Tag Archives: Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA)

Communities urged to make use of Rapid Response Team amid service delivery challenges

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 November 2026 – The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi is reminding communities of the availability and mandate of its existing four-member Rapid Response Team (RRT), which is tasked with responding to community grievances and coordinating interventions on service delivery-related matters across the province. Molapisi said this forms part of the department’s continued effort to strengthen municipal governance, address service delivery challenges and rebuild public confidence in government.

He further said the team will be responsible for engaging directly with communities experiencing dissatisfaction with the delivery of government services. Molapisi added that it will provide a platform for residents to raise their concerns, ensure that grievances are properly documented and facilitate engagements with relevant government departments, municipalities and other institutions to secure appropriate interventions.

“The Rapid Response Team forms part of the department’s proactive approach to strengthening government responsiveness and ensuring that community concerns are addressed before they escalate into disruptive protests. The Rapid Response Team provides an important link between communities and government.

“We want residents to know that there are officials specifically mandated to engage with them, listen to their concerns and facilitate engagements with the relevant institutions responsible for addressing service delivery challenges. The government cannot afford to wait until communities resort to protests before taking action,” he said.

Molapisi said they must be proactive, engage communities, understand their frustrations and ensure that their concerns are directed to the appropriate institutions for attention and resolution. He said the team will also intervene in service delivery-related matters requiring urgent attention by working closely with relevant stakeholders and institutions to ensure that community concerns receive the necessary consideration and follow-through.

“Through this initiative, we seek to identify unresolved service delivery challenges, facilitate appropriate interventions and prevent the escalation of community dissatisfaction into protests, which sometimes result in violence and the destruction of public infrastructure.

“The appointment of the four officials extends the department’s rapid response capacity across all four districts of the North West province, with each official designated to coordinate engagements and facilitate interventions within their respective areas. The department is encouraging communities to make use of the Rapid Response Team as an accessible channel for raising service delivery-related grievances and seeking assistance,” said Molapisi.

He emphasised that the initiative comes at a critical time as municipalities prepare for a new term of local government, highlighting the importance of strengthening relations between government and communities through effective communication, meaningful public participation and responsive governance. Molapisi said as they approach a new term of local government, they must ensure that communities remain at the centre of our service delivery efforts.

“Effective communication, meaningful public participation and timely responses to community grievances are critical to maintaining stability, unlocking service delivery bottlenecks and restoring public confidence in government.

“The department further wishes to inform communities that the current contractual period of the four Rapid Response Team members is scheduled to conclude on 31 March 2027,” he said.

Contact Details of Rapid Response Team

Bojanala District: Mr Walter Sehurutshe – 082 741 0650

Ngaka Modiri Molema District: Mr Justice Makolomakwe – 083 447 0608

Dr Kenneth Kaunda District: Mr Papi Matsepe – 082 286 4389

Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District: Ms Motlalepule Matshwe – 071 776 7249

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Communities urged to take precautionary measures amid extreme heat and El Nino concerns

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Extreme heat and El Nino/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

27 October2026 – The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi has placed the Provincial Disaster Management Centre on high alert amid concerns over extreme heat and the possible intensification of the current El Niño event. This comes after the latest weather forecasts indicate persistent heat conditions associated with the El Niño climate phenomenon, which affects rainfall and temperature patterns.

Molapisi said these conditions could result in below-normal rainfall, water shortages, drought, challenges in crop and livestock management, increased veld fires and a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses. He warned that these conditions could place additional pressure on communities already experiencing dry weather conditions.

“Climate change and the current El Niño event remind us of the importance of preparedness and collective responsibility. While we cannot control weather patterns, we can take proactive measures to minimise their impact on our communities.

“So, we call on municipalities, traditional leaders and community structures to raise awareness about the dangers of extreme heat, promote responsible water use and ensure that vulnerable residents are protected,” he said.

Molapisi further said this particular attention should be given to children, older persons and people with existing health conditions, who are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. He urged residents to use water sparingly, take precautions against high temperatures and heed official weather warnings.

