FREE STATE NEWS (December, 2008)
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating its 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, which started in July, 2008.
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Thabo wa Makae
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Marketing Desk
Thabo wa Makae
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Contact number:
051 447 1655
19 DEC – 25 DEC 08 Edition
* Note: this will be the last edition of the newspaper until next year (2009)
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Modernism in Tebogo and the haka, (Book Review)” (page 3). By Pule Lechesa
(reproduced here)
BOOK REVIEW
Modernism in Tebogo and the haka
By Pule Lechesa
Recent fictional works reflect how the world has moved on in the New Millennium, positively affecting the lives of countless black people at grassroots level all over Africa . This patent trend can be seen for example in Omoseye Bolaji’s latest work of fiction, Tebogo and the haka (2008)
We read and re-read our old favourites, novels, plays etc written by distinguished African writers over the decades and we are struck about the rather old-age ambience of such works. We feel that there is something missing – and most likely that thing is modern technology. Pick up Njabulo Ndebele’s classic, Fools for example and the ambience seems not so different from the setting of 19th century books like Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights.
Yet Zamani, the protagonist in Fools, is a school teacher and “middle class” in orientation. But he has few comforts compared with the modern world perks. Not even electricity. Nowadays we are awash with modern gadgets and technology and these things are incorporated into modern fiction. Gone are the days when stationary phones and faxes were the ultimate in technology as can be seen from thousands of books published just a few decades ago.
The face of the modern world has changed so much that most people now have access to things like cell phones, the Internet and ipods. In fact it is understood that in some African countries now “even beggars have one two or more cell phones”. This shows how the whole world has changed. Very few African blacks might have access to internet in their private house but with so many “Internet cafes” all over the place – not to talk of at many libraries – the world has opened up, so to speak.
Hence Tebogo Mokoena , the private investigator of the Tebogo Mystery series reflects this exposure to modern technology, moreso in Tebogo and the haka. His wife, Khanyi, is in France but of course she keeps in touch with him thanks to modern technology, via emails and by phone. SMS (text messages) keep their love glowing despite the vast physical distances between them:
“Before I slept, I was delighted to receive a text (SMS) message from my wife, Khanyi. She reiterated her love for me, said Paris was great but she would prefer to be with me. ‘Sweet dreams honey,’ she ended, ‘big, big kisses’….I slept well”
(Tebogo and the haka; page 11)
As we see later on in the book SMS messages add to the mystery of the story as the plot unravels (but I do not want to give the plot away here); also, as part of the deference to modernity at the end of the book we are told about “slick, sophisticated tape recorder on my person”
Despite the fact that Tebogo is in a small town (Ladybrand) he still has time to go to the Internet. As we are told:
“He (the owner of the Internet shop) smiled. ‘Ah, sometimes we just open for a few hours. Now people are becoming more interested in the Internet. Alas, right now, only one computer is working well. You can pay for 30 minutes, an hour…to user the internet’
‘An hour would be fine,’ I said. ‘I’d like to catch up with my emails…’ I paid for an hour and read my disappointingly few emails. I had hardly spent 15 minutes here and I was more or less through…’”
“Tebogo and the haka, pages 31 - 32)
Other aspects of the story/mystery here involve recordings being made and being shown on computers (not on TV which apparently has become common place!). We are no longer surprised these days that many people at grassroots level have access to computers and sophisticated recorders. It is all part of modernism – which keeps on improving and growing daily.
There are some people who believe that the modern generation has lost a lot (spiritually and intellectually), with so much technology around; that the likes of the Bronte sisters 200 years ago (Emily and Charlotte, to mention the most famous duo) honed their intellect because there was no electricity then (so no electrical gadgets at the time) – that they had ample time to think, go for walks, meditate and construct. The quality of their published works certainly shows their awesome intellect.
However others point out that with so much knowledge available to the world now – accessible more or less instantaneously from the Internet – people are over-spoilt for choice now and can avail themselves of wonderful opportunities. Certainly writers continue to write, and reflect and complement the goings-on in our world, as can be seen from Omoseye Bolaji’s latest work of fiction.
12 DEC – 18 DEC 08 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“MY TIME!” (Column) By Seleke Botsime (page 7)
(reproduced here)
Silhouettes
MY TIME
By Seleke Botsime
Allow me to cut my umbilical cord so that I may speak. Prepare the stage and stand firm since I am about to burst like a wine skin and give you what I know. Strike me with a rod so that I can gush out the living water since when I was born I was named the “rock” I remain quiet when the world speak of my father, I remain silent and listen attentively when the world gives their insight about the creator but I was never impressed with their knowledge.
I remain a piece of clay, and for ever remain a potter that shaped me from time immemorial and every thing was good. I died for three days and be buried in him and with within the heart of the earth; never forgetting the fact that I am that rock that snuffs out Goliath from the book of kings. Let those who are found to be fumbling be at silence, when this king proclaims the profound wisdom of my father!It remains a mystery that the master is not only found in majestic cathedrals or supernatural visions, but also in wonders of polar bears and in the plays of Shakespeare (and never being common).
His footprint is increasing in unlikely places. So the heavens dish out this most delightful food and the world remains in a state of awe! I graze at the greener pastures and throw my net at the deepest of the ocean. In short I was prepared for this battle. That is why it was never a surprise that when the earth opened its legs and give birth to me the heavens were shaken and earth was silent (all because I did the confrontation).The street became my university and my downfall 0became my strength.
Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future!When I rise and speak this wisdom I didn’t forget to buckle my waist with the breastplate of righteousness, never did I forget a shield of faith of which I will use to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Wearing the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit. Brothers I tell you, I am heavenly pregnant with the zeal. Let this be an open letter for those with the spirit of Belzubhab. This soldier is ready for war! I remained at the back seat for long but now I am found on the front seats, I make front pages since I am no longer undercover not forgetting dominating the headlines.
This is my time, brothers!Blow the horns at Bethhakkerrem since the conquering one is here. In him and through me the blind will say ‘they can see’ and the poor will say they are rich. Dear brothers my struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities and most of all against the dark world with their spiritual forces. Everything will be revealed in time since now the world is not ready to conceive this. I hear the heavens rejoice ‘cos I am standing at the land of Beulah and the final word from my father is “Truly this one is my son!”
05 DEC – 11 DEC 08 EDITION
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“NUANCES OF BARACK OBAMA” (Letter). By Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga (page 6)
(reproduced here)
Nuances of Barack Obama
By Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga
Africa is patiently waiting to see whether high-riding Barack Obama is an angel of mercy or something more sinister!
In 1963, Dr Martin Luther King JR had a dream. “It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,” The election of Obama as the first black president of America was a fulfillment of Dr King’s dream.
The election of Obama seemed like great news for Africa . Kenya the birth place of his father, even declared a national holiday. The million dollar question though, is how Obama will shape up. Even though the world is becoming a global village Africa still remains an island of war, poverty, hunger and diseases. America and the West always blame political instability, lack of democracy and corruption for Africa ’s woes. This is true to a certain extent but I think there is more to this. Africa does not only need lessons of bourgeois democracy but justice.
America and the West are always showering Africa with aid. Africa is a rich continent but is always getting unfair trade deals from the developed world. In 2002, IMF chief Horst Koehler toured Africa for five days. On this tour he said trade distortions made a mockery of efforts to reduce poverty and made any real progress impossible. “If we do not give you better trade opportunities then maybe the fight against poverty is lost from the beginning… Rich nations should do what they preach to others –liberalize and open up the markets”. With the election of Obama as the president of the most powerful nation in the world Africa is hoping to get a fair deal this time.
However a lot is expected from the new president elect. He is taking over an America with a depressing economy and involved in many wars. Obama has pledged to help Africa . This is going to be a very huge task for him. Lack of universal responsibility has made attempts to bring peace in Africa just a fleeting illusion that many have pursued but failed to attain. It boggles the mind that in this era where you can have breakfast in Johannesburg , and supper in London over two million people perished in Rwanda . Where was UN? Where was AU? DRC, one of the richest countries on the continent has never enjoyed peace since attaining independence from Belgium in 1960. The country has potential to supply the rest of Africa and some parts of Europe with electricity. It has rich agricultural soils. It has diamond, gold, cobalt, copper and coltan, a metallic ore used in cell phones, DVDs and computers. Recent reports are saying coltan exports from Eastern DRC are believed to be financing the on-going conflict in DRC now. Coltan is mined illegally and smuggled over the DRC border by militias operating in the area. It is estimated that in the 18 months until October the Rwandan army earned about $500m from Congolese coltan. Who is supplying the rebels with ammunition, food, and uniforms?
Finding a permanent solution in DRC has always remained elusive. The tragedy of this rich country is rooted in its wealth and ethnic conflicts are merely a smoke screen for what’s really at stake- mineral wealth. This has always been a hunting ground for mercenaries, powerful nations and multinationals. Imagine that anywhere you go in the world even kids have cell phones, computers and DVDs. But for ordinary Congolese everyday continues to be a struggle to survive violence, hunger and diseases. External intervention is responsible for conflict in Africa so as to open avenues for foreign companies to exploit Africa ’s resources. We are therefore waiting to see whether Obama is the one who is to come or we shall have to wait for another.
The writer is a journalist based in SA.
mkanemanyanga@yahoo.com
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Free State News (Nov 2008)
FREE STATE NEWS PUBLICATION (Nov 2008)
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating its 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, which started in July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Thabo wa Makae
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Marketing Desk
Thabo wa Makae
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Contact number:
051 447 1655
28 NOV – 04 DEC 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Hark at this praise singer!” By Flaxman Qoopane (page 2)
(reproduced here)
Hark at this praise singer!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Yakobi Sixam (41) a powerful and captivating praise singer, honed his skills from a young age whilst based in the Eastern Cape. “I was only 14 when I started to become a praise singer” he told Free State news. “I was at Mbashane farm at King Williams Town. My father (Sihlalo) then had thirty cattle and I used to look after them. There was a big bull called Zadunge (dirty floor) among the cattle. The bull used to fight and intimidate other bulls and I used to praise it; that is how I became a praise singer”
Sixam attended Nonto Primary School. “At the Primary school the principal noted my talent as a praise singer. She encouraged me to perform at school concerts. She was tough on me, insisting I was word perfect in my renditions. I also performed at sundry school functions,”
He also reminisced that in those days when his father wanted to slaughter one of his cattle, he would take him (Sixam) to the kraal, and ask him to praise the cattle and their ancestors. “Mothers from other villages would come to my father’s ceremony and used to ukuyiyisela (ululate)” he smiled.
Sixam became very popular in the Eastern Cape. “When people from our neighbouring villages were having traditional ceremonies, they would invite me to their events to do praise singing,” he said.
From 1978 – 88 he studied for a Bachelor of Pedagogics (B.Ped) at Fort Hare University. “Prof Mkhonto introduced me to Xhosa poetry and praise singing and encouraged me to work harder as a praise-singer,”
Sixam has garnered several awards. In 1988 he was awarded the Battle of Poets in East London. In 2000 he was given the Premier’s Poetry Award in the Eastern Cape. From 2002 – 2008 he performed at the Arts Festival in Grahamstown with distinction. Also the Eastern Cape Dept of Water Affairs involved Yakobi Sixam in a project to train young praise-singers. Sixam also recently wowed audiences at the recent Macufe Wordfest in Mangaung here.
21 NOV – 27 Nov 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Jolly day for disadvantaged children,” By Julia Stuurman (page 2)
(reproduced here)
JOLLY DAY FOR DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN
By Julia Stuurman
The refreshing sound of birds singing and the welcome breeze of fresh air were not the only things captivating at the Maselspoort Resort just outside Bloemfontein, as the reverberation of children’s laughs and excitement added to the wonderful order of the day.
This was the setting as Social Development, in partnership with Vodacom selected children from the disadvantaged communities in Botshabelo for the annual Toy Party held to entertain kids.
“We wanted to take these children to a place they have never been to before, just to enjoy themselves,” Vodacom Marketing Manager, Lungile Jama said.
These children were from Amohelang Intermediate School, Karabelo and Refentse crèches. Vodacom selected two hundred of them and transported them to the Resort. The kids ranged from the ages between four and nine years. The theme for this party was “Pirates of the Caribbean”.
