Police officers and paramedic personnel at the accident scene on the N8 highway after a fatal crash involving a Toyota Hilux bakkie and a Chevrolet Spark. Three children died in the accident and a fourth is still in hospital. PHOTO: TEBOHO SETENA
Police investigate accident while community grieves
TEBOHO SETENA
The Bloemfontein police are probing a case of culpable homicide relating to the fatal accident in which three learners of the Dr C.F. Visser Primary School died.
Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, provincial police spokesperson, has confirmed an investigation into the accident that involved a Toyota Hilux bakkie and a Chevrolet Spark.
The accident occurred on Friday, 24 January, at an intersection with
traffic lights on the N8 highway in Bloemfontein.
Two of the three deceased in the triple tragic accident are brothers.
The fourth child, Tennique Joubert (6) is reported to be still in a coma after undergoing an emergency surgery at the Netcare Pelonomi Hospital.
She survived with the driver of the Chevrolet, Adri Jonck, who was released after treatment at the hospital.
The deceased brothers have been identified as Ryan (6) and
Ayden (8) Smit. The third deceased is Leané van Papendorp (8), their cousin.
Ryan and Ayden are children of Yolandé and Martin Smit, manager of the Maselspoort Resort and Conference Centre.
Leané is the daughter of Jonck, Yolandé’s sister.
Members of the public, including various schools in Bloemfontein, reacted with shock to the news of the accident.
Messages of condolence have been pouring in. A memorial service was held at
Three young lives lost
the school on Tuesday, 28 January.
Riekie Venter, headmistress of the Dr C.F. Visser Primary School, said a funeral service for the three learners would be held at the Dutch Reformed Church Bloemfontein West (Klipkerk) on Saturday, 1 February, at 11:00.
The accident reportedly happened on Friday at about 07:45.
The four children were being transported to school in the Chevrolet Spark.
The driver of the Toyota Hilux, a man who was travelling alone,
escaped unharmed from the accident.
Details about the accident are still sketchy.
According to eyewitnesses, the driver of the Toyota Hilux, pulling a trailer loaded with fencing material, was heading east along the N8 when he reportedly crashed into the Chevrolet in the middle of the intersection.
Jonck, driving the Chevrolet, was reportedly following traffic along Kruger Avenue at the Aljo’s shopping centre, which is situated along the N8 highway.
Ayden Smit (8) PHOTO: SUPPLIED Ryan Smit (6) PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Leané van Papendorp (8) PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Tennique Joubert (6) PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Rogue cops, civilian paying hefty price
The Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court has slapped two former police officers and a civilian with prison sentences. They were sentenced during their appearance on separate occasions.
The officers, Noxolo Perseverance Job (39) and Bontle Mpolokeng Monnenyane (41), held the rank of constable. On Monday, 13 January, Job was sentenced to four years’ direct imprisonment for conspiracy to commit robbery and contravention of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.
It was made evident in court that she lent her official firearm to the would-be robbers at an amount of R50 000, and recruited people to stage a robbery and steal firearms from a safe at the Bloemfontein protection service offices in 2019. Job was responsible for static security at national key points and residences of VIPs in the Free State.
Reportedly, a whistle-blower who had become privy to Job’s plans informed the Hawks. Lt Col Zweli Mohobeleli, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said she was nabbed on 8 October 2019 during a mock transaction.
During the initial trial, it emerged that Job had serious financial problems worth thousands of rands and was struggling to pay her escalating debts. Following her conviction on 30 July last year, the court ended the matter by sentencing her.
Maj. Gen. Mokgadi Bokaba, provincial head of the Hawks, was pleased with this outcome. “She was a danger to her colleagues and society at large. These firearms would have been used to rob, rape, and kill had they landed in the wrong hands.”
Monnenyane and civilian Refilwe Tumelo Koetle (33) were sentenced to 12 years and eight years, respectively. They were found
guilty for corruption, extortion, kidnapping, and assault.
This followed their arrest by the Hawks on 15 December 2017, reacting to a complaint about corruption and extortion.
“The complainant informed the police that her brother was taken by Monnenyane and her brother’s ex-girlfriend, Koetle, who said he was under arrest for possession of a stolen vehicle. The duo visited the victim’s mother and told her that her son was arrested and Koetle’s father had paid R10 000 bail for his release, which needed to be reimbursed.
“The detectives set up an undercover operation which led them to the victim’s workplace where it was confirmed that the accused took the victim’s bank card, demanding to withdraw R10 000 since it was his pay day. Upon realising that the employer had not yet deposited the salary, they arranged to come back later,” said WO Fikiswa Matoti, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks. Both women were declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Boost learners with school essentials
Police’s assault case dragging on
Three victims of a brutal assault, allegedly by eight police officers stationed at Edenburg and Trompsburg, are still waiting for justice.
