11 April 2026 – The FNB NWU Eagles are ready to step up in the Varsity Cup final against the FNB UP-Tuks in a rivalry battle on Monday 13 April in Tshwane. Coach Burger van der Westhuizen’s side dominated FNB Maties at the Fanie du Toit Sportsgrounds to secure their place in the highly anticipated final.
With preparations in place ahead of the final showdown, the Eagles are hoping to repeat their 2023 Varsity Cup Success, but they have a tough row to hoe. Road to the finals
The Purple Army have enjoyed success since their opening fixture against FNB CUT in Bloemfontein, playing champagne rugby and maintaining a positive squad vibe.
NWU Eagles have won six games, one short of their rivals UP-Tuks. FNB UJ handed the Eagles their first loss of their 2026 Varsity Cup campaign in Johannesburg, while their second defeat came at the hands of FNB Maties in Stellenbosch.
Yet, UP-Tuks’ only defeat came in their round five fixture against the Eagles at the Fanie du Toit Sportsgrounds on 16 March 2026, where their powerful unbeaten run was broken. The Eagles’ only win in Pretoria came in 2023, when they secured a narrow 26–22 victory over Tuks.
“They are a very good team, very physical. It will truly take something special to beat them at their home ground,” said Burger, suggesting that the Eagles are confident of causing an upset in the Jacaranda City.
According to Van der Westhuizen, the Eagles believed they can reach the final thanks to their impressive second-half performance against UCT Ikeys, which saw them come from behind to clinch a 56–53 victory in Potchefstroom.
Head-to-head
Historically, UP-Tuks have dominated, but in recent seasons the Eagles have caught up, winning three of their last four encounters, including the dramatic 30–22 victory in March 2026. The final is expected to be decided by moments that often make the difference in tight games.
Lifting the varsity Cup trophy would mean a great deal for coach Burger and the team.
“It would mean everything,” he said. “Not just for the team, but for the entire town and the NWU community across all three campuses. It would be something truly special for the boys, for their journeys ahead in professional rugby, and for their families and loved ones.”
11 April 2026 – The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said it welcomes the recent ranking by Bank of America placing South Africa at the top of its regional equity market assessment. GCIS said this recognition represents a strong vote of confidence in South Africa as an attractive and competitive investment destination.
GCIS acting spokesperson, Nomonde Mnukwa said this endorsement by a leading global financial institution reflects the underlying resilience and sophistication of South Africa’s financial system. Mnukwa said despite a challenging global environment, their financial markets continue to demonstrate stability, depth and strong regulatory oversight, reinforcing South Africa’s position as a trusted hub for investment on the African continent.
“This ranking serves as further evidence that the economic reforms undertaken by government are yielding positive results. Ongoing efforts to stabilise energy supply, improve logistics, and strengthen fiscal management are contributing to renewed investor confidence and improved market performance.
“We are also encouraged by the recent investment commitments totalling R889,8 billion announced through the 6th South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC), which signal growing domestic and international confidence in the country’s economic trajectory,” she said.
Mnukwa further said these commitments underscore the tangible progress being made to unlock growth and create an enabling environment for investment. She added that government calls on investors, both local and international, to take note of these positive developments and to partner with South Africa in driving inclusive economic growth.
“There are significant opportunities across key sectors of our economy, and we remain committed to ensuring policy certainty, structural reform, and a conducive business environment.
“South Africa is open for business, and this latest recognition affirms that the country remains a compelling destination for investment,” said Mnukwa.
Picture: A Polo Vivo driver died in a car accident/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
10 April 2026 – The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng has expressed disappointment and concern over an incident of blatant disregard for road safety regulations. This comes after a fatal accident between Swartruggens and Rustenburg on the N4, in the early hours of Thursday.
Morweng said according to initial reports, a Botswana male national driving a truck allegedly made a u-turn on a hill road with clear barrier lines. He further said as a result, a Polo Vivo driving in the opposite direction collided with the truck.
“As a consequence, the driver of the Polo Vivo was certified dead on the scene. We extend condolences to the bereaved family and cautions motorists against lawlessness and reckless driving. It is unfortunate that this incident is the second in the province this week to claim a life.
