2 October 2015
R1-20/FREE
Boy wounded in beer bottle P. 4 stabbing
Minor allegedly crashes
his fathers car The girls who were in the car were in pain from their injuries, while the boy hid his face from the camera. Photo: TK Mashaba
The electric pole that was knocked over by the car that was allegedly driven by a minor. Photo: TK Mashaba TK Mashaba A Bela-Bela minor is alleged to have driven his father’s car through a yard, hitting an electric pole before plunging through the fence of the yard and come to a stop next to a nearby tuck-shop. The incident occurred on Wednesday, 23 September around 16:00 in the afternoon in Extension Five next to the Jacaranda Market. The boy, who was apparently driving two girls, was shocked, and is said to have cried
when he was questioned by the police. The boy allegedly took the car from his home without his father’s permission. He does not have a license. One of the girls injured her left leg, while the other suffered only minor injuries. The driver was not injured at all. The owner of the yard that was crashed into told the police that she was surprised by the incident. “How can he drive without a license?” she asked. “This is a serious thing. What if he killed someone?” The boy who was allegedly driving did not
The side view of the car that knocked over the electrical pole. Photo: TK Mashaba speak to The BEAT. His family could also not be reached for comment. Police Communication Officer
Constable Maria Maleto told The BEAT that she was not aware of any case relating to the matter.
2 |
CRIME
beateditor@gmail.com |
Car set alight at Modimolle
2 October, 2015 Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
Alleged murderer in court Lizzy Bapela
The alleged Thabazimbi murderer. Photo supplied Johanna Mogotlane of Modimolle’s Extension 10 points out the damage to her car. Photo: Mzamane Ringane Mzamane Ringane The Modimolle police are investigating a case of malicious damage to property after a car was allegedly set alight in the informal settlement near Modimolle. The owner alleges that her car was set alight in the early hours of Thursday, 24 September at her son’s home in extension 13. The car belongs to local traditional practitioner Vinya Johanna Mogotlane, who lives in Extension 10. Mogotlane told The BEAT that she had bought the car and given it to her son to enable him to drive her to appointments. She said that she received a call from her son, who informed her that the car had been partially burned. Mogotlane’s son reportedly woke up after he smelled smoke coming from outside his house, and upon investigation found the back of the car engulfed in sheets of flame. Swift action managed to quench the flames before the car was irreparably damaged. Mogotlane said that there are people who have a personal vendetta against her family, and is of the opinion that this was one of those
people’s attempts to hurt them. She said that she saved hard for that car, and that it is painful for the family to see it being destroyed like that. Mogotlane said that this was the second misfortune to befall the family this year. Her son was allegedly attacked in his car earlier this year. “It will be difficult for me to fix this car because the amount of money that is required to repair it, is too much and it is not ensured. I bought this car to make my work easier, but then someone decided to set it on fire. I believe the person who did this was intending to burn my car to ashes. If my son hadn’t woken up quickly, it would have been completely destroyed,” she said. Samuel Moshebi Mofokeng, who also lives with the family in Extension 10, said that they are all in emotional pain because of the incident. Mofokeng said that he hopes that those who are responsible for these deeds will be caught. Warrant Officer James Findlay confirmed that a case of malicious damage to property has been opened and that investigations are underway.
A man in Thabazimbi was remanded to police custody after making a brief appearance before the local magistrate’s court on Wednesday, 23 September. The suspect was arrested in connection with the murder of Minkie William Seduwa in Regorogile section on Sunday, 20 September. Frans Mashagoane (38) allegedly stabbed to death 32-year old Seduwa, who also resides in the area. Thabazimbi police spokesperson Constable Moshira Modise said that according to the information the police received, the two had a fight over a woman at their place of residence before the murder. She said that the suspect was a friend and the supervisor of the deceased. The two were both working at a construction company that is responsible for the building of a mortuary for the Thabazimbi Local Hospital. Mashangoane is expected back in court this week as his case was postponed for formal bail application. The deceased was buried on Saturday, 26 September, in Botlokwa Mmatseke Section outside Polokwane.
