SABC News Northern Cape: Recent Episodes
SABC News and Current Affairs
The fraud case against Northern Cape's acting HOD for the health department, Dr. Deon Tuys has been postponed to the 9th of June this year, for pre-trial consultation. Tuys briefly appeared in the Kimberley magistrates court today. He was arrested by the Hawks earlier this month for allegedly contravening the Public Funds Management Act pertaining lease agreements of nursing homes amounting to 96 million rand in 2014. He is currently out on a bail of 30-thousand-rand. National Prosecuting Authority's Mojalefa Senokoatsane…
It is exactly a year since the Covid 19 National Disaster was declared. This led to the pronouncement of a national lockdown, which started with strict regulations. Most businesses were completely shut during the hard lockdown. Regulations were relaxed as the spread of Covid 19 was brought under control, but most businesses could not re-open as they could not survive for weeks without any cash flow. The country is currently under alert level one but nightclubs are still not allowed to operate. Northern Cape nightclub owners say they had to think like real business people in order to safe jobs and their businesses. Motlalepule Morake compiled this report by Puleng Modupe…
Sewage spilling into houses and shacks, and lack of basic services has led to Roodepan residents near Kimberley to go on a rampage. The residents, joined by those from Ivory Park, Lethabo Park and White City blockaded the main Road leading into their areas with rocks and burning tyres.They are now calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to address them, as they say Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley has failed them.Puleng Modupe reports…
Employees of Kido Staal Werk company near Kuruman in the Northern Cape are on strike over unfair working conditions and salary increases. The company supplies steel to all mines around Kuruman, including Sishen and Blackrock. The workers say they will not stop with their strike before their demands are met. Puleng Modupe reports…
Police in the Northern Cape have recovered some of the livestock cattle that were stolen from a farm near Vryburg in the North West. 98 Bonsmara and Charolais crossed cattle were stolen last week. Police spokesperson, Mohale Ramatseba says the recovered cattle were sold at different feedlots in Kuruman and Heidelburg in Gauteng. He says investigations are still continuing…
An alleged diamond dealer who was found in possession of over 2-hundred diamonds has been arrested in the Northern Cape. Port Nolloth police say the 57-year-old man was arrested following a tip-off. Police confiscated diamonds, diamonds testers, digital scales and over 32-thousand-rand in cash. Provincial police spokesperson, Mohale Ramatseba says the case has been handed over to the Hawks for further investigation….
Residents of Magareng Municipality in Warrenton in the Northern Cape are planning to take over the control of the municipality's infrastructure and water services. This is the second community to have come up with such an initiative in the province. Last month residents of Kimberley in the Sol Plaatje Municipality also announced such an initiative. A member of Warrenvale-Ikhutseng Concerned Group, Aubrey Vale says municipality is providing them with dirty water…..
The National Union of Mineworkers Youth Structure ( NUMYS), says it cannot be right for government to spent billions of money on State Capture Commission while denying students free education at tertiary institutions. NUMYS is the latest to throw its support behind the announcement of the total shutdown of tertiary institutions tomorrow. The organisation is calling for the ANC led government to provice free and decolonised education at all tertiary institutions in the country. NUM's Youth Structure National Secretary is Bonginkosi Mrasi......
Residents of Makweteng Township in Barkley West outside Kimberley are calling on the department of Education in the Northern Cape not to let the construction of a school in the rea to collapse following abandonment of the project by the contractor. It is alleged that the deaprtment failed to pay the construction company. Residents claim that the department promised the community that over 90-million-rand has been set aside for the construction of the school. Speaking on behalf of the residents Nobelungu Nowapane filed the followig report...
A Kimberley family who lost their daughter and her two children in a shack fire last week said they were forced to pick up the remains of their loved ones after the police's forensic team failed to do it. The 30-year-old Patricia Sekgoro and her two children Kitso and Bokhutlo were burnt to death on Friday evening at Snake Park informal settlement in Galeshewe. The family said the experience left them devastated. Nobelungu Nowapane filed the following report....
Police in the Northern Cape are investigating a case of culpable homicide after four people died in a head on collision involving two vehicles and a truck, near Delportshoop. The truck driver and the driver of one of the vehicles are currently in critical conditions in hospital.Bodies of two adults were trapped in one of the sedans. Police spokesperson Bahoabile Kale says investigations are continuing…
The National Khoisan Council says Khoi and San communities must get themselves ready for the commencement of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, to be implemented on the first of April. This after the meeting the Council had with President Cyril Ramaphosa, ahead of the implementation of the Act next month. The Council's secretary, Frans Kraalshoek says the President has promised that government will be assisting with the rebuilding of the Khoisan structures which urgently needs attention...
President Cyril Ramaphosa has met with a delegation of the National Khoi-San Council ahead of the commencement of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act to be implemented on the first of April this year. The Act comes after countless efforts from the Khoi-San community to be recognised. The Khoi-San delegation was led by it's chairperson, Cecil Le Fleur. Tyrone Seale, acting spokesperson to the President explains…
The leader of the Freedom Foundation at Orania, in the Northern Cape, Carel Boshoff has expressed his condolences on the passing of King Goodwill Zwelithini. Boshoff says the Amazulu king's government was an example of both the change, and the stabilizing role that traditional leadership plays in modern society. He expresses sympathy for the late king's family and people……
The Northern Cape health department says the first batch of the Covid-19 vaccine the province received last month has successfully been administered to more than 4 thousand healthcare workers in the province. More health professionals are currently receiving the jab at the Upington vaccination site, from the second batch the province has received. Health department spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Lebogang Majaha says both private and public healthcare practitioners in the province are being inoculated…
Anglo American's Kumba Iron Ore in the Northern Cape will retrench hundreds of workers. Unions have slammed the restructuring plan calling it nonsensical since the company recorded bumper profits in December. National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) says their members received letters informing them on the planned retrenchments last week. NUM's national spokesperson, Livhuwani Mmamburu says they will consult with their members for the way forward.
The fraud case against Northern Cape's acting HOD for the health department has been postponed to later this month. Dr. Deon Tuys made a brief appearance in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court this morning. Dr.Tuys allegedly approved contracts to lease buildings without following proper Public Funds Management Act (PFMA) procedures. He was released on 30-thousand-rand bail. Nobelungu Nowapane reports....
Psychologists are urging matriculants not to panic but to remain calm. This ahead of the release of the results for the National Senior Certificate early this week. The class of 2020 faced unprecedented learning circumstances amid the Covid-19 pandemic.Most had to adapt to online learning but many pupils were disadvantaged due to lack of resources. But now the long wait is over, as Basic Education minister, Angie Motshega, will release the results, a month later than the usual time. Motlalepule Morake compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
The Northern Cape department of Health has started its vaccination drive, with healthcare professionals at Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital being the first to be vaccinated. 3-thousand 9-hundred doses of Johnson and Johnson vaccine will be used to vaccinate health professionals in the province. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
Northern Cape farmers are on high alert as fears grow over the impact of swarms of locusts currently destroying crop around the province. This is the second time that the brown locusts have been spotted in a short space fo time. They were first spotted in areas of Pixley Ka Seme municipality including Britstown, Hanover, Noupoort and Coleburg. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
Farmers in the Northern Cape have suffered extensive damages due to the floods. They are now pining their hopes on the provincial government to assist them. Most crop farmers along the vaal river in the Hartswater area were hugely affected as their crops were submerged by the rising water levels from the river, due to the heavy rains. Puleng Modupe reports...
The education department in the Northern Cape says contingency plans will be made to accommodate the influx of learners experienced this year. Frustrated parents continue to camp at the education department in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Education MEC Zolile Monakali says about 2 thousand learners currently have not been placed in schools…
The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape say it will support a community driven initiative to take over control of water management at the Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley. This after residents have been experiencing constant daily water cuts for the past two weeks. The municipality had earlier issued statements indicating that water challenges were due to flooding at the Vaal river in Riverton, which impacted the water pumps' abilities to draw clean water from the river. The DA has however labelled the municipality incompetent. The DA's councillor at the municipality, Phillip Vorster…
There's mixed reactions from some of Kimberley residents in the Northern Cape regarding the Covid-19 vaccines. Some residents say they need more information regarding the safety of the vaccines while others say they will take the vaccine as lives need to be saved…
The Moitse family at Galeshewe in Kimberley in the Northern Cape want justice for their daughter. Seventeen-year-old Thuto Moitse, a grade 9 learner was assaulted allegedly by her schoolmate's father following a scuffle with her schoolmate in November last year. Thuto Moistsi a learner from Tetlhanyo High School allegedly died two days after allegedly due to injuries caused by the assault.
Kimberley parents, whose children are still waiting for confirmation of placement this school year, are still waiting for answers from the Northern Cape Department of Education. The frustrated parents have been venting their frustrations on social media platforms. These are parents who have registered on time last year, using the new online registration system implemented by the department…A few weeks ago, over 11-thousand pupils were still waiting for placement. Leonie Eiman is also waiting to hear from the department....
A Northern Cape farmer's organisation Saamtrek Saamwerk says it is already putting contingency plans in place after the department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has warned farmers about the outbreak of Rift Valley Fever. The fever is expected after recent rainfall in the province, with more rain predicted. The rainfall increases the number of mosquitos that can easily spread the fever amongst livestock. Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that is spread by mosquitos that can be devastating to livestock farmers. Meanwhile, the MEC for the department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Mase Manopule says the province is approaching the peak season...
The ANC in the Northern Cape says it is saddened by the passing of the wife of the party's ZF Mgcawu Regional Chairperson, Abraham Vosloo. Vosloo is also the MEC of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism in the province. His wife, Maria Vosloo passed away after a short battle with Covid-19. The party's Tshepo Louw is also urging those who would be conveying messages of condolences to the family to adhere to the strict Covid-19 regulations put in place…
A 41 year old Northern Cape primary school teacher has been remanded in custody following his brief court appearance in connection with the rape of a 13 year old learner. The teacher is accused of raping the learner on numerous occasions between the months of September and October last year. The victim is attending the same school where the suspect is teaching, at Roodepan near Kimberley. The National Prosecuting Authority's Mojalefa Senokoatsane…
An Upington man in the Northern Cape has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment, for the murder of his wife. 37 year old Arrie Koper was arrested after the lifeless body of Aneline Koper was found on the morning of Sunday 4 August 2019. The body of the 32-year-old mother of seven had sustained severe head injuries, and was found lying at her residence in Louisvaledorp outside Upington. The police launched a manhunt and Arrie was apprehended later that day. He was detained and remained in custody for the period of the trial. Police spokesperson, Omphile Masegela…
The Sol Plaatje Municipality in the Northern Cape has condemned those spreading lies in the name of the municipality about tariff increases at the municipality. Residents and business have been venting their anger on various social media platforms about the alleged tariff increases at the municipality. Sol Plaatje Municipality Mayor Patrick Mabilo says the municipality's tariff increase is guided by the law and they cannot increase tariffs before consulting with stakeholders and residents. Mabilo has urged those spreading fake news to desist......
The Provincial Covid 19 Command Council in the Northern Cape says they are increasing oxygen reserves in all health facilities in the Namakwa district.This as the district has been recording high infection numbers recently. The province has a cumulative Covid 19 infection cases of just over 30 thousand. 518 has succumbed to Covid 19 related complications to date. Provincial authorities are currently in the Namakwa district as they say the current systems are coping but need to be consolidated. Northern Cape MEC Maruping Lekwene....
Provincial Executive Committee Member of the ANC in the Northern Cape, Nombulelo Hermans, has passed away, after a brief illness. The ANC Chief Whip in the provincial legislature, Neo Maneng, has described 'Sis Buli' as she was affectionately known, as a staunch activist who wholeheartedly committed to the creation of a united , non-racial and a prosperous society. Maneng says the party's caucus in the legislature extends their deepest and sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late comrade...
Teaching and learning ongoing at the Orel Private Academy in Kimberley. The school reopened on the 6th of January and has decided remain open despite the instruction from the Department of Basic Education to private and public schools to only resume classes on the 15th of February. The academy, says they decided to remain open after consulting with the body that governs private schools in South Africa. Nobelungu Nowapane reports
A food garden which was started 19-years-ago by a group of pensioners in Galeshewe Township in the Northern Cape, to feed poor people in the community, has collapsed. The pensioners say they started the garden after receiving 1-point-4 million rands from the Northern Cape Department of Environmental Affairs in 2002. Now their vegetable garden has been taken over to make way for shacks. The rampant theft in the area has also led to the land lying fallow. Heartbroken pensioners are appealing for assistance....
A 61-year-old woman has been arrested for running a loan shark business at Upington in the Northern Cape. The suspect was arrested by the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime investigation, following a tip-off. Hawks provincial spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi says the woman was found in possession of South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) grant cards and identity documents of community members. She is expected to appear before the Upington Magistrate's court on Monday.
Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry, NOCCI says it welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement of placing the country on alert level three last night. The organisation says the president tried very hard to accommodate all, as he is trying to curb the alarming spread of Covid 19 infections. NOCCI's Chief Executive Officer Sharon Steyn says while they welcome the president's address, it will be difficult for the hospitality sector.....
Northern Cape MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Abraham Vosloo is hospitalised after testing positive for Covid 19. Department spokesperson Ali Diteme says Vosloo has been in the hospital for a couple of days now and he is in a high spirit. Diteme says they are expecting the MEC to be out of hospital soon......
While it still unclear when President Cyril Ramaphosa will be addressing the nation following his meeting with the National Coronavirus Command Council yesterday, alcohol patrons in Kimberley in the Northern Cape are already queuing up at some liquor outlets to stock ahead of New Year's celebrations. Some of those who lined up to buy alcohol say they have heard that the President might address the nation soon following the rapid increase of Covid 19 infections. They say they do not want to be left disappointed as they anticipate he might close liquor outlets.....
Police at Barkly West near Kimberley in the Northern Cape have arrested two suspects with jewellery, a 9 millimetre firearm, a 7.65 Berreta, and ammunition that were allegedly stolen from a house at Barkly West on Christmas eve. Police spokesperson Sergio Kock says the suspects are expected to appear before the Barkley West magistrates court soon…
Guesthouses at Port Nolloth in the Northern Cape are fully booked with tourists keen on exploring the province's coastal lines flocking to the area. Only the Northern Cape and Western Cape beaches are open for this festive season, following an announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa, that beaches will be closed due to the second wave of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Cecilia Phillips, who owns an Air BNB in the area says they are expecting more people than usual on the beach, if the good weather continues to hold...
The Northern Cape police are requesting the assistance of the public in tracing a man who is on the run. 52 year old Johannes Ralihlare, also known as "Moses", has been linked with the murder of a well-known business man in Kimberley. In 2018 January, the suspect together with his accomplice murdered Piet Else on his residence just outside Kimberley. He has since fled the Kimberley area. Police spokesperson, Olebogeng Tawana…
A Communal Property Association chairperson in the Northern Cape has been arrested for fraud. 60 year old Corrie Solomons briefly appeared in the Douglas magistrates court today, for defrauding Griekwalad Wes Koperatief Beperk (GWK), of 1.1 million rand by allegedly posing as a leader of a youth Co-operation. Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Nomthandazo Mnisi says Solomons was granted bail of 20 thousand rand, and will again appear in court in February next year…
More than one hundred and 40 people including 75 children from impoverished households in Noupoort in the Northern Cape, are receiving daily meals through a community soup kitchen started by a local football team. The initiative kicked off at the beginning of the lockdown and has now been extended indefinitely. But it needs more funds to survive.Nobelungu Nowapane reports....
The MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in the Northern Cape Mase Manopule has warned farmers and farmers organisations in the province that there is an outbreak of locusts at the Pixley Ka Seme District Municipalities, which includes towns such as De Aar, Hanover, Britstown, Noupoort and Prieska. She says that the swarms of locusts are moving away from the breeding areas, and might move to other areas in the provinces….
The Minister of Communications, Telecommunications and Postal Services, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams says she respects the labour courts rule on the Broadcast, Electronic Media and Allied Workers Union (BEMAWU) against the South African Broadcasting Coporation (SABC). Yesterday the labour Court dismissed with costs, Bemawu's application to declare the Section 189 consultation process as irregular and invalid as well as the withdrawal of redundancy letters. Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams explain. ..
An NGO led by the youth at Noupoort in the Northern Cape is running what they call an after school care Drop-In Centre. The aim is to provide after school shelter for vulnerable children who are victims of neglect, physical and mental abuse. The children are selected from local primary schools after being identified by teachers. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
Norther Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul says a task team is in the Phokwane area to assess the damages caused by the storm on Saturday, and see how to further assist the residents of Pampierstad whose houses were damaged.
One of the residents of Itireleng near Pampierstad in the Northern Cape whose house was badly damaged by the storm on Saturday says she appreciates the speedy response by the Northern Cape government, to come to their aid. Two children lost their lives and a number of people were left homeless. Nthabiseng Motlhankanyane says she welcomes the temporary structure they were given as the storm left them homeless…
A Northern Cape couple arrested in connection with the death of a man who allegedly broke into their home, has been remanded in custody until their next court appearance on Thursday. The two accused, Perseverance Korsten and Vincent Hufkie appeared in the Jan Kempdorp magistrates court today for a formal bail application, and pleaded not guilty to the charges of murder. The couple was arrested last week after the victim died from injuries he suffered, after allegedly been assaulted by the couple. The National Prosecuting Authority in the Northern Cape says the prosecution will oppose bail based on the seriousness of the charges. NPA spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane...
Eleven staff members at the SABC Northern Cape based radio station, XKFM, say they have received letters of redundancies. This as part of the section 189 retrenchment process currently underway at the SABC. Staff members at the SABC's Kimberley office joined their colleagues nationwide in picketing against the retrenchment process. The radio station broadcasts in the !Xu and !Khwe San languages. The staff members have been working at the station since its inception 20 years ago. They say the letters are a harsh blow…
A new plant species has been discovered in the Northern Cape's Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfonteir Park. The genus was discovered by SANParks employee, Pieter van Wyk. It is part of the genus Othonna species endemic to Southern Africa, and belongs to the sunflower family ASTERACEAE, which has about a thousand species. The new genus plant can easily be distinguished by having ray florets and very succulent leaves. SANParks communications manager for the arid region Genevieve Maasdorp says the discovery is creating excitement in the botanical world, as the size of the plant and it's extreme rarity makes it one of the largest discoveries in decades within the Northern Cape Province...
Northern Cape Education MEC, Zolile Monakali says the 2020 academic year was a very difficult and challenging year. He was speaking during the 2020 National Senior Certificate Examination Pledge Signing Ceremony, held at the Ratang Thuto High School in Postmasburg in the Northern Cape. He says the department needed to package additional resources and programmes to support learners. The MEC says the department has done all it could to help the learners to prepare for the final exams and now it was up to them to relate what they have learnt, and deliver on expectations…
Northern Cape police are urging members of the public to drink responsibly. This after various murders occurred this weekend at Rietfontein, Kannoneiland, and Kathu due to stabbings after drunken arguments. In one of the incidents, a 67-year-old man was arrested for stabbing his brother to death. Police spokesperson, Dimakatso Mooi…
A 25-year-old man has been sentenced to life in prison by the Richmond Regional Court in the Northern Cape after he was found guilty of raping an 11-year-old girl. The incident took place in 2018 when the little girl was alone in her grandmother's shack. Provincial police spokesperson, Mashay Gameldien says the suspect, Beyandre Van Rooyen entered the shack and pinned down the girl down, covered her face with a blanket and forced himself on her
Night clubs around Kimberley have been shut with immediate effect; the Liquor Board issued notices to all owners to stop operating despite all clubs illegally open under lockdown level 1. The Disaster Management Act states that night clubs are prohibited from operating under level 1. Owners who contravene the Act will lose their operating licences and face criminal prosecution. Owner of Kimberley's Lucid Lounge, Sharifa Ferris, has slammed this development and worries about her financial obligations....
The Democratic Alliance says outstanding DNA results in the Hartswater farm murder case in the Northern Cape should be made speedily available, to avoid further delays in court. This after the Hartswater magistrates court again postponed the matter yesterday, until December. Danie Brand, his wife Breggie and their daughter were kidnapped from their farm house in July this year. Their bodies were discovered dumped in the veld. Five suspects have since been arrested and have been remanded in custody. The DA's member of parliament, Willie Aucamp…
Five suspects accused of the farm murder of a Hartswater family in the Northern Cape have been remanded in custody. They allegedly kidnapped Danie Brand, his wife Breggie and their daughter from their farm house in July this year. Their bodies were dumped in a veld. The NPA's spokesperson in the Northern Cape Mojalefa Senokoatsane says investigations in the case are still continuing…
A 37-year-old man from Alexander Bay in the Northern Cape has been sentenced to 24-years behind bars for attempting to rape two women and several counts of robbery. The Port Nolloth Regional Court found Paulos Pienaar guilty on two counts of attempted rape, housebreaking, and sexual assault. In 2019 Pienaar tried to rape a 39-year-old woman who was three-months pregnant at the time and in June this year he attempted to rape another woman at the same area. Provincial police spokesperson, Sergio Kock elaborates....
The Sol Plaatje municipality in the Northern Cape says Kimberley residents can expect water to return today, as repairs to damaged pipelines progressed accordingly with no major delays. Water in the Kimberley area was shut down on Thursday as emergency repairs had to be conducted on the 1200mm, 965mm and 600mm pipes in Roodepan, and at the Newton Reservoir. Sol Plaatje municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie says trucks are currently still supplying water to areas and will only stop once supply of water has been restored fully...
Farmers in the Northern Cape were raging veld fires are occurring say they have suffered extensive damages. The fire was apparently started in an attempt to stop a runaway fire from jumping the Samaria Road - about 30-kilometres outside Kimberley. The fire raged out of control last night and a large number of livestock and grazing land has already been lost. About 100 thousand hectares of grazing land has been damaged. Puleng Modupe and Reginald Witbooi compiled this report…..
Kimberley residents in the Northern Cape are advised to store water, as there will be a supply interruption due to emergency repairs on the pipelines this coming weekend. The Sol Plaatje municipality says water will be cut off tonight (Thursday), and will only be back on Sunday, after repairs have been conducted. The municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie says repairs will be conducted on the pipes in Roodepan and at the Newton reservoir. He says jojo tanks will be provided throughout the city to assist residents with water…
A 43 year old Kimberley suspect is expected to appear in court today for alleged corruption. The suspect who works at the Northern Cape Liquor Board was arrested by the Hawks after he allegedly demanded a gratification from a complainant who applied for a tavern license. Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape Nomthandazo Mnisi…
A 39 year old man has been arrested in connection with the rape of a 60 year old Prieska woman in the Northern Cape. This after the police launched an intensive search for the suspect. It is alleged the victim was asleep yesterday morning at about 01:30 when attacked. The suspect forced entry through the window. The victim was reportedly assaulted, hit with a hammer and raped. The victim is currently receiving medical treatment in Hospital. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba…
The case against a 19-year-old Northern Cape man accused for the murder of his parents has been postponed to the 8th December by the Pampierstad magistrates court, for further investigations. Tebogo Segai allegedly killed his parents, Elizabeth and her husband, Stanley by hacking them to death in August. The NPA's Mojalefa Senokoatsane says the suspect will remain behind bars until his next appearance…
The Northern Cape Agriculture department says it will release emergency fodder from its Fodder Bank to assist farmers affected by the veld fires. Raging veld fires consumed thousands of hectares of grazing land in the Majeng and Hartsvallei area near Warrenton. The fire that started on Sunday was only successfully extinguished yesterday. The fire also spread to some parts of the Free State province. This report by Puleng Modupe and voiced by Reginald Witbooi…
Police in Prieska in the Northern Cape have launched an intensive search following the rape of a 60 year old woman. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspect allegedly forced entry through a window while the victim was sleeping in the early hours of the morning. He says the victim is currently receiving treatment in hospital…
**THE FOLLOWING STORY MIGHT UPSET SENSITIVE LISTENERS, INCLUDING CHILDREN...
Northern Cape police have launched a manhunt, after the body of a 15-year-old boy was found at a gravesite at Mataleng in Barkley-West in the Northern Cape. Police say their preliminary investigations shows the boy was pelted with a stone or brick and succumbed to head injuries. The police's Olebogeng Tawana…
The National Union of Mineworkers has declared a wage dispute with Assmang Manganese and Iron mine at Kuruman in the Northern Cape. The union says it has failed to reach a settlement with the mine after engaging with the mine four months ago. NUM's Kimberley Regional Secretary Cornelius Manhe says it is clear from the word go that the mine was not serious in engaging the NUM in this year wages negotiations. He says the union is currently involved in a mobilization process amongst its members, preparing them for a protected strike...
A 30-year-old man is expected to appear in the Upington Magistrate's Court in the Northern Cape for allegedly dealing in drugs. HAWKS Spokesperson Nomthandazo Mnisi says the drugs were being transported on a bus from Johannesburg to Upington…
Northern Cape police in Galeshewe have confiscated drugs worth 6-hundrend-thousand rands and arrested a 40-year-old man. The suspect who is in police custody was found in possession of Dagga, Crystal Meth and Kat. The narcotics were stored in a suitcase. Provincial police spokesperson, Olebogeng Tawana explains....
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the murder of 40-year-old business man in Pofadder in the Northern Cape. Leon Brits the owner of Pofadder Hotel was discovered with multiple stab wounds in his swimming pool at his home. The SAPS Spokesperson in the province Brigadier Mohale Ramatseba says the two suspects are expected to appear in court on Monday…
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FOLLOWING STORY MIGHT UPSET SENSITIVE VIEWERS AND CHILDREN
A Northern Cape man has been sentenced to 28-years behind bars following the brutal murder of 19-year-old Shakira Jonkers. In December last year, Rodian William killed and chopped up the young woman's body and dumped parts of it inside a pit toilet. Police investigations revealed that the victim's head was decapitated and her torso thrown into the toilet. The provincial policesperson, Mashay Gameldien explains….
Residents of Ntsikelelo village near Upington in the Northern Cape have been without a clinic for more than two months. The mostly poor rural village is currently relying on what they call unreliable mobile clinic for primary healthcare. The SABC visited the area a few years ago after the residents complained about a lack of healthcare service in their area, after the visit things changed for the better. But things have now gone from bad to worse. Residents are now relying on mobile clinic for primary healthcare. Residents are accusing the provincial Health department of denying them access to proper healthcare services. Residents say the mobile clinic allocated to them is insufficient and violates their right to privacy, people with HIV, STD's and other illnesses have to get medical attention in the open...
She's seen the worst and best of humanity in her century..AND is still not out. World Pandemics, wars, forced removals and the country gaining democracy. Kimberley resident, Stella Lai Quan San turns 100 years old today and she's itching to just have a lekker jol. Ulrich Hendriks compiled this report voiced by Nobelungu Nowapane….
According to an ecologist study report renewable energy project near Upington in the Northern Cape is responsible for the deaths of hundreds of birds in the area. The tower at Khi Solar One, which has been operational for four years, contains boiling tubes which have water from the Orange River which is then pumped into them at high pressure. The heat produced, has proven too high for the birds which include flamingos. Report compiled by Ulrich Hendricks and voiced by Nobelungu Nowapane…
The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape says it is concerned about the escalating rate of crime in the Kuruman CBD. This after four people attacked a 65-year-old man during the day on Saturday. The victim was running errands in town when the attackers overpowered him and robbed him of his possessions. The DA's Willie Aucamp ...
Five national parks in the Northern Cape will be opening their gates to the public for free for a limited time. This as part of the annual South African National Parks Week. SANParks postponed the free access week which is traditionally held in September, to November, due to the Covid-19 level two regulations, which restricted the number of persons allowed within public spaces. The annual parks week will be held from the 15th to the 20th November. Regional communications manager for the Arid region South African National Parks, Genevieve Maasdorp...
Kimberley residents say it is frustrating that they have to bear the brunt of a labour dispute between members of South African Municipal Workers Union and Sol Plaatjie municipality. This as the protests by SAMWU members at the municipality continues bringing service delivery to a total halt in the city. The workers downed tools last week Tuesday demanding the municipality to address their grievances that include amongst others, unpaid annual salary increment and outstanding overtime and long service allowances. Residents say while they sympathise with workers it is frustrating that they have to be at a receiving end of a prolonged dispute between employees and the municipality.
The Cricket team participating in the BrightRock Battle of the Sports at Verneukpan desert in the Northern Cape has done exceptionally well in under three days. Athletes from different sporting codes including Rugby, Cicket, soccer competed in an all-out 200km endurance race against time - walking or running across Verneukpan, pulling 200-kilograms. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
A grieving mother is accusing the South African Defence Force of being negligent following the recent fatal shooting of her son, at the Diskobolos military base barracks in Kimberley. She says another soldier shot her son with the R-4 SANDF rifle after a short altercation over a cellphone. She says soldiers were not supposed to have weapons in their possession at that time. Puleng Modupe reports…
The family of a four-year old Warrenton boy found dead on Friday says they are still mystified over his murder. Thapelo Monageng was allegedly killed by a man in his community after he went missing on Thursday. A post mortem is still being conducted, but the family says they found multiple stab wounds on his body. Ulrich Hendriks compiled this report by Puleng Modupe….
The Northern Cape Education Department says it has received at least 54-thousand applications on its new online learner school admission system. School admission applications for schools in the province closes at midnight today (note: Friday 09 October). Neo Bodumela reports…
Kgosi Kgosienewang II Jantjie of the Batlhaping Ba-Ga Phuduhutswana in Manyeding village near Kuruman in the Northern Cape has passed away. Kgosi died peacefully last night at a private hospital in Kimberley. He led the Batlhaping people for almost 50 years since he was installed as the chief in 1972. The ANC in the Northern Cape has expressed shock at his passing and says his leadership demeanor will be solely missed. ANC Caucus manager, Xhanti Teki......
The Coronavirus-inspired lockdown has forced massive business closure and some are still operating but struggling to keep up. In the Northern Cape, guesthouses are some of those businesses that are badly affected, resulting in more job losses for residents. Property agent, Lettie Van Der Merwe says she has seen a rise in the sale of guesthouses in recent days...
South Africa will know by Monday which sporting code produces the toughest stars. The last of the sporting codes - cricket - has started their 200 kilometre journey carrying 200 kilograms. South Africa's popular sports personalities will embark on a desert race in the Northern Cape called the BrightRock Battle of the Sports. Cricket, Rugby, Soccer and Athletics are represented in the race that aims to raise funds to help in the fight against Covid-19. Ulrich Hendriks compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
26-year-old Elvis Malebo has been sentenced to 25-years in prison in the Kimberley High Court in the Northern Cape - after brutally murdering his 27-year-old ex girlfriend Botsehelo Evelyn Mochumi in June this year. Malebo bludgeoned Mochumi with a panga and stabbed her 34-times with a knife. The incident happened at a shack in Asgat in Hartswater after Malebo saw Mochumi with a 33-year-old male .The South African Police Spokesperson in the Northern Cape Captain Sergio Kock says Malebo pleaded guilty and received 25-years for the murder and 12-months for assault. The sentences will run concurrently….
Northern Cape Police are searching for a suspect who allegedly raped a 17-year-old pupil inside the school premises in Kagisho High School in Kimberley in March this year. The victim was allegedly attacked in the school toilet -- after school was dismissed. Police spokesperson in the Northern Cape Captain Sergio Kock says the case was reported in July. The suspect is still at large and police issued an identikit to ask assistance from the public…
The MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Bentley Vas (COGHSTA) in the Northern Cape says they have started engagements with Eskom and four Municipalities who owe huge debts to the power utility in the province. This comes after Eskom embarked of power supply disconnections on the four defaulting municipalities, Kamiesberg, Richtersveldt, Tsantsabane and Emthanjeni on Tuesday this week. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
Power Utility Eskom has restored bulk electricity supply to Emthanjeni Municipality in the Northern Cape this afternoon after the municipality made a payment. The restriction of electricity supply in De Aar, Britstown and Hanover was implemented on Tuesday due to failure by the municipality to pay Eskom bill. The municipality owed the power utility over 90-million rand. Meanwhile power supply was also restored in Kamiesberg and Richtersveld Municipalities earlier today. Eskom Spokesperson Stefanie Jansen van Rensburg elaborates…
Eskom says it will cut off electricity supply to four defaulting municipalities in the Northern Cape next week Wednesday. The municipalities in the province jointly owe the power utility about 280 million rand. Eskom says municipalities throughout the country are battling to honour their payment arrangements. It says the total debt owed by all those municipalities is 31 billion rand. Eskom spokesperson, Stefanie Van Rensburg says power interruptions to affected municipalities can be avoided if they make necessary payment arrangements...
The IEC in the Northern Cape says this weekend's voter registrations kicked off smoothly without any hiccups. Residents at eight municipalities in the province are registering and updating their details at voting stations in 20 wards across the province, where by-elections are expected to take place next month (November). Of the eight municipalities, two of them, namely, Phokwane and Renosterberg, will be contested for proportional representatives, as their councils were dissolved due to political infighting. Puleng Modupe reports…
The Northern Cape's Living Human Treasure, Katriena Esau says she's confident that her language will continue to live on in some way in the future. Esau - who is also the leader if the Western Khomani San - is one of only two people alive who can speak the ancient Nluu language. She's been struggling for more than two decades to make sure the language lives on. This report by Ulrich Hendriks is voiced by Puleng Modupe…
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union - NEHAWU - in the Northern Cape has called for the immediate termination of the outsourced security company at the Robert Mangaliso Sobukhwe Hospital in Kimberley. This comes after a patient, Deon Mkhwanazi was shot and killed in his hospital bed in full view of other patients on Friday last week. NEHAWU provincial secretary Steffen Cornelius says the shooting incident has left the union baffled. He says its incomprehensible to the union how armed men gained access to Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital with security guards present...
A Non Profit organisation in the Northern Cape has launched a girls empowerment and leadership programme in light of the current surge in gender based violence and femicide cases. The NPO, 3 Angels Restoration Centre has also taken a firm stance against child abuse by creating awareness on various violent activities perpetrated on children. The NPO's Carmen Gopane says they will have a campaign highlighting the plight of children…
Residents of Electra Park near Kimberley in the Northern Cape say the stench from blocked sewarage drains in the area is making their lives unbearable. They say drains are blocked in their yards, resulting in sewage pooling in their backyards. They say the problem that has been ongoing for years escalated last year...
A shortage of school desks is hampering learning at the Zingisa Intermediate School in Galeshewe in Kimberley. However, the school received 150 eco friendly desks to end Arbour month. The Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs, Makhotso Sotyu wrapped up the campaign at the school. The schools principal Velile Mapete says they have vacant classes they are not using because there were no desks. He says the donation of 1-hundred and 50 Eco friendly desks by the deputy minister today, will make a difference…
The department of Correctional Services says an internal investigation is ongoing regarding an official who was caught with a variety of contraband wrapped around his waist. The video of the official is also making rounds on social media. The incident allegedly took place at the Tswelopele Correctional Centre in Kimberley two weeks ago. Correctional Services department's Singabakho Nxumalo says they conducted an internal operation following a tip-off that yielded positive results. He says the official is currently on suspension…
The bail application of a 16 year old suspect accused of the murder of 17 year old Lucky Taole has been postponed by the Pampierstad magistrates court in the Northern Cape. Taole was beheaded at Pampierstad and his body was dumped in a trench. His head was found hidden under the bed in a shack. The 16 year old allegedly confessed to the police about the murder.He then led the police to the shack where Taole's head was found, wrapped with a cloth and hidden under the bed. NPA Northern Cape spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane...
The South African Democratic Teachers Union, SADTU has appealed to the government to invest on rural schools. The union made the call during oversight visit of Basic Education Deputy Minister, Reginah Mhaule at the John Taolo Gaetsewe district at Mothibistad in the Northerrn Cape. Mhaule is on a two-day oversight visit across the district to check if all measures are been put in place to ensure that the risk of covid 19 infection is minimised in schools. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
Tourists are flocking to Springbok in the Northern Cape to catch a glimpse of the colourful Namaqualand daisies. The flowers are synonymous with Spring and signal the end of the cold season. Covid-19 lockdown restrictions has adversely affected the influx of international tourists to the area, this has had a negative impact on effect on local business. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in the Namaqualand and filed this report…
The Northern Cape Economic Development expects an influx of tourists following the easing of Alert level one. The country has been on strict lockdown regulations for the past six months - affecting the business sector and tourism severely. The Northern Cape launched its Tourism month programme in the Namaqualand region. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi attended the launch and filed this report…
The Khoisan community is up in arms over branding used by a wine making company in the Northern Cape. The company, Namaqua Wines, uses Khoisan illustration on their wine boxes labelled "Rain Dance". The DAK Network, a Khoisan organisation deriving its name from the Khoisan icons Doman, Autshomao and Krotoa, says the branding is insulting and culturally insensitive. DAK Network's interim chairperson, Danie Van Wyk says Namaqua Wines has also refused to meet with them regarding the matter…
The Northern Cape department of Education says the online learner registration is progressing well. The online registration commenced on the 14th of September to make it easier for parents to register their children online. The system was created to ease the problem of long queues at the beginning of school year, where many parents start queuing as early as 4am to get their children admitted. The Spokesperson for the department in the province Geoffrey Van Merwe says it is aware of challenges faced by people living in rural areas, and it has made provisions mitigate the challenges by identifying 1-hundred and 54 walk-in centres to assist parents….
The Magareng municipality says it is aware about the water problem, and is doing its best to maintain the ailing infrastructure. Mayor, Neo Mase is pleading with residents not to tamper with municipal property, as that exacerbates the problem…
Vandalism of municipal infrastructure over the years, has left many residents of Warrenton in the Northern Cape without water. Residents says the area has been facing water problems for more than 20-years now, with no end in sight. They accuse the Magareng municipality of not doing enough, to remedy the situation. Every six seconds water gushes out of a broken pipe, leaving houses in the area without water. Residents say they have been reporting the matter to the municipality but nothing has been done to fix the leak…
The Northern Cape provincial government says the housing lists used by municipalities are being manipulated. Corporative Governance and Human Settlement spokesperson, Xhanti Teki...
Corruption Watch says it is time that government officials realise that when they engage in corrupt dealings, it is poor people who suffer. This as Warrenton residents in the Northern Cape raised complaints about their councillors, saying they give preference to their friends and families when allocating RDP houses in the area. Residents say most older people have been on the waiting list for years while living in appalling conditions. Melusi Ncala from Corruption Watch says they're receiving a lot of calls from whistle-blowers…
The Northern Cape Premier dr. Zamani Saul has appointed a team of auditors to look into the procurement made during the Covid-19 pandemic. This comes as the province faces allegations of corruption in the awarding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) contracts...
The Premier of the Northern Cape Zamani Saul says the province has taken longer to reach the peak of the COVID 19 infections due to it being a province which is in the outskirts of the country geographically....
In the past few weeks the Northern Cape has recorded between 1-hundred and 50 to 2-hundred and 50 new Covid-19 infections daily. Briefing the media today, Premier dr. Zamani Saul says the province is 3-weeks behind its Coronavirus peak. Over 12-thousand infections were recorded in the province and 150 people have lost their lives. 20 thousand people are expected to be infected at the peak of the province with an estimated 400 deaths. Premier Saul elaborates....
Northern Cape premier, dr Zamani Saul says he will engage unhappy residents who are opposed to Renosterburg municipality being placed under administration. The new administrator, Themba Loko takes over immediately and has the mammoth task of implementing all approved intervention conditions by the Minister responsible for local government, undertake all fiscal and financial management of the municipality and improve payment of rates and taxes. Premier Saul explains....
Northern Cape premier, dr Zamani Saul says the provincial government has placed the troubled Renosterberg municipality under administration, despite opposition from residents. Saul says the decision was taken as the municipality, which includes the towns of Vanderkloof, Phillipstown and Petrusville, is dysfunctional. Saul says among others, the municipality does not have a municipal manager and has not submitted financial statements for two years. Saul says an administrator has been appointed that will oversee the running of the municipality until a new council has been elected...
ANC in the Northern Cape has described the Economic Freedom Fighters statement accusing Premier Zamani Saul of corruption as spurious and preposterous. In a statement released by EFF yesterday, the opposition party has branded the provinces' publicised list of companies that received Covid-19 related tenders as misleading and factually incorrect. The party is also calling for the suspension of the Premier's advisor and provincial SACP secretary, Norman Shushu, whose wife is allegedly linked to company that has also benefitted from the Covid monies. In response to the allegations the ANC's Provincial Secretary, Deshi Ngxanga says the EFF's utterances are unwarranted and irresponsible.....
…Meanwhile, deputy minister of the department of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela says the Northern Cape experienced challenges in the past as it was not hugely marketed like other provinces…
The Northern Cape government has identified tourism as one of the economic pillars of the province which has suffered a major blow during the lockdown. This came out during the virtual launch of the provincial tourism month today. Ecocomic Development, Finance and Tourism MEC, Abraham Vosloo says they will now need to work hard to reverse the negative effects of the lockdown…
The Hartswater Regional Court in the Northern Cape has denied Kgomotso Sylvia Mpumlwane bail. Mpumlwane is one of the five accused of the murders of Danie Brand, his wife Breggie and their daughter Elzabie. They were kidnapped from their farm house near Hartswater in July, and their bodies were discovered in the veld near Takaneng village in the North West. Their gruesome killing sent shockwaves across the country. Motlalepule Morake was in court and she filed the following report....
Over 2-thousand-eight-hundred (2800) Northern Cape public servants have been infected with Covid-19, of those thirty have died. Nehawu says if government fails to implement their demands more infections should be expected. The provincial virus peak is expected this month; the province has over 11-thousand cases. Nehawu provincial treasurer, Regina Manhe says a shutdown is imminent...
Northern Cape Premier Zamani Saul says he has roped in the Auditor General's office to investigate corruption allegations levelled against him and his administration. Saul was speaking at Kimberley's Nehawu national strike by workers, demanding salary increments and adequate PPEs. Nehawu has accused Saul's provincial government of massive looting of Covid-19 funds. The union says they have also submitted incriminating documents to the Public Services Commission (PSC) to investigate the alleged maleficence.
The EFF in the Northern Cape has branded the publicised list of companies that received Covid-19 related tenders in the province as misleading and factually incorrect. Party leader in the province, Aubrey Baardman was briefing the media today. The briefing follows after the list was made public last week, after a call to make all government related expenditures for Covid-19 public, in order to expose corruption. The party says not all companies that received tenders were put on the list. It is also accusing Premier Zamani Saul of being on a mission to collapse the province. Baardman says one of the directors in a company the premier is an active member of, has irregularly been appointed to oversee the Boegebaai Port and Rail Infrastructure project in the province…
The Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley in the Northern Cape says they have now started pumping water from Riverton, which will ensure that all areas will receive water today. This after water supply in the Kimberley area was shut down yesterday for repairs on a damaged pipeline. Sol Plaatje municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie says residents should be patient as it will take some time before water reaches some of the areas in the city…
Spring has definitely sprung at Springbok in the Northern Cape. The landscape in the area is dotted with bright colours of blooming flowers that stretches as far as the eye can see. The flowers have always been a hit with tourists who travel to the area just to see them. Guest house owner in the area, Clarissa Carsten says the colourful view is breathtaking…
Staff shortage at hospitals in the Northern Cape is exacerbated by the red tape at hospitals Human Resource department. This came out during the Democratic Alliance's oversight visit to the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, and the Mental Health hospital in Kimberley. The visit forms part of the DA's delegation final national oversight visits to all 9-provinces, to inspect hospitals readiness for the COVID 19 infection peak expected to hit mid -September. Nobelungu Nowapane compiled this report by Puleng Modupe…
A group of Northern Cape medical graduates say a strong health care system starts with efficient, well resourced primary health care in communities. The twenty-eight medical graduates were recruited from all districts of the province, to study medicine in Cuba through the Nelson Mandela-Fidel Castro Scholarships. The graduates arrived in the country recently following their completion of their six year medical studies in Cuba. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
Biker clubs in the Northern Cape says authorities are not paying sufficient attention to the scourge of farm murders that's plaguing the country. The bikers assembled at the Honoured Dead Memorial in Kimberley, riding along several streets in the city. They say their initiative is to highlight their disapproval against farm murders and to show their support to farmers. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
The Northern Cape's distribution of food parcels has been marred by allegations of corruption. The HAWKS has confirmed they are investigating several cases of irregularities in the province. The province has spend almost 250-million rands on social relief from Covid Funds. Almost 15-million rands of the budget went to food parcels. However, there are pensioners who are still waiting for food parcels. Some councillors are alleged to have distributed food parcels to their families, friends and cronies - and demanded cash from the poor in exchange for the parcels as Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
The Northern Cape provincial government says all companies that were awarded tenders relating to the Covid-19 pandemic are compliant with government’s requirements for companies doing business with the state. This after concerns were raised that some of the companies that appeared on the list of companies that benefitted were not registered on government’s Central Supplier Database or CSD. The list issued by the provincial government indicated that almost 250 million rand was spent, to fight the spread of the virus in the province. Spokesperson at the Premier’s office Bronwyn Thomas…
An ATM at Homevale near Kimberley in the Northern Cape has been bombed earlier this morning. Hawks spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi says the suspects who have still not been arrested, did not manage to get the cash from the ATM. She says they are continuing with investigations…
The Northern Cape provincial government has issued a list of companies that were awarded tenders during the Covid-19 pandemic. The province set aside almost 250 million rand to fight the spread of the virus, with about 87 million rand going towards the purchasing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). A Northern Cape based company, Macronym 37, got the biggest chunk of the PPE budget which is about 25 percent. Company owner Somandla Sibisi says the contract with government was above board as his company is compliant with all company registration entities in the country…
The Northern Cape provincial government is calling on communities to stop abusing alcohol and adhere to all level 2 lockdown regulations. This through a statement issued by the office of the Premier, indicating concerns raised about young people gathering at parks and drinking publicly. Head of Communications at office of the Premier, Monwabisi Nkompela says members of the community should make responsible drinking their priority…
The fraud and corruption case against the former Ubuntu Municipality acting Manager, Xolani Malgas and a contractor Sonwabo Nkili has been postponed by the Victoria West magistrates court in the Northern Cape. They were arrested on Monday by the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team, for alleged fraudulent payments made to service providers. Hawks spokesperson Nomthandazo Mnisi says the two have been granted bail of 30 thousand rand each…
Three armed robbery suspects arrested on Sunday for allegedly robbing Markham’s store at Kathu in the Northern Cape have been remanded in custody. The three, Andale Mxwele, Nthole Litau, and Celcimusa Tesla were charged with armed robbery, possession of suspected stolen property as well possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Hawks spokesperson Nomthandazo Mnisi says they were arrested in a joint disruptive joint operation by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, Public Order Policing Services and the Kuruman K9. She says various stolen items and an undisclosed amount of cash has been recovered…
Two foreign men have been arrested at Douglas in the Northern Cape for dealing in drugs. Police spokesperson Mashay Gamieldien says a team comprising of members from Provincial Organise Crime and Kimberley K9 executed an operation at a house in Dasievoël street in Douglas last night. She says during the operation, the members confiscated TIK and cash amounting to R7000-00 believed to be the proceeds from the sale of the drugs…
A Northern Cape man found guilty after a disabled, non-verbal child testified in court about her ordeal will be sentenced today in the Upington magistrates court. It took years for the case to be brought before court as the survivor suffers from cerebral palsy and cannot speak. A tablet with a 150 characters was developed to assist the then 7 year old girl to testify as police and the State were at first reluctant to take up the case, but a social worker persisted.
