Friday, October 25, 2013

FREE STATE NEWS OCTOBER 25 2013 RANDOM STORIES



FREE STATE NEWS OCTOBER 25 2013 SAMPLE STORIES

This web page(s) regularly focuses 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. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years. 


Free State News crew



Publisher

Moses Vinger



Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”



Editor

Kaya M



News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji


Contributors

Letshego Moeng

Raselebeli Khotseng




Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 



MASSIVE DOOR TO DOOR CAMPAIGN

By Letshego Moeng


“Our volunteers should be taken into consideration when opportunities come up. If comrades are so patient to do door to door and thus if work comes up they should be first priority especially those that work hard”.

This was said by the Premier of the Free State Ace Magashule who was speaking during the door-to-door campaign at the Batho Location community hall where he pointed out that these people are the reason for the occasion and they should not be forgotten as the aim is to ensure that they don’t lose heart.

He also said that he is happy with the way the comrades have done and what they did, doing massive door to door.

Free State News gathered that the reason for the door to door campaign was to find out the difficulties and challenges faced by their residents; such as the bucket system, dilapidated houses of which people are free to decline if they want to build themselves a house leaking water, those who have been using candles and are without electricity and the roads. Service delivery was on roads and the issue that there is nowhere to walk at times when it is raining.
Addressing some of the issues he pleaded for counselors to do their work. Magashule said: 

“The elderly should be taken care of with regards to their indigent and counselors should decrease their electricity and water accounts so that it will be affordable for them.
To conclude the matter emphasized how the elderly should also be taken care of and be given first priority as they are the vital voters in the country. He said that it pains him that contractors don’t finish their job but he will do his best to address these issues.
In talking about education he said that children who have finished school and still want to further their studies should know that his office is open to giving out bursaries and that in Bloemfontein there are lack of engineers.

During the address he put emphasis on how being educated is such an important endeavor and how the parents should encourage them to go to school.  The youth was also encouraged to join the ANC youth league organisation.
The people present at the occasion were the volunteers and the entire premier’s executive.
“I am happy with the cooperation of comrades and that the leadership should forget the comrades”, concluded Magashule.

One of the volunteers proudly said how much she loves the premier and that they love being involved with the communities as it keeps them in touch of some of what is happening in our communities and she is glad to be of assistance and trust that these people’s challenges will be addressed.


Interfaith prayers geared towards solving corruption

By Raselebeli Khotseng


The Public Protector of South Africa office in the Free State this week organised an inter-faith prayer for the Free State good governance 2013 in Bloemfontein at Bram Fischer building (Bunga Hall)

The purpose of the event was to pray for good governance in the Free State province so as to eradicate poverty. The occasion is a kick-start for the next week’s national good governance week initiated by the national public protector Thuli Madonsela. Organisations, government officials were supporting this venture together with inter-faith denominations and their religious leaders.

The event was opened with a national anthem and short prayer. Thereafter the programme director Mr Morgan Mashinini, a senior investigator for public protector in Free State introduced guests who included Ms Griessel, a provincial representative of public protector [Free State] and Mr Lehlohonolo Manama also an official in public protector’s office. Meanwhile Rev Mary Lebopo, a convener of Mangaung Metro Regeneration Movement was also introduced.

In her opening remarks, Ms Griessel told the participants that their inputs and participation are of paramount importance as they will contribute towards the government resolution to eradicate poverty. As she talked about strengthening good governance she said, “Good governance reflects good values and ethical principles”

Moreover Mr Mashinini asked civil organizations and government departments to be part of good government week as Madonsela requested. “We need to insure government that is accountable to identify problems that perpetuate poverty’ he said. He called upon participants to visit malls and tell people about good governance. Madonsela felt that we should engage faith denominations as a way of seeking divine intervention’. He finally asked faith organizations to pray against maladministration and said officials must know that corruption does not rob the government only but also the poor.

“Let’s pray for that so as to enjoy the fruits of our democracy,” he concluded
Rev Lebopo conducted an inter-faith prayer together with other FBO’s believers from African Religion; Christianity, Rastafarism, Bahai, Islam,Koranas [Khoisan], and Traditional healers. This interfaith prayer was conducted though candlelight.


