Express Goldfields 20131211

Page 1

HET U KONTANT NODIG? *LENINGS BESKIKBAAR!! *ITC WELKOM!!!

BENODIG VOERTUIG? FAX VOLGENDE:

*PAY SLIPS *INDENTITEITSDOKUMENT *BEWYS VAN ADRES * 3 MAANDE BANKSTATE *RYBEWYS INDIEN NODIG

320 WELKOM BUILDING STATEWAY STREET NEXT TO MILKY LANE TEL : 057 352 4100 | TELEFAX 057 352 5100 E-MAIL: goldfieldsp@telkomsa.net

TEL: 057 357 1304

EXPRESSPAPER.MOBI

Skakel: Hanlie 082 356 4343 of Zelda 079 133 1188 Faks: 086 226 3285 E-mail: hanlielombard.motor@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY 11足13 DECEMBER 2013

Nelson Mandela 1918 足 2013

Photo: Nardus Engelbrecht

WWW.EXPRESS足NEWS.CO.ZA

FREE


2

EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

NEWS

Matjhabeng pays homage to Madiba HOMAGE TO MANDELA: The Matjhabeng Municipality’s executive mayor, Sebenzile Ngangelizwe, joined the rest of the world on Friday to pay homage to the late former South African president Nelson Mandela by laying flowers at the Local Liberation Me­ morial for fallen heroes at Welkom’s Central Park. Photos: Teboho Setena RIGHT: Honouring Mandela: The Lejweleputswa District Municipality executive mayor, Mathabo Leeto, laid flowers last week Friday at the Local Liberation Memorial for fallen heroes at Welkom’s Central Park in honour of the late former South African president, Nelson Mandela.

Mandela’s words an inspiration } Sidwell Guduka

NELSON MANDELA, the former president of South Africa and Nobel Peace Prize winner, died peacefully at his Houghton home in Johannesburg on Thursday. Mandela was admitted to the Mediclinic Heart Hospital in June with a recurring lung infection and had been in the hospital for almost three months. He was discharged in September and was receiving medical care at his home until he passed away. Mandela spent 27 years in jail before being freed in 1990 and went on to become South Africa’s first black president in 1994. He died at the age of 95. “I stand here before you not as a prophet, but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I therefore place the remaining years of my life in your hands.” Mandela said in his speech during the first day of his release in Cape Town on 11 February 1990. Here is a collection of quotes that personify his spirit: “Nobody knows when they are

going to die. Even though I am an old man, I do not dwell on the possibility of death. Death comes when it is ready.” “During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to see realised. But my Lord, if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.” “I hate race discrimination most intensely and in all its manifestations. I have fought it all during my life; I fight it now, and will do so until the end of my days. Even although I now happen to be tried by one whose opinion I hold in high esteem, I

‘If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.’ – Nelson Mandela

detest most violently the set-up that surrounds me here. It makes me feel that I am a black man in a white man’s court. This should not be. (First court statement, 1962). “I was made, by the law, a criminal, not because of what I had done, but because of what I stood for, because of what I thought, because of my conscience.” (Statement during trial, 1962).

‘Death is something inevitable. When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace. I believe I have made that effort and that is, therefore, why I will sleep for the eternity.’

“If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.” (From Long Walk to Freedom, 1995). “I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.” “Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice. Like slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.”

AMANDLA! Nelson Mandela and his ex­wife, Winnie Madikizela­Man­ dela, walking hand in hand, raising clenched fists upon Mandela’s re­ lease from the Victor Verster Prison, in Paarl, South Africa, on 11 Febru­ ary 1990. Mandela put 27 years as a political prisoner behind him and negotiated with the apartheid oppressors to launch the first democratic elections in 1994.

For more photos and news about what is happening in your community visit www.express-news.co.za


EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

Carat value is now lower

THE prospect of success of the AIM- and JSE-listed junior miner DiamondCorp mining venture in the Free State has been raised following the sale of the first batch of diamonds recovered from tailings dumps at its Lace Mine. The company announced sale of diamonds last Tuesday. The mine at which the diamonds were recovered, is under development near Kroonstad. A total of 6,442.04 carats were sold for $278 574.30 (approximately R2 920 073) which equates to an average price of $43 (R450) per carat. SP Angel analyst John Meyer said: “The carat value from the tailings is lower than expected. We had $80 (R838) per carat in our model. This does not impact our valuation significantly as recovery from tailings is small.” DiamondCorp chief executive officer Paul Loudon said 1,415.32 carats were recovered after modifications were made to the plant to increase the “bottom screen cut size”, which resulted in a coarser stone-size distribution and achieved a price of $63 (R660) per carat. “Management considers this price to be a fair benchmark for the economics of the tailings retreatment plant in 2014,” said Loudon. He added: “Overall, diamond market conditions are subdued and prices are soft in small size fractions. Nonetheless, management forecast that tailing re-treatment operating costs can be reduced from R32 a ton to R22 a ton once three shifts are operating and the company is proceeding with a ramp-up to a three-shift operation by the end of January 2014. Plans are to increase tailings throughput to more than 150,000 tons per month during the first half of next year, which has the potential to push production to 7 500 carats per month. This

NEWS

‘Plans are to increase tailings throughput to more than 150,0 0 0 tonnes per month during the first half of next year, which has the potential to push production to 7,500 carats per month.’ – Paul Loudon, DiamondCorp chief executive officer will allow a significant proportion of the tailings to be re-treated prior to the underground mine achieving full production.” According to Investec Securities, DiamondCorp is doing well to generate cash flows from the tailings once again. “The plant adjustments lower the overall recovery and production level but should make tailings treatment more profitable due to less processing required since the smaller, less valuable stones will not be recovered. The main mine development is fully financed and cost savings have allowed refinancing to support corporate overheads to be deferred to 2014,” the firm said. SP Angel’s Meyer said: “While all the funds are in place for the development programme, the company have said they may need to raise funds to cover corporate costs next year.” DiamondCorp plans to restart mining operations at a depth of 470 m during 2015 to target 300,000 carats a year for the first 10 years.

Learning more and more . . . BUSINESS TRENDS: A group of local business representatives attended a one­day training session on the basic principles of VAT and the diesel rebates system held in Welkom last Thursday. Amongst the attendees were from the left Johan Bleeker (training consultant), Maretha Malan, Anja Jacobs, Johann du Bruyn and Nan­ da Haber. The training was conducted by the auditing firm PwC. Photo: Teboho Setena

Identify stolen items at SAPS THE SAPS Thabong Detective Services appeal to members of the community who reported their valuable household items stolen to come forward to identify them at the police station. Items to be identified include computers and a flat-screen television. These items were reported stolen during the period January 2012 to Novem-

ber 2013 in the Thabong area. The police request people to bring a case number or any form of positive identification to prove they are the rightful owners of the stolen items stored at the Thabong Police Station. For more information contact Detective Warrant Officer Quintin Tomas on 082-5609209.

Economy needs proactive steps } Teboho Setena MXOLISI DUKWANA, prominent politician and former Free State government leader, has encouraged stakeholders in the public and private sector in Matjhabeng to take a proactive stance towards turning around the economy of the region. The former MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs spoke from the sidelines at Matjhabeng’s Economic Growth Summit held in Welkom last Wednesday and Thursday. With the theme Creating Economic Growth through the Green Economy this initiative was driven by Matjhabeng’s directorate of local economic development and planning. At the two-day event stakeholders looked at possible avenues to explore to turn around the economic crisis to curb unemployment. Dukwana’s sentiments were based on stakeholders’ delay to implement resolutions taken at similar events including a summit held two years ago. “Altogether 73% of the population in the area is youth who are needed in the labour force, but who are unemployed. We need a strategy to develop an upswing of the economy to respond to the socio-economic crisis facing us. “Mining has been the driving force over the years for both the private and public sector. We were the largest consumer of electricity in Africa with about 7% due to mines which were operational in Matjhabeng. This time we need to look at means to develop other employment avenues to revive the economy of this area,” he said. Dukwana warned stakeholders against dragging their feet.

“Our people are becoming tired of workshops. They need to see action and the implementation of resolutions. If the municipality means business we’ll see more participation. The common mistake we make is to delay the implementation of resolutions. We want to start with big projects while in fact we can start with smaller projects, sustain them and then move on to tackle bigger projects. The secret in eating an elephant is to take one bite at a time. “We need to set goals which we can achieve and to tackle the challenges in the short, medium and long term, in that order, because the economic challenges are ongoing.” Informed by the 2011 Census assessment the Matjhabeng Municipality revealed that employment was on the increase as investment prospects dwindled. Formal employment had declined with 78 961 between 1996 and 2011. Between 2001 and 2011, the employment figures had stabilised at the same levels. The employment growth between 2001 and 2011 was only at 1%, which is very low. The municipality said the unemployment rate was the highest in 2001 after the decline of the mining sector (46,5%). The figures decreased to 37% in 2011, which was higher than the rate for South Africa (25%), the Free State (33%) and similar to that of the Lejweleputswa District Municipality. In turning around the state of the economy the summit had five commissions focusing on potential economic drives such as green economy, the tourism value chain, agricultural value chain, mining value chain and manufacturing.

