R1-20/FREE
2016
9 December
Three die in fatal
car accident
Dagga confiscated during bust
Lizzy Bapela
The police at Bela-Bela are investigating a case of culpable homicide after five people were injured in an accident involving a truck and a sedan near the Swift Diesel Filling Station on the R101 on Sunday, 4 December. Residents of the Zuma View Informal Settlement and surrounding sections flocked to the scene in the early hours of the day to see what had happened. It is alleged that the truck driver apparently saw no oncoming vehicle when he stopped to cross the road, and proceeded driving. Eyewitnesses also alleged that the sedan was speeding and collided with the link of the truck after failing to stop at the intersection. The bystanders alleged that the truck driver tried to avoid the oncoming speeding car by crossing over to the gravel area of the road to make way for the car to pass, but it was too late as the car crashed into the truck before it could move. Eyewitnesses also alleged that the police removed cans of alcohol from the sedan, which the police confirmed. The police confirmed that three men died on the scene of the accident, while two women were rushed to the Bela-Bela Hospital for treatment, having been seriously injured. The men were from Modimolle, while the women were from Bela-Bela, and the car was driving from Bela-Bela to Modimolle. Detectives’ Commander Lieutenant-Colonel Abel Phetla said that on Monday, 5 December, the survivors were still in a critical condition in the hospital’s ICU. He added that the names of the deceased and the survivors could not be released as the families of the deceased had not yet identified the bodies. A relative of one of the deceased was allegedly seen assaulting the truck driver,
Twelve die in accident Page 2
The dagga confiscated by Vaalwater police during a recent bust. Zani Hiepner
This accident left three dead and two seriously injured. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Relatives of the deceased comforted each other after arriving at the scene of the accident. Photo: Lizzy Bapela accusing him of killing his brother. Traffic officers at the scene intervened. LieutenantColonel Phetla said that the police do not have records of the assault. He said that the accident was also verified on the shop’s CCTV footage. “For now, we are only investigating a case of culpable homicide and cannot charge or arrest
the truck driver as the evidence favours him. We are collecting all relevant information and evidence to give to the office of the Director of Public Prosecution for a decision. The families of the people involved in the accident have been notified and we are waiting for the families of the deceased to identify their relatives,” said the colonel.
Bela-Bela Municipal Manager resigns
Gunpoint robbery at tavern
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Intelligence driven information was handed over to the Vaalwater police, which led them to an on-going investigation regarding an illegal dagga plantation. The police has been hot on the suspect’s trail the last few months, and managed to pull off the bust in the region on Friday, 2 December. One suspect has been arrested. A street value of approximately R200 000 worth of dagga was confiscated during the bust, and has been prevented from making it into the neighbourhoods. The suspect is said to have been the top supplier of the drug and police are planning on conducting further interviews to track down more dealers in the area. “Dagga is illegal, and we are proud to have finally made an arrest,” said Sergeant Mafemani Makhuvele. The police also stated that they are expecting to make a lot more arrests from this case. The plants are going to be destroyed as soon as they have been used as evidence in court.
Bela-Bela athletes sweep Modimolle Marathon
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CRIME
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Rapist gets life
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9 December, 2016 Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
Five survive accident as car overturns
DA Limpopo threatens to retaliate Mzamane Ringane
Gilibambo Malema (30), a convicted rapist, was sentenced to life in prison for raping a 12-year old girl at Bela-Bela in March last year. Photo: Andries van der Heyde Andries van der Heyde Gilibambo Malema (30), a rapist from Bela-Bela, was sentenced to life in prison at the Modimolle Regional Court on Tuesday, 22 November. Warrant Officer Johannes Shitlhane, the head of the police’s unit for violence, crimes against children, and sexual crimes at Bela-Bela, told The BEAT’s sister paper The Post that the incident took place in March 2015 at a house in Donoza, an extension of the Bela-Bela Township. Malema raped a 12-year-old girl in her brother’s home in one of the rooms. The brother was not connected to the crime. Shitlhane said that Malema, a local resident and a traditional healer, was involved with a number of initiation schools in the area. The police arrested him in April 2015, a month after the incident, and he appeared
several times in the Modimolle Regional Court on charges of rape. Bail was never granted, and he remained in custody for the duration of the case. Shitlhane said that forensic investigations proved that Malema committed the crime. He was found guilty of one count of rape, and was declared unfit to possess a firearm. “We worked very hard to prove that he was the guilty party, and we are happy with the sentence,” Shitlhane said. “The judgement sends a clear message that crime does not pay.” The investigating officer was Sergeant Emily Mabena. The girl is already back at school, and is receiving professional help to process the events, Shitlhane said. Victims of similar crimes can phone Shitlhane on 071 355 0566, or the police station at 014 735 9759.
