Northern Cape
TEL: 053 8312331
WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
WWW.EXPRESSNEWS.CO.ZA
Back from the dead
} Boipelo Mere
THERE was a knock at the door. Neo Isaac Bulling almost gave his mom a heart attack when he suddenly appeared in front of her when she opened the front door. Ruth Motsamai said she almost suffered a stroke and had to go to the doctor after seeing her son alive on 21 March. “I thought I was dreaming because I had prepared myself to one day see my son’s face in the newspaper amongst the unknown dead,” she said. Ruth thought her son was dead after his disappearance on 30 December 2012 as they were unsuccessful in finding him at any of the government institutions in the various provinces. Baratang Bulling, his elder sister, was the last one who heard from him on the night he had called her to inform her that he was in danger. Northern Cape Express published an article with his sister’s plea for him to return home. The family remained glued to newspapers and news channels, visited hospital mortuaries and police stations in different provinces in search of Neo. They became even more concerned when they read an article in one of the newspapers that exposed funeral undertakers who killed the ill in order to create business. Neo revealed that he had been admitted to the Leratong Hospital, Kagiso, Krugersdorp, and that he had been unconscious the whole time.
He described how a taxi from Johannesburg had dropped him off in Krugersdorp while he was on his way home from visiting Lynette Mokae, his girlfriend and the mother of their two children. He said there had been no taxis coming to Kimberley, therefore his determination to reach home had made him decide to catch a local taxi to Krugersdorp as he had been convinced that he would find transport along the way. The last thing he could remember was being attacked by four men in Krugersdorp. “I remember hiking at night in Krugersdorp, trying to get to the N12. I was alone in the vicinity when a white car stopped in front of me. It seemed strange to me that when I approached the car the driver got out and walked straight towards me in the middle of the night,” said Neo. Neo said that the driver, whom he could still identify, had pulled out a knife and had tried to stab him. But I retreated and that was when he tore my shirt. While fighting off my attacker I realised that there were three other men approaching me from behind. The last thing I heard, was the thud of someone hitting me with a heavy object. I felt the effect on my neck and spine, and then it went dark,” Neo said. “At one time I heard a woman screaming ‘ba bolaile ngwana wa batho (they killed him)’,” said Neo. According to Neo, he regained consciousness in a hospital bed at the Leratong Hospital. “When I asked the nurse how
THE Express Group of newspapers, which includes Express Northern Cape, is now online at www.express-news.co.za Not only can readers now read the physical copy of the newspaper, you can also page through your favourite newspaper online. Readers can now be a part of the
growing interactive Express Nothern Cape online community. A page version of the newspaper will appear every Wednesday on the website and will keep you updated with the latest in news, sport and photos to keep you up to date with the latest happenings in your area.
FREE
A WARM WELCOME: Neo Bulling surrounded by his loved ones Lynette Mokae (left), his mother, Ruth Motsamai (right), and the couple’s children, Bontle Mokae (2) and Pelontle Mokae (10 months). Photo: Boipelo Mere
long I had been in hospital, she responded, ‘wa re malatsi, ga o re dikgwedi’,” Neo said with humour. He further explained how one of the hospital cleaners had agreed to sign him out of the hospital, organised him a lift to Kimberley and gave him taxi fare. “On arrival in Kimberley I was still confused and did not recognise anything. I decided not to catch a taxi in fear of not knowing where to get off and instead just walked home. I do not know how, but I found myself in my yard,” he said.
Lynette said she was happy and relieved that her boyfriend was back. After Neo’s disappearance she came to Kimberley and stayed with his relatives, where she also suffered accusations from some of the family members that she was the cause of his disappearance. “I am so relieved as I felt guilty and stressed. I was always crying and blaming myself for allowing him to leave Johannesburg when it was already late,” said Lynette shyly. Neo said people in the street still
gave him strange looks because they thought they were seeing a ghost. “Some even ask if it is really me,” he said and laughed. He is still undergoing regular treatment for his neck and spinal cord injuries. “Although it is a concern for the family, we trust that God gave him a second chance and will look after him as he did not completely lose his job at the Kathu mines. He was transferred to Rustenburg,” said Ruth who tried to put on a brave face.
The website will not only keep you updated with the latest events, but will also be a valuable (and profitable) commodity for our current and new advertisers and will reach an even wider, worldwide market. You will now be able share your opinion on the latest stories in the newspaper with a simple click of a
button. Various groups, including cultural, sports or even welfare organisations will also be able to load their details and will thus reach their audiences even faster. Columns, opinion pieces, letters, art and culture news will now also be available at the click of a button.
