Mapepeza Vol.10 Issue 5 (March 24-31)

Against all odds this mom wins!

In the face of adversity,

By NThabiseng Moloi

In a heart-warming turn of events, Cecilia Lelosa’s twoyear-old son Khotso is finally receiving the medical care he needs, thanks to the intervention of the Gauteng Department of Health and Mapepeza News Media.

Cecilia (32) from Windmill Park in the City of Ekurhuleni, had a traumatic experience giving birth to her son at the J. Dumane clinic in Vosloorus.

Due to her high blood pressure, she was transferred to the nearest hospital, where she was left alone in a ward and gave birth on her own.

Sadly, during the labour, the newborn baby hit his head on the metal part of the bed. She immediately cried for help, however she was insulted instead of receiving the necessary assistance.

“You Lesotho people are annoying, stop making noise,” one of the healthcare workers said to a distressed Lelosa.

The ordeal didn’t end there. Soon after giving birth to his son, Khotso, the little one was diagnosed with a medical condition that required surgery. She was told the procedure which would cost over R15,000 – since Cecilia is not a South African citizen.

As an unemployed single mother, she didn’t have the means to afford the operation, and she feared for her two year old son’s life.

Baby Khotso is assumed to have a condition called Hydrocephalus. This disease is characterized by accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) occurs within the brain, also called ‘water in the brain’.

This typically causes increased pressure inside the skull. In infants, hydrocephalus may be seen as a rapid increase in head size. Other symptoms may include vomiting, sleepiness, seizures, and downward pointing of the eyes.

As a foreign national, Lelosa was unable to get a birth certificate from the Home Affairs department, which

would have assisted his son to get medical attention from any other public health institution free of charge.

Cecilia shared her story of adversity with Mapepeza News Media which prompted the team to make enquiries that ensured she received the necessary help.

Story continues inside

New RSV infections on the rise!

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has announced that the detection rate of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is rising sharply.

The NICD has since issued a warning to clinicians and hospitals to prepare for an uptick in paediatric admissions.

RSV, according to the public health institute, is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) among young children. It is highly contagious and transmits mainly by respiratory droplets.

Among children younger than five years old, the NICD found that the RSV detection rate is currently at moderate levels and continues to rise steeply.

“Compared to the circulation of RSV between 2014 and 2019, the detection rate of RSV appears to be rising more sharply in recent weeks, although within the range of what has been seen in the past,” the public health institute said.

Meanwhile, data on increased RSV circulation and increased severe RSV-associated illness, which includes hospitalisation among children who are under a year old from November to February have been reported in the northern hemisphere countries.

“It is possible that the RSV season in South Africa will follow a similar trend.”

Read more inside...

one mother’s determination to save her child has paid off.

Newborn baby found dumped in Tsakani

By Esau Dlamini

A newborn baby boy was found abandoned in the bushes in Tsakani Extension 10, Ekurhuleni, on Wednesday, March 15.

According to the spokesperson for Tsakani police, Sergeant Lerato Mngomezulu, it is alleged by the community members that an unknown woman was seen during the early hours in the morning carrying what looked like a baby then dumping it.

“It believed that the baby was a day old. A case of child neglect has been opened and a search for the child’s mother has been launched. We condemn such behavior and urge community members to make use of available social workers.

“The baby was suffocated and had some head injuries, it was then taken to the government mortuary after examination. We are calling on anyone who might have information about the perpetrator to come forward. They can also contact the SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 or 10111,” explained Sargeant Mngomezulu.

Selina Mdlalose (36) “We are very angry as the community members because this person had many options to consider instead of killing and dumping her baby. There are many people and couples who are desperate and willing to adopt. said one of the residents.”

“The woman who has done this has no shame and she deserves to be locked behind bars for the rest of her life. She should have used protection if she did not want to have this child”, said another community member, Joe Mofokeng.

Police have opened an inquest docket to investigate the matter.

Family need support for deaf boy!

By Esau Dlamini

The Machirori family from Bluegum View Section in Duduza (Ekurhuleni) seek assistance in finding a special school for their nine-year old son who was born deaf.

Accordingly to the mother of the child, Nyarai Machirori (38) the hearing ailment began when they discovered that the child could not speak.