12 people killed in accident on the N1
TK Mashaba Police in Limpopo have sent out a statement calling upon all members of the community, but most especially motorists and other road users, to put safety first during their journeys. The statement comes after 12 people lost their lives during a collision on the N1 road recently. Police in Modimolle are investigating a case of culpable homicide relating to the accident. Limpopo Communication Officer for the Police, Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe, said that a truck was travelling southbound and collided with an Avanza
which was in the wrong lane. It is believed that the Avanza may have had a burst tyre which caused the vehicle to veer into the wrong lane. The Avanza collided with the truck and both vehicles caught fire, killing 12 people. Ten people died on the scene, while one person passed away later at a hospital. “The driver of the truck was badly injured on both legs, and some of the deceased were burnt beyond recognition,” he said. The total number of road fatalities in Limpopo over the weekend of 3 to 5 December now stands at 22. At the time of going to press, a number of the victims of the accident had not been identified. No identities were released to the media.
Traffic officers responded to the accident scene immediately after a call-out. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela Five people survived an accident on the R101 near Ronville in Bela-Bela on Monday, 5 December. The five include three men and two women. Local Traffic officers responded to the scene as soon as they were called by a passer-by. It is alleged that the police failed to respond to the scene after they were called. Two police vehicles were seen passing the scene in the direction of Modimolle and also did not stop to assist. The passer-by said that the issue of authorities lacking equipment to respond to call-outs threatens service delivery. The driver of the car, who could not be named, told The BEAT that he lost control of the car and just saw it overturning about three times as he was wondering what was going on. He added that the four occupants who were with him in the car when the accident happened had asked him for a ride to their
destination. The driver further said that two of the occupants, a man and a woman, just upped and left immediately after the accident and proceeded with their journeys. He also said that he was still shocked after what happened and still did not understand what happened but thank the Lord no one was seriously injured or worse, lost their lives. The man further confirmed that he was slightly injured on his right hand, and was attended by the EMS personnel on the scene. Otherwise everything was alright. A woman who remained on the scene showed no trauma and was even seen taking pictures, saying that she was going to trend on Facebook on the day after posting them. She did not appear to be injured. Bela-Bela Detectives’ Commander Lieutenant-Colonel Abel Phetla said that at the time of the media enquiries, the police did not have the records of the accident and no case was being investigated as a result.
Body found at Bank involved in a fight. It is believed that the deceased was beaten to death and his The police in Bela-Bela are body was then dragged to investigating Standard the murder Bank of a man nearby,” who was Phetla allegedly said. beaten to He added death on that the Wednesday body was 30 found by a November. woman According who to withdrew The incident happened Lieutenant money in the early morning on Colonel from the Wednesday where two Abel bank’s car guards were Phetla, two ATM and allegedly involved in a men who police fight. It is believed that according were the deceased was to him were called to beaten to death and his working as the scene. body was then dragged car guards Phetla to Standard Bank in Chris said that, nearby. Hani at this Street, stage, the were identity of involved in an altercation the victim was unknown, as no with each other. family had yet stepped forward “The incident happened in to claim the body. the early morning on He said that investigations are Wednesday where two car ongoing and no arrests have guards were allegedly been made. Justin Steyn
The DA in Limpopo intends to lay charges against an official who recently accused LIM 368 Speaker Johann Abrie of racism. This follows the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)’s decision to drop the charges against Abrie. The party said the LIM 368 Mayor Marlene Van Staden will be requested to lay charges against the official who initially opened the case against the speaker, for “lying under oath”. “The DA understand that this decision was taken by top prosecutors in the NPA and that the case had absolutely no prospect on success in court. The unwillingness to prosecute by the NPA, followed after a trumped up charge of crimen injuria was laid against Abrie by a SAMWU member on 15 November 2016,” said DA Limpopo leader Jacques Smalle. Smalle indicated that they maintained throughout that, “This malicious charge was brought in vindictive attempts to discredit Abrie, to derail the relationship between the DA and our coalition partners and to destabilise the DA-led administration’s prudent efforts to combat the scourge of corruption that plagued the previous ANC-led administrations in Modimolle and Mookgophong municipalities.” He continued to say they will not allow the fight against corruption to be undermined through baseless claims by the ANC and its allies against DA councillors. “If we do not address corruption and hold those who engage in it to account, meaningful change that bring about job creation and service delivery will remain a dream for our poor communities,” he said.
