Picture: The former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
A murder and attempted murder case against the former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), has been postponed to 6 June 2024. Mangwegape, who is out on R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33) is back in court today.
On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the establishment that was full to capacity. It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede.
Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them. Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.
Mangwegape’s case was postponed to 2 May 2024, while the state is still waiting for ballistic test results.
The ANCYL spokesperson in North West, Molebang Mohlomi said in a statement that, they condemn violence meted against patrons at the Meat Brothers. Mohlomi said it is alleged that security guards and bouncers unleashed live ammunition towards unarmed civilians, who were trying to gain access to the establishment.
“This barbaric behaviour bothers public safety. This shows how business owners lack respect for their clients. A clinical approach to review licences of public places must be applied to ensure those who are bestowed with the responsibility to protect patrons are PSIRA compliant.
“We have sent our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. Equally so, we call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily resolve this brutish crime,” he said.
Picture: The Minister for Tourism, Patricia De Lille/Google
By OBAKENG MAJE
Minister for Tourism, Patricia De Lille said with a fully sold-out floor space, Africa’s Travel Indaba has reached a ground-breaking achievement as it will see an unprecedented participation of 26 African countries exhibiting this year. De Lille said this is testament to the pivotal role the trade show plays in advancing the continent’s growth.
She further said this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba, will take place from 14 to 16 May 2024 and will be preceded by Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONday) on 13 May 2024. De Lille added that this is an important gathering of the global tourism sector and other related industry stakeholders.
“Over 26 countries will be exhibiting this year, including Angola, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia and Rwanda.
“Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zanzibar and Zimbabwe, will also form part. These countries represent a total of 344 products that will be showcased, an increase of 14 % compared to last year’s 301 products,” she said.
De Lille said Burkina Faso, Eritrea, and Guinea, are the three new entrants. She said overall, a total of 55 countries are participating in this year’s event, including all newcomers.
“In total, this year’s event will see more than 1 030 exhibitors showcasing their products and tourism offerings and more than 890 buyers attending the event from all over the world. The buyers include inbound tour operators, foreign travel agents, destination marketing companies, online booking agents and airlines.
“As usual, the department will be funding the participation of 120 South Africans’ small to medium enterprises to exhibit their tourism offerings at this year’s Africa Travel indaba. This will help them gain exposure to a wide-ranging network of tourism trade industry players from all over Africa and the world,” said De Lille.
She said this is Africa Travel Indaba’s ongoing mission and commitment to driving the continent’s economic development and fostering collaboration and growth is clear. De Lille said she is pleased to welcome the new countries that are joining them in exhibiting at the trade show for the first time.
“We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership. The increase in the number of countries can be attributed to several key factors, including the fact that in the past few years, tourism has also emerged as a cornerstone of sustainable development strategies across the continent.
“Africa’s Travel Indaba provides a platform for African tourism product owners to meet with global buyers. With a record number of participating countries this year, buyers will have a wide variety of products and experiences to engage with,” she said.
According to De Lille, she is confident that Africa’s Travel Indaba will continue to be a fertile environment for closing business deals that nurture partnership and drive growth.
Picture: Action SA calls on government to create more jobs for graduates
By OBAKENG MAJE
Action SA has called on the government to reflect on perpetuating the prevalence of unemployed university graduates in South Africa. This comes after an outcry as the unemployment rate, especially amongst the youth, reaches an all-time high.
Action SA Team Fix SA member for Higher Education, Dr Tutu Faleni said, the government should reflect on issues that perpetuate the prevalence of unemployed graduates in South Africa. Faleni said the celebration of Workers Day came at a time when the country is at an all-time high regarding the unemployment rate, including graduates from Higher Learning Institutions.
“The 2024 National Elections serve as a time of reflection on what has been achieved by the government regarding the creation of an economy that allows graduates produced annually by the higher institutions of learning to get employed and use the skills gained.
“These are young people, the majority of whom made huge personal sacrifices to obtain a higher education training and qualification, with hopes that their country will award them employment opportunities,” he said.
Faleni further said it is disheartening to see these university graduates join the continuously expanding pool of unemployment, to an extent of taking their plight to the streets in protest. He added that, this country cannot continue awarding unemployed graduates with a R350 social distress grant, instead of fixing the economy to enable employment opportunities.