(LETTER)

Racism is abhorrent in a democratic South Africa




By Ishmael Mzwandile Soqaga (pix above)


The apparently racist behaviour of one of the teachers in Wilgehof School towards innocent black pupils reminds me of the catastrophically racist period of apartheid.  The whole period of apartheid was egregious and disastrous for all South Africans.

For instance the Soweto uprising was caused by elusive racial policy of apartheid.  And the announcement of FW De Klerk to un-ban all opposition parties in South Africa on the other hand was heroic.  However, there are important lessons to be learned from racial apartheid.  Firstly racism in nature is not presentable in society as its effects are greatly detrimental.  Secondly another disadvantage of racism is that it only regards only one racial group in a diverse society as superior than others.

Simultaneously there is more phenomenal lesson we should continuously learn from a democratic South Africa.  Since its inception democratic South Africa has done very well to create a constitution that provides human rights for all.  Democracy promotes equality for all and equal opportunities for all.   Enormously democracy is growing and is gaining more experience, trying hard to build the nation where man is free from all forms of racial prejudice and suppression of human rights.  However, as cosmic progresses are made certain hiccups of racial prejudice are materializing.

I am content with the action of the visionary white person who openly reported the racist conduct of a white teacher in Wilgehof School.  A teacher contravenes the education code of conduct and acted in the manner that has neither interest for professional teaching nor committed to the constitution of South Africa.  It must not be a staggering surprise that people of the same color disagree on issues of race.  Absolutely, it is evident that democracy is sufficiently enough to change the societal perception.  The standard which it has set has made an extraordinary impact in a new country with a new society which is resolute to live racially together.  By this stage no one will wish to see apartheid again.  

Personally, I am greatly awesome with the decision of Human Rights Commission to find Mr. Mac Kay guilty of his racial conduct towards black pupils in the school.  The commission has proven itself beyond a doubt that is the true exponent of human rights in South Africa.  Human rights violation is daunting and incongruous.  Any person who commits and displays such indecorous obsolete ideas is a threat in society and to democracy. 

 The South African Human Rights Commission has found that the conduct of Wilgehof Primary School teacher Mr. Lenard Mac Kay and his crude racist remarks perpetrated against black learners amount to racism and hate speech of unfair discrimination.

Significantly Mr. Craig Theim is the groovy-caring parent who understands how important education for all children is.  His non-racial commitment illustrates clearly that he is a committed citizen of South Africa who believes in human rights and diverse society.  For South Africa to achieve a complete outstanding outcome of non-racial society it needs prodigious parent like Mr. Craig Thieim.

Constantly we need to remember the charismatic leadership of the protagonist of non-racial South Africa, Mr. Nelson Mandela.  As the first black president of South Africa he ensured that racial atrocities committed by erstwhile white apartheid government are forgotten and forgiven.  In his inaugural statement in 1994 he said "We must therefore act together as a united people, for national reconciliation, for nation building, for the birth of a new world.”  It is almost the second decade since the new nation begun and South African society is racially healthy and halcyon.  Nevertheless it is difficult for certain people to change their misleading axiom of racism. 

On the 14th of January, 2008, Jozef Johannes Nel drove to the Skierlik informal settlement, where he shot and killed 4 people, including a two month old baby, wounded eight and shot and missed 3 others.  He was arrested and found guilty of a racially motivated murder; and he was sentenced on the 21st of November, 2008.   Furthermore, on the sixth of March 2008 the Commission received a complaint following an international dissemination of an extremely offensive racist video produced by four of the UFS students. The video depicts four white male students making the African employees (complainants) swallow a bottle of beer, run a race, play rugby and kneel and eat what looks like mincemeat which had been urinated upon.

It is unfortunate for Mr. Mac Kay to act contrary to the constitution of South Africa; for him to display a full size of the historical apartheid flag in front of his classroom was pathological.  And again for him to put a poster in the class that depicted black people as having monkey-like noise and primate brains who could only make confusing noise was fallacious and absurd.  Such teaching and behavior takes our country backward, the results will be malady.  Equal treatment for all children in school is paramount.  The onus rests on our shoulders to value the democratic foundation which was laid under the stewardship of Nelson Mandela.

