28 November 2014 R1-20/FREE
Learners Lear ners drown during school function
Axe attacker out on bail
Page 2 Twohour chase result in arrests Pule Sebolao, the uncle of a recently deceased drowning victim, looks out on the scene where the incident occurred. Photo: Justin Steyn Justin Steyn, Andries van der Heyde A fun-filled event at Spa Park Primary ended in horror when the news broke that two of the school’s learners had drowned in the Bela-Bela dam. On Friday, 21 November, Kenny Maluleka and Bruce Manus, both 11 years old, allegedly left the school premises to join two of their friends, also learners at the school, on a swimming venture at the dam. According to the primary school’s principal Johan Adams, the school was hosting a fundraising event when the three boys left the school. They were
joined at the dam by another boy. “The school had done everything it could to ensure that our school was securely supervised. It is very unfortunate that something like this has happened. The details of what has happened are unclear and a concerned resident in the area notified us of the incident,” he said. Pule Sebolao, a paramedic at the Limpopo EMS and a relative of Manus, said that he had been notified of the incident while he was at the event at the school. “I received a call from the headmaster informing me of the incident. I was unaware that my cousin Bruce was one
of the victims until I identified his body,” he said. Sebolao explained that the area in which the bodies were found was very deep and that it was possible that they had been unaware of the depth where they were swimming. “The place where they had been swimming was not far from shore,” he said. “Neither boy knew how to swim and were unaware that they had strayed into very deep water.” A postmortem was performed on the same day and it has been determined that no foul play was involved. The funeral will be held on Saturday, 29 November.
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Two in cour t for not reporting crime Lizzy Bapela Two suspects who were arrested in connection with the death of a 13-year old boy in Bela-Bela were released with a warning when they appeared before the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court recently. Sello Mothokoa (23) and Jan Ngobeni (22) were charged with failing to report a crime after Tshepo Johannes Lehobye (13) was left to die while digging sand in an open field in Extension 6. Bela-Bela police spokesperson Constable Glenda Manamela said that the case is still under investigation, while arrangements were being made with the family for their boy to be buried. The Lehobye family were shocked when Johannes did not return home on the day of his death and started a search. The suspects only reported the matter when, according to one of them, they found it hard to sleep at night, saying that they could see the deceased’s face every time they closed their eyes. The two told The BEAT on
Sello Mothokoa and Jan Ngobeni are being charged with failing to report a crime. Photo: Lizzy Bapela their release that they regretted not saying anything about the incident. They thought that Johannes could have been saved. Hosea Molekwa, representing the deceased’s family, expressed the family’s anger and hurt to The BEAT, blaming the suspects. Molekwa says that he has since spoken with the suspects.
Alleged axe attacker released TK Mashaba The family of Kgaogelo Baloyi, the nine-year old boy who was allegedly assaulted by Johannes Maluleka last week Saturday are not pleased with the outcome of the court after Maluleka was released without bail when he appeared before the BelaBela Magistrate’s Court on 20 November. The case has been postponed to 13 January 2015 while investigation continues. Maluleka, who looked quiet during his appearance, took his time leaving the court premises after the magistrate set him free. Khensani Baloyi, Kgaogelo’s guardian, said that it was not fair that such a person be released without bail. “We are not satisfied about the justice system,” she said. “We don’t feel safe with such a person around.” Baloyi also went to the police station on the same day with a document showing the serious injury his niece received during the event. Bela-Bela Police Communication Officer Glenda Manamela said that the police’s hands are tied, and that having done their part in arresting the suspect they could not influence the case further. “The prosecutor makes the decision on such cases and we can’t do anything about that,” said Manamela.
