North West Premier, Bushy Maape has labelled the forthcoming investment of R9.4 billion by Sedibelo Platinum Mine in its operations at Pilanesberg Platinum Mine near Moruleng as a vote of confidence in the province.
Maape said this investment is a ‘step in the right direction’ in resuscitating the economy. The province has experienced enormous economic shocks as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in a decline of 7.6% in the provincial GDP in 2020.
“The unemployment rate stands at 33% in the province. As a government, we need to do everything in our power to take these numbers down. We are engaging different stakeholders and in particular, the private sector to work hand in glove with us to address the challenges of unemployment and poverty confronting our province.
“These engagements are yielding the desired results. The management of the mine indicated that over the next five years, up to three thousand jobs will be created by the development of an underground mine and of a Kell plant at Pilanesberg Platinum Mine,” he said.
Maape further said the province is on the right trajectory towards economic recovery as this will assist them to address treble challenges, which is unemployment, inequality and poverty.
The Sedibelo Platinum Mine CEO, Erich Clarke indicated that, in addition, the investment will create various economic opportunities for local business people. He said their plans also entail various projects such as housing and investing in Social and Labour Plans.
“We will also be investing in a new Kell plant, which uses new technology to extract the metals from the ore without the use of a smelter. This technology will reduce carbon emissions by eighty percent. 65% of our workforce is from this area and we are looking at increasing it while creating opportunities for the youth and entrepreneurs,” said Clarke.
Picture: Residents of Molelema fixing their own roads/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The residents of Molelema village near Taung have taken upon themselves to fix the 15km road in their village, which links them to a tarred road leading to the Taung CBD. This comes after the D207 road construction project worth over R65 million was brought to a grinding halt after the department terminated the contract of the contractor, Botong Nkolele JV Construction over the obligation dispute.
However, the director of Botong Nkolele JV Construction, Daddy Tong took the matter for an arbitration in December 2021 and won the case. The department was allegedly instructed to reinstate the Botong Nkolele JV Construction, but that has not happened five months later.
One of the residents, Pogisho Afrika said, they have decided to fix the road because the deterioration of the road hits home on a personal level. He said they have requested each household to donate R5, while motorists donate R10.
“As locals, we fixed this road by grading the road using wheelbarrows. We are grateful because we have received unwavering support from our people. We have lost hope of getting any tarred road in our area. Recently, we have experienced torrential rains and our roads are inaccessible.
“This is all happening because of the perceived ineptitude of the department. It is difficult to run our errands without an accessible road. We also experience difficulties to access healthcare centres, in terms of emergency,” Afrika said.
The Community Liaison Officer (CLO) for the project, Mothibi Makoro shared the same sentiments. Makoro alleged that they have not received their salaries for three months in (June, July and August) 2020 due to the department’s failure to pay the contractor.
“It is so unfortunate that the contractor tried numerous times to engage with the department, but his attempts fell in deaf ears. The department owes us an explanation as to what is happening just like they gave an explanation when they terminated the agreement between them and the contractor.
“Rumours are doing rounds that the contractor has won a case, but we as the community do not understand what that entails,” he said.
The contractor, Daddy Tong said: “At this stage, the department has not adjudicated our claims to the value of about R25 million. They have been mute and never responded to our plea for adjudication and processing of payments. This matter is part of the issues we have included in our court proceedings.
“Prior to this, the department had defaulted in the payment of two invoices. We submitted invoice of R15 million on 12 July 2020, and it was only paid on 28 December 2020. We also submitted another invoice on 24 August 2020, and it was only paid on 30 April 2021,” he said.
Tong further said all invoices were paid after a struggle, even though there was no valid reason issued by the department to explain the delay. He added that the dispute started on 2 June 2020 after the department realised that they had made a gross error.
“They did not follow correct procedure when awarding a contract. In terms
of procurement and contract requirements, the department was supposed to identify errors in the pricing of the contractor prior awarding of contract.
“This is called arithmetic error correction and they failed to follow the procedure prior awarding of the contract on 27 September 2019. The contract is a re-measurable contract and that means the price of R65 918 991.18 awarded does not necessarily entail final price once the work is completed,” he said.
The chairperson of the North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Roads, Kim Medupe said: “As the committee, we are concerned about the condition and the status of the roads in the province. In some areas visited, the communities could not even go to work which is obviously having a negative impact on the lives of the people.
