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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
David Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang (Star)
Contact number:
051 447 1655
MARCH 25 – MARCH 31 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Basking in Correctional Services Awards!” By Flaxman Qoopane. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
Basking in Correctional Services Awards!
By Flaxman Qoopane
The Regional Inspectorate team of seven members from the Department of Correctional Services in the Free State and Northern Cape region won the second position and was awarded the Deputy-Minister’s Award during the National Corrections Excellence Awards ceremony held at the International Conference Centre in Durban on 4 March.
Speaking to the media during a handing over ceremony of trophies, certificates and a cheque of R5000 to the Regional Inspectorate team held in Bloemfontein on Wednesday, Grace Molatedi, Acting Regional Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services in the Free State and Northern State region, said: “We congratulate our Regional Inspectorate team led by Johan Massyn”
Other team members are the following: Assistant-Directors Rita Botes, Meshack Mgese, Pule Raleting, Chris Mahonono, Frank Tanyane and Olson Murphy, who raised the Region’s flag high when they garnered second position when Depurty Director Massyn received the Deputy Minister’s award on behalf of his team from Dr. Ngoako Ramatlhodi. Each member of the team was given a certificate,
Deputy-Director Massyn said: “I am very proud of the team because they have gone the extra mile to put us in the position to win the national award.
“I won the Batho Pele award on regional level. For Batho Pele award, community involvement and high standard of service delivery is my passion. It is good to assist the public with information so that they know the activities of other departments”
The Deputy Minister’s Award is given to a team that has contributed to a positive healthy environment and to the wellness of fellow employees; has shown excellence in assisting and collaborating with co-workers; has provided a positive role model of the ideal correctional official to other officials and offenders; has treated everyone with respect and dignity; and has championed sound ideas for the development of workplace well-ness and share their knowledge, skills and experience with others.
Also: THE BOOKSHELF
With Kgang Abel Motheane
ACHAL PORES INTO FS LITERATURE
It was an exciting time when the Indian-born Achal Prabhala from Chimurenga, visited the Free State whilst doing research on FS Black Writing. Achal has devoured world literature all his life, and works for a number of international agencies and universities.
Achal, after extensive conversations with Free State writers, and after poring over many of the books produced, will write a lengthy report on the healthy state of Free State Black literature which will be published in the renowned Chimurenga journal – read all over the world.
Achal, both charming and cerebral, met with distinguished writers like Flaxman Qoopane, Pule Lechesa, Hector Kunene, Omoseye Bolaji, Jah Rose, yours truly, among others – during his visit. He also examined the Free State library network which is famed for its sophistication. He made comprehensive notes during all his forays.
Achal Prabhala also took time out to visit Flaxman Qoopane’s famous literary gallery and library situated at Hillside View in Mangaung. Mr Qoopane, a repository of extraordinary knowledge as regards African black literature, explained the whole genesis, growth and fame of FS Black Writing to Achal.
After a satisfactory time in the Free State, Achal expressed his satisfaction all around. “It has been a fruitful, illuminating trip,” he said “I shall be flying to India later this month, but I will make sure I prepare a worthy, lengthy article on Free State grassroots literature which will be published during Winter,” Achal has since returned to India.
MARCH 18 – MARCH 24 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Councillors get grimy for the community” By Seleke Botsime. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
Councillors get grimy for the community!
By Seleke Botsime
Councillors and volunteers got their hands dirty and cleaned the targeted areas of Mangaung this week. Earlier, they were also in Heidedal. The campaign kick-started last week when they cleaned ward 21. It will continue in places like Botshabelo at ward 38.
Speaking to Mr. Papiki Moeng, he told Free State News that this cleaning has nothing to do with the coming elections. “It is only that we have identified the need for this campaign since there are many places in Mangaung that need a face-lift. Some areas are so bad that if they are not cleaned it will have a negative impact on the community that lives there; and even criminals will take advantage of them.”
Another member, Mr Goilwe Skakane said that they work in conjunction with Mangaung Mayor, Playfair Morule in order to speed up the process of cleaning. “We have been assisted with tractors and side caters for the grass in order to make the job well done and immediately after the rubbish has been collected and put aside, the Municipality comes and collects the rubbish,”
The campaign started at ten o’clock in the morning, with some 130 volunteers taking part in the campaign. Familiar faces like Mme Nomsa, Cllr Phongolo and Erasmus just to mention a few, were very much in the thick of action! It was a day-time job, and by the afternoon one realised the impact of the campaign on their faces - all in the name of offering free service to the community of Heidedal!
MARCH 11 – MARCH 17 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “10 000 shoes for impecunious learners! ” By Michael Tlhakudi. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
10 000 shoes for impecunious learners!
…Alah-Yen provides ray of hope
By Michael Tlhakudi
Winter beckons on the horizon; the time when the ravages of cold exerts profound suffering on many; especially the impecunious. With this in mind Alah-Yen is already in the forefront of making life easier for the needy!
Alah-Yen Foundation is a non- profit organisation based in Mangaung, Bloemfontein. It is now embarking on a campaign to raise 10 000 school shoes for the disadvantaged communities in and around the Motheo district in the Free State.
The Foundation that was started back in 2009 with the sole aim of assisting learners to restore the culture of learning is now appealing to community, government and local business to come on board on this venture.
“We have seen in our communities number of learners going to school without shoes and this has become a concern, we then decided to do something about it hence we initiated this campaign” said project leader Lehlohonolo Mokoena .
The campaign is in conjunction with Motheo District Municipality and Motheo FM a local based radio station. “We therefore request the government, local businesses as well as the members of the community to come on board and assist in helping these kids to have a smooth process of learning. We know very well in winter is difficult period to concentrate in class when you are cold”.
Alah-Yen Foundation has already raised a significant number of shoes. “We do not know at this stage how many shoes have been dropped off. But we intend to collect at least 10 000 school shoes before the end of May just in time for the cold season” said Mokoena.
This initiative is aimed at Primary learners who are either orphans or disadvantaged.
“We know some parents receive government social grants, but this is not sufficient to help the disadvantaged and orphans to meets their needs.”
The team has already identified schools in the Motheo District Municipality and is in the process of capturing data of how the collected shoes will be distributed. “We want to make it an annual event and expand it to the other parts of Free State in the coming years but for now our focus will be only in Motheo District that includes Thaba-Nchu, Botshabelo, Tweespruit, Ladybrand , Hobhouse and the surrounding areas.” .
Mokoena further added that they are thrilled with the response they have received so far. He said: “The response has been positive thus far. We have received calls from local business inquiring about this initiative. Some of them want to donate in bulk, so yes the response has been incredibly positive.”
The Motheo Youth Desk has also shown support in this programme. “We certainly hope that they will make our job easier with their massive support”. Mokoena said his team is working tirelessly to make this project a success. He indicated that they might not make it to 10 000 but the “little” that they would have acquired will definitely make a difference.
“We do not anticipate people to drop very old shoes, but we also do not want to put pressure on people to buy brand new shoes as long as they are in good condition they are welcomed,” he concluded. The foundation also intends to host a gala dinner and music festival just before they hand shoes to the respective schools.
Those who want to donate school shoes should drop them at Youth centres in Bloemfontein, Thaba Nchu and Botshabelo as well as Motheo FM studios in Bloemfontein.
MARCH 4 – MARCH 10 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Priest saves miscreant from mob justice” Page 3 By Flaxman Qoopane
Reproduced hereunder:
Priest saves miscreant from mob justice!
BY FLAXMAN QOOPANE
An incensed, angry mob nearly killed a youth who allegedly stole R500 from a woman in Bloemfontein on Monday afternoon. Thanks to a priest who came to his rescue, and saved him from being killed by the mob. He was later arrested and admitted at Pelonomi Hospital after he suffered severe injuries.
This journalist was at the Post Office in Maitland Street on Monday at 14:00 pm, and to my chagrin I witnessed a group of men approaching a youth; and one of the men requested the youth to give him the R500 he allegedly stole from a woman.
“I don’t know anything about the stolen money from any woman” said the suspect. A quarrel ensued between the men and the suspect. The man started attacking him with knobkerries and iron bars; they hit his arms, face and the head. He screamed for help, and he admitted that he stole the money from the woman. He gave the R500 that he stole to one of the men.
The woman whose money was allegedly stolen by the suspect came to the scene, and punched the suspect in the face with her fist, and she demanded her money from the thief. She received her stolen money back. The suspect tried to run away but the angry mob chased him, tripped him and he fell down on the pavement in front of the pharmacy!
One of the furious people said; “Leshodu ha le bolawe” (kill the thief). They started beating up the suspect with everything they could find, they kicked him, and he laid on a pavement in severe pains. He was too weak to talk to the crowd. However a Good Samaritan (the priest) came to the rescue of the suspect. Tears fell down from his eyes. He begged for mercy; “I thought I am going to die” he said.
At 14:45 pm, two police come to the scene. They found the suspect next to the pharmacy where he was hiding. He was arrested and locked in a van and driven to Thabure Satellite Police Station in Bloemfontein.
Also:
IEC HOLDS FORTH ON IMMINENT ELECTIONS!
By Seleke Botsime
The IEC had an illuminating workshop/summit at President Hotel recently. The workshop was meant to foster and encourage political tolerance ahead of the local government elections.
The stakeholders who attended the function included the political parties ANC, APC, DA DPSA, PAC, COPE; and others, including the traditional leaders.
IEC Provincial Chief Electoral Officer, Chris Mepha was pleased to declare that order and serenity essentially prevail in the Free State. He said: “It is no secret that the Free State elections are always peaceful. We are happy to have our other IEC colleagues here”
Eastern Cape’s Provincial chief electoral officer, Revd Bongani Finka adumbrated on what makes an election free and fair. “Free meaning free of speech, political tolerance and it is the work of the IEC to intervene in this coming election. There is no universally recognised standard by which the quality of election is judged and measured. It’s been said that the election of South Africa has been respected around the world but we at IEC must not rest on our laurels,”
Interestingly, the political parties were given seven minutes each to do their presentation on the issue of how to achieve free and fair election.
African National Congress was the first party to be given the podium and the speaker was Sbongile Besani (the provincial secretary) who said that there is a need for transparency. “We need to remember that the elections start when the campaign begins. He said that it is important that we should encourage people to vote irrespective of their doubts or problems that they are encountering.”
The second party to take the podium was a member of ACDP who posed the concern that IEC must make it a point that they must be punctual either on opening and closing of the polling station. Also, posters that are destroyed during the election must come to a stop since it costs a party a lot of money to put up the posters.
APC’s Paseka Mosoadiba (Provincial Chairperson) said that it is only through hard work and collective responsibility that a free and fair election can be enhanced. Thereafter, it was COPE’s Mr Kganare who said that votes should be of equal value and IEC must give clarity to the voters.
The DA’s Jankelshon said that the party concentrated on small issues like thorough training of the IEC staff in order to exercise their duties smoothly; and the shortage of ballot papers. He said that it is a collective duty to respect political parties; and Hlasela must not be treated as a political party since there is a lot of money that is being invested into it.
Thereafter it was Dikwankwetla, of the UCDP who said that the parties must not abuse their political status through broadcasting on community radio stations. It was also stressed that the visibility of the police will be seen at the polling station. Traffic will be regulated as there will be intelligence to do screening of voters.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
FREE STATE NEWS (February 2011 editions)
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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
David Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
FEBRUARY 25 – MARCH 3 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “IEC holds forth on imminent elections” By Seleke Botsime. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
IEC HOLDS FORTH ON IMMINENT ELECTIONS!
By Seleke Botsime
The IEC had an illuminating workshop/summit at President Hotel on Wednesday this week. The workshop was meant to foster and encourage political tolerance ahead of the local government elections.
The stakeholders who attended the function included the political parties ANC, APC, DA DPSA, PAC, COPE; and others, including the traditional leaders.
IEC Provincial Chief Electoral Officer, Chris Mepha was pleased to declare that order and serenity essentially prevail in the Free State. He said: “It is no secret that the Free State elections are always peaceful. We are happy to have our other IEC colleagues here”
Eastern Cape’s Provincial chief electoral officer, Revd Bongani Finka adumbrated on what makes an election free and fair. “Free meaning free of speech, political tolerance and it is the work of the IEC to intervene in this coming election. There is no universally recognised standard by which the quality of election is judged and measured. It’s been said that the election of South Africa has been respected around the world but we at IEC must not rest on our laurels,”
Interestingly, the political parties were given seven minutes each to do their presentation on the issue of how to achieve free and fair election.
African National Congress was the first party to be given the podium and the speaker was Sbongile Besani (the provincial secretary) who said that there is a need for transparency. “We need to remember that the elections start when the campaign begins. He said that it is important that we should encourage people to vote irrespective of their doubts or problems that they are encountering.”
The second party to take the podium was a member of ACDP who posed the concern that IEC must make it a point that they must be punctual either on opening and closing of the polling station. Also, posters that are destroyed during the election must come to a stop since it costs a party a lot of money to put up the posters.
APC’s Paseka Mosoadiba (Provincial Chairperson) said that it is only through hard work and collective responsibility that a free and fair election can be enhanced. Thereafter, it was COPE’s Mr Kganare who said that votes should be of equal value and IEC must give clarity to the voters.
The DA’s Jankelshon said that the party concentrated on small issues like thorough training of the IEC staff in order to exercise their duties smoothly; and the shortage of ballot papers. He said that it is a collective duty to respect political parties; and Hlasela must not be treated as a political party since there is a lot of money that is being invested into it.
Thereafter it was Dikwankwetla, of the UCDP who said that the parties must not abuse their political status through broadcasting on community radio stations. It was also stressed that the visibility of the police will be seen at the polling station. Traffic will be regulated as there will be intelligence to do screening of voters.
HILLSIDE VIEW CHILDREN’S LIBRARY
By Flaxman Qoopane
Reading in the townships should be encouraged to promote literacy.
Oscar Pitso, a story teller, stressed this whilst addressing teenagers at the Hillside View Children’s Library in Mangaung last Saturday. He said: “The Hillside View Children’s Library aims to develop a culture of reading among the children and the adults of Hillside View. If we read books, magazines, newspapers and comics, we get knowledge and we become educated. Reading in the townships should be encouraged to promote literacy”.
The library was born after the University of the Free State (UFS) Library Service donated 1000 books to the library in April 2010. The library is in a huge shack donated by a businessman from Gauteng, through the help of Jacomien Schimper, Director of the Provincial libraries under the Free State Department of Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation.
