Expansion of North West healthcare infrastructure announced

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Picture: The healthcare centre/Generic

By AGISANANG SCUFF

10 March 2026- The North West Provincial Government (NWPG) continues to accelerate infrastructure development across the province, with several new healthcare facilities completed and additional upgrades already in the pipeline. In his 2026 State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered during the official Opening of the North West Provincial Legislature, North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, informed the legislature that the recently completed projects include healthcare facilities in Delareyville, the Bulk Pharmacy, and three park-home clinics situated in Sheila, Uitkyk, and Magogoe villages.

Mokgosi said these developments form part of the province’s broader strategy to improve access to quality healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities. Looking ahead to the 2026/27 financial year, he announced that plans are underway to establish a dedicated Chemotherapy Unit at the Mahikeng Provincial Hospital.

“The new oncology service is expected to enhance cancer treatment capacity within the province, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for care.

“With tertiary services now fully established at Tshepong Hospital in Klerksdorp, the provincial Health department will shift its focus to strengthening services at the Job Shimankana Tabane Hospital,” said Mokgosi.

He further announced a range of specialised services that have been earmarked for expansion at the Job Shimankana Tabane Hospital, including Urology and the operationalisation of a new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) unit. Mokgosi added that the plans also include the introduction of Mammography services and the procurement of digital X-Ray and C-Arm equipment to increase radiology capacity.

“In addition, the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) will be upgraded to accommodate 16 beds, further enhancing critical care capacity. Specialist outreach programmes are also set to expand, with Urology services extending to Moses Kotane Hospital, Maxillofacial services to Brits District Hospital, and Ophthalmology services to Tlhabane Hospital.

“These initiatives are aimed at decentralising specialised healthcare services and ensuring that residents across the province have improved access to advanced medical treatment closer to their communities,” he said.

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Police discourage hitchhiking due to safety concerns

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

10 March 2026 – The police in the Northern Cape discourage hitchhiking due to considerable safety concerns, including the commission of related violent crimes such as robbery and sexual assault. The police said the dangers effect both the person seeking a lift and as well as the driver.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said hitchhikers are at risk of falling victim to opportunistic criminals, which can include murder, rape, armed robbery and assault. Ehlers said women and children are particularly vulnerable to sexual assault and rape after accepting rides from strangers.

“Victims may be robbed and left in isolated, unfamiliar areas. Hitchhiking on public roads increases the risk of hit-and-run accidents. In some cases, victims have been forced to borrow money from their contacts or provide banking details while held under duress.

“Long-distance drivers have also been known to demand sex in exchange for a lift. Hitchhiking on freeways is strictly prohibited and can pose a danger to both pedestrians and motorists. Individuals may pose as hitchhikers with the intention of hijacking the vehicle, sometimes at gunpoint,” she said.

Ehlers further said drivers have also been subject to violence, including rape and murder, by people they pick up. She added that in light of this, the police urge the public to avoid hitchhiking entirely and instead use safe, reliable public transport options.

“Prioritise personal safety and avoid getting into cars with people you do not know. Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, do not accept the ride. For emergencies or to report suspicious activity, contact the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or alternatively via the MySAPS app,” said Ehlers.

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A man jailed for series of rapes

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

10 March 2026 – The accused, Thapelo Joseph Chukutshwane (34) was sentenced to four life sentences plus an additional 20 years imprisonment by the Molopo Regional Court after being convicted on five counts of rape and one count of house-breaking with intent to rob. The court heard that between 2013 and 2024, women in and around Mahikeng were accosted by an unknown man who raped and robbed them of their belongings.

The victims were between the ages of 17 and 43.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said investigations further revealed that in one incident, a victim (43), was asleep in her home when the accused forcibly gained entry by breaking down the door before raping and robbing her of several items. Gunya said all incidents were reported to the police.

“Through DNA analysis, investigators were able to link Chukutshwane to the crimes, which led to his arrest in August 2025. During the court proceedings, the accused pleaded guilty to all the charges. The state presented overwhelming DNA evidence linking him to the offences.

