EAF) that is consistently above 65%, currently at 65.85% for the financial year to date (1 April 2025 to 12 March 2026), demonstrating the sustained progress in Eskom’s turnaround strategy.

The power utility said notably, the generation fleet has also achieved or exceeded the 70% EAF milestone on 83 occasions so far over this timeframe. It said a 53% decrease in average unplanned outages has been recorded.

“Between 6 and 12 March 2026, average unplanned outages were recorded at 7 224MW showing a notable improvement from the 15 382MW experienced during the same week last year, a reduction of 8 158 MW. This underlines the ongoing gains in reliability across the fleet.

“Over the same period, the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF), reflecting unplanned outages, was at 14.85%, representing a reduction of 17.22% compared to the 32.07% recorded during the same period last year,” said Eskom.

During the same period, Eskom’s Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF)—which reflects planned maintenance—averaged 13.81%, up from 10.21% in the previous financial year, as part of efforts to ensure environmental compliance, improve reliability, and support long‑term sustainability. It added that 5 861MW is currently in cold reserve due to excess capacity.

“For the financial year to date (1 April 2025 to 12 March 2026), diesel expenditure is R8.58 billion lower than during the same period last year, a 57.35% reduction year on year. Over the past week, diesel usage contributed 10.08GWh of electricity to the grid at a cost of R59.70 million, resulting in a weekly load factor of 1.76%.

“The use of diesel this week was due to statutory grid code testing and to meet the reserve requirements, as specified in the South Africa Grid Code. Year‑to‑date, diesel expenditure remains consistently below budget and is expected to remain below budget through to the end of the financial year,” said Eskom.

It said South Africa has now experienced 301 consecutive days without an interruption in supply, with only 26 hours of loadshedding recorded in April and May 2025, during this financial year.

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Four boreholes vandalised in Schweizer Reneke

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Picture: A borehole vandalised/Generic 

By REGINALD KANYANE

14 March 2026- The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality said it notes with concern the vandalism, which has taken place at Mareesin Farm in Schweizer Reneke, where all the wires of the electric fence were damaged. The municipality said the supply pipe of the pumps of the four boreholes were destroyed on Friday.

The executive mayor of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, Motseokae Maje said even though the boreholes are currently running, they would like to invite the members of the public to watch out as these criminals had managed to breach the security. Maje said should this not be addressed, reservoirs which are supplied by these boreholes are most likely to be depleted over time and resulting in a lack of water supply to businesses and households.

“We plead for your cooperation and understanding in our efforts to improve the bulk water supply infrastructure and in attending to the challenge which might have experienced. Members of the public are requested to use water sparingly and to report any water leaks that might have happened as well as vandalism in order to assist the municipality in provision and supply of clean water to all,” he said.

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‘Lekota was a giant whose life was defined by uncompromising dedication to justice’

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Picture: Deputy President, Paul Mashatile during former COPE leader, Mosiuoa Terror Lekota’s funeral

By OBAKENG MAJE

14 Mar 2026- The Deputy President, Paul Mashatile who delivered a eulogy during the funeral of former Congress of the People (COPE) leader, Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota at Old Grey Sports Club in Willows, Bloemfontein, Free State said they gather as a nation united in grief, remembrance, and gratitude to bid farewell to a towering figure of their liberation struggle and democratic state. Mashatile described Lekota as a giant whose life was defined by uncompromising dedication to justice and service to the people.

He further said Lekota’s political journey traversed the defining epochs of modern South Africa. Mashatile added that from the ideological awakening of Black Consciousness to the frontlines of the United Democratic Front, the leadership corridors of the ANC’s National Executive Committee, and ultimately the founding of the COPE.

“His life was lived in pursuit of a better South Africa, marked always by honesty, integrity, and courage. Lekota understood that leaders are transient, but the Congress as an ideal of unity and justice is eternal. He knew that the measure of a leader is not how long he holds office, but how faithfully he serves the covenant of Congress.

“From Dr A.B. Xuma’s reminder that to Congress we are loyal to the steadfast guardianship of Sisulu and Tambo, that covenant has been passed like a torch across generations. Lekota carried that torch with unyielding fidelity. He stood as proof that while names may fade from ballots, the Congress ideal remains, a beacon of unity, a compass of justice, a promise to the people,” he said.

Mashatile said Lekota understood that leadership is not command, but service. He said for him, democracy was never a distant set of rules, but was a living instrument to transform the lives of ordinary citizens.

“He dedicated himself to ensuring that the Constitution became a shield for the vulnerable and a bridge across the chasm of inequality. He remained an outspoken voice, reminding all of us that democracy requires vigilance and principled leadership.

“Lekota’s activism began in the 1970s with the South African Students’ Organisation (SASO), where he championed Black Consciousness and the liberation of oppressed communities. His imprisonment on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela deepened his conviction that freedom was non-negotiable,” said Mashatile.

He said from his youth, through the United Democratic Front (UDF), the infamous Treason Trial, and into Government, his journey was marked by sacrifice and service. Mashatile said as the first Premier of the Free State, Lekota stepped into a province scarred by apartheid and laid the foundations of a unified, non-racial government.