The entertainment was in form of pony rides, battery operated cars, face painting, jumping castle, a treasure, a treasure hunt and bracelet making. They were given gifts like skate boards and party goodies which included t-shirts and water bottles.
To seal the merry day, Father Xmas arrived on a pirate ship and children jumped on it to join him on his gift journey.
14 NOV – 20 NOV 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Scintillating pre-School Graduation Ceremony!” By Thabo wa Makae (page 4)
(reproduced here)
SCINTILLATING PRE-SCHOOL GRADUATION CEREMONY!
By Thabo wa Makae
Stepping Stones Pre-Primary School held a graduation ceremony and a concert at Berg – Dal Church Hall in Dan Pienaar Bloemfontein. The aim and the purpose of the ceremony were to honor and crown the graduating youngsters. The big function was graced by the multitudes of parents and friends. The kids put on a great show, performing dramas, dancing and singing to their parents and friends.
Mrs. Maureen Vermeulen, who is the founder and principal of the Stepping Stones explained that she started to be a teacher since 1989. She studied for four years to become a pre-school teacher.
She stressed to Free State News that teaching the kids is like a calling to her because she wants to make a difference to their lives. She also mentioned that she is targeting kids from 3 years to 6 years of age. “One of my priorities is to prepare kids physically and mentally for next year as they will be joining other higher schools.” She said at the occasion. She added that she is so impressed about the support she gets from the parents.
Free State News talked to some of the parents of the graduating kids. Mrs. Lindiwe Vinger and Mrs. Mookho Monaheng both indicated that they are impressed with the performance of their kids. Mrs. Vinger said: “This is a memorable, unforgettable occasion. I have been stunned by the performances and intelligence of the kids. My own kid, Dintle has also done me proud!”
She and Mrs. Monaheng added that their kids joined the school without the knowledge of speaking English, but the children are now so proficient and confident! Free State news talked to the graduates; amazingly Dintle Vinger in particular is already fluent in English at the age of 5. The parents rounded off by saying they like the school because it promotes the mother tongue, and also inculcates respect. .
7 NOV – 13 NOV 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Free State News journalist scoops prestigious award” (Front page)
(reproduced here)
FREE STATE NEWS JOURNALIST SCOOPS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
By Neo Mvubu
Free State News’ senior journalist, Julia Stuurman has come out tops, winning in the Features category of the inaugural Provincial GCIS Community Media Awards which were held in the Regional Hall in Mangaung this week.
Dignitaries who graced the epochal occasion included the Mayor of Mangaung Local Municipality (MLM), Eva Moilwa; Nthabiseng Mokotjo, the Councillor, Mokotjo Mokotjo former Lesedi FM Presenter, Dr Elsabe Pepler from the University of the Free State (Humanities Department) and Qondile Kedama, Communications Manager for MLM.
GCIS organised the Community Media awards to acknowledge the hard earned efforts of journalists. The awards were dished out in the following categories: for photo journalism, for features, for government based stories, and for sports journalism. There was also the Overall Winner category. There were dozens of entries in all the categories from all over the Free State Province.
Upon being declared winner in the Features category, Julia Stuurman stood up from her seat with disbelief as she was called forward, and her award formally handed over to her. “I am so happy and grateful to the people who made this journey with me worth travelling thus far,” said the “blushing” winner.
Julia Stuurman has for many years devoted her life to quality journalism. Career gongs for her include going through a short course in investigative journalism at Rhodes University under Sol Plaatje funds; writing for a London Based Magazine called Africa in Diaspora; receiving her certificate in journalism at ALLEBY Power Learning at the Midrand Campus, and going through an internship with Express Newspaper. She also worked for ZPR as a public relations assistant, and was an Abet educator. She has been strutting her journalistic stuff with élan for Free State News for some years now “Free State News publication has enabled me to express my passion for writing.”
She added: “These awards generally provide an indication that someone out there really values the work that journalists do, and this is a form of motivation for the aspiring journalists, a way to push them, and make them stay strong,”
The News Editor of Free State news, O. Bolaji, said: “Ms Julia Stuurman is a joy to work with. She’s a consummate professional. She’s cerebral, courteous, and charming. She also has maturity, momentum, and mystique. As a complement, when necessary, she’s possessed of a disarming, whimsical sense of humour! I’m very happy for her,”
The other winners were Nkosana Mashinini (Eastern Free State Issue) for photo journalism, Jabulani Dlamini (Express) for government based stories- and Overall Winner; and Teboho Setena (formerly at Express) for sports journalism.
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating its 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, which started in July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Thabo wa Makae
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Marketing Desk
Thabo wa Makae
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Contact number:
051 447 1655
28 NOV – 04 DEC 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Hark at this praise singer!” By Flaxman Qoopane (page 2)
(reproduced here)
Hark at this praise singer!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Yakobi Sixam (41) a powerful and captivating praise singer, honed his skills from a young age whilst based in the Eastern Cape. “I was only 14 when I started to become a praise singer” he told Free State news. “I was at Mbashane farm at King Williams Town. My father (Sihlalo) then had thirty cattle and I used to look after them. There was a big bull called Zadunge (dirty floor) among the cattle. The bull used to fight and intimidate other bulls and I used to praise it; that is how I became a praise singer”
Sixam attended Nonto Primary School. “At the Primary school the principal noted my talent as a praise singer. She encouraged me to perform at school concerts. She was tough on me, insisting I was word perfect in my renditions. I also performed at sundry school functions,”
He also reminisced that in those days when his father wanted to slaughter one of his cattle, he would take him (Sixam) to the kraal, and ask him to praise the cattle and their ancestors. “Mothers from other villages would come to my father’s ceremony and used to ukuyiyisela (ululate)” he smiled.
Sixam became very popular in the Eastern Cape. “When people from our neighbouring villages were having traditional ceremonies, they would invite me to their events to do praise singing,” he said.
From 1978 – 88 he studied for a Bachelor of Pedagogics (B.Ped) at Fort Hare University. “Prof Mkhonto introduced me to Xhosa poetry and praise singing and encouraged me to work harder as a praise-singer,”
Sixam has garnered several awards. In 1988 he was awarded the Battle of Poets in East London. In 2000 he was given the Premier’s Poetry Award in the Eastern Cape. From 2002 – 2008 he performed at the Arts Festival in Grahamstown with distinction. Also the Eastern Cape Dept of Water Affairs involved Yakobi Sixam in a project to train young praise-singers. Sixam also recently wowed audiences at the recent Macufe Wordfest in Mangaung here.
21 NOV – 27 Nov 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Jolly day for disadvantaged children,” By Julia Stuurman (page 2)
(reproduced here)
JOLLY DAY FOR DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN
By Julia Stuurman
The refreshing sound of birds singing and the welcome breeze of fresh air were not the only things captivating at the Maselspoort Resort just outside Bloemfontein, as the reverberation of children’s laughs and excitement added to the wonderful order of the day.
This was the setting as Social Development, in partnership with Vodacom selected children from the disadvantaged communities in Botshabelo for the annual Toy Party held to entertain kids.
“We wanted to take these children to a place they have never been to before, just to enjoy themselves,” Vodacom Marketing Manager, Lungile Jama said.
These children were from Amohelang Intermediate School, Karabelo and Refentse crèches. Vodacom selected two hundred of them and transported them to the Resort. The kids ranged from the ages between four and nine years. The theme for this party was “Pirates of the Caribbean”.
The entertainment was in form of pony rides, battery operated cars, face painting, jumping castle, a treasure, a treasure hunt and bracelet making. They were given gifts like skate boards and party goodies which included t-shirts and water bottles.
To seal the merry day, Father Xmas arrived on a pirate ship and children jumped on it to join him on his gift journey.
14 NOV – 20 NOV 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Scintillating pre-School Graduation Ceremony!” By Thabo wa Makae (page 4)
(reproduced here)
SCINTILLATING PRE-SCHOOL GRADUATION CEREMONY!
By Thabo wa Makae
Stepping Stones Pre-Primary School held a graduation ceremony and a concert at Berg – Dal Church Hall in Dan Pienaar Bloemfontein. The aim and the purpose of the ceremony were to honor and crown the graduating youngsters. The big function was graced by the multitudes of parents and friends. The kids put on a great show, performing dramas, dancing and singing to their parents and friends.
Mrs. Maureen Vermeulen, who is the founder and principal of the Stepping Stones explained that she started to be a teacher since 1989. She studied for four years to become a pre-school teacher.
She stressed to Free State News that teaching the kids is like a calling to her because she wants to make a difference to their lives. She also mentioned that she is targeting kids from 3 years to 6 years of age. “One of my priorities is to prepare kids physically and mentally for next year as they will be joining other higher schools.” She said at the occasion. She added that she is so impressed about the support she gets from the parents.
Free State News talked to some of the parents of the graduating kids. Mrs. Lindiwe Vinger and Mrs. Mookho Monaheng both indicated that they are impressed with the performance of their kids. Mrs. Vinger said: “This is a memorable, unforgettable occasion. I have been stunned by the performances and intelligence of the kids. My own kid, Dintle has also done me proud!”
She and Mrs. Monaheng added that their kids joined the school without the knowledge of speaking English, but the children are now so proficient and confident! Free State news talked to the graduates; amazingly Dintle Vinger in particular is already fluent in English at the age of 5. The parents rounded off by saying they like the school because it promotes the mother tongue, and also inculcates respect. .
7 NOV – 13 NOV 08 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Free State News journalist scoops prestigious award” (Front page)
(reproduced here)
FREE STATE NEWS JOURNALIST SCOOPS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
By Neo Mvubu
Free State News’ senior journalist, Julia Stuurman has come out tops, winning in the Features category of the inaugural Provincial GCIS Community Media Awards which were held in the Regional Hall in Mangaung this week.
Dignitaries who graced the epochal occasion included the Mayor of Mangaung Local Municipality (MLM), Eva Moilwa; Nthabiseng Mokotjo, the Councillor, Mokotjo Mokotjo former Lesedi FM Presenter, Dr Elsabe Pepler from the University of the Free State (Humanities Department) and Qondile Kedama, Communications Manager for MLM.
GCIS organised the Community Media awards to acknowledge the hard earned efforts of journalists. The awards were dished out in the following categories: for photo journalism, for features, for government based stories, and for sports journalism. There was also the Overall Winner category. There were dozens of entries in all the categories from all over the Free State Province.
Upon being declared winner in the Features category, Julia Stuurman stood up from her seat with disbelief as she was called forward, and her award formally handed over to her. “I am so happy and grateful to the people who made this journey with me worth travelling thus far,” said the “blushing” winner.
Julia Stuurman has for many years devoted her life to quality journalism. Career gongs for her include going through a short course in investigative journalism at Rhodes University under Sol Plaatje funds; writing for a London Based Magazine called Africa in Diaspora; receiving her certificate in journalism at ALLEBY Power Learning at the Midrand Campus, and going through an internship with Express Newspaper. She also worked for ZPR as a public relations assistant, and was an Abet educator. She has been strutting her journalistic stuff with élan for Free State News for some years now “Free State News publication has enabled me to express my passion for writing.”
She added: “These awards generally provide an indication that someone out there really values the work that journalists do, and this is a form of motivation for the aspiring journalists, a way to push them, and make them stay strong,”
The News Editor of Free State news, O. Bolaji, said: “Ms Julia Stuurman is a joy to work with. She’s a consummate professional. She’s cerebral, courteous, and charming. She also has maturity, momentum, and mystique. As a complement, when necessary, she’s possessed of a disarming, whimsical sense of humour! I’m very happy for her,”
The other winners were Nkosana Mashinini (Eastern Free State Issue) for photo journalism, Jabulani Dlamini (Express) for government based stories- and Overall Winner; and Teboho Setena (formerly at Express) for sports journalism.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
FREE STATE NEWS (OCTOBER 2008)
FREE STATE NEWS (Oct 2008)
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, which started in July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Thabo wa Makae
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Contact number:
051 447 1655
31 OCT – 6 NOV 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Death is a Destiny” By Seleke Botsime – columnist
(reproduced here)
(SILHOUETTES)
DEATH IS A DESTINY
By Seleke Botsime
I was once asked whether I believe in premature death. I remember that makes me quiet for sometime and this was my answer- if God want one to die a second after birth it will be so. He knows our coming and going way before we are even conceived!