“I was attending the local clinic when I was pregnant and gave birth when I was home in Mozambique but my husband is a South African. The child could not speak and could hardly hear when you talk to him. We did not take it serious at first and thought that maybe he was going to develop in time. The problem started when we wanted to enroll him to school because he does not have a birth certificate and a clinic card. Someone adviced us to go to the Social Workers at Emmaus Community Centre and they said the was nothing much to that they could do and refered us to the clinic in Dunnotar. It was then confirmed that the child has a hearing impediments” she explained to Mapepeza.

Nyarai says the child was transferred to Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital for further examination.

“He started attending at that hospital since May 2022 and they said we have to pay an amount of R400 per session before he doesn’t have legal documents. I was shocked because his father is a South African”

Machirori explains

Zolani Phillips (40), who is the father of the child also lamented that this has affected them because they are both unemployed.

“We are not working and have other children who are also depending on us. We cannot afford to pay the

hospital fees including transport. I’m not happy with this situation because my child is not even receiving social grant and is getting delayed with his education.”

“We have been to home affairs several times and they me about blood proof and blood tests” he said.

Happy Sithole, Senior Attorney at Tswaranang Community Development, says that according to the national admission policy for public schools, a child can be admitted conditionally if they don’t have a birth to but parents must take steps to rectify the situation within three months.

“The Birth and Death Registration Act says that both parents must provide valid proof of identity to register the birth of the child but in this case they cannot because the mother does not have a South African ID. The father is a South African with a valid South African ID but he is also prevented from being able to register the child because they are not married,” he said.

Nyarai Machirori and Zolani Phillips are in desperate need of assistance for their nine-year old son who was born deaf.

Beware of new hijacking trick using spikes on the road!

The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) is urging motorists to be extra vigilant as criminals are placing spikes or objects on public roads with the intention of robbing unsuspecting drivers.

This criminal activity has recently prompted a warning from the EMPD to all motorists, especially those who drive on the following hotspots: R562, Olifantsfontein; R21, between OR Tambo International Airport; N3, Leondale and Barry Marais; N17, between Rondebult and Heidelberg Road.

According to EMPD spokesperson,

Wilfred Kgasago, the Department has received several complaints regarding spikes being strategically placed on the roadways.

“A pattern has been established, showing that these ruthless acts of crime usually happen on weekends and result in unnecessary accidents and loss of life,” he said.

The EMPD is working together with other law enforcement agencies to combat this crime and has increased police visibility around the hotspot areas.

Those found placing objects to endanger the lives of other motorists

will face the full might of the law.

Kgasago advises motorists not to stop when they hit a spike or experience a tire puncture, especially at night. Instead, they should continue to drive slowly to the nearest garage or police station.

“We urge motorists to be vigilant, report any suspicious activity to the police, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables in their vehicles,” he added.

The EMPD is also urging motorists to take precautions, such as keeping their windows closed and doors

locked when driving through the hotspot areas.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and work tirelessly to ensure the safety of all road users,” Kgasago said.

“We urge the public to work with us by providing information that will help us in our efforts to combat this crime.”

Motorists are advised to be cautious and alert while driving through the hotspot areas and to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.

Thousands of South Africans took to the streets to show their frustrations with the power crisis and the government in a massive ‘National Shutdown’ organized by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on Monday, March 20.

Sedibeng se hopola Polao ya Sharpeville 1960!

By Legego Mohlamme

Ho lahleheloa ke ‘m’e, e tla dula e le ntho e bohloko ho Margaret Salanyane.

Salanyane ya dilemo di-67, o ile a hlokahallwa ke ’mmae a le dilemo tse tsheletseng nakong ya polao ya Sharpeville e ileng ya siya batho ba palo ya-69 ba shwele ’me ba-180 ba tswa dikotsi tse mpe.

Ha a bua le boraditaba nakong ya sehopotso sa Ditokelo tsa Botho motseng wa Sharpeville, Sedibeng. Salanyane o re letsatsi leo ha le tlise letho ha e se maswabi le masisa-pelo ho yena.

“Letsatsi lena le tlisa maswabi hobane ke ne ke tla rata ho tshana le bana ba bang ba holetseng le batswadi ba bona le hoja ke le moholo nakong ya jwale, ke ne ke le dilemo tse tsheletseng ha a hlokahala.

“Bo mm’e ke batho ba khethehileng bophelong ba motho e mong le e mong, empa apartheid e ile ya re amoha yena kapa tokelo eo. Jwalo ka ha o tseba, ha ntho e ‘ngwe le e ‘ngwe e etsahala, ekaba ha owa, o bitsa ‘mmao, empa ha kea ka ka bitsa wa ka,” ho boletse Salanyane.