The furniture including twelve chairs, two tables and two shelves were donated by Marthalize Van der Westhuizen from Astellas Pharma PTY LTD. The Exclusive Books and Die Volksblad newspaper made a great contribution to the library. Part of the library’s success can be attributed to the partnership it received from the University of the Free State, Exclusive Books, Die Volksblad, Marthalize van der Westhuizen and the Department of Sports, Arts Culture and Recreation.
“We appreciate this support from our funders. “We are planning to launch the library soon,” said the children who are members of the library
FEBRUARY 18 – FEBRUARY 24 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Correctional Services’ Excellence Awards” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
CORRECTIONAL SERVICES’ EXCELLENCE AWARDS
By FLAXMAN QOOPANE
The Department of Correctional Services in the Free State and Northern Cape region held the third Regional Excellence Awards in Bloemfontein last Friday.
Pastor Mohau Rammile from the Global Reconciliation Church in Bloemfontein said; “People should not miss their season, famine is a place of dryness, a seed has a relationship with the ground, people should not walk away from their hostile environment. God says to us we don’t have to move away from the place of problems, remember seasons come and go.”
Councillor Eddie Goliath, from Motheo District Municipality welcome the guests and dignitaries to the award ceremony, he said; “To those officials who are awarded awards, it is a proof of your hard loyal work and dedications, and also your effort to strive to achieve the best. And those that won’t receive awards, remember there will always be a next opportunity to excel and achieve your goal.”
Grace Molatedi- Acting Regional Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Service in the Free State and Northern Cape said; “We are honoured to be having this wonderful occasion, those officials who have been nominated for the awards, we recognise your hard work and your successes because of your sacrifice and dedication to the Department of Correctional Service and the country as a whole. Some of our officials paid the highest price to our department. They even sacrificed their lives. We honour them for their sacrifice; we thank the families of these officials who will be given the awards for their support during their work period. We need to improve our fight against corruption and fraud in our region”.
During the occasion, Marlene Droskie, Division Head Supply Chain Management, from the Fauriesmith Correctional Centre and her team Noleen Eksteen (finance), Esther Kale (supply chain clerk) and Regan Mokgwera (staff support) were the winners of the Minister’s Award. “On behalf of my team, I am very glad to receive the award as an appreciation for our hard work” said Marlene.
The team of eight officials led by Johan Massyn Deputy Director; Head Inspectorate Correctional Services in the Free State and Northern Cape (Bloemfontein Regional Office) won two awards, the National Commissioner’s Award and the Deputy- Minister’s Award. “It is a privilege to win these two awards, we worked hard as an inspectorate team and deserve this token of appreciation, we really tried to make a difference and I think today is the proof that we were successful in our task”, said Massyn, who was also awarded the Batho Pele Award.
The Good Governance Award was won by Vaughan Owen Feder, Regional Policy Coordinator at the Regional Commissioner’s office in Bloemfontein; “He said; this is the second time I have won this award on the regional level. On 16 April 2010 I won the National Correctional Excellence Award in the same category. I feel very blessed to be nominated to represent our region in Durban on 4 March 2011. By the grace of our Heavenly Father, I am what I am. I would like to proceed to be an Ideal Correctional Officer and the Ambassador to Excellence”.
The Best Performance Compliance Manager Award went to Phillip Rudolf Ferreira from Upington Area Commissioner’s office, Manager Security and Facilities. Gert Van Huyssteen, Section Head; Supply Chain Management Springbok/ Namaqualand in the Northern Cape was awarded the Best Performance Supply Chain Manager on Management Area level Award.
Helena Johanna Fourie, a Correctional Officer in charge for Skills Development and Handcraft with the inmates, at the Goedemoede Correctional Centre in Aliwal North was awarded the Masibambisane Award. “I am dedicating this award to the inmate at our centre and the community of Aliwal North. I am excited about this achievement”, said Fourie.
Lebogang Morakile an Opera singer of note and also an officer from Grootvlei Correctional Centre Medium B in Bloemfontein entertained the audience with four classical songs including O’Sole Mio, Non Piuandrai, Piei Isu and Friends for Life. The corporate gifts were awarded to Pastor Rammile and Councillor Goliath. Johan Massyn, Vaughan O. Feder, Helena J, Fourie, and Marlene Droskie will represent the Region at the National Excellence Awards in Durban, KwaZulu Natal on the 4th of March 2011.
Safety Month launched amidst fanfare!
By Seleke Botsime
The Department of Police, Road and Transport pulled out all the stops at its function at Memel – as Safety Month was launched with fanfare!
The Executive Mayor of Phumelela, Mayor T.J Motaung was there in full force. The function was opened by a prayer by Pastor Matlala who acknowledged the presence of everyone at the function including all the councillors, stock farmers and leaders of the community. “It is vital that the community helps the police in order to track down those who are taking the law into their own hands,” he emphasised
General Motsoenyane said that it is the responsibility of civic society at large to help to remove those who think they are above the law from the society. She emphasised that there must be a street committee in order to maintain order. Meanwhile, the representative of the Farmers, Mr Loui Steenkamp said: “We have to stand and say enough is enough to crime. There are an alarming number of stock thefts and when an individual exposes those who are doing crime, they might disappear!”
There were traditional dancers who entertained everyone at the function. As part of her speech, Motsoenyana said that the theme of this year is “Crime is our concern”. She added that in Memel the crimes that are most committed are rape and assault including stock theft. “We have to deal with the root core of that problem, not the symptoms if we are serious about eliminating crime.”
The speech of the Mayor highlighted issues such as the livestock, “people who possess have become the victims of the stock…there is the need for more police visibility, the need for community patrols” There was the unfortunate allusion to the fact that some elements of the police collude with stock thieves because of personal interest.
The Mayor added that people should put an end to stock theft. “It is obvious that there are specialists when it comes to stock theft, and the community should be aware that people who do this are experts in their own way. It is only when we close the community kraal that things will change.” He also talked about the invisible stock theft where people lost their animals which were confiscated by commercial farmers.
His last word was to the effect that this year, the local Government Elections and National Census will take place; hence “I am urging everyone to go and register for the coming election. Those who won’t be going for the vote must know that other people will vote for them.”
FEBRUARY 11 – FEBRUARY 17 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Blind couple makes sweet music” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 5
Reproduced hereunder:
Blind couple makes sweet music
By Flaxman Qoopane
“We sing first to entertain ourselves, then we entertain our children and lately we entertain the crowd or our audience,”
The above words were uttered by the famous blind couple, Simon Tshidiso and his wife Primose Manyambo from Phase 2 in Mangaung.
Tshidiso was born blind in Mangaung on 1 February 1967. He attended the Bosile School for the Blind and Deaf in Petersburg. Between 1990 -1994 he was a private teacher at the Thuboloha School for Blind and Deaf.
“At the school, there were many musical instruments, and in 1990 I learned how to play a piano and a keyboard. And in 1992-94 I was a conductor of the school choir,”
Primrose was born blind at Empangeni in Durban on 8 July 1972. She attended at the Vuleka School for the Blind and Deaf in Durban.
How did the blind couple meet? Primrose said: “In 1989 I was attending at the Philadelphia school for all disabilities in Tshwane, and my husband was attending at Optima College in Tshwane as a switch- board operator,”
So in 1989, the Optima College Football Club, visited our school and our school played a draw of 1-1”
Simon said: “During the evening we held a concert and Primrose sang There is music in the air by Letta Mbuli. I also performed, a number of songs accompanied with a keyboard,”
“After the concert, my husband sent his friend Joseph Nkosi [blind man] to me and …that’s how it started!”
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
S. Botsime
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
David Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
FEBRUARY 25 – MARCH 3 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “IEC holds forth on imminent elections” By Seleke Botsime. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
IEC HOLDS FORTH ON IMMINENT ELECTIONS!
By Seleke Botsime
The IEC had an illuminating workshop/summit at President Hotel on Wednesday this week. The workshop was meant to foster and encourage political tolerance ahead of the local government elections.
The stakeholders who attended the function included the political parties ANC, APC, DA DPSA, PAC, COPE; and others, including the traditional leaders.
IEC Provincial Chief Electoral Officer, Chris Mepha was pleased to declare that order and serenity essentially prevail in the Free State. He said: “It is no secret that the Free State elections are always peaceful. We are happy to have our other IEC colleagues here”
Eastern Cape’s Provincial chief electoral officer, Revd Bongani Finka adumbrated on what makes an election free and fair. “Free meaning free of speech, political tolerance and it is the work of the IEC to intervene in this coming election. There is no universally recognised standard by which the quality of election is judged and measured. It’s been said that the election of South Africa has been respected around the world but we at IEC must not rest on our laurels,”
Interestingly, the political parties were given seven minutes each to do their presentation on the issue of how to achieve free and fair election.
African National Congress was the first party to be given the podium and the speaker was Sbongile Besani (the provincial secretary) who said that there is a need for transparency. “We need to remember that the elections start when the campaign begins. He said that it is important that we should encourage people to vote irrespective of their doubts or problems that they are encountering.”
The second party to take the podium was a member of ACDP who posed the concern that IEC must make it a point that they must be punctual either on opening and closing of the polling station. Also, posters that are destroyed during the election must come to a stop since it costs a party a lot of money to put up the posters.
APC’s Paseka Mosoadiba (Provincial Chairperson) said that it is only through hard work and collective responsibility that a free and fair election can be enhanced. Thereafter, it was COPE’s Mr Kganare who said that votes should be of equal value and IEC must give clarity to the voters.
The DA’s Jankelshon said that the party concentrated on small issues like thorough training of the IEC staff in order to exercise their duties smoothly; and the shortage of ballot papers. He said that it is a collective duty to respect political parties; and Hlasela must not be treated as a political party since there is a lot of money that is being invested into it.
Thereafter it was Dikwankwetla, of the UCDP who said that the parties must not abuse their political status through broadcasting on community radio stations. It was also stressed that the visibility of the police will be seen at the polling station. Traffic will be regulated as there will be intelligence to do screening of voters.
HILLSIDE VIEW CHILDREN’S LIBRARY
By Flaxman Qoopane
Reading in the townships should be encouraged to promote literacy.
Oscar Pitso, a story teller, stressed this whilst addressing teenagers at the Hillside View Children’s Library in Mangaung last Saturday. He said: “The Hillside View Children’s Library aims to develop a culture of reading among the children and the adults of Hillside View. If we read books, magazines, newspapers and comics, we get knowledge and we become educated. Reading in the townships should be encouraged to promote literacy”.
The library was born after the University of the Free State (UFS) Library Service donated 1000 books to the library in April 2010. The library is in a huge shack donated by a businessman from Gauteng, through the help of Jacomien Schimper, Director of the Provincial libraries under the Free State Department of Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation.
The furniture including twelve chairs, two tables and two shelves were donated by Marthalize Van der Westhuizen from Astellas Pharma PTY LTD. The Exclusive Books and Die Volksblad newspaper made a great contribution to the library. Part of the library’s success can be attributed to the partnership it received from the University of the Free State, Exclusive Books, Die Volksblad, Marthalize van der Westhuizen and the Department of Sports, Arts Culture and Recreation.
“We appreciate this support from our funders. “We are planning to launch the library soon,” said the children who are members of the library
FEBRUARY 18 – FEBRUARY 24 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Correctional Services’ Excellence Awards” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
CORRECTIONAL SERVICES’ EXCELLENCE AWARDS
By FLAXMAN QOOPANE
The Department of Correctional Services in the Free State and Northern Cape region held the third Regional Excellence Awards in Bloemfontein last Friday.
Pastor Mohau Rammile from the Global Reconciliation Church in Bloemfontein said; “People should not miss their season, famine is a place of dryness, a seed has a relationship with the ground, people should not walk away from their hostile environment. God says to us we don’t have to move away from the place of problems, remember seasons come and go.”
Councillor Eddie Goliath, from Motheo District Municipality welcome the guests and dignitaries to the award ceremony, he said; “To those officials who are awarded awards, it is a proof of your hard loyal work and dedications, and also your effort to strive to achieve the best. And those that won’t receive awards, remember there will always be a next opportunity to excel and achieve your goal.”
Grace Molatedi- Acting Regional Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Service in the Free State and Northern Cape said; “We are honoured to be having this wonderful occasion, those officials who have been nominated for the awards, we recognise your hard work and your successes because of your sacrifice and dedication to the Department of Correctional Service and the country as a whole. Some of our officials paid the highest price to our department. They even sacrificed their lives. We honour them for their sacrifice; we thank the families of these officials who will be given the awards for their support during their work period. We need to improve our fight against corruption and fraud in our region”.
During the occasion, Marlene Droskie, Division Head Supply Chain Management, from the Fauriesmith Correctional Centre and her team Noleen Eksteen (finance), Esther Kale (supply chain clerk) and Regan Mokgwera (staff support) were the winners of the Minister’s Award. “On behalf of my team, I am very glad to receive the award as an appreciation for our hard work” said Marlene.
The team of eight officials led by Johan Massyn Deputy Director; Head Inspectorate Correctional Services in the Free State and Northern Cape (Bloemfontein Regional Office) won two awards, the National Commissioner’s Award and the Deputy- Minister’s Award. “It is a privilege to win these two awards, we worked hard as an inspectorate team and deserve this token of appreciation, we really tried to make a difference and I think today is the proof that we were successful in our task”, said Massyn, who was also awarded the Batho Pele Award.
The Good Governance Award was won by Vaughan Owen Feder, Regional Policy Coordinator at the Regional Commissioner’s office in Bloemfontein; “He said; this is the second time I have won this award on the regional level. On 16 April 2010 I won the National Correctional Excellence Award in the same category. I feel very blessed to be nominated to represent our region in Durban on 4 March 2011. By the grace of our Heavenly Father, I am what I am. I would like to proceed to be an Ideal Correctional Officer and the Ambassador to Excellence”.
The Best Performance Compliance Manager Award went to Phillip Rudolf Ferreira from Upington Area Commissioner’s office, Manager Security and Facilities. Gert Van Huyssteen, Section Head; Supply Chain Management Springbok/ Namaqualand in the Northern Cape was awarded the Best Performance Supply Chain Manager on Management Area level Award.
