FREE STATE NEWS JUNE 7 2013 SAMPLE STORIES

FREE STATE NEWS JUNE 7 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
Sebedi Seroalo
Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 

FS WOMEN BASK IN ILLUMINATING CAPE TOWN TOUR

By Regomoditswe Motsalane (below)

The Free State Department of Premier and Government took sixty women from five districts in the Free State for a revelatory tour to Cape Town for four days. The ladies hail from Thabo Mofutsanyana, Motheo, Fezile Dabi, Lejweleputswa and Maluti a phofung districts.

This was to educate elderly Free State women about South African pristine history. These women are all members of Women’s League, and priests and wives of priests. In every district they nominated twelve women. After arriving in Cape Town, they were taken to the Parliament where they learnt a lot about the National Assembly chamber and how laws are implemented, they were further taken to the Aquarium to be shown fishes, reptiles and their ilk. They also learnt about how all these aquatic animals live and what they eat.

On their last day in the Mother City, the cavalcade was taken to Robben Island to be shown where their revered icon and hero, former South African president Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 13 and half years of hard labour imprisonment. The tour guide showed them around and explained stories to them along the way; and they were also allowed to ask questions if they did not understand.

They were also given permission to enter struggle stalwart, Robert Sobukwe's, house who died at the age 54 and was house-arrested for 9 years; the tourists were able to pore over letters he wrote to his wife while in prison and to see the shoddy clothes he wore when he trained dogs; his iron, blanket and bed.

Mr Sandlana Smit of the Intervention Unit of the Premier minorities in the Free State Province told Free State news that it is in their best interest to educate people about what their leaders went through during the apartheid time. "It’s saddening knowing that most of these elderly people, their family and friends’ lives were ended during the time of apartheid and they only heard that these selfless activists were dubbed ‘terrorists’ but never really knew what happened to them. It is also good that they learn about how their Parliament works.”

He added: "South Africa is a place of all races, we also wanted to set an example that we are a rainbow nation despite the colour of our skins, when we talk about democracy for all we talking about unity and this is what the Department of Premier and Government is trying to show,"

It was the first time for some of these women to visit Cape Town and their excitement was palpable. Some cried tears of joy, and some even vomited because of their anxiety of being in a ship for the first time. Most cried when they were told stories about Robben Island during the time of apartheid. "I used to bring learners here while I was still a teacher, but it never held such feelings for me like it does now. I got so emotional especially when I remembered how my father got killed here in 1977. It brings back memories but I am glad it all came to pass; now these tears are tears of joy not of pain. I am so happy to have been one of the chosen women to come here" said a tear-soaked Me Ntswaki Thejane (69) from Qwaqwa.

Me Alina Mangaka Ramokhula (61), also told Free State news that for her the tour was all about honouring and respecting those who brought democracy to our country, together with respecting our leaders. She said that people must learn to appreciate what they get from their Free State Government because “this is for the first time I have ever heard of any Provincial Government that puts its people first like the Free State Province does." She added uproariously: “We were spoilt rotten with food, accommodation, and the rest of the tour. I am not going to stop telling people about this trip, I am going to be the butt of jealousy by many!” Suke!

Rewarding Love for the Free State

By Letshego Moeng

Winners basked at the refulgent occasion. Earlier, in April, Free State Tourism Authority launched a page on facebook called 'I love Free State'. A competition was opened in which the Free State community was asked to submit pictures.

"We opened for 2 weeks and the response was overwhelming, over 115 people entered the competition" Tshediso Lerumo, disclosed.

"The Free State Tourism Authority has realised that the social media platform are fast becoming the marketing initiative that allows the entity to be in the pocket of every mobile phone holder who is a facebook user; and the entity registered- ‘I love Free State’ page where ordinary citizens talk about their experience of the province", said Chairperson of Free State Tourism Authority, Glen Motau.

Andile Mokhathi garnered the 1st prize of R5000 for the image of Maloting Hiking Trails in QwaQwa. "I'm inspired by endless beauty, and I relish my breath being taken away through traveling which is what I do for fun. Anything you would like to know about Free State I'll let you know, and if I don't know, I'll refer you to someone who does" said the excited Andile, who is a traveller and an adventurer.

Anthony Mitchell came in second for his image of the Appeal Court, winning R3000. "It’s my hobby to take pictures and the Appeal Court is one of the landmarks in Bloemfontein which encouraged me to capture it and I love Free State" said Mr Mitchell, a part time photographer. Ms Licolette Smit, for the image of Bethlehem covered in snow, won the 3rd prize winner of R2000. However she was unfortunately unavailable, due to her studies.