“We have always said that one life lost on our roads is one too many. I therefore extend my most humble condolences to the families that have lost their loved one due to this occurrence. Regrettably, this comes a week after the activation of our Easter Road Safety Campaign,” he added.
Morweng said their message has always been clear. He said let the drivers share the roads responsibly.
“This also means adhering to all rules of the road, avoiding distractions and prioritising safety over convenience. A case of culpable homicide has been opened at the Swartruggens Police Station,” said Morweng.
Picture: North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari and newly-appointed Head of Department, Dr Thami Matshego/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
10 April 2026 – The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari has officially introduced and welcomed the newly-appointed Superintendent General (Head of Department), Dr Thami Matshego during a Departmental Executive Committee meeting held in Rustenburg. Lehari said Matshego’s appointment by the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, marks a significant milestone for the department as it strengthens leadership and governance to improve health service delivery across the province.
“We express confidence in Matshego’s capabilities, highlighting her strong academic background and extensive leadership experience in both provincial entities and local government. We are confident that Matshego’s appointment marks a new chapter of stability, leadership and progress for the department.
“She brings a wealth of experience and a strong academic foundation that positions her well to lead the transformation of our health system,” he said.
Lehari further emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration within the department during this transition. He added that they are handing over the new Superintendent General to the management and equally entrusting the management to her leadership.
“This calls for mutual respect, teamwork and a shared commitment to improving healthcare services for our people. Matshego holds a B Tech in Environmental Health, a Master of Public Health specialising in Occupational and Environmental Health, and a PhD in Environmental Management focusing on climate change adaptation.
“Her professional experience includes serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the North West Parks and Tourism Board, as well as executive roles in Mogale City and Rand West City Local Municipalities, among others,” said Lehari.
He also took the opportunity to acknowledge and thank senior executives who have acted in the position of Superintendent General, including Dr Madipuo Tlhogane, Mokhutshwane-Kaudi, Jannie De Beer, and Polaki Mokatsane, for ensuring stability and continuity within the department during the transition period. He said the department has committed to ensuring a structured handover process, led by acting Superintendent General, Mokatsane, as well as a comprehensive orientation and induction programme to support Matshego in her new role.
In her remarks, Matshego underscored the importance of a unified vision and results-driven leadership. She said they need to have a shared purpose, which will help them achieve what they are here for.
“I am result-driven. I am not good at speaking, but more at showing the works of my hands. Building institutional capacity and working with everyone to advance this purpose is one of my strengths. We committed to strengthening the department’s performance by focusing on key areas requiring attention.
“We will identify areas that need improvement and give them the necessary attention to ensure that we deliver better outcomes for our communities. I would also like to express my support for key departmental programmes championed by the MEC,” she said.
Mashego said she is impressed by programmes such as Re Bona ka Matlho, Kopano ke Matla, and the Tshela ka Itekanelo campaign. She said these are initiatives she fully supports as they align
9 April 2026 – The owner and former midwife of You and Me Midwife-led Maternity Care, Yolande Maritz Fouchee (48) from Murrayfield was found guilty of culpable homicide of 9 days-old Noah Von Kloeg, 6 counts of assault, fraud, employment of an unqualified person, and 5 counts of assault involving a legal duty by the Pretoria High Court. Between 2019 to 2020, Fouchee would administer functions as a midwife, such as running pregnancy check-ups for pregnant women and assisting them to give birth at Fouchee’s practice in Murrayfield.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said during the pregnancy and birthing process of those women, Fouchee would overlook pregnancy complications in respect of her patients and not refer them to the appropriate specialists. Mahanjana said Fouchee would also say to the pregnant women that she is capable of performing normal to low-risk birthing.
“During the birthing process, Fouchee would offer the pregnant mothers water mixed with Cytotec or Oxytocin in order to induce and augment their labour without their knowledge. On 3 April 2019, one of the victims’ labour was induced.
“She gave birth and 9 days later, her baby died due to the complications overlooked by Fouchee. In 2020, Fouchee was reported to the South African Nursing Council (SANC) by the victims and criminal cases against her were opened at Silverton police station. After an investigation by the police, Fouchee was arrested on 24 June 2024, at her place of residence,” she said.
