Tag Archives: SPORTS

DA to monitor R13 million Mmabatho Stadium refurbishment commitment

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Picture: Mmabatho Stadium in Mahikeng

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

30 September 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it has noted the commitment made by Minister Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, to the North West MEC for Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi of R13 million over the MTEF period for the refurbishment of the long-neglected Mmabatho Stadium in Mahikeng.

DA spokesperson on Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation in the North West, Wolfgang Wallhorn said this intervention comes after sustained DA pressure, including their statement in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) on 26 August 2025, demanding urgent action, accountability, and investment following Orbit Soccer Club’s promotion to the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

Wallhorn said Orbit has been forced to play outside the province with Gauteng reaping the economic and social benefits that should rightly belong to North West.

“During their oversight visit, the Minister and Deputy Minister confirmed that engineers will return within two weeks to conduct a formal assessment and commission a technical report.

“Repairs will go beyond ablution facilities, seating, and VIP areas to also include the athletics field. The private sector will be brought on board to assist in the refurbishment. Communities were urged to protect government facilities and stop destroying infrastructure,” he said.

Wallhorn further said the DA stresses that while this funding is national, they will ensure that it does not become another unfunded promise or photo opportunity. He added that to this end, the DA will task their representatives in the National Assembly’s Sports Committee to obtain all relevant information directly from the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture.

“These actions will allow us to ensure that the commitment is captured in black and white, with proper plans, budgets, and timelines in place.

“The DA has raised concerns about Mmabatho Stadium since November 2022, pointing out broken ablutions, collapsed seating, inoperative floodlights, leaking roofs, and dysfunctional air-conditioning,” said Wallhorn.

He said for too long, promises have been made without delivery. Wallhorn said Mmabatho Stadium must become more than a political talking point.

“It must be transformed into a symbol of renewal, pride, and opportunity for our province. The DA will continue to monitor this project closely to ensure that the long-overdue refurbishment delivers real benefits for athletes, supporters, and communities,” he said.

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North West MEC for Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi’s ‘empty’ promises to Orbit College FC

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

By OBAKENG MAJE 

13 August 2025- The disenchanted Orbit College FC coach, Pogisho Makhoye accused the North West Department of Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation of making empty promises. This comes after the North West MEC for Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi allegedly made a promise that her department will bear some of the cost regarding Orbit College FC’s pre-season camp in Potchefstroom. 

According to Makhoye, that was just a ‘pep talk’ and nothing has been done thus far. Makhoye also raised the issue regarding the readiness of Olympia Park Stadium in Rustenburg. 

However, the North West MEC for Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi spokesperson, Motheo Sebolaaneng said Olympia Park Stadium is the responsibility of the Rustenburg Local Municipality and they are the one that committed to fix the stadium in the stakeholders meeting held at Royal Marang Hotel in Rustenburg. 

Sebolaaneng said the municipality confirmed in a meeting that they have the budget to fix the stadium. 

“So, blaming the North West Department of Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation in matters related to the local government is unfair. However, Tlhapi met with the local municipality and made arrangements with the private sector to speed up the renovation of the stadium.

“On the issue of camping, the department made a commitment for the camp in Potchefstroom and instructed the Sport Academy, an entity of the department, to settle the payment,” he said.

Sebolaaneng further said, however, upon arrival, the Academy Manager was told that the club has already paid for the accommodation. He added that the process now is for the Academy, upon receiving its transfer from the department, to refund the team and they were made aware of that. 

“The commitment made by the department was to support the Orbit College FC with R400 000, which R100 000 was supposed to be for the camp and R300 000 for the pre-season tournament. So, this is the amount which will be paid. 

“Unfortunately the process of government needs to be followed, especially that the department wants to maintain its clean audit,” said Sebolaaneng.

Meanwhile, the Rustenburg Local Municipality acting spokesperson, Odirile Modiba told Radio 2000that: “Indeed, we understand the frustration and we are working around the clock to address that. There are four issues that were highlighted by the Betway Premier Soccer League (PSL) regarding the use of Olympia Park Stadium. 

“So, the Rustenburg Local Municipality is addressing those issues and hopefully by the end of September, the Orbit College FC will be back to its home ground.” 

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North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi monitors NSC examinations

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Picture: North West MEC, Viola Motsumi visits Reabona Secondary School/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

18 November 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi embarked on an oversight visit to monitor examinations in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District through the Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded Service Delivery Program on Friday. Motsumi, who monitored the examinations process at Reabona Secondary School in Maquassi Hills, said her visit was a success.

She further said the monitoring of examinations is aimed at ensuring effective oversight and creating a supportive environment for the 2024 cohort. Motsumi added that, she was accompanied by the North West MEC for Social Development, Susan Djantie, and MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports, and Recreation (ACSR), Galebekwe Tsotso Tlhapi.