Laudably, the public at large actually voted for the best picture.  "We launched the page which we needed to interact with community on tourism issues and ensure that Tourism is felt even more in the Free State…now with the inception of the new board, we came up with some new marketing strategies and initiatives are in place" added Motau. One of the initiatives is the Big Five that was launched during the recent Tourism Indaba in Durban. "Our intention is to get more people involved, for Free Staters to share their experiences with Free States and be ambassadors of their province.”

Tourists are encouraged to visit the Free State. "There will be other competitions in the future where we will have best restaurant, best guest house, best 'chisanyama' and the like", said Mr D Pillay, acting CEO. "Once we have completed our social media strategy we will announce more interactive marketing initiatives that will ensure the province is vigorously marketed,” concluded Motau.

WOMEN IN CBO’S ORGANISATIONS EMPOWERED

By Raselebeli Khotseng

The Free State Network on Violence Against Women (FSNVAW) in partnership with the Education and Training Development Programme (ETDP) SETA have come to the rescue of women working with Community Based Organisations (CBOs).

The partnership has organised a successful project management training aimed at capacitating managers from CBOs organizations on project management, or on how to manage their programmes.

The training which took place at Motheo FET College in Bloemfontein was attended by twenty-four CBOs managers (mostly women) from different sectors such as deaf community, disability, Hiv/Aids and Victim Empowerment Project (VEP) organizations.

The first session of the training course kick-started on the 24^th and 25^th April 2013 whilst the second and the last one took place on the 29^th and 30^th May 2013 at the same venue (Motheo FET)

The participants of this accredited training course were to be awarded with NQF level 5 certificates. “Actually we need to develop women’s capacity in leading societal programmes and their respective organizations” said Alinah Mahasela, the director for Free State Network. 

FREE STATE NEWS MAY 24 2013 SAMPLE STORIES

FREE STATE NEWS MAY 24 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
Sebedi Seroalo
Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 

AFRICA DAY TO BE MARKED WITH PANACHE

By Letshego Moeng

It is all systems go as another riveting edition of Africa Day beckons. This of course is the annual commemoration of the 1963 founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), presently recognized as the African Union (AU).

Here in the Free State, in partnership with Lesedi fm, PACOFS will be hosting an event in celebration of Africa Day in which two artists – namely, Ringo Mdlingozi and Kunle - will be performing. There will be an eclectic tinge to the event.

Free State News gathered that Lesedi FM has in store some acts which will be enjoyed by the audience; however this will be something of a surprise and will be a gripping prelude before the performances of both artists.  “Mamontha Modise from Lesedi fm will be the MC during that time for the event and will be presenting what Africa Day is all about.” said Rolihlahla Alexander, who is Acting Development Manager as well as Human Resource Manager at PACOFS.

“Africa Day is a celebration of 50 years of the AU and is even more significant to us as South Africans because the current chairperson of the union is a South African, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, who will also be honoured during the celebration. As regards any sceptics out there, they are going to miss out on some awesome African talent. For example, I think majority of people have not listened to the powerful Kunle” Rolihlahla added.

Indeed, on the whole, the African Union, comprised of 53 member states, has brought together the continent of Africa to collectively address the challenges it has faced, such as armed conflict, climate change, and poverty. It is day many observers believe is worth celebrating.

Free State News was informed that the reason behind just having two artists is that in a show of this magnitude, illustrious people don’t come cheap and the audience might also be reluctant to pay through their teeth. Again, PACOFS’s multi-faced programme schedule regularly organises many events and different occasions; additionally, every month they have artist(s) strutting their stuff.

“The important thing is that Africa Day will be marked on our shores,” well known Free State pan-Africanist and author, Ishmael Mzwandile Soqaga, told Free State News. “Our continent has witnessed so much carnage and pillaging, hence it is good to mark something positive,”

‘FS Literature is healthy and fecund’ – Pule Lechesa

By Regomoditswe Motsalane

There has been an astonishing output of published books in the Free State this year. Literary experts told Free State News this week that this phenomenon should not be considered as anything negative, but rather as a step in the right direction.

Works published thus far have embraced so many genres; including fiction, poetry, literary criticism, and general studies. Pundits say this further confirms the tremendous progress Black writing continues to make in the Free State. But what about others who are uneasy with this development?

“I think it is very much welcome,” renowned literary critic, Pule Lechesa, said. “We have come a very long way within a short time. “We must continue to move forward. I was a bit worried some years ago that the focus here was too much on poetry; but these days – especially this year - the process has become much more balanced and eclectic.”