On the website: ) Sport ) Columns ) Letters ) Reader photos ) News videos ) Video interviews ) Photo galleries ) Reader tips and suggestions.
‘Express NC’ now also available online
Northern Cape
Tel. Fax
053 831 2331 053 831 2330
PO Box 1583 Kimberley 8300
Editor
Boipelo Mere
Sales Manager Johan Rossouw
2
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
NEWS
Programme has no winner
} Boipelo Mere
ELIZABETH THABETHE, the deputy minister of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), announced that there was no winner amongst the ten provincial schools that had participated in the Techno-girl Entrepreneurship Workshop Programme over the weekend. Tears of joy and disappointment were shed after the programme. The workshop was part of the DTI’s Technology for Women in Business (TWIB) aimed at inspiring young girls to take advantage of study opportunities that existed in science and technology for the advancement of the economy. Only the Steinkopf High School made it close to winning and were afforded the opportunity to rework their business plan, which focused on liquid compost. The gr. 10 and gr. 11 group of nine learners have to do another presentation in Septem-
GEORDENE ALLEY expressed her dissatisfaction in tears to the deputy minister.
THE Steinkopf High School from Namakwa presented the most promising presentation.
ber. The Techno-girl Entrepreneurship Programme is aimed at removing stereotypes and bias that often prevent girl learners from taking science-based subjects at school and pursuing careers in science and technology with the focus on entrepreneurship. The DTI is working on critical
trepreneurial ideas were measured in terms of credibility, feasibility, practicability, originality and sustainability. The business ideas presented had to respond to pertinent issues of technology and innovation. They also had to highlight issues of social responsibility, emphasising recycling thereby de-
intervention needed to nurture and grow the talents of many girls in becoming the successful businesswomen of tomorrow. The schools were tasked with the responsibility of supporting these girls in developing a viable business plan which they then presented to a panel of judges. The learners’ en-
monstrating that the youngsters were aware of the negative cost to the environment brought about by waste. Prizes included desktop computers awarded to the winning schools by the DTI, as well as a four-in-one printer, which would improve the administrative efficiency of the schools. “This programme has previously succeeded in promoting entrepreneurship among young women who are discovering suitable careers in the mentioned fields. It further encourages young women to become creative thinkers by designing a product and supporting the idea with sound business princi-
ples,” said Thabethe. Steinkopf currently can choose only two of their members to attend the DTI Budget Speech in Cape Town. It depends on their next presentation whether they will be declared the winners or not. Their prize will include a trip to Malaysia in June and 11 cellphones for themselves and their teacher. Steinkopf won only the computers. However, the deputy minister awarded the cellphones that were available to the Tetlanyo High School for being the most exemplary and outstanding school. According to Thabethe, the Tetlanyo learners were go-getters and had been
the most shining and focused school throughout the programme. “Even though their business plan was not good enough to get a second chance or to win, they had been the most participating team throughout the weekend. “They were the only school that could provide an answer when I asked a question, whether they were right or wrong. So, they are the ones who deserve to win the cellphones,” emphasised the minister. Unlike the Steinkopf High School who were told by the Thabethe that they did not deserve to go on stage and take pictures with her, all officials
Building a world-class diamond group Kimberley Underground Mines JV
Kimberley Underground Mines JV is situated in the town of Kimberley in the Northern Cape. The Mine consists of 3 conventional slushier drift block cave mines.
