By OBAKENG MAJE

Taung-born shoe mechanic, Tshidiso Motlhabane said he is exultant to see his business turning into the most reputable shoe repair service across the country. Motlhabane who transforms basic pairs of sneakers or shoes into fully-fledged masterpieces with paint said, even though he is based in Pretoria, he continues to receive business across the country.

“I have expanded my operations nationally with a growing portfolio. I would say social media platforms have given our business the necessary exposure and we continue to increase our footprint.

“I started this shoe mechanic business back in 2017. But before giving shoes makeovers, I was only cleaning them. What prompted me to start this business is the love for shoes and fashion. I’ve always wanted to look different from the rest and wear shoes that others cannot find,” he said.

A 28 year-old LLB graduate said he always had that mind-set since he was a kid. Motlhabane said the skill he acquired was self-taught and now he is a master.

“Thanks to the internet because it is where I have learnt the basics. I developed a skill through time and became creative. I graduated with LLB through the University of South Africa (UNISA) back in 2019.

“However, I am not practicing law because I am devoted to my business now. I believe that I have a lot of potential to grow and I am the best at what I do. I have received business from all over the country including orders from our neighbouring countries such Botswana and Swaziland,” said Motlhabane.

He further said he had achieved his niche through discipline, dedication and determination. However, a buoyed Motlhabane added that regardless of an individual’s talent, he encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to go to school.

“Education prevents poverty and can create opportunities. It also brings growth, so it is very imperative to equip yourself. I would like to see myself having shoe mechanic stores across the country and creating more jobs and empowering the youth.

“I would not only be doing my work on shoes and clothes, but also on cars and other materials like watches, etc. Mostly, my target market is the working class, but my pricing is balanced to accommodate people from detrimental backgrounds,” he said.

Motlhabane has painted shoes for many celebrities including actor, SK Khoza, world renowned music producers, DJ Cleo and Prince Kaybee. He also displayed his artistic work for soccer players like Teboho Mokoena and Sfiso Myeni.

“My work is loved across the spectrum and I’ve also painted shoes for music producers such as Chymamusique, Da Capo and the list goes on. My charges are affordable and currently it will only cost a customer R350 per pair.

“However, the pricing will go up on 1 January 2022. Previously, I had a team but things did not go accordingly but most definitely next year I’ll be employing more people. I would like to encourage everyone out there to follow their dream and make sure they succeed.

Anyone who would like to be in contact with Motlhabane can go to their Facebook: Shoe Mechanic.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

More than 25 Under-17 players who were selected during the Benito Sport Development tournament held at Mighty Boys FC grounds in Manthe village near Taung will undergo a week-long  intensive training come January 2022.

The former football player, Benny “Benito” Setumisho said all went well despite some challenges. Setumisho said he was impressed with what was displayed by young players’ through-out the tournament.  

“The tournament went well under difficult conditions. We had to postpone some games on Sunday due to rainy conditions. However, all 16 teams played their games on Saturday, but those who qualified for quarter finals were forced to play close to three games on Monday.

“We managed to select players on Saturday and we soldiered on until Monday. The tournament reached its objective and I am happy. Under-17 players participated and there was a lot of potential that needs to be nurtured,” he said.

Setumisho further said these players demonstrated their football-playing skills and he was happy with the recruitment processes. He added that all players selected will assemble during the second week of January 2022 for a week-long camp.

“We will bring them together and ensure that they understand what is needed from them. These Under-17 players played like adults. We only have to show them a new way to get better because most of them are largely from rural society.

“However, I do not have any doubt that they could compete with the likes of Kaizer Chiefs FC, Orlando Pirates FC, Mamelodi Sundowns FC including Jomo Cosmos FC. I also believe that some of these players can go abroad and play in one of the biggest leagues in the world,” said Setumisho.

He added that life in soccer academies is understandably filled with challenges and stringent procedures, so he called on businesspersons to come on board and assist with funding. Setumisho said he will be in need of accommodation to house these players during a week-long camp.

“’You’re talking about a lot of young players chasing a few options. We had over 200 players who participated in this tournament, but only 25 made it. So, we will need as much support as we can because this is a long term option.

“Taung has an abundance of talent but that can only be nurtured if we work together. We also brought in players such as Mothusi Gopane to give a word of advice to them. One of the problems with the academy is its ethos,” said.  

He also applauded those sponsors who came on board like Centre of Medical Imaging SA for support and the North West Social Development. Setumisho who said he was disappointed by the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) for its failure to come on board, he lauded the Roots shop and Lebo Tebo Construction company director, Lebo Mabe who donated five soccer balls.  

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

Two suspects aged 35 and 37 respectively, were expected to appear at Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court for being in possession of explosives and attempted ATMs bombing. 