So it’s no secret that our heavenly father do as he pleases, no force is found above him. Remember that he won the world with his wisdom for him to be the only God. It’s us humans when we are in great pain through loss of loved one. Start questioning the existence or the presence of God. I realise that we, humans are created in such a way to always find a closure so that we might be able to move on.
On his conversation with Lucifer it’s been documented that, he gave Lucifer the right to take any possessions that Job has, but never touch his life. For how do we know the formation of the one that is in the womb. For one to survive a terrible disruption lies entirely on him. We are truly inspired by this living God.
His greatness surpasses all the greatness of mankind. For us who are inspired and never educated know that he is alpha and omega! Wisdom is a shelter, as well as money-but the good thing about wisdom is preserving the life of its possessor!
God bless!!
24 OCT – 30 OCT 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Tikwe Community basks in food innovation” By Julia Stuurman (Page 2)
(reproduced here)
TIKWE COMMUNITY BASKS IN FOOD INNOVATION
By Julia Stuurman
The MEC for Agriculture in the Free State , Mamiki Qabathe has launched the Tikwe wheat project in Tsoelopele Municipality . The venture came at the appropriate time to ensure food security in the province.
“This shows that people here are making initiatives,” she said. The world is affected by the change in the climate and Agriculture is one of the sectors mostly affected, and ensuring adequate food for the people is one of the daunting factors.
But Tikwe wheat project in Hopstaad is rising up to the occasion. They have their own irrigation system and they are operating on the municipal land. Currently they are producing wheat for local people and big brands in the country.
“We have a contract with Woolworth and we are providing them with wheat to make bread,” a leader of the Project, Manyatseng Sebilo said.
This is a family project hence there are nine families involved “We are each working with our wives and have opened another food garden for them to care for” Sebilo explained.
The Department of Agriculture has donated a tractor for this project, and has spent about four million over the years to support it to grow. The MEC urged the community of Tsoelopele Municipality to protect this project. “Don’t steal from them because when you do that the food crisis will get worse and you would not have food in your area” she said.
This is not an adults-only affair; the youth are also actively involved in providing food for the community and also make a living out of it. Bambanani Youth Project has created a vegetable garden since 2001 “We sell them to supermarkets like Spar and OK” the leader of the project, George said. This is a 25 member group and they are also involved in Poultry.
“We will beat and undermine the food prices by creating these food gardens for ourselves” Sebilo concluded.
17 OCT – 23 OCT 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Macufe Revelry and Afterglow” By Omoseye Bolaji (page 5)
(reproduced here)
MACUFE REVELRY AND AFTERGLOW
By Chief Omoseye Bolaji
There is a halcyon consensus about it – Macufe* 2008 was a success, a throw back to its early days with the excitement, glamour and communal participation being re-enacted with gusto. The people loved it, reveled in it and there was an ambience of success all over.
The attendances at the major events were quite spectacular – people from all walks of life joined in the frenzy and cornucopia of fun. Even those who did not actually attend most of Macufe’s delights walked tall, rejoicing, holding their heads high, basking at the carnival.
Such cultural festivals keep people on the qui vive – presenting a spectacle of events that the hordes can revel in; be it music, drama, displays of artifacts and memorabilia. The people take pride in such well mapped out events that hold most in awe. Such was the case with the latest version of Macufe.
The euphoria over the gargantuan festival spilled over throughout Mangaung itself. There were mini picnics all over the townships and the people had fun at sundry places normally associated with merriment. It was not only at the designated centres of Macufe; people rollicked and gamboled in the Macufe spirit at bars, open places and joints.
The feel-good factor cascaded to the soccer – embracing the Macufe Cup last Sunday and Bafana Bafana playing Ghana on Wednesday this week. It was exhilarating for the teeming fans to see Bloemfontein Celtic winning the Macufe Cup for the first time ever last Sunday. And there was a pleasing symmetry involved when Bafana extended their winning streak at the Vodacom Park to five wins in a row, winning 2 1 against the respected Black Stars of Ghana. As Bernard Parker rose majestically to head in the winning goal the afterglow became accentuated!
* Mangaung Arts and Culture Festival, essentially hosted in Bloemfontein city
10 OCT – 16 OCT 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“An intrinsic keyboard player” By Thabo ha Thulo (Page 4)
(reproduced here)
AN INTRINSIC KEYBOARD PLAYER !
BY: THABO HA THULO
He’s never had a music lesson in his life, but by the age of twelve he was playing the keyboard in the church! Tumelo Nteleki 18, who hails from Matwabeng near Senekal, entertains his congregation by playing the keyboard during the church service. He is a born-again Christian and belongs to a church called Holy Land Ministry. He says: “This gift comes from God, and I have decided to play keyboard in His Temple till the end of my life.”
“I wonder if in 2002 by the age of twelve if I had not dedicated my love to God, where my life would be now. ‘Some other youngsters have come to me to learn more regarding playing the keyboard and I teach them’’ he added. Tumelo plays the keyboard in an entertaining and informative manner.
The talented young man is a grade 11 student from the Ithabiseng High School . His pastor, Johannes Mongali says: “In each and every church service I’ve been lucky to be in tandem with Tumelo, I have not had any problem with him, always he is present. Sometimes I go to other towns to preach the gospel and Tumelo gets to play the keyboard”
Tumelo stressed that his dream is to have his name among the pantheon of famous keyboardist in the music ministry. He told the Free State News: “There’s one question that we all have to ask daily: what can I do to please God? For my side I have chosen to play keyboard in the church.”
He reminisced that in the beginning, people discouraged him. “They said I was too young to play music but I ignored their snide comments. Today everybody wishes me the best – including my detractors!”
When asked to describe himself in three words, Tumelo said: “A Christian, oscillator and consecrator.” Tumelo told Free State News: ‘Always when I play the keyboard during the church service I feel the presence of the Spirit of God upon me. I also would like to inspire the youth to make good use of their talent instead of getting involved in crime’ he said.
03 Oct – 09 OCT 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“International Translation Day orchestrated in Bethlehem ” By Thabo wa Makae (Page 5)
(reproduced here)
International Translation Day orchestrated in Bethlehem
By Thabo wa Makae
The Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) held the International Translation Day in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District in conjunction with the Dihlabeng Local Municipality last weekend at Bethlehem Town Hall . The International Translation Day Celebrations are held annually on 30 September but different provinces hold their celebrations before that date, culminating to the national event.
The Free State celebrated this day in the Dihlabeng Local Municipality by holding a seminar with the aim of ensuring that all the municipalities develop their own language policies so that all the languages spoken predominantly in the respective municipalities, especially African languages, are used and promoted to accommodate the community. The development of language policies will also ensure that municipalities develop language units where unemployed language practitioners will be employed to render language services to the municipalities i.e. translation and interpreting.
The Executive Mayor of the Dihlabeng Local Municipality , M. Mofokeng, signed a pledge stating that municipalities will develop language units to further the objective of multilingualism to the benefit of the community in service delivery. The pledge will be circulated to all the municipalities in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District to be signed by the Mayors.
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, which started in July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Thabo wa Makae
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Contact number:
051 447 1655
31 OCT – 6 NOV 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Death is a Destiny” By Seleke Botsime – columnist
(reproduced here)
(SILHOUETTES)
DEATH IS A DESTINY
By Seleke Botsime
I was once asked whether I believe in premature death. I remember that makes me quiet for sometime and this was my answer- if God want one to die a second after birth it will be so. He knows our coming and going way before we are even conceived!
So it’s no secret that our heavenly father do as he pleases, no force is found above him. Remember that he won the world with his wisdom for him to be the only God. It’s us humans when we are in great pain through loss of loved one. Start questioning the existence or the presence of God. I realise that we, humans are created in such a way to always find a closure so that we might be able to move on.
On his conversation with Lucifer it’s been documented that, he gave Lucifer the right to take any possessions that Job has, but never touch his life. For how do we know the formation of the one that is in the womb. For one to survive a terrible disruption lies entirely on him. We are truly inspired by this living God.
His greatness surpasses all the greatness of mankind. For us who are inspired and never educated know that he is alpha and omega! Wisdom is a shelter, as well as money-but the good thing about wisdom is preserving the life of its possessor!
God bless!!
24 OCT – 30 OCT 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Tikwe Community basks in food innovation” By Julia Stuurman (Page 2)
(reproduced here)
TIKWE COMMUNITY BASKS IN FOOD INNOVATION
By Julia Stuurman
The MEC for Agriculture in the Free State , Mamiki Qabathe has launched the Tikwe wheat project in Tsoelopele Municipality . The venture came at the appropriate time to ensure food security in the province.
“This shows that people here are making initiatives,” she said. The world is affected by the change in the climate and Agriculture is one of the sectors mostly affected, and ensuring adequate food for the people is one of the daunting factors.
But Tikwe wheat project in Hopstaad is rising up to the occasion. They have their own irrigation system and they are operating on the municipal land. Currently they are producing wheat for local people and big brands in the country.
“We have a contract with Woolworth and we are providing them with wheat to make bread,” a leader of the Project, Manyatseng Sebilo said.
This is a family project hence there are nine families involved “We are each working with our wives and have opened another food garden for them to care for” Sebilo explained.
The Department of Agriculture has donated a tractor for this project, and has spent about four million over the years to support it to grow. The MEC urged the community of Tsoelopele Municipality to protect this project. “Don’t steal from them because when you do that the food crisis will get worse and you would not have food in your area” she said.
This is not an adults-only affair; the youth are also actively involved in providing food for the community and also make a living out of it. Bambanani Youth Project has created a vegetable garden since 2001 “We sell them to supermarkets like Spar and OK” the leader of the project, George said. This is a 25 member group and they are also involved in Poultry.
“We will beat and undermine the food prices by creating these food gardens for ourselves” Sebilo concluded.
17 OCT – 23 OCT 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Macufe Revelry and Afterglow” By Omoseye Bolaji (page 5)
(reproduced here)
MACUFE REVELRY AND AFTERGLOW
By Chief Omoseye Bolaji
There is a halcyon consensus about it – Macufe* 2008 was a success, a throw back to its early days with the excitement, glamour and communal participation being re-enacted with gusto. The people loved it, reveled in it and there was an ambience of success all over.
The attendances at the major events were quite spectacular – people from all walks of life joined in the frenzy and cornucopia of fun. Even those who did not actually attend most of Macufe’s delights walked tall, rejoicing, holding their heads high, basking at the carnival.
Such cultural festivals keep people on the qui vive – presenting a spectacle of events that the hordes can revel in; be it music, drama, displays of artifacts and memorabilia. The people take pride in such well mapped out events that hold most in awe. Such was the case with the latest version of Macufe.
The euphoria over the gargantuan festival spilled over throughout Mangaung itself. There were mini picnics all over the townships and the people had fun at sundry places normally associated with merriment. It was not only at the designated centres of Macufe; people rollicked and gamboled in the Macufe spirit at bars, open places and joints.
The feel-good factor cascaded to the soccer – embracing the Macufe Cup last Sunday and Bafana Bafana playing Ghana on Wednesday this week. It was exhilarating for the teeming fans to see Bloemfontein Celtic winning the Macufe Cup for the first time ever last Sunday. And there was a pleasing symmetry involved when Bafana extended their winning streak at the Vodacom Park to five wins in a row, winning 2 1 against the respected Black Stars of Ghana. As Bernard Parker rose majestically to head in the winning goal the afterglow became accentuated!
* Mangaung Arts and Culture Festival, essentially hosted in Bloemfontein city
10 OCT – 16 OCT 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“An intrinsic keyboard player” By Thabo ha Thulo (Page 4)
(reproduced here)
AN INTRINSIC KEYBOARD PLAYER !
BY: THABO HA THULO
He’s never had a music lesson in his life, but by the age of twelve he was playing the keyboard in the church! Tumelo Nteleki 18, who hails from Matwabeng near Senekal, entertains his congregation by playing the keyboard during the church service. He is a born-again Christian and belongs to a church called Holy Land Ministry. He says: “This gift comes from God, and I have decided to play keyboard in His Temple till the end of my life.”