A re o ne a ile ho reka dikuku tsatsing leo ha batho ba bangata ba bokane seterateng sa Seiso empa ba sa utlusise se etsahalang.

E le mahlatsipa a letsatsi leo le mahlonoko, Salanyane o re ha ba so fumane thuso ho tswa mmusong.

“Re le malapa a mahlatsipa a polao ya Sharpeville, ha ho letho leo re le etsetswang, ha re fumane le liphuthelwana tsa

Kasi businesses engage with Finance MEC!

dijo, ba re lebetse.

“Mmuso o hlolehile, ha re e so fumane ditlhapiso le ho tloha ha Nelson Mandela e le Mopresidente,” o boletse jwalo.

Ditletlebo tsa bahlaseduwa di ne di fapana ho tloha ka maemo a bophelo ho ya ho kgaello ya meriana ditsing tsa bophelo.

Letona la Dipapadi, Bonono, Setso le Boithapollo (SARC), MEC Morakane Mosupye o amohetse hore ho bile le diqholotso mabapi le ba sotlehileng ka lebaka la la 21 Hlakubele 1960.

“Baholo ba rona ba tletleba ka hore ba sokola, ke ’nnete, ke ka hona re tlisitseng mafapha ’ohle a ’mmuso kajeno hore a tle a thuse ka tsohle tseo ba dihlokang.

“Ditshebeletso tsa ‘mmuso di teng, ‘me le teng, ha re mona ho tla keteka letsatsi lena feela empa ho le hopotsa hore mmuso o sebetsa letsatsi le letsatsi,” ho boletse MEC Mosupye.

Motsamaisi e Moholo wa Emfuleni, Sipho Radebe o re sehopotso sa Letsatsi la Ditokelo tsa Botho ke kgopotso ya ntwa e telele le e boima ya batho.

Radebe o itse tshepo ya bona le ya masepala le takatso ya maAforika Boroa ke hore motho e mong le e mong, sechaba, le lelapa ba thabele ditokelo le tokoloho tse ileng tsa lwanwa ka matla.

“Apartheid e putlame empa re tlameha ho tswela pele ho hatela pele le ho fihlela se molemo bakeng sa batho ba rona,” o boletse jwalo.

By Thapelo Magola

Gauteng Finance MEC Jacob Mamabo-

lo visited SUD Resturant in Soweto on Wednesday, March 22 to meet and interact with township business owners and learn more about trials and triumphs encountered by SMMEs (Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises) when doing business.

Throughout a series of roundtable discussions , MEC Mamabolo highlighted how the government continues to support township businesses across Gauteng, helping them grow, innovate and adapt to changing times.

The Township Economy Think Tank also explored solutions like ensuring that the budget is localized, supporting entrepreneurs as job creators, amongst many other discussions.

In his keynote speech, MEC Mamabolo says the Gauteng provincial government is steadfast in ensuring that the budget can be used to grow and maximise the potential of township economy.

“You will recal that we have just delivered the budget of the province in the last few weeks. To reposition the fiscal instruments such as budget and supply chain

to empower the people in the townships,” he explained.

MEC Mamabolo added that in the goods and services the government purchases, the Gauteng government will increase their spending to 60 percent of the R350 billion budget towards township suppliers.

Other opportunities for township entrepreneurs in the construction and builtenvironment, over R7.68 billion will be used to improve hostels, infrastructure in townships and reduce informal settlements.

Many business owners expressed their anger and frustration over the failure of basic services and corruption within the government enclaves which makes it hard to operate a business in townships.

“A series of engagements do nothing if townships remains squalid, poorly serviced and crime infested,” a business owner responded the MEC.

Thulani Msimanga, who owns a five star car wash and properties in Soweto said: “I’m so happy because we had the opportunity to interact with the MEC, because we are the ones knowing what needs to be done”.

Gauteng, Mapepeza help Cecilia!

The Gauteng Department of Health contacted Cecilia and gave her a referral letter to visit the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital in Johannesburg, where Khotso was operated on to insert a pipe that would drain the water from his head. After the successful operation, Khotso was discharged and given a return date for his first check-up.

