NWU appoints founding Chief Director for the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine

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Picture: Professor Binu Luke/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 April 2026 – The North West University (NWU) has reached a significant milestone in its academic and institutional development with the appointment of Professor Binu Luke as the inaugural Chief Director of the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, effective 1 April 2026.

The university said this landmark appointment represents a major step forward in its strategic vision to establish a fully-fledged medical school that will contribute meaningfully to addressing South Africa’s healthcare workforce needs and strengthening the national health system.

Welcoming the appointment, NWU Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Bismark Tyobeka said the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine is set to become the country’s 11th medical school, with plans to welcome its first cohort of students in 2028. Tyobeka said on behalf of the North West University, he warmly welcomes Luke as the founding Chief Director of the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

“This is a defining moment for our institution and for the communities we serve. Professor Luke’s leadership, depth of expertise and alignment with our values of transformation, excellence and social responsiveness will be instrumental in shaping a medical school that is both globally competitive and locally relevant.

“Luke is a distinguished South African physician and health systems leader with extensive experience across clinical medicine and provincial and national health governance. He holds multiple advanced qualifications, including MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (General Medicine), Dip HIV Management (SA), FCP (SA), and FRCP (London), reflecting both international and South African specialist recognition,” he said.

Tyobeka further said since 2023, he has served as Project Lead for the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine at NWU, while also holding key leadership roles within the North West Department of Health. He added that these include Technical Advisor to the Deputy Director-General for Hospital and Clinical Support Services, Programme Manager for tertiary services, and Head of Clinical Department and Chief Specialist in Internal Medicine at the Klerksdorp/Tshepong Tertiary Hospital Complex.

“Luke has played a pivotal role in strengthening healthcare systems in the North West, contributing to the development of specialist services such as oncology, interventional cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, nephrology, nuclear medicine, neurosurgery and advanced radiology.

“He has also been instrumental in advancing clinical training platforms and supporting the development of future healthcare professionals. His contributions extend to national policy and regulatory frameworks, including work with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) on internship training reform, accreditation processes and policy development,” said Tyobeka.

He said Luke currently serves on the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Human Resources for Health and played a key leadership role during the COVID-19 pandemic response in the province.

Meanwhile, Luke said: “The values of the Arch will be the guiding light as the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine begins its journey to produce fit-for-purpose doctors for our nation.

“Our curriculum and its delivery are intentionally designed to achieve this objective. The Desmond Tutu School of Medicine will prioritise the development of a responsive and supportive academic and clinical training environment, aimed at producing graduates who are clinically competent, ethically grounded and socially responsive.”

He said its academic programme will integrate foundational medical training with innovation in teaching, research and technology to address the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. Luke said his contributions to medicine, education and health systems have been widely recognised through numerous awards, including Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians (London), the Ken Huddle Role Model Award (2022), the South African Medical Association Extraordinary Service to Medicine Award (2024), and the African Health Excellence Award (2024).

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DARD employee allegedly nabbed for corruption

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By STAFF REPORTER

1 April 2026 – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said it has noted recent social media posts regarding the arrest of one of its employees, Seabelo Lebitse (43) and his subsequent appearance before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 31 March 2026, in connection with allegations of soliciting money from a service provider. The department said it wishes to assure the public, stakeholders, and employees that it remains firmly committed to the principles of integrity, accountability, transparency and good governance.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said a significant milestone has been reached as an internal investigation process was carried out and subsequently escalated to the appropriate authorities for further investigation. Setlhako said in addition, the department has activated its internal disciplinary processes in line with established protocols.

“The department emphasizes its zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption. It calls upon all stakeholders, employees, and members of the public to report any suspicious or unethical conduct through official reporting channels.

“At the same time, the department urges all parties to exercise restraint in circulating unverified information, as investigations remain ongoing. The dissemination of unsubstantiated claims has the potential to compromise the integrity of both the investigative process and judicial proceedings,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel, Tinyiko Mathebula said: “Lebitse is facing three counts of corruption. He was arrested on 31 March 2026, by the Klerksdorp-based Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation following allegations of having solicited gratification from a service provider.

“In October 2020, the accused allegedly approached a service provider, who had submitted documents to bid for a tender at the North West Department of Agriculture. Lebitse reportedly told the service provider that he would assist in facilitating the awarding of a tender on condition that he takes care of him.”