The victims, Molato Mahlose (58), Velile Chaka (50), and Lerato Mokotso (58), continue waiting since 2017 for the criminal justice system in the Free State to finalise the case.
Progress of the matter in the Edenburg Magistrates’ Court against the officers sees several postponements.
In August last year it was again postponed to Monday, 27 January, after some of the officers changed legal representatives.
It was again adjourned to 10 February with one attorney, representing two accused present.
The postponement was due
THE VICTIMS WERE RELEASED FROM CUSTODY BY THE OFFICERS
to the same reason - for the accused to get legal representatives.
The accused holding rank of constables are: MJ Ningi, RS Masebo, LV Motale, LJ Titisi (female), HD Malibo, T Sefali and TE Mosia, as well as TE Kholomba who has reportedly resigned from the Free State police.
They face a charge of assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), after allegedly assaulting the three victims on 2 October 2017 on the N1.
The victims sustained severe physical injuries.
The remaining seven accused are still reporting for duty at stations of the towns in question. It emerged they were not found guilty during internal disciplinary proceedings held between 2018 and 2019 after their unions managed to defend them successfully. Probing by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) revealed the officers suspected the three men were in the armed robbery of Trompsburg furniture store on 2 October. They allegedly assaulted the men at a roadblock near Edenburg and spared the woman. The men and a woman hitched a hike in a courier van from Trompsburg. The courier was headed for Gauteng. The officers released the trio from custody after realising that they had wrongfully arrested them.
‘Corrective rapist’ added to list
TEBOHO SETENA
The personal details of a Bloemfontein man sentenced for raping a lesbian will be placed in the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) in addition to his 15 years’ imprisonment sentence.
Cancer incidence in SA expected to double
Globally, cancer is a major and growing public health problem. In 2022, there were an estimated 20 million new cancer cases, with 9,7 million lives lost to cancer.
World Cancer Day is annually observed on 4 February, and this year the global theme is “United by Unique”. It recognises that every experience with cancer is unique, and everyone has unique needs, perspectives, and a story to tell; yet, people touched by cancer are united in a shared ambition to see governments implement policies to improve cancer prevention, as well as deliver health systems that treat patients with cancer effectively. Elize Joubert, the CEO of CANSA, says the cancer incidence in South Africa is set to double by 2030. Not only does cancer encompass over 200 disease types; each person’s life situation differs in terms of socio-economic background, values and preferences. To better address these differences, people-centred care is oriented around individuals
and communities instead of the disease. It engages people to have an active role in their health.
“To improve cancer care in South Africa, a people-centred approach can lead to improved patient well-being, as well as higher quality care and increased trust in healthcare providers.
“In some cultures, cancer is still a taboo subject. Yet, talking about cancer openly raises awareness, improves outcomes, and can ultimately save lives.”
On World Cancer Day, CANSA invites individuals from all walks of life to share their personal cancer stories and experiences in writing, artwork or a video. The campaign intends to showcase real stories with unique perspectives.
“When you share your views, you bring valuable insight and humanity to the conversation. Your story can inform, energise, and inspire,” states Joubert.
) Visit cansa.org.za or call the nearest CANSA Care
Centre toll-free on 0800-22-66-22.
) Visit worldcancerday.org to share your story.
This was an order by the Bloemfontein Regional Court during the sentencing of the accused, Sechaba Mohapi (42), on Tuesday, 21 January.
The register lists the offender’s personal details such as name, home address, and the type of sexual offence it was. It was implemented in 2009 as a measure to keep a record of people convicted of raping children, along with both adults and children declared mentally unfit to defend themselves or stand trial.
Convicted offenders are not allowed to work with children, adopt, or apply to be foster carers.
Mohapi’s sentencing pertains a rape incident on 9 December 2022 at about 19:30, at his place of residence. The court heard of the harrowing ordeal, done at knifepoint, from the victim who was 23years-old at the time.
On the day, the victim was walking to a nearby shop to purchase milk when the accused called her to his yard, saying he
wanted her to buy something for him as well. Unsuspectingly, the victim went into Mohapi’s yard and stood next to entrance to the house.
While she was waiting, Mohapi grabbed her by the hand and forcefully pulled her inside the house. He threw her on the bed, then threatened her with a knife if she screamed. He then raped her in his bedroom. After the assault, Mohapi threw the victim’s clothes outside the house. Based on compelling evidence presented, the court convicted and slapped Mohapi with a harsh prison sentence.
State prosecutor Azola Key would not budge for leniency towards Mohapi. His Legal Aid representative argued that the court must deviate from the prescribed sentence of 15 years as there were substantial and compelling circumstances, giving reason that the accused was a firsttime offender.