Khotso is expected to able to soon walk, crawl, and play like a toddler, and he can digest other foods besides Weetbix and oats. Cecilia can breathe a sigh of relief and focus on raising her son, knowing that he is in good hands.

This heartwarming story is a reminder of the power of the media to make a positive impact on people’s lives, and we at Mapepeza News Media are proud to have played a part in this story.

Vusi Mabena plans to grow his talents further!

By Dominique Jacobs

The multitalented author, actor and speaker Vusi Mabena recently caught up with the Mapepeza News Media teams and shared his life story with us.

Mabena was born and raised in Dennilton, Limpopo.

Later moving to Balfour Mpumalanga after matric where he did a part time course through University of Johannesburg.

Then relocating to Katlehong, in 2018 to seek better opportunities. Vusi has been living in the Ekurhuleni township ever since.

Having ambition, knowing what he wants, and surrounding himself with likeminded people has brought about all the achievements he has accomplished.

Mabena is celebrating 15 years as a writer this year.

The passion for writing started in high school. Always going the extra mile in essays and competing in poetry competitions.

Writing his first of four unreleased books in 2013 after deciding to pursue the dream of being an author seriously.

In his interview, Vusi made it known that “It is not easy when people around you don’t believe in your dreams,” especially the ones you live with.

He also used to write motivational columns for Mapepeza back in the day.

In order to fund his book campaign, Vusi started acting and has appeared as an extra on popular local soapies from Generations, The Queen to 7delaan and many other productions based in Gauteng.

One of Vusi’s biggest highlights was meeting legendary actress and director, Connie Ferguson on the set of The Queen where she encouraged him to keep believing in himself also telling him that his book “Tears of Pain” could be potentially used to produce short films on TV.

He managed to raise R16,000 from

the acting gig to release his first book “Tears of Life”, printing 550 copies.

Mabena also draws inspiration from poets like Mzwake Mbuli, Zola 7, Lebo Mashile, and Ntsiki Mazwai to name a few.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, this prompted Vusi’s to release the third book titled “Tears of Pain”.

He later released a motivational book for Christians, “My Warrior Lord is my Successor and Shepard”. According to Mabena, this was made to give thanks to God for what he had done for him.

Going into society to get inspiration from people’s stories and from nature gave birth to the fifth book, “Scars and Tribulations of My Journey” he collaborated with someone to empower the individual through their life story of the war against drugs.

“Let Tomorrows Beginnings start Today” is the final book was inspired by the thoughts that humans live a procrastinated life.

Without the realization of how short life is to postpone things. He wants to encourage others to live life with the motto of “try but never try to fail, knowing you’ve tried yesterday you can fix whatever today by doing something new”.

Vusi attributes his achievements of an award-winning author, celebrating four years as a professional author, being nominated for an award in Angola later in 2023 to releasing six books working and working on a seventh to hard work and perseverance.

Vusi has sold 1180 copies of his books without it being on shelves at retail stores.

His dream is to see his books in stores and being the best poet in South Africa.

Vusi also stated: “I want to see myself as an icon and an inspiration to people for bringing change in their lives, and lastly being celebrated for turning scars to shining stars”.

Front page story continues

Beware of new RSV disease!

Prevention of RSV

Prevention measures include the isolation of children with influenzalike symptoms, NICD said.

It also discourages sick children from going to crèches or schools for a few days and encourages teaching children and adults alike to practice sneezing and cough hygiene.

The institute does not recommend the use of prophylactic antibiotics for children with upper respiratory tract infections.

“The monoclonal antibody, palivizumab, administered monthly throughout the RSV season to infants and children at high risk of severe RSV disease, is effective for prevention.

“However, high costs and the need for monthly intramuscular injections throughout the RSV season limit its use.”

“Clinicians, paediatric hospitals and intensive care units are reminded to anticipate an increase in paediatric admissions during the 2023 RSV season.”

In addition, healthcare providers are encouraged to prepare and allocate adequate resources to respond to the surge in RSV cases. Clinicians are also urged to consider RSV in differential diagnosis for severe respiratory illness, especially in young children.

“The majority of infants with RSVassociated bronchiolitis do not require hospitalisation, but certain children are at risk of severe disease (hospitalisation).”

Meanwhile, infants younger than six months may develop severe diseases, such as hypoxia, severe respiratory distress, inability to feed or apnoea and may require hospitalisation.

“In very young infants, irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties may be the only presenting symptoms.”