Therefore our responsibility is to commit ourselves for building a non-racial society coupled with the attainment of reconciliation.    We should continue to build a better South Africa which will protect and invariably safeguard the rights of all people especially of children.  To be a successful nation we must always act for the interests of the country and at all time respect the rule of law of the country.  Schools are important institutions to groom and nurture the minds of children.  In multiracial schools it is very imperative for teachers to be good exemplars and desist from promoting anything that intend to psychologically harm the impressionable minds of the children.

Schools must be an inspiration to children, not pursue baseless ideas of racism.  I have a firm belief in South African Human Rights Commission which is keen for the advancement of human rights.   But I am also of the opinion that more national racial campaign awareness programmes need to be initiated and fully established in schools.  The day of reconciliation is much more popular and is fundamental.   Let also racism get the same attention for the achievement of a non-racial South Africa.


* Mr Soqaga is an author, essayist and sports lover

Friday, October 11, 2013

FREE STATE NEWS OCTOBER 11 SAMPLE STORIES



This web page(s) regularly focuses 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. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years. 


Free State News crew


Publisher

Moses Vinger


Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”


Editor

Kaya M


News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji


Contributors

Letshego Moeng

Raselebeli Khotseng



Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 





EXTIRPATING CRIME GENERATORS

By Letshego Moeng

Gangsterism is a serious problem in the province and will be the first area which will be mainly focused on to nip in the bud, and will be followed by drugs and illegal mining, stock theft and proliferation of fire arms.

These sentiments were adumbrated by the newly appointed Lieutenant General Free State Provincial Commissioner, Thabethe Simon Mpembe. Impressively, Mpembe has carved a niche for himself in this career spanning over 35 years.

The former Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo is credited with diffusing people Against Gangsterism and Drugs unrest in the Western Cape during the 1990s. He is also the former station commander of police stations such as Johannesburg Central, Mfuleni, Kraaifontein and Nyanga as well as both Gauteng and Cape Town’s former operational commander.
Mpembe said: “We will also be speaking to the National Prosecuting officer so that if people are arrested we should be able to oppose bail. We need to send people to jail, and let them know that if you get involved in crime you will be arrested and dealt with”.

He added that they will also be embarking on Imbizo which are education within communities on how they can resist this situation. Awareness will be done and to enable the community to have resilience skills.

“Drugs will be our second focus. If we don’t address these issues we sit with a problem and thus a generation of crime”.

The new supremo admitted that there are some issues which are quickly to solve and some which will take time. In terms of the Issues of gangsterism it becomes disruptive to education as the youth are the targets in schools.

He further on explained that the last thing which will be dealt with is ensuring visibility is high, as well as vehicles patrolling on the highway.

“To ensure police safety we will make certain that they are well armed and well briefed and informed to deal with the situation to a point of seeing to it that they wear proof arms.”
Free State News discovered that property crimes are also a problem not only in the province but in the country at large. He concluded that if generators of crime are dealt with profusely most of the crimes will be decreasing and that will form part of the police’s plan.

The police officers said unanimously: “With such impeccable policing background the entire Free State workforce looks forward to rallying behind their new Provincial commissioner”.
Mpembe’s display of excellence through experiential training is coupled with academic attributes such as a National Diploma in Police Administration and a Masters degree in Public Administration.


PUTSWA STENE TEEMS AND THROBS

By Raselebeli Khotseng

Mangaung townships oozed with Macufe-like excitement at Putswa Stene tavern as Putswa Stene patrons offered food and clothes to the aged and the needy kids. The glittering event was graced by government officials, NGOs, cultural workers, elderly people and responsible men of high intoxication.

Mr Gift Mahlumba, the mc welcomed the guests and warned people not to think that drinking men are only concerned about enjoying drinking and can’t raise their children. Mr Thomas Mohapi a patron’s vocal person mentioned the day 5th October as important day as it followed the 6th which is the international day of the aged. Patrons are men consoling and advising themselves about their family issues here at Putswa Stene tavern, he said. He continued that elders suffered during the era of apartheid before and now they endure the same pain under their own children

He started his speech by summarizing the background of the patrons that boasts of giving clothes and food to institutions like Pelonomi kiddies ward, Mabeoana Primary, Bloemspruit orphanage and Boichuco old age centre. To him, this indicates that men can drink and be abusers but not all men are the same; as he went further about caring for the aged he said it’s not only our blood grandparents we should take care of, but any elder in our community belongs to us.

