‘Lack of communication between Minister of Public Works and IDT’

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By REGINALD KANYANE

14 December2024 – The Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure said it is deeply concerned about the lack of communication between the Minister of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the Independent Development Trust (IDT).

This has become apparent in the Minister’s meeting with the committee on 27 November 2024 and in recent media reports alleging the involvement of the IDT in the tender process to install PSA Oxygen Plants at 55 public hospitals.

The Chairperson of Committee, Carol Phiri said the Minister informed the committee on 27 November about the alleged irregularities involving the installation of the PSA Oxygen tanks at public hospitals. Phiri said these allegations were subsequently reported in the media, including electronic media.

“Unfortunately, most reports and comments lacked substance and material evidence about the alleged irregularities. As the executive authority leading the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the Minister has substantial power that includes calling on the boards of entities and boards of Trustees to fully report to him on any matter.

“Since his appointment, the Minister has not met with the IDT. This seems to be at the heart of the narrative that the IDT, its Board, and its officials acted irregularly in the tendering process,” she said.

Phiri further said, if material evidence shows culpability on their part, however, this committee will call for legal actions against the entity. She added that, currently, it remains to search for what lies behind this narrative.

“In order to ensure the veracity of the information, we had a meeting with IDT on 12 December 2024, to get information from the entity on the allegations made by Daily Maverick.

“What has come to light is that the appointment of the service providers was undertaken based on the concurrence and budget confirmation received from the national Department of Health (DOH) and the funder of the project, the Global Fund (GF),” said Phiri.

She said a phased approach which includes the maintenance period was approved by both the DoH and the GF. According to Phiri, furthermore, the GF Country Team, after satisfying themselves with the processes undertaken, approved that the IDT could commence with the installation of the PSA Oxygen tanks in the form of a “No Objection Letter.”

“Despite this important information being accessible from the IDT, the allegations seemed to have been stretched into the domain of the IDT as the implementing agent of the DoH.

“This is a serious matter as it continues to erode the integrity of the IDT, its Board, and its officials. It is unfortunately also hurting the DPWI. The committee will soon request the IDT to formally report to it and put on record a sequence of events leading to the appointment of the service providers,” she said.

Phiri said: “I urge the public to allow law enforcement agencies to do their work as there is an ongoing investigation by the Hawks on this matter.

“The committee commends the Minister of Health for his media statement particularly radio interviews where he continuously urged the media not to speculate and put the IDT and the HoD through the court of public opinion, but to allow the investigations to unfold.”

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Parliament delighted with its progress

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Picture: The Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 December 2024 – Parliament said it is delighted with its progress during the first six months of operation after the National and Provincial Elections. Parliament said since the establishment of the 7th democratic administration has hit the ground running, demonstrating a strong commitment to its constitutional mandate and the people it serves.

The Speaker of the National Assembly (NA), Thoko Didiza said in this short period, Parliament has successfully convened multiple sittings, engaged in debates and passed several key pieces of legislation. Didiza said the various parliamentary committees have been particularly active, conducting oversight visits, holding public hearings and scrutinizing government actions with diligence.

“The public engagement has taken centre stage with Parliament implementing new initiatives to involve citizens in the legislative process. The institution has leveraged technology to enhance transparency and accessibility.

“This includes streaming debates and committee meetings online, while ensuring that the limited committee rooms and plenary venues are optimally utilised to accommodate members of the public,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, expressed satisfaction with the milestones achieved by the 7th Parliament so far. Mtshweni-Tsipane said the establishment of the Joint Rules Committee was a critical step, paving the way for separate Rules Committees in both Houses.

“These pre-eminent committees are responsible for developing the procedures and policies that govern the operations of the NA and the NCOP. In the NA, 34 oversight committees were established, along with the election of chairpersons and the designation of members to serve in these structures.

“These committees were configured to align with the cabinet structure, ensuring dedicated oversight of each government department and its entities. In the NCOP, 10 Select Committees were constituted and appropriately clustered to prioritise the interests of provinces in the national sphere,” she said.

