Tag Archives: Culture

North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation condemns unauthorised usage of Mahika Mahikeng logo

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Picture: The picture depicting Mahika Mahikeng logo/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

19 August 2026 – The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR) said it condemns in the strongest terms the improper and unauthorised use of its intellectual property by any individual, entity or collective. The department said it reserves the right to take appropriate legal action to protect its good name and symbols from being used for dubious purposes.

The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said an electronic poster currently circulating on social media, calling for a meeting to discuss Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Festival, gives the impression that it has the support of the organisers of Mahika Mahikeng, that being ACSR. Sebolecwe said the department calls on the organiser(s) of the meeting to retract the poster using the Mahika Mahikeng logo and desist from doing so in the future.

“ACSR enjoys the protection of the law and that includes the protection of its logos or name(s). The organiser(s) of the meeting do not have the authorisation to use the Mahika Mahikeng logo and are therefore transgressing the law.

“The department will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone or entity using any of its Intellectual Property and Trademarks in an improper manner. We therefore distance ourselves from such a meeting and urge members of the public not to be misled,” he said.

Sebolecwe further said they warn members of the public to respect state property, intellectual or otherwise.

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Mokgosi to introduce contractors for various projects

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Picture: The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

29 June 2026 – The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, accompanied by the North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Mokua and North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi, will on 30 June 2026, officially introduce contractors appointed to implement two strategic infrastructure projects aimed at improving access to public services in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Bojanala Platinum District. Mokgosi said the first engagement will mark the official introduction of the contractor appointed to construct the Mabeskraal Community Library, followed by the introduction of the contractor for the upgrading of the Dwarsberg to Pachsdraai Road through Pitsedisulejang.

“The official introduction of the contractors will take place at Batlhako Ba Matutu Administrative Offices (Mabeskraal Village) at 10:30am. In second activity, introduction of Contractor for Dwarsberg to Pachsdraai through Pitsedisulejang road will take place at Barokologadi Ba Ga Maotwe Tribal Offices (Pitsedisulejang Village) at 1pm,” he said.

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Iconic return of SAMAs to the Platinum Province

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By STAFF REPORTER

12 June 2026 – The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC, Virginia Tlhapi described the return of South African Music Awards (SAMAs) to the Sun City Superbowl in North West as both an emotional and historic moment for the local creative industry. Tlhapi said the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) is delighted to officially announce that the 32nd edition of the SAMAs will return to the province on 15 August 2026.

She further said bringing the country’s most prestigious music awards ceremony back to the province that has hosted some of its most iconic moments over the years and whom many also consider the “Platinum Province” its traditional home. Tlhapi added that the announcement was made on 27 May 2026.

“I could not hide my excitement at the return of South Africa’s premier music celebration. It feels like yesterday when we hosted the 28th instalment of the SAMAs here in the North West. This province has always been a proud and capable host, and we are ready once again to welcome the nation,” said Tlhapi.

She said the return of the SAMAs marks not just an event, but a renewed celebration of the province’s cultural energy, hospitality, and creative infrastructure.

According to SAMA spokesperson, Unathi Gwija, preparations are already underway with key stakeholder engagements taking place to ensure a seamless and unforgettable production. Gwija said they have already begun extensive stakeholder consultations in preparation for the SAMAs.

“There is a strong sense of excitement and unity as we return to the North West, a province that has proven itself as an exceptional host. The announcement has sparked excitement across the music and entertainment industry, with anticipation building for what is expected to be one of the most vibrant and culturally significant editions of the awards to date.

“With the SAMAs returning to familiar ground, this has been described as a Homecoming Edition, a celebration of music, legacy, and the continued evolution of South African sound on its biggest stage,” she said.

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‘Libraries are sanctuary spaces’

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Picture: The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi and North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi handing over a library/Supplied 

By AGISANANG SCUFF

11 March 2026- The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi officially opened a new Community Library in Thekwane. The collaborative efforts of the strategic stakeholders that comprises Rustenburg Chrome mine, Royal Bafokeng institute, Rustenburg Local Municipality and the department, culminated into the establishment of Tshukudu Community Library.