“The current issue of the road in Molelema village in Taung has come to the attention of the committee and we are awaiting a detailed report on the developments around this road from the department and there will be committee meetings with the department to resolve this issue.”
Meanwhile, the North West Public Works and Roads spokesperson, Matshube Mfoloe said: “I can confirm that I have forwarded your set of questions to our Directorate Legal Services and Chief Directorate: Transport Infrastructure for confirmation and clarity. However, I had neither received a legal response to your questions nor input from the Chief Directorate: Transport Infrastructure.”
Recently, the department returned unused R86 million to the national treasury that was allocated to fix the roads.
The police in Taung are investigating an inquest case after a sangoma trainee (32) drowned in a dam at Leshobo village near Taung on 4 May 2022. North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Sgt Tryphosa van Rooyen said, it is alleged that the deceased, Boitshepo Sapelo and other trainees were busy with their rituals under the leadership of his “Gobela” when the atrocity took place.
“It is alleged that they were dipping themselves in the water and all of a sudden, Sapelo who is originally from Vryburg, disappeared in the water. According to information provided, a search for him commenced and his lifeless body re-surfaced after a few minutes. The police were immediately summoned to the scene and a case of inquest was registered,” van Rooyen said.
She further said investigation into the matter continues.
Picture: The deceased, Thabiso Mothibedi (35)/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
A family of Thabiso Mothibedi (35) from Manthe village in Taung, who was killed said, they want justice to prevail. Four suspects who were arrested in connection with his death briefly appeared in Taung Magistrate’s Court on 9 May 2022.
Thabiso’s sister, Boingotlo Mothibedi (37) said, it is difficult to see her brother’s life being cut short by alleged drug lords. She said Thabiso was a peaceful person, who loved to engage positively with people.
“What has happened to Thabiso is inhumane and we call on the justice system to deal harshly with the perpetrators. It is not only Thabiso’s life that has been lost because of drugs, but so many lives of young people are being destroyed. They have used my brother and killed him afterwards, so we call for no bail for them,” she said.
One of the community leaders, Ali Sakiele shared the same sentiments. Sakiele said they came out in numbers to attend court proceedings because they want to send out a stern warning to all drug lords in their area.
“We are sick and tired of those who sell drugs to our young people. So, we have attended this murder case because the suspects have allegedly killed a young boy because of drugs. As the community of Manthe, we have taken a decision that we do not want to see anyone selling drugs anymore in our area.
“We urge the magistrate to deny the alleged perpetrators bail. We came to court to show support and to address our grievances in a coordinated manner. Drugs destroy many lives and livelihoods including dividing families, so as the community, we say #EnoughIsEnough.”
A prominent businessman, Bakang “Mahomed” Katong (31), Thabang Lenyai (23), Phenyo “The Great” Katong (34) and Katlego “Makita” Mosimege (31) who were arrested and charged with Thabiso’s murder abandoned their bail application.
It is alleged that Thabiso stole R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house two days before his ‘untimely’ death. Thabiso was buried on Saturday.
The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said: “The preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Lenganeng village near Taung, when the suspects fetched and transported him to Manthe village. Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted.
“After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to Manthe clinic by a group of men and requested nurses to check if he was still alive. However, Mothibedi was certified dead upon arrival.”
NPA regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said the suspects abandoned their bail application and the case was postponed until 7 June 2022.
Meanwhile, three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family were torched by irate community members on 1 May 2022. Another community member, Mothusi Motimeng said: “I blame Baga-Maidi Tribal Authority including incompetent police for all these shenanigans happening in our area.
“Everybody can see what is happening and as community members, we have been complaining about these drug lords, who sell nyaope to our youths. Now, these nyaope addicts broke into our houses, stole properties and sold them, so that they can get money to feed their cravings.”
Motimeng further accused the alleged drug lords of using the deceased for their own benefits and killed him afterwards. He said as a community, they say #EnoughIsEnough because many communities are suffering from the effects of drug addiction and its wide-ranging impact.
Still on the murder case, Katong may be acquitted from the case after his accomplice, Lenyai allegedly cleared him of any wrongdoings. According to a highly-placed source within the police force, Lenyai allegedly wrote on his official statement that Katong, who has other pending cases, never participated in the crime and he was also not at the crime scene during the commission of the crime.