Lechesa added that he was not worried about the possibility of some of these published works being “sub-standard”. He said: “It’s pretty much the same all over the world, even in advanced Eurocentric societies. Some very good books are published, some are average, and some not-so-good or of terribly high literary quality. But books must always be churned out…the wheat will be separated from the chaff in the course of time,”

“I am actually happy to see so many writers coming out and publishing. It is healthy and fecund,” he went on. “The confidence is there now. The sacrifices of the likes of Bolaji and Qoopane are bearing fruit now. Our people should read even more and more. It is paradoxical that book publishing is much more expensive now, yet more and more books are seeing the light of the day; this points to enlightenment on the part of the people,”

But Lechesa admitted that he is indeed a bit worried about escalating costs of bringing books out. “Yes, that is something we have to deal with. Fewer people can buy books now and it is a pity the whole thing might even be moving along elitist lines…the ideal thing is for books to be affordable to most potential readers. Many fine readers of books now do say that they might not be able to afford to buy as many books as they would love to…but on the whole the situation is vibrant in the FS, with perceptive reviews, interviews, and the positive role of the libraries,”

Poems of love

By THABANG LEBUSO

1.     Love feeling.

Falling in love with you is the best thing in this world to be done

Loving you is a feeling that no man can deny,

 Looking at you is like gazing thousand times at the sky,

 Missing you is like crying my tears till they dry,

 Wishing when will that day come for me to fly,

 To you and in you abide,

 That’s how loving you to me feels like

2. Love is skin deep.

 What haven’t thou known that love is skin deep,

 So not even man’s thoughts think,

 So colorful than rainbow’s beauty,

 It’s music so sweet not even a single bird can sing,

 Love is skin deep so deep that even a blind man can see so deep,

 Deeper than the deepest sea,

 Oh…And the sea is deeper than thee,

 That’s why sometimes we with eyes can’t see

See what love’s very beauty

And oh we all have it but not all can put it to its duty

Some when tasting love its bitter

But to same is sweeter

It comes to some very poor

To some it comes so rich.

FREE STATE NEWS MAY 10 2013 SAMPLE STORIES

FREE STATE NEWS MAY 10 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
Sebedi Seroalo
Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 

All about ‘Shades’!!

By Regomoditswe Motsalane

What happens when one switches from music to theatre? It is said that there is always growth and an artist has to evolve. That is what has happened with the legend, Seleke Botsime (SLK). He is now based in Kroonstad and has started BANTU THEATRE PRODUCTION which embraces the “the plight of the youth who are jobless”

                                                             Above pix: Seleke

SLK has switched from music and is now writing plays! When did all this start? He says: “I started to understand the dynamics of theatre in the year two thousand but putting down one play was the most difficult thing because I just wanted to do it right for the very first time, so last year I wrote a play called Shades of Grey which I am even directing.”

What is the play all about? A beaming Seleke says: “Shades of Grey is a family drama, it’s about love, acceptance and forgiveness and I have been performing the play since from the beginning of this year. I am very excited about this play ‘cos it’s just one of the plays that will be a stepping stone for me; there is a lot to follow, but just for now I wanna focus on Shades of Grey"…It’s a mad house play, but my aim is to take it to the next level like Grahamstown, but unfortunately the selection has already been done and we can just wait and be ready to crack it next year when there is District festival that will be scheduled for early next year.”

The play is about a father and a mother who have two children. The male child brings home for the very first time a girlfriend… all this happens through a family dinner. “One has to book a seat and watch it and see how the plot thickens...I simply cannot dish out everything!” said Seleke. One of the main characters of the play is Ascante Langa, who plays the girlfriend of Lebone and her name on the play is Nnane Buthelezi. She appears to be rather brash and doesn’t mince her words, turning the Khumalo family upside down! She is twenty years old and studied Human Resources.

Apparently her parents could not afford for her to finish her studies and she was just at home thinking about a way out. “I am not bubbly and I am extremely shy, so it took more for me to be able to act the part, but I am thankful to people like Mr Seleke Botsime who was able to step in and unleash my latent talents as an actor; not in my wildest dreams did I ever think that I could act.”

The young lady adds: “I had to put a lot of effort to excel in her character, I have to dig deep deep inside of me, and Mr Seleke gave me advice that in my family I have to look at people that fit the description of the character, Nnane Buthelezi, and that has helped me a lot in order to perform it.”

Please book yourself to be exhilarated, Ascante Langa stresses. “I am definitely going places with this guy and I know that my star is always shining; wisdom is that when you are ready, the teacher will appear.”

SLK chips in: “I am very thankful to the department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation in Fezile Dabi which has been so supportive about my vision. Starting a production is not a child’s play.”

The play will start going around the country after winter as it is busy being promoted at Kroonstad first. Those interested in seeing the play can call Mr Lethola @ 071 0868 161\ 073 500 6326  

COMMUTERS’ FORUM EXHORTS POSITIVE COLLECTIVE RELATIONS

By Letshego Moeng

The Free State Commuters’ Forum has called on disparate cogs in the wheel of progress to pull together and ensure that the industry at large forges ahead.