Modimolle police reaches out to the local community Lizzy Bapela The police in Modimolle has issued a warning to the community regarding a new criminal activity targeting drivers. Police spokesperson Warrant Officer James Findlay said that the suspects are believed to travel in two cars, a Corsa and a Golf, which they use to rob unsuspecting drivers. Findlay said that the suspects indicate to their target that they have a flat wheel, and drive off when the victim stops to check what is wrong. Warrant Officer Findlay said that other suspects in another car would come up from behind and rob the drivers. Community members are warned to be on the lookout for the suspects. In a separate case the police seeks help from members of the public to track and confiscate goods which have been stolen and possibly sold, after the arrest of a man who was hitchhiking to Mookgophong on Tuesday, 22 September. Warrant Officer Findlay said that the suspect was in possession of suspected
Constable Khathutshelo Radali of SAPS Modimolle displays the confiscated stolen items. Photo supplied stolen property. Among other items, he was found in possession of a computer. Warrant Officer Findlay urges anyone who recognizes the goods to contact him on 082 414 3218.
EFF leader’s charges dropped Lizzy Bapela
The convener of the Economic freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Bela-Bela SubRegion, Sello Mosweu, had the charges against him dropped when he appeared before the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 23 September. Mosweu was among a group of people who were arrested for an alleged trespassing incident on 15 March 2015, and spent two nights in the police’s holding cells, which he said felt like forever. He told The BEAT that the charges were dropped after the complainants failed to present themselves for the court hearing. He told The BEAT that the complainants, Lieutenant-Colonel William Ngobeni and Warrant Officer Sello Mangana, arrested him while he was asking them how many people had been arrested for the trespassing incident that took place the day before. He also alleged that Colonel Ngobeni assaulted him, and said that the arrest was unlawful as he was not part of the original group.
EFF Bela-Bela’s Sub-regional convender Sello Mosweu says that he was unlawfully arrested. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
“Those two nights in the cells traumatized me, and my health also took a toll from the experience. The officers also charged me for fighting with the police, which I didn’t do. I was
held in a place that is not conducive for any human being and now my legal team and I intend to sue the state. The police must do their jobs and stop abusing their powers because such actions should not
be allowed,” said Mosweu. Police spokesperson Constable Maria Maleto promised a response on the matter as soon as she has gathered all the facts.
2 October, 2015 beateditor@gmail.com | Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
Bela-Bela municipality denies water crisis
GOVERNMENT / POLITICAL
|3
High tensions at Modimolle community meeting
Taps around BelaBela have been empty for several days in Bela-Bela due to an alleged maintenance problem. Photo as illustration
Members of the community felt dissatisfied with the response they got from the municipality. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Justin Steyn Fears of a water shortage in Bela-Bela have run rampant after several households reported that they have had no water supplied to them for several days. The first incidents were reported on Friday 25 September and continued to stream in during the course of the weekend. The municipal spokesperson, Matome Sebelebele, denied that the town is faced with a water shortage and said that water supply to certain areas in the town had been temporarily cut off due to reservoir maintenance and will return during the
course of the week. During previous water cut offs Sebelebele stated that the problem was related to load shedding. DA Councillor Kobus van der Merwe confirmed that the cut offs were maintenance related and said that the problem could be resolved by Tuesday afternoon. “There was a maintenance related to the reservoirs’ water pumps but this has been identified and is currently being repaired. Water supply should be returned to normal this afternoon,” he told press on Tuesday. At the time of going to press it was not confirmed if water had been restored to the area.
Alleged farm attackers arrested Lizzy Bapela The Limpopo Provincial Detectives’ Team made a breakthrough in arresting five suspects in connection with a murder and robbery that took place at Motlopi Lodge in Thabazimbi on Friday, 18 September. Two of the suspects were arrested on Saturday, 26 September, while the others were arrested on Monday, 28 September. Thabazimbi police spokesperson Constable Moshira Modise said that the suspects are believed to have attacked a couple in their farmhouse. Petronella Res (60) was shot and killed while her husband Bruno (73) was injured.
The two suspects who were arrested first, Dickson Moyo (31) and Amos Munyai (26) appeared before the Thabazimbi Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 28 September and the case was postponed to Thursday, 8 October for bail application. The other suspects were due in court on Wednesday, 30 September, and their names will be released once they have appeared in court. Constable Modise said that among the three more recently arrested suspects, two of them are a couple while the third one is an illegal immigrant. She said that investigations on the matter are continuing and more arrests in connection with the case could be made.