Ladies thereafter volunteered themselves’ to knitting clothes for the elders Thomas concluded by saying: “This nation of elders and orphans is a nation of us patrons.”
Mr Mahlumba asked Bramfischer choir to perform some items that made guests to stand on their feet and transform elders younger as they dance, sing and ululating in applauses.

Meanwhile me Matshidiso Mokgoro a Bramfischer director told guests that working with elders and orphans need patience. “Nowadays children make their elders dumping sites by leaving them with a burden of grandchildren. Our elders should not be taken to old age centres whilst their children and families are still around,” She enthused that on the occasion she was convinced that not all men are abusers. She thanked Mr Piki Plaatjie for encouraging men to do this mammoth task and inviting her.

Bramfischer traditional dancers showcased their talent where even passers-by watched in awe at magnificent dance. Mr Lecholo Nkabinde from Commission of gender equality highlighted the importance of the commission with regard to individual rights, protection and responsibility.

He warned people of different cultures, race, sex and religious background to be tolerant and respect others’ rights, and existence. This is vital because those rights have limitations in every man and woman. He stressed that “even though you have rights, I advise you men not to divorce because we want to build a real man,” According to him, there are many types of abuse but the worst abuse is the economic one, and with this parents should support children irrespective of their differences. A child has no right to one parent but to both, so stop to go to maintenance court - rather reach consensus to support children’ he concluded

One of the beneficiaries, an elder Ntate Mokone Mokhati thanked the patrons for beautifying elders with clothes and declared that he is fortunate to live in Phahameng where patrons don’t invite drunkards only, but even non-drunkards for help. His speech was followed by the one of Mr Makhwenkwe Fikizolo, a community leader who revealed statistic of children receiving grants in Free State as 95 000.

He lamented that those kids have employed fathers who are not drinking. It is amazing that patrons are drinking but are concerned about the plight of needy kids. He further reminds men to go back to their cultural heritage where a man is a man by his sacrifice to his community.

Sister Aaron, a self motivated medical practitioner discussed about her community project aimed at assisting the poor and vulnerable ones with no or lesser charge. She was applauded by men and women.


LITERATURE CORNER

With Kgang Abel Motheane

The theme of this week is about what I have done to the students of Rutanang Primary School at Kagisanong near Outdoor Sport Centre teaching the Grade 4 Setswana Idioms, and gave them home thought that every pupil must bring ten of the Setswana Idiom like Senkganang se nthola morwalo – meaning “those who hate me lessen my problems.”

So the children had gone home to bring my home work the next day. I will be correcting those Question paper and I will also edit them and teach them how to write a book. The principal and the teachers concerned were very happy about my visit that is very educative thought; that would bring the good results of the pupil at Setswana texts.

I wish that the pertinent children must reach the high percentage of the subject of their mother tongue; if they work hard they will reach the total of Setswana language.
Palesa Mashwabi and Dibuseng Sethole and others organised the thought of the morning that the children may succeed at the end of the year examinations.

I taught the pupils and they enjoyed the Setswana session. I say good luck to my boys and girls. This initiative will hopefully inspire other schools to contact this columnist.

BOLAJI IN HIS POMP (Book)


By the way congratulations for the latest piercing book-length study on my editor, Omoseye Bolaji – By P Lechesa. It is titled Bolaji in his pomp (below) It’s a great book and boost for literature!






Friday, September 27, 2013

FREE STATE NEWS SEPTEMBER 27 2013 SAMPLE STORIES



FREE STATE NEWS SEPTEMBER 27 2013 SAMPLE STORIES

This web page(s) regularly focuses 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. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years. 


Free State News crew

Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji


Contributors

Letshego Moeng

Raselebeli Khotseng


Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 


SWEEPING DEVELOPMENTS IN RURAL NICHE

By Letshego Moeng

The Department of Rural Development Minister, Gugile Nkwinti visited farms in the Free State to evaluate if they are making progress. The process involved his quest to find out more about what the farmers are saying. The people that were present were Director General Mdu Shabane, Deputy Director Vussy Mahlangu and the MEC Mamiki Hlabathe as well as Head of Department of the DARD Peter Thabethe.