According to the North West police spokesperson, Lit Colonel Amanda Funani, police who were on patrol allegedly spotted two suspects next to the Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Marikana and approached them.

“Upon seeing the police approaching, the duo ran away leading to a chase. Subsequently, the police managed to catch them and searched their bags. During the search, the police discovered explosives inside the bags. 

“The police allegedly went back to the ATMs where the men were initially spotted and ultimately found other explosives connected to two ATMs. The pair were arrested and are expected to appear in the Rustenburg Magistrate’ Court on 15 December 2021,” Funani said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena congratulated Marikana members for their vigilance and swift reaction that resulted in the arrest. 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

North West Premier, Bushy Maape who wished South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa well after he tested positive for COVID-19, calls on all people to support government programmes to receive vaccination, follow existing non-pharmaceutical protocols during this festive season.

Minister in the Presidency, Mondli Gungubele said in a statement on 12 December 2021 that Ramaphosa is receiving treatment for mild COVID-19 symptoms after testing positive for the viral infection.

“The President started feeling unwell after leaving the State Memorial Service in honour of former Deputy President FW de Klerk in Cape Town earlier today. The President is in good spirits but is being monitored by the South African Military Health Service of the South African National Defence Force.

“The President, who is fully vaccinated, is in self-isolation in Cape Town and has delegated all responsibilities to Deputy President David Mabuza for the next week. On his recent visit to four West African states, President Ramaphosa and the South African delegation were tested for COVID-19 in all countries,” Gungubele said.

He also urged people who have had contact with Ramaphosa to watch for symptoms or to have them tested.

Meanwhile, Maape said: “As we wish President Ramaphosa a speedy recovery, we also wish to thank him for his leadership in choosing to make public his positive test and lead from the front of the country’s effort to respond to the new variant Omicron.

“President Ramaphosa’s role in the frontline response to COVID 19 has been recognized in our country, continent and globally since the pandemic in 2020. We welcome the news that Ramaphosa has presented with very mild symptoms, which is a clear indication that vaccines do work.” 

He further said they believe that vaccination offers the only viable option out of the pandemic towards a manageable health response, which will allow South Africa to restore most of our normal lives and return most of our economic and social activities to near normalcy.

Maape added that as Ramphosa takes time off to recover in order to return to full service of our nation, they should not allow this festive season to delay their recovery any further.

“We pledge our support to the Deputy President, David Mabuza as he leads the following days of our response to COVID-19, together with the collective of the National Coronavirus Command Council, and all Provincial and District Command Councils across the Country.

“Let’s vaccinate, before we vibe this festive season,” he concluded.

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By REGINALD KANYANE

A 14-YEAR-OLD boy was killed by a train at Dryharts village near Taung on Monday. According to the North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Serg Tryphosa van Rooyen, Kabo Mogapi who suffered from a hearing impairment was walking along the train tracks when the atrocity took place.

“The train that was approaching him from behind rang the warning horn, but due to his hearing impairment he could not respond. The driver of the train tried to apply his brakes but it was too late and the boy was hit by the train,” van Rooyen said.

She said a case of culpable homicide was opened at Pudimoe Police Station, while investigation continues.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV&F) continues to be prevalent in South Africa and according to the statistics, more cases have been reported since lockdown. Pudimoe Police Station along with other stakeholders organised a GBV&F awareness campaign at Pudimoe Library on Friday to educate children about this pandemic.

Pudimoe Police Station Captain, Michael Leboiho said: “We get more influx of GBV cases especially that involve children. We have realised that some parents neglect their children and they end up being victims of GBV.

“Another challenge is young girls being involved in romantic relationships with older guys. In most cases, these young girls get involved with outcast men, especially those who would come to the villages as contractors.”

Leboiho said some of these young girls will run from their homes and stay with these ‘foreigners’ and end up being pregnant. He said their parents would then try to go and open cases with the police, however, perpetrators would ‘run’ away.   

“We would like to encourage our people, especially parents, to come forward and report these cases before it is too late. They need to know that sexual offences are defined in the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007 (Act No 32 of 2007).

“Sexual offences include rape, which can be committed by a male or a female while the victim may be a male or a female. This also include sexual assault, compelling or causing persons of 18 years or older to witness sexual offenses, sexual acts or self-masturbation,” he said.

Leboihi further said he believed that this initiative had given more exposure to children and anyone experiencing GBV. He added that mostly, the GBV cases are taking place behind closed doors and urge victims to break the silence.

Meanwhile, the Pudimoe Gender –Based Violence and Femicide Organisation activist, Oratile Phulane shared the same sentiments. Phulane said GBV&F is another pandemic apart from COVID-19.

“We have established this organisation in quest to combat GBV&F within our area. In most cases, parents do not know the impact of this pandemic. Some households refuse to work together with us, but we always encourage them to report this scourge.