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Limpopo’ s China Mission Limpopo’s pr oduces positi ve rresults esults produces positiv Lizzy Bapela The Limpopo Provincial government delegation to China led by Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha was deemed successful in building healthy relationships with the private and the public sector. Among other, the province has built and cemented relations with Jidong Development Group, partnered with Wiphold, China Africa Development and Conticem for a R2 billion cement manufacturing plant to be built in Thabazimbi. The project is expected to be completed by December 2015. “The consortium also has plans to send 100 South Africans to China for onsite training during the construction of the manufacturing plant. They will also study the Chinese systems of the industry in the many cement plants existing in China, and benchmark bestpractices,” said Limpopo Provincial Government spokesperson Phuti Seloba. “The project will also
Eleven up for Plasma TV theft Lizzy Bapela Following hot on the heels of a recent spate of arrests, a further eleven suspects were arrested after a spate of house robberies in Bela-Bela. Police spokesperson Constable Glenda Manamela said that the suspects were arrested at different sections in Tembisa following an intensive operation by a detective team led by Constable Frans Sekgobela. She said that the police received a tip-off about the whereabouts of the items and the suspects and followed up. Detective Sekgobela alleged that it was difficult to arrest the main suspect because the police did not receive much cooperation from the community. The suspects were charged after being found in possession of the stolen property including six plasma TVs, two
Kgaogelo Baloyi, one of the children who were allegedly assaulted by Maluleka. Photo: TK Mashaba
laptops and three music systems. Constable Manamela said that the suspects are now linked with 50 cases of housebreaking and theft that took place in North-West in Ngobi, Cyferskuil and Voyenteen villages. The suspects were remanded to police custody when they appeared before the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 17 November and the case was postponed to Thursday, 20 November for formal bail application. They are expected back in court soon and investigations are still proceeding. Detective commander Lieutenant Abel Phetla said that upon the suspects’ arrest, two stolen TVs had already crossed the border and been sold in Mozambique, and a third one was already wrapped for shipping. He added that one of the suspects admitted to knowing the destinations of the shipped TVs and promised to help the police to retrieve them.
‘Tis the season to be w ar y war ary Justin Steyn
“When a person is charged with GBH (Grievous Bodily Harm) in a case like this, how does the justice system release him without bail?” asked EFF Ward 4 Deputy Chairperson Lasy Maswanganyi.
ensure that the province benefits through the advanced technological expertise which is a hallmark of the People’s Republic of China. The province, through LEDET (Limpopo Economic Development Environment and Tourism) has also signed co-operation agreements with the business community in Nantong. The delegation witnessed the signing of a co-operation agreement between Limpopo Province and the People’s Province of Henan in China.” The delegation returned home on Friday, 31 October and, according to Seloba, the mission has proved to be a huge success. Most of the potential investors are expected in Limpopo by December 2014. “The Premier believes that this is a move in the right direction to ensure that today is better than yesterday, and that tomorrow is brighter than today,” Seloba said. “Together we can take Limpopo forward.”
Theft and related crimes seem to be on the increase ahead of the festive season. Incidents of theft, especially at supermarkets, have escalated drastically and in most cases the elderly have become victims to conniving criminals. Several victims have approached The BEAT to speak out about how they had been robbed at a local shopping centre. “I was trying to help a lady reach for an item that was too high for her to reach. Little did I know that this was a clever tactic and that her accomplice had taken money from my handbag while I helped her,” said one victim. Colonel Abel Phetla said that these crimes escalate at the end of November and during the festive season. He warned shoppers to be more vigilant at this time of year and warned that customers should not communicate with strangers. “Criminals are desperate to get as much goods and cash for Christmas. They target banks, malls and shopping centers in very deceptive ways. We do not advise the community to communicate with strangers or help anyone at an ATM or shop, nor should
they seek to help others as this can be a deceptive tactic to steal cash,” he said. Marelda Lourens, communications officer for Galvin Security said that visitors to business centers do so at their own risk and that security officers cannot be blamed for losses or damages. “When you visit a shop or large business, stay vigilant at all times. Guards may be posted in the area but individuals should take responsibility for their own belongings. A public disclaimer relieves owners and security companies of liability for damages should an incident occur. In an instance where a crime has been committed and there are security cameras available, the security company may investigate the matter and assist the local police,” she said. Lourens also stated that valuables such as jewelry and wallets should be locked away safely when spending time at resorts. “Walking around a resort with expensive jewelry or exposed wallets are asking for trouble. Visitors should ensure that all personal belongings are secured where criminals cannot find then,” she added.
