11 September 2015
P. 3
Taxi blaze
R1-20/FREE
Protestors on Harry Gwala Street
at Bela - Bela TK Mashaba
This taxi caught fire and exploded at Bela-Bela on Tuesday, 8 September. Photo: TK Mashaba
A Bela-Bela businessman’s taxi burst into flames early in the evening of Tuesday, 8 September, near Sunvalley, at the Leseding Section of Bela-Bela. The taxi’s passengers and driver managed to escape unharmed, but the taxi was burnt to ashes after apparently overheating. According to witnesses, the taxi suddenly started smoking. It came to a halt and the screaming passengers evacuated as quickly as they could. All the passengers and the driver managed to escape before the vehicle exploded, according to witnesses on the scene. Witnesses say that the same taxi had been seen with its engine on fire at the taxi rank on Friday, 4 September. On that occasion other taxi drivers helped to quench the problem. The vehicle’s owner, Elias Malungane, who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, said that he could not speak to the media. The BEAT contacted Israel Molusi, the spokesperson for the Warmbaths Taxi Association (WATA), who said that he was still collecting information as he had been out of town at the time of the incident. “I will be getting full details soon, but what I heard so far was that the fire was caused by a mechanical fault,” he said. “We will have a meeting soon to see what we can do to contact the passengers of the taxi to see if we can help them in any way.” He said that the organisation would investigated if the passengers needed counselling.
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CRIME
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RDP fraud case transferred to regional court Mzamane Ringane The fraud case involving Modimolle Local Municipality official Andrew Kgati and Councillor Jimmy Moropeng has been transferred to the regional court, following their brief appearance before the Modimolle Magistrates’ Court last Friday 4 September. Moropeng and Kgati were arrested in July this year for their alleged involvement in the sale of an RDP house. The two accused are now expected to appear in court on 21 September this year. Members of the public and political parties braved the chilly weather and attended the proceedings in large numbers. The locals were packed inside the court room, while others were required to remain outside as there was no space to accommodate more people. Members of the newly established Modimolle Development and Unemployment Forum sang struggle songs outside the premises. Community members left the court room soon after they were informed that the case was being transferred to the regional court. Chairperson of the forum Hendrick Malatji said they have full trust in the courts, and further expressed that they believe justice will take its course.
“We are totally against corruption. These two must be suspended from their duties and subsequently be dismissed if they are found guilty. No one is above the law. Whether you are rich or poor, if you commit a crime you have to go to jail”, said Malatji. EFF MPL (Member of the Provincial Legislature) Mapula Ledwaba said the suspension of both Kgati and Moropeng is long overdue. She says the pair must be relieved of their duties and face the full might of the law. Ledwaba called on all residents who have similar complaints to come forward and assist the authorities in this case. Dingaan Motshwene of the DA (Democratic Alliance) in Modimolle said they will follow this case to its last day. Motshwene said corruption cannot be tolerated in the government, and further expressed that they want to ensure that it is totally eradicated. He said the community is suffering because of individuals who are stealing from the community. He also believes that the two are not fit to serve the community, therefore they should be suspended. Thomas Morudu who is also a member of the DA said corrupt officials must be taken out of the municipality as they are delaying service delivery and job creation.
22 year-old murdered at shebeen Marlene Vermaak A 22 year-old man was murdered on Monday, 31 August at the Meriting va Melodi Tavern in Extension 1 of Leseding. Frikkie Matjila (22) was stabbed to death on Monday night. His friend David Moatshe (23) was arrested for the crime. “The suspect was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday morning and taken to Modimolle to be kept in the holding cells. He appeared in court on Tuesday, 1 September, and his bail application took place on Tuesday, 8 September,” said Constable Simon Makhuvele from the Vaalwater SAPS. “The suspect was not granted bail.” The deceased’s father, Frikkie Matjila Sr., spoke to The BEAT. “It was just after midnight on Monday night that people came to our house, screaming.” he said. “I went out to hear what had happened and they told me that my son had been stabbed in the tavern and that I should come immediately. When I arrived on the scene my youngest son, Frikkie, was lying in a pool of his own blood. I could see blood splatter starting from the serving counter for about six meters over the floor to where Frikkie lay.” “Two policemen from Vaalwater were already on the scene and at that point they were also trying to find out what had happened. Later it was said that Frikkie’s friend David had stabbed him. We had to wait for four hours before a morgue vehicle came to pick him up,” Matjila Sr. said. The funeral took place early Saturday morning, 5 September, where very sad family members celebrated Frikkie’s life. David Moatshe has previously been in the news. Moatshe and a friend, Norman
Members of the EFF outside the Modimolle Magistrates’ Court. Photo: Mzamane Ringane.
