The Beat 20 June 2014

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20 June 2014


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BEAT

20 June, 2014

Bela Bela to face fracking

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Mookgophong budget

Members of the Mookgophong Municipal Council and stakeholders posed for a photo after the budget speech. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela

Bela Bela could face Fracking should Umbono’s application for exploration rights be approved by the Petroleum Agency of South Africa. Photo as illustration Justin Steyn The town of Bela Bela is faced once again with a proposal for mining exploration rights in the area. The application has been sent to the Petroleum Agency of South Africa (PASA) and is currently awaiting approval. Umbono Capital, an international niche investment group, declared its intent to pursue the endeavour on public notices in early January. Umbono seeks to extract methane gas in the Springbok flats if the application is approved. The affected parties were invited to raise their concerns in an open meeting in Jinnah Park on Wednesday, 16 April, where it was unanimously agreed to oppose the application. Molaeto Montwedi of the Baahole Trust said that the application cannot be accepted due to incomplete information. “It is not possible to support an undefined project,” she said. “It is imperative for participants to understand the scope of the project based on existing studies, drilling done in the area and other information sources.” Stakeholders also stood opposed to the first mentions of fracking made by Umbono representatives. “We do not want fracking,” said Montwedi, and continued by accusing Umbono of hiding information from concerned parties. Umbono spokesperson Tebogo Mokgejane, said that the company does not intend to use fracking. “Subject to feasibility and studies, fracking could be a possibility during

commercial production under a Production Right. It is not in the scope of the Exploration Right,” he said. The local community is invited to attend a meeting hosted by the Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday, 24 July at Forever Resorts to discuss the possibility. Dr Kevin Gast of the EPA noted the importance of attending the event. “This is a dissemination event with the sole purpose of educating the public of the possible consequences of fracking. Attendance is a critical component in the education process. Here, for the first time, the public will be given the actual scientific data in a manner that each can understand. Once provided with realistic information an informed decision can be made by those affected by or interested in the situation,” Gast said. Gast added that Bela Bela is, and should remain, a tourist destination. “Bela Bela is a tourist town and has its roots in the tourist industry,” he said. “Tourism has recently surpassed mining in its contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product and cannot be ignored. Tourism and farming are by far the biggest contributors to the town’s economy and mining would be detrimental to the economy and employment in the area. Then, and more importantly, mining will affect the quality of water in the area and for a radius of approximately 25 km. One cannot afford this potential threat to the soul of Bela Bela.” Speakers at the event include Chris Wagner of the Waterberg Conservancy Forum, Julius Kleynhans of AfriForum and Tom Biewenga of Forever Resorts.

The Mookophong Local Municipality has reportedly been experiencing challenges during the 2014/2015 budget compilation, including the ageing and poorly maintained infrastructure, increased costs of bulk electricity tariffs, increased consumer debts, the inability or unwillingness of certain parties to pay municipal rates and taxes, and the municipality being unable to pay for capital borrowing among others. The mayor, Sarah Monyamane, said that her municipality will receive R33,8 million for equitable shares, R14,9 million for municipal infrastructure, R1,9 million for financial management, R1,1 million for the Expanded Public Works Programme and R967 000 for the Municipal Systems Improvement for the 2014/2015 financial year as grants from the National Government. The proposed capital projects for the 2014/2015 financial year totals R14,9 million, with R2,6 million allocated for improvements to the Internal Storm Water at Extension 1 and 2, R7 million for the upgrading of Welgevonden Purification Works Phase 2, R3,5 million for sewer outfall reticulation and

yard connection in Phomolong and R1,8 million to upgrade sports fields. Monyamane said that the projects will be funded from the Municipal Infrastructure Grant, as the municipality cannot generate enough cash to fund the abovementioned infrastructure projects. She said that the 2014/2015 operational budget amounting to a total of R124 million with an operating expenditure of R135 million means that the total operating expenditure has grown by 4,36% or R6,016 million compared to the 2013/2014 adjustment budget, and that the municipality will operate under a defecit of R11,2 million compared to the R12,5 million in the 2014/2014 budget adjustment. Additionally, operational revenue is expected to increase by 6,23% equating to a total revenue growth of R7,312 compared to 2013/ 2014. “The municipality is still budgeting for a deficit as a result of the steep increases in the provision that had to be made for asset depreciation in line with the provisions of GRAP 17, which became effective in 2011. On a positive note, the deficit shall systematically decrease over the following financial years in order to absorb the burden of tariff increases. It is expected that the deficit will be R7 million during the 2015/2016 financial year. Water tariffs will be increased by 6% during the financial year to encourage efficient, more sustainable water use. Tariffs for sanitation and sewerage will increase by 5% from 1 July,” said the mayor. She added that the tariffs for all categories of waste removal will increase with 5%. Solid waste removal is currently operating at a deficit making it impossible for the service to break even. Monyamane added that the main causes of the deficit are the repair and maintenance of the vehicles, increases in general expenditures such as diesel and petrol — the council will have to devise a strategy to ensure that the service is cost effective.