Mtshweni-Tsipane said these parliamentary committees serve as the “engine room” of Parliament, overseeing the performance and accountability of various government departments. She said a priority has been placed on building the technical and resource capacity of committees to strengthen their ability to scrutinise the actions of government departments and entities.

“These committees have already made significant strides, successfully passing all departmental budgets, reviving key Bills that had lapsed at the end of the Sixth Parliament, and conducting effective oversight.

“Between July and December, the NCOP held 39 hybrid and virtual sittings, serving as important platforms for fulfilling its constitutional mandate. These sittings focused on critical areas such as budget votes, statutory appointments, the passage of legislation, and debates on pressing national issues,” said Mthsweni-Tsipane.

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SPAR Proteas one step closer to glory

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Picture: The SPAR Proteas players during the game/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

14 December 2024- The SPAR Proteas are one step closer to African Netball glory, securing a 63-41 victory over Zimbabwe in the 2024 Africa Netball Cup semi-finals. The SPAR Proteas put up an impressive performance, overpowering a determined Zimbabwean side that fought tirelessly until the final whistle.

The South Africans displayed superior speed, accuracy and court coverage in the first semi-final clash. They took a narrow 17-13 lead in the first quarter, capitalising on strong centre-court play and accurate shooting.

In the second quarter, SA extended their lead with pinpoint passing, effective centre-court pressure and clinical shooting from the circle. They went to the break leading 34-21.

The SPAR Proteas continued to dominate in the third quarter, maintaining a strong defensive presence and consistently finding gaps in the Zimbabwean defence. During this period, the score increased to 50-32 in favour of the Proteas.

In the final quarter, Jenny van Dyk’s charges maintained their composure, ultimately securing a 63-41 victory over Zimbabwe. This victory extends South Africa’s unbeaten record against its opponents in recent years, winning all 11 encounters against Zimbabwe.

SPAR Proteas “Ready” for Uganda Final Showdown

Ahead of the highly anticipated final against Uganda, SPAR Proteas coach Jenny Van Dyk shared her thoughts on the team’s preparations and the challenge ahead. Reflecting on the semi-final victory over Zimbabwe, she emphasised the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the match while highlighting the depth of the South African squad.

“We take on Uganda exactly as expected. We have prepared for this from the very start and we have prepared with them in mind. The players had a rough start to the semis.

“But before the end of that first quarter, they pulled it back so well, so good job for Zimbabwe. They started strong in that match, but also an excellent performance from our South African players to keep the consistency throughout most of the game,” she said.

Van Dyk further said she meant, being able to play all 12 players in the semi-finals speaks volumes of the type of players they have. She added that the team is ready.

“We’ll be doing quite a lot of work. From now till tomorrow, we will prepare for the final preparation for Uganda. But we are already confident that we will go out there and do our utmost best,” said.

Meanwhile, the SPAR Proteas played Uganda in the 2024 Africa Netball Cup final on Saturday at 2pm. Uganda secured their place in the final with a 51-43 victory over Malawi in the second semi-final, setting the stage for their 20th encounter with the Proteas.

Head-to-Head History

South Africa hold a dominant 15-4 record against Uganda in their previous 19 meetings. While South Africa has enjoyed significant success in recent years, including a string of victories in 2021, Uganda has shown a growing competitive edge, notably securing a 54-48 win in Birmingham in 2022.

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14 illegal foreign miners sentenced to two years imprisonment

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By REGINALD KANYANE

14 December 2024- Nineteen illegal miners were sentenced to two years imprisonment by the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on 11 December 2024. The convicts comprise of 14 Lesotho, 4 Mozambique and 1 Zimbabwe undocumented foreign nationals aged between 20 and 40.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said each of the convicts was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, which is wholly suspended for the period of five years on condition that the accused person is not convicted for contravention of Section 5A of Act 28 of 2008 read with Section 1, illegal mining committed during the period of suspension.

“In addition, each accused person was sentenced to six months imprisonment or a fine of R6000, which is wholly suspended for the period of five years on condition that the accused person is not convicted for contravention of Section 49(1)(a) read with section 1, 9(3) & (4) of Act No. 13 of 2002 (illegal immigrant – illegal entry) committed during the period of suspension,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said the accused are part of scores of illegal miners arrested in November 2024, after resurfacing at Margaret Shaft, in Stilfontein. He added that the Vala Umgodi operations in the province continue to assert the authority of the state.

“Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs is currently processing the convicts for deportation. The sentencing shows that the integrated and relentless efforts to fight illegal mining were strengthened,” said Mokgwabone.

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Police looking for suspects linked to business robbery

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 December 2024- The police in Ikageng request the community’s assistance in locating and identifying a man as per attached identikit. On 13 November 2024, at around 8:30pm, a complainant (27), was allegedly busy helping customers in a tuck shop in Mogolodi Street, Extension 7, in Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom, when two unknown suspects entered.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said one of them was armed with a firearm and demanded money.

“They robbed the complainant of cash, an airtime machine, cellular phone and cigarettes. One of the suspects is dark in complexion with dark eyes, medium in height and a slender built body. He was wearing a black/dark blue sporty hat.

“Anyone with information that can assist the police to identify and trace the man, is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant George Phamudi of Ikageng Detectives on 082 416 1015 or 018 294 1438,” she said.

Myburgh further said anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via the MySAPS App on your smartphone or alternatively call Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111.

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A boy brutally killed in Vryburg

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Picture: The police at crime scene in Vryburg/Facebook 

By REGINALD KANYANE

11 December 2024- A boy (1) was brutally killed at Colour Block Extension in Vryburg on 7 December 2024. It is alleged that the mother of the boy was outside her house when her neighbour (27), allegedly approached her.

The North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Sergeant Tryphosa van Rooyen said the neighbour allegedly grabbed the boy from his mother, who was holding him in her arms. Van Rooyen said the suspect was allegedly armed with a knife.

“The mother shouted for help and community members came to assist. The suspect went inside his house and locked the door. Thereafter, he stabbed the boy to death and then stabbed himself.

“Both were declared dead on the scene. There was no relationship or conflict between the mother and the suspect, they are just neighbours. The suspect was arrested about two weeks back for assault GBH, after assaulting his own brother,” she said.

Van Rooyen further said this case was still going on in court.

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SA GETS OFF TO FLYING START AT 2024 AFRICA NETBALL CUP

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Picture: Netball South Africa players

By OBAKENG MAJE 

11 December 2024- South Africa got off to a flying start at the Africa Netball Cup 2024, which kicked off this Monday at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund. The men’s and women’s teams made resounding statements on the tournament’s opening day.

Owethu Ngubane was unable to travel with the squad to Namibia due to injury but will be ready to return for the series in Jamaica in January. South Africa’s men’s team, who are the defending champions, turned on a dominant performance, securing a 98-8 victory over Lesotho in their opening match. 

The team, led by Sicelo Gamede in Goal Defence, showcased exceptional strength, establishing a commanding 48-6 lead by halftime. They sealed their win in the final two quarters.

The victory marked the international debuts of several promising players, Vukile Zulu, Kwandile Sithole, Shane Labuschagne, Romeo Nqcaku, and Lwazi Nzama. In their second match, the South African men continued their winning streak with a convincing 67-38 victory over debutants Namibia.

They Were All Fired Up

Head Coach of the SA men’s team, Jabulani Vilane, praised his troops’ confidence and execution in the first match against Lesotho, while acknowledging areas for improvement observed in the second game against Namibia.

“The game was not that tough against Lesotho, but the boys’ confidence was good. They were all fired up and they performed all the combinations we tried very well,” said Vilane. 

Meanwhile, the South African women’s team, the SPAR Proteas, also enjoyed an impressive start to their campaign, securing a record-breaking 74-29 victory over Kenya.

This marks their largest-ever winning margin and highest-ever goal tally against Kenya in an Africa Netball Cup match. It surpassed their previous best of 67-25 (a 42-goal difference) in 2021. The SPAR Proteas demonstrated exceptional speed and precision, establishing a significant 21-5 lead after the first quarter.

The experienced captain, Khanyisa Chawane, led the charge.

Their dominance continued throughout the match. At halftime, they had a commanding 41-11 lead. They went on to win the third quarter by 58-20 points.