State prosecutor Key argued, however, that there were no substantial and compelling circumstance which warranted deviation from the court imposing the prescribed minimum sentencing. He argued the seriousness of the offence and prevalence of corrective rape in our society. The court was in agreement and imposed a 15 year imprisonment sentence, and further declared Mohapi unfit to possess a firearm.
Noxolo Job with Adv. Johan Voster, who initially represented her in the case. PHOTO: ARCHIVES
The victims of a brutal assault, allegedly by eight police constables are from the left Molato Mahlose, Velile Chaka, and Lerato Mokotso. PHOTO: ACHIEVERS
TEBOHO SETENA
A group of learners from impoverished backgrounds attending the Polokehong Primary School in Freedom Square, Bloemfontein, have received essentials such as brand new bags, book covers, books, lunch boxes and sanitary products. These were presented at the school on Friday, 24 January. The items are courtesy of a partnership between Bloem Plaza, Dear Bella Sanitary Towels and Fabia Mokoena. From the left are Mokone Leeuw, Nomvula Zinja, Olga Matate, Lerato Matlabe, Mokoena, Mapule Mmusi, Neo Kitsa and Khutsahalo van Wyk. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Hawks arrest more for deception
TEBOHO SETENA
The fraud case pertaining the Covid-19 pandemic’s Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (Ters) against a Bloemfontein upholstery company’s owner, continued on 27 January in the Bloemfontein Regional Court.
The suspect, Marinda Johanna Smith (57), owner of MJ Upholstery Free State (Pty) Ltd, is facing charges of fraud and money laundering.
Smith’s appearance follows her arrest by the Bloemfontein Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team. She is currently out on bail of R5 000, granted on 13 December.
Lt. Col Zweli Mohobeleli, provincial spokesperson of the Hawks, said Smith allegedly defrauded the Department of Labour using ghost workers.
He said Smith applied for Covid19 Ters benefits with the Department of Employment and Labour on behalf of 28 employees.
“She received over R537 000 in pay-outs. The Specialised Investigating Unit (SIU) discovered that none of the employees appearing on the application, worked for her company. The matter was handed over to the Hawks, culminating with her arrest,” said Mohobeleli.
) Smith adds to the growing list of suspects, both men and women, the Hawks have arrested regarding the defrauding of the Covid-19 Ters scheme.
Other cases are ongoing in different courts, namely Bloemfontein, Bethlehem, and Phuthaditjhaba. The charges faced
SMITH ADDS TO THE GROWING LIST OF SUSPECTS THE HAWKS HAVE ARRESTED
include fraud and money laundering, following the Hawks’ discovery of undue payments to the suspects.
These suspects are Karien Maria Marx (58), Khahliso Isabel Motseremeli (48), Maletsatsi Julia Mathibela (49), Tshediso Ernest Mthembu (42), Mathoto Cynthia Letseng (34), Morena Solomon Mokete (26), Lebesa Masemelane Nesta (40), and Thapelo Alfred Lephondo (46).
Marx, director of Pop Snax (Pty) Ltd, reportedly submitted claims of more than R1 million.
Motseremeli, owner of a non-profit organisation (NPO) called Paballong Day Care Center, had claims worth R36 247.05.
Mathibela’s claims of more than R199 000 were made through an unregistered company, Cyclonic Holdings, with ghost workers.
Mthembu, who was the director at the Molake Management Lodge, received R259 739.10 for purported employees.
Mokete, received about R1,7 million on behalf of 86 ghost workers between July and October in 2020. Letseng received more than R847 000 for purported workers between September and December 2020.
Nesta Lebesa, director of the companies Setumo sa Bomme
Catering Service and Kelebogileana, received R241 762.07 in claims for five ghost workers between March and October 2020.
Lephondo, director of Thabs Financial Solutions, got R908 287.28 on behalf of 20 workers who never worked for his entity for March to October 2020.
Lephondo and Mthembu are out on bail of R10 000 and R20 000, respectively. Those granted bail of R5 000 each are Lebesa, Letseng, Karien, and Mathibela. Mokete’s bail is R 5000, and Motseremeli’s R 1000.
FOCUS ON: MIMOSA MALL MARATHON
Entry time is here
LIENTJIE MENTZ
Entries are now open for the Mimosa Mall Marathon that will take place on Saturday, 1 March, in Bloemfontein.
After the success of 2024’s race, which drew around 1 000 runners when hosted for the first time, a marathon is now included as part of the event.
The 42 km marathon is also a provincial qualifying event for the Comrades.
The race on 1 March will be the last opportunity to qualify for the Two Oceans 56 km (on 5 April) and the 21 km (6 April) races in Cape Town.