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28 November, 2014
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Hijackers captured in Bela-Bela
This white Mazda was hijacked on Tuesday, 25 November, in Tembisa. The vehicle was recovered two hours later in Bela-Bela thanks to the tracking device which was installed in the vehicle. Pictured with the vehicle are André van den Heever (Pentrak), Constable Glenda Manamela (Bela-Bela police spokesperson) and Frans Fourie (Pentrak) Andries van der Heyde Two alleged hijackers ran into a spot of trouble after meeting with the Gauteng police force, Pentrak Vehicle Tracking and the Bela-Bela Police. Songezo Mali (25) and Lucas Lelaka (35) are alleged to have hijacked a white Mazda in Tembisa, Gauteng, on Tuesday, 25 November. The pair are said to have headed for Mokopane in the stolen vehicle. The vehicle’s
tracker registered on Pentrak’s tracking system once they entered Pretoria, and a team was dispatched immediately to follow it. Frans Fourie and André van den Heever informed the Gauteng Police force of the case and Sergeant Solly Padayachee and Constable Phillip Mosheji joined in the chase. The Bela-Bela police were informed of the ongoing chase and the alleged hijackers were arrested upon their arrival
Thanks to the combined efforts of the Gauteng and Bela-Bela Police and Prentrak Vehicle Tracking two suspects were arrested mere hours after a hijacking occurred in Gauteng. Pictured here are Constable Job Sebola (BelaBela Police), the two suspects Lucas Lelake and Songezo Mali, and Sergeant Solly Padayachee (Gauteng SAPD) in the town. According to the police the hijacking occurred before 08:00 and the suspects were apprehended at 9:30. “Criminals tend to think that older vehicles are less likely to have tracking devices, and then they run into trouble,” said Van den Heever. A Norinco pistol with twelve live rounds of ammunition, allegedly used in the hijacking, were found in the vehicle. Mali and Lelaka are under arrest on charges of hijacking and the possession of
illegal firearms and ammunition, according to Constable Glenda Manamela, Bela-Bela police spokesperson. Mali and Lelaka looked disheveled at the Bela-Bela police station after their capture and appeared to be having difficulty standing while they were being processed. They were expected to appear in court on Wednesday, 26 November, and were expected to stay in custody.
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28 November, 2014
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Photo of the week 16 Days of Activism This past week, a video has been making the rounds online. It shows a Ugandan nanny viciously beat, kick, and step on an 18-month old little girl. It’s hard to get into the mind of someone like that. “Who would do such a thing?” one wonders. “What kind of demon does something like that to a child?” Most of us will never understand the thought process in the mind of an abuser. Even modern medical science can’t quite work out what stresses cause people to become abusive. They have been able to identify some factors. The most important one is that those who are abused are more likely to become abusive in turn. It’s called the cycle of abuse and it works like this: Young John sees his father beat his mother every day. He is a child, and this is reality: Men beat women. They beat them when they talk back, when they dress wrong, or when another man looks at them wrong. There’s nothing wrong with this, even though he might not like it. Violence is the way conflict is handled in his home. When John grows up, and eventually marries, he is measurably more likely to beat his intimate partner or children. Even though he may have since learned that abuse is wrong, the lessons of his early childhood stick, and the cycle of abuse continues. His children see him beat their mother, and each of them is more likely to abuse in turn. If he has daughters, they are more likely to choose partners who abuse or hurt them, because that is the way that they have experienced male/female relations to work. Thus, abuse is not only a vicious cycle, it’s a sort of pyramid of evil that will grow and grow until we stop it. It is important that we spread the message of 16 Days of Activism far and wide. We need to bring it into people’s houses, because until they go to school, what happens in the home may be all the child knows. We need to scream it from the rooftops because it is up to us to spread the message that the abuse of women and children is not just the way the world works. The abuse of a child is possibly the purest expression of evil in the world, and a man who needs to beat a woman to prove his masculinity is no man at all.
To know how to suggest is the great art of teaching. To attain it we must be able to guess what will interest: we must learn to read the childish soul as we might a piece of music. Then, by simply changing the key, we keep up the attraction anil vary the song. Henri Frederic Amiel
T he Impor tance Importance of Honesty
Sharon Mashige, a midwife at the Vaalwater Clinic, received a donation of care packages for new mothers from Die Pos/The BEAT delivered by the newspaper’s Vaalwater journalist, Marlene Vermaak, on Friday, 14 November. Mashige has been providing pre-and postnatal care for mothers and infants and assisting women in labour at the clinic for the past nine years, and says that she is “very happy” about the gifts.
