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Bertie beats the odds
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GOOD news just seems to be the order of the day for Roberto “Bertie” Graham’s family. Express Northern Cape published an article on Bertie and his family on 25 July 2012. Bertie and his twin sister, Robin, celebrated their tenth birthday in their brand-new RDP house in Homelite with many friends and family members. Many, including his doctor, believed Bertie would not make it to his tenth birthday after he and Robin were diagnosed with jaundice shortly after their birth. The jaundice caused Bertie to have brain damage. The family were given their own plot as part of a special programme by the Department of Co-operative Governance Traditional Affairs in the province in 2012. Their house was completed earlier this year. His two grannies Jakoba Dryer and Enid Baadjies, were excited and kept smiling at the birthday celebrated with family and friends. According to one of the grannies, Enid, this was the most special and successful celebration that they have had for her grandchildren thanks to their sponsors, friends and family. The celebration was not an ordinary one. It was also to pray for the children’s parents, Charmaine and Ronald, to have the strength to continue raising their children. She explained Charmaine still stays home to look after Bertie on a full-time basis because there are psychiatric and therapy sessions that he has to attend. The family sent their gratitude to Wimpie Graham, Graham Whitten and Pick ’n Pay for making their big day a success.
EVERYONE in the room assisted Bertie and his twin sister, Robin, to blow the birthday candles. Pictured with the pair is granny Jacoba Dryer, father Ronald Graham and granny Enid Baadjies. Insert: Granny Enid and Bertie displaying their best smiles.
Photos: Boipelo Mere
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NEWS
Society has a bright future
} Boipelo Mere
MMAPASEKA STEVE LETSIKE, the national chairperson of the South African Civil Society based in Pretoria, said the Civil Society Forum had a bright future. The forum aims to double the current 2,4 million people receiving HIV/Aids treatment to 4,8 million by 2016. Letsike spoke at the Northern Cape Civil Society interim forum consultative meeting with all civil society organisations from across the province. Apart from electing the new provincial leadership, she highlighted that the forum was aimed at creating a platform for discussion, to adopt a constitution for the Civil Society Forum, to outline roles and responsibilities in response to the National Strategic Plan (NSP) and Provincial Strategic Plan (PSP) and finally the Aids council structure. During her address Letsike emphasised that civil society should play their role in holding government and public owned companies to account. She said that the theme for the Civil Society Forum was the commitment to serve through uniting in consolidating the gains made through empowering NGOs. Launched and approved by the deputy president Kgalema Motlanthe in 2012 during the launch of the National Strategic Plan 2012-’13, the forum already established that a national level is now going around provinces to create awareness. Partnering with government their aim is to monitor and address the implementation of HIV services and not only to hold everyone or the government accountable. They also ensure that the prevention of new infections of TB and HIV/Aids becomes a success. The forum represents 18 sectors that meet on a regular basis to discuss or deal with
THE Northern Civil Society Forum sector leaders with Mmapaseka Steve Letsike (right, front), the national chairperson of the South African Civil Society. Photo: Boipelo Mere different particular agendas and taking them to forums. “Sanec is a national multi-sectoral body bringing together government, the private sector, civil society and development, a space where all these sectors come together. We all create the demand and the awareness.” In response to whether there were any conflicts within the various sectors of the forum, Letsike said: “We all know how to identify our respective roles. That way we
are able to resolve any conflicts in the plenary. “The forum is not only black based but a multiracial, multiclass, multi-socio-economic sector. That is why I emphasise that if you are elected as a leader you are expected to deliver as we are a diverse society.” Initially the meeting would have been addressed by the premier, Sylvia Lucas, but she sent Mxolisi Sokatsha, the MEC for Health in the Northern Cape, to give the keynote address on her behalf.
Other notable participants included Mack Jack, the MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Pola Makatesi, the head of the Northern Cape Aids Council, and Letsike. Makatesi said at the onset things had been difficult in the country because it had been a period characterised by denialism. “However, with the new administration that came to power in 2009 there was a new focus, drive and change of direction. In mitigation HIV/Aids became a new priority programme,” concluded Makatesi.