Community members braved the cold weather and attended the RDP house fraud case. Photo: Mzamane Ringane.
Hefty sentences for criminals Lizzy Bapela A man from Modimolle was recently sentenced to 35 years in jail when he appeared before the local magistrate’s court. Halmong Duminzani Nzuma, 35, was sentenced for seven years on a charge of housebreaking, 10 years for attempted robbery and five years for pointing a firearm. Modimolle police spokesperson Warrant officer James Findlay said that Nzuma’s court appearance and sentencing are a sequel to two incidents that occurred earlier this year. He added that the accused’s arrest resulted from very good detective work conducted by Warrant Officer Koos van der Berg. Meanwhile, the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court recently sentenced Hlongwane Solly Thabo to 30 years imprisonment,
Frikkie Matjila (22) that died in an unnecessary fight in a tavern in Lesideng, and the bloody white shirt he was wearing when his father found him. Photo: Marlene Vermaak Macau, were involved in an incident at a Tavern in Vaalwater, Rhinos, in 2011. Both boys received a beating from police Warrant Officer Petrus Lefoka after misbehaving, causing fights and problems inside the tavern and resisting arrest. Lefoka was widely criticised for his behaviour that ended up on social media, newspapers and even television.
fifteen for murder and the other fifteen for robbery. The 32-year-old convict shot a man during a fight that ensued in the street and fled the scene in April 2013. Police spokesperson Constable Maria Maleto said that the victim was then rushed to Bela-Bela Hospital for medical attention after being found in a pool of blood by passers-by. She added that he died shortly after admission. “The convict did not stop there. Later that month of the murder he was reportedly flashing the firearm around the township. The police were called to intervene and he was arrested for illegal possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The firearm was confiscated and through investigation it was discovered that it was the same firearm used in the murder case and it was also linked to a case of robbery,” said Constable Maleto.
Alleged mall mugger to face trial in October Justin Steyn Alleged mall mugger Joseph Nkuna’s trial is expected to commence on Thusrday 15 October. The 19 year old man has allegedly attacked and robbed several employees of the BelaMall who travel home through the town’s industrial area. Following a few inside leads to these attacks, Police in Bela-Bela linked Nkuna to the crimes and he was arrested at his home in the
Bela-Bela township on Wednesday 22 July. A cellphone, believed to be stolen, was recovered during his arrest. Nkuna made his first appearance at the BelaBela Magistrate Court on Thursday, 23 July where his case was postponed to Thursday, 30 July for bail application, and was granted bail of R500. It has been reported that Nkuna has been unable to pay the bail amount and remains in police custody. Lieutenant-Colonel Abel Phetla said that no further attacks of a similar nature have occurred since Nkuna’s arrest.
Hitchhiker drives off in a stolen vehicle Lizzy Bapela The police in Bela-Bela are investigating a case of possession of suspected stolen vehicle after a hitchhiker allegedly stole a car that he was given a lift in, in August this year. The owner of the stolen vehicle told the police that he had been driving with a friend when the suspect stopped them and asked for a lift, which he was granted. He
added that he left the car idling for some minutes when he stopped with his friend along the road in Leseding and found the car gone on their return. Police spokesperson Constable Maria Maleto said that the suspect sat in the back of the car after he was given a lift. She added that he apparently moved straight to the driver’s seat before driving off with it after the driver and his friend left the vehicle. The constable said that the police
received a complaint about the silver Chevrolet Aveo being stolen and followed on the leads. On arrival at the scene the police interviewed both the victim and his friend and conducted thorough investigations, which led to the suspect being arrested. Constable Maleto said that a case was opened and investigations also led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle in Mandela section. The suspect is expected to appear in court again shortly.