‘Our people are becoming tired of workshops. They need to see action and the implementation of resolutions. If the municipality means business we’ll see more participation,’ – Mxolisi Dukwana

AMONG those in attendance to give their input at the Matjhabeng Municipality’s Economic Growth Sum­ mit were from the left Isaac Tau, Kealeboga Sitase, Mthokozisi Mtshali and Mxolisi Dukwana, former MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs. The event that was held at the Ferdie Meyer Hall in Welkom opened last week Wednesday and culminated in a declaration by stakeholders on Thursday. Photo: Teboho Setena

3


4

EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

NEWS

Transactions contribute to irregularities } Selloane Khalane THE Free State Development Corporation (FDC) said R20 million worth of unauthorised transactions had contributed to its R25 million irregular expenditure in the 2012-’13 financial year. The FDC was accounting to the Public Accounts Committee last week in the Southern Life Plaza Building in Bloemfontein. Hantsi Mayeza, the FDC’s board chairperson, said the transactions had not followed proper treasury regulations prior to payments. “The transactions were not signed by the board, which is one of the regulations required to process transactions,” Mayeza told the committee. Neels van Rooyen, the committee chairperson, said the escalating irregular expenditure which had skyrocketed from R2 million in the previous financial year to R25 million was unacceptable. The FDC is one of the entities governed by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DETEA). Mayeza said the department was conducting investigations

and said officials guilty of the transgressions would be held accountable. Although the FDC was congratulated by the committee for improving, the DETEA was hammered for poor counting of the department’s assets. Mohokare Seleka, the DETEA head of department, said the department was overseeing a huge number of resorts and was struggling to keep record of assets owned by the department. Seleka said the department had appointed a consultant to keep record of assets owned by the department. Van Rooyen lambasted the department for failure to keep record of its assets although the department had the least number of resorts under its belt compared to other provinces. “You do not need a consultant to count your assets, this can be done by your junior staff,” Van Rooyen added. The auditor general (AG) told the committee irregular supply chain processes in the department was the main cause for the hefty irregular expenditure.

Uniting against crime TIGHTENING the belt against rampant crime in Welkom’s suburb of Riebeeckstad, the SAPS Communi­ ty Policing Forum recently held a meeting where residents were enlightened about preventative crime hints. The meeting followed an outcry regarding the crime wave in the suburb due to unavailability of high­mast lighting and police visibility. The SAPS has encouraged members of the community to also be watchdogs and form a street committee to root out crime. Photo supplied

Teachers recognised for hard work TEACHERS from the Free State’s region of Lejweleputswa have received deserving recognition of their hard work of educating the nation. The recipients are TheaEle Viljoen of the Riebeeckstad Primary School, Arnold Kymdell of the Goudveld-Hoërskool in Welkom and Ntsekiseng Mofokeng of Taiwe Secondary School in Theunissen. These are three of the ten recipients of the 2013 National Teaching Awards provincial accolade. In total 40 candidates from the 5 Free State regions were nominated for 10 categories. The category recipients were announced two weeks ago at a function in Bloemfontein. Viljoen received an award for excellence in primary school teaching, Kymdell received an accolade for excellence in ICT-enhanced teaching and Mofokeng received recognition for excellence in teaching Science. Each of them received a trophy and prize-money as well as educational items which will enable them to continue with their excellent work. With 21 years in education as teacher, Viljoen is knowledgeable and has gained recognition not only in the Free State, but also in other provinces. She tutored part-time at three universities: the Tshwane University of Technology, University of Pretoria and North-West University. Viljoen has years of experience in teaching from gr. 3 to gr. 10. She is a role model of note for her learners, colleagues and school community. She teaches gr. 5, gr. 6 and gr. 7