Members of the police and traffic departments in Bela-Bela recently conducted a massive road block to check on roadworthiness of vehicles in the area and compliance of the traffic act by the drivers. Photos: Lizzy Bapela
Mayor Kgaretja Lekalakala and Municipal Manager Sam Bambo addressing the community. Photo: Mzamane Ringane Mzamane Ringane Tensions were high during the meeting between the Modimolle Local Municipality and members of the community on Wednesday, 23 September. The municipality was addressing the community at the Mayor’s Parlour, following the 7 September march by local residents who demanded jobs and service delivery, among their list of grievances. The meeting was initially scheduled for 15:00, but then started half an hour late due to disagreements between the two parties on how the proceedings should be carried out. After the situation went back to normal, Mayor Kgaretja Lekalakala responded to the memorandum of demands according to the copy that was submitted by the community. Responding to the community’s concerns about the mushrooming Somalis and Pakistanis tuck shops in the area, Mayor Lekalakala said non-complying businesses would be investigated. She stated that compliance is not limited to foreign nationals, and further stated that all residents should meet all legal requirements if they wanted to run businesses. The mayor said singling out foreigners would be an unfair discrimination and also unconstitutional.
On the issue of the Lillian Ngoyi Bridge which collapsed several years ago and has not been repaired, Mayor Lekalakala said a contractual dispute which has been ongoing, has been finally resolved and stated that a new contractor will be appointed to rebuild the bridge. Another big issue on the memorandum was the appointment of a private water meter-reading company by the municipality. Mayor Lekalakala said the involvement of a private company was an internal arrangement from within the municipality, to enhance revenue. She said without a sufficient collection of revenue, the municipality was bound to collapse. Community members also demanded that Murray & Roberts must hire Modimolle residents as they will be working on local roads. Tensions ran high again as residents felt dissatisfied about the response they got from the municipality regarding job creation. The community resolved that they will be applying for another march, threatening that they would shut down the municipality until their concerns are given attention. The community leaders indicated that they will not resort to any form of violence, but they will fight a peaceful battle until their grievances are properly addressed.
4 |
GOVERNMENT / POLITICAL
2 October, 2015 beateditor@gmail.com | Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
11-year old stabbed multiple times with beer bottles Justin Steyn An 11-year old boy, who could not be named, has been taken to hospital after an alleged stabbing incident at Tiisetso Primary School in Radium outside of BelaBela. According to the boy’s mother the incident happened during school hours on Wednesday 23 September. She told The BEAT that her son had been celebrating Heritage Day with other learners when three of the older learners, all of whom were said to be boys older than 13, demanded that he go out and buy liquor. It is alleged that he was attacked by the three learners a short while after he had returned with the liquor. According to the mother the three boys
broke empty liquor bottles they had been drinking out of and proceeded to stab him multiple times. He suffered several stab wounds on both arms, legs, his back and one on his forehead. The mother claimed that she was called to the scene by her sister who works at the school where she met with her and police officers. She claimed that the boys have not been seen since the incident and that she took her son home to treat his wounds. “The police did not help us to take him to a clinic and I had to treat him at home myself. We were only able to take him to a hospital in Hammanskraal the following day,” she said. At the time of going to press, no criminal charges have been laid and the school could not be reached for further comment. The boy remains in a stable condition.
Bela-Bela criminals sentenced Lizzy Bapela A man was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment for reckless driving when he appeared before the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court Friday, 18 September. The 24-yearold Molefe Amos Mose’s arrest follows an incident on 7 September 2014. Mose allegedly ran a stop sign and crashed his green Toyota Conquest into another vehicle head-on, leading to the hospitalization of the other car’s passengers. * Adriaan Kleynhaans was recently sentenced to three years imprisonment for presenting forged documents. He was arrested after the police received a complaint on the afternoon of 7 July 2015 that someone was trying to defraud the Vodacom store. Police spokesperson Maria Maleto said that on their arrival the suspect
was found in possession of forged documents and was arrested. * Lucky Matjila (42) was sentenced to one month of imprisonment or a fine of R300 for assault. Constable Maleto said that the suspect had assaulted his sister-in-law’s child on Thursday, 17 September and left when the mother confronted him. She added that the suspect returned after a while and hit the complainant with a broom. The complainant sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment. * Martin Barnard (58) was fined R500 or five months’ imprisonment for theft. He was arrested by a security guard for stealing at Shoprite. The suspect went past the pay point without paying for his groceries, and was stopped by the store’s security guard. The police arrested and charged him for theft. He was found to be in possession of dog food and wors, and the items were seized.