IT Support Officer The successful candidate will be responsible for responding to and resolving incidents involving information systems and related equipment used at the workplace and providing assistance to all network users. Tasks and responsibilities: • Record and action user problems, incidents and requests • Provide first line problem solving to end users • Evaluate hardware and software problems and request/take appropriate action • Diagnose network problems/plan and execute solutions • Be responsible for all IT-related equipment, policies, asset register and all warranty claims/exchanges • Maintain active directory • Update user and computer accounts • Build, manage and maintain healthy internal relationship with users • Ensure adherence to Company, Security & SHE policies, procedures and legal requirements • Install and maintain network infrastructure, telephone, surveillance and access control systems. Minimum requirements: • Grade 12 • A+ and N+ Certificate/recognised Certificate in Computer Studies/diploma in an IT-related field • Valid Code 08 driver’s licence • Minimum of 3 years’ experience as an IT Technician. Other skills/competencies: • Knowledge of and exposure to hardware and networks • System skills on Microsoft Office Suite • Telephone etiquette • Knowledge of IT and infrastructure business process/IT practices • Administrative, analytical, reporting, liaising and engaging skills • Ability to plan, organise, lead, consult and evaluate • Ability to advise on system policies and best practices • The position requires physical manual labour – in terms of the installation of PCs at the various workplaces. Kimberley Underground Mine JV is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right to appoint. Preference will be given to EE applicants. Pre-screening, profile testing, onmine assessments, medical and security clearances form part of the minimum requirement and selection process. Short-listed candidates will be required to attend a panel interview. Employment of the successful candidate is subject to passing on-mine induction and the aforementioned criteria. Please complete an application form (available on http://www.petradiamonds.com/ careers/current-vacancies) and forward, together with your résumé, qualifications and ID, to E2-Recruitment@petradiamonds.com or fax: 086 659 1334 before or on 22 April 2013. Please note that incomplete application forms and documentation will not be considered. If you have not heard from us within 30 days of the closing date, please regard your application as unsuccessful. http://www.petradiamonds.com/careers/current-vacancies www.humanjobs.co.za
Human Communications 97908
Photos: Boipelo Mere
and the judges were called on stage to take a group picture with Tetlanyo High. However, the learners of Steinkopf expressed their dissatisfaction with this unfair treatment. They saw it unfair that they had been dissed, even though they were the closest to winning. “We doubt that we’ll be able to do another presentation because we were treated unfairly. “We all put in equal efforts and worked hard on our presentation. And now we have to choose only two members from our team. “It will also be more difficult because of the June examinations that are approaching. The exams are very important to us,” said Geordene Alley, the Steinkopf team leader, who was in tears. Even though they were happy for Tetlanyo, Alley told Northern Cape Express they felt they deserved more credit. “Our confidence level is very low after this programme. We are now expected to re-work our business plan and we don’t even know how to better it. It was challenging because we are in different grades. We are really not looking forward to it,” she added. “We are so disappointed. We expected that there would be a winner, even if it was not us. I mean, there we were, excited to be called to the front, smiling all the way, only to be criticised and told to stand below as we did not deserve to go on stage. This in front in everyone,” said another one. The team’s teacher, who refused to be named, said he was disappointed with the decision because it was evident that their spirits were very low.
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
3
UCC reaches out to the needy } Boipelo Mere KAMOHELO MOLOANTOA, who is originally from Lesotho, was more than grateful for the soup and bread dished out for him at the dumping site on Saturday. The unemployed father was prepared to spend another day without food, were it not for the United Congregational Church (UCC) and the Native Independent Congregational Church (NICC) Youth members who offered them a meal for the day. He was amongst the people who received a meal and clothes from the youth members, in partnership with the SAPS Provincial Youth Desk and Youth Against Crime last week. Moloantoa saw an opportunity to earn a living by gathering plastic bottles at the municipal dumping site and selling them for the past two weeks. According to him, his jobless situation pushed him to try a living at the dumping site as he is now jobless after losing a temporary job as a contractor. In response to the safety concerns on the site, he responded that he preferred to
scratch around inside the yard because it was too crowded and unsafe at the gate. “I choose to collect plastic bottles as other scavengers mostly fight for copper and prefer to wait for incoming cars at the gate, which makes them crowded and more dangerous as they end up fighting one another and that raises safety concerns for drivers,” added Moloantoa. The youth members from the two churches proceeded to Santa in Galeshewe where they also offered food and entertainment to children who are mostly seen loitering at the Homestead Shopping Complex.They had an opportunity to do house to house visits where they interacted with the youth, parents and children in the area on the day and realised the need for expertise knowledge in addressing certain needs in Santa. “We discovered the lack of educational opportunities, high alcohol consumption and a high rate of pregnancy in the area that no one sees as a problem. “We also heard the youth complaining that there are no job opportunities for them, which leads them to
rather hang around at a local shebeen,” said Dimakatso, one of the organisers of the programme. She added that they were already in the process of inviting youth from other churches to come on board and create more programmes where they would involve the community of Santa in Youth Month. “We as the youth have to take it upon ourselves to protect ourselves while finding solutions to the problems that we face,” added Lechwenyo. She revealed that the UCC and NICC youth have already started on intervention measures where they had a stay-awake on Human Rights Day and invited motivational speakers. “We tackled topics like students, rape, sugardaddy and sugarmummy issues. We also had a team building and leadership workshop,” she continued. Lechwenyo further emphasised that the youth are faced with the biggest challenge of breaking down the boundaries of religion and culture in order to combat social economic issues that they face in the present economic climate.