“The provincial and municipal disaster management structures, together with relevant provincial departments, must strengthen early-warning systems, community awareness initiatives and coordinated responses to ensure vulnerable communities are protected.

“As part of preparations for the El Niño phenomenon, municipalities and residents have been encouraged to conserve water by repairing leaking pipes and taps immediately, limiting unnecessary water consumption, watering gardens early in the morning or in the evening, and reusing greywater where it is safe to do so,” added Molapisi.

He said residents are also encouraged to install rainwater tanks where possible to improve water availability during dry periods. Molapisi said to prevent veld fires and other fire incidents, communities have been urged to clear dry vegetation around their homes, avoid making open fires during hot or windy conditions, maintain required firebreaks and report fires immediately.

“We further advised residents to remain hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities around midday and stay in shaded or cool areas during periods of extreme heat.

“We urge communities to check on older persons and other vulnerable residents and seek medical assistance if anyone displays signs of a heat-related illness,” he said.

Molapisi said residents are also encouraged to follow official weather warnings and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, livestock and property. His department reiterated the importance of community cooperation and preparedness in reducing the potential impact of extreme weather conditions associated with El Niño.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Molapisi to brief media on readiness for 2026 local government elections

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 October 2026 – The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi will brief the media on the province’s state of readiness for the 2026 Local Government Elections on 30 October 2026. According to COGHSTA spokesperson, Lerato Gambu, the briefing will provide an update on provincial preparations and coordination measures aimed at ensuring smooth and successful local government elections across the North West.

Gambu said Molapisi would also outline the department’s post-election transition plan, including arrangements for the constitution of newly-elected municipal councils and the induction of councillors.

“The transition plan is aimed at ensuring continuity of governance, institutional stability and effective service delivery following the elections.

“The media briefing will take place at 9am at the Provincial Disaster Management Centre in Mahikeng. Members of the media wishing to attend are requested to RSVP to Lemogang Pule via WhatsApp on 072 142 3738,” he said.

Gambu further said transport has been arranged for local media practitioners based in and around Mahikeng. He added that the briefing is being convened by the North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Molapisi addresses challenges facing female contractors 

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Women in Construction with North West MEC, Oageng Molapisi

By AGISANANG SCUFF 

15 October 2026 – North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi recently met with women contractors in the province to address barriers hindering their participation in the industry and explore ways in which the department could assist them in overcoming these challenges. Molapisi said the platform provides the department with an opportunity not only to celebrate women’s valuable contributions to society, but also to engage in meaningful discussions about the opportunities available to them. 

He further said this includes challenges they continue to face, particularly in the construction and human settlements sector. Molapisi added that women are builders, entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders and decision-makers and their contribution is essential to the growth and development of our communities

and the economy. 

“We call on women in the construction and human settlements sector to strengthen their collective voice through organised structures that advocate for their interests and promote meaningful participation in the industry. 

“Structures such as the South African Women in Construction and Built Environment (SAWIC and BE) are important, as they can provide a platform for women to collectively address challenges, advocate for their needs and advance their interests in the

Sector,” he said.

Molapisi stressed that such structures should play an active role in advocating for women in construction, ensuring that their concerns are heard and that they have access to opportunities that support their growth and development. He emphasised that women would be better positioned to influence decisions and address common challenges if they worked together through representative structures rather than raising their concerns individually. 

“There is a need to deliberate and bring inclusive interventions to support the growth and sustainability of women-owned businesses, while ensuring that women, youth and persons with disabilities are not left behind in the province’s economic development efforts.

“We become stronger when we are organised because we can collectively advocate for our issues instead of approaching them individually. I would like to caution that achieving transformation and inclusion required deliberate action, noting that government policies were intended to address existing imbalances and

create opportunities for groups that had historically been disadvantaged,” said Molapisi. 