Joint operation results in breakthrough Lizzy Bapela Limpopo police provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Fanie Masemola acknowledged the successful breakthrough by its members. The police’s joint operation in Vaalwater has led to the arrest of three men suspected of rhino poaching. Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi said that the suspects were arrested on Monday, 16 June following an intelligence-led joint operation by members of the Limpopo Crime Intelligence Unit and Vaalwater detectives.

Brigadier Mulaudzi said that the suspects were allegedly on their way to poach rhino horn in the area when they were arrested. He added that the police seized a sedan car, a .416 rifle with silencer, an axe and a saw from the suspects. Brigadier Mulaudzi added that a multi-disciplinary team of intelligence officials, specialized detectives and nature conservation has been formulated to deal with rhino poaching in the province. He added that the suspects are being profiled in order to determine whether they are linked with previous rhino poaching cases in the province. The suspects were expected back in court shortly, having made their first appearance before the Vaalwater Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 17 June. The suspects, aged between 29 and 42 have been denied bail by the Vaalwater Periodical Magistrate, pending their next appearance on Wednesday, 25 June.


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20 June, 2014

Another case of abandonment in Thabazimbi Lizzy Bapela The police in Thabazimbi are investigating a case of attempted murder following an incident during the early hours of Monday, 16 June. Police spokesperson Constable Moshira Lekalakala said that a woman was arrested after allegedly abandoning her newborn baby. According to information received, a 33-year-old woman went into labour at her home in Regorogile Extension 6 and gave birth alone to a baby boy while her sister was calling an ambulance. The police said that after giving birth the woman put the baby in a bag and abandoned him in a ditch at about

3:30. Constable Lekalakala said that a passerby discovered the baby and took him to the local hospital. The sister also reported the incident to the police. Constable Lekalakala said that the baby is currently in Thabazimbi Hospital for medical observation and appears to be healthy and unharmed. A case docket was opened and the woman was arrested and charged with attempted murder. This comes after another baby was found in the bushes on Station Road next to the municipal Technical Services building. The baby in that case was estimated to be two to three months old, and the mother is still at large.

Mookgophong in the news Lizzy Bapela Mookgophong Municipal Manager Peter Magwala and some members of the South Afircan Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) have opened cases against each other following an incident on Friday, 13 June at the municipal offices. It was reported that members of SAMWU have been demanding that Magwala and CFO Dewald Eksteen resign for alleged incompetency. The marchers embarked in a protest march for unpaid overtime and threw Magwala and Eksteen out of their offices. A reliable source told The BEAT that the marchers were assaulting Magwala when they threw him out of the office, but SAMWU denied the allegation. Local SAMWU secretary Josephine Makaneta said that the workers have been waiting for overtime since December 2013 and said that they have not received new uniforms for two years now. The protesting workers were also complaining about the municipality’s placement policies and the appointment of officials without advertising posts. The residents have reportedly been struggling with service delivery for more than a month as municipal employees have been on a go-slow. Rubbish has not

been removed and the sewerage on the town’s main street is broken. The source added that the area is also experiencing water shortages. On Tuesday, 17 June, the matter went to court and the picketing continued at the municipal offices. The source said that there were no services on the day in question as SAMWU instructed its members to lock their offices and leave work. It has been reported that the municipality’s issues have made the national news, and it is alleged that Magwala lied about the municipality’s financial status. The MEC for the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs, Mmakoma Makhurupetja, was also notified about the municipality’s alleged poor financial state, and rumour had it that the municipality might be placed under administration. During an interview with The BEAT, municipal spokes person Matshepo Phoka said that she was not aware of the sewage problems and the issue of refuse removal. Phoka agreed to a follow-up interview as all the parties involved in the issues were in the meeting during her interview. The police were not available for comment in the matter.