“I wonder if in 2002 by the age of twelve if I had not dedicated my love to God, where my life would be now. ‘Some other youngsters have come to me to learn more regarding playing the keyboard and I teach them’’ he added. Tumelo plays the keyboard in an entertaining and informative manner.
The talented young man is a grade 11 student from the Ithabiseng High School . His pastor, Johannes Mongali says: “In each and every church service I’ve been lucky to be in tandem with Tumelo, I have not had any problem with him, always he is present. Sometimes I go to other towns to preach the gospel and Tumelo gets to play the keyboard”
Tumelo stressed that his dream is to have his name among the pantheon of famous keyboardist in the music ministry. He told the Free State News: “There’s one question that we all have to ask daily: what can I do to please God? For my side I have chosen to play keyboard in the church.”
He reminisced that in the beginning, people discouraged him. “They said I was too young to play music but I ignored their snide comments. Today everybody wishes me the best – including my detractors!”
When asked to describe himself in three words, Tumelo said: “A Christian, oscillator and consecrator.” Tumelo told Free State News: ‘Always when I play the keyboard during the church service I feel the presence of the Spirit of God upon me. I also would like to inspire the youth to make good use of their talent instead of getting involved in crime’ he said.
03 Oct – 09 OCT 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“International Translation Day orchestrated in Bethlehem ” By Thabo wa Makae (Page 5)
(reproduced here)
International Translation Day orchestrated in Bethlehem
By Thabo wa Makae
The Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) held the International Translation Day in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District in conjunction with the Dihlabeng Local Municipality last weekend at Bethlehem Town Hall . The International Translation Day Celebrations are held annually on 30 September but different provinces hold their celebrations before that date, culminating to the national event.
The Free State celebrated this day in the Dihlabeng Local Municipality by holding a seminar with the aim of ensuring that all the municipalities develop their own language policies so that all the languages spoken predominantly in the respective municipalities, especially African languages, are used and promoted to accommodate the community. The development of language policies will also ensure that municipalities develop language units where unemployed language practitioners will be employed to render language services to the municipalities i.e. translation and interpreting.
The Executive Mayor of the Dihlabeng Local Municipality , M. Mofokeng, signed a pledge stating that municipalities will develop language units to further the objective of multilingualism to the benefit of the community in service delivery. The pledge will be circulated to all the municipalities in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District to be signed by the Mayors.
Friday, September 26, 2008
FREE STATE NEWS (SEPTEMBER 2008)
FREE STATE NEWS PUBLICATION
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week” – which started in July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Thabo wa Makae
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Contact number:
051 447 1655
26 SEP – 02 OCT 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Mbeki recall a display of democracy” By Tiisetso Makhele (page 5)
(reproduced here)
MBEKI RECALL A DISPLAY OF DEMOCRACY
By Tiisetso Makhele
District Secretary, Young Communist League, Caleb Motshabi
In his paper ‘A dialectical approach to inner party unity’ Comrade Mao Zedong writes, “…our attitude (towards inner-party unity) should be one of unity towards every comrade, no matter who, provided he is not a hostile element or a saboteur. We should adopt a dialectical, not a metaphysical, approach towards him.” Comrade Mao goes further to define what a dialectical approach is: “…being analytical about everything, acknowledging that human beings all make mistakes and not negating a person completely just because he has made mistakes.”
And, in a rather disciplined application of this principle President of the ANC, Comrade Jacob Zuma (JZ) says, “Comrade Mbeki will continue to be given tasks as a cadre and one of the senior leaders of the movement.” This indicates that because Comrade Mbeki is a highly esteemed and senior leader of the ANC he will not be ‘negated completely just because he has made mistakes.’
The National Prosecuting Authority and their political principals suffered yet another defeat at the hands of processes of popular democracy and fair justice. Those of us who always held that the case against the President of the ANC is a political trial were indeed vindicated. When Judge Chris Nicholson handed his judgement at the Pietemaritzburg High Court on 12 Sept 2008 he made some startling observations, inter alia;
Ø Comrade Jacob Zuma and his legal team were not accorded an opportunity to make representations when the NDPP reviewed his earlier decision not to prosecute Comrade Zuma, irrespective of the ‘prima facie’ evidence
Ø Comrade Zuma was not entirely wrong to suggest that there was political ‘interference’ on the part of Comrade Thabo Mbeki and two successive Ministers of Justice & Constitutional Development, and
Ø The decision to prosecute Comrade JZ is invalid
All of us, on the basis of rights enshrined in the constitution, expect the institutions of the state, like the NPA, to protect us and defend the constitution itself. The political meddling mentioned in this judgement has seriously damaged the credibility of the state. This is especially true because the Head of State, a deployee of the Alliance, is implicated. We cannot allow the image of our alliance to be injured when we are watching. It would be incorrect.
Therefore, we support the stance of the ANC NEC to recall the President of the Republic. This is not a sentimental move, but, rather, a revolutionary and politically logical move. We must also stress that unity in the movement must be primary. The high degree of loyalty and discipline displayed by Comrade Mbeki when asked to resign from government must serve as an example to many other comrades facing the similar situation. No one is above the ANC, irrespective of their position either in the ANC or government. We note with utter disgust incidences where some comrades, when instructed to leave positions where they are deployed, by the ANC, simply choose to ignore this instruction. This is an indication of poor discipline.
As the Young Communist League we must state it categorically that our full support for President JZ is both political and ideological. It is because we know that Comrade JZ sympathizes with the working class and the poor that we shall continue to support him. We have no doubt that ANC under the leadership of Comrade JZ will usher in policies biased towards the majority of our poor and destitute communities, rather than those directed at a small, elitist minority. We shall, on these bases, do all we can to ensure that Comrade JZ ascends smoothly to the Union Buildings next year!
19 SEP – 25 SEP 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Ground-breaking literary workshop” By Flaxman Qoopane (page 2)
(reproduced here)
Ground breaking literary Workshop
By Flaxman Qoopane
A special short story writing Workshop was held at the Free State Provincial Library Services Building in Bloemfontein, with many writers in attendance.
Mathene Mahanke, Manager for Language Service in the Free State Department of Sports, Arts and Culture welcomed the facilitator Mandla Matyumza who is the Executive Head of the centre for the Book, National Library of South African and his colleagues Nelly Luneka the Co-ordinator for the Community Publishing Project, from Cape Town and the thirty Free State poets and writers who attended the workshop.
“Ace Magashule, the MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture fully supports this workshop. He wants to see many of our Free State writers writing short stories, poems, drama and novels in their indigenous language so that there is development in our African languages and literature,”
Mahanke congratulated the Free State Provincial Library Service for organizing the Workshop in partnership with The Centre for the Book/National library. Matyumza said that the Centre for the Book is the unit of the National Library of South Africa, “Its mission is to promote a South African culture of reading, writing and publishing in all local languages and easy access to books for all South Africans.”
During the first day of the Workshop, Mamothibedi wa Sehlabo Sehlabo, a writer and poet read the Writers’ Pledge. According to Matyumeza the Workshop was mainly for those writers who write in Sesotho. “Its purpose is to help the participants to develop their short story writing skills” he said.
The participants were asked to close their eyes, relax and meditate. After meditation some of the participants read what they composed. That revealed some amazing talent from those who read their work.
They learnt so much about what constitutes the short story as a literary genre. About the structures that make a short story, including the opening, body, the end, theme, plot, dialogue, character and names and title.
The facilitator gave each participant specific homework to write his or her short story. During the second day of the Workshop, some participants were asked to read their homework. They discussed and commented whether the written work was an authentic short story. Some of the work proved to be good stories.
The facilitator asked the participants: “what is a good writer/author?” The participants’ response embraced writing well; expressing experience/feeling in his writing, being creative, open minded, good teacher, knowing the language, being a visionary.
Nelly Luneka talked about the Community Publishing Project. She said: “The Centre for the Book promotes South African publishing, including small community and self-publishing. Each participant received a certificate of participation from the Centre for the Book.
Boniwe Modupe from the Library and Archive Services of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture made a Vote of thanks saying: “On behalf of the Department I would like to thank the department. I would also like to thank the Centre of the Book, Matyumza and Nelly for their contribution to literature in the Free State I want also to thank all the participants who learned from the Workshop”
12 SEP- 18 SEP 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Vagaries of a balanced health” (letter) By Ken Lambert. (Page 7)
(reproduced here)
VAGARIES OF A BALANCED HEALTH
Health is synonymous with life. Life without good health is loathsome. To live life is not just to stay alive. Good health is not just the absence of disease or virus in a moving body. Life is a gift; to keep it is a duty. A clean and tidy environment is a boost to good health.
Medical practitioners make unassailable input to rid the body of ailments and thereby lengthen life. W.H.O (World Health Organisation) in its fashion hand out laudable health tips and policies, which if implemented minimizes health hazards and risk of epidemic. Environmental pollution is unacceptable as environmentalists and Curb-global warming Activists busy themselves in attempts to cushion the envisaged debilitating effects of the ultra-violet rays of the sun on our globe.
From my perspective, balanced health is the striking of an equilibrium between the three facets of the human composition. Man is a three-partite being – (The soul, spirit and body) Three square meals in a day with relevant nutritional values give the required balance to the body. If repeated on daily basis, without biological illness, ensures the Body is in proper function. However the Body is just an integral part of the complete human species. It is therefore imperative to give adequate attention as required to these three segments of a man. (Barring external factors)
Very often, people fall short of the ideal approach by according so much attention and care to the one at the detriment of the others. For instance, there are people who eat, drink, wash and perfume their bodies without giving their spirits or souls the least attention. There are those who read, study and chase academic prowess and status at the very expense of the body and spirit. Others are too fanatically religious that they do not give a damn about their souls and bodies.
Your probable question may be “how do I care for these three aspects that make me up?” To take care of the Body – eat well, drink well, clothe well and look good.
To care for the soul – study, acquire useful information, nourish your intellect and keep your emotion stable.
To care for the spirit – get devotion, consecration, prayers, consume meaningful spiritual stuff and all necessary spiritual exercise.
Furthermore, BALANCED HEALTH could be defined as the “state of wellness of the body”: SOUL AND SPIRIT. The “state of wellness” in this regard is established by the approved, ideal and recommended standard. To single out one of these components of the human being for attention in isolation of others, will without doubt bring about catastrophic consequences. The soul is the seat of emotions and intellect, so get information and stay healthy intellectually. Attend to your body, and look smart and stay biologically healthy.
Feed your spirit and stay spiritually sound and alert. Balanced diet certainly does provide essential nutrients needed by the body. In the same vein, the “total man” requires all the essential nutrients to stay balanced. This balance and state the whole being enjoys is what is known as “BALANCED HEALTH”. If the spirit is under-nourished, the total man suffers. If the body is uncared for, the total man suffers. So is the soul.
Do not get too busy and occupied with one to suffer the other two. Essentially, the body is the most visible and obviously erroneously gets the most attention. Do not be too natural to undermine the other two. Do not be too spiritual to neglect the soul and body.
Utilize your time wisely! Give your health a boost. Balance up!!!
- KEN LAMBERT (Bloemfontein)
05 SEP- 11 SEP 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Women deserve the best!” By Dikeledi Moleme. (Page 2)
(reproduced here)
Women deserve the best!
By Dikeledi Moleme
During the month of August women from all corners of the continent often divided by colonial boundaries and by ethnical, linguistic, cultural, economical and political differences came together to celebrate Women’s Month looking back to a tradition that represents five decades of women struggle for equality, justice, emancipation, empowerment and development. During this period of struggle women were oppressed by the apartheid regime, patriarchal laws and many other policies that prevented them from participating in socio-economic activities which were informed by the capitalists of this country. The month of August commemorated the 52nd year after the 1956 women’s march to Pretoria to protest against the Pass laws, and that is why it is no accident that women began the Russian Revolution of 1917 on International Women’s Day. The struggle for women’s total emancipation is far from over as long as we have a class society. The emancipation of women can never be achieved under a capitalist society which holds the working class, both women and men, in subjugation. This emancipation can only be realized in a classless society.