The alleged ‘Mall Mugger’ Jospeh Nkuna who was arrested for assaulting and robbing employees of the Bela-Mall. Photo Supplied
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GOVERNMENT / POLITICAL
Bela-Bela to acquire land for housing TK Mashaba Bela-Bela Local Municipality is in talks with CoGHSTA regarding plans to obtain land which will be used for housing. This comes against the backdrop of continued complaints and a meeting between the MEC of CoGHSTA Makoma Makhurupetje and the Bela-Bela Concerned Community on 28 July. Information received, however, says that the MEC was in talks with the Concerned Community regarding another meeting. Last week Obed Motau from the Concerned Community of Bela-Bela has informed the communities at Donoza and Zuma View on 30 August 2015 of the municipality’s feedback on their meeting with the MEC. During the meeting Motau reiterated that the municipality has yet to respond to the community’s concerns, especially when it comes to the lack of land, housing, services and jobs, and said that the Concerned Community plans to hold them to account. According to Motau, the municipality needs to start delivering the quality service that the community deserves with immediate effect and without further delay or make way for others who may do a better job. He said that the Concerned Community of Bela-Bela is not going to allow the
Municipality to continue undermining the community and will henceforth start to make use of more serious methods to force action on the concerns raised by the community. The majority of the community at both Donoza and Zuma View gave Obed the mandate to take whatever action he feels necessary in order to get the Municipality to account for their actions and pledged their full support. Some members of the community also showed their support to stage a major protest to unseat those responsible for the current lack of service delivery they are experiencing while others said that every community member facing mistreatment and a lack of service from the municipality should show their displeasure at next year’s Local Government Elections. Merriam Tswai, who lived in a shack in Zuma View, said that she couldn’t see any reason to vote, as her vote only goes to waste, while Tshepho Mvelase said that he wanted to extend his home but wasn’t certain whether they would be able to stay. “Why doesn’t the municipality buy or look for land as they can see the town is growing?” he asked. Matome Sebelebele, municipal spokesperson, confirmed that the municipality was in talks with CoGHSTA but could not give further details.
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Crime round up Lizzy Bapela
Obed Motau. Photo: TK Mashaba
The police in Modimolle are investigating a case of culpable homicide following an accident on the R101 Modimolle, direction Bela-Bela on the morning of Thursday, 27 August. Modimolle police spokesperson Warrant Officer James Findlay said that two vehicles collided head-on, killing one person on the scene. The 77 year-old Regina Pretorius was a resident at from Kokanje in Modimolle. Warrant Officer Findlay said that the woman in the other vehicle was rushed to St. Vincent Hospital in Bela-Bela after sustaining serious injuries. He added that she is 25 years old and is also from Modimolle. A case of culpable homicide is being investigated. * The owners of the Montoya Garage that the police closed down months ago seem to be unable to stay out of trouble with the law as they were arrested again for corruption and fraud. Muhammed Ismail Essack, 30, and his father Ismail Suliman Essack, 62, were released on bail again following their recent arrest and appearance before the Modimolle Magistrate’s Court. Warrant Officer Findlay said that their previous bail of R10 000 each was carried over from the other cases. They are expected back in court shortly, where they will be appearing alongside David Sello Nawa, an official from the Modimolle Traffic Department, who was also arrested for fraud a while ago.
Modimolle marches on Municipality Centre to hold grand opening after most shops have opened Bambo. Mzamane Ringane Scores of residents in Modimolle joined the march that started at the Peter Nchabeleng Community Hall and ended at the Modimolle Local Municipality premises, to press home their demands on Monday, 7 August. The protestors marched from the township of Phagameng through Joe Slovo Street, under the watchful eye of law enforcement officers until they reached their destination. The procession of no less than 10 police cars escorted the peaceful protestors as they chanted struggle songs through the Joe Slovo main road. Struggle songs were the order of the day at the Modimolle Local Municipality premises as well, with the picketers taking their time before handing over the memorandum. Since the weather was unbearably hot, the protestors took a break of about an hour, after their long walk from the Phagameng Township to downtown Modimolle. The moment that everyone had waited for, finally arrived and Municipal Manager Sam Bambo, accompanied by Councillors Freddy Marutha and Salamina Olifant, emerged from the municipal buildings to accept the memorandum. The picketers however ordered that Olifant and Marutha should excuse themselves, as they wanted to hand over the memorandum to Mayor Kgaretja Lekalakala and Municipal Manager Sam
Bambo told the fed up citizens that Mayor Lekalakala was not available and that she had delegated Olifant to stand in for her. Resident representative Hendrick Malatji read out the contents of the memorandum before handing it over to the municipal manager. Malatji said their concerns included the high rate of unemployment, poverty, corruption and nepotism in the municipality. The issue of drug abuse, as well as the non-development of sports and recreational facilities were also among the biggest concerns raised by the protestors. It was also highlighted in the memorandum that the ever growing number of Somalis and Pakistani tuck shops was also affecting the locals negatively. The memorandum also touched the issue of Councillor Jimmy Moropeng and Modimolle Local Municipality housing official Andrew Kgati, who were arrested in connection with the alleged sale of an RDP house in July. The memorandum calls for the municipality to act against the two as they have been charged with a serious offence. The municipality was given 14 days to respond to these demands. After accepting the memorandum and handing over the signed and stamped copy to the protestors, Bambo promised that the council will give feedback after going through the memorandum of demands.
