Committee calls for acceleration of implementation of master plans

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Dina Pule/Google

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 September 2024 – The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture on Wednesday welcomed the presentations it received from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition on the Poultry Master Plan and Sugar Master Plan. It also welcomed the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development’s presentation on the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP).

The committee heard that the AAMP is a sectoral economic framework designed to coordinate efforts, bring efficiency and transparency in the implementation, and provide the common goal and indicators of success in contributing to the National Development Plan.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Dina Pule said AAMP was signed in May 2022, by the agriculture social partners as the template for inclusive growth, investments, sustainable jobs, transformation, and market development for the sixth administration.

Pule said the Poultry Sector Master Plan was signed in November 2020, by all stakeholders of the former Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, including the poultry industry, importers and exporters, and also labour representatives.

“The committee heard that the plan was developed to address several serious challenges faced by the poultry industry. For example, the industry had to contend with the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing feed costs, impediments to exports due to the outbreak of avian influenza and significant imports.

“The poultry industry was the largest contributor to the agricultural sector with a total annual gross value of production of almost R72 billion in 2022, accounting for 17.1% of the total agricultural gross value,” she said.

Pule further said on the Sugar Master Plan, the committee heard that the plan was developed to address several serious challenges faced by the industry and to ensure its long-term sustainability. She added that it was adopted as a phased approach.

“Phase one was about restructuring and setting foundations for diversification to stabilise the industry and restructure industry capacity and costs in an orderly manner to ensure alignment with current and future market size.

“During deliberations on the plans, the committee heard the challenges each plan faced. Members asked that the qualitative implementation of all the plans be sped up. As not all the questions were responded to, the committee asked the departments of agriculture and trade and industry to respond in writing and submit the responses by Friday,” said Pule.

She said at the end of the 7th administration in 2029, there must be tangible results for implementing the master plans. Pule said the Government of National Unity (GNU), must be able to show something – evidence of good results and meeting the objectives that are clearly spelt out in the plans.

“The committee told the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Nokuzola Capa that, it received a request from unemployed Assistant Agricultural Practitioners (AAPs) to intervene between them and the department over possible appointments as there is a need for extension of services.

“The committee asked Capa for a report on the issue so that it intervenes if it is possible. Members also shared concerns with her about media reports that, the Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, allegedly appointed people in senior management positions in his office, who allegedly have Grade 12 in a country with a high number of unemployed and highly qualified graduates,” she said.

Pule said they called it insensitive for a member of cabinet given the challenges of unemployment, especially for qualified black graduates.

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Committee briefed on electricity and energy nuclear new build programme

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By REGINALD KANYANE

5 September 2024 – The Department of Electricity and Energy and Eskom on Wednesday briefed the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy on the status of the nuclear new build programme and the extension of the Koeberg nuclear power station’s lifespan.

The department provided an update on the preparations underway for the 2 500 MW nuclear new build programme as directed in the 2019 Integrated Resource Plan.

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee, Nonkosi Mvano said this includes market testing through a Request for Information, an analysis of potential ownership and financing models, and ongoing engagement with the National Nuclear Regulator. Mvano said Eskom also presented details on the plans to extend the operational lifespan of the Koeberg nuclear power station by 20 years beyond its original design life, which will involve major equipment replacement and regulatory approvals.

“The committee members raised several questions and concerns during the meeting. These included the affordability and cost-effectiveness of nuclear compared to renewable energy, especially given the fiscal constraints facing the country.

“There were also questions about the readiness and commercial viability of small modular reactor technology, which is still largely in the design and prototype phase, as well as the status and potential revival of the pebble bed modular reactor programme developed in South Africa,” she said.

Mvano further said the committee called for thorough public participation and transparency in the nuclear new build process, as well as ensuring alignment between the nuclear programme and the country’s energy and climate goals.

She added that the department and Eskom committed to providing further information and responding to the committee members’ questions, including questions on the demand analysis, cost estimates and plans to leverage South Africa’s nuclear fuel manufacturing capabilities.

“The committee members also stressed the importance of undertaking rigorous cost-benefit analyses and exploring all financing options, including public-private partnerships and vendor financing models, to ensure the nuclear programme is affordable and provides value for money.

“Concerns were also raised about the need to update the environmental impact assessments for the proposed nuclear sites given the time that has elapsed since the initial studies were conducted,” said Mvano.

She said the committee will continue to exercise oversight on the nuclear new build programme and Koeberg’s life extension as these critical energy infrastructure projects progress.

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Two men sought for armed robbery

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Picture: Two suspects who alleged robbed a victim off his cell phone/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 September 2024- The Kimberley SAPS Serious and Violent Crimes Unit is investigating an armed robbery that occurred on 14 July 2024, at approximately 15:30pm. It is alleged that a man (21) and his friend, were walking in Beit Street, Kimberley North, when they were accosted by a group of men.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said two of the men allegedly took out a knife and firearm. Kock said they allegedly threatened the victims and the friend managed to flee.