“In aggravation of sentence, the state prosecutor Kefentse Diseko urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentences, highlighting the alarming increase in rape cases and emphasising that the accused targeted vulnerable members of the community,” he said.

Gunya further said the court imposed four life sentences for four counts of rapes, 15 years imprisonment for one count of rape and five years imprisonment for house-breaking with intent to rob. He added that the court ordered that the accused’s name be entered into the National Register for Sexual Offenders and declared him unfit to possess a firearm.

“The victims received immediate support and were referred to the Mafikeng Thuthuzela Care Centre, where they received medical, emotional, and legal assistance.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence and commended the work of Diseko, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and all role players involved in securing the conviction.

“We stand united in our resolve to ensure justice is served, and we reiterate that violent crimes will not be tolerated,” she said.

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‘Teenage pregnancy in North West a concern’

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By REGINALD KANYANE

10 March 2026- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi has announced the implementation of a coordinated provincial response to reduce the scourge of teenage pregnancy and strengthen support for adolescent mothers. Mokgosi, who outlined this plan while delivering his State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the official Opening of the North West Provincial Legislature recently, said the initiative which will be led by the North West Department of Health, will see the Departments of Social Development and Education coming on board to implement this multi-sectoral effort.

“The coordinated response will ensure a unified, evidence‑driven response that protects our girls, supports young mothers, and strengthens the wellbeing of communities. The scourge of teenage pregnancy in our province, particularly among under‑age girls, can no longer be normalised.

“Teenage pregnancy in the North West is a critical concern for the government with a 12.8% birth rate among women under 20, driving school dropouts and socio-economic instability. Significant concern has been raised regarding high rates of underage pregnancy in areas like Setlagole and the Ditsobotla sub-district,” he said.

Mokgosi further said working hand in glove with the North West Departments of Social Development and Education, the Department of Health has been assigned to lead this initiative, recognising that teenage pregnancy is a downstream effect of broader social determinants including poverty, school dropout, violence, and limited access to youth‑friendly services.

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A father nabbed for allegedly killing his two sons

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By OBAKENG MAJE

10 March 2026 – A father (35) was arrested for allegedly killing his two sons in cold blood. On Saturday afternoon, 7 March 2026, the police were called to a horrific scene in bushes next to a river, where the lifeless bodies of a boy (1) and his brother (3), were discovered at Skuinsdrift–Tshwaro Farms, near Groot Marico.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the children had sustained multiple injuries. Morake said Emergency and Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) was summoned to the scene and both brothers were declared dead.

“Initial information received indicates that the father of the boys had allegedly collected them from their grandmother, while their mother was attending church. It is further alleged that there had been an earlier argument between the couple, during which the father allegedly threatened to kill the children.

“With the assistance of members of the local community, the father was traced and arrested on Sunday. He is expected to appear before the Groot Marico Magistrate’s Court today, facing two counts of murder,” she said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the arrest and commended the swift collaboration between the police and the community, which led to the arrest of the suspect. Naidoo said this deeply disturbing incident is a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and requested any person in a violent relationship or community member who is aware of such a relationship, to speak out and obtain assistance from your local police station, court, social workers, church leaders and/or community leaders.

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Swift arrest of carjacking suspects in Mothibistad

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Picture: Minibus taxi robbed duirng carjacking and robbery incident/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

10 March 2026- Four suspects were arrested by the police in Mothibistad for carjacking and robbery. The police said the incident took place at the traffic lights on Monday, approximately at 2am.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said according to the reports, the complainant was driving a Toyota Quantum when he was accosted by four armed suspects who were allegedly wielding knives. Ehlers said the suspects reportedly robbed the victim of his vehicle during the incident.

“The victim managed to escape unharmed and immediately sought assistance at the Mothibistad SAPS. The police immediately responded to the complaint. With the assistance of the Highway Patrol and a vehicle tracking company, the suspects were pursued.

“During the pursuit, the suspects lost control of the stolen vehicle at Logaganeng village, where it overturned. All four suspects aged between 19 and 23, were arrested at the scene. They sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment before being detained,” she said.