Runners can lace up their running shoes to prepare for the event of the year, and not only expect exciting inserts to their race packs from Mimosa Mall stores and partners, but also R32 500 in Mimosa Mall gift cards that are up for grabs for event winners in various age categories.
Mimosa Mall was also the first official partner of the Louzanne Coetzee Foundation during the 2024 Mimosa Family Run, where the runners contributed R10 000 towards Louzanne’s foundation that is aimed to empower differently-abled athletes, whilst providing much needed education and support to the country’s aspiring para-athletes.
Entry fees are R200 (42 km), R150 (21 km) and R120 (10 km). A temporary licence of R50
The Mimosa Mall Marathon is hosted in association with the Louzanne Coetzee Foundation and Bloemfontein Striders. Here in the mall are representatives, from the left, Jaco Ebertsohn (Bloemfontein Striders), Neelofar Issa (general manager at Mimosa Mall), Louzanne Coetzee and Claus Kempen. PHOTO: LIENTJIE MENTZ can be bought before the race. The entry fee for the 5 km fun run is R80.
Registration can be done on 27 and 28
February from 14:00 to 19:00. Starting times on Saturday, 1 March, are 05:30 for the 42 km, 06:00 for the 21 km and 06:30 for the 10 km and 5 km races.
Mimosa Mall is also including Grey College to their list of esteemed partners for the Mimosa Mall Marathon event in 2025, and
the route will also include Grey’s school grounds. Especially the routes for the marathon and halfmarathon is a nostalgic route through the streets of Bloemfontein and runners will enjoy taking to the streets in neighbourhoods like Westdene, Dan Pienaar and Brandwag.
The route for the marathon follows the route for the halfmarathon twice.
Entries are open on mimosamall.co.za.
Legal troubles do not cease
Attorney Nelson Sello Makwele (45), recently sentenced for defeating the administration of justice, has been further hit with a suspension by the Free State’s Legal Practice Council (LPC).
Data from the body regulating the affairs of and exercising jurisdiction over all legal practitioners, revealed Makwele was suspended on 27 November last year, just days after he was convicted and sentenced in the Harrismith Magistrates’ Court on 21 November.
Makwele is among the 16 listed attorneys the council temporarily suspended during 2024. The same year, the body struck from the roll nine practitioners in the Free State due to misconduct ranging from clients’ complaints regarding their service, and fraud.
Makwele was sentenced to a fine of R4 000 or nine months’ imprisonment. His sentencing was the culmination of the Free State Hawks team’s probing regarding his involvement in an incident that took place between 2020 and 2021.
Capt. Christopher Singo, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said Makwele’s sentencing followed the discovery that he was not certified and him admitting to appearing in the High Court to represent accused persons.
Singo said an enquiry established that Makwele was not duly certified and admitted for representation in the High Court. The court wholly suspended the sentence for three years on the condition that he is not convicted of the same offence during the period of suspension.
Tshediso Ernest Mthembu PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Thapelo Alfred Lephondo
Lebesa Masemelane Nesta
Morena Somolon Mokete
Mathoto Cynthia Letseng
The Gr. 12 class of 2024 of the Pellissier
Matrics maintain excellence
The Pellissier Combined School in Bethulie continues reaching for the sky, producing exceptional matric results.
The school achieved a 100% pass in the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam.
This was the third year running, in the past 15 years at this school in the Free State’s Xhariep district, that Pellissier achieved this feat.
The school’s 2024 matric cohort attained 72,2% bachelor’s pass, contributing to the Free
State’s overall bachelor pass of 48,2%.
The school was among the 67 that achieved a 100% pass in the NSC examination.
The school’s crop of 2024 were part of 37 583 full-time learners who wrote their NSC exams.
The Bethulie-based school, led by Marian Schmidt, acting principal, contributed towards the Xhariep district attaining a 92,2% pass mark, which earned the district position five in the
top ten nationally.
The district scored the same as Motheo – 92,2% nationally.
The Fezile Dabi district was the province’s shining star with 93,5%, in second position overall nationally, while Thabo Mofutsanyana reached 90,06% and claimed position eight nationally.
The Naledi Municipality in the Motheo district obtained the highest bachelor pass of 51,5%.
Both the Free State MEC for Education, Dr Julia Maboya, and
Premier Maqueen LetsohaMathae have praised all the learners for achieving excellence, raising the province pass rate and retaining first place nationally, achieving 91,0%. According to the Free State Department of Education, there was a significant increase last year in the number of full-time candidates who registered to write the NSC examinations, and a decline in the number of parttime candidates who registered, on the other hand.
Road fatalities in the Free State increase again
The Free State recorded an increase of 21 road fatalities the just-ended festive recess.
This was revealed by Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy during a media briefing held in Pretoria on Monday, 20 January.