Helena Johanna Fourie, a Correctional Officer in charge for Skills Development and Handcraft with the inmates, at the Goedemoede Correctional Centre in Aliwal North was awarded the Masibambisane Award. “I am dedicating this award to the inmate at our centre and the community of Aliwal North. I am excited about this achievement”, said Fourie.
Lebogang Morakile an Opera singer of note and also an officer from Grootvlei Correctional Centre Medium B in Bloemfontein entertained the audience with four classical songs including O’Sole Mio, Non Piuandrai, Piei Isu and Friends for Life. The corporate gifts were awarded to Pastor Rammile and Councillor Goliath. Johan Massyn, Vaughan O. Feder, Helena J, Fourie, and Marlene Droskie will represent the Region at the National Excellence Awards in Durban, KwaZulu Natal on the 4th of March 2011.
Safety Month launched amidst fanfare!
By Seleke Botsime
The Department of Police, Road and Transport pulled out all the stops at its function at Memel – as Safety Month was launched with fanfare!
The Executive Mayor of Phumelela, Mayor T.J Motaung was there in full force. The function was opened by a prayer by Pastor Matlala who acknowledged the presence of everyone at the function including all the councillors, stock farmers and leaders of the community. “It is vital that the community helps the police in order to track down those who are taking the law into their own hands,” he emphasised
General Motsoenyane said that it is the responsibility of civic society at large to help to remove those who think they are above the law from the society. She emphasised that there must be a street committee in order to maintain order. Meanwhile, the representative of the Farmers, Mr Loui Steenkamp said: “We have to stand and say enough is enough to crime. There are an alarming number of stock thefts and when an individual exposes those who are doing crime, they might disappear!”
There were traditional dancers who entertained everyone at the function. As part of her speech, Motsoenyana said that the theme of this year is “Crime is our concern”. She added that in Memel the crimes that are most committed are rape and assault including stock theft. “We have to deal with the root core of that problem, not the symptoms if we are serious about eliminating crime.”
The speech of the Mayor highlighted issues such as the livestock, “people who possess have become the victims of the stock…there is the need for more police visibility, the need for community patrols” There was the unfortunate allusion to the fact that some elements of the police collude with stock thieves because of personal interest.
The Mayor added that people should put an end to stock theft. “It is obvious that there are specialists when it comes to stock theft, and the community should be aware that people who do this are experts in their own way. It is only when we close the community kraal that things will change.” He also talked about the invisible stock theft where people lost their animals which were confiscated by commercial farmers.
His last word was to the effect that this year, the local Government Elections and National Census will take place; hence “I am urging everyone to go and register for the coming election. Those who won’t be going for the vote must know that other people will vote for them.”
FEBRUARY 11 – FEBRUARY 17 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Blind couple makes sweet music” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 5
Reproduced hereunder:
Blind couple makes sweet music
By Flaxman Qoopane
“We sing first to entertain ourselves, then we entertain our children and lately we entertain the crowd or our audience,”
The above words were uttered by the famous blind couple, Simon Tshidiso and his wife Primose Manyambo from Phase 2 in Mangaung.
Tshidiso was born blind in Mangaung on 1 February 1967. He attended the Bosile School for the Blind and Deaf in Petersburg. Between 1990 -1994 he was a private teacher at the Thuboloha School for Blind and Deaf.
“At the school, there were many musical instruments, and in 1990 I learned how to play a piano and a keyboard. And in 1992-94 I was a conductor of the school choir,”
Primrose was born blind at Empangeni in Durban on 8 July 1972. She attended at the Vuleka School for the Blind and Deaf in Durban.
How did the blind couple meet? Primrose said: “In 1989 I was attending at the Philadelphia school for all disabilities in Tshwane, and my husband was attending at Optima College in Tshwane as a switch- board operator,”
So in 1989, the Optima College Football Club, visited our school and our school played a draw of 1-1”
Simon said: “During the evening we held a concert and Primrose sang There is music in the air by Letta Mbuli. I also performed, a number of songs accompanied with a keyboard,”
“After the concert, my husband sent his friend Joseph Nkosi [blind man] to me and …that’s how it started!”
Thursday, January 27, 2011
FREE STATE NEWS (January 2011 editions)
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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
David Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
JANUARY 28 – FEBRUARY 3 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “She disappeared without a trace!” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
She disappeared without a trace!
By Flaxman Qoopane
A mother of three children left home on 30 November 2010, and has not been seen since!
Dineo Mabeta [25] from Phase 10 in Mangaung told Free State news: “Our mother Maleshoane Veronica Mabeta [39] lived with my sister Masebabatso Mathetse [22] my brother Katleho Mathetse [18] and myself at Phase 10. On November last year at 09:30 a.m she went to attend a church service of the Jehova’s witnesses at phase 10 and she never came back at home.
According to her other daughter Masebabatso Maleshoane was reported at the Sonskyn Police station at Phase 5, as a missing person
Dineo Masebabatso and Katleho looked for their mother at all the hospitals and mortuaries in Bloemfontein, Botsabelo and Thaba Nchu. Unfortunately they could not trace her
Dineo said: “We are very worried about our mother. We don’t know whether she is still alive or she is dead. We are praying day and night that our mother must come home safely. We are desperate to meet her
Anyone with information about the where about Maleshoane Veronica Mabeta should contact the nearest police station, either Dineo; 082 056 5805 or Katleho; 073 658 0014
JANUARY 21 – JANUARY 28 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “A splendid painting” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
A Splendid Painting
By Flaxman Qoopane
Stephen Chinedu Achugwo has become famous in Mangaung for his splendid painting paying tribute to eleven international musicians.
Achugwo told Free State News: “I was commissioned by the owners of the Ekhayeni Pub & Grill to use oil colours on canvas to paint the following late musicians, Luciano Pavarotti, Tupac Shakur, Miles Davis, Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross.
Marvin Gaye, Barry White, Gerald Levert, Groover Washington, Notorius Big and Bob Marley, the painting is titled the last Super @ Ekhayeni the size of the painting is 3m by 1 and half meter.
His eye – catching paintings also hang on the walls of many business buildings in Bloemfontein. “During the World Cup, tourists bought many of my paintings. It has been my wish to sell some of my work to the tourists. I have also exhibited my paintings at several art galleries in Bloemfontein and also during Macufe festival in 2002.
Achugwo is from Nigeria. He came to South Africa in October 2002. “My philosophy in art is based on inspiration. I love creating paintings and artworks that inspire people. I believe that with inspiration, a man can achieve stupendous success in any calling.
“In the South African Society, today, where several efforts are made to encourage people for self – development. I hope to use my paintings to inspire South African people”, he concludes.
Also: (Page 5)
BARD REACTS TO BEING HONOURED!
This week Hector Kunene was announced as the “Free State Author of the Year” (2010). Already a well known bard, this is how Hector "Okonkwo" reacted ecstatically (via poetry!) to the news…
I failed dismally to find this piece a title!
How do I even begin to thank thee
When I am vocally wounded with glee
This magnanimous award just for me!
I could not have even afforded it with any fee
The Eclectic Writers Club has sent me world packing!
Packaging me through the wires to reach even the aging
A massacre avenging words to sink ignorance and sing for victorious parades
Can cards speak the truth like a heart does, but not diamonds neither clubs nor spades
What an accolade for a virgin who just lost his ink
Lost it in the middle of dotted lines that look pink
I blink, wink and think about such a moment of introspection
With gratitude to comrades who have bandaged me to benediction
These are the days of harvest
Every soldiers spear smeared with blood to recognize the bravest
The dough is ready for sunrise
Thus the territory is enlarged by grace with no price
- Hector S. Kunene
JANUARY 14 – JANUARY 20 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Son attacks Mom’s boyfriend!” By Flaxman Qoopane. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
Son attacks Mom’s boyfriend!
…Nurse’s uniforms destroyed in the process
By Flaxman Qoopane
The uniforms of a female nurse were destroyed by fire last Friday. Her son, who is an ex-convict allegedly hit his mother’s boyfriend with a brick on Saturday. The victim was rushed to the hospital. And the suspect was arrested on Sunday.
Letshego Tshepe (20) from Hillside View said: “On Friday at 5.30 pm, we were shocked when we discovered that the bedroom of our mother Peggy Tshepe (54) was on fire. Our mother was not at home – she had visited her boyfriend Piet Skweti (71) somewhere in Hillside View.”
He continued: “Our neighbours came to help us to extinguish the fire. The uniforms of my mother who works as nurse, her important documents, her beds, wardrobe were destroyed by fire. We don’t know what caused the fire,”
Peggy Tshepe’s son who is an ex-offender went to the house of Piet Skweti. Piet Skweti from Hillside View said: “The son of my girlfriend came to my house on Saturday at 7.45 am, we had an argument. He then hit my left arm with a brick. His mother tried to call him into order, but the son was stubborn he beat me in the face with a fist and eh managed to escape”
The grandfather was rushed to Pelonomi Hospital where was x-rayed and plaster was put on his injured arm. Piet Skweti went to Kagisanong Police Station to open a case against the son of his girlfriend.
The suspect was arrested by the cops on Sunday
Also:
FRAUDSTER has to repay R 35 580.00 to SASSA
By Flaxman Qoopane
Josephine Mamontsheng Roman (34) an employee at Trade Centre in Bloemfontein appeared in the Bloemfontein Regional Court 17 for allegedly defrauding the Free the South African Social Security Agency. (SASSA) an amount of R35 580.00 from 2004 until 2009.
Prosecutor Keith Muller said Mrs. Roman pleaded guilty to one count of fraud, she was sentenced to three years imprisonment which was suspended for five years. On condition that she continued to pay back the SASSA the money that she defrauded R 35 580.00.
According to Prosecutor Muller, Roman will pay R 350 per month. “Since February 2010 Mrs. Roman has been repaying the money to the SASSA. The Presiding Officer Mr. Koekemoer commended that it was a very common crime and that imprisonment would have been a suitable sentence for Mrs. Roman,”
She received a monthly foster care grant for a child (10) whose mother died in 2003, but told lies to the Commissioner of Child Welfare on 15 April 2004 that father of the child was unknown until October 2009.
In November 2009, Jacob Cebe former investigator from the Compliance and Fraud Management under the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Bloemfontein found that the father of the child was alive and has been maintaining his daughter; Jacob Cebe investigated the alleged fraud and opened a case of fraud against Josephine Roman of Phelindaba, at Kopanong Police Station in Mangaung. The case was transferred to Commercial Branch at Park Road Police Station in Bloemfontein.
Roman first appeared in the Bloemfontein District Court 19 on 12 May 2010 on charges of fraud. She pleased guilty in the Bloemfontein Regional Court 17 on 24 May and on 7 June.
Mr. Gerald Roberts Regional Executive Manager SASSA Free State Region said, SASSA does not tolerate fraud or anyone who defrauds it irrespective of who they are. The number of cases taken to court each year for fraud bears testimony to this. The Agency has made good progress in its against fraud and corruption. Thus far, the Agency in partnership with the special investigations Unit (SIU) has been able to investigate 14 513 people for grant fraud. As many as 12 540 of these were convicted and signed acknowledge of debt to repay the fraudulently received grants. In addition to those prosecuted an additional 18 174 people also signed acknowledgements of debt and are repaying the Agency.
SASSA is serious about uprooting fraud and corruption in the social grant environment. The Agency is there to ensure that it pays the right social grant to the right person who deserves it as government measure of poverty alleviation. A total amount of R61.3 m has a thus far been recovered.
Over 32 687 fraudulent grants were removed from the system in the current financial year. This is a clear message that SASSA has zero tolerance of people accessing social grants fraudulently. Society has to blow the whistle on this heinous crime as the fraudulent grant could have benefited someone in dire need. Those intending to defraud the Agency can rest assured that will be hunted down and prosecuted. They will face the full might of the law as in cases above.
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
S. Botsime
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
David Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
JANUARY 28 – FEBRUARY 3 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “She disappeared without a trace!” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
She disappeared without a trace!
By Flaxman Qoopane
A mother of three children left home on 30 November 2010, and has not been seen since!
Dineo Mabeta [25] from Phase 10 in Mangaung told Free State news: “Our mother Maleshoane Veronica Mabeta [39] lived with my sister Masebabatso Mathetse [22] my brother Katleho Mathetse [18] and myself at Phase 10. On November last year at 09:30 a.m she went to attend a church service of the Jehova’s witnesses at phase 10 and she never came back at home.
According to her other daughter Masebabatso Maleshoane was reported at the Sonskyn Police station at Phase 5, as a missing person
Dineo Masebabatso and Katleho looked for their mother at all the hospitals and mortuaries in Bloemfontein, Botsabelo and Thaba Nchu. Unfortunately they could not trace her
Dineo said: “We are very worried about our mother. We don’t know whether she is still alive or she is dead. We are praying day and night that our mother must come home safely. We are desperate to meet her
Anyone with information about the where about Maleshoane Veronica Mabeta should contact the nearest police station, either Dineo; 082 056 5805 or Katleho; 073 658 0014
JANUARY 21 – JANUARY 28 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “A splendid painting” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
A Splendid Painting
By Flaxman Qoopane
Stephen Chinedu Achugwo has become famous in Mangaung for his splendid painting paying tribute to eleven international musicians.
Achugwo told Free State News: “I was commissioned by the owners of the Ekhayeni Pub & Grill to use oil colours on canvas to paint the following late musicians, Luciano Pavarotti, Tupac Shakur, Miles Davis, Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross.
Marvin Gaye, Barry White, Gerald Levert, Groover Washington, Notorius Big and Bob Marley, the painting is titled the last Super @ Ekhayeni the size of the painting is 3m by 1 and half meter.
His eye – catching paintings also hang on the walls of many business buildings in Bloemfontein. “During the World Cup, tourists bought many of my paintings. It has been my wish to sell some of my work to the tourists. I have also exhibited my paintings at several art galleries in Bloemfontein and also during Macufe festival in 2002.
Achugwo is from Nigeria. He came to South Africa in October 2002. “My philosophy in art is based on inspiration. I love creating paintings and artworks that inspire people. I believe that with inspiration, a man can achieve stupendous success in any calling.
“In the South African Society, today, where several efforts are made to encourage people for self – development. I hope to use my paintings to inspire South African people”, he concludes.
Also: (Page 5)
BARD REACTS TO BEING HONOURED!
This week Hector Kunene was announced as the “Free State Author of the Year” (2010). Already a well known bard, this is how Hector "Okonkwo" reacted ecstatically (via poetry!) to the news…
I failed dismally to find this piece a title!