Tlhapi, accompanied by the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, officially handed a new library to the community of Thekwane on Friday, during the Provincial Thuntsha Lerole Programme in Marikana.  She said Tshukudu Community Library epitomises the commitment of the private sector collaboration with Government in developing and uplifting industry-hosting communities through infrastructural community development.

“Tshukudu Community Library offers a welcoming and inclusive environment designed to meet the diverse needs of Thekwane community. The library features a reception area and a dedicated librarian’s office, Internet and Wi-Fi access for patrons and ablution facilities for convenience.

“This includes a shelving area housing more than 2 500 books, a kitchenette for staff use, a children’s and toddlers’ collection area with age-appropriate resources, computer stations for research, study, and digital access and a specialized section equipped with resources and assistive technology for people living with Disabilities,” she said.

Tlhapi further said on behalf of the North West Provincial Government and the people of Thekwane, they convey a sense of gratitude to the Rustenburg Chrome mine and Royal Bafokeng institute for their courtesy and commitment to social investment. She added that they sincerely appreciate their strategic stakeholders in safeguarding the future of Thekwane by honouring their community with this invaluable information graveyard, it is now their property and they should protect it with their own lives, because protecting it, is securing the future of their young people.

“Libraries are sanctuary spaces, a place where silence and tranquillity meet and offer comfort and inspiration. Within the library walls, people can find comfort and peace that allows them to unlock their dreams and awaken their true potential,” said Tlhapi.

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Mmabana Foundation to pay tribute to legendary John Mokhali

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Picture: The legendary John Mokhali

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

26 February 2026- Professional Artists and Advocacy Network proudly celebrates the legendary Johnny Mokhali in partnership with Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sport Foundation (MACSF), and the Department for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation (ACSR). Mokhali is still alive, still vibrant and still an icon of Setswana musical heritage.

The Mmabana Foundation spokesperson, Kgalalelo Molotsi said the timeless maestro has gifted the world with unforgettable compositions that continue to echo across generations. Molotsi said his classics, Mpule, Lerato Ka Mogala, Ba Nkutlwisa Botlhoko and many others – remain deeply rooted in Setswana, carrying the soul of their people and the stories of their elders.

“A time when modern music trends lean heavily toward English. Johnny Mokhali remains unwavering. He held fast to his cultural identity, making Setswana not only relevant but fashionable, dignified and musically powerful. His work stands as a testament to artistic integrity and cultural pride.

“Kindly join us at Mmabana Theatre as we honour this extra-ordinary legend. Come be part of a heartfelt tribute to a man whose music shaped memories, uplift communities and preserve the beauty of Setswana for future generations,” she said.

Molotsi further said the media is invited to this amazing iconic event to come join them as they celebrate Johnny Mokhali, their unique and irreplaceable legend.

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ACSR funding a boost for local artists and filmmakers

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Picture: The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

18 December 2025- The creative and cultural industry in the North West recently received a much-needed shot in the arm, with the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation (ACSR) approving funding for 59 projects to be staged between 16 December 2025 and 20 March 2026.

The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi said the film sector is also set to benefit, with her department having issued a call for proposals in December 2025. Tlhapi said by the closing date on 8 December 2025, 38 proposals had been submitted.

“Adjudication is underway and the department has also scheduled another round of calls for proposals in both the film sector and cultural industry in February 2026. Film makers and creatives from across the province are encouraged to apply.

“These projects are in line with the department’s mandate to help create jobs and enhance the creative and cultural sector in the province. They also focus on capacity building, with a strong focus on women, youth and persons with disabilities,” she said.

Tlhapi further said she foresee a hive of activity in the sector, maintaining the momentum of the success of the Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Music Festival. She added that they are pleased that they will be able to help lessen the burden on artists who have been struggling.

“Owing to the pressure on the economy, the sector has been under- funded for a long period of time, which has had a direct impact on the livelihood of the artists. To help the cause of artists, the department has initiated various business cases to the Treasury and other sources for an increase in budget.

“On 28 November 2025, during the budget adjustment by Provincial Treasury, the department received funding with a clear instruction to assist artists and filmmakers. The department considered all proposals that had been submitted previously. We then decided to support initiatives ranging in time from December 2025 – March 2026,” said Tlhapi.