NEHAWU in the Northern Cape has joined the nationwide strike against the zero percent increase and staff shortages among others, at the National Health Laboratory Services throughout the country. The regional secretary of Nehawu in the province Moleme Moleme says the strike at the NHS laboratories situated at the Robert Sobukwe hospital in Kimberley is underway. He says NHS management is arrogant and not willing to negotiate fairly with them. He says the workers have resolved not to work until management listens to their plight...
Four of the five accused in the murder of DA councillor, Johannes Baaitjies and his friend Jeffrey Nouse have been sentenced to life imprisonment in the Kimberley High Court. One accused was sentenced to an 18-year jail sentences. Baaitjies and Nouse were shot dead in 2016 after they were lured into a bogus business meeting. Instead of striking a deal, they were shot dead on the road between Daniëlskuil and Postmasburg. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
The Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley in the Northern Cape could face legal challenges and protests soon, over its alleged high electricity costs. Anger has been mounting in the city since Eskom CEO André De Ruyter revealed that Sol Plaatje has the highest mark-up in the country. Two years ago, Kimberley was under siege for weeks as residents protested over a proposed electricity tariff the municipality wanted to implement. This report by Ulrich Hendriks and voiced by Reginald Witbooi...
Taxi commuters in Kimberley in the Northern Cape want a professional, safe and reliable service from the industry. Thousands rely on taxis for their daily commute to and from work and to places of leisure. It is even instrumental in some businesses. Ulrich Hendriks compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Occupants of houses at the South African National Defence Force base, Diskobolos, in Kimberley in the Northern Cape say they are worried about their safety because of poor maintenance. This comes after fires in several houses there in recent months. The latest incident happened last Sunday. Residents say the houses need maintenance, but the SANDF says it cannot take responsibility for maintaining the houses as the properties belong to the Department of Public Works. Motlalepule Morake compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Northern Cape residents have expressed relief following President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement of the easing of lockdown regulations. This as the country has from yesterday moved from level 3 to level 2. Under this level residents can visit their families as inter-provincial commuting is now allowed. Those who had mental health problems have earlier complained about the negative effects of not being able to visit their families. This report by Motlalepule Morake is voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Another victim has succumbed to the injuries sustained during the fire when an apartment at Witdraai in the Northern Cape caught fire. The holiday resort apartment burned down in the early hours of Sunday. 36 year old Frans Davin was admitted at a Hospital in Cape Town with serious burns. His passing brings the number of people who died to nine. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says forensic investigations to unearth the cause of fire are still continuing...
Employees of Big Family Construction company in the Northern Cape are complaining about poor working conditions and non-payment of salaries among others. The workers are employed to maintain the closed ground recreation area at Mothibistab near Kuruman. They allege the company is not Covid-19 compliant as they do not have any safety wear against the virus and their screening equipments are also not working. One of the employees who do not want her name to be mentioned for fear of victimisation says the company has not even registered them at Labour department for UIF…
Meanwhile young legal minds say there are still many hurdles. Commercial attorney, Refiloe Mahlangu says making it to the top requires blood, sweat and tears for black women.......
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro says a lot has been achieved in terms of female representation in the legal fraternity but more still need to be done. Mokgoro says in 1994, she and Justice Kate O'Regan were the only two women judges out of 11 appointed at the Constitutional Court. She says in those years the country only had three female judges. Mokgoro acknowledges the landscape is different now but transformation is slow...
Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, the first Black female Constitutional Court Judge says she continues to advocate for more women in the legal fraternity both in South Africa and internationally. This as statistics that has been released four years ago revealed that only 82 of the 255 judges across South Africa were women. In 2016 only 36 percent of South African judges were women.This is a reality that Mokgoro says she and her peers are challenging and changing.....
A 26 year old police constable in the Northern Cape has been charged with theft of a firearm from his station. The firearm was allegedly stolen from Kleinzee police’ storage facility last Friday. Hawks spokesperson Nomthandazo Mnisi says the missing revolver was found in the bedroom of the suspect….
Jack's funeral was attended by MECs, ANC members and the premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane. During the services, messages from Jack's children were read out by family members...
Northern Cape premier, Dr Zamani Saul has called alleged corruption relating to Covid-19 procurement a stain on the ANC's image. Saul was speaking at Graaf Reinet during the funeral of deceased provincial education MEC Mac Jack who died of Covid-19 related complications earlier this week. In a strongly worded eulogy, Saul said some ANC members have uncontrollable political ambitions...
Three men have been arrested near Kuruman in the Northern Cape on charges of illegal hunting. This after wild animals including two Kudu’s and a hunting rifle were found in their possession by the Public Order Police members. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the three men will appear before the Kuruman magistrate court tomorrow...
A police officer has been arrested at De Aar in the Northern Cape, for allegedly holding his wife and 4 year old daughter hostage. Both the wife and husband are sergeants at the De Aar SAPS Detectives. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says cases of kidnapping and assaulting are being investigated…
The MEC for Health in the Northern Cape Maruping Lekwene says the province is ready for infection peak which is expected to be around the end of August. He says the Provincial Covid-19 Command Council announced that the province will need 2-thousand and 200-hundred beds for the peak but the department has already procured 3-thousands beds. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
The education department in the Northern Cape says no major challenges or incidents were reported, as grade 7 learners returned to school today, after a two-week recess period. Education department spokesperson Geoffrey van Der Merwe says, it is important for learners to attend school, and that the department has put necessary systems in place to ensure their health and safety…
A senior pastor at the Hope Christian Centre in Kimberley, pastor Thapelo Thipe has joined the masses offering their condolences on the passing of radio personality, Bob Mabena. Pastor Thipe was one of those who helped to polish Mabena’s career, while he was starting out in the industry at the now defunct station, Radio Bop. Mabena died yesterday from a cardiac arrest.During his career he worked at numerous radio station including Metro FM, Kaya FM and Power FM. Pastor Thipe says he feels comforted by the opportunity he was blessed with, to have helped lay a firm foundation for Mabena’s illustrious radio career…
Homevale residents in Kimberley say they are living in fear that their dilapidated houses that were built in the early 90's will collapse on them. The residents accuse the contractor who built over 2-hundred houses doing shoddy work, because the structure have cracks all over the walls and look like they will fall on them any given moment. One of the residents Vivian Van Der Merwe says she could no longer stay in the houses, and was forced to to accept their local councillor's offer to build her a temporary shack to stay in whilst waiting for the municipality to fix her house. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
A campaign has been launched to stop further developments on the whites-only town, Eureka, near Garies, in the Namaqualand region. Founder of Eureka, former pyramid scheme boss, Adriaan Nieuwoudt, aims to settle 5-thousand families in the area. However, locals and the Kamiesberg municipality, in the Northern Cape, have criticised his plans. The matter ended up in court last year halting construction but the municipality believes construction is forging ahead. A petition has been launched by the Garies community to halt any further developments on Eureka. Reginald Witbooi reports...
A 37-year-old man has appeared in the Ritchie Magistrate's Court in the Northern Cape in connection with the rape and murder of his mother. Paul Conradie stands accused of raping and his strangling his mother to death earlier this year. Neo Bodumela reports.
The Ritchie Magistrate's Court in the Northern Cape has denied the bail application of a 30-year-old man accused of raping a 13-year-old girl. Joseph Kokwantsi was arrested last month after the girl went missing. Neo Bodumela reports.
A 34 year old woman has been remanded in custody after her brief appearance in the Roodepan Magistrates Court near Kimberley, in connection with her sister's murder. The matter was postponed by the court for further investigations. Norther Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspect will again appear in court next Thursday…
Off duty police members in Kimberley have arrested a foreign national for dealing in drugs. This after they received information about drugs being sold at a shack in Homestead near Kimberley. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mashay Gamieldien says the suspect will soon appear in the Galeshewe Magistrates court, on a charge of dealing in drugs...
Agri SA says the ban on alcohol sales in South Africa is creating corporate carnage. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the ban on the sale of alcohol last month, after it was previously allowed for the level 3 lockdown the country is currently in. Agri SA is now concerned about the impact of the current alcohol ban has on the entire alcohol value chain which stretches from wine, barley, hops, fruit and maize farmers, to glass manufacturers and
processors. Agri SA’s head of Corporate Chamber, Mihlali Xhala…
A funeral service for three family members murdered during an alleged farm attack has been held in Hartswater in the Northern Cape. Danie, Breggie and Elzabie Brand were allegedly attacked, kidnapped and murdered last week. Their bodies and two cars were found at least thirty kilometres from their farm. Police launched a manhunt for the alleged perpetrators and five suspects have subsequently been arrested. Neo Bodumela reports.
The State has requested the Kimberley Magistrate's Court to postpone a multi-million rands fraud and money laundering case involving 10 suspects. Former CEO for the Robert Sobukwe Hospital, Gordon Moncho, his twin brother, niece and seven others are accused of tender fraud amounting to 74-million-rands. The Hawks say the investigation into this matter started in 2013. Northern Cape Hawks spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi says the State needs more time to prepare their case....
Northern Cape LGBTI plus organisation, Diamond Gays and Lesbians, says LGBTI plus people have become more vulnerable since the beginning of lockdown. The organisation says tolerance and acceptance of LGBTI+ people in some families has hit a low with some LGBTI plus people even being forced out of family homes - leading to homelessness. Chairperson of D'Gayle organisation, Patsy Alley says stories like these are becoming more common…
The case against three men accused of raping their 7-year-old relative has been postponed by the Kimberley magistrates court, due to outstanding information and reports. The three, who are the victim’s step-father and two uncles have allegedly been raping the girl since January this year. They were arrested in June and have been remanded in custody, as their bail application was declined during their last court appearance. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane…
The police at Kakamas in the Northern Cape have arrested seven drug dealers who they say have been on their radar for some time. They were arrested during an operation dubbed ‘Project Destroy’ led by Brigadier Dick de Waal, Provincial Head of Organised Crime. The suspects have allegedly been selling toxic and illicit substances such as mandrax tablets, dagga and crystal meth to the residents of Kakamas and surrounding areas. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Mohale Ramatseba says the suspects will appear at the Kakamas magistrates court soon…
The former chairperson of the Batho Pele Mining co oporative in Kimberley, Lucky Seekoei has hit back at members of the co operative, who are accusing him of fraud. The co operative was awarded a mining permit by then Mineral Resources deputy minister, Godfrey Oliphant in 2018. The co operative is made up of the artisanal miners formerly known as the Zama Zamas, who are now trading their diamonds legally. Seekoei maintains he was removed illegally, and that the co operative owes him money he pumped into the business to assist the artisanal miners. The members has accused Seekoei of misusing funds, harassing them and destroying their shacks. Seekoei explains…
There’s infights within the Batho Pele Mining co oporative in Kimberley, that was awarded a mining permit by then Mineral Resources deputy minister, Godfrey Oliphant in 2018. The co operative is made up of the artisanal miners formerly known as the Zama Zamas, who are now trading their diamonds legally. Some members in the co operative have now opened a case against the former chairperson, Lucky Seekoei, accusing him of vandalising the miners’ shacks and harassing them. One of the members, Eliza Louw says they have replaced Seekoei with Victor Taku, who is now their chairperson…
The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape has launched a provincial Court Watching Briefs Unit that will assist victims of farm attacks and their families. This after the recent abduction and brutal murder of the Hartswater family in the province. The aged couple and their 50 year old daughter were abducted from their farm house and their bodies were discovered in the veld near the Takaneng village near Taung in the Northwest. The party says the unit will help to achieve justice and ultimately put the assailants behind bars. This by keeping track of court proceedings and monitoring the police conduct and effectiveness. DA Northern Cape Spokesperson for Agriculture, Land Reform, Rural Development and Nature Conservation, Reinette Liebenberg…
Employees of Ni-da Transport company have blockaded a road in the Tsantsabane municipal area near Postmansburg in the Northern Cape. They are accusing the company of unfair labour practice, discrimination and non-payment of overtime amongst others. About 50 trucks have blockaded the road, barring other trucks and vehicles from passing. The workers say the company is now sending them text messages threatening to take disciplinary steps against them for voicing their grievances. One of the truck drivers is Thando Tshuma…
The Northern Cape Education Department will set up Matric camps for over 3-thousand learners for the next three-month period in an effort to salvage the 2020 academic year. In a statement issued by the department they state that the camps will be set-up in different venues across the province. The camps will set-up inline with Covid-19 regulations. They will function like normal schools with teaching, learning and assesments. Provincial spokesperson, Geoffrey van der Merwe elaborates...
The Northern Cape law enforcement joint operation pounced on unsuspecting business owners in Kimberley today to make sure that the COVID 19 safety regulations are adhered to. The Joint Provincial Multi-Disciplinary Operation in the central business district of the city of Kimberley, was held by the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Risimati Shivuri, a sting operation between the police, the South African National Defence Force and the Department of Safety and Liaison. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
A 20 year old man has been arrested at Galeshewe near Kimberley for being in possession of drugs and cash believed to be from the sale of the drugs. This through the persistence and resilience of members of Provincial Crime Intelligence, Kimberley K9 and the Provincial Trio Task teams to remove drugs from the streets. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mashay Gamieldien says the suspect will appear in the Galeshewe magistrates court soon…
A 28 year old Northern Cape man has been sentenced to 18 years direct imprisonment by the Calvinia regional court for dealing in drugs. Sbonke Banele Bengu was arrested in 2018 after drugs worth 6.5 million rand were found in his possession. Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Nomthandazo Mnisi says Bengu has also been declared unfit to possess a firearm…
The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape is calling on the Health MEC, Maruping Lekwene, to hold the management of the De Aar hospital accountable for murder. The party says two patients allegedly died this week, following the abscondment of nurses and sisters from their posts. The DA’s Northern Cape Spokesperson of Health Isak Fritz says most of the staff, except for a single nurse, failed to remain on duty for the full duration of their shifts on Tuesday, and that patients were left unattended overnight. He says of the two patients that died, one was covid-19 positive while the other was still awaiting his results…
A 54 year old man has been arrested at Bersig near Springbok in the Northern Cape for dealing in drugs. This during police patrols conducted around Springbok, Okiep and the Bersig area last night. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the N7 and N14 roads were also patrolled in order to enforce the curfew declared in terms of the Disaster Management Act regulations aimed at containing the Covid-19 pandemic…
The case against five suspects arrested for the murder, kidnapping and robbery of three family members in the Hartswater area in the Northern Cape have been postponed to the 13th of August. Bodies of the elderly couple were found in the bushes at Takaneng Village in the Northwest on Tuesday, just a few hours after the body of their 50 year old daughter was found. The couple and their daughter were abducted from their farm house in Hartswater on Sunday. The suspects were arrested after a massive police hunt. They will remain in custody until their next court appearance. Charles Stoltz from the Vaalharts Community Safety Unit say they have had enough of farm attacks…
A 34 year old suspect has been arrested at Upington in the Northern Cape, after being found in possession of drugs worth half a million rand. Northern Cape Hawks spokesperson Nomthandazo Mnisi says the arrest was due to a joint disruptive operation by the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, together with the K9 Upington and Port of Entry Upington. She says the suspects are expected to appear in the Upington magistrates court tomorrow…
The MaDoyle Clinic at Galeshewe near Kimberley has been temporarily closed for decontamination. This after 3 cases of Covid-19 were reported at the facility. The Northern Cape health department says patients are requested to visit Mapule Matsepane Clinic for health services, while the decontamination process is underway. The departments says so far the province has recorded 3997 positive cases with 1244 recoveries and 29 deaths since the pandemic started. Health department spokesperson, Lebogang Majaha…
Bodies of the elderly couple that was abducted with their daughter on Sunday, have been found in the bushes at Takaneng Village in the Taung area. The couple was abducted from their farm house in Hartswater, together with their 50 year old daughter, whose body was also found this morning. Another suspect has also been arrested, bringing the total number of suspects arrested for the robbery, kidnapping and murder to five. They were arrested after a massive manhunt was launched by the police. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspects will appear in court on Thursday…
Three suspects have been arrested following their alleged involvement of a robbery, kidnapping and murder on a farm at Magogong just outside Hartswater in the Northern Cape. The family, the 83 year old father, 79 year old mother and their 50 year daughter were allegedly attacked at their farm house on Sunday. National police spokesperson Vishnu Naidoo says the body of the daughter has been found near Taung. He says the search for the elderly couple and a manhunt for the fourth suspect believed to be involved is continuing. He is urging anyone with information to call the police on 086 00 10111
An intensive search has been launched in the Northern Cape after the abduction of a couple and their daughter. Police say an 83 year old man, his 79 year old wife and their daughter aged 50 were attacked at their farm house in Hartswater on Sunday. Their two cars, the Nissan Micra and Silver Mazda CX 5, with registration numbers YMY 664 GP were reportedly stolen by unknown attackers. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba…
The case of a 38-year-old suspect arrested for alleged human trafficking has been postponed to next month. 38-year-old Adam Sithole appeared before the Kimberley Magistrate's Court and faces charges of trafficking in persons. Sithole was arrested on Wednesday after the Hawks received information about a 26-year-old woman who was trafficked from Pietermaritzburg to the Northern Cape. It's alleged the woman was locked up at a house and repeatedly raped and assaulted by Sithole. Provincial Hawks spokesperson is Nomthandazo Mnisi….
A Hartswater family in the Northern Cape is accusing a local private hospital and attorneys of cheating them out of funds received from the Northern Cape health department settlement claim. The family received a settlement of 3.6 million rand in 2018 from the department, after court found that the Robert Sobukwe hospital was negligent when administering an epidural to their then 19 year old pregnant daughter who was in labour in 2013. The money was paid into the attorneys bank account. Constance Setswambung went into a coma during the procedure and has been in a vegetative state ever since the incident.
Puleng Modupe reports…
A mother has been sentenced to five years direct imprisonment by the Taung regional court, for failing to report the rape of her 15 year old girl by her stepfather. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mashay Gameldien says the incident occurred in 2015 and the case was only reported in 2018 at the Pampierstad police station. Gameldien says the case was transferred to Taung Regional court this month. She says the stepfather must still go on trial…
A 38 year old suspect has been arrested for human trafficking in Kimberley. This through a joint disruptive operation by the Hawks Serious Organised Crime and Kimberley police. Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape Nomthandazo Mnisi says the suspect will appear in the Kimberley magistrates court on Friday…
89 schools have been closed in the Northern Cape thus far due to Covid-19 infections. The provincial Education department says most of these schools are located in the Francis Baard, Pixley ka Seme, and John Taolo Gaetsewe districts. The department’s spokesperson Geoffrey van Der Merwe says the pandemic has not only disrupted schooling but has also affected the lives of many people. He says they will continue to monitor the situation at schools in line with Covid-19 regulations…
A property business company Trifecta Holdings appeared in the Kimberley Regional Court for allegations of fraud. The company appeared in court after The Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation in the Northern Cape, served them with summonses to appear in court on Wednesday, for an alleged fraud charge. The company concluded lease agreements with the Department of Sports, Arts & Culture,Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development and South African Social Security Agency. The Hawks Spokesperson in the Northern Cape Nomthandazo Mnisi says Trifecta Holdings allegedly paid a senior practitioner and facility management an auxillary support of SASSA an amount of 60-thousand-rand in a form of gratification….
The Western Cape Doctor who tested positive for COVID 19 and has since fully recovered from the virus, says his family support during his time in isolation gave him strength to overcome anxiety. Dr Andrew Williams from Robertson Hospital spoke to the SABC about his journey through his recovery. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
Farmers in the Northern Cape have asked the Department of Co-operative governance and Traditional Affairs to reinstate the drought disaster declaration. Cogta did not to renew the declaration after it expired last week. Farmers say they still need assistance. The Northern Cape is battling the worst drought in a century, devastating the Agriculture industry.Good rains fell over large parts of the Northern Cape recently, bringing some relief. But farmers say the drought is far from over and the decision not to renew the declaration is premature....
Sanusi and traditional healer, the late Vusamazulu Credo Mutwa, died at a time when the country needed him the most. This is according to the poet and writer, Dr Mongane Wally Serote, who spoke at the inaugural Credo Mutwa Colloquium organised by the Northern Cape's Sol Plaatje University. Mutwa was born on the 21st of July 1921 in Kwazulu-Natal and would have turned 99 today (Tuesday 21 July). He died in March this year in Kuruman in the Northern Cape.Puleng Modupe reports...
Some Kimberley volunteers deployed at majority of schools to screen learners and teachers have not been paid their stipends. They handed a memorandum of demands to the Northern Cape Education Department. They also say they have not yet received their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and contracts amongst others. Margaret Mothibi compiled the following report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
59 schools in the Northern Cape have now been closed since the reopening of schools, due to the Covid-19 infections. The Northern Cape Education Department says the closure of schools has a huge impact on valuable learning and teaching, but it's necessary to curb the spread of COVID-19. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Three men accused of allegedly raping their 7-year-old relative denied bail in Kimberley Magistrate's Court. The three were arrested after it emerged that they've been raping the little girl since January this year. She was also infected with a sexually transmitted infection.
A 39-year-old man has made a brief appearance in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court in relation to the murder of his girlfriend. Wayne Davids appeared in the court on a charge of murder after the discovery of his girlfriend's dead body last week. Neo Bodumela reports.
The bail hearing of three men accused of allegedly raping their 7-year-old relative has been adjourned to Wednesday by the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court. The trio who are the minor’s step-father and two uncles are applying for bail, following their arrest in June. They are accused of raping the girl for six-months. The matter is being heard in-camera and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is opposing bail. Provincial NPA spokesperson is Mojalefa Senokoatsane
Northern Cape parents who are concerned for the safety of their children, are calling for the immediate closure of schools. They support calls by the World Health Organisation that the re-opening of schools should be revised. Forty-eight schools have already been closed in the Northern Cape, due to Covid-19 infections. This report by Reginald Witbooi is voiced by Puleng Modupe…
A 62-year-old elderly woman was raped and murdered at Postdene near Postmansburg in the Northern Cape. It is alleged her body was discovered at her house next to a burnt mattress. Police say the postmoterm revealed that the victim was strangled and sexually assaulted. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Mohale Ramatseba says the victim's cellphone, laptop and handbag containing her car keys are also stolen. He says a 72-hour search plan is currently underway for the suspects.....
48 schools in the Northern Cape have been closed thus far, due to Covid-19 infections. The education department in the province says those schools and some of the offices that have also been closed due to Covid-19, will remain closed until the premises have been disinfected and it is safe for educators and learners to return. The department’s spokesperson Geoffrey van Der Merwe says individual cases were reported at the affected schools. He says they are monitoring the situation very closely and ensuring that all systems are in place at schools…
Loyal readers of the Afrikaans newspaper, Volksblad says they will sorely miss the hardcopy of the newspaper. This week Media24 announced it will cut five magazines and more than three newspapers. The company says this was prompted due to the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the media industry financially. Some newspapers will migrate from print publication to digital-only platform news. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi in Kimberley spoke to some readers and filed this report…
There's concerns that the increase in Covid-19 cases in the Northern Cape may be due to non-compliance to regulations.As the province nears 1000 cases, the health department is embarking on an awareness campaign to teach people the importance of adhering to regulations. This report by Ulrich Hendriks is voiced by Puleng Modupe…
The South African Weather Service has issued a statement of extreme high fire conditions due to dry and strong gale force winds over the Northern Cape from tomorrow. The Weather Service further says a cold front is approaching for the western parts of the country from tomorrow afternoon. Forecaster Kumsa Masizana says temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with snow expected for the Sutherland area at the weekend…
26 schools in the Northern Cape have closed thus far due to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The education department says individual cases were reported at the affected schools. The latest schools to be closed in the Kimberley area includes Tshiamo Primary school, Thabane and Vuyolwethu high schools. Northern Cape education department spokesperson, Geoffrey Van Der Merwe…
Power supply has been restored to Warrenton in the Northern Cape, after the Magareng municipality managed to make payment arrangements with Eskom. Eskom earlier cut electricity supply to the area, after the municipality’s failure to pay its debt, which is over 65 million rand. Cooperative Governance spokesperson Xhanti says the department met with Eskom and the Premier’s office and the matter was resolved…
Two suspects linked to the fraud, corruption and money laundering case implicating eight other suspects have appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court. The ten suspects are linked to alleged corrupt activities that happed at the Northern Cape Health Department between 2013 and 2014. They are fingered in construction tenders worth over 400-million-rand. Provincial Hawks spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi says all the suspects are out on bail and will be back in court next month ...
A Northern Cape tavern owner, her husband and their 28 year old daughter have been sentenced to life imprisonment for one murder and two counts of attempted murders of people who allegedly broke into their tavern. Tavern owner, Motshwarakgole, her husband Simon Mabogole and their daughter Boitshepo Motshwarakgole together with their gardener, Dihelangkgotla Hume, traced the three suspects who broke into their tavern at Dithakong Village near Kuruman in 2017, and forced them to drink liquor laced with poison. The gardener was given a five year prison sentence. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Mohau Ramatseba.…
NEHAWU in the Northern Cape has raised concerns about the failure of NHLS laboratory situated at the Robert Sobukwe hospital in Kimberley, to disinfect the lab after two employees tested positive for COVID-19. The union’s Stef Cornelius says the lab is still operating, although with a skeletal staff, without any decontamination processes being done. Cornelius says employees who were working closely with the two positive cases have also not been tested…
Five municipalities in the Northern Cape will have their electricity supply interrupted. Eskom says despite repeated attempts, Tsantsabane, Magareng, Kamiesberg, Richtersveld and Khai Ma municipalities have failed to reach a resolution on payment. Eskom says power supply to these municipalities will be interrupted from Wednesday. Puleng Modupe reports…
Medical experts have warned of growing stigmatisation of people infected with the coronavirus. A Northern Cape family has been shunned by the Pabalello community near Upington, following alarming voice notes. The voice notes state that they have tested positive for Covid-19 and have put the lives of all the people who attended a funeral held at their home last month at risk. Motlalepule Morake spoke to one of the family members and filed the following report......
Northern Cape education department spokesperson Geoffrey Van der Merwe says the provincial department welcomes the decision by the Council of Education Ministers for the phasing in of the next cluster of Grades. He says more than 61 thousand learners in the province will be returning to school…
Two more schools in the Northern Cape have closed due to Covid-19, bringing the total to 13. Positive cases have also been reported at the provincial education department in Kimberley, and the Namaqua district office. Education department spokesperson Geoffrey van Der Merwe says the affected offices have been closed…
The case against a 41-year-old Kimberley pastor accused of raping his 17 year old step daughter has been postponed by the Galeshewe Magistrates court. The incident allegedly took place last weekend. It’s alleged the man entered the child’s room on Saturday morning and laid naked next to her. He then told her he bought her takkies and it’s time for her to pay him back. The case has been postponed to July 24th, for further investigation. The NPA’s Mojalefa Senokoatsane…
The provincial government expressed disappointment to the Auditor General outcome, as only one of the 31 municipalities received unqualified audit with no findings. Spokesperson for Co-orperative Governance, Xhanti Teki…
John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality in the Northern Cape has for the first time received a clean audit from the Auditor-General. Despite this achievement, the audit outcome for the entire province depicts a gloom picture. The province has recorded an increase of 40-million rand in irregular expenditures, from 350 million rand in the last financial year to 390-million rands. This is the municipality's first clean audit in many years and the municipal head attributes this to strict oversight on the set systems. John Taolo Gaetsewe District municipality mayor, Sophie Mosikatsi...
A 21 year old Northern Cape has sentenced to 20 years direct imprisonment by the Petrusville Regional court, for raping an 11 year old boy. The suspect raped the victim in 2017, when he was playing in the field with his friends. Northern Cape police spokesperson Dimakatso Mooi…
The Galeshewe Magistrates court in Kimberley has sentenced a 36 year old man to 18 years imprisonment for rape. Kagisho Khatwane raped a 38 year old woman in 2017. Northern Cape police spokesperson Dimakatso Mooi says the sentence will serve as a deterrent to would be rape suspects…
Four more schools have closed in the Northern Cape due to Covid-19 infections, bringing the total to eleven. The education department in the province says all the affected schools have individual cases that have been reported. The department’s spokesperson Geoffrey van Der Merwe says the department is working closely with the Northern Cape health department to establish contact traces. He says 9 of the affected schools will be re-opened during the course of this week…
Seven schools in the Northern Cape have been closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic thus far. The education department in the province says the majority of the schools are in the Pixley Ka Seme district. The department’s spokesperson Geoffrey van Der Merwe says the cases were individually reported, and they working with the health department in the province to establish contact traces. He however says one of the affected schools, Zingisani Primary, will be re-opened soon as they have already received it’s contraces results…
The second Covid-19 case has been reported at the Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley. A cashier that was in contact with the first patient has tested positive. The municipality’s Thoko Riet says all service points at the municipality will be re-opened tomorrow…
More than 35 million people around the world are addicted to drugs. That's according to the latest report from the United Nation's Office on Drugs and Crime. 26 June was International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Reginald Witbooi spoke to a drug addict and compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe .....
The Joe Morolong municipality councillor arrested for corruption today, Keemenao Katong and her son, Boineelo Katong have been granted bail of 2 thousand rand each by the Kuruman magistrates court. It is alleged that the councillor demanded payments in a form of gratification from a sub-contractor, who provided transport services for workers of Down Touch Investment Company, so that the services provided by the company should not be terminated. The corruption allegedly occurred between April and September 2019. Hawks spokesperson in the province, Nomthandazo Mnisi...
A 60 year old man has been arrested in the Northern Cape, in connection with the rape of his seven year old stepdaughter. It is alleged that the victim has been sexually abused since January this year, until yesterday, 25 June, when the ordeal was uncovered. The incidents were reportedly committed at Spring Acre farm, situated on the N8 road between Kimberley and Bloemfontein. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspect including two family members who were also arrested will appear in court next Monday…
The Kuruman police station has been shut down, after one of the police officers tested positive for Covid-19. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says other police officers who came in contact with the member have been isolated. He says the police station is currently being decontaminated and is expected to be re-opened tomorrow…
The Sol Plaatje University’s construction site in Kimberley has been closed after one of the construction workers on site tested positive for Covid-19. The university says the Scanlan Street Upgrade construction site between the Education Precinct and the Central Campus will remain closed for 14 days. Sol Plaatje university’s spokesperson Kashini Maistry says office staff and direct contacts are now in a 14 day self-isolation….
Two suspects have been arrested at Garuele village near Kuruman in the Northern Cape in connection with theft of non-ferrous metals worth half a million rand. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says a manhunt has been launched for three other suspects who managed to escape arrest. He says a Nissan Double Cab bakkie used by the suspects has been confiscated as it was used in the commission of an offence …
A Joe morolong municipality councillor in the Northern Cape has been arrested this morning by the Hawks' Serious Corruption Investigation. The councillor is expected to appear at the Kuruman Magistrate court. Hawks spokesperson in the province, Nomthandazo Mnisi...
The case against five people found guilty of the murder of Northern Cape DA councillor, Johannes Baatjies and his friend Jeffrey Nouse has been postponed by the Kimberley high court. Baatjies was kidnapped and killed a day before he was to be sworn in as a councillor at Kgatelopele municipality in 2016. Nouse was shot in the face with a 9mm pistol on the same day and was found seriously injured inside a ford ranger bakkie along the side of the road. He succumbed to his injuries. NPA spokesperson in the Northern Cape Mojalefa Senokoatsane…
The Chinese community of Upington in the Northern Cape has donated face masks and food parcels worth over 100 thousand rand, to the Dawid Kruiper municipality. The donations will be distributed to the Khoisan traditional communities in the area by the municipality next week. Leader of the Khoisan party Stanley Petersen welcomes the donation…
Three more schools in the Northern Cape have been shut down in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic, bringing the total to 6. The education department in the province says closing the schools is part of their standard operating procedures with regards to Covid-19. Department’s spokesperson Geoffrey Van Der Merwe says some of those schools have received their results of the contact traces, which came back negative and therefore they are now preparing for them to reopen…
An employee at the Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley has tested positive for Covid-19, prompting the immediate shut down of the municipal buildings in Kimberley. Cashiers and front desks at both new and old buildings of the municipality have been closed for the day, due to deep cleaning and sanitizing. The municipality is now encouraging residents to make any payments at other pay points like Checkers and PicknPay. Sol Plaatje municipality’s Thoko Riet....
Farmers in the Northern Cape say Finance Minister Tito Mboweni’s Special Adjustment Budget should focus more on Agriculture support, as it plays an important role in the country’s economy. The minister is expected to table his budget this afternoon. Agri Northern Cape’s Nicol Jansen says, important sectors of agriculture that should receive special attention includes the land bank, drought support, and continued support during the current Covid-19 pandemic…
The case against a 48 year old Noupoort man in the Northern Cape, accused of killing his wife, has been postponed to the 30th of June for formal bail application. The suspect briefly appeared in court today, where he applied for the state’s legal representation. The NPA spokesperson in the Northern Cape Mojalefa Senokoatsane …
A 37 year old suspect has been arrested for defrauding a well known supermarket chain at Schmidsdrift road in Kimberley, to an amount of half a million rand. The fraud allegedly took place between March and June last year. Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape Nomthandazo Mnisi says the suspect allegedly unlawfully returned voided goods without any customer who has bought them. She says the suspect will appear in court next month…
Former Mayor of the Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley, David Molusi has passed away. Oom Day as he was affectionately known passed away after a short illness. Molusi was appointed mayor of the municipality in 2013. Spokesperson for the Sol Plaatje municipality Thoko Riet says the current Mayor, Patrick Mabilo, has offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family…
The Motsomi family in the Northern Cape has laid Botshelo to rest. The 26-year-old mother was bludgeoned with a panga. The mother of three kids was killed on Sunday. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
Meanwhile, the Chief Operations Officer of Ekurhuleni Artisans and Skills Centre Seun Fenn says, with only a few months left for learners to qualify as artisans, it will be senseless not to allow them to finish...
Some youngsters in Kimberley in the Northern Cape say the future looks bleak for them after their learnership programmes were halted due to the national lockdown. Young people who were on a learnership programme at Ekurhuleni Artisans Skills Centre are now at home and the stipend they were receiving as part of the learnership was also halted. The learners say as most of them are coming from a poor background the money was very helpful to them. It is not only youngsters who were still on learnership who are discouraged. Those who have completed the program says it is tough especially if you are a female to get employment…
Businesses that are due to reopen soon in the Northern Cape have already started to put in place precautionary measures to curb the spread of COVID 19 amongst customers. This after President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday evening announced that businesses like restaurants, beauty parlours, and cinemas amongst others will reopen. Nobelungu Nowapane compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
The Chief Operations Officer of the JTG Trust Tumelo Mpholokeng added that most people in villages in the area still lack knowledge on COVID 19. He emphasised that a lot still need to be done to create awareness...
The John Taolo Developmental Trust in Kuruman in the Northern Cape has injected 6,9-million rand to help fight the spread of COVID 19 pandemic in rural areas by conducting door to door mass screenings. The Trust has handed over more than 12-thousand safety kits to residents in deep rural areas. The safety kits include, masks, hygiene soaps and sanitisers. The Chief Operation Officer of the JTG Trust Tumelo Mpholokeng s explains...
Some activists say South Africa may as well be labelled a mass grave for women killed by men. Femicide continues to claim the lives of many women in South Africa. Interventions by government have failed to stop the killing of women by their intimate partners. The Gender-based Violence and Femicide National Strategic Plan penned in 2019 has failed to yield desired results. Femicide leaves many children orphaned and many loved ones in pain. Margaret Mothibi compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Northern Cape Education MEC Mac Jack says four schools in the province's Pixley Ka Seme district remain closed after a spike in Covid-19 infections in the area prevented a reopening of schools last week. Neo Bodumela reports..
A group of people are going around shutting schools in Kimberley saying schools should not have re-opened until all learners and educators have been tested. The group started at Tetlanyo High school, where they threatened to disrupt teaching and learning. The group’s leader, Zandisile Thezela says as a member of COSAS in the province they want to protect the lives of learners against Covid-19.
Residents at Utlwanang Informal Settlement near Hartswater in the Northern Cape are reeling from shock, following the brutal murder of 26-year old Botshelo Motsomi allegedly by her ex-boyfriend, Elvis Malebogo. Malebogo appeared briefly at Hartswater Magistrate Court earlier today and will appear again next Monday. Residents alleges that 27-year-old Maleboga terrorised the entire community and Motsomi had a Protection Order against him.
Two men have been arrested at Plooysburg in the Northern Cape for allegedly transporting dagga and tobacco products. The total value of the goods is estimated to be a quarter million rand. Police spokesperson Sergio Kock says a Toyota Yaris the suspects were driving has also been confiscated as it was allegedly utilized in the commission of a crime. The suspects are expected to appear in the Douglas Magistrates Court soon...
Parents of grade seven learners at St Peter's primary school in Galeshewe, near Kimberley in the Northern Cape, say the school is not ready to resume lessons. Despite their concern, 104 grade seven learners attended school on Monday. Parents are complaining about dilapidated classrooms and erratic water supply. The education department says the school meets all the safety measures put in place for COVID-19 ...
Eighty percent of the Northern Cape's under resourced farmers who applied for the Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Covid-19 Disaster Fund, have been rejected. Desperate farmers who were banking on this money to save their businesses during the pandemic are devastated. Saam Werk Saam Trek Farmers Organisation says most members who were rejected also fell victim to stocktheft during the lockdown. Nobelungu Nowapane compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Cigarettes , tobacco and rifle projectiles have been confiscated at Vioolsdrift and Nakop borders in the Northern Cape. This during the various vehicle searches conducted by the police and several other role players in the province. Northern Cape police say they will continue unabatedly to enforce the new level 3 Lockdown regulations. Police spokesperson, Sergio Kock…
The transportation of 10-thousand Northern Cape learners hangs in the balance. This is due to a stand-off between the Department of Education and the provincial learner transport association. Drivers want payment for April and May despite learners being at home due to the Covid-19 lockdown. Over 2-hundred drivers are demanding payment of over 88-million-rand. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
Another family in Galeshewe in the Northern Cape has suffered assault at the hands of law enforcement officials. Last week IPID confirmed that it is investigating a case against policemen who assaulted another Warrant Office from Richie in the Northern Cape. Now the Bosvarke family in Galeshewe, says eight police fleet including two trucks from the South African Defence Force, arrived at their home and assaulted two family members, without any explanation. Motlalepule Morake compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Northern Cape tavern owners are not happy with the time allocated by the government which stipulated hours and days that they should sell alcohol. Today Level 3 Lockdown officially started permitting tavern owners to sell alcohol. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
Elliot Khomojong, a resident from Ritchie near Kimberley in the Northern Cape is seeking justice after he and his father were assaulted by police for allegedly breaking lockdown regulations. It is alleged the 54 year old Warrant Officer for public order police was assaulted by members of South African Police Services together with his son for commuting with a hitchhiker who did have a permit to travel. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
Despite uncertainties around the re-opening of national schools, Northern Cape private schools have reopened for Grade 7 and 12 learners - following a thumbs-up from the provincial Department of Education. The schools have met all required compliance regulations set by the department. This report by Motlalepule Morake is voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Sutherland in the Northern Cape has recorded the first snowfall for this year, today. The area usually experiences heavy snowfalls during winter. Excited residents are hoping more snow to fall throughout the day. One of the residents, Juanita Hutchinson explains…
The Galeshewe Magistrate court building near Kimberley has been closed for disinfection purposes today. This after a police officer from the Galeshewe police station tested positive for Covid-19. The Justice department in the Northern Cape is urging those whose criminal cases were supposed to be heard in court today to liaise with their Investigating Officers for the next follow up date. Those with civil matters such as domestic violence, protection orders, children's court and maintenance matters will be contacted by relevant officials from the sections. Justice department spokesperson in the province, Chrispin Phiri says the health department is expected to facilitate screening at the court building tomorrow...
A 40-year-old male from Douglas in the Northern Cape who has been sought after by police in relation to the attempted murder of a 21-year-old woman, has been found dead at his home. The suspect was discovered by his family members, hanging at his home. Police spokesperson Captain Sergio Kock says the victim was stabbed several times all over her body…..
Lockdown regulations imposed by the South African government since March 26th in an effort to stop the spread of the Corona Virus, have had a devastating impact on African migrants living in the country. Many who are self-employed have had to close shop. This has left them without an income, food and some are on the brink of losing their homes. Foreign nationals living in Kimberley say there is very little to celebrate this African Day. Motlalepule Morake compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
Northern Cape police say they’ll continue to crack the whip against those contravening the lockdown regulations. This through numerous vehicle checkpoints, to ensure motorists adhere to all regulations put in place. Police spokesperson Sergio Kock says check points held through Kimberley and entrances to the province yielded good results, with traffic fines issued and arrests having been made…
A family of the first COVID 19 patient to die in the Northern Cape say they are now being stigmatised by the neighbours who feel that they deliberately exposed them to the virus. The deceased was diagnosed as positive after she died shortly after falling ill a week ago. She fell ill after coming back from a trip to the Eastern Cape. But it is not yet clear where she was exposed to the virus. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
There's hope for those who want to get married during the lockdown, as the Home Affairs Department has proposed that marriages be offered as a service on Level Three. Reginald Witbooi spoke to couples -- who are planning to tie the knot -- and compiled the following report voiced by Puleng Modupe…
The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) in the Northern Cape say their members will not report for duty on Monday, as the education department in the province has not met all requirements needed, to ensure the safety of teachers at schools. This after the announcement by the Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga that all teachers should report for duty on the 25th of May. SADTU’S provincial secretary Palesa Nqumashe says the education department in the province is not ready to for the reopening of schools…
Mass COVID-19 testing will now be rolled out in the Northern Cape. This follows an outcry about what's seen as the Health Department's over-emphasis on screening, and a reluctance to test big numbers. Twenty-five people in the province have tested positive. With sixteen recoveries and nine active cases. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
The DA in the Northern Cape is calling on Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize, to urgently visit the province. This after concerns were raised by the provincial health’s department’s alleged unpreparedness to manage the Coronavirus pandemic. The party’s Andrew Louw says the department gotten off to a dismally slow start with regards to testing and contact tracing.The department has also been battling to deal with numerous medico legal cases and a financial crisis prior to the outbreak of Covid-19. DA provincial leader, Andrew Louw…
Farmers Associations in the Northern Cape are not happy about the application process for the Covid-19 intervention program. This after the Northern Cape agriculture department hailed the program a success. Last month the minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza announced that 1.2 billion rand will be set aside to support small holder and subsistence farmers affected by Covid-19. Farmers Associations now say the program excludes commercial farmers who contribute 90 percent to the value chain and only a limited number of small scale farmers in the province were able to apply. Puleng Modupe has more…
A man and a woman at Port Nolloth in the Northern Cape have allegedly died from drinking home made brew. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says two bottles of the brew have been seized for forensic tests. Ramatseba says families of the deceased, who are Tony Hilliar and Alyda Fouche have been notified…
Northern Cape police say they are preparing a rock solid case against a 46 year old Kimberley man accused of raping a 14 year old girl. The rape incident allegedly took place at Rhodesdene in Kimberley two weeks ago. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspect is currently out on a bail of 2 thousand rand with condition that he reports to the police statin every Wednesday. Ramatseba says the suspect will appear at the Kimberley Magistrates court on the 29th of May…
18 people have been arrested at Fraserburg in the Northern Cape, for damage to property, housebreaking and contravention of the regulations. This after they allegedly demanded to buy cigarettes and alcohol in the area. Police spokesperson Mohau Ramatseba says the suspects are expected to appear before the Fraserburg Magistrates Court soon…
There are growing concerns over the Northern Cape's low rate of Covid-19 testing - with residents fearing that there may be a lot more people infected with the coronavirus. To date, only less than one-percent of a population of about 1.1 million people has been tested. Residents say that the provincial health department is focusing more on screening instead of testing. Puleng Modupe reports...
A security guard has been arrested in Kimberley, for allegedly shooting a customer who wanted to enter a shop without wearing a face mask. The incident allegedly happened at a filling station shop in Kuruman. Police spokesperson Mohau Ramatseba says the suspect has been charged with attempted murder and is expected to appear at the Kuruman Magistrates court on Monday.
A 74 year old suspect has been arrested at Kakamas in the Northern Cape for incitement to commit public violence, after an unlicensed gun and ammunition was found in his possession. Hawks spokesperson Nomthandazo Mnisi says the suspect is expected before the Kakamas Magistrates court on Monday…
The Northern Cape health department is pleading with residents to co-operate with them. Northern Cape Health MEC Mase Manopole says they will continue to conduct screenings, and testing those who show symptoms of Covid-19…
There are growing concerns that a lot of people in the Northern Cape are walking around with the Covid-19 virus as not enough testing has been done to date. Only less than one percent of the population in the province, which is over 1.1 million, has been tested. Residents are concerned that the Northern Cape Health department is focusing more on screening instead of testing, which could be disastrous as those who have the virus but are asymptomatic, will not easily be detected up during the screening process…
A Non Government Organisation at Ritchie in the Northern Cape says there are some impoverished families who do not receive food parcels from government. The Homesky Centre NGO is now handing out food to families that are hardest hit by the Covid-19 pandemic in the area. The NGO says their ability to help the poor is made possible through donations they receive from local businesses. The NGO’s spokesperson, Mpendulo Taweni says they try their best to assist wherever they can, even though they do not have enough funds to buy food for the needy…
The tourism sector has been hard-hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. While parts of economy re-opens for business, the tourism industry will likely stay closed in the foreseeable future. An initiative to promote the Northern Cape and it's rich artists and cultures has now been launched. The online campaign will see the showcasing of the province, its sites and artists. Two artists are trying their utmost best to keep market the province. Ulrich Roberts and Ronesca Cloete have launched an online project showcasing what the Northern Cape has to offer to tourists, post the lockdown…
The tourism sector has been hard-hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. While parts of economy re-opens for business, the tourism industry will likely stay closed in the foreseeable future. An initiative to promote the Northern Cape and it's rich artists and cultures has now been launched. The online campaign will see the showcasing of the province, its sites and artists. Ulrich Hendriks has compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe...