How do I even begin to thank thee
When I am vocally wounded with glee
This magnanimous award just for me!
I could not have even afforded it with any fee
The Eclectic Writers Club has sent me world packing!
Packaging me through the wires to reach even the aging
A massacre avenging words to sink ignorance and sing for victorious parades
Can cards speak the truth like a heart does, but not diamonds neither clubs nor spades
What an accolade for a virgin who just lost his ink
Lost it in the middle of dotted lines that look pink
I blink, wink and think about such a moment of introspection
With gratitude to comrades who have bandaged me to benediction
These are the days of harvest
Every soldiers spear smeared with blood to recognize the bravest
The dough is ready for sunrise
Thus the territory is enlarged by grace with no price
- Hector S. Kunene
JANUARY 14 – JANUARY 20 2011 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Son attacks Mom’s boyfriend!” By Flaxman Qoopane. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
Son attacks Mom’s boyfriend!
…Nurse’s uniforms destroyed in the process
By Flaxman Qoopane
The uniforms of a female nurse were destroyed by fire last Friday. Her son, who is an ex-convict allegedly hit his mother’s boyfriend with a brick on Saturday. The victim was rushed to the hospital. And the suspect was arrested on Sunday.
Letshego Tshepe (20) from Hillside View said: “On Friday at 5.30 pm, we were shocked when we discovered that the bedroom of our mother Peggy Tshepe (54) was on fire. Our mother was not at home – she had visited her boyfriend Piet Skweti (71) somewhere in Hillside View.”
He continued: “Our neighbours came to help us to extinguish the fire. The uniforms of my mother who works as nurse, her important documents, her beds, wardrobe were destroyed by fire. We don’t know what caused the fire,”
Peggy Tshepe’s son who is an ex-offender went to the house of Piet Skweti. Piet Skweti from Hillside View said: “The son of my girlfriend came to my house on Saturday at 7.45 am, we had an argument. He then hit my left arm with a brick. His mother tried to call him into order, but the son was stubborn he beat me in the face with a fist and eh managed to escape”
The grandfather was rushed to Pelonomi Hospital where was x-rayed and plaster was put on his injured arm. Piet Skweti went to Kagisanong Police Station to open a case against the son of his girlfriend.
The suspect was arrested by the cops on Sunday
Also:
FRAUDSTER has to repay R 35 580.00 to SASSA
By Flaxman Qoopane
Josephine Mamontsheng Roman (34) an employee at Trade Centre in Bloemfontein appeared in the Bloemfontein Regional Court 17 for allegedly defrauding the Free the South African Social Security Agency. (SASSA) an amount of R35 580.00 from 2004 until 2009.
Prosecutor Keith Muller said Mrs. Roman pleaded guilty to one count of fraud, she was sentenced to three years imprisonment which was suspended for five years. On condition that she continued to pay back the SASSA the money that she defrauded R 35 580.00.
According to Prosecutor Muller, Roman will pay R 350 per month. “Since February 2010 Mrs. Roman has been repaying the money to the SASSA. The Presiding Officer Mr. Koekemoer commended that it was a very common crime and that imprisonment would have been a suitable sentence for Mrs. Roman,”
She received a monthly foster care grant for a child (10) whose mother died in 2003, but told lies to the Commissioner of Child Welfare on 15 April 2004 that father of the child was unknown until October 2009.
In November 2009, Jacob Cebe former investigator from the Compliance and Fraud Management under the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Bloemfontein found that the father of the child was alive and has been maintaining his daughter; Jacob Cebe investigated the alleged fraud and opened a case of fraud against Josephine Roman of Phelindaba, at Kopanong Police Station in Mangaung. The case was transferred to Commercial Branch at Park Road Police Station in Bloemfontein.
Roman first appeared in the Bloemfontein District Court 19 on 12 May 2010 on charges of fraud. She pleased guilty in the Bloemfontein Regional Court 17 on 24 May and on 7 June.
Mr. Gerald Roberts Regional Executive Manager SASSA Free State Region said, SASSA does not tolerate fraud or anyone who defrauds it irrespective of who they are. The number of cases taken to court each year for fraud bears testimony to this. The Agency has made good progress in its against fraud and corruption. Thus far, the Agency in partnership with the special investigations Unit (SIU) has been able to investigate 14 513 people for grant fraud. As many as 12 540 of these were convicted and signed acknowledge of debt to repay the fraudulently received grants. In addition to those prosecuted an additional 18 174 people also signed acknowledgements of debt and are repaying the Agency.
SASSA is serious about uprooting fraud and corruption in the social grant environment. The Agency is there to ensure that it pays the right social grant to the right person who deserves it as government measure of poverty alleviation. A total amount of R61.3 m has a thus far been recovered.
Over 32 687 fraudulent grants were removed from the system in the current financial year. This is a clear message that SASSA has zero tolerance of people accessing social grants fraudulently. Society has to blow the whistle on this heinous crime as the fraudulent grant could have benefited someone in dire need. Those intending to defraud the Agency can rest assured that will be hunted down and prosecuted. They will face the full might of the law as in cases above.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
FREE STATE NEWS (December, 2010 editions)
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 celebrated its 10th year anniversary last year). The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.
This community newspaper will be taking a break – festive season beckons! – until the second week of the New Year (2011) Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
David M Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
DECEMBER 17 – 23 2010 editions
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Former Regional Commissioner off with fanfare” By Flaxman Qoopane. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
FORMER REGIONAL COMMISSIONER SENT OFF WITH FANFARE!
By Flaxman Qoopane
The Department of Correctional Services in the Free State & Northern Cape Region bade farewell to Zacharia Moleko Modise, the former Regional Commissioner.
Speaking at the farewell function held at Kopano Nokeng lodge in Bloemfontein on Monday, Grace Molatedi, the Acting Regional Commissioner in the Free State and Northern Cape said the Department congratulates the former Regional Commissioner Modise who has been appointed to the National Department as the chief – Deputy Commissioner: for Corrections, “Goodbye, the National Department made the right choice. We wish you good luck with your future endeavors.”
The cynosure of all eyes, Zacharia M.I. Modise said: ‘I came to the Free State (Northern Cape Region) to implement the recommendations of the Jali Commission. We needed to clean up the Correctional Services. At Grootvlei Correctional Services, there was large corruption. My task was to root out corruption and we have succeeded. I had a good working relationship in the region.”
He continued: “The Acting – Regional Commissioner has a huge responsibility to work hard with her colleagues to contribute to the service delivery within the region. Thank you for your good working relationship with me; and goodbye and may you have a wonderful Christmas and a Prosperous Happy New Year!”
Gustav Wilson, Regional Head: Development and Care at Grootvlei Correctional Centre prayed for the family of Modise. He was accompanied by his wife Angie (41), children Waratoa (13), Matshego (17), Tshego (6), Modise (17) and Tumelo (24).
The following speakers Joe Joseph, Area Commissioner: Kimberly Management Area and Brigadier GENERAL Thingi Moadira from the SANDF talked about their great experience with the former Regional Commissioner Zacharian M.I.Modise.
During the farewell function, Zacharia Modise received some gifts from the Old Mutual.
Also:
THE BOOKSHELF (Column)
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Great year for FS Black Literature!
This is likely to be my last column for this year; hence I want to pay tribute here to an outstanding year of Free State Black Writing, with so many new authors publishing their first books. We started by celebrating the world class fiction writing skills of NMM Duman which found expression in her debut novel, Deepest Springs.
Most people would agree however that Hector Kunene is probably the writer of the year (such a pity the Province no longer has an award for ‘writer of the Year’) But anyway, by publishing two fine books, Through the Tunnel (poetry) and Omoseye Bolaji (literary criticism) Hector has already made an indelible mark on literature and deserves the world- wide respect he is now getting.
JahRose (Nthabiseng Jafta) also published her debut book, Rooted from the Heart, making a strong impression too; most importantly showing that young black women can hold their heads high too in the genre of literature. JahRose is well known as a poet, and also went out of her way to produce a beautiful book.
The literary promise of Teboho Masakala – in his very early 20s – has been known for quite some time now, and he has gone some way towards fulfilling his promise by publishing his first book, Mind, Pen and Ideas. Inevitably, the young man needs time to mature even better, but he has also made his name – putting Thaba Nchu on the map!
The year was rounded off with a “veteran” poet and essayist, Raselebeli Khotseng publishing his very first book of poems. The book, titled Hold Back your Tears contains a number of “Magic’s thought provoking poems. So – a remarkable year for Free State Black Writing!
DECEMBER 10 – 16 2010 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Horror! Lesotho boy strangled to death” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
Horror! Lesotho boy strangled to death
By Flaxman Qoopane
The seven year – old boy from Lesotho who was allegedly raped, his neck broken, and put into the pit latrine at Dinaweng Squatter Camps in Mangaung last Friday has been identified as Seabata Moremoholo (7)
His brother Kgosi Moremoholo (8) was also allegedly raped by the rapist; the rapist also burnt the body of Kgosi with matches, sticks, and subsequently an angry mob killed the man known as Lungile Booi.
The mother of the two boys, Dineo Moremoholo told Free State News: “Kgosi(8) and the late Seabata(7) are our sons with my husband Tshehla Moremoholo (34). They are from Mafeteng in Lesotho, they came to visit us in Mangaung in October this year.”
Modiehi Lekometsa (24) from Dinaweng Squatter Camp said; “On Friday at 03:30 early morning while we were asleep with my husband Mokoto Ramonyatsi (36) we heard a knock at our shack, Mokoto went outside and found Kgosi wearing only a T-Shirt full of shit. The smell was unbearable, I went to inform Kgosi’s parents “
Tshehla Moremoholo said “We went to the house of Modiehi we were shocked to find our son in that terrible condition. Kgosi told us that a man named Lungile allegedly raped him and his brother Seabata. He also allegedly burnt their bodies with matches sticks, Kgosi said he left his brother at the house of the rapist, we were very furious.”
After the residents of Dinaweng Squatter Camp heard of the child abuse of the two brothers, they decided to take the law into their hands. Thabo Lesia (30) said: “I saw everything, it was on Friday at 07:00am , the angry mob went to the shack of the suspect and started beating , punching ,kicking and assaulting him. The suspect pointed at the pit latrine where the body of Seabata was found.
The parents of the brothers said; “It pains us lot because our sons came to visit us to be with us during the festive season. The mob stoned the rapist to death and he was slaughtered like an animal.
Lt- Colonel Thandi Mbambo said: “The police discovered two bodies not far from another at the scene. A case of sexual assault and two counts of murder were registered .No one has been arrested and the police are following the leads”
DECEMBER 03 – 09 2010 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Polished Mangaung Artist” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
Polished Mangaung artist!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Artist, Tshidi Motsumi (21) from Ipopeng in Mangaung is not an ordinary artist. His works have been exhibited in Belgium and in Britain.
Motsumi told Free State News: “It has been my dream that one day I should exhibit my works abroad. In September 2006, the Free State government sponsored me with another artist Thapelo Mawela, musicians Kaya groups, Peter Nthwane and Kubu Dancers to represent our country in Belgium and Britain, during a cultural exchange programmes with the two countries.
“We were abroad for two weeks to show people in those two countries what the Free State artists could offer them through arts and culture. We exhibited our works, several art-lovers, art-collectors and owners of the art galleries bought some of our works. We exchanged ideas with artists in Belgium and Britain. And we also met some African artists who emigrated abroad. I thank the government for making my dreams a reality!”
In June 2006, Tshidi won R7000 and a certificate during the Annual Youth Commission Premiers Awards held in the Free State. He got position three in the visual arts category. “I was inspired, with the R7000 I bought art-materials and I felt motivated to continue improving my skills”.
He started practicing art professionally in 1999. Motsumi painted art-works that now hang on the walls of companies, hotels, offices and advertising-agencies in the Free State. Most of the time he paints portraits of individuals and also of famous people. His prices are very reasonable and Motsumi also does mural paintings He is best known in Mangaung , Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu to have done the ANC emblem next to the portrait of the ANC President Jacob Zuma. Some ANC members have congratulated him for his works painted on the walls of buildings in Mangaung.
“While I was at Ikaelelo High School in Thaba Nchu, I did a lot of the decorations during the functions. Teachers, students and their parents often asked me to design cards for them during their birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day and Father’s Day”. His talent blossomed when he was doing Sub-B at Selosesha Primary School in Thaba Nchu “I was already drawing as a teenager. At school I drew dogs, cats and lions. I also used to draw pictures for my friends and my school mates and they used to give me money and I used to buy fat-cakes”
He says art-centres and art-galleries are needed in our townships “where the artists can share their skills”. Motsumi has also exhibited his works all over the country.
Also:
THE BOOKSHELF (With Kgang Abel Motheane)
THE BOOKSHELF
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Chinua Achebe at 80
This columnist has in the past celebrated the extraordinary legacy of Chinua Achebe, the first black African to write a novel that shook the whole world (Things fall apart)
The world has been celebrating Achebe’s 80th birthday in style and countless lovers of literature have been praising and applauding him for what he has done to put Africa on the world map, imaginatively and intellectually.
In all (over a 30-year period) Achebe produced five world class novels: Apart from Things fall apart (1958) he also wrote No longer at ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964) A man of the people (1966) and Anthills of the Savannah (1987)
Of these works, by far the most famous is of course Things fall apart which even after 50 years has been voted the most illustrious and best African novel ever. As for Achebe himself, so many books and studies have been written and published about him all over the world.
This columnist also wishes Chinua Achebe a wonderful Birthday and many years more…
This community newspaper will be taking a break – festive season beckons! – until the second week of the New Year (2011) Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
David M Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
DECEMBER 17 – 23 2010 editions
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Former Regional Commissioner off with fanfare” By Flaxman Qoopane. Front page
Reproduced hereunder:
FORMER REGIONAL COMMISSIONER SENT OFF WITH FANFARE!
By Flaxman Qoopane
The Department of Correctional Services in the Free State & Northern Cape Region bade farewell to Zacharia Moleko Modise, the former Regional Commissioner.
Speaking at the farewell function held at Kopano Nokeng lodge in Bloemfontein on Monday, Grace Molatedi, the Acting Regional Commissioner in the Free State and Northern Cape said the Department congratulates the former Regional Commissioner Modise who has been appointed to the National Department as the chief – Deputy Commissioner: for Corrections, “Goodbye, the National Department made the right choice. We wish you good luck with your future endeavors.”