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Police declare zero tolerance for illegal initiation schools Lizzy Bapela The police in Limpopo have issued a stern warning to those who plan on trying their luck and holding illegal initiation schools this year. The police say that every year innocent boys lose their lives as a result of botched circumcisions, and they are having none of it this season. The Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) have announced that they received a total of 311 applications to conduct initiation schools this year. The Department approved 275 and declined 36 of them. Initiation schools were set to start on Saturday, 14 June and conclude their activities on 18 July 2014. Starting an initiation school before the set date or continuing them after the official dates will render the institution illegal and police have said that they will deal vigorously with trespassers. The Waterberg District has a total of 69 initiation schools approved to operate, with the total number of schools in the province at 276. A provincial joint committee comprising the Department of Health and CoGHSTA among other stakeholders has been established to oversee and monitor the smooth

running of the schools. Limpopo Police spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mlaudzi said that the committee will also be working on curbing any criminal activity. Parents are, of course, still being urged to check the legitimacy of their chosen school with their local Traditional Authorities before sending their children.to the schools. Mulaudzi added that the police will not tolerate the abduction of boys to initiation schools under the guise of culture and tradition. He added that those who are found to be abducting boys for this purpose will face the full force of the law.. The police’s provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Fanie Masemola said that the police will work hand-in-glove with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety of all boys who attend initiation schools during this season. “Even approved schools will be subject to surprise police raids. No boys under the age of 12 may be admitted to the schools and we will be on guard against that as well. Surgeons who perform their duties without the proper authorization will be subject to legal penalties. The admission of initiates five days after the commencement of schools is also prohibited. Those who fail to comply will have the police to deal with,” Masemola warned.

Mookgophong resident thanks the municipality

Domestic sector gives input Lizzy Bapela Domestic sector role players are eager to speak their minds on minimum wage and employment conditions during upcoming public briefings after a recent announcement by the Department of Labour in Limpopo. The Department said that the minimum wage dispensation for employees in this sector will come to an end in November this year and added that systems are already in place to allow role players within the sector a say on how the sector should be structured in the next three years. Departmental spokesperson Johannes Mokou said that the process would be in the form of public briefing sessions held nationally, with the Limpopo leg of the sessions taking place during the week. The Director for Inspection and Enforcement Services in the Department, Phaswane Tladi, said that this move will go a long way toward demonstrating the Department’s commitment toward protecting and improving the lot of vulnerable workers in South Africa. These public briefings dovetail with the consultative process that was initiated by the Department under the leadership of Minster Mildred Oliphant in 2013. To date, Oliphant has engaged with domestic workers through imbizos in various provinces.

Oliphant promised domestic workers that they will have an opportunity to contribute to discussions on wage determination. She also called on employer to register their employees for the Unemployment Insurance Fund. The Domestic Sector in South Africa includes people working in private households, independent contractors, people sourced by employment services, gardeners in private homes, child caregivers, sick or elderly people and people with disabilities and personal drivers. Recent figures by the Department show that there are currently 653 676 domestic workers currently registered for UIF. This figure, however, is only the tip of the iceberg, as the number of people employed in the sector is thought to be significantly higher,” said Mokou. The minimum wage for domestic sector employees who work more than 27 hours a week are R9.63/hour, which translates into R433.35 per 45hour week and R1 877.70 monthly, in Area A, which is mainly urban. In Area B, which is mostly rural, wages are currently R8.30/hour, which translates to R373.50 per 45-hour week and R1 618.37 monthly. Tladi called on role players to attend the public briefing sessions en masse and give input, adding that their attendance and input will go a long way in structuring this sector for the next three years.

This is the house in which Motshwane reside at, which the municipality stated it disqualifies her as an indigent. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela Mookgophong resident Hunadi Motshwane has thanked the municipality for finally responding to her request to register as an indigent. Motshwane said that she has been engaging with the municipality for over three years with her application. She told The BEAT that when she enquired, she was told that the matter was still under investigation. Among the documents that she showed to The BEAT there were letters from the municipality stating that her house is too big and luxurious for an indigent, meaning that she does not qualify for indigent benefits and should pay for her own rates and services. Previously, the municipality had switched off her electricity, demanding that she pay for services before it could be switched on. She said that she had engaged with several units within the municipality and was referred from one to the other.

Hunadi Motshwane showed The BEAT the documents proving her communication with the municipality. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Motshwane added that officials of the municipality avoided her on dates when she had appointments, switching off their phones and leaving their offices. She also said that she has five children who are currently living with relatives, and that no-one in her household is employed. “I try to make a living,” she said. “I am self-employed and I think that I got the negative response I did from the municipality because my yard is neat. I cannot afford the services and all I asked for was the kind of assistance from the municipality that other indigents have received.” The BEAT spoke to municipal spokesperson Matshepo Phoka, who said that Motshwane did apply, and that her application was still in the hands of her ward committee and council for elaboration and approval before the municipality could process it. She added that Motshwane met with the municipal manager Peter Magwala and that matters are improving.