Gunman in court for attempted murder Lizzy Bapela A Pakistani national appeared before the BelaBela Magistrate’s Court this week on a charge of attempted murder. Lieutenant-Colonel Abel Phetla of the Bela-Bela police said that the man allegedly shot another man a little over a month ago, following suspicions that the victim was dating the mother of his child. According to the information received, the suspect has been the owner of a local shop for about four years, and has a local girlfriend, with whom he has a child. The suspect, Grenou Woleoe (34), left Bela-Bela to open other businesses in Soshanguve after fighting with his girlfriend. It is alleged that the suspect confronted the girlfriend after hearing that she was involved with another man. The suspect also confronted the victim and shot him in the stomach, leaving him in a critical condition. The police said that one bullet injured the victim’s heart, but was removed through an operation, while another bullet was still in his body. The police added that the victim was due for another operation in early January 2017 to have the second bullet removed. Lieutenant-Colonel Phetla said that the detectives’ team searched for the suspect for over two weeks without any luck but managed to detain him through thorough investigations. He added that the suspect was denied bail during his first court appearance and was appearing for a second formal bail application. The colonel further said that the suspect had been refusing to reveal the whereabouts of the gun he allegedly used to shoot the victim, and only gave away the information during his second court appearance. By the time of going to press, the suspect was still in custody while the victim was recuperating at home, awaiting his next hospital appointment in the new year.
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GOVERNMENT / POLITICAL
Bela-Bela bids farewell to Maluleka Justin Steyn Reports circulated on Facebook this week that Bela-Bela’s Municipal Manager, Morris Maluleka, has resigned. Local Non-Government organization Change for Bela-Bela, first broke the news on their Facebook page on Monday, 5 December. “According to a reliable source we can confirm that our Municipal Manager, Morris Maluleka, has submitted his resignation letter today. We urge the Mayor and the Speaker to urgently call a Special Council Meeting to attend to the matter,” said the organization’s founder, NJ van Heerden. Van Heerden also stated that the organization welcomed the alleged resignation hoped other officials would soon follow. “We look forward to receiving the same good news from the rest of his team too, which should at the very least also include Preciousstone Raputsoa, Gloria Seleka, Mabes Mothapo and our once-honourable Mayor Jeremia Ngobeni,” he said. However, the town’s mayor Jeremia Ngobeni has denied the claims. “I have read about the claims on social media but I have not received an official resignation letter from the Municipal Manager,” he said. Ngobeni has further slammed the public’s calls for officials to resign with immediate effect. “I would like to make it clear that municipal officials can’t just resign with immediate effect despite this being the demanded of certain officials in later protests. Officials, including myself and the MM cannot just resign as this would mean we
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Man in court for raping a minor As the party, we are against any form of abuse against our people. TK Mashaba
The Bela-Bela Municipal Manager, Morris Maluleka (pictured) has resigned. Photo: Justin Steyn “The time has arrived for the Municipality would violate our employment contracts” he to appoint another highly skilled person that said. will take the institution to much greater The Democratic Alliance (DA) said that it achievements than the current level of has been provided with a signed copy which performance,” Maluleka’s letter read. confirmed Maluleka’s resignation. The Bela-Bela DA’s caucus chairperson According to the letter Maluleka stated that Frans Mothokoa said that the opposition he is serving his 60 day working notice has viewed Maluleka’s resignation as a period and that his last day in office will be victory for Bela-Bela. on Tuesday, 28 February 2017. “We as the DA welcome the news of The letter further stated that Maluleka he Maluleka’s resignation and hope that will be pursuing his “academic career and Ngobeni will follow in his footsteps,” he other interests that our beautiful country is said. endowed with.”
