Picture: Keikantsemang Gaborone and Johannes Thue during Golden Games in Reivilo/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

A senior citizen from Boitekong Service Club in Mokgareng village, near Taung encourages elderly persons to regularly exercise. Keikantsemang Gaborone (61) scooped position 1 in a 100m marathon (female category) during Golden Games for senior citizens that were held in Reivilo last week.

“As an elderly person, I was happy to scoop position 1. I would like to advise other elderly persons to exercise regularly and join various service clubs in their vicinity. We exercise regularly to keep ourselves healthy.

“We are happy with the continuous support we receive from the North West Department of Social Development. Exercising is imperative because it can prevent or delay many health challenges that seem to come with age,” she said.

Johannes Thue (75) from Matlhako 2 village in Pudimoe also scooped position 1 in the same category, but for men. Thue said exercising helps his muscles to grow stronger and he is able to keep going during his day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others.

“I am ready to compete at the district level. I am happy with my health thus far. There is nothing special that I do to keep fit, but exercising atleast two days in a week. Your health benefits will also increase the more physical activity that you do.

“The initiatives like this keep us sane. You know, the more you get older, the higher the level of stress and health challenges one experiences. So, I am happy to be part of this as we continue to have fun throughout,” he said.

The Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) Special Programmes coordinator, Tebogo Morweng said, they have teamed up with the North West Department of Social Development to present the popular Golden Games for senior citizens. Morweng further said, the initiative will assist elderly persons to be physically, emotionally and psychologically stable.

“These various sporting codes will ensure that their mental health is in good condition. This initiative is affectionately known as Golden Games for senior citizens and the best performers will be selected for the next round, where they will be participating against their counterparts in the district level.

“From there, the winners will go to provincial and national levels. We have different sporting codes like women and men football, athletics where both men and females take part. As the Office of the mayor, we continue to support any initiative that brings hope to our community at large,” he said.

Morweng added that, the participants are senior citizens within the communities and they are considered as the fountain, where young people can learn valuable lessons from them.

“They have the wisdom that we need to move our country forward. We would love to encourage all other elderly persons to come and be part of this initiative. They should come out and go to various service clubs and join,” said Morweng.

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Social Development spokesperson at Taung Service Point, Mpolokeng Segonetswe was not available for comment.

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Picture: The RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa/Google

By CYRIL RAMAPHOSA

A year has passed since we launched the Energy Action Plan to resolve the loadshedding crisis, and we are now able to report significant progress in several areas.

Today, we are releasing a detailed report outlining the work done to improve the performance of Eskom’s power stations, accelerate the building of new generation capacity and drive regulatory reforms to transform the electricity sector.

The winter months will soon be coming to an end. Although loadshedding has continued, as was anticipated, we have managed to avert a worst case scenario by stabilising the performance of Eskom’s power stations and reducing demand.

Eskom’s generation fleet continues to show sustained improvement. Unplanned losses have been reduced to less than 16,000 MW in in the last two months, down from more than 18,000 MW previously. Planned maintenance has been reduced during the winter period, with Eskom having undertaken significant maintenance in the months preceding winter.

Looking ahead, damaged units at the Kusile and Medupi power stations are being returned to service on an expedited basis. In combination these units represent more than 3,000 MW of capacity.

The Eskom debt relief package announced by the Minister of Finance will enable necessary investment in maintenance and expansion of the transmission network.

Since the launch of the Energy Action Plan, we have worked to add as much power as possible to the grid.

Eskom has unlocked close to 400 MW from companies with extra available capacity, and a further 600 MW is currently in the contracting process. We have sourced an additional 400 MW from Cahora Bassa in Mozambique.

We are fast-tracking the procurement of new generation capacity from renewables, gas and battery storage. Later this year, the first three projects from the emergency power programme are expected to connect to the grid. Also later this year, around 2,300 MW from the most recent bid windows of the renewable energy independent power producer programme should be in construction.

One of the most important contributions to the Energy Action Plan has been the uptake by households and businesses of rooftop solar.

It is encouraging to see that more municipalities are allowing customers to feed electricity into the grid when they have surplus electricity. This will provide yet another incentive for businesses large and small to invest in alternative energy sources.

Regulatory changes have helped to boost private investment in new generation capacity. These changes include the removal of the licensing threshold for generation facilities and the fast-tracking of project approvals and registration.