Modern women are not really free from the material realities and that is why hunger, unemployment and the need to earn money to survive force these women to accept capitalism as the only correct and perfect system. The basis of capitalist class exploitation which is commonly found in the domestic workers’ sector lies in the difference between the daily wage paid to women and the new value that women produce in the course of working each day. The oppression of women has been a key question for Marxism hence the struggle for gender equality remains the class struggle even today. The way in which gender issues are raised today, even in the last decade of our democracy, the focus is mostly on women representatively at the expense of the broader issues affecting women. Marxism sees the liberation of working class women as a part of the struggle for the liberation of the working class as a whole. While feminists set women against men, which we are opposed to, the socialist movement, like the Young Communist League of SA, attempts to forge solidarity between male and female in a common struggle against all sorts of capitalist exploitation. We are aware that the worst features of class society reflect the most cruel and brutal form of exploitation. We have noted that the struggle of women has changed its face. Today, women are faced with challenges of high rate of unemployment, teenage pregnancy due to peer pressure, lack of education and access of information on child support grant, HIV and AIDS due to lack of education, young women taking care of the household at the young age, high escalation of poverty resulting in young women opting to sell their bodies to support their family.
The capitalist society regards exploitation, classes and social division as eternal whist we, as the YCL believe that the classless society we are advocating for is built on completely different egalitarian foundations. But, however, we must never forget that these anticommunist tendencies don’t simply fall from the skies but they reflect and arise out of the material interests of monopoly capitalist and unless they are firmly rebuffed, they are likely to make an impact on those stake in society-women-makes them vulnerable to ant-communist scare-mongering. Women do not occupy a special perch outside its social environment. It is very much part of society, the working class in particular. The rung occupied by each section of women on the social ladder reflects their relation to the means of production. All societies pay special attention to women because for any society to shirk this responsibility is to do great harm to it. This applies particularly to peoples struggling to break the shackles of capitalist exploitation. It is our argument as the YCL that no revolution can be victorious without the effective education, organization and mobilization of women into political action because women act as such as a separate contingent vi-a-vis the motive force of the revolution, but as an integral part thereof. This calls for a wise approach in dealing with women issues; a balanced and timeous combination of severity and patience, seriousness and good humor.
Engels says that “The communistic household, in which most or all of the women belong to one and the same gens (clan),while men come from various gentes (clans), is the material foundation of that supremacy of women which was general in primitive times” it is upon this that in the socialist society, women are held in high esteem.
The slogan: “Business unusual, all power to women” should be put into practice where women will be empowered politically and ideologically.
FORWARD TO WOMEN EMANCIPATION, FORWARD!!!!!!!
* Dikeledi Moleme is the Deputy Secretary of the YCL Caleb Motshabi District
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week” – which started in July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Thabo wa Makae
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Contact number:
051 447 1655
26 SEP – 02 OCT 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Mbeki recall a display of democracy” By Tiisetso Makhele (page 5)
(reproduced here)
MBEKI RECALL A DISPLAY OF DEMOCRACY
By Tiisetso Makhele
District Secretary, Young Communist League, Caleb Motshabi
In his paper ‘A dialectical approach to inner party unity’ Comrade Mao Zedong writes, “…our attitude (towards inner-party unity) should be one of unity towards every comrade, no matter who, provided he is not a hostile element or a saboteur. We should adopt a dialectical, not a metaphysical, approach towards him.” Comrade Mao goes further to define what a dialectical approach is: “…being analytical about everything, acknowledging that human beings all make mistakes and not negating a person completely just because he has made mistakes.”
And, in a rather disciplined application of this principle President of the ANC, Comrade Jacob Zuma (JZ) says, “Comrade Mbeki will continue to be given tasks as a cadre and one of the senior leaders of the movement.” This indicates that because Comrade Mbeki is a highly esteemed and senior leader of the ANC he will not be ‘negated completely just because he has made mistakes.’
The National Prosecuting Authority and their political principals suffered yet another defeat at the hands of processes of popular democracy and fair justice. Those of us who always held that the case against the President of the ANC is a political trial were indeed vindicated. When Judge Chris Nicholson handed his judgement at the Pietemaritzburg High Court on 12 Sept 2008 he made some startling observations, inter alia;
Ø Comrade Jacob Zuma and his legal team were not accorded an opportunity to make representations when the NDPP reviewed his earlier decision not to prosecute Comrade Zuma, irrespective of the ‘prima facie’ evidence
Ø Comrade Zuma was not entirely wrong to suggest that there was political ‘interference’ on the part of Comrade Thabo Mbeki and two successive Ministers of Justice & Constitutional Development, and
Ø The decision to prosecute Comrade JZ is invalid
All of us, on the basis of rights enshrined in the constitution, expect the institutions of the state, like the NPA, to protect us and defend the constitution itself. The political meddling mentioned in this judgement has seriously damaged the credibility of the state. This is especially true because the Head of State, a deployee of the Alliance, is implicated. We cannot allow the image of our alliance to be injured when we are watching. It would be incorrect.
Therefore, we support the stance of the ANC NEC to recall the President of the Republic. This is not a sentimental move, but, rather, a revolutionary and politically logical move. We must also stress that unity in the movement must be primary. The high degree of loyalty and discipline displayed by Comrade Mbeki when asked to resign from government must serve as an example to many other comrades facing the similar situation. No one is above the ANC, irrespective of their position either in the ANC or government. We note with utter disgust incidences where some comrades, when instructed to leave positions where they are deployed, by the ANC, simply choose to ignore this instruction. This is an indication of poor discipline.
As the Young Communist League we must state it categorically that our full support for President JZ is both political and ideological. It is because we know that Comrade JZ sympathizes with the working class and the poor that we shall continue to support him. We have no doubt that ANC under the leadership of Comrade JZ will usher in policies biased towards the majority of our poor and destitute communities, rather than those directed at a small, elitist minority. We shall, on these bases, do all we can to ensure that Comrade JZ ascends smoothly to the Union Buildings next year!
19 SEP – 25 SEP 2008 Edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Ground-breaking literary workshop” By Flaxman Qoopane (page 2)
(reproduced here)
Ground breaking literary Workshop
By Flaxman Qoopane
A special short story writing Workshop was held at the Free State Provincial Library Services Building in Bloemfontein, with many writers in attendance.
Mathene Mahanke, Manager for Language Service in the Free State Department of Sports, Arts and Culture welcomed the facilitator Mandla Matyumza who is the Executive Head of the centre for the Book, National Library of South African and his colleagues Nelly Luneka the Co-ordinator for the Community Publishing Project, from Cape Town and the thirty Free State poets and writers who attended the workshop.
“Ace Magashule, the MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture fully supports this workshop. He wants to see many of our Free State writers writing short stories, poems, drama and novels in their indigenous language so that there is development in our African languages and literature,”
Mahanke congratulated the Free State Provincial Library Service for organizing the Workshop in partnership with The Centre for the Book/National library. Matyumza said that the Centre for the Book is the unit of the National Library of South Africa, “Its mission is to promote a South African culture of reading, writing and publishing in all local languages and easy access to books for all South Africans.”
During the first day of the Workshop, Mamothibedi wa Sehlabo Sehlabo, a writer and poet read the Writers’ Pledge. According to Matyumeza the Workshop was mainly for those writers who write in Sesotho. “Its purpose is to help the participants to develop their short story writing skills” he said.
The participants were asked to close their eyes, relax and meditate. After meditation some of the participants read what they composed. That revealed some amazing talent from those who read their work.
They learnt so much about what constitutes the short story as a literary genre. About the structures that make a short story, including the opening, body, the end, theme, plot, dialogue, character and names and title.
The facilitator gave each participant specific homework to write his or her short story. During the second day of the Workshop, some participants were asked to read their homework. They discussed and commented whether the written work was an authentic short story. Some of the work proved to be good stories.
The facilitator asked the participants: “what is a good writer/author?” The participants’ response embraced writing well; expressing experience/feeling in his writing, being creative, open minded, good teacher, knowing the language, being a visionary.
Nelly Luneka talked about the Community Publishing Project. She said: “The Centre for the Book promotes South African publishing, including small community and self-publishing. Each participant received a certificate of participation from the Centre for the Book.
Boniwe Modupe from the Library and Archive Services of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture made a Vote of thanks saying: “On behalf of the Department I would like to thank the department. I would also like to thank the Centre of the Book, Matyumza and Nelly for their contribution to literature in the Free State I want also to thank all the participants who learned from the Workshop”
12 SEP- 18 SEP 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Vagaries of a balanced health” (letter) By Ken Lambert. (Page 7)
(reproduced here)
VAGARIES OF A BALANCED HEALTH
Health is synonymous with life. Life without good health is loathsome. To live life is not just to stay alive. Good health is not just the absence of disease or virus in a moving body. Life is a gift; to keep it is a duty. A clean and tidy environment is a boost to good health.
Medical practitioners make unassailable input to rid the body of ailments and thereby lengthen life. W.H.O (World Health Organisation) in its fashion hand out laudable health tips and policies, which if implemented minimizes health hazards and risk of epidemic. Environmental pollution is unacceptable as environmentalists and Curb-global warming Activists busy themselves in attempts to cushion the envisaged debilitating effects of the ultra-violet rays of the sun on our globe.
From my perspective, balanced health is the striking of an equilibrium between the three facets of the human composition. Man is a three-partite being – (The soul, spirit and body) Three square meals in a day with relevant nutritional values give the required balance to the body. If repeated on daily basis, without biological illness, ensures the Body is in proper function. However the Body is just an integral part of the complete human species. It is therefore imperative to give adequate attention as required to these three segments of a man. (Barring external factors)
Very often, people fall short of the ideal approach by according so much attention and care to the one at the detriment of the others. For instance, there are people who eat, drink, wash and perfume their bodies without giving their spirits or souls the least attention. There are those who read, study and chase academic prowess and status at the very expense of the body and spirit. Others are too fanatically religious that they do not give a damn about their souls and bodies.
Your probable question may be “how do I care for these three aspects that make me up?” To take care of the Body – eat well, drink well, clothe well and look good.
To care for the soul – study, acquire useful information, nourish your intellect and keep your emotion stable.
To care for the spirit – get devotion, consecration, prayers, consume meaningful spiritual stuff and all necessary spiritual exercise.
Furthermore, BALANCED HEALTH could be defined as the “state of wellness of the body”: SOUL AND SPIRIT. The “state of wellness” in this regard is established by the approved, ideal and recommended standard. To single out one of these components of the human being for attention in isolation of others, will without doubt bring about catastrophic consequences. The soul is the seat of emotions and intellect, so get information and stay healthy intellectually. Attend to your body, and look smart and stay biologically healthy.
Feed your spirit and stay spiritually sound and alert. Balanced diet certainly does provide essential nutrients needed by the body. In the same vein, the “total man” requires all the essential nutrients to stay balanced. This balance and state the whole being enjoys is what is known as “BALANCED HEALTH”. If the spirit is under-nourished, the total man suffers. If the body is uncared for, the total man suffers. So is the soul.
Do not get too busy and occupied with one to suffer the other two. Essentially, the body is the most visible and obviously erroneously gets the most attention. Do not be too natural to undermine the other two. Do not be too spiritual to neglect the soul and body.
Utilize your time wisely! Give your health a boost. Balance up!!!
- KEN LAMBERT (Bloemfontein)
05 SEP- 11 SEP 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Women deserve the best!” By Dikeledi Moleme. (Page 2)
(reproduced here)
Women deserve the best!
By Dikeledi Moleme
During the month of August women from all corners of the continent often divided by colonial boundaries and by ethnical, linguistic, cultural, economical and political differences came together to celebrate Women’s Month looking back to a tradition that represents five decades of women struggle for equality, justice, emancipation, empowerment and development. During this period of struggle women were oppressed by the apartheid regime, patriarchal laws and many other policies that prevented them from participating in socio-economic activities which were informed by the capitalists of this country. The month of August commemorated the 52nd year after the 1956 women’s march to Pretoria to protest against the Pass laws, and that is why it is no accident that women began the Russian Revolution of 1917 on International Women’s Day. The struggle for women’s total emancipation is far from over as long as we have a class society. The emancipation of women can never be achieved under a capitalist society which holds the working class, both women and men, in subjugation. This emancipation can only be realized in a classless society.