“We value all stakeholders in the transportation industry such as taxi operators, bus service operators, railway, private vehicle commuters and other road users and air travel commuters. As much as we value them, we are requesting improved customer relations, encouraging team work spirit.” Mr. M.L Bokako, Chairperson and the Executive Committee, pointed out.

Free State News gathered that sequel to desk negotiations the Forum should be able to establish service levels of operations peacefully, support and encourage the government at central, provincial and local level to carry out its declared vision of promoting public transport for the benefit of the entire community. “This includes promoting the idea of provision of adequate public passenger as the primary means of transportation through education pilot program.”

Additionally, “government at all levels is urged to create the conditions for the introduction of public transport services which are reasonably comparable to private cars in terms of convenience and accessibility. The main idea behind it is to strive for improvement of safety for the beloved drivers and the commuters in all forms of transport while travelling and while waiting at road side stops, bus terminal and taxi rank.”

It is also gathered that scheduling management has an impact on pertinent mental health; also, a practical guide to creative efficient commuter communication is for commuters to be treated as contributors to social and economic development. “Passengers’ and drivers and transport operators are requested to treat each other with respect and dignity in order to achieve the goals of sustainable, affordable and reliable transport services.”

Admirably, the Free State Commuters’ Chairperson and his executives hope to foment the best and most pristine of values; “to make a difference in promoting the spirit of UBUNTU and cooperation as well as tolerance between all structures involved in the transport industry.”

Contact M.L Bokako via 061 082 0264; 074 779 5889; and 072 957 3115

The Significance of Story Telling

By Raselebeli Khotseng

The Commission of the Promotion of the Rights of Cultural Religious and Linguistic Community (CRL) has once again hosted a dialogue on the importance of story-telling in South Africa.

The event was held at Protea Hotel, Bloemfontein, on the 7^th May 2013 kicking off at 9h00. Different representatives from diverse cultural and religious background graced the event. These included Rastafarians, Christians, cultural organizations, and other NGOs.

Mr Brian Makekeeta, the programme Director and CRL official from its head office welcomed the guests and reminded them about the resolutions taken by the National Council of CLR in Pretoria where it was decided that all three aspects (Culture, Religion and Language) should be treated separately. “Hence today we are only focusing on story-telling as a cultural aspect” he said.

This issue raised the concern that TV soapies have made modern children to forget their own indigenous stories “that our parents used to tell when we sat around the fire with them”

Mr Joseph Ntabeni, also from CRL briefed the guests about the purpose of the event as to get views and methods of how story-telling can change the society to maintain our cultural teaching. He went further to ask what message does story-telling carry to nourish our children’s minds?

In response to that, attendees mentioned what has been largely lost by sending their kids to ‘model schools’ that are unable to teach the young ones about indigenous story-telling. The other problem raised, touched on the fact that children are now interested in technological things at the expense of indigenous ones.

“As a result we should combine them together so as to build or promote our story-telling method in a modern way.”

Lastly, it was suggested that cultural centres should be established in every town as a means to encourage children to engage in story-telling and indigenous games. It was also recommended that the department of Education, Arts and Culture and SABC Radios should broadcast the old indigenous stories that used to regale past generations.

The CRL Officials promised to “come back to stakeholders and fulfill some of the resolutions, and hosting of further dialogues on religion and language”  

FREE STATE NEWS APRIL 26 2013 SAMPLE STORIES

Free State News April 26 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
Sebedi Seroalo
Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 

Oguchi at 50!

By O Bolaji

Sundry friends, acquaintances, associates, and well wishers will this weekend converge to salute and felicitate with Oguchi Manume as he celebrates his 50^th birthday with elan in Bloemfontein city.

As if this was not enough, to boot Oguchi will also be launching his debut book – laced with spiritual and motivational exhortations – titled THE CHRISTIAN SOLDIER – A SPIRITUAL WARRIOR. The venue for this twain, combined events is the Bloemfontein Baptist Church Hall at Fairview Street (Bloemfontein)

Oguchi is understandably well chuffed to be notching the impressive age of fifty. Brimming and bristling with pride and savoire faire, he told Free State News: “Of course I am delighted to be marking such a milestone. I give all the glory to the Almighty. The icing on the cake would be my new book which helps us to cast aside the shackles of the devil,”

He waxes lyrical on the inspiration behind his book. “Alas, I found myself spending some days in jail about a year ago. It was not the best of experiences but at least I was able to change the lives of some inmates for the better. I discovered that some of them were using pocket bibles to smoke dagga! This unnerved me.

“I began to minister to these miscreants and organized brief church sessions for them. I taught the inmates about miraculous episodes in the Bible and they began to respond positively to the word of God. In general, I had also been wondering about many things: for example why is it that so many lovely women can not get adequate partners or why is it that divorce is so rampant these days? Why is it that so many people have poor health with blood problems, and the like?