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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One of the oldest legends in Europe, dating back to around the 11 th century, is the story of King Lear and his three daughters. It was dramatized by Shakespeare in the 16 th century as The Tragedy of King Lear, which is well worth a read despite Shakespeare killing off almost every named character in the play in the last act — but this is Shakespeare’s way, and we shouldn’t hold it against him. The story can be summarized like this: Lear, King of England, is getting old and decides that it is time to decide how to divide the kingdom. So he calls in his three daughters, Regan, Goneril and Cordelia — the youngest, and his favourite — and asks them how much they love him. Regan and Goneril make long flowery speeches, and are granted large portions of land. Cordelia says that she loves him but, when she marries, she will have to love her husband more than him, and so she can’t say that she loves him most in all the world. In the original legend, she said that she loves him as she loves the salt on the table (and in that time salt was quite valuable). Lear is enraged and disinherits her, marries her off to the King of France and sends her away. He then says that he abdicates the throne and will spend a month at a time with each of his remaining daughters (Regan and Goneril) with his retainers. That goes about as well as could be expected. Regan and Goneril, tired of putting their father up in the style to which he is accustomed, begin to mistreat him and his retainers, and the story ends with Regan and Goneril dead and Lear, now mad, wandering out into a storm to die of exposure. Cordelia, meanwhile, becomes Queen of France and lives happily ever after. That’s in the original version. The Shakespeare is longer, and nobody gets a happy ending. The essential morals of the story (there are two) is that one should always trust the harsh truth over the pretty lie, and that telling the truth may be painful, but it’s the right thing to do. Regal and Goneril, who flattered their father and told him what he wanted to hear, die, while Cordelia, who told the truth, lives a long and happy life – or as long and happy a life as a woman in the 11 th century could expect. Lear, who lent his ear to flattery and rejected Cordelia for telling the truth, is mistreated by his other daughters once he has nothing more to give them and dies mad and alone. Regan and Goneril’s fate, on the other hand, can be called a lesson on the proper treatment of one’s elders. They flattered Lear while they needed to and turned their backs once they thought they had gotten everything from him, and they got their comeuppance.
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SMALLS BARGAIN - newly built 3 bedroom house, 2 bathrooms, garage, open plan living room/dining room. Paul Kruger str. Nylstroom. R680 000. Contact Francois 082 495 3299. (-19/12)(NSR)
LEGALS MODIMOLLE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY AMENDMENT SCHEMES 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 15 OF 1986) I, NICOLA LUDIK being the authorized agent for the registered owners of the following properties hereby give notice in terms of Section 56(1)(b)(i) of the Town planning and Townships Ordinance, 1986, (0rdinance 15 of 1986) that I have applied to the Modimolle Local Municipality for the amendment of the Townplanning scheme in operation known as the Modimolle Land Use Scheme, 2004 by the rezoning of the properties described below, situated within the jurisdiction of the Modimolle Local Municipality as follows: MODIMOLLE AMENDMENT SCHEME 312 A portion of the Remainder of Portion 2 of the Farm Mackouwkuil 45 KR located in the area of jurisdiction of Modimolle, from “Agriculture” to “Special for a place of education and training, a place of public worship, conference facility, accommodation related to the main land use, related recreation facilities and such other related and subservient land uses which the local authority may approve of by way of a special consent, subject to certain conditions; MODIMOLLE AMENDMENT SCHEME 316 Erf 7/2964 Nylstroom Extension 11, located in Eagle Drive, Koro Creek Golf Estate, Modimolle, from “Residential 1” with a density of one dwelling house per erf to “Residential 1” with a density of one dwelling house per 650 sq. meters, subject to certain
conditions; MODIMOLLE AMENDMENT SCHEME 320 Erf 2/84 Nylstroom Township located in De Wet street, Nylstroom, Modimolle, from “Residential 1” to “Residential 2” with a density of 44 units per hectare, subject to certain conditions; All relevant documents relating to the applications will be open for inspection during normal office hours at the offices of the Modimolle Local Municipality, The Divisional Manager: Townplanning, Ground Floor, Modimolle Municipal Building, Harry Gwala Street, Modimolle for a period of 28 days i.e. 21 November 2014 to 12 December 2014. Any person who wishes to object to the applications or submit representations in respect thereof must lodge the same in writing to Private Bag x1008, Modimolle, 0510 or lodge it with the Modimolle Local Municipality at its address and room number specified above on or before 12 Desember 2014. Name en address of agent: NICOLA