“He was instrumental in forming the provincial administration, in advocating for, and in embarking on the long journey to build a government that served all citizens. As Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces and later Minister of Defence, he carried the burdens of leadership with dignity. He envisioned a Defence Force not as an instrument of repression, but as a guardian of democracy and peace, a vision that continues to guide us today.

“In guiding the Defence Force, the former minister ensured that the instruments of war became guardians of peace, transforming them into protectors of a democracy still in its infancy. His vision was clear: that the strength of a nation lies not in its weapons, but in its ability to reconcile, to heal, and to live in harmony,” he said.

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School shoes restore dignity for learners in Taung, Mamusa

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Friday, March 13, 2026

Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, on Friday handed over school shoes to learners from nine schools in the Greater Taung and Mamusa Local Municipalities at Uurpan Safari Lodge in Schweizer-Reneke.

The event brought together community leaders, education stakeholders, School Governing Bodies, councillors from Taung and Mamusa Local Municipalities, as well as representatives from government departments and partner organisations committed to supporting learners in rural communities.

During the programme, Morolong reflected on the challenges that many learners in rural areas continue to face and emphasised the importance of restoring dignity in education.

Sharing a story about a young boy who once walked long distances to school without proper shoes, the Deputy Minister reminded the audience that access to basic necessities such as school shoes can make a profound difference in a learner’s life.

“Sometimes what appears small can carry great meaning. A simple pair of school shoes can represent dignity, confidence and the opportunity for a child to walk into a classroom knowing that they belong there,” he said.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to support education and uplift communities in the North West Province.

Deputy Minister Morolong also took the opportunity to recognise the important role played by educators and school leadership in shaping the future of young people.

Two school principals from the district, who recently retired after many years of service in education, were acknowledged for their lifelong dedication to developing learners and strengthening their communities.

Their contribution, the Deputy Minister noted, extended far beyond the classroom and lives on through the generations of learners they have mentored and guided.

The programme was made possible through collaboration between government and key partners, including Infrastructure South Africa, Brand South Africa and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), with support from private sector partners such as KPMG.

Through this partnership, hundreds of learners received school shoes, ensuring that they can attend school with dignity and confidence.

Deputy Minister Morolong emphasised that nation building requires collaboration between government, business, and communities.

“When government and business work together with purpose, we can create meaningful change in the lives of our people, especially our children,” he said.

He also called on communities to protect and support schools as important spaces for learning and development.

“Our schools must once again become centres of pride for our communities. Education is not only the responsibility of teachers or government. It belongs to all of us.”

Addressing the learners present at the event, the Deputy Minister encouraged them to wear their new school shoes with pride and remain focused on their education.

“Let these shoes remind you that your future is bigger than the streets you walk today. One day, among you, will be doctors, teachers, scientists and leaders who will shape the future of our country.”

The handover programme formed part of ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening communities and ensuring that every child in South Africa has the opportunity to learn and succeed.

“Every journey begins with a step. Today, together, we are making sure that step is taken with dignity,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

COSATMA expedites NTI employees’ salaries

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Picture: NTI employees during a march

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 March 2026 – The North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management said it is expediting the payment of NTI employee’s salary. The department said this came from the meeting with worker representatives chaired by acting Head of Department, Molefi Morule.

Morule said the meeting was also attended by General Secretary of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), Solly Phetoe. He said amongst issues raised by Phetoe, include potential strategic approaches to recapitalise the entity to make it more profitable and pay its operational obligations.

“The internal processes are being concluded to ensure the money is paid by the very latest on or before 24 March 2026,” he said.

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Man in court for alleged theft of govt land worth R113m

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

13 March 2026- Andrew Molifi (51) briefly appeared at the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court (SCCC), facing 34 counts of fraud and alternative theft. It is alleged that from 2016 until his arrest, Molifi fraudulently sold government land worth R113 million, 777 Erven West Township, also known as Beverly Hills belonging to the Department of Human Settlements, Emfuleni Municipality to unsuspecting individuals. 

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that Molifi sold a single stand on the land for R22 000 and a double stand for R44 000. Mahanjana said after the unsuspecting victims made payments to his company, the accused would send them an acknowledgement letter claiming that their deeds were being processed. 

“This came to light after the Department of Human Settlements discovered that there was construction taking place on the land. In 2019 it is alleged that the Department of Human Settlements took the occupants of the land to court, where the occupants were ordered to make representations to the Department of Human Settlements. 

“However, even after the court order, it is alleged that Molifi continued to sell the land to other unsuspecting individuals. The Department of Human Settlements opened a criminal case with the police and Molifi was arrested at his home in Evaton on 11 March 2026, and made his first appearance in court on 12 March 2026,” she said. 

Mahanjana further said during his appearance, his legal representative objected to the jurisdiction and contended that the matter should have been enrolled at the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crimes Court and not in Pretoria. She added that upon hearing a counter argument by the prosecutor, Advocate Bathabile Rapopo, the court ruled that the SCCC in Pretoria has jurisdiction.