“I have no doubt that it is all about spiritual bondage which conventional Doctors etc can do nothing about. Spiritual therapy is what is needed in so many cases and this is what I focus on in the book. We must be vigilant as the devil comes to steal, destroy and kill. I wrote my book so that people can be aware of the tricks of the devil,”

Oguchi adds that there are indeed things like “ancestral curses” in African parlance. “The evil chain must be broken. I wrote my book to inform people as to how to break the chains and the shackles of the devil. The world is in a way a battle field and we must be vigilant!”

The book, titled THE CHRISTIAN SOLDIER has a number of thought-provoking chapters. They include The Christian Soldier, The Spiritual Warrior,  Prayers and Types of Prayers, Strategies of the Enemy, and How to Dislodge Strategies of the Enemy

“He forced me to perform oral sex on him” – female teacher

By: Sebedi Seroalo

Northern Cape: A senior staff member at the Noupoort Combined School, who was charged for coercing a young teacher into perform oral sex on him in the computer room, has since tendered his resignation on two occasions.

 The accused, Rudy Reed, was granted R1 000 bail in the Noupoort Magistrate’s Court late on Thursday afternoon.  Police spokesman, Lieutenant Sergio Kock, said the 38-year-old man was arrested by the police at his home in Noupoort evening on charges of sexual assault. Educators at the school had requested that the school be closed until further notice, although lessons continued as normal on Thursday, according to the Department of Education.

The complainant on Thursday gave details to the department on how she was allegedly taken by force by the staff member after she was summoned to bring him the class list.  “When I entered the computer room he was already inside waiting behind the door. He locked the door but I was not aware of what was happening. He then hugged and kissed me by force. I refused and wished to know what was happening because I don’t have any relationship with him. “I screamed, but he told me that it was no use because nobody could hear me.

“He touched my breasts, rubbed my body and told me that I was cute and that he wanted to have sex with me for a long time. He loosened his belt and forced me to perform oral sex on him.

“I cannot cope with anything my life is a mess.”  She also related how she was sexually abused by her uncle and was threatened with a pistol when she was very young.

“I don’t know where to go. I request your immediate intervention in this regard,” she told the Department of Education. Spokesman for the department, Sydney Stander, said that Reed was suspended with immediate effect.

“In this case, because we deem his action of resigning after being suspended as a way of avoiding due process, the Employment of Educators Act empowers the employer to block such an employee on the Persal system.”  He indicated that the necessary steps were taken to protect the victim and safeguard the interests of women and children.

“The department is continuing with internal investigations. The district has sent a multi-disciplinary team that will provide support to affected learners and female educators. There is no crisis in terms of attendance and there no truth in suggestions that the school will be closed indefinitely.”

He added that, according to their records, the staff member resigned on Wednesday, withdrew his resignation almost immediately, and then tendered his resignation again on Thursday morning.  Stander explained that a staff member is granted 30 days in which to retract a resignation.

“Once a resignation is submitted to the district director, it is forwarded with recommendations to the head office of the Human Resources Unit for a final decision.”

The police have requested that any information regarding the case be forwarded to Detective Sergeant Melany Oliphant on 053 632 9627

FREE STATE NEWS APRIL 12 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

Nthabiseng Lisele
Dineo Mokgosi
Sebedi Seroalo
Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 

ANIMALS TO BE AUCTIONED

By Nthabiseng Lisele

The annual event of the game auctioning is ready to roll again this year and the department tends to improve more this year.

 

The Free State department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs will host the 28th Annual Game Auction from the 12^th till 13^th April this year at the Willem Pretorius Nature Reserve.

The Game Auction is a part of the game management plan which manages game population. Currently the department has livestock of 24 348 animals in the reserves.

And with the absence of predators in the reserves, game auction remains the most viable method of controlling game population.

During this two-day event, a total of 865 animals will be sold to the highest bidder. On the first day, 80 hunting packages will be auctioned off at 14:00. The packages consist of 46 trophy hunts, 34 biltong hunts and 9 buffalo bulls.

The hunt will take place on 9 of the 14 different Nature Reserves. On the second day from 11:00 485, live games of 106 different species including 42 diseases free buffalo and 1 white rhino will be sold. All sales will be per catalogue.

The department said: “we are working tirelessly to transform the game industry. Four black game farmers around the Free State Province have been loaned game to make sure that the previously disadvantage communities are involved in this industry.”

In his 2013/14 budget vote speech the new Mec for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Mosebenzi Zwani pleaded with the farm owners to comply with norms and standards for large predators.

According to Zwane, the challenge is game farmers who keep more that specified number of lions on their farms resulting in escapes. Subsequently, numerous incidents were lion have escaped and threatened the lives of our people have necessitated that permit conditions for keeping large predators be reviewed.

“Our enforcement unit is working around the clock with the SAPS to identify any illegal activities in this regard and other environmental crimes,” said Zwane.      