The farm in Cecilia is that they keep the details of the cost with the help of abattoir mentor helps them by teaching them how to use the tractors and feed for the cattle is their biggest cost. Diesel is also very expensive. The reason they are able to detect if the cows are sick is by applying what they learnt at a course.

They have a schedule in which to give medication to the cows, as it is now September they immunise them against invidious infections. In February and August they managed to sell some cows. They are planning to sell again in November but all this depends on the price because the owner will have to sell but keep and specifically sell the winners which are 195 in total; whereas the total number of them are 520.

“We bought another good bull so that we can have better weight and thus need to have a total of 3 bulls. The Nguni that we have is the one we are struggling to have a market for because people are reluctant to buy them due to the horns,”

Specialist Mike Sparg who is working with them teaches them how to farm and he also works with a strategic partner Graeme Leach as well as Johan Grove and Werner Rautenbach. ‘We have a passion about what we do. And have been doing this from 2006 to 2012,” Sparg explained.

The MEC proceeded to ask all the farmers categorised in red, green and amber to stand and Nomsa who was in the green said: “You need to know your market access and let them know how to comply. If you are not managing conflict you will be found wanting in terms of the issue of principles. You must just have patience, honesty and proper communication.”
CPA-Mokgashe said that “you must be passionate, aggressive, and available for what you do and be committed as well as work in a team”.

“Black farmers are doing it and this opportunity is not only for KZN,” said Siyabonga Madladla who is a young farmer.

“Let us not eat up the seed we are supposed to produce. I was brought up in farming. To those in green I say aluta continua and let us not disappoint the government. If we waste resources we may not get them again”. Madladla said.

Nkwinti said: “We are here to review and recap the performance because this is tax payers’ money. Those who are being mentored accept it that you are being mentored. Please consider who is going to lose the farm at the end of the day.”

The people who proved to be unsuccessful the minister said that in 6 months’ time he will be coming to them and if they are not green, they must at least be amber and not red “for it is their responsibility to turn it around”.

Siyabonga invited the minister to celebrate his success of the CRDP in the Mantsoming district, KZN. “We want to buy equity in the Bloemfontein arboretum for these farmers, we bought eleven but now there is more in the Free State. We want you to begin to move in the value chain and in order to do that, have sustained production discipline.”


AGED BASK IN HERITAGE DAY

By Raselebeli Khotseng

A glittering Heritage Day with elders from Mafora including surrounding areas taking centre stage was held with Amplaid at Bramfischer services centre situated in Mafora informal settlement in Bloemfontein.

The event was blessed with important guests from different NGOs, leader, men structure and wards committee member, Me Mpontsheng Kgotle programme director called upon Pastor Pitso Lekeka to open the day with a short prayer and afterwards Me Cecelia Tshidi Mokgoro welcomed the guest as Manager of the  center.

Among the important guests she introduced were pastor Lekeka from St Rama Apostolic Church in Zion, Mr Thabo Lekgetho who briefed the attendees about the purpose of the day, motivational speakers from Putswa Stene Patrons Mr Piki Plaatjie and Raselebedi Khotseng who is also a manager of Men’s Solidarity, Tebello Masita (From Social Development) who attended on personal capacity as he is no longer tasked to work with local NGO’s but helped to capacitate the Centre’s management.

Lastly, in attendance was a self-motivated Health Practitioner Me Beverly Aaron and Manaledi Malebo, a traditional healer. This attendance by different people from their respective organization shows how our initiatives are being cared for”, said Matshidiso after she finally introduced her committee members. Mr Piki Plaatjie asked people not to paint every man with the same brush by regarding all men as abusive but women must come and see other men who changed lives of abused ones at Putswa Stene.
Me Naledi Malebo warned girls from the initiation school not to make their mothers feel they are no longer having control over them.

“Girls must remain girls even after their course to their parents”, she concluded. Me Aaron appealed to the communities to help themselves and others as she did to empower and train home-based careers of Bramfischer.

Entertainment was provided by the Bramfischer Carers Choirs to the applause of the audience. There was also traditional music by young girls, and poems by yours truly added excitement and ululations.

Me Phephile Ndaba Mbele made a handover of T-shirts as a uniform to little traditional dancers. Thereafter Me Kgotle closed the event formally – and guests were entertained with traditional food and drinks.