This work has enabled a massive boom in private investment in electricity generation, with a pipeline of more than 10,000 MW of new capacity that will begin to connect to the grid later this year.

To ensure that we never experience power shortages again, we are implementing fundamental reforms to create a competitive electricity market and an independent national grid operator.

To encourage everyone to get involved, we are today launching a website where all South Africans can track the work of the National Energy Crisis Committee and see how to reduce their consumption and save on energy bills.

We have maintained that load shedding will not be resolved overnight, but we are making clear progress towards reducing it and eventually bringing it to an end.

Let us maintain this momentum, and let us all play our part, wherever we can, as we lay the groundwork for an energy secure future.

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Picture: The Cameroon FC playing against Taung United FC

By OBAKENG MAJE

Taung United FC walked away with R10 000 prize money after beating stubborn Cameroon FC in the finals during the Top 8 Soccer Tournament held at Mogopela village, near Taung on Sunday. 

The players from both sides kept their supporters at the edge of their seats at the packed Mogopela Wonderous FC playgrounds.

 The buoyed Taung United scored a goal from a corner-kick just after half time. The Taung United FC coach, Kgothatso Molefi said they were happy to win the tournament after they were regarded as underdogs. Molefi further said, the finals was the liveliest game of the tournament.

“We were happy to blast our way to the finals and eventually clinged the trophy after beating the dangerous Mogopela Wonderous FC in penalties during the semi-finals. We were up against the rejuvenated and spirited Indomitable Lions as Cameroon FC is affectionately known in the finals and our players were equal to the task.

“Even though our team was established in 2021, it has culminated into a solid and winning team over the years. So, we dominated the game in the final and did not give Cameroon FC enough space to play. Truly, we came well-prepared because we knew that they would undermine us,” said Molefi.

He added that their players have consistently played together and they are becoming a ‘force to be reckoned’ with. According to Molefi, his players have improved their technique skills and tactically, they can match any team. 

The Cameroon FC coach, Archie Seothaeng said even though they lost in the finals, the spirit and confidence is still intact. Seothaeng said they have only themselves to blame because Taung United FC players had nothing to offer.

“Even though we lost 2-0 against Taung United FC in the finals, I think the results are not the true reflection of the game. Truly, our own players have let themselves down because I think Taung United FC did not bring much to the table.  We tried to play our lungs out, but it was not meant to be.

“Our best players had missed golden opportunities and conceded goals during crucial moments. I think Taung United FC capitalised on our mistakes, while we were trying to go forward and attack. They scored their first goal from a corner kick and I think our player should have cleared that ball,” he said.

Seothaeng said his players tried their level best to equalise, but goals were elusive. He said they had plenty of scoring opportunities, but his players failed to convert them into goals.

“We also conceded a second goal during a crucial moment and there was no coming back. But, this is part of the game and we will go back to the drawing board and ensure that we correct our mistakes and become better going forward,” said Seothaeng.

Meanwhile, the organiser of the tournament, Mogopela Wonderous FC coach, Kagiso Kgokae said: “We have organised this tournament to gauge our preparations because we have two weeks without playing any competitive football. You will also remember that, the league is ready to commence next week, so this was also part of our preparation.

“We were happy to see many players showcasing their talents and I tell you now, Taung has an abundance of talents. The first prize was R10 000 and the second prize was R6000.”

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Picture: The Cameroon FC playing against Taung United FC

Picture: The police confiscated dagga/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

Two men were arrested for dealing drugs in Hartswater. The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock said on 26 July 2023, the police raided the identified premises and confiscated dagga worth approximately R80 000.

“A collective group of police units comprising of members of Hartswater Crime Prevention, Highway Patrol, and Crime Intelligence followed up on information regarding dagga believed to be at a guesthouse on the N18 road near Hartswater.

“Two adult males were arrested and charged with dealing in dagga and will appear in court soon,” said Kock.

Meanwhile, the acting District Police Commissioner for Frances Baard, Brig Charlotte Makgari indicated that drug-related offenses will be vigorously policed in an effort to eradicate drug trafficking and dealing in the community.  Makgari also thanked the community for their assistance and contribution in making our communities safe by being the eyes and ears.

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Picture: Maitshwarelo Dintwa/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

A learner from Pinagare High School in Taung scooped R40 000 after winning Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) High School Essay competition. Maitshwarelo Dintwa (17) was among the 10 winners announced by the third largest party in South Africa.