Two brothers are expected to appear before the Carnarvon Magistrates court in the Northern Cape, for house robbery. The two brothers attacked a couple at their home, and robbed them of meat, cellphone, and an undisclosed amount of cash. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba…
Orania, an Afrikaner stronghold in the Northern Cape, is also facing challenges during the current lockdown as the town's economic activities have come to a standstill. The Afrikaner enclave is also adhering to lockdown regulations, with businesses and schools closed. Residents have been screened and tested for coronavirus infections. Thus far, the town has no cases of COVID-19. Nobelungu Nowapane visited the town, and filed the following report...
The department of Water and Sanitation in the Northern Cape says the delay for the delivery of water to some dry areas in the province is due to a long time it takes to construct cement base structures for water tanks to be installed on. The Namakwa and some rural areas in the province are affected by the delay. The department says this has created the current backlog they’re experiencing. To date, 664-water tanks out of the 826 allocated have been delivered. The department’s Amogelang Moholoeng says municipalities with high density of shack dwelling have been prioritized….
A 31 year old man is expected to appear before the Postmasburg Magistrates Court, for raping two girls aged 16 and 17. The suspect was arrested on Tuesday. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspect allegedly lured his victims to his shack when he met them a tuckshop in the area. He says the suspect briefly appeared in court yesterday but the matter was rolled over…
A 33 year old suspect has been arrested in the Northern Cape, after the Hawks received information that food parcels meant to be distributed to deserving households identified were redirected to unknown persons. It is alleged that two victims from different households were defrauded by the suspect, by making them sign as if they got the food parcels, promising them the food parcels worth 900 rand each will be delivered at the later stage, which never occurred. The food parcels were provided by the department of Social Development. Hawks spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi…
Seven adult males have been arrested after a community protest at Calvinia in the Northern Cape. A police vehicle and several local traffic vehicle were also damaged during the protest. National police spokesperson Vish Naidoo says the police are investigating a case of public violence and failure to confine oneself to a place of residence during the Lockdown period. Naidoo says police are still monitoring the situation in the area and the suspects will be appearing in the Springbok magistrates court soon…
The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape says Gender Based Violence convictions must equal Gender Based Violence crimes committed. This after a male suspect was arrested for allegedly raping an 82-year old woman at Noupoort over the weekend. The party’s provincial spokesperson on gender, Priscilla Isaacs is urging the South African Police Service to ensure that they build a watertight case against the perpetrator…
Blind SA says blind and partially sighted entrepreneurs are battling to make ends meet during the lockdown period. The organisation says it has received numerous requests from the entrepreneurs from Sheltered and Protective Workshops for urgent assistance during the National Lock Down. It says the blind and partially sighted entrepreneurs who are operating micro small business such as piano tuning, basket weaving and cane furniture amongst others are no longer producing and are facing severe economic, social and psychological stress.
Chairperson of the Blind SA Economic Empowerment Committee, Tommie Lehmkuhl…
Artisanal miners in Kimberley in the Northern Cape who are former illegal miners have been struggling to make ends meet since the beginning of the national lockdown. Like all other non-essential workers the miners were forced to stay home. The miners are now appealing to the Northern Cape government to give them food parcels because they and their families are starving. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
As the coronavirus rages across the globe, San communities in Platfontein outside Kimberley in the Northern Cape, are hoping to remain free of the virus. While the province has recorded 18 confirmed cases, none has been reported in the San settlement. However, they are struggling to come to terms with the lockdown and the regulations. Ulrich Hendriks compiled this report voiced by Puleng Modupe...
A 39 year old man has appeared before the Garies Magistrates Court in the Northern Cape, in connection with possession of endangered species. Jaco Willemse was arrested after police found him in possession of succulent plants such as Conophytum Pageae, Larryleachia and Pelargonium Chrismifolium. This after police received information about the succulent plants at his premises. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba…
Some businesses are adapting, in a bid to reverse the negative impact of the lockdown. A small clothing factory in Kimberley is churning out face masks. Securing employment for staff and allowing the business to stay afloat. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
A Northern Cape scrapyard owner has been arrested for contravention of the disaster regulations. He was nabbed after SABC News investigated allegations that he was forcing his employees to work despite the lockdown. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex community(LGBTQI+) is among the most vulnerable during this lockdown. This according to organisations representing this community - as they continue to deal with increased cases of violence, hunger, and homelessness. LGBTI organisation, Access Chapter 2 says at least 136 cases of violence have been reported to it since the beginning of the lockdown. Neria Hlakotsa reports...
The Labour department in the Northern Cape says the Unemployment Insurance Fund's processes for beneficiaries who are already receiving payment from the fund have been relaxed, to allow the claims to be paid without mandatory source documents. This after some residents at Olifantshoek in the province raised concerns regarding their inability to sign for their monthly contributions due to the lockdown. The department's Kebalepile Khula says those with new applications can send an email to: northerncape.bcp@labour.gov.za
A scrap yard owner at Hartswater in the Northern Cape has been arrested for contravention of the Disaster Management Act regulations and fraud . The scrap yard owner was arrested after allegations that he is forcing his employees to work since the beginning of the lockdown. The owner allegedly gave his employees falsified permits to continue working during the lockdown. The permits issued under AGRI SA logo were allegedly given to workers to avoid police A whistle blower spoke on condition to remain anonymous…
Many informal food traders in Kimberley are yet to secure permits to operate during the lockdown period. Some vegetable and fruit hawkers say they do not meet the requirements, which include having a trading permit licence. Informal food traders were previously prohibited to operate to help prevent the spread of the Corona virus. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report…
Some scholar transport drivers in Kimberley in the Northern Cape are desperate for a financial relief. The drivers say since the closure of schools - as means to curb the spread of the Coronavirus - they have had no source of income.They say parents are not willing to pay them as their children are not using their transportation. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Three men aged between 20 and 22 have been arrested for rape and robbery in Kimberley. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspects allegedly raped and robbed a woman during the early hours of this morning. He says they are expected to appear in the Kimberley magistrates court soon…
Three men have been arrested with regards to the shooting that took place at Galeshewe near Kimberley on Tuesday. Police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspects allegedly shot and killed a foreign national at Santa Centre, then loaded him in a car and drove the car to another area near Sesing Street. The body was discovered by police in the car. Ramatseba says the motive for the murder has not yet been established.
The Galeshewe Muslim Association has handed over food parcels to the various old age homes at Galeshewe, Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
The Northern Cape Education Department says it has implemented the necessary contingency plans to limit the impact of COVID 19 on the 2020 academic year. The department is currently using e-learning to enable the learners to continue lessons from home during the lockdown. But many students from poor communities are unable to access the Internet at home. Nobelungu Nowapane compiled the following report...
The Pakistan Community Association in South Africa has donated food parcels to assist impoverished families in the Northern Cape, during the lockdown. Mustafa Gondal, the Association’s president in the province says they understand the plight of the poor. He says the food parcels will go to local residents throughout the province, including poor Muslim families…
A 27 year old Kimberley man has been arrested for allegedly stabbing two people to death at Phutanang in the Northern Cape. Police spokesperson Mohau Ramatseba says the first victim was allegedly stabbed on the chest after having a short argument with the suspect. The suspect allegedly went on to stab the second victim half an hour later….
The department of Water Affairs in the Northern Cape is concerned about the slow pace of delivery of water tanks to areas that do not have access to clean drinking water in the province, amid the Covid-19 pandemic the country is currently experiencing. The department’s Amogelang Moholoeng says the delivery of water to all areas in dire need of water is a priority. He says the department is currently looking into ways of speeding up the delivery of water tanks…
Easter is traditionally snoek time in South Africa. And nature did not disappoint. Fishermen along the Namaqualand coast are having a whale of a time as the delicacy migrates across the area. A good snoek season can set fishermen up for months. But with the lockdown, they are cut-off from their markets. Local fishermen, Chad Nas explains their dilemma….
The Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley says residents who are experiencing problems with trees that may have fallen on roads during yesterday’s hailstorm should contact the municipality’s emergency services for assistance. The massive hailstorm damaged cars and windows of houses. Sol Plaatje municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie says the municipality is ready to attend to those who might need any shelter due to damages to their houses caused by the hailstorm…
Northern Cape Education MEC Mac Jack has raised concerns about the alarming high rate of incidents of theft and vandalism at schools in the province, during the Covid-19 lockdown period. Schools in the Pixley Ka Seme, Frances Baard, ZF Mgcau and Namakwa districts have been targeted. These incidents happened amid the national lockdown period wherein communities have been instructed to stay at home to avoid the spread of the Covid-19. Puleng Modupe reports…
Some Kimberley residents are faced with massive damages caused by a severe hailstorm that rocked the city. Residents say they will have challenges repairing damages to their vehicles and shacks amongst others as hardware stores are closed due to the current lockdown the country is experiencing. The lockdown came as a result of the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. …
The extension of the lockdown in South Africa has everyone on edge, including children who are forced to stay indoors. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced last night that the 21 day lockdown will be extended by 14 days, as he said the lockdown was working effectively in curbing the spread of Covid-19. Some children in Kimberley in the Northern Cape now say although it is good to spend time with their families, they miss going to school and being with their friends…
Two suspects including a minor are expected to appear before the Springbok Magistrate Court in the Northern Cape on charges of being in possession of Abalone. The two were found in possession of abalone worth 6 thousand rand yesterday. Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Nomthandazo Mnisi says the 15 year old minor has been released in custody of his parents …
A Senior SABC TV news reporter in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, Ulrich Hendriks has tested negative for the COVID-19 virus - after he initially tested positive the first time. The SABC's Northern Cape offices were also closed down and other staff members had to test for the virus, but their results were negative. Hendriks says the past couple of weeks have been stressful for him and his family, after he had some mild symptoms that appeared after a couple of days - but is now relieved…
The Northern Cape Premier Dr. Zamani Saul today handed out food parcels to the Khoisan community residing in Platfontein on the outskirts of Kimberley. Government will distribute over 47 thousand food parcels to vulnerable communities across the province. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
Nrthern Cape health MEC Mase Manopole says they are going to conduct a massive screening campaign in the Phokwane area on Monday, as it is the epicentre for Covid-19 in the province...
Northern Cape Health MEC, Mase Manopole says all seven people who have tested positive for Covid-19 in the province, are not critical and are just experiencing mild symptoms. The province has the least number of Corona virus infections in the country....
Christians are saddened that they cannot commemorate the entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem by celebrating Palm Sunday at their churches, due to the current national lockdown. They however urge everyone to pray for the flattening of the curve of the devastating Covid-19 virus currently plaguing the world. They say these are challenging times for Christianity…
Galeshewe residents near Kimberley who recently grabbed land and erected shacks near Kirstenhof say they are living in fear of contracting the Covid 19 virus. They say they are unable to follow precautions such as washing hands and social distancing because they don’t have water or toilets and have to walk long distances to search for water or find somewhere to relieve themselves. The residents say the lockdown is also making things difficult for them as they are expected to stay in their shacks. One of the residents is Joel Thupagale...
Northern Cape woman arrested for allegedly killing a 15 year old boy who peeped at her while she was bathing. The boy was stabbed on the chest and died. The 35 year old suspect is in police custody....
Some traditional Healers in Kimberley say the current nationwide lockdown to prevent the spread of the coronavirus has impacted their consultation with patients. This as it remains unclear whether healers are part of essential services. Citizens have been ordered to physically distance themselves for twenty-one days with only essential services expected to operate. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Renowned traditional healer Credo Mutwa will be laid to rest on Saturday morning in Kuruman in the Northern Cape. Mutwa who is respected for his belief in African culture and tradition died at the age of ninety-eight last week. During his lifetime Mutwa predicated important events in the country such as the assassination of communist leader Chris Hani and the 1976 youth uprising. The cultural activist was the author of several books that are based on African customs and beliefs. He will receive a provincial official special funeral. Neria Hlakotsa reports…
Fitness centres in South Africa say they are taking extra precautionary measures for the safety of their members amid the coronavirus outbreak. South Africa has recorded more than 20 cases of the virus. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi visited a fitness centre and filed this report …
The EFF in the Northern Cape has labelled Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul a constitutional delinquent. The party says the premier lied under oath when questioned in the legislature about an official trip he took to Tanzania last year, accompanied by 10 young people from the ANC. EFF's leader in the province, Aubrey Bartman says the premier used money from municipalities in the province, to pay for ANC members for the trip, and not money from sponsors as the premier had indicated. Baartman says they will approach the office of the Public Protector to investigate the matter if the legislature's ethics committee fails to thoroughly address it…
The Namakhoi municipality however says residents do not want to pay for municipal services, which in turn is affecting the municipality's ability to constantly provide them with water without any disruptions cuts. Mayor of the Namakhoi Municipality is Riaan Cloete...
Residents of Komaggas in the Northern Cape say they have been without water for almost a month. They say the Namakhoi municipality is failing them, as only a handful of people gets water that is being supplied by a water truck. One of the residents, Jaques Cloete says those who cannot afford to drive around searching for water sources in the area are affected the most...
ANC secretary in the Northern Cape, Deshi Ngxanga, has welcomed the State of the Province address by Premier Zamani Saul, whilst DA's Andrew Louw and Economic Freedom Fighters, Andrew Baaartman, say Premier Zamani Saul's speech is full of unfulfilled promises...
The Northern Cape Head of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Ruth Palm has been placed on special leave with immediate effect. This was announced by the Premier of the Northern Cape Dr. Zamani Saul while receiving a memorandum of demands handed over by National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (NEHAWU) in Kimberley. The labour Union marched to the office of the Premier, demanding the suspension of the head of the provincial department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Ruth Palm. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (Nehawu) in the Northern Cape is pushing for the suspension of the HOD for the department of Sports, Arts and Culture. Today they intestified their actions following daily lunch time pickets to a march. The HOD was fingered in the recent Public Protectors report which stated that she imporperly acted with awarding a tender of 1-point-6 million rands to an events company in 2016. The festival never took place. Nehawu branch chairperson is Victor Modise…
Two foreign nationals have been arrested for being in possession of abalone worth seven-million-rand. Hawks spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi, says the two were arrested after their vehicle was intercepted on the N1 near Colesburg in the Northern Cape ...
In an effort to address financial challenges plaguing the Magareng municipality at Warrenton in the Northern Cape, the municipality has implemented an incentive scheme to help residents pay their municipal accounts. Residents and government departments in the area qualify for discounts on interest and penalties charged on their accounts, when they pay or settle their bills. Residents qualify for 100 percent discount on interest, if they pay their accounts within a month. Magareng municipality mayor Bongile Mhaleni says the municipality was not able to communicate with residents before implementing the incentive, due to service delivery protests in the area...
Two suspects are expected to appear in the Colesburg Magistrates court in the Northern Cape for dealing in drugs. This after drugs worth over half a million rand and an undisclosed amount of cash was found in their possession. Police spokesperson Dimakatso Mooi says the suspects were arrested on Saturday.
A 36-year-old man arrested for the rape and murder of his mother in the Northern Cape, has been remanded in custody. The suspect allegedly raped and strangled his 51-year-old biological mother to death on Sunday. He briefly appeared before the Modderrivier Magistrates court today. Police spokesperson Mohau Ramatseba says investigations are continuing...
A warrant of arrest has been issued for former SA Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) spokesperson and rape accused, Douglas Mthukwane in Kimberley. This after Mthukwane failed to appear in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court on Friday. Mthukwane was recently axed from his SAFTU spokesperson position after the federation found out about the three rape cases against him. Despite police confirmation that they intend to execute the warrant of arrest, Mthukwane insists that he has done nothing wrong…
The South African Federation of Trade Unions, SAFTU, is caught in an ugly legal battle after axing its spokesperson who is facing three counts of rape. The federation alleges that it was not aware that Douglas Mthukwane stands accused of rape, dating back to 2014 and recent one in 2019, when they employed him as their spokesperson last year. Mthukwane has since taken the federation to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration for unfair labour practices. Neria Hlakotsa reports…
The Special Investigations Unit, SIU, is conducting a raid at the offices of the Kimberley Master of the High Court. This after President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered that investigations be conducted into the Masters' offices around the country following allegations of corruption and maladministration. At the Kimberley Master's office, community members were turned away with no indication as to when the office will re-open. SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago says there is no time frame as to when a report will be sent to the president…
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in the Northern Cape, has confirmed the cancellation of the Phokwane by-elections, that were due to take place this morning. The cancellation follows a court interdict that was issued by the North Gauteng High Court ordering the reinstatement of dismissed and expelled ANC councillors at the Phokwane Municipality. The councillors who were expelled from the ANC in 2019 have not taken the matter lying down. This is the first time in the province that by-elections are cancelled in this manner. The Provincial Electoral Officer is Bonolo Modise....
Some residents of Phokwane in the Northern Cape where by-elections are expected to take place tomorrow, are dissatisfied about the ANC candidates nominated. Two wards are being contested after they were left vacant following the two councillors' expulsion from the ANC. One of the residents who is also an ANC member, James Moeketsi Ntema says the process to elect the candidates during the party's branch general meeting was flawed….
Sol Plaatje municipality has failed to collect soiled buckets at Santa Centre in Northern Cape's Galeshewe Township. The situation has now become terrible as residents are forced to empty the buckets in their own backyards. The residents say the buckets were only collected once last month. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
Residents of Scandal informal settlement in Kimberley are currently holding a protest action to highlight lack of service delivery. Residents have barricaded roads with tree branches and stones to protest against the lack of electricity, sanitation and water. The residents settled illegally on a piece of land three months ago. Community leader Lawrance Mkwanazi says they are demanding that the Mayor of Sol Plaatje and the Premier to come and address their grievances…
As some christians flock to churches to celebrate Christmas - many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex people of faith remain isolated by their religious communities because of their gender or sexuality. Others, who were ordained as faith leaders, have been shown the door. Twenty journalists from across Sub-Saharan Africa recently attended a workshop on covering sexual and gender minorities and religion in Cape Town. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi compiled his third report from Cape Town…
Some journalists on the African continent still find it difficult to report on LGBTQI-plus communities due to the lack of media freedom. Twenty journalists from across Sub-Saharan Africa recently attended a workshop on covering sexual and gender minorities and religion in Cape Town. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi filed this second report from Cape Town…
Three men have been arrested at Hartswater in the Northern Cape for fraud and allegedly impersonating a police officer. Suspects aged between 35 and 57, allegedly called a father whose son was in custody for rape, pretending to be police. They reportedly promised the father of the jailed man that they will drop the charges and destroy the docket if he paid. Provincial police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba says the suspects were arrested after receiving 1-thousand-rand during a trap set by police….
Kimberley-based artist Tshepo Matlhoko is the only African invited by the Chinese Embassy to exhibit his work at the "Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition" in Quanzou, Fujian. Matlhoko says it's an honour to have been invited to this prestigious event. The exhibition forms part of the fourth Maritime Silk Road International Arts Festival. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Legal and Education advocacy officer at Gender Dynamix, Greyson Thela says it's time that people understand the difference between gender identity and someone's sexual orientation. Thela says people within the LGBTQI-plus community are still wrongly labelled by their pronouns - like, he or she - because of this stigma.
The community of Richtersveld in the Northern Cape is fuming following the shooting of four illegal miners in the area. They allege that a security company - belonging to one of the mines in the area - released live ammunition on the illegal miners, leaving one of them critically injured in hospital. Police have confirmed that a case of attempted murder has been opened against the Vetus Scholar security company - which allegedly fired live ammunition at the illegal miners. Northern Cape police spokesperson Mohale Ramatseba explains...
Four people have died when the vehicle they were traveling in overturned and caught fire near Petrusville in the Northern Cape, on Saturday. They were allegedly from a funeral. Police spokesperson Mohau Ramatseba says an inquest docket has been opened…
Women's organisations in Kimberley say they will no longer tolerate gender based violence in communities. Isibindi and Femme women - nongovernmental organisations- are holding awareness campaigns in preparation of the 16 days of activism of no violence against women and children. Femme Women, founder, Keamogetswe Motsemme says gender based violence is everyone's business.
The Supersonic car, Bloodhound, reached the one-thousand kilometres per hour mark this morning. The car has been in South Africa for the past month to do tests ahead of the record attempt of 1600 kilometres per hour next year. Bloodhound landspeed record car chief engineer, Mark chapman explains
There is a bright future for literature in people's first languages and more South Africans are embracing books that are written in African languages. This is the view of award winning Kimberley-based author Sabata Mokae who received the Novel Award at the South African Literary Awards. The published Setswana author believes his award for his book Moletlo Wa Manong, loosely translated as feast of the vultures, vindicates his decision to only write Setswana Novels. Neria Hlakotsa reports…
Northern Cape premier Zamani Saul has expressed his dissatisfaction with the exclusion of the Northern Cape from the Springbok's victory tour, currently taking place. The Northern Cape and other four provinces including the Free State and North West will not get the opportunity to see the Webb Ellis Trophy. Saul says he has engaged the Sports Minister and the South Africa Rugby Union regarding the matter. He has also posted on Social Media that it is unfair for the Northern Cape not to be included …
The Bloodhound supersonic car came close to its expected high-speed testing of 8-hundred kilometres per hour at Hakskeenpan near Upington in the Northern Cape. However, the car sustained minor damage and engineers had to be roped in to attend. They confirmed speed for the car is at 7-hundred and 86 kilometres per hour. The supersonic car was officially launched last month at Hakskeenpan. The car is expected to attempt its land speed record of 1-thousand six-hundred kilometres next year on the pan. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is at Hakskeenpan and witnessed this high-speed testing…
Farmers Union Saamtrek Saamwerk in the Northern Cape called on authorities to launch an investigation - after receiving complaints from emerging farmers not getting the necessary assistance from government to make their farms profitable. Farmers who are leasing land say they are expected to start paying rent after 5-years of occupying the land - however they are saying mechanisms are not always put in place to make their farms profitable, adding to their frustrations. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has more…
Pink Drive - a NGO helping with the fight against breast cancer - says problems at the Dr Harry Surtie hospital at Upington in the Northern Cape - is setting back the fight again cancer. The hopsital is unable to screen patients for cancer. Staff and diagnostic equipment said to be the biggest problems. Pink Drive says the biggest win in the fight against cancer is early detection. This report was filed by Ulrich Hendricks and voiced by Refilwe Kurite
The Dikgatlong Municipality in Barkly West is planning to lease the town's rundown resort to a private company for ninety-nine years or sell it. The potential investors and developers plan to develop the place to a Barkly West Tourism Node. The resort has turned into a white elephant. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Eskom has placed the first notice of intent to interrupt electricity supply at twelve municipalities in the Northern Cape. The power utility plans to cut electricity supply in December, due to non-payment of the outstanding debt in those municipalities. Some of the defaulting municipalities that will be affected are Phokwane, Magareng, Dikgatlong and Thembelihle. Combined debt owed by the municipalities across the province to Eskom is over 600-million-rand. Eskom's spokesperson Dikatso Mothae says municipal debt is a huge issue across the country…
The 26th of October is Intersex Awareness Day and 29-year-old intersex activist Keitumetse Skonta from the Northern Cape says nothing has changed in the way intersex people are being treated. She says the stigma and misinformation about the people has forced many intersex people into isolation. Skonta says educating the community about intersex individuals is essential. The province currently has 380 intersex people…
A DA member of the Provincial Legislature in the Northern Cape has joined the list of party officials to resign from the Democratic Alliance. Advocate Boitumelo Babuseng announced that he wanted to focus on his legal career, as he is planning to return to the bar full time. However, the DA's provincial leader Andrew Louw has indicated that he has no intention of leaving the DA, as he believes it is the party that has the interests of all South Africans at heart...
More than three-thousand Northern Cape farmers will benefit from government-sponsored fodder. Deputy President David Mabuza earlier promised 30-million-rand for the procurement and distribution of fodder in the drought-stricken province. Farmers in the small town of Ritchie were the first to benefit. Refilwe Kurite reports….
Community members in the Kalahari are overjoyed that the Bloodhound supersonic car has finally made its appearance at Hakskeenpan in the Northern Cape. The car is in the Kalahari for its high-speed testing of 8-hundred kilometres this week. Next year it will attempt its world speed land record of 1-thousand 6-hundred kilometres per hour. The car was officially launched on Tuesday. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Hakskeenpan and filed this report…
The Bloodhound supersonic car has officially been revealed at Hakskeenpan in the Northern Cape. The car is in the country for the Bloodhound team to do the car's high-speed testing of 8-hundred kilometres per hour, before its world speed land record attempt of 1-thousand 6-hundred kilometres per hour next year. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi attended the launch and filed this report…
The much anticipated Bloodhound supersonic car is finally in South Africa. The car is set to attempt a land speed world record of 1-thousand six-hundred kiloemtres per hour - at Hakskeenpan in the Northern Cape next year. This week the car will do its high-speed test of 8-hundred kilometres per hour - with its driver Andy Green. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Hakskeenpan in the Kalahari and filed this report…
Hundreds of people came out to pay their last respect to 17-year-old Itumeleng Witbooi - who was allegedly stabbed and stoned to death by his fellow pupils - at Blinkklip Secondary School in Postmasburg in the Northern Cape, more than a week ago. Itumeleng's moving funeral took place in Postmasburg. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi attended the funeral and filed this report…
A Grade Five learner from Kimberley is representing the country at a spelling Bee competition in Uganda. Tshegofatso Mojanaga is among 108 spellers from 18 African countries competing for the position of a word genius. The Northern Cape Education Department has wished the wiz kid well. Spokesperson Geoffery van der Merwe ...
Joe Morolong Municipal manager Tebogo Tlhoaele dismissed calls for his resignation saying that he is fighting corruption in the municipality. Tlhoaele added that the municipality has given the contractor two weeks to return to site and build the road that the community is complaining about. They community and EFF members claim that millions have been paid for work that has never been done, and that a tarred road that was expected to be built has not been built. Joe Morolong Municipal manager Tebogo Tlhoaele
The Economic Freedom Fighters in the Northern Cape with some community members have shutdown services at the Joe Morolong Municpality near Kuruman in the province - demanding the resignation of the municipal manager. They accuse the municipal manager of refusing to account for money spent by the municipality. Goitseone Kaotsane is an EFF councillor in the municipality…
Scientists working at the Meerkat telescope - the frontrunner to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) continue to make exciting discoveries which include the discovery of bubbles next to the black hole that no one has ever seen. On Tuesday nine African membership countries which include South Africa who are part of the SKA visited Carnavon in the Northern Cape to check on progress. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Carnarvon and filed this report…
Delays in the release of DNA results of the missing Kimberley woman has her family worried. Rehana Moshoeshoe disappeared in 2010. Two months ago her family was alerted of a homeless woman in Pretoria bearing her resemblance. Her family believes the homeless woman is their child. But still have to wait for DNA confirmation. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Gender based violence remains high across Northern Cape's John Taolo Gaetsewe District. This is according to a local NGO operating at Seoding village. Social Development Deputy Minister, Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu opened a shelter for abused women at the village near Kuruman. The shelter which opened this week is expected to operate around the clock and will offer accommodation to women until they are back on their feet. Our reporter Rifilwe Kuruti visited the shelter and filed this report....
The family of a 14 year old boy who drowned in the sea at Kleinzee in the Northern Cape are calling on officials to help them retrieve the body of their son. Austin Klopper was last seen by his family on Sunday afternoon, when he went for a swim in the sea with his cousins. Klopper's mother Belma Lambert says they won't rest until their son's body has been found…..
Prison book clubs in the Free State and Northern Cape are the best in the country. This -- after they won 34 awards at this year's 10th National Funda Mzantsi Competition at George -- in the Western Cape. Refilwe Mekoa was at the celebratory event -- where prisoners were honoured for their achievements....
Northern Cape Khoi and San leaders have urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to sign the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership bill into law as soon as possible. They were speaking on the sidelines of a meeting between the leaders and Deputy President David Mabuza in Aggeneys near Upington in the Northern Cape. Neo Bodumela reports…
State farms in the Northern Cape will be earmarked to produce fodder and lucern for farmers buckling under the strain of drought conditions. This has come out in a meeting between Deputy President David Mabuza and farmers at Aggeneys near Upington in the province. Farmers have been dealing with drought conditions for at least six years, with some areas for longer periods than others. This is leading to rapid losses in livestock and crops, and mass unemployment of farm workers. Neo Bodumela reports...
The Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley says the progress to connect a new pipeline at the Riverton pump station is on schedule. Water supply to Kimberley from Riverton was shutdown last night, to enable the municipality to finalise their repairs on the last pipeline. Connecting the pipeline is part of the 55-million-rand project meant to ease the city's water supply problems. The Sol Plaatje Municipality started the project earlier this year by connecting a 600-millimetre pipeline. Sol Plaatje municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie says they are hoping to finish the work by Friday….
Four suspects have attacked police officers and stolen weapons at Windsorton police station outside Kimberley in the Northern Cape, last night. Officers on duty were allegedly tied up with cables whilst the suspects ransacked the police station. The Spokesperson for the Hawks in the Northern Cape Nomthandazo Mnisi says the suspects fled in a white Audi with Botswana registration number, after the robbery….
Sol Plaatje Municipality's planned water shutdown that was initially scheduled last week, and postponed after consultations with all affected parties, would commence tonight. The last pipeline is expected to be connected to the new Riverton pump station outside Kimberley, in the next two days to complete the fifty-million-rand project and sorting out the water inconsistency in the city. The municipality previously started the project earlier this year by connecting the 600-hundred millimetre pipeline. Refilwe Mekoa reports...
The Trifecta Group of companies has failed in its bid to have more that 59-million-rand - which was acquired through unlawful lease agreements - returned to the companies. The Supreme Court of Appeal upheld the decision by the Kimberley High Court which granted the Asset Forfeiture Unit a confiscation order after Trifecta boss Christo Scholtz and his companies were found guilty of corruption and money laundering.National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Bulelwa Makeke says the 59-million-rand will be returned to national treasury.
To mark the end of Heritage month, the Pan South African Language Board, (PANSALB) celebrated the International Translation Day at Platfontein near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Different San groups including the Khoi-San, Nama, and #Khomani San were in attendance. Various activities including cultural dances and presentations from different stakeholders were made. Pansalb CEO, Dr Nomfundo Mali says the main objective of the event is to highlight the work that the language board is doing…
Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul has labelled the new Kimberley Mental Health Hospital as the statue of corruption. His utterances come after it took more than 12 years for the facility to be finally completed to the cost of about 1.3-billion-rand. Saul officially opened the new Kimberley Mental Health Hospital on the eve of mental health care month. Refilwe Mekoa attended the openening of the facility and has compiled following report…
The growing opportunities of tourism in the Northern Cape have assisted not only those who were unemployed but also for the tourism authority to attract more holidaymakers in the province. The authority is now targeting locals to also explore the vast province they live in as the country ends celebrations of tourism month. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report, voiced by Refilwe Kurite…
The Khomani San group residing outside Askham in the Northern Cape celebrate their unique culture through amongst others storytelling, dancing, singing and embracing nature in various forms such as hunting and star reading. This as the country ends Heritage Month celebrations. This story is compiled by Refilwe Mekoa and voiced by Refilwe Kurite...
Emerging farmers in the Kuruman area in the Northern cape say the on-going drought is causing them to suffer a great loss. They say they are losing their livestock in great numbers due to drought, which has a negative impact on their limited grazing land. Lereko Motseko reports…
Local municipal offices were set alight during violent service delivery protests at Ritchie in the Northern Cape. The community went on a rampage, pelting police vehicles with stones, venting their anger agains unemployment, poverty and poor service delivery. The Sol Plaatje Municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie says although the community's concerns are valid, they should not resort to criminal activities. He says the municipality will engage with the community and different stakeholders, to bring stability to the area…
The Department of Sport , Arts and Culture today unveiled the tombstone of Elsie Vaalbooi who played a role in the preservation and promotion of the N!uu Language in Rietfontein in the Northern Cape. The unveiling forms part of Heritage celebrations currently taking part around the country. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
The newly launched logo of SABC's XK-FM in Platfontein, outside Kimberley depicts the culture, tradition and beliefs of the local San people residing in the area. After three years of strenuous work and negotiations, the launch eventually took place at the! Xunkhwesa Combined School. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Today's (Thursday) planned water shutdown by the Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley has been postponed for next week. The municipality says this is after consultations with all role players and affected parties. The water shutdown was meant to allow the municipality to upgrade the city's old infrastructure. Sol Plaatje municipality spokesperson, Sello Matsie explains…
Judge Steven Majiedt has been recently appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to serve at the Constitutional Court of South Africa. This follows the departure of former Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke and Bess Nkabinde at the highest court in the country. Madjiedt is highly applauded for the remarkable work he has been going in the Northern Cape as both a judge and the chancellor of the Sol Plaatje University. Refilwe Kurite complied this report…
Special votes for the by-election at Gasegonyane Municipality in Kuruman, Northern Cape continued smoothly without any incidents. The ward became vacant following the resignation of a DA councillor who has been redeployed to Parliament by his party. An independent candidate is going up against the ANC, DA, EFF AND FF+. IEC's regional supervisor is Peter Kgobe.
Over eighty Sol Plaatje University catering staff in Kimberleyin the Northern Cape have been officially insourced by the higher learning institution. The permanent appointments comes after the union on campus Nehawu, picketed in May last year, demanding the catering staff to be to be insourced. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report….
Cyclists who took part in the Desert Knights tour have conquered their 2-hundred and eighty kilometres between Namibia and South Africa. The annual tour kicked off on Tuesday with cyclists starting at Hobas Park in Namibia and finishing off at Sendelingsdrift on the boarder of South Africa and Namibia. The tour aims to profile the Ai/Ais Transfontier Park in Southern Africa and also for cyclists to enjoy the mountainous scenery, while paddling on their bicycles. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi toured with the group and filed this report…
Disadvantaged children from around Kathu in the Northern Cape have experienced playing golf for the very first time. This through an initiative termed I Drive, Chip, and Putt. The children were invited from primary schools around Kathu. Organisers says their main objective is to ensure that disadvantaged children also get access to opportunities otherwise limited to them. Organiser, Dr Patrick Selemela explains...
Sanitary towels will soon be distributed at schools across the Northern Cape Province, towards the end of the year. MEC for Education in the province, Mack Jack, made an announcement during his budget speech that they needed to speed up the process of distributing sanitary towels at schools. Northern Cape is amongst those that have been lagging behind on the programme, compared to other provinces across the country. Refilwe Kuriti reports...
Northern Cape police have welcomed the 43 year sentence given to serial rapist, Olebogeng Thukwi. Thukwi was sentenced on four counts of rape. This after raping girls between the ages of 11 and 14 in 2016, in villages near Kuruman. Thukwi was arrested in 2018 and was linked to all four rape cases through forensic evidence. Northern Cape police spokesperson Olebogeng Tawana…
The digital world is not only impacting on how people communicate but has also changed how traditional healers consult with their clients. Many healers are now relying on the convenience of telephonic and online mediums to connect with those that need their guidance. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report voiced by Margaret Mothibi...
The Phumelela Gaming and Leisure will be closing down the Flamingo Racecourse in Kimberley due to losses worth an estimated 23 million rand this year alone. The Racecourse employs and houses a community of 300 horse trainers and groomers, which could be affected by the decisions taken by Phumelela. The last horse race is expected to take place on the 9th of December this year, after which the Racecourse and horse training facilities will closed. Lereko Motseko visited the racecourse and filled this report....
Steep hills and sandy conditions were the order of the day for the Desert Tour Cyclists on day three. Cyclists had to cycle 59-kilometres from Ai/Ais Transfontier Park to Gamkab in Namibië. The seven day tour started on Tuesday and cyclists from South Africa, Namibia and Germany are taking part. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is with the cyclists in Namibia and filed this report…
Unions within the health sector are continuing to blame the Northern Cape Head of Department (HOD) Steven Jonkers for the state of paralysis the department is facing. Denosa and Nehawu want Jonkers to be removed from his position. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
The Body of Christ organisation including Pentecostal churches in the Upington area marched to the Dawid Kruiper municipality, demanding quality basic services for communities. The organisation also alleges that the municipality is engaging in illicit activities, following the recent employment of a top official, allegedly without following proper channels. They handed a memorandum of demands to the municipality. Mayor of the Dawid Kruiper municipality, Michael Sigede says they will respond after seven days…
Cyclists participating in the Desert Knight Tour on the South African and Namibian border endured their longest leg of the tour yesterday (Wednesday). The tour was sixty-eight kilometres with quite a few steep uphills. They cycled from the Hobas camp to the Ai/Ais Transfontier Park. The annual seven day tour started on Tuesday and people from South Africa, Namibia and Germany are taking part. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is on tour with them and filed this report…
The Desert Knights cycling tour kicked off at Hobas in Namibia and will end on the border between South Africa and Namibia. The thirteenth Desert Knights cycling event is in conjunction between South Africa and Namibia. The event allows cyclists to enjoy the mountainous scenery of Namibia. Cyclists have to endure a 2-hundred and eighty kilometre race. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Namibia with the cyclists and filed this report...
Four policemen linked to corruption have been arrested in the Northern Cape. The Hawks say the four allegedly asked for a bribe from a suspect whose vehicle was stopped and searched at a roadblock. The suspect who was in possession of dagga with the street value of 100-thousand rand was allegedly told to pay a bride of 2-thousand 5-hundred rand to avoid arrest. Hawks spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi elaborates....
A Taung resident has raised concerns regarding his neighbour who has livestock in his yard. Juluis Kepi says the cattle stays locked up all day, and this has been ongoing for almost a year now. He says his family suffers from the stench from the cattle dung and the constant flies caused by the livestock. Kepi says he has taken numerous steps by approaching the North West Health and Agriculture departments to assist in having the cattle removed but nothing has been done. Refilwe Kurite visited the area…Story filed by Refilwe Kurite voiced by Lereko Motseko..
A special school, Jannie Brink in the Northern Cape, is operating without permanent therapists on the premises. Jannie Brink Special School in Kimberley is supposed to help learners with different conditions, including Autism and ADHD. But now all that can't be done because the school is operating without permanent therapists that are suitable for the vulnerable pupils. Samantha Bekebeke compiled the following report
The office of the premier in the Northern Cape has come out in defense of Premier Dr Zamani Saul following the rape accusation levelled against him on Twitter. Dr Saul's name was listed on a Twitter handled @DbnSurvivors which was established following the rape and killing of UCT student Uyinene Mrwetyana. @DbnSurvivors which was established this month, encourages women to name and shame their alleged perpetrators. Premier's spokesperson is Bronwyn Thomas-Abrahams....
The severe drought plaguing the country - especially the Northern Cape - has seen meat prices skyrocketing. Meat prices have doubled - and in some cases tripled, as the drought takes its toll. Businesses are also struggling - with those selling bunny chows in Kwazulu-Natal complaining about the increase on prices and the effect on their profits. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi compiled the following report…
Spring is synonymous to flowers and the daisies in the Namaqualand region is blooming to usher in Spring time. The flowers attract flora fanatics from around the world to bear witness. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Namaqualand and filed this report…
Various municipal unions, residents, non-governmental organisations (NGO's) and political parties in Hartswater questioned the implementation of Section 139 at Phokwane Municipality during the National Council Of Province's (NCOP) oversight visit. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
There's a new trend in the country, which has seen more South Africans choosing alcohol-free beverages over those containing alcohol. This is according to the Human Sciences Research Council and the Foundation for Alcohol Related Research. Businesses and restaurants are cashing in. Reginald Witbooi reports...
A Namibian online radio station broadcasting in Khwe and !Xun for the San commnuties, has officially started live streaming. This comes after five people from Bwambwata in Namibia were trained for a few weeks here in South Africa, by the SABC's XK-FM technical team. Nobelungu Nowpane reports...
An HIV/Aids activist is using her experience to establish rural support groups for HIV positive people including teenagers, born and living with the virus. 45-year-old Mpho Lekgetho has been living with the virus for almost two-decades and is using her experience to help others. Her community outreach programs reach a few villages around the Kuruman area. Refilwe Kurite reports...
It takes more than just showing up at work to be the change you want to see. Tshegofatso Gopane is a medical doctor in Kuruman in the Northern Cape, who has through her profession made a huge difference in the lives of women and children in rural areas. Using her own resources, she focuses on educating rural people about cancer and other chronic illnesses and how to prevent them. Refilwe Kurite reports…
Community members at Upington in the Northern Cape marched against gender based violence. Residents lament a spike in violence against women in the area. In the latest incident 14-year-old Esmeralda Isaacs was stabbed to death on Sunday. She sustained 14 stab wounds to her body. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Upington and filed this report…
Women in the Northern Cape's mining industry say there's no such thing as work made only for men. Tsholofelo Mankuroane has proven that this is just a stereotype. She is one of the women employed at Anglo American's Kumba Iron Ore mine in Kathu. Mankuroane works as a heavy duty truck driver. Refilwe Kurite reports...
Northern Cape police are investigating a case of murder - after the body of a 14-year-old girl was found in an open veld near Bellvue at Upington yesterday afternoon. Police say the body was spotted by a person who was collecting wood in the veld and contacted the police. It's alleged Esmeralda Isaacs was last seen on Sunday when she was attending a church service. Police spokesperson Olebogeng Tawana...
International Relations Relations Deputy Minister Alvin Botes has urged the youth to take advantage of the opportunities that will be created through the fourth industrial revolution. The Deputy Minister was speaking in Kimberley, where he was addressing young people who were attending the international youth day symposium. The aim of the symposium is to examine how governments, the youth, and various youth-focused organisations are transforming education. Lereko Motseko reports....
A woman in Andriesvale in the Kalahari in the Northern Cape is encouraging other women to create a culture of entrepreneurship. Vinkie Van Der Westhuizen is running a bush-camp in the Kalahari and take tourists - from around the world on a bush-veld journey. She says women must not give up the fight and continue to pursue what they want to do. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi visited Van Der Westhuizen in the Kalahari and filed this report...
The Northern Cape Education department has acceded to demands from parents in the Namaqualand area, who wish to have their children taught in English. The department will identify three schools where there will be English classes. Parents cried foul earlier this year, when they could not get tuition for their children in English. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Students at a college in Namaqualand are frustrated that they are still not qualified artisanal workers. In 2015, then Mineral Resources Deputy Minister Godfrey Oliphant launched a 96-million-rand project for students to be trained as artisans. However, some students are struggling to get the necessary qualifications. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Vandalism of sewage pump stations has a devastating impact for Galeshewe residents, in the Northern Cape. Criminals made off with copper cables, a metre box and left the stations damaged. This means that sewage cannot be pumped away and is flowing in the township streets. Lereko Motseko reports....
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Blade Nzimande says government is in the process of preventing other countries from stealing South African citizen's innovations. Nzimande further says he is confident that South Africa can rise very high in terms of Science and Technology. He was launching the 2019 instalment of the National Science Week in Kimberley. The National Science Week is the premier science engagement initiative on the Department of Science and Innovation's calendar...
Khoisan language activists have called on government to celebrate the N/UU (PRON: NXU) language during this year's Heritage month. Only four people are still able to fluently speak the ancient language, estimated to be around 25-thousand years old. Language activist David Van Wyk says a commitment was made by former Department of Arts & Culture minister Rejoice Mabudafhasi to put the spotlight on the language and honour Ouma Elsie Vaalbooi - who was the first to resurface as a speaker of the language, but that has never happened. This year is the International Year for Indigenous languages and the community feels having N/UU honoured would go a long way in trying to preserve it. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi compiled this report…
Hard work lies ahead for the supersonic Bloodhound car that will attempt its land speed record of 1-thousand six-hundred miles per hour - at Hakskeenpan in the Northern Cape. Earlier this week the Bloodhound team were in the Kalahari to do some groundwork - ahead of the supersonic car's high speed testing in October this year. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi was with the team and filed this report…
As part of the Mandela day initiative the community of Danielskuil in the Northern Cape were given a free shopping experience. The local mines set up a free pop up store for the needy to pick and choose clothing that will help keep the winter chills away. Residents say everyday should be a Mandela day…
The Griquas rugby team has had a great start to its Currie Cup season, beating defending champions, the Sharks, in Durban last Friday. They host the Pumas in their second match on Friday, knowing that they'll have to be at their best to beat the Lowvelders. The Pumas came close to upsetting the Lions at Ellis Park last Saturday, losing in the dying minutes. Griquas coach, Brent Janse Van Rensburg and the team, are looking forward to the challenge and will do everything they can to prevent their opponents from gaining momentum…
Angry Hartswater residents marched to the Phokwane Municipality in the Northern Cape, demanding that a decision to put the municipality under administration be rescinded. The municipality has been operating without the Speaker and Mayor since April, which affects council operations. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
The !Xun and Khwe Community at Platfontein near Kimberley say they will never forget how Nelson Mandela changed their lives for the better. In May 1999, Mandela handed over to the community at least thirteen-thousand hectares of farmland and tittle deeds to government houses - saving them from the Schmidtsdrift army base where they lived in army tents. However, years later the community is still in need, calling for further assistance from the current government. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
A 26-year-old man has been sentenced to 30-years imprisonment for the rape of two women at Phillipstown near De Aar in the Northern Cape. According to police, Thamboer Seekoei was initailly released on bail after he raped a 47-year-old woman in 2016 but was rearrested after he raped another woman while on bail. Police spokesperson is Olebogeng Tawana...
The National Union of Mine Workers has slammed the Department of Public Enterprise for its failure to prevent retrenchments at Alexkor Joint Venture Mine in Alexader Bay in the Northern Cape. The union says at least one-hundred and ninety mineworkers were retrenched last week, with the mine expected to cut more after incurring operational losses for the past two financial years. Alexkor JV is fifty-one per cent owned by the Department of Public Enterprise with the rest of the forty-nine per cent owned by the community. The National Union Of Mineworkers' April Maarman explains...
The ANC in the Northern Cape says it will take strong action against municipal officials and councillors who are caught wasting and stealing municipal money. This comes after the auditor general's report finding that only one municipality out of 31 achieved a clean audit. The auditor general also found that wasteful expenditure has increased to half a billion Rand in municipalities across the province. ANC provincial secretary Deshi Ngxanga…
MEC for the Northern Cape Department of Education has promised to meet with parents in the Namaqualand area following their complaints on the lack of English medium schools in the region. Some parents claim their children are forced to enrol at Afrikaans medium schools despite the language not being their mother tongue. Department spokesperson Geoffery van der Merwe says they are yet to study the feasibility of having an English medium school in the once predominately Afrikaans area.