IGLO DITHEBE appreciated the youth members’ gesture. Pictured are Tshegofatso Mogorosi and Dimakatso Lechwenyo dishing out food. Photo: Boipelo Mere
CHRISTOPHER MASHILO from SAPS Youth Desk with Letlhogonolo Seekoei, Kamohelo Moloantoa(behind) and Thato Sebeela. Photo: Boipelo Mere
UTILITY RUBBER STAMPS. Same-day service Tel./faks: 053 832 1951.
LUUKSE KAMERS MET TV IN KIMBERLEY. Selfhelpontbyt ingesl. Enkelkamer: R300 p.p.p. nag. Dubbelkamer: R200 p.p.p. nag. Skakel 083 294 2637/084 240 7356.
VERKOOP U 'N VOERTUIG of ruil in: Skakel my gerus vir 'n transaksie. Thinus 072 472 8686/053 963 1409.
CALVINIA: NOORDKAAP. DIGTE bossieveld. Gedeelte Spaarbos met sonkrag. Grootte 2712 - 1708. R850/ha, 7 kampe van 20 hektaar. Ploeggrond- gedeelte, Botterkloof. Grootte 820 - 9521. R1 000/ hektaar. 3 kampe, 10 beeste, 100 ooie met water. Tel. 027 218 1364. Skakel Tys tussen 14:00 16:00.
EARN MONEY WITH OUR unique COPY and PASTE system. No experience, no qualifications needed. Earn R800 per day - only 60 minutes a day needed. Join a legitimate, registered
company with proven success, income guaranteed, with or without a PC. SMS name, postal address and postal code for a full info brochure to: 071 900 9265
EARN R800 IN YOUR FIRST WEEK. GUARANTEED. Data Hub needs some workers to fill out forms with or without a computer.
Easy step-by-step tutorials. Own hours. SMS name, postal or e-mail address to: 073 374 8703 or datahubb@yahoo.com
4
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
NEWS
Letters
Express Letters, P.O. Box 1583, Kby, 8300 Boipelo Mere Boipelo.mere@volksblad.com Tel: 053-831-2331. Fax: 053-831-2330
Inheritance leads to rivalry } Boipelo Mere
Unsung heroes
DIMAKATSO LECHWENYO, Kimberley: BANTU BIKO once said: “The blacks are tired of standing at the touchlines to witness a game that they should be playing. They want to do things for themselves and by themselves.” This is one of the first things that came to mind when I saw the picture that accompanied the article “De Beers celebrates 125 years” published on Wednesday, 10 April 2013. It is a great ache that my grandfather worked on those mines, my uncle worked on those and my people continue to work on these mines. Our people form the workforce that grind in search of gold they will never wear, mining diamonds they can never afford. Money is not everything yet when you are one of thousands of miners earning a living wage money could become a matter of this country’s standard of living. Giving your labourer who forms part of the production process a 13th cheque or a bonus at the end of the financial year makes no difference. A wise man knows that if you give a man a fish you feed him for a day but teach him how to fish and you will feed him for a lifetime. The Oppenheimer family that owns the De Beers Group have had a chance to make a significant difference within the communities where they carry out business but in my opinion they fail to teach our communities to fish. Our people continue to be dependent on this corporation in order to be able to feed their families. When an opportunity was available for the De Beers Group to sell their shares I wonder whether they ever considered to donate a 3% share to the communities within which they carry out business. Sometimes even social responsibility is not enough. Our people are continuously treated like charity cases when it is their hard work and for some their lives that were sacrificed in building these billion rand corporations. In the middle of Kimberley the history of the diamond rush is scattered all over. We are constantly told of Cecil John Rhodes and Barnato yet you never hear or see a picture Orekeng Lechwenyo, Gaolatlwe Diphikwe or any name my people are able to recognise. As De Beers celebrates 125 years . . . I find it my responsibility to pay honour to all our people that never received a standing ovation, some who have lost their fingers, their legs and some their lives.