He said investigation revealed that the service provider paid Lebitse R10 000 for the purchase of his vehicle’s tyres. Mathebula said it was further established that the accused was paid R2000 and a further R1000 by the service provider on different occasions.

“The service provider subsequently entered into a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the department for the construction of a tunnel and installation of fishponds.

“Following an investigation, the accused was apprehended and charged with three counts of corruption. He appeared in court and was granted R5000 bail. His matter was postponed to 7 May 2026, for first appearance at the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Klerksdorp,” he said.

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Lesedi FM announces its new line-up

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Picture: Lesedi FM logo

By BAKANG MOKOTO

1 April 2026 – Lesedi FM, which is the heartbeat of Sesotho-speaking audiences, announced its 2026/2027 programming line-up with minimal changes, effective from 1 April 2026. Lesedi FM said embracing stability with strategic enhancements, this line-up builds on proven successes, prioritizing innovation in key segments to foster deeper connections and commercial growth.

SABC’s Head of Communications, Mmoni Ngubane said the station is one of the top 5 most streamed stations within the SABC portfolio. Ngubane said in a bold move to amplify morning energy, powerhouse duo Seipati “Twasa” Seoke and Nyakallo “Ba2cada” Leine return to anchor the flagship Thakgoha Breakfast Show from 6am to 9am.

“Their chemistry continues to set the day’s vibrant tone, now supercharged with beefed-up segments on environment, health, technology, comedy, and exclusive Sesotho features.

“Lesedi FM is turning mornings into must-listen moments that drive loyalty, boost ad revenue, and create real impact. Tholoana Moletsane will now present the mid-morning show alone, bringing unwavering commitment, energy and optimism to the airwaves,” she said.

Ngubane further said a media industry favourite especially in radio, Thuso Motaung, has consistently driven audience growth and revenue for Lesedi FM over the years. She added that his unique creativity keeps him relevant regardless of age, with advertisers showing strong interest and confidence in his performance.

Meanwhile, Lesedi FM Business Manager, Mamontha Motaung said: “The Sunday show he presents, Makgulong A Matala from 9am to 12pm, maintains a massive and loyal following. The station is actively evolving beyond its traditional role as a radio broadcaster and repositioning itself as a dynamic, multi-platform, experiential lifestyle brand with significant monetisation potential.

“This shift signals not only resilience, but also a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the changing media landscape and audience expectations.”

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PSA Committee concerned about cost and capacity in rolling out lifestyle audits

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

1 April 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration today noted the practical challenges, including high costs and the administrative burden involved, in implementing lifestyle audits across the public sector. The committee received briefings from several provincial governments, including KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Northern Cape, Western Cape and North West on their efforts to implement lifestyle audits.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Jan de Villiers said the meeting forms part of the committee’s ongoing oversight to hold departments accountable for implementing the lifestyle audit framework in the public service. De Villiers said they noted that while progress has been made, lifestyle audits remain at an early stage of institutionalisation.

“We are still working towards making lifestyle audits a standard and embedded practice within the public service. There is not yet a uniform approach applied across provinces.

“However, I commend the progress that provinces have made in developing and using lifestyle audits. There is a need to strengthen gaps identified in the Department of Public Service and Administration’s (DPSA) framework,” he said.

De Villiers further said the committee noted from the presentations that lifestyle audits appear more effective when conducted by independent bodies rather than by departments. He added that it seems more appropriate that independent bodies lead and implement these audits, whether the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) or external audit services.

“It is difficult for ethics officers or internal departmental officials to act as the “police” of their own institutions. The committee noted that the SIU is not properly empowered, where there is only a secondment, and that a presidential proclamation remains the most effective way to ensure that the SIU is fully empowered.

“Regarding internal capacity and other administrative challenges, the committee noted difficulties officials faced in accessing the required financial records. Lifestyle audits often present a significant volume of work,” said de Villiers.

He said it is important to explore how this can be more effectively automated. De Villiers said they must look at how technology can be used to streamline the auditing process.

“The technical processes between the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Auditor-General (AG), National Treasury and even the banks are still being developed. There must be ways to make compliance easier for auditees, as obtaining the required documentation, such as bank statements, can be complex and costly.