The Association of Southern African Professional Archaeologists (ASAPA) says more funding is needed to expand archaeology in the country. Archaeologists from across the SADC region gathered at the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley for a three day biennial conference to share their various researches. They believe archaeology is a subject matter that can help establish links to the past and origins. ASAPA Chairperson Sarah Wurtz explains.
The existence of indigenous languages such as the Nama and N/uu (Pronounced Ncu) in South Africa remain under threat with only a few able to speak and understand them. Earlier in the year, during President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address, a Nama praise singer Bradley van Sitter made headlines for the wrong reasons with many accusing him of fumbling the language. However speakers and teachers of the indigenous languages insist they will not allow their mother tongues to perish. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, says his government has identified education and modernisation of government work as key priorities for the next five years. The premier was delivering his state of the province address in Kimberley today (Friday 5 July). Neo Bodumela reports...
Meanwhile... The EFF says they will keep a close eye on the premier. Provincial Secretary Shadrack Tlhaole explains...
Opposition parties in the Northern Cape have welcomed the speech delivered by Premier, Zamani Saul, in his maiden State of the Province Address in Kimberley. A modern and innovative province is at the heart of premier Saul's plans for the next five years. Opposition parties say although they are happy with the premiers speech, they are still concerned about his implementation plans. The DA's Andrew Louw...
The Northern Cape department of Coorporative Governance says the sixth administration will not tolerate poor performance, financial mismanagement and irregularities from municipalities. The department was responding to the Auditor General's report which revealed that only one municipality out of thirty-one in the Northern Cape received a clean audit. Municipalities in the province have doubled their irregular expenditure to at least 586-million-rand from 283-million-rand previously. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
Two men aged 34 and 51 years have been arrested in Upington in the Northern Cape for dealing in dagga. Police discovered dagga and plants after searching Skerpionpunt farm in Boegoeberg in Upington. Spokersperson for the Hawks in the province Nomthandazo Mnisi says the dagga has a street value of 40-thousand-rand….
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) wrapped up its nationwide public education and awareness campaign in Kimberley.. ICASA has been interacting with communities to educate them about the services it offers in regulating the communications industry. ICASA also presented on a number of topics which include, the high cost of communication and related interventions as well as complaints handling processes. The national spokesperson for ICASA Paseka Malika says is to educate communities and young people in to better understand their rights and responsibilities on ICT matters...
The Sol Plaatjie Municipality has blocked more than 5-thousand pre-paid electricity metres in Kimberley due to non-payment of electricity bills. Residents whose metres have been blocked owe the municipality more than 88.1-million-rand. Municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie says it's not only residents that are facing electricity cuts but also businesses and government departments that owe the municipality...
The San community of Schmidtsdrift in the Northern Cape continues to live in the wilderness. The group did not move with the rest of the community to Platfontein when it was established in 2003. Ever since they've been staying in abject poverty, without basic amenities. Some stay in a derelict hall, others live in tents. With no access to television or radio, they will not be following the State of the Nation Address tonight. 31-year-old Andre Poemuru - a father of one, calls on President Ramaphosa for help...
The Dikgatlong municipality says plans to resolve the community's grievances are at an advanced stage. Mayor Dimakatso Mbizeni explains...
Sewende Laan residents at Delportshoop in the Northern Cape are accusing the Dikgatlong municipality of failing them. The residents say they have been living in shacks without basic services such as water and sanitation for a long time. Residents say houses that are currently being built in the area are not allocated fairly - as those whose housing subsidies have been approved are being overlooked. Community leader, Meshack Moitsemang...
Two rugby teams in the Northern Cape are expected to compete for top positions in the Kimberley Rugby Regional League tomorrow. The Kimberley Rugby Club will be facing the South African Defence Force in what both teams has described as a crucial game. Both coaches say a win will propel them to a higher spot in the league...
The Northern Cape Health department has unveiled a fleet of 27 new ambulances that will be distributed to different municipalities in the province. The ambulances will speed up response time. This follows Premier Zamani Saul's recent announcement that he'll be taking the ailing department under his wing. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…..
UNESCO and the Public Media Alliance are helping to empower journalists in the SADC region to develop guidelines for Social Media usage in a professional environment. This is to get media professionals and communicators to use social media responsibly and ethically. Our reporters Siphephile Kunene and Reginald Witbooi are in Namibia attending this workshop and filed this report…
The ANC in the Northern Cape has received criticism from the Mayor of Phokwane Municipality - as being agenda driven - after the party's appeals committee upheld her dismissal. The Mayor and the Speaker of the council were fired by the ANC for contravening the party's constitution, undermining the decision of the caucus and collaborating with the opposition in council. The charges were levelled against her after she agreed to suspend the Municipal Manager despite the disapproval of her party. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
The case against a suspect who was found guilty of manufacturing porn, Roelof Petrus Du Toit has been postponed by the Barkly West magistrates court. Du Toit who was found guilty last month, was appearing for sentencing today when the case was postponed. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
The Northern Cape is one of the provinces that has had several incidents of child murders in South Africa. Starting late last year to earlier this year, there has been more cases of child murders, with culprits being their mothers' partners. Last year, One family lost a three year old toddler, after the mother's boyfriend torched a shack they were sleeping in. Recently a two year old was found dead in the Vaal river, with the accused being a partner of the victim's mother. As the country observes the beginning of child protection week, we revisited one family that has been affected by violent crimes against children. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
A company in Upington in the Northern Cape is the latest to receive a licence to cultivate medical cannabis. Leaf Botanicals which received a licence from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) is expected to export its own grown cannabis to Canada. As one of three companies to receive a licence to grow, harvest and export medical cannabis, Chief Executive Officer of Leaf Botanicals Gog van der Colff says security and quality of the product is their priority.
A family living in an informal settlement at Hartswater in the Northern Cape will have to wait longer before receiving formal housing. Transport MEC Lebogang Motlhaping extended their one room shack a few weeks before the national elections. An official ceremony was held and a ribbon for the newly extended shack was cut. The ribbon cutting for a shack angered community members on social media, with people accusing the department of using the gesture as an electioneering ploy. Spokesperson for the department, Keitumetse Moticoe denies that the act was used as a campaigning tactic. Moticoe says the MEC had a busy schedule at the time and this was a humanitarian gesture…
Kimberley residents can look forward to a rugby feast this weekend. Kimberley based team, Griquas is expected to play against Blue Bulls, whereas the South African Defence Force will play against Sishen and the Sol Plaatje university. The SANDF team coach Andrew Michaels says the tournament is is paving a way for the major national rugby tournament that will take place in Kimberley next month...
The DA in The Northern Cape says it is disappointed that it won't be taking over the province. The DA premier candidate Andrew Louw says he thought the party would win this time around. The party is trailing the ANC with 27 percent of the votes thus far. The ANC is currently just above 56 percent. The DA's Andrew Louw...
The Good party in the Northern Cape says it is satisfied with the results of the elections. The party started campaigning about 3 months ago in the province and managed to get more than 3000 votes thus far. The party's spokesperson Les Abrahams…
The ANC in the Northern Cape is almost ready to celebrate it's victory. Although the party's numbers seem to have declined, it remains on top with about 57 percent of the votes thus far. Chairperson of the party Zamani Saul says they will prioritize communicating with small communities in the province that have expressed dissatisfaction with the party...
Some ANC members at Batlharos near Kuruman in the Northern Cape are already preparing themselves for celebrations before even the release of the final official results. These members says they have worked hard to lure votes for their party and are excited it has done well....
The IEC in the Northern Cape says vote counting is continuing smoothly with about 11-percent of voting districts declared. The results in the province are slowly trickling in as the counting process continues. Provincial Head of the IEC in the province, Bonolo Modise says they are confident that they will provide clear numbers later today...
The IEC in John Taolo District in the Northern Cape, has expressed satisfaction on how election unfolded in the district. The IEC has however pointed out there was a delay at Ga-Ruele station this morning. Community members alleged it was as a result of the absence of ballot papers. But the IEC's Regional coordinator Peter Kgobe says the delay was as a result of a wrong voters roll delivered to the station but that was rectified. He explains...
Voters in the Galeshewe area near Kimberley were in a celebratory mood after casting their votes. Most were confident that they had made the right choice in choosing parties they believe would provide what they need the most, basic services and jobs for the youth...
Northern Cape provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Rismati Shivuri has called on people not to stop others from voting. Shivuri was speaking in the town of Kleinsee in the province where illegal miners threatened to protest if their demand to be legalised by the Department of Mineral Resources is not met. However, the Kleinsee voting station opened without incident. Shivuri says targeting IEC voting stations for protests will not resolve any government related problems...
Voting got off to a good start in a small town Orania about 200 kilometres outside Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The town is autonomous community looking after it's own affairs and has it's own currency known as the "Ora". The president of Orania Movement Carol Boshoff says today he's voting to express his cultural identity...
The Road Forum, representing several rural villages around Kuruman says they will participate in the elections despite having been disappointed by the ruling party in the past 25 years. This is the community that prevented learning and teaching for the entire 2014 academic year. The community says they were promised 35 million rands for the construction of the road in their area immediately after 2009 elections but nothing came to fruition. They say even after their 2014 violent protests that disrupted schooling for the year did not help. Motlalepule Morake filed this report
Karretjie people in the Northern Cape who are some of the last nomads say life has become difficult for them since they decided to settle in one place.These were once a regular sight on our roads in the Western Cape and Northern Cape as they trekked in search of work on farms in the area travelling by donkey carts. They are now settled at a squatter camp outside Colesburg are now faced with challenges of getting jobs and houses. Nobelungu Nowapane reports....
Patients who have been admitted to hospital won't be able to cast their votes. Some patients at the Doctor Harry Surty Hospital at Upington in the Northern Cape say this is not fair and the IEC need to look at visiting hospitals in the near future, because patients can't help if they have been admitted. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi visited some patients in hospital and filed this report...
Residents of an informal settlement in De Aar in the Northern Cape say they are tired of pleading their case to the Emthanjeni Municipality to bring services to their area. The residents want the municipality to keep its promise and build them houses. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
Beggars and car guards at Upington in the Northern Cape have mixed feelings about casting their votes on Wednesday. Some say they don't have identity documents, while others feel they didn't want to register to cast their votes. About 27-million voters are expected to cast their vote on Wednesday and elect the sixth sitting government. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi sat with the beggars and carguards and filed this report…
The family of a two-year-old girl from Delportshoop in the Northern Cape, whose body was found in the Vaal River says it is devastated. Keitumetsi Springbok has been missing for at least five days after she was allegedly kidnapped at the weekend from her home by a forty-one year old man who remains in police custody for the crime. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report.....
Villagers around Kuruman in the Northern Cape are now equipped with better access to health care. This through the Rea fola health care programme that was re-launched in the area today. The programme was established in 2012 by a doctor in the area, but stopped two years ago due to shortage of funds. The programme assist villagers who are far away from health care facilities and consists of mobile clinics that are visiting communities in deep rural villages. A patient, Piet Monnamodimo says the programme will help him a lot as he has been struggling to access health care services.
The family of a two-year-old girl from Delportshoop in the Northern Cape, whose body was found in the Vaal River has been left in pain. Keitumetsi Springbok was allegedly kidnapped at the weekend from her home by a forty-one year old man who remains in police custody. The toddler's emotional father Moses Karelse is still in disbelief.
Petrolheads in Kimberley in the Northern Cape were showing it off for the annual car drag festival. The event draws petrol-heads from around the country. And people are surely having the time of their lives. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi attended the event and filed this report…
Easter is synonymous with pickled fish, easter-eggs and hot-cross buns. But why is it important to have these eateries over an Easter-weekend? Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has the details…
Fishermen along Port Nolloth and Hondeklipbay in the Northern Cape were hoping for a great catch ahead of the Easter weekend. The fishermen normally cash-in during this period. But, this year was a different picture and they had to do with the little they got from Mother Nature. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi visited Port-Nolloth and filed this report…
South Africa's indigenous groups are concerned about the election process, but remain hopeful for the free and fair elections. The Independent Electoral Commission met with indigenous people organisations and leadership structures at Upington in the Northern Cape ahead of the 2019 elections. Various indigenous leaders across the country are in attendance to discuss matters regarding the electoral process. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi attended the workshop in Upington and filed the following report…
A 27 year old Kimberley man was stabbed to death by one of his mates in Galeshewe yesterday. It is alleged that the deceased and the suspect were fighting over a 5 Rand when the incident took place. Police spokesperson Bashoabile Kale says an arrest has been made….
A 12 year old Kimberley boy has been seriously injured after he drove into a residential property in Kirstenhof. The teenager and his three friends took their father's car for a spin, and lost control of the car. Police spokesperson Tessa Jansen explains.
The far-flung town of Brandvlei in the Northern Cape hardly offers anything in terms of recreation and employment to residents. With little hope, children are taking up the traditional rieldance to keep them busy. So much so that last year they were crowned the national Under-20 winners in the country. For the fifth time, 19-year-old Lewandre Schrader, won the best female riel dancer in the country. Reginald Witbooi met the team in Brandvlei and filed this report…
The Northern Cape Department of Education says it is willing to go to the Zondo Commission to answer to allegations of bribery levelled against it. Former Bosasa Chief Operations Officer Angelo Agrizzi recently testified at the Commission that a R10.5 million bribe had been paid to the department in order to secure a tender for security upgrades. The Department has since the revelations of the alleged bribery two weeks ago not disputed or confirmed the Agrizzi's testimony. Department Spokesperson Lehuma Ntuane explains…
The Northern Cape Department of Education has defended its teachers after the School Monitoring Survey revealed that teacher absenteeism in the province was at 13 per cent - the highest in the country. The department argues that the absenteeism highlighted in the report that was released by Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga could be for legitimate reasons, where teachers had applied for such. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Social Development Minister Susan Shabangu says police need to step up and help in the fight against substance abuse. Speaking during the official launch of the Northern Cape Substance Abuse Treatment Centre in Kimberley, Shabangu told police to deal with suppliers and drug peddlers. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report.
There were tears of joy at Garies in the Northern Cape when the Non-Profit Organisation - Gift of the Givers - donated tonnes of fodder, mealies, potatoes, food parcels and water to farmers and farm workers. Farmers and farmworkers in the area have been crippled by the ongoing drought. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi was in Garies when the donation was handed over and filed this report…
Tourists interested in stargazing are flocking to the small Karoo town of Sutherland in the Northern Cape. The town is home to the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), the biggest telescope in the Southern Hemisphere. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi went stargazing and filed this report...
Droughts are becoming more frequent and rainfall has been steadily decreasing as climate change takes effect. This is according to data supplied by a farmer, who lives near Fraserburg in the Northern Cape, and has records of rainfall in the area for 92 years. Reginald Witbooi visited the farmer at Springfontein, in the Northern Cape, and filed this report…
African National Congress President Cyril Ramaphosa has lashed out at the Northern Cape government for failing to provide basic services to residents. Ramaphosa was in Upington as part of the party's campaign trail ahead of the May 8th general elections. . Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Employees at the Vaalharts Water near Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape say they will not give up their shutdown at the plant - until Water and Sanitation Minister Gugile Nkwinti intervene. Tensions at the plant have been brewing for the past few weeks, following allegations of racism, favouritism and unfair labour conditions. A section manager at the Warrenton plant was suspended last week for allegedly using the K-word when referring to his subordinates. Since Tuesday operations at the plant came to a halt - and workers refuse to give up their fight - until their demands are met…
Residents at Delportshoop near Barkley West in the Northern Cape are unhappy that they are still without proper housing after 20-years. They say that they applied for houses - but until today they are living in informal structures. The Northern Cape's Co-Operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs department says they have no records of the applications and there are also no funds available to provide applicants with houses. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Some opposition parties may say Northern Cape Premier Sylvia Lucas' tenure lacked strong leadership. This is according to political analyst Andre Duvenhage, outlining his analysis on Lucas term as premier since May 2013. Duvenhage however also added that there were some positives during her term in office. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report that reflects on Lucas's term that will soon come to an end…
The ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) in the Northern Cape has named over 13 farms across the province that will be expropriated without compensation. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Community members of Delportshoop in the Northern Cape have marched against gender based violence in their community. This after 28-year-old Portia Tsietsi was poured with acid allegedly by her ex-boyfriend following their break up. Neo Bodumela reports....
Students living in a dilapidated block of flats in Kimberley say they are forced to stay there because they have nowhere else to go. They say the building has leaks, unreliable electricity supply and smells of sewage. Neo Bodumela reports…
Kimberley artists say they are tired of always being opening and supporting acts at prominent shows have organised a free concert and artist market at Galeshewe. The artists are trying to create awareness about their artistry and hope that they will be taken serious by show promoters and sponsors. Neo Bodumela reports…
A senior manager at the VaalHarts Water Use Association in Warrenton near Kimberley is under fire for referring to his subordinates using the K-Word. The Association manages the Vaalharts irrigation scheme on behalf of the Department of Water Affairs. Employees at the water irrigation scheme allege that their manager called them the K-word because they were running late for work. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
The controversial cyber-king, Adriaan Nieuwoudt, says they will go around the country to get white people - and take them to Eureka in the Northern Cape where he is erecting a whites only town. However, the local Kamiesberg Municipality and Nieuwoudt are in court over the matter. The municipality temporarily stopped the building process. Reginald Witbooi has more...
Can South Africa sell the Northern Cape to Namibia to save Eskom from its billion rand debt? Well, South Africans and Namibia residents have mixed feelings about this. A tongue in cheek online petition from a guy - who goes by the name of Adian Van Niekerk suggests that the province should be sold to Namibia in order to pay Eskom's debt, because it contributes very little to the country's economy… Reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Namaqualand and filed this report…
The Non-profit organisation Water Warriors has delivered about 15-thousand litres of water to the drought-stricken Kamieskroon area, in the Northern Cape. The town has experienced water challenges since October last year. Water Warriors also delivered food to the community. Reginald Witbooi reports...
The Non-profit organisation Water Warriors have delivered about 15-thousand litres of water to the drought-stricken Kamieskroon area in the Northern Cape. The town has experienced water challenges since October last year. Water Warriors also delivered food and it was smiles all around. The organisation's Deon Smit says they had to intervene...
President Cyril Ramaphosa says everything is on track to reach 1-point-four trillion rand investment in the next five years. Ramaphosa was speaking at the official opening of the Gamsberg mine at Aggeneys in the Northern Cape. The mine has an investment of over 21-billion-rand. It is set to exploit one of the largest known undeveloped zinc in the world and will compromise an open pit mine and a dedicated processing plant. Reginald Witbooi reports…
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he hopes the billions of rands invested at a Northern Cape mine will increase the provincial contribution to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The province is currently only contributing two percent to the country's GDP - which is the lowest of any province in South Africa. Ramaphosa was delivering the keynote address at the opening of the over 21-billion-rand investment Gamsberg Zinc Mine near Aggeneys in the Northern Cape…
Northern Cape Premier, Sylvia Lucas says the opening of the Gamsberg Mine is a huge economic boost to the province. Lucas is joining President Cyril Ramaphosa at Aggeneys in the Northern Cape in to open the 21-billion-rand investment project. The mine is set to exploit one of the largest known undeveloped zinc mine in the world this will be an open pit mine with a processing plant. Premier Lucas elaborates…
Leader of GOOD, Patricia de Lille, says the party is here to fix the country. The party held its provincial launch in Kimberley attended by supporters from all across the province. The party says it is ready to infiltrate all provinces and be part of the top five parties in the country. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
The National Prosecuting Authority has told SABC News that former ANC Western Cape chairperson Marius Fransman will appear in the Kimberley Magistrate's court. Fransman is accused of sexually assaulting his former personal assistant, Louisa Wynand. Fransman faces charges of sexual assault and crimen injuria. The alleged assault happened in a Kimberley hotel in 2016 - when Fransman and his entourage were en-route to the ANC's January 8th celebrations in the North-West. In December the NPA said it will prosecute Fransman. The NPA's Phaladi Shuping…
The Boitumelo Special needs school in Galeshewe, Kimberley will represent South Africa at the Special needs school Olympics in Dubai next month. The school's soccer team has beaten several other schools in the country for the honours of representing the country. Reginald Witbooi has more…
The Alliance for Indigenous and True South Africans - AITSA - is proposing a first nation tax levy should they govern one day. The party launched its election Manifesto at Kakamas near Upington in the Northern Cape - and will contest the 2019 general elections. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi attended the launch and filed this report…
Premier Sylvia Lucas says the Northern Cape government is doing everything in its power to combat the high unemployment rate. Lucas was delivering her last State of the Province Address in Kimberley. The province has an unemployment rate of about 40-percent. She says they have introduced a variety of interventions, regarding both short and long-term benefits…
The Democratic Alliance Premier Candidate in the Northern Cape, Andrew Louw, delivered the party's alternative State of the Province Address ahead of Premier Sylvia Lucas' SOPA address today. Louw's address focused on prioritising the creation of job opportunities, health care and education. The DA provincial leader says the current unemployment rate in the province which is at 43 percent is a cause for concern. He added that it is mostly young people that are unemployed, and that needs to be addressed urgently....
The Kimberley High Court granted an interim order in favour of the Northern Cape TVET College management. Prostesting students are barred from blocking or disrupting classes at any of the three campuses - following the college's urgent application. Students started protesting in January demanding lecturers and study material. The students also want dismissed lecturers to be reinstated at the campuses - and the principal of the TVET College in Galeshewe, Brian Madalane and his deputy to resign. The case will be back in court on the 8th of March for the respondents to obtain legal representation. These students and lecturers say the interim court order is unfair…
The ANC in the Northern Cape says it will not wait for the court outcome on the allegation that its ward councillor raped and abducted a 14-year-old mentally-ill girl in Kimberley. The party says it will look into the matter. Police say the 46-year-old man held two women hostage - over two days - at a house that was built for veterans. The man is charged with abduction, rape and attempted rape and is expected to appear in the local magistrate's court tomorrow. The ANC's Deshi Ngxanga says such allegations can harm the image of the party …
The Northern Cape Education Department admits there is a lack of teachers at the school - saying they are currently busy with the appointment process. Departmental Spokesperson Lehuma Ntuane explains…
Learners at Dikgatlong High School near Barkley-West in the Northern Cape have shutdown teaching at the school - saying they don't have enough teachers per learner ratio. They say they will continue until their demand for more teachers is adhered to. This grade eleven learner express his frustration...
Dikgatlong Municipality in the Northern Cape has received a backlash from residents of Smithsmine near Barkley West after failing to provide them with basic services. The former mining area which comprises of more than 100 households has had no water, proper sanitation and electricity for more than twenty four years. The residents claim all they have received are empty promises from the municipality. Neria Hlakotsa filed tthis report...
Former Sol Plaatje Municipality Speaker and ANC member has accused the ANC in the Northern Cape of failing her, hence her decision to become a member of the newly formed GOOD party. The former speaker accuses the party of protecting the then Mayor of the Municipality - Mangaliso Matika's - corrupt activities and overriding her complaint that he made her job impossible through his sexual advances. Elizabeth Johnson says she was fired as speaker and party member allegedly after she refused to table and approve a budget that she believed had financial discrepancies. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report....
Police have foiled an attempted cash in transit heist in Kimberley. Eleven armed suspects were arrested. Five were nabbed at the scene, while the other six were cornered at a house in the city. Police spokesperson Thabo Litaba says two of the arrested suspects are out on bail for a heist in 2015. He says the suspects were found in possession of unlicensed ammunition and rifles…
The Umsobomvu Munipality says it will offer assistance first to the elderly and unemployed. It is currently busy quantifying the damages. The municipality's Mbulelo Kafi explains…
Fourteen houses have been left damaged by severe storms at Kuyasa township in Colesburg in the Northern Cape. The storm hit the area over the weekend. Four of the houses have been severely damaged. Those affected are pleading for help…
The ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised to make job creation his primary focus in the Northern Cape province. The province is currently standing at over 40 percent of unemployment rate, which is the highest in the country. He says he will make sure that the problem of unemployment is tackled in the province. The president was speaking at the party's provincial manifesto launch, held in Kimberley. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
The ANC President Ramaphosa added that skilling young people is the key in boosting the Northern Cape economy. He was speaking at the ANC Provincial Manifesto Launch in Kimberley...
ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa says the main areas that the party will be focusing on in the province to create job opportunities are mining, renewable energy, agriculture and technology. He says he will exploit these to make sure that the problem of unemployment is tackled in the province. Ramaphosa was speaking at the launch of the ANC Provincial Manifesto at Galeshewe stadium held in Kimberley...
ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa says commission of inquiries are necessary for a total renewal and cleansing. Ramaphosa says those who have been implicated in corrupt activities, must be held accountable. He was speaking at the ANC's Northern Cape gala dinner in Kimberley last night - ahead of the provincial manifesto launch today. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has more.
The ANC in the Northern Cape will focus on job creation, fighting corruption and access to free education when it launches its provincial manifesto this weekend. President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the keynote speaker. The party says it is aware that the provincial unemployment rate - which stands at just over 40 percent - is high. This has become the people's yardstick to measure whether the ANC is a party to still consider. Neria Hlakotsa reports...
Axed Phokwane Mayor Masenya Kalman and Speaker Horiatius Modiakgotla are expected to explain next week why they're refusing to resign after the ANC recalled them late last year. The two were fired by the ANC Provincial Executive Committee in the Northern Cape, after the community demanded their removal. They argued that the two interfered with the administration of the municipality. ANC's Frances Baard Regional Secretary Webster Dichaba says the axed mayor and speaker are defying the party's orders...
Some students at Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley have still not been placed in their permanent residences for this year. They are now accusing the university management of failing them. Parliament's portfolio committee visited the institution this week and the issue of accommodation was discussed.. Student Representative Council spokesperson Itumeleng Senye says students have been frustrated since the beginning of the week, while waiting for a solution by university management. Senye says students are panicking as this will affect the academic year which is starting on Monday…
Four families have been left devastated after their family members who are seasonal workers were left dead after being struck by lightning. The four workers were busy harvesting grapes at a Sador farm in Louisville, Upington when lightning struck. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
Four workers died while five others sustained injuries after being struck by lightning at the Sador Fram vineyard in Upington, in the Northern Cape yesterday. The injured workers were rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment. Names of the deceased have not been released until their next of kin have been informed. Police spokesperson Mashay Gameldien says the workers were working when the lightning struck…
Three weeks into the academic year, lectures at the Northern Cape Urban TVET College, Moremogolo Campus at Geleshewe near Kimberley have not started. The College is currently facing a shortage of lecturers and books with some student still not captured into the system. Students at the college - who are most doing short course- allege that they have been coming daily to school since early January only to be turned back. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report…
Seven expelled ANC councillors in Kimberley are expected to contest the upcoming by-elections at the Sol Plaatje Municipality as independent candidates.The councillors were fired by the ANC last year for going against party policy when they voted with the opposition to oust then Mayor Mangaliso Matika. They say their decision to run as independent candidates for the February 13 by-elections is at the behest of the community. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
The Northern Cape province is facing a serious environmental scare where several districts in the province were declared disaster areas multiple times last year. Areas in the Northern Cape have received below average rainfall for the past six years with the trend currently continuing. Last week Agri SA said farmers need around 3 billion rand to minimise the effects of the drought. Ulrich Hendricks compiled this report voiced by Samantha Bekebeke..
An upgrade of the water pipes by Sedibeng Water has left Olifantshoek residents in the Northern Cape without water. Residents have been without water for over a week. School children are also sent home early - due to the ongoing water challenge.. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The granting of bail to a 58-year-old rape accused has left residents of Pampierstad in the Northern Cape aggrieved. Ruele Matlhola accused of raping a 12-year-old has been granted Five-Thousand-Rand bail by the Kgomotso Magistrates Court. Matlhole is one of the three men who allegedly sexually assaulted the young girl for more that a year, leaving her pregnant.Neria Hlakotsa filed this report..
Head of the IEC in the Northern Cape Bonolo Modise is encouraging people to register and not miss out on the last opportunity. This will also be the last weekend for South African citizens to register and make their mark...
Inmates at the Tswelopele Correctional Centre at Kimberley in the Northern Cape say they are going to vote in the upcoming general elections - because they have a right to. The Independent Electoral Commission are registering inmates today across the country, for the upcoming elections. This will also be the last weekend for South African citizens to register and make their mark. Programmes at the Tswelopele Correctional Centre have also been suspended for the day for the inmates to register. This is what some inmates had to say...
This year saw Northern Cape residents in the Frances Baard Region taking a stand against poor service delivery. The Frances Baard Region comprises of Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley, Phokwane Municipality in Hartswater, Dikgatlong Municipality in Barkley West and Magareng Municipality in Warrenton. Disgruntled residents forced the ANC in the region to sack officials who were accused of failing to provide services to communities. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Community members at Garies in the Northern Cape want their local Joe Slovo hospital to be renamed "Ta Grietjie". Grietjie is a local heroine. She was famous for her song, Lekker ou Jan - and became the music icon for the Namaqualand people. She recorded her first song at the age of 77. Grietjie died in 2014 - after heart troubles. Promises were made for her to be honoured by naming a street or building after her. The eldest daughter of Ta Grietjie, Katie Beukes says it was just empty talk. They feel it is fitting to honour their mother - and rename the Joe Slovo hospital after her…
The Pan Africanist Congress has elected new leaders at its three-day conference in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Mzwanele Nyhontso is the party's new president. He garnered 176 votes. His contenders were Luthando Mbinda and Zamikhaya Gxabe. He beat them by 121 and 28 votes respectively. The conference was attended by delegates from all nine provinces. Nobelungu Nowapane attended the conference and compiled the following report...
The newly elected Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) leader, Mzwanele Nyhontso says he will be focusing on uniting the party during his tenure in office. Nyhontso was speaking after he was elected as the new president during a three-day elective conference held in Kimberley. He was vying for the presidential seat with two other candidates, Luthando Mbinda and Zamikhaya Gxabe and won by 176 votes, beating Mbinda and Gxabe who received 121 and 28 votes respectively. Nyhotso is now extending an olive branch to Narius Moloto, who still regards himself as PAC president, and had snubbed the elective conference. Moloto says he has opened a case against the organisers as the conference is illegal. Nyhontso however says his main objective is to welcome members who did not attend the conference, including Moloto...
Mzwanele Nyhontso is the new leader of the Pan Africanist Congress. Nyhontso was elected during the party's three day national elective conference held in Kimberley. The party has been marred by infighting and leadership squabbles, with three leaders, Narius Moloto, Letlapa Mphahlele and Luthando Mbinda claiming to be true leaders of the party. They each have approached the courts, in a bid to stop each other from claiming the presidency. Meanwhile, Narius Moloto who has snubbed the conference has slammed it as illegal. Moloto says he remains the leader of the party and has already opened a fraud case against the organisers of the elective conference…
The Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), is hoping to emerge united from its elective conference that is currently under way in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Delegates from all nine provinces are attending the three-day conference which started yesterday. Luthando Mbinda and Mzwanele Nyontsho are reported to be vying for the leadership position. At this state, the party cannot confirm the two candidates, saying the names still need to be verified by independent elections agency. The elective conference follows the party's unity conference in Kimberley four months ago. Narius Moloto, Letlapa Mphahlele and Luthando Mbinda all claim to leaders of the party and approached the courts for intervention. The PAC's Spokesperson, Apa Poe…
Three men have appeared in the Taung Magistrate's Court in the North West, in connection with several rapes of a 12-year-old girl. 61-year-old Gaolatlwe Tsienyane, 56-year-old Ruele Matlhola and 20-year-old Tshiamo Motsage were arrested over the weekend on allegations of stalking, sexually grooming and eventually raping the child. The family of the girl, who turned 13 years old today, discovered this after she was found to have fallen pregnant. The trio's next court appearance is expected to be at the Kgomotso Magistrate's Court next week, where they'll be expected to apply for legal representation. They have been remanded in custody. Meanwhile, the mother of the child is calling on the Kgomotso Magistrate's Court to deny the three men bail…
The SABC has been informed that former ANC Northern Cape Chairperson John Block has started serving his 15-year prison sentence at the Kimberley Correctional Centre this morning. Block and Trifecta Director Christo Scholtz were convicted for corruption and money laundering in 2016 by the Kimberley High Court.The two were found guilty for the case relating to multimillion-rand property tenders awarded by the Northern Cape government departments - over a two year period starting in 2006. The money laundering charge was however dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal. The two lost the leave to appeal their sentence at the constitutional court last week. Reginald Witbooi reports...
Residents falling under the Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley will have to brace themselves for continuous night water cuts. The Municipality is adamant that these water cuts are the only way to avoid the lack of water supply in the municipality. Businesses and residents of Kimberley have been for the past few weeks experiencing water cuts at night - leaving most of them frustrated. Neria Hlakotsa filed this reports...
The mother of a 12-year-old girl says her daughter's life has been ruined after she was repeatedly raped, allegedly by two neighbours, who are now in custody. A third suspect is on the run. The rape left the 12-year-old pregnant, leading to her into early puberty. The child's ordeal was discovered after the family found out that she was two months pregnant. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Northern Cape ANC says they will welcome convicted former provincial ANC chair John Block back into the ANC structures - after serving his 15-year jail time. Block and Trifecta director Christo Scholtz lost their leave to appeal in the Constitutional Court this week - after they were found guilty by the Kimberley high court, on charges of money laundering and corruption in 2016. The money laundering charge was however dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal. The Kimberley High court is currently still awaiting an order from the Constitutional court, before it can issue a detention warrant for the two to start serving their sentences. Northern Cape ANC chairperson Zamani Saul…
The Constitutional Court has dismissed the application for leave to appeal the conviction and sentence against former Northern Cape ANC chairperson John Block and businessman Christo Scholtz. The two were convicted and sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for corruption and money laundering by the Kimberley high court in 2016, after a marathon case relating to multimillion-Rand property tenders awarded by Northern Cape government departments over a two year period starting in 2006. The money laundering charge was dealt away by the Supreme Court of Appeal. The Constitutional court found that there were no reasonable prospects for Block and Scholtz's application to succeed. The provincial ANC says it is saddened by the news. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Phaladi Shuping says a detention order will be made by the Kimberley High Court after which they will be expected to hand themselves over to correctional services within the next week…
A new desalination plant that will give the community of Loxtonvalle near Upington access to clean drinking water in under construction. The plant will provide water to 90-households and will create jobs for local residents. The 8-million-rand project is a collaboration between the local government and farmers in the area. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Minister for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Zweli Mkhize, says drastic measures need to be taken to curb disasters. Mkhize was speaking at the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction at Upington in the Northern Cape. The theme this year is: Investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience. Mkhize also visited a 323-kilometre flood wall that was constructed at a cost of 900-million rand - to mitigate the effects of floods on the agriculture sector, along the Orange River. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The Orange River Producers Association says around 15 percent of its table grape harvest will have to be converted to raisins due do damage of extreme heat. And with a world shortage of raisins and good prices, farmers will still be smiling all the way to the bank. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has more…
The Northern Cape social development department says all their Victim Support Centres - or Safe houses - are functioning properly and they hope to add two more by next year. The centres are a safe haven for survivors of various traumatic experiences. This includes survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault and rape and victims of human trafficking. Refilwe Kurite reports….
A teacher who was splashed with water in the face on Friday - by a grade nine learner at Kimberley Boys High School says she never expected it from the learner. Beate Lombard spoke exclusively to the SABC on the incident. The video that was recorded has since gone viral. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has more…
Schools around the Northern Cape have been plagued with violence and are facing challenges of safety. This is according to the Provincial Education MEC -- Martha Bartlett -- who believes that pupils are the ones compromising the safety of others. Speaking during the launch of a safety campaign -- Bartlett criticised pupils who bring dangerous weapons to school and disrespect their teachers. Neria Hlakotsa reports...
The prioritisation of cancer patients appears to be at its lowest in the Northern Cape, with only one tertiary hospital in the entire province being able to diagnose and screen patients for cancer. The Robert Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley is the only hospital with mammography facilities. This means patients are forced to travel for up to six hours across the province, to undergo cancer screening. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
The San community at Platfontein outside Kimberley is in mourning following the death of prominent storyteller, Louis Mangomba. Mangomba worked at the SABC's community radio station X-Kfm. He was also a councillor . X-Kfm station manager Regina Beregho paid tribute to Mangomba ahead of his funeral today…
Ten clinics in Kimberley have been shut down by striking community health care workers. They're demanding the implementation of an agreement to increase salaries to three thousand five hundred rand. And they want five months back pay. The South African Liberated Public Sector Workers Union says claims the department is dragging its feet in implementing an already agreed to salary hike. The union's provincial organiser, Thapelo Thole…
Nine of the eleven ANC councillors who voted with opposition parties to elect Kimberley's Sol Plaatje Municipality mayor, Pule Thabane, have been expelled from the ANC. The decision to expel them is based on the council meeting that was held in July, that was classified as illegal by the High Court in Kimberley. Thabane was again elected as the mayor by a secret ballot during a special council meeting yesterday. The ANC's Frances Baard region says Thabane, who is also one of the expelled councillors, has never been their preferred mayoral candidate. The party has thrown it's weight behind Patrick Mabilo, who lost to Thabane during yesterday's mayoral election. ANC Frances Baard regional secretary Webster Dichaba says, the case against two more councillors who also voted with the opposition is pending…
A strong economic relationship between African countries is needed for development - and put an end to poverty. That's the view from the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo who was speaking at the fourth Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Forum that was held yesterday. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi reports from Nigeria...
Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta says leadership need to ensure policy making take place for entrepreneurship to flourish. Keyatta was speaking at the fourth Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Forum in Lagos, Nigeria. It is the biggest philanthropic forum on the African continent to raise young entrepreneurs. The forum aims to create 1-million jobs over the next ten years and 10-billion dollars in revenue. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi reports from Nigeria…
The ANC in the Northern Cape says it does not accept the newly elected executive mayor of the Sol Plaatje Municipality. This comes after a new mayor was finally elected during a special council meeting. Sixty four councillors voted during a secret ballot. Councillor Pule Thabane won with thirty three votes against the thirty of his counterpart, Patrick Mabilo. Keith Sayster reports…
The Tony Elumelu Foundation says the only way to alleviate poverty on the African continent is to create a culture of entrepreneurship. The fourth Tony Elumelu Fellowship Entrepreneurship Forum is currently underway in Lagos, Nigeria. It's the biggest forum on the African continent - and trains 1-thousand entrepreneurs for an intense 12-week programme. Reginald Witbooi reports from Nigeria…
Over 5-thousand entrepreneurs and investors are expected to attend the fourth annual Tony Elumelu Entrepreneur Forum at Lagos in Nigeria. The gathering is a unique one, and the largest on the African continent. It's main objective is to assist entrepreneurs to grow sustainable businesses. Reginald Witbooi reports...
Kimberley's embattled Sol Plaatje Municipality is expected to finally elect a new Mayor today. Council is scheduled to meet after endless postponements to also deal with the suspended financial officer and municipal manager. In the past ANC councillors refused to endorse a mayoral candidate chosen by the provincial structure. The Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce is now calling for a speedy solution, as it says businesses are suffering because of the state of affairs at the municipality. NOCCI's Sharon Steyn...
The daughter of the late struggle stalwart Albertina Sisulu, Lindiwe described her mother as a strong woman who remained unshaken during the hard times of apartheid. Speaking at the Kimberley centenary celebrations, Sisulu says her late mother would be saddened by the current state of affairs in the ruling party. She fondly remembered her mother as a woman of strong conviction. Nobelungu Nowapane reports....
Political battles are hampering service delivery at three municipalities in the Frances Baard District in the Northern Cape. The provinces biggest municipality, the Sol Plaatje municipality is without a Mayor, Municipal Manager and Chief Financial Officer. Phokwane municipality has been closed for a week, and the Dikgatlong municipality's coffers have dried up. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The Keimoes community near Upington has shut down activities at the Scatec solar plant, where a road leading to the new 258 megawatt site is being constructed. It's accusing the company of failing to employ local sub-contractors and general workers. The construction of the plant by the Norwegian Renewable energy company Scatec is expected to cost around 4-point-7 billion rands. Reginald Witbooi reports...
Farmers in Upington in the Northern Cape are complaining about sewage affecting their crops. Contaminated water is flowing into the Orange River which provides water to irrigate crops int he area. The Northern Cape Department of Water and Sanitation has admitted there is a problem with sewage flowing into the river. Reginald Witbooi compiled this report….
Residents of Louisvale in Upington in the Northern Cape are accusing the Dawid Kruiper Municipality of failing them because they still use pit toilets. They empty their toilets, put the sewage in a wheelbarrow and dump it at a nearby dam. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi visited the area and filed this report…
Residents around Upington in the Northern Cape are battling to deal with the growing abuse of drugs - particularly crystal meth which is also known as TIK - in the area. Now, some farmers have established a non-profit organisation that helps farm-workers who are struggling to overcome this problem. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Today marks World Mental Health Day. Millions of people globally are suffering from the illness. Despite this - a Kimberley Mental hospital in the Northern Cape that was supposed to be operational already - has not seen one patient. Construction started in 2006 - and went from 290-million-rand to a massive 2-billion-rand. 34-year old Diana Egelser was diagnosed with depression at the age of 23. She says the illness had her at her wits end…
A school in the Northern Cape has been forced to shutdown due to heavy sewage spilling into the school yard. Learners at Barkly West Primary school have been subjected to attend school under appaling conditions with the heavy stench of raw sewage in the air for the past four months. Parents are up in arms accusing the Dikgatlong municipality of placing the lives of their children at risk by failing to repair the damaged pipeline. One of the parents is Fytjie Van Wyk…
Northern Cape pupils relying on scholar transport remain stranded as operators across the province continue their strike. The strike which started yesterday emanates from a dispute over a tariff increase for operators. Matric pupils are among the affected. The education department is scrambling around for a quick solution. Departmental spokesperson is Lehuma Ntoane
Thousands of learners at Ganspan in the Northern Cape were left stranded on the first day of the new school term. Service providers who ferry the learners to school, refused to - because of the dissatisfaction with the recent tariffs' adjustments by the Northern Cape Education department. The Northern Cape Learner Transport Association says they have not received any increase since July 2012. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The Northern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance has given council members at the Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley until Friday to hold a council meeting. Council meetings at the municipality have been postponed as ANC councillors are not in agreement with the current mayoral candidate to replace former Mayor Mangaliso Matika. The municipality has been left without a Mayor since last month. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
Barkley West residents outside Kimberley in the Northern Cape took to the streets this morning blockading a road leading into town with rocks and burning tyres. The community members are frustrated over lack of service delivery in the Dikgatlong municipality. They are accusing the municipality of financial mismanagement. Nobelungu Nowapane reports..
The Northern Cape Health department says it is engaging community health care workers across the province regarding plans to require matric certification for their jobs. The proposed plan would possibly see hundreds of community health care workers - many of who do not have matric - without the requisite qualification for the posts they now occupy. Community health care workers affiliated to the South African Liberated Public Sector Workers Union say they will embark on a picket outside health MEC Fufe Makatong's office tomorrow if the department forges ahead with its plan. Department spokesperson Lebogang Majaha says it has been on a road show to hear the concerns of the workers.
A Sol Plaatje municipal council meeting that was expected to elect a new mayor for the municipality today has been postponed. The Northern Cape based municipality has been without a mayor since the resignation of embattled former mayor, Mangaliso Matika in September. Last week at a council meeting also expected to elect a mayor ended in chaos as councillors and members of the public threw bottles of water and glasses at each other. Acting speaker of the council, Ben Springbok explains…
Opposition parties at Phokwane Municipality in Hartswater are calling for criminal charges to be laid against Municipal Manager, Matshidiso Mogale and her removal. Mogale allegedly increased her salary without following due processes or tabling the matter before council. Mayor Masenya Kalman failed to confirm Mogale's suspension after a special council meeting allegedly suspended her on Sunday. The ANC in the Frances Baard Region says they're currently dealing with the matter. Meanwhile, DA's provincial leader, Andrew Louw is expected to visit the municipality to find out the legitimacy of Mogale's alleged suspension…
A 13-year-old pupil from Louisvale Intermediate School at Upington in the Northern Cape has won the National Albert Luthuli Oral History competition in Johannesburg. Emile Hendricks made his school, community as well as family proud when he beat eight pupils who were competing against him nationally - in his category. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
A 13-year-old pupil from Louisvale Intermediate School at Upington in the Northern Cape has won the National Albert Luthuli Oral History competition in Johannesburg. The competition was introduced in 2005 to reignite the interest in history as a subject in schools. The department of Basic Education says a total of 135 pupils and 18 teachers from across the country were chosen for the national finals this year. Emile Hendricks - who won the competition - says it wasn't easy...
The Department of Environmental Affairs need to do more to curb air pollution that is continuously increasing on a daily basis due to the growth of industries. These sentiments were uttered by the department's Deputy Minister Barbara Thomson on the side-lines of the Annual Air Quality Governance Lekgotla held in Kimberley. Thomson says it's important to ensure that various air quality monitoring stations across the country are thoroughly maintained.
Despite its challenge to introduce the Nama language at two schools in the Northern Cape - plans are now in the pipeline to expand the language to grade one. The language has been implemented in 2016 at Riemvasmaak and Kuboes schools - as an extra murial activity for grade R's. Reginald Witbooi reports…
History has been made at Port Nolloth in the Northern Cape - with a move to formalise the small-scale fisheries sector. Just over 1-hundred small-scale fishers have now been put into co-operatives - meaning they will have meaningful access to sustainable marine resources. The Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Senzeni Zokwana , handed over fishing rights to the co-operatives at a ceremony at Port Nolloth: Reginald Witbooi reports…
Organisers of the Khai-Ma Nama festival say it's important to be holding such festivals - for the culture to take its rightful place. The annual festival is taking place at Pella in the Northern Cape. Festival-goers as far as Namibia and Botswana are in attendance. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The Northern Cape Health Department has committed to reducing the shortage of nurses at hospitals that the province is currently facing. MEC for Health Fufe Makatong was speaking at the nurses' graduation ceremony in Kimberley. More than fifty nurses graduated in different categories of nursing from Hedrietta Stockdale Nursing College. The graduates will be placed at various health-care facilities across the province. Makatong explains..