EFF national spokesperson, Sinawo Tambo said in a statement, the party is proud to announce the winners of its 10^th Anniversary High School Essay and Poetry competitions. Sinawo further said, the competitions were launched earlier this year as one of the many extraordinary programs to celebrate EFF’s 10 years of unbroken struggle.

“For the essay competition, participants explored the topic “A 10-year history of the EFF”” in all official languages, with each winner receiving a grand prize of R40,000 per language. On the other hand, the poetry competition invited contestants to chronicle the EFF’s journey since 2013 in any of our official languages, offering a prestigious prize of R50 000 to one winner in any language.

“The EFF’s commitment to free, quality and decolonised education has been steadfast since our inception on the 26 July 2013. The recent Progress in International Reading and Literacy Study (PIRLS) unveiled a stark reality – among more than 50 countries surveyed, there was a sharp decline in reading comprehension among South African learners,” he said.

Sinawo added that, the decline is especially prevalent in African language instruction schools. He said they, therefore, initiated the competition to promote both writing and reading engagement.

“The EFF recognises the importance of preserving and revitalising our native tongues as an important part of instilling African pride that will elevate our languages to their rightful place globally,” he said.

The winners of the High School Essay Competition are:

1.       Dintwa, Maitshwarelo (Setswana), Pingare High School, Taung, North West

2.       Gumede, Sinothando (lsiZulu), Umlazi Comprehensive Technical High School, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

3.       Joggom, Sibusiso (Afrikaans), Hoerskool Hopetown, Hopetown, Northern Cape

4.       Khumalo, Hloniphile (lsiNdebele), lntuthuko Secondary School, Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga

5.       Mathoma, Orifha (Tshivenda), Litshovhu Secondary School, Makhado, Limpopo

6.       Metiso, Boitumelo (SeSwati), Sintitile Secondary School, KwaNyamazane, Mpumalanga

7.       Moganedi, Karabo (English), Hoerskool Westonaria, Westonaria, Gauteng

8.       Ngozo, Relebohile (Sesotho), The Beacon Secondary School, Witsieshoek, Free State

9.       Ramontja, Tlabego (Sepedi), Lesedi Secondary School, Silverton, Gauteng

10.     Ringane, Kgolagano (lsiXhosa), Hans Kekana Secondary School, Majaneng, North West

The winner Poetry Competition is Musa Baloyi, from Soweto, Gauteng, who composed a poem in Xitsonga.

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Picture: The missing Tsholofelo Frans Pudi/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE

The police in Bedwang request the community’s assistance in locating Tsholofelo Frans Pudi (34), who is residing at Moretele in Bedwang. According to the North West police spokesperson, Capt Aaftje Botma, Pudi was last seen by his mother on 6 June 2023.

“A search was conducted around the township and surrounding areas of Bedwang without any success. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a blue jean, blue jacket, and navy blue trousers. He is dark in complexion, has brown eyes, a slender body, and is 1.6m in height with afro hair.

“Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts can contact the Investigating Officer, Sgt Thabo Mputla, on 082 373 9548. Anonymous tip-offs can be communicated via MySAPS App or Crime Stop on ‪08600 10111,” Botma said.

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Picture: Sisonke Netball team player, Onkarabetse Veronica Tlhareseng

By OBAKENG MAJE

Only a day left before the Netball South Africa team kick-start its much-anticipated Netball World Cup opening match against Wales in Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Now, netball player, Onkarabetse Veronica Tlhareseng from Mokgareng village, near Taung said, she will be delving into the Spar Proteas.

Tlhareseng (23) said she is very passionate about netball and would like to see herself representing the country in the future. She further said, her passion for netball started when she was only 10. Even though Tlhareseng does not know what prompted her to become a netball player, she went on to become a household name, especially around Taung.

“I started playing netball, while I was in primary school. I only saw people playing netball and decided to join. Since then, I never looked back. After finishing my matric, I went to Ranfontein in Gauteng and joined a netball team there called, Letleo Club MEC.

“I started going for trials and funny enough, I was always selected. At some point, I wanted to quit, but my coach was so persistent because she could see my potential. Our team once qualified for regional games in Pretoria back in the years,” she said.

 Last year, Tlhareseng decided to go back to Taung and joined Sisonke Netball Club. Two months ago, she won the Netball Player of the Tournament during the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) Mayoral Cup Tournament held at Taung Agricultural College.