LUDIK, ALTO AFRICA TOWN PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS, P.O. Box 3007, MODIMOLLE, 0510, 076 606 6372 (21 & 28/11). NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN DECEASED ESTATES All persons having claims against the undermentioned Estate must lodge it with the Executor concerned within 30 days (or as indicated) from date of publication hereof. A. Estate No: 29644/2014 Master’s office: Cape Town Surname: ERASMUS First names: ANNA ELIZABETH Date of birth: 1925 - 07 - 25 Identity no: 250725 0057 082 Last address: Kokanje Retirement Village, Limpopo Date of death: 2014 - 06 - 12 B. Only applicable if deceased was married in community of property/ subject to the accrual system: First names and surname of surviving spouse: N/A Date of birth: Identity no: C. Name (only one) of Executor or Authorised Agent: JOHAN ERASMUS Address of Executor or Authorised Agent: P.O.Box 1345, George, 6530
D. Period allowed for lodgement of claims, if other than 30 days: 30 days Advertiser name: JOHAN ERASMUS Advertiser address: P.O.Box 1345, George, 6530 Advertiser email: je@mzl.co.za Advertiser telephone: 044 802 3800 / 082 496 1042. BELA BELA AMENDMENT SCHEME 88/08 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 357 (portion of portion 29) of the farm Bospoort 450 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 and ancillary uses, as indicated in the annexure 179 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 28 November 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 28 November 2014 Address: P.O. Box 919, Bela Bela, 0480, Tel: 082 881 7252. (28/11 & 5/12) MODIMOLLE AMENDMENT SCHEME 312 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
BELA BELA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY Private Bag X1609 Bela Bela 0480
50% INCENTIVE ON MUNICIPAL ACCOUNTS!!! Keep your account in order and receive the following incentive on your municipal account!!!
ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2014!! ONLY ONE MONTH TO GO!!!
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UN speaks out about migrant rights Lizzy Bapela The Department of Labour in Limpopo says that refugees and migrants working in South Africa should enjoy the same rights and protections as South African natives. The United Nations High Commissioners for Refugees (UNHCR) spread the word to various parts of the society about the rights of refugees and migrants in the country. The (ORDINANCE No 15 OF Department’s 1986) Assistant We, Geo Projects, authorised agents of the owner of Director for Portion 277 (portion of Inspection portion 12) of the farm Buffelspoort 421 KR and Modimolle hereby give Enforcement notice in terms of section 56 Services (1) (b) (i) of the Town Planning and Townships Morgan Ordinance, 1986 (Ordinance Mokwana No 15 of 1986) that we have applied to the Modimolle expressed Municipality for the unhappiness amendment of the Town about the Planning Scheme, known as the Modimolle Land Use recent Scheme, 2004, by the amendment of the zoning of the property by the addition of an annexure to the existing Agriculture zoning, to make provision for a lodge, overnight accommodation and additional uses as indicated in the annexure 310 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, Modimolle, for a period of 28 days from 28 November 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 1008, Modimolle, 0510, within a period of 28 days from 28 November 2014. Address: P.O. Box 919, Bela Bela, 0480, Tel: 082 881 7252. (28/11 & 5/12)
developments in sectors such as mining, domestic and farming, where unbearable working conditions continue to be experienced, especially by nonnationals. Mokwana said that non-nationals who are legally authorized to be employed in the country have the right to be given the same treatment as citizens. He added that failure to adhere to this will see those found guilty facing the might of the law. “During our inspections, particularly in these sectors, we noticed that non-nationals are severely exposed to alarming informal employment arrangements, long hours with little rest periods, sexual exploitation, emotional and physical violence, lack of job descriptions, and the inability to join or form unions among others. Tough measures are however being taken against those found to be guilty of these acts. Moreover, we are beginning to have educational sessions with various employers in these sectors and
others, to cultivate a culture of ubuntu (humanity) and encourage fair treatment of workers, irrespective of their state of origin,” said Mokwana. UNHCR Head of Field Office from Charles Gatoto said that they have dealt thoroughly with the issues around security through the police and the South Africa National Defence Force but what remained a challenge was relaying the messages of support and any other forms of help to the refugees stationed in various parts of the country. “This is why we have partnered with the councillors, so that they are able to use their means of communication to deliver our messages. We understand that unlike in other countries where refugees are assembled in one place, in this country they are scattered throughout, for reasons such as employment, schooling and business ventures and it is not always easy to interact with them,” Gatoto said.
