Mixed start as South Africa’s FAST5 Netball World Series campaign kick-off

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The South African FAST5 women’s national team celebrating their win after beating England 33-25 in the opening match of the 2024 FAST5 Netball World Series played in Christchurch, New Zealand/Supplied 

By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 November 2024- The South African FAST5 Netball teams have had a mixed start to their World Series campaign in Christchurch, New Zealand. The women’s team kicked off their campaign with a thrilling victory over England.

In a tightly contested match, South Africa secured a 33-25 win. Zandre Smit was the top scorer for South Africa, contributing 20 of their 33 goals.

In their second match, South Africa faced a dominant Australian side, losing 49-26. But they bounced back with a hard-fought 33-25 victory over Jamaica. Sanmarie Visser’s outstanding defensive performance earned her the Player of the Match award.

“It was a very long day in the final match. Really. It was really mentally tough for us, but I think we handled it so well, and everyone just gave everything they had…we were hungry for that win and yes.

“Receiving the Player of the Match award was just so amazing, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity to be part of such an amazing event and for receiving this reward. But, it was a team effort, and everyone was working so hard,” said Visser.

She further said they made it so easy for her and it was really amazing. Visser added that she is so blessed and grateful.

The women’s team’s coach Martha Mosoahle-Samm expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting their strong start against England and their ability to recover after a tough loss to Australia. 

“There were three matches today, we won two and lost one. It was a good day for us, especially with the opening game against England, that gave us a lot of confidence. We slipped up a bit against Australia and it was a tough one.

“I think they came harder on us, and their ball speed was just too much, and they were just very tight on defence. But it was also a learning curve for the girls. But, we are also grateful that we ended it very well against Jamaica,” she said.

Mosoahle-Samm said they are looking forward to the following day, where they will be taking on Uganda and New Zealand. She said South Africa will face Uganda in their next match on 10 November at 2:25am.

On the other hand, the South African men’s team faced a tough challenge in their opening match, going down 42-27 to Australia.  The men’s team’s coach, Neville Chapepa, attributed the team’s loss to a lack of discipline and failure to follow instructions.

“We failed to follow rules on the court and didn’t adhere to the game plan. We had a lot of errors and lost the game due to our own mistakes. We need to work on our passing, conversion, and listening to instructions.

“We stressed the importance of taking twos and ones to build momentum, but players rushed and forced threes, leading to a poor third quarter,” he said.

The South African men’s team will now turn their attention to their next match against New Zealand, scheduled for Sunday, 10 November at 03:10 AM (CAT).

Meanwhile, the South African women will face Uganda at 2:25 AM (CAT) and later compete against the host nation, New Zealand, at 4:40 AM (CAT).

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Two learners admitted in hospital after eating popcorn  

NEWS Leave a comment

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

9 November 2024- Two learners from Lehurutshe, near Zeerust, have been admitted to the Lehurutshe/Zeerust Hospital. The learners were treated at the hospital casualty on the evening of 7 November 2024, for vomiting, diarrhoea and weakness.

The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari said, according to the learners, they had eaten popcorn and ice blocks on 5 November 2024, and subsequently fell ill later in the evening. Lehari said they reportedly did not go to school on Wednesday and Thursday due to consultation at the hospital.

“We send our well wishes to the learners. Upon receiving the news, I was worried, but later sighed with relief when I heard that the learners are stable. With everything that has been going on in the country, we need to treat such cases promptly.

“I am glad that the learners and their families saw the need to seek medical attention as soon as they did. This shows that they take their health seriously. Overnight, one other learner from the same school has been seen at the hospital complaining of having vomited during the day,” he said.

Lehari encourages others to come forward should they need medical attention. He further said their healthcare facilities and workers are here to assist.

“We need to use the system that is at our disposal, and trust that we are in good hands. We wish the learners a speedy recovery and hope to see them back at school, concluding their exams.

“The girls are currently in a stable condition in the ward, and both still complain of abdominal cramps and diarrhoea. Further tests have been conducted for laboratory results, which will conclude the cause,” he added.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

SA flew the flag on Lekgethwane’s epic achievements  

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Berlina Lekgethwane who was crowned Mrs Mrs Worldwide 2024 Grand Beauty/Facebook

By REGINALD KANYANE

9 November 2024 – The Moses Kotane Local Municipality mayor, Nketu Nkotswe lauded one of the municipal employees, Berlina Lekgethwane, who represented Africa and South Africa during the 2024 Mrs Worldwide. Lekgethwane competed against 31 countries.

Nkotswe said Lekgethwane represented South Africa so well and flew its flag high. She said people like Lekgethwane need to be embraced as they are ambassadors.

“The communities at large came together to welcome one of their own. The South African flag was flown in a display of unity, solidarity, and celebration. You will remember that we are talking about the country’s four crown victories.