Modern women are not really free from the material realities and that is why hunger, unemployment and the need to earn money to survive force these women to accept capitalism as the only correct and perfect system. The basis of capitalist class exploitation which is commonly found in the domestic workers’ sector lies in the difference between the daily wage paid to women and the new value that women produce in the course of working each day. The oppression of women has been a key question for Marxism hence the struggle for gender equality remains the class struggle even today. The way in which gender issues are raised today, even in the last decade of our democracy, the focus is mostly on women representatively at the expense of the broader issues affecting women. Marxism sees the liberation of working class women as a part of the struggle for the liberation of the working class as a whole. While feminists set women against men, which we are opposed to, the socialist movement, like the Young Communist League of SA, attempts to forge solidarity between male and female in a common struggle against all sorts of capitalist exploitation. We are aware that the worst features of class society reflect the most cruel and brutal form of exploitation. We have noted that the struggle of women has changed its face. Today, women are faced with challenges of high rate of unemployment, teenage pregnancy due to peer pressure, lack of education and access of information on child support grant, HIV and AIDS due to lack of education, young women taking care of the household at the young age, high escalation of poverty resulting in young women opting to sell their bodies to support their family.
The capitalist society regards exploitation, classes and social division as eternal whist we, as the YCL believe that the classless society we are advocating for is built on completely different egalitarian foundations. But, however, we must never forget that these anticommunist tendencies don’t simply fall from the skies but they reflect and arise out of the material interests of monopoly capitalist and unless they are firmly rebuffed, they are likely to make an impact on those stake in society-women-makes them vulnerable to ant-communist scare-mongering. Women do not occupy a special perch outside its social environment. It is very much part of society, the working class in particular. The rung occupied by each section of women on the social ladder reflects their relation to the means of production. All societies pay special attention to women because for any society to shirk this responsibility is to do great harm to it. This applies particularly to peoples struggling to break the shackles of capitalist exploitation. It is our argument as the YCL that no revolution can be victorious without the effective education, organization and mobilization of women into political action because women act as such as a separate contingent vi-a-vis the motive force of the revolution, but as an integral part thereof. This calls for a wise approach in dealing with women issues; a balanced and timeous combination of severity and patience, seriousness and good humor.
Engels says that “The communistic household, in which most or all of the women belong to one and the same gens (clan),while men come from various gentes (clans), is the material foundation of that supremacy of women which was general in primitive times” it is upon this that in the socialist society, women are held in high esteem.
The slogan: “Business unusual, all power to women” should be put into practice where women will be empowered politically and ideologically.
FORWARD TO WOMEN EMANCIPATION, FORWARD!!!!!!!
* Dikeledi Moleme is the Deputy Secretary of the YCL Caleb Motshabi District
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Free State News (Aug 2008 editions)
FREE STATE NEWS PUBLICATION (Aug, 2008 editions)
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, starting from July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Office Assistant
Julia Lithebe
Contact number:
051 447 1655
29 Aug – 04 Sep 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Focus on the first peoples in South Africa”
By By J. Kraalshoek (page 10 )
(reproduced here)
KHOE AND SAN DEVELOPMENTS (Free State GRIQUA COUNCIL)
The RSA coat of arms with our motto, “!ke e: /xara //ke” “unity in diversity”, emphasizes the right to diversity as well as respect and acknowledgement of the first peoples of the Republic of South Africa. The language of our motto is in an ancient Khoe and San or indigenous language, !Xam. Within the designation of “coloured”, there is now a group of people referring to themselves as Indigenous First nation of South Africa. This is a direct response to the empowering new dispensation with its human rights enshrined constitution and the ratification of most of the United Nations Conventions.
Traditional Leadership and Customary Law were accommodated through Chapter 12 of the SA Constitution of 1996, which recognizes the authority of traditional leaders and customary law. While Chapter 9, article 181, 185 and 186, specifically call for the establishment of a Commission for the Promotion and protection of the rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic communities, popularly known as the CRL Commission.
The Khoe and San peoples ask for official recognition and an equal share in the distribution of power through Indigenous people namely respect and development of their heritage and culture combined with socio-economic upliftment.
Revivalist Khoekhoe or Khoesan
The revivalist Khoekhoe or Khoesan refers to those people who began to publicly identify themselves as indigenous Khoesan from 1997 onwards. The revivalist groups are seen in contrast to those groups like the Griqua who have been advocating specific recognition since the early 1900s and the San who can trace their ancestry back to hunting and gathering adaptation.
Khoe and San Leaders
The term Khoe and San leaders refers to the representatives that make up the National Khoe-San Council (NKC) and the leaders and activists from the other organizations mentioned in 2.4.1 under the heading, ‘National Level’.
The insider’s perspective
I have been actively involved with Khoe and San indigenous movement since 2000 and in 2001 became the secretary of the National Khoe and San Consultative Conference (NKOK). So I would be regarded as a revivalist Khoekhoe. Since I embraced my Khoekhoe heritage and identity I feel a strong sense of belonging and for the first time in my life I feel proud of my African hair and features.
The Khoe-San in South African History
According to archeological genetic and material finds there is no question that the Khoekhoe and San have priority in time. They are aboriginal in that they did not emerge from any other country further north in Africa or Europe. (Deacon, 1999) They have their origin in Southern Africa, noting that the state borders were imposed by the colonial conquerors that did not consider the territorial borders of the peoples’ present. The history of South Africa marginalized the Khoe and San peoples as they became classified as ‘coloureds’ and many became assimilated and acculturated.
Efforts to unite Khoe and San
Efforts were made to unite the Khoekhoe coming from rural and urban areas. The Khoe and San namely the Griqua Khoekhoe, Nama Khoekhoe and San sought collaboration and support in the growing International Indigenous arena. They elected to be called “The Khoe-San Peoples” and move out of the racially defined group category to a group category based on their African heritage and identity. These efforts gave the leadership and opportunity to lobby and advocate for recognition by international indigenous peoples and the S.A Government.
FREE STATE PROVINCE
Currently in the Province we have Captain J. Kraalshoek who is the historical driver / leader who promoted the movement of the Khoe and San in the province since 1974. For the past 34 years he has undertaken extensive research to ensure that the Khoe Khoe communities of the province received attention. Successes are as follow: establishing a language structure, claiming of historical land, being on the records of PANSALB, sport arts and culture, house of traditional leaders, attended the world summit, in discussions with international researches, seek help to open an office at the FSUOVS, let cultural groups like the Korana discover their heritage. Captain J. Kraalshoek also established the Free State Griqua council which are represented throughout the Province in the following areas: Bethany, Edenburg, Phillippolis, Bethulie, Boshoff, Oppermansgronde, Thaba Patcha, Bloemfontein, Springfontein, Xhariep and Welkom .
Contact Mr.J. Kraalshoek at 0732519090
22 – 28 AUG 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Women celebrate in style”. By Neo Mvubu (Page 2)
(reproduced here)
Women Celebrate in style
Colourful photo
Connie Masilo Ferguson (of Generations fame) and Penny Lebyane (Metro FM Dj)embraced a women’s month even organized by BMK Designs held at Baines Game Lodge in Bloemfontein earlier this month.
This event was attended by women from all walks of life to celebrate what it means to be a woman in South Africa.
The women were given financial advice by Harnes Lobster from Standard Bank to celebrate their financial independence. “A woman is all about beauty and brains and one should not forget to look good in any industry”
Beauty tips were given to women and a presentation regarding EV Products, Justine and Avroy Shlaine was given for the women.
Artists including Nateaze, Alah yen, Morwesi Sebiloane as well as Ntlantla Nciza kept the women at the dance floor
08 - 14 AUG 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“President Mbeki galvanises Free State shores”. By Neo Mvubu (front page)
(reproduced here)
President Mbeki galvanises Free State shores
By Neo Mvubu
Morojaneng Township in the Naledi Municipality in Dewetsdorp came to life at the weekend as the President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki embarked on his last IMBIZO as the country’s President. At the occasion he walked hand in hand with the Free State Premier Beatrice Marshoff, mingling with people at grassroots level.
Other dignitaries that were there included Minister of Agriculture, Thoko Didiza, the Minister of Health, Manto Tshabalala Msimang, the Minister of Communications, Ivy Matsepe Casaburi, Justice Minister Bridgette Mabandla, and the Minister of Arts and Culture, Pallo Jordan as well as the Minister in the office of the Presidency, Essop Pahad.
The dignitaries collectively went door to door, to the houses of the Dewetsdorp people; many of whom have been trying to have their pleas and basic needs fulfilled for a long time.
The people ventilated their grievances, including problems like basic service delivery, housing, water and electricity problems and home affairs. The President met with Paolasi Ramosoeu (96) who has not yet received his ID, and who lives with his unemployed grandson, Moeketsi Ramosoeu (25) - both supported by a neighbor’s pension, Mampho Thekiso, (52) who is also very sick.
Sampie Molelo (32) said he was hurt at work but never got compensated by his boss (his hand can not operate functionally), now he is unemployed and has to support his family. Another disenchanted person was Makhethe Makhethe (49) who said that his family came to South Africa from Lesotho in 1978. He was born in South Africa and yet has failed in several attempts to get an ID. He explained that he could not even get a house due to this dilemma.
At least five families were given an opportunity to speak out about their problems and the response given by the President was to take these people’s details and speed up the delivery process. It was an exhilarating occasion and opportunity for many indigenes.
01- 07 AUG 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Urbain Tila brings movie Industry to Bloemfontein” By Flaxman Qoopane. (Page 2)
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, starting from July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Office Assistant
Julia Lithebe
Contact number:
051 447 1655
29 Aug – 04 Sep 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Focus on the first peoples in South Africa”
By By J. Kraalshoek (page 10 )
(reproduced here)
KHOE AND SAN DEVELOPMENTS (Free State GRIQUA COUNCIL)
The RSA coat of arms with our motto, “!ke e: /xara //ke” “unity in diversity”, emphasizes the right to diversity as well as respect and acknowledgement of the first peoples of the Republic of South Africa. The language of our motto is in an ancient Khoe and San or indigenous language, !Xam. Within the designation of “coloured”, there is now a group of people referring to themselves as Indigenous First nation of South Africa. This is a direct response to the empowering new dispensation with its human rights enshrined constitution and the ratification of most of the United Nations Conventions.
Traditional Leadership and Customary Law were accommodated through Chapter 12 of the SA Constitution of 1996, which recognizes the authority of traditional leaders and customary law. While Chapter 9, article 181, 185 and 186, specifically call for the establishment of a Commission for the Promotion and protection of the rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic communities, popularly known as the CRL Commission.
The Khoe and San peoples ask for official recognition and an equal share in the distribution of power through Indigenous people namely respect and development of their heritage and culture combined with socio-economic upliftment.
Revivalist Khoekhoe or Khoesan
The revivalist Khoekhoe or Khoesan refers to those people who began to publicly identify themselves as indigenous Khoesan from 1997 onwards. The revivalist groups are seen in contrast to those groups like the Griqua who have been advocating specific recognition since the early 1900s and the San who can trace their ancestry back to hunting and gathering adaptation.
Khoe and San Leaders
The term Khoe and San leaders refers to the representatives that make up the National Khoe-San Council (NKC) and the leaders and activists from the other organizations mentioned in 2.4.1 under the heading, ‘National Level’.
The insider’s perspective
I have been actively involved with Khoe and San indigenous movement since 2000 and in 2001 became the secretary of the National Khoe and San Consultative Conference (NKOK). So I would be regarded as a revivalist Khoekhoe. Since I embraced my Khoekhoe heritage and identity I feel a strong sense of belonging and for the first time in my life I feel proud of my African hair and features.