Mahanjana further said in court, Fouchee pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against her and denied committing the offences. She added, however, the state prosecutor, Adv Jennifer Cronje, presented compelling evidence by Fouchee’s daughter, the victims and Professor Priya Soma-Pillay, as well as Professor Izelle Smuts, both experts from Steve Biko Academic Hospital who compiled detailed medical reports about ante-natal care, labour and delivery as well as neonatal emergency care proved the state’s case beyond reasonable doubt.
Meanwhile, the acting Director of Public Prosecutions in Gauteng, Advocate Marika Jansen Van Vuuren, commended Cronje for her work and said that such cases set precedence that medical officials are not above the law and that they too can be criminally prosecuted. Van Vuuren hopes that this judgement provides some justice and closure to the victims and their families.
“The matter has been postponed to 25 May 2026 for sentencing proceedings,” she said.
Picture: A driver and two learners died in a horrific accident/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
9 April 2026 – Two learners from Vryburg High School along with their driver (43), died in a horrific car accident. It is alleged that the accident happened in the early hours of Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said it is reported that four girl learners and their driver, were travelling in their private transport from Delareyville to Vryburg to attend school as it was the reopening of schools for the second term. Motsumi said it is further reported that, approximately 20 kilometres from Vryburg, their vehicle collided with a truck.
“Unfortunately, the crash resulted in the immediate loss of three lives. Two learners and the driver were declared dead at the scene, while the two other learners sustained severe injuries. The deceased learners, Remofiloe Mtshengu (15) and Kitso Mathope (16), were in Grade 9 and 10 respectively, while the seriously injured learners are both in Grade 12.
“We are devastated by the tragic news of the accident. Immediately after receiving the news, I drove to Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg to offer my support to the families and wished learners a speedy recovery,” she said.
Motsumi further said on behalf of the entire department, she wishes to convey their heartfelt and deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved learners and also wish a speedy recovery to those who are still in hospital. She added that to the Vryburg High School community, pray that they remain strong during this difficult time.
“I further urge all drivers who are transporting learners to school, to be extremely cautious on the road. The death of one learner is too many. We cannot allow the lives of our learners to perish on the road like this. These learners were coming to school for the second quarter and we were having so many plans to ensure that they excel in their studies.
“The Wellness Unit from the District Office has already conducted trauma debriefing to the learners and the educators. Psycho social support will also be extended to the affected family members,” said Motsumi.
She said the memorial service and the funeral details of the deceased learners will be released once all the family members have been consulted.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng sent his deepest condolences to the families of two the deceased. Morweng said the occupants were traveling on N14 road from Delareyville to Vryburg on the first day of the second school quarter when the sedan in which they were traveling collided head on with a truck traveling the opposite direction.
“The truck driver (45), who was travelling alone, was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries. A case of culpable homicide is being investigated,” he said.
Picture: North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
8 April 2026 – The North West Provincial Government (NWPG) said it has implemented the Provincial Digital Transformation Strategy. The NWPG said this strategy is not merely a technology programme, it is a central pillar of its broader agenda to build a capable, ethical and developmental state, supported by modern systems, efficient processes, and strengthened accountability.
The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi said it is about fundamentally transforming the way government works both internally and in how it serves citizens, businesses, and institutions across the province. Mokgosi said they welcome leadership from Microsoft South Africa and Boxfusion, who have supported the province in delivering key components of this digital transformation journey.
“We look forward to working closely with you in advancing digital transformation, innovation, enterprise development and inclusive economic participation within the North West.
“During the State of the Province Address (SOPA) in February 2026, we made a clear and deliberate commitment to the people of this province that we would modernise government systems, strengthen administrative capability, and transition towards a digitally enabled provincial administration,” he said.
Mokgosi further indicated that from 1 April 2026, key systems would transition into operation. He added that today, they can confirm that this commitment has been delivered.
“The systems that were announced are now live and operational and we have now entered the next critical phase, the adoption, onboarding and institutionalization phase, which will ensure that these systems are embedded into the daily functioning of government.
“At the centre of this transformation is the SmartGov platform, which now lives across the North West Provincial Government as a centralised digital service led by the Office of the Premier.
SmartGov represents a fundamental shift from fragmented, manual and paper-based processes towards a standardized, integrated and automated administrative environment across all departments,” said Mokgosi.
He said during the month of April, all departments are undergoing a structured onboarding programme, which includes a comprehensive training of officials across CFO environments and operational units as well as alignment and configuration of departmental processes within the platform. Mokgosi said this includes a managed transition from manual workflows to digital processes.