“The matter was postponed to 24 March 2026, for an opposed bail application,” said Mahanjana.

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AVBOB donates container library to Mokassa Primary School

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Picture: The AVBOB donates container library/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

13 March 2026 – AVBOB unveiled the 75th container library at Mokassa Primary School in Taung on 12 March 2026. AVBOB said this journey began in 2013 in Tembisa, Gauteng, where the first library was launched.

AVBOB General Manager: Shared Value and Sustainability, Kebo Mosweusweu said they are not only about funerals, but also about life. Mosweusweu said they invest in growth, in learning and in opportunity.

“The container library is stocked with 3000 CAPS – aligned books and is powered by solar panels: Creating functional, comfortable learning spaces. Thus far, over R36 million is already invested in the creation and delivery of these libraries across all nine provinces. More than 216 000 books have been donated, impacting over 72 000 learners and 2000 educators.

“Over and above the donation of a fully-fledged library, as time passes assets naturally age and are subject to wear and tear. Recognising this, AVBOB has invested in over R8.3 million in the refurbishment and replenishment of 23 libraries dedicated to primary schools, ensuring they remain safe, welcoming, and an enriching space that supports early learning and a love of reading,” she said.

Mosweusweu further said the desire to learn is not the challenge in many schools, the eagerness to learn is already there. She added that the real barrier is limited access to adequate learning materials and safe, supportive spaces where learners can thrive.

“To nurture curious minds, children need books that are relevant, age appropriate, and engaging, to help cultivate a lifelong habit and love for reading. Literacy is the foundation on which successful schooling is built. By placing a dedicated library space directly on school grounds, AVBOB helps reduce some of the most persistent barriers to learning in South Africa’s rural and under-resourced communities.

“Having a library at school can promote a culture of reading and encourage children to read regularly, as easy access to books helps develop a lifelong love of reading and learning. It can also improve literacy and academic performance as access to a variety of books and educational materials helps learners improve their reading, writing, vocabulary, and comprehension skills,” said Mosweusweu.

She said amongst others, and what pushes us to continue donating libraries, is because libraries also give equal access to information. Mosweusweu said libraries give everyone, regardless of background or income, access to books, information and learning resources they might not otherwise afford.

“A library becomes more than just a place for books; by supporting early childhood development, it also serves as a cultural cornerstone. It turns reading from something learners do occasionally into a habit. It sends a powerful message and elevates reading into a visible, valued and practised norm,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Mokassa Primary School principal, Pako Khonkhobe said: “We would like to express our sincere gratitude to AVBOB for the generous donation of the container library to our school. This valuable contribution will play a significant role in improving access to books and learning resources for our learners. It will create a dedicated space where learners can develop a love for reading, strengthen their literacy skills, and broaden their knowledge beyond the classroom.

“The impact of the library donation will not only be felt within the school, but also in the wider community, as it promotes a culture of learning and educational development among our children.”

Khonkhobe said the AVBOB support has brought them one step closer to empowering their learners with the tools they need for a brighter future and they are deeply thankful for its kindness and commitment to education.

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Police looking for missing girl

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Picture: Missing Ompabaletse Bridget Oliphant/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

March 2026 – The police in Potchefstroom request the community’s assistance in locating missing Ompabaletse Bridget Oliphant (16) of Promosa Township, in Potchefstroom. The police said Oliphant was last seen by her mother on 15 February 2026.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said a search commenced and extensive investigations were conducted around Promosa and surrounding areas without any positive results. Morake said at the time of her disappearance, she was wearing grey shorts with a black t-shirt and white Adidas sneakers.

“She is light in complexion with a tall, muscular built body and black afro hair. The police request anyone who may have information regarding Oliphant’s whereabouts to contact the Investigating Officer, Constable Shelly Seitlholo on 082 530 6358.

“Alternatively, call your local police station or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App from your smartphone,” she said.

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NPA to hand over of forfeited state properties linked to Marang Estate Development

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Picture:The National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Andy Mothibi

By REGINALD KANYANE

13 March 2026- Following the successful forfeiture of properties linked to the Marang Estate Development in Mahikeng by the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Andy Mothibi will lead the official handover of the recovered assets to the Mahikeng Local Municipality.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane said the handover will include 23 Erven allocated to the Mahikeng Local Municipality, as well as unfinished residential blocks and building materials that will be transferred to the Social Housing Regulatory Authority. Mjonondwane said the ceremony will take place in the presence of senior representatives from the National Prosecuting Authority and other key stakeholders.

“This handover forms part of the NPA’s ongoing efforts to ensure that assets derived from unlawful activities are recovered and redirected to the State for the benefit of communities and those affected.

“During the media briefing and handover ceremony, the NDPP will outline the successful asset recovery process undertaken by the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit in relation to the Marang Estate matter,” she said.

Mjonondwane further said the event will take place at Mahikeng Local Municipality Mayoral Boardroom 1 on 18 March 2026, at 10am.

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