The Khoe-San in South African History
According to archeological genetic and material finds there is no question that the Khoekhoe and San have priority in time. They are aboriginal in that they did not emerge from any other country further north in Africa or Europe. (Deacon, 1999) They have their origin in Southern Africa, noting that the state borders were imposed by the colonial conquerors that did not consider the territorial borders of the peoples’ present. The history of South Africa marginalized the Khoe and San peoples as they became classified as ‘coloureds’ and many became assimilated and acculturated.
Efforts to unite Khoe and San
Efforts were made to unite the Khoekhoe coming from rural and urban areas. The Khoe and San namely the Griqua Khoekhoe, Nama Khoekhoe and San sought collaboration and support in the growing International Indigenous arena. They elected to be called “The Khoe-San Peoples” and move out of the racially defined group category to a group category based on their African heritage and identity. These efforts gave the leadership and opportunity to lobby and advocate for recognition by international indigenous peoples and the S.A Government.
FREE STATE PROVINCE
Currently in the Province we have Captain J. Kraalshoek who is the historical driver / leader who promoted the movement of the Khoe and San in the province since 1974. For the past 34 years he has undertaken extensive research to ensure that the Khoe Khoe communities of the province received attention. Successes are as follow: establishing a language structure, claiming of historical land, being on the records of PANSALB, sport arts and culture, house of traditional leaders, attended the world summit, in discussions with international researches, seek help to open an office at the FSUOVS, let cultural groups like the Korana discover their heritage. Captain J. Kraalshoek also established the Free State Griqua council which are represented throughout the Province in the following areas: Bethany, Edenburg, Phillippolis, Bethulie, Boshoff, Oppermansgronde, Thaba Patcha, Bloemfontein, Springfontein, Xhariep and Welkom .
Contact Mr.J. Kraalshoek at 0732519090
22 – 28 AUG 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Women celebrate in style”. By Neo Mvubu (Page 2)
(reproduced here)
Women Celebrate in style
Colourful photo
Connie Masilo Ferguson (of Generations fame) and Penny Lebyane (Metro FM Dj)embraced a women’s month even organized by BMK Designs held at Baines Game Lodge in Bloemfontein earlier this month.
This event was attended by women from all walks of life to celebrate what it means to be a woman in South Africa.
The women were given financial advice by Harnes Lobster from Standard Bank to celebrate their financial independence. “A woman is all about beauty and brains and one should not forget to look good in any industry”
Beauty tips were given to women and a presentation regarding EV Products, Justine and Avroy Shlaine was given for the women.
Artists including Nateaze, Alah yen, Morwesi Sebiloane as well as Ntlantla Nciza kept the women at the dance floor
08 - 14 AUG 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“President Mbeki galvanises Free State shores”. By Neo Mvubu (front page)
(reproduced here)
President Mbeki galvanises Free State shores
By Neo Mvubu
Morojaneng Township in the Naledi Municipality in Dewetsdorp came to life at the weekend as the President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki embarked on his last IMBIZO as the country’s President. At the occasion he walked hand in hand with the Free State Premier Beatrice Marshoff, mingling with people at grassroots level.
Other dignitaries that were there included Minister of Agriculture, Thoko Didiza, the Minister of Health, Manto Tshabalala Msimang, the Minister of Communications, Ivy Matsepe Casaburi, Justice Minister Bridgette Mabandla, and the Minister of Arts and Culture, Pallo Jordan as well as the Minister in the office of the Presidency, Essop Pahad.
The dignitaries collectively went door to door, to the houses of the Dewetsdorp people; many of whom have been trying to have their pleas and basic needs fulfilled for a long time.
The people ventilated their grievances, including problems like basic service delivery, housing, water and electricity problems and home affairs. The President met with Paolasi Ramosoeu (96) who has not yet received his ID, and who lives with his unemployed grandson, Moeketsi Ramosoeu (25) - both supported by a neighbor’s pension, Mampho Thekiso, (52) who is also very sick.
Sampie Molelo (32) said he was hurt at work but never got compensated by his boss (his hand can not operate functionally), now he is unemployed and has to support his family. Another disenchanted person was Makhethe Makhethe (49) who said that his family came to South Africa from Lesotho in 1978. He was born in South Africa and yet has failed in several attempts to get an ID. He explained that he could not even get a house due to this dilemma.
At least five families were given an opportunity to speak out about their problems and the response given by the President was to take these people’s details and speed up the delivery process. It was an exhilarating occasion and opportunity for many indigenes.
01- 07 AUG 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Urbain Tila brings movie Industry to Bloemfontein” By Flaxman Qoopane. (Page 2)
Monday, July 28, 2008
FREE STATE NEWS (July 2008 editions)
FREE STATE NEWS PUBLICATION
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, starting from July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Marketing Desk
Kelebogile Vinger
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Office Assistant
Julia Lithebe
Contact number:
051 447 1655
25- 31 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Madiba inspires inmates on his big day” By Julia Stuurman. (Page 7)
(reproduced here)
MADIBA INSPIRES INMATES ON HIS BIG DAY
Mangaung:
As part of the national and worldwide fizz generated by Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday last weekend, the inmates at the Medium B prison in Grootvlei in Bloemfontein got in on the act, learning a different lesson in the process.
Indeed the offenders at the prison found themselves indulging in what was in essence a day of introspection for them “ We have to take a decision today on what we want people to remember us about” an inmate Pule Mokoena explained.
According to him they have only one similarity with Mandela and that is they all have an experience of being in confinement - but with different charges! “We have to be ashamed of the fact that we cannot claim to stand for what is good”
The Area Commissioner, Langa Bikane said that this birthday celebration within prison walls will influence the inmates positively because some of them are striving to bring change into their lives. “For me it is not more about the celebration but more of creating awareness with the life of Madiba and encouraging these offenders to have hope for the future”
The lessons that they have learned were clear from what they expressed “Education is a key to a full rehabilitation and tolerance for others” Pule said. He also added “He is a source of joy and pride for everyone who lives in Africa”
They were also encouraged to utilize all the programmes set up for them by Correctional Service to be well equipped citizens that will contribute meaningfully to their communities “If our fellow inmates respond to the opportunity of learning in prison, they will be contributing to the effort of curbing the illiteracy amongst our people”
The white inmates too made an effort to show their appreciation for the unity that Nelson Mandela created in this country by creating a banner that is eight meters long with his (Mandela’s) face on it “This is to show respect and reflect the true dignity the man deserves” they said.
“We thank him for the unselfish service he rendered to us” the Commissioner concluded.
18 – 24 July 2008 edition
(A special edition on Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday)
FEATURE OF THE WEEK
Letters column (page 9)
(reproduced here)
LETTERS:
As Madiba celebrates his 90th birthday today we have been inundated with letters congratulating the great man. Here we publish only a few...
A palpable long walk!
The only way to honour Mandela is to continue with his long walk to freedom!
In his book “Long walk to freedom” Mandela writes: “I have walked the long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter. I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surround me to look back on the distance I have come. But I can rest only for a moment for with freedom comes responsibility and I dare not linger for my long walk is not yet ended”
Sure the walk is not yet ended but at 90 do we want the grand old man to continue or we can let him rest and continue with his walk! Do we really understand the profound ramifications of the “long walk”?
Tata Mandela spent 27 years in prison fighting for his beloved country. Upon his release he extended arms of friendship and reconciliation to arch enemies! But what do we see today? People still kill each other, crime is rife, not to mention xenophobia. Are we honoring Mandela’s legacy with all this?
Mandela appealed for patience and self-esteem, and hard work. Now we have all realized that no pain is no gain. We have a lot to do to improve our well-being. It is indeed hard but we must not give up.
Mandela has also said: “Experience is the foundation of leadership and obligation to the people takes precedence over a loyalty to an individual” These words show how irresponsible some so-called leaders have been with their recent intemperate statements.
As Madiba turns 90 we say: “Long live the icon! May His Excellency the Most High give you more years on this earth!”
Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga
KUDOS TO NELSON MANDELA
It is extremely important for me to acknowledge the birthday of Madiba the father of our freedom. It is wonderful that the great old man has lived to the very ripe old age of 90.
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela deserves an excellent credit in his life. I appreciate his efforts in ushering in the democracy we the youth are enjoying now. Since he became an activist of the ANC many decades ago he has been unwavering in his commitment and self-sacrifice. He stood firm for what he believed in and he became successful.
I wish him a magnificent birthday and I thank God for his existence. May his legacy live for ever. I love you Tata.
ISHMAEL SOQAGA (Phelindaba)
Marshoff got it right!
I want to join the countless others wishing Tata Mandela a Happy Birthday this weekend. This is the most respected black man in the world today, and deservedly so. Hence it is no surprise that the tributes and congratulations have been pouring in from all over the world. Mandela is a world citizen, to put it mildly.
I enjoyed reading the Birthday message from our Premier (Beatrice Marshoff) in your paper last week. She rightly pointed out that we all express our deepest appreciation for Mandela’s leadership and inspirational life “which continues to give true meaning to the values of humanity, compassion and solidarity”
- Jerry
11 – 17 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Hero’s Memorial Service for Scotch” (front page)
(first paragraph reproduced here)
The ambience at the Memorial Service was somber and funereal; yet defiant and celebratory. Although Thabo “Scotch” Moeketsi had succumbed to mortality, his life had been a triumph, an ANC youth league juggernaut who had stamped his footprints on the sands of time. Hence his family, contemporaries, and comrades had turned up in large numbers to celebrate his life. The Memorial Service was held at a packed Claridon Hall in Bloemfontein on Wednesday…
04 – 10 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Macufe set to exceed expectations” By Julia Stuurman. (Page 4)
(reproduced here)
MACUFE SET TO EXCEED EXPECTATIONS
The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture will be hosting this year’s edition of the MACUFE Festival with a view to exceed all expectations of the critics.
This was revealed during the briefing of stakeholders and service providers in the province. The proposed programme of the festival was unveiled, and recommendations from stakeholders were solicited.
The main objective of this festival this year, Free State news learnt, was to reclaim this brand and ensure that it benefits the people of this province.
Macufe, as orchestrated by the Free State Tourism Authority was a big flop; for one thing, artists complained that they were not given enough platforms to showcase their talent.
But this year’s version is promising to be very different. In this wise the MEC for the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Ace Mgashule, is dedicated to ensuring that this festival meets the expectation of the Free Staters and contribute towards the economical growth of this province.
According to him this festival is not going to serve as capacity testing for emerging enterprises “I am not starting a black business” MEC, Ace Magashule said. He stated that the background of the pertinent service provider must be thoroughly checked to ensure that they can meet the required objectives.
This year’s programme will consist of International artists like Maxwell, who will be performing during youth concert, and Eryka Badhu and Angelina Kidjo will set the stage alight at the Diva’s concert, while the line up in the main concert will consist of Jonathan Buttler, Kirk Whallun, Oletta Adams and Collins. According to the Department these lists are confirmed.
Another interesting addition in sporting event will be a boxing match. There is also an improvement made in ensuring that people are well accommodated during this festival. According to the Department they will secure some of the beds in the Bloemfontein to ensure that they are enough for the people coming outside the city.
The venues for other shows will also change for this year. The Diva’s concert will be held at the Rose Garden, and the Gospel one at the CRC church and it will be on Saturday. There is a possibility of Blacks Only Comedy Show that will be led by David Kau during MACUFE and it will be separated from that of Poetry.
The MACUFE Festival as usual will start in September and end in early October. Dates will be published in due course.
27 June – 03 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Special words of exhortation for the youth” By Nathanael Phamotse (page 7)
(reproduced here)
Special words of exhortation for the youth
The month of June - youth month - is once again here. As a young person you most certainly fall into one of the following categories of people who will be reading this article:
Category 1:
Your life is still the same as it was twelve months ago, despite that you had dreamt and intended that it would, in every way that counts, be better by now.
Category 2:
Your life has taken a downward spiral and things have gotten far worse than they used to be last year. Example, if in June 2007 you were in the pan now you find yourself right in the middle of fire. And if last year you were between hay and grass (i.e. having a really great time), now you find yourself between the rock and the hard place.
Category3:
Your life improved and has in the last year become remarkably great. Your relationships, business, career, health, etc. couldn’t really be this better. Simply put, you can’t complain.