“We also believe that the state’s ultimate goal should be to provide services and foster the environment necessary for socio-economic prosperity and upward mobility, rather than being directly involved in job or income creation.
“Action SA believes that drastic steps should be taken to provide employment to the many unemployed university graduates who have not in their lifetime enjoyed the benefits of full time employment,” said Faleni.
He said they believe that increased access to education should be accompanied with an increase in economic opportunities to achieve prosperity and upward mobility for unemployed graduates.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi said: “As department, May Day serves dual purposes – a celebration of workers’ rights and a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that trade unions, the communist party and other labour organisations played in the struggle against apartheid.
“Workers’ Day in South Africa carries its unique cultural significance. The public holiday has come to symbolise not only the sacrifices made in an arduous journey towards fair employment standards but also the fierce battle against apartheid, where trade and labour played a crucial role.”
Nxesi said given that South Africa’s working classes were the most oppressed under apartheid, the fight for improved working conditions and the battle to dismantle systematic segregation became inextricably linked.
He said prior to the 1994 elections, labour and trade groups frequently used Workers’ Day as a rallying symbol against segregation and oppression of the apartheid regime, organising demonstrations and fostering widespread resistance.
“This day serves as a testament to their resilience and determination,” the department said,” said Nxesi.
Picture: The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono, together with Head of Department, Thupi Mokhatla, handing over tractor to Daniel Soya at Goedgevonden village/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono said in an effort to bridge the gap between the commercial, emerging and subsistence farmers, her department handed over agricultural mechanization to Daniel Soya in Goedgevonden village, who is a soybeans producer.
Mohono said this was part of the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, Thuntsa Lerole.
“The mechanization, which includes a tractor, planter and harvester amongst others, is one way of addressing food insecurity in the province. The use of agricultural mechanization is significant for smallholder farmers because it advances production efficiency, reassures large-scale production, and increases the quality of farm produce.
“We are committed to ensuring that farmers have access to contemporary agriculture mechanization that would enhance their productivity in this competitive environment,” she said.
Mohono further said they want to maximize and increase the potential net worth of the agriculture sector and improve its contribution to the agricultural sector. She added that, to contribute towards achieving provincial priorities, mechanization encourages large-scale production and enhances the quality of farm produce from smallholders.
“Without proper mechanization, the development of the sector with smallholder black farmers as meaningful participants in the economy will be greatly affected, thus farmers will be compelled to change land use from agriculture to other lucrative non-agricultural uses.
“The implements were one way to address food insecurity and the mechanization would increase household food production,” said Mohono.
She said agricultural mechanization has significantly aided, which is an enhancement of the farming community in the overall economic upliftment. Mohono said the usage of agricultural mechanization by smallholder farmers has produced an increase in farm returns than those with no agricultural mechanization usage.
Meanwhile, Soya said: “I am very grateful to the department as the cost of mechanization was not affordable. They contributed with mechanization so that I can grow my own produce and maximize food security.
Picture: The missing girl, Maletlhogonolo Hlongwane/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The police in Ventersdorp are searching for a missing girl, Maletlhogonolo Hlongwane (5), who allegedly went missing on 28 April 2024 at around 6am. The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said, Hlongwane and her sibling (3), were left alone at home in Goedgevonden village by a parent, who allegedly went to a local tavern.
“When a parent arrived back home, Hlongwane was nowhere to be found. An intensive search was conducted around Goedgevonden, but that did not yield positive results. Hlongwane, who is dark in complexion, was last seen wearing a red tracksuit top, peach trousers and no shoes.
“The police request anyone who may have information that can assist to locate her to contact Sergeant Cecilia Batantse or Capt Willem Smit on 060 967 3966 / 082 772 6453 or the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number on 08600 10111,” she said.
Myburgh further said alternatively, information can be shared via MySAPS App from your smartphone. She added that a case of child neglect is also under investigation against the parent.
Picture: Former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
The former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), who is out on R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33) is back in court today.
On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the establishment that was full to capacity. It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede.
Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them. Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.
Mangwegape’s case was postponed to 2 May 2024, while the state is still waiting for ballistic test results.
Meanwhile, one of the community leaders, Kgakololo Koji said: “We are very disappointed by the North West High Court decision. But what I promise you that, we will be here again in numbers on 2 May 2024.
“We want the magistrate to see that the accused is not even safe and the masses are aggravated by the North West High Court decision.”
