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People from the Utlwanang and Boitumelong townships have been encouraged to emulate the reconciliation spirit demonstrated by the late former president Nelson Mandela.

The call was made by North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo during a prayer, reconciliation and renewal service held at Boitumelong Sportsground in the Bloemhof area of Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality. The prayer service was initiated as a pivotal response to the violent service delivery protests which resulted in homes being torched by angry protestors and a teenager being shot dead in April this year. These incidents were followed by the death of babies due to water contamination problems in the same area. Appealing for reconciliation, Premier Mahumapelo said residents must emulate and advance the spirit of unity and reconciliation that the late world-renowned

Nelson Mandela embodied. Mahumapelo who was accompanied by, amongst others, the religious leaders from various denominations, traditional leaders, members of the Executive Council and the Provincial Legislature, stressed that cooperation and forgiveness were crucial in uniting the communities.

“We all have the responsibility to stabilise the Province, and for this duty to be realised, we must have the will to approach life positively, exercise patience and forgive one another,” said Mahumapelo, who also urged those who had opened police cases against each other to consider withdrawing them. The premier assured the people that his administration is committed towards fi nding a lasting solution to the water problems that have been experienced in the area, and assured communities that he will work round the clock to ensure that all water

sources in the area are regularly checked and cleansed for safe consumption.Expressing his gratitude to all stakeholders in their resolve to unite the residents, 28-year-old Solly Moncho from Utlwanang said: “Today’s service is living proof that ours is a people-centred and caring government. We are satisfi ed and more hopeful than ever before, that cooperation and happiness will once again prevail in our area.”

This service was the fi rst of what will be a wider campaign throughout the province – in line with the pronouncements made by the premier during his State of the Province Address. Similar events have been targeted for other communities equally affected by violence and other social ills in the Province. The move is intended to ensure that the vision of rebranding, repositioning and renewal of the province is accomplished.

COMMOM PURPOSE: Residents of Utlwanang and Boitumelong who attended the reconciliation prayer service.

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Twenty ambulances to improve response time in North West have been unveiled by the provincial health department in Mahikeng – a

development that will go a long way in improving the delivery of services in the area. The ambulances are an addition to ten similar vehicles that

were also purchased earlier this year by the department in response to the health needs of the North West. According to North West Chapter of Saving Mothers Report 2008-2010, the largest part of the population lives mainly in rural areas and 25-30% represents the number of women in a reproductive age (15-49%). Amongst the administrative avoidable factors of maternal deaths, transport was singled out as a major challenge. Twenty two (22) mothers died due to lack of transport, out of which 4 (11%) had problems of home to the institution and 18 (8.1%) institution to institution.“The developments come as the department charts ways to aggressively respond to the plight of communities and to improve response time to medical emergencies,” Tebogo Lekgethwane, North West provincial health spokesperson said. “A total of R14 million has been set

aside to purchase 30 more ambulances during this fi nancial year. A further R84.25 million will be channelled towards Emergency Medical Rescue

Services (EMRS), satellite stations and a new planned patient transport model,” he added. “To augment the 165 public health ambulances, the department has entered into a fee per service agreement with 16 private ambulance operators to ferry patients during emergencies. “Private ambulance operators are only utilized when a state ambulance is not immediately available to respond to an emergency call. “This is to ensure that service recipients are not in any way compromised by the unavailability of ambulance. Ambulances in the province ferry about 16000 patients per month,” he further explained. This development comes shortly after the North West Department made commendable strides in improving the availability of essential drugs in public hospitals in July. ARVs, drugs for tuberculosis and other diseases are now available at the majority of health facilities with patients now able to receive treatment on time. This was largely due to the insourcing of medication by the provincial Department of Health – a development that has ensured consistent supply.

02 31 July 2014 Leseding News - Brits

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READY TO GO: New ambulances have improved the Department of Health’s effi ciency (PHOTO: SUPPLIED)

A man believed to be behind a house robbery which occurred recently in the Bapong area of Brits was cornered and arrested by police.