Justin Steyn The Bushveld Centre in Bela-Bela plans to have a grand opening once all of the shops in the centre’s lower levels have opened. This is according to the centre’s leasing agent Anton Killian, who confirmed that the newly upgraded centre will host more massive retail stores and even a few coffee shops. “Ackermans, PEP and one or two coffee shops are confirmed to open in this centre. We would also like to hold a grand opening
once all of the shops on the lower level of the centre have opened.” Upgrades to the centre ended in July and it now boasts a second story level which will be home to at least thirteen shops. Bela-Bela’s first-ever Woolworths also opened in the centre in July, and the centre will also be home to big brands such as Steers and Panasonic. Not all of the shops that were planned to open will do so at the centre. According to Killian a gym was planned to house at the centre, but later pulled out because the owners were not happy with where they would be located.
Protestors on Harry Gwala Street en route to the municipality. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Upgrades to the Bushveld Centre have been completed and it is just a matter of time before new shops will be opening with a grand opening. Photo: Justin Steyn
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GOVERNMENT / POLITICAL
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Limpopo fire fighters join world congress in Durban
Waterberg fire fighters are amongst those attending the week-long World Forestry Congress (WFC) in Durban. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela Firefighters from across all five districts of Limpopo joined the thousands from other provinces in the XIV World Forestry Congress (WFC) held in Durban. WoF Limpopo’s General Manager Sam Maepa bid farewell to the 24 young firefighters who are representing the province at the congress which is taking place at the Durban International Convention Centre from Monday, 7 September to Friday, 11 September. The first session of the fire fighters’ farewell ceremony took place at the Polokwane Game Centre on the afternoon of Wednesday, 2 September, with the second one in Bela-Bela the same evening. WoF Limpopo Provincial spokesperson Matema Gwangwa said that this is the first time that this global gathering is held on African soil since its inauguration in 1926, and South Africa prides itself in being the hosting country. The theme for this year’s congress is “Forest and People: Investing in a Sustainable Future”. In his official opening address, Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Senzeni Zokwana highlighted that forests and the forestry sector continue to play a
very important role in the lives of the peoples of the world and forests supply basic needs to many people. He said that wood fuel, building poles, medicinal plants and edible fruits sourced from forests are all critical to the livelihood of the rural poor, thereby creating a safety net. The minister added that forests not only deliver timber and timber products, but also derive non-wood forest products, which improve the socio-economic standing in our communities. “Trees and forests also contribute towards food security. The importance of environmental services we derive from forests cannot be over-emphasised. These include biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and protection against desertification and land degradation, watershed services and tourism. There is still a lot the world needs to do to ensure that the benefits of forests are leveraged. Various reports and discussions have shown and confirmed that better and more sustainable use of forest resources can make a significant contribution towards meeting many of the core global challenges including poverty and hunger, climate change and more sustainable sources of bio-products and bio-energy for human use,” Minister Zokwana said.