TFG (The Foschini Group), is the largest South African fashion lifestyle retailer & comprises of 18 fashion forward brands. You will be based in the Markham Division, Northern Cape.
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Photos: Supplied
Your main responsibilities will be to drive turnover and control expenses, whilst managing merchandise and stock losses. Training, motivating staff and handling IR issues will form an integral part of your role as well as having a strong focus on customer service and new accounts. Experienced at an area management level, you are well informed of issues facing retail in the area. Coupled with your people and business management skills, you are an independent and quick decision maker who drives profit whilst effectively containing costs with a strong alignment to the TFG Values. To apply, please visit www.tfg.co.za and click on ‘Careers’ where you will follow 3 steps: (1) View advertisement (2) Register and (3) Apply. Closing date: 7 April 2014. Preference will be given, but not limited to, candidates from designated groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act and in line with TFG’s Employment Equity Policy.
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KHANYI MBAU will dazzle the Diamond City.
Fans of e.tv in for a treat } Boipelo Mere NORTHERN CAPE e.tv fans should expect a weekend to remember as they get a chance to dance the night away with their favourite stars this weekend. Viewers will get a chance to mingle, take pictures and participate in competitions with the stars at the Thabane High School in Galeshewe. e-tv promises to bring home personalities from Rhythm City, Scandal! Club 808, Craz-e, Gumba Gumba, Katch It With Khanyi and Eksê: Let’s Talk with Masechaba Lekalake all under one roof. “We are thrilled to connect with our Kimberley viewers, it is long overdue. The e.tv family prides itself in giving
our viewers an opportunity to create memories to treasure. The e.tv brand continues to grow and resonate across the country,” said Monde Twala, group head: Channel: e.tv Channel Division. Twala adds: ”This year’s eKasi Tour will feature the entertaining and vibrant personalities from our new free digital channel eKasi+. eKasi+ is exclusively available on OpenView HD on channel 105. “e.tv Kasi Tours have been touring to cities and towns around the country, from Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Nelspruit, Soweto, Polokwane, Durban, Rustenburg, Port Elizabeth to Pietermaritzburg. Look out for the next Kasi Tour.”
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NEWS
Kumba comes to garden service aid } Boipelo Mere JOHN AND AUBREY GARDEN SERVICES is growing from strength to strength. Since its registration in 2013, the company is receiving support from the Anglo American business unit Kumba Iron Ore after obtaining a contract for picking up litter and the removal of non-hazardous waste at the Kolomela Mine. Now the company is amongst the 14 proud businesses that Kumba has helped since the opening of the Kolomela Small Business Support Centre in August 2012. Kumba reported to have helped and created over 104 non-mining jobs in the Postmasburg community too. According to John Phete and Aubrey Mthata, the need for garden services and maintenance in the area was recognised. John and Aubrey approached the Kolomela Small Business Support Centre, which is run by Anglo American’s enterprise development arm, Zimele, where they received much needed support and funding. The support not only helps them to establish a thriving business, but also to purchase a vehicle to service more clients. The company currently has seven people on their employ list. Apart from the Kolomela Mine contract, John and Aubrey Garden Services and Maintenance provides lawnmowing, garden cleaning, planting and other key garden services to the local community. Commenting on the success their company has received since it was registered in 2013, Aubrey Mthata and John Phete thank Kumba for its support and guidance. “Our experience with the centre and Zimele was very honourable as we were provided with the best process and information going forward as a business. The small business support centre, together with
Kruger open OPERATIONS in the Kruger National Park are back to normal following the floods which caused havoc in the park for the first two weeks of March. The South African National Parks (SANParks) spokesman, Reynold Thakhuli, on Tuesday said all facilities which had been closed, excluding the S64 road in the north and the Wolhuter and Boesman Trails camp in the south, were now operational. “All the bush camps, walking trails, picnic spots and gravel roads are deemed safe enough to be used by our clients. We are happy to be able to welcome them back,” said Thakhuli. The reopened bush camps are Talamati, Biyamiti, Sirheni, Shimuwini, Balule and Bateleur, while the trails camps are Olifants and Nyalalaland. Areas in the south of the park received as much as 300 mm of rain during the first 10 days of March, resulting in overflowing rivers which forced the closure of bridges, camps and roads. “All clients who had cancellations need to get in contact with the SANParks reservations department on reservations@sanparks.org or 012-428-9111,” said Thakuli. Flooding in Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng, North-West and KwaZulu-Natal caused the deaths of 32 people and displaced around 3 000 more. – SAnews.gov.za