Be w ater wise ys DO W wa wise,, sa says DOW
A group of employees from the Department of Water and Sanitation are visiting Modimolle and surrounding areas as part of their ‘Be Water-Wise’campaign, to make communities better aware of the importance of using water sparingly. Thirty-three youths have been employed to repair water leakages in households free of charge for the duration of the project. Photo: Denise van Bergen Denise van Bergen The Department of Water and Sanitation is currently continuing with their campaign which is aimed at making residents aware of responsible water consumption. The Campaign started eight months ago, is expected to conclude within four months’ time, and will be held in six provinces throughout the country. Residents of local communities are called together along with local celebrities to events where the importance of valuing water is discussed. The campaign is only part of a bigger project initiated by the Department and conducted in conjunction with local municipalities, which specifically focuses on in household water leakages. Project manager from the Department’s
headquarters in Pretoria, Koena Moabelo said that during their visit that approximately R2.2 million was put aside by the Department especially for this project. Thirty-three youths were employed to do water leakage repairs in households free of charge for the duration of the project. They arrived in Modimolle for their weeklong visit to the Waterberg on Monday, 17 November, and ventured to Phagameng for three days. Alma and Vaalwater were then visited thereafter. The spokesperson for the Waterberg local municipality, Patrick Shika, said that flyers will be distributed throughout the Department’s visits to make people aware of the project. “We urge communities to check their water-usage and let us know immediately if their water-usage is exceptionally high. We will then be able to send people out to investigate whether there may be leakages, and thus be repaired. Remember that it will be free of charge only for the duration of the campaign,” Shika said. Community members who suspect that they have water leakages can call the local Water Service Department on 082 807 8150. It is important to provide names and a full address.
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BEAT
28 November, 2014
Department of Education raises the bar
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Bela-Bela y ouths tak e par youths take partt in United ffor or Mandela
Lizzy Bapela The Department of Basic Education raised the pass requirements for Grades 7, 8, and 9, as part of its efforts to improve the quality of education in the public school system. The National Curriculum Statement (NCS) for Grades R-12 has been implemented in 2014 for the senior phase. Departmental spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said that the intention here is to improve the standard and quality of curriculum implementation. He added that the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) summarized the new promotion requirements. The new requirements are considerably higher than the previous requirements, in keeping with the Department’s plan to raise the benchmark for learning achievement. In 2013, learners were only required to pass seven of their nine subjects, while in 2014 they will have to pass eight. They will need to achieve a mark of at least 50% in one of the official language and a second language at 40%, compared to the 40% and 30% requirements in 2013. A conditional transfer was allowed in one subject in 2013. This has been changed, and no conditional transfers will be allowed. The Department embarked on an intensive program of teacher development and the provision of Learning and Teaching Support Material (LTSM) to prepare the system for CAPS implementation across all phases. They also closely monitored the implementation of the CAPS across all
The Bela-Bela youths with their medals. Photo supplied
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga. Photo: Lizzy Bapela provinces, noting the challenges associated with the initial implementation of a curriculum change. “Internationally, it has been observed that curriculum changes result in some degree of instability in the system and it takes a few years before the system adapts and compensates for these changes. We have been on the alert to the possible impact of the curriculum transition,” said Mhlanga. It was apparent from the mid-year performance that the new promotion requirements were adversely affecting performance at school level. However, it would have been premature for the Department to respond at that stage. Reports from the provinces have indicated that learners have been negatively affected by the new requirements beyond what was expected. “It would be unfair for the class of 2014 to bear the brunt of a systemic change and there is a need for the Department to manage the transition,” said Mhlanga.