Modimolle RDP fraud case set for trial
Twelve accused of murder out on R1 000 bail Justin Steyn The twelve people who have been accused of the murder of an unknown man in Selokeng in Pienaarsrivier were released on bail of R1 000 each on Friday, 25 September. Thokozile Nkosi (48), Johannes Semetsing (35), Mapule Mabusela, Tlou Sebatjane (52), Jack Nkwana (28), Mpho Moseamedi (25), John Chabalala (32), Nhlenyane Mashilo (48), Amos Matlala (35), Rachel Tshabalala (26), Reuben Chabalala and Collen Chabalala (21) were arrested for their alleged involvement in the murder of a man who has not been formally identified. The incident occurred on Friday, 28 August when the man, who has been identified only as William, was allegedly tied up and badly
beaten by members of the community. According to information received, William was wondering the streets in the early hours of the morning before the incident. Paramedics from the provincial Emergency Services and members of the Bela-Bela Police rushed to the scene shortly after the event was reported. Witnesses claimed that William was accused of stealing from the community and even threatened police and paramedics when they arrived. The victim was unconscious when the paramedics arrived, and died shortly after his arrival at a Polokwane hospital. The twelve accused are to reappear at the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 27 October. Police in Bela-Bela are still trying to find William’s family.
Phagameng High School celebrates heritage Mzamane Ringane
Phagameng High School in Modimolle hosted an event on Tuesday 22 September, to celebrate Heritage Month. September is widely known as Heritage Month, with South Africans all over the country celebrating their diverse cultures on 24 September. Phagameng High School celebrated this day two days before the actual date, since 24 September was a public day. Educators and learners displayed their cultural attires when they attended this fun filled event, which was held at the school’s premises. Members of the audience were entertained with drama, poetry, comedy, Tsonga traditional dance and a sterling performance by the much celebrated cultural group Makubenjalo. The school’s Principal Leah Senona said they hosted this event to celebrate South Africa’s heritage, and to also teach the learners about their cultures. Senona said the event also gave the young people a chance to learn about their traditional clothing, music and dance. She said it is important for those learners to know their cultural identity and enjoy their inheritance.
Learners wore their traditional outfits in celebration of the heritage month. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Teachers displayed their cultural clothing during the event. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Hendrick Malatji (navy blue cap) addresses members of the public outside the Modimolle Magistrate Court. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Modimolle citizens heaved a sigh of relief on Tuesday 22 September, when the court announced the trial date for the case against Modimolle Local Municipality official Andrew Kgati and Councillor Jimmy Moropeng. The two are now expected to appear in the regional court on 22 October. In the courtroom, Kgati was sitting alongside his co-accused Moropeng throughout the court proceedings. Moropeng and Kgati were arrested in July this year for their alleged involvement in the illegal sale of an RDP house. Both the accused initially appeared in the regional court on Monday 21 September, with the court taking a decision to postpone the matter until Tuesday. The legal representatives of Moropeng and Kgati were not available on Monday, which is why the case had to be postponed to Tuesday. On Monday members of the community
and EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters) party followers dressed in their traditional red colours attended the court case. There was however, a low attendance on Tuesday, with members of both EFF and the Democratic Alliance (DA) conspicuous by their absence. Modimolle Development and Unemployment Forum chairperson Hendrick Malatji was delighted that the trial date has finally been set. The forum also called on all members of the public to attend the trial on 22 October. Members of the public were carrying placards that read “Down with Fraud”, “25 Years in jail”, “Stop Corruption”, “You go to jail” and “You sold my RDP”. Without singing or any form of chanting, the community members converged outside the Modimolle Magistrate Court and all agreed to attend the trial on 22 October. Speaking at the meeting which served to give feedback to the community’s memorandum of demands, Modimolle Mayor Kgaretja Lekalakala confirmed that Kgati has been suspended by the Modimolle Local Municipality.