New gear for Limpopo Hospitals
Johnny Mmabane, who works with the Bela-Bela Emergency Medical Services with some of their new vehicles. Photo supplied
TK Mashaba The Limpopo Premier, Stanley Mathabatha joined forces with the Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathaba to hand over 60 brand new ambulances and four forensic vehicles to Sekororo Hospital in Limpopo recently. The handover occurred on Tuesday, 25 August. The arrival of the new fleet should ease the
burden of existing Emergency Medical Services, relieving pressure on the ageing vehicles already in commission. The acquisition of new EMS vehicles is a constant effort to ensure that the province meets the national EMS norms regarding response times. Limpopo is largely rural and these ambulances will improve the situation of even the most far-flung residents of Limpopo. The province promised during the departmental Budget Speech that the acquisition of additional ambulances would be a priority for the department this year, in order to improve the quality of life in the province. Some of the new ambulances will be converted to obstetrics vehicles to ensure that pregnant and labouring women are safely transported to the nearest medical facilities
Waterberg stakeholders gather for IDP Rep Forum Lizzy Bapela Various stakeholders from across the Waterberg District, including local municipalities, sector departments, Limpopo Development Agency, SEDA, the Office of the Premier and various NGOs attended an IDP (Integrated Development Plan) forum which was held on Tuesday, 25 August at Mogalakwena. The Acting Executive Mayor of the Waterberg District Municipality Councillor Tlhalefi Mashamaite led the meeting, which had as its goal to adopt the framework for the IDP of the area as each district municipality is required by Section 27 (1) of the Municipal Systems Act of 2000 to do. The act binds district and local municipalities in the area to adopt a process which is set in writing to guide the planning, drafting, adoption and review of their IDPs. In his opening remarks, Mashamaite highlighted the importance of the relationship between government and citizens, saying that the government should consult and involve the community in discussions regarding its projects and programmes, which may directly affect them. Consultations help municipalities make more appropriate decisions based on the real needs of the people. The more informed people are, the better they will understand what the government does and what the budget and resource limitations are. “We cannot address all the developmental needs on our own and therefore,
Acting Executive Mayor of the Waterberg District Municipality Councillor Tlhalefi Mashamaite. Photo: Lizzy Bapela partnerships are needed with other spheres of government, communities, civil society and business. 2015 is the year of local government elections and our IDP will reflect a five-year plan from 2016 to 2021. The amalgamation of Modimolle and Mookgophong municipalities should inform our plans,” said Mashamaite. “We encourage consultation between the two municipalities in order to have only one IDP document for the 2016/2017 financial year.”
Delighted young mother thanks Working on Fire Lizzy Bapela A young mother of two in Vaalwater thanked the Department of Environmental Affairs’ programme, Working on Fire (WoF) for helping her improve her life. Mitta Monyeki, 24, benefitted when WoF Limpopo recently opened a new team in Vaalwater. The team assists the local youth with information on opportunities available in the programme and advises them on the methods of joining the programme. It also benefits the youths by providing them with uplifting skill training programmes that groom them in their endeavour to become good fire fighters. Monyeki was only 12 years old when her mother passed away and she survived a lot of humiliation in her childhood. She says that she did not let circumstances become a stumbling block for her to reach her dreams. “I tried everything I could to better my life and kept in mind that education is the only key to success. That was when I studied even harder and obtained a Level 3 English certificate. Getting employment was still a problem even after this achievement but that did not deter me and I ended up being recruited as a WOF subordinate. It has always been difficult to put food on the table for my children and siblings regardless of the tears and sweat resulted from the difficult piece-jobs I used to get, but now WoF has given me a better chance in life. From an early age I have been dreaming of becoming a social worker and now WOF is giving me a wide range of opportunities, which enable me to study further,” said the grateful young mother. Monyeki is good in poetry and believes that with WoF, everything is possible.
The grateful young mother of two from Vaalwater, Mitta Monyeki. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
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EDITORIAL
PHOTO of the WEEK
Cultural dancer Adam “Zinca” Masenya showcases his dancing skills during the Music and Art Festival in Modimolle, last Saturday 29 August. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
NYDA assists Solomon Mahlangu School learners Lizzy Bapela
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Staff and learners at the Solomon Mahlangu High School in Modimolle extended their gratitude after receiving a donation of a science laboratory and motivational talks and demonstrations from various education role players. The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) donated the science lab to the school. It was officially handed over by Deputy Minister in the Presidency Buti Manamela on Tuesday, 1 September. The chairperson of the NYDA board Yershen Pillay, Modimolle Mayor Councillor Kgaretja Lekalakala and Members of the Mayoral Committee were among the dignitaries accompanying the Deputy Minister to the ceremony. Manamela addressed and motivated the learners, while the NYDA provided them with career guidance to ensure that they are well informed regarding the career opportunities on offer when they complete their high school studies. After the speeches, the Modimolle SAPS K9 Unit gave a presentation and a demonstration of how dogs smell dagga or any other drug and how they also chase after and catch a suspect. Solomon Mahlangu is one of the no-fee schools in the Waterberg District and faces resource challenges. “The knowledge gained in classrooms is incomplete unless they are able to observe the process and understand the
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Deputy Minister in the Presidency Buti Manamela officially handed over a science lab donated by the NYDA to Modimolle’s Solomon Mahlangu High School. Photo: Lizzy Bapela relationship between action and reaction said the spokesperson in Manamela’s office, Matshepo Seedat. The lab will therefore assist the learners in learning science in a practical manner and also ensure that they learn efficiently through seeing, handling and manipulating real objects and materials.