The suspected – who had been on the run since the robbery incidents – was apprehended while travelling between Bapong and Majakaneng. The arrest is part of series of successes that have been achieved by the police in their ongoing Operation Platinum Belt. The suspect is one of two armed men who broke into a house in Bapong. “The two made off with an undisclosed amount of cash and three cellphones. Another suspect is still at large. The 30-year-old man is due to appear at Garankuwa Magistrates’ Court soon charged with aggravated robbery,” Colonel Sabata Mokgwanone of SAPS said. He commended the efforts of all the police offi cer involved in the sting operations. “Good coordination coupled with perfect execution of the detailed operational plans by members deployed for the Operation Platinum Belt continued to yield excellent results,” he said. In another case, police in Rustenburg arrested a Mozambican national who was being pursued for a house robbery. The suspect was also

found in possession of R15 000 worth of cannabis while police also recovered an unlicensed fi rearm. In the Dichibidung area of Boitekong, police also arrested three men for dealing in dagga. The suspects were found in possession of 258 bags of dagga with an estimated street value of R15 000. The trio, aged between 36 and 64, are due to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court to face charges of dealing in dagga. “Police offi cers posted at Nkaneng in Marikana arrested another suspect for possession of an unlicensed fi rearm,” Mokgwabone revealed. “Acting on information, Police raided the suspect’s home and recovered the fi rearm inside his room. He was immediately arrested. The fi rearm was stolen in 2010 during a housebreaking at Engcobo in Eastern Cape,” he added. The man will appear before the Garankuwa Magistrates’ Court soon to face charges of possession of an unlicensed fi rearm.

“Operation Platinum Belt” was launched on 16 June 2014 to curb crime and bring calm and stability in areas that were severely affected by the protracted platinum strike and the spate of service delivery protests.

The North West provincial vehicle theft task team dubbed “Operation Twins” has so far made signifi cant achievements by recovering fi fteen cloned cars since 2 June to date.Police believe the vehicles were reported stolen from Gauteng.

Out of these cars, seven were seized in Mahikeng, four in Klerksdorp and another four in Rustenburg. Two other vehicles were impounded for physical inspection.Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects carefully planned their crimes by identifying a salvaged car that is then bought from an agent of an insurance company. “According to the information available at this stage, a similar vehicle will be stolen, then the engine as well as VIN numbers of the salvaged vehicle will be transferred to the stolen vehicle,” Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone of SAPS said. “It is alleged that the cars will be taken for roadworthy, license renewal, thus lawfully registering them and ultimately sold to either a dealer or an individual. Thus far, indications are that most of the vehicles were sold in Gauteng,” he added. He urged members of the community to more careful when

they buy second hand vehicles. “If possible, they must avail the vehicle for inspection to the police before any transaction is made. At this stage, two arrests have been made and investigations on the matter are ongoing,” he said. Meanwhile, members of stock theft recovered nineteen stolen cattle at one of the farms around Klerkskraal recently. The recovery came after a tip-off received that there were suspected stolen cattle in the vicinity of Klerkskraal.“Subsequently, the police managed to spot the alleged truck loaded with 8 cattle. The driver (33) was allegedly questioned and eventually arrested and taken back to the farm where another 11 cattle suspected to be stolen were found,” Mokgwabone said. “It was during further investigation that farmers who lost cattle around Leeudoringstad and Makwassie were called to the scene and they identifi ed all nineteen cattle linked to fi ve cases of stock theft in Makwassie, Leeudoringsstad and Klerkskraal. “That led to arrest of the second suspect who is a farm owner, aged 42 for possession of suspected stolen stock worth two hundred and ninety thousand rand,” he added. Both accused appeared recently in Ventersdorp Magistrates’ Court.

Three people, including a child, lost their lives while at least three others sustained serious injuries aft er two vehicles collided late last week at Uitspan along the Swartruggens N4.

According to information supplied by the police, the vehicles – a Toyota Avanza and a Land Cruiser – collided on the Zeerust Road. The Toyota was travelling from direction Zeerust while the Land Cruiser was travelling from the opposite direction “The Toyota Avanza was carrying two occupants while the Land cruiser was carrying three adults and a child,” North West police said. “It is further alleged that the driver of Toyata Avanza was trapped inside the vehicle, which then caught fi re. “The passenger was found lying outside. The driver of the Land Cruiser and the three passengers sustained serious injuries while the child died at the Swartruggens Hospital,” the police added. Investi gati ons are underway to get to the bott om of what exactly happened.