The ANCYL spokesperson in North West, Molebang Mohlomi said in a statement that, they condemn violence meted against patrons at the Meat Brothers. Mohlomi said it is alleged that security guards and bouncers unleashed live ammunition towards unarmed civilians, who were trying to gain access to the establishment.
“This barbaric behaviour bothers public safety. This shows how business owners lack respect for their clients. A clinical approach to review licences of public places must be applied to ensure those who are bestowed with the responsibility to protect patrons are PSIRA compliant.
“We have sent our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. Equally so, we call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily resolve this brutish crime,” he said.
Picture: The ANC Chief Whip, Paul Sebegoe addressing the cleansing and prayer service at the scene, where a corpse was recently discovered/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The ANC Chief Whip in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Paul Sebegoe launched a campaign targeting crime hotspots in Tlhabane, near Rustenburg ON Wednesday. Sebegoe said the initiative is aimed at involving communities in the reduction of opportunities for crime.
He further said the crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED), which is a community mobilisation programme, was launched in partnership with churches in Tlhabane and Bomme Ba Thapelo Ya Lefatshe La Tlhabane (Women Prayer Warriors and Intercessors) and aimed at strengthening partnership against violent crime.
Sebegoe added that, they embarked on a cleansing of a crime scene, where the body of a crime victim was recently discovered and prayer service that commenced at 8am, near Rampa Primary School.
“This was followed by a soccer tournament social programme involving youth from wards 8,9,10 and 11 and local teams participating, as part of the Tlhabane ANC Cluster programme.
“We call for intensified effort aimed at limiting opportunities for criminals to utilise access and escape routes through bushes and dumping sites and enhance the ease with which potential victims could find and access escape routes to a safer environment,” he said.
Sebegoe said they must beyond this mobilisation of the faith-based community, intensify work with the Rustenburg Local Municipality, Mmabana Tlhabane, the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO), the Tlhabane Community Policing Forum (CPF), School Governing Bodies (SGBs), the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the business sector, ensure that young people are dissuaded from involvement in crime.
He said they must be discouraged from destructive lifestyles and this can be done through involvement in sport and other recreational programmes.
“The disused buildings such as the Old Tlhabane Teachers Training College, allegedly used as a hideout by criminal elements within the community. So, clearing of bushes, installation of high- mast, replacing street-light globes and reviving of recreational parks must be prioritised.
“Abandoned concrete drainage pipes along Kgosiemang Street that pose a safety, environmental and health threat, must be cleared and the contractor held accountable for rehabilitation of what was an ill- conceived construction site,” said Sebegoe.
He said the children cannot be jumping corpses on route to school. Sebegoe said girl-children and women cannot live in constant fear of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
“Seeking divine intervention signifies a call to action for active citizenry in order to reclaim Ubuntu. Let us tackle the social-ills prevalent in the area such as drug abuse, teenage pregnancy and gangsterism.
“We must never allow environmental degradation and or violent crime to define us and our way of life. Our hope and humanity must translate into a well-knit, peaceful community capable of rejecting lawlessness in all its manifestations, “he said.
Meanwhile, one of residents, Claudinah Phetoe, appealed for streetlights to be fixed and for intercessors to continue praying for youth, who are affected and lured to crime and drugs.
ANCWL representative, Fedi Sehunwe said they call for unity of women prayer warriors to advance women’s struggles. Father Stephen Marokane said though the country is experiencing challenges, the church will continue to pray for peace, stability and ethical leadership in the run-up to the elections.
“We will emerge victorious from the elections,” he said.
Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi handing over the school to the community/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said on the occasion of Workers’ Day celebration, her department does not revel only the contributions of the country’s labour force, but also marks a significant milestone in education.
Motsumi said this is marked by the handover of the newly-constructed Relebogile Primary School in Swartdam village, in Moretele Local Municipality on 1 May 2024. She further said this is a testament to the department’s commitment to provide quality education infrastructure.
“The previous state of Relebogile Primary School was dire, with a dilapidated structure that was not conducive for learning. Therefore, it is with great pleasure that we announce the completion of this new facility, which will accommodate 369 learners as of 6 May 2024.
“The new Relebogile Primary School boasts modern amenities, including an administration block, two Grade R classrooms, a playground, Grade 1-7 classrooms, a library, a media centre, a science lab, and a kitchen with a nutrition centre,” she said.