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A failure of humanity Europe is currently suffering the effects of the Syrian civil war. Starting in 2011 on the tail end of the Arab Spring, the war has only become worse since ISIS (Islamic State, terrorists who claim that they are fighting for the glory of Islam) joined the fray, slaughtering thousands and destroying priceless history in the process. Naturally, many Syrians have been forced to flee. The UN defines a refugee as someone who has been forced to leave his or her home because of war or another imminent threat to their lives. A migrant, on the other hand, is someone who has left their home country in the hope of finding better work elsewhere. There’s a difference — no nation has an obligation to take in migrants, but refugees are a special class, protected by law. These migrants, frantically trying to reach some sort of safety, have been dying in droves while politicians try to figure out what to do with them. Germany has opened its arms, declaring that they can take half a million refugees per year for several years to come, should they need to. The United Kingdom has grudgingly said that they would take twenty thousand. In the meantime, thousands of them are trying to leave the contested zones, often dying on the way. This past weekend, world news was inundated by the image of little Aylan Kurdi, who washed up on a Tuskish beach after drowning when his boat capsized. It would have been nice if we could say that Europe was pulling together, spreading out the refugees so that no one country had to carry the load alone. It would have been nice to be able to say that someone was moving in to declare peace in Syria. It would have been nice to be able to say that, but we can’t. Instead, we hear bickering over whose responsibility the refugees are, to the point where the UN is considering establishing some sort of quota system. We hear people saying they ‘should just have stayed home’ and ‘are just greedy for what Europe has.’ To which the obvious reply is: We’ll bomb your home, see how well you fare. No, you’re not allowed to leave — you have to stay, and watch your children be murdered or brainwashed, and hope that a bomb doesn’t find whatever shack you manage to put up. Of course they are greedy for what Europe has. Being greedy for the chance to survive is what being human is all about!
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CHARITY | ENTERTAINMENT | SCHOOL
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Second women’s month conference comes to a successful conclusion Lizzy Bapela Hundreds of women, children and youth from across the province gathered at the Bela-Bela’s Diensentrum Hall for the second women’s conference hosted by the Nuwe ADEV (New Adam and Eve) Movement on Saturday, 15 August. The event, held under theme “when the tide turns”, was meant not only to commemorate women’s Month but to
motivate women and other attendees about life and inspire child headed families among other objectives. It was well attended by guests from other provinces and neighbouring countries and the hall was as white as snow with silver glittering all over. One of the organisers Bishop Rhetty Matjila said that they intended to emphasise to women attending that “We cannot make our situations favourable but we can tailor make our attitudes”. She said that the aim was
to show them that when facing endless problems in life, they must always remember that when God breaths in one’s direction, their situation will change. The speakers delivered messages of support and inspiration to the audience and further quoted comforting scriptures from the bible. They advised women never to give up no matter what kind of difficulties they face in life and to leave everything in the hands of God, who will never leave
nor forsake them. The audience was encouraged to turn the tide by always praying as prayer is able to help people achieve the impossible. On the broken spirits topic, one speaker Mmabaledi Matjila gave an illustration about a broken crayon, indicating that broken or not it can still colour. The event was wrapped up by performances from different spiritual groups, most imitating what is being said in the Bible.