Vehicle collision: 3 dead

03Leseding News - Brits 31 July 2014

Artist: Abel Senosi

CD: Alpha and Omega

Reviewed by: Farirayi Kahwemba

Alpha and Omega - the name of Abel Senosi’s CD - is one of the most motivating compilations I have listened to in a very long time. The title track - which is derived from the book of Revelations in the Bible - has a fast and danceble beat. The following two songs are worship songs in which Abel pours out his heart to the Lord and thanks him for all he has done for him. In “Rea u boka morena” (I thank you Lord) about again does a rendition of a common hymn that is sang at a number of churches. The backing vocals on this song, particularly, are very impressive.

Amen Halelujah is another fast tempo praise song which talks about the goodness of Jesus Christ and how he is always with his people. “Avulekile Amasango” (The gates are open) is the last song on Abel’s CD. It is is touching song whose lyrics are an appropriate conclusion to the compilation. If you would like to get in touch with Abel, or fi nd out more about his music, you can call 071 783 4689.

“rea u boka morena,re ntse re thabela uena”

“rea u boka morena,re ntse re thabela uena”

“Avulekile Amasango” is a South African song traditionally sung at funerals to celebrate the life of the deceased & her passage into the next life. This is the last song on Senosi’s CD.

STAR: HHP was one of the artists at last year’s event (PHOTO: SUPPLIED)

Organisers of the Rustenburg International Music and Lifestyle Festival are set hold a meeting with the city fathers to discuss the modalities of hosting thie year’s edition of the event.

Last year, the inaugural edition of the event was held on 23 November and featured stars such as internationally renowned musician Salif Keita, Ringo Madlingozi and Selaelo Selota among others. It also featured a number of upcoming and prominent DJs. While a number of music lovers fl ocked to the Olympia Park Stadium for the event, the showcase was cut short after a rainstorm forced organisers to stop all proceedings. This year, the organisers of the event plan to ensure that the programme of

the festival runs uninterupted until the conclusion of the show. “We are still waiting for the Mayor to give us the go ahead so that we can get down to the logistics of organising the show,” Angela Madilola, who is part of the media relations team that organised last year’s showcase, said. “We have not yet started the preparations as yet,” she added. Thapelo Matebesi - who is the External Communications Specialist in the Rustenburg Local Municipality - said this year’s festival is likely to be organized using the same procedures that were used for the Rustenburg Show. The municipality this year enslisted the services of a seperate entity to organise the Rustenburg Show, which was held from 24 May to 31 May. “Like we did with the Rustenburg Show, we are likely going to tender it out. The preparations for the event are not yet at an advanced stage. “At this stage

everything is being handled by the Local Economic Development (LED) directorate. “After their deliberations and planning, they will then invite us to their meetings,” Matebesi said. “The Mayor will then look at the report that would have been compiled before we go ahead with the plans,” he added. A brainchild of Rustenburg Executive Mayor Councillor Mpho Khunou, the Rustenburg International Music and Lifestyle Festival was established with the aim of developing the arts industry in Rustenburg and positioning the city as a major toursit destination. Set to become a major highlight ob the city’s social and cultural calendar, the festival was also established to inspire upcoming local artists to showcase their talent and potential to a wider audience. The municipality hopes that the festival will develop to become an annual event on the city’s arts calendar.

Nthabiseng Ramokadi 20 - who was born in Dinokwana outside Zeerust - is our Girl of the Week.

In 2002, she matricualted at Boikagong Secondary School, which is located in Rustenburg. She is now studying towards a qualifi cation in Social Work at North West University in Mahikeng. Nthabiseng says she loves modelling with a passion and is currently looking for an

agency to further pursue her objectives. She was recently crowned the second princess in a modelling event held at Oageng Middle School, located in Dinokwana Village.

Models aged between the ages of 17 and 30, who are interested in appearing in this space are requested to phone Rapula Mancai on 073 970 9671 or 014 597 9980.

Leseding Girl of the Week

Rustenburg music festival still onnews@lesedingnews.co.zaEntertainment Reporter

04 Leseding News - Brits31 July 2014

More than 31 drivers were arrested for drunken driving recently while 8 vehicles were impounded for various reasons. Among these were two government vehicles. The arrests followed a five day special operation conducted by the Jaws intervention unit with focus on drunken driving in Mahikeng as part of the Mahikeng Revitalization programme. During the operation, more than 359 motorists were stopped and checked, while 1180 vehicles were scanned with the Number Plate Recognition System (NPRS) and 44 notices were issued to motorists for different defaults during the operation. I am concerned about the high rate of drunken driving cases and urge motorists to avoid being on the wrong side of the law. “This is completely out of order; we lose lives of our beloved ones due to accidents that are mainly caused by drunken drivers. “We need to take