“The two men robbed the victim of his cell phone. The men were medium built, dressed in red and yellow t-shirts, and spoke Afrikaans.

“Anyone with information can contact Detective Sergeant JR Webb on 079 212 7682. The investigation continues,” he said.

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RBI commended for its efforts in promoting accountancy education

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi commended the Royal Bafokeng Institute [RBI] for its efforts in promoting accountancy education among learners/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 September 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi has commended the Royal Bafokeng Institute [RBI] for its efforts in promoting accountancy education among learners. Motsumi delivered an address at the RBI Accountancy Education Summit held at the Phokeng Civic Centre today.

She further said the theme was: “The South African Accountancy Education Crisis: How do we solve the challenges?” Motsumi added that the summit’s objective was to examine the current state of accountancy education in South Africa, encompassing primary and secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions and the industry.

“The overarching aim is to tackle the issues confronting accountancy education and devise strategies to stimulate interest and performance in this crucial field of study.

“These challenges include declining enrolment numbers, as well as learners’ underperformance and teachers’ inadequate grasp of the curriculum.There is a necessity of comprehending the historical context of accountancy education in South Africa, particularly within previously disadvantaged communities, to address these challenges effectively,” she said.

Motsumi said they must reconceptualize their schools as hubs of excellence, where accountancy education is accorded priority and students are encouraged to pursue this field of study with confidence. She said her department remains committed to addressing these challenges, facing the accountancy fraternity with urgency by working closely with the Royal Bafokeng Institute to produce a generation of financial professionals within the province.

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An undocumented man arrested with drugs worth R41 000

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Picture: The drugs confiscated by the police during raid/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 September 2024- An undocumented man (35) was arrested for dealing in drugs. This comes after the police raided a drug house in the Rosedale area on 4 September 2024, after they received a tip-off.

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said a tip-off was received about an alleged drug dealing at the premises.

“The police obtained and executed a search warrant at the said residence, where they discovered mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of R8 000 and methamphetamine valued at R 33 000.

“The suspect was arrested and is expected to appear in court soon. The tireless efforts by members of Upington Border Police to fight crime was applauded by the management of the ZFM District,” she said.

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A man who impregnated a minor sentenced to five years imprisonment

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 September 2024- A man (24) was sentenced to five years imprisonment by the Victoria West Regional Court for statutory rape. This comes after the mother of a girl (15), opened a statutory rape case after she realised that, the accused was in a romantic relationship with her daughter and she is now pregnant.   

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said a case of statutory rape was opened and the suspect was subsequently arrested. Shemane said Detective Sergeant Willy Isaacs of De Aar Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offenses Unit (FCS), steered the investigation and ensured that the accused was convicted and sentenced. 

“The Detectives will continue to work tirelessly to ensure justice for women and children. The Pixley Ka Seme District Police Management welcomed the sentence,” he said.

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A man sentenced to nine years imprisonment for attempted rape

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 September 2024- A man (20) was sentenced to nine years imprisonment by the Victoria West Regional Court for attempted rape. This comes after Wynand Morris, who was on bail for a separate sexual offence-related case, attempted to rape a girl (17), who was on her way to her friend’s house on 19 August 2023, at around 22:35pm.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said, Morris offered a girl money to have sexual intercourse with him, however, she refused. Shemane said Morris then threw her to the ground and started to undress her in an attempt to rape her.

“A passerby came to her rescue when she screamed. Morris fled the scene, but he was successfully traced and subsequently arrested. Morris remained in custody until he was convicted and sentenced.

“The Court also declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm. The SAPS Management in the Pixley Ka Seme District, commended Captain Valery Booysen of De Aar Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) for ensuring that the repeat offender is removed from society,” he said.

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A man arrested for stock theft

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Picture: A man nabbed with sheep carcass/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 September 2024- A man (28) was arrested for stock theft by the Carnarvon Stock Theft and Endangered Species unit. On 31 August 2024, at around 3pm, the members of Carnarvon STESU, pounced on the suspect at his place of residence in Goutrou Informal Settlement, near Carnarvon.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock said the police found the suspect with an alleged stolen sheep carcass worth approximately R2000.

“The suspect was charged with possession of suspected stolen stock and will appear in the Carnarvon Magistrate’s Court soon. The police request that farmers implement stock theft safety hints in order to safeguard their stock.

“They should ensure that all fences and gates are maintained in order to protect their livestock. Ensure that holes in and under fences are repaired immediately. Property owners should not merely delegate, but take charge by inspecting their livestock,” he said.