The game auction is set to be a family affair as there will be a marathon and bicycle race on Saturday 08:00 as well as numerous vendor stalls, beer garden and different food outlets.

Matshidiso’s literary debut

The frisson of excitement is gathering pace as female poet, Matshidiso P. Taleng launches her maiden book, titled “Secrets” next week

She vouchsafes: “I was born here in the Free State Bloemfontein in 1988. I live with my mother and twin brother, my father passed away when I was very young. I'm a student at Motheo FET college and I'm also working at National hospital as an HCT.

She goes down memory lane to latch on to how the ‘poetry bug’ bit her with elan! “My love for poetry began while I was in high school, then I started joining a poetry club that was called "Beyond Mind Control" where we would meet with other poets and recite poems.”

She is already spreading her metaphorical wings with gusto. “I've also performed at the Vuka poetry festival that was held at Pacofs in the year 2008, and shared stage with the likes of, Napo Masheane, Lebo Mashile, Kgafela, Jah Rose and other poets.”

She adds: “In the year 2009 I was awarded a certificate of appreciation in recognition of valuable contribution to literature in the Free State by the Bloemfontein public library. It was tentative but satisfactory – a great initiative by the dynamic Charmaine Kolwane,”

Her new book, “Secrets” is an anthology of poems based in English. “It is titled after one of my poems "Secrets" because I believe one shouldn't be having secrets because sometimes secrets are holding us back from enjoying our lives and nothing good comes from hiding things!”

She adds: “And if you read the poem "Secrets" you'll see it’s a very deep poem that talks about what most people don't like talking about, so since it’s what I experienced as a child I can say I'm giving voice to the voiceless,”

Illuminating Career Day!

By LETSHEGO MOENG

The Faculty of Economic Management and Science at the University of the Free State, in partnership with Centre for Accounting will be hosting a Career day on the 30 of April 2013.

Some fizz is already being generated over this.  “A total of 38 Top companies will be there such as Banks, marketing firms and Chattered accounting companies will be there among others” Ms Marnie Venter pointed out.

Free State News further learnt that all students in the University are invited for the morning session at 10:30 - 12:00; 12:00 till 13:00 will be catering for honours and third year students and scholars around the Free State at 13:00 till 16:00.

It has been vouchsafed that this will be a great opportunity to network with people in the company in which they aspire to be employed in once they have completed their degrees.

For more information contact Marnie on 051 401 3819 or venterms@ufs.ac.za.

FREE STATE NEWS MARCH 28 2013 samples

FREE STATE NEWS MARCH 28 2013 samples

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

Nthabiseng Lisele
Dineo Mokgosi
Sebedi Seroalo


Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655 

Forgiveness is possible-Prof Gobodo-Madikizela

By Dineo Mokgosi

How do you, as a mother who lost her only daughter, forgive the man who claimed responsibility for the attack that killed her? How do you forget his crime while travelling with him across the world? These were some of the questions that came up at the recent dialogue between Science and Society at University of the Free State (UFS) that looked at forgiveness and reconciliation.

Present at the dialogue was Jeanette Fourie whose daughter Lyndi was killedin an attack on the Heidelberg Pub in Cape Town in 1993. Fourie was one of the people sharing their stories of pain and forgiveness.

“Don't ever think you can forget, because that’s not possible. What you do with the pain is to find peace, and that's what forgiveness does. Forgiveness allows you to stop all the dialogue in your head on why he did it. You don't forget, you confront it and you deal with it,” said Fourie.

The man who killed Fourie’s daughter Letlapa Mphahlele, Director of Operations of Apla, the military wing of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) at the time of Lyndi's death, spoke about dealing with the response to his crime.

“"Sometimes you wish that you were not forgiven, because now you have the great burden of proving that you are worthy of forgiveness,” said Mphahlele.

Also telling her story of forgiveness was Olga Macingwane, a survivor of the Worcester bombing of 1993 in which four people were killed and sixty-seven others injured. Four people were sent to prison. In 2009 Olga met one of the perpetrators, Stefaans Coetzee, and what came out of that meeting, is her story.

“When I met Stefaans I was very angry, but when you sit down with somebody and listen to him or her, you find out what the reasons were that made him or her do something. I can say that I forgave him,” said Macingwane.

Facilitating the conversation was Professor Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela, Senior Research Professor on Trauma, Forgiveness and Reconciliation at UFS. She said the seminar was meant to get in touch with the truth that forgiveness is possible.

“Before we had the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in South Africa, the experts always said that forgiveness was not possible in these stories of the past. The TRC came into life as a response to mass atrocities. For the first time in the history of these traumatic experiences, of political traumas, we witnessed something that we have never seen. Even us on the TRC, although it was framed as reconciliation, we never imagined there would actually be stories of forgiveness emerging out of that process, and then we witness that this too is possible,” said Prof Gobodo-Madikizela.