Fulsome celebrations for N.G Church

By Gordon Vinger

Amidst fizz, pomp and flamboyance, the N.G Church Batho celebrated its anniversary in Batho Location in Mangaung last Sunday.

Reverend Samuel Mbebe conducted the sermon during the celebration, whilst various church choirs and cultural groups entertained the audience.

During the whopping 120th anniversary of the Church, the congregation participated in ruffling and children entertained themselves with jumping castles

Many stakeholders on the ground, and aficionados of the church in general, told Free State news that it was a wonderful, auspicious occasion; and the future was bright in very respects.

Indeed no stone was left unturned to ensure that the occasion was a roaring success with informed, proficient speakers sketching out what a historic occasion was being marked.

This comment was typical. “We envisage that the great deeds and prospects will go on for many years to come – even in 200 years’ time. This is a veritable great Church. That’s the way to go!”


LITERATURE CORNER

With K A Motheane

Efficacy of Boy Scouts Movement

I have been a Boy Scout for many decades now, and this Column today can reveal the profound impact of the World Organisation, the Boy Scouts on my career. Lord Baden Powell who founded the Boy Scouts was born on 22 February 1857 in London, England.

This Columnist has learnt a lot of things, thanks to the movement; for example compass tracking sign, mapping signalling, flag-breaks etc. For decades I have been teaching the boys to be good citizens and to respect everybody. The training provided by scouting is very broad and adventurous.

The training comprises practical things, and cleaniness and handicrafts are also taught. The iconic Neil Armstrong who was the first man on the moon was also a Scout. Astronomy is also taught at the Boy Scout Organisation.

Incidentally, Baden-Powell who started the Boy Scouts was also a most prolific writer, having published well over 20 books on military warfare, the Scouting movement, and many other general works. His book, Scouting for Boys is one of the most bestselling works of all time

This Column encourages the children to join the movement, but not only the children and the adults as well. Those who are interested in joining the Movement, I am there for them as I will love to keep the children off the street, refraining from smoking, drugs etc.


 As usual I can be contacted via 073 3002306 

Friday, September 13, 2013

FREE STATE NEWS SEPTEMBER 13 2013 SAMPLE STORIES

Free State News, September 13 2013 sample stories



This web page(s) regularly focuses 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. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years. 


Free State News crew


Publisher

Moses Vinger


Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”


Editor

Kaya M


News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji


Contributors

Letshego Moeng

Raselebeli Khotseng



Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 


Steve Biko remembered in Mangaung



By O Bolaji

Long standing aficionados of the Black Consciousness Movement in the Free State came together yesterday to mark the 36th anniversary of the death of the iconic Steve Biko at Pax Nova.

Among those who graced the occasion were Fikile Qithi, Mpikeleni Duma, Masilonyana Lefuo, Nfazwe Bosman, Serame “Icebound Makhele”, Peter Maloro and Sam Lenko. Also present was the illustrious poet Raselebeli “Magic” Khotseng who read his famous poem on Biko titled, “Martyr Lives, Biko Lives.

Ntate Kgang Motheane, the prolific author briefly went down memory lane on the life and times of Biko - “a most assiduous, vibrant, visionary young man” - and he explained that his legacy is still very much intact. His words were echoed by Mpikeleni Duma who gave some anecdotes of the struggle in which he (Duma) was an active participant for decades too.

Indeed, 36 years ago Bantu Steve Biko who died whilst in the erstwhile apartheid police custody was remembered throughout South Africa, Africa and the world at large. Biko died in excruciating fashion after being tortured and driven for almost 1 200 kilometres in the back of a police vehicle from Port Elizabeth to Pretoria Maximum Prison.

Meanwhile, in memoriam of Biko, The Azanian People's Organisation (Azapo) members are re-rebuilding the home of an elderly woman in Port Elizabeth's New Brighton township.

Seventy-two year old Regina Ngalo's home was almost burnt to the ground two months ago. She has been living with relatives since the unfortunate incident.