“This includes other titles that highlighted South Africa’s ability to collaborate with 31 countries on future development-oriented projects,” she said.

Nkotswe further said Lekgethwane was crowned as Mrs Worldwide 2024 Grand Beauty and Mrs Worldwide Special Queen Ambassador. She added that Lekgethwane also made it to the Top 6 in her first international competition.

“She was crowned the World Peace winner, which gives her opportunities as an ambassador between nations. Lekgethwane will be advocating global unity, diversity and collaborations,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Stakeholders donate blankets, wash bins to Rauwane learners

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The learners at Rauwane Sepeng Secondary School received wash bins/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 November 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said despite challenging circumstances, the Rauwane Sepeng Secondary School is now nearing readiness to resume its matric camps. Motsumi said, thanks to the generous assistance extended by neighbouring high schools and a local supermarket.

“This outpouring of support has been instrumental in ensuring that Grade 12 learners can continue their preparations without further disruption. Donations include sleeping mattresses, wash basins, blankets and pillows to restore dignity to the camping learners.

“The department expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all donors and supporters, who stepped in during this difficult time. Their swift response has enabled the school to navigate through this period and make significant progress,” she said.

 Motsumi further said this includes the development of a revised timetable for Grades 8-11, to ensure continuity of learning and examinations. She commended the collaborative efforts demonstrated by the community.

“The support shown to the school highlights the true spirit of unity and resilience within our community. When we come together to support our learners, we demonstrate that the education of each child is indeed a collective responsibility.

“We thank all the donors and stakeholders whose contributions have made it possible for Rauwane Sepeng to continue its mission of education, even in the face of adversity,” said Motsumi.

She added that the department remains committed to working closely with the school to ensure all learners receive the education they deserve as recovery efforts continue.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

 

ANC member suspended for ‘burning’ party t-shirts

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The ANC member, Tshepo Moses Boysa standing next to ANC t-shirts

By OBAKENG MAJE

8 November 2024- The ANC in North West has suspended Tshepo Moses Boysa, who is a ward 14 member in Mahikeng Sub-Region. The ANC accuses Boysa of bringing the party into disrepute and undermine its standing in society.

The ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo said the letter served to inform Boysa of his immediate suspension. Diremelo further said Boysa has been barred from participating in any ANC activities and his membership is suspended too.

“It has come to the attention of the organization that you actively led and participated in an activity that sought to disrepute and undermine the standing of the ANC in

society.

“On 7 November 2024, you and a group of people were seen destroying and burning organizational t-shirts in front of Mahikeng Local Municipality. This act is a serious violation of the ANC constitution,” he said.

Diremelo added that it is an act of misconduct in terms of the ANC constitution under rule 25.17.15 read together with 25.17.17.4.1. He said Boysa hereby informed of the suspension his membership with immediate effect and he is further directed not to speak, participate or act on behalf of the organization in any

platform until his disciplinary matter is concluded.

“The ANC will communicate with you within 7 days to provide you with the preferred charges against you and the date for your disciplinary hearing. I hope you will find the above in order,” said Diremelo.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

200 households receive food parcels  

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Food parcels and garden tools handed over in efforts to improve and attend to household food security matters in Madibogo Pan/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 November 2024- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development handed food parcels to 200 indigent households in Madibogo Pan village, near Mahikeng, as part of the commemoration of the Provincial World Food Day on 30 October 2024.

Head of Department (HoD), Thupi Mokhatla said this initiative will assist them to improve and attend to household food security matters.

Mokhatla said this initiative highlights the ongoing battle against food insecurity that many families in the community face and the importance of access to nutritious food for all. He further said the World Food Day event, celebrated under: “Right to foods for a better life and a better future”, serves as a reminder of the global effort to end hunger and improve nutrition.

“The food parcels handed over included staple foods and nutritious items to households identified as most in need and mainly child and female headed. This endeavour is part of the department’s mandate in promoting food security and improving the livelihoods of rural communities.

“This is the role of the government in addressing food scarcity in the province. Today’s distribution of food parcels is a vital step towards ensuring that our vulnerable communities have access to essential food supplies,” said Mokhatla.

He added that they recognize the struggles faced by many households, and they are committed to providing relief and support. Mokhatla said in addition, the department handed over vegetable seeds and garden tools to 15 households.

“Communities were urged to engage with various agricultural programs available through the department, aimed at enhancing food production and sustainability, while emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency and resilience.

“The objective of WFD is to stimulate agricultural production and trade in the marginalised and poorer areas within the provinces through cooperation and collaborations with other relevant stakeholders.”

A dietician, Goitsemodimo Senna, talked on the importance of eating healthy, nutritious foods and reading food labels, including expiry dates.