Charmaine makes history

By R Khotseng

Charmaine Kolwane Mrwebi became the first Black woman in the Free State to launch two books at one occasion, this week.

The venue, the Afrikaans (and Sesotho) Literary Museum in the heart of the city of Roses throbbed with excitement on Wednesday (March 27) as the occasion unfolded; witnessing some of the most accomplished writers, intellectuals and educators.

Among those who graced the occasion were Mathene Mahanke, Flaxman Qoopane, Kgang Abel Motheane, Tseliso Masolane, Nthabiseng “Jah Rose” Jafta, Skietreker (Richard Seape) Raselebeli Khotseng, hector Kunene, Doctor Cool. Those who could not make it in person, like critic Pule Lechesa sent positive messages.  Even the normally reclusive outstanding writer, Omoseye Bolaji, was present at the excellent book launch.

The two books launched were Poetry Commando, and Omoseye Bolaji: Channelling One’s thoughts onto paper (Revised edition). It was an occasion which witnessed many pupils basking in poetry readings; alongside inspirational speeches and exhortations.

Charmaine herself went down memory lane, touching on her pedigree as a writer; and her literary journey thus far. She was delighted to sign copies of her work as copies were snapped up later.

Magashule to be responsible for the maintenance of 38 IT systems

By Nthabiseng Lisele

Premier Magashule went to Vredefort where he tabled the budget vote of office of the premier for the financial year of 2013/14.

Office of the premier was allocated an amount of R279 956. This amount is set to be allocated into programmes which is administration relating to the provision of executive support to the premier, provincial executive council and the direct general.

Magashule promised to continue to strive to boost platforms to close the communication void which is set to be created by factors like inaccessibility and resource constraints.

“The platform such as Hlasela TV, Hlasela news and slots in SABC and Etv, have reached a large number of people who lacked access to information due to their location in rural areas,” said premier Magashule.

According to premier, government’s commitment to implement effective service delivery requires competent managers to apply policies successfully.

“To capacitate senior managers in the provincial government, next month we will develop a database for all senior managers and political leaders in the local and provincial government to enable us to identify their competencies and training needs,” Magashule.

Magashule also promised that this year there will be an improved and better coordination of campaigns. He said that all campaigns plans for events such as moral regeneration, verification of completed MIG projects, clothing and food banks, and others will be submitted to EXCO by mid-April for consideration.

“My office will be responsible for the maintenance of 38 IT systems. The re-engineering of the bursary system was finalised and 13 new systems were developed,” Magashule said.

He further said that: “The development of 5 new systems and the conversion of 3 current systems to web base will be implemented”.

Last year, more that 600 youth delegates drawn from a broad spectrum of political, cultural, social, students, sports and business youth formations across the province took part in the indaba.

“Amongst resolutions adopted, my office will facilitate SMME development, experiential training, 50/50 gender representation in employment, implementation of roughquity policy to accommodate the efficiently able people and development of integrated youth development strategy,” said premier Magashule.

He concluded that: “public participation and direct interactive communication with people of the Free State through Operation Hlasela and other platforms such as Hlasela news will remain a permanent style of governance for the remainder of this term of office.”

Free State News March 8 2012 samples

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

Nthabiseng Lisele
Dineo Mokgosi
Sebedi Seroalo


Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655


Mohai tables the FS provincial budget

By Nthabiseng Lisele

The development and transformation of the Free State economy will be a critical contribution to the inclusive economic growth and social development.

“Let’s do it together as government, business, labour and the community at large. This provincial budget is therefore a budget for development and economic growth,” said the Mec for Finance Seiso Mohai.

Mohai stressed “The South African economy has continued on a positive yet dull recovery, with recovery, with a GDP growth of 2.5% in 2012 and anticipated to be 2.7% in 2013.”

According to Mec for Finance, unemployment is the most serious issue confronting the Free State economy. He quoted the most recent labour force survey which indicates that unemployment in the 4th quarter of 2012 stood at 33.2%.

Mohai advised that the government must transform and develop the main industries in the province, namely, mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and infrastructure.

“We must create and sustain the value adding production sectors in mining and agriculture through beneficiation and agro processing. We must develop and expand the manufacturing sectors beyond the dominance of petrochemicals to include textiles and food processing as large portion of the manufacturing sector,” said Mohai.

The total provincial fiscus amounts to R26.872 billion in 2013/14, R27.720 billion in 2014/15 and R29.551 in 2015/16, representing normal growth of 4%, 5.1% and 6.9%, respectively. Over the next three financial years the province will spend an estimated R84.143 billion.