Cultural Committee chairperson Victoria Letoaba said they decided that they should involve learners as they celebrate this year’s Heritage Day, and therefore asked them to wear their traditional attires as part of celebrating this important day. We wanted to encourage our children to be proud of their culture, and to ensure that they know where they come from as South Africans. Educator Margaret Mabudusha who is also part of the cultural committee, echoed that the event was about
showing learners the importance of preserving their culture. Mabudusha said Phagameng High School represents various cultures from within the country and even beyond. She urged learners and educators to accept and respect each other regardless of their different cultures, and also insisted that they should go back to their roots. SGB chairperson Pastor JJ Adams shared his knowledge of various heritage sites of Modimolle, including the most admired mountain of Modimolle.
Mzamane Ringane
2 October, 2015 beateditor@gmail.com | Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
EDITORIAL
|5
Promotion
Private school in Modimolle Modimolle will have a new independent private school, which will provide double medium tutoring, hosting from grade R to grade 7 from 2016. The Pembury Lifestyle Group (PLG) invests in affordable private education. The PLG Group acquired the Gooderson’s SanRock Resort situated 4 km north of Modimolle, and will change it into PLG SanRock Academy. It will be their sixth school. As the property comprises of 98 hectares, there are vast opportunities to establish an environment conducive to learning. Small classes will ensure that every learner will receive individual attention to reach their full potential. Basic learning skills will receive adequate attention as reading, writing and mathematical skills are very important in the learning process. Boarding facilities will be available. Tennis and netball courts will be resealed, sports grounds will be developed and the huge swimming pool are being refurbished. Open days will be held on 9, 16 and 30 October 2015 at the premises, and learner enrolments will commence on the first open day. During these events, the Director of Education of PLG Schools, Mr Noel Coetzee, will share the vision of PLG Schools and introduce the new head. Mr Coetzee was previously involved with Treverton Schools. The head of the school will be Lourin Viljoen B.Ed.(Econ Sc.) Pta. She grew up in Modimolle and is looking forward to create a team around her to lead PLG SanRock Academy effectively. For more information contact 079 151 3765 or 073 181 8006. Email lourin.viljoen@plgschools.co.za or visit their website www.plgschools.co.za
The head of the new independent private school in Modimolle, PLG SanRock Academy, will be Lourin Viljoen and Noel Coetzee is the Director of Education of the Pembury Lifestyle Group (PLG). Photos supplied Presently CV’s are expected for teachers and administrative personnel. Please watch the newspaper for more details.
Tel: (011) 447-1264/5/6
COPYRIGHT
The reproduction or broadcast without written permission of any material published in The Beat and its supplements is forbidden and expressly reserved to Upfront Events Two CC, under section 12(7) of the Copyright Act, 1978 and any amendment thereof. The Beat is typographically prepared, published and distributed by Upfront Events Two CC. The Beat: 7 Minnaar Street, Tel: (014) 736-2723, Fax: (014) 736-3428, PO Box 16, Bela-Bela. E-mail: tbeat3@gmail.com. The Beat is typographically prepared, published and distributed by Upfront Events Two CC and is printed by Paarl Coldset, 83 Heidelberg Rd, City Deep Production Park, City Deep.