Risk factors for severe RSV-associated disease include prematurity, congenital heart disease, chronic lung disease of prematurity, neurological disease, immunodeficiency and lack of breastfeeding.

Millions in overpaid RAF claims recovered!

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has signed acknowledgements of debt with law firms and legal representatives worth some R68 million after they were overpaid by the Road Accident Fund (RAF) for their clients’ claims.

According to SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, the acknowledgements come after the corruption busting unit instituted an investigation into allegations of corruption at the RAF.

“Instead of returning the duplicate payments to RAF, legal practitioners opted to either keep the money in their Trust accounts or use it to their personal benefit.

To date, the SIU has managed to recover R18 million through acknowledgement of debt process following the signing of Proclamation R44 of 2021 by President Cyril Ramaphosa authorising the SIU to investigate serious allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of RAF.

“The Proclamation authorises the SIU to investigate compensation payments made by RAF to claimants or claimants’ agents, payments made by RAF in a manner that is contrary to the applicable legislations, and to recover finan-

cial losses suffered by the State or RAF,” he said.

The law firms are part of a cohort of at least 102 law firms and legal representatives currently under investigation.

“As part of Phase 1 of 4 of the investigation, the SIU is looking at 102 Law firms which received duplicate payments from RAF of approximately R340 060 277.97. When approached with the evidence, several legal practitioners have opted to co-operate with the SIU investigation in defrayal of their indebtedness by the signing of acknowledgments of indebtedness.

“The SIU signs acknowledgements of debt with individuals and companies that are subject to SIU investigations, committing to pay back undue financial benefit with interest over an agreed period.

“Furthermore, the SIU is closely working with the Legal Practice Council on the RAF investigation and other law enforcement agencies where the need arises for active collaboration to ensure effective implementation of SIU investigation outcomes and consequence management.,” Kganyago said.

Multi-award winning author and actor Vusi Mabena is flanked by Mapepeza News Media team’s Nthabiseng Moloi (right), Dominique Jacobs (left) and Kate Mazibuko (far left) at the Joburg central newsroom.

Infographic from healthychildren.org

Boksburg Lake restoration project underway!

The city has embarked on a project to upgrade the lake and its surroundings to restore the Boksburg Lake to its former glory. Great progress has been made on the first phase of the rehabilitation of the Boksburg Lake.

The city can confirm that 80% of the weir remedial work and bridge preparation has already been completed. The weir is already functional as intended to separate the lake into two, with the upper part of the lake being the pollution trapping area.

An estimated R33 million has been set aside for the project. The scope of work for the remainder of the work still to be done includes:

• Construction of low crest rock weir with a walkway bridge;

• Installation of floating wetlands;

• Construction of trash catchments; and

• Installation of gabions to stabilize the embankments.

Manufacturing of the bridge handrails has started in earnest, and installation is anticipated to take place in April 2023.

Furthermore, planting of floating wetlands inside the lake will be done once it is ascertained that the rainy season has passed.

“Our main objective to ensuring that the lake becomes a recreational facility that serves its purpose to the fullest. We want to

Beware of fake RDP housing notice!

see people coming to enjoy, relax and enjoy themselves here just like they use to before. That is why we are investing so much on this facility because it is a critical asset to the community at large,” says Metro spokesman Zweli Dlamini.

“We must apologise to the public for the delay in completing the project, but we are doing our best to ensure that the lake reopens to the public soonest.”

Gauteng Townships, Hostels and Informal settlements get the provincial budget boost

Sebokeng Ext 28, Sewers and manholes in Mohlakeng-Pelzvale and Soshanguve South Secondary School in Tshwane.

Informal Settlements

Another R3.8bn has been allocated for the provision of basic infrastructure in informal settlements, including KwaBrown, Mamello, Piel’s Farm, Thabong, Munsieville, Bergsig and Ratanda.

Hostels

Moreover, a total of R322m has been set aside for the renovation of hostels, including George Goch, Denver, Jeppe, LTA Rethabile, Kwama-Siza, Dube, Orlando, Diepkloof and Orlando West.

Johannesburg’s Department of Human Settlements has issued a warning to the public regarding fake housing notices being circulated on social media in the name of the City and the Gauteng Provincial government.

The notices, which claim to be from the Gauteng RDP allocation office, are requesting a list of documents to be delivered to an address in Braamfontein.

However, the Department of Human Settlements has stated that it does not use any form of WhatsApp or email to engage with residents regarding RDP applications.