Mohai stated: “our province’s ecquitable share is reduced by R 1, 430 billion over the 2013 MTEF. Additional funding of R1, 898 billion over MTEF has been received from National Treasury, of which R 1, 495 billion is earn marked for improvement of conditions of employment over the MTEF and the remainder is allocated to the province as a cushion for census 2011 changes.

The provincial revenue is projected to increase from R 820, 966 million in 2012/13 to R 850, 563 million in 2013/14.

Department of Education is allocated 40% of the provincial budget which is R 10,456 billion 2013/14. And the Department of Health is allocated and amount of R7, 895 billion in 2013/14.

Department of Social Development is allocated an amount of R 951,229 million in 2013/14 while the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs was allocated R450, 195 million for 2013/14.

Department of Public Works is allocated an amount of R 1,418 billion in 2013/14, allocation to the Department of Police, Roads & Transport amounts to R2, 260 billion in 2013/14.

Department of Human Settlements receives an allocation of R1,234 billion in 2013/14 while the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development receives R673,294 million in 2013/14.

Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation receives a total allocation of R515, 137 million in 2013/14 and Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is allocated R348, 413 million in 2013/14.

The Department of the Premier received an amount of R279,956 million in 2013/14 and Free State Legislature is allocated an amount of R173, 698 million in 2013/14.

Lastly but not least Provincial Treasury is allocated R216, 355 million in 2013/14.


Court hears pregnancy policies

By: Sebedi Seroalo

Two Free State schools' pregnancy policies were set to be challenged in the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg.

This follows a challenge by the Free State department of education, which believes it is unconstitutional to not allow a pupil who has given birth to return to school in the same year, and that they must redo the year.

According to papers submitted ahead of the application, the issue arose as a result of the policies of Welkom High School and Harmony High School. In terms of their pregnancy policies pupils who fall pregnant may not be readmitted to school in the year that they give birth, and must repeat a year of schooling.

This is irrespective of the health of the pupils, and their and their parents' wishes, as well as their capacity to catch up on missed school work. The education department tried to intervene, on the grounds that the policies were in breach of Section nine of the Constitution and violated the pupils' right to education.

The head of the education department had issued instructions to the schools to readmit the pupils, in terms of the Employment of Educators Act and in terms of Section seven of the Constitution to “act positively to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the fundamental rights protected in the Bill of Rights”.

This saved the pupils affected by the application from exclusion from school for the balance of 2010, and from having to repeat their 2010 school year in 2011.

But the schools contended this infringed the powers of the school governing bodies.

The matter was taken to the Free State High Court, which ruled it could not consider the constitutionality of the pregnancy policies without a counter application from the department for an order declaring the pregnancy policies unconstitutional and invalid.

It also held that the head of department had no legal power to act as he did, and that his instructions to the principals violated the constitutional principle of legality.

The only remedy available to the head of department was to call on the governing body to change its policy. If the governing body refused, the head could apply to the high court for an order. The Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the head of department's appeal.

The education department is challenging the matter in the Constitutional Court on four grounds: that the courts below assumed incorrectly that a governing body is competent to adopt a pregnancy policy at its school; that it fails to take into account the employment relationship between the head of department as employer, and the principal as employee; it ignores the obligation of the State not, through its employees, to act unconstitutionally; and that it fails to take account of the responsibilities of the courts themselves to protect fundamental rights.

Lobby group Equal Education is among the friends of the court that have been admitted to the case.

According to the court papers the respondents ultimately accepted that the pupils could return to their schools. The department however believes the case illustrates the unconstitutionality of the schools' pregnancy policies.


Meer as 'n held:

Saam met talle sport liefhebbers vanoor die wereld, bring ons hulde aan Ryan Giggs (van Man United) vir sy ongelooflike prestasie. Hy het 1000 senior wedstryde vir sy klub gespeel!

Giggs se konsekwensie, fiksheid en vasberadenheid oor twee dekades is n voorbeeld vir sportmanne wereldwyd. Sy professionele benadering en doelgerigtheid het hom oor die jare n buitengewone trofee-oes besorg.

Gedurende sy tyd by Manchester United, het hy 33 trofee ingepalm (12 Premier Liga titels, 4 FA bekers, 4 Liga bekers, 2 Kampioen Ligas, 1

Europese Super Beker, 1 Interkontinentale beker, 1 Fifa Klub Wereldbeker en 8 Liefdadigheids/Gemeenskaps Skilde). Dit kroon hom as die mees gevierde speler in die geskiedenis van
Engelse sokker.

Ons sien veels te dikwels, ook in Afrika, eiewyse, halfgebakte jongetjies wat hul loopbane vernietig selfs voor dit begin het, deurdat hulle meegevoer en verblind word. Vele van hulle beland op die geskiedenis se ashoop.

Mr Giggs verdien dus luide applous vir sy formidabele prestasie.

(Sien ons sport agterblad vir meer besonderhede)