Taung-based disability centre needs funding

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Picture: (Boichoko Disability Centre children and staff in Rooiwal village, Taung)

By REGINALD KANYANE

Boichoko Disability Centre at Rooiwal village in Taung needs virtuous building to cater for 27 disabled children, who come from the most disadvantaged families in Taung.

The owner of the centre, Tshegofatso Jack (42) said she established the centre back in 2014. Jack said she opened the centre because she realised that there are many disadvantaged and disabled children around Taung and their parents do not know where to take them.

“Boichoko Disability Centre provides special education like sign language. However, we are doing this without any financial and professional support.

“We have approached the North West Education and Sport Development and Social Development departments for assistance, but our requests were in vain. I also have a child who is deaf and mute,” she said.

Jack said her child, Boichoko whom she named the centre after, uses sign language. She said she knows what challenges other parents in the same situation are going through.

“There is no sign language school around Taung and that is a challenge. The children at the centre pay R700 per month, but some parents cannot afford.

“I use my pocket money in most cases because some children come from deprived families. We have also received no joy from both departments,” Jack said.

She said the Social Development department has also threatened to shut down the school. Jack said she also use her house to accommodate the children.

“I urge anyone who could assist us with anything like food hampers, building materials to come forward as we are currently operating from a shack, but use my house to sleep,” Jack said.

She said nurses and doctors constantly visit the centre to ensure that the children are healthy. Jack said she has also employed 18 volunteers, who assist her at the centre, but she cannot give them any stipend because of financial constraints.

North West Social Development department spokesperson, Petrus Siko said: “First and foremost the children at this centre are receiving disability grant. As a way of intervention, our social workers had several engagements with the owners of the centre.

“Boichoko Disability Centre is nearer to Lokgabeng Disability Centre, which has enough space to admit people with disability.”

Siko said Lokgabeng Disability Centre thus comply with the norms and standards required to operate as disability centre as opposed to Boichoko. He added that equally important, Lokgabeng Disability Centre is currently being funded by the department.

“In addition, plans are afoot to establish a residential care facility in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati in the next few years.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) Provincial Spokesperson on Social Development, Dr Tutu Faleni said: “We are concerned by the continued rejection of Boichoko Disability Centre for the disabled by the North West Department of Social Development.

“The management of the school has been operating the centre for four years without any assistance from the Provincial Social Development Department. This is in spite of requests made by the DA in the past that the MEC should help schools such as Boichoko Disability Centre to qualify for financial subsidy.”

Faleni said they will write an urgent memorandum to the MEC for Social Development and urge him to grant financial and professional support to the centre.

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Mokgoro: “Sports has the unique ability to heal, unite and change society”

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PIC 2 Premier Mokgoro

North West Premier, Professor Job Mokgoro believes sports, football in particular, has the unique ability to heal, unite and change society for the better. Mokgoro was addressing the Maize Cup Gala Dinner which marked the beginning of the fourth edition of the annual Maize Cup tournament which is taking place this Saturday at James Motlatsi Stadium in Klerksdorp. 

The Maize Cup Gala Dinner was attended by the provincial government leadership, soccer legends as well as representatives of different soccer teams taking part, namely: Kaizer Chiefs, Buya Msuthu, Free State Stars and Chippa United.

Mokgoro said football has the ability to impact the society in a positive way.

“We have the responsibility to harness the power and appeal of the game to act as a catalyst for positive social change. What makes it even more interesting is the fact that the universal popularity and appeal of football makes it a common denominator for everyone; irrespective of gender, age, race and social standing”  he said.  

Mokgoro said the provincial government remains committed to uniting the province to ensure that the ugly scenes witnessed recently in various towns, townships and villages of this province are never seen again.  

“The Bokone Bophirima Maize Cup is one vehicle that we can use as government to reach out to the citizens of our beautiful province as a means to reduce and eventually remove the trust deficit currently evident between the people and government. Through football we can build social cohesion in the province” he said.

The pre-season tournament has managed to attract professional soccer teams with massive following in this country, making it easier for government to communicate with the people using this platform.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

 

Mokgareng Gospel choir ready to host Rustenburg

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Baatlegi Ba Morena 1

Picture: (Baatlegi Ba Morena Gospel Choir ready to host Rustenburg)

By BAKANG MOKOTO

Baatlegi Ba Morena Gospel Choir chairperson, Tshidiso Moreane said they are addressing socio-economic challenges affecting the youth in around Taung through music.

Moreane established the clap and tap dance choir early this year and they have already touched many people’s lives. He said the group consists of 90 youth from various villages in Taung.