Stargazers have been looking at the sky this past week to gaze upon the blood moon. The term “Blood Moon” is sometimes used to describe a Total Lunar Eclipse. When the Earth casts its shadow on a full moon and eclipses it, the Moon may get a red glow. Photo: Justin Steyn
EDITORIAL POLICY We at th
e
are proud to:
• provide our readers with complete, accurate, credible and objective news reporting • remain unbiased under all circumstances • strive to reflect the truth, objectivity and interests of the community in our reporting • support and contribute to freedom of speech, human rights and the economical and social upliftment of the towns and regions of our readers
6|
CHARITY | ENTERTAINMENT | SCHOOL
SMALLS BARGAIN newly build 3 bedroom house, 2 bathrooms, garage,open plan living room/ dining room. Paul Kruger str. Nylstroom R680 000. contact Francois 082 495 3299
LEGALS NOTICE TO REINSTATE A DEREGISTERED CLOSE CORPORATION Notice is hereby given of the intention to reinstate the deregistered Close Corporation: MOGALANKWE CC (Pty) Ltd, Registration Number: 1998/ 033614/23. The reason for the reinstatement is that the Close Corporation is in business and was deregistered because of an administrative omission. For further information or objection please contact: NUMERI ACCOUNTANTS INC IA Van Niekerk, tel 014 004 0100, 35 Luna Road, Bela Bela, 0480. (02, 09 en 16 Oktober 2015). NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION IN THE MAGISTRATE’S COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF WATERBERG HELD AT MODIMOLLE CASE NUMBER: 316/2013 In the matter between: ROUTE MANAGEMENT (PTY) LTD Execution Creditor and ANWER VERVOER CC 1st Execution Creditor JAN ANTONIE DU PREEZ 2nd Execution Creditor YOLANDI DU PREEZ 3rd Execution Creditor In pursuance of a Judgement on 14 November 2013, in the Magistrate’s Court for the District of Waterberg held at Modimolle, and under a Warrant of Execution issued thereafter on 26 November 2013, the movable property listed hereunder will be sold in execution on Thursday, the 22nd day of October 2015 at 11H00, by the Sheriff of Modimolle at: 20 Arhmed Kathrada Street, Modimolle, 0510,
(Sheriffs’s office) to the highest bidder: 1. Vehicle register number: KNV 716W Vehicle identification number (VIN): ADSM236WM81FD0050 Series name: Tand Flat Deck Leadr Vehicle description: Elevating Unit / Flat Deck / Platform Deck Last 3 licence number: BPW343L Identification number: F060191660011 2. Vehicle register number: KNV729W Vehicle identification number (VIN): ADSM236WM81FD0051 Series name: Tand Flat Deck Foll Vehicle description: Elevating Unit / Flat Deck / Platform Deck Last 3 licence number: BPW344L Identification number: F060191660011 3. Vehicle register number: LNM294W Vehicle identification number (VIN): AAH133705PHRF2122 Series name: Platform Rear Link Vehicle description: Elevating Unit / Flat Deck / Platform Deck Last 3 licence number: XVB991GP Identification number: F060191660011 4. Vehicle register number: LNM301W Vehicle identification number (VIN): AAH133702PHFJ206L Series name: Platform Front Link Vehicle description: Elevating Unit / Flat Deck / Platform Deck Last 3 licence number: XVB988GP Identification number: F060191660011 Dated at Modimolle the 16th day of September 2015. Y P SILVESTRI McINTYRE & VAN DER POST ATTORNEYS Ref: RAR095/INV/E GROENEWALD Attorneys for Exection Creditors C/O BREYTENBACHKEULDER ATTORNEYS 78 Kroepstreet, P.O. Box 883, DOCEX 7 Nylstroom / Modimolle, 0510 Tel: (014) 717 4401 // Fax: (014) 717 1243 REF: Y P SILVESTRI/ Aletta/D 02131
2 October, 2015 beateditor@gmail.com | Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
Four Mmampatile Primary School educators bring home awards TK Mashaba Mmampatile Primary School is not only performing well in sports, but is also doing well academically, with four of their educators bringing back awards from the 2015 Provincial Teachers Award which was held in Polokwane on 17 September. The four who entered are Linah Maswanganyi in Excellence in Mathematics, who obtained second place, while Fana Thulare and Emma Maleka, who entered as a team, obtained second place in the Excellence in Primary Teaching category. Joseph Matlala, the principal, obtained first place in the Excellence in Primary School Leadership category. Matlala is going to represent Mogalakwena and the Waterberg District at the provincial level in the same categories. During an interview with The BEAT, Matlala said that they are very excited about the awards. “We want to thank the educators who entered on short notice. It was their first time, but they managed to come in top anyway,” said Matlala. “This shows that our educators are committed and it is also a motivation to the others that if we work hard we will get recognition.”