Motsumi added that it is important for community stewardship in safeguarding this invaluable asset. She implored the Moeka community to stand as guardians against vandalism, ensuring that the school remains a sanctuary for knowledge and growth for generations to come.
“As we celebrate Workers Day, let us also reflect on the significance of education in shaping the future workforce of our nation. As much as the school is for learning, it is also a sanctuary for our workforce, which is the teachers, principal, administrators, guards and all in sundry. They deserve decent conditions of working as employees and it is our unwavering commitment to provide accessible and quality education for all and safe workspaces for our teachers.
“To the community of Swartdam village, our leaners, your children will be occupying the school on 6 May 2024. My plea is for you to safeguard the school against vandalism,” said Motsumi.
Meanwhile, among those who witnessed the school handover, was the Moretele Local Municipality mayor, George Manyike.
Picture: The North West MEC for Health, Madoda Sambatha unveils water project
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Health, Mamdoda Sambatha said his department was at the brink of closing down the Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg, due to water scarcity. Sambatha said this comes after the projections of water deficit in the area.
However, he said a R5 million water project that was recently unveiled at the hospital, will be a lasting solution.
“Remember at some point, there was a possibility of closing down the hospital due to shortage of water. This comes after the Naledi Local Municipality failed to provide us with enough water supply.
“In the process of looking for options for the availability of water, we then had to drill a borehole 2km away from the hospital. We decided this on the basis of the safety of our patients and staff,” said Sambatha.
He further said the borehole will ensure there is provision of water to the hospital. Sambatha added that, as they speak, they now have enough water supply in the hospital, including the reservoir.
The Naledi Local Municipality mayor, Clifton Groep said the source of clean water is fundamental in the success of any healthcare institution. Groep said the new borehole will ensure that the hospital has sustainable water supply, which is essential in providing quality healthcare to the patients and maintain a hygienic environment in the process.
“In addition, we are also unveiling the newly-refurbished student accommodation. Education is the cornerstone of progress and by providing comfortable living space to our students, we are investing in the future of healthcare.
“This accommodation will not only support our students, but also fosters a sense of belonging to the community. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who made this possible,” he said.
The North West University’s Director of Pharmacy, Professor Jan Steenkamp shared the same sentiments. Steenkamp said water provision continues to be a mammoth task nowadays.
“What can I say if I see a number of people in front of me facing challenges? We saw this morning that water is a major challenge for the hospital. What is all that about and what we are trying to achieve? We are here for our community and the betterment of their lives.
“To better someone’s life, there is one important aspect, which is to have a community in good health and to render the needed services. One will need a number of things and one of them is water,” he said.
Steenkamp said no healthcare facility can function without water.
Picture: The road construction project underway/Generic
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Gaoage Molapisi, who was accompanied by the North West MEC for Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Keneetswe Mosenogi and the Maquassi Hills Local Municipality mayor, Mzwandile Feliti, introduced consultants and contractors for road projects at Lebaleng Community Hall in Makwassie, near Wolmaransstad.
During the official announcement, Molapisi made a stern commitment for job opportunities for the local community. He further said the three road projects earmarked for Maquassi Hills, go a long way in the development of quality road infrastructure and service delivery.
“The department has planned the upgrading from gravel to surface standard of Road D1954 (design) in Boskuil. Do the rehabilitation and reseal of Road P13/4 at Wolmaransstad and re-graveling and culverts installation of Road D155 from Kameelboom to Kareepan.
“The portion of Road P13/4 is a key route that connects the North West Province and Free State Province, living up to our commitment of connecting communities and enabling economic activity,” he said.
Molapisis further said his department has appointed Tau Pele Construction (PTY) LTD, for the rehabilitation and reseal of P13/4, Thobile M. Building Construction for re-graveling and culverts installation of Road D155 from Kameelboom to Kareepan. He added that, NEP Consulting Engineers (PTY) LTD has been appointed for upgrading to the surface standard of D1955 in Boskuil.
“These road projects will be constructed at an approximate amount of R745 million. Through these projects, we intend to empower our people by creating more than 200 job opportunities and 30% sub-contracting.
“We urge our people to take full advantage of these opportunities because as a government we want our people to benefit and for their businesses to grow as well” he said.
The Guardian 