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20 June, 2014

BEAT

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BELA BELA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY Private Bag X1609 Bela Bela 0480, Chris Hani Drive, Bela-Bela

Tel: (014) 736 – 8000 Fax: (014) 736 3288

TARIFFS 2014-2015 1. SERVICE CHARGES 1.1 Refuse 1.1.1 The refuse tariff increase for 2014/2015 is 5.40% Description

Tariff (Rand) 2013/2014

Tariff (Rand) 2014/2015

1.2 Sanitation 1.2.1 The sanitation tariff increase for 2014/2015 is 5.40% Description Tariff (Rand) 2013/2014

Tariff (Rand) 2014/2015

1.3 Water 1.3.1 The water tariff increase for 2014/2015 is 16.00% Description

NB: The water tariff increase is in line with Magalies Water tariffs Tariff (Rand) 2013/2014 Tariff (Rand) 2014/2015

1.4 Electricity 1.4.1 The Electricity tariff increase for 2014/2015 is 7.40% NB: The electricity tariff increase approved by NERSA 1.4.2 Conventional Electricity 2.4.2.1 Block Tariffs Description Tariff (Rand) 2013/2014 Tariff (Rand) 2014/2015

2.4.2.2 Fixed Charges Description

Tariff (Rand) 2013/2014

2.4.3 Prepaid Electricity 2.4.3.1 Block Tariffs Description

Tariff (C/Kwh) 2013/2014

Tariff (Rand) 2014/2015

Tariff (Rand) 2014/2015


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BEAT

20 June, 2014

Photo of the week Some of us We are all of us lying in the gutter, but some are looking at the stars — Oscar Wilde. Oscar Wilde, arguably the wittiest man in the history of the world, managed to get some serious wisdom out there, in among the witty sayings and the pretend-shallowness. The quote above was one of them, and it’s absolutely true. We are all in the metaphorical gutter. We live in an imperfect world, of which at any given moment, large parts are at war. At this moment, as you are reading this, terrorists are moving to attack the Iraqi city of Baghdad — terrorists so vicious and extreme that they have been disavowed by alQaeda (whom you might remember as having made a name for themselves on September 11, 2001 by crashing passenger jets into the World Trade Centre and killing several thousand people). In Nigeria, 200 young women are still missing. In Kenya this weekend, armed extremists attacked a seaside town and gunned down 50 people. North Korea is effectively a police state. China’s censorship is so effective that people my age have no idea what the significance of Tiananmen Square is. At least we remember the students who died in the Soweto riots. Twenty-three years later, the dead of Tiananmen Square are unnamed. To this day, nobody is sure how many people died on June 4, 1989, when the Chinese army attacked unarmed civilians with tanks. So yes — the gutter. We are all in the gutter. Sadly, the world is not kind to those who are looking at the stars. Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for his dream of a united, free South Africa (and however much one might argue with his methods, and the methods of the ANC in general, the dream is valid.) Martin Luther King Jr was actually killed for his dream of freedom and equality for people of colour. It can be said, though, that despite the risks, we have an obligation, to those who have gone before us, and to those who never look up from the muck beneath their feet, to look up. We have an obligation to try and be the best we can be, to bring the world into a better time. Inch by inch, the human race is crawling out of the gutter. Never have so many been so prosperous. In the history of the world, never has so much of the human race been at peace. We’re getting better every day, even if sometimes we have to be dragged by the hair to see the better world that we can have, if only we try.

This Cheetah has been admitted to a Bela Bela veterinarian after it had been attacked and severely injured by a warthog. Photo: Justin Steyn

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Letter to the editor Dear Editor I want to pay tribute to two detectives at the Bela Bela police station, namely Warrant Officer Rachele and Sergeant Sekgobela. We had a burglary at our home last month and after we had discovered it, but before we could lay a charge, they took two suspects into custody! We were fortunately able to get back some of the stolen items. With such devoted detectives in our community, crime will suffer! Kind regards (Rev) TR Kriek

Letter from the editor Dear Readers You may have noticed that in recent weeks we have been placing letters from our readers on this page. We have never received this many letters for placement in our paper, and we here at The BEAT would like to take this opportunity to thank every person who has taken the time out of their day to speak up on subjects that are of interest to them. We would also like to encourage all of you to write in to us. We enjoy seeing your letters and knowing that you trust us to showcase your opinions, and would like your help in making our newspaper a forum for healthy, considered debate. Please send us your letters, we would love to hear from you!

The BEAT wants to hear from our readers. If you have a great story or something that you want us to bring to light, please email beateditor@gmail.com or send an SMS to one of our reporters. Lizzy: 072 264 7740 or TK: 076 756 9740. We would also LOVE to see some of your weird and wonderful photos for our editorial page.