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Different speakers took a stand to motivate the audience on the day. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
Snow white accessories were gathered together to brand the venue for the event. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
Divas of the Prophetic Ministry also entertained the audience. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
A choir entertained the audience during the conference. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
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CHARITY / ENTERTAINMENT / SCHOOL
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69 girls pledge to stay celibate until marriage A group of young girls who have pledged to stay celibate until they marry. Photo: TK Mashaba
TK Mashaba 69 young girls made a pledge to stay celibate until they are married during the Women in the Making event at Bela-Bela Community Hall on Saturday, 29 August. Women in the Making is a young-women only, Christian-values movement led by
Mmakosha Mamabolo who partnered with the Bela-Bela Development Committee to ensure the event’s success. According to Mmamabolo the pledge by the young girls was aimed at encouraging the girls to avoid teenage pregnancy. “We are building future leaders and we are teaching these girls about self-respect, puberty and loving God,” she said. “We know it’s not
Bosele Dawn plans to relocate Justin Steyn The Bosele Dawn Drop-In Centre in BelaBela plans to temporarily relocate in the near future. The chairman of the board, Jack Manaka, said that the institution will be organizing a series of upgrades soon, and will be relocating to the Shekina Glory Ministries in Leseding. The upgrades to the centre will involve extended rooms, which will help the centre to house more people. “We will be able to feed and house more people once the renovations are complete,” Manaka said. Another local non-profit organization,
Light of Africa, is planning to join Bosele once the renovations are complete. Manaka said that this will help to uplift the community in a big way, as it will allow young and old to converse on the issues they face. “Light of Africa will be joining us when the renovations are done,” he said. “They focus on a number of aspects concerning the youth and substance abuse, and this will allow the young and old to cooperate on various issues.” Manaka said that they currently do not have transport with which to move their appliances, and said that any help will be welcomed. Manaka can be contacted on 073 160 0759.
Light of Africa embarks on a 30-day feeding scheme Justin Steyn Non-Profit Organization (NPO) Light of Africa has embarked on a 30-day feeding scheme. According to Light of Africa’s project coordinator, Josias Ramalekana, the scheme started on Saturday 15 August and is aimed at feeding homeless children in and around Bela-Bela. Ramalekana said that food will be in the form of bread and soup which will be given to the children on a daily basis.
The food itself has been provided by the Makhose Woman’s Group. Ramalekana explained that the purpose of the scheme was not only to provide food to those in need but to identify problem that these children are faced with and then report it to the Department of Social Development. “We are operating in areas such as Zuma View where a lot of children are homeless and are using illegal substances. During our campaign we will compile a report and send it to the department of social development,” he said.
Meet Mr and Miss Bela-Bela Spring 2015
going to be easy but we believe they will always look at their certificates of pledge and know what they had promised.” The girls were also given sanitary towels which had been donated by the Devco. “It has been calculated that girls in high school miss an average of 4-5 days of school each month due to their lack of access to sanitary pads,” said Pule Lekalakala of Devco.
Lucky woman to win a house in Women’s Month commemoration Lizzy Bapela The Limpopo First Lady, Maggie Mathabatha, honoured domestic workers as part of celebrating Women’s Month. The event targeted 100 domestic workers across the five District Municipalities in the province including the Waterberg. Spokesperson for the Limpopo Premier’s Office Kenny Mathivha said that the aim of the event was to honour Limpopo women and encourage them to strive for excellence in whatever they do. One lucky woman will win a three-
bedroom house with a dining room, a kitchen, living room, bathroom and a garage. Amthivha said that the house will ensure that the woman’s living conditions are improved, and said through much difficulty, women continue moving on to build a better life for their families. “The first lady vowed that her priority is to resuscitate the First Lady’s Charity Trust as a vehicle to improve the lives of the needy, especially rural women, children and people living with disabilities. In this regard, a gala dinner event was held for them at The Ranch Hotel on Friday, 21 August,” said Mathivha.
Major eyesore after glasses delayed Justin Steyn A resident in Bela-Bela said that he is unhappy about alleged delayed services at the Bela-Bela Hospital. According to Jonas Motau his mother, Leah Motau, had undergone retinal surgery in February of this year at the F.H Odendaal hospital in Modimolle. According to Jonas he was told to collect spectacles at the Bela-Bela hospital after the surgery was complete. Jonas said that he went to collect the spectacles at the hospital shortly thereafter but was told to come back in four months. “I went back in June to collect the spectacles but was told to come back in August,” said
TK Mashaba
Mr. Spring BelaBela 2015 Tshepo Seshoka with Michelle Makwakwa and Miss Spring BelaBela. Photo: TK Mashaba
“Put together this amounts to more than a month of lost school days every year.” He went on to say that township learners have many other problems to worry about, like nutrition, poverty, absent parents and other things, and missing school for something that can easily be managed should not be among those. Devco has pledged to donate fifteen boxes of sanitary pads to adolescent girls who belong to Women in the Making. “Although this is a great starting point, this is a short-term solution to a long-term problem,” said Lekalakala. “What we need are reusable washable pads which these girls can use for the next 3-5 years.”