Northern Cape police are investigating two separate vehicle crashes that claimed the lives of seven people yesterday. In the first crash a vehicle collided with a truck on the road between Douglas and Kimberley, in which all four occupants of the vehicle died on the scene. The second crash in which three people died occurred on the road between Barkley West and Kimberley. Police spokesperson, Olebogeng Tawana…
Nama people at Springbok in the Northern Cape celebrated their diverse culture through songs and storytelling around an open fire for visitors. This as the country commemorates World Tourism Day, Namaqualand region together with the Northern Cape Tourism Authority closed the Heritage Month by embracing their authenticity. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
The Northern Cape Artisanal Small Scale Miners association, is assisting illegal diamond miners in the Namaqualand region to obtain mining permits. The move will eventually assist miners in Port North and Springbok in managing their cooperatives and legally buying and selling diamonds. Artisanal miners in Kimberley obtained their mining permits from the Department of Mineral Resources in June. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
The National Prosecuting Authority - NPA - has met the deadline to file responding arguments on the appeal of convicted former Northern Cape ANC chairperson John Block and businessman Christo Scholtz. The two were sentenced to 15-years imprisonment for fraud and corruption in 2016. Their appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal failed last month. They then headed to the Constitutional Court in a last bid to avoid their jail sentence. The NPA had ten days to submit their responding arguments. The NPA's Phaladi Shuping says it's now up to the Constitutional court...
Northern Cape police have found the decomposing body of a woman has been found inside her house at Galeshewe near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The woman was staying alone with her four dogs. The dogs were taken away by the Kimberley SPCA. A neighbour saw a skull next to the door leading into the house and alerted the police. Police spokesperson Majang Schalkie says police discovered the lower part of the torso, with the ribcage missing. Schalkie says it is not clear what caused the woman's death...
Northern Cape Artisanal Small Scale Miners organisation, is assisting illegal diamond miners in the Namaqualand region to obtain mining permits. This move once legalised will assist miners in Port North and Springbok in managing their cooperatives and legally buy and sell diamonds. Artisanal miners in Kimberley obtained their mining permits from the Department of Mineral Resources in June. The organisation's Chelle Goliath says the same can be done for Namaqualand illegal miners.
Parliament's Deputy Speaker, Lechesa Tsenoli says a report on the financial shortfalls within the legislative sector is expected by the end of the month. This week the Speakers' Forum - led by the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces held a forum in Kimberley in the Northern Cape - to discuss budget constraints within the legislative sector. Deputy Speaker Tsenoli elaborates…
Northern Cape Premier, Sylvia Lucas described the late Environmental Affairs Minister, Edna Molewa as a unifying figure and most professional and hardworking ministers. Molewa passed on at the age of 61 at a Pretoria hospital earlier today. Lucas says Molewa's passing came as a shock...
Northern Cape's Kimberley Hospital Complex has been renamed Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital. The renaming of the hospital after the late struggle icon who founded the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), forms part of the provinces Heritage Month commemorations. Nobelungu Nowapane reports....
Over two-hundred farmworkers in the Hantam region of the Northern Cape have lost their jobs due to the on-going drought. About 160 families in Calvinia benefitted from donations of food parcels and blankets from non-organisation Gift of the Givers. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Drought stricken farmers at Calvinia in the Northern Cape have received much needed fodder for their livestock from Gift of the Givers. Thirty Karoo farmers benefited from the relief drive. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
The Dawid Kruiper municipality in the Northern Cape is under fire for its delay in the completion of a multi-million-rand stadium in the town of Louisvale in Upington. The construction of the stadium started back in 1996, however decades later a wall securing the undone pitch is the only development done. Municipal Manager Elias Ntoba blames the poor performance by the initial contractor. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
Poet and Writer Dr Wally Serote has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Serote is among those that were celebrated during the annual Golden Shield Heritage Awards held in Kimberley.The awards aim to promote and while recognising the contribution of individuals to the country's heritage.
Angry learner transport drivers and owners in Upington in the Northern Cape have threatened to leave about two thousand school pupils stranded from next week. They are angry at the provincial department of education for its slow pace in paying back dated invoices and increasing their tariffs. The drivers say transporting pupils is now becoming expensive as they cannot afford to buy diesel for their busses.Neria Hlakotsa has more
The detection of the oriental fruit fly in farms around the Orange River in the Northern Cape has caused a scare to the provincial department of Agriculture. The fruit fly feasts on citrus and grapes which the department maintains are the main source of export in the province. When the fly finds its way into the fruit, it destroys it making it unsuitable for consumption. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
Residents of Louisvale at Upington in the Northern Cape are still holding on to the promises of proper housing and sanitation. Over 400 residents are among millions of South Africans who still live in shacks and use pit toilets which they view as temporary arrangements while they wait for proper homes. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Drought stricken farmers at Calvinia in the Northern Cape have received much needed fodder for their livestock from Gift of the Givers. Thirty Karoo farmers benefited from the relief drive. Meanwhile the provincial department of Agriculture and Land Reform says it has also provided drought relief earlier in the year to the tune of 42-million-rands. Gift of the Givers, Ali Sably says they are receiving more requests for help from more farmers in surrounding areas…
The SABC's community radio station, XKFM, is continuing to ensure that the rich heritage of the San community is not lost. The station broadcasts in !Nxuu and !Khwee from Platfontein near Kimberley, reaching the Platfontein, Galeshewe and Griekwastad communities, thus ensuring that the San languages flourishes. The SABC news team talked to the staff working at the station on how they manage to broadcast in the San languages, as most San languages are not written down. Puleng Modupe has more…
About 40 Bidvest security employees have been dismissed for allegedly engaging in an illegal strike. The company is contracted to Black Rock mine near Hotazel in the Northern Cape. The employees allegedly picketed at the mine accusing the security company of subjecting them to poor living and working conditions. The company however says the employees refused to return to work when ordered to do so by the court. The company's Waal De Walt says they're in the process of acquiring new employees to replace those that have been dismissed...
Two Northern Cape high school learners have been suspended following a stabbing incident that occurred on Tuesday. The two grade 9 and 10 learners allegedly had a heated argument in the school premises at Carlton Van Heerden hoerskool in Upington, which led to the stabbing. Education department spokesperson in the province Lehuma Ntoane says an internal investigation is underway. He says post trauma was awarded to the learners who witnessed the incident…
Artisinal miners in the Kimberley area are reaping the rewards of their hard labour. The former illegal miners, or ZamaZamas as they are also known, were awarded mining permits three months ago. The miners have sold diamonds worth 1.6 million rand in the open market last month. Their leader Lucky Seekoei says the success is due to the fact that they are selling their diamonds legally, and are no longer being ripped off by diamond dealers who previously acted as middle men. Puleng Modupe reports…
The Northern Cape Agriculture department is calling on farmers to be on the look-out for a fungal pathogen that is affecting crops in the province. This after the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer, which is a beetle that infests and eventually kills an infested tree, was allegedly found at one of the farms in the Vaalharts area near Hartswater. The pest has a wide host range that includes important crop tree species such as orange, peach, grapevine, avocado, and pecan trees among others. The alleged infected farm is a pecan nut farm that exports to the international market. Spokesperson for the Agriculture department Phemelo Manankong says the department is currently working with the Free State university to conduct further research…
Artisanal miners in the Kimberley area are discovering new areas to mine on. They have now moved into various parts of residential areas, including West End and Ottoskoppie, where huge mining dumps are situated. One of the miners, Thapelo Moloi who hails from the Free State says unemployment led him to Kimberley. He says the mining permits that were recently allocated to them by the Mineral Resources deputy minister Godfrey Oliphant, allows them to mine in the area, provided proper channels have been followed. Puleng Modupe has more…
A Group of Kuruman residents - calling themselves the Dikwankwetla Community Forum for Service Delivery - are accusing the Northern Cape government of failing to act against foreigners selling expired food products in their shops in the area. The forum on Thursday raided wholesalers in the area, and confiscating expired products. Puleng Modupe reports…
Sol Plaatje Municipality Mayor, Mangaliso Matika, will resume his mayoral duties with immediate effect. This after the Kimberley High Court ruled in his favour, declaring a council meeting that was held last month to remove him, as illegal. The matter was brought before court by the DA, following the motion of no confidence vote that was passed, after which Matika refused to vacate the office. The DA's application has been dismissed with costs. Puleng Modupe reports…
Three Northern Cape minor boys aged 14, 15 and 16-years-old arrested for allegedly raping a 10-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl at Platfontein near Kimberley, have been remanded in custody. The trio briefly appeared in the Kimberley Magistrates Court today. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Dimakatso Mooi…
The Phokwane municipality in the Northern Cape says it has re-allocated funds to fence two local graveyards in an attempt to curb the vandalism of graves. The municipality says funds earmarked for a new mayoral car will be used to fund the fence. An amount of 700-thousand rands will be made available this financial year to fence graveyards in Pampierstad and Hartswater. Phokwane municipal spokesperson Kgalalelo Leshabo…
Opposition parties in the Northern Cape have welcomed the dismissal of former provincial ANC chairperson John Block's appeal against his 15 year corruption conviction and sentence. Block and businessman Christo Scholtz were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in the Kimberley High Court in 2016 after they were found guilty of money laundering charges and corruption. They were convicted after a marathon case relating to multimillion-rand property tenders awarded by Northern Cape government departments. Today, Block and Scholtz's appeal was dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal. The EFF's Shadrack Tlhaole...
Opposition parties in the Northern Cape have welcomed the dismissal of former provincial ANC chairperson John Block's appeal against his 15 year corruption conviction and sentence. Block and businessman Christo Scholtz were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment in the Kimberley High Court in 2016 after they were found guilty of money laundering charges and corruption. They were convicted after a marathon case relating to multimillion-rand property tenders awarded by Northern Cape government departments. Today, Block and Scholtz's appeal was dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal. Northern Cape COPE leader Pakes Dikgetsi welcomes the court's decision...
Agri Northern Cape says they are saddened and shocked by the sudden death of its Northern Cape President Henk Van Wyk. Van Wyk suffered a heart attack in his sleep. He played a vital role in the agricultural sector - not only in the Northern Cape - but the country as well. Agri Northern Cape's vice-president Nicol Jansen says Van Wyk's passing is a huge loss…
The community of Kuruman in the Northern Cape has cautioned government to be careful of overreach in its attempt to regulate initiation schools in the country. This came out at the public hearings into the Customary Initiation bill conducted by Parliament across the country. The Bill aims to regulate initiation schools by, among other measures, requiring registration of traditional practitioners, requiring formal consent forms for all potential initiates and possible criminal action against those transgressing the laws. Neo Bodumela reports…
The !Xun community in Platfontein near Kimberley has high hopes on their newly elected leader to better their lives. 80-year- old, Antonio Sabao will take over the reigns from long standing San leader Mario Mahongo who died in a tragic car accident earlier this year. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
Kimberley women have taken to the streets on Women's Day demanding that crimes against women be prioritised by police. The women, led by the Rise Abafazi Movement, raised their grievances to the police saying they are tired of perpetrators roaming the streets despite theIr cases against them. They also took the opportunity to pay their respects to all the rape and abuse survivors. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
A celebration of the life of world renowned Sanusi Credo Mutwa was held at his home village of Magojaneng near Kuruman in the Northern Cape over the weekend (Saturday). The elderly man turned 97 in July. Mutwa is a prolific author, traditional healer and prophet. He has been known for his predictions about events in South Africa and the world and was credited with predicting the fall of former president Thabo Mbeki and the 9/11 attacks in the US. Organisers of the event billed it a day to celebrate the life and legacy of South Africa's greatest sanunis. Neo Bodumela reports...
Three Northern Cape minor boys aged 14, 15 and 16 years old have been arrested for allegedly raping a 10 year old boy and a twelve year old girl at Platfontein near Kimberley. Northern Cape police spokesperson Dimakatso Mooi says the three boys have been taken to the place of safety and are expected to appear in court soon. Mooi also says the search for an 8 year old girl Melissa Kanguya, who was reported missing in the same area on Thursday last week is continuing...
Five small political parties in the Northern Cape have decided to contest the 2019 National and provincial elections as one political party. The Khoisan Revolution, Khai-Ma Independent Candidates Coalition - KOKO, the Tsantsabane Coalition, the Khoisan Defiance Campaign and the Forum will contest under the Brown Umbrella. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has more…
The mother of a missing eight-year old Platfontein girl near Kimberley, has made an anguished appeal for her daughter's safe return. This is the fourth day since Melissa Kanguya, a grade two child, has been missing. Marianna Kanguya describes her daughter as an active little girl, who loved playing in the veld near their San settlement. She now fears for her life…
A group of Kuruman residents in the Northern Cape calling themselves Dikwankwetla Community Forum, are removing expired goods from shelves of local shops in the area. The expired goods are destroyed, according to the group. They say some shop owners are selling expired food to residents, which is placing their health at risk. Their leader Olebogeng Leserwane says all shops in the surrounding villages will also be targeted next week. He says residents and shop owners have welcomed their intervention…
Siyanda Gxwathi - the man accused of stabbing to death his girlfriend - has been sent for psychiatric observation. He appeared briefly in the Kimberley High Court where his case was postponed until later this year. Gxwathi allegedly stabbed his ex-girlfriend Refilwe Letebele multiple times at her home earlier this year and then tried to commit suicide by slitting his throat. Gxwathi has since recovered from the self-inflicted wound. Nobelunu Nowapane reports...
The community of Kuruman in the Northern Cape has cautioned government to be careful of overreach in its attempt to regulate initiation schools in the country. This came out at the public hearings into the Customary Initiation bill conducted by Parliament across the country. The Bill aims to regulate initiation schools by, among other measures, requiring registration of traditional practitioners, requiring formal consent forms for all potential initiates and possible criminal action against those transgressing the laws. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, PAC, has kicked off its unity conference at the Mayibuye Multipurpose centre in Kimberley. This after a court interdict filed by party president, Narius Moloto, to prevent the conference from going ahead, was struck off the South Gauteng High Court on Wednesday. Neo Bodumela reports…
Issues regarding alleged corruption, long waits for payouts and the role of lawyers in the Road Accident Fund (RAF) have come into sharp focus at parliament's public hearings on the Road Accident Benefit Scheme bill held in Kimberley. According to Parliament, the bill seeks to; among other objectives; improve the administration of benefits and payouts to accident victims. Community members at the public consultations weighed in on the bill…
A Colesberg man in the Northern Cape is still in disbelief that his son almost fell victim to human trafficking. Police had to rescue his son and two of his friends from a businessman in Cape Town who had promised them jobs. The father of a 21-year-old alleges that the businessman asked for ransom of seven-hundred-rand if he wanted his son back home. Roy Soyers says with the lack of employment in the Colesberg area, he was hoping this could be a big break for his son.
NEHAWU and various health union members including DENOSA and PSA have shut down the Kagiso District Health facility at Kuruman in the Northern Cape. The shutdown has affected the rendering of health services at the Tshwaragano and Kuruman hospitals, which directly report to the district facility. The members say they have raised their concerns of staff shortage such as nurses and supporting staff, at clinics and hospitals in the John Taolo Gaetsewe district, but their complaints have fallen on deaf ears. NEHAWU Regional Secretary Banzi Sebotse says the shutdown will continue until their demands are met…
Ex mineworkers are accusing Black Rock mine of cheating them out of payments and benefits they were entitled to, when the mine cut them off in the eighties. They say the mine, which is situated near Hotazel in the Norther Cape, had fired them for embarking on a strike action, over poor working conditions. Puleng Modupe reports…
Residents of Strausberg in the Northern Cape say they are worried about access to basic healthcare. They are currently using a dilapidated old church building as a clinic - with even HIV tests being done outside. The Northern Cape Health Department is under administration as Reginald Witbooi reports…
Residents of Straussburg in the Northern Cape say they are worried about access to basic healthcare. The community has been without a structured clinic for more than a decade. The facility they are currently using is an old dilapidated church building. The community says their right to privacy is being violated - because even HIV-tests have to be done outside on a table. The following residents say the problem is ongoing for years now...
Double amputee Matthew 'Bushy' Mckelvey says he is disappointed that he couldn't break the Guinness World Record on his motorcycle at Hakskeenpan in the Northern Cape. Mckelvey attempted to break the world record of 3-thousand 6-hundred and four kilometres - held by American's Charl Reece. Reginald Witbooi is in Hakskeenpan and filed this report…
Double amputee Matthew 'Bushy' Mckelvey says he is disappointed that he couldn't break the Guinness World Record on his motorcycle at Hakskeenpan in the Northern Cape. Mckelvey attempted to break the world record of 3-thousand 6-hundred and four kilometres - held by American's Carl Reece. Mckelvey says he is out on Limb project to raise funds for those living with disabilities. Mckelvey broke his first record in 2014 - with 3257- comma-five kilometres. He says he will not give up…
Illegal miners at Kleinsee and Port-Nolloth in the Northern Cape now also demand mining permits from government. They say the bedrock they are mining on is safe in the diamond rich town. The miners continuously clash with police - preventing them to mine. Reginald Witbooi is in Kleinsee and filed this report…
Illegal miners at Kleinsee and Port-Nolloth in the Northern Cape are demanding mining permits from government. They say the bedrock they are mining on is safe in the diamond rich town. The miners previously clashed with police - preventing them to mine. Earlier this year, the Department of Mineral Resources granted illegal miners in Kimberley permits. The following illegal miners say they want to make an honest living...
Good rains in Namaqualand made sure the Namaqua daisy spectacle is better than last year's dismal show. Tourists normally flock to the Namaqualand when the flowers bloom. This year rains have made up for last year's drought in the area Reginald Witbooi is in Namaqualand and filed this report...
A new method of treating XDR TB patients was launched at Campbbell in the Northern Cape. Bedaquiline expansion TB treatment is an injection free method which will be administered to all newly diagnosed Drug Resistant TB patients in the province. Puleng Modupe reports…
A 39-year-old Hartswater man in the Northern Cape was arrested and charged with stock theft, while trying to sell stolen Bonsmara calves at an auction in Kimberley. The calves worth 81-thousand-rand which were stolen from a small holding farm in Hartswater, were returned to the owner. Police spokesperson Olebogeng Tawana...
The Municipal Public Accounts Committee in the Northern Cape has instituted an investigation into allegations against the Dikgatlong Municipality's CFO Levona Itumeleng. This comes after workers at the municipality embarked on a go slow and handed over a memorandum to the municipality, demanding the CFO's removal from office. Amongst other allegations, the workers accuse Itumeleng of purchasing expensive office furniture, and requesting a pay increase despite the municipality's precarious financial state. The workers have threatened strike action if their demands are not met but Dikgatlong Municipal Mayor Dimakatso Mbizeni has called for patience...
There is an outcry that the Khoi and San must have an official language. This was raised during public hearings of the CLR commission for the promotion and protection of the rights of cultural, religious and linguistic communities in the Northern Cape. The commission says it's embarking on a national project to restore the diminished heritage of the Khoisan community across the country. The hearings began earlier this week in Upington and will be wrapped up in the Kalahari region tomorrow. Commissioner Phumla Madiba says they have been engaging with over a hundred residents who say the Khoi and the San languages have died down.
Northern Cape police say twenty people have been arrested in De Aar for public violence. Residents of an informal settlement near De Aar took to the streets, blockading roads with rocks and burning tyres - in a service delivery protest. Schools in the area are closed. The residents say they have been staying there since 2016 and they do not have access to water. They are also accusing the Emthanjeni municipal mayor of giving jobs to ANC members while they are overlooked. Two foreign shops were looted - and one resident injured. Police Spokesperson Mashay Gamaldien…
In the Northern Cape, the ANC Women's League is currenlty holding a march at Upington to highlight the plight of women in the area. The march forms part of a nation-wide march held around the country, to protest against the high rates of gender-based violence in the country. ANC Women's League spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Gail Parker says todays march highlights the plight of women, children and the LGBTI community...
Galeshewe residents in Kimberley are happy that life has gone back to normal in the Northern Cape capital after sporadic unrests took place across the city since Sunday. Children are back at school and businesses have resumed trade. Clean-up operations are also underway. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report….
ANC NEC member Zweli Mkhize says they respect the Kimberley High Court's decision that Sol Plaatje Mayor Mangaliso Matika must vacate office until the court matter is finalised. Mkhize was among the three ANC NEC members deployed by the ANC national leadership to come quell tensions in Kimberley following violent protests. Matika's position will now be occupied by Pula Thabane until the courts final decision. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report....
The Kimberley High Court has ordered Sol Plaatje Mayor, Mangaliso Matika to vacate his offices until the matter is finalised next month. The matter was taken to court following Matika's refusal to leave, despite being voted out during a motion of no confidence last week. The provincial Democratic Alliance (DA) took then decided to take the matter to court. Report filed by Refilwe Mekoa and voiced by Nobelungu Nowapane and Puleng Modupe....
Police at De Aar in the Northern Cape have dispersed a crowd of protesters who went on a rampage this morning, demanding basic service delivery. The residents blockaded roads with rocks and burning tyres, accusing the Emthanjeni municipality of failing them. Police spokesperson, Mashay Gamieldien says the police are monitoring the situation…
Roads leading to Galeshewe Township in Kimberley are still closed with large stones and burning tyres, as community vow to make the city ungovernable if Sol Plaatje Mayor Mangaliso Matika does not step down. Matika was axed as mayor during a DA-led motion of no confidence last week, which saw ANC councillors voting with the opposition. Matika however says the meeting was not valid - and has refused to vacate the office. Total shut down of Kimberley started yesterday afternoon after the majority of residents decided to take to the streets yet again, to force Matika out. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…..
Schools around Kimberley have been closed due to the threats posed by protesting Galeshewe residents who threaten to shut down the city. The department of education has decided to close over seventy schools. Protestors who are burning tyres and blockading some roads in Galeshewe want ousted Mayor Mangaliso Matika to vacate office. Matika was ousted in a DA-led vote of no confidence in the Sol Plaatje municipal chambers last week, but he refuses to leave office. The department's spokesperson Geoffrey Van der Merwe...
The second round of consultations on the SABC editorial policy kicked off in the Kimberley and Polokwane today with the use of African languages in both programming and news coming into sharp focus once again. Issues of negative racial and gender stereotypes have also been raised. The consultations invite the public to comment on the SABC's draft editorial policy. Neo Bodumela reports.
The EFF'S provincial leader in the Northern Cape, Aubrey Baartman says they will not entertain allegations of wrongdoing by EFF leadership that is not reported internally...
An EFF ward councillor and former Deputy Secretary of the John Taolo Gaetsewe Region in the Northern Cape has taken to social media lambasting the party's top structure. The councillor, Olebogeng Leserwane - who alleges his views are shared by most EFF members in the region - is accusing party leaders of misusing party funds and failing to disclose the party's financial reports. Leserwane claims contributions from members on the ground are being used to fund the top leadership's lavish lifestyles.
Residents of an informal settlement near De Aar in the Northern Cape would have to wait longer before they could receive any basic services from their local Municipality. This is as the almost hundred residents illegally invaded the land belonging to the Emthanjeni Municipality almost two-years- ago. Neria Hlakotsa has more…
The regional ANC in Kimberley says councilors deployed from their ranks who voted to have the mayor removed will be dealt with. This comes after Sol Plaatje municipality mayor Mangaliso Matika was removed as mayor following a vote of no confidence brought by the Democratic Alliance. Regional secretary Webster Dichaba says even though the party believes the council meeting was illegal, ANC members who voted for the mayor's removal are a betrayal...
Services have been interrupted at the Dikgatlong Municipality in the Northern Cape where municipal workers have embarked on an indefinite go slow. The workers are demanding that the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the municipality be put on suspension for alleged irregular expenditure. Neo Bodumela reports…
Sol Plaatje municipality mayor Mangaliso Matika has been removed as mayor following a vote of no confidence in the council this afternoon. The motion was brought by the Democratic Alliance. Matikan remains an ordinary councillor. Neo Bodumela reports…
Kimberley residents are buying food supplies in bulks, ahead of another city shutdown expected to take place tomorrow. This will be the third shutdown the city has experienced in a month. Residents are calling for the removal of the Sol Plaatje municipality mayor, Mangaliso Matika, whom they are accusing of failing to act against the proposed electricity tariff increases. Puleng Modupe reports…
Veritas Technical School at De Aar in the Northern Cape has been without functional toilets for the past three years. As a result, parents and the School Governing Body members are threatening to disrupt teaching and learning, if the department doesn't fix the broken school toilets. Puleng Modupe reports…
Galeshewe community leader, Tumelo Mosikare, says they are in the process of applying for the permission to march on Wednesday. However Mosikare says failure by the police to grant this, will result in an illegal march...
All thirty-three branches of the ANC in the Frances Baard Region have thrown their weight and support behind Sol Plaatje Mayor, Mangaliso Matika who is under pressure to step down following the municipality's handing of the controversial electricity tariff hike that was proposed for the city. Municipality Manager Goolam Akhawaray and CFO Lydia Matlhoko have been suspected. Meanwhile communities are planning another indefinite shutdown for the city starting from Wednesday. One of the branch leaders, Bernet van Wyk elaborates.
Nearly two years after a deadline given by a court of law forcing the department of education to get rid of asbestos schools, the Northern Cape still has at least 25 functioning asbestos schools. Despite an infrastructure budget of hundreds of millions of Rands, the provincial department is still lagging behind in breaking down these structures and replacing them with more appropriate schools. Neo Bodumela reports.
Foreign shop owners whose businesses were looted also attended the meeting. The family of Sol Plaatje - which the municipality is named after - is calling for an amicable solution as the violence and looting should not continue. Family representative, Gopolang Plaatje...
Violence erupted at the Galeshewe community meeting near Kimberley, where residents were expected to map out the way forward after two weeks of violent protests and looting. The protests follows anger over the municipality wanting to introduce a R260 electricity tariff. Community members are calling for the resignation of the Sol Plaatje Municipality Mayor, Municipal Manager and the CFO. An unknown group of people disrupted the meeting creating chaos and police fired stun grenades to disperse the crowds. Community leader Tebogo Obusitse says they will not stop protesting until their demands are met…
The Galeshewe community near Kimberley is expected to meet this afternoon to map out the way forward after two weeks of violent protests and looting. Angry residents' shut down the city, calling for the resignation of Sol Plaatje municipal manager, Goolam Arkhawary, and CFO, Lydia Matlhoko. The violent protests follow anger over the municipality wanting to introduce a 260 rand electricity tariff. Puleng Modupe reports…
An eight year old Kuruman girl is expected to compete at the Little Miss World beauty pageant in Turkey. However, the grade four learner has no funds to travel to the pageant and has turned to social media for help. Neo Bodumela reports…
A sod turning of the Sol Plaatje municipality's Mandela Monument precinct in Kimberley is expected to commence next week. The precinct is expected to include a massive sports facility, a Nelson Mandela Museum and a Mandela Square, a students' residence and a youth centre. The community hall, crèche and library currently situated at the identified site will be upgraded. Neo Bodumela reports…
A sod turning of the Sol Plaatje municipality's Mandela Monument precinct in Kimberley is expected to commence next week. The precinct is expected to include a massive sports facility, a Nelson Mandela Museum and a Mandela Square, a students' residence and a youth centre. The community hall, crèche and library currently situated at the identified site will be upgraded. A delegation from the provincial government has already consulted with the Mandela family and they have given the project their blessing. The precinct is expected to be built over the next few years in the heart of Galeshewe. Project manager Nontuthuzelo Mabenge…
A task team formulated from various stakeholders in Kimberley in order to deal with the aftermath of violent protests which erupted in the city has called on Premier Sylvia Lucas to intervene. The task team consisting of NGOs, the religious sector, business and the municipality is planning to engage the community on various issues including the call to sack the Mayor Mangaliso Matika. However, no timeline has been set for the community engagements. In the meantime, the task team says the challenges currently faced by the municipality are too complicated to resolve alone. Manager in the mayor's office George Mosimane…
The fatal shooting of a grade 10 learner at Makgolokwe Middle school at Batlharos village near Kuruman in the Northern Cape, has left fellow learners and teachers reeling in shock.The suspect allegedly fired at the learner from outside the school premises, during school hours.He immediately handed himself over to the police and was remanded in custody. Puleng Modupe reports…
A 38-year-old suspect who allegedly shot and killed a 17-year-old Grade 10 learner during school hours at Makgolokwe Middle School in Batlharos Village - Northern Cape, is expected to appear in court tomorrow. The suspect allegedly fired at the learner from outside the school premises. Police spokesperson, Dimakatso Mooi says investigations are still continuing…
A Grade 10 pupil at Makgolokwe Middle School in Batlharos Village near Kuruman in the Northern Cape has been shot dead while inside the school yard. The incident occurred during school hours. Education department spokesperson, Geoffrey Van Der Merwe says a suspect who allegedly fired at the pupil from outside the school premises has handed himself over to the police, immediately after the shooting. Van der Merwe says it is still unclear whether the incident is related to a spate of gangsterism in the area…
As part of the Mandela Day initiative, 10 thousand sandwiches were served to Platfontein near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The impoverished area is home to the !Xu and !Khwe San community. Meals on wheels, a non-profit organisation that provides meals to disadvantaged members of the community managed to reach a target that they have set for themselves, of serving thousands of sandwiches in one day. Bevan Jenneke from the organisation says it was all done in the spirit of giving back to the community…
Disadvantaged members of the community in Kimberley have received toiletries, food parcels and blankets as part of the Mandela day initiative. This through a 4 kilometre fun walk, organised by the Kimberley Harriers Club runners. Charities that benefitted include the Tamar Women Shelter and the Thuthuzela Care Centre. Organiser, Ria Janse Van Vuuren says the items were donated by various food outlets and participants…
The Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Kimberley says they are still assessing the impact of the recent violent protests that engulfed the city. The chamber, met with business owners who suffered serious losses when their businesses were looted and vandalized last week. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Nocci) in Kimberley says they are still assessing the impact of the recent violent protests that engulfed the city. Nocci which met with business owners who suffered serious losses when their businesses were looted and vandalized has called for better protection. Nocci president is Marie Parsons....
Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley will hold a special council meeting to discuss the fate of Mayor Mangaliso Matika and the suspension of two senior officials implicated in the controversial electricity tariff hike which was planned for the city. Two-hundred and 2 people were arrested since last week and 90 protestors were released on bail, they face charges which include the destruction of property and public violence. Some have been remanded in custody until next week. Community leader is Tebogo Obusitse…
Some Kimberley parents say it was difficult to take their children to school this morning, following violent protests that broke out last week, which were sparked by a proposed electricity tariff hike by the Sol Plaatje Municipality. Over 200 protestors were arrested and some are still detained. Some parents in Galeshewe accompanied their children to school.
Human Settlements Minister, Nomaidiya Mfeketo, says the housing backlog in the country remains a challenge. The minister was speaking in Kimberley, where she handed over several houses to residents of Diamond Park, as part of Government's Imbizo Focus Week activities. About 800 housing units are expected to be constructed in Diamond Park once the project has been completed. Puleng Modupe reports...
A drugs bust in Kimberley has led to the arrest of a 31-year-old woman after she was found in possession of drugs worth half a million Rand. The woman was arrested after crime intelligence operatives found her with nearly five thousand mandrax tablets. Police spokesperson, Dimakatso Mooi explains...
There is a gold mine in the Karoo for petrolheads - few know about. Several cars and trucks dating back to the turn of the last century are being housed at the small Karoo town of Loxton in the Northern Cape. All of them are still in a good working condition - and are still able to drive and shoot. Reginald Witbooi is in Loxton and filed this report…
The snow which fell last week at Sutherland in the Northern Cape - brought some relief for farmers in the drought-stricken area. However, the drought continues and farmers are depending on mother nature. The last time farmers experienced good rain was in 2013. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Sutherland and filed this report...
The 64-dish MeerKAT telescope -- the largest and most powerful in the southern hemisphere -- has been launched at Carnarvon in the Northen Cape. Described by deputy president David Mabuza as a significant milestone in radio astronomy -- the MeerKAT will be the world's largest telescope of its kind until the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) has been completed. The SKA when completed will be about 50 to 100 times more sensitive than any radio telescope on earth. Reginald Witbooi and Molebogeng Sebidi attended the launch and filed this report…
There was a high police contingency outside the Galeshewe Magistrates Court on Monday as over one-hundred people who were arrested last week during a violent service delivery in Kimbeley appeared in court today, and the case was postponed. The arrests come after a planned peaceful march to the Sol Plaatje Municipality last week turned violent, resulting in the looting of businesses. Hundreds of residents gathered outside court singing and blockading the road with burning tyres and rocks, demanding the release of those arrested. Meanwhile the community continues to call for immediate the resignation of senior managers at the municipality including Mayor Mangaliso Matika. Refilwe Mekoe /Nobelungu Nowapane compiled this report…
Things seem to be getting back to normal after chaos erupted in Kimberley from Thursday leading to roads being blockaded by burning tyres and rocks and people prevented from going to work.. The town came to a standstill after thousands of residents from Roodepan, Greenpoint and Galeshewe marched to the Sol Plaatje Municipal offices demanding the resignation of CFO Lydia Mahloko and MM Goolam Akhawaray. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
The Premier of the Northern Cape Sylvia Lucas has called for calm in the wake of the violent protest currently taking place in Kimberley. The provincial capital, has been on a total shutdown since yesterday following a protest action which started with a peaceful march but later turned violent. The Premier has urged community leaders to allow talks to take place to resolve the matter…
Hundreds of Kimberley residents held a community meeting in Galeshewe to discuss a way forward following a violent protest action that took place in the city last week. They have been fighting the Sol Plaatje Municipality for lower electricity tariffs and also demanded the resignation of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Lydia Mahloko and Municipal Manager, Goolam Akhawaray.The community is also calling for the Mayor Mangaliso Matika to be fired. Community Leader, Kgakgamatsho Motebe....
The department of education in the Northern Cape has voiced its concern about the impact that the spate of protests in Kimberley, might have on the re-opening of schools tomorrow. Tensions are still high in the area as protesters marched to the Galeshewe Magistrates court where over 190 people who were arrested during the violent protest last week for public violence and damage to property are expected to apply for bail. Residents burnt tyres outside court demanding the release of those arrested. Provincial education spokesperson is Geoffrey Van Der Merwe…
The ANC in the Northern Cape have advised the Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley to suspend the Municipal Manager, Goolam Akhawaray as well as the Chief Financial Officer, Lydia Mahloko. This decision comes after the party's provincial leadership met with the community representatives and regional leadership in the Frances Baard Region earlier today. This as over one-hundred people are appearing at the Galeshewe Magistrates Court on various charges including public violence. ANC provincial secretary, Deshi Ngxanga says they are willing to assist those arrested to be release soon.
Police in Kimberley have started shooting rubber bullets and stun grenades against residents protesting on the doorstep of the local Sol Plaatje Municipality. Community members marched from all areas in the city to the municipality offices to demand the resignation of the municipality's chief financial officer and municipal manager. Neo Bodumela reports.
Residents of Eiffel village near Kuruman in the Northern Cape are accusing the Joe Morolong municipality of failing them. This after a housing project that started in 2015 was stalled without any explanations given to them. Seventy four houses were supposed to be built, but the contractor packed up and left after a few foundations were laid and incomplete housing structures were erected. 7 million rand was set aside for the housing project in the village. The residents are now pleading with the provincial government to intervene. Puleng Modupe reports...
The Khoisan Revolution Party in the Northern Cape has withdrawn from the coalition agreement it had with the ANC, at the Namakhoi municipality in Springbok. The party says factional battles within the ANC are hampering it's ability to provide service delivery to communities. The party has one seat at the municipality, the ANC and DA have seven each, while Cope has one seat. The party's leader, Stanley Petersen says they will make a decision on who to back in future after consultations. Petersen also accuses the ANC of making decisions at the Municipality without it…
The ANC in the Northern Cape says it is ready to host the party's January 8 celebrations in 2019 and welcome thousands of ANC supporters. Next year the 107th anniversary celebrations of the ANC are expected to be held in the Northern Cape - a stronghold of President Cyril Ramaphosa. ANC Northern Cape spokesperson, Naledi Gaosekwe says this will also boost the province's economy.
The Northern Cape health department has welcomed the first ten South African student doctors from Cuba, who will be placed at various health facilities around the province. The doctors studied at Cuba, as part of government's initiative to address the shortage of doctors the country is facing. Northern Cape health MEC Fufe Makatong says the doctors will mostly focus on primary health care which is in line with the National Health Insurance. She says the remaining eleven doctors will arrive later in the week. Puleng Modupe reports…
The ANC in the Northern Cape is appealing to communities to peacefully co-exist with members of the Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersexual community. The party has partnered with the LGBTQI community for this year's annual Pride celebrations held in Kimberley. Puleng Modupe reports…
The National Union of Mineworkers in the Northern Cape has expressed concern over the sale of Petra Diamonds mine's stake in the Kimberley Ekapa Mining Joint Venture. Petra Diamonds Mines announced yesterday that it had sold its 75.9 percent stake in the joint venture to its partner Ekapa Mining for 300-million-Rand. Petra Diamonds points to concerns about profitability as a reason for the sale. Neo Bodumela reports…
Northern Cape police have welcomed a life sentence that has been handed down to a serial rapist, by the Kimberley high court. 25 year old Shawn Rooi raped three victims, including a 10 year old girl, last year. He was further sentenced to twenty seven years imprisonment after being found guilty of three counts of rape, two counts of house breaking with the intent to rape and one charge of obstructing a police officer from performing his duties. The sentences will run concurrently. Police spokesperson, Sergio Kock…
Kimberley based mining company Petra Diamonds has announced that it has entered into an agreement to sell its 75 percent stake in the Kimberley Ekapa Mining Joint Venture, KEM-JV, for 300-million-Rand. The KEM-JV was a venture between Petra Diamonds and Ekapa Mining which oversaw mining at three locations in the Kimberley area. The stake in KEM-JV was sold to Petra's venture partner Ekapa Mining which, according to Petra Diamonds, will take over all of its obligations including employees. Petra Diamonds spokesperson Gert Kloppers…
Mixed reactions were raised during the first public hearings into the possible review of Section 25 of the Constitution, which allows the State to expropriate land without compensation. The Joint Constitutional Review Committee kicked off its six weeks long hearings in Springbok in the Northern Cape - a province where according to the Land Audit Report, White people own 69 percent of the land. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report....
The Northern Cape Department of Education has come under fire from parents at Makhubung Primary School at Heuningvlei in the Kuruman area for its slow pace in eradicating pit toilets.Parents have expressed anger at the department and the school for exposing their children to danger on a daily basis. The province still has about fifty-five schools with pit toilets. There are more than 800-thousand-seven-hundred schools with pit toilets across the country.Neria Hlakotsa visited the Heuningvlei and has filed this report...
Platfontein residents near Kimberley in the Northern Cape are still devastated by the sudden passing of their leader, Mario Mahongo. He died in a car accident last month, when he lost control of his vehicle and drove into an electric pole. Neria Hlakotsa reports...
The SuperSport Rugby Challenge semi-finals get underway this weekend when the Griquas host the Free State Cheetahs in Kimberley and the Pumas clash with the Sharks in Nelspruit. Defending champions, Western Province, were knocked out by the Cheetahs in Cape Town on Sunday. Kimberley-based Griquas are hard at work preparing for the weekend's clash. The players are hoping to make the finals to be held at Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape next weekend...
The annual University Sport South Africa - USSA - DanceSport Tournament is underway in Kimberley. It's the first time the Sol Plaatje University is playing the host. Thirteen institutions - across the country - are competing in Latin and ballroom for the main trophy. Last year the University of Kwazulu-Natal was crowned the overall champions. Reginald Witbooi reports...
Kimberley Police have arrested six suspects on charges of public violence following a protest in Galeshewe Township by a group of residents. The group is demanding for the immediate dismissal of the Chief Financial Officer and Municipal Mayor of the Sol Plaatje Municipality accusing them misappropriation of Municipal funds. Neria Hlakotsa has more...
Homeless people at Kimberley are experiencing the severe impact of the cold front that hit the city overnight. Kimberley experienced some of its lowest temperatures in years - as the mercury dropped to minus four degrees. Homeless people say they are in dire need for assistance to escape the cold weather conditions. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi went out on the streets to get a first-hand account of their living conditions…
In an attempt to address the chronic shortage of nurses in the province - the Northern Cape Health department will train ninety students for a diploma in nursing at the Henrietta Stockdale Nursing College in Kimberley. Once qualified the nurses will fill the positions of midwifery, community nursing and mental health nursing. The country is sitting with just over 220-thousand registered nurses of all categories - of which a mere 1-point-7 are in the Northern Cape. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in Kimberley has condemned the imminent retrenchments of about 150 Kimberley Ekapa Mining Joint Venture (KEM-JV) workers. The NUM is seeking the CCMA's intervention after the mine confirmed retrenchment of employees due to the closure of its Bulfontein Mine. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
The youth in the Northern Cape feels that more needs to be done to combat high unemployment rate in the province. The utterances comes as the country commemorates Youth month and Statistics South Africa revealing earlier this year that thirty-two percent of young people are unemployed. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Sol Plaatje was described as a great writer and defender of the Setswana language during the book launch of his biography at Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley. UK author, scholar and family friend, Brian Willan is in the country to launch the book he penned about Plaatje's not only political but also personal endeavours during the year 1876 to 1932. This is the second book written about Plaatje after Dr Modiri Molema wrote the first biography. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
The family of a woman who was allegedly refused dialysis treatment say they intend to sue the department of health after the woman died. 62-year-old Patience Mocwane was suffering from renal failure and was denied critical dialysis treatment from the state run Kimberley Hospital for nearly two years. The family say she was denied access to healthcare because of age discrimination. Neo Bodumela reports…
Four Kimberley High School gymnasts, who represented South Africa by participating at the Royal Crown Competition in Greece last month, clinched two medals. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
For the first time in World Cup history, the San people in Platfontein in the Northern Cape will be able to hear football commentary in their own language. Presenters will be commentating on 27 World Cup matches on the XK-FM radio station throughout the 64 match tournament. Neo Bodumela reports…
A Kimberley-born young woman has successfully launched various locally produced wines and a sparkling wine. 30-year-old Keaoboka London has been exporting wine since 2015. She employs 3 permanent people and 30 temporary staff members for bottling and labelling her beverages. Report by Refilwe Mekoa voiced by Margaret Mothibi...
A Batlharos youngster near Kuruman in the Northern Cape, and his friends, are introducing children in the rural areas to the sport of cricket. They target disadvantaged boys and girls under the age of 13. Theier focus is also on troubled youths, to help them steer clear from engaging in drugs and violent activities. Neo Bodumela reports...
Budget constraints in the Northern Cape Department of Health have led to a shortage of medical professionals in province's hospitals.This is despite the department receiving a more than 4-million-rand budget for the 2018/19 financial year.The department is now pinning its hope on the Provincial Department of Finance. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
The Northern Cape will be the hardest hit by climate change, if policy makers fail to make the necessary changes now. This came out during the Draft Climate Change Bill consultation workshop in Kimberley. The Bill once adopted will be a single legal reference on matters of climate change. Margaret Mothibi filed this report...
Health sector unions Denosa and Nehawu in the Northern Cape Health Department expressed concern over the feasibility of the implementation of the National Health Insurance Fund in the province. This comes after Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi recently announced that government will be going ahead with the National Health Insurance Fund. Refilwe Mekoa compiled this report…
Members of the EFF from the John Taolo Gaetsewe Region in the Northern Cape have shut down operations at the Kathu Solar Park since Friday. The party says workers are underpaid and work under poor conditions. Refilwe Gaeswe compiled this report…
The Northern Cape Sport, Arts and Culture department and the Sol Plaatje University commemorated the late PAC founder Robert Sobukwe's death, by laying wreaths at his former house and office in Kimberley. Sobukwe died at the Kimberley Hospital 40 years ago. Neo Bodumela reports...
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu) has requested the Hawks to speed up the credit card fraud case amounting to 2-million-rand in the office of the Northern Cape Legislature. The amounts are related to foreign trips of people not known to the legislature - without any form of approval. The Hawks raided the legislature's offices in Kimberley yesterday - after allegations of corruption and wasteful expenditure. Reginald Witbooi reports…
A chess tournament hosting over 100 players from across the country is currently underway at the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley today. The Moja Open Chess Tournament is one of the first of its kind in the Northern Cape. The tournament is hosting top national junior and senior players over the next three days. Neo Bodumela reports…
40 years after the death of Robert Sobukwe at the Kimberley Hospital, the health facility will now be renamed in his honour. Sobukwe died at the hospital in 1978 after contracting lung cancer. Sobukwe was exiled to Kimberley in 1969 after being released from Robben Island. Neo Bodumela compiled this report which is voiced by Margaret Mothibi…
Some Northern Cape residents have headed the call to return food products suspected to be the source of the nationwide Listeriosis outbreak. Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi advised South Africans to stop consuming processed food products, such as polony, viennas and chicken sausages. In the province, six cases of the disease were reported, claiming three lives. Refilwe Gaeswe compiled this report…
President Cyril Ramaphosa says it is noteworthy that South Africa was able to have a peaceful transition from the leadership of former president Jacob Zuma without any bloodshed. Ramaphosa was addressing the South African National Defence Forces (SANDF) Interfaith Service at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre in Kimberley. Neo Bodumela reports…
The community of Ba-Ga Mothibi in the North West have a made a plea to government to speed up the process which will see them integrated into the Northern Cape. The community of about 4000 people is currently part of the Greater Taung municipality but want to be relocated. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Northern Cape department of Economic Development has expressed shock at the latest unemployment statistics released by Statics SA. This as the Stats SA show that at least 32 percent of young people in the province are not employed, in education or in training. The youth in the province is however not shocked at this revelation putting the blame on government. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
The long awaited resignation of Northern Cape MEC for Cooperative Governance Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Alvin Botes has come.Botes who is expected to fill a position in the National Assembly resigned with immediate effect as MEC of COGHSTA saying he is ready to represent the province in parliament. His redeployment was marred by allegations of defiance with the provincial ANC accusing him of stalling. Botes however maintains he was only waiting for formal communication from the National Assembly.
Municipalities in the Northern Cape are struggling to balance their books as debt to service providers continues to rocket. Debts to Eskom and water boards are currently escalating with the latest figures entering into hundreds of millions of Rands owed. This has led to enforced power and water interruptions in defaulting municipalities. Neo Bodumela reports…
The South African National Defence Force's Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Vusimuzi Masondo says there's no sufficient appreciation on the role played by the army in the country. Masondo was speaking during the official opening of the Armed Fan Park in Kimberley, in the Northern Cape. This is a build-up to the main event, the Armed Forces Day parade that is expected to take place next week Wednesday. Refilwe Gaeswe compiled this reports…
The announcement of the new president for the country, has been met with alacrity by residents of Orania in the Northern Cape. This small whites only community has a population of almost two thousand.Despite its exclusivity, they depend on the stability of the country for survival. Orania leader Carel Boshoff welcome the announcement of the new president...