Missing THE Strydenburg police are looking for 77year-old Rosie Visser who went missing on Saturday, 8 March 2014. She was last seen somewhere around the sports grounds in Strydenburg wearing a white blouse, checked shirt, red head dress and yellow shoes. Visser was residing in Deetlefsville in Strydenburg. The police are urging communities to work with them in tracing and uniting Visser with her family. Any information related to her whereabouts can be communicated to the Strydenburg police through Capt. Visagie on 082-495-5059 or 053-683-1000. Photo: SAPS
STAFF MEMBERS of John and Aubrey Garden Services and Maintenance are from the left John Phete, Mavis Kolberg and Lindelwa Holele with George Benjamin. Insert: The excited John Phete who was handed the car by George Benjamin, head of Public Affairs for the Kolomela Mine. Photos: Supplied Zimele, has helped our business progress. We can also assist in creating jobs within the local area. Through the small business centre and Zimele, our dreams became a reality and we thank them for their contributions to our business.” The head of Public Affairs for the Kolome-
la Mine, George Benjamin, reaffirms the company’s commitment to leaving a positive legacy in the community. “We support small businesses in the area, not only to help us provide much needed development for the community, but to create much needed jobs and businesses that
will be sustainable into the future. “As Kumba we are proud of success stories such as that of John and Aubrey Garden Service and Maintenance and the value and jobs they are bringing to the community as it validates our work with small businesses in Postmasburg,” concluded Benjamin.
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EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH 2014
NEWS
PSAF to be formed
ADVERTORIAL
} Boipelo Mere
Evening to empower women SUPA QUICK recently held a Women Empowerment evening at their premises in Long Street. The company invited tyre experts who taught the women about basic tyre knowledge, including tyre maintenance and how to change a tyre. Pictured are Corne Brits from Monroe, Fannie Venter, manager of Bridgestone, and Jannie Scholtz of Supa Quick during the event. Photos: Supplied
JACQUE BETH RAMUKHUBA demonstrating how to change a tyre.
Tip-off leads to arrests FOUR suspects were arrested after the Bathlaros police followed up on a tip-off concerning stolen diesel and dagga. The police followed up on information that two vehicles were travelling from the Kuruman direction towards Bathlaros in the early hours (around 01:00) of Saturday carrying dagga and suspected stolen diesel. When they were pulled over and searched, a 44-yearold male occupant was transporting nine 20-litre containers of diesel which he could not account for. In the other vehicle were three males aged 25, 28 and 38. Inside the vehicle the police found two 20-litre containers full of dagga, as well as a 10 kg container of dagga. The one suspect was charged with possession of suspected stolen diesel whilst the other three were charged with dealing in dagga.
THE Department of Social Development is in the process of establishing the Provincial Substance Abuse Forums (PSAF) in an effort to build partnership and collaboration with communities in the fight against the abuse of drugs, alcohol and other substances. The forum consists of government officials in the substance abuse sector and most importantly of members of civil society. A plea is therefore made to community members to nominate suitable people to serve on the PSAF. They are encouraged to nominate members who are currently serving in community action groups, research institutions, substance abuse institutions, non-governmental organisations and the business community. The PSAF will play a critical role in ensuring the management of the substance abuse problem in the province. It will also be responsible for the local drug action committees that must be established in each municipality to co-ordinate substance abuse intervention efforts at a local level. According to the Department of Social Development, alcohol and drugs in South Africa remain the leading cause of crime, poverty, reduced productivity, dysfunctional families and community life. The department further revealed that it is escalating chronic diseases such as Aids and related health factors, injuries and premature death. It is therefore also a situation that cannot be regarded as a normative condition which is left
unattended. “The abuse of substances, in particular drugs and alcohol, is in essence a counter revolutionary feature of our society which if not curbed, could reverse the gains of our democratic dispensation and progress in that it negatively impacts on the struggle to emancipate our communities,” stated the department. The members of the PSAF will serve a term of five years. They will be required to act in the best interest of the people of the Northern Cape and perform their functions as set out in the Prevention and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act 70 / 2008. They will be required to compile and submit an integrated Mini Drug Master Plan for the province and submit reports and inputs on the implementation of the plan. The PSAF will meet four times a year. These members will be reimbursed for transport and subsistence only while attending PSAF meetings. They will not be reimbursed for being members of the committee as their services will be deemed as voluntary and in the interest of their communities. Nomination forms are available at all the offices of the Department of Social Development in the Northern Cape as well as on the departmental website (http://socdev.ncpg.gov.za). The nominations must be done on a completed official nomination form and must be accompanied by a CV of the nominee. More enquiries should made at the Department of Social Development offices.