RECOGNITION: Provincial National Teachers Awards recipients and fi­ nalists for the national event, Thea­Ele Viljoen of Riebeeckstad Primary and Arnold Kymdell of the Goudveld­Hoërskool. Photo: Teboho Setena and her subjects include Afrikaans HL and first additional language, English FAL and Creative Arts. She is distinguished at being advanced in technology-enhanced teaching and incorporates cell phones, white boards and laptops in her teaching. Kymdell is an Engineering Graphics and Design teacher at the Goudveld-Hoërskool. He started a computer-aided drawing

classroom at his school. This gave his learners the opportunity to practise their drawings on the computer. As a marker for the National Certificate senior examinations he uses the knowledge he gains from marking to enrich his learners. He makes use of different Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in his classroom which include computers, a laptop, an iPad, an interactive

white board and the internet. He communicates and gives feedback with his learners by e-mail, Facebook and BBM. He has produced very good gr. 12 results over the past four years which included 42 distinctions in his subject. This has ranked him under the top ten achievers in his subject. Kymdell believes that learners should be developed holistically. He coaches rugby and cricket at his school and uses ICT to capture the learners’ performance on the sports field. This information is used to develop the learners’ sporting abilities. Mofokeng is a young, lively Science teacher who has achieved significant results in his five years of teaching. His passion for the subject is evident at all times, he goes all out to organise in-service training for teachers to improve their knowledge for the benefit of learners. As head of department for the section, Mofokeng ensures that learners are not left behind. His immense contribution has been seen in developing material for science which is used at learning centres. Mofokeng was also part of the group of teachers who set the September papers for the trial examinations. The trio, together with other recipients, have qualified for the national final that will produce the overall national winners. The national finals are set to be held next year.

SENOKO

Dikuku tse monate DIKUKUNYANA tsa tswekere 250 g margarini 5 mahe 30 ml bakpoiri 2 ml letswai 750 ml tswekere 6 x 250 ml flouru 10 ml neutmuskaat (nutmeg) Mokgwa: Fehla majarini le tswekere le mahe. Sefa tse ommeng. Kopanya tsohle. Neha hlama ka thoko metsostso e 30. Sila hlama, o be o foroma dikuku ka galase. Tshasa dikuku ka lehe le lebese hodimo. Bea paneng e tshasitsweng. Baka motjhesong wa 200 metsotso ya 8 – 10 min.


EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

5

NEWS

Joy after years of obstacles } Teboho Setena THE emerging gospel singer Lisa, real name Nombuyiselo Nziweni–Motsamai, sings joyously, is celebrating the breaking of the silent pain she endured before the release of her debut album. Titled Hold Me, it was released in October and she launched it on 16 November at the Bronville Hall where there was also a DVD shot. “Hold Me is a special song. I composed it in the studio and never rehearsed it. I just sang it from the heart. Through it I’m asking God to protect me and I know there is nothing I want to do without his blessings,” said Lisa. She completed recording the 10-track gospel album late in 2010. But this came after the silent pain of waiting for almost three years due to the lack of funds. “Negative criticism by people I was hopeful would help and whose judgement in music I had trusted, contributed to my devastation. I knocked at various doors for financial assistance and looked for a potential deal but I was told my album was not a saleable product. I was advised to return to the studio to do it perfect instead.” Lisa said her frustration began when the person who promised to help her release and market the album reneged on the promise. “The person disappeared and never phoned. I cried for three years, not knowing what to do. I approached certain established gospel artists but they turned it down. It was painful and nobody felt the pain I except me. I carried the demo in my bag wherever I went, yet I never wanted to listen to it because at the time it did not bring me any joy,” said Lisa. Confused following negative criticism she was faced with the dilemma. “I did not know whether to release or shelf the demo. I even doubted that it would appeal to people,” said Lisa. An interview with a local community radio station saw a complete turnaround of Lisa’s miserable state. The interview unlocked the doors. “The presenter played the whole CD and listeners phoned in, expressing interest to purchase the CD,” she said. The one thing the listeners didn’t know is that Lisa only had a single copy available. Subsequently, a well-known local pastor, who also was due for an interview on the same programme, purchased 60 copies. With the money she received from the pastor Lisa then produced copies and since then the