FIVE awaiting trial detainees escaped from the Zeerust Police Station on Sunday at around 10:30am, says the North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone. Mokgwabone said the escapees, Joshua Sibanda (39), Amogelang Motsiane (36), Tshepiso Kwenampe (22), Bengu Hlanganane (31) and Enoch Lebeloane (46) allegedly overpowered a police officer at Zeerust Police Station holding cells, then took cells key and ultimately escaped.
“At the time of escape, the detainees were among others, facing charges of house robbery, rape, attempted murder, business robbery and aggravated robbery. None of the escapees has been re-arrested and members of the community are urged not to attempt to re-arrest them, but rather call the nearest police station as the escapees are presumed to be dangerous.
“Alternatively, the Investigating Officer, Captain Basimane Molefe can be contacted on 076 510 8285. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via MySAPS App or by calling Crime Stop number: 08600 10111,” Mokgwabone said.
The award-winning gospel artist, Teboho Moloi came out in the open to defend himself for a ‘no show’ at the most anticipated Taung Annual Gospel Festival held at PH Mooketsi High School in Taung on 1 May 2022.
Moloi was one of the heavyweights who were scheduled to perform at the event duped the ‘National Convention of Worshippers’ organised by a local businessman, Tshidiso Moreane.
However, some of revellers vented their dissatisfaction on various social media platforms after Moloi’s ‘non-appearance.’ They also complained about the sub-standard set-up at the event.
One of the revellers who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said, the gospel concert that was supposed to bring people from various religious beliefs together, turned into chaos.
“The event was supposed to commence at 10am, but only started nine hours later with poor sound quality. The VIP set-up was also a mess and I just wonder what had happened. Actually, we should be refunded because even some artists who were booked to perform, where nowhere to be seen. I regret going there, but no more……” he said.
Another reveller said, there was ‘no value for money’ at the event as everything was sub-standard. However, she encouraged the organiser/s to reschedule the event for Easter holidays instead of 1 May.
It is alleged that, the service provider who was supposed to provide the organiser/s with the sound snubbed them at the 11th hour after misunderstandings.
Moloi said in a statement: “It has been brought to my team’s attention that there are posts circulating about me not pitching for an event in Taung and I would like to set the record straight.
“I had been scheduled to perform at 16:40 before heading to another show in Rustenburg and we were informed that, the sound and stage were not ready in time for my performance. Attempts to get hold of the promoters failed and I fully understand the frustrations they were going through, but unfortunately, I had to leave for next show.”
Moloi sincerely apologised to all his supporters in Taung and said they are already in talks with the promoter planning the next show, where he would make it up to them by delivering a beautiful and quality show.
Meanwhile, the event organiser, Tshidiso Moreane in a statement, admitted that they dismally failed and apologised.
“We would like to apologise for poor quality service and we recognise that we failed to deliver up to our people’s expectations. We understand how frustrated and upset you were, but unfortunately, the event was delayed due to circumstances beyond our control.
“Everything was arranged and paid on time. According to our agreement, the service provider was supposed to deliver the sound, stage, and generator on Friday, but they failed us on the 11th hour,” he said.
Moreane said as the organisers, they understand the impact that this crisis has had on the event and assured his supporters that this will not happen again. He said they shall improve and ensure that they never commit these mistakes again.
“We want to thank you for the love and support. It is very much appreciated. We hope you will continue to support the TAGF event. Modimo alo boloke, alo etsetse ka mosa le mohau!
“We would also like to thank Mr Joshua for helping us with the stage, sound and generator at the latest possible moment. Modimo ago etse hantle ntate wa rona,” he said.
Picture: NWU acting vice chancellor, Prof Linda du Plessis/Facebook
By BAKANG MOKOTO
The North West University’s acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Linda du Plessis received international awards for her outstanding research from the Emerald partners with the Higher Education Teaching and Learning Association (HETL).
Du Plessis, who awarded her second doctorate in 2020, received recognition from two international academic institutions and associations for the quality of her study. After completing her Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) at the University of Bath in England, Emerald Publishing Limited – a scholarly publisher of academic journals and books in the fields of management, business, education, library studies, healthcare and engineering – awarded her the Emerald Award for Outstanding Doctoral Research in 2020.
Emerald Publishing Limited considers candidates who completed their studies in the past three years for this award.