A man in his 20s has been arrested and charged with rape after it was alleged that he raped a 9-year-old girl at Extension 5 in Bela-Bela. The event took place on Sunday, 4 December, and the suspect was arrested soon after. The suspect was expected to appear before the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 6 December, and an identity parade was also expected to be held. The EFF Chief Whip in BelaBela, Sello Mosweu, said that he is saddened by the incident. “As the party, we are against any form of abuse against our people. We expect justice to take its course and ensure that the perpetrator gets the punishment he deserves.” Mosweu also pointed out that the incident took place in the midst of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign, and said that it showed that the perpetrator has no respect for human rights.
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GOVERNMENT / POLITICAL
Tavern crew attacked at gun-point Lizzy Bapela The police in Modimolle are investigating a case of business robbery following an incident that happened at Jerry’s Tavern in the township on Saturday, 3 December. Police spokesperson Warrant Officer James Findlay said that eight suspects allegedly attacked a tavern owner and his workers as they were leaving for their homes that night. It is alleged that the complainant and his two workers were about to leave the tavern, travelling together in a taxi in the early hours of Saturday, 3 December, when they were approached by the suspects. The police said that four of the suspects surrounded the driver’s side while the other four
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Woman found bleeding at KFC Justin Steyn
surrounded the main door side where the workers were seated. Warrant Officer Findlay said that the suspects threatened the victims with firearms and ordered them to give them money. He added that the suspects searched the complainant and helped themselves to his personal belongings after they ordered him to lie down on his stomach. They allegedly took his watch, wallet and cellphone. “One of the four suspects who were searching the complainant shot him on the right thigh. This happened while they were still parked in front of the tavern in the street at the complainant’s vehicle. Warrant Officer Findlay said that the suspects are still at large and the police are following every lead.
Staff and customers at the Bela-Bela Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) were shocked to find a woman bleeding excessively near the restaurant’s drive through area. Emergency services rushed to the scene to inspect the issue after being notified by staff and concerned customers on Saturday 3 December. According to the head of Bela-Bela Crime Support (BBCS), Elri Arlow, the unknown woman was discovered by a customer who was in the drive through area. Arlow said that the woman, who appeared to be in her early thirties, had lost a lot of blood and was lying on the ground when BBCS members responded to the call. “She was very pale and had lost a lot of blood
Department takes “Doom prophet” to court
when she was discovered. We called in an ambulance for her and she was taken to the Bela-Bela hospital via provincial ambulance services,” she said. Arlow said that it appeared to have been a miscarriage. Meanwhile the Corporate Communications Manager for KFC Africa, Gail Sham said that they have taken note of the incident. “A customer, who visited the KFC in Bela-Bela on Saturday 3, had been ill and unfortunately had a medical incident outside the restaurant. Our team members immediately assisted the customer by calling an ambulance so that she could receive immediate medical attention. We are unable to comment on the medical conditions of our customers as we respect their privacy,” she said.
Suspects flee after robbing a business Lizzy Bapela The police in Modimolle are looking for suspects in connection with a case of burglary of a business. Police spokesperson Warrant Officer James Findlay said that this follows an incident that was discovered on Sunday, 4 December at a shop in town. They said that the complainant, who is the owner of the shop in town, told the police that everything was well when they left the shop the day before. He confirmed that when they checked while knocking off on Saturday, 3 December, all the doors and gates of the shop were locked, with windows properly closed and the alarm was on. It is alleged that a staff member at the shop reported for duty on the morning of the day in
question and discovered when he unlocked the door that the computer box at the cashier site was missing. The employee alerted the complainant immediately. The complainant told the police that after he was called to rush to the scene, he found upon arrival at the business that the whole storeroom and all the offices were damaged. Warrant Officer Findlay said that a total of 20 computer desktops, a laptop, CCTV system, two tons of DVR of 16 channels each, two external hard drives, network switch, various power tools and general stock were stolen. He added that the suspects gained entry by cutting the corrugated wall with an unknown object. The police have opened a case of burglary at business premises and investigations are underway.