Ehlers further said the investigation continues and the suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges of carjacking and robbery.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsetwe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended the swift and coordinated response of the police and their partners, which ensured the safety of the community and led to the successful recovery of the stolen vehicle. Baloyi reiterated that serious and violent crimes will not be tolerated in the district.

“It is against this backdrop that police urge motorists to remain vigilant. We recommend safety tips. Carjackings often occur when vehicles are stationary at traffic lights or stop signs. So, maintain a safe following distance and remain alert to your surroundings.

“Avoid distractions such as using your cell phone while driving, especially at night or in isolated areas. Ensure that vehicle doors are locked and windows are closed while driving or when stationary,” he said.

Baloyi said motorists should trust their instincts and avoid stopping in poorly lit or deserted areas, if they feel unsafe. He said they should not resist, if confronted by suspects.

“Prioritise your safety and cooperate where necessary. Report suspicious activity to SAPS. Consider installing a vehicle tracking device to assist with recovery operations.

“Members of the public are urged to report car hijackings or any other criminal activities to the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or by using the MySAPS App. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” said Baloyi.

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ANCYL in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati region prepare to host its congress

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

10 March 2026- The ANCYL Regional Task Team (RTT) in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati region has unanimously resolved to hold
its 6th Regional Congress from 25 to 26 March 2026, in Christiana. The league said the congress will be held under the theme: “Youth in action for the advancement & attainment of Economic Freedom and Social Change Now and Not Later”.

The RTT coordinator, Kagiso Kgabo said they have also confirmed the members of the electoral committee, mandated to oversee the congress. Kgabo said the Congress Electoral Committee has appointed Phelindaba Yanta as chairperson, while Thabo Ngono was appointed as convener.


 “Lebogang Magagane was appointed as deputy convener, Matshidiso Gaeretse as deputy coordinator and Pelontle Selome as fundraiser.

“Kenny Morolong, Kenetswe Mosenogi, Tshiamo Tsotetsi and Tshepo Louw will also be part of the Electoral Committee to oversee the process,” he said.

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Portfolio Committee to get brief on functions of PRE   

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Picture: The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile/Facebook

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

10 March 2026- The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management will convene an oversight meeting with the Department of Community Safety and Transport Management. The purpose of the meeting is for the department to brief the committee on the functions of the Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE), as well as provide an update on the work of the North West Provincial Task Team.

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile said the committee will use the engagement to strengthen its oversight role and assess the effectiveness of these structures in regulating and improving transport operations within the province. Sonakile said the meeting will be NWPL Committee Room 2 on 10 March 2026, at 1pm.

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Northern Cape Premier, Zamani Saul sends heartfelt condolences to the family of miner

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Picture: Northern Cape Premier, Zamani Saul

By REGINALD KANYANE

10 March 2026- The Northern Cape Premier, Zamani Saul said it is with deep sense of sorrow that he has learnt of the recovery of one of the five miners, who were trapped in the Du Toitspan shaft at the Ekapa Mine. Saul said this recovery brings to an end a painful period of uncertainty for the family.

“On behalf of the Northern Cape Provincial Government and the people of the province, I extends my heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased miner.

“I also expressing my gratitude to the rescue teams who continue to work tirelessly alongside Ekapa Minerals during this difficult operation,” he said.

Saul further said he has encouraged them to press on with their efforts as work continues to bring closure to the other affected families. He added that the Northern Cape Provincial Government continues to keep all the affected families in its thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

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Broos announces preliminary Bafana squad for international friendly matches

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Picture: Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos announced his squad/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

10 March 2026- Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named a 38-member preliminary team to face Panama in two international friendly matches later this month. Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Cape Town Stadium will host the two matches against the Central American country.

The South African senior men’s national team will host the first match at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 27 March 2026, before facing the visitors in the second game in Cape Town on 31 March 2026. The matches form a critical component of Broos’ build-up programme ahead of the global tournament, which will be hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.

“The preliminary squad will be trimmed to 23 players in the coming days when Broos announces his final list for the two matches. The team will assemble in Johannesburg on 23 March 2026,” said Broos.

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