He said if they are not deliberate in their efforts, they will not achieve the objectives they have set themselves. Molapisi further emphasised the need for accountability in implementing measures

aimed at empowering women, particularly the commitment to allocate 40% of procurement spending on companies owned by women, youth and persons with disabilities. 

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Motlhaping handed over 10 RDP houses and title deeds

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for CoGHSTA, Lebogang Motlhaping handing over RDP houses/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

8 September 2026 – The Northern Cape MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Lebogang Motlhaping successfully handed over 10 houses and title deeds to beneficiaries at the Hopetown 60 Housing Project in the Thembelihle Local Municipality situated in the Pixley Ka Seme District on Tuesday.

Motlhaping, who was accompanied by the Executive Mayor of the Pixley Ka Seme District, Rhoode Itumeleng and other councillors from the Pixley Ka Seme District and Thembelihle Local Municipalities said this housing project is part of the broader One-Billion-Rand Housing Project implemented across the Northern Cape, aimed at expediting housing delivery, eradicating informal settlements and restoring dignity to communities across the province.  

“Today, we are happy to be handing over the first batch of completed houses to this project. We have engaged with the contractors to step up their efforts to ensure that we are able to deliver more houses to beneficiaries.

“We have also handed over title deeds to the beneficiaries to ensure that people are legitimate property owners with registered assets that protect them from illegal claims and give peace of mind to their children,” he said.

As part of promoting environmental sustainability, as well as the greening and beautification of communities, Motlhaping, joined by the local leaders, also planted trees at the homes of the beneficiaries. He further said the tree-planting symbolic gesture reinforces the provincial government’s vision of developing sustainable, liveable human settlements rather than mere shelter.

“The department remains committed to accelerating service delivery, restoring human dignity and improving the quality of life for all residents across the Northern Cape,” he added.

Itumeleng urged community members and home beneficiaries to preserve, value and maintain their properties, while warning them against the illegal selling of government-subsidized homes.

Meanwhile, one of the happy beneficiaries, Lucas Eberson (68), said: “Receiving my house and title deed at the same time fills my heart with joy because I finally have a place to call my own and the proof to protect it for my children.”

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for CoGHSTA, Lebogang Motlhaping handing over RDP houses/Supplied

COGHSTA commended on progress on Tshunyane housing project

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: NCOP members during project oversight visit/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO  

24 August 2026 – Members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) have commended the North West Department of Human Settlements for the progress made on the Tshunyane Housing project during an oversight visit on Tuesday as part of the NCOP Provincial Week. In 2010, the department appointed two contractors to construct 250 units across several villages around Mahikeng.

The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi said 40 of these houses were allocated to Tshunyane village, however, both contractors breached their contract terms by abandoning the site before completing the work. Molapisi said in 2022/2023, the department subsequently enlisted the services of the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) to conduct structural integrity assessments of all incomplete and blocked projects.

“The assessments were aimed at determining the extent of the outstanding work and to advise the department on appropriate remedial action. NHBRC recommended that all incomplete structures be demolished, including those in Tshunyane, as the structures had been exposed to adverse weather conditions for an extended period.

“The department appointed a contractor in January 2026 to demolish 38 foundations and 2 wall plates in Tshunyane village, at a cost of R799 200 00. The demolition process has already commenced and the contractor has started laying the foundations. The contract for construction is R8.7 million, with the project expected to be completed by the end of November 2026,” he said.

Molapisi further said the department will conduct an investigation with the intention of recovering funds from the previous contractors and implementing consequence management against the officials involved. He added that during the oversight visit, the department committed to providing members of the NCOP with regular progress reports on the Tshunyane housing project.

“We would like to assure the members of the NCOP that the department would closely monitor the project and submit regular reports to the NCOP until its completion. The department would also provide support to the contractor to ensure that the project is completed on time for the benefit of the community,” said Molapisi.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Molapisi donates RDP House to disabled person in honour of Madiba

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi donates RDP House/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 August 2026 – In the spirit of restoring human dignity and honouring the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela, the North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi officially handed over a newly-constructed, fully furnished and wheelchair-accessible house to a resident, Obakeng Tsheilhe at Extension 10 in Klerksdorp. Molapisi said the handover, which took place on 30 July 2026, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing safe, dignified and inclusive housing for vulnerable members of society.