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20 June, 2014

BEAT

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District municipality reports on highlights Modimolle mayor covers issues during budget speech

Modimolle mayor Kgaretja Lekalakala focused on various issues when tabling her 2014/2015 budget speech. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela Modimolle Mayor Kgaretja Lekalakala thanked departments within her municipality for creating jobs through the Expanded Public Works Programme. The mayor said that they will use the same approach of infrastructure development to creat jobs, and added that the project created a number of jobs and was beneficial to the community as a whole. Lekalakala said that her municipality has revised their spending plan and prioritized funds to ensure that key objectives and service delivery programmes are well-supported. She also said that when they drafted the 2014/ 2015 budget, they considered the affordability of tariffs increases and the socio-economic factors facing the community. During the strategic planning session, the municipality consulted with the community and vital issues were taken into consideration. Issues include the

FOR SALE BARGAIN newly build 3 bedroom house, 2 bathrooms, garage, open plan living room/ dining room. Paul Kruger str. Nylstroom R650 000. Contact Francois 082 495 3299.

LEGALS BELA-BELA LAND-USE SCHEME, 2008 Notice is hereby given to all whom it may concern, that in terms of Clause 21 of the BelaBela Land-Use Scheme, 2008, I, Boitumelo Moroke of DLC Telecom (Pty) Ltd, intend applying to the BelaBela Local Municipality for special consent for the construction and operation of a 30m high telecommunications mast and base station on Portion 34 of the Farm Droogekloof 471-KR, located in an “Agricultural” zone. Full particulars and plans may be inspected during normal office hours at the office of the applicant at the address included below or at the Office of the Manager: Planning and Development, Bela-Bela Municipality, Chris Hani Drive, Bela-Bela. Any objection, with the grounds therefore, shall be lodged with or made in writing to both the applicant at the address mentioned below and The Manager: Planning and Development, Bela-Bela Municipality, Private Bag X 1609, Bela-Bela, 0480, within 28 days of the date of the first publication of this notice, viz 13 June 2014. Closing date for any objections: 04 July 2014 Applicant: DLC TELECOM (Pty) Ltd Street address: 46 26th Street, Menlo Park, 0081 Postal Address: P.O. Box 35921, Menlo Park, 0102 Tel: (012) 346 7890

Email: tm@dlcgroup.co.za Our Ref: VC/LK/033 Droogekloof (13&20/6). BELA-BELA AMENDMENT SCHEME 81/08 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR AMENDMENT OF THE TOWN PLANNING SCHEME IN TERMS OF SECTION 56 (1)(b) (i) OF THE TOWN PLANNING AND TOWNSHIPS ORDINANCE 1986 (ORDINANCE No 15 OF 1986) Emendo Town and Regional Planners, being the authorized agent of the owner of Portion 122 (Portion of Portion 10) of the farm Roodepoort 467 KR, hereby give notice in terms of Section 56 (1) of the Town planning and Townships Ordinance 1986, (Ordinance 15 of 1986), that we have applied to Bela-Bela Municipality for the amendment of the townplanning scheme known as the Bela-Bela Land Use Scheme, 2008, by the rezoning of the property described above, situated at Portion 122 (Portion of Portion 10) of the farm Roodepoort 467, from “Agriculture” to “Special”. Particulars of the application will lie for inspection during normal office hours at the office of the Municipal Manager, Municipal Offices, BelaBela, for a period of 28 days from 20 June 2014. Objections to or representations in respect of the application must be lodged with or made to The Municipal Manager at the above address or Private Bag X 1609, Bela Bela, 0480, within a period of 28 days from 20 June 2014. Address, P.O Box 919, Bela-Bela, 0480, Tel 082 881 7252. (20 & 27/6) NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE: CHRISTIAN MULKE OERTEL Identity Number:190418 5019 082