Creecy said the province was among six that recorded increases in fatalities in the 2024/25 festive season compared to 2023/24.
The others were KwaZuluNatal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Northern Cape and North West.
Those that recorded a decrease in fatalities were Gauteng, Western Cape and Mpumalanga, respectively.
Creecy said South Africa recorded 1 502 deaths resulting from 1 234 fatal crashes during the 2024/25 festive season.
Analysing the number, she said fatalities represents a year-onyear increase of 5.3% (70) compared to the 2023/24 festive season, with a 4.2% (50) increase in the number of crashes.
She said the preliminary
statistics reveal that human behaviour accounts for 87% of crashes.
The behaviour include hit-andruns, jay-walking (pedestrians crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully), fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speed, drunken driving, and reckless overtaking.
Lawlessness amongst pedestrians accounted for 41% of fatalities on South African roads during the festive period.
A festive road safety campaign
themed “Don’t Let Drunk Driving Be Your Audition”: A sobering reality for South Africa’s festive roads was ran for the period to intensify road safety.
Despite a mixed bag of results in road fatalities, the Department of Transport reported a 15% drop in road fatalities since 2010 on South African roads.
The decrease is attributed to the implementation of the National Road Safety Strategy 2016 - 2030, which aimed to reduce road fatalities.
Learning given a colourful flair
The two sisters who published their first bilingual colouring book back in 2021, have returned once more with a new activity book for toddlers.
Lerika Smith from Bloemfontein helped her sister, Tharene van Tonder, a graphic designer at Foxy Designing in Kroonstad, to further develop the idea of their first colouring book.
Dare to learn and fail fast
MANDISA GULIWE
South Africa’s e-commerce sector is forecast to grow to R225 billion this year, a 150% growth rate over five years with consumer behaviours as the main driver.
Recent global events have accelerated this behavioural transition post-Covid-19 lockdown era – largely characterised by consumers who have grown accustomed to the convenience and flexibility of shopping online.
Once businesses have an in-depth understanding of their market, they must adapt to this evolving landscape by investing in digital resources and prioritising seamless online experiences to compete effectively, particularly those that serve a channel market.
One of the key drivers to the significant shift in consumer behaviour towards online purchasing in South Africa is accessibility. E-commerce allows businesses to service customers in areas where they do not have a physical presence.
However, transitioning from a traditional brick-and-mortar model to an e-commercecentric approach, which involves reimagining the customer experience in the digital environment, can be challenging. This process includes developing a userfriendly online platform that showcases products effectively, integrating secure and flexible payment options and optimising logistics for efficient delivery.
FOR FUTURE GROWTH, UPSKILLING BY BUSINESSES IS IMPORTANT
Driving engagement and loyalty, by leveraging digital marketing strategies and data analytics, organisations can better understand customer preferences, enabling personalised shopping experiences that drive engagement and loyalty. A lack of research can handicap businesses in terms of digital readiness. Early e-commerce adopters have an advantage simply because they studied the market.
For future growth, upskilling by businesses is important, investing in the best digital minds and gear non-digital resources towards the digital boom.
With studies showing that 93% of B2B buyers do research online before making a purchase, companies must optimise their digital strategies to better engage and convert potential clients in the channel space.
Essentially, businesses must make the online shopping experience seamless.
Based on Schneider Electric’s three-pillar approach to e-commerce, these are the key elements of a successful e-commerce strategy for large organisations operating in the South African market:
After the success of their book in Afrikaans and English, they took up the challenge to publish another colouring book – this time in Sotho and English.
“The new book is more than just a colouring book,” says Lerika. “It teaches toddlers words and spelling, and it is filled with a variety of activities.”
The colouring book offers a way to teach children from
three
colouring book that will keep the young ones busy. My First Bilingual Colouring Book is made up of 330 pages of fun. To get one of these books, or for more information, contact Lerika on lerikabrgh176@gmail.com.
) Understand the market and the potential value it brings, from customer preferences, right down to average basket size.
) Understand who your audience is, understand what their needs are and provide solutions tailored to these needs.
) Leverage earned, owned and paid media channels.
Ultimately, e-commerce is a gateway for small and medium enterprises that do not have the capital investment for a physical store, which is no longer a barrier to entry. At the same time, e-commerce enables business continuity, even in the face of uncertainties, which means that no business should be forced to shut down.
Businesses that are looking to enter the e-commerce space should not be afraid to test the waters – learn and fail fast. Every digital transformation journey will have its challenges, but organisations should focus on the learnings to create an unmatched tailored experience for their customers online.
) Mandisa Guliwe is the E-commerce manager for Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric.