‘I’m so happy. This is God’s miracle and I’m grateful of his blessings. I have been praying that He sees me through.’ – Lisa demand is huge. “I was very emotional. I cried because it was a miracle. I also cried because at that time I did not have copies of the CD to sell. I believe this was a blessing from God and I’m so grateful to God,” said Lisa. She told Express Goldfields & Northern Free State that prior to releasing the album she even volunteered to perform at various events to market her CD. “I did this in the hopes of raising funds and get a prospective deal to release my album.” The gospel starlet is overwhelmed with joy at the turn of events and this can be seen when she performs on stage. Gifted with a melodious voice, Lisa gets audience hooked, singing with joy to give glory to God for helping her break free from the misery that overshadowed her talent. “I’m so happy. This is God’s miracle and I’m grateful of his blessings. I have been praying that He sees me through,” said Lisa. Last month she reached another milestone when she shared the staged with one of South Africa’s respected female artists, Hlengiwe Mhlaba. She attributes her steady rise to a good work relationship with the youthful group Deep Sound Band. The album sees Lisa’s return to the limelight after 12 years of absence since 2001 after she quit acting as member of the once popular Thabong’s Woza Theatre group and her failed venture in jazz. “It did not work out and I chose gospel which is my first love in music,’’ said Lisa. In her music career she was a backing vocalist for another Goldfields golden boy, Press, real name Preston Sihlangu, and shared the stage with jazz guru Hugh Masikela and Ringo Mandlingozi. Lisa’s involvement with the Woza Theatre Group saw her perform at the G8 World Summit in Berlin, Germany, in 1999. Musically she says she is influenced by Rebecca Malope, Benjamin Dube and Thandiswa Mazwai.

Municipality celebrating PARTY TIME: Employees of the Matjhabeng Municipality partied hard at the annual Christ­ mas Lights ceremony at Welkom’s Central Park last Friday. The Matjhabeng executive may­ or, Sebenzile Ngangelizwe, switched the Christmas lights on and so started the year’s Christmas celebration. Photo: Teboho Setena

What’s on SOUTH AFRICA’s top male gospel group, Amadodana Ase Wesile, is set to perform live in two Free State’s towns, Welkom and Kroonstad, next year. The event in Welkom will take place in the Thabong Community Hall (formerly Phillip Smith) on 8 March, followed by performance on 9 March in Phomolong Primary School’s hall in Kroonstad on 9

March. The group will be hosted by the Methodist Church in Virginia. Both events are set to start at 14:30. For details contact Mokupi on 082-3346737. ) The deadline for the What’s On community diary events is Wednesdays at 13:00. Send it to teboho.setena@volksblad.com.

Finance and Insurance solutions available Range of excellently cared-for vehicles Vehicles multipoint quality checked and with full service history Maintenance & Warranty plan options available on all vehicles

WELKOM R 179 900

R 259 900

2010 VW Jetta 1.4 TSi Comforline

2009 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D4D Raider 4x4

Managers Special

WIN a VW Chico

R 169 900

Managers Special 2011 Mazda BT50 2.5 TDi SL

R 135 900

@ the Jamboree Lucky Draw Test drive any car to be entered. Entries close 17 December 2013.

Managers Special 2009 Nissan NP 300 2.5 TDi

R 159 900

R 134 900

R 109 900

2010 Toyota Corolla 1.6 Advance

2011 Ford Fiesta 1.6i Trendline

2012 Nissan NP 200 1.6 A/C Safety Pack

Managers Special

• ADRIE 084 922 8791 • MATT 082 977 1969 • MARIO 076 639 0662

JOY AT LAST: Rising local gospel artist Lisa beams with joy on receiving a huge response to her debut album, Hold Me. Photo: Teboho Setena

196 Jan Hofmeyr Road, Welkom | Tel. 057 355 1194 | Fax. 057 355 1198 E-mail: welkom@hypergroup.co.za | Website: www.hypergroup.co.za www.hypergroup.co.za | Vehicle Finance at www.hyperfinance.co.za A Division of Eqstra Corporation (Pty) Ltd | Authorised Financial Services Provider FSP Nr 38884 | T’s&C’s Apply


6

EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

SOCIAL PHOTOS

CREATIVITY: The Umthethwa Art and Cul­ tural Youth Group member Lekwa Phofi from Allanridge seized the opportunity to market their products at the Matjhabeng Municipality’s Economic Growth Summit held in Welkom last week on Wednesday and Thursday. The summit theme was Creating Economic Growth through the Green Economy. Photo: Teboho Setena

In a festive mood A GROUP of 40 children, who are part of a genetics programme at the Bongani Regional Hospital, were made to feel a sense of belonging when treated to an eventful Christmas party held at the hospital last Friday. The function, an initiative of the hospital, was made possible through the goodwill of and donations from various private entities in Welkom and doctors working at the hospital. Sr Modiehi Monare (middle) (Genetics Clinic assistant) rejoiced with the jubilant children at the function which was one of three parties held. Photo: Supplied