Du Plessis said: “The exploration focuses on institutionalised practices that triggered radical change at South African public universities, the influence of legitimacy demands on universities’ ability to deal with radical change, the identification and reconsideration of rational myths during radical change.
“Because of the complexity of the higher-education environment and the involvement of multiple resources and relationships with internal and external stakeholders, a single theory cannot cover all the aspects affected by the radical change.”
She further said the informed analysis of the sense-making of legitimacy during radical institutional change, provides insight for future leaders on steering change in a complex environment coupled with the multifaceted dynamics of highly institutionalised organisations.
Du Plessis added that education is globally perceived as a key enabler in providing a better future for the youth and reducing inequality.
“Sustainable development goal four of the United Nations (UN), calls for inclusive, equitable and quality education for all. The topic I covered, which is leadership during a crisis, is important yet largely overlooked in higher-education studies.
“It is such an honour receiving these awards. One often doubts their own abilities, but this topic was something close to my heart and was such an enriching experience. I would like to thank my study leader, Prof Hong Bui for tremendous support and contributions towards this,” she said.
Du Plessis said the value of this DBA is multifaceted and she has new appreciation for the important role as study leaders and promoters must fulfil in providing guidance and constructive academic advice. She said furthermore, the networks established because of this study are invaluable.
According to Emerald Publishing Limited, their goal is to help find solutions to the disparities across the world by supporting researchers working in this area.
“We are proud to support the global research community through an award programme that recognises exceptional doctoral research that addresses the sustainable development goals of the UN.
“These goals are an urgent call for action by all countries to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They address the global challenges we face, including poverty, inequality, climate change, peace and justice.”
On 28 April 2022, Du Plessis was also awarded the Richard and Shirley Mawditt Prize for outstanding performance on the DBA. The Director of the Higher Education Management Programmes of the University of Bath, Prof Dan Davies said: “It is my pleasure to let you know that – in addition to your Doctorate in Business Administration qualification – you have been awarded this prize, which was conferred by a panel of the DBA academic team and approved by our Board of Studies.”
Picture: The alleged drug kingpin and a prominent businessman, Bakang “Mahomed” Katong/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
A murder case against alleged drug kingpin and a prominent businessman, Bakang “Mahomed” Katong (31) and his accomplice, Thabang Lenyai (23) was postponed by Taung Magistrate’s Court to 9 May 2022 for formal bail application.
Katong and Lenyai were arrested for allegedly assaulting and choking Thabiso Mothibedi (40) to death on 29 April 2022.
The atrocity took place at Manthe village near Taung. It is alleged that Mothibedi stole R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house.
The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said: “The preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased was at Lenganeng village near Taung, when the suspects fetched and transported him to Manthe village, where upon his arrival, he was chained to a generator and allegedly being assaulted.
“After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to Manthe clinic by a group of men and requested nurses to check if he was still alive. However, Mothibedi was certified dead upon arrival.”
Tselanyane further said, Katong and Lenyai were arrested and charged with murder. He added that more arrests were imminent and additional charges cannot be ruled out.
NPA regional spokesperson, “The murder case against the suspects was postponed to 9 May 2022 for formal bail application and investigation continues.”
Meanwhile, three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family were torched by irate community members on Monday. One of the community members, Mothusi Motimeng said: “I blame Baga-Maidi Tribal Authority including incompetent police for all these shenanigans happening in our area.
“Everybody can see what is happening and as community members, we have been complaining about these drug lords, who sell nyaope to our youths. Now, these nyaope addicts broke into our houses, stole properties and sold them, so that they can get money to feed their cravings.”
Motimeng further accused the alleged drug lords of using the deceased for their own benefits and killed him afterwards. He said as a community, they say #EnoughIsEnough because many communities are suffering from the effects of drug addiction and its wide-ranging impact.
Still on the murder case, Katong may be acquitted from the case after his accomplice, Lenyai allegedly cleared him of any wrongdoings. According to a highly-placed source within the police force, Lenyai allegedly wrote on his official statement that Katong, who has other pending cases, never participated in the crime and he was also not at the crime scene during the commission of the crime.
According to https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/said: “This review synthesizes available epidemiological data on current drug use and substance abuse treatment admissions in South Africa since 1994 and how changes in the political, economic and social structures within South Africa both before and after apartheid make the country more vulnerable to drug use.