Bela-Bela EFF sympathizes with protesters
The Department of health has obtained an interdict which prevents “prophet” Lethebo Rabalago from continuing to spray Doom in the faces of his congregants. Photo supplied
Justin Steyn The Provincial Department of Health said it has successfully obtained an interdict against self-proclaimed prophet Lethebo Rabalago, from spraying Doom insecticide into the faces of those who attend his prayer sessions. 24-year old Rabalago sparked nation-wide controversy after it was reported that he sprayed the insect repellent onto the faces of congregates who attended one of his midnight prayer sessions at the Mookgophong community hall. “We want him to stop spraying his congregants with insecticide so we approached the court last Friday. He has been given time to come forward before the court order is made permanent. For now, he is not allowed to spray his congregants with insecticide,” said the department’s spokesperson Derrick Kganyago after the application was granted on Friday 2 December. “This practise is worrisome to us because
insecticide is not for human consumption. We urge congregants to make informed decisions because the content of Doom is meant to kill. People must make informed decisions knowing that actions can harm their lives. Kganyago said that Rabalago had been ordered to appear in court in January next year to make representations and give reasons the interdict should not be made finalized. The controversial actions were also decried by the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) and Tiger brands, who is responsible for manufacturing Doom. “The ACDP strongly condemns self-styled “prophets” who abuse their congregations. In yet another scandalous event Lethebo Rabalago has been spraying Doom into his congregants’ faces to “heal” them. Insecticide is dangerous when it is inhaled or ingested and can even be fatal, “said ACDP President, Reverend Kenneth Meshoe. “We find this practice alarming and extremely concerning, and want to make very clear that it is unsafe to spray any Doom or any aerosol onto people’s faces. Doom has been formulated to kill specific insects which are detailed on the cans, and the packaging has very clear warnings which must be adhered to,” said Tiger brand’s spokeswoman Nevashnee Naicker. Meanwhile, The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities said it could not act against Rabalago, unless the people he sprayed with the insecticide were willing to lay a complaint. Rabalago could not be reached for comment.
Bela-Bela residents were seen carrying “Doom for Corruption” placards during recent protests. The signs refer to self-styled prophet Lethebo Rabalago’s practice of spraying Doom in his congregants’ faces to rid them of illness and negative influences. Photo: Andries van der Heyde Justin Steyn The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Bela-Bela have spoken out about the recent protest and residential anguishes that had residents up in arms. According to the Bela-Bela EFF chairperson, Sello Mosweu, the political party stands in solidarity with the demands made by residents during a protest march on Thursday 24 November. “We have studied the contents of various Memorandum of Demands and we have come to the conclusion that it represents genuine demands and issues of concern to the community as a whole as well as the EFF. Many of those same issues have been raised by ourselves as points of concern in the past as well,” Mosweu added that the demands be attended to without any delays.
“We demand that the issues raised in these memorandums by council be attended to by council without further delay, and therefore demand that a special council meeting be convened as a matter of great urgency by the speaker,” he said. Mosweu has since said that the EFF supports a motion of confidence in the municipality. “We also support the call for a motion of no confidence in the administration of the municipality starting from the Municipal Manager, Morris Maluleka, down to the various HOD’s and acting HOD’s. We also seek clarity in regards to the perception that has been created that the Mayor, Jeremiah Ngobeni, is not holding the administration of this Municipality to account for their actions,” At the time of going to press, the municipality could not be reached for comment.
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EDITORIAL
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Limpopo ready for the festive season Mzamane Ringane Major General Nonhlanhla Zulu of the Limpopo SAPS handed over an operational plan for a safer festive season to the first citizen of the province, Stanley Mathabatha. The launch of the Festive Season Operation was held at the Ephraim Mogale stadium in Modimolle on Tuesday, 6 December. The event was hosted by the SAPS in conjunction with other sector departments from within the Limpopo government.
The councillors of LIM 368 (Mookgophong/Modimolle) Municipality led by Mayor Marlene Van Staden, Speaker Johann Abrie and Chiefwhip Dingaan Motshwene were among the leaders who were conspicuous by their presence at the event. As the first citizen of Modimolle, Mayor Van Staden was tasked with a responsibility to welcome all the guests. In his speech, Premier Mathabatha thanked the SAPS for organising this event and ultimately handing over a programme of action which will ensure the safety of the
Limpopo citizens during the festive season. The premier pleaded with road users to be patient with each other on the road. “Please share the road responsibly, and be patient with each other,” he said. The Limpopo first citizen warned that the men and women in uniform (referring to both traffic officers and SAPS) will be vigilant during the festive season, ready to pounce on those who break the law. “It is possible and it can be done, that we can have a festive season that is accidentfree and death-free on the road,” Mathabatha said.
The Premier concluded by pleading with those who will be traveling to various churches and the provincial Mapungubwe Festival to obey the rules, and ensure that they arrive at their destinations safe and sound. The provincial government also unveiled 21 ambulances as part of the department’s commitment and preparedness for the festive season. The launch of the festive season campaign took place at Mantsole Weigh bridge station, on the same day before the Modimolle event.