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SCOPA to Hold PFMA Public Hearings with Arts and Culture, Social Development and Health Departments Over 2024/25 Audit Outcomes

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Picture: Chairperson of SCOPA, Smuts Mathe

By AGISANANG SCUFF

13 October 2025- The North West Provincial Legislature Standing Committee on Provincial Public Accounts will hold Public Finance Management Act public hearings with the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Department of Social Development and Department of Health over the 2024/25 audit outcomes and to seek clarity from responses on questions emanating from the Auditor General’s reports. 

The Chairperson of SCOPA, Smuts Matshe said PFMA public hearings are scheduled to take place at Legislature Auditorium on Tuesday. Matshe said between 11h00 – 13h30, they will engage the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation.

“From 2pm to 4pm, we will engage the North West Department of Social Development, while the North West Department of Health will be engaged between 4pm and 6pm.  

“The North West MEC for the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi, Department of Social Development, Basetsana Dantjie and Department of Health, Sello Lehari and senior management of the departments are expected to attend the public hearings,” he said.

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Tlhapi to lead Provincial Heritage Day Celebrations in Mokgalwaneng village

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Picture: The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virgina Tlhapi

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 September 2025- The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virgina Tlhapi, will close the heritage month activities with the Provincial Heritage Day Celebrations on 30 September 2025, at Tlhaalapitse Primary School in Mokgalwaneng village, in Moses Kotane Local Municipality.  Tlhapi said the event will be celebrated under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of our heroes’ and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”, which invites all South Africans to reflect on and honour the sacrifices made by those who fought for liberation and freedom of our country.

She further said the purpose of the Provincial Heritage Month Celebrations seeks to celebrate their rich cultural diversity and foster pride in the traditions, languages and practices that defines their collective identity. Tlhapi added that the event aims to showcase the government’s commitment to protecting cultural resources and promoting inclusive cultural expressions as part of sustainable development.

“Various government services such as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) walk, wreath laying at the grave of Disake Dikeme, who is one of the local struggle icons, aerobics and self-defence exhibitions, which will be led by me, accompanied by Kgosi of Bakgatla ba Kgafela Traditional Authority, mayor of Moses Kotane Local Municipality and Bojanala District Municipality mayor.

“Mokgalwaneng with its 32 surrounding villages had activities held as Heritage Day build-up.  On 23 September 2025, we had Heritage through libraries in Bloemhof. On 24 until 26 September 2025, we had the Provincial Indigenous Games in Rustenburg and Oral History Colloquium in Mogwase on 25 to 26 September 2025,” she said.

Tlhapi said on 27 September 2025, they had a Batlharo Boo Tokwane Ba ga Masibi Cultural Event in Disaneng village, near Mahikeng.  She said the Provincial Heritage Day Celebrations will commence at 8am.

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North West Department of Education to appear before Committee

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Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

11 August 2025- The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Education, Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation said it will hold an oversight meeting with the Department of Education over the First Quarter 2025/26 Performance report.

The meeting will take place at NWPL Committee Room 2 on Tuesday at 8am.

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SA mourns the death of Tsotsi actor, Presley Chweneyagae

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Picture: The award-winning actor, Presley Chweneyagae

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 May 2025- The heartfelt condolences messages continue to pour in after the sudden death of South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae. Chweneyagae died in the early hours of Tuesday at his home in Pretoria aged 40.

The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi said they have learnt with a deep shock about the passing on of celebrated thespian, Presley Chweneyagae. Tlhapi said as a department, they extend their sympathies and support to the family, friends and the broader movie and theatre industry.

“This is a sad day for all of us as Chweneyagae’s talent was celebrated here and beyond. A son of the North West and an inspiration to the youth across the country, Chweneyagae cut his artistic teeth at the legendary Mmabana Sports, Arts and Culture Foundation in Mahikeng.

“We are proud to say he was a willing supporter of the work done at his alma mater, which is an arm of the department. He will be remembered for his warm personality and a sense of humour,” she said.

Tlhapi further said as the North West arts community, they are proud to have exported to the world such incredible talent. She added that his legacy will be that of an inspiration and motivation to the youth, not only in the province, but beyond the provincial and national borders.

“May his family and friends draw comfort in knowing that he lived a life with purpose and left an indelible mark in the artistic path he travelled with so many,” said Tlhapi.

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