“This phased and structured approach ensures that the transition is controlled, supported and sustainable, without disrupting provision of services.
“As departments complete onboarding, they will progressively transition into full utilisation of the platform, and manual processes will be systematically discontinued,” he said.
Mokgosi said the SmartGov platform will automate key administrative and procurement processes, which among others include, e-submissions, quotation and procurement workflows, internal approval processes, invoice tracking and payment visibility as well as contract management and compliance monitoring. He said the implementation of SmartGov will result in improved efficiency and standardisation across government processes, enhanced transparency in procurement and financial management, reduced delays and faster turnaround times, accountability and auditability of transactions and a more accessible and predictable system for businesses.
“For businesses particularly small, medium and emerging enterprises this represents a significant step towards creating a fair, transparent and equitable environment for participation in government opportunities.
“This is not just a system going live, it is a transition towards a new way of working in government. In parallel to administrative automation, we have also operationalised the Monitoring and Evaluation capability within the Office of the Premier, implemented through the SmartGov platform,” said Mokgosi.
He said this capability will enable the province to progressively integrate reporting across to all twelve provincial departments, six state owned entities and all twelve municipalities. Mokgosi said through this system, the Office of the Premier will increasingly have access to real-time performance data through interactive dashboards, covering strategic programmes and service delivery initiatives across the province.
“This will enable continuous monitoring of strategic projects, strengthened oversight across all spheres within the province, early identification of risks and underperformance data-driven decision-making as well as improved coordination of interventions where required.
“This marks a fundamental shift from traditional reporting to real-time, integrated and proactive governance.
Programme Director, this transformation is built on a fundamental shift in the province’s digital foundation, a decisive move away from outdated legacy systems towards a modern, secure and future-ready digital environment,” he said.
Mokgosi said they have successfully migrated from the legacy GroupWise platform to Microsoft 365, ushering in a new era of a connected, collaborative and mobile digital workplace. He said their public servants are now equipped with tools that enable them to work more efficiently and respond more effectively to the needs of our people.
“In parallel, we have transitioned our infrastructure to the Microsoft Azure cloud platform, positioning the province on a scalable, resilient and high-performance digital backbone capable of supporting both current demands and future growth.
“At the same time, we have strengthened our cybersecurity posture through the deployment of advanced endpoint security capabilities, ensuring that government systems, data and digital services are protected against evolving cyber threats,” said Mokgosi.
He said together, these initiatives mark a clear departure from legacy constraints and establish a secure, modern and future-ready digital government environment for the North West. Mokgosi said they are no longer operating on legacy systems, they are now operating on a modern digital foundation built for the future.
“Of critical importance is to emphasize that all these initiatives have been implemented through State Information Technology Agency (SITA) framework agreements, ensuring full compliance with national ICT governance, procurement and regulatory frameworks.
“Beyond systems and infrastructure, this transformation is also about people, skills development and economic opportunity. Through our partnership with Microsoft, the province will unlock structured training programmes for government employees, enterprise development opportunities for local ICT businesses and SMMEs, digital skills development programmes for young people across the province,” he said.
Mokgosi said these initiatives will be delivered through Microsoft’s Corporate Social Investment and partner development programmes and will be provided at no cost to the province. He said this ensures that their digital transformation agenda contributes directly to economic inclusion, innovation and participation in the digital economy.
“As we consolidate these digital capabilities within government, the next phase of this transformation will focus on the expansion of broadband infrastructure across the province that has been concluded and will soon be rolled out.
“This is a critical component of our broader vision to build a Smart Province, where digital services, connectivity and innovation are accessible to all,” said Mokgosi.
He said the province will be implementing a provincial broadband programme, which will provide a unified and integrated connectivity network across different spheres of government and public institutions such as schools, healthcare facilities and Thusong Centres. Mokgosi said through this, they are extending digital transformation beyond government systems and into communities, households and businesses across the province.
“If systems are the engine of digital government, then broadband is the network that connects our people to that engine. What we are announcing today is not simply the rollout of systems. We are announcing the establishment of a North West Digital Government Platform, as a foundational step towards building a Smart Province and a digitally enabled economy,”
“An ecosystem that integrates infrastructure, systems, data, connectivity and security into a single, coherent environment. This platform enables a government that will be efficient in its operations, accountable in its delivery and responsive to the needs of our people,” he said.