“Based on national surveys, current use of cannabis ranged among adolescents from 2% to 9% and among adults 2%, cocaine/crack (0.3%), mandrax/sedatives (0.3%), club drugs/amphetamine-type stimulants (0.2%), opiates (0.1%) and hallucinogens (0.1%).”
TWO suspects aged 23 and 31 from Manthe village near Taung are as set to appear before the Taung Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday for murder. This comes after they allegedly assaulted and choked Thabiso Mothibedi (40) to death after accusing him of stealing R20 000.
According to the North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane, the suspects who are tavern owners, fetched Mothibedi from Lenganeng village and ferried him to Manthe, where upon arrival, they allegedly chained him to the generator and assaulted him.
“After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to Manthe clinic where he was certified dead upon arrival. The police were allegedly called and arrested the suspects for murder.
“More arrests are imminent and additional charges cannot be ruled out. The suspects are expected to appear before the Taung Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday and investigation into the matter continues,” Tselanyane said.
Picture: Water-locked RDP houses in Deelpan village/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
Situation continues to be unbearable for the residents, who were left destitute by a massive and lethal downpour in Deelpan village near Atamelang. More than 1200 households were affected and had to leave their water-locked houses to find shelter elsewhere.
Now, the North West Department of Health has urged residents to pre-boil the water before consumption as a preventative measure. The departmental spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said this comes after the results of the water samples that were taken in for testing, showed that only one point is safe for human consumption and the other two were not.
“The community was therefore advised to pre-boil the water before consumption. Child immunization, measles 1st dose, Vitamin A and deworming were also administered. We have also been on the ground each day of the week to ensure delivery of health services to the community.
“Since the area became flooded, it was difficult for ambulances and public transport to access the community. The department has moved with speed to implement the intervention measures to ensure provision of health services through placement of mobile clinics at the tribal office premises,” he said.
Lekgethwane further said the integrated service delivery including COVID-19 screening, testing and vaccination, vital signs, TB screening, assessment of clients, provision of treatment, doctor consultation, distribution of male and female condoms, mobilization and issuing of cloth masks have been conducted. Some patients have been traced and re-initiated on Anti-Retroviral Treatment and hypertension treatments.
“The awareness campaigns will continue to be conducted through community radio stations and health education pamphlets on safety measures. Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) will also conduct assessment to the clients who complain of sores which might be related to water consumption.
“Going forward, the department intends to ensure placement of rescue vehicles for 24 hours at the tribal office to address emergencies and EMS activations when need arises. The department will also participate in the 24-hour disaster management call center located at the tribal office. Mobile services will continue until the situation is back to normal,” said Lekgethwane.
One of the residents, Isaac Mabepa (64) who is a taxi owner said his business was heavily affected by the situation.
“I am crestfallen by the torrential rains as you could see. I have five minibus taxis, but three of them are stuck in the yard as there is no way out. My house is also full of water and we have nowhere to sleep. We put crates in the water to create beds so that we can sleep.
“All rooms are full of water and I have also lost livestock such as pigs, chicken, cows and goats. We urge the government to assist us and bring remedial action as our livelihoods have been affected,” he said.
Another resident, Maria Mopedi (33) alleged that quarries that are induced with floods were dug up by contractors who came to their area to build RDP houses. Mopedi said the government needs to ensure that all contractors who dig up holes do not leave them unattended as that impacts negatively during the rainy season.
“We stay next to a quarry that was dug up by contractors who were building RDP houses here. It cannot be correct that these contractors leave these quarries unattended as they are risky to human lives. These quarries become flood-induced because the water has nowhere to go during heavy rains and spill into our yards,” she said.
The executive mayor of Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, Khumalo Molefe said they have removed people from flood induced areas to mitigate risk and reduce vulnerability. Molefe said the engineers had dug up furrows to ensure that water flows out of residential areas in quest to enhance livelihood security.
“We have brought engineers to the area because we have realised that the situation is not going to subside unless we come up with a scientific approach. The aim is to alleviate the situation because water is not moving.
“There are dead animals and pit latrines are full, therefore, faeces are flowing into the houses that are water-locked. People cannot be accessed by ambulances or any other means because of the devastating situation,” he said.
The North West Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) spokesperson, Tsholofelo Mathibedi said they are working together with all stakeholders involved to respond to the situation. Mathibedi said, as a government, disaster management relief funds will be unlocked for remedial actions.