“Proper nutrition helps prevent malnutrition and other health related issues, having access to nutritious foods supports the immune function, whilst reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting your overall well-being,” he said.

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, Rebecca Monwana said: “The initiative of the department is greatly appreciated to assist in improving household food insecurity as the majority of the community members are unemployed and there are no economic activities in the village.”

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Four foreign nationals arrested for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

8 November 2024– Four men were arrested for unlawful possession of firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of housebreaking implements during the ongoing Vala Umgodi operation in the Bojanala Platinum District. This comes after the police stopped a white Nissan bakkie and arrested four men at Tlhatlhaganyane village, near Sun City in Rustenburg on 5 November 2024.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the suspects, including an undocumented Zimbabwean foreign national, were searched together with their vehicle. Mokgwabone said during the search, the police allegedly found a backpack containing two firearms and ammunition.

“A further search led to the discovery of two bolt cutters, a breaking tool and hand gloves. One of the suspects admitted that they were on their way to commit a business robbery.

“That prompted the police to conduct a search at two of the suspects’ places at Bapong village, where they found suspected stolen goods that included five cell phones, a replica firearm, gas bottles, and a document with the particulars of a Pakistani foreign national,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said the suspects were placed under arrest after failing to account for the items found in their possession. He added that the accused persons, Freeman Mahembe (47), Elvis Mogoe (50) Thabo Monyatse (29) and Jacob Kgaswane (55), were charged with unlawful possession of firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of housebreaking implements.

“A Zimbabwean foreign national will also be facing a charge of contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002. The accused briefly appeared in Mogwase Magistrate’s Court on 6 November 2024, and were remanded in custody until 14 November 2024, for legal aid.

“The operation also led to the arrest of five undocumented foreign nationals from Lesotho and Swaziland, aged between 23 and 45. During the operation, items such as five generators, jack hammers, hammers and many others were seized,” said Mokgwabone.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello General Kwena, commended the police for their persistent efforts in the fight against illicit economy.         

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Suspected stolen diesel worth R7000 seized  

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The suspected stolen diesel confiscated by police/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

8 November 2024- The police confiscated a suspected stolen diesel worth R7000 in Phutahanang Township in Kimberly. The diesel was confiscated by the police during Operation Vala Umgodi in the Frances Baard District.  

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said on 7 November 2024, the police under both proactive and combat units, received intelligence-driven information regarding a house in Samora Machel street, where diesel was allegedly stored and sold. Pilane said the information was operationalised and diesel was found stored in 25 litre containers, hidden in an unused toilet.

“No satisfactory explanation was given with regard to its ownership. Large quantities of suspected stolen diesel estimated at R7000 was confiscated and an enquiry was opened for further investigation.

“Members of the community are encouraged to report any suspicious criminal activities through the MySaps App or 10111 crime stop number,” she said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

‘Stop posting unverified information on social media’

NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 November 2024- The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Northern Cape said it has noted with concern that unverified footage and information posted on social media platforms. The police warn the public about posting crime evidence on social media.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the suspects may change their behaviour, if they know that their vehicle or identity is known. Kock said they may change it or somehow make it harder for the police to arrest them.

“Suspects may target those who post that. It can place their lives in imminent danger if a suspect knows they have evidence of a crime he/she committed. Community may take the law into their own hands.

“Publishing photos of suspects or crime scenes could lead to the community taking matters into their own hands, which could result in injury or death. Information may be unverified and social media sources can be unverified, making it difficult to confirm the accuracy of the information,” he said.

Kock further said this also has security risks. He added that social media searches can pose security risks, as investigators may inadvertently reveal their identity.

“The public at large is encouraged to report incidents to the authorities, instead of posting on social media. Robust community participation in the fight against crime is key. Ensure that you never endanger your life or the lives of others.

“The police need the community and communities need the police,” said Kock.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

An elderly man sentenced to 20 years for raping a minor

NEWS Leave a comment

By BAKANG MOKOTO

8 November 2024- An elderly man aged 75 was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the Bafokeng Sexual Offences Regional Court in Tlhabane, near Rustenburg for rape. On 4 June 2023, the accused, Themba Moya, called Tshwetso Letshaba (15) at around 12pm, to assist him with something in the house at Lethabong Township, outside Rustenburg.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said on arrival, Moya who is the victim’s neighbour, invited her to his bedroom, where he raped her.  Mokgwabone said the matter was reported to the police and the suspect was arrested.

“Sadly, the victim allegedly killed herself a few weeks after the rape incident,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, applauded the Investigating Officer, D/Sgt Letshabang Mzinyathi and the state prosecutor, Advocate Dzimema and other role players for working together to secure the conviction. 

taungdailynews@gmail.com