“Even though GBV&F knows no boundaries, it is more prevalent among underprivileged households. Maybe this had to do with gender inequality in South Africa, which is exacerbated by the country’s torrid history of exclusion and separate development, its sharply divided socio-economic character and a pervasive male-dominated culture in various industries,” she said.

Joseph Tanyane from Matlhako 2 Tribal Authority Office said: “We urge men to stand up against GBV. So, women and children should report these horrendous acts to the police.  Let us work together with the police and other stakeholders.”

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By OBAKENG MAJE

The community of Taung is whirling with shock after a body of a woman found floating in a furrow at Khibitswane village near Taung on Thursday. North West police spokesperson in the Dr ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Sergeant Tryphosa van Rooyen said the police were called after the discovery of a body by a passer-by.

“The deceased was identified as Motlalepule Gaeaya by her family. The circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation. The police have opened a case of inquest,” Van Rooyen said.

A month ago, the body of the former Vaaltar FM presenter and socialite, Tshepang Seelo was also found dumped on the same spot.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Most shoppers said they cannot continue to bear the brunt after the Taung Mall management charges them R5 for the usage of the ablution toilets. They said the cost of living is too high and Taung has a high rate of unemployment.

One of the shoppers said, she has an autoimmune disease and she needs to use the ablution facilities more often.

“We would like to request the mall management to reconsider their decision because R5 is too much. I am a diabetic person and need to use the toilet more often. Now, imagine if I come here for more than two hours. How much will I spend?

“If, one is coming to the mall with children, each person is expected to cough R5? This was the bad decision and we urge the mall management atleast to charge us R2. Remember, most of us here are unemployed and Taung is a rural area,” she said.

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader, Eddie Mogorwe shared the same sentiments. Mogorwe said it does not make any ‘business’ sense because the users of those toilets are customers.

“I personally confronted the mall manager who in turn referred me to the Eris Property Group Manager, Carina Roux. I explained to her that most of our people come to the mall to collect their social grants and it is senseless for them to pay exorbitant fees to use the ablution facilities at the mall.

“I was so surprised when Ms Roux said they charge this amount of the money because they provide customers with clean toilets. It is surprising because it is their responsibility to provide our people with clean toilets,” he said.

Mogorwe further said the Eris Property Group should know that the water they use belongs to the community of Taung and it is a crime to charge customers this exorbitant amount. 

He also alleged that the mall manager said the Baga-Phuduhucwana Tribal Authority was ‘aware’ of the matter and allegedly gave them a ‘go-ahead’ to charge customers R5.

Meanwhile, Eris Property Group manager, Carina Roux said that charging customers is in line with all other privately-owned properties in the area. She said it is unfortunate and unsustainable for the landlord to keep on maintaining the only free ablution facilities for the entire community.

“We benchmarked with other retail properties in the area and also considered that we offer a higher grade of ablution facilities than any other party in the area. The money is banked into the landlord’s account which is audited. 

“The funds are used to facilitate the purchasing of toilet papers, maintaining the facilities and purchasing water for the facilities when Sedibeng cannot deliver a service.  To date, the landlord has purchased water to the amount of R116. 550 since July 2021 in order to ensure there is water supply when Sedibeng has failed,” she said. 

According to Roux, they have only commenced charging for the facilities since 22 November 2021. She added that her company has spent R240 000 towards COVID-19 Food Parcel relief in Taung as part of their social responsibility.

“We have also spent R65 340 00 towards supply of COVID-19 face masks and R52 163 00 towards fleece blankets for pensioners.  Further roll-out to Home for the Aged was disrupted due to COVID-19 regulations.

“However, plans to support girl child scholars in early 2022 with feminine hygiene products are being finalised. These initiatives were facilitated through the Batlhaping Baga-Phuduhucwana Tribal Authority offices,” she said.  

Roux added that the mall also pays monthly rental towards the Taung Community Trust. She said the mall opening motivated the upgrade of a formal Taxi Rank and Long Distance bus terminus.

“Essential services such as electricity, water and sewerage in the area were upgraded and new retail offering afforded community members to save on transport to larger, further located towns to facilitate better shopping options.

“The development brought much needed more and safer local banking facility options to the community. Also, stores created 364 direct new full time job opportunities and the centre auxiliary service staff created 18 further full time jobs,” said Roux. 

She said a number of temporary positions also become available during festive trading periods. Roux said the mall also offers a free area for vaccination and monthly onsite UIF facilities for community members.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A family of Thabang Chupane (26) from Cokonyane village near Taung said they were shocked by her untimely death. This comes after Chupane was allegedly stabbed to death by her boyfriend (34) on Wednesday evening.   

Chupane’s aunt, Kgomotso Lekaowa said she received a call from one of the neighbours informing her that Chupane has been stabbed.