COORDINATION: The Matjhabeng Municipality’s local economic development and planning employees ensured the smooth running of the Economic Growth Summit by rendering assistance to stakeholders and scores of people who attended the event held at the Ferdie Meyer Hall in Welkom last Wednesday and Thursday. From the left are Lerato Khotso, Patricia Dlamini, Ntombi Tsota, Vuyelwa Besani and Emily Lebona. Photo: Teboho Setena

READY FOR SCHOOL: Angeline Sithole, matron of the Angies Kids Pre­primary School (back), with eight children that graduated from the Early Childhood Development Centre to start formal education at schools of their choice. From the left are, standing: Reamohetse Maja, Moji Rapuleng, Tshepiso Qhala and Bonolo Muso; seated: Nomhle Makhasi, Naledi Molawa, Neo Seleke and Kaleho Matebese. The graduation, at which each of the children received a certificate of confirmation and also to bid them farewell, was held at the centre in Thabong last Saturday. Photo: Supplied

GUARD OF HONOUR: Traffic officers of the Matjhabeng Municipality in Welkom pa­ rade drill during the lowering of the South African flag to half­mast last Friday in honour of international statesman Nelson Mandela who died last Thursday. Photo: Teboho Setena


EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

7

SPORT

FSBO will continue } Teboho Setena

THE belated annual general meeting (AGM) of the amateur Free State Boxing Organisation (FSBO) will go ahead as planned. The meeting will take place this Saturday in Thabong’s multi-purpose Kopano Indoor Sports Centre in Welkom. Eagerly-awaited by the boxing fraternity, the elective meeting was held early last month. It was rescheduled to this Saturday after a group of aggrieved members queried the basis and the procedures that were being applied to conduct the meeting. The meeting was tainted by controversy, prompting postponement. The bone of contention was about the adoption of the constitution, unavailability of audited financial statement and minutes of the previous meeting. Members also demanded that nomination forms be send on time to all affiliates. The majority of the members wanted the leadership to play with open cards. After a lengthy discussion, members agreed to adjourn the meeting. It was agreed that the outgoing leadership would be given a chance to rectify issues of concern which have been recalled in previous meetings. The postponement on the other hand also afforded members a second chance to lobby for candidates they deemed fit to lead the

federation in the next term. The FSBO’s secretary, Nkosinathi Moholo, said they were expecting about 22 delegates and eight observers to attend the meeting where new office bearers will be elected to run affairs of the organization from 2013 to 2016. He said representation from all five regions – Mangaung Metro, Xhariep, Thabo Mofutsanyana, Fezile Dabi and Lejweleputswa – are expected to attend. The incumbent chairperson, Fusi Hlaso of Lejweleputswa, is being challenged by the vice-chairperson, Johannes “Smiling Tiger” Mofokeng of Thabo Mofutsanyana. Mpho Chakane and Sello Masiu are contending for the position of vicechairperson. Spenkie Ranoka of Lejweleputswa, the only woman serving in the structure, has received a nomination for the position of treasurer. She is vying for this critical position with Chakane and Masiu. Express Goldfields & Northern Free State reliably learnt that certain office bearers were likely to retain their positions after Saturday’s elective meeting. Of the five regions Lejweleputswa has had superior representation in the organization in the executive committee. It has emerged that members are advocating balancing the scale by electing into the new committee members from other regions.

Showcasing their skills

ON THE BALL: The Sibanye Golden Stars football side players captured showcasing their skills during an intensive training session at the club’s camp at the Beatrix Gold Mine near Theunissen ahead of their Second Division fixture against Hunters FC on Saturday. Photo: Teboho Setena

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Goldfields FET College invites proposals for the lease of 396 computers for three years at Welkom Campus Quotation Code GFC/CO/29/2913

Cost per Tender document R150.00

Closing date & time 03/01/2014 @ 10:00 am

Description: Bidders are hereby invited to submit proposals for the lease of 396 Computers for 3 years at Goldfields FET College for a period of 36 months. · Bid documents are available at R150.00 from Thursday 05/12/2013 at the College Central Office, 36 Buren Street, Flamingo Park, Welkom · Bidders are requested to submit the following documents (copies must be recently certified, within the last 3 months): * Proof of ownership e.g. CK/company registration documents. * Recently certified copies of ID documents owner(s), partners, shareholders. * Original and valid Tax Clearance Certificate. * Proposed lease of Computers for 3 years. * On site Maintenance workplan. * Profile with organisational structure and references. * Any other relevant documentation.