Mmampatile educators with their certificates and trophies from left: Fana Thulare and Emma Maleka, Joseph Matlala and Linah Maswanganyi. Photo: TK Mashaba
Teachers Union supports ANA postponement Lizzy Bapela Teaching union SADTU’s representatives in the Waterberg District say that they support the consensus that was reached between the Department of Basic Education and teacher unions to postpone the writing of the Annual National Assessment (ANA) until the first week of February 2016. SADTU chairperson in the Waterberg Ally Pole said that they have a national position that was taken in 2014 to request for the ANAs to be turned into a three-year programme. He said that assessing learners every year without identifying possible solutions to problem areas is not helpful. “There is a need that when you identify problem areas, you need to implement possible programmes for addressing possible solutions and assess them,” Pole said. The Department started ANA in 2011 to cover Grades 1 to 6 in Numeracy and Literacy. Grade 9 learners were included in 2012, while Grade 8 and 9 learners were added in 2015, which implies that a total of 8.6 million were scheduled for assessment in 2015. The Department administers the assessment on an annual basis, to assess the level of performance of learners in the two key areas of the school curriculum. According to departmental spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga, the programme has indicated a general improvement in the performance of learners in literacy and numeracy over the last four years. “It was agreed that the schooling environment, given the prevailing conditions and union concerns to the administration of ANA, was not conducive to the writing of this very significant test, which provides valuable information on learner performance at the national, provincial, district and school level.” “Following the discussions between teacher unions and
the Department the unions have confirmed their commitment to the programme, which has made significant inroads in identifying weaknesses and strengths in the teaching and learning process. It was also agreed that the frequency of these tests need to be reviewed and therefore a Task Team made up of the unions of Department will be immediately constituted to support the Department in the
remodelling of ANA, so that the redesigned version of National Assessment can be launched next year,” said Mhlanga. Over the next ninety days, the Task Team will engage the teacher unions and address their concerns so that the future design features of the National Assessment are made more amenable to the needs of the schools, teachers, learners, and parents.
To ADVERTISE, Complete your Classified form here and send it to one of our offices...
BLOCK ad can also be done at BELA-BELA (014) 736 2723 additional charges. MODIMOLLE (014) 717 1774 For more MOOKGOPHONG information please (014) 743 3802 contact our offices.
beateditor@gmail.com |
2 October, 2015 Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
A solemn prayer to stop police killings
CHARITY / ENTERTAINMENT / SCHOOL
Mzamane Ringane
Leaders from different churches in Modimolle gathered at the local Peter Nchabeleng Community Hall for a solemn prayer. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Church members and leaders from various sections of Modimolle gathered on Peter Nchabeleng Community Hall on Saturday, 19 September to seek God’s divine intervention following the ever-escalating cases of police killings. Modimolle Ministers Fraternal chairperson Malesela Mosima said they saw the need to organise this prayer because of the disturbing vicious attacks on police officers. Mosima said they felt that it is only through God’s intervention that the attacks on police officers can be brought to a halt. The Victory and Salvation Ministry founder said they are adamant that God will indeed hear their prayers and will also respond. Mosima referred to a previous situation where Modimolle residents were being tormented by serial killings of children. He testified that the alleged serial killer was arrested after the community came together and asked for God’s intervention through a solemn prayer. Apostle Simon Moima of Grace Miracle Soul Harvest delivered a powerful sermon, before leading the congregation in prayer. The theme of Pastor Moima’s sermon was “Victory is guaranteed in oneness.” The preacher emphasized that God will hear their prayers and will indeed change the current situation. He led the masses as they prayed for members of the SAPS, Correctional Services, Traffic Police, SANDF and security guards who work in various departments.
| 7
Lieutenant Colonel Kiba Kekana of the Modimolle SAPS thanked all the religious leaders and church members who attended this event. Lt Col Kekana said the police officers have been given guns and bulletproof vests to protect themselves while on duty, but stated that without God’s protection they will not be able to defeat the escalating cases of police killings. He said that police officers are not enemies, but they are also part of the broader society. Lt Col Kekana said once a police officer has been killed, a large portion of the community would be left vulnerable to crime. He sent out a clarion call to all churches and members of the community to continue praying for the police officers and other members of various security services. Before delivering a vote of thanks, Pastor Kemaketse Keagile asked the congregation to observe a moment of silence, in remembrance of all those who lost their lives while serving and protecting to community. More than 60 police officers have been killed on duty this year, and this week in Durban two police officers who were serving a protection order were stripped of their weapons and uniforms, driven 5 km away in their own police van, and shot. One of the officers died on the scene while the other was, at the time of going to press, still fighting for her life in a Durban hospital.