LETTIE DICHABE in the doorway of her late parents’ house that she said her brothers had sold without her consent. Photo: Boipelo Mere
THE late Sarah Oliphant and her late husband will be turning in their graves after being stripped off their parental dignity by their remaining children. In their lifetime Sarah and her husband had eight children and by the time Sarah passed away all of them were married and had their own homes. Lettie was married to the late Mohammed Dichabe, but she continued to live at home. As was the case with many black people who could not own property in the apartheid era the Oliphants had only the government issued house in Adam Nomakola to leave to their children. Isaac and Willie Oliphant had settled in Roodepan with their families. Their five other siblings had unfortunately passed away leaving Isaac, Willie and Lettie the joint owners of their parents’ estate. The three were living in harmony, even when Willie got divorced and left his home in Roodepan to return to his parents home to rebuild his life. After overcoming the pains of the divorce, he met and married a new love and is staying in Lorato Park. In the meantime Isaac (the eldest brother) registered their parents’ home in his name in 1993 and because he is married in community of property, the property is therefore part of his marriage to the exclusion of his other siblings. “I received a letter from Van der Wall Attorneys that stated that our parents’ house had been donated by Isaac to Willie as a wedding gift. While still shocked, Willie and his new wife came here to tell me that I had to vacate the house by the end of April,’’ said Lettie Dichabe. Lettie said she had been ad-
vised to go check this at the Deeds Office and had been shocked to find that indeed the house was in Isaac and his wife’s name and had just been donated to Willie and his wife as a wedding gift. “The problem is that I am not educated, so my brothers think I am not wise. I know for instance that by law all our names should appear under our deceased parents’ names as beneficiaries. Whoever did the transfer should have asked for the surviving siblings and the death certificates of the departed ones. It has not happened and that can only be attributed to some kind of fraud,’’ said Lettie. “Is it possible for children to strip their parents of the dignity of having left them a house? asked Lettie. Lettie mentioned that she had always toyed with the idea of selling the house, but had always contacted her brothers. “What Lettie told you is only half the truth,’’ said her brothers when asked to give their side of the story. “The truth is that our late mother registered the house in Isaac’s name and none of us had problems with that,” said Willie Oliphant. “When our younger sister proposed that we sell the house, Isaac did not have a problem and we started the arrangements to have the house sold and I opted to buy it, so that I could pay them off,” continued Willie. “The sale was concluded with her full knowledge and because the house was sold for R60 000, we have to share what remains after paying legal and municipal costs. Her share is already available. We’ll never rob her. Did she tell you that she had tried to sell the house for R15 000?’’ asked Willie. The matter of the house can be mediated after Lettie engaged the Legal Aid Board for relief.
Operation Naledi huge success THE first of its Operation Naledi was reported to be a success whereby senior police members carried out duties so as to set an example to junior members on how to conduct policing duties. Altogether 122 SAPS senior officers and managers, 14 local traffic officials and eight Home Affairs officials were commissioned to perform operational duties in Galeshewe, Kagisho, Roodepan and the greater Kimberley area. Various actions ranging from static road-blocks, vehicle control points, stop-and-searches, enhanced visibility by foot, vehicle and air-wing, tracing of known and wanted suspects, compliance visits to taverns, raiding of illegal shebeens, visits to businesses, visits to Roodepan flats and distribution of pamphlets were performed on the two days of 12 and 13 April. According to a report from Lieutenant Donald Mdhluli of Corporate Communication at the SAPS, 13 suspects were arrested for crimes ranging from assault with intention to cause grievous bodily harm, house-breaking and theft, robbery, driving under the influence of alcohol, theft and possession of dagga. Altogether 84 litres of liquor were confiscated, 699 empty bottles for liquor were seized, 70 crates as well as 2 fridges and 1 freezer were also confiscated. Altogether 25 kg of dagga estimated at R30 000 (with a suspect) was seized. Four knives were further seized. The report further revealed that 99 traffic fines were issued and 9 people were arrested for traffic offences. Mdhluli also stated that 3 654 people were searched during the search of 1 517 vehicles. Ten undocumented persons were arrested when 50 taverns and 120 flats were visited.
AN SAPS official during a visit to a local tavern. Photos: Supplied
RIGHT: Lt Donald Mdhluli with an officer of the Department of Home Affairs.
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
5
NEWS
The voice of my nation } Dimakatso Lechwenyo
THE deputy minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Rejoice Mabudafhasi, fixing a leaking tap at one of the identified households.