The Hawks in the Northern Cape say that arrests are imminent at the Northern Cape department of Education. This comes after the crime fighting unit raided the provincial offices of the department yesterday. Attempts to receive comment from the department have so far proven unsuccessful. Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Nomthandazo Mnisi has remained tight lipped on the nature of the investigation...
An eighty-two year old farmer and his wife have been admitted at a Kimberley hospital after being attacked by a group of men at their farm at Windsorton last night. It is alleged that the attack took place while the couple was sleeping. The South African Police Services spokesperson in the Northern Cape Lieutenant Sergio Kock says the suspects allegedly entered the house, assaulted the elderly couple and tied them up…
Over forty Phumatra bus drivers at Pampierstad in the Northern Cape are picketing outside the company after being fired yesterday. The dismissal comes after the disgruntled members comprising of bus drivers, technical and administration workers embarked on an unprotected strike. Refilwe Gaeswe compiled this report…
Residents at Goodhouse in Namaqwaland in the Northern Cape are fuming over a dam that will be constructed in the town. The residents will have to be relocated for the dam to be fully operational. Residents say this is an infringement on their human rights. human right. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is at Goodhouse and filed this report…
The Northern Cape Water Affairs Department says the completion of a bulk water supply will ensure water security to most parts of the Kalahari. The 150-million-rand project is also aimed to boost tourism in the area. The Bloodhound - who is expected to attempt a landspeed record of 1-thousand six hundred kilometres per hour, is expected in the area later this year. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi filed the following report…
The Khoi and San communities are unhappy with the delay of the Human Rights Commissions report - that looked into the violation of alleged abused in the communities. The Commission held public hearings in various provinces in 2016 - - and promised to make their hearings public. But, the South African Human Rights Commission says it wanted to include all the recommendations submitted. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Upington, and filed this report…
The crippling drought in parts of the country is beneficial for raisin farmers along the Orange River in the Northern Cape. The extreme heat is a major contributing factor to the industry. The raisins dry quicker and get to the markets faster - fetching better prices. Farmers expect a higher harvest this year - compared to last year's 60-thousand ton export. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi compiled the following report…
The South African Human Rights Commission is investigating complaints of learners who haven't been placed at schools in the Northern Cape. Parents of learners lodged the complaints at the Commission's Upington offices. Most of the learners affected are grade one and eight. About 600-hundred learners in the province still need to be placed. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Teaching and learning at two schools that were shutdown at Delpoortshoop, near Barkley West in the Northern Cape have resumed. Learners at Dikgatlong Combined School and Delportshoop High School are back in classes at their respective schools. Both schools were temporarily closed by parents last week who wanted the provincial Education Department to resolve the impasse between two schools in the area. Refilwe Gaeswe reports…
Eight people have died in a car accident near Britstown in the Northern Cape. Police are investigating a case of culpable homicide after a bakkie with nine occupants crashed on the side of a bridge over the weekend. Police spokesperson Sergio Kock says the occupants were from Cape Town to Prieska, to attend a funeral.
A group of Economic Freedom Fighters members in the Northern Cape have effectively shut down services at the Joe Morolong municipality. The members forced officials to vacate their offices, causing services to grind to a halt. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Northern Cape Department of Education has put the onus on schools around the province to embark on fund raising activities or seek sponsorship to help their financial difficulties. This comes after parents closed a number of schools across the province- citing the lack of electricity due to Eskom debt, water, and books at these schools. The Department insists it is facing a financial crisis.Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
A Chinese delegation is currently in Northern Cape on a fact finding mission to collaborate with the provincial government on small business development, particularly in the diamond industry. The 3day visit follows a previous visit undertaken last year by the provincial delegation including students from the Kimberley Diamond and Jewellery Incubator (KDJI), and Kimberley International Diamond and Jewellery Academy (KIDJA) to Hebei Geographical University in China, where a memorandum of understanding was signed. During this visit discussions around collaboration on education, training and small business development between the two are held. The Chairperson of the board of directors at Kimberley Diamond and Jewellery Incubator, Advocate Itemogeng Steenkamp says the main aim of the visit is to open marketing opportunies for the newly trained entrepreneurs in the province, that specialise in diamond cutting, sorting and polishing. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
Children's organisation Isibindi has welcomed the postponement of a case against the man accused of raping a ten year old girl from Galeshewe Township near Kimberley. The man, who is in his thirties will remain in custody after it was revealed in court that he has not acquired enough legal fees to pay his attorney. Neria Hlakotsa reports...
Residents of Homevale in Kimberley have expressed their anger at raw sewage running through their streets and flowing in their yards. The residents are experiencing the same problems that have been plaguing residents of four Kimberley areas for decades. The residents of Homevale recently took to the streets calling on the Sol Plaatje municipality to fix the leaking pipes. Neo Bodumela reports…
President Jacob Zuma will be meeting with Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini in KwaZulu-Natal today. The meeting is reported to be a longstanding arrangement which was supposed to have happened at the beginning of the year. There's been widespread speculation following President Zuma's meeting with the top six last night as to whether the meeting with the Zulu Monarch could be related to him stepping down as president of the country. Whilst there are no details of the meeting, it's possible the future of President Zuma could be discussed.
Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille, says she wants an opportunity to clear her name in a fair process. De Lille has accused the Democratic Alliance of reaching a point of desperation in trying to get rid of her. The DA has laid fresh charges of corruption and bribery against her at the Cape Town Central Police Station this weekend. The DA wants allegations, that De Lille solicited a five-million-rand bribe from a Van der Bijlpark businessman in 2012, investigated by the police.
Wetlands should be preserved and utilised to help fight the harsh effects of drought. This is the message that was conveyed by the Northern Cape department of Evironmental and Nature Conservation, while observing World Wetlands Day at Suurdig village near Kuruman. The MEC , Tiny Chotelo urged residents not to destroy wetlands found in the area. Reporter Neria Hlakotsa attended the event and compiled the following report…
Magareng Municipality in the Northern Cape is among the municipalities that owe power utility Eskom billions of rands. The local municipality's debt stands at 37-million-rand which has led to planned power cuts by Eskom- leaving residents in the area frustrated. Currently the electricity debt owed to Eskom nationally stand at 13-billion-rand, with municipalities failing to pay back. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
esidents of Lathli Mabilo Park at Galeshewe in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, are demanding government renovate dilapidated houses in the community. The resident say 90 percent of the houses in the area are falling apart due to shoddy work during the construction phase. The residents main concern is safety as some houses have electric cables dangling from the walls which can pose a danger.
The Northern Cape's new mental health facility remains incomplete 12 years after it's been commissioned. The provincial department of roads and public works last year gave an undertaking that the facility will be completed by January this year. The new hospital was seen as a beacon for mental health care treatment by increasing the Northern Cape's ability to tackle mental health problems. And while silence continues to prevail over the yet to be completed new Kimberley mental health hospital, patients on a waiting list to be admitted to a mental health care facility continue to suffer.
The Northern Cape department of Education has confirmed that 706 learners are still seeking placement in schools. The department says that this is a significant decrease from the 869 pupils who still needed placement when schools opened earlier this month. Many of these learners are those living with disabilities. This report was compiled by Neo Bodumela and voiced by Nobelungu Nowapane....
After eighteen years - the Gariep Arts Festival - one of the biggest festivals in Kimberley has announced to close its doors. Organisers of the festival cite the country's economy negatively impacted the festival - and is unable to attract enough funding to continue. The initiative was established in 2000 by three daring Art-lovers
Families of the five men that died at the Homevale Waste Water Treatment plant in Kimberley in the Northern Cape have expressed their relief and joy after the Kimberley Magistrates Court found the Sol Plaatje municipality guilty.The court found that the municipality should be held liable as it failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the deaths that happened in 2012 at water treatment plant. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
An unpaid Eskom bill has led to the temporary closure of a Northern Cape high school. Hantam High School owes the power utility over 100-thousand-rand. The school closed its doors last week Tuesday. The provincial education department says plans are underway to negotiate with Eskom to restore power at the school. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
A disciplinary case against the two teachers who are accused of sexually assaulting pupils at a Bothitong High School in the Northern Cape has been postponed to early next year. The teachers whose contracts were meant to expire at the end of this year have also been extended until their hearing is finalised. Privincial Department of Education spokesperson, Lehuma Ntoane says the postponement was due to various reasons including that the teachers requested legal representation. He says the two remain on paid suspension.
The case against a Northern Cape woman accused of poisoning three boys has been postponed to January next year, pending further investigations. Lesedi Motswa-ra-Kgole made a brief appearance in the Bothitong Magistrate Court. The 48-year-old is facing charges of murder, attempted murder and malicious damage to property. Noluthando Ngcakani reports…
Orania residents have also voiced their opinions in congratulating the newly elected ANC's top-6. The Afrikaans town situated in the Northern Cape is also wishing the newly elected ANC President, Cyril Ramaphosa all the best, with a mammoth task he is facing, of unifying the country. The residents also believe that Ramaphosa will help bring economic stability, as he is an economically orientated person…
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union in the Northern Cape is threatening to disrupt registration processes at the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberey, if their demands are not met. The union is demanding a ten percent salary increase and a 100 percent bonus for univerity employees across the board. It says university management is unilaterally implementing increases and bonuses without an agreement being reached by both sides. The union had picketed outside the university's graduation ceremony earlier this month. Nehawu branch secretary at the Sol Plaatje University, Oduetse Seshwai…
A recent study by the South African Institute for Race Relations reveals that discrimination and violence against the LGBTI community remains rampant in the country, despite a constitution that promotes freedom of choice. In response to this, Lesbians, Gays, Transgender, Bisexual,Intersex and Queer people celebrated their third annual picnic in Kimberley, which seeks to raise awareness and continue to fight stigmatisation. The group believes strides have been made, however, churches are still not open minded in accommodating them. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
The fire that ravaged five farms in the Karoo Hoogland municipality in the Northern Cape has been contained. By 10pm on Saturday at least one farm was still burning however with no injuries reported. Mayor of the Karoo Hoogland Municipality, Verushska Wentzel says the fire was allegedly started by lightning. She says they will be monitoring the scene to make sure it does not spread to nearby houses.
Northern Cape's Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley welcomed the announcement made by President Jacob Zuma, on free education for poor and working class students, although they have concerns on how it will be implemented. The University expressed that the announcement is a positive development but the operational detail in the implementation of free higher education is going to be tricky. Sol Plaatje University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Yunus Ballim explains….
A second court battle is looming against the Northern Cape ANC Provincial Executive Committee. Some five ANC members have filed an urgent court application asking the Kimberley High Court to nullify Regional Elective Conferences that convened from the first to the third of December. The members are accusing the PEC of being irrational in announcing regional conference dates and undermining former Regional leadership. They also claim the conferences were used to illegally inflate membership numbers of delegates going to the party's national conference. At least four regions including John Taolo Gaetsewe, Pixley Ka Seme, Frances Baard and ZF Mngcawu went to conference and elected new leadership. ANC member Eric Khotseng says they are confident that the court will consider their application...
The John Taolo Gaetsewe Development Trust will handover Christmas gift packages and vouchers to 200 elderly people in Kuruman in the Northern Cape. The event forms part of an initiative by the organisation to show their appreciation and gratitude to senior citizens who have contributed to South Africa's history. CEO of the John Taolo Gaetsewe Development Trust Tumelo Mpolokeng says it is important to support the elderly in communities...
The ANC in the Northern Cape says it is all systems go for the province ahead of the party's national conference. Nearly 200 delegates from the province are expected to attend the conference to be held in Johannesburg from Saturday.The province which is supporting Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has said it will be going to the conference united. Provincial ANC spokesperson Naledi Gaosekwe...
Rural women of the Sedibeng village outside Kuruman have had a rare opportunity to access crucial healthcare tests. Launched in 2012 by Dr Tshego Gopane, the initiative allows hundreds of women to get cervical screening. Report by Nobelungu Nowapane...
The Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley in the Northern Cape held its third graduation ceremony. About 121 students graduated from the fledgling university which was founded in 2014. The graduation saw the first batch of degrees conferred to students. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape has asked the public protector to investigate allegations that Sol Plaatje municipal mayor Mangaliso Matika has been receiving undue housing benefits from the municipality. The party alleges that despite a municipal vote against providing official accommodation for the mayor, the municipality has been paying rental fees and decorating to the mayor's home. Neo Bodumela reports…
Two police members at Springbok in the Northern Cape will appear in the local magistrate's court on fraudulent travel claims - totalling to an estimated amount of 3-point-four-million-rand. The two suspects - a police Captain and former administration officer were arrested on Thursday. They are linked to a former finance administration clerk at the Springbok police station - who was arrested in January this year. Siyabonga Mangqishi was arrested for allegedly submitting fictitious financial claims - using personal details of fellow colleagues. The trio will appear on counts of alleged fraud, money laundering and theft. The Hawks' Captain Philane Nkwalase…
Northern Cape based employees of a security company contracted to Transnet are on strike over wages and unfair working conditions. Born To Protect security company is contracted to guard Transnet premises and cables usually targeted by thieves, countrywide. The workers who are based in the Kimberley and Warrenton areas allege that conditions at the company have worsened, despite the company's respose to the SABC seven months ago, that issues raised by the employees will be attended to. They allege that they are unfairly dismissed when voicing their concerns, and that their regional manager, Kubu Rakoena, uses offensive language when addressing them…
The case against three suspects arrested for possession of ivory in the Northern Cape has been postponed by the Kuruman magistrates court. Hawks spokesperson Philani Nkwalase says the three, Riaan Malgas, Mothusi Joel Tshibithi and Albert Mosimanyane were arrested at the Kuruman airport last Friday. Nkwelase says two of the suspects, Malgas and Tshibithi were granted 5000 rand bail each, while Mosimanyane has been remanded in custody due to another pending matter. Nkwelase says the three are expected to be in court on Thursday…
The Kalahari Non Profit Company (NPC) in partnership with the National department of Sports, Arts and Culture are hosting the first annual Northern Cape Artist Come Alive (NCACA) concert in Kimberley. The concert forms part of an initiative by the non-profit company to showcase local talent in the province. Organiser and director of the Kalahari NPC Thabo Modupe says local artists are neglected and overshadowed by headlining acts from other provinces. Modupe explains…
Northern Cape Police are investigating allegations levelled against one of their own. This comes after a Kimberley Police Station Reservist opened a case of Crimen Injuria against the station commander. The Police Reservist alleges that the commander addressed him using racial slurs.Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
Northern Cape Local Government MEC, Alvin Botes, says he is ready to be deployed despite his previous objections. The ANC in the province announced last month that Botes, together with three other provincial party members including ANC chair Zamani Saul, will be deployed to Parliament, to fill the gap left by former Energy and Transport ministers, Dipuo Peters and Tina Joemat-Pettersson. The two ministers were sacked by President Jacob Zuma during his last cabinet reshuffle. Botes who earlier missed two deadlines issued by the party to resign as MEC has now has changed his tune....
It looks like it's going to be a bleak festive season for the residents of Mataleng in Barkley West in the Northern Cape as the water supply cut-offs are expected to kick in early next month. The Dikgatlong Municipality in Barkley West owe the departm4ent of Water and Sanitation approximately 60-million-rand. The department has issued notices indicating that water supply will be cut off, should they fail to pay their outstanding bills of more than two-months.. This report is compiled by Refilwe Gaeswe and voiced by Nobelungu Nowapane.
An increasing concern has been raised about the mounting legal claims against the Northern Cape Department of Health. The Department is currently facing medical negligence claims which amount to a staggering 1.5 billion-rand. The legal claims against the department have more tripled from half a billion, by the start of the 2017/18 financial year. Noluthando Ngcakani reports…
The Northern Cape department of Economic Development is embroiled in controversy following the alleged illegal staging of a horse racing event in the province. The race - billed as the Kimberley August - was funded by the department to the tune of at least two-million-Rand. The Bosco Sports Events Management which staged the event is alleged not to have the required licenses to host the event. Neo Bodumela reports…
Six months into office the ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) in the Northern Cape, is convinced that they have managed to bring stability to the province. The Northern Cape is the first province to declare its support for Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa - ahead of the elective conference. This declaration however saw a split in the province, straining unity. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Two farmers from Hartwater in the Northern Cape, who resuscitated a fallow farm that was allocated to a group of 36-community members want government's intervention in keeping those who abandoned the project, out of it. The rest of the group has been accused of leaving the two-beneficiaries to run the wheat and lucerne farm alone for a decade. Now that the farm is profitable the remaining 34 have returned for their share. A Farmer's union in the province says Communal Property Associations are plagued by challenges and are now calling on government to speed up the process of finalizing laws that govern Communal Property Associations. Noluthando Ngckanai compiled this report…
Over 300 entrepreneurs are attending the fourth annual Frances Baard District Municipality's Entrepreneur Week in Kimberley. The Entrepreneur Week has been growing annually since its inception in 2013 with the vision to develop local economy. The programme coincides with the Global Entrepreneurship Week. Refilwe Gaeswe compiled this report…
Construction at the Northern Cape's flagship housing project, Lerato Park, has ground to a halt. This is due to litigation proceedings against the late businessman, Wandile Bozwana's company, Cross Border. Cross Border sub-contracted more than 20 smaller companies. Following Bozwana's assassination two years ago, sub-contractors and labourers could not be paid. Puleng Modupe has more…
The Northern Cape's agricultural sector will need millions of rands if it is to mitigate the impact of the drought in the province. The agricultural sector, most hard hit by the drought, is the second biggest contributor to the provincial Gross Domestic Product. Provincial MEC for Agriculture, Norman Shushu, says the province has already been declared a disaster area with two of the province's five districts feeling most of the effects of the drought. Neo Bodumela reports...
A group of emerging farmers and the Land Reform department in the Northern Cape are butting heads over the land they are occupying. They are accusing the department of withholding title deeds which were initially meant to be awarded to them, after leasing the land for a specific period of time. The farmers are currently paying monthly rent of about 19-thousand rand to the department.
A garder has been arrested for the alleged murder of his employer near Spieëlkop at Kakamas in the Northern Cape. The 64-year-old man was last seen in the company of his garder who he had apparently picked up, to do domestic chores and gardening. Community members grew suspicious when they saw the suspect driving his employers bloodstained vehicle. Police spokesperson is Francois Steenkamp.
EFF in the Northern Cape has called young people in the province to rise up and mobilize against the scourge of corruption. The party says local government in the province continues to rob the youth in the province of their economic potential by overspending governmental resources. EFF Provincial Interim Core Shadrak Thlaole says funds in the province could be used to assist the youth in solidifying the future of the province....
A Northern Cape man accused of murder and attempted has been denied bail in an apparent racially motivated attack. The accused, Harry Kotze allegedly drove into a group of four young men in Kathu last month following a verbal altercation. The event led to the death of one while another suffered serious injuries. Noluthando Ngcakani reports....
The community of Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape say they have lost faith in the police, hoping for a speedy intervention. This is as the Deputy Minister of Police Bongani Nkonki launched the provincial safer festive season operation plan in the area. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Crime statistics of the Northern Cape released by the Provincial Police commissioner Risimati Shivuri show a decrease by 17.4 percent. Speaking at a media briefing in Kimberley, Shivuri says in the previous financial year, the province had a high rate of rape cases and they vowed to reduce it. Refilwe Gaeswe reports...
The Northern Cape has become the latest province where disgruntled ANC members are challenging the legality of a provincial elective conference. They have filed court papers in the Kimberley High Court asking it to nullify the conference held in Colesberg earlier this year. The group believes the conference was fraudulent and that the processes leading up to the conference were improper.Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
Today marks the 65th commemoration of the Mayibuye Uprisings which took place in 1952 in Galeshewe Location in the Northern Cape. Mayibuye Uprising was a sequence of protests and demonstrations by political activists and community members, in which thirteen people lost their lives. The uprising came in reaction to some of the unjust laws used by the apartheid regime to oppress black people. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
With the race for the ANC National Conference almost over, the majority of the branches in the Northern Cape have shown support for the CR17 campaign. So far, less that ten branches are yet to convene their general meetings with only few disputes raised. The ANC in the province says it is delighted that their branches followed through with their pronouncement to support Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
The case of a teenager accused of murdering a family of three in their De Aar home will resume in March next year. 18-year-old Dumisa Magadula's trial started earlier this week at the De Aar Magistrate Court. Refilwe Gaeswe reports…
A two-day conference on the many Afrikaans dialects and literature in the Northern Cape is being held at the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley. The conference offers a special emphasis on the dialects spoken by black and coloured people across the province. Organisers believe that the future of Afrikaans lies in the many varieties and that and more attention should be paid to it. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Platfontein community near Kimberley in the Northern Cape says raw sewage pooled in the area is placing the lives of their children at risk. The community says their pleas for the local Sol Plaatje municipality to repair the damaged gogga pump station, which has led to all sewage from the nearby Galeshewe township to flow into Platfontein, have fallen on deaf ears. They say this has been ongoing for the past four years. Puleng Modupe visited the area and compiled the following report…
Persons with disabilities say they still feel excluded from society, questioning government's urgency and the political will for a disability friendly country. This was revealed during the launch of the annual Disability Rights Awareness Month by the Northern government in Kimberley. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
A high school at Alexander Bay in the Northern Cape has started a project to teach children and community members farming skills. This year, the school is currently farming on 105-hectares of land, the learners are using the land to revive a failed community farming project.…(fx…fx…fx)For the past 12-years the land was not utilised, due to endless squabbles following a successful land claim. The school is working on being the first agricultural school in the Namaqua district region. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Preparations for Kimberley's 18th cultural festival, the Gariep Kunste Fees, are in full swing. The four day annual event caters for culture, music and theatre lovers. Last year the festival generated revenue of 1.4-million-rand and created 600 jobs. Organisers say this year revellers can look forward to the cheese and wine tent, which has never been part of the festival before. Another new edition to the cultural event is the gospel and string quartet shows where artists like the Soweto String Quartet will be performing. Despite its previous successes, this year the festival is experiencing a few challenges. Organiser, Bernice Versluis…
Employees at Northern Cape based Kumba Iron Ore mine have welcomed a wage increase agreement reached between the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and their employer. The agreement will see a once off payment of over the 25 thousand rand and an increase of between 8 and 10 percent. The fortunes of the mine have gradually improved over the past few years following the slump that hit the industry a few years ago, which saw many workers retrenched. According to NUM provincial co-ordinator, Lucas Phiri, the agreement will also see a guarantee to keep jobs at the mine for at least three years.
The Williston magistrates court in the Northern Cape has ordered the former Karoo Hoogland Chief Financial Officer, Marius Botha, and a bogus business owner Ockert Tobias Cloete, to repay the proceeds of crime benefited from a fraudulent tender. The two, together with the former municipal manager were found guilty in May this year, for nine corruption related charges, including money laundering and fraud. The bogus company allegedly received undue payments worth 250-thousand-rand for the delivery and installation of six hundred solar geysers in Williston. The trio are currently on a 10 thousand rand bail extension, following their conviction. The Hawks spokesperson, Philani Mkwalase says, sentencing is expected to be concluded on Wednesday…
The Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism Executive Council, will embark on a three day outreach program in the Ubuntu and Umsobomvu local municipalities. The EXCO outreach program will host a series of community meetings, focusing on service delivery and the economic empowerment of women and the youth. Daryll Christians, Executive Manager in the Department, responsible for business development says outreach programs like these fund business initiatives that are deemed viable for the community's economic growth. Christians explains….
Written heads of arguments have been filed on the case of a Northern Cape woman accused of allegedly poisoning three boys and killing one at the Mothibistad Magistrate Court, in Kuruman. The defence and prosecution's heads of arguments cited whether the 48-year-old woman should be granted bail or not. This after it was announced that Lesedi Motshwarakgole might be medically unfit to stand trial. Refilwe Gaeswe reports...
Police in the Northern Cape have confiscated dagga with the street value of over R 200 000 during routine patrols at Britstown.. Police Spokesperson Captain Sergio Kok says they have arrested two male suspects aged 51 and 54-years old and they appear in court soon....
The Northern Cape teacher found guilty of forcing two boys to fight in front of the whole class, has returned to his post. This has infuriated the mother of a Grade 6 learner who was badly beaten and bruised following the incident. The Du Toitspan Primary School teacher, in Kimberley, was placed on precautionary suspension earlier this month, following the incident. The mother who cannot be identified is angry.
Precious Gems Educare centre in Kimberley is threatening to sue the parents of a 3-year-old learner who was allegedly called the K word. The parents raised the issue with the school and the department of Social Development and even posted it on social media. They have subsequently been served with threatening lawyer's letters. Neo Bodumela reports…
Thousands of people once again gathered at the small Northern Cape town of Calvinia for the annual Hantam Meat festival. The festival is now in its 28th year. The festival is a treat for meat lovers, who are exposed to the best chops in the Karoo. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is attending the festival, and filed this report…
The Magareng Municipality in the Northern Cape has dismissed allegations of corruption levelled against them by community members, as unsubstantiated accusations. Residents allege that millions that were set aside for the bulk water supply have mysteriously disappeared. They have since approached the Hawks to investigate. Report filed by Nobelungu Nowapane and voiced by Margaret Mothibi
A 47-year-old Cape Town woman runs an organization in Kimberley that supports vulnerable women and children from far-flung areas around the Northern Cape. Women's Month marked the birth of a vision by the NPO Women-to-Women, which is to provide a safe haven for abused women and destitute mothers and children. The organization works closely with the Kimberley courts that refer victims of domestic violence to the organisation for counselling. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report...
A Kimberley born self-taught photographer is expected to jet of to London to exhibits his art work for two weeks. The 22-year-old orphan says this is a life time opportunity to tell his story about growing up without a home and living on hand-outs. Neria Hlakotsa reports...
The National Prosecutions Authority says they are concerned about the delay in the Intaka case involving former ANC Northern Cape chairperson, John Block and businessman Gaston Savoi. This after the matter was postponed for a year by the Kimberley Magistrate Court. The multi-million rand corruption and money laundering case relates to a purchasing of oxygen tanks tender that was allegedly fraudulently awarded to Savoi's company, at inflated prices. Other similar cases involving the two are also before the courts. The NPA's Phaladi Shuping says the case was postponed due to a stay of execution application that was made by a court in KwaZulu Natal, where another similar case involving Savoi is continuing…
A Northern Cape man found guilty of sexually assaulting a six-year-old girl in a taxi full of passengers, has been sentenced to four-years behind bars. Harry Brais admitted to touching the private parts of the young girl while she was travelling with her mom in a fully loaded taxi. Margaret Mothibi reports...
A teacher at Precious Gems Early Childhood Development Centre in Kimberley is under investigation after she allegedly called a three year old learner the K word. The teacher will remain teaching at the school during the investigation by the provincial Department of Social Development which the ECD centre falls under. Neo Bodumela reports.
South Africa's political spectrum as well the drought, are both negatively affecting the agricultural sector. This is according to AgriSA, President Johannes Möller. He was speaking during the farming organisation's congress in Kimberley, in the Northern Cape. Refilwe Gaeswe attended the annual congress and has compiled the following report.
A menstrual cup is being introduced to assist poor female pupils in the Northern Cape. Over 7-thousand have already received the cups. It's cost-effective and doesn't have any chemicals - like sanitary towels. Reginald Witbooi filed this report and voiced by Margaret Mothibi
The Northern Cape's government is pinning it's hopes of tackling the rising statistics of violent crimes against women, on a men's forum that was launched in Kuruman today. Provincial stats indicate that since January this year, over nine-point-seven of the crimes reported in the province involve crimes against women. Puleng Modupe has more…
The family of a patient who was reported missing at the Kuruman Hospital is reeling in shock after the man was found dead on the premises of the hospital, in the Northern Cape. It is alleged that the man went missing for two days while admitted at the hospital. Neo Bodumela reports.
The man accused of raping a 68-year-old pensioner has abandoned his bail application in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court. 51-year-old Kagiso Tsamaisi told the court that he fears for his life and would not be applying for bail at this stage. The case was postponed to the seventh of August. It is alleged that the elderly woman was raped in her bed while she was sleeping next to three of her young grandchildren in her Lerato Park home near Kimberley. Lerato Park residents filled the court in solidarity with the grandmother. Community leader, Paul Kok, says Tsamaisi remaining in custody is a step towards justice.
A group of volunteers from a non-profit organisation "Phoebes Cleaning Project" are complaining about not being compensated for cleaning the streets of Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The 38 volunteers started cleaning the filthy streets of the city four months ago, but claim they're not receiving any assistance from the Sol Plaatje Municipality, despite being in talks with Municipality ever since they started doing the work. Luvolwethu Qavata reports…
COPE leader, Mosioua Lekota, marked Mandela Day, but visiting the Kimberley Hospital and donating toiletries, to patients from far-flung areas across the province. Lekota also used the opportunity to assess the situation at the hospital, which has numerous challenges which include lack of beds, shortage of medical staff and increasing operational costs. Lekota elaborates...
Efforts of goodwill are continuing in the Northern Cape to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela. Childline and the Thuthuzela care centre, which is spearheading the fight against rape, are serving soup to patients and communities visiting the Galeshewe Day Hospital near Kimberley. Childline's Innocentia Mosemeng says the effort is to ensure that day visitors who often spend hours queuing for medical services are fed. She says they are also utilizing the opportunity to inform communities about their services...
A Northern Cape woman accused of poisoning three boys and killing one can now re-apply for bail. The case has been referred back to the Mothibistad Magistrates court, which denied her bail application in April this year. The Kimberley High Court overruled the decision; with both the State and Defence agreeing that the Magistrate erred in denying the accused bail. Luvolwethu Qavata reports…
Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Province, Raseriti Tau, has handed over books at Judy Scott Library at Colville in Kimberley as part of the commemoration of the life and time of Nelson Mandela. The library serves seven schools in the area as well as several communities in Kimberley. The donated books include study guides for school children as well as literature for older persons. Tau says libraries are an indisputable source of information.
Education received special focus during this year's Nelson Mandela Day. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga launched an infrastructure development initiative in the Free State and young professionals did their 67 minutes for Mandela by refurbishing a primary school in the Northern Cape. Neo Bodumela reports.
Agri-SA in the Northern Cape says the three year drought in Namaqualand and Hantam District Municipality has left farmer's cash flow in the area depleted. AgriSA says farmers are unable to continue farming because they can no longer afford to buy feed for their livestock with a conservative estimate of about 200-million-rand needed to normalise the current situation. Neo Bodumela reports.
A 68-year-old pensioner who was allegedly raped by her neighbour is applying for an interdict following the endless harassment from the wife of the accused. The accused abandoned his bail application in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court on Monday. It is alleged that the elderly woman was raped in her bed while she was sleeping next to three of her young grandchildren in her Lerato Park home near Kimberley. Neo Bodumela reports.
Three military veterans received houses in the Lerato Park area in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The handover of the homes forms part of a multi-million rand project aimed at addressing the housing needs of veterans from various military formations. The houses were handed over by the ANC N ational Executive Commitee Member, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma. Luvolwethu Qavata reports...
22 students from various schools in Kimberley in the Northern Cape had a preview of the working environment at the mining giant's offices, De Beers. Students from disadvantaged areas were part of the company's Job Shadowing Programme which exposes young people to various careers offered by the company. This year the company invested 1.7 million-rand in this initiative. Luvolwethu Qavata reports…
Volunteers at Douglas in the Northern Cape marked Mandela Day, by partnering with the Department of Water and Sanitation in cleaning the polluted canals around the Orange and Vaal Rivers. The Bongani community members volunteered to assist with the river cleaning campaign until the end of the year. The department says solid waste dumping, remains a huge problem. Provincial Water Resource Manager, Stephen Shivambu, says the Clear Rivers Campaign was launched across the country today.
Political infighting within the Khoisan Revolution Party in the Northern Cape - is threatening the stability of the coalition led Nama Khoi Municipality. The small party which was founded in January 2016 - has now suspended its founder and president. Suspended leader, Stanley Peterson is now seeking legal recourse. Report compiled by Reginald Witbooi and voiced by Luvolwethu Qavata.
The Khomani Cultural Landscape in the Kalahari has been lauded as a space that develops a specific botanical knowledge. This is as UNESCO added it to its list of World Heritage sites for its preserved hunting skills and the way of life by Khomani-San people. Edmond Moukala, who heads the Africa Unit at the World Heritage Centre, says the site's historical evidence recorded over thousands of years needs to be preserved.
Six men accused of murdering DA councillor, Johannes Baatjie, and his business partner, Shuping Nose, made a brief appearance in the Kimberley High Court to resolve issues of legal representation. The suspects allegedly shot Baatjie in the head and upper body on the eve of being sworn-in as a Kgatelopele Municipality councillor. He was found dead on the main road between Danielskuil and Postmasburg with his business partner who later died in hospital. Noluthando Ngcakani reports....
The parents of a missing 5-year-old Keitumetse Magwadibane, who was abducted on this day a year ago, say they have lost all hope of ever finding her alive. Keitumetse was abducted near her home at Galeshewe in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. She was last seen - with a friend on their way to the local tuck shop. Four suspects including a local sangoma were arrested - but were later released due to lack of evidence. Luvolwethu Qavata reports…
A private psychiatric facility in Kimberley has few patients to fill up its bed spaces. This was revealed during an open day hosted by the Careline Clinic. The facility opened it's doors to the public in 2015 to tackle the scourge of mental illness in the Northern Cape. Now the facility would like to partner with govenment to provide healthcare to state patients. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report...
Energy department deputy minister, Thembisile Majola, says the solution of tackling the high youth unemployment lies in, exposing the youth to scarce skills. Majola says these skills and opportunities are plenty in the Energy sector. The department in partnership with the Sol Plaatjie University in Kimberley hosted the annual Learners Focus Week. The week-long event will focused on exposure of career opportunities available within the energy sector. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report...
A Kimberley born gender activist and lawyer has been accepted at the University of California to further his Masters in Law, specialising in Public Interest Law and Policy. Letlhogonolo Mokgoroane is one of two young South Africans who will be joining at least 130 other lawyers from across the world on the intake for the 2017/18 academic year. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Businessmen of colour have been encouraged to enter the horse racing market - as horse owners. This market continues to generate millions annually. Efforts are now being made by the Northern Cape's Flamingo Race Park and BOSCO Sports Management to diversify the sector. Neo Bodumela reports….
Flowing streams of raw sewage continue to pose a health threat to the residents of Galeshewe in Kimberley. This as a result of blocked sewer pipes which continue to plague the township and create a pungent stench. Residents have expressed their concerns over their hazardous health as their children play close to these flows of sewage. Damaged and worn out infrastructure have been identified as the cause. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report…
At least 70 percent of South Africa's middle class is suffering from financial stress due to the lack of emergency funds and bad debt record, according to Sanlam's 2017 Benchmark survey. The country's downgrade ratings and subsequent effects on the economy have also left many under financial pressure. With July being Savings month, financial experts however believe there is a way out and it is time for South Africans to improve their financial knowledge and attitudes towards saving. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report.
In response to the recent spate of women and children abuse and debates about patriarchy in society, the Northern Cape department of safety has launched a Men's forum. The forum which will be in every government department is expected to hold other men accountable and change their thinking around sexism and gender related issues in society and workplace. MEC for safety, Pauline Williams says this forum is the beginning of more initiatives by government in curbing gender inequality and bringing social transformation.
Child and Youth Care practitioners who have dedicated their lives to the protection of children at risk gathered at a three day conference hosted by the National Association of Youth Care Workers. The conference is aimed at discussing solutions to the growing statistics of violent acts committed against children. South Africa has been identified as one of the most violent countries not inflicted by political conflict. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report…
Police are still investigating a case of rhino poaching after a number of white Rhino's were shot, killed and had their horns removed on a farm in the Northern Cape. The incident was discovered after the carcasses of rhinos were found on a farm near Kimberley. The Northern Cape department of environment and nature conservation has confirmed the incident but declined to give any further information because it is deemed a security risk .Captain Sergio Kock elaborates...
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Northern Cape has resolved to lay criminal charges against accounting officers and Chief Financial Officers (CFO's) of the department of Health and Education - for their role in the 10-billion irregular expenditure. It says provincial treasury has the powers to take appropriate steps - in terms of section 18 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has more…
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has raised concerns about the huge shortage of health professionals, and yet only approximately 1000 of the 30 000 people who apply to study medicine will be accepted. SAMA says the shortages are largely self-inflicted. Neo Bodumela reports.
The Tshwaragano District Hospital in Kuruman in the Northern Cape has been operating without running water since December. The hospital is currently using a thousand litre jojo tank, relatives of patients are forced to bring bathing and drinking water from their homes. This has patients and the community up in arms. Neo Bodumela reports.
The Northern Cape Department of Health has set aside more than thirteen million rand to improve in curbing the province's high Multi Drug Resistant towards TB. This is as research by the Heart of Compassion funded by the University Research Council, revealed that the province's TB rate is the highest in the country. Neria Hlakotsa filled this report
A professional choreographer has put his own dreams on hold to teach Galeshewe Township children the art form. The Mayibuye Dance Academy trains young people in different forms of dance which include ballet, contemporary and ballroom dance. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report…
Hundreds of learners living with disabilities in the Northern Cape are still on the provincial education waiting list, this despite the second term of the year ending this week. The figures in the province are just an indication of a national problem, with as many as 9-thousand children living with disabilities unable to find schools. Neo Bodumela reports.
Women and community members at Taung in the North West took to the streets to march against the escalating violence against women and children in the area.. The march was organised by the Taung Community Against Crime (TCAC), a non profit organisation established to fight crime in the area. The march was sparked by the robbery and murder of a mortuary owner in the area two weeks ago. Luvolwethu Qavata reports....
The Commission on Restitution of Land Rights says it has been experiencing major difficulties in finalising all claims submitted before the 1998 cut-off date. This emerged at the national conference held in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The commission says 79 thousand claims were submitted countrywide, with about 6 thousand that still needs to be finalised. Luvolwethu Qavata reports...
A 51-year-old man has appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate Court for the alleged rape of a 68-year-old, elderly woman. The pensioner now needs to undergo an operation for her injuries after she was allegedly raped by her neighbour. The pensioner was treated at a local healthcare facility after suffering a prolapsed womb following the rape. Neo Bodumela reports.
A 14-million Rand cash injection has led to the steady growth of the Kimberley Airport. Airport Company of South Africa ACSA says the developments will create jobs for the Kimberley locals. Recent developments created more than 50 temporary jobs and paved the transition to solar power - which is used to power the lights on the airport runway. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report...
The Auditor General has released a damning report on the financial state of municipalities in the Northern Cape. The AG found that municipalities in the Northern Cape "had to write off and condone irregular expenditure amounting to 609-million-rand" with no person found liable for the expenditure. Neo Bodumela reports.
Two property-related bills were tabled for public participation in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The Department of Human Settlement held its first public participation assembly on the Home Loan and Mortgage Disclosure Amendment Bill, as well as the Property Practitioners Bill, bills which were gazetted earlier this year. Luvolwethu Qavata reports...
About 20 families from the Khomani San in Upington feel that their cultural rights are being violated by their local municipality. They claim the Dawid Kruiper Municipality- named after the renowned Khomani San leader - evicted them from a piece of land that they have been occupying for more than 4 years. They're pinning their hopes on the Human Rights Commission as well as the Public Protector's 0ffice, where they have asked for help. Luvolwethu Qavata compiled this report…
A security company contracted by Transnet in the Northern Cape is being accused of ill-treating its employees and placing their lives at risk. Employees of Born To Protect Security Services allege the company is not giving them payslips, doesn't pay them overtime and sick leave and that management uses offensive language when addressing them. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report...
Recent scourge of abduction, rape and the senseless murder of women and children in the country has prompted Northern Cape Premier Sylvia Lucas to revive the "Thursdays in Black" campaign in Kimberley to protest against sexual and gender-based violence in the province. Premier Lucas says she is greatly concerned with the high levels of violence committed against women and children in our society. The Northern Cape has had an alarming increase in women and child abuse incidents ranging from physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Noluthando Ngcakani filed this report...
The Northern Cape department of health has promised to address challenges faced by nurses in the province during its budget speech next month. This comes amid a report by nursing organisation DENOSA revealing the lack of uniform allowance for nurses, shortage of nursing personnel and poor safety and security conditions. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
The Frances Baard District municipal area in the Northern Cape is facing severe challenges of water and sanitation. This emerged during the three day exco initiative, where the Province Premier Sylvia Lucas and senior government officials visited communities to gauge the type of services they needed. Luvolweth Qavata reports
The recent cold front that hit the Western Cape has caused temperatures to plummet across the country. Homeless people in Kimberley are scrambling to find shelter so they can stay warm during the winter season. The Northern Cape Department of Social Development has launched a social relief programme for the homeless to sustain them during winter. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report…
Disgruntled Petrusville residents marched to the offices of the Renosterberg Municipality in the Northern Cape to demand the removal of the Municipal Manager. Protestors brought the small town to a standstill as they demanded the sacking of an official whom they accuse of soliciting sexual favours from vulnerable women in return for municipal jobs. Refilwe Gaeswe filed this report
A Kuruman Primary school teacher in the Northern Cape is refusing to teach learners, citing health problems she picked up from inhaling paint fumes and dust from her renovated classroom. Her classroom was freshly painted in 2013, and four years down the line she has yet to set foot inside. She goes to school every day but just sits in the learner transport. Spokesperson for the Department of Education in the Northern Cape, Geoffrey Van Der Merwe, says the department is aware of this situation and and will take action..
The Oncology department at the Kimberley Hospital Complex in the Northern Cape is currently operating without radiation machinery. Nearly ten thousand cancer patients wait for months before undergoing radiotherapy. According to one of only two oncologists servicing these patients in the province, the only option is to send patients to Bloemfontein hospital for radiation treatment. This means patients wait up to three months to get lifesaving treatment they desperately need. Neo Bodumela filed this report....
Learners at Barkley-West in the Northern Cape are suffering due to the Public Library being closed for a year. The almost 12-million rand library opened in 2011 - but closed in May last year, and the dilapidated state of the infrastructure is being blamed...
The Northern Cape South African Police Service (SAPS) has less than 14 days to answer to court papers on why the Kimberley High Court should not revoke their decision to have witness statements and affidavits written only in English. Trade Union Solidarity has filed papers with the court following a decision by the Provincial Police Commissioner, Risimati Shivuri. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
Traces of fire residue that date back to more than a million years ago have been discovered in the Northern Cape. International scientists from Italy and Canada were studying the Wonderwerk Cave between Kuruman and Danielskuil, when they stumbled on the startling discoveries. They have now set-up a laboratory at the Cave and have published a number of articles relating to their findings. Neria Hlakotsa reports...
Tswelopele Correctional Facility in Kimberley in the Northern Cape has come up with creative ways to discourage offenders from returning to the life of crime, upon their release. They are introducing them to the music industry. A host of established musicians visited the centre to give offenders messages of hope. Noluthando Ngcakani reports...
Amid recent rape incidents that have gripped headlines over the past weeks, one rape survivor has decided to speak out about her ordeal on a popular video sharing website, youtube. Research by the Rape Crisis Centre, say South Africa has one of the highest incidences of rape in the world. Neria Hlakotsa Reports
The Northern Cape and the ||Kharas province in Namibia, have signed an almost forgotten agreement. The twinning agreement was signed in 1999 - but was never implemented. The agreement has now been dusted off and the two parties are adamant, that both provinces will reap the benefits. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi is in Namibia, and filed this report...
South Africans and Namibians united in Tses, Namibia - to celebrate Africa day. Northern Cape Premier, Sylvia Lucas, dignitaries and Namibian officials joined in. The two countries have also secured a Twinning agreement. Lucas said that inclusive and sustainable growth should be the corner stone for both Namibia and South Africa. Our reporter, Reginald Witbooi is in Namibia and filed this report...
Tswelopele Correctional Centre in Kimberley in the Northern Cape has denied allegations of abuse and ill treatment of inmates. This after reports emerged of some inmates complaining to their relatives about being ill treated and forced to bathe with cold water amongst others. Head of Tswelopele Correctional Centre Hendrik Johannes says the prison is one of the few in the country that has an offender structure called participatory management, in which offenders are tasked with overlooking different units within the centre and directly liaising with management if there are any challenges…
Statistic SA say the Northern Cape has the highest rate of teenage pregnancy for women between the ages of 15 and 19 years old. Statistician General Pali Lehohla revealed the South African Demographic report during the week. The provincial Department of Education say it has noted the statistics with concern. The department stated that the John Taolo Gaetsewe District in Kuruman, has the highest number of teenage pregnancy in the province. They added that it is ranked the 5th highest in 52 municipalities in South Africa. Refilwe Gaeswe has compiled the following report...
The Department of Economic Development and Tourism in the Northern Cape has hosted a District Economic Symposium in Kimberley, to create a platform for dialogue with relevant stakeholders on the implementation of key economic policies at district level in the province. The symposium provided stakeholders with information on the services offered by government and shared economic development plans and interventions which are linked to the Provincial Nine Point Plan. Luvolwethu Qavata reports...
Femicide often has a knock on effect in families and the community. But the people who most feel the effect are the children of slain women. A woman's role in the family is being the breadwinners and natural care givers of children in the family. The children of women who have been killed by their partners are often left orphaned and scarred psychologically. Neo Bodumela compiled this report...
Education and Technology organisations from Finland and South Africa and Finland have partnered in running creative coding workshops, targeting girls who remain underrepresented among the users and creators of technology. The Code Bus Africa will run workshops which aim to boost the importance of technology amongst the youth. The Code Bus will be covering ten countries including South Africa. Kimberley in Northern Cape is the final stop of the tour. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report…
African philosopher and traditional healer Credo Mutwa has condemned the killing and abuse of women and children. Mutwa, who is said to have predicted Marikana and the 1976 youth uprising, has called the abuse of women and children monstrous. The 95 year old has pleaded with the nation to change its attitude and protect its women and future leaders, children themselves...
Music producers and artists like Hip Hop artist Tuks Senganga visited the Tswelopele Correctional Centre in Kimberley to scout for fresh talent and entertain inmates - during a music concert organised by an imprisoned promoter. Inmates displayed different skills which included dancing and singing. This is part of rehabilitation efforts undertaken by the Department of Correctional Services. Music producer, Thabiso Tsotetsi, says he hopes efforts of this nature will inspire prisoners to change their lives….