Decrease in mortality rate continues THE number of deaths in South Africa between 2010 and 2011 has decreased by 7,7%. This is according to a report released by the statistician general, Pali Lehohla. Releasing the findings of the Mortality and Causes of Death in South Africa Report for 2011 last week, Lehohla said a total 505 803 deaths that occurred in 2011 were registered. He attributed the decrease in the number of deaths to the massive government intervention to provide treatment to tuberculosis patients and people living with HIV. “The downward trend observed since 2007 in the number of deaths occurring in the country per year continues. The number of deaths between 2010 and 2011 decreased by 7,7%, while during 2009 and 2010 and 2008 and 2009 the number of deaths decreased by 5,6% and 2,6% respectively, which is an indication that the number of deaths are annually decreasing at an increasing rate,” he said. Lehohla said the statistical release also provides information on trends in mortality and causes of death that occurred during the period 1997 to 2011.
‘However, among the ten leading causes of death due to communicable diseases, the pro portion of deaths due to HIV disease continues to increase, although at a very slow pace . . . ’ – Pali Lehohla, statistician general The release is based on data collected by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) through the death registration system. It is estimated that this system covered 94% of adult deaths in the country from 2007 to 2011. The rate of decrease was much higher for females as opposed to males. Between 2010 and 2011, female deaths decreased by 8,2%, while male deaths decreased by 7,5%. The increasing levels of mortality observed before 2007 were prominent among females. “The increase in the number of deaths was also associated with increases in deaths due to communicable diseases, particularly tuberculosis, influenza and pneumonia, and intestinal infectious diseases which have remained in the ten leading
causes of death in the country since 1997,” said Lehohla. The decrease in the number of deaths observed since 2007 has also been associated with decreases in tuberculosis, influenza and pneumonia and intestinal infectious diseases, more so amongst females. “While these causes remain among the ten leading causes of death in the country, their relative importance in mortality is decreasing over time. “However, among the ten leading causes of death due to communicable diseases, the proportion of deaths due to HIV disease continues to increase, although at a very slow pace (from 3,1% in 2009 to 3,4% in 2010),” he said. In recent years there has been a modest increase in the propor-
tion of deaths due to specific non-communicable diseases. Among the ten leading causes of death, the proportion of death due to the following causes increased: other forms of heart disease (particularly heart failure), cerebrovascular disease (largely stroke), diabetes mellitus and hypertensive diseases. The contribution of these diseases to the overall number of deaths in 2009 was 15,2% and increased to 17% in 2011. The proportion of deaths due to injuries also increased slightly from 8,7% in 2009 to 9,1% in 2011. On a general note, the proportion of deaths due to certain infectious and parasitic diseases and respiratory diseases have declined, while there has been an increase in the proportion of deaths due to diseases of the circulatory system; neoplasms (cancers); endocrine, nutritional and metabolic disease and external causes of morbidity and mortality. On the one hand, there is clear indication that communicable diseases are decreasing in the country and that the force of mortality is reducing particularly for females. – SAnews.gov.za
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH 2014
NEWS For more news and photos go to www.express-news.co.za. Go like Northen Cape Express on Facebook and give your opinion on stories.