Gloves off in water war } Boipelo Mere
IN a fight against water leaks the deputy minister of Water and Environmental Affairs, Rejoice Mabudafhasi, and the Kareeberg Local Municipality got their hands dirty to fix leaking taps at identified households experiencing water leaks in Carnarvon. This was during Mabudafhasi’s recent visit to the area as part of the water conservation public education and awareness campaign and deepening the National Water Week theme: Water is life, Respect it, Conserve it, Enjoy it. The Kareeberg Local Municipality is amongst the municipalities who incur a high loss of revenue through unaccounted water loss exacerbated by leaking pipes and taps. Leaking taps were fixed at five households on the day whereby the municipality will continue the programme. The deputy minister further urged the community to report internal tap leakages to their local municipality as well in order for the municipality to take charge and fix them. This is unlike before, where the municipality was only in charge of fixing burst
pipes and taps that were outside the yard. The Department of Water Affairs introduced the War on Leaks Project which aims to eradicate leaks at household level, educate users about water conservation, fixing leaks, creating jobs for young people and skills development with the aim of reducing water loss by half cum 2014. The deputy minister highlighted that South Africa was ranked amongst the 30 driest countries in the world, although its current water supply was adequate to meet the country’s current needs. “There could be a problem in meeting future needs if we do not act now to secure effective and timeous smart water-management options. Water leaks are a major cause for concern that if not arrested timeously, might lead to disaster,” she pointed out. The deputy minister further reminded how lack of access to water had an tremendous effect on many South Africans’ health, their development and their dignity during the apartheid era. “South Africa is already faced with
scarce water resources and is further threatened by high levels of pollution in dams and rivers. We are also faced with water wastage that occurs in our homes, schools and businesses as a result of leaking taps and pipes,” added Mabudafhasi. She further announced the implementation of the 2020 Vision Programme which is a school-based and community outreach programme. “This programme continues to educate gr. R to gr. 12 learners about integrated water resource management, climate change and the environment including water-related careers. “The respectful use and conservation of water starts with our children, but this does not mean that adults cannot adopt water-saving practices. Whilst it is our children and our youth who are in the learning phase, our adults are the ones who are active in commerce and industry, and who will also share the responsibility of guiding our young people to implement good water practices for tomorrow,” concluded the deputy minister. Mabudafhasi proceeded to plant trees at the Carnarvon Primary School after a Public Participation Programme.
ALLOW me to be the voice that speaks to pieces of my nation The generation of rhythmic sisters who swing their hips across the streets of Galeshewe Sisters of DIMAKATSO mine who name their LECHWENYO children Lerato for this is what their hearts ache for Sisters whom seek their beauty in the eyes of fella boys who drive snazzy cars and wear power suits and dik-sand ninga’s who wear gold around their neck and across their teeth Sisters who know they deserve respect and honour Yet they settle for bad boys who smell of cheap perfume, treat sisters like trash And scream ‘tjsek’ to prove a point These are my sisters that I hug with words from the inner depths of my soul Pieces of me that lies within the beauty queens of my society These are the black roses, the sunflowers, the blue diamonds and the white gold That is more valuable then the diamonds of Kimberley’s Big Hole These are the sisters who find themselves in the claws of abuse, hunger and no self-esteem Where any job from the government is a blessing and an opportunity to prove themselves These are BEE sisters who dress in overalls and sandals in order to make their wildest dreams a reality Allow me to speak the minds of the offspring of these mothers who strive to build Families for their children Allow me to tap into the games of the 9 year olds who begin to speak French Before they know how to spell it... Young boys who do not know the feeling of being held by their own father Yet know that babies were conceived on the nights when sisters were brought home drunk By some guy their heard but know they will never see again Some of these boys grow to be the men that we love Yet does not know it for his idea of love is buying a sister a bottle of booze And dancing like Rihanna and Beyoncé seeking the attention of Jay-Z Once they leave the club, its give and take and he leaves her drunk at her mama’s door Attempting to be the guy who is heard and will never be seen Allow me to be the voice that says that judgement should not be passed Until you know the story and come to find that you are part of that society Allow my voice to tell every woman that no matter what they say you are beautiful No matter how many times you have fallen you are worthy of only the best What you have is sacred to you Put a small value on yourself and no man shall raise your price You were fashioned to be able to overcome pain Take 5 and stand tall….for you endured it all and you are still STANDING….