Serial rapist Christopher Julies has been sentenced to life behind bars by the Kimberley High Court. Julies was given seven life sentences which include 337-years in jail. The rapist was found guilty on 34 charges, ranging from raping a 13-years-old minor, a lesbian woman and rape with aggravated circumstances. The sexual crimes were committed in various towns in the Northern Cape and North West. The rapes took place from August 2011 until his arrest on February 2015. Julies pleaded not guilty to all charges. Judge President Frans Kgomo slammed him, for not showing any remorse and even dosing off doing the sentencing. The women who survived the ordeal say they feel vindicated.
The Frances Baard District Municipality's current financial situation in the Northern Cape is threatening its existence. This was alluded by municipal mayor Buyiswa Ximba after tabling the municipality's 2017/18 financial year budget, in Kimberley. The total budget is approximately R125 million. Ximba revealed during a media briefing that the municipality's financial position has declined over the years.
A former Municipal Manager at the Northern Cape's Karoo Hoogland Municipality, Louis Nothnagel and Chief Financial Officer, Marius Botha have been found guilty for fraud, corruption and money laundering. Hawks' investigation revealed the collusion between the two municipal officials and their friend Ockert Tobias Cloete, a bogus company owner, which received undue payments for delivery and installation of six hundred solar geysers. About 220 thousand rand was paid to the unregistered company in four separate transactions between 2011 and 2012. The Hawks' Philani Nkwalase says the trio is expected to appear in court next month for sentencing. They are currently out on an extended bail of 10 thousand rand each…
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) said on Tuesday it will this week start wage negotiations with Kumba Iron Ore, as the three-year agreement comes to an end on the 30th of June. The union said it will table the demands of its members in Kumba Iron Ore operations in the Northern Cape, in Kolomela and Sishen mines yesterday. The union represents the majority of employees in the Northern Cape and in Kumba, and it is still the majority union. NUM chief negotiator at Kumba Iron Ore, Lucas Phiri says the negotiations will continue in June...
Public Protector Busisiwe Mkwebane says she has collected nearly one-thousand service and conduct failure complaints during her road show across the country. Mkhwebane is visiting the Northern Cape which is the last province of her road show where she met with stakeholders in Kimberley. She says complaints that her office have received from the province include amongst others, long waits for RDP housing, provision of water and electricity and poor roads and infrastructure. Mkhwebane says her office need to ensure backlog cases are speedily dealt with.
The Northern Cape Transport department assured that thousands of learners won't be affected again through learner transport. This after 1400-learners were affected by learner transport challenges - in the first quarter of the school year - due to non-payment to service providers. The department say they don't have the necessary resources to address all the problems comprehensively. The Northern Cape's Education Department had to put a recovery plan in place for learners to catch up in lost school work. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi has the story….
The Department of Social Development in partnership with The South Africa Social Security Agency (SASSA), handed over 99 school uniforms to needy learners at Green Point Primary School in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The handing over of the uniforms forms part of the Child Protection Week. Luvolwethu Qavata reports....
The ANC in the Northern Cape will back Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa for the position of president of the party in the upcoming national elective conference. This was declared by the Northern Cape ANC at its provincial conference held in Colesberg. Neo Bodumela reports…
Northern Cape Premier, Sylvia Lucas, has handed over documents for investigation into alleged fraudulent activities that took place at the province's Economic Development department, to the Hawks. The department's former MEC, Ntsikelelo Jack, was one of those axed by the premier, during an urgent cabinet reshuffle on Wednesday. The reshuffle was done a day before the ANC's provincial elective conference, and was slammed by the national ANC. Premier's spokesperson, Bronwyn Thomas…
Homeless people living on the streets of Kimberley in the Northern Cape say they feel neglected by mainstream society. They say with winter approaching, their challenges which include an endless search for food have doubled. The homeless say they appreciate every effort made to ensure that their living conditions are bearable. This includes a Social Relief programme launched by the Social Development department, worth 7 million rand. Noluthando Ngcakani filed this report…
Hundreds of illegal miners marched in Kimberleyin the Northern Cape demanding to be granted mining permits and recognition from government. The illegal miners also claim that De Beers and eKapa.mining companies are deceiving the public by stating that there is no diamond on the land that they mine on, while there is. Refilwe Gaeswe reports
The results of the elective conference of the ANC in the Northern Cape is set to be challenged by former ANC provincial treasurer Sylvia Lucas. Lucas lost out the position of chairperson of the Northern Cape ANC to Zamani Saul after she declined her nomination - saying the process was flawed. Neo Bodumela reports...
Two men including a Zimbabwean national have been arrested at Vioolsdrift Border in the Northern Cape for contravening the Immigation Act. The two suspects are accused of fraudulently renewing passports of foreign nationals and taking bribes. They will appear at the Springbok Magistrate Court on Wednesday. Hawks provincial spokesperson, Philane Nkwalase...
The ANC in the Northern Cape has lost ward 2 in the Dikgatlong Municipality at Barkly West, to an independent candidate. Mentley Bezuidenhoudt won the by-elections with 45 percent of the 54 percent votes cast. The ANC received 20 percent. The ward which became vacant after the death of the ANC councillor was recently plagued by violent service delivery protests, with residents accusing the ANC of failing to deliver basic services. The IEC's Elkin Topkins says the by-elections went smoothly without any hiccups…
Six-year-old twin boys have died near Hopetown in the Northern Cape after a bus crashed into the donkey cart they had been travelling in late last night. It's understood that the boys' parents had pulled over onto the side of the road on the N12 last night to secure the donkey to the cart. Netcare spokesperson Chris Botha describes what happened next...
Black First Land First (BLF) and small-scale miners gathered at the Samaria Informal Settlement in Kimberleyin the Northern Cape to discuss the unfair treatment of Zama-Zama's by the government. Black First Land First Deputy Presidents Zanele Lwana says that the small-scale miners have the right to mine the land owned by the mining giants and called for the immediate recognition and legalization of small-scale mining.
The increased rate of farmers committing suicide has raised eyebrows, with government pleading for farmers going through distress to reach out. Insurance company, Liberty has released its insurance claims statistics which shows that 10 percent of farmers in the Northern Cape die through suicide. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report...
A Hartswater family in the Northern Cape is accusing the provincial health department of using delaying tactics, in finalising the medical negligence case they lodged against it. 23-year-old Constance Setswambung was left brain dead during an operation to deliver her baby in 2013. An epidural to induce labour was allegedly wrongly administered at the Kimberley Hospital. Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report…
Former Minister of Transport Dipuo Peters and former Minister of Energy Tina Joemat Peterrsson received a warm welcome back home ceremony at the Northern Cape theatre in Kimberley. Both Ministers resigned as Members of Parliament after they were chopped from the national cabinet by President Jacob Zuma during a surprise midnight reshuffle earlier this month. The were welcomed during a rally hosted by the provincial ANC Youth league. Neria Hlakotsa attended the rally and has filed the following report...
Farmers in the Namakwa District in the Northern Cape have been left reeling after recent fires in the area. The fires in the area have ravaged thousands of hectares of farming and grazing land in the area. Neo Bodumela reports...
Bravery comes in many forms. That was the message at unveiling of a monument in remembrance of the Concordia town guards. The men took a brave decision about their participation in the Great South African War as Boer forces attacked the British in Namaqualand. Wejoenke Kambungu and Luvolwethu Xavata compiled this report...
Huge chunks of knowledge regarding medicinal plants could have been lost with the death of traditional healer Jan Van Der Westhuizen over the weekend. Van Der Westhuizen practiced his craft in the Kalahari. His biggest wish - to share his knowledge passed down from generations with modern science never came to fruition. Report compiled by Ulrich Hendriks and voiced by Noluthando Ngcakani...
A 19-year-old Kimberley man will appear in the Kimberley Magistrate's court on a count of murder. 19-year-old Ridhwaan Mackay went missing last week Thursday, and was last seen at his home in West-End. His parents reported him missing on Sunday - after his sister's car he drove in was found near his house. The police's Sergio Kock says Mackay's body was found last night...
A new planet has been discovered through the Sutherland telescope in the Northern Cape - called Kilodegree Extremely Little Telescope (KELT). Astronomers say the planet is bigger than Jupiter - and has a low density like styrofoam. Although KELT made the discovery, the planet was monitored by many telescopes around the world. Outreach Astronomer, Dr. Tana Joseph says the planet will be studied…
Some three thousand schools, with small enrolment figures across the country are expected to be closed down within the next three-years. The department of Basic Education is implementing a policy which will see schools with poor and aging infrastructure among other issues closed or merged with others. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report…
Over two-hundred provincial government senior managers converged in Kimberley to deliberate on issues of management and improving performance in their respective portfolios. The two-day Northern Cape Government Senior Management Service Summit is hosted Premier Sylvia Lucas's office. Lucas who addressed the first-day of the summit called on senior managers to remember their public service mandate and put citizen's first. Luvolwethu Qavata reports….
A glimpse into the lives of San people in Southern Africa is now available for public viewing at the Origins Centre at Wits University. The two months exhibition, known as the traces and tracks, is a three decades long journey of photographer, Paul Weinberg, portraying an in depth reality of the San people. Neria Hlakotsa filed this report
The National Development Plan's vision is that in 2030, South Africa's transition to an environmentally sustainable, climate-change resilient, low-carbon economy and just society will be well under way.This, according to the plan, can be achieved through reducing carbon emissions by 34 percent by 2020. Now, a young woman from Kuruman in the Northern Cape is well on her way to turning this into a reality. Neria Hlakotsa reports
Farmers in the Northern Cape say they feel that they are losing the battle against stock theft which they say is escalating in the province. The South African Farmers Association in the Northern Cape says the latest stats showing a drop of 5 percent in 2017, is inaccurate and not a true reflection of reported cases of stock theft. Farmers say the fact that the province only has a centralised stock theft unit, worsen the situation. Neo Bodumela reports...
The old steam train business in Kimberley has received a new lease on life with the refurbishment of four steam trains dating back decades. The refurbishment is being done by a group of steam train enthusiasts known as Steamnet 2000 NPC. Neo Bodumela compiled this report.
A glimpse into the lives of San people in Southern Africa is now open for public viewing at the Origins Centre at Wits University in Johannesburg. The two- month exhibition, known as traces and tracks, is a 30-year-long journey by photographer Paul Weinberg, portraying an in depth perspective on the San people. Neria Hlakotsa compiled this report
Business owners and residents at Hondeklipbaai in the Northern Cape are concerned about their sporadic water supply. Often, the town is without water leaving residents high and dry and it also has a negative effect on the local economy. The Kamiesberg Municipality blames the old infrastructure as Luvolwethu Qavata reports..
The department has also snatched a 40-metre long Black Mamba from the possession of 40-year-old, Thapelo Tabakeng, who now demands the snake back...
Community members in the Frances Baard municipality in the Northern Cape are up in arms about what they call high electricity costs in the region. National Energy regulator (NERSA) regulations stipulate that 100 units of electricity should cost about R108 but residents are paying much more than that. Municipalities in the district have faced several challenges when it comes to electricity. Neo Bodumela compiled this report.
The Lifeline organisation in the Northern Cape has launched a weekly programme to address social ills plaguing the province. Thursday in Black campaign will be a weekly silent protest aimed at addressing issues such as human trafficking, rape, molestation and violence amongst other things. Kimberley residents joined the silent protest through the streets of Kimberley. Luvolwethu Qavata reports…
The Northern Cape department of Environment and Nature Conservation has condemned the increased killing of snakes by Kuruman residents. Recent heavy rains have been blamed for the increased visibility of snakes. Residents are urged to contact departmental officials if they need snakes captured and released into the wild. Provincial departmental spokesperson, Lesego Pule elaborates…
No date has been set for the ANC's provincial elective conference expected to take place in the Northern Cape. The conference was postponed last month to March twenty second, following allegations of voter manipulations at branch general meetings, which elect preferred candidates for PEC positions. The party's provincial secretary, Zamani Saul has denied allegations that there disputes at branches in the province.
The construction of the Northern Cape's first ever rehabilitation centre is currently underway in Kimberley and is expected to be completed by November. The R60million centre is expected to accommodate 40 in-patients. The centre was expected to cost the provincial government about 40-million-rand to build but due to squabbles with contractors the costs have escalated to 60-million-Rand. Neria Hlakotsa has more...
Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Mduduzi Manana has launched the 2017 Apply Now/Khetha Career Guidance Campaign in Kuruman in the Northern Cape. The Apply Now/Khetha Career Guidance Campaign is aimed at encouraging secondary school learners to apply on time for admission to higher education institutions and to impart career advice. Neo Bodumela reports.
The Northern Cape department of health has issued a warning for an outbreak of human myiasis or parasitic flies in the province. This is a first of its kind outbreak in the province although other cases have been reported in Limpopo, North West and Gauteng. Neo Bodumela compiled this report...
Youth in the Northern Cape have found creative ways of tackling the scourge of unemployment facing the province. They are shooting a movie titled Okapi, which talks about Kimberley, and its infamous stories of knife stabbings. The province is also battling the high rate of unemployment, which currently stands at 43 percent. Lerato Segalo reports…
Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Jeff Radebe welcomes the Constitutional court's ruling that social security agency SASSA and Cash Payment Services should continue with their mandate to pay social grants for the next 12 months. SASSA and CPS have been ordered to ensure that grants are paid to the 17 million recipients on April 1. Radebe was speaking at the side-lines of an Imbizo in Kimberley, in the Northern Cape. Refilwe Gaeswe compiled this report…
ANC national executive committee member Jeff Radebe has joined thousands of South Africans in sending well wishes to Apartheid struggle veteran Ahmed Kathrada. 87-year-old Kathrada is still in hospital recuperating following surgery to remove a blood clot in his brain earlier this month. Radebe says he hopes Kathrada will recover fully.
The Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) has embarked on a roadshow to inform communities about the services that the office offers. The OHSC enforces compliance to health standards in health care facilities in both private and public sector. The office was in the Northern Cape this week to set up the complaints call centre where communities can lodge their grievances. OHSC spokesperson Ricardo Mahlakanya...
The MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Mac jack, delivered the 2017/18 Provincial Budget Speech at the Frances Baard District Municipal Chambers in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Leading up to his Provincial Budget Speech, Jack highlighted that the focus for the 2017/18 financial year, would be directed towards maintaining the present healthy provincial cash position, strengthening assistance to municipalities and public entities to ensure prudence in financial management, monitoring of spending by departments through effective in-year-monitoring of expenditure and sound cash management, amongst other things. Luvolwethu Qavata compiled this report...
Mineworkers at Diro Mine near Postmasburg in the Northern Cape have marched to the mine to hand over a memorandum - demanding that they be reinstated to their jobs. They say they were promptly retrenched without prior consultation. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Hawks in the Northern Cape, Home Affairs and Health inspectors have seized upon foreign shop owners who sell expired food products to consumers in Warrenton near Kimberley. This after a similar operations conducted in Hartswater last week, where nine shops were found selling expired goods. Kgotaco Selao reports…
Residents in Riverton in the Northern Cape say they are prepared for any possible flooding that would happen in the area. This comes amid the sluice gates of the Vaal Dam were opened on Sunday. Riverton is among the areas which surround to the Vaal dam which reached 100 percent storage level by Tuesday.
Struggle veteran, Kwedi Mkhaliphi says the late PAC founding member, Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe's life should be equally celebrated as that of the late president Nelson Mandela's. Today marks 39 years since the death of PAC founding member, Robert Sobukwe. Sobukwe played a vital role in the fight against apartheid, after breaking away from the ANC and instigated a revolt against pass laws. He spent six years on Robben Island. After his release, he was confined to house arrest in Kimberley, where he died of Lung Cancer. The Northern Cape Government is now in talks with the National Heritage Council to turn Sobukwe's house into a museum. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi compiled the following story...
A man accused of raping two boys - aged 10 and 11 years - has appeared briefly at the Galeshewe Magistrates court near Kimberley. The two boys were allegedly raped by the accused at his tuck-shop in December last year. During court proceedings the defence requested that the accused only have to report to the Kimberley Police Station once a week, instead of the three-day order he's currently under.The case was postponed for further investigations. Luvolwethu Qavata has more….
Two Karoo schools in the Northern Cape have received mobile science laboratories. In 2016, the Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, visited the area where she promised to assist the community with learning equipment to improve the standard of Maths and Science. In his State of the Nation Address - President Jacob Zuma - said government will prioritise Maths and Science. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
A newly formed farmers union, Rainbow Farmers Union has been launched at Gamorona Village, near Kuruman in the Northern Cape. The Union currently reports four-hundred farmers in different sectors. The union will incorporate all farmers and offer assistance and mentorship to emerging farmers in the region. Lerato Segalo reports....
ANC Branch General Meetings (BGM) in the Northern Cape have been plagued by violence ahead of the conference which will be in March. Reports of fights during meetings have emerged with some members saying they have been deliberately excluded from meetings. Neo Bodumela compiled this report.
Despite corporal punishment being banned in the country, the practice continues at GI Jansen Primary School at Windsorton, in the Northern Cape. Last year a video depicting on the teaching canning a learner, went viral on social media. The provincial department of education has now launched an investigation into the matter. Lerato Segalo and Noluthando Ngcakani compiled this report…..
The case of a 39-year-old man, Mzwandile Nqozi, who allegedly chopped up his wife's body and stuffed the body parts in a plastic bag, then buried it in a nearby veld in Kimberley was postponed to March. Both parties, State Advocate Joyleen Mabaso and Advocate Pierrie Fourie for the defence, are expected to hand in their written heads of argument next week. Nqozi remains in custody.
The Northern Cape has 227 disabled children on their waiting list who still need placement at special schools. The province has 11 special schools for disabled children, which are still not enough. Parents who have been on the waiting list for over a decade have now resorted to a cramped, informal day care for children of different ages and disabilities. Lerato Segalo reports…
The National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union, Nehawu, in the Northern Cape says that it will challenge a decision by the provincial department of health to dismiss 400 workers. Letters of dismissal are being sent to the workers who participated in a three month long strike at the Kimberley Hospital last year. Luvolwethu Qavata and Neo Bodumela compiled this report
Ten unemployed agricultural graduates have been deployed in land reform projects in the Northern Cape. The students will gain practical experiences through assisting with project management, enterprise development and economics. Kgotaco Selao reports...
About 1400 pupils at Rosendal Intermediate School in Upington in the Northern Cape have received a 1.3 million-rand new multi-purpose sports court, following the school being adjudged to be one of the fittest primary school in the country, in the 2016 let's play Challenge. Kgotaco Selao reports...
The parliamentary select committee on education and recreation has tasked the Northern Cape department of education with the onus of upgrading its school infrastructure. This, according to the committee, will help improve learner performance and drive. The members National Council of Provinces visited schools in the province assessing their state and providing possible solutions. Neo Bodumela and Neria Hlakotsa compiled this report.
An official of the Sol Plaatje Municipality in the Northern Cape has been arrested on charges pertaining to an alleged building plan scam. The man works in the Kimberley based municipality's Plan and Structure office which is charged with approving building and extension plans of buildings in the municipality. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
Judgement in the application for leave to appeal the conviction and 15 year sentence of former ANC Northern Cape Chairperson John Block and businessman Christo Scholtz has been reserved in the Kimberley High Court. The two are applying to have their appeal heard by the Supreme Court of Appeal after they were found guilty of money laundering and corruption in the Kimberley High Court in December last year. The duo, were found guilty following a marathon case relating to multimillion-rand property tenders awarded by Northern Cape government departments. Neo Bodumela reports...
Financial disaster is looming for the Griquas rugby team. They are still without a main sponsor, and financial resources are unstable. Last season the team ended in 6th position on the Currie Cup log sheet... Lerato Segalo has more on the story.
Twenty-three Northern Cape schools that have been constructed using asbestos material are still operational in the province. The provincial department of education says it will take fourteen-years before all these schools are demolished and upgraded. Prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause fatal illnesses which include asbestosis and lung cancer. Margaret Mothibi reports...
The Police in Mothibistad, in the Northern Cape have opened an inquest case, this is after a ten-year old girl drowned in a quarry used for building sand. The girl was allegedly walking with a five-year old boy and a nine-year old, when she and the five-year old boy fell and slipped into the quarry. The nine-year old girl managed to rescue the boy, but did not succeed in trying to rescue the girl. The quarry allegedly became full with water after recent rains in the area. Police spokesperson in the province, Mohale Ramatseba explains...
The public hearing of the Khoisan Traditional Leader Bill took place in Kimberley in the Northern Cape after committee members failed to pitch for the hearings last year. The aim of the BIll is to give rights and recognition to the Khoi and San communities. Kgotaco Selao reports….
Two suspects found in possession of one-hundred and 23 uncut diamonds appeared at the Springbok Magistrate court. The two were found in possession of diamonds worth millions. It's suspected that the suspects were running an illegal diamond dealing syndicate that operated from Springbok, Port Nolloth and Steinkopf. The illegal diamonds were exported to buyers outside the country. One suspect, Rodrigues Lima Jose Jorge was released on 25-thousand-rand bail. His co-accused Hardlife Bhebhura, a Zimbabwean national, has been remanded in custody, until his documents are verified. Hawks provincial spokesperson, Philani Nkwalase explains...
INTRO: EFF leader in the Northern Cape, Aubrey Baartman, has appeared at the Springbok Regional Court on charges of fraud. The charges emanate from Baartman's tenure at the Nama Khoi Municipality in the Springbok. Baartman who was the municipal manager, in 2014, allegedly misused over 300-hundred-thousand and failed to follow due processes as per the Municipal Finance Act (MFA). Provincial Hawks spokesperson, Philani Nkwalase…
INTRO: The trial of the murdered DA councillor, Johannes Baaitjie has been transferred to the Kimberley High Court in the Northern Cape. Baaitjie and his business partner, Shuping Nose, were murdered shortly after the local government elections, last year. Six men including two suspended ANC officials appeared before the Postmasburg Magistrate's court today. Lerato Segalo has more....
The future of the multi-million rand skateboarding park in Kimberley Northern Cape remains uncertain. The park that was constructed amid much fanfare has cost the provincial Department of Economic Development and Tourism over 2-million-rand however the park now stand empty and abandoned. Free weekend skateboarding lessons have been halted, leaving skating enthusiasts dejected. Kgotaco Selao report….
The pan where the world land speed record attempt will be held has flooded - bringing with it hope for employment. The Hakskeenpan in the Northern Cape will be the pan where the Bloodhound Super Sonic Car will attempt to break the record. A test run will see the car travel at over 1200km per hour. The land speed record will see the car travel at over 1600 kilometres per hour. The pan is near small towns of Mier in the area and provides jobs for the communities. Neo Bodumela reports.
Eskom has served notices on three Northern Cape municipalities that their electricity supply will be interrupted from January 18 if they do not pay the power utility. Eskom says it will cut electricity supply for about 4 and a half hours a day during the week and 5 and half hours during the weekend. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
The Northern Cape department of Public Works is appealing to to members of the public to refrain from accessing cordoned off areas where a 30 metre deep sinkhole has occurred at Danielskuil as the ground is unstable. This after the department partially closed off the R31 road linking Danielskuil and Kuruman,where a sinkhole has developed. People have been flocking here, despite limited safety measures put in place.Kgotaco Selao visited the place and reports…
Parents and communities members have closed down the Buffelsrivier Primary School near Springbok in the Northern Cape due to what they call unsafe conditions. This comes after a sandstorm blew off the roof of the school in November last year. They say the provincial department of education has failed to fix the roof and clear out the debris in time for the new school year. Neo Bodumela compiled this report.
New and old learners at Boitumelo Special School, in Galeshewe near Kimberley are ready for this academic year. Boitumelo is a public intellectual disability school and provides foundation and intermediate phases. The school, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, is one of two schools in the township of Galeshewe solely focused on children with disabilities. Neo Bodumela compiled this report...
A quarantine notice on horses and donkeys has been issued by the Northern Cape Department of Agriculture after a suspected case of African Horse Sickness was reported in Kuruman in the province. The quarantine restricts movement of the animals within a 30km radius of the town. The disease is fatal and can cause horses to have difficulty breathing and a swelling of the head. Department of agriculture official, Thebe Thebe, says unvaccinated horses and animals must be protected to avoid a wide spread break out...
INTRO: The Northern Cape will mark few milestones in the year 2017. The highlights will include new world speed record attempt, that will take place at Haksteenpan in the Kalahari later in the year. The political landscape is expected to change - with the ANC holding their elective conference in February. Kgotaco Selao reports….
Matriculants who have been rejected by their preferred universities have been urged to consider other options. Hundreds of prospective students have been flooding universities for late applications. In Kimberley, hundreds of prospective students are queuing up at the Northern Cape Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College. Lerato Segalo reports…
An orphan who survived a gruesome attacked on her family, after her uncle hacked to death her mother and brother has passed her matric and is gearing herself up, for a bright future. John Langeveldt hacked his sister and nephew to death in a brutal attack. Hendrietta Langeveldt who was left as an orphan now lives with her class teacher who has legally adopted her and is supported financially and emotionally by Education MEC, Martha Bartlett. Financial support for Hendrietta will continue until she completes her juniour degree. Refilwe Gaeswe reports...
In the past five years Dithakong learners near Kuruman in the Northern Cape have been severely affected by disruptive service delivery protests. Demands for a tarred road in 2015 saw over fifty schools closed for more than six months in the area.Some learners dropped out while others repeated their grades. The provincial matric results were affected and dropped by seven percent to 69. 4 percent. Lerato Segalo reports….
Drought persists in the southern parts of the Northern Cape. Dam levels at the Karee Dam near Strydenburg have dropped to 10 percent. Water restrictions continue in the town of Loeriesfontein in the Hantam municipality. Department of Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau, says some of the other parts of the country are still bone-dry despite the current rains. Ratau....
The Northern Cape has achieved an overall pass rate of 78.7 percent, an improvement from 69.4 percent in 2015. The province says the result declined in 2015 due to violent protests, where learners were barred from attending school in 2014 in the John Taolo Gaetsewe district. Kgotaco Selao reports
Recent rains in the Northern Cape have been welcomed by livestock farmers, who say their animals have been perishing due to drought. The province has been battling with the worst drought since the early 1980's. Currently the levels at Gariep, and Vaal dams are standing at 44 and 43 percent respectively, levels which the Water and Sanitation department say are at an all time low. Lerato Segalo reports…
Inmates at the Kimberely prison (Bougroep) are accusing Correctional Services department of ill treatment. The inmates sent video clips taken via cellphone to the SABC News Northern Cape Facebook page which shows rotten bread they are fed, overcrowding and victim of assault allegedly by prison wardens.
As we look back at 2016, child deaths topped the news headlines in the Northern Cape during the past year. Ten children died - either at the hands of an adult or because of suffocation. The province also saw a DA councillor being killed. Former Northern Cape ANC chair, John Block, was served a 15-year jail term after being found guilty on charges of fraud and money laundering. The premier, Sylvia Lucas, also lost her appeal, after referring to the Khoi and San as, quote 'Hotnots', unquote. The province was also the first to launch the Digital Terrestrial Television or DTT. Reginald Witbooi looks at these top stories that made headlines…
Three suspects have briefly appeared at the Kimberley magistrates court, for fraudulently purchasing a Mercedes Benz vehicle worth half a million rand. The suspects allegedly stole the identity of someone and applied for financing, which was approved. One suspect, Shimi Mayaba, was arrested when he went to collect the vehicle at the garage, and the other two, Lawrence Ngcobo and Jeremiah Ngala fled the scene. They were later arrested in Gauteng. The case was postponed to the 29th of December. Hawks spokesperson, Philani Nkwalase…
Residents of Galeshewe in Kimberley have been without water since last weekend amid extreme weather conditions that the Northern Cape is currently experiencing. According to Sol Plaatje Municipality, the cause of the water shortage is due to an old infrastructure and pipe bursts.
Failure to attract qualified doctors to fill vacancies is one of the issues contributing to poor health service delivery in the Northern Cape Province. Patients at the state of the art Dr Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington, recently discharged themselves due to shortage of doctors who couldn't attend them.
The Hawks in the Northern Cape have vowed to fight crime this festive season by putting criminals behind bars. In three separate incidents, two business men, Ismail Collier and Antonio Ingala arrested for dealing in uncut diamonds in Kimberley were sentenced by the Sandton high court. The two were part of the twenty two suspects traced and arrested in Kimberley for illegal diamond transactions. In another matter, Kuruman businessman, Bathusi Diemeng faces charges of fraud after his comany failed to comply with tender regulations by delivering substandard goods ordered by the municipality. The Hawks also arrested two women in Kimberley in connection with running a brothel. Hawks sopkesperson, Philani Nkwalase...
The Northern Cape government will deduct salaries of all Nehawu members who were protesting for the past two months. The salary deductions will start from January until June next year. This is one of the agreements reached between government and the union, to immediately end the strike. The Director General in the provincial government, Justice Bekebeke explains.
Northern Cape police say they welcome all the assistance relating to the missing 5 year old Kimberley girl, Keitumetse Magwadibane. This after Keitumetse's father, Frank Magwadibane took matters in his own hands and dug up one of the suspects yard over the weekend. The father discovered some bones and hair which he handed over to the police. Keitumetse was last seen in July this year, while she was on her way to the shop. Four suspects including a Sangoma, arrested for her kidnapping were released last month, after the court struck the matter off the roll due to lack of evidence. Police spokesperson, Mohale Ramatseba says the bones have been taken in for testing...
The Kimberley Magistrate Court has ordered that a 26-year-old man accused of raping and sexually assaulting three minors undergo psychiatric evaluation. The man briefly appeared in court this morning. Two weeks ago Thapelo Molusi, allegedly lured three minors to a cricket club ground and sexually assaulted all three and rape two. Kgotaco Selao reports
Northern Cape premier Sylvia Lucas and her MECs will adopt at least ten families each that are affected by HIV and Aids in the Kuruman area of the province. The initiative, which started last year, is focused on making it easier for the underprivileged households to access government services with MECs paying regular visits to the households. Lucas visited six families in Kuruman in the Northern Cape as part of this initiative. Lucas says this is to actively do something in fighting the social effects of the disease...
The house of a sangoma woman who was linked to the disappearance of a five-year-old child in Galeshewe, Northern Cape has been torched. The 55-year-old woman and three suspects were released from custody yesterday, after the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court dropped an abduction case against them. Keitumetse Magwadibane was last seen in July, on her way to the local tuck-shop with a friend. Her parents are still hoping for her safe return. Police spokesperson is Mohale Ramatseba…
The Galeshewe Magistrate Court has dropped abduction charges against four suspects including a sangoma accused of abducting five-year-old Keitumetse Magwadibane on July 14. The Magistrate dropped the charges and released the suspects who have been in custody since July, due to lack of evidence and inconclusive DNA results. Keitumetse was last seen on her way to the local tuck-shop with a friend. Keitumetse's father fainted in court after hearing the decision by the court to drop the charges. The mother of the child, Margaret Magwadibane, says the justice system has failed her family.
A code of ethics is being finalised to prevent people from exploiting the San communities. The San people say their knowledge and research are being used, to benefit others. The code will ensure that those who want to do research about the San people - must abide by the rules. San leaders and the San council are attending a two-day workshop, which started on Tuesday to finalise the code of ethics. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The National Prosecuting Authority says they will decide within two weeks whether to charge suspended Western Cape ANC chair Marius Fransman with sexual harassment. Fransman was suspended for five years last week after an ANC disciplinary committee found him guilty of sexually assaulting Louisa Wynand and bringing the party into disrepute. The NPA's Phaladi Shuping...
The South African Communist Party (SACP) has condemned protestors who destroyed and torched public property and university buildings, during the #feesmustfall protests. SACP Secretary for International Relations, Chris Matlhaku, says their actions are counter-revolutionary. Matlhaku was delivering the keynote address at the 64th commemoration of the Mayibuye Uprising in Galeshewe, near Kimberley. Reginald Witbooi reports...
A 52-year-old Loeriesfontein man, in the Northern Cape has been sentenced to life imprisonment for raping his daughter, for 13-years. He was also found guilty of sexual assault and was further sentenced to 26-years. Police say the now 21-year-old victim reported the incident to the police in 2013. The rape and sexual assault started when the victim was 9-years-old, she says her father said he was preparing her to be a young lady. The two sentences will run concurrently. Police spokesperson is Dimakatso Mooi.
The ANC Youth League in the Northern Cape has warned of a possible bloodbath ahead of the provincial elective conference in February 2017, if the current status quo persists. The league has condemned what they consider foreign tendencies within the party. They have called on all branches to rally behind the current leadership. Provincial league spokesperson, Xhanti Teki elaborates…
The Kimberley blood bank is running low on supply. The bank is failing to reach its weekly target and is calling on all those who are eligible to donate blood to assist the bank. The organisation has warned of a possible shortage of supply during the festive season; given the prevalence and increase in road accidents. Provincial blood bank spokesperson, Magda Tesmer elaborates.....
A hotly contested by-election will be held in Danielskuil in the Northern Cape. The election is due to be held after incumbent; Johannes Baaitjie, was killed in an alleged political attack. The by-election will be contested by the Democratic Alliance, the ANC and the EFF. Kgotaco Selao reports…
A 9-year-old learner from Kimberley won the annual Spelling bee competition in Johannesburg, for the Primary School category. This makes her the youngest to have ever won. The competition is held by the Department of Basic Education. Mayuri Govender is also assisting learners at the Beaconsfield library to spell, some much older than her. Lerato Segalo reports….
The so called "karretjie mense" migrated with donkey carts between farms in the Karoo, shearing sheep and repairing fences. They camped for days and weeks on end between the road and the fence close to the farm where they worked. But this age old legacy came to a halt some fifteen years ago when sheep farmers needed to push production and thus implemented organised shearing teams. The Karretjie mense ended up living in shacks on the side of the road near Colesberg relying on the odd piece job. Neo Bodumela reports…
Human trafficking is on the rise at Kuruman in the Northern Cape. The Hawks say syndicates are targeting vulnerable rural girls, who are looking for better opportunities in cities like Johannesburg. The crime fighting unit has embarked on an awareness campaign, cautioning parents and traditional leaders about the growing trend. Kgotaco Selao reports...
Northern Cape police have arrested a 32-year-old man at Prieska, for stabbing his younger brother to death. The deceased was allegedly killed after a heated argument between the two siblings. Police spokesperson, Mohale Ramatseba, says the victim was stabbed with a knife.
The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein will decide on Tuesday if it will allow the IEC in the Northern Cape, to appeal a ruling by the Electoral Court, to hold a revote at Namaqua District following a dispute by a new political party Khai-Ma Onafhanklike Kandidate Koalisie (KOKO). The party launched a dispute, following the local government elections, after the IEC failed to include the party on the district municipal council ballot paper. The Electoral Court ruled in September that the IEC should organise a revote for the district - a decision that has not gone down well with the electoral body. Meanwhile KOKO founder and leader, Nico Jano, says the IEC's delays are political mileage for his new party.
The Khomani San community of the Northern Cape has a new leader, who replaces the late Dawid Kruiper who died in 2012. The nephew of Kruiper, Dawid Kariseb, has been appointed to lead the nation. The historic appointment took place outside the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the Kalahari. Kgotaco Selao reports
Six men charged with the murder of former DA-councillor, Johannes Baatjie and his business partner Shuping Nose have been denied bail in the Postmansburg Magistrate's Court in the Northern Cape. Both Baatjie and Nose were shot in August, days after the local government municipal elections. Baatjie died on the scene, while Nose later passed away in hospital. The case has been postponed to November 29 for further investigations. The suspects will remain in custody. Reginald Witbooi reports.
Three months after the local government elections, a legal dispute between the IEC and the Northern Cape based Khai-Ma Onafhanklike Kandidate Koalisie (KOKO) is yet to be resolved. The party launched a dispute with the Electoral Court after the IEC failed to include the party on the district municipal council ballot paper. The IEC lost its appeal with the Electoral Court last week. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
The count down to the switch off of analogue transmitters in Carnarvon has begun. The transmitters are to be switched on to digital in a ceremony on Friday. This will be done to make way for the Square Kilometer Array which needs as little radio transmission as possible for it to function optimally. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
The Minister of Water and Sanitation Nomvula Mokonyane says water scarcity is still a problem in South Africa due to the continuing hot weather conditions. The Minister was speaking during the launch of an 18 billion rand Vaal Gamagara water project in Kathu in the Northern Cape. The project is part of an effort by the government to address the ongoing drought crisis in the country..Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
Poets and authors who came from as far as Botswana, Cape Town and Namaqua gave their last pieces before they departed to their respective homes during the last day of the annual writers festival in Kimberley. The festival, aimed at promoting the culture of reading and writing also looked at challenges facing local writers and authors. The department of Sports, Arts and Culture spokesperson, Morapedi Sekhoane says the festival was successful with an increase of local authors launching their books. Kgothaco Selao reports...
With just the 16 antenna Meerkat telescope operational, scientists have made new and exciting discoveries about our known universe. The Meerkat is based just outside the small town of Carnarvon in the Northern Cape. Meerkat is the precursor to what will be the world's most powerful telescope called the Square Kilometer Array. The SKA, as it's known, will be made up of 64 antennas. Neo Bodumela compiled this report.
The countdown has begun for the historic Bloodhound land speed record attempt, due to take place in the Northern Cape, next year. The Bloodhound team was in the province to celebrate the world's best racetrack. The racetrack which is at Haksteenpan at Groot Mier was prepared by locals. The supersonic car will travel at 1 600km per hour and is powered by a jet engine. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
The Northern Cape is facing it's worst drought in 95 years. This is according to the department of water and sanitation in the province. The drought has seen water levels drop between 8 and twenty percent in six of the provinces' dams. This has left water storage in the province standing at a low 56%. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
The Northern Cape is facing it's worst drought in 95 years. This is according to the department of water and sanitation in the province. The drought has seen water levels drop between 8 and twenty percent in six of the provinces' dams. This has left water storage in the province standing at a low 56%. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
Over a thousand people marched to the Premier's office, in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, to hand over a memorandum of demands. The march was convened by COSATU, in their plight to fight for decent jobs and wages. Workers say this is the third memorandum they have submitted to the provincial government, and their demands are still not met. They added that they will intensify their action if government does not respond within 7 days. Lerato Segalo has more...
More help must be given to Small and Medium Enterprises, SMMEs, in order to help them contribute more to the country's Gross Domestic Product. This came out at the Small Enterprise Development Agency's annual stakeholder forum held in Kimberley. SEDA also presented its annual report at the forum. Neo Bodumela compiled this report….
The second Annual Northern Cape Sport and Recreation Awards was held at a glitzy event in Kimberley. The awards held under the theme, " Today's champions, tomorrow's legends", honors provincial sports men and women who have made their mark provincially, nationally and internationally. The awards recognize, people with disabilities, continental participants, federations and schools amongst others. The awards were awarded in fifteen different categories. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
Classes remain suspended the Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley, however the institution is open, to students who want to access facilities at the campus, as well as employees. This follows the chaos that erupted on Tuesday morning when students closed roads and damaged construction equipment, which resulted in the arrest of 24 students. Meanwhile the Director General of Higher Education, Gwebinkundla Qonde, is meeting will all SRC President in Gauteng. SRC President, Tiro Cwaile.
Sentencing in the multimillion rand Trifecta corruption and money laundering case, involving the former ANC Chair John Block and businessman Christo Scholtz has been postponed to December. The two have been found guilty on charges of corruption and money laundering. According to the state, a custodial sentence will serve as a message to would be criminals that crime does not pay, and also it would build trust on investors to put their money in the country. Sylvester Lobelo reports
Mitigation and aggravation of sentencing in the case involving former ANC Northern Cape Chairperson John Block, and business man Christo Scholtz have been scheduled to start at the Kimberley High Court. This after Judge Mathebe Phatsoane reserved the order of confiscation, to determine whether the 60-million-rand agreed upon by both the state and defence, should be paid back. The two were found guilty of corruption and money laundering in October last year, on charges related to the leasing of buildings in the Northern Cape to the Social Development Department by Trifecta Holdings, owned by Scholtz. The tenders were worth millions of rands. Puleng Modupe attended court proceedings and filed this report
Diro Manganese Mine owned by former Northern Cape Premier, Manne Dipico, has been placed under business rescue. 250 mineworkers have not been paid their salaries since May. Earlier this month the workers occupied the head offices of the mine in Pretoria. Afrimat Limited has been appointed as the preferred bidder to rescue mining operations. Workers say the non-payment has plunged them into debt. Neo Bodumela compiled this report
The Electoral Court has called for a revote at the Namaqua District Municipality, in the Northern Cape, following a dispute launched by a newly formed party, Khai-Ma Onafhanklike Kandidate Koalisie (KOKO). The party launched the dispute with the IEC after its failure to include the party on the District Councils ballot paper for the August local government elections.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it wants direct imprisonment for the former Northern Cape ANC chair, John Block and Trifecta director Christo Scholtz. The two were convicted for fraud and money laundering. The case is set to continue in the Kimberley High Court on Wednesday. Report by Reginald Witbooi
Sol Plaatje university students in Kimberley in the Northern Cape went on the rampage early this morning, destroying construction equipment used to build the university. The students were protesting in support of the no fee campaign. Lectures at the university have been put on hold since last week Tuesday. Kgotaco Selao reports
According to South African National Cancer Association (SANCA) study, at least one-thousand-500 children die of cancer in South Africa annually. This is caused by late diagnosis and a myth that cancer does not exist amongst children, according to the association. An 18 year old matriculant who was diagnosed with Dermato fibrosarcoma Protruberans cancer a month ago in Kimberley in the Northern Cape will now miss his national final examination,as he is to start his chemotherapy. Kgotaco Selao reports...
The Northern Cape department of Sports, Arts and Culture held a memorial lecture in Kimberley in the Northern Cape in commemoration of the life of Sol Plaatje. This was done as part of a series of heritage based events in the province. 2016 will mark the 140th birthday of Sol Plaatje. It also marks a hundred years since the publishing of Plaatje's critically acclaimed book, Native Life in South Africa. Neo Bodumela compiled this report...
Traditional leadership squabbles and a perceived lack of unity in royal households is detrimental to the societies they serve. This is the observation made by Northern Cape chairperson of the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders, Kgosi Pule Bareki. He was speaking at the opening of the Northern Cape Provincial House of Traditional Leaders at the provincial legislature in Kimberley. Neo Bodumela reports…
The African National Congress in the Northern Cape has detailed a way forward following their two-day provincial Lekgotla held this week, in Kimberley. The party has called for an end to public spats by senior party members, highlighting the importance of presenting a united ANC to South Africa. The Lekgotla, which was attended by all leagues in the province as well as members of the alliance partners was aimed at critically assessing the party's performance during the Local Government Elections, as well as the state of the ANC in the Province. ANC Provincial Secretary, Zamani Saul says the party will strengthen it's structures, to recover party losses in the 2019 general elections. ANC Provincial Secretary, Zamani Saul elaborates.....
About 250 illegal miners in Kimberley in the Northern Cape have vowed to continue digging, looking for diamond to make ends meet. The Illegal miners started flocking into the city's surbab of Cassandra early this week. The piece of land that has been invaded allegedly belongs to De Beers. While the the residents are worried about the digging, this group say they will not move from the area. They are demanding that the department of Mineral Resources grant them legal mining permits. Nobelungu Nowapane/Kgotaco Selao reports..
Unemployment, land allocation and quality education are some of the issues that emerged at the public hearings held by the high level panel on assessment of key legislation held in Kimberley. The panel is going around the country to engage the public and assess the effectiveness of key legislation passed by Parliament and Provincial legislatures since 1994. Reginald Witbooi reports...
About 280 mineworkers have been retrenched at Diro Manganese Mine in Kuruman, in the Northern Cape. The mineworkers say the company cut down the employees' salaries and stopped providing them with transport to work last year without notifying them. The workers have tried to engage the mining company several times, but the company has failed to meet their demands. The mine's former employee, Olebogeng Mosegedi explains
The Congress of South Africa Trade Unions (Cosatu) is embarking on a campaign in Jan Kempdorp and Pampierstad in the Northern Cape where they are engaging with domestic workers, farm workers and retail workers to identify their problems and come up with solutions. Cosatu's Deputy General Secretary, Solly Phetoe explains
The Northern Cape Safety MEC, Pauline Williams, says more police visibility is needed to combat the rising sexual offences in the province. She was announcing provincial crime statistics held in Kimberley. Williams says the statistics indicated that the province is the only one to show a marked increased in incidents of sexual assault. Neo Bodumela compiled this report.
The Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley has hit out at civil rights organisation AfriForum after it laid a criminal charge against the municipality. AfriForum laid the charge in relation to raw sewage flow in parts of Kimberley - particularly at Platfontein near the city. Sol Plaatje municipal admitted that it has had several sewage spillages because of the ageing 5km pipeline that services the area. Neo Bodumela reports...
The IEC in the Northern Cape says its busy making arrangements to recount the vote of the August 3 poll in the Renosterberg municipality. The Electoral Court in Bloemfontein ordered a recount, after the DA lodged a complaint, citing irregularities. The Renosterberg municipality is largely rural and includes the towns of Petrusville, Phillipstown and Vanderkloof. Report by Reginald Witbooi
The Khomani San in the Northern Cape have received a piece of land to build a language school where the next generation of the tribe will learn their language. The N!U is one of the oldest languages on earth with a life span of 25 000 years. After a decade of asking for a piece of land, their prayers have been answered. Report by Neo Bodumela
Raw sewage from the Galeshewe Goga pump station near Kimberley is freely flowing into the Platfontein land, which is home to the !Xu and Khwe San community. Thus, the San community is now up in arms, accusing the Sol Plaatje municipality of failing them, as the situation is placing their lives and that of their livestock at risk. Report by Lerato Segalo
Three more suspects have been arrested for the murder of DA Councillor, Johannes Baatjie, and his business associate Shuping Nose from Danielskuil in the Northern Cape. ANC branch leader, Zonisele Magawu, is already a suspect. Baatjie was killed in August and his body found on the side of the road, while his associate was shot and later died in hospital. Hawks spokesperson, Philani Nkwalase says the case has been postponed...
Four police officers have been arrested on charges of corruption and theft in a raid at the Kimberley police station. The four were arrested after a yearlong undercover intelligence driven operation. They were arrested in their offices by the police anti-corruption unit. According to police, the two sergeants and two constables will be served with notice to suspend them. Police spokesperson, Masebueng Mochologi, says the police service condemns the alleged criminal activities.