Kock further said the farmers should ensure that the yards or kraals, where the stock is kept are secured. He added that they should be watchful, particularly when there is a full moon, over weekends and at the end or beginning of a month, or during periods that they know from experience when stock theft (slaughtering for the pot) occurs.

“Know your neighbours and your livestock owners should count livestock at least once a week. The necessity of a thorough stock register cannot be emphasized enough.

“Owners, brand your stock and go to the SAPS Stock Theft Unit offices, where you will be issued with application forms and apply for branding certificates to the Department of Agriculture,” said Kock.

He said owners should properly mark their livestock according to the Animal Identification Act, 2002(Act No 6 of 2002), preferably by branding them. Kock urges farmers to invest in technology such as CCTV cameras to curb stock theft.

“Owners of livestock are encouraged to make use of helplines created through cooperation between SAPS, local farmers’ unions, and communities. If you notice strange animals or suspicious persons at a cattle post, report it to the police and your neighbours immediately,” he said.

Kock also urged farmers to refrain from hiring undocumented persons as employees on their farm. He said they should ensure that, they have full details of labourers as this can assist police with investigations of stock theft.

“Cooperate with the local South Africa Police Service and STESU and assist the police in their efforts to curb stock theft. Anyone with information about illegal stock theft activities can contact the police on 08600 10111 or MySAPS App or their local Stock Theft units.

“All information will be treated confidentially,” said Kock.

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The acting North West Premier, Oageng Molapisi hand over two RDP houses  

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Picture: The North West MEC of Corporate Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi handing over a house to one of the beneficiaries/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

4 September 2024- The North West MEC of Corporate Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi handed over two houses to the Matsane and Tau families in Middleton-B, near Atamelang. According to Molapisi, this was part of the North West Provincial Government’s Women’s Month commemoration ceremony.  

He further said the initiative was aimed at recognising and honouring women on 30 August 2024. Molapisi added that they will continue giving the people houses just as the department is mandated to do.

“We urge the beneficiaries to take care of their houses as it is a lifetime opportunity and a lasting legacy to have a dignified shelter. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure that the women are prioritized and their dignity is restored as it is stipulated in the Bill of Rights.

“All human beings must have shelter and live in decent houses. Handing over the house keys to one of the beneficiaries, Dikeledi Matsane (44), who is a Gender-Based Violence (GBV) survivor, is what the department is doing to restore the dignity of the people, especially women,” he said.

Molapisi said he is proud to say Matsane and her children have a place to call home. He also said counselling will be arranged for Matsane in order to change her life and that of her children for the better.

The overwhelmed Matsane could not hold back her tears when receiving the keys. 

“I would like to thank the department for building a house for me and my children. This feels like a dream and I am grateful,” she said.

Another recipient was Margaret Tau (37), who received a house on behalf of her late grandmother, Martha Tau. She said her family comes from Bornou Farms next to Delareyville and later moved to Middleton B.

“I am unemployed and only survive through child support grant money I receive on behalf of my three children. Even though my grandmother is no longer with them, she is resting in peace knowing that she has left a legacy for her family as we now have a roof over our heads,” said Tau.

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More than 800 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela

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Picture: Some of copper cables confiscated by police during raids/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

4 September 2024 – More than 800 suspects were arrested for various offences during Operation Shanela. The suspects were arrested by the police in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies and role players.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said a total of 5454 actions were executed between 28 August and 1 September 2024. Mynurgh said that led to the arrests of 851 suspects for various offences.

“The 5454 actions included amongst others, 11 roadblocks, searching of 167 premises, 2831 persons, 1271 vehicles, closing of seven unlicensed liquor premises and inspection of 92 others.

“Furthermore, 35 Second-hand-dealers were inspected as well as 74 formal and 26 informal businesses involved in hospitality and retail (to ensure Labour Law compliance),” she said. 

Myburgh further said numerous patrols and stop and search actions were also conducted. She added that the suspects were among others, arrested for crimes such as 9 for aggravating robbery, 9 for murder, 8 for rape, 136 for assault with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), 72 for common assault, four for house and business robberies.

“This includes 35 for malicious damage to property, 25 for burglary at residential and business premises, 50 for possession of drugs, 11 for illegal possession of firearms and nine for illicit mining,” said Myburgh.

She said 15 suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs, 15 for illegal dealing in liquor, seven for theft out of/from motor vehicles and 16 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Myburgh said moreover, 87 suspected undocumented persons were taken in for processing by Immigration Officials. 

“Of the 851 suspects, 369 were apprehended during detectives’ suspect raiding operations. During the operations, a variety of drugs, eight cell phones, 10kg of copper and nine firearms were confiscated.

“This includes 83 rounds of ammunition, 25 litres of fuel, liquor, tobacco products, five vehicles and other items were confiscated,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, thanked all role players for their continuous hard work and collaboration to ensure safer communities.

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