Youth unemplo yment unemployment wor ries La bour orries Labour Lizzy Bapela
The Department of Labour says that they have recently noted that youth unemployment is one of the greatest problems facing the country. The figure has increased from 3 million in 2009 to 3, 4 million in 2013 and 2014. The Department states that with the figures as they stand, the country is faced with the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. “The most pressing problem facing the country today is the absence of sustained economic growth and job creation, which are essential to reduce poverty and improve living conditions,” said Deputy Director General of Public Employment Services (PES) in the Department Sam Morotoba. “There are
jobs that emerge periodically despite challenges. Such challenges include structural skills deficit informed by a mismatch between skills acquired by job seekers in the education system and the skills demanded the labour market.” Among the interventions made by the Department are the R300 million training initiative for training unemployed beneficiaries from the Unemployment Insurance Fund. The initiative will target 8 000 unemployed individuals. “The registration of work-seekers, vocational and career counselling and assessment of work-seekers to determine their suitability, advising workseekers on access to education and training as well as providing specialized services to assist vulnerable workers, are among those we focus on,” she said.
TK Mashaba Five Bela-Bela youths took part in the United for Mandela event that took place at Tshwane in Gauteng. Thabang Sephai, a member of BelaBela’s Finest United and BBEAG (The Bela-Bela Education Advocacy Group) told The BEAT that he and his friends enjoyed being a part of the event. “For us it wasn’t so much about winning the race as such since we aren’t professional athletes,” he said. “It was all about giving back for a good cause,” said Sephai. Kgomotso Modise said that it was a great feeling to be part of the foundation laid by the late Nelson Mandela.
“I’ve seen how sports can unify the people. It can bring happiness and strengthen our country,” he said. Jerry Setumo said that it was more like exercising for a good cause because the money made from the race will be used for the benefit of disadvantaged children. Mohau Makalla said that it was a great initiative and thought that he would enter every year as “it brings unity and hope to the people of South Africa as a whole.” Thabo Moselane said that as he is very busy, he doesn’t have much time to exercise. “This was a way of exercising without any pressure and I really enjoyed the walk,” he said.
Limpopo Government brings qualitative development in Rapotokwane Lizzy Bapela The Limpopo Provincial Government led by Premier Stanley Mathabatha will embark on an EXCO (Executive Council) Imbizo Program in Rapotokwane Village, near Bela-Bela. The Premier and MECS will visit the area for the first time since 2009. The event will be held at the Rapotokwane Sports Ground on Friday, 28 November. Provincial Government Spokesperson, Phuti Seloba, said that the motivation behind the government’s visit is to report back to the community members and monitor the progress made after the Imbizo Program. The program itself is focused on providing feedback to local communities on their infrastructural progress. “The residents in Rapotokwane raised their concerns to government five years ago. It is worth mentioning that
their requests were taken into consideration as the road from Nokaneng to Rust de Winter has been tarred. The request to upgrade the Litho Traditional Council Offices and renamed Thusong Service Centre has been done flawlessly and the building is waiting for official opening. As regards to shelter, government has managed to build 150 RDP houses to the community of Rapotokwane and a library,” he said. Seloba said that since the Limpopo province is “the garden of South Africa” and very rich in agriculture, government has assisted Rapotokwane farmers with a tractor, manure and seedlings to ensure continuous large contributions in the agricultural sector. He added that the need for electricity has been attended to and the Rapotokwane households have been supplied. Fifty newly built houses have yet to receive their electricity supply.