Combined School in Bethulie obtained a 100% pass rate in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. The school’s management has celebrated this achievement. From the left are Lerato Mcquirie, Teboho Ramabenyane, Dimpho Qithi, Mookho Arries, Nathalie Plaatjies, Asanda Morake, Refilwe Moagi, Merolien du Toit, Lynn Visagie, Anita Herendorfer and Kopano Manosa; back: Christiaan Coetzee, Masonwabe Fuku, Magdel Venter (teacher) and Alex Petersen. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Lerika Smith with the book she and her sister, Tharene van Tonder, published. PHOTO: LIENTJIE MENTZ
Student realises his dream of learning
One of the Free State’s top 100 matric achievers for 2024, Kananelo Sibusiso Raleting, is continuing his dream of lifelong learning. He has enrolled at the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, to study towards a diploma in Information Technology (IT).
The wheelchair-bound Raleting, one of the learners of the bright class of matriculants of the Bloemfontein-based Martie Du Plessis Special Needs School, is among the scores of first-year students registered at the university’s Disability Unit, whose chief goal is to facilitate access to higher education for students with disabilities.
For Raleting, the CUT is the destination of choice to pursue his dream to become an information technologist; a passion he has fostered since an early age.
Hailing from Botshabelo and living with cerebral palsy, Raleting’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and determination. Being among the province’s top 100 academic achievers is a testimony of his academic potential and the barriers he has overcome. These top achievers were recognised by the Free State department of education at a well-done function held on Friday, 17 January, at the CUT.
Despite facing significant challenges, including physical limitations and personal hardships, Raleting has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to his education, serving as a source of inspiration for others.
He said his father, a key figure in his life, sparked his interest in IT, introducing him to the world of technology and computers at a young age. This exposure ignited a passion to Raleting decision to join the CUT an easy one.
He was further influenced by the positive experiences of friends, who praised the institution’s supportive environment and
commitment to inclusivity.
Raleting shared his experience about the smooth registration process, alleviating his initial concerns about accessibility.
“Coming to the CUT this morning, I was overwhelmed with anxiety and had my unknown fears of being rejected due to my condition. Upon my arrival, I received a warm welcome and was assisted without any issues,” he said.
“I am proud and pleased to say that I am
Disability a great obstacle in academic pursuit
Students with disabilities enrolled at South African institutions of higher learning make up approximately 1% of the student population, research has revealed. The findings further revealed that this enrolment figure is also significantly lower due to the dwindling
amount of learners with a disability completing Gr. 12 in order to advance and study at the various academic institutions across the country. In addition to this barrier is the lack of funding opportunities, such as bursaries and scholarships,
offered to these prospective students.
In 2022, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) reported that it supported fewer than 1 800 students with a disability, while more than 1,3 million of its beneficiaries were able-bodied students.
TheMangaungMetropolitanMunicipalityherebynotifiesforgeneralinformationin termsoftheprovisionsofSectionActNo.16of2013oftheMangaungMetropolitan Municipality Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, that the following applicationhasbeenreceivedfromROODT*ArchitectsandUrbanPlanners: Erf2330,1FAUREAVENUE,WILLOWS,Bloemfontein
Thepublicationservesasnoticetothepublicfortheapplicationfortheremovalof restrictive condition (2) from the Title Deed of Erf 2330, and rezoning of Erf 2330 (from“residential1”to“generalresidential1a”)Willows,Bloemfontein.
The application, relevant plans, documents, and information will be available for inspectionduringofficehours(8:30–15:00)attheofficeoftheTownandRegional Planning,subdirectorateoftheMangaungMetropolitanMunicipality,Room1011, 10th floor, Bram Fischer Building, Corner Nelson Mandela Drive and Markgraaff Street,Bloemfonteinforaperiodof30daysfromthedateofpublicationhereof,orby 3March2025.Anypersonwhowishestolodgeanobjectiontotheapprovalofthe application, is hereby invited to lodge and substantiate their objection in writing to the office of the Town and Regional Planning sub directorate, Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, PO Box 3704, Bloemfontein, 9300 or sent to george.masaubi@mangaung.co.za.
Objection(s)statingcomprehensivereasonsmustreachthisofficewithinaperiodof 30 days from the date of publication hereof. The objection must stipulate the full particularsoftheobjector(s)(postaladdress,streetaddress,telephonenumber(s) ande-mailaddress).Anypersonwhoisunabletowritemay,duringofficehours,visit the offices of the Town and Regional Planning Sub-directorate, Bram Fischer Building,Room1011onthe10thfloor,whereanofficialofthisofficewillassistthose by transcribing their objections. Any person who submitted an objection will be notified,inwriting,ifahearingwillbeheldinrespectoftheapplication.
a registered student and in good hands! All facilities are wheelchair-friendly, as I could manoeuvre easily around the campus.”
He highlighted the supportive environment at the CUT.