“The fully wheel-chair accessible house, symbolises the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting equality, inclusion and dignity for persons with disabilities by ensuring they have access to housing that responds to their needs.

“Mandela dedicated his life to serving humanity and uplifting the most vulnerable. His legacy continues to inspire us to work tirelessly to improve the lives of the poor through practical interventions that restore hope, protect human dignity and build sustainable, resilient communities,” he said.

Molapisi further said the specially designed house was built to meet Tsheilhe’s mobility needs, enabling greater independence, accessibility and improved quality of life. He added that the handover reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that every deserving citizen has access to safe, dignified and inclusive housing.

“Providing shelter to vulnerable citizens is not merely about brick and mortar. It is about restoring dignity and hope. Every South African deserves a place they can proudly call home,” said Molapisi.

The Head of Department (HoD), Kgomotso Mahlobo, also presented the beneficiary with blankets to provide additional comfort and warmth in the new home. In addition to handing over the house, Molapisi and Mahlobo painted two neighbouring houses as part of the day’s activities.

“Celebrated each year on July 18, Nelson Mandela International Day honours the former President’s legacy by inspiring individuals and organisations to serve their communities. The day serves as a powerful reminder that each of us has the ability to make a meaningful difference by giving our time, resources and compassion to those less fortunate.

“This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day was observed under the theme: “It’s still in your hands to combat poverty and inequity,’’ she said.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment donated two indigenous and one citrus trees, contributing to a greener, healthier and more sustainable living environment. The Department of Social Development supported the initiative by donating food parcels to the beneficiary, this demonstrates the government’s integrated approach to supporting the well-being of communities beyond the provision of housing.

Meanwhile, expressing his gratitude, Tsheilhe thanked the department for providing him with a home specifically designed to meet his mobility needs. He said the new house would transform his life and restore his dignity.

“For a long time, I faced many challenges moving around and carrying out everyday activities. Today, I have a safe and accessible home that gives me independence, comfort and hope for the future. This is more than a house to me; it is a new beginning,” said Tsheilhe.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

PICC praised as winter initiation season concluded

NEWS Leave a comment

 

Picture: Initiation schools’ ceremony/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF 

21 July 2026- The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi has congratulated hundreds of initiates who successfully completed their sacred rite of passage on Friday, marking the official conclusion of the 2026 Winter Initiation Season. The North West Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC), approved and registered 151 initiation schools—comprising 126 male and 25 female schools—to facilitate this long-standing cultural practice, which serves as an important transition of young men and women into adulthood.

Molapisi said they once again commend the PICC for the successful conclusion of another initiation season. He further said the committee continues to safeguard this important cultural practice against individuals who refuse to comply with the law and seek to commercialise a sacred tradition for personal gain. 

“We are encouraged that hundreds of initiates have returned home safely to their families. The successful conclusion of the season was achieved despite several challenges encountered during monitoring operations. A total of 18 illegal initiation schools were shut down, while more than 200 initiates were rescued and removed from unsafe environments. 

“In addition, 18 criminal cases relating to alleged contraventions of the Customary Initiation Act were opened at various police stations across the province. Regrettably, six initiation-related fatalities were recorded during the season. This includes two deaths at illegal initiation schools in Khuma Township near Stilfontein and Majemantsho village near Mahikeng, respectively, as well as four deaths at legally registered initiation schools across the province,” added Molapisi.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the six initiates who lost their lives. Molapisi reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening measures aimed at preventing further loss of life.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of these six young lives. Our commitment to achieving zero initiation-related deaths remains unwavering. Together with all stakeholders, we will strengthen our monitoring, enforcement and awareness initiatives to ensure that every initiation season is safer than the last.