action and become responsible road users to save lives of our people. Road safety starts with an individual and with this behaviour of people getting on the road while drunk will never be tolerated,” said North West, MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi The MEC said disciplinary proceedings will also be instituted against drivers responsible for the government vehicles impounded. He further urged government employees authorized to drive state vehicles to be more responsible and vigilant at all times. “As we celebrate the life of the former president, who valued life, we need to follow in his footsteps and continue to save the lives of our people in general and inculcate the element of responsibility to all especially in Mahikeng town which is part of our contribution to the safety cleanup campaign and revitalization programme. We shall continue with these operations beyond Mandela Day. By so

doing, we believe that his soul will forever rest in peace,” concluded Molapisi.

Robber shoots police officerA police officer was shot by a gunman during a robbery in which R7 000 worth of airtime vouchers were stolen from a tuck shop in Hebron. The police was shot as he attempted to respond to a tip off that gun wielding suspects had entered the tuckshop. A bullet hit the police officer on his lower body before the suspects fled the scene on foot. The injured policeman was taken to Wisane Midi Clinic for treatment before he was later discharged. No arrests have been made and anyone with information that could assist the police in their investigations is requested to call 012 381 6077.

Man in hot water over unlicensed gunA 32-year-old Algerian national was arrested near Marikana after he was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm following a tip-off from a member of the community. The firearm and a magazine were discovered by the police during a thorough search by police officers who had been deployed as part of the Platinum Belt Operations. So far, police investigations have revealed that the firearm was stolen in March 2011 at Nkaneng Informal Settlement near Wonderkop. The man is expected to appear before the Marikana Periodical Court. The police have urged communities to work hand in glove with law enforcement officers in their fight against crime.

R16 000 drug bust A Nigerian national has been arrested in Mahikeng after he was caught in possession of drugs worth an estimated value of R16 000. The man was arrested in the Golfview area of the city as part of a wider blitz by the police aimed at rooting out crime. Police responded swiftly after they received a tip off from the community of a person selling drugs in Gold View. A thorough search led to the discovery of a number of drugs such as “Cat”, Nyaope, and Crystal Meth. The man is expected to appear before the Mmabatho Magistrate Court for possession of illegal drugs.

Dead on his doorstepThe police in Mahikeng have arrested an 18-year-old in connection with a murder incident in the Danville area of Mahikeng. According to information made available by the police, the body of a man was found in front of his house. It is alleged that the suspect and the victim were fighting shortly before the murder incident. During the fight, the suspect took out a sharp object and stabbed the victim on the chest. The suspect has been charged with murder and the case is now before the Mmabatho Magistrate Court.

ON DUTY: Traffic police officers carry out their patrols (PHOTO: SUPPLIED)

South Africa’s deputy president, Cyril Ramaphosa, believes that Mahikeng has the potential of becoming the best city in the country.

Speaking recently in Mahikeng during an event to mark Nelson Mandela Day, Ramaphosa said this potential could only be realized if people within the city work

hard towards a common goal. “We are very pleased to be here on this special day which is the birth-day of Nelson Mandela that the whole world loves,” Ramaphosa said. “On this day people all over the world remember him for the good work that he has done for humanity. “All the leaders of our government are all working today to contribute their 67 minutes of community service in recognition of

Mandela’s 67 years of commitment to human rights and equality,” he added. Speaking at the same event, North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo said it was gratifying to see government leaders coming to the province to contribute their 67 minutes by working with the community in the cleaning campaign of Mahikeng and spreading the message of cooperation. “I take this opportunity to welcome the Deputy President and the two ministers accompanying him.

We welcome the Deputy President and thank him for coming here to spread the message of cooperation on this important day,” said the Premier Mahumapelo. Mahumapelo also expressed his gratitude to the South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB) for donating a phaco machine that is used for cataract surgery, to the Mafikeng Provincial Hospital. SANCB’s representative Phandle Phandle, who presented the machine to the hospital’s CEO Adriaan Lourens, said his organisation’s key objective was to prevent avoidable blindness and advocate for the establishment of eye care centres in all hospitals across the country. “The machine is able to remove cataract in a very quick and effective way and we hope it will benefit the people of Mahikeng and the province.