“This is quite concerning as the immoral scammers are using the former MMC’s name as a weapon to scam desperate citizens who need homes. The use of Cllr Mabaso’s name is a clear indication that these scammers are clueless about developments within the City,” said Cllr Anthea Leitch, the current MMC for Human Settlements.

The fraudulent notices are being issued in the name of former Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC),

of Employees baseline, and delivery of support services such as scholar transport, school nutrition and school subsidies to make education more accessible to children.

Health

Health and wellness of people will also take up a significant share of what is being allocated to the Gauteng Department of Health, with an additional R5 billion, with focus on retaining part of the capacity taken on board to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, and which will go a long way in strengthening the health delivery platform which has been lacking.

Crime Fighting

Fighting crime in Gauteng is one of the priorities as it affects many citizens directly or indirectly. The Gauteng Department of Community Safety will be resourced with R4 billion additional allocation, for the training and absorption of the 6 000 crime prevention wardens currently undergoing training that will be completed at the end of April 2023.

Mlungisi Mabaso, who is no longer affiliated with the department.

The department is urging the public to remain vigilant and scrutinize all information they receive.

The official social media accounts of the Department of Human Settlements are Twitter: @CoJhousing, Facebook: City of Joburg Housing Department, and Instagram: coj_mmc_ housing_.

“We want to warn criminal syndicates that their time is up and they will be found and taken to court. A number of arrests have already been made,” the MMC warns.

The Department of Human Settlements is currently dealing with 1996/7 applications and has a backlog of nearly half a million RDP houses.

The department urges members of the public seeking to inquire about its services and status on the housing waiting list to visit customer support centres in their regions or the head office of the allocations unit at 222 Smit Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

technology, supply chain and procurement instruments to create capacity for departments to meet their quarterly and annual targets for women empowerment.

Job Creation for the Youth

The MEC said, they are also confident that by repositioning and improving the supply chain function and procurement.

This will allow them to meet their job creation targets, especially among the youth in the province, as figures released by the Gauteng Economic Barometer of the Department of Economic Development, indicated a huge challenge of youth unemployment in the province.

Township Businesses

The GPG will explore procurement rules which allow government and its main contractors to buy from large groups of township-based businesses, with systems linking them to supply as if they were one large firm.

Gauteng MEC for Finance

Jacob Mamabolo

Gauteng townships, hostels and informal settlements have received a boost of more than R7.6bn in the provincial budget to help build improved public infrastructure in these areas.

Townships

Presenting the 2023/24 budget, Gauteng finance MEC Jacob Mamabolo said a R3.5bn of the budget has been allocated to improving infrastructure in townships, including construction of housing units in

“We are now at a point in our journey to improving infrastructure investments where it is imperative that the Gauteng provincial Treasury, as the custodian that allocates funds, must ensure there is value for money in all our projects.

Education

He said, a total of R4.6 billion will be allocated to the Gauteng Department of Education – these funds are to address the pressures in the Compensation

These crime prevention wardens will be given necessary tools of trade, the allocation will also enable the acquisition of some technological solutions to fight crime – such as drones, and the leasing of helicopters to enhance the visibility of crime prevention efforts. Also included in this allocation is funding for fleet services, to further capacitate traffic police to undertake their duties.

Women Empowerment & GBV

Moreover, the strategic focus remains empowering women as a basis of contributing to the fight against GenderBased Violence and Femicide.

This will be achieved by leveraging

“This will build the needed capacity for these businesses to supply large markets and discover new suppliers. The GPG aims to spend about 60 per cent of the R35 billion budgeted for goods and services to provide support to township business initiatives.”

Invoice Dispute Resolution platform

Also, in line with SOPA commitments, the province will also establish an Invoicing Dispute Resolution Unit that will serve as an ombuds for disputed invoices. To this end, a dedicated central email has been established by GPG where all disputed invoices should be sent. The email address is disputedinvoices@gauteng. gov.za.

More than R7.6 billion to be spent on providing improved infrastructure to Townships, Hostels and Informal settlements

Meet Duduza’s disability rights activist!

By Esau Dlamini

Nomasomi Limako (50) from Duduza in the City of Ekurhuleni continues to raise the flag in fighting and standing up for people living with disabilities. Limako, who was diagnosed with Postpolymetis (polio) from birth, has been living with HIV for the past 20 years.