Baatlegi Ba Morena Gospel Choir advert

“We educate the youth about substance and drug abuse. There are so many socio-economic challenges affecting our youth. We have unemployment, crime, HIV and AIDS, inequality and poverty that need to be taken into consideration.

“The choir gives hope to those who are affected. The aim is to develop the youth musically and ensure that they become great future leaders especially those who love clap and tap dance music,” he said.

Moreane said many youth lost hope and spend most of their time doing nothing. He said the music keeps them busy.

“We go out and sing against other choirs especially during the weekends. We also visit hospitals, clinics and NGOs to sing for patients and health practitioners alike.

“We also receive a necessary support from parents. My father, Batkley Mokaiemang Moreane, who is the President of the choir, always gives us words of encouragement. We have learnt that with discipline, dedication and determination, we can achieve our dream,” Moreane said.

He said the understanding of gospel encourages the people to behave in ways consistent. Moreane added that gospel choir put its faith in action in the public realm.

“We will be having a gospel show at Molatlhwa shop in Mokgareng village on the 29th of July 2018. We will be hosting the Bautlwile Lentswe Gospel choir from Rustenburg.

“We want to raise funds and the entrance fee will be only R50. We urge all community members to come and support us. Tickets are already available and those who want to buy can call us on 0828050049,” he said.

Moreane said the Baatlegi Ba Morena Gospel choir members also sell tickets. He said they will be releasing an album soon as their music plays a crucial role spiritually.

“The choir also guide individuals on moral conduct. We want to be conspicuous and play an integral part in community-building. I believe that if we work together, we can achieve more and develop a better society,” Moreane said.

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‘Govt officials fail to declare their business interests’

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Joe Maswanganyi

By REGINALD KANYANE
Public Service Commission (PSC) said more than 700 Senior Managers in Public Service are in contravention of Regulation 19 of the Public Service Regulations of 2016.

The PSC revealed that a total number of 721 Senior Management Service members failed to declare their business interests. The commission released its quarterly report covering the period from 1 January 2018 to 31 March 2018 on the state of the public service.

The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration/Monitoring and Evaluation chairperson, Joe Maswanganyi said: “We are concerned about the high number of Senior Management Services (SMS) members within the public service who failed to declare directorships in private and public companies, something which is in contravention of Regulation 19 of the Public Service Regulations of 2016.

“It is unacceptable that so many senior managers can be in contravention of regulations that are intended to ensure the credibility of the state. Senior managers are in the forefront of the fight against corruption and by declaring directorships, they prove accountability.”

He said the achievement of the goals of the National Development Plan (NDP) to create a state that is capable of implementing the developmental goals of the country, is depended on having ethical leaders who can drive government’s programmes.

Maswanganyi added that while the committee is in no way casting a judgement on the said officials, it has highlighted the necessity for compliance.

“More worrying is the fact that within this number, there are 19 directors-general/heads of departments at both national and provincial level. These custodians of the country’s finances should lead from the front and must at all times declare their interests.

“The committee has called on the Public Service Commission and the Minister of Public Service and Administration to urgently take adequate action against contravening officials. The committee will await a full briefing by the Public Service Commission on the report released today,” Maswanganyi said.

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Prieska serial rapist gets life imprisonment

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IMG-20180706-Shawn Rooi

Picture: (Prieska serial rapist, Shawn Rooi)

By REGINALD KANYANE

A 25 year-old man from Prieska was sentenced to life imprisonment and further 27 years by Northern Cape High Court in Kimberley on Wednesday.

Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sgt Sergio Kock said: “Prieska serial rapist, Shawn Rooi was found guilty of three counts of rape, two counts of house breaking with the intent to rape and one charge of obstructing a police officer from performing his duties.

“On the 1st of April 2017, the accused broke into premises in Prieska Plakkerskamp and raped a woman aged 55. The following day, Rooi also broke into another premises situated in Prieska Plakkerskamp and raped a 40 year–old woman with the same modus operandi.”

Kock said the accused was arrested in April 2017, but later released as both charges were temporarily withdrawn from the court role. He said during November 2017, Rooi raped his third victim, a ten year-old female in Prieska Plakkerskamp.

“He was arrested days later and a 10 year-old victim is the sister of Rooi’s former girlfriend and mother of his child. The accused remained in custody until his recent sentencing,” he said.

The Pixley Ka Seme Cluster Commander, Brig Nomahlube Sofika lauded the Detective Constable, Denzil Swarts from the Prieska SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit for a brilliant job done.

“It is with pride that we see our members working extremely hard to remove criminals from our streets. The convictions result in justice for the victims concerned and the community feel safer when the perpetrators are incarcerated.

“This will send out a stern message to criminals. Remember, when you do crime, you will do the time,” Kock said.