Regardless of which of the above categories you may fall in today, I want to give you the following wisdom nuggets to take with you forward as a provision for dealing with successes and failures in you life. Let them be nutrition for your spirit man. I will not elaborate much on each of them, but I know that if you will really ponder on them they will make a big difference in your life:
Wisdom nugget #1 – Leave life to make an impact on others not to impress:
Whenever you get to speak to someone, it doesn’t matter who they are, always speak to impart wisdom into the heart and mind of that person. Don’t ever speak to elicit response or to impress.
In the times we are living in, most young people seek to impress and entice others with their knowledge, positions as well as possessions (i.e. cars, money, clothes, etc.). Don’t be such a kind of a person. In martial arts they say that the secret of self-defense is that it’s a surprise. And I say to you that the secret of true success (i.e. success as it pertains to knowledge and possessions) is that it should be a surprise. Modesty still is one of the greatest traits one can display in this world. Over and above that we know that the emptiest vessel still is the one that makes the loudest noise.
Wisdom nugget #2 – Know and develop a thorough understanding of the purpose of what you have in your life and you will not abuse it:
Where the purpose is not known, abuse is inevitable. If you are a man, for instance, and you don’t know or you lose sight of the purpose for which your lady has been given to you, you will inevitably abuse her – one way or the other. In the same manner if you don’t know the very original purpose for having money, cars, and other possessions, you will inevitably abuse them – i.e. you will misuse, waste them and end up in trouble.
Wisdom nugget #3 – No matter what storms or challenges you may face in life, tell yourself the following: “THIS SITUATION WILL NOT KILL ME”. I am suggesting that you tell yourself this simply because I believe that your attitude in life will always determine your altitude.
I wish all of our youth the very best in this youth month – and the best only. Humble yourself, be successful and live long. Above all else, I want you to know that regardless of what may be going on in your life right now, you were born to conquer, and your finest hour shall come as long as you do not lose heart. I pray that you will become a better person and that next year by this time you will be the glory of your community and possibly your nation, living a better life – in every sense of the word. You are the best! Always have been! Always will be! Nothing ever will change that! You deserve the best!!
Nathanael Phamotse
(Author, businessman & Motivational Speaker)
This web page(s) would regularly focus on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State news – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province (soon the paper will be celebrating it’s 10th year anniversary). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Here, we shall have regular items like “Feature of the week”, starting from July, 2008
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
Julia Stuurman
Flaxman Qoopane
Neo Mvubu
Sports Reporter
Michael Tlhakudi
Marketing Desk
Kelebogile Vinger
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Photographer
Fresh Pix
Office Assistant
Julia Lithebe
Contact number:
051 447 1655
25- 31 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Madiba inspires inmates on his big day” By Julia Stuurman. (Page 7)
(reproduced here)
MADIBA INSPIRES INMATES ON HIS BIG DAY
Mangaung:
As part of the national and worldwide fizz generated by Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday last weekend, the inmates at the Medium B prison in Grootvlei in Bloemfontein got in on the act, learning a different lesson in the process.
Indeed the offenders at the prison found themselves indulging in what was in essence a day of introspection for them “ We have to take a decision today on what we want people to remember us about” an inmate Pule Mokoena explained.
According to him they have only one similarity with Mandela and that is they all have an experience of being in confinement - but with different charges! “We have to be ashamed of the fact that we cannot claim to stand for what is good”
The Area Commissioner, Langa Bikane said that this birthday celebration within prison walls will influence the inmates positively because some of them are striving to bring change into their lives. “For me it is not more about the celebration but more of creating awareness with the life of Madiba and encouraging these offenders to have hope for the future”
The lessons that they have learned were clear from what they expressed “Education is a key to a full rehabilitation and tolerance for others” Pule said. He also added “He is a source of joy and pride for everyone who lives in Africa”
They were also encouraged to utilize all the programmes set up for them by Correctional Service to be well equipped citizens that will contribute meaningfully to their communities “If our fellow inmates respond to the opportunity of learning in prison, they will be contributing to the effort of curbing the illiteracy amongst our people”
The white inmates too made an effort to show their appreciation for the unity that Nelson Mandela created in this country by creating a banner that is eight meters long with his (Mandela’s) face on it “This is to show respect and reflect the true dignity the man deserves” they said.
“We thank him for the unselfish service he rendered to us” the Commissioner concluded.
18 – 24 July 2008 edition
(A special edition on Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday)
FEATURE OF THE WEEK
Letters column (page 9)
(reproduced here)
LETTERS:
As Madiba celebrates his 90th birthday today we have been inundated with letters congratulating the great man. Here we publish only a few...
A palpable long walk!
The only way to honour Mandela is to continue with his long walk to freedom!
In his book “Long walk to freedom” Mandela writes: “I have walked the long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter. I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surround me to look back on the distance I have come. But I can rest only for a moment for with freedom comes responsibility and I dare not linger for my long walk is not yet ended”
Sure the walk is not yet ended but at 90 do we want the grand old man to continue or we can let him rest and continue with his walk! Do we really understand the profound ramifications of the “long walk”?
Tata Mandela spent 27 years in prison fighting for his beloved country. Upon his release he extended arms of friendship and reconciliation to arch enemies! But what do we see today? People still kill each other, crime is rife, not to mention xenophobia. Are we honoring Mandela’s legacy with all this?
Mandela appealed for patience and self-esteem, and hard work. Now we have all realized that no pain is no gain. We have a lot to do to improve our well-being. It is indeed hard but we must not give up.
Mandela has also said: “Experience is the foundation of leadership and obligation to the people takes precedence over a loyalty to an individual” These words show how irresponsible some so-called leaders have been with their recent intemperate statements.
As Madiba turns 90 we say: “Long live the icon! May His Excellency the Most High give you more years on this earth!”
Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga
KUDOS TO NELSON MANDELA
It is extremely important for me to acknowledge the birthday of Madiba the father of our freedom. It is wonderful that the great old man has lived to the very ripe old age of 90.
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela deserves an excellent credit in his life. I appreciate his efforts in ushering in the democracy we the youth are enjoying now. Since he became an activist of the ANC many decades ago he has been unwavering in his commitment and self-sacrifice. He stood firm for what he believed in and he became successful.
I wish him a magnificent birthday and I thank God for his existence. May his legacy live for ever. I love you Tata.
ISHMAEL SOQAGA (Phelindaba)
Marshoff got it right!
I want to join the countless others wishing Tata Mandela a Happy Birthday this weekend. This is the most respected black man in the world today, and deservedly so. Hence it is no surprise that the tributes and congratulations have been pouring in from all over the world. Mandela is a world citizen, to put it mildly.
I enjoyed reading the Birthday message from our Premier (Beatrice Marshoff) in your paper last week. She rightly pointed out that we all express our deepest appreciation for Mandela’s leadership and inspirational life “which continues to give true meaning to the values of humanity, compassion and solidarity”
- Jerry
11 – 17 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Hero’s Memorial Service for Scotch” (front page)
(first paragraph reproduced here)
The ambience at the Memorial Service was somber and funereal; yet defiant and celebratory. Although Thabo “Scotch” Moeketsi had succumbed to mortality, his life had been a triumph, an ANC youth league juggernaut who had stamped his footprints on the sands of time. Hence his family, contemporaries, and comrades had turned up in large numbers to celebrate his life. The Memorial Service was held at a packed Claridon Hall in Bloemfontein on Wednesday…
04 – 10 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Macufe set to exceed expectations” By Julia Stuurman. (Page 4)
(reproduced here)
MACUFE SET TO EXCEED EXPECTATIONS
The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture will be hosting this year’s edition of the MACUFE Festival with a view to exceed all expectations of the critics.
This was revealed during the briefing of stakeholders and service providers in the province. The proposed programme of the festival was unveiled, and recommendations from stakeholders were solicited.
The main objective of this festival this year, Free State news learnt, was to reclaim this brand and ensure that it benefits the people of this province.
Macufe, as orchestrated by the Free State Tourism Authority was a big flop; for one thing, artists complained that they were not given enough platforms to showcase their talent.
But this year’s version is promising to be very different. In this wise the MEC for the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Ace Mgashule, is dedicated to ensuring that this festival meets the expectation of the Free Staters and contribute towards the economical growth of this province.
According to him this festival is not going to serve as capacity testing for emerging enterprises “I am not starting a black business” MEC, Ace Magashule said. He stated that the background of the pertinent service provider must be thoroughly checked to ensure that they can meet the required objectives.
This year’s programme will consist of International artists like Maxwell, who will be performing during youth concert, and Eryka Badhu and Angelina Kidjo will set the stage alight at the Diva’s concert, while the line up in the main concert will consist of Jonathan Buttler, Kirk Whallun, Oletta Adams and Collins. According to the Department these lists are confirmed.
Another interesting addition in sporting event will be a boxing match. There is also an improvement made in ensuring that people are well accommodated during this festival. According to the Department they will secure some of the beds in the Bloemfontein to ensure that they are enough for the people coming outside the city.
The venues for other shows will also change for this year. The Diva’s concert will be held at the Rose Garden, and the Gospel one at the CRC church and it will be on Saturday. There is a possibility of Blacks Only Comedy Show that will be led by David Kau during MACUFE and it will be separated from that of Poetry.
The MACUFE Festival as usual will start in September and end in early October. Dates will be published in due course.
27 June – 03 July 2008 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK:
“Special words of exhortation for the youth” By Nathanael Phamotse (page 7)
(reproduced here)
Special words of exhortation for the youth
The month of June - youth month - is once again here. As a young person you most certainly fall into one of the following categories of people who will be reading this article:
Category 1:
Your life is still the same as it was twelve months ago, despite that you had dreamt and intended that it would, in every way that counts, be better by now.
Category 2:
Your life has taken a downward spiral and things have gotten far worse than they used to be last year. Example, if in June 2007 you were in the pan now you find yourself right in the middle of fire. And if last year you were between hay and grass (i.e. having a really great time), now you find yourself between the rock and the hard place.
Category3:
Your life improved and has in the last year become remarkably great. Your relationships, business, career, health, etc. couldn’t really be this better. Simply put, you can’t complain.
Regardless of which of the above categories you may fall in today, I want to give you the following wisdom nuggets to take with you forward as a provision for dealing with successes and failures in you life. Let them be nutrition for your spirit man. I will not elaborate much on each of them, but I know that if you will really ponder on them they will make a big difference in your life:
Wisdom nugget #1 – Leave life to make an impact on others not to impress:
Whenever you get to speak to someone, it doesn’t matter who they are, always speak to impart wisdom into the heart and mind of that person. Don’t ever speak to elicit response or to impress.
In the times we are living in, most young people seek to impress and entice others with their knowledge, positions as well as possessions (i.e. cars, money, clothes, etc.). Don’t be such a kind of a person. In martial arts they say that the secret of self-defense is that it’s a surprise. And I say to you that the secret of true success (i.e. success as it pertains to knowledge and possessions) is that it should be a surprise. Modesty still is one of the greatest traits one can display in this world. Over and above that we know that the emptiest vessel still is the one that makes the loudest noise.
Wisdom nugget #2 – Know and develop a thorough understanding of the purpose of what you have in your life and you will not abuse it:
Where the purpose is not known, abuse is inevitable. If you are a man, for instance, and you don’t know or you lose sight of the purpose for which your lady has been given to you, you will inevitably abuse her – one way or the other. In the same manner if you don’t know the very original purpose for having money, cars, and other possessions, you will inevitably abuse them – i.e. you will misuse, waste them and end up in trouble.
Wisdom nugget #3 – No matter what storms or challenges you may face in life, tell yourself the following: “THIS SITUATION WILL NOT KILL ME”. I am suggesting that you tell yourself this simply because I believe that your attitude in life will always determine your altitude.
I wish all of our youth the very best in this youth month – and the best only. Humble yourself, be successful and live long. Above all else, I want you to know that regardless of what may be going on in your life right now, you were born to conquer, and your finest hour shall come as long as you do not lose heart. I pray that you will become a better person and that next year by this time you will be the glory of your community and possibly your nation, living a better life – in every sense of the word. You are the best! Always have been! Always will be! Nothing ever will change that! You deserve the best!!
Nathanael Phamotse
(Author, businessman & Motivational Speaker)
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