“The only thing that I know is that, the minute I enter the netball quad, I play my heart out. So, winning the Netball Player of the Tournament was great and that shows that I am dedicated to the game.

“Truly, I was not expecting it because we played against the best players. However, coming on top really shows that discipline, dedication and determination pay dividends. If I can put my focus on netball, I think I can do better than this and go far,” she said.

Tlhareseng said, she would like to further her studies and do a Management Assistant course. She added that, education increases one’s knowledge and gives the edge over other things, especially in business.

“I really do not want to talk about my upbringing, but it was difficult growing up. Truly, what kept me going was the struggles that I was subjected to, but I told myself to never give up. I was raised by a single parent after my father passed away,” she concluded.

Meanwhile, the Netball South Africa president, Cecilia Molokwane said: “Our players are ready for the tournament. As a federation, we have given our team unwavering support and I call on our supporters to rally behind our team. Remember, it will be for the first time in sixty years that, a Netball World Cup is hosted on African soil.

“Therefore, the stake is too high because we cannot afford to lose in our own backyard. They say, if you want something done, send a woman. So, it is our time to show the world what we can do. So, we have full confidence in our team and this is their chance to write their names in the history books.”

The players selected to represent South Africa during the 2023 Netball World Cup are:

Bongiwe Msomi (capt); Karla Pretorius (VC); Khanyisa Chawane; Izette Griesel; Phumza Maweni; Lenize Potgieter; Nicola Smith; Jeante Strydom; Nichole Taljaard; Elmere van der Berg; Shadine van der Merwe, Ine-Mari Venter

Reserves: Owethu Ngubane; Refiloe Nketsa and Lefebre Rademan

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Picture: The missing Richard “Majaivana” Oranotse Mokale/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

The Roodepan police are appealing to the public to assist in locating missing Richard “Majaivana” Oranotse Mokale (51), who resides at Bobo se plaas Informal Settlement in Lerato Park, near Roodepan. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said, Mokale was last seen on 30 March 2023 by his sister, going to a tuckshop to buy biscuits.

“He is mentally challenged and likes walking from home to different drinking establishments, listening to music and dancing. Anyone who might have information about the whereabouts of Mokale, can contact Detective Warrant Officer Christo Vermeulen at 083 500 7731 or 08600 10111 or either sms anonymously to 32211 or use the MySAPS app.

“All information received with be treated confidentially. The public is reminded that, there is no waiting period to report a person missing.”

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Picture: An aeromedical service helicopter/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the North West calls on the North West MEC for Health, Madoda Sambatha to re-introduce aeromedical transport services. The DA spokesperson on health and Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Gavin Edwards said, Sambatha should request an adjustment to the department’s budget to accommodate the aeromedical transport services.

“North West is largely a rural province with extremely long distances between medical facilities. All specialised medical care is only provided at hospitals in Klerksdorp, Rustenburg, Potchefstroom and Brits, which means that patients with serious and emergency life-threatening medical conditions need to be transported by road to these facilities for treatment.

“Aeromedical services were delivered under the illegal Buthelezi EMS, which came to an end in 2019, with a financial cost of R37 million. The contract with Buthelezi EMS is subject to a Special Investigations Unit (SIU) and a Hawks investigation, which has yet to yield any positive results. Not a single person has been arrested and none of the wasted taxpayer funds have been recovered,” Edwards said.

He further said, in response to written DA questions, the “out of touch” North West Premier, Bushy Maape replied that, the services would only be introduced based on the availability of budget, as part of the 2020 Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Strategy. Edwards added that, this is a convenient cop-out because as the Executive, they decide how funding would be allocated in the budget and there is much to be said that in 2023, the provincial government is still working on an outdated EMS strategy from 2020.

“Maape is completely disconnected from the reality that patients in the province confront. Promises of better services, based on a three-year-old strategy, without details, timetables, or precise implementation strategies remain at the heart of an ineffective ANC-run government.

“The ANC-led North West stands in stark contrast with the DA-led Western Cape, which has functional and effective aeromedical and ambulance services and where we take pride in the exceptional medical care and quick turnaround times that contribute significantly to saving the lives of the citizens,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said: “Currently, the province does not have a dedicated aeromedical service. There is no contracted ambulance service provider for aeromedical services like Buthelezi EMS in 2019.

“The department is utilising an aeromedical service when the need arises. The majority of our patients are transported by road utilizing our own staff. To date, no expenditure has been incurred on aeromedical services.”

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