8 |
SPORT
2 October, 2015 beateditor@gmail.com | Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
Terrors FC prepares for the new season Lizzy Bapela Former Modimolle legend soccer team Terrors are now in the fitness line, gearing up for the coming season of the ABC Motsepe league. The team played several friendly games in Bela-Bela to train their players, who were selected during trials that were held at Sunfa Stadium recently. The team played with Spa Park United on Sunday, 26 September at the Spa Park Soccer Fields and gave them a whipping of 6-1 in the first leg of the games, beating them 5-1 in the second leg. The boys shared the field with their teams’ masters, where Terrors FC’s Masters lost 5 goals to 8 of Spa Park United Masters. Meanwhile, Terrors FC celebrated Heritage Day by playing with a team from Soshanguve, Alie’s Tigers and lost 2-1 and 1-0 in both legs of the games. They lost again in another friendly against Moretele Gunners from Hammanskraal with a 2-1 score and equalized in the second leg. Both the games were played at Sunfa Stadium. With the new management and technical
Terrors FC and Spa Park United FC came together for a photo session after the games where the team was preparing for the new season. Photo: Lizzy Bapela team, Terrors FC’s managing director Speke Manamela says he is confident that the team will continue making a mark in
soccer. He said that the main aim of striving for the team’s survival is too develop the boys for better opportunities in future. He further
said that he would love to see a number of boys playing for professional teams one day and that goal starts at the foundation phase.
Mmapatile Primary School triumphs in cricket championship
Modimolle athletes dominate Mookgophong marathon Athletes who took part in the marathon posed for a photo with organisers. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Mzamane Ringane Modimolle athletes taught their Mookgophong counterparts a thing or two about marathon, when they scooped most prizes during the Word Saint Worshipers Church Fun Run on Thursday 24 September. Athletes from Mookgophong, Modimolle and Mokopane took part in 5km, 15km and 21km marathon categories. There were also sub-categories of junior, senior and veterans, with the winners receiving trophies, t-shirts, caps and cash prizes. Other participants opted for a fun walk as part of the activities for the day. The athletes from Modimolle’s Addicted to Life Club excelled at the marathon, representing both the club and their town well. Marathon organiser Abbey Mokgahlane said they saw fit to host this marathon to help people with mind and body exercises. He said the main purpose of this marathon was to promote good health and to also raise funds for the church. “We need to preach the word of God, but at the same time we plant the seed of exercising. We are a small church in Mookgophong, so we are also doing a fund-raiser. We would like to have a bigger building for our congregation, but our overall objective is to promote a good health for the community”, he said. Mokgahlane thanked AVBOB, Naboom Toyota, Baboos and Dr. Thapelo Phahladira for their contribution in organising this event. Mookgophong citizen Solly Maphologela said the event was interesting, and also
Participants who took part in a fun walk in Mookgophong. Photo: Mzamane Ringane encouraged young people to come in large numbers in next year’s edition of the marathon. He believes this will help the youth to keep healthy, and to also stay away from drugs and alcohol. Mookgophong-based General Practitioner Dr Thapelo Phahladira said sport and health goes hand in hand, and that is one of the reasons why she partnered with the church in this marathon. She encouraged people to take part in sports as it helps to keep psychologically and physically healthy. AVBOB representative René Pallas said her company has managed to create a good relationship with the community of Mookgophong. She said they will continue to assist local communities in any way possible, as it is part of their social responsibility. AVBOB was among sponsors who contributed massively towards the organising of this event.
The Mmapatile cricket players with their coach and principal Joseph Matlala. Photo: TK Mashaba TK Mashaba
Mmampatile Primary School’s under-14 boys did a tremendous job when they won school cricket competition at the provincial level. The boys who managed to reach the provincial level went through from cluster to circuit to district level before going on to play with other districts at a provincial level. They defeated Sekhukhuni to take first place
in Pool A, before defeating Mopani District, the Pool B victors, and defeating them. According to the team’s coach, Martin Mehlape, the school is proud of the team and the team feels as though they have made a mark. “We are happy with the outstanding performance of these boys during the competition,” said Mehlape. The school was awarded a trophy and some of their players will be taking part in the national championships on a date that has yet to be announced.