need for land and RDP houses, requests for storm water drainage systems, and the paving of streets among others. The council took a resolution that the approved 3 745 applicants for indigent status will qualify for free basic services for a period of two years. The indigents will receive 75kw of electricity, 6kl water and free refuse removal, sewage and property rates. Indigents will be expected to pay for amounts in excess of the free basic services. The municipality encourages consumers to pay for their services to ensure quality and improve the standard of living, and will be charging interest of 12.65% on overdue accounts. “Water is a scarce commodity which must be used sparingly and the tariffs are designed to encourage efficient, sustainable consumption. Magalies Water has increased its bulk tariffs with 16% and the increase is passed on as an 18% increase in water costs to all houses in the municipality. We have included a third tier of tariffs for higher charges for consumption,” said Lekalakala. “With regards to electricity, NERSA has announced the revised bulk pricing structure and advised us that a stepped tariff structure needs to be implemented. The effect will be that in cases of higher energy consumption, the price per kilowatt will rise accordingly. An amount of R57,59 for basic services will be charged,” said Lekalakala. The waste removal tariff has been increased by 8% while 10% will be charged on sanitation, based on the size of the property and the number of connections. The budget for employee-related costs is R101,8 million, equal to 30% of the total operating expenditure. The overtime budget is equal to 3.4% of employee related costs, and salary increases have been factored into the budget at 7% with effect from 1 July 2014. Formerly of Rusoord, Chris Hani Drive, Bela Bela, Limpopo Province who died on 16th March 2014. Estate No: 020743/2014 All persons having claims against the abovementioned Estate are required to lodge their claims with the undersigned within 30 (thirty) days after the date of publication hereof. D E WILLIAMS Executor LANSER & WILLIAMS 16, Sutter Road P O Box 18 Bela Bela 0480 Tel: (014) 736 2216/7. BELA-BELA AMENDMENT SCHEME 78/08 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR AMENDMENT OF THE TOWN PLANNING SCHEME IN TERMS OF SECTION 56 (1) (b) (i) OF THE TOWN PLANNING AND TOWNSHIPS ORDINANCE 1986 (ORDINANCE No 15 OF 1986) We, Geo Projects, authorised agents of the owner of Portion 2 of the farm Rusoord 474 KR, Bela Bela hereby give notice in terms of section 56 (1) (b) (i) of the Town Planning and Townships Ordinance, 1986 (Ordinance No 15 of 1986) that we have applied to the Bela Bela Municipality for the amendment of the Town Planning Scheme, known as the Bela-Bela Land Use Scheme, 2008, by the amendment of the zoning of the property by the addition of an annexure to the existing Agriculture zoning, to make provision for building material depot general dealer and fuel depot and additional uses as indicated in the annexure to the amendment scheme. Particulars of the application will lie for inspection during normal office hours at the office of the Municipal Manager, Municipal Offices, Bela Bela, for a period of 28 days from 13 June 2014 Objections to or presen-

tations in respect of the application must be lodged with or made in writing to: The Municipal Manager at the above address or Private Bag X 1609, Bela Bela, 0480, within a period of 28 days from 13 June 2014. Address: P.O. Box 919, Bela Bela, 0480, Tel: 0828817252 BELA-BELA AMENDMENT SCHEME 79/08 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR AMENDMENT OF THE TOWN PLANNING SCHEME IN TERMS OF SECTION 56 (1) (b) (i) OF THE TOWN PLANNING AND TOWNSHIPS ORDINANCE 1986 (ORDINANCE No 15 OF 1986) We, Geo Projects, authorised agents of the owner of Portions 103 and 104 of the farm Roodepoort 467 KR Bela Bela hereby give notice in terms of section 56 (1) (b) (i) of the Town Planning and Townships Ordinance, 1986 (Ordinance No 15 of 1986) that we have applied to the Bela Bela Municipality for the amendment of the Town Planning Scheme, known as the Bela-Bela Land Use Scheme, 2008, by the amendment of the zoning of the property by the addition of an annexure to the existing Agriculture zoning, to make provision for over night accommodation, restaurant, conference facilities and additional uses as indicated in the annexure to the amendment scheme. Particulars of the application will lie for inspection during normal office hours at the office of the Municipal Manager, Municipal Offices, Bela Bela, for a period of 28 days from 13 June 2014 Objections to or presentations in respect of the application must be lodged with or made in writing to: The Municipal Manager at the above address or Private Bag X 1609, Bela Bela, 0480, within a period of 28 days from 13 June 2014. Address: P.O. Box 919, Bela Bela, 0480, Tel: 0828817252

Waterberg District Municipality executive mayor Tlotlanang Mogotlane reported on the highlights achieved by her municipality. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela The leadership of the Waterberg District Municipality recently presented a report regarded as part of the highlights of the institution and as projects and programmes that benefited the people of the entire district. With regards to job creation, the municipality emerged as a strong partner in the implementation of projects through labour intensive methods aligned to Extended Public Works Programmes. Through the programme, they have created 94 new work opportunities and are currently working in on the Mookgophong township sewer connections, which is hoped to be complete by June. The District Executive Mayor, Tlotlanang Mogotlane, said that the main objective of the programme is to create jobs while providing skills in order to alleviate poverty within areas where such projects are implements. She said that disaster management is one of the district’s core functions and deals with all hazards while attention is directed to emergencies such as fire, transport accidents and natural disasters such as floods. Mogotlane said that during the past five years the unit has been able to successfully coordinate serious incidents of fire around Thabazimbi, Mookgophong and Modimolle. “The district experienced floods due to heavy rains and the necessary resources