Executive Mayor leads a gathering in Bela-Bela
Leaders headed the IDP meeting held in Bela-Bela recently. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela Waterberg District’s Executive Mayor Councillor Morris Mataboge led a gathering of stakeholders during the second IDP (Integrated Development Planning)
Representative Forum, which deals with the Analysis Phase of the district municipality. The meeting was held at the Bela-Bela Multipurpose Community Centre on the morning of Friday, 2 December. The forum was launched in Mogalakwena
on 16 September 2016 and made a commitment to work together during the review of this strategic planning instrument. This forum guides and informs all planning, budgeting, management and decision making in the local government sector. Since the drafting of the IDP involves a wide range of role players from inside and outside the municipality, stakeholders attending the meeting consisted of among others; councillors, municipalities’ political management teams in the district, municipal managers, and representatives of sector departments, traditional leaders and Community Development Workers. IDP does not only informs the municipal management but also guides the activities of any agency from other spheres of government , Corporate service providers, NGOs and the private sector within the municipal area. This therefore qualifies the involvement of all various stakeholders in these processes in order to attain the six main reasons of developing an IDP. The reasons include the effective use of scarce resources, speeding up of service delivery, attraction of private investors, strengthening democracy, overcoming the legacy of apartheid and promoting coordination between the three spheres of government. In his address, Councillor Mataboge highlighted that detailed scrutiny of the municipality has to be undertaken during the meeting in order to establish the Status
Quo and or current reality of the municipality. He said that during the meeting, information is to be collected for existing conditions within the municipality, which focuses on the types of problems faced by the people in the area and the causes of these problems. “Our IDP should take into account the existing conditions, challenges and resources available for development,” said the Executive Mayor. “Through forums such as this, our district has entered a road of faster economic growth, job creation, effective and efficient provision of quality services and an increased social cohesion. I emphasize the adherence to time frames in terms of submitting information and or reports by our local municipalities and sector departments for consolidation by the district. As the political leadership of the district, we are informed that some sector departments do not submit information on time. I therefore urge all stakeholders that constitute this forum to direct their considerable capabilities and energies to working together in fostering effective intergovernmental relations planning so that capital resources can be used optimally in meeting the aspirations of our people,” Mataboge. He further thanked all who consistently attend the forum with the sole objective of delivering quality services to communities. He also wished every citizen of the district a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year.
Waterberg farmers represent the district at provincial event Lizzy Bapela Farmers in the Waterberg District attended the provincial Farmers with Disabilities awards ceremony in Polokwane on Tuesday, 29 November. These are the farmers who won awards in the Person with Disabilities in Agriculture and Rural Development (PDARD) during a ceremony that was held in Bela-Bela recently. The Limpopo MEC for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Mapula Mokaba-Phukwana hosted the first ever Departmental Awards in recognition of Farmers with Disabilities. Departmental spokesperson Selby Makgotho said that the awards are aimed at showcasing the potential of farmers with disabilities, whose disability does not discourage nor stop them from participating in the food security production and agricultural growth in the society. The awards ceremony was preceded by a provincial summit, where various roleplayers in the agricultural industry were invited to share economic opportunities. Makgotho said that the focus was particularly on agriculture, to the disabled farmers. MEC Mokaba-Phukwana said that Agriculture is a diverse economic opportunity and for a long time they have not given due recognition to one of the distinguished, deserving category - farmers with disability. She added that it is based on this imperative that the Department has taken this initiative to acknowledge the
Winning Waterberg farmers attended the provincial awards ceremony held in Polokwane recently. Photo: Lizzy Bapela farmers’ contribution to the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector in the province and the country and also called
for more vibrant participation. “We are only using this period of disability month to acknowledge their
contribution. It is worth mentioning that their involvement takes place continuously,” said the MEC.