Tough One Against Malawi

SPAR Proteas coach Jenny van Dyk expressed satisfaction with the team’s victory over Kenya but said there is room for improvement. She highlighted the need for greater clinical execution and emphasised the importance of thorough analysis and adjustments before facing Malawi.

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A body of a man found on N18 road

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 December 2024- The Huhudi Detectives appeal to the community to assist them in identifying an unknown body of a man estimated to be in his thirties. The body was found on the N18 road near Tigerkloof.

The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster police spokesperson, Sergeant Tryphosa van Rooyen said the deceased is slender built, light in complexion, 1.88-metre-tall and was wearing a red t-shirt, grey beanie written “cool”, blue Chelsea long track pant with grey Adidas tekkies.

“The only item found in his possession was a Nedbank card written M Maine. Anyone who may have information that can assist the police in identifying the body, is requested to contact Captain Thabo Moremi on 082 661 7535,” she said.

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Two men jailed for business robbery

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

10 December 2024- Two men aged 22 were sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by the Galeshewe Regional Court for business robbery in Galeshewe Township, near Kimberley.  

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said two accused, Senzo Bhekizitha Kokobe and Katlego Zar Tshukudu, walked into the spaza shop, threatened the owner with a panga and knife, then stole cigarettes, as well as cash and fled the scene. 

“The court imposed a 10-year direct prison sentence on each of the accused for business robbery and both were declared unfit to possess firearms,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, applauded the Investigating Officer, Detective Warrant Officer Leslie Everyday for the sterling investigation that led to the conviction of the duo. Makgari said, the direct imprisonment is as a result of the police’s efficient investigative capacity and will send a stern message to criminal elements that continue to rob the communities of their belongings. 

“We urge all communities to rate the police efforts by participating in the RATE OUR SERVICE online survey to assist the police in improving services,” she said. 

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‘I’m still the Greater Taung Local Municipality mayor’

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Picture: The Greater Taung Local Municipality mayor, Tumisang Gaoralwe 

By OBAKENG MAJE 

10 December 2024- The embattled Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Gaoraelwe has described assertions that he refuses to resign as absurd and hogwash. Few months ago, the ANC in North West, took a decision to recall Naledi Local Municipality, mayor, Clifton Groep, Kagisano-Molopo Local Municipality mayor, Tshireletso Marabutse and the Greater Local Municipality, Tumisang Gaoraelwe. 

The party said it was guided by the assessment report that was conducted against their deployees across all 18 municipalities. 

Gaoraelwe told www.sabcnews.comthat the ANC has taken a decision to redeploy them, but this is an internal process. He further said the process has not been effective. 

“Currently, there have not been any redeployment or resignation yet. So, I’m still waiting for the ANC to deal with the redeployment issue. You will remember that the party is also guided by the cadre deployment policy that was derived from the constitution of the ANC. 

“To answer your question directly, I’m still the mayor of the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM). There was no negligence in my vehicle accidents. What you need to understand is that, even though I have a hired driver, according to the 2022 SALGA Mayoral Book, there is nothing wrong, if I drive myself,” said Gaoraelwe.

He added that there is also nothing wrong if his wife drives the state vehicle. Gaoraelwe said he did not write that mayoral handbook and it says there is nothing wrong even if his uncle drives the car. 

Meanwhile, the ANC spokesperson, Tumelo Maruping said the matter is internal for now, and they will inform the public when they complete the process. 

“We never discussed the details of their redeployment. Well, it is not true that they are refusing to resign. They never said they refuse to resign, but said they are still waiting for ANC internal processes to finalise this matter. 

“As soon as that is done, the ANC will communicate with them as to when to resign. We cannot discuss redeployment issues with the media. It is still an internal process, but that decision is still upheld,” he said. 

Maruping said the redeployment is a privilege within the ANC to start with. He said it was not premature to recall these mayors, however, that was done in line with the assessment process that was conducted by the party. 

“The assessment report has nothing to do with redeployment. No one joins the ANC in expectation of material gain and that’s exactly what the oath of ANC says. They were recalled from their positions due to the assessment report. There were concerns from communities and that is why they were recalled. 

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