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Two nabbed for robbery, others still at large

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Postmasburg robbery

By BAKANG MOKOTO

Two suspects aged 20 and 21 are expected to appear at Postmasburg Magistrate’s Court for robbery. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Sergio Kock said the incident took place at Boichoko township in Postmasburg on Friday.

“The suspects were arrested by the vigilant Postmasburg Police after they allegedly robbed a tuck shop. Four men allegedly accosted the owner of the tuck shop at around 8pm, while he was busy locking up his business.

“The suspects allegedly hit the owner (25) with a bottle over his head. The victim was also assaulted with iron pipes. The suspects fled the crime scene with an undisclosed amount of money, cigarettes and airtime,” Kock said.

He said the police followed up on information and arrested a 20-year-old male suspect in Boichoko hours later. Kock added that the Postmasburg Visible Policing unit arrested the second suspect aged 21 the following day.

“We are still searching for the two other suspects who are still at large. Anyone with information that could lead to the suspects’ arrest can call D/Cst Ambrill Rossouw on 071 396 4285.

“Both suspects will appear in the Postmasburg Magistrate’s Court soon on charges of business robbery. The police investigation continues,” he said.

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DUDUZANE ZUMA GRANTED R100K BAIL

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The matter has also been postponed to 24 January 2019.

Duduzane Zuma

JOHANNESBURG – Duduzane Zuma has been granted bail of R100,000 with conditions including handing in his passport.

Zuma has appeared in the Commercial Crimes Court after he was arrested and processed at the Johannesburg Central Police Station on Monday morning.

He has been charged with corruption in connection with the alleged failed attempt to bribe former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas.

Jonas claimed in an affidavit that he was called to a meeting with Zuma, Ajay Gupta and businessman Fana Hlongwane where Gupta allegedly offered him R600 million and the position of finance minister if he agreed to work with them.

Zuma entered the courtroom wearing leg irons but appeared rather upbeat and greeted journalists in the gallery.

The State told the court that it does not oppose bail and had agreed with the defence that Zuma pay R100,000 for his release.

The case has been postponed until January next year because the State says it requires more time to investigate and says there’s a possibility of more accused being added to the charge sheet.

Zuma agreed to hand in his passport and will make arrangements with the investigating officer if he wants to travel abroad.

Source: http://www.ewn.co.za 

 

Health department cancel Mediosa contract   

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MEC Magome Masike

By REGINALD KANYANE

North West MEC of Health department, Dr Magome Masike confirmed that they have cancelled the contract with the Gupta-linked company, Mediosa. Masike said the service of Mediosa was procured without following the correct procurement procedures.

“We have identified areas of intervention and begun to implement intervention plans in those identified areas. The areas of intervention include financial management particularly to deal with irregular expenditure and accruals.

“Supply Chain Management, which is characterised by irregular supply chain and material deviation from procurement practices have been identified as carrying fiscal risks which end up draining the resources of the Department,” he said.

Masike further said they will continue to work together with the administrator to address the challenges faced by the employees at administration level in the provincial office. He said they will also address lack of service delivery in the districts.

“Contract managed, particularly major contracts like Buthelezi EMS and Mediosa have also been identified as problem area that needs immediate intervention.

“We have revised the scope of work of private ambulance providers, Buthelezi EMS and High Care EMS.  The two service providers will now inter-facility transfers to allow state ambulances to focus on emergencies,” Masike said.

The Head of Department (HoD), Dr Thabo Lekalakala was suspended after he allegedly pre-paid the Mediosa Mobile Clinic company R30m upfront before it could execute any service.

The beleaguered company also funded Lekalakala and his wife’s international trip. The company was expected to render health services at far-flung areas.

Another R180m was supposed to be paid to the company over the years.

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Aggrieved ANC Eastern Cape members lose urgent bid to nullify ‘festival of chairs’ outcome

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Aggrieved ANC members have lost their court bid to force the ANC’s national executive committee (NEC) to disband the Eastern Cape executive committee elected at the so-called “festival of chairs” conference.

The South Gauteng High Court struck the matter off the roll with costs on Monday.

Judge Zeenat Carelse highlighted that the “urgency” was self-created, stating that it took the disgruntled members 11 days to approach the court after the NEC had discussed the Ndebele report.

Aggrieved ANC members have lost their court bid to force the ANC’s national executive committee (NEC) to disband the Eastern Cape executive committee elected at the so-called “festival of chairs” conference.

The South Gauteng High Court struck the matter off the roll with costs on Monday.

Judge Zeenat Carelse highlighted that the “urgency” was self-created, stating that it took the disgruntled members 11 days to approach the court after the NEC had discussed the Ndebele report.