The cynosure of all eyes, Zacharia M.I. Modise said: ‘I came to the Free State (Northern Cape Region) to implement the recommendations of the Jali Commission. We needed to clean up the Correctional Services. At Grootvlei Correctional Services, there was large corruption. My task was to root out corruption and we have succeeded. I had a good working relationship in the region.”
He continued: “The Acting – Regional Commissioner has a huge responsibility to work hard with her colleagues to contribute to the service delivery within the region. Thank you for your good working relationship with me; and goodbye and may you have a wonderful Christmas and a Prosperous Happy New Year!”
Gustav Wilson, Regional Head: Development and Care at Grootvlei Correctional Centre prayed for the family of Modise. He was accompanied by his wife Angie (41), children Waratoa (13), Matshego (17), Tshego (6), Modise (17) and Tumelo (24).
The following speakers Joe Joseph, Area Commissioner: Kimberly Management Area and Brigadier GENERAL Thingi Moadira from the SANDF talked about their great experience with the former Regional Commissioner Zacharian M.I.Modise.
During the farewell function, Zacharia Modise received some gifts from the Old Mutual.
Also:
THE BOOKSHELF (Column)
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Great year for FS Black Literature!
This is likely to be my last column for this year; hence I want to pay tribute here to an outstanding year of Free State Black Writing, with so many new authors publishing their first books. We started by celebrating the world class fiction writing skills of NMM Duman which found expression in her debut novel, Deepest Springs.
Most people would agree however that Hector Kunene is probably the writer of the year (such a pity the Province no longer has an award for ‘writer of the Year’) But anyway, by publishing two fine books, Through the Tunnel (poetry) and Omoseye Bolaji (literary criticism) Hector has already made an indelible mark on literature and deserves the world- wide respect he is now getting.
JahRose (Nthabiseng Jafta) also published her debut book, Rooted from the Heart, making a strong impression too; most importantly showing that young black women can hold their heads high too in the genre of literature. JahRose is well known as a poet, and also went out of her way to produce a beautiful book.
The literary promise of Teboho Masakala – in his very early 20s – has been known for quite some time now, and he has gone some way towards fulfilling his promise by publishing his first book, Mind, Pen and Ideas. Inevitably, the young man needs time to mature even better, but he has also made his name – putting Thaba Nchu on the map!
The year was rounded off with a “veteran” poet and essayist, Raselebeli Khotseng publishing his very first book of poems. The book, titled Hold Back your Tears contains a number of “Magic’s thought provoking poems. So – a remarkable year for Free State Black Writing!
DECEMBER 10 – 16 2010 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Horror! Lesotho boy strangled to death” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
Horror! Lesotho boy strangled to death
By Flaxman Qoopane
The seven year – old boy from Lesotho who was allegedly raped, his neck broken, and put into the pit latrine at Dinaweng Squatter Camps in Mangaung last Friday has been identified as Seabata Moremoholo (7)
His brother Kgosi Moremoholo (8) was also allegedly raped by the rapist; the rapist also burnt the body of Kgosi with matches, sticks, and subsequently an angry mob killed the man known as Lungile Booi.
The mother of the two boys, Dineo Moremoholo told Free State News: “Kgosi(8) and the late Seabata(7) are our sons with my husband Tshehla Moremoholo (34). They are from Mafeteng in Lesotho, they came to visit us in Mangaung in October this year.”
Modiehi Lekometsa (24) from Dinaweng Squatter Camp said; “On Friday at 03:30 early morning while we were asleep with my husband Mokoto Ramonyatsi (36) we heard a knock at our shack, Mokoto went outside and found Kgosi wearing only a T-Shirt full of shit. The smell was unbearable, I went to inform Kgosi’s parents “
Tshehla Moremoholo said “We went to the house of Modiehi we were shocked to find our son in that terrible condition. Kgosi told us that a man named Lungile allegedly raped him and his brother Seabata. He also allegedly burnt their bodies with matches sticks, Kgosi said he left his brother at the house of the rapist, we were very furious.”
After the residents of Dinaweng Squatter Camp heard of the child abuse of the two brothers, they decided to take the law into their hands. Thabo Lesia (30) said: “I saw everything, it was on Friday at 07:00am , the angry mob went to the shack of the suspect and started beating , punching ,kicking and assaulting him. The suspect pointed at the pit latrine where the body of Seabata was found.
The parents of the brothers said; “It pains us lot because our sons came to visit us to be with us during the festive season. The mob stoned the rapist to death and he was slaughtered like an animal.
Lt- Colonel Thandi Mbambo said: “The police discovered two bodies not far from another at the scene. A case of sexual assault and two counts of murder were registered .No one has been arrested and the police are following the leads”
DECEMBER 03 – 09 2010 edition
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Polished Mangaung Artist” By Flaxman Qoopane. Page 2
Reproduced hereunder:
Polished Mangaung artist!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Artist, Tshidi Motsumi (21) from Ipopeng in Mangaung is not an ordinary artist. His works have been exhibited in Belgium and in Britain.
Motsumi told Free State News: “It has been my dream that one day I should exhibit my works abroad. In September 2006, the Free State government sponsored me with another artist Thapelo Mawela, musicians Kaya groups, Peter Nthwane and Kubu Dancers to represent our country in Belgium and Britain, during a cultural exchange programmes with the two countries.
“We were abroad for two weeks to show people in those two countries what the Free State artists could offer them through arts and culture. We exhibited our works, several art-lovers, art-collectors and owners of the art galleries bought some of our works. We exchanged ideas with artists in Belgium and Britain. And we also met some African artists who emigrated abroad. I thank the government for making my dreams a reality!”
In June 2006, Tshidi won R7000 and a certificate during the Annual Youth Commission Premiers Awards held in the Free State. He got position three in the visual arts category. “I was inspired, with the R7000 I bought art-materials and I felt motivated to continue improving my skills”.
He started practicing art professionally in 1999. Motsumi painted art-works that now hang on the walls of companies, hotels, offices and advertising-agencies in the Free State. Most of the time he paints portraits of individuals and also of famous people. His prices are very reasonable and Motsumi also does mural paintings He is best known in Mangaung , Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu to have done the ANC emblem next to the portrait of the ANC President Jacob Zuma. Some ANC members have congratulated him for his works painted on the walls of buildings in Mangaung.
“While I was at Ikaelelo High School in Thaba Nchu, I did a lot of the decorations during the functions. Teachers, students and their parents often asked me to design cards for them during their birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Mothers Day and Father’s Day”. His talent blossomed when he was doing Sub-B at Selosesha Primary School in Thaba Nchu “I was already drawing as a teenager. At school I drew dogs, cats and lions. I also used to draw pictures for my friends and my school mates and they used to give me money and I used to buy fat-cakes”
He says art-centres and art-galleries are needed in our townships “where the artists can share their skills”. Motsumi has also exhibited his works all over the country.
Also:
THE BOOKSHELF (With Kgang Abel Motheane)
THE BOOKSHELF
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Chinua Achebe at 80
This columnist has in the past celebrated the extraordinary legacy of Chinua Achebe, the first black African to write a novel that shook the whole world (Things fall apart)
The world has been celebrating Achebe’s 80th birthday in style and countless lovers of literature have been praising and applauding him for what he has done to put Africa on the world map, imaginatively and intellectually.
In all (over a 30-year period) Achebe produced five world class novels: Apart from Things fall apart (1958) he also wrote No longer at ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964) A man of the people (1966) and Anthills of the Savannah (1987)
Of these works, by far the most famous is of course Things fall apart which even after 50 years has been voted the most illustrious and best African novel ever. As for Achebe himself, so many books and studies have been written and published about him all over the world.
This columnist also wishes Chinua Achebe a wonderful Birthday and many years more…
Friday, November 26, 2010
FREE STATE NEWS (November 2010 editions)
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 celebrated its 10th year anniversary last year). 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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
M.D Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
NOVEMBER 26 – DECEMBER 2 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “A great Cherry Festival unfurls!”
Reproduced hereunder:
A great Cherry Festival unfurls!
…Ficksburg comes alive again…
Ficksburg has done it again! The latest edition of the world famous Cherry Festival has come and gone in devastating fashion; with a pot-pourri of special events to mark the occasion.
Cllr Mbothoma Maduna, Mayor- Setsoto Municipality, was in fine fettle and addressed the world, wishing for a Magnificent 2010 Cherry Festival. He said: “Welcome to the 2010 Cherry Festival. The Festival provides the Municipality with an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our community and also to showcase our town in a manner that gives me great pleasure — all our visitors and investors are most welcome to experience and enjoy our hospitality.
“We are extremely proud and excited to see the Festival go from strength to strength every year as more event organisers become involved and the quality of the events produced gets better. All this makes us, as the Setsoto Municipality, very proud.”
He stressed, significantly: “As the Festival attracts more tourists and investors to our area, it also stimulates the local economy. The stimulation of our economy provides our people with an opportunity to showcase their talents and also to sell and market their products to both local and international tourists. It is indeed a great pleasure for me to convey my heartfelt gratitude to all residents, event organisers, volunteers and everyone involved in ensuring that our Cherry Festival is a success.”
Meanwhile the Setsotho Local Municipal Manager also said: “Setsoto Local Municipality wishes to extend a warm and hearty welcome to all visitors who will transcend to our area in large numbers to take a break and experience the tranquility on offer. Setsoto Municipality and its inhabitant are proud to present another chapter of the Cherry Festival to close the spectacular year of 2010.”
He added: “The festival, like the 2010 Soccer World Cup promises to be one of the best organized events in the calendar of events for South Africa. Experience the best as Setsoto Local Municipality positions itself to be the best/tourism destination, as well as a gateway to ‘Katse Dam’ in Lesotho!”
A great time was had by all!
*Courtesy, News editor
Also:
“The Bookshelf” (Column)
THE BOOKSHELF
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Book: OMOSEYE BOLAJI
By Hector Kunene
Hector Kunene has done it again! The young man bringing quality literature to the Free State, has released his second book titled, OMOSEYE BOLAJI
This book follows on the heels of the fine collection of poems (Through the Tunnel) that marked the debut of Hector as a very promising writer. In his first book he shows his great love for lyrical poems and turns on the style with ease.
In his second book, Hector has produced a fantastic work of literary appreciation and criticism which would be celebrated for many years to come world-wide. It is a world class book that one would normally associate with academics, complete with excellent articles on literature, and a painstaking Bibliography.
In this new book, Hector reproduces dozens of articles on the protagonist Omoseye Bolaji who is a top African writer whose works have been exceedingly evaluated and written about by many critics and admirers over the years. These contributors include the white movie supreme and writer, Aryan Kaganof; Peter Moroe, Flaxman Qoopane, Pule Lechesa, Raphael Mokoena among others.
It is exciting to see how well and vigorously Bolaji’s many fictional works have been dissected in this new book – important books of fiction like Impossible Love, People of the Townships, The ghostly adversary, Tebogo and the Haka, Tebogo and the pantophagist; all are evaluated in this new book of Hector’s.
Like many other literary commentators this columnist is very excited about the new book, OMOSEYE BOLAJI.
NOVEMBER 19 – NOVEMBER 25 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Doctor Shikhibane honoured” By Flaxman Qoopane (Page 2)
Reproduced hereunder:
Doctor Shikhibane honoured
By Flaxman Qoopane
.
The Chief Directorate; FET Colleges and ABET within the Department of Education Free State gave Dr Jigana Joe Shikhibane an award at the Motheo FET College central office in Bloemfontein recently.
Zonia Alexander, the Chief Director; FET Colleges and ABET- Department of Education Free State said; ’The Chief Directorate FET Colleges and ABET awarded a trophy as a token of appreciation and acknowledgement to Dr Jigana Joe Shikhibane, manager- Student Networking and Partnership, Job Placement, Exchange and Wellness Programme from Motheo FET College, for his hard work towards, welfare and accomplishment of student’s success in life. And also acknowledge him officially in his endeavours, and being constantly devoted to bringing hope to the students.’
Dr Shikhibane told Free State News: “I am very happy that the office of the Chief Directorate; FET Colleges and ABET has honoured me. I hope I will work ever harder to devote my work to our students.”
The occasion was also attended by Simon Maboya; Principal of Motheo FET College and Tsatsi Mantso; Deputy Chief Education Specialist FET Colleges.
Dr Shikhibane completed his degree of Bachelor of Education at the University of Fort Hare in 1982..In 1994 he completed a degree in Master in Education at the University of the Orange Free State. In 1997 the same university awarded him a degree in Philosophiae Doctor [PHD] in Psycho- Education.
Dr Shikhibane has represented his country many times abroad. In September 2002, he was invited to consult different poor communities concerning health education in Ceara State, Northeast Brazil. His experience contributed significantly to develop health education programmes in those communities. In September 1995, he visited the Fukuoka University in Japan. During that time he spent a year in Japan. He was involved in HIV/AIDS research course.
In 1996 he visited Vienna for a month. He presented a lecture on HIV/AIDS from Southern Africa. In 1997 he went to Palermo in Italy for eight weeks he was part of the South African delegation attending Universiade [all university internationally]
In the Free State, Dr Shikhibane is very active as a football administrator, and is also an activist in HIV/AIDS related activities and projects.
NOVEMBER 05 – NOVEMBER 11 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Mutilated Body found in Mangaung” By Flaxman Qoopane (Front page)
Reproduced hereunder:
MUTILATED BODY FOUND IN MANGAUNG
…even police in tears at the scene!!!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Stephen Mphole Nakedi (27) was found mutilated in the premises of a church at J B Mafora Block 4 Mangaung on Saturday (October 30, 2010).
His cousin, Samuel Nakedi (38) told Free State News; “My cousin Mphole Nakedi was found early morning of Saturday lying in a pool of blood next to the door of the church- Jesus Never Fails Ministry at J B Mafora Block 4. His head, heart, liver and his private parts were missing – it was a horrific scene”
Nomvuyo Qoloka (27) a resident near the church, said: “At 5:00 am, on Saturday we heard a rumour that a headless body was found at the church. With some of my neighbours we decided to go and look at what was happening at the church. On our arrival the deceased was covered with a white cloth. I noticed police crying, some women fainted and my eyes were filled with tears...”