“On the issue of costs, the committee noted that lifestyle audits are costly to implement and should be budgeted for accordingly. There may be a need for legislative and budgeting reform through the National Treasury regarding how provinces are expected to fund these audits,” he said.

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Brave and selfless nurse assist an injured customer

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Picture: A dedicated nurse, Boitumelo Motimeng assisting injured customer/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE  

1 April 2026 – A brave and dedicated nurse from Taung District Hospital, Boitumelo Motimeng has demonstrated selfless service by acting immediately to save an injured customer. This comes after a customer was allegedly attacked by alleged nyaope boys outside Shoprite Supermarket in Taung on Monday.

Motimeng, who was a customer at the time, saw what was happening and without hesitation, he assisted the bleeding customer. He said the incident took place at around 6pm.

“I went to Shoprite Supermarket to buy a few groceries. While I was busy shopping, I heard some noise outside the shop. So, I went outside to observe what was happening.

“I saw a man bleeding after allegedly being stabbed by a sharp object on his head. I managed to arrest the bleeding with a first aid kit and called an ambulance for further management,” said Motimeng.  

He urged that nurses be equipped for 24 hours because when people see a nurse, they see hope. Motimeng also applauded the Emergency Medical and Rescue Service (EMRS) personnel for their swift response.

“The ambulance arrived right on time and the patient was ferried to Taung District Hospital for further medical assistance. Apparently, the patient was robbed by these nyaope boys who were always hovering at the main entrance of Shoprite Supermarket.

“They took his personal belongings such as a bag with clothes, cell phone and other documents. We advised him to open a criminal case with the police,” he said.

He said those hooligans are well-known and they immediately ran away after assaulting him. Motimeng warned unsuspecting customers to be wary of these lawbreakers as they are violent and dangerous.

“We also call on Shoprite Supermarket to take safety and security of their customers into consideration. We will highly-appreciate that, if they can beef-up security outside the store.

“They should also ensure that these nyaope boys stay away from Shoprite Supermarket’ main door. What surprises me is that you will always see security guards inside the shop and that makes it difficult for them to manage these hooligans,” he said.

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62 doctors appointed in North West

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Picture: A doctor on duty

By REGINALD KANYANE

1 April 2026 – The North West Department of Health said it is pleased to announce significant progress in the appointment of unemployed doctors, who are bursary holders and have completed their community service before December 2025. The department said this milestone marks a critical step in strengthening the province’s healthcare system and ensuring improved access to quality healthcare services for all residents.

The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari said out of a total of 66 bursary holders allocated within the District Health Services (DHS) branch, 62 doctors have already been successfully appointed, representing an impressive 94% completion rate. Lehari said in addition, within the Hospital and Clinical Support Services (HCSS) branch, 29 out of 35 allocated posts have been filled, achieving an 83% appointment rate.

“Notably, a total of 61 Medical Officers commenced duty on 1 March 2026 in the DHS branch, while 29 Medical Officers started work within HCSS facilities during the same period.

“These placements significantly bolster capacity across district hospitals and primary healthcare (PHC) facilities, where 25 and 41 doctors have been deployed respectively,” he said.

Lehari further said it should be noted that, while efforts were made to absorb all these unemployed doctors, there are those who were offered appointment letters but rejected the offers as they were already employed elsewhere. He added that, the progress is a direct outcome of focused interventions by the department, including structured engagements with key stakeholders such as the South African Medical Association Trade Union.

“These engagements have been instrumental in resolving bottlenecks, improving coordination, and accelerating the absorption of unemployed doctors into the public health system.

“We welcome this achievement. We are highly encouraged by the progress made in appointing our bursary-funded doctors who have completed their community service,” said Lehari.

He said this is a clear demonstration of commitment to not only invest in the training of healthcare professionals, but to ensure their meaningful absorption into the system. Lehari said they extend their sincere appreciation to all stakeholders, including SAMATU, departmental officials and facility managers, whose collaboration has made this possible.

“These efforts are critical in strengthening service delivery, reducing patient waiting times, and ensuring that our communities receive the quality healthcare they deserve.

“We emphasise that the initiative contributes meaningfully to job creation and the fight against unemployment, particularly among young medical professionals,” he said.