“For me being an activist means to always ensure that the rights of people with disabilities are not being violated in every sphere of life,” Limako said to Mapepeza

She has a passion for people with intellectual disabilities and currently works with a community organization. Limako was a

Old apartheid police station now place of hope!

finalist for the Duduza Heroes Awards 2022 under the category of Community Activist of the Year.

The Duduza Heroes Awards, held last year, are an annual event in honour of the unsung and unseen heroes and heroines of the southern Ekurhuleni township.

“Being nominated means that you must continue to push and dig deeper into your work because it may open many opportunities,” says Limako.

Apart from being a community heroine, she also holds various positions including Board Member at EK FM, Disability Coordinator for Positive Convention, and Board Member at Nacosa.

Kitso Information Development Centre offers training courses and hot meals

By Masego MaFaTa (GRounDUp)

On 21 March 1960, apartheid police opened fire on people protesting against the pass laws in Sharpeville, south of Gauteng. Today, the old Sharpeville police station is a place of hope.

The Sharpeville Massacre of 1960, in which 69 people died, is commemorated on Human Rights Day. The township, 75 kilometres south of Johannesburg, has potholed roads and problems with water supply and refuse collection.

The museum commemorating the massacre and the graveyard where those killed by the police are buried are in a dilapidated condition.

But the old police station is a hive of activity. Since 2020, the Kitso Information Development Centre has been housed here, offering computer courses and life skills courses to the community. The computer courses are accredited by the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA)

A big, white sign at the main gate of the police station welcomes visitors to the centre with its motto “empower inspirationally”.

People come from all over the township, including three informal settlements, says centre manager Nicho Ntema.

“We also run a nutrition programme, providing one hot meal per day to community members, as well as breakfast and lunch for students attending our courses,” says Ntema. It provides about 270 plates of food a day.

High unemployment, poverty and food insecurity are ever present in Sharpeville, according to Ntema.

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High unemployment, poverty and food insecurity are ever present in Sharpeville, according to Ntema.

Monyane Matsose, 31, completed the life skills and computer training programme last year and is now responsible for the centre’s vegetable garden. Vegetables are donated to community members in need and used in the kitchen for the daily meals provided. “Before coming here, I didn’t know anything about growing and planting seedlings. Kitso helped me learn about agriculture. I have learnt skills that will help me improve my life,” says Matsose.

Kitso secretary Nkapu Ranake says the centre is funded by the Department of Social Development. She said Kitso would like to expand the number of courses offered and cater for older people as well as youth.

A few metres away from the old police station are the Sharpeville Exhibition Centre and Garden of Remembrance, where monuments display the names of those who died in the 1960 massacre. The sites were opened in 2002. Visitors to the Exhibition Centre are greeted by an old sign with fading names of heritage sites in Sharpeville. There is a bright wall mural of former ANC president Oliver Tambo, but the centre’s walls are cracked and paint is peeling.

The Sedibeng District Municipality is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the museum. In May 2010, the District Municipality awarded a contract of over R9-million to construction companies to upgrade the Exhibition Centre and its Garden of Remembrance.

Asked what was being done to maintain the site, museum guide Phoebe Rabohlale declined to comment, though the decay of the site was obvious.

Nomasomi Limako continues to raise the flag of people with disabilities in her community and beyond

LONG LIVE LOLLIEPOP (1965 - 2020)

Mapepeza Newspaper co-founder and leader. We’ll always remember you Chief!

Sports Sports

Mzansi hosts African School Football Champs!

BY THANDISIZWE MGUDLWA

South Africa is set to host the firstever Continental Final phase of the CAF African Schools Football Championship at King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban from April 5-8.

The historic event has attracted over 44,000 boys and girls from 41 African countries under the age

of 15 to not only compete on the field but also participate in capacitybuilding programs.

This competition is the culmination of a journey that started with schools’ competitions at the national level and then the zonal phase. Some of the top schools in Africa will compete for the ultimate prize during the Continental Phase of the

competition. The event is expected to be a weekend of festivities in KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, with the final being played on Saturday, April 8, 2023.

According to CAF General Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba, “For the first time, CAF is not just talking about developing the youth, but we are investing in a tangible way to the future of Africa. We are giving hope, we are giving a platform.”

The CAF African Schools Football Championship was first announced by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, in April 2021. Motsepe’s vision to invest in youth has been realized with the championship already impacting many lives.