Mphole's mother, Kedibone Martha Nakedi (58), with her eyes filled with tears said; “Mphole is my last born in the family of four sons and a daughter. We last saw him on Friday at 7:00 pm. My son did not deserve to die the way he died. As family members, of Nakedi we are traumatised by the death of our child. We still can't believe that he was killed like an animal and how could his killer do such a terrible thing to my son? What hurts me the most is that my son had just graduated at Damelin with a Diploma in Electrical Engineering, and he was planning to get a stable job and help his family to survive...”
What does the community say about the horrific death of a promising life? Thabo Leeuw said; “To tell you the honest truth, I am very scared for my life”.
Suzan Motaung said; “I get emotional when one of us is killed. It upset me. We are not safe at all at Ward 10, J B Mafora. The first murder of a youth happened in 2008 just in front of this church, so this time another murder has happened at the same church.”
The other residents are furious. Somebody who did not want to be named said: “We heard that two suspects have been arrested. If the Court of Law will give them bail since we know them, we are going to revenge by killing them”
Captain Harry Nagel from Communication and Liaison Services of SAPS of the Free State confirmed the incident of murder. He said: “Two suspects who mutilated the body of Stephen Nakedi were arrested. And a bag containing the missing body parts namely head, private parts and some of the main organs of the deceased, was found in their possession”
Free State News crew
Publisher
Moses Vinger
Confidential Secretary/Manager
Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”
Editor
Kaya M
News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
M.D Mofokeng
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
NOVEMBER 26 – DECEMBER 2 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “A great Cherry Festival unfurls!”
Reproduced hereunder:
A great Cherry Festival unfurls!
…Ficksburg comes alive again…
Ficksburg has done it again! The latest edition of the world famous Cherry Festival has come and gone in devastating fashion; with a pot-pourri of special events to mark the occasion.
Cllr Mbothoma Maduna, Mayor- Setsoto Municipality, was in fine fettle and addressed the world, wishing for a Magnificent 2010 Cherry Festival. He said: “Welcome to the 2010 Cherry Festival. The Festival provides the Municipality with an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our community and also to showcase our town in a manner that gives me great pleasure — all our visitors and investors are most welcome to experience and enjoy our hospitality.
“We are extremely proud and excited to see the Festival go from strength to strength every year as more event organisers become involved and the quality of the events produced gets better. All this makes us, as the Setsoto Municipality, very proud.”
He stressed, significantly: “As the Festival attracts more tourists and investors to our area, it also stimulates the local economy. The stimulation of our economy provides our people with an opportunity to showcase their talents and also to sell and market their products to both local and international tourists. It is indeed a great pleasure for me to convey my heartfelt gratitude to all residents, event organisers, volunteers and everyone involved in ensuring that our Cherry Festival is a success.”
Meanwhile the Setsotho Local Municipal Manager also said: “Setsoto Local Municipality wishes to extend a warm and hearty welcome to all visitors who will transcend to our area in large numbers to take a break and experience the tranquility on offer. Setsoto Municipality and its inhabitant are proud to present another chapter of the Cherry Festival to close the spectacular year of 2010.”
He added: “The festival, like the 2010 Soccer World Cup promises to be one of the best organized events in the calendar of events for South Africa. Experience the best as Setsoto Local Municipality positions itself to be the best/tourism destination, as well as a gateway to ‘Katse Dam’ in Lesotho!”
A great time was had by all!
*Courtesy, News editor
Also:
“The Bookshelf” (Column)
THE BOOKSHELF
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Book: OMOSEYE BOLAJI
By Hector Kunene
Hector Kunene has done it again! The young man bringing quality literature to the Free State, has released his second book titled, OMOSEYE BOLAJI
This book follows on the heels of the fine collection of poems (Through the Tunnel) that marked the debut of Hector as a very promising writer. In his first book he shows his great love for lyrical poems and turns on the style with ease.
In his second book, Hector has produced a fantastic work of literary appreciation and criticism which would be celebrated for many years to come world-wide. It is a world class book that one would normally associate with academics, complete with excellent articles on literature, and a painstaking Bibliography.
In this new book, Hector reproduces dozens of articles on the protagonist Omoseye Bolaji who is a top African writer whose works have been exceedingly evaluated and written about by many critics and admirers over the years. These contributors include the white movie supreme and writer, Aryan Kaganof; Peter Moroe, Flaxman Qoopane, Pule Lechesa, Raphael Mokoena among others.
It is exciting to see how well and vigorously Bolaji’s many fictional works have been dissected in this new book – important books of fiction like Impossible Love, People of the Townships, The ghostly adversary, Tebogo and the Haka, Tebogo and the pantophagist; all are evaluated in this new book of Hector’s.
Like many other literary commentators this columnist is very excited about the new book, OMOSEYE BOLAJI.
NOVEMBER 19 – NOVEMBER 25 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Doctor Shikhibane honoured” By Flaxman Qoopane (Page 2)
Reproduced hereunder:
Doctor Shikhibane honoured
By Flaxman Qoopane
.
The Chief Directorate; FET Colleges and ABET within the Department of Education Free State gave Dr Jigana Joe Shikhibane an award at the Motheo FET College central office in Bloemfontein recently.
Zonia Alexander, the Chief Director; FET Colleges and ABET- Department of Education Free State said; ’The Chief Directorate FET Colleges and ABET awarded a trophy as a token of appreciation and acknowledgement to Dr Jigana Joe Shikhibane, manager- Student Networking and Partnership, Job Placement, Exchange and Wellness Programme from Motheo FET College, for his hard work towards, welfare and accomplishment of student’s success in life. And also acknowledge him officially in his endeavours, and being constantly devoted to bringing hope to the students.’
Dr Shikhibane told Free State News: “I am very happy that the office of the Chief Directorate; FET Colleges and ABET has honoured me. I hope I will work ever harder to devote my work to our students.”
The occasion was also attended by Simon Maboya; Principal of Motheo FET College and Tsatsi Mantso; Deputy Chief Education Specialist FET Colleges.
Dr Shikhibane completed his degree of Bachelor of Education at the University of Fort Hare in 1982..In 1994 he completed a degree in Master in Education at the University of the Orange Free State. In 1997 the same university awarded him a degree in Philosophiae Doctor [PHD] in Psycho- Education.
Dr Shikhibane has represented his country many times abroad. In September 2002, he was invited to consult different poor communities concerning health education in Ceara State, Northeast Brazil. His experience contributed significantly to develop health education programmes in those communities. In September 1995, he visited the Fukuoka University in Japan. During that time he spent a year in Japan. He was involved in HIV/AIDS research course.
In 1996 he visited Vienna for a month. He presented a lecture on HIV/AIDS from Southern Africa. In 1997 he went to Palermo in Italy for eight weeks he was part of the South African delegation attending Universiade [all university internationally]
In the Free State, Dr Shikhibane is very active as a football administrator, and is also an activist in HIV/AIDS related activities and projects.
NOVEMBER 05 – NOVEMBER 11 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Mutilated Body found in Mangaung” By Flaxman Qoopane (Front page)
Reproduced hereunder:
MUTILATED BODY FOUND IN MANGAUNG
…even police in tears at the scene!!!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Stephen Mphole Nakedi (27) was found mutilated in the premises of a church at J B Mafora Block 4 Mangaung on Saturday (October 30, 2010).
His cousin, Samuel Nakedi (38) told Free State News; “My cousin Mphole Nakedi was found early morning of Saturday lying in a pool of blood next to the door of the church- Jesus Never Fails Ministry at J B Mafora Block 4. His head, heart, liver and his private parts were missing – it was a horrific scene”
Nomvuyo Qoloka (27) a resident near the church, said: “At 5:00 am, on Saturday we heard a rumour that a headless body was found at the church. With some of my neighbours we decided to go and look at what was happening at the church. On our arrival the deceased was covered with a white cloth. I noticed police crying, some women fainted and my eyes were filled with tears...”
Mphole's mother, Kedibone Martha Nakedi (58), with her eyes filled with tears said; “Mphole is my last born in the family of four sons and a daughter. We last saw him on Friday at 7:00 pm. My son did not deserve to die the way he died. As family members, of Nakedi we are traumatised by the death of our child. We still can't believe that he was killed like an animal and how could his killer do such a terrible thing to my son? What hurts me the most is that my son had just graduated at Damelin with a Diploma in Electrical Engineering, and he was planning to get a stable job and help his family to survive...”
What does the community say about the horrific death of a promising life? Thabo Leeuw said; “To tell you the honest truth, I am very scared for my life”.
Suzan Motaung said; “I get emotional when one of us is killed. It upset me. We are not safe at all at Ward 10, J B Mafora. The first murder of a youth happened in 2008 just in front of this church, so this time another murder has happened at the same church.”
The other residents are furious. Somebody who did not want to be named said: “We heard that two suspects have been arrested. If the Court of Law will give them bail since we know them, we are going to revenge by killing them”
Captain Harry Nagel from Communication and Liaison Services of SAPS of the Free State confirmed the incident of murder. He said: “Two suspects who mutilated the body of Stephen Nakedi were arrested. And a bag containing the missing body parts namely head, private parts and some of the main organs of the deceased, was found in their possession”
Friday, October 29, 2010
FREE STATE NEWS (October 2010 editions)
FREE STATE NEWS (October 2010 editions)
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 celebrated its 10th year anniversary last year). 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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
OCTOBER 29 – NOVEMBER 4 2010
TWO SAMPLES: The Bookshelf and Parallax Snaps (Columns)
The Bookshelf
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Book: Contemporary African Women’s Writing
Edited by Yvonne Vera
Zimbabwe is blessed with at least two world class black female writers: Tsitsi Dangarembga, and the late Yvonne Vera. Vera is the editor of this wonderful book of short stories written by black women across the world.
African women are seldom given space to express their concerns, their ideas and their reflections about the societies in which they live. In situations where good women are expected to remain silent, literature can provide an important medium for the expression of deeply felt, and sometimes shocking, views.
In this anthology, the award-winning author, Yvonne Vera brings together the stories of many talented writers from different parts of Africa. They act as witnesses to the dramas of private and public life. Their stories challenge contemporary attitudes and behaviour, leaving no room for complacency.
Contributors include Ama Ata Aidoo, Veronique Tadjo, Farida Karodia, Lindsay Colleen and Sindiwe Mgona.
A woman writer must have an imagination that is plain stubborn, that can invent new gods and banish ineffectual ones. This woman is one of the best writers in Africa and abroad. She has done very well in the field of literature.
Parallax Snaps
With Hector "Poet" Kunene
Preparing to enter the world outside parental guidance
There are necessary tools that must be considered when one plans to leave the roof of their parents. It is imperative at some stage that as a grown up you have to leave home to pursue greener pastures; especially when you have to go for academic purposes in a further land.
There need not to be any pressure in leaving your parents home just because of your age or traditional norms. I was looking at a couple of tools that can come in handy when the time comes to pursue goals outside home, we can almost all agree that what we reflect outside tells more of the kind of upbringing we received. We become mirrors reflecting our background with a sense of who we choose to become.
Respect stands out so far, dignity, maturity, morals, broader-minded in terms of learning to accept other cultures that may vary from yours etc. These are the tools that one needs to survive the world outside home. One still needs to be grounded and not easily influenced. When University life cloaks in, one has to be in the mentality orientated with a working class simply because that is the next step. It is not always a possibility that we turn out to be what our parents taught us to be.
It is every parent’s dream to see their children do well in life, every parent should feel sad when their offspring leaves their home especially when it is on the long term or marriage, thus the hope that the parents have are the morals they instilled in their children for they know that wherever they are they are either represented or misrepresented.
Our children remain the hope of the better people than we are; it is their responsibility to take the flag higher than we did. Coming from humble beginnings I have had to do my best to do better in order to bring great honour to my family and I expect my son to go an extra mile which will make an impact to the community that he will be serving at his time (talking from a parental point of view)
Folks, next week we look at becoming an achiever who remains grounded still!
OCTOBER 22 – OCTOBER 29 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Two Mangaung Brothers die from poison!” By Flaxman Qoopane (Page 2)
Two Mangaung Brothers die from poison!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Two brothers died in a hospital in Mangaung, they allegedly drank something that contains alcohol related substance.
Prof. Samuel Smit – Acting Head of the Clinical Services at Pelonomi Hospital said: “The hospital confirms that two brothers Kaizer Mooko (27) died at our hospital on Saturday 16 October. And his brother Joseph Mooko (32) also died at our hospital early morning of Tuesday 19 October. It is alleged that they drank something that contained alcohol related substance. The matter is Sub-judice and the hospital sends it condolences to the family of the two brothers.
Sobbing mother, Adelina Mooko (59) from J.B. Mafora in Mangaung said: “My son Kaizer Mooko (27) who is my last born in the family of four sons and a daughter, died on Saturday 16 October this year at I.C.U ward at Pelonomi Hospital. My other son Joseph Mooko (32) who is my third born also died on Tuesday 19 October at the I.C.U ward at the same hospital. “I am hurt inside because In July this year I buried my daughter Melita Mooko – Malebo, I am now preparing another funeral of my sons. It is a big tragedy for my family. I am confused.”
Lieffie Mooko (38) the sister of the deceased told Free State News:: “During Macufe Festival on Saturday 9 October my brother Joseph was a part time security during the festival. On Sunday 10 October at 9:00 am he brought at home three silver foils thought to be containing liquor with six bottles of Smirnoff Storm 300ml. He told us that he got the foils and the liquor from a white man who was distributing the presents to people at the festival. So from Sunday 10 October my brothers and a group of people were drinking that liquid and Smirnoff Storms at the traditional ceremony (Phaba Dimo) held at our neighbours.”
According to Lieffie, on Tuesday at 8:30 pm, Kaizer complained of the stomach ache and he started to vomit blood. He behaved like a deeply disturbed person. 0n Wednesday 13 October at 5:00 am, Kaizer was very sick, we called the ambulance and he was rushed to the MUCPPP Hospital, but he was immediately transferred to the Pelonomi Hospital in the ICU ward. And three days later he died. “
Puleng Mooko (27) another relative said: “On Friday 15 October at 9:00 am my cousin Joseph complained of pains in his thighs and suddenly he lost his eye sight. Together with my friend Ntombi Thys (22) we rushed him to Pelonomi Hospital. At the hospital a doctor confirmed to us that Joseph was now blind. We were later told by the doctor that the brain and the kidneys of Joseph were damaged by the poisonous liquid they drank. He was referred to the I.C.U at the hospital where he died three days later.”