Mokgosi said in conclusion, he would like to acknowledge the leadership of the Office of the Premier, particularly the Office of the GITO, as well as our partners Microsoft and Boxfusion, for their contribution to this milestone. He said the North West Provincial Government is not only envisioning a digital future, they are actively building it, they are implementing it and they are delivering it.
“We are building a government that works smarter, that moves faster, and that serves its people better. And in doing so, we are laying the foundation for a Smart Province, a province that is connected, that is inclusive, and ready for the digital economy,” said Mokgosi.
8 April 2026 – The police in Upington are requesting assistance from the public in locating missing Mboneni Mkhenkcezi (54), who is allegedly mentally challenged. Mkhenkcezi was last seen by relatives in Kwa Sandile in the Eastern Cape during February 2025.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said reportedly, on 28 March 2026, a family friend who was passing through Upington on his way to Gamsberg, saw Mkhenkcezi at the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) outlet in Upington wearing a black blazer with light grey pants and bare feet.
“Mkhenkcezi has short dreadlocks. It has not been ascertained how he travelled to Upington from the Eastern Cape. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Mkhenkcezi or his relatives is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Bahedile Nkwadipo from Upington Detectives on 082 495 4615 or report to the nearest police station or call SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App.
“The public is reminded that there is no waiting period to report a person missing,” he said.
Picture: The North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane/Facebook
By REGINALD KANYANE
8 April 2026 – The North West Department of Health held a District Health Services (DHS) Strategy Transformation Workshop in Klerksdorp recently. The department said this workshop brought together a diverse coalition of provincial leadership, national policymakers, global health experts, academia and implementation partners under the theme: “Strengthening Primary Health Care Systems for Responsive, Resilient Communities.”
The North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said the workshop focused on repositioning the district health system through six strategic pillars. Lekgethwane said the pillars are improving access and equity, strengthening system responsiveness, enhancing governance and accountability, building cohesive and motivated teams, improving integration across PHC–DHS platforms, and aligning efforts through a unified provincial roadmap.
“Deliberations were grounded in addressing persistent systemic challenges, including fragmented digital systems, inconsistent referral pathways, and workforce pressures, while promoting innovation and evidence-based planning.
“A strong contingent of high-level presenters provided strategic and technical leadership throughout the workshop. Just to mention a few, Dr Krish Vallabhjee (Clinton Health Access Initiative) contributed expertise on health systems strategy and governance,” he said.
Lekgethwane further said Dr Francis Magombo and Shenaaz El-Halabi (World Health Organization), provided global perspectives on health system strengthening and strategic collaboration, while Jeanette Hunter from the National Department of Health, aligned discussions with national PHC reforms and Universal Health Coverage priorities. He added that additional insights were delivered by Dr Prosper Tumusiime (former WHO Director), Prof Ute Feucht (University of Pretoria), Dr Jackie Dunlop (public health specialist), and Maanda Mudau (Health Systems Trust), who collectively emphasised service integration, maternal and child health, programme implementation, and data-driven decision-making.
“Experts such as Prof Keitshepile Geoffrey Setswe from Aurum Institute and Max Moyo, further guided conversations on implementation research, leadership, and organisational culture transformation.
“The long-term outcomes of this workshop should see significant influence on health service delivery in the North West by strengthening integration across levels of care, improving patient access and continuity, and enhancing governance and accountability mechanisms,” said Lekgethwane.
He said its emphasis on digital transformation and health intelligence will enable more responsive and data-driven systems, while workforce-focused strategies aim to improve staff performance, morale, and distribution. Lekgethwane said ultimately, the workshop positioned the province to deliver more equitable, efficient and people-centred healthcare services, reinforcing a resilient Primary Health Care system capable of meeting both current demands and future health challenges.
Picture: SANDF and SAPS members during Operation Prosper/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
8 April 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West has officially launched Operation Prosper this morning at the SAPS Mankwe Academy, near Rustenburg. The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said this joint operation with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is aimed at intensifying the fight against illicit mining across the province.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Matlhapi Mmolawa, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts to restore law and order and protect the communities.
The Guardian 