Australian device saves animals lives SHUROO, a device that has proven without any doubt to be a much safer option for drivers, their families and for the local wildlife is now available in South Africa. This system is reported to be the solution for the endless collisions with animals, causing hundreds of fatalities in the Africa each year, expensive vehicle damage, as well as costly expenses in downtime for commercial operations. ShuRoo, as its name suggests, is an Australian designed High Frequency Vehicle Protection System that helps to combat the problem of wildlife collisions; particularly kangaroos, which wreak havoc on the national road system, especially in rural areas, by frequently and unpredictably bounding into fast-moving traffic. ShuRoo is reported to have worked with amazing success in Australia over millions of kilometers for the past 25 years. Australian roads are reported to be some of the world’s harshest environments where ShuRoo helped prevent wildlife collisions, reducing the collision likelihood to virtually zero. The same problem persists in Africa as it did in Australia, just with different animals. ShuRoo promises to work equally well on a wide variety of animals, particularly well on Africa’s number one offender, the kudu. The new Slimline ShuRoo casing is made from lightweight premium alloy to withstand the tough Australian driving environment.
It is perfect for Africa, because Africa boasts similar environment conditions as Australia. Insects, dirt and weather will not affect the ShuRoo’s performance. It fits all vehicles from small cars to road trains. It is also finished in chrome and blends well into any vehicle’s colour scheme for 24/7 protection. Most animals in the wild are flighty and erratic and they can be counted on to act as such. However, the lasting impression that ShuRoo makes, is that it alerts animals and humans of the vehicle’s presence as it approaches, giving both animal and human the greatest chance of avoiding a collision “ShuRoo is not designed to ‘scare or panic,’ but is like a sophisticated police siren which alerts the animals that there is something strange and disturbing approaching. “As you get closer, the sound gets stronger and the animal is alerted and aware. By choice animals won’t knowingly run directly into vehicles. “They mostly do this when startled and become flighty and filled with panic. ShuRoo helps you avoid all this by letting the animals know we’re around,” explained an ShuRoo company based in Bloemfontein. The one piece compact design allows for easy installation to cars, RVs, trucks and buses as the unit weighs 1,5 kg. It is (330) mm wide, (50) mm high and (60) mm deep. It is further reported to be simple to fit as you would with driving lights at a local auto electrician.
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EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH 2014
NEWS
Councillor calls Malema a traitor } Boipelo Mere A JAN KEMP ANC ward councillor, Crocket Adams, told the audience that the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) president, Julius Malema, was not welcome in Jan Kempdorp. He was referring to the announcement that the EFF would be launching their election manifesto in Jan Kempdorp on the weekend of 5 March when the councillor was asked to do the vote of thanks during the Freedom Day Commemoration at the Jan Kemp Primary School. Referring to Julius Malema as a traitor, Adams was quoted saying: “The Bible says traitors must be stoned to death. The traitor that is planning to come to this town must be shown that he is not welcome.” Most of the party members from the audience preferred not to comment on the statement and rather said it was not important. Kgopisho Litsiego commented that such statements during this era were really uncalled for. “That is undoubtedly aimed at instilling anger and violence in people’s minds. I mean, it is a human rights commemoration, we do not need to be reminded of stoning incidents,” the concerned Litsiego said. Close to 300 people packed the school hall
where the MEC for Social Development, Tiny Chotelo, delivered the Human Rights Day commemoration speech. Flanked by Vuyisile Khen, the Phokwane mayor, Raseriti Papi Tau, a Member of Council of Provinces, Elisabeth Monnapule, the Magareng mayor, and Zweli Mpapi, the deputy chairperson of the ANC in the Frances Baard region, Chotelo told the audience not to allow themselves to be oppressed. She emphasised the importance of allowing the disabled children to enjoy their human rights by also allowing them to get an education. “Today’s schools are even better equipped than before. Why should we allow such opportunities for our children to pass them by?” Khen highlighted the importance of the day in line with observing the country’s history. Quoting the name of the hosting primary school, Khen said that the name of the school would soon be officially changed to the Indwaya Primary School. The day was ended with a performance by the provincial aerobics team. To view the video of the Jan Kempdorp Primary Mango Groove dance go to www.express-news.co.za. Have your say: Was the ANC councillor Crocket Adams misquoted as an instigator of violence or not?