Shockingly before we went to press, a third victim had been claimed by the poison. Lazarus Sello Pula (29) sadly died mid-week at the Universitas Hospital in Bloemfontein. The parents are consumed with grief and can not understand why such a tragedy could affect them.
Captain Harry Nagel, Communication and Liaison Services of the SAPS of the Free State said: “The family of the deceased must go to a police station and give a statement regarding these allegations so that it can be investigated. Any other person who witnessed where these items were handed to the deceased or who can maybe identify the person(s) handing over these items. He or she should come forward so that the case can be properly investigated. An inquest will be opened to investigate further what could have caused the death of the deceased based on the report of the doctor.”
OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Winners at Youth Development Project for Schools” By Flaxman Qoopane (Page 2)
Winners at Youth Development Project for Schools
By Flaxman Qoopane
Winners of the Reading – aloud, story telling, public – speaking drama and art competitions, were awarded certificates, medals and a floating trophy during the 2010 Award Ceremony held at Kagisanong Hall in Mangaung at the weekend (Saturday 9 October 2010)
Speaking at the award ceremony organized by the Youth Development Project for Schools, Dr. N.J. Setshego, the manager of the Pelonomi Private Hospital – NETCARE said: “Our first priority as the hospital is our patients, we give them care and a healthy life. We also have a support programme for the Youth Development Project for Schools; this is a great project empowering our learners. We will always support and sponsor this project and the Schools in Mangaung”
Teboho Nathane, a teacher, motivational speaker and academic said: “We need to give the child the time to learn both at home and at the school. We need as parents to motivate or encourage the child to do his/her best say to her/him you can be the best. The main task of the school is to develop, educate and transform the child. Parents must not complain about the school, but they must compliment the School.”
Tebelelo Primary School snatched the floating trophy as the overall winner after defeating nine primary schools. Teacher Nomatyala Novasi told Free State News: “Our School won position one in reading – aloud (Setswana and English) drama, public speaking storytelling, best actor in drama. And position three in storytelling and got position four in a drama, safety jingle. I thank God for the ability, he gave me to unearth talent and skills from these kids.”
Keneilloe Molo (13) Grade 7 learner at Tebelelo Primary School won as the best public speaker for her topic – Poverty is the course of all.
Her proud mother Mpho Faith Molo said: “Keneiloe always want to do positive things. As a mother I always support her. The sky is the limit.”
The Pelonomi Private Hospital Netcare sponsored the occasion with the certificate (28) frames (28) medals (45) trophies (4), PA system, data protector and DVD coverage of the event. Thando Mtshwane – Lepelo PRO of the Interstate Bus Line said: “We support this project; we thank the teachers who planted this seed that the community will benefit. This project produces good public speakers, actors, storytellers, and artists.”
Cultural performances were presented by Nzame Primary School Modern Dance Group, Mabolela Primary School. Ditolobonyane Traditional Group, Safety Jingle drama by Tebelelo Primary School acted their drama don’t spoil him and the Michael Jackson’s Friends.
In conclusion, Tiny Chabane the organizer of the project said he was happy that Netcare, Interstate Bus Line, Shoprite and the Youth Development Project for School enjoy the partnership for developing the learners.
Also:
Parallax Snaps (Column)
With Hector Kunene
Where life leads we tag along!
I had a cracking laughter last week when I was approached on the street by our most valuable readers who asked me if I had returned from Hawaii relating to my column last week “Taking rest at a restless time”!
I did not go to Hawaii, I pondered going to Hawaii! Thanks for this feedback I really had fun getting it.
Where life leads, we indeed tag along. I was looking at how one gets to be where life has led us to be. Is there a designed programme for all of us that somehow channels us to our destiny? There is a lot of planning that comes to mind about where one wants to be in life. We plan a lot about our lives and don’t always get to taste the fruits of our plans, life continues because it just never stops. For the fact that you wake up everyday it means that you have not reached your finish line so you need to push. It is said that PUSH stands for Pray Until Something Happens. Unfortunately it is not all of us who pray so this acronym does not apply to all of us. For those who do not pray let us use Plead Until Something Happen.
Life must be lived to the fullest. We should not cheat ourselves. However we must be careful of anything we decide to do with our lives. Anything we do we plant. There is time to plant and a time to reap. Where life leads, we tag along. The principles we use to live our lives vary due to our school of thoughts, upbringing, and religion influence, or simply peer pressure. We touched on this a while ago yet what I want to emphasise here is that no matter who you are, life has a way of taking you somewhere but it is up to you to decide that you go with or against the wind. Life will always throw challenges, the problem with us is not our problem but our actual problem is the way we look and respond to problems.
Life remains mysterious, thus it is still a great thing to explore. It is a teacher on its own. We come here to fulfil our purposes and make it to our destinies well tested with the challenges that life throws at us. If you have no challenges then you must know there is something wrong with your life! This is just my viewpoint. Whatever life throws at us we need to be able to stand even if the wind blows against our direction, we are strengthened through the problematic phases we come across. It is not because you have a bad luck that you find yourself in unworthy situations. It is because you have the ability to pull through it so don’t let anything harm your image of possibilities but you must tag along life and prove to yourself that life’s common denominator is the value of X that you discover using the correct tested winning formula of life.
Well folks, let us be vigilant and face our challenges which have a tendency of being our stepping stones to where we are destined to be!
OCTOBER 8 – OCTOBER 14 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Manyoni launches Transport Month” By Seleke Botsime (Front page)
MANYONI LAUNCHES TRANSPORT MONTH!!
By Seleke Botsime
The launch of the Transport Month was held at President Hotel in Bloemfontein on Monday this week (Oct 4 2010). Among the illustrious guests were Mayors and councillors including representatives from various media houses and stake holders in the different industry.
The MEC of Police, Roads and Transport, Thabo Manyoni said that they are conscious of the fact that road infrastructure greatly enhances social and economic development. The department is doing everything in their power to make sure that the provincial road infrastructure meets the demands of the 21st Century.
He said that the partnership with SANRAL and Mangaung constructed a splendid N8 Inter charge that made us proud during 2010 FIFA World Cup. The MEC added that they would not forget the rural roads “hence this month we shall showcase the Springfontein –Bethulie road which together with N1; the Naledi Transport Center will also be unveiled this month, and commuters and travellers between RSA and Lesotho will have multi-pronged Transport Centre that integrates taxis and buses.”
Thabo said that some have seen the work that has been started in Bultfontein Road, and they shall alleviate the plight of farm school learners who travel long distances by giving them bicycles. “About 95% of crashes are the result in fatalities that are caused by negligence and sheer disregard of the road signs and regulation. The Minister of Transport Dr Sbu Ndebele has challenged us to stop and inspect 1000 000 vehicles” he exhorted the public that they should not be found on the wrong side.
His last words were that this serves as an invitation that there will be Educational Road block so that the commuters have a feel of what is needed from them.
“This will ensure that road crashes will be greatly minimized and lives are saved,” he pointed out.
OCTOBER 1 – OCTOBER 7 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Electrical tariffs creating conflict” By (Page 2)
ELECTRICAL TARIFFS CREATING CONFLICT
By Neo Mvubu
The Business Chamber of Commerce and Industries in conjunction with Centlec, organised an informal session to discuss electricity tariffs. This discussion took place at the President Hotel in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
According to the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Centlec, Ishmael Poolo, Centlec has come up with a plan to replace the bulk metres with time-of- use-metres. “It is the responsibility of the owners of businesses to install the time of use meters,” he said.
The bulk purchasing discussions arouse a lot of anger among the Body Corporate. The Body Corporate is a group of bulk paying customers, those people that own hotels, lodges and guest houses.
They displayed their concerns regarding the implementation of the new metres and disclosed the following queries:
• The new metres will not help as the Body Corporate will still be billed in bulk
• The Body Corporate do not want to have to install the metres without any incentives being given to them
• The Body Corporate want to be billed as individual members
• The Body Corporate want to know how they will save money and make profit with this new plan
According to Professor Le Roux, the Chairperson of the Waverly Park, “A person who owns his own house is billed individually because everyone has his own metre, but with us as Body Corporate, we pay according to the one metre and we cannot be sure how the amount is divided.” Body Corporate mentioned that they do not make any profit due the bulk metres; they also state that the profit that they make goes back to Centlec.
According to the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Centlec, Ishmael Poolo, the incentives of the time-of-use- metres is that the Body Corporate will save money and will know which time of the day uses more electricity. “Centlec is trying to come up with money and investment to make this plan a success.” He told Free State News
Many people displayed their concerns to Centlec CEO but no clear answers were given. Some of the stakeholders Free State News spoke to claimed that the CEO gave them very vague answers that didn’t bind him to anything. BCCI instead suggested that people send in their queries by e-mail and promised to return to them as soon as they have contacted the relevant people.
Also:
The Bookshelf
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Selosesha Public Library in Selosesha, Thaba Nchu came alive on 22 September 2010 with the launch of two books on a memorable day in the old town.
Teboho Masakala, a highly talented young writer of fiction launched his book called Mind Pen, Paper and ideas while Dimakatso Mogashoa, perhaps the youngest author in the history of the Free State launched her book called Diary of a confused teenage girl,
Among the guests were Mr Hector Kunene, yours truly (Ntate Motheane), Mr Flaxman Qoopane, Seleke Botsime, Jah Rose and others. Teboho Masakala’s book has six powerful short stories, beautiful and touching. The community of Thaba Nchu came out in numbers to support the first ever book launch in Thaba Nchu. Dimakatso’s book, Diary of a confused teenage girl is a beautiful book of poems, didactic, and touching.
The two books are a must-read for everyone. Stories to look out for in Teboho Masakala’s book are Friend, My enemy, A lesson by life, I thought I found love and the hit story The other side of love; while in Dimakatso’s book you can look out for poems such as Hunger for more, HIV/AIDS and Diary of confused girl
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 celebrated its 10th year anniversary last year). 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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
OCTOBER 29 – NOVEMBER 4 2010
TWO SAMPLES: The Bookshelf and Parallax Snaps (Columns)
The Bookshelf
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Book: Contemporary African Women’s Writing
Edited by Yvonne Vera
Zimbabwe is blessed with at least two world class black female writers: Tsitsi Dangarembga, and the late Yvonne Vera. Vera is the editor of this wonderful book of short stories written by black women across the world.
African women are seldom given space to express their concerns, their ideas and their reflections about the societies in which they live. In situations where good women are expected to remain silent, literature can provide an important medium for the expression of deeply felt, and sometimes shocking, views.
In this anthology, the award-winning author, Yvonne Vera brings together the stories of many talented writers from different parts of Africa. They act as witnesses to the dramas of private and public life. Their stories challenge contemporary attitudes and behaviour, leaving no room for complacency.
Contributors include Ama Ata Aidoo, Veronique Tadjo, Farida Karodia, Lindsay Colleen and Sindiwe Mgona.
A woman writer must have an imagination that is plain stubborn, that can invent new gods and banish ineffectual ones. This woman is one of the best writers in Africa and abroad. She has done very well in the field of literature.
Parallax Snaps
With Hector "Poet" Kunene
Preparing to enter the world outside parental guidance
There are necessary tools that must be considered when one plans to leave the roof of their parents. It is imperative at some stage that as a grown up you have to leave home to pursue greener pastures; especially when you have to go for academic purposes in a further land.
There need not to be any pressure in leaving your parents home just because of your age or traditional norms. I was looking at a couple of tools that can come in handy when the time comes to pursue goals outside home, we can almost all agree that what we reflect outside tells more of the kind of upbringing we received. We become mirrors reflecting our background with a sense of who we choose to become.
Respect stands out so far, dignity, maturity, morals, broader-minded in terms of learning to accept other cultures that may vary from yours etc. These are the tools that one needs to survive the world outside home. One still needs to be grounded and not easily influenced. When University life cloaks in, one has to be in the mentality orientated with a working class simply because that is the next step. It is not always a possibility that we turn out to be what our parents taught us to be.
It is every parent’s dream to see their children do well in life, every parent should feel sad when their offspring leaves their home especially when it is on the long term or marriage, thus the hope that the parents have are the morals they instilled in their children for they know that wherever they are they are either represented or misrepresented.
Our children remain the hope of the better people than we are; it is their responsibility to take the flag higher than we did. Coming from humble beginnings I have had to do my best to do better in order to bring great honour to my family and I expect my son to go an extra mile which will make an impact to the community that he will be serving at his time (talking from a parental point of view)
Folks, next week we look at becoming an achiever who remains grounded still!
OCTOBER 22 – OCTOBER 29 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Two Mangaung Brothers die from poison!” By Flaxman Qoopane (Page 2)
Two Mangaung Brothers die from poison!
By Flaxman Qoopane
Two brothers died in a hospital in Mangaung, they allegedly drank something that contains alcohol related substance.
Prof. Samuel Smit – Acting Head of the Clinical Services at Pelonomi Hospital said: “The hospital confirms that two brothers Kaizer Mooko (27) died at our hospital on Saturday 16 October. And his brother Joseph Mooko (32) also died at our hospital early morning of Tuesday 19 October. It is alleged that they drank something that contained alcohol related substance. The matter is Sub-judice and the hospital sends it condolences to the family of the two brothers.
Sobbing mother, Adelina Mooko (59) from J.B. Mafora in Mangaung said: “My son Kaizer Mooko (27) who is my last born in the family of four sons and a daughter, died on Saturday 16 October this year at I.C.U ward at Pelonomi Hospital. My other son Joseph Mooko (32) who is my third born also died on Tuesday 19 October at the I.C.U ward at the same hospital. “I am hurt inside because In July this year I buried my daughter Melita Mooko – Malebo, I am now preparing another funeral of my sons. It is a big tragedy for my family. I am confused.”
Lieffie Mooko (38) the sister of the deceased told Free State News:: “During Macufe Festival on Saturday 9 October my brother Joseph was a part time security during the festival. On Sunday 10 October at 9:00 am he brought at home three silver foils thought to be containing liquor with six bottles of Smirnoff Storm 300ml. He told us that he got the foils and the liquor from a white man who was distributing the presents to people at the festival. So from Sunday 10 October my brothers and a group of people were drinking that liquid and Smirnoff Storms at the traditional ceremony (Phaba Dimo) held at our neighbours.”