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ADVERTISMENTS / LEGALS
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Celebrates International Day
LEGALS Government and political leaders attended the event for people with disabilities held in Bela-Bela recently. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
Lizzy Bapela The Limpopo Provincial Government and the Provincial Department of Health partnered to host an event to celebrate the International Day for persons with disabilities at the Bela-Bela Multipurpose Centre, in Extension 6 on Saturday, 3 December. Ahead of the event was a Long walk for Good Health and Disability Awareness project hosted by the Office of the Premier. This year the day was celebrated under the theme “Persons with disabilities equal participants in shaping a sustainable future”. Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba represented Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha at the event and various MECs and local political principals also attended. December the 3rd is celebrated as International Day of Persons with Disabilities and is also commemorated as National Disability Rights Awareness Day. The day is used to promote awareness and mobilize support for critical issues relating to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in society and development. Simon Mogale, a person living with a disability who uses crutches, started walking with his team from Polokwane on Tuesday, 29 November around 08:00 and arrived at the
multipurpose centre in the morning of the event. Other persons with disabilities met with Mogale and the team at least 2km from the venue in which the International Day for persons with Disabilities was celebrated. Government Spokesperson Phuti Seloba said that the long walk project seeks to achieve various objectives. The objectives include creating awareness on; crime prevention especially fraud and corruption; good health against HIV/AIDS, TB, STI, sugar diabetes, hypertension and so forth; the 16 days of no violence against women and children and road safety. Seloba further said that the project also seeks to showcase the abilities and talents of people with disabilities and popularise the 2016 International Day for Persons with Disabilities. The long walk was interfaced with activities such as a dialogue on gender based violence scheduled to take place in Mogalakwena, the distribution of condoms to truck drivers and youth groups in Mookgophong; a talk with taxi drivers about road safety at the Bela-Bela taxi rank; and the submission of a memorandum to the acting premier by people with disabilities advocating for the implementation of the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the event venue.
Advertorial
Tweefontein Chicken Abattoir has existed for
more than 10 years. The Department of Agriculture
in Limpopo decided to implement a grading system for abattoirs in Limpopo for the first time in the history of the province. Malcolm and Astrid Volschenk, the owners of Tweefontein Abattoir, were delighted to be able to announce that their business was the winner of all the Low Turnaround Chicken Abattoirs in the province. “We would like to thank all our employees for their dedication to providing hygienic quality products,” they said. “Without their hard work, we would not have received this award.”
CONSENT USE ON ERF 1308, WARMBATHS TOWNSHIP, BELA BELA Notice is hereby given in terms of clause 21 of the Bela Bela Land Use Scheme, 2008, that the undersigned, being the authorised agent, intends applying to the Bela Bela Municipality for special consent to use erf 1308, Warmbaths, Bela Bela and/ or buildings thereon for
commercial purposes. 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 Privete Bag x1609, Bela Bela, 0480, within a period of 28 days from 2 September 2016. Further particulars with regard to the proposed use is obtainable from undersigned. GEO PROJECTS, P.O. Box 919, Bela Bela, 0480. Tel: 082 881 7252. (2&9/12)
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Department wishes all learners the best
The learners gathered together after writing the last subject to celebrate at Letlhabile Park, which is at the centre of all township high schools. Photo: Lizzy Bapela Lizzy Bapela Limpopo MEC for Education Ishmael Kgetjepe on behalf of his department and the education sector, sent out best wishes to all learners during festive season. This follows the end of final examinations of all grades including the Grade 12s. The 2016 Grade 12 Examinations started on 19 October, the majority of learners in Limpopo started on the 26th with English papers. Departmental spokesperson Doctor Naledzani Rasila confirmed that a total of 110 557 full time and 20 975 part-time learners sat for the Grade 12 examination this year. He added that they wrote in 16 99 examination centres across the province. The Department confirmed that the examination process for this year went smoothly, excluding the unfortunate incident of a paper that leaked
in the Giyani area that affected some learners. The suspect in this regard has appeared in the local magistrate’s court following the incident and further investigations in this regard continue. The MEC will announce the results on 5 January 2017 in Polokwane, following the announcement of the national results on 4 January 2017 by the Minister for Basic Education Angie Motshekga. The Department encourages all learners to take care during the festive season and keep focussed on their future academic endeavours. In Bela-Bela, learners from different high schools in the township gathered together to celebrate the end of their final examinations in their own style as they do every year. The pens down period was celebrated by writing on the school uniforms, with some learners going so far as cutting off their uniforms.