Lehari said it also advances the implementation of the province’s Human Resources for Health Strategy, which seeks to ensure the optimal distribution and utilisation of healthcare workers. He said the department remains committed to finalising the remaining appointments and ensuring that all qualifying doctors are integrated into the health system without delay.

“Ongoing interviews for additional bursary holders who completed community service between December 2025 and March 2026, will further enhance staffing levels across the province.

“This achievement underscores the North West Department of Health’s unwavering commitment to building a resilient, responsive, and people-centred healthcare system,” said Lehari.

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A body of a woman found in a deep freezer

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Picture: A body of a woman found in a deep freezer/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

1 April 2026 – The police in Upington have registered an inquest docket for investigation following the discovery of the body of a woman (46) in a freezer at her residence in Upington on 31 March 2026, at approximately 4:16pm. The preliminary information indicates that the deceased was reported missing by her husband on 31 March 2026, at approximately 10am.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said after a search was launched, her body was discovered inside a deep freezer located in a storeroom at their residence on the same day. Litabe sais all information and reports will form part of the ongoing investigation that is currently underway.

“An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death. Anyone with information can contact the Upington Detective unit at 0543373435 or the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Moffat Silingile on 082 495 4615, or alternatively via the MYSAPS APP or the SAPS Emergency number 08600 10111.

“Information will be treated confidentially,” he said.

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Bafana rue missed chances in defeat to Panama

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Picture: Bafanq Bafana players against Panama/Supplied

1 April 2026 – Bafana Bafana were left to rue missed opportunities after suffering a 1-2 defeat to Panama in an international friendly match played at a sold-out DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Tuesday night.

Just as they did in the first match between the two nations in Durban on Friday, the South African senior men’s national team created a litany of opportunities but could not find the final touch that would have won the game for the hosts. The two nations drew 1-1 in the first match at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Jose Cordoba opened the scoring for the Central American side in the 59th minute but United States of America (USA)-based Mbekezeli Mbokazi equalised with a thunderous strike that rattled the back of the net in the 64th minute. The scenes of elation and exhilaration would not last for long as Jiovany Ramos scored the winner for the visitors in the 77th minute.

Coach Hugo Broos said the team would work on solving the problem in the weeks that are remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June. The global tournament will be hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.

“This is something we have to work on and it has to do with the confidence of the players. When you get the chances we got today and last Friday, it was a little too much to miss them all. I think in the two games we had 10 chances and we only scored two times. This is not enough. You can work on it, but it is also difficult to work on it (fully) because the players are gone tomorrow and I will only see them back at the end of May,” he said.

Bafana Bafana will return to Johannesburg on Wednesday while Panama will begin the long trek back to Central America on the same day.

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Ad Hoc Committee established to investigate interference allegations levelled against North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi in turmoil

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Picture: The Chairperson of Ad Hoc Committee, Nathan Oliphant

By OBAKENG MAJE

 April 2026 – The North West Provincial Legislature’s Ad Hoc Committee established to investigate allegations of interference against the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi by the Naledi Local Municipality mayor, Clifton Groep, has been marred by alleged significant operational and political challenges. It is alleged that the Ad Hoc Committee members had different views after the legal team submitted its findings.  

This led to the decision to consider that description as only an analysis report. Among others, there were startling allegations levelled against the North West Provincial Legislature’s Chair of Chairs, Tebogo Modise, who is part of the Ad Hoc Committee members.

It is alleged that Modise paid an accommodation for a Community Liaison Officer (CLO) at the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, Doreen Mariri who was a witness. These allegations were brought forward by the Democratic Alliance (DA) Provincial Leader and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Freddy Sonakile, who is also a member of the Ad Hoc Committee.  

This prompted the Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee, Nathan Oliphant to send a letter to all Ad Hoc Committee members raising concerns over allegations of conflict in respect of witness (es). Oliphant said in pursuant to the Ad Hoc Committee virtual meeting held on 26 March 2026, allegations were made by Sonakile that, a member or members may have paid for the accommodation of a witness during the Ad Hoc Committee hearing into allegations

against member(s).