“I am looking forward to making new friends, making my parents proud, and enjoying my university life. This is my chance, and I am going to make the most of it.”
Raleting has encouraged other students
with a disability to believe in their capabilities and not let the world define them.
“Anyone can be what they want in life. If you put your mind to it, you will achieve it.”
The CUT’s Disability Unit strives to create an enabling environment that empowers students with disabilities to achieve their full potential through the provision of a range of services. It was officially opened on 19 May 2022 and is an important landmark on the Bloemfontein campus.
Juliet Setshego, a special lab assistant, taking Raleting through the registration process. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Raleting happily displays his student card as he begins the journey to study towards a diploma in Information Technology.
Tournament aids youth
Black Stars were crowned the champions of the Thapelo Walker Tsoaeli Foundation tournament, after beating three other opponents to take the crown.
The victorious team was crowned on 18 January, following a 3 – 1 win over Captsone in the final played at the Freedom Square Sport complex in Bloemfontein.
The winning side scooped the first prize, a gold medal plus floating trophy, while the runner-up received
a silver medal.
On the road to the final, Capstone beat Merchants FC by 4 – 2 and took Stars penalty shootout to dispose gutsy Napoli FC by 4 – 3.
The two clubs were gridlocked 1 –all after regulation time.
This was the first edition of the tournament that featured mainly U23 male clubs.
Organiser Thapelo Tsoaeli said the tournament aims to continue contributing to the development of
football and unearth talented players to play in professional league.
He said he was planning to stage the tournament annually in an effort to help young people in Freedom Square to find a life purpose through sport.
“The tournament seeks to become a life changing opportunity for young people in Freedom Square, enabling them to live a positive lifestyle and focus on building a bright future,” said Tsoaeli.
Members eagerly awaited
In the spirit of embracing a new year, sports and supporter clubs are inviting members of the public to join their activities.
Football supporters unite
The Orlando Pirates Supporters’ branch in Bloemfontein is inviting supporters in the Bloemfontein area to a general meeting scheduled for Sunday, 2 February, starting at 10:00.
This will be the first meeting of 2025 and is set to be held at Rasephei’s house in Phelindaba.
Supporters interested in joining the branch and gaining membership are welcome to attend.
For more information on the meeting, supporters and
interested persons can contact Stimela Lebona on 065-811-5274 or Pule Pitso on 083-708-4125.
Table tennis players sought The Caleb Motshabi Table Tennis Club in Batho is registering junior and senior players interested in the sport. Those joining as club members will represent the team in various tournaments, including national ones.
Registration payable once off is R100, and the monthly fee is R50. The junior age groups are U11, U13 and U15. The senior group is U19.
Development training sessions are conducted daily.
Call David Kgabale on 073-7120048.
Golden Stars player gains respect
Sibanye Golden Stars’ winger Mojalefa Mokhatla made a name for himself in this year’s Nedbank Cup in a tough fixture against Mamelodi Sundowns.
He scooped the coveted title of man of the match, being rewarded for his performance against the starstudded premiership outfit, which eventually won 5 – 2 in the fixture played at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday, 25 January.
This was a remarkable feat for Mokgatla, bearing in mind he was chosen as the recipient of the title while highly-talented players of professional team Sundowns were also in the running for this.
Mokgatla played a crucial role in
securing the two goals for his team, scoring the first goal and setting up the second for his teammate Boeletsang Rankali. The pair beat South Africa and Africa’s finest goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, finalist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or Yashin Trophy.
This was the first time Stars, a team that campaigns in the ABC Motsepe League in the Free State, reached the last-32 group of the tournament, which makes provision for participation by clubs across all football divisions in South Africa. The club progressed to this stage of the competition as the winner of the Free State, after winning all matches convincingly.
Teboho Setena
The Black Stars FC players celebrate after winning the tournament. From the left are Lehlohonolo Thite, Lehlohonolo Fodeman, Luvuyo Diradingoe and Tshepang Saayman. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Pace set in title race
TEBOHO SETENA
Botshabelo-based D’ General FC has set the pace in stream A, while Mangaung City leads stream B of the ABC Motsepe League in the Free State. The stream winners will face off for the provincial title at the end of the season.
Currently topping the log in stream A with 20 points, D’ General has fallen short in winning the provincial title in the previous years. This just-ended season the club lost again to Mangaung Unite in the contest for the Free State ABC Motsepe League championship.
Mangaung is in third position with 13 points, while African Warriors remain in second place.
D’ General has since enlisted the services of James Mothibi as head coach in the ambitious quest to win the ABC Motsepe League in the Free State and ultimately gain promotion to professional rank. The former striker of premiership giants Orlando Pirates seems to be on track guiding the club to its destiny.