THE Jan Kempdorp Primary School learners did not miss a note when they melodiously rendered the National Anthem.
LOCAL gospel choir Baitshepelang Ho Jehova did not disappoint to deliver what they are well known for. They stunned the audience with Loliwe in gospel style.
THE MEC for Social Development in the Northern Cape, Tiny Chotelo.
MANGO GROOVE DANCE. Go to the Express website at www.express-news.co.za to see the action. Photos: Boipelo Mere
Situation still calm } Boipelo Mere THE situation is still reported to be calm in Seodin after some community members chased away Zimbabweans and Nigerians from the area. Residents accused the Zimbab-wean and Nigerian nationals living in the area of assaulting one of the members of the Seodin community. They also alleged that the foreigners were dabbling in drug peddling as well as drug-related incidents. Last week, after being chased away and assaulted by the community, a group of about 30 to 50 foreigners sought refuge at the Kuruman Police Station before they were temporarily housed by the municipality at another location. According to a Seodin community member who wants to remain anonymous, a fight started at a local tavern in Seodin where the local was stabbed. The source revealed that a group of men from the community raided Seodin the following day going door to door in search of the accused and chasing the others out of the
township. According to one of the foreigners on site, most of them left the community hall and went to look for other accommodation because the situation was becoming unbearable and they could not go back home. They stated that a meeting was scheduled for themselves and one of the traditional leaders over the weekend, but they (foreign nationals) were refused entry to the meeting. “The delegates told us that they did not want any Makwerekweres,” she said. According to the police, they housed the foreign nationals in order for them to monitor if the situation was under control. The police did not say whether one of the foreigners was killed in the process. The police also stated that no arrests had been made. They are investigating the matter. During the early hours of Thursday, 20 March, they raided a house in Kuruman. The police arrested 13 illegal immigrants and they also searched a vehicle. They believe that this specific vehicle was used during the unrests.
EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE , WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH 2014
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NEWS
Development Zimele’s aim } Boipelo Mere
THE proud owner of the Fitness Factory, Marius Nel.
Photo: Supplied
ZIMELE, the enterprise development arm of Anglo American, proved to provide local businesses with self-empowerment to make a sustainable difference in their local communities. The Fitness Factory in Kathu is an excellent example of this notion after enabling the Kathu Primary School’s tennis club to participate in a junior tennis competition, the Wilson Cup Championships. According to the owner of The Fitness Factory, Marius Nel, they supported the budding sports stars to participate in the competition in Sun City by sponsoring their transport fees to and from Rustenburg and sports kits such as golf shirts. The teams returned with pride as the boys’ team ended the competition in fifth place and the girls’ team with an impressive third place. “I knew this competition would be an excellent opportunity to help develop the tennis skills of these young people. “Vital to this development is being able to play against other peer schools in competitions such as this one. “I am happy that our support has aided in their development and I hope that this has at least started to invigorate youth who participate in sport
‘I knew this competi tion would be an ex cellent opportunity to help develop the ten nis skills of these young people.’ – Marius Nel, owner of the Fitness Factory
and live healthy lifestyles,” said Nel. The Sishen Mine local Economic Development practitioner Sydney Ntili explained that the Fitness Factory was but one example of the many businesses Zimele had helped create in local communities. “Zimele is all about creating businesses that not only create jobs in the local community, but inspire development and positive change. “We are very proud of the example that The Fitness Factory is setting as one of the thousands of businesses Anglo American has helped grow across the country, businesses that develop communities,” he added.