9 December, 2016 Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
COMMUNITY NEWS
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Stakeholders on dialogue about abuse Lizzy Bapela Various social ills that are affecting the community were topics of the discussions tabled during community dialogues that were held at the Bela-Bela Multipurpose Community Centre on Wednesday, 30 November and Monday, 5 December. Stakeholders from different departments and formations attended the dialogue on 16 Days of Activism of No Violence against Women, Children and People with Disabilities. The event was hosted by the National Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities in partnership with Office of the Mayor in the BelaBela Municipality. Representatives from the national government, the Waterberg District Municipality and the Bela-Bela Local Municipality attended the event. David Raborolo from the Office of the Mayor in the Bela-Bela Municipality said that the purpose of the event was to create a platform for various groups within the community to gather together and discuss trends on women and children abuse. He added that the event was also aimed at further coming up with possible solutions with all government departments within their municipal jurisdiction. During the event, attending stakeholders were divided into groups entailing of male and female youths, men, women and older women. Social ills tabled during the dialogue include; unemployment, which was cast as the major cause of poverty within communities, alcohol and drug
Attending stakeholders were divided into groups to discuss trends on women and children abuse. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
Facilitators from different organizations across the district led the group discussions. Photo: Lizzy Bapela abuse as the cause of increasing criminal activities, school drop outs causing teenage pregnancy on the side of girl learners, as well as the involvement of all stakeholders and groups of role players in programmes involving all members of the community. President Jacob Zuma launched the16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign in Limpopo on Friday, 25 November, under the
theme “Count Me In: Together Moving a Non-Violent South Africa Forward�. As part of the campaign, the Government is also convening a series of National Dialogue Sessions on Violence against Women and Children across the country towards finding collective solutions to end the abuse in communities. During the event, the Minister of Women, Susan Shabangu also launched the dialogues.
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9 December, 2016 beateditor@gmail.com | Website: thebeat.linmedia.co.za
SPORT
Bela-Bela mayor pays visit to local clinic
Bela-Bela athletes win Modimolle marathon
Tariro Nkosi (from left), Lebogang Lekoto and Tokollo Bapela. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
Mzamane Ringane Bela-Bela long distance runner Peter Kgabo emerged victorious during the Modimolle Addicted to Life’s fun run, when he snatched the first position in the 21km race. Hot on heels of Kgabo was Modimolle athlete Junior Moatshe who is also known for his participation in the annual Comrades Marathon. Jim Mogoshoa settled for the third spot in the 21km race. The race which was held in Phagameng on Saturday, 3 December was held by Addicted to Life, supported by African Bank. In the 10km race, Tshegofatso Kgomo took the first position, while Simba and Jan Tshetlo settled for second and third
The winner of the veteran’s 5km race Phongo Lesibana Lekalakala lifts 21 km race winner Peter Kgabo to the air after completing the fun run. Photo: Mzamane Ringane
position consecutively. Kataki Senyatsi won the female category of the 21km race, with Caroline Mashaba coming second. Sandra Ramphala took the third position in the category. The 5km race was won by Johannes Chaba, with Phillemon Moima and Boitshepo Thangoana obtaining second and third position respectively. Lebogang Lekoto gave her competitors a run for their money in the female category of 5km. The second position was claimed by Tokollo Bapela, while the third position was snatched by Tariro Nkosi. Phongo Lesibana Lekalakala was awarded for finishing the 5km male veteran category of the race. Margaret Bapela was the winner in the 5km female veteran category, with Niki Fourie settling
for the second spot. In the veteran category of the 21km race, Jack Manabile was the winner of the day, while Paul Aphane took the second position. Modimolle Addicted to Life coach Ezekiel Moatshe announced that a total of 14 athletes from his club will be participating in the next Comrades Marathon. He expressed that it was a huge improvement, since they were represented by only six participants in the competition this year. Moatshe, who boasts six Comrades Marathon medals, said the purpose of this race was to promote a healthy lifestyle. He also hailed the team’s legend, Lucas Seleka who obtained a green number this year after completing his 10th Comrades Marathon.
Bela-Bela Mayor Jeremiah Ngobeni visited the town’s clinic on Monday, 5 December and distributed snacks to everyone who was present at the clinic during the time of his visit. He gave the goodies to children, mothers, clinic staff and security officers to help them get through the long day. The mayor said that he was targeting Monday as the clinics are fully packed and the queues are very long, which makes it a long day and is hard to get through on an empty stomach. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
The mayor’s charity drive proceeded to the local clinic situated at Leseding section, which was also packed with patients waiting to be helped. Officials from his office assisted him in distributing the goodies. Photo: Lizzy Bapela
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