“Immediately, I came running to the house and on my arrival, I found Thabang lying in a pool of blood outside the yard. According to Thabang’s children, their father arrived and found them sitting outside.

“He allegedly lured Thabang into the house and that’s where the commotion started. The children said they were shocked to hear Thabang screaming in agony, while blood was dripping out of her chest and stomach,” Lekaowa said.

She further said the children ‘ran’ to the neighbours to ask for help.

“As a family, we really do not know what had transpired between the two. However, this is not the first time the couple experienced challenges. In 2017, the suspect allegedly beat Thabang to the pulp, but she decided not to lay a criminal case against him,” said Lekaowa.

She added that they hope justice will prevail and Thabang’ soul finds peace. It is alleged that the suspect was also attacked by mob justice and has been hospitalised.    

The North West police spokesperson in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Sergeant Tryphosa van Rooyen said: “The duo was having an argument at the deceased’s residential area and a fight broke out.

“During the fight, the woman was stabbed with an unknown sharp object. She was taken to a local clinic for medical attention and unfortunately succumbed to her injuries at the clinic. The suspect was arrested and will appear in court after he received medical attention,”

Meanwhile, the Sonke Gender Justice Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Manager, Given Sigauqwe urged men to stand up against Gender-Based Violent (GBV). He said in a statement that, through #MenEngage Africa initiative, they will continue to advocate for and promote fundamental human and women’s rights.

“This will include engaging community leaders, faith leaders, traditional and government officials to challenge and address harmful practices, calling for an end to sexual and gender-based violence.

“We will be also working with decision-makers to advocate for better policies that affect women’s well-being, and collaborating with other organisations whose mandate addresses women’s rights,” Sigauqwe.

He further said the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated GBV against women and girls in Africa. Sigauqwe said the pandemic has shed a light on existing gender inequalities and has also seen a sharp increase in violence against women and girls especially domestic abuse.

“Women, particularly those who lost their jobs and earnings as a result of the pandemic and became completely dependent on their husbands or partners, and girls who were confined in their homes with no access to protection and treatment services faced increased levels of sexual and physical domestic violence,” he said.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

Newly-elected Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) councillor, Oratile Segosapelo along with Re Aga Taung Civic organisation (RATCO) chairperson, Modisaotsile Lebitse were found guilty of common assault by Taung Regional Court on Wednesday.

Segosapelo and Lebitse were given a R4000 fine or sentenced to six months imprisonment. Magistrate Buti Zulu said the sentence will be suspended for five years in condition that any of the accused is not found guilty of the same offence.

They were also prohibited from possessing or owning a firearm.  Segosapelo and Lebitse were arrested back in 2018 after they assaulted the Baga-Phuduhucwana Tribal Authority Chief, Kgosi Tshepo Mankuroane during a peaceful march.

They led a peaceful march where they submitted a memorandum to the Baga-Phuduhucwana Tribal Authority offices demanding that Mankuroane be dethroned from his chieftaincy position.  

Segosapelo and Lebitse in memorandum alleged that Mankuroane’s administration was marred with corruption, fraud and maladministration. Lebitse said then that there were so many challenges such as divergence in land allocation, selling of land to foreign nationals, businesses operating in Taung without following legislation measures and projects stoppage.

He also said the Taung Cultural Calabash event continues to benefit the few only. Lebitse further said the overlapping responsibilities especially on the land have resulted in conflicts between the two authorities, local and traditional.

However, there was a tumult and the police were called where Segosapelo and Lebitse were arrested.

The defence attorney, Isang Nakale said he will appeal the case.

“Truly, we will be appealing the matter because in our submission, we believe that the conviction is neither premised nor factual on legal sound reasons. You will realise that the court did not even give reasons why the accused are found guilty of common assault.  

“Over and above, there are inherent contradictions from state witnesses, their statements and evidence placed before court. Also the medical evidence submitted meditates against the findings which the court has arrived at.”

Meanwhile, Segosapelo and Lebitse still maintain their innocence and said they had never raised a finger against Mankuroane.

“I still maintain that what was presented in court is nothing but far-fetched. I have realised that our justice system is not trustworthy because what has happened is not the true reflection of the matter.

“This matter is politically motivated because they know that I have been sworn-in as EFF councillor. Now, there is a witch-hunt propagated against me.  I always stand for the truth and I have represented our community of Taung well as an activist,” Segosapelo said.

Lebitse also shared the same sentiments. He said they are steadfast in their mission and want to see Taung being under good leadership and administration.

“What I remember is that, on that day, I didn’t even see Mankuroane. So, I am gobsmacked that I am accused of common assault. It is so heart-breaking to see our justice system doing this especially to poor people.

“In my view, the justice system only favours the elite. However, I will continue to fight for the rights of our people and Taung will be free from the corrupt. I also want to appeal to our courts to be wary of being used by the elites to violate poor people’s rights,” he said.

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