GUINNESS WORLD RECORD ELUDES: Double­amputee Matthew “Bushy” McKelvey attempted a new Guinness world record racing for 24 hours on a motorcycle at the Phakisa Freeway. Photo: Teboho Setena

Record eludes rider DOUBLE-AMPUTEE MATTHEW “BUSHY” MCKELVEY fell short in his second attempt to make it into the Guinness World Records. He had set himself the challenge to break the American L. Russel “Rusty” Vaugh’s record of 3 249,9 km in 24 hours set in 2011. McKelvey attempted to set the record at the Phakisa Freeway, Welkom, but failed to emulate and surpass the American who had set the Guinness world record at the Continental Tire Test Track in Uvalde, Texas. According to McKelvey’s crew, he ran short of 104 km to realise his quest to break the American’s record after he had stopped midway during the event last Wednesday and Thursday. In his first attempt on 28 March at 03:30, McKelvey

managed to cover 2 267 km, leaving him with 1 100 km to set a new record. His main obstacle in his previous attempt was the unavailability of an adequate set of new tyres and a tyre-changing machine. McKelvey’s good-will gesture was aimed at raising funds in aid of a Pietermaritzburg-based woman who requires a prosthetic leg. He said the woman had been struggling years to get a prosthetic leg after she had lost her leg (above the knee) in a motorcycle accident. The initiative is part of McKelvey’s charity called Out on a Limb through which he raises funds in aid of people with disabilities. McKelvey had both his legs amputated after two separate car accidents in 1999 and 2008.

Documents must be collected at the central Office. No documents will be faxed or emailed. Banking details: ABSA Current Account Acc No. 134 096 1095 Account holder: Goldfields FET College Ref: Company name and Tender number. TENDER DOCUMENTS, CLEARLY MARKED WITH RELEVANT REFERENCE NUMBER, MUST BE IN A SEALED ENVELOPE AND DEPOSITED IN THE TENDER BOX AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS: Goldfields FET College, Central office, 36 Buren Street, Flamingo Park, Welkom, 9459 Closing date: 03/01/2014 at 10:00 at which quotations will be opened in public. Please note: * No late quotations or quotations per facsimile will be accepted. * The college is not bound to accept the lowest or any quotation. Enquiries: M.E. Leteane Assistant Director: Supply Chain Management Tel: (057) 910 6000


8

EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2013

What is your opinion?

To share your view on this story, go to Facebook and search for Express-news03.

ASPIRING young keeper Yuri Fabrizio dreams of making it big in South Africa. Photo: Teboho Setena

Young Yuri pips critics } Teboho Setena

BUDDING goalkeeper Yuri Fabrizio has not let the controversy over his legitimacy to participate in South African

schools competitions jeopardise his promising football talent. The controversy surrounds his birth in Italy in 1995. He came to South Africa in 2009 with his parents, who now live in Welkom.

The controversy about his status arose in 2011 at the national finals of the u.16 Metropolitan Schools Football Tournament after some officials had questioned his legitimacy to represent his former school Harmony High. The aggrieved officials based their argument on the fact that Fabrizio had been born in Italy and was not actually South African. By 2011 he had qualified for South Africa by completing the three-year residency criteria. Despite this Fabrizio remained an Italian national and this caused a huge stir at the u.16 schools competition in 2011. Pitso Mokoena, coach of the Harmony football team, was forced to replace Fabrizio after about ten minutes of play in the qualifier group stages of the tournament. It emerged that the ensuing dispute over Fabrizio’s legitimacy also had Harmony’s management under pressure. The school was also threatened by possible expulsion by the South African Schools Football Association (Sasfa). Fabrizio was released by the Virgina-based school and the academy at the end of that year. “It was sad to lose such a talented player. I explained to his parents the conditions we faced as the academy,” said Mokoena. “The controversy was that as the academy we were developing a foreign national and this did not sit well with the school’s federation. “The matter affected him negatively and I thought he would never play football again. But, surprisingly, he has bounced back, proving he is a strong person.” Fabrizio had no knowledge of the complications regarding legitimacy. Since 2011 he has stopped participating in schools’ competi-

‘I have drawn inspiration to realise my dream watching people with disabilities thrive over adversity. If they excel under such circumstances, I then challenge myself to do even more than them.’ – Yuri Fabrizio tions and focuses on club football. “It was devastating because I enjoyed my stay at the Harmony Academy. I was hopeful my football talent would be nurtured,” he said. The Harmony Academy enlisted Fabrizio after he had performed well during trials conducted by coach Mokoena late in 2010. Mokoena scouted the player and enlisted him for talent development in 2011. Marco Fabrizio, the teen’s father, said his son had first come to South Africa mid-1995 when the family had settled in Upington in the Northern Cape. They lived in the Free State’s neighbouring province for three years. “My son was just two weeks old when he first came with us to South Africa in 1995,’’ he said. At the beginning of 1998 they returned to their native country of Italy. However, they returned to South Africa again in 2009, choosing Welkom to settle down. Here Fabrizio junior attended school at St Dominic’s College and in 2010 proceeded to the Welkom Preparatory School. He is currently a learner at Welkom High.