We are looking forward to be involved with many hospitals across the province,” said Phandle Phandle, who added that he was happy that SANCB was able to contribute 67 minutes of goodwill by ploughing back to communities.Ramaphosa and Mahumapelo’s team contributed their time by painting of walls at the Mafikeng Provincial Hospitals, before heading to the city centre where they helped with cleaning up the city and patching up potholes.

LET”S WORK TOGETHER: South Africa’s deputy

president, Cyril Ramaphosa (PHOTO: SUPPLIED)

05Leseding News - Brits 31 July 2014

AFTER SCHOOL: School leavers are often faced with serious decisions

As matrics gear up to write one of the most important examinations in their life, a large number of them are facing another source of stress – indecisions about what they are going to study next year.

“It is important for school leavers in this situation to deal decisively with the issue, as pushing this stress to the back of their minds while trying to focus on their exams will impact negatively on their ability to perform to the best of their ability,” says Dr. Felicity Coughlan, Director of the Independent Institute of Education.

The institute is South Africa’s largest and most accredited private higher education institution.Coughlan believes learners in this situation will constantly battle the twin stresses of the exams as well as uncertainty about the future, and that this will take away from the all-important focus required to perform optimally when writing their papers.She says dealing with the issue of post-matric will allow them to direct their energies appropriately, and advises them to put aside some time to dispose of the “what am I going to be when I grow up?” question. “Schedule a few days to thoroughly investigate your

options and make a decision about where it is that you want to go,” she notes. Coughlan further advised learners to use this time to consider three aspects, which will help them to decide on their future studies:

Be realistic

Look at your subjects and your envisaged results. It is no use shooting for medicine, when you did not study the requisite subjects during your fi nal school years. However, it is equally important – even when you do have the right subjects – to be realistic about the level of performance that is required to get in to medicine and to have a plan B. It is also probably not a good idea to look at studying design, when you have never lifted a creative fi nger in your life. You would be doing yourself a disservice to not consider design if you are very creative - even if you did not do Visual

Arts at school. The connection between school and what you do next is not totally linear. Consider your subjects, your marks, and your interests – those things that make you feel happy and alive – and take it from there.

Do your homework

There are countless institutions and courses out there. It is no longer the case that a university degree is the only option if you want a successful career – not only are there interesting options in the diploma and higher certifi cate space, but degrees themselves are now widely available from registered private higher education institutions that may well offer you an experience more suited to your needs. Many private institutions offer specifi c additional focus areas such work-integrated courses with the sole aim of equipping you to perform on the job from day one. There are also far more options available today than there were even fi ve years ago – new fi elds, new courses, new institutions, new opportunities. There is a strong chance that what you have been told at school is based mostly on what your teachers know and experienced, so do your own homework.

Draw up a shortlist of options

Once you’ve determined which courses interest you, check and see that you meet the entrance criteria and fi nd out when applications close – it is sooner than you may

think. Draw up a shortlist and diarise when the application for each course needs to be submitted, and get them in on time. Make sure you submit more than one application for more than one option to more than one type of institution. Then put your concerns aside and focus wholly on doing your absolute best in your fi nal exam. “Although you won’t be worrying about your post-matric direction anymore, the options will simmer in your subconscious, and you will almost certainly, when the time comes, know exactly which road to pursue,” Dr Coughlan says.

How do you choose a career after matric?

Powerade has announced the names of the eleven South African schools who have won soccer Powerade Performance Sessions as part of the Powerade Schools Programme.

The Performance sessions will be taking place from Monday, 4 August, to Monday, 15 September 2014, and will be hosted by ex-Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs captain, Neil Tovey. Powerade believes that there is power in every game and is committed to providing young, South African, sportsmen with a passion for rugby, soccer and cricket, with the platforms to achieve sporting success by giving them access to the best coaching and training through the Powerade School’s Programme. The winning schools of the soccer Powerade Performance Sessions are Windmill Park, Saulridge Secondary, Riverside High, Wartburg High, East High, Nelspruit Lowveld High, HTS Louis Botha, Table View High, Muizenberg High, Symphony Secondary and Thobelane Secondary School. During the soccer performance sessions, these sportsmen will be exposed to the science of correct training and the benefi ts of hydration to help enable them to reach peak fi tness at the right time, while local soccer legend Neil Tovey shares his wisdom and knowledge about the game. “Powerade believes that by providing

informative and interactive experiences like these to sportsmen, their passion for the game of soccer will be focused on a great future in the game,” explained James Maclachlan, IMC Marketing Assets Manager of Coca-Cola South Africa. “We recognise that there is power in every game and through the Powerade Schools Programme, born sportsmen will be exposed to information and

Leseding News06 Leseding News - Brits31 July 2014

PLATINUM PEOPLE

Hans RamasodiNot many people have had the priviledge of rubbing shoulders with a South African chief. This is the story of Hans Ramasodi - a man who has had such a priviledge since he started working for the North West Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs in 1988. For around 26 years, Ramasodi has been fortunate enough to enjoy the company of virtually all of South Africa’s chiefs who are based in the North West province.