“We also call upon the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to support efforts to eradicate illegal initiation schools by ensuring the successful prosecution and conviction of repeat offenders. Those who continue to undermine this sacred cultural practice through unlawful activities must face the full might of the law,” he said. 

Molapisi further called on all stakeholders, particularly parents, community members, traditional leaders and initiation practitioners, to play an active role in protecting initiates. He urged communities to participate in awareness campaigns, ensure that initiation schools are properly registered, encourage medical screening of prospective initiates, publicise approved initiation schools and promptly report any suspected illegal initiation activities to the relevant authorities.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Molapisi to unveil housing projects worth over R62 million  

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

15 July 2026 – In an effort to accelerate housing delivery in the province, the North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi will on 16 July 2026, unveil two housing projects worth over R62 million in THE Greater Taung and Naledi Local municipalities in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District. Molapisi will introduce the two contractors appointed to implement these projects to the councillors in both the municipalities.

He further said the Ditshilong housing project in the Greater Taung Local Municipality will deliver 216 housing units, while the Geduldspan project in the Naledi Local Municipality will deliver 40 new housing units and the completion of 69 units which were left incomplete by the previous contractor. Molapisis added that both projects, valued at R62 million are expected to be completed by the end of the 2026/2027 financial year.

Molapisi will be accompanied by the Mayor of Greater Taung Local Municipality, Itumeleng Maribe, Mayor of Naledi Local Municipality, Cllr Clifton Groep and Kgosi Tshepo Mankuroane of Batlhaping Baga Phuduhucwana in Taung.

Part A of the event will take place at Batlhaping ba ga Phuduhutswana Community Hall in Taung on 16 July 2026 at 11am, while Part B of the programme will take place at Naledi Local Municipality Council Chamber in Vryburg at 3pm.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Molapisi applauds Ratlou Local Municipality for outstanding audit outcome

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

29 June 2026 – The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi has during the presentation of his departmental budget vote at the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), applauded Ratlou Local Municipality for their outstanding progress in municipal audit outcomes for the 2024/25 municipal financial year. Molapisi said Ratlou Local Municipality has registered a noteworthy improvement by moving from a disclaimer to a qualified audit opinion.

He further said the municipality successfully compiled and submitted its Annual Financial Statements (AFS) without the assistance of consultants, resulting in an estimated saving of R3 million, while simultaneously strengthening internal institutional capacity. Molapisi added that they are indeed very proud of what Ratlou Local Municipality has achieved.

“This is a clear demonstration that municipalities can produce and submit quality Annual Financial Statements without the use of consultants. We need to invest in the important skills and build internal capacity to achieve greatness. This remarkable achievement by Ratlou Local Municipality was also highlighted by the Auditor General Tsakani Maluleke when she was appearing before parliament recently.

“Maluleke praised the municipality for paying attention towards better performance, accountability and better institutional capacity. Several municipalities in the province also registered improved audit outcome demonstrating that municipalities are responding positively to the support provided by the department,” he said.

Molapisi said Moses Kotane, JB Marks, and Greater Taung Local Municipalities improved from qualified to unqualified audit opinions, joining the Bojanala Platinum District, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District and Moretele Local Municipality in the 2025/26 financial year.  He said Lekwa-Teemane moved from a disclaimer to an adverse outcome and Mamusa moved from adverse to qualified opinion.

“There are concerted efforts by the department to elevate three best performing municipalities to receive clean audit. As part of its ongoing support initiatives, the department, together with the Provincial Treasury, are implementing the Clean Audit Support Programme targeting Moretele Local Municipality, Bojanala Platinum District Municipality and Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality.

“The programme is designed to assist municipalities attain unqualified audit opinion without material findings for the 2026/27 financial year. The province also recorded a remarkable reduction in disclaimer audit opinions, from nine municipalities in 2020/21 to only one municipality in 2024/25 financial year,” said Molapisi.

He said the provincial government remains committed to ensuring that municipalities strengthen governance systems, improve financial management and account responsibly for public funds.

taungdailynews@gmail.com