The NEC, which is the ruling party’s highest decision-making body, had tasked NEC member Sbu Ndebele to investigate the dispute around the Eastern Cape’s 2017 elective conference.

The event descended into chaos when delegates threw chairs at each other, leaving scores injured. S members abandoned the conference after Oscar Mabuyane was elected to replace Premier Phumulo Masualle as chair of the party’s third-largest province. The weekend-long conference had already been marred by deep divisions between the two rival factions.

In his report, Ndebele recommended a disbandment of the provincial executive committee which was elected at the conference and suggested that a new conference be held.

Matter set down for next month

However, the NEC rejected his recommendation, with some members labelling his report “biased and not factual”.

The report recommended instead that there should be a “political solution” that would involve NEC members travelling to the Eastern Cape to try and help build “unity” in the province.

In dismissing the matter’s urgency, Judge Carelse set it down for hearings a month later.

“Pertinently, on the applicant’s own version, the matter cannot be rendered urgent to the extent that the applicants have requested a referral to oral evidence. This puts an end to the question of urgency. In my view the applicants have not made out a case for urgency.

“If there is urgency it is self-created,” Judge Carelse ruled.

The aggrieved members had argued before the court that the minutes from an NEC meeting discussing the matter did not reflect that it had rejected or accepted Ndebele’s report, but that the minutes only stated that the NEC had “noted” it.

Deputy secretary general Jessie Duarte, the minutes showed, had argued that the NEC had taken a decision to reject the report, leaving nothing to be implemented.

Aggrieved ANC members have lost their court bid to force the ANC’s national executive committee (NEC) to disband the Eastern Cape executive committee elected at the so-called “festival of chairs” conference.

The South Gauteng High Court struck the matter off the roll with costs on Monday.

Judge Zeenat Carelse highlighted that the “urgency” was self-created, stating that it took the disgruntled members 11 days to approach the court after the NEC had discussed the Ndebele report.

The NEC, which is the ruling party’s highest decision-making body, had tasked NEC member Sbu Ndebele to investigate the dispute around the Eastern Cape’s 2017 elective conference.

The event descended into chaos when delegates threw chairs at each other, leaving scores injured. S members abandoned the conference after Oscar Mabuyane was elected to replace Premier Phumulo Masualle as chair of the party’s third-largest province. The weekend-long conference had already been marred by deep divisions between the two rival factions.

In his report, Ndebele recommended a disbandment of the provincial executive committee which was elected at the conference and suggested that a new conference be held.

Matter set down for next month

However, the NEC rejected his recommendation, with some members labelling his report “biased and not factual”.

The report recommended instead that there should be a “political solution” that would involve NEC members travelling to the Eastern Cape to try and help build “unity” in the province.

In dismissing the matter’s urgency, Judge Carelse set it down for hearings a month later.

“Pertinently, on the applicant’s own version, the matter cannot be rendered urgent to the extent that the applicants have requested a referral to oral evidence. This puts an end to the question of urgency. In my view the applicants have not made out a case for urgency.

“If there is urgency it is self-created,” Judge Carelse ruled.

The aggrieved members had argued before the court that the minutes from an NEC meeting discussing the matter did not reflect that it had rejected or accepted Ndebele’s report, but that the minutes only stated that the NEC had “noted” it.

Deputy secretary general Jessie Duarte, the minutes showed, had argued that the NEC had taken a decision to reject the report, leaving nothing to be implemented.

Source: http://www.news24.com

Outrage over delays in ANCYL conference

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Maine

Picture: ANCYL president, Collen ‘Oros’ Maine

ANC Youth League president Collen Maine and secretary- general Njabulo Nzuza are being accused by disgruntled members of the league of delaying its elective conference for their own political ends.

Some members are contemplating taking them to court to seek a guarantee that the conference won’t be postponed again. Others are planning to picket outside Luthuli House to force the league mandarins and the mother body to move the elective conference, which was recently moved from June to September 6, to an earlier date.

Two senior league members and one ANC member, who didn’t want to be named for fear of victimisation, said Maine and Nzuza delayed the conference so they could continue attending ANC national working committee (NWC) and national executive committee (NEC) meetings where they could lobby for their deployment to government.

“Maine attends NWC meetings by virtue of being the president of the organisation whereas Nzuza attends NEC meetings by virtue of being the secretary-general of the league. They attend these meetings where they could continue to lobby for deployment in government. They are scared that if the conference is held and the new leadership is elected, their lobbying for positions would be difficult because they would no longer be sitting in close proximity to power,” said the league member.

Source: http://www.sowetanlive.co.za