Azapo's efforts to refurbish her home are part of week-long efforts to honour Biko's life. Azapo Provincial chairperson of the organisation, Lungile Dick has called on the business sector to assist: "As I'm talking to you now, people are working, some are inside some outside. We also want to appeal to business people out there to contribute to the well being of the old lady, be it in time or money or material there are no doors, or door frames, there are no windows there's nothing here. More than anything we are saying that it's what Biko would do, Biko was a committed person, a person who believed that our people are important and they come first, that's what we doing."

Wits University's Steve Biko Centre for Bioethics also hosted their annual lecture. Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Adam Habib delivered it maobane (yesterday) The title of Habib's lecture is Health, Ethics and Human Development in an Unequal World.

In October, the Steve Biko Foundation's annual University of Cape Town-hosted Steve Biko Memorial Lecture will take place. This year, Chair of the African Union Commission Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma - in this 50th anniversary year of the formation of the Organization of African Unity - will be delivering this lecture.


BENNET’S LATEST OFFERING

By Regomoditswe Motsalane

Bennet Mkhehlane, the motivational speaker and adroit entrepreneur has released his latest book: Live your life as a champion.

This excellent work is a must-read for those who aspire to better themselves in life, continue to grow by leaps and bounds and grasp solid success for themselves. It is an articulate, well researched, and pragmatic work; the product of a brilliant, highly intelligent mind.

The author introduces us to a gallery of winners who have taken the world industry by storm. They include Henry Ford, Bill Gates, Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, Thomas Edison, Oprah Winfrey, Marilyn Monroe, J.K Rowley, etc.

The author explains to us that everybody can be a millionaire if they really want to be.  He gives examples drawn from around the world but we should live according to the will of God. Clever planning and knowledge of economics and finance is also important. Practical ways of educating ourselves are also pointed out with a perspicacious employment of our lives.

According to Mkhehlane:  “We must try to be positive; after all negative approach will cross business partners. Feel happy, organised and full of possibilities”.
Going further he also points out that talent is not enough, hard work must complement this. We must also know our marketing e.g. passiving, marketing and acting perspectives. Emphasis must be on leadership traits and skill.

In network marketing, plan is strongly suggested that is, your personal strategy to grow your business. “If you want to succeed your marketing network you must have a genuine plan.”

We are told that the secret is to have a winner’s mindset. “Most people expect success. What they fail to realize is that success goes to those who make it happen”.

This is a most brilliant work that can profoundly change lives of people out there. The author, Mkhehlane has added cubits to his reputation by writing such a laudable book.


VICTIMISED FOR BLOWING THE WHISTLE ON RACISM!

By Raselebeli Khotseng

After blowing the whistle on racist attitudes meted out to black children at Wilgehof Primary School, Mr Craig Thiem’s life has allegedly become a living hell!

His agony started immediately after media exposure revealed how black children are being abused and called “kaffirs” by teachers in the pertinent school. These racist utterances, he reported was told to him by his children from that particular school. This has now become a worldwide issue.

Now stories have surfaced that the hapless Thiem was fired from his previous work and also from his Church! Additionally, his landlord reportedly doubled his bills – as regards his tenancy. Recently he was allegedly arrested again for stealing groceries worth R140 from one of the biggest supermarkets in FichardtPark in Bloemfontein. To add to his misery, he was refused employment by white companies.

“I failed to understand how Thiem could be charged for shop-lifting for R140 groceries whilst the same day I offered him R500,” said his new employer (exclusively known to Free State news)

The new employer (a popular taxi owner) told this newspaper that he employed Thiem after he (Thiem) begged him for a job since other companies refused him, and that he resorted to look for job from black employers. “I just offered him a job out of sympathy because I myself have been a victim of racism,” the new employer added.


When Free State news interviewed both the new employer and the beleaguered Thiem the latter confirmed that since his sensational disclosures on racism in Wilgehof school, his life has become a hell!


Friday, August 23, 2013

FREE STATE NEWS AUGUST 23 2013 SAMPLE STORIES


Free State News, August 23 2013 sample stories


This web page(s) regularly focuses 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. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years. 


Free State News crew

Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Letshego Moeng

Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 


Police officers under fire!


By Regomoditswe Motsalane



Members of the Free State community this week expressed their distaste and anger over reports that a police officer was almost killed by daring suspects of an alleged ATM bombing.

“Enough is enough,” Jerry Seekoei, a well known political analyst and essayist told Free State news. “These ATM bombings are horrific and cause panic and discomfort all over. It must be stopped. And shooting at those who are protecting us – the police – is completely unacceptable all over the world,” Other residents expressed sentiments along these lines.