6
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
NEWS
‘Ruth was a loyal leader’ } Boipelo Mere
Awarded for outstanding work during workshop THE Tetlanyo High School’s team of ten girls won the heart of the deputy minister of Trade and Industry during the Techno-girl Entrepreneurship Workshop over the weekend. They were awarded cellphones for being the most examplary and outstanding school throughout the programme. Photo: Boipelo Mere
Diligent learner going to Malaysia } Boipelo Mere
BOITUMELO OLIPHANT was given a golden opportunity by the deputy minister, Elizabeth Thabethe. Photo: Boipelo Mere
BOITUMELO OLIPHANT (15) of the Tetlanyo High School is carrying the whole province on her shoulders. She will be travelling with the deputy minister of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Elizabeth Thabethe, to the annual Global Summit for Women in Malaysia with various countries. Oliphant will further attend the DTI’s Budget Vote in Cape Town and the DTI’s prestigious TWIB Awards Ceremony later this year. This is after the gr. 10 learner was picked out of a 100 girls by the deputy minister for being the most outstanding and exemplary learner. All these opportunities she single-handedly obtained during the Techno-girl Entrepreneurship Workshop over the weekend. For three days Boitumelo has been the one in charge of her team during the workshop. Thabethe was impressed by her leadership skills as her team was the most disciplined of all. In tears, she also bravely promised the deputy minister that she would not have a baby before she was independent enough whilst thanking her for the opportunities. According to Boitumelo, this is the second time that she is awarded a deserving opportunity due to her hard work. She revealed that in 2005 she
went to the United Kingdom (UK) for the Learner Skills Exchange Programme. “I am so happy that I can’t describe my emotions. I can only direct my gratitude to my team for allowing me this opportunity. I am more happy because I made all of those around me proud. I must acknowledge my teachers and family, including all the role players in our business plan, including my father,” said Boitumelo. She further thanked God who answered her prayers when she prayed and asked for his guidance. In response to the challenges of being a team leader Boitumelo admitted and added that her team understood when she would become a bit bossy. “They chose me as a team leader. I am a perfectionist and always stress about punctuality and order. For the past three days I woke them up at 04:30 and checked if their uniforms and presentations were ready,” she added. Boitumelo revealed to Northern Cape Express that she was being raised by her father after her mom passed away in 2009. She also trains part time at the Transnet School of Rail as a train driver. “Engineering is not really my field, it’s just that I am an active person who likes to try everything. I am doing Commercial subjects and Maths and dreams of becoming a chartered accountant,” concluded Boitumelo.
THE South African Democratic Union (Sadtu) in the Northern Cape mourns the untimely passing away of its deputy provincial secretary, Ruth Oliphant. Oliphant passed away due to an unsuccessful hernia operation at the Mediclinic Kimberley. She is also reported to have served in the PELRC of the union, was a former chairperson of the Urban FET council and a community activist in the ANC and SACP local structures. The provincial secretary, Sipho Mayongo, described Oliphant as a loyal and dedicated leader who served the union from school level to provincial level with total commitment and sacrifice. “All members will miss her tenacious leadership skills and expertise in our quest for total transformation of our public education. “As a parent to her two children Ruth Oliphant was excellent, given the working class she comes from,” said Mayongo. The memorial service will be held today at the Social Centre, Galeshewe, at 12:00. Her funeral will take place on Saturday at her home in Cecilia Street, Colville.
THE deputy provincial secretary of Sadtu, Ruth Oliphant, has passed away. Photo: Supplied
Vavi gives stark account on working class } Boipelo Mere SPEAKING to more than 260 enthusiastic Cosatu provincial shop stewards in the Northern Cape, Zwelinzima Vavi gave a stark account of the state of the working class struggle and the possible demise of the glorious movement which helped to achieve workers’ gains South Africa is proud of. Looking inwardly Vavi laid the problem at the doorstep of Cosatu. “The wrong thing is that Cosatu no longer trains shop stewards, there is a collapse of discipline, there is no longer training for leaders and organisers, no support for officials, and there is a social gap between the officials and the workers,” said Vavi. He continued to tell shop stewards that in a survey they con-
ducted to check on their success in defending their members, it proved that 54% of cases are won by employers at the CCMA, as opposed to the 46% won by workers. “How can it be that the body we helped set up, is the one that seems to work against us? The answer lies in the quality of service we provide to our members. Servicing members is the life and death of the federation,” continued Vavi. Vavi, who has been in the working class struggle from the time he worked at Vaal Reefs, made an example of worker representatives who often go to hearings unprepared, untrained and mostly arrive late. He attributed this to the lack of resourcing officials. Vavi encouraged shop stewards to do basic things expected of
ZWELINZIMA VAVI shows the social gap between the officials and the workers. Photo: Boipelo Mere them, such as having pens and notebooks. Cosatu is engaged in a listening campaign dubbed Ear
on the floor from which they hope to gather the concerns of the workers. Vavi asked shop stewards to have programmes to close the gap between them and the unemployed as a sign of solidarity. Turning to corruption, Vavi said that the perception that the governing party, and by extension the alliance, is corrupt is going to haunt them in the next election. “As a result we in the alliance must be united and that unity must be based on principles,” said Vavi. However, throughout his animated address, the applause and standing ovation one could feel the threat hovering over his head. This coming Friday, some unions will start to testify against Vavi on the controversial charge of
corruption and disloyalty. The charge stems from the allegation that Vavi sold the old Cosatu House for R10 million to his family while Popcru wanted to buy it for R15 million. The disloyalty charge stems from allegations that Vavi supports Dr Mamphele Ramphele’s Agang Party. “I promise, if they can find me guilty, I will simply walk away.” The gathering was also addressed by Norman Shushu of the SACP, Anele Gxoyiya, Barbra Bartlett of the ANC and Robbie Tsikwe of Sanco. The 2013 Mayday event will be celebrated in the Galeshewe Stadium in Kimberley to commemmorate the ten-year anniversary of the Saulspoort bus tragedy that will be addressed by Pres. Jacob Zuma.