One such chief is Kgosi Madoda Zibi. An accomplished acountant and administrator, Kgosi Zibi is a professor. He is also a former institutional director of diversity, equity and human rights at the North West University. He has been chief of the Hlubi community in Khayakhulu in the Madikwe region since 1975. Speaking about the encounters he has had with the Kgosi Zibi, Ramasodi explains the kind of person he is. “I worked with him from June 2012 to December 2013. He is a humble person and I have never had

any problems with him. During that time, my duties involved administrative work,” Ramasodi explains. “I would often work with the chief while organising events such as Iskhumbuzo as well as other projects. “The chief is a normal human being, just like everyone else and I am very honoured to have served him during my work,” he added.Born in 1964, Ramasodi went to Nchaupe High School in the Makapanstad area of the then Bophuthatswana. “I did my matric in 1983 before I started working with the department of traditional affairs fi ve years later.” A traditionalist, Ramasodi beleives chiefs must be given more infl uence by the government so that they are able to participate more in the development of the communities in which they work in. “The chiefs should be given more infl uence by our government. Politicians must play a leading role in making sure that our chiefs are accorded the respect that they deserve,” he pointed out. Ramasodi urged young South Africans to take their culture very seriously and

lamented and how the youths of today have lost touch with their roots. “young people of today no longer take cultural issues very seriously. Issues involving the Kgosis are not taken seriously.

“Young people need to be proud of their culture because this is where their identity lies. Young people are no longer custodians of their culture. They are the future leadership of tomorrow,” he observed.

Excavations at an archaeological site at Kathu in the Northern Cape province of South Africa have produced tens of thousands of Earlier Stone Age artifacts, including hand axes and other tools. These discoveries were made by archaeologists from the University of Cape Town and University of Toronto (Canada), in collaboration with the McGregor Museum in Kimberley. The archaeologists’ research on the Kathu Townlands site, one of the richest early prehistoric archaeological sites in South Africa, was published in the journal, PLOS ONE, on 24 July 2014.

It is estimated that the site is between 700,000 and one million years old.Mr Steven James Walker from the Department of Archaeology at UCT, lead author of the journal paper, says: “The site is amazing and it is threatened. We’ve been working well with developers as well as the South African Heritage Resources Agency to preserve it, but the town of Kathu is rapidly expanding around the site. It might get cut off on all sides by development and this would be regrettable.” Today, Kathu is a major iron mining centre. Mr Walker adds that the fact that such an extensive prehistoric site is located in the middle of a zone of intensive development, poses a unique challenge for archaeologists and developers to fi nd strategies to work cooperatively.

The Kathu Townlands site is one component of a grouping of prehistoric sites known as the Kathu Complex. Other sites in the complex include Kathu Pan 1 which has produced fossils of animals such as elephants and hippos, as well as the earliest known evidence of tools used as spears from a level dated to half a million years ago. Professor Michael Chazan, Director of the Archaeology Centre at the University of Toronto, emphasises the scientifi c challenge posed by the density of the traces of early human activity in this area. “We need to imagine a landscape around Kathu that supported large populations of human ancestors, as well as large animals like hippos. All indications suggest that Kathu was much wetter, maybe more like the Okavango than the Kalahari. “There is no question that the Kathu Complex presents unique opportunities to investigate the evolution of human ancestors in Southern Africa,” says Professor Chazan.

AT WORK: Steven James Walker from the Department of Archaeology at UCT extracts a sample at the interface between the overlying red sands and the Earlier Stone Age archaeological deposits at the Kathu Townlands site. (PHOTO: VASA LUKICK)

HISTORIC: Flakes and cores from Kathu Townlands, Beaumont Excavati on (PHOTO: STEVEN JAMES WALKER)

07Leseding News - Brits 31 July 2014

COMMITMENT: North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo and Public Protector, Adv Thuli Madonsela after the media briefing on the D-Account (PHOTO: SUPPLIED)

North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has pledged to support Public Protector Adv Thuli Madonsela’s investigation of the D-Account, which has been dragging on for three years.