THE pills, believed to be Mandrax, found on the 53-year-old woman during the arrest. Photo: Supplied
Woman arrested } Boipelo Mere
A 53-YEAR-OLD WOMAN, Thembani Mtshali, briefly appeared before the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court on charges of dealing in drugs. Police Flying Squad members nabbed her while doing their rounds in the early hours of Thursday morning. They stopped the red Volkswagen Golf that she was driving in Barkly Road and searched it and its occupants. Police noticed a black bag in the car. On investigation they found the bag contained about 1 760 pills, believed to be Mandrax
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EXPRESS NORTHERN CAPE, WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH 2014
Clubs take each other on } Boipelo Mere
“IF those with power in the Northern Cape had a slight liking of soccer, the Northern Cape would be counted among other provinces in South Africa as amounting to something regarding soccer. The government officials in the province have left us to fend for ourselves, that is why you see the playground without markings in our what is supposed to be stadium.” These were the words of Chris Moncho who was standing on the side-line of the pitch when Express Northern Cape asked him how he was able to see the touchline on the ground. It was on Human Rights Day and the Magareng Local Football Association had billed its 13 clubs to play their league games. The log leaders, Warrenton Rangers, were billed to play against Young Pirates who came to the grounds unprepared and without a full team. By the time the game started Young Pirates had only nine players who nevertheless went onto the pitch to face Rangers. Eventually Rangers beat Young Pirates by 6-2. In an earlier game the Ratanang Football Club played in a high-paced game against the Spar Football Club. Spar FC, who said that they were on the verge of changing their name since the supermarket group had ditched them, beat Ratanang FC by 5-3. The goal scorers for Spar are as follows: Lebogang Moetlo scored the first goal and Boitshepo Mmetsang, Lesedi Monnedi, Raymond Segapo and Ernest Dithejane followed with a goal each. The goal scorers for Ratanang were Charlie “Mandela” Parkerson, Herman Rhenoster and Tshepang Oliphant. Three other games played at the rugby stadium were Junior Celtic who were beaten 5-3 by Fast XI, Junior Birds were beaten 2-1 by Super Callies, while the
RATANANG FC (green and yellow) scored their third goal less than ten minutes before the end of the game in an effort to restore their pride. Photo: Boipelo Mere number two on the log, Try Again, gave Happy Stars a 6-1 lashing. According to Moncho, it is games such as this one that helped Malfa produce quality players such as James Mothibi and Godfrey Mbambo. James Mothibi became a wellknown soccerite from Warrenton to have emerged from the humble environment to
play for Orlando Pirates in the Premier Soccer League. His mentoring local club was Young Stars before he was snatched up by the well-known and erstwhile Basotho Tigers. He proceeded to African Wanderers, which was where he impressed the Pirates technical team and became a visible face in
New striker gives coach all the credit } Sidwell Guduka GABADINHO MHANGO, the Bloemfontein Celtic hitman, believes that coach Ernst Middendorp is responsible for his recent goal-scoring prowess. The striker arrived at Phunya Sele Sele from Malawi’s Big Bullets FC last August and he launched his professional career in South Africa on a high note: Scoring a 90th minute goal in his debut against Moroka Swallows in Bloemfontein on 22 October. Since then he has hit seven league goals and two Nedbank Cup goals. The 21-year-old credits his fine form to Middendorp, who also made his Celtic coaching debut on the same day as Mhango. “I am in a good moment, in good form and you can see that on the pitch,” Mhango says. “I am obviously enjoying my football at Celtic and the team is doing really well – currently we are eighth on the
table. The most important issue for me is that I am getting regular game time, week in and week out, in what I believe is the best league on the African continent,” he says.
“I attribute my good form to Coach Middendorp.” Middendorp’s impact has been felt across the board. Since the beginning of the year Celtic have only lost once in 11 matches,
against Kaizer Chiefs. They won six and drew four of those games. The pint-sized striker hopes to increase his scoring tally when Celtic welcome Amazulu to the Kaizer Sebothelo
Stadium in Botshabelo on Sunday at 15:30. However, despite the rave reviews the 21-year-old has received he admits there is plenty of room for improvement – particularly
in front of the goal. “Sometimes my positioning is not the best and I need to improve that to score more goals.” ) More sports news at www.expressnews.co.za or expresspaper.mobi.
the Pirates team for a few seasons. “Godfrey Mbambo, like James Mothibi, was also a protégé of Young Stars of Warrenton before he was signed by Bloemfontein Celtics. “He played until he started working as one of the officials in the Bloemfontein Celtics team.”