“In this respect, I rule that all members submit to the Ad Hoc Committee Secretary, Lucia Bosilong an affidavit made under oath disclosing whether he/she has paid for the accommodation of a witness or witnesses directly or indirectly or has benefited directly or indirectly and the

name of the witness or alternatively that he or she has not made any payment in respect of the accommodation of a witness or witnesses appearing before the Ad Hoc Committee inquiring into allegations against member(s) of the Ad Hoc Committee.

“Should all members confirm non-payment this will trigger a further investigation into the allegations. All members must protect the integrity of the proceedings undertaken by the Ad Hoc Committee,” he said.

However, in a written response to The Guardian Newspaper, Oliphant said: “The Ad Hoc Committee notes the media enquiry and wishes to place on record that its work is ongoing and has not yet been concluded.

“The committee is currently considering the evidence presented by various witnesses and continues to apply its mind to the matters before it in line with its approved Terms of Reference.”

Oliphant further said the committee respectfully requests the media and the public to allow it the necessary space and time to complete its work without undue speculation. He added that upon conclusion of its processes, the committee will formally report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature, in accordance with established procedures.

“With regard to matters relating to expenditure, the committee confirms that the total cost of its work will be reflected in its final report, which will be tabled before the Legislature and made publicly available at the appropriate time.

“The committee will not engage on unverified allegations or matters that form part of its ongoing processes,” said Oliphant.

Meanwhile, Sonakile said the committee continues to execute its mandate within the prescripts of the law and the rules of the Legislature. He said as with any complex oversight process, differing views may arise, however, these do not detract from the committee’s responsibility to reach a lawful and credible outcome.

“On the alleged dismissal of the legal team’s report, I am not in a position to comment in detail on internal deliberations of the committee. What is important is that all inputs, including those of the legal team, are considered in line with due process before any final determination is made.

“On the allegation regarding accommodation of a witness, I can confirm that I raised a concern during committee proceedings after becoming aware of information suggesting that a member may have paid for, or indicated an intention to pay for, the accommodation of a witness,” said Sonakile.

He said this was done in good faith and in the interest of safeguarding the integrity of the process. Sonakile said on whether such conduct is permissible, any form of direct or indirect benefit to a witness, if established, would raise serious concerns regarding the integrity and independence of proceedings.

“This is precisely why the matter was raised for proper consideration. On specific allegations involving named individuals, it would be inappropriate and potentially prejudicial for me to confirm or deny specific allegations relating to any individual at this stage.

“The matter is subject to internal processes. On a possible investigation the Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee, has already issued a directive requiring members to submit sworn affidavits on this matter and further steps will be determined based on those submissions, in line with the ruling issued on 30 March 2026,” he said.

Sonakile said he remains committed to ensuring that the work of the committee is conducted with integrity, fairness, and full accountability.

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413 suspects nabbed during Operation Paseka

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Picture: Dagga confiscated during raids/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

1 April 2026 – Over 413 suspects were arrested for a multitude of offences across the Northern Cape during Operation Paseka under the auspices of Shanela II conducted by the police in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies from 23 March until 29 March 2026. The multi-disciplinary teams from all five districts in the province worked in close cooperation with traffic police, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Transport, Department of Social Development, Department of Labour and Community Policing Structures.  

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said these integrated, intelligence-driven operations were led by senior officers at provincial and district level and station commanders with the aim of asserting the authority of the state. Litabe said the arrests were effected for offences such as dealing in drugs, illegal dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, illegal possession of firearms, attempted murder, business robbery and robbery at residential premises.

He further said these include murder, assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), common assault, housebreaking at residential premises, business burglary

, malicious damage to property, driving under the influence of alcohol, contravention of immigration law and for theft out of motor vehicles. Litabe added that operational activities also included high-visibility patrols, vehicle control points (VCPs), roadblocks, and the search of hundreds of premises, as well as thousands of individuals and vehicles.

“These efforts led to the closure of 28 unlicensed liquor premises and the tracing of wanted suspects by detectives. Furthermore, the operations resulted in the confiscation of large quantities of alcoholic beverages, ammunition, cash, dangerous weapons, dagga, crystal meth, and mandrax tablets.

“The arrested suspects are expected to appear in various courts across the province during this week,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Thabo Mphuthi, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome of the operations and commended all members and stakeholders involved and encouraged them to maintain the momentum in the fight against crime.

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