The rain did not dampen the spirit of the youths who took part in the Mr and Miss Bela-Bela Spring 2015, which was held at the Bela-Bela Community Hall. The competition took place on Saturday, 5 September, and 15-year old Tshepo Seshoka from Bela-Bela High was crowned Mr. Bela-Bela while 16year old Bonolo Ramarumo from Nylstroom Hoërskool was crowned Miss Bela-Bela. Seshoka told The BEAT that he was very happy to have won. He says that he has not taken part in any modelling competition or pageant before, and wants to be a policeman. Ramarumo says that she has always
Jonas. To date, Jonas has not received the spectacles that were ordered in February. “It is very frustrating to see my mother walk around without the required spectacles and I have even heard that a lot of people have not received their spectacles. There may be a problem with the hospital’s optometry department as no one was able to help me.” The Bela-Bela hospital’s spokesperson Bhuti Moagi said that he was not aware that the hospital’s optometry department is faced with problems but an investigation will be conducted in this matter. “No problems have been reported in our optometry department but I will liaise with both the department and Jonas so that we can fix this problem,” he said loved modelling, as she came in the top five in a competition held in Modimolle. “I want to be an accountant, but I plan to also pursue modelling part-time,” she said. She also said that she hoped that girls would love themselves more and have self-esteem. The event was attended by Bela-Bela Hospitals’ acting CEO Brenda Nyama, who advised the youth about proper behaviour. Michelle Makwaka, the assistant organizer of the event said that it was a pageant in Bela-Bela, but that they were pleased with the turnout. “We know the weather was not favourable but we managed to have a successful pageant and will grow from strength to strength,” she said.
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11 September, 2015 Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
Netball and Cricket remains to be played in District Games TK Mashaba The Waterberg District Games which were hosted by Bela-Bela have produced some outstanding performances from teams from around the Waterberg. Netball and cricket, however, have not been played. According to Portia Langa from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture in
the district they were still planning the schedule of fixtures for the two codes. Volleyball games did take place, but the final games for both males and females are still to be scheduled. Magwereleng’s basketball team Vampires were triumphant in their game against Thabazimbi, while Phagameng went through to the next level in rugby. The date for the provincial-level games has yet to be set.
Kamplits Volleyball players with Eagles players from Lephalale. Photo: TK Mashaba
SAB play-offs decided by goal difference Mzamane Ringane
Waterberg’s Yster United FC in a meet and greet session with champions Nkowa-Nkowa Barcelona FC. Photo: Mzamane Ringane.
The Waterberg region representatives Yster United FC failed to gain promotion into the higher ABC Motsepe League by a hair’s breadth, after the tight play-offs were decided by goal difference. Yster United FC collected a total of seven points in their four encounters during the play-offs. The play-offs were held at the Mahwelereng Stadium in Mokopane on Saturday, 5 September and Sunday, 6 September. The Waterberg lads lost their opening game 2-0 at the hands of Capricorn region’s Boyne Tigers FC, but hope was restored when the Waterberg team whipped Schoornoord Chiefs FC of Sekhukhune 3-0 later in the day. On Sunday Yster United FC narrowly escaped from United Artists FC of Vhembe with a 3-2 score, and ended their race with a 1-all stalemate when they played Mopani region’s Nkowa-Nkowa Barcelona FC. At the end of the play-offs Nkowa-Nkowa Barcelona FC gained promotion after
claiming the top spot, with Yster United ending their race on the fourth spot. Log leaders Nkowa-Nkowa Barcelona FC collected the same number of points as fourth-placed Yster United FC, but then the Mopani team managed to gain promotion as a result of their positive goal difference. Boyne Tigers FC of Capricorn region also gained promotion after claiming the second spot with a total of seven points and a healthy goal difference. The teams from Mopani, Capricorn, Vhembe and Waterberg all had seven points at the end of the play-offs, with the two highest goal scoring teams gaining promotion. These play-offs were surely a wakeup call to local football teams, as they now understand the significance of scoring as many goals as possible and conceding less. Schoonoord Chiefs FC of Sekhukhune region suffered an enormous humiliation after losing all their four matches, and conceding a total of 17 goals in the process. It’s now back to the drawing board for Yster United FC and all other teams that failed to qualify for the Limpopo ABC Motsepe League.
Thusanang Special School’s netball team in action during the Disabled Games held at the Community Hall. Photo: TK Mashaba
During a Khati competition, Thusanang won against Reamogetse Adult Centre. Photo: TK Mashaba A Penalty shoot-out during the Disabled Games match between Thusanang Special School and Leone Special School. Photo: TK Mashaba