James Mothibi PHOTO FACEBOOK
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Addition of new club members could lead to overall improvement to players’ tactics
Fighting spirit burning bright
The Marumo Gallants have enlisted three offensive players as part of a concerted effort in bolstering their offensive power.
To this end, the enlistment of the services of Junior Zindoga, Junior Sédé Dion and Ibrahim Conde is highly anticipated to remedy the Gallants’ striking department’s inability to follow through on goalscoring opportunities created.
Sello Nduna, spokesperson for the club, says the trio has the necessary experience to ply their skills in competitive leagues.
He said Dion (31), a forward, was signed on a loan deal from the Durban-based AmaZulu for the reminder of the Betway Premiership. Dion, who was born in the Ivory Coast, had a stint with the Bahlabane Ba Ntwa. The previous teams Dion played for include the Asec Mimosas and Williamsville Athletic in his home country, as well as Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy.
The Zimbabwean-born Zindoga (26) was signed from Nsingizini Hotspurs in Swaziland and was previously with Maritzburg United during the 2018-’19 season. The player’s footprints include playing for Yadah Stars, a team campaigning in the Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League.
Conde (24) is from a team in America, where he was at the University of New Hampshire. The forward, who originates from Guinea, reportedly had a stellar season at the university team during this just-ended season.
Nduna is optimistic the enlisted three offensive players will make a significant impact by aiding the team in scoring crucial goals.
“The club is confident Conde, along with the already enlisted players, will contribute to the overall success of the team; the Gallants are aiming to finish the
season strong,” he said.
Dan Malesela, head coach of the club, has set a realistic target to secure a top-eight slot.
His players’ misfiring problem is underscored with 13 goals scored in 14 Betway Premier League matches of the first round.
With the latest enlistment,
Malesela and his technical team will be hoping the Bahlabane ba Ntwa find the net and claw their way to the top of the league.
With the league competition entering the final stretch, improvement in the striking department is crucial to avoid the dreaded relegation.
Trailblazer marathon saluted
The signing of new club members come after Fifa ended a ban which came into effect due to the nature of the transaction between the Gallants and Moroka Swallows.
The ban was centred around striker Mwape Musonda, who reportedly had a payment dispute with Swallows. and This dispute “overlapped” when Dr Abram Sello, president of Marumo, purchased the franchise. Sello purchased Swallows as a going concern, meaning he inherited all of its agreements, including those with any third party.
This year, athletes can join in the celebration of the 55th Diamond Marathon.
The Kimberley Harriers Running Club, the first running club in the Northern Cape, hosted the first Diamond Marathon in 1970 to submit it as a qualifying race to the Comrades Marathon committee.
It is the second oldest marathon in South Africa.
Sarge Ball, George MacCallum and Jimmy Glover founded the club in 1969 to have the necessary club affiliation to allow them to run the Comrades.
Ball’s son, Gregory, designed the club logo, and the same badge is still in use.
Although Glover and MacCallum have passed away, Ball celebrated
his 91st birthday in 2024. Ball stopped running the Comrades in 1993, of which he completed 23, and became a gym instructor in Scottburgh, where he is still involved.
In 1970, Ball won the first Diamond Marathon in 02:45:00. That year there were 12 entries.
Kimberley Harriers has a longstanding commitment to nurturing local talent, and helping athletes –whether walkers, beginners or runners – to reach their full potential and foster a sense of community around the sport.
The club also hosts many charity events.
After 34 years, Gert Thys is still the record holder when it comes to the Diamond Marathon.
Thys, who is known for his success on the international marathon circuit, used the club as
one of the early platforms to showcase his talent.
Kimberley Harriers is still growing and is proud of its membership of 180.
Its current chairperson, Sammy Louw, joined the club in 1978. Louw finished 27 Comrades’ with one silver medal, four Bill Rowan’s, 21 bronze medals and one Vic Clapham. He finished 29 Two Oceans Marathons with two silver medals.
Last year the club celebrated the completion of 30 Comrades by David Janse van Vuuren, deputy chairperson.
It was the first time in the club’s history that a member completed 30 Comrades Marathons.
) For more information on the 55th Diamond Marathon on 1 March, dial 078-953-6337 or 072-517-5898, or visit the club on Facebook.
The National Museum has the following vacancies: 1. Data Capturer: Entomology – 18-months Internship (This is the scientific related data capture of label data from insect specimens into excel verifying existing database records in Entomology collection of Terrestrial invertebrates Department) 2 Collections Manager: Terrestrial Invertebrates 3. Museum Scientist: Botany
HELENA BARNARD
TEBOHO SETENA
Dan Malesela (green shirt), head coach of the Marumo Gallants, with Duncan Lechesa (also standing), assistant coach. PHOTO: FACEBOOK
