Tag Archives: The North West Department of Arts

Orbit College FC receives financial backing 

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Picture: The Orbit College FC players

By BAKANG MOKOTO 

20 May 2025- The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Orbit College Football Club, a rising star in South African football, as the team is sitting on position 2 on its National First Division campaign with 53 points after 30 games. The department said Orbit College FC has made significant strides on the national football stage, and their journey has been met with admiration and support from the North West Provincial Government. 

The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation spokesperson, Shuping Sebolecwe said as a testament to this commitment, the department has already invested over R1 million into the team’s development and operations this season. Sebolecwe said during the playoffs held in Pietermaritzburg, the department covered critical expenses, including transport and accommodation totalling to R490 000.

“This support ensured that the players and technical staff could focus solely on their performance without the burden of logistical challenges. In celebration of the team’s historic promotion to the NFD, the department further

awarded Orbit College FC a financial token of appreciation amounting to R300 000, a move that was widely praised by sports lovers across the province.

“Beyond once-off contributions, for the 2024/25 financial year, the department signed a memorandum of understanding that will cover the costs of all accommodation for both home and away matches, a commitment worth more than R700 000,” he said. 

Sebolecwe further said the long-term support is part of a broader strategy to develop grassroots talent and elevate the profile of sport in the North West. He added that Orbit College FC represents the talent and resilience of the province. 

“Their dedication on and off the field reflects the spirit of the North West, and we are proud to walk this journey with them. The department is committed to supporting the team even further.

“The department has called on the people of the North West to rally behind the team as they continue their campaign. This is our team, our pride. Let us support them in every way possible in the stands, in our communities, and through our collective encouragement,” said Sebolecwe.

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Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Music Festival to be bigger and better in 2025

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Picture: The revellers at Mahika Mahikeng event/Supplied   

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

25 December 2024- The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation said it appreciates everyone for their support during the 8th edition of Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Music Festival. The department said it would like to express its deepest gratitude and appreciation to the patrons of Mahika Mahikeng, who have shown their loyalty to the brand.

The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Virginia Tlhapi said the support from stakeholders and partners during the 2024 edition of Mahika Mahikeng, is highly appreciated. Tlhapi said the four-day event went according to their plans at various venues and was well supported.

“The support we received was undoubtedly indicative of the love for this art and culture music festival. Also, the North West Department of Economic, Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), commissioned the broader socio-economic impact of the festival, including the national department of Sports, Arts and Culture.

“Comparatively from the previous years, we are confident that the event has benefited Mahikeng business, including the SMME. Our local artists who participated in the festival continued an upward trajectory and were happy to share the stage and rub shoulders with legends in the music industry,” she said.

Tlhapi further said this year’s edition did not feature international artists, but attracted revellers from neighbouring countries. She added that they always believe that there’s ‘room for improvement’ and appreciation, comments, advice and constructive criticisms.

“The event is for the people and without them, it cannot be done better. The department committed that the 9th edition of Mahika Mahikeng will be bigger and better with surprises here and there.

“Notably, our law enforcement from SAPS and traffic officers, did a sterling work during the event in ensuring that every person is free and safe.

“We value the support and wish to thank everyone who participated and contributed towards the success of the event. Till we meet again at the 9th edition of Mahika Mahikeng Cultural Music festival in December 2025” said Tlhapi.

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