Hundreds of Kimberley residents are queuing overnight for health care services on the Phelophepa train. One pensioner, Elsie Boesak, spent two-days in a snaking queue to access the train's eye care services. Boesak says she will have her eyes tested, and given spectacles. Transnet invests R38-million annually into the project. It stopped in Kimberley - where there is a dire shortage of health services. Lerato Segalo reports……
More than two hundred disabled persons with prosthetic limbs and members of the community in Upington in the Northern Cape, took a 10 kilometre walk. The campaign is to raise funds as well as to highlight the plight of people who cannot afford to buy themselves prosthetic limbs. The campaign was started last year by the Paul Steyn Foundation in the province. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
The Northern Cape Province will mark tourism month with community festivals, a sporting event and cultural activities. Tourism month was launched with an awards ceremony for trailblazers in the hospitality industry. The Finance and Economic Development and Tourism Department says the industry continues to create employment. The department's official, Drienie Samson explains…
The parents of kidnapped 5-year-old Keitumetse Magwadibane have made a plea for her return - whether dead or alive. The parents were speaking outside the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court in Kimberley where four people appeared in connection with her disappearance. The case against the four people - including a sangoma - was postponed to October 18 for a decision to be made by the director of public prosecutions on where the trial will be heard. The missing child's mother Margaret Magwadibane made a plea for her return...
A 36-year old suspect arrested in connection with the murder of the 6-year-old boy at De Aar, in the Northern Cape, will remain in custody. Jan Bester abandoned his bail application. Bester was arrested after the body of little William Duiker was found near a railway tracks. Murder accused Bester, requested to be moved from De Aar Prison to Colesburg Prison, alleging that prison officials have assaulted him. The case has been postponed to next month. Meanwhile social worker, Jane Odey, says Duiker's siblings who are receiving counselling are battling to cope.
More public order police officers have been deployed to restore calm at Hopetown in the Northern Cape. This after residents engaged in violent protests yesterday, in which part of the municipal offices were set alight. The residents whom most are COPE and EFF members, are accusing the Thembelihle municipality of failing them. They say job opportunities and housing developments are only given to close friends and relatives of municipal officials, who belong to the ANC. Police spokesperson, Sergio Kock…
The residents of Wrenchville near Kuruman in the Northern Cape have vowed to continue protesting if the Gasegonyana municipality does not give in to their demand, to build shacks on municipal land. More than a hundred shacks erected on the land were demolished on Friday by the police, after a court order was granted to evict the residents. They retaliated by torching the municipal library, civic centre and clinic among other buildingss. Community spokesperson, Nauty Eilerd says the residents were given permisson to erect shacks on the land by the ward councillor, Bertus Eiman. He says they will meet with the municipality today, to try to find a solution….
Police in the province say seven people were arrested during the protest, and will appear in court tomorrow. Police spokesperson, Olebogeng Tawana…
The Annual Gariep Arts festival is under way in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Hundreds of people flocked to the festival grounds to have a spectacular time. Organisers say they are hopeful that this year's attendance will increase drastically, due to sunny weather conditions. Kgotaco Selao reports...
Hundreds of San mourners from all corners of the Northern Cape converged in Askam in the Kalahari to pay their last tribute to the late San leader, Andries Steenkamp. Steenkamp was one of the prominent San leaders of the Khomani San who succeeded Dawid Kruiper after his death. Steenkamp died at his home in the Kalahari after a short illness. He was the Chairperson of the South African San Council. The Executive Mayor of Dawid Kruiper Municipality Dimakatso Koloi says Steenkamp led negotiations on San indigenous Plant-knowledge with various role players....
6 year old Northern Cape boy whose body was found by a passerby near a railway track at De Aar was buried today. William Duiker was last seen last Wednesday evening, in company of his sister's alleged ex- boyfriend. He was one of the six children left homeless, after their father killed their mother last year, and were adopted by the provincial Education MEC Martha Bartlett. A house was built for them, with the help from the police services and local businesses. Kgotaco Selao attended the funeral and compiled the following report...
Women from different law enforcement departments in the Northern Cape wrapped off women's month, by staging a parade at Galeshewe near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The event was also aimed at raising awareness about the challenge of violence against women and children, experienced in the province. In the past two months alone, two boys under the age of six have been brutally murdered, and a five year old girl, Keitumetse Magwadibane, is still missing. At the event, Northern Cape police commissioner Risimati Shivuri called on women officers to stand up against gender based violence…
The Hawks in the Northern Cape say they are investigating alleged fraud and money laundering activities at the provincial Economic Development department, involving millions of rands. The Hawks spokesperson in the province Philane Nkwelase says the department's Chief Financial Officer and an executive manager are suspected to being allegedly involved in the scheme where companies were fraudulently set up with front directors, in order to get grants from the department. Nkwelase added that one of the companies is allegedly a bed factory in which about 40 million rand was pumped into in 2011.
The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) together with the national department of Arts and Culture is on a mission to assist those in the arts and culture sector realise their goals. This through various workshops held throughout the country. The latest was held in Kimberley, in which various stakeholders were in attendance brainstorming challenges faced by those in the industry. Speaking at the workshop, Chief Executive officer of SACO, Richard Heyns indicated that, the workshop will help guide them on how to go about assisting those based in the Northern Cape…
The funeral of the 6-year-old boy, William Duiker, who was found murdered at De Aar in the Northern Cape is currently underway. His body was found dumped near a railway line by a passerby last Thursday. Duiker was one of the six children left homeless after their father killed their mother last year, and were adopted by the Education MEC Martha Bartlett, whom together with help from the police services and local businesses built a house for them. Meanwhile, the 36 year old suspect arrested for his murder, Gordon Bester, is expected to appear in court on Monday for bail application. Police spokesperson Mirriam Mochologi…
People from all over the country are making their way to the Annual Gariep Arts Festival in Kimberley. Organisers say they are again expecting thousands of people and it is also will also boost the economy of the Diamond City. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Northern Cape premier Sylvia Lucas has undertaken to accommodate the deaf community, by including sign language in provincial communication.The Premier made the commitment after accepting the memorandum from members of the deaf community in Kimberley. They marched to her offices, demanding that sign language be made the country's 12th official language. Kgotaco Selao reports…
People from all over the country are making their way to the Annual Gariep Arts Festival in Kimberley. Organisers say they are again expecting thousands of people and it is also will also boost the economy of the Diamond City. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Eighteen women have been honoured in Upington in the Northern Cape, for their efforts to take the country forward. They are regarded as unsung heroines. The women - two from each province - are also featured in a publication. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The family of two struggle stalwarts says the renaming of buildings in the Northern Cape, bring them a little comfort. The Upington Provincial Government building and the District office of the Department of Roads and Public Works, in Upington have been renamed to Evelina De Bruin and Ntshikilelo Mbetha. Reginald Witbooi reports…
The Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, Rejoice Mabudhafasi says plans are in the pipeline to recognise the ancient //Nuu-language as an official one. She made this announcement at the unveiling of a memorial tombstone of Magrieta Jantjies at Upington in the Northern Cape, for her efforts in preserving the language. Reginald Witbooi reports…
An ANC branch secretary in the Northern Cape, Zoniselo Magawu has appeared in the Postmasburg Magistrate's Court on two counts of murder in connection with the killing of DA councilor elect Johannes Baaitjie and his business partner Shuping Nose.They were shot on the main road between Postmasburg and Danielskuil last week in what is believed to be a politically motivated murder. Baaitjies died on the scene, while his Nose died in hospital. Hundreds of community members gathered at the court to demonstrate against his bail application. Neo Bodumela reports...
The Northern Cape Provincial Legislature received its first clean Auditor General report for the 2015/2016 financial year. The Secretary of the Legislature Patrick Moopelwa says this effort was made possible through the concerted effort of both management and staff to ensure that all prior years' commitments were properly accounted for. He added that their biggest challenge would be maintaining the clean audit but has planned in ensuring that the gains are not reversed.
SABC Foundation and Northern Cape MEC for Education, Martha Barttlet handed over school shoes, sanitary towels and basic toiletries to learners in need from Uitsig Lower Primary and Topline Intermediate school at Groblershoop near Upington in the Northern Cape. Both schools were identified by the department of education as impoverished schools that needed assistance. Kgotaco Selao reports.
Two outstanding municipalities in the Northern Cape that have failed to meet the deadline to form a structure have been thrown a lifeline by the Corporate Governance and Human Settlement Department in the province. The department has now given the Kgatelopele and Gamagara municipalities seven days to do so, failing which, they will be placed under administration. Council members of the Kgatelopele Municipality have deliberately missed the stipulated 14-day deadline, after DA and Kgatelopele Community Forum councillors refused to attend council meetings following the death of DA councillor, Johannes Baaijie. Councillors at Gamagara municipality have also refused to attend council meetings over disagreements about their nominated mayoral candidate. COGHSTA MEC Alvin Botes...
Northern Cape police say violence against children in the province is not a challenge. This emerged at the prayer session for gender based violence, held in Kimberley today. The event was organised by the Police Service and Correctional Services Department. Meanwhile, the province experienced a high number of cases involvingNorthern Cape police say violence against children in the province is not a challenge. Children this year alone. A 6 year old boy was found murdered at De Aar last week. The crime closely follows the recent murder of another 6 year old boy at Jan Kempdorp recently. Meanwhile, the 5 year old Keitumetse Magwadibane who was reported missing two months ago has still not been found. But, police Deputy Provincial Commissioner, Phiwankosi Mnguni say violence against children is not a challenge ...
A charge of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm has been withdrawn against the Speaker of the Northern Cape legislature and acting provincial ANC Chair, Kenny Mmoeiemang. The charges were withdrawn in the Kimberley Magistrate's court where the trial of his domestic violence case was set to begin. Neo Bodumela reports
Small business owners are worried that their businesses would close down, if South Africans don't buy local products. This came out at a high level business conference to equip small to medium enterprises in Kimberley. The conference forms part of a nationwide drive supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, and other stakeholders. Report by Kgotacho Selao
An administrator will be appointed to run the Kgatelopele Municipality in the Northern Cape. Members of this council have deliberately missed the 14-day deadline to form a structure, after the local government elections. DA and Kgatelopele Community Forum councillors have refused to attend council meetings following the death of DA councillor, Johannes Baaijie, last week. Meanwhile the business partner of Baaitjie, Shuping Nosi who was also shot last week died on Wednesday. Margaret Mothibi filed this report
A special honour will be bestowed upon six year old Kutlwano Garesape who was brutally killed during an attack on him and his mother in the Northern Cape. The six year old boy who was stabbed to death whilst trying to protect his mother from a would be rapist was laid to rest in a solemn setting in Manthe village near Taung in the North West province. Neo Bodumela compiled this report
DA and two independent councillors have taken control of the Ubuntu Municipality near Richmond in the Northern Cape. The municipality was a hung council. All parties which include the ANC, DA and two independent candidates had two seats in the council. Paula Jantjies, an independent councillor is now the new Mayor.
The bail hearing of a 32-year-old man who allegedly killed a six-year-old Northern Cape boy, has been postponed in the Jan Kempdorp Magistrate's Court. The suspect is facing charges of murder and attempted rape. He allegedly stabbed Kutlwano Garesape multiple times with a broken bottle, after the little boy stood up for his mother, who the suspect allegedly tried rape. The case was postponed to allow him to get a legal representative. Community members picketed outside the court and called on the court not grant the suspect bail...
Four of the eight people arrested for a 35 million rand robbery at the G4S cash depot in Kimberley have been granted bail of ten thousand rand each by the Kimberley magistrate's court. The eight, including two police officers have been charged with theft and money laundering. Lerato Segalo attended the bail hearing....
Northern Cape police say they are following every lead in their search for five-year-old Keitumetse Magwadibane, who went missing in Kimberley on July the 14th. The last time the little girl was seen was when she went to the shops with her friends. Three suspects including a sangoma are currently in police custody. They will appear in court next month. The police spokesperson Majang Schalkie…
The Kgatelopele Community Forum in the Northern Cape says it will not take part in today's inaugural council meeting, scheduled to take place in the Kgatelopele Municipality. The meeting was postponed last Thursday after a DA councillor, Johannes Baaitjies, was shot and killed. The DA had agreed to form a coalition with the Forum, which would see the Forum's Norman Prince elected mayor, thereby unseating the ANC. Kgatelopele is now a hung municipality. Prince says they will wait for the by-elections, expected to take place later this year...
A memorial service has been held at the Taudiarora School in Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape for the 6-year-old boy who was brutally killed recently. It was an opportunity for little Kutlwano Garesape's teachers and 150 schoolmates to say goodbye. Garesape was killed after attempting to protect his mother from a man who attempted to rape her. Neo Bodumela compiled this report
Danielskuil DA councillor, Johannes Baaitjies, has been killed in a hail of bullets, ahead of the first council meeting, at Kgatelopelo Municipality in the Northern Cape. The municipality was a hung council after the local government elections. However the DA and Kgatelopelo Community Forum had formed a coalition to unseat the ANC. Provincial DA leader, Andrew Louw.
126 inmates from four correctional centres in the Northern Cape, are participating in the first leg of a book reading competition, as part of a prisoner rehabilitation programme. The reading initiative was started in 2012 by then Minister of Correctional Service, Sbu Ndebele. Report by Lerato Segalo
The community of Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape is still in shock, following the killing of a six-year-old boy by a man who tried to rape his mother. Kutlwano Garesape stood up and tried to defend his mother, but paid with his young life. The suspect, 32-year-old Tefelo Dikelo was arrested and has appeared in court.
The Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Nocci) hosted their annual Business expo at the Mittah Seperepere Convention centre in Kimberley. The aim of the expo is to create a network and support base for business owners in the city. Report by Lerato Segalo
The City of Kimberley's dirty CBD is failing to attract investors. Residents and the Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry are piling pressure on the city father's to curb this problem. Report filed by Lerato Segalo
Support for the Congress of the People (Cope) has drastically declined across the country with political leaders blaming this on lack of resources. In the party's provincial stronghold in the Northern Cape, the party's support declined from 34 seats in 2011 to four seats in 2016. Neo Bodumela compiled this report
Sanusi and traditional healer Credo Mutwa's wife, Virginia Mutwa, has marked the 60th anniversary of the 1956 women's march to the Union Buildings, by feeding over 80 impoverished children, from her village at Magojaneng near Kuruman.
Three of the 23 municipalities in the Northern Cape are hung councils. There were no outright winners at Ubuntu, Nama Khoi and Kgatelopele municipalities. Report by Lerato Segalo
The Griquas start their onslaught on the Currie Cup this weekend with a game against the Sharks in Durban. The Peacocks are hoping to upset the rugby world in South Africa's premier rugby tournament, after finishing last in the 2015 season. Reginald Witbooi reports...
A young Kimberley woman has launched a pottery project, to assist children with character building and developing their love for art and business. The clay finger project was launched at the William Humphrey Art Gallery, with a free lesson on using clay. Kgotaco Selao reports…
The Northern Cape was the first province to declare the results from all the voting districts in the 2016 Municipal Elections. 100-percent of the 710 voting districts were declared just before lunch time. The ANC has regained some previously hung municipalities and retained most of the wards, while it also lost ground in some municipalities. The EFF is likely expected to be kingmaker in one confirmed Municipality of Kareesberg in Carnavon. Mercedes Besent tells us more.
The EFF in the John Taolo Gaetsewe district municipality in the Northern Cape says its happy with the outcome of the elections. The party's Regional Chairperson, Phenyo Ohentswe says the results shows that the party's hard work is paying off. Ohentswe says the result has made the party official opposition at both Ga Segonyana and Joe Morolong municipalities, knocking the DA off its perch...
ANC provincial secretary, Zamani Saul, says the party's 70 percent target for these election is attainable, following their win at two municipalities.
The status quo at the whites-only town of Orania in the Northern Cape will remain after the ANC regained control of the Thembelihle Municipality. The ANC has won four seats in the council, followed by the DA with two and EFF with one. The municipality was previously under the control of a coalition between DA, Cope and an Independent councillor. The EFF had vowed to shake things up at Orania - should it win. The enclave held its own unofficial council elections in parallel with the IEC vote. IEC provincial manager, Bonolo Modise, explains their progress in the Northern Cape.
Three accidents involving IEC staff members were reported in different parts of the Northern Cape. Three staff members are in a critical condition after an accident in Kathu. The two other accidents occurred at Groblershoop and Keimoes. The IEC Provincial Manager, Alkin Topkin explains.
A voter died while waiting in a voting queue at Strydenburg in the Northern Cape. The provincial IEC Manager, Alkin Topkin, says the cause of death is unknown at this stage…
Four suspects, who including a female sangoma appeared briefly at the Galeshewe Magistrate Court for a formal bail application, in connection with a disappearance of a five-year-old girl. Keitumetse Magwadibane was last seen on July 14, walking to a local tuck shop with a friend. The suspects are facing charges of abduction. Kgotaco Selao reports
Residents of Mountain View in Phokwane municipality in the Northern Cape say even after 20 years of democracy they still don't receive basic service delivery. As they don't even know under which Province they fall under. Kgotaco Selao reports
The Northern Cape is the largest province in the country with diverse cultures. But it continues to be plagued by social ills such as unemployment and alcohol abuse. There is also concern over lack of investment in small business and the perceived exclusion of marginalised communities. Mercedes Besent tells us more.
Agri-Northern Cape says an agreement has been reached with all their members throughout the province to allow farm workers to go participate in the local government elections tomorrow. The farmers' union says they have also recommended that all farm workers be granted a day off tomorrow, and should be provided with the necessary means to get to the nearest voting stations. CEO of Agri Northern Cape, Henning Myburgh explains.....
The IEC in the Northern Cape says about sixty percent of home visits were conducted during the first day of the special votes in the province. Close to sixty thousand people have applied for special votes in the province. IEC Provincial Elections Manager, Elkin Topkin, says more than half of the special vote applications were home visits........
The IEC in the Northern Cape says home based special voters who were not found when they were visited yesterday, will not be re-visited today. About 18-thousand home based visits were conducted yesterday. IEC Provincial Electoral Officer, Bonolo Modise, says some special voters who had arranged to be visited by the IEC were not found at their homes and will only have an opportunity to vote at their voting stations on election day.
The first day of Special votes in the Northern Cape was not without any incident. The IEC was faced with a dilema when an elderly wanted to vote for Mandela's party. Close to sixty thousand people have applied for special votes in the province. Mercedes Besent wraps up the special votes in the province...........
More than seventy IEC area managers and presiding officers from different voting stations in the Sol Plaatjie Municipality queued outside the IEC's storage facilities at the Mittah Seperepere Convention centre from as early as five o clock to collect their voting material. This as more than six thousand people will cast their special votes in the Sol Plaatjie Municipal area alone. Close to sixty thousand eligible voters have applied for special votes for these elections. Mercedes Besent report.............
The IEC in the Northern Cape says it remains confident that the Municipal elections will be peaceful in the Northern Cape starting with special votes today and tomorrow. More than 620-thousand people have registered to vote in the province while just under 60-thousand have applied for special votes. IEC Provincial Electoral Officer is Bonolo Modise...
Kimberley police have launched a manhunt for a prisoner who escaped during a correctional services rehabilitation programme at the prisons gardens. Alvin Bougat was sentenced in March for theft and housebreaking. Correctional services officials say he jump over a fence at Bougroup Prison in Kimberley. Correctional services area commissioner, Joe Joseph, explains...
Residents of Orania in the Northern Cape are having their own local government election in Wednesday. As with every election at municipal level since 2000, they are not taking part in the election hosted by the IEC. This happens because the Orania community wants to elect its own leadership and not fall under the municipal government. Zalene Merrington reports...
Homeless people of Hopetown in the Northern Cape say they are determined to change their fate at the ballot box on Wednesday. The country goes to the polls next week for the local government elections. Zalene Merrington reports...
The Kimberley High Court has granted the Asset Forfeiture Unit an order in terms of the Prevention to Organised Crime Act to forfeit a house belonging to the late MP and former provincial MEC Yolanda Botha. Property worth 1.2-million-rand and shares from The Trifecta Group which were worth 24-million-rand in 2013 will be forfeited to the State. Botha, the former ANC Chairperson in the province John Block and Trifecta Group owner Christo Scholtz were convicted last year in a multimillion-rand fraud, corruption and money laundering case. Botha died of cancer in 2014. Block and Scholtz will be back in court in September for sentencing. NPA regional spokesperson, Phaladi Shuping explains....
The Kimberley High Court has granted the Asset Forfeiture Unit an order in terms of the Prevention to Organised Crime Act to forfeit a house belonging to the late MP and former provincial MEC Yolanda Botha. Property worth 1.2-million-rand and shares from The Trifecta Group which were worth 24-million-rand in 2013 will be forfeited to the State. Botha, the former ANC Chairperson in the province John Block and Trifecta Group owner Christo Scholtz were convicted last year in a multimillion-rand fraud, corruption and money laundering case. Botha died of cancer in 2014. Block and Scholtz will be back in court in September for sentencing. NPA regional spokesperson, Phaladi Shuping explains....
The number of voters registered to vote in the Northern Cape has increase from under 6-hundred-thousand to 6-hundred and ten thousand. Political parties contesting the polls have also grown from 11 in 2011 to 19. IEC in the province officially launched its elections centre which will be at the Mittah Sepherephere Convention Centre in Kimberley. Meanwhile 45 independent candidates will also appear in the provincial voters roll. IEC Provincial Electoral Officer, Bonolo Modise, says the province is totally prepared for Wednesdays elections.
Political parties have mixed views about the future integration plans for Orania into the Northern Cape with some saying it cannot continue to be an island on its own in a democracy. This is the 25th year since the town was established. It forms part of the Thembelihle Municipality. Mercedes Besent spoke tells us more.............
President of the African Farmers Association of South Africa (AFASA) Sehularo Sehularo says that more than 90 percent of emerging farmers in the Northern Cape lack skills on how to grow their businesses. He was speaking during skills workshop at Borrelskop farm near Kimberley. Sehularo says one of the reasons that farmers are not growing businesses is that government can't support them in purchasing their products and that most of them have not registered their businesses. Kgotaco Selao attended the workshop and compiled the following report.
In the Northern Cape, the Khai-Ma Independent Candidates Coalition (KOKO) rounded off its election campaign at the Khai-Ma Municipality in Onseepkans near Pofadder. The KOKO's mayoral candidate, Nico Jano, is adamant that his party will bring about change to this far flung community. They say they expecting a ninety five percent vote in Onseepkans during the elections. Jano said this far flung town on the banks of the Orange River have been lagging behind for many years.
Five people have appeared in the Kimberley Magistrates Court on charges of armed robbery after a robbery at the G4S premises in May this year. The suspects, including two police officers, are between the ages of 35 and 45. The five suspects were arrested last week. Neo Bodumela reports...
The Home Affairs Department in the Northern Cape says more than eight thousand people who have applied for the new ID smart cards still have to collect their cards across the province. Home Affairs Regional Manager Abednego Mvula says there are more smart ID cards which have to be collected than the green Identity Books. Mercedes Besent tells us more.........
Five people have appeared in the Kimberley Magistrates Court on charges of armed robbery after a robbery at the G4S premises in May this year. The suspects, including two police officers, are between the ages of 35 and 45. The five suspects were arrested last week. Neo Bodumela reports...
ANC members in the Northern Cape say they accept the provincial councillor candidate list. The list process recently caused violent protests in the province, with community members dissatisfied with candidates, which they said the party was forcing on them. And Luthuli house had to intervene. But the members are now singing a different tune. A community member, Mojalefa Sethuntsha says they are now satisfied...
Fifteen Urologists from around the country have converged at the Kimberley Hospital in the Northern Cape for a special workshop on Laparoscopic Urology operation for abdominal operations. This is the new method of operating on patients without urologists having to make large incisions on lower abdomen, leaves scars in the process. The Laparoscopic Urology operation only makes small skin incisions and place ports to pass a telescopic instrument. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) says there would be a logistical nightmare if the local government election system were changed to allow voters to cast their ballots anywhere in the country if they are outside their voting districts on election day. This comes as media workers, police and health workers are required to work on election day, even if it is declared a public holiday. The IEC says there are close to five-thousand different ballot papers for the municipal elections. Mercedes Besent has more ..........
Eligible voters who are not in their voting district, wards or provinces always have an opportunity to cast their national vote anywhere in the country during the national elections. But with the municipal elections, voters who are out of their districts and towns will not be able to vote at all. Mercedes Besent caught up with passengers and those who are regularly travelling on the long distance train from Cape Town via Kimberley to Johannesburg. She filed this report...........
The Kapa Bokone Community Development Foundation will approach the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs to help them resolve the long standing issue of RDP housing ownership in townships in the Kimberley area. The Foundation says that residents are being evicted from their homes illegally. Kgotaco Selao compiled this report...
Three men have appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court in connection with the disappearance of a five-year-old girl from Kagisho Township near Galeshewe. Keitumetse Magwadibane was last seen on the way to the nearby shop, with a friend 10 days ago. The three men and a sangoma are being held for questioning. They will next appear in the court on August 1. Police spokesperson, Majang Schalkie explains...
Azanian People's Organisation (AZAPO) says the only way to provide quality basic services is for government officials to have compassion for the people they're serving. The party's former president Mosibudi Mangena was campaigning at Pampierstad, in the Northern Cape, where he urged residents to vote for the party that has the best interests of black people at heart. Mangena says government is riddled with fraud and corruption as leaders are only thinking about lining their own pockets instead of putting themselves in the shoes of the poor in order to know how to best serve them. Puleng Modupe and Lerato Segalo compiled the following report...
Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande says it is important for unemployed youth to get opportunities to access skills. He was speaking at an event in Kimberley where Health and Welfare SETA and TVET colleges were forging partnership to provide Adult Education and Training Programmes to 1800 people at twelve centres in the province. Lerato Segalo reports.....
The search for the 5 year old Kimberley girl who went missing a week ago is still continuing. Keitumetse Magwadibane was last seen on the way to the nearby shop, with a friend. One suspect was arrested and is expected to appear at the Galeshewe magistrates court today while three more, including a sangoma, are held for questioning. Police spokesperson, Majang Schalkie say they will continue to follow every lead including a search at a house in Phutanang, belonging to the Sangoma where a pair of pants belonging to a child were allegedly found last night...
The SA National Defence Force wrapped up their week-long military exercise in Kimberley with deeds of goodwill. To observe Mandela month, the Air Force donated supplies to a Hospice in Galeshewe. And the Defence Force put together a careers expo. Margaret Mothibi reports...
Three boys from Jan Kempdorp Landbou High School in the Northern Cape have been given non-custodial sentences. All three appeared in the Jan Kempdorp Magistrate Court. They faced charges of sexual assault and assault, after they bound their fellow male learner on a bed, smeared him with an unknown substance and violated him.Two boys were sentenced to four years imprisonment with a five year suspension, while the third accused was sentenced to six years imprisonment, suspended for five years. Nobelungu Nowapane reports
The Department of Water and Sanitation in the Northern Cape has embarked on a water saving drive. The department has introduced a Drop the Block Campaign in Kimberley this week. The Drop-The-Block is an eco-friendly innovation of placing a block in a toilet tank to save water. It is designed to reduce potable water consumption by up to 2 litres per flush. The campaign is targeting 60-thousand households across the city; the aim is to achieve the programme in five days. Four hundred volunteers have been roped in to assist in this door-to-door campaign. Nobelungu Nowapane reports….
A 38-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of a five-year-old girl from Kagisho township near Galeshewe in the Northern Cape. Keitumetse Magwadibane has been missing since Thursday; she was last seen at a local tuck shop. The suspect is in police custody and will appear at the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court. Police spokesperson, Mohale Ramatseba explains....
Kagiso residents at Galeshewe near Kimberley in the Northern Cape have been living in a stinking environment for more than a year due to raw sewage overflowing in the area. The entire section of the area's streets and yards is flowing. The residents say the problem is caused by blocked pipes. They are accusing the municipality of Sol Plaatje of neglecting them despite their numerous pleas. Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
The search for a five-year-old Kimberley girl is ongoing, after she went missing on Thursday at Kagisho Township near Galeshewe in the Northern Cape.Keitumetse Magwadibane was last seen when she was sent to a nearby tuckshop and has not returned home. Her parents hopes that she is still alive, and urge anyone that know of her whereabouts to contact the police. Lerato Segalo reports…..
In the Northern Cape local business people, government officials and other stake holders lent a helping hand in making a difference in ordinary people's lives on Mandela Day. Kgotaco Selao and Lerato Segalo compiled the following report.
Rodents and birds at the Kimberley Airport have become a nuisance for the airport. But those animals better watch out because there's a new sheriff in town. And she comes with a "full" military rank. Kgotaco Selao compiled this report
The Freedom Front Plus in the Northern Cape held a services expo in Kimberley, in order to show concrete ways in which the party can contribute towards the provision of services. This is part of the party's election strategy in the province. Kgotaco Selao reports
The author of Blacks Do Caravan, Fikile Hlatswayo, has called on South Africans to avoid expensive holiday destinations and consider trekking across the country in a caravan. Hlatswayo launched her new book at the Big Hole in Kimberley. The author says racial stereotypes - like being mistaken for a domestic worker - were some of the barriers she encountered while travelling across the country in a caravan with her family. Kgotaco Selao attended the book launch and filed this report
A 39-year-old man has appeared in the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court in Kimberley in connection with the murder of his wife. Mzwandile Nqozi is accused of killing his wife and chopping her body. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Sol Plaatje municipality in Kimberley in the Northern Cape have spent over 3-million-rand in repairing sewerage blockages in the city. Roodepan and Galeshewe Number Two areas are among others where residents experienced overflowing sewage. Sol Plaatje municipality spokesperson, Sello Matsie, says theft of pipes, cables and vandalism were the cause of the problem…
The Northern Cape MEC for Education, Martha Bartlett says the new school to be built in Hope Town near Kimberley will have 25 classrooms, ten teachers and a nutrition centre for the pupils, amongst others. Bartlett was speaking during a keynote address at a sod turning ceremony held at Steynville High School in the Pixley Ka Seme district Municipality. The school will be built to ease overcrowding at schools in the area and will cost fourty six million rand. Seven more schools will also be built in other parts of the province this financial year. Kgotaco Selao/Nobelungu Nowapane reports…
No decision has been taken by the National Prosecution Authority, on whether to proceed with the charges against suspended Western Cape ANC Chair, Marius Fransman, as Northern Cape police are still conducting investigations. Charges of sexual harassment against Fransman were laid by a Western Cape woman, Louisa Wynand, who accused him of sexually harrassing her at a hotel in Kimberley in January, while enroute to the ANC's birthday celebrations in Rustenburg in the North West. The charges were originally laid in the North West but were dropped due to insufficient evidence. The NPA's Phaladi Shuping...
EFF mayoral candidate for the Thembelihle municipality in the Northern Cape Danny Jonas has appeared in the Hopetown Magistrate's Court on a charge of assault. Jonas is currently serving as the municipality's mayor in the area after he was elected as an independent candidate in the last election. Neo Bodumela reports.
About 100 delegates from across the Northern Cape have gathered at the Ga-Segonyana Municipal town hall for the start of the SA Local Government Association's small town regeneration conference. The conference is being held in order to create a space for the public, the private sector and the government to engage and create solutions regarding issues such as retrenchments in the mining industry and how to revitalize the economy. Neo Bodumela compiled this report...
Two people have been killed and 13 injured in a collision on the N12 road near Warrenton, in the Northern Cape. Police are investigating a case of culpable homicide. Provincial police spokesperson, Dimakatso Mooi, explains...
Today is the last day for registered voters to apply for special votes. The IEC will hold special vote's two-days before August 3rd. The special votes are open to all South Africans who work in emergency services like police officers, nurses and doctors. IEC Northern Cape Chairperson, Bonolo Modise explains….
Residents of Gong Gong near Barkley West in the Northern Cape are complaining of not getting proper medical care at the only clinic servicing the area. The clinic does not have electricity and water. The clinic only operates two days a week. The SABC earlier also reported on the lack of basic services in the area. Lerato Segalo reports….
After 85 years of being an independent municipality, the Mier Municipality in the Northern Cape has now been amalgamated with //Khara Hais municipality. Despite assurances from the government, the amalgamation has not gone down well with residents in Mier. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
Youth unemployment is one of the major challenges that Britstown residents in the Northern Cape are hoping to see speedily addressed. ANC president Jacob Zuma attended a church service here and conducted door to door visits. Residents say youth are forced to abuse substances as there is nothing much to do after passing matric. Puleng Modupe and Kgotaco Selao compiled the following report...
Hartswater residents in the Northern Cape are appealing to the ANC to deliver adequate basic services. This emerged during the party's electioneering campaign in the Phokwane area, where National Executive Committee member Nomvula Mokonyane was engaging with residents to urge them to vote for the party.. Puleng Modupe and Kgotaco Selao compiled the following report...
More than two hundred learners from grade 1 until 12 from schools across Namaqualand in the Northern Cape are being exposed to technology and science. This is through a career exhibition expo currently underway at Sutherland this week. The expo is organised by the South African Astronomical Observatory. The SAAO says the expo is part of their community development efforts, which are also aimed at getting the youth interested in the current work conducted at the South Africa's Largest Telescope situated at Sutherland. Puleng Modupe attended the expo and compiled the following report...
The ANC treasurer-general, Zweli Mkhize, started the party's two-day campaign trail in the Northern Cape at Postmansburg near the mining town of Kathu. Mkhize discussed unemployment issues and addressed concerns by residents during his door-to-door visits and community meeting. People of Postmansburg are heavily affected by the retrenchments and slowdown in the mining sector. Lerato Segalo reports…
Childline in the Northern Cape has raised alarm about the increase numbers of sexual abuse cases in the province. The organisation has lamented a spike in the cases of child neglect and abuse during the school holiday periods. Lerato Segalo reports...
The ANC treasurer-general, Zweli Mkhize, started the party's two-day campaign trail in the Northern Cape at Postmansburg near the mining town of Kathu. Mkhize discussed unemployment issues and addressed concerns by residents during his door-to-door visits and community meeting. People of Postmansburg are heavily affected by the retrenchments and slowdown in the mining sector. Lerato Segalo reports…
The Northern Cape has a new municipality which comes after the merger of the Kalahari Municipality of Mier and that of //Xhara-Hais in Upington. The municipality is named after a Khomani San leader, Dawid Kruiper. The new municipality is twice the size of the Gauteng province in land mass, with the population of over 100-thousand people. Nobelungu Nowapane reports...
Minister for Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane, says about two hundred villages in the Northern Cape that has been experiencing water problems in the past will now benefit from the multi-billion-rand water project launched in Delportshoop near Barkly West. Lerato Segalo reports
The Griquas is ready to face the Sharks at Upington in the Northern Cape, in another bid to qualify for the Currie Cup competition. The Peacocks remains on top of the Provincial logsheet, despite their 52-37 loss, in their last match against the Golden Lions. Reginald Witbooi reports...
The Human Settlement department in the Northern Cape released a forensic report which revealed the mismanagement of disbursement of funds at Nama-Khoi municipality in Springbok in the Northern Cape. MEC for COGHSTA, Alvin Botes says the municipality could not explain mismanagement of 22-million-rand, during the 2011/2012 financial year. He says they are going to lay criminal charges against those responsible.
The ANC in the Northern Cape says the process to nominate mayoral candidates ahead of the upcoming local government elections is going smoothly without any hiccups.This after the party experienced violent protests by disgruntled party members during the councillor's nomination lists processes last month. Reginald Witbooi reports…
About two-hundred sites around the Pixley ka Seme District Municipality in the Northern Cape are expected to be connected to broadband internet this year. The sites are part of government's national pilot project to connect public facilities countrywide. 750-billion-rand has been set aside for the project. Telecommunications and Postal Services Minister, Siyabonga Cwele, visited the area today, to assess the extent of challenges faced in the area. Facilities that are experiencing challenges due to lack of internet connection in the area include the Post Office and the Wege hospital at Hopetown. Puleng Modupe and Kgotaco Selao accompanied the minister on his visit and compiled the following report...
A 36-year-old woman has been granted bail after appearing in the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court in Kimberley. Lena Coetzee is accused of allegedly strangling her 8-year-old daughter to death earlier this month. She was granted bail of five-hundred rands. Neo Bodumela reports...
An ANC Northern Cape Provincial Executive Council member and former provincial youth league leader, Shadrack Tlhaole, has defected from the ANC to join the EFF. Tlhaole appeared at the EFF's Youth Day rally in Mpumalanga today. He hasn't officially resigned as a ruling party PEC member in the Northern Cape, but says he will now campaign tirelessly for the EFF:
ANC provincial spokesperson in the Northern Cape, Naledi Gaosekwe, has downplayed the defection:
The value of education took centre stage that Northern Cape's commemoration of June 16 Uprising at Olifantshoek near Upington. Premier Sylvia Lucas decried the high illiteracy levels in the province, with less than ten percent of provincial population literate. Lucas has urged young people to take full advantage of all opportunities created by government.
Northern Cape Arts and Culture, MEC Bongiwe Mbinqo-Gigaba says the provincial government is working hard to eradicate the high level of illiteracy amongst the youth in the province. Mbingo-Gigaba was speaking during her visit to Mapoteng village near Kuruman, as part of the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the June 16 student uprisings.
Young people attending the June 16 commemorations at Olifantshoek in the Northern Cape, have begged government to create employment opportunities. 19-year-old Chrushanda Williams says she is desperately seeking employment after completing her matric. The young people gathered at Noordkaap Primary School at Olifantshoek are waiting for Premier Sylvia Lucas to give a keynote address which they hope will address their concerns. Williams elaborates
Teacher training and development has emerged as one of the key issues at the Northern Cape's first education summit held in Kimberley. The summit was called by the education department following a 7% decline in the province's matric results in 2015. The results showed that the Northern Cape had achieved a pass rate of 69% in 2015 - down from 76% in 2014. Northern Cape Department of Education MEC, Martha Bartlett says they are working together with the stakeholders to ensure that all key resolutions are implemented.
The decision whether to prosecute the sexual harassment matter involving suspended Western Cape ANC Chair, Marius Fransman, is yet to be made by the Northern Cape's Director of Public Prosecutions. A Western Cape woman Louisa Wynand accused Fransman of sexually harrassing her at a hotel in Kimberley in January, while enroute to the ANC's birthday celebrations in Rustenburg in the North West. Charges against Fransman, which were originally laid in the North West were dropped due to insufficient evidence. The NPA's national spokesperson Luvuyo Mfaku says, Northern Cape police are still conducting investigations before the case can be formally re-opened…
Deputy minister for Rural development and Land Reform, Mcebisi Sokwatsha says government is making great strides in ensuring that it empowers its youth with life changing skills that will benefit them in future. He was speaking at the graduation ceremony of youth participants of the National Rural Youth Service at the Sai military base held in Kimberley. He added that the skills they will acquired will make them active and link them especially to the agricultural sector.
The Judge in the Trifecta case will make her ruling later today, whether to allow the state and get outstanding financial documents from the defense, to determine the proceeds of crimes. Former Northern Cape ANC chairperson John Block and Trifecta Director, Christo Scholtz, were found guilty of corruption and money laundering in a multimillion rand case involving the leasing of government offices. Reginald Witbooi reports.
Hundreds of delegates from across the Northern Cape have gathered at the Mittah Seperepere Convention in Kimberley for the province's first education summit. The summit will focus on the improvement of quality of teaching, the tracking of improvements in the quality of teaching and learning. Northern Cape premier Sylvia Lucas has called on the delegates to participate robustly in discussions during the summit in order to come up with solutions to the province's education woes.
ANC youth league in the Northern Cape has affirmed its unwavering support to the party president, Jacob Zuma. Speaking at a media briefing held in Kimberley, youth league deputy chairperson, Isaacs maintains that the president humbled himself before the nation to apologise and as the youth league they have fully accepted his apology...
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on ANC members to accept the final candidate lists and unite behind them. Ramaphosa said this in Upington in the Northern Cape where he was conducting door-to-door campaigning ahead of August's local government elections. The Deputy President also attended a church service in the township of Pabalelo. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says unemployment is not only a South African problem, but a global one. Ramaphosa was speaking at the Youth Career Expo in Upington, in the Northern Cape. Hundreds of youth members – across the province are in attendance. The event seeks to provide a platform to showcase opportunities available to them. About 45-percent of young people in the province are jobless, and less than 10-percent of them have access to tertiary education. Ramaphosa says opportunities are there for the youth…
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to lead a team of cabinet ministers, business representatives and senior government officials, to a Youth Development and Career Expo at the Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium at Upington in the Northern Cape today. The event seeks to provide a platform for national, provincial and local government - together with private sector partners - to showcase opportunities available to young people in education, training and entrepreneurship. Reginald Witbooi reports…
Hundreds of youth in the Northern Cape attending a two day Youth summit in Upington. They say intervention is needed, because they face a lot of challenges. Our reporter Reginald Witbooi compiled the following report...
Youth members in the Northern Cape says they are facing a lot of challenges, and intervention is needed. Hundreds of youth are attending a provincial Youth Summit in Upington at the Tol Speelman Civic Hall. The Northern Cape has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the country - with 45-percent of young people in the province jobless...
Pregnant women and patients at Tshwaragano Hospital in the Northern Cape are using cold water to bath. Toilets in the female wards of the hospital are all out of order. Patients accuse hospital management of failure to deliver adequate care. Mpho Lepedi visited the hospital and compiled the following report...
The population of John Taolo Gaetsewe District in the Northern Cape is facing serious difficulties, due to limited fleet of ambulances that service a vast population in the remote villages around the town of Kuruman. Currently the district has 11 ambulances for their two hospitals and four of the ambulances are not road worthy. The seven that are currently in use are not enough for the population that complains about this appalling situation. Neo Bodumela compiled this report…
Over 300-hundred indigent homeowners in Kimberley Northern Cape, have lost their free services from the Sol Plaatje Municipality following their decision to lease their properties to foreign shop owners. The indigent families lost this status and have now been classified as business areas which comes with hefty municipal bills. A local organisation Foreigners Economic Empowerment Marketing, which is trying to resolve the problem, says the municipality should be lenient on indigent homeowners who sign these agreements to earn an income. Lerato Segalo reports…
The Freedom Front Plus in the Northern Cape says they are upbeat about the upcoming local government elections because of the growth of the party in the province. The party says its candidates will be contesting 24 of the 26 municipalities in the province. The party's Provincial Leader, Wynand Boshoff says the Freedom Front Plus wants representatives in those municipalities to make a difference in governance at local level. Boshoff says if the party's candidates are elected, they will be focusing on getting households subsidised to have access to solar energy.
The Northern Cape's Director of Public Prosecutions needs more time in deciding on whether or not to pursue sexual harassment charges against suspended Western Cape ANC Chair Marius Fransman. Louisa Wynand accused Fransman after an alleged incident while they were travelling to the ANC's birthday celebrations in Rustenburg. Charges against Fransman were dropped in the North West due to insufficient evidence but may still be brought in the Northern Cape. NPA national spokesperson, Luvuyo Mfaku explains...
The leader of the Geloftevolk Republikeine, Andre Visagie, has handed himself over in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court to start his five year sentence. Visagie was sentenced in 2014 for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition after a chest containing homemade guns and 750 rounds of ammunition was found stashed at his home. Neo Bodumela reports...
The leader of the Geloftevolk Republikeine Andre Visagie has handed himself over in the Kimberley Magistrate's Court to start his five year sentence. Visagie was sentenced in 2014 for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition after a chest containing homemade guns and 750 rounds of ammunition amongst others were found stashed at his home. He has been out 10-thousand-rand bail which was extended after he lodged an appeal following his sentencing. A defiant Visagie says he is serving the sentence on behalf of the follower of the Geloftevolk Republikeine...
The EFF has promised to change the status quo at the whites only town of Orania in the Northern Cape, should they win the local government polls at Thembelihle Municipality. The towns Mayor Danny Jonas, who is an EFF candidate says the whites only enclave might cease to exist after the elections. Mpho Lepedi visited Orania and filed this report.
The EFF has promised to change the status quo at the whites only town of Orania in the Northern Cape, should they win the local government polls at Thembelihle Municipality. The towns Mayor Danny Jonas, who is an EFF candidate says the whites only enclave might cease to exist after the elections. Currently the town receives no services from the municipality following an agreement in 2000 through a legal framework known as share block under South African law. Jonas elaborates…
Former AWB secretary and Geloftevolk Republikeine leader, Andre Visagie, is expected to begin serving his five-year jail sentence on Monday. Visagie has been ordered to present himself at the Kimberley Magistrate's Court. He was sentenced in 2014 for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition after a chest containing homemade guns and 750 rounds of ammunition amongst others, were found stashed at his home. He was out on bail of 10-thousand rand, which was extended after he lodged an appeal following his sentencing. Visagie's attorney, Gerrie Basson, says they have not lost hope.
A man has appeared in the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court in Kimberley in connection with the murder of his wife. Mzwandile Nqozi was expected to apply for bail following his arrest in May. He withdrew his application in the court. Neo Bodumela reports…
The Auditor General asserted that the Northern Cape is part of the provinces that performed dismally in the 2014/15 financial year. The report indicated that the province's fruitful and wasteful expenditure amounts to 699-million-rand with 87% of the Northern Cape municipalities guilty. Puleng Modupe has more…
In his last bid for freedom, former AWB secretary and Geloftevolk Republikeine leader, Andre Visagie will again apply for an urgent bail application at the Kimberley High Court in the Northern Cape. Visagie was supposed to have started serving his five-year sentence from Wednesday, after he was convicted on charges of illegal possession of ammunition. Margaret Mothibi reports
Opposition parties in the Northern Cape are lambasting cadre deployment for poor municipal performances. This after the Auditor General asserted that the province is part of those that performed dismally in the 2014/15 financial year. The report indicated that the province's fruitful and wasteful expenditure amount to 699 million rand with many as 87% of the Northern Cape municipalities guilty. The DA's Andrew Louw says, skilled personnel should be appointed at municipalities…
The Griquas rugby team will face a stern test when they take on the Free State Toyota Cheetahs in the Currie Cup qualifiers this weekend. Griquas is atop of the log after eight games. This is despite suffering their first defeat of the season to the Stormers in Cape Town last week. Griquas forwards coach Dave Hesketh says the team sees the defeat as a minor setback and they are looking forward to the next match.
Foetal Alcohol Syndrome has been highlighted as one of the biggest health challenges affecting many children in Prieska in the Northern Cape. Speaking at an event to commemorate International Children's Day commemoration in Prieska; paediatric nurse Carol Whittakers, says Foetal Alcohol Syndrome is on the increase in the area.
The community of Wrenchville near Kuruman in the Northern Cape is fuming after a woman who is facing child abuse and assault charges was granted bail in the Kuruman Magistrate's Court. The 40 year old woman allegedly beat her seven year old step child with a sjambok and burnt him with boiling water. The court heard that the burn wounds on the child were two weeks old and the sjambok inflicted wounds were a week old when the child was taken to hospital. She has just been granted a bail of two- thousand rand. The case has been postponed to the 24th of June.