It was revealed that a 47 year old police officer sustained gunshot wounds when the suspects that were allegedly bombing an ATM at Thaba Nchu noticed their marked police vehicle.

The incident took place when the unsuspecting police officers were busy patrolling around the area of Thaba Nchu. Sources indicate that t while on patrol they noticed a white Audi private vehicle packed on the road, next to Absa Bank ATM. The officers drove closer to investigate, and to the chagrin of the police officers, the suspects suddenly shot at the police officers, injuring one of them!

The bullet slightly hit him on the right arm and on the right leg as the bullet penetrated through the lower right of the vehicle door and through both windows. Other police officers were called and thereafter it was discovered that three ABSA ATMs were bombed and an undisclosed amount of money was stolen. It is alleged that they used AK47, R5 and pistol for shooting.

Meanwhile, a case of attempted murder and ATM bombing has been opened at Thaba Nchu police. But by press time, the suspects were still at large and the officer was being treated at the hospital for his injuries. He is stated to be in ‘a stable condition’.

Thaba Nchu police request anyone who might have information regarding the suspects to contact the nearest police station or contact Detective/ Captain Mothepane Ledimo of Thaba Nchu on 051 8751109 or 082 467 6612.


“NEW START”’s GLITTERING GIFT TO PARENTS

By Raselebeli Khotseng

The “Health Communication” (H.C) is one of the prevention programmes of the New Year deals with specifically parents or guardians whose children range between eight and twelve years old.

Under the theme, “Families Matter” the H.C has conducted a series of trainings for parents with the aim of teaching and capacitating them to be able to communicate with their children on serious issues of sexuality and HIV.

Parents or guardians are trained in methods and ways of how to approach the debates and discussions in a professional manner when talking to children about HIV and STI. “The purpose of these important trainings is to prevent the spreading of HIv/Aids, sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy at early stage,” said Seeiso Theko, one of the trainers.

He (Seeiso) and Phindile Hayo who is also a trainer encourage parents to inform others about the importance of this training through the slogan “word of mouth” parents are requested to pass information to the next parents.

Free State News learned that the Families Matter programme is run for three hours a day in five weeks, and the last first week parents are once more requested to bring with them their children during training session in order to discuss with them practically about what they (parents) have learned at the training as a way of assessing their ability to communicate at home.

Presently, trainings are conducted around Mangaung and the offices of the New Start situated at Cuthbert building (Room 205)


TAXI FORUM COMMUTERS

Letshego Moeng

In another exhilarating development, Free State Commuters Forum will be working hand-in-glove with the South African Police Services in Mangaung and Tourism Mangaung in a nutshell.

Always visionary and dynamic, Free State commuters is prepared to continue to commit itself towards conflict prevention, peace keeping, peace building, and post-conflict restructuring in the transport industry.

“We are also prepared to interact with and partner with other relevant stakeholders to fight gangsterism around our beloved CBD and other small malls or business centers because it is where our differently-abled are found mostly, on a daily basis. Field work prepared,” said L. Bokako, Chairperson.

The above mentioned forum is prepared to interact with motorists, passengers during the Easter holidays, festive seasons, and long weekends to reduce death or carnage on the roads. We are still on the journey of educational pilot programme for our beloved commuters and we are nowhere close to where we should be.”

He added: “We are prepared to win hearts and minds of commuters mostly the differently-abled and drivers of both taxis and buses. We are prepared to spread the message of hope, unity, change, dignity, integrity and mutual respect. We will keep on working to find solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.”

He stressed that Road safety should not only be the Minister of transport or MEC’s responsibility or that of the road traffic management corporation. “Together we can all contribute. We are prepared to engineer safety in our road users through different means of communication (e.g newspapers, posters, stickers, banners and pamphlets). 

Information is going to be provided in a language which commuters may understand.”

Additionally, communication lines are going to be kept open in order for all those involved to voice their concerns and offer suggestions on how to improve their services.

 “Interactions were initiated with other relevant stakeholders to improve on partnerships and encourage integrated approach in promoting road safety. We have already started with the interstate bus lines educational pilot program,” Bokako stressed.