Community urged to support the fight against Woman and Child Abuse Lizzy Bapela The National Women’s and Girls Campaign ZAZI urged communities across the nation to join hands with them in support of the fight against Woman and Child Abuse, ahead of the government’s annual 16 Days of Activism campaign. ZAZI launched their own 16 Days campaign with a march during the Sisters With Blisters Walk on Saturday, 22 November. They urged members of the public to join them and well-known South Africans Lebo Mashile, Patrick Shai, and others in wearing green in support of the campaign. Sara Chitambo from ZAZI said that
the aim is to show the strength that men and women have in the fight against gender-based violence. Part of the program’s aim is to learn how to help rape survivors get immediate treatment and to help them get treatment to prevent HIV/AIDS and unwanted pregnancies and also to ensure that every rapist is convicted. Communities are urged to participate in dialogues and share thoughts and ideas with the Deputy Minister of Social Development Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, and representatives from the Departments of Health and Justice and other supporters about the ways that gender-based violence and rape can be stopped in South
Africa. Chitambo pointed out that South African women suffer some of the highest levels of rape, sexual assault and abuse in the world, often from intimate partners and other men they are close to. She said that ZAZI and their partner institutions are committed to a policy of zero tolerance against genderbased violence, and to supporting victims of gender-based violence. “64 514 sexual offences were reported between April 2011 and March 2012, but it is estimated that the actual number of women raped in South Africa is closer to 500 000 per year,” she said. “This year ZAZI is embarking on a
campaign that will encourage all South Africans to do their part to end violence.” The organization is also dedicated to informing victims of their right to Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), a cocktail of medication which helps to prevent HIV, pregnancy and other STIs. ZAZI’s 24-hour hotline is 0800 150 150, free of charge from any landline. The Department of Social Development Command Centre is a service that has trained social workers to assist with trauma and rape, and can be reached at 0800 428 428, or by dialing *120*7867# from any cellphone to request a call from a social worker.
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SAB Nedbank Cup results TK Mashaba The second leg of the Nedbank Cup took place this past weekend. In Stream A, Diesel n Dust beat Celtic FC 2-0 while Boys to Men lost 4-2 to Troublemaker on penalties after an initial 0-all draw. Diesel n Dust went to the finals with
Troublemakers and lost 3-1 on penalties after the teams initially played a 3-all draw. In Stream B, Yster United beat Maxoma 10-0 while rookie SAB League team PJ Stars lost 4-2 to Black Rangers. Mookgophong All Stars beat Sase 5-4 on penalties while Ditlou won 1-0 in a match against Vegas.
In the quarterfinals, Thaba lost 3-1 to Ratanang while Siwelele lost 4-2 to Mokopane Stone Breakers after they played to a 2-all draw. Yster United beat Mookgophong All Stars 2-1 while Rangers lost 3-1 against Ditlou, and Ratanang lost 2-0 to Yster United while Stone Breakers beat Black Rangers in the semifinals.
In Stream C, Shining Stars beat Lephalale FC 5-4 on penalties after a 2-all draw while Skimzozo beat Barcelona 3-2. In the day’s finals Shining Stars lost 7-6 to Skimzozo. Troublemakers are expected to meet with Skimzozo on 29 November, while Yster United will meet Bafaladi at Ephriam Mogale Stadium in Modimolle.
SAB League kicks off with new teams
Bela-Bela Pirates are due to host Celtic next weekend. Photo TK Mashaba TK Mashaba The long-awaited 2014/2015 SAB League season has finally gotten underway, with several new teams joining the league. The league kicked off on 22 November with a few teams, while other teams were expected to play this coming weekend as they were playing in the Nedbank Cup Challenge on the 22nd.
In Stream A, Qualitho opened the league by losing 4-0 against Mammoet Arsenal, while Bazooka FC beat newcomers Young Pirates 2-0. New teams from Stream A to keep an eye on are Celtics FC and Young Pirates FC, both from Modimolle. Both teams are under a lot of pressure in the League, where competition may be tougher than they are used to. In steam B, newcomers include
Ditlou FC, PJ Stars and Vegas FC, while Stream C has Skimzozo. In the coming weekend NTK Happy Boys are expected to meet Qualitho while Diesel n Dust play against Happy Hearts. Total Surrender is playing away against Young Pirates while the Modimolle All Stars will be playing a home game against Bazoooka. BelaBela pirates will also have a homefield advantage against Celtics FC.
Boyz to Men will welcome Toublemakers while Home Defenders play away against Mmamoet Arsenal. In Stream B, Mosesetjane United are welcoming Ratanang, while PJ Stars play away to Juventus. Mokopane Stone Breakers are hosting Black Rangers while Sase are welcoming Maxoma, and Mookgophong All Stars welcomes Yster United. Ditlou will be hosting Siwelele while Th b FC l t V