He said this recently during an introductory meeting with Madonsela at Madibeng Local Municipality in Brits. The Public Protector received complaints relating to allegations of corruption and maladministration of the D Account as well as the involvement of the North West Provincial Government and appointed Administrators of the Bapo Ba Mogale Tribal Authority. The Public Protector requested the Premier to help the investigation by providing all outstanding documents, place the entire account under administration and recover the money where possible.Responding to the plea by

the Public Protector to provide information and records on the management of the account by government, the Premier assured Madonsela of the provincial administration’s unwavering support and cooperation in bringing this matter to finality. The Premier also made an undertaking to give feedback to the Bapo people and other affected communities regarding the D Account. “We owe it to the communities to provide information on how their money was spent and how the processes were coordinated by those in charge of the account,” mahumapelo said. “It remains our responsibility as the provincial government and relevant parties to ensure that this happens unopposed”, affirmed Mahumapelo. The parties agreed that all those who have been involved since 1994 will be called to account. It was also

agreed that the chieftainship dispute in Bapo wil also be addressed as a matter of urgency. Acknowledging the undertakings made by the Premier, Madonsela also committed that – together with her team – she would work hand in glove with the Premier’s office. “I am encouraged by the Premier’s commitment today and through his State of the Province Address to clean up the administration and have I offer him the partnership in achieving this,” said Madonsela. The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss other matters from the province that have been brought to the Public Protector’s attention As a way forward, it was agreed that there will be immediate suspension of capital expenditure on the D Account and that a meeting will be arranged in due course with the Bapo Ba Mogale community to

Innocent Sirovha, the Municipal Manager of Bojanala Platinum District Municipality - who is also an author and motivational speaker - will be writing a monthly column for Leseding News starting from August.

The column, which will be published monthly, is aimed at uplifting people and giving them hope to persevere and triumph in the the face of problems and adversity. Sirovha says he has not yet come up with a title for column and is caliing on you - the reader - to give sugesstions. You can e-mail him on sirovhainnocent@gmail.com with your suggestions. “The main thrust of the column is to instill hope in people by encouraging them to rely on the strength of our lord and saviour,” Sirovha said. “I hope to remind people that although tough times may come in life, the challanges that we face are there to make our situation better,” he added. A respected educationist, the deputy president of the South African Schools Football Association (SAFSA) and a sought after inspirational speaker with experience in team building, transformation and and local government, Sirovha has written motivational books. Forging Ahead - one of his books - explores how a person can find strength and inspiration in life. He has also written Moments of Truth - a book that captures inspirational teachings by Archbishop Stephen Zondo.“We have a number of problems that we grapple with in life. One of the problems we have is that there is lack of food because a lot of people are not employed. “Owing to poverty, people cannot send their children to school. These people cannot afford basic necessities,”he said. “The people who are working also have their problems. A number of them are trapped in a rat race. They do not enjoy their work because they do not have a plan for their future. There are many opportunities but people are not looking at them,” he added. “The solution to many of the problems that people are facing today are found in thr bible and through knowing Jesus Christ. It is my wish that this column will inspire people to reach their full potential,” Sirovha pointed out.

Minister of Police Nkosinathi Nhleko believes union leaderships have a key role to play if communities are to eradicate the violent protests such as the ones experienced in Brits before the national and provincial elections.

In one incident, ANC members openly clashed with EFF supporters – resulting in the death of a baby. This occurred during a strike in with residents in the area were pushing for the Madibeng Municipality to provide better water delivery services to households. However, the minister said there was very little that the police could do to quell rival unions and urged leaders of these formations to encourage their members to be disciplined. He made these remarks during a press briefing shortly after a stakeholder engagement with various law enforcement entities as part of his hundred days plan. The objective of the meeting was to encourage partnership as well as to mobilise the community in the fight against crime, especially in the platinum belt.

“The question of how people affiliate with unions is enshrined in our constitution,” Nhleko said. “For those rights to be realised, you require leadership. We only come in when society begins to experience instability,” he added. He urged communities to work hand in glove with the police in order to assist them to be more effective in fighting crime. “We would like to foster relations between the police and the community,” he said. Speaking about the Platinum Belt Operations, Nhleko revealed that more than 1 000 arrests had been made. The operations were launched by the police in June to address crimes such as house breaking and theft, drug trafficking, murder and others.