Thanks to a donation of USD 10 million by the Motsepe Foundation, schools will be able to use the mon-

ey for development projects.

The prize money for the Zonal Phase is as follows:

• Winner (boys & girls) $100,000

• Runner-up (boys & girls) $75,000

• Third place (boys & girls) $50,000

The prize money for the Continental Phase is as follows:

• Winner (boys & girls) $300,000

• Runner-up (boys & girls) $200,000

• Third place (boys & girls) $150,000

“We have a lot of confident that we will work together with SAFA, with South African Government and KwaZulu Natal to ensure that this is a success,” said Mosengo-Omba.

The CAF African Schools Football Championship is not only important to CAF but to Africa as a whole. It is an investment in the future of African football and a platform for young people to showcase their talent.

UHulumeni utshala imali kungqalasizinda yezemidlalo!

By Khanyisile MaZibiKo

UHulumeni ubeke u-R252 wezigidi zamaradi njengesibonelelo sengqalasizinda kamasipala esizinikele ukuze kwakhiwe futhi kuthuthukiswe izikhungo zezemidlalo zasekhaya onyakeni wezimali ka-2022/23.

Ngokwe-International Cooperation, Trade and Security (ICTS) Cluster, kwabelwe abomasipala abangashumi amabili nesikhombisa (27) babalelwe kulonyaka wezimali ukuthuthukisa ingqalasizinda.

“Kuzosetshenziswa izigidi ezinhlanu zamarandi (R5 million) ekufakweni kwezindawo eziyishumi zokuzivocavoca zangaphandle kanye namapaki okudlala ezingane ,ezophinde idale namathuba emisebenzi engalinganela kumashumi amahlanu(50) emiphakathini yendawo.

“Onyakeni wezimali ka-2022/23, izinsiza zomtapo wolwazi ezintsha ezingamashumi amabili nesishiyagalolunye (29),kanye nengqalasizinda ekhona yomtapo wolwazi engamashumi amane (40) zihlelelwe ukuxhaswa ngezimali ngesabelo mali esingalinganiselwa ku R310 wezigidi zamarandi.”

Isitatimende esikhishwe yi-ICTS cluster ngoMsombuluko.

I-Ningizimu Afrika izobamba imicimbi emikhulu yezemidlalo yamazwe ngamazwe.

I-Ningizimu Afrika izosingatha imicimbi emikhulu yezemidlalo yamazwe ngamazwe ehlukahlukene kulonyaka.

“I-Ningizimu Afrika isingathe inkomishi yomhlaba yabesifazane i-T20 eKapa,efinyelele kowamanqamu ngeSonto,mhlaka-26 kuNhlolanja 2023. Kowamanqamu, nakuba izintokazi zehlule ngama-

run ayishumi nesishiyagalolunye (19)ziqophe umlando ngokuqeda ngendondo yesiliva,” kusho i-ICTS cluster.

I-Ningizimu Afrika izophinde isingathe indebe yomhlaba ye-Netball 2023 ezoba se-Cape Town International Conference Centre,kusukela ngomhlaka -17 kuNtulikazi kuyela ku-08 kuNcwaba 2023.

Ukusingathwa kwemicimbi yezemidlalo emikhulu yamazwe ngamazwe, kuyingxenye yesu leNingizimu Afrika lokuvuselela umnotho, okugxilwe kakhulu efeni elihlala njalo.

Lezi zenzakalo ezishiya ngemuva ukuze kuzuze izwe.

Uhlelo lokwakha kabusha nokuvuselela umnotho luhlose ukwakha umnotho omusha futhi luveze ikhono langempela leNingizimu Afrika.

Inhloso enkulu yaloluhlelo ukwakha umnotho ozinzile ,oqinile futhi obandakanya wonke umuntu.

Okulandelayo yimicimbi yamazwe ngamazwe ezoba kuleli:

• Indebe yomhlaba yebhola lomnqakiswano, ngo-Ntulikazi/Ncwaba 2023 (R90m phezu kwe-MTEF eqala ngo 2020);

• Indebe yomhlaba ye ICC Women T20 yango-2023;

• I-Formula E, CT ku-Nhlolanja 2023/24/25/26/27;

• Imiqhudelwano yomhlaba wonke ye-Table Tennins, e-Durban, kuNhlaba 2023.

• I-World Masters Rowing Ragatta, Roodeplaat ku-Mandulo 2023.