were made available to address the aftermath by providing shelter and blankets. We also give thanks to the private sector for assisting the communities in Lephalale, Mogalakwena, Thabazimbi and Bela Bela municipalities during the floods,” she said. She also highlighted the importance of water as a resource and pointed out that there are programmes in place to ensure effective and efficient delivery of sustainable water services. This includes the Blue Drop Certification for drinking water quality management regulation, with Lephalale Local Municipality out performing the district’s other municipalities with a score of 92.84%. Under the Green Drop Certification scheme for Wastewater Quality Management Mogalakwena Local Municipality is the best performer with a score of 100%. Mogotlane further said that the development of the coal and energy in Lephalale not only eradicated the district’s electricity backlog but also improved the provision of electricity in the province and in the country. She added that the provision of electricity per household in the Waterberg District increased from 57.3% in 2001 to 91.*% in 2011. This means that there has been an improvement of 34.5% in those ten years. The Medupi Power Station’s Unit 6 was reported to have passed vital tests on Tuesday, 10 June. The news was welcomed by the municipality as a great improvement to the electricity situation.

Grade 3 learners at reading and writing exhibition Justin Steyn Teachers and principals of Hleketani Primary are boasting about Grade 3 learners who represented their school during a reading and writing exhibition. The event was held at the Blaauwboschkuil Primary School on Tuesday, 10 June and students were assessed on their ability to read and write in Xitsonga, Setswana and Sepedi. Cecilia Moima, a Grade 3 teacher at the school, said that the students took part in creative writing and reading comprehension activities which qualified them for national examinations. “The students were assessed on their ability to read and write, which formed part of an assessment which indicated the students’ proficiency for national

examinations. The school is very proud to announce that we have once again taken first place in this competition,” she said. Students Gontse Molokomme, Mariam Malungani and Dimakatso Maluleka all agreed that reading and writing are skills which are vital to jobseekers. The three also said that they had enjoyed the competition, which allowed them to show off while doing what they love. The school’s headmaster Julia Mogashoa emphasized that the school works in a unified body which seeks to empower their students. “At Hleketani, students work together as a team to ensure that everyone prospers,” she said.


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A1 Terrors, Yster United and Barcelona top the log TK Mashaba With only one game left for each of the stream leaders, the writing is on the wall. Steam A’s A1 Terrors have already booked their seats for the promotional play-offs with 50 points and one game left, while its closest competitor M.Mammoet Arsenal has only 48, with no games left. In Stream B, Yster United has 62 points with one game to go, while the second place team for that stream has 49 points, also with no games left. Stream C’s Barcelona, after a hard season, are standing proud at 46 points with Domingo’s in second place with 37 points and one game in hand. Domingo’s last game cannot change the final outcome anymore. The three leading teams will battle it out in a series of round robin matches on an as-yet-unconfirmed date.

In the last week’s results: In Stream A, Bazooka won a walkover match against no-shows Home Defenders while M. Mammoet Arsenal beat Elmar Auto 4-1. In Stream B, Mokopane Ratanang took home the prize after Thaba FC didn’t show, while Simple Yellows lost 1-0 to Mokopane Stone Breakers. Mookgophong All Stars won a walkover against Siwelele, while Mosesetjane United triumphed over no-shows Maxoma. On Sunday, Simple Yellows lost 3-2 while Real Madrid beat Mokopane Stone Breakers. In Stream C, Sea Robbers failed to show against Barcelona while Super Eagles were defeated by Shining Stars 4-3. Domingo’s beat Real Hearts 4-1 while Ocean Birds won on a walkover against Bafaladi, while on Sunday Barcelona failed to show against Zaba.

Masters League kicks off TK Mashaba The new league for older players between Modimolle and Bela Bela, known as the Masters League, has kicked off and is underway. Some teams have already played their first games on Monday, 16 June at Moloto Stadium in Bela Bela. According to the league manager, Hlopi Lehong the objective of the league is to keep the players fit and healthy. The league is being sponsored by the SAB (South African Breweries) and the top three teams will receive medals and trophies. On Monday, Modimolle Masters played 2-all against Bela Bela Masters while Elmar Auto Masters lost 3-2 to Modimolle Happy Boys Masters. Spa

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Park Masters beat Modimolle Gunners 3-2 while Bela Bela Pirates Masters beat Modimolle Home Defenders 4-3. Modimolle United did not have an opponent this week, but will be playing soon. Lehong said that the teams will be playing every Sunday, with fixtures expected to be announced during the course of the week. “What we know so far is that we will be playing our next round in Bela Bela, although we do not yet know whether it will be at Sunfa or Moloto Stadium, as Ephraim Mogale Stadium in Modimolle is occupied this weekend,” he added. The day went smoothly and was fun for the players, who were reminded of the time when they played soccer in the official leagues.