MOTIVATOR: Bojanala Municipal Manager Innocent Sirovha (above) will be writing a monthly column for Leseding News.

farirai@lesedingnews.co.za Farirayi Kahwemba

08 Leseding News - Brits

SPORTSPORT31 July 2014

news@lesedingnews.co.za Sports Reporter

NBA development coach Franck Traore will be part of a group of basketball coaches that will be part of the 12th edition of the annual Basketball Without Borders event, to be held in Johannesburg from August 5 – 8. Traore, an NBA coach, has been instrumental in moulding the basketball skills of a number of young players from the North West province – particularly those from the Royal Bafokeng Nation. The coach played a key part in identifying and supporting the immense talent of Elri Liebenberg – who played in the WNBA league last year. This was after the two had met, by chance, at a shopping centre in Phokeng. At that time, Elri had had no experience in playing basketball, but had been playing netball since she was seven years old. Her enthusiasm helped her to

quickly catch onto the sport. Traore will be hoping to further hone his coaching skills in Johannesburg. “Franch, together with other basketball coaches involved in the Royal Bafokeng/ NBA project will take part in the Basketball Without Borders event in Johannesburg,” an offi cial from NBA Africa told Leseding News. “It will be a worthwhile experience for all of them as they will be able to benefi t immensely from the event,” the offi cial added. The idea of using the sport to create friendships and help realise dreams was realized in 2001. It was in this year that the fi rst ‘’Basketball without Borders’’ (BWB) camp was held to establish a common language for global peace, friendship and sportsmanship. Since then, the positive message of working together, developing leadership skills,

and living a healthy, drug-and alcohol-free lifestyle has been infused into the basketball camp meetings each year. These gatherings have also provided the younger players with the necessary tools they need in life to excel on and off the basketball court. Participants have learned that they can achieve success through hard work, dedication, teamwork and fair play. Last year, after an intense three days of life skills seminars, skills development sessions and competitive games each afternoon, the last day of the camp was all about celebration.

After the last games at King Edward VII School in Johannesburg, some of the most promising young players representing the African continent faced each other in the 2013 Basketball without Borders Africa All-Star Game.

YOUNG STARS: NBA coach Franch Traore has been instrumental in honing the skills of these youngsters (PHOTO: FARIRAYI KAHWEMBA)

WINNERS: Masande FC players celebrate aft er clinching the ti tle (PHOTO: SUPPLIED)

The 2014 Carling League of Champions came to a spectacular close at the NIKE Football Centre recently with Masande FC clinching the top honours in spectacular fashion.

It was an entertaining fi nale to the tournament with six out of the initial 48 teams locking horns at one of the best football facilities in the country. The tournament started in June in Gauteng and went as far as the North West, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape before eventually returning to Gauteng. It was winner takes all in the last stages of the competition as the fi nal six teams giving it their all in an attempt to be crowned champions.Teams came into the fi nals well motivated and beaming with confi dence as they attended a prestigious welcome dinner organised upon arrival in Johannesburg. At the dinner – held at Birchwood Hotel – players interacted with seasoned football legends such as Cyril Nzama and Edward ‘’Magents” Motale. On the fi eld of play, it was Amagents FC and Masande FC who eventually reached the fi nals after some gruelling action.

These two teams overcame their opponents in the group stages to meet each other in the decider. Masande FC, who are based in Cape Town, went on to clinch the title after winning 4 – 0. Besides the trophy that came with winning the competition, Masande FC also received a R20 000 cheque for their efforts. Carling Black Label Brand Campaign Manager, Devlin Lakay, summed up what has been a well-executed 2014 Carling League of Champions.“Underlying the success of the Carling League of Champions is the strong vision that Carling Black Label has, which is to celebrate everyday men for the Champions that they truly are,” Lakay said. “We went out to different parts of the country and provided a unique opportunity for communities to be rewarded through football, a sport that is a way of life for many. We have seen teams giving it their all, while community members have been rallying behind the heroes,” he added. “We would like to thank all the teams who participated in this tournament but most importantly, we appreciate the efforts of the communities who have contributed to making the third edition of the Carling League of Champions an overwhelming success,” he said.

Local fl air at Basketball Without Borders