The 18-year-old Fabrizio has adapted well to this lifestyle, and can be spotted in a well-mixed crowd of local boys. Besides English, his second language, he communicates in Sotho and understands a bit of Afrikaans. His misery is now water under the bridge with Welkom United having enlisted him. The club campaigns in the South African Football Association (Safa) Second Division stream. Fabrizio junior has drawn courage from the saga that almost jeopardised his chances to showcase his natural talent. He has since grown in confidence. “I have drawn inspiration to realise my dream watching people with disabilities thrive over adversity. If they excel under such circumstances, I then challenge myself to do even more than them,” he said. Fabrizio’s goalkeeping ability has seen his peers nicknaming him after Italy’s 2006 World Cup winning keeper Gianluigi “Gigi” Buffon. ) Controversy regarding the legitimacy of sports persons born outside South Africa is not uncommon. In 2009 the South African Sports Ministry claimed that star rugby player Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira was not actually qualified to represent the Springboks because he was not a South African citizen. Mtawarira was born in Zimbabwe and made a name for himself by playing for KwaZulu-Natal and the Sharks. He earned the nickname “The Beast” due to his physical approach to the game. South African Rugby defended his selection, insisting he had been granted an “exceptional skills” visa and continued to select him during the Springboks’ end-of-year tour of Europe, but the debate surrounding his selection continued into 2010.

Harmony FC gaining ground

} Teboho Setena

AFTER a jittery start to their campaign in the Second Division, local football side Harmony FC are steadily regaining their momentum. In the opening fixture of the season two weeks ago the team gave away three valuable points when they lost 2-0 to the Bloemfontein-based side Mangaung United. However, the result did not dampen their fighting spirit and they began to turn around their fortune when a week ago they held the Qwaqwa-based Moving Spurs to a 2-all draw in their opening fixture. Harmony’s efforts were handsomely rewarded when they beat Bloemfontein-based Bubchu United 2-1 in a tough fixture played last Saturday at the Griffons Sports Grounds in Welkom. The local lads fought gallantly on the back foot to win in this encounter. At half time the visitors led 1-0 through a penalty they had converted with ease. The hardfought victory was Harmony’s first of the season and earned them three valuable points. The side boasts four points in the bag including a point earned against Spurs. The results in the two matches are a confidence booster for Harmony in their ambitious quest to win the Free Sate stream of the South African Football Association’s (Safa) Second Division.

Harmony’s emphatic victory over United proves significant ahead of their tricky encounter against rock-bottom and winless Vaal Legends in Sasolburg this Saturday. If Harmony apply the same approach and avoid complacency against lacklustre Legends, they could well secure their second win that will see them ascend the log table. Another local side improving steadily are Sibanye Golden Stars (formerly Beatrix Liverpool), boasting two wins on a trot. They outclassed local rivals Dinonyana 3-1 and Clarens Galaxy 2-1 respectively. After losing 2-0 to log leaders Swagger, Stars will look to bounce back against Bloemfonteinbased Hunters in a potentially pulsating outing at the Beatrix Sports Grounds this Saturday. Stars have the edge given they are hosting the visitors. Under immense pressure to make amends in their forthcoming fixtures are Dinonyana and Meloding-based outfit Real Hearts. Both teams are yet to get the monkey off their back by registering a first win in the 2013-’14 season. Rookies’ Hearts have only a point after sharing the spoils with Spurs, playing 1-all in their opening league fixture last month. Dinonyana suffered their third defeat in a row after they had narrowly lost 1-0 to Bloemfontein Young Tigers in a fixture played last Saturday at the Griffons Sports Grounds.

CHARGING ON: Harmony FC anchor midfielder Thamsanqa Mnazana (red and black) charges Bloemfontein­ based Bubchu United (gold) during a Second Division fixture played at the Griffons Sports Grounds in Welkom last Saturday. Photo: Teboho Setena


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.