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
7
Nominate a deserving sports star ARE you good at sport, or is someone in your school or place of education good at sport? Are you a young coach who is coaching future stars? Are you getting people active at your school, community or gym? We want to hear from you and make you famous. In 2008 Z PR and SuperSport identified the need amongst the youth to get more active. With this in mind SuperSport and Let’s Play, in association with Media24’s Express Group, have launched a special initiative: We want to find and give recognition to learners at either primary or high school who excel in sport or who are helping others to be
more active. The SuperSport Let’s Play Star of the Month is a competition for anyone aged 6 to 18. You can nominate yourself or be nominated by a friend, or by any teacher, lecturer or coach at your school or place of education. You can even be nominated by a family member or friend who knows how good you are. The winner is chosen from all the nominations received for that month. The monthly winner will receive a Let’s Play hamper filled with goodies. From all the entries we receive each month one player will be chosen as the SuperSport Let’s Play Star of the Month. At the end of the year one
player from all the Star of the Month winners will be chosen as the SuperSport Let’s Play Star of the Year. Let’s Play is an initiative to enhance recreation and development at schools through play and sport. Every school or place of education has talented sportsmen and -women. Don’t be shy – we want to know who you are. Send us your nomination today (nominations received before the 20th of every month will be included in that month’s selection. Nominations received after the 20th of every month will be carried over to the next month’s selection). Your nomination must include
your name, age and a short paragraph (less than 200 words) on what you have achieved, as well as your contact details. For example: Name: Age and grade: School or place of education’s name: What you have achieved (200 words or less): Contact telephone number or address: You can email your nomination to supersport@zpr.co.za or SMS 072-311-7716 (no phone calls will be accepted; normal cell phone rates apply) or fax 086-552-4922 or hand deliver your entry to Z PR at 22A Reid Street, Westdene,
Bloemfontein. For more information please call Lynne at Z PR on 051-430-3027.
8
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL 2013
Diamonds take the gold Two finalists worthy opponents
} Boipelo Mere AN HEROIC penalty stoppage catapulted Sipho Davids, goalkeeper for Real Diamonds, into an instant hero for cheering soccer lovers who had spent the day watching participating teams as they devoured each other fighting for a place in the finals during the Vuduka Sports Tournament. Diamonds and Ghetto United were worthy finalists as they displayed deft touches and attacked each other nonstop. It was Ghetto who opened the scoreline and looked as though they had bagged it. The scoreline remained 1-0 at interval. When the game restarted, the tempo increased, but many clear chances were wasted by strikers and midfield players of both sides. However, Diamonds levelled matters and the game went to penalties. Easy shots were taken and scored until Sipho heroically saved a final kick from Ghetto, sending the crowd into raptures with those crowding him calling him Khune, the Kaiser Chiefs goalkeeper hero. Kagisho Matile, a coach at Kimberley Boys’ High School and a well-known figure in Northern Cape soccer circles, said that it was amazing how the province and Kimberley were endowed with so much talent, but because of a lack of parental and governmental support such talent could go to waste. Vincent Kasingesi, ecstatic coach of Real Diamonds, said that he was more than satisfied that his team had set a trend. “We have to keep the momentum going. We have to keep the respect of the other teams and respect amongst ourselves. “I was expecting to win because we had worked together as a team to keep up our good reputation,” added the coach. Kasingesi further revealed that they had had a good year because they had also won at the World Aids Tournament. He concluded by thanking Vuduka Sports for sponsoring this tournament.
GHETTO UNITED lost 5-4 during penalties.
GHETTO UNITED equalising with 1-1.
Photo: Boipelo Mere
REAL DIAMONDS were declared the winners during the Vuduka Sports Tournament.
Photo: Boipelo Mere
Photo: Boipelo Mere