Jimmy Makwela (left) and Maria Makwela giving their daughter Karabo Makwela a 21st Birthday key during her birthday party held at Elephants Spring Hotel on Saturday 7 June. Photo: TK Mashaba

Ms Party: Karabo Makwela and her sister Dimakatso Mashamaite getting ready to slice the cake. Photo: TK Mashaba

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Picture of dads on Father’s Day

Mesha Kekana and other members of the group. Photo supplied TK Mashaba On Sunday, June 15, local charity organization Dads in the Picture celebrated Father’s Day amidst the challenges that they face as parents. The event was held at various venues for the different branches. “As families and communities we celebrate the fathers who stand up above the rest and make a difference in their children’s lives,” said Mesha Kekana, media liaison for the organization. “We celebrate the security guards at our schools whose presence we never stop to consider, the driver of the school transport to whom we entrust our children’s safety, the traffic pointsmen who make sure that our

children cross the roads safely, and all the other men who impact our children’s lives positively. Father’s Day need not be a day that gets you excited about what you can do for your father. Your relationship needs to be reflected in what you do with him on the day. If breakfast in bed isn’t practical, just remember that you have the whole day to show your gratitude! We urge mothers to encourage, support and guide their children in this regard.” He added that Father’s Day can be the day where one can begin a relationship with one’s father. “Perhaps it is time to start off with a clean slate,” he said. Schoolchildren may be faced with questions about their absent fathers, and this might be a good time to have a talk with them on the subject. He reiterated that ignoring their questions would do no good in the long run. “By all means do what you need to do to have a positive relationship with your father, as we all know that relationships are about giving and taking, and we also call upon fathers to show their good intentions and take the first step to reconcile their families,” he said. “Your positive contribution in the lives of our children will have a positive influence by reducing the chances of drug use, abuse, poverty and neglect,” he said.

BELA BELA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY Private Bag X1609 Bela Bela 0480

RESOLUTION LEVYING PROPERTY RATES FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1 JULY 2014 TO 30 JUNE 2015 Notice is hereby given in terms of section 14(1) and (2) of the Local Government: Municipal Property Rates Act, 2004; that the Council resolved by way of council resolution number MC79/2014, to levy the rates on property reflected in the schedule below with effect from 1 July 2014.

Full details of the Council resolution and rebates, reductions and exclusions specific to each category of owners of properties or owners of a specific category of properties as determined through criteria in the municipality’s rates policy are available for inspection on the municipality’s offices, website (www.belabela.gov.za) and all public libraries. NAME: MM Maluleka DESIGNATION: MUNICIPAL MANAGER 59 Chris Hani Drive, Bela-Bela, Limpopo Private Bag x1609 Bela Bela, 0480 Tel: 014 736 8000, Fax 014 736 3288


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SAFA holds regional Under-21 selection

Former Total Surrender player Sam Modise made it to the next round of selections. Photo: TK Mashaba TK Mashaba The South African Football Association (SAFA) held its first Under-21 selections on Monday, 16 June, at Bela Bela’s Sunfa Stadium. 18 players passed the first trials and will be going through to the provincial

selections on Sunday. Most of the passing players were from LFA teams, with some from SAB teams. According to Pat Seema, Provincial SAFA spokesperson, the chosen 18 will be competing with 18 teams from other regions. “After this round only 18 players will make it to the provincial under-21 team, which will be sent to a camp in Mafikeng in the North West Province for selection to the South African Under-21 team,” said Seema. The selected players from the Waterberg are Jan Salandako, Peter Makebelo, Wilson Mohlabane, Samuel Kgasago, Samuel Modise (who recently left Total Surrender), Given Baloyi, Malesela Monama, Jack Phukubye, Madisha Boitumelo, Andries Maitsapo, William Sebopelo, Lucky Shimambu, Philemon Mahapa, Barry Lebudi, Johannes Baloyi, Jacob Hlongo, Glen Makhubela and William Ramela.

Bela Bela Finest prepares for September Games The netball in action. Photo: TK Mashaba

The volleyball in action. Photo: TK Mashaba

TK Mashaba Bela Bela sports fans were enthusiastic in their support of the games organized by the Bela Bela finest United on Sunday, 15 and Monday, 16 June. The event was held at the Community Hall for Netball and volleyball and, while soccer and netball teams played only against other local teams, local volleyball teams had guests from the University of Limpopo. According to Thabang Sephai, the coordinator, this event was held in preparation for an event coming later in summer. These games have become part of

our routine, and are about having fun as young people and getting to know each other’s challenges in life,” he said. He added that they would have invited more people if it hadn’t been for the fact that it was winter, and that many people would have been attending Youth Day Celebrations instead. Only three netball and soccer teams played in a round robin system, with Bela Bela finest winning the roving trophy after they beat Jazz Club soccer team in the finals. “We would like to thank all participants who made this event fun and we are urging people to feel welcome as these events build friendships among


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