Tag Archives: stakeholders

DSAC gives SAFA deadline to submit comprehensive report on the VAR project

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Picture: SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao

By REGINALD KANYANE

26 August 2026 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) said it wishes to provide an update to its members, stakeholders, the football fraternity and the public on the status of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Project and the R20 million received from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC). SAFA said in April 2026, DSAC transferred R20 million to SAFA to support the implementation of VAR in South African football.

SAFA CEO, Lydia Monyepao said prior to receiving the funding, SAFA had already conducted a comprehensive technical evaluation of VAR technology and service providers and identified three preferred VAR providers. Monyepao said the contractual agreements were entered into by SAFA.

“At its meeting of 9–10 May 2026, the SAFA National Executive Committee (NEC) approved the implementation of the VAR Project in principle. However, before any procurement process or contractual commitments could proceed, the NEC resolved that the project budget, cost assumptions and procurement considerations be subjected to further review by the Finance Committee and a dedicated task team, in accordance with SAFA’s governance and policy requirements.

“SAFA has also consulted with the Premier Soccer League (PSL), through the Joint Liaison Committee (JLC), on the proposed implementation framework. The VAR Project Team presented to the JLC and the PSL Executive Committee as part of the stakeholder consultation process,” she said.

Monyepao further said SAFA acknowledges that the governance, financial verification and due diligence processes have taken longer than initially anticipated. She added that, however, it is important to emphasise that the R20 million received from DSAC has not been spent.

“The full amount remains secure in a separate account, together with the interest accrued, pending the completion of the outstanding governance, budget verification and procurement processes.

“Following engagement with DSAC on 18 August 2026, the Department has granted SAFA a final 21-day extension to conclude the outstanding processes and submit a comprehensive report on the project, including the recommendations arising from the review and confirmation of the funds held,” said Monyepao.

She said SAFA appreciates the Minister’s and DSAC’s continued support and constructive engagement. Monyepao said the Association remains committed to ensuring that VAR is implemented in a manner that is transparent, financially responsible, compliant with governance and procurement requirements and sustainable.

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SAMA32 nominees to be announced 

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By STAFF REPORTER 

23 June 2026 – The South African Music Awards (SAMA32) is proud to announce that the nominees for this year’s awards will be revealed on 25 June 2026 through a hybrid announcement ceremony that will bring together members of the music industry, media, stakeholders, and music lovers from across the country. Dubbed the “Homecoming Edition”, SAMA32 marks a significant return to the North West province, celebrating the rich cultural heritage, creative excellence, and enduring contribution of South African music to the nation’s social and economic development.

The awards ceremony will be hosted in the North West province through a strategic partnership between the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, South African Tourism and the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), SAMPRA, SAMRO, RAV, and RiSA whose support continues to strengthen the role of music as a catalyst for tourism, investment, and cultural exchange.

SAMA spokesperson, Unati Gwija said the nomination announcement on 25 June 2026, will unveil the artists, albums, producers, composers and industry professionals who have distinguished themselves through outstanding musical achievement during the eligibility period. Gwija said the event will offer audiences both physical and digital access, ensuring

broad participation and engagement from stakeholders throughout South Africa and beyond.

“The Homecoming Edition represents more than an awards ceremony. It is a celebration of South African creativity, resilience and innovation. By returning to the North West province, we are creating opportunities to showcase the region’s tourism attractions, cultural assets and economic potential, while honouring the remarkable achievements of our musicians.

“The SAMAs remain the country’s premier music recognition platform, celebrating excellence across genres while highlighting the vital role music plays in shaping South Africa’s cultural identity and global reputation. The partnership with the North West province aligns with broader efforts to position music and cultural events as drivers of local economic development, job creation, destination marketing and community pride,” she said.

Gwija further said through the Homecoming Edition, SAMA32 aims to strengthen the connection between music, heritage, tourism, and sustainable growth. She added that music fans, industry practitioners, media partners and stakeholders are encouraged to follow the official SAMA platforms for updates, nominee announcements and information regarding the main awards events scheduled to take place later this year in the province.

“As the countdown begins, South Africa prepares to celebrate another year of musical excellence, innovation, and storytelling through the voices and sounds that continue to inspire the nation.

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DARD employee allegedly nabbed for corruption

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By STAFF REPORTER

1 April 2026 – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said it has noted recent social media posts regarding the arrest of one of its employees, Seabelo Lebitse (43) and his subsequent appearance before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on 31 March 2026, in connection with allegations of soliciting money from a service provider. The department said it wishes to assure the public, stakeholders, and employees that it remains firmly committed to the principles of integrity, accountability, transparency and good governance.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said a significant milestone has been reached as an internal investigation process was carried out and subsequently escalated to the appropriate authorities for further investigation. Setlhako said in addition, the department has activated its internal disciplinary processes in line with established protocols.

“The department emphasizes its zero-tolerance approach to fraud and corruption. It calls upon all stakeholders, employees, and members of the public to report any suspicious or unethical conduct through official reporting channels.

“At the same time, the department urges all parties to exercise restraint in circulating unverified information, as investigations remain ongoing. The dissemination of unsubstantiated claims has the potential to compromise the integrity of both the investigative process and judicial proceedings,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel, Tinyiko Mathebula said: “Lebitse is facing three counts of corruption. He was arrested on 31 March 2026, by the Klerksdorp-based Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation following allegations of having solicited gratification from a service provider.

“In October 2020, the accused allegedly approached a service provider, who had submitted documents to bid for a tender at the North West Department of Agriculture. Lebitse reportedly told the service provider that he would assist in facilitating the awarding of a tender on condition that he takes care of him.”

He said investigation revealed that the service provider paid Lebitse R10 000 for the purchase of his vehicle’s tyres. Mathebula said it was further established that the accused was paid R2000 and a further R1000 by the service provider on different occasions.

“The service provider subsequently entered into a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with the department for the construction of a tunnel and installation of fishponds.

“Following an investigation, the accused was apprehended and charged with three counts of corruption. He appeared in court and was granted R5000 bail. His matter was postponed to 7 May 2026, for first appearance at the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Klerksdorp,” he said.

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