“The visit highlighted the government’s commitment to the academic success of the Class of 2024, as well as the strong inter-departmental collaboration within the North West Provincial Government (NWPG), to boost learner morale and provide comprehensive support during this pivotal time.

“During the visit, Dantjie further contributed to learner welfare by distributing sanitary towels to learners at Gontshe Primary School in Maquassi, emphasizing the importance of dignity and uninterrupted access to education for girl learners,” she said.

Motsumi said reflecting on the progress of the examinations and the solidarity demonstrated by the social cluster, expressed her satisfaction. She said she is also encouraged by the commitment and resilience displayed by the Class of 2024, as they navigate this pivotal phase of their educational journey.

“The unwavering support from our sister departments exemplifies the government’s dedication to the well-being and success of our learners. This collaborative effort not only reinforces our shared objectives but also ensures that our learners feel supported every step of the way.

“The Department of Education remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality education and foster an environment where learners can excel. The continued partnership across various government sectors reflects the province’s collective vision for a thriving and empowered generation of young minds,” said Motsumi.

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2024 Males National Netball Championships Promise Epic Battles

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Picture: The Men’s National Netball players/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

25 September 2024 –Netball South Africa is set to host the biggest Males National Netball Championships yet, with a record number of teams battling it out for the ultimate prize. As defending champions, Ekurhuleni will face intense competition from across the country as they attempt to retain their title.

The tournament, taking place at the Ellis Park Outdoor Courts in Johannesburg from 26 – 30 September 2024, will showcase the very best in men’s netball.

The Netball South Africa (NSA) president, Cecilia Molokwane said this is a record-breaking tournament. Molokwane said the tournament will be the largest to date, featuring over 60 teams competing across Senior A, B and Under 23 divisions.

“With over 60 teams, drawn from 52 districts across the country – the level of participation underscores the growing popularity of this men’s game. The 2023 edition of the tournament, held at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium Netball Courts in Rustenburg (North West), featured 48 district teams (12 under-23 teams and 36 senior teams).

“We believe the record participation of 67 teams across various divisions underscores the growing popularity of the sport. The 2024 Males National Netball Championships are shaping up to be an unforgettable event. With record participation, intense competition and the opportunity for national team selection, the tournament will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the sport of men’s netball,” she said.

Molokwane further said her vision and the overwhelming response to the tournament, indicate a promising future for men’s netball in South Africa. She added that Johannesburg will play host to the championships for the third time since 2015.

“The city boasts a strong netball presence, with four teams participating in this year’s tournament: two in the senior division and two in the under 23 division. Other districts with a significant number of teams include eThekwini, Ekurhuleni, Capricorn, Cape Town and Tshwane, each entering three teams.

“Ekurhuleni A, the reigning champions from Gauteng, are determined to prove that their 2023 victory was no fluke. With coach Judy Rathethe guiding them, Ekurhuleni A are determined to hold onto their title in the face of fierce competition,” said Molokwane.

Meanwhile, Rathethe said: “We shocked everyone last year, but we’re not resting on our laurels. We’re working hard to maintain our high standards. Defending a title brings its own pressure, but we’re ready. 

“The A division is extremely competitive. Two games a day against strong opposition – there’s no room for error. But the players are fully committed, putting everything on the line.”

She said they wish more people could witness the passion and intensity of this competition.

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Former ANCYL president, Collen Maine removed as North West MEC

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Picture: North West MEC Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation, Collen Maine

By OBAKENG MAJE

20 September 2024- The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi is expected to make changes to his Executive Council (Exco) next week. This comes after the ANC National Executive Committee’s instruction to remove a male MEC and replace him with a female to address gender disparity.   

Now, Mokgosi has relinquished former ANCYL president, Collen Maine from his position as North West MEC for Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation and replaced him with ANC Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL), Virginia Tlhapi, who is also former MEC for the same portfolio.

According to our highly-placed source, the decision was taken on 18 September 2024, during the ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) meeting. However, Maine allegedly requested until next week to wrap up some of the projects that were already at the advanced stage.

Those projects include the opening of Manthe Indoor Centre and Taung Cultural Calabash preparations, amongst others.  Maine is expected to replace SANCO’s Tshepo Khoza as North West Provincial Legislature’s Deputy Speaker.

Khoza was unceremoniously removed from this position amid fake matric certificate allegations. On 21 June 2024, Mokgosi appointed five men and five women as MECs in his EXCO. However, he was supposed to apply the 60/40 method.

Meanwhile, the ANC spokesperson in North West, Tumelo Maruping said: “This matter is still internal and the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi will communicate his decision next week.”  

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