According to Lieffie, on Tuesday at 8:30 pm, Kaizer complained of the stomach ache and he started to vomit blood. He behaved like a deeply disturbed person. 0n Wednesday 13 October at 5:00 am, Kaizer was very sick, we called the ambulance and he was rushed to the MUCPPP Hospital, but he was immediately transferred to the Pelonomi Hospital in the ICU ward. And three days later he died. “
Puleng Mooko (27) another relative said: “On Friday 15 October at 9:00 am my cousin Joseph complained of pains in his thighs and suddenly he lost his eye sight. Together with my friend Ntombi Thys (22) we rushed him to Pelonomi Hospital. At the hospital a doctor confirmed to us that Joseph was now blind. We were later told by the doctor that the brain and the kidneys of Joseph were damaged by the poisonous liquid they drank. He was referred to the I.C.U at the hospital where he died three days later.”
Shockingly before we went to press, a third victim had been claimed by the poison. Lazarus Sello Pula (29) sadly died mid-week at the Universitas Hospital in Bloemfontein. The parents are consumed with grief and can not understand why such a tragedy could affect them.
Captain Harry Nagel, Communication and Liaison Services of the SAPS of the Free State said: “The family of the deceased must go to a police station and give a statement regarding these allegations so that it can be investigated. Any other person who witnessed where these items were handed to the deceased or who can maybe identify the person(s) handing over these items. He or she should come forward so that the case can be properly investigated. An inquest will be opened to investigate further what could have caused the death of the deceased based on the report of the doctor.”
OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Winners at Youth Development Project for Schools” By Flaxman Qoopane (Page 2)
Winners at Youth Development Project for Schools
By Flaxman Qoopane
Winners of the Reading – aloud, story telling, public – speaking drama and art competitions, were awarded certificates, medals and a floating trophy during the 2010 Award Ceremony held at Kagisanong Hall in Mangaung at the weekend (Saturday 9 October 2010)
Speaking at the award ceremony organized by the Youth Development Project for Schools, Dr. N.J. Setshego, the manager of the Pelonomi Private Hospital – NETCARE said: “Our first priority as the hospital is our patients, we give them care and a healthy life. We also have a support programme for the Youth Development Project for Schools; this is a great project empowering our learners. We will always support and sponsor this project and the Schools in Mangaung”
Teboho Nathane, a teacher, motivational speaker and academic said: “We need to give the child the time to learn both at home and at the school. We need as parents to motivate or encourage the child to do his/her best say to her/him you can be the best. The main task of the school is to develop, educate and transform the child. Parents must not complain about the school, but they must compliment the School.”
Tebelelo Primary School snatched the floating trophy as the overall winner after defeating nine primary schools. Teacher Nomatyala Novasi told Free State News: “Our School won position one in reading – aloud (Setswana and English) drama, public speaking storytelling, best actor in drama. And position three in storytelling and got position four in a drama, safety jingle. I thank God for the ability, he gave me to unearth talent and skills from these kids.”
Keneilloe Molo (13) Grade 7 learner at Tebelelo Primary School won as the best public speaker for her topic – Poverty is the course of all.
Her proud mother Mpho Faith Molo said: “Keneiloe always want to do positive things. As a mother I always support her. The sky is the limit.”
The Pelonomi Private Hospital Netcare sponsored the occasion with the certificate (28) frames (28) medals (45) trophies (4), PA system, data protector and DVD coverage of the event. Thando Mtshwane – Lepelo PRO of the Interstate Bus Line said: “We support this project; we thank the teachers who planted this seed that the community will benefit. This project produces good public speakers, actors, storytellers, and artists.”
Cultural performances were presented by Nzame Primary School Modern Dance Group, Mabolela Primary School. Ditolobonyane Traditional Group, Safety Jingle drama by Tebelelo Primary School acted their drama don’t spoil him and the Michael Jackson’s Friends.
In conclusion, Tiny Chabane the organizer of the project said he was happy that Netcare, Interstate Bus Line, Shoprite and the Youth Development Project for School enjoy the partnership for developing the learners.
Also:
Parallax Snaps (Column)
With Hector Kunene
Where life leads we tag along!
I had a cracking laughter last week when I was approached on the street by our most valuable readers who asked me if I had returned from Hawaii relating to my column last week “Taking rest at a restless time”!
I did not go to Hawaii, I pondered going to Hawaii! Thanks for this feedback I really had fun getting it.
Where life leads, we indeed tag along. I was looking at how one gets to be where life has led us to be. Is there a designed programme for all of us that somehow channels us to our destiny? There is a lot of planning that comes to mind about where one wants to be in life. We plan a lot about our lives and don’t always get to taste the fruits of our plans, life continues because it just never stops. For the fact that you wake up everyday it means that you have not reached your finish line so you need to push. It is said that PUSH stands for Pray Until Something Happens. Unfortunately it is not all of us who pray so this acronym does not apply to all of us. For those who do not pray let us use Plead Until Something Happen.
Life must be lived to the fullest. We should not cheat ourselves. However we must be careful of anything we decide to do with our lives. Anything we do we plant. There is time to plant and a time to reap. Where life leads, we tag along. The principles we use to live our lives vary due to our school of thoughts, upbringing, and religion influence, or simply peer pressure. We touched on this a while ago yet what I want to emphasise here is that no matter who you are, life has a way of taking you somewhere but it is up to you to decide that you go with or against the wind. Life will always throw challenges, the problem with us is not our problem but our actual problem is the way we look and respond to problems.
Life remains mysterious, thus it is still a great thing to explore. It is a teacher on its own. We come here to fulfil our purposes and make it to our destinies well tested with the challenges that life throws at us. If you have no challenges then you must know there is something wrong with your life! This is just my viewpoint. Whatever life throws at us we need to be able to stand even if the wind blows against our direction, we are strengthened through the problematic phases we come across. It is not because you have a bad luck that you find yourself in unworthy situations. It is because you have the ability to pull through it so don’t let anything harm your image of possibilities but you must tag along life and prove to yourself that life’s common denominator is the value of X that you discover using the correct tested winning formula of life.
Well folks, let us be vigilant and face our challenges which have a tendency of being our stepping stones to where we are destined to be!
OCTOBER 8 – OCTOBER 14 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Manyoni launches Transport Month” By Seleke Botsime (Front page)
MANYONI LAUNCHES TRANSPORT MONTH!!
By Seleke Botsime
The launch of the Transport Month was held at President Hotel in Bloemfontein on Monday this week (Oct 4 2010). Among the illustrious guests were Mayors and councillors including representatives from various media houses and stake holders in the different industry.
The MEC of Police, Roads and Transport, Thabo Manyoni said that they are conscious of the fact that road infrastructure greatly enhances social and economic development. The department is doing everything in their power to make sure that the provincial road infrastructure meets the demands of the 21st Century.
He said that the partnership with SANRAL and Mangaung constructed a splendid N8 Inter charge that made us proud during 2010 FIFA World Cup. The MEC added that they would not forget the rural roads “hence this month we shall showcase the Springfontein –Bethulie road which together with N1; the Naledi Transport Center will also be unveiled this month, and commuters and travellers between RSA and Lesotho will have multi-pronged Transport Centre that integrates taxis and buses.”
Thabo said that some have seen the work that has been started in Bultfontein Road, and they shall alleviate the plight of farm school learners who travel long distances by giving them bicycles. “About 95% of crashes are the result in fatalities that are caused by negligence and sheer disregard of the road signs and regulation. The Minister of Transport Dr Sbu Ndebele has challenged us to stop and inspect 1000 000 vehicles” he exhorted the public that they should not be found on the wrong side.
His last words were that this serves as an invitation that there will be Educational Road block so that the commuters have a feel of what is needed from them.
“This will ensure that road crashes will be greatly minimized and lives are saved,” he pointed out.
OCTOBER 1 – OCTOBER 7 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Electrical tariffs creating conflict” By (Page 2)
ELECTRICAL TARIFFS CREATING CONFLICT
By Neo Mvubu
The Business Chamber of Commerce and Industries in conjunction with Centlec, organised an informal session to discuss electricity tariffs. This discussion took place at the President Hotel in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
According to the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Centlec, Ishmael Poolo, Centlec has come up with a plan to replace the bulk metres with time-of- use-metres. “It is the responsibility of the owners of businesses to install the time of use meters,” he said.
The bulk purchasing discussions arouse a lot of anger among the Body Corporate. The Body Corporate is a group of bulk paying customers, those people that own hotels, lodges and guest houses.
They displayed their concerns regarding the implementation of the new metres and disclosed the following queries:
• The new metres will not help as the Body Corporate will still be billed in bulk
• The Body Corporate do not want to have to install the metres without any incentives being given to them
• The Body Corporate want to be billed as individual members
• The Body Corporate want to know how they will save money and make profit with this new plan
According to Professor Le Roux, the Chairperson of the Waverly Park, “A person who owns his own house is billed individually because everyone has his own metre, but with us as Body Corporate, we pay according to the one metre and we cannot be sure how the amount is divided.” Body Corporate mentioned that they do not make any profit due the bulk metres; they also state that the profit that they make goes back to Centlec.
According to the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Centlec, Ishmael Poolo, the incentives of the time-of-use- metres is that the Body Corporate will save money and will know which time of the day uses more electricity. “Centlec is trying to come up with money and investment to make this plan a success.” He told Free State News
Many people displayed their concerns to Centlec CEO but no clear answers were given. Some of the stakeholders Free State News spoke to claimed that the CEO gave them very vague answers that didn’t bind him to anything. BCCI instead suggested that people send in their queries by e-mail and promised to return to them as soon as they have contacted the relevant people.
Also:
The Bookshelf
With Kgang Abel Motheane
Selosesha Public Library in Selosesha, Thaba Nchu came alive on 22 September 2010 with the launch of two books on a memorable day in the old town.
Teboho Masakala, a highly talented young writer of fiction launched his book called Mind Pen, Paper and ideas while Dimakatso Mogashoa, perhaps the youngest author in the history of the Free State launched her book called Diary of a confused teenage girl,
Among the guests were Mr Hector Kunene, yours truly (Ntate Motheane), Mr Flaxman Qoopane, Seleke Botsime, Jah Rose and others. Teboho Masakala’s book has six powerful short stories, beautiful and touching. The community of Thaba Nchu came out in numbers to support the first ever book launch in Thaba Nchu. Dimakatso’s book, Diary of a confused teenage girl is a beautiful book of poems, didactic, and touching.
The two books are a must-read for everyone. Stories to look out for in Teboho Masakala’s book are Friend, My enemy, A lesson by life, I thought I found love and the hit story The other side of love; while in Dimakatso’s book you can look out for poems such as Hunger for more, HIV/AIDS and Diary of confused girl
Monday, September 27, 2010
FREE STATE NEWS (September 2010 editions)
FREE STATE NEWS (September 2010 editions)
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 celebrated its 10th year anniversary last year). 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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
SEPTEMBER 24 – SEPTEMBER 30 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Naledi Mayor ‘Makitle’ at the helm!” By S Botsime (Page 2)
Naledi Mayor “Makitle” at the helm!!!
Seleke Botsime
The Inauguration of the Mayor of Naledi, Mr Johnny John Mokitle was hosted with panache, with general excitement around, last Friday. The occasion was held at Wepenaar High. The programme director was Mr Mahloko who welcomed everyone who attended the function, including the councillor from different opposition parties and even councillors from as far as Mantsopa.
He called on the Reverend to grace the occasion with a prayer and the scripture that was read was from Genesis 7:1.The message was to the effect that being a leader, one is bound to have enemies irrespective of how hard one tries to be in the eyes of the community. The message to the new mayor was that he must learn not to burn the bridges as he might need them.
Thereafter, the podium was given to Mr. Thatho Mazingwana who thanked everyone including the mayor, Chief whip Mpho Gift Tladi, Ntate Sello Ntsepe and Mr Moeketsi Tshoeu and others. He said that it is very important that people should respect the occasion as the day marked a beginning of another milestone. Mr Mokgothu was called to swear in the Mayor in his capacity as the Magistrate of Motheo. The new mayor was asked to raise his right hand and was sworn in in front of the entire guests who would act as witnesses for the occasion. .
When Mr Makitle finally delivered his speech he thanked all those who supported him through the hard times and most of the entire almighty since anything is possible with Him. He asked for a moment of silence for all those who have passed on, and said that God determines who lives or dies. “We manage to see hope when people go to the polling station to vote for the parties that they believe will make change in their life and through our understanding we have realised that we shall overcome.” He added that some of the challenges that Naledi is faced with include shortage of electricity, joblessness and poverty “but in time all will be overcome”.
He stressed that it is the responsibility of everyone who has been nominated to lead the people, to fight for change and to create a better life for all. His last words were that he will surround himself with people who have vision. He also thanked his parents who had been pillars of support for him.
Councillor Tshwene from COPE said that he was very impressed that Mayor Makitle is the new mayor of Naledi as they have a good working track record with him at Cope. “On behalf of my party we support the new Mayor whole heartedly and we thank everyone who graced this occasion”.
Also:
Parallax Snaps
With Hector Kunene
POETRY AT PACOFS IN FULL SWING!
Thursday nights at 18h00 at Pacofs have suddenly changed the atmosphere in the genre of written and spoken word as the sessions heat up night in and night out!
Evidently so the gatherings have seen full house and no empty chairs for the past weeks since the opening and the number is estimated to rise from 120 guests to higher escalation. You may ask yourself the reason behind such a turn up and you might think that the spectators are growing; only to realize that it is the artists themselves who have graced and supported their own materials and perfected their crafts.
The Lesedi Jazz Room is always packed to the rafters! As a result there is a possibility of the show being moved to a bigger venue. It’s all about lights, cameras, microphones, drums, violin, guitars, keyboard, pen and paper and action that has brought the artists in the Free State together doing their own thing at their own time for their own benefits. Just when you think you have heard poetry, then comes melodic tunes; whilst still recuperating from that you are smashed with Ragga beats and Soul Music. Before you even think of leaving the venue, they announce that De la zee will perform next and you wonder if you will still get a taxi home! Already Mandela and Zito (De la zee band) has a flock of fans who have embraced their gifts of music and the hit songs like Jamani uyayidlinyama, Va-va vo-om and Dirurubele.
The session has invited and seen the likes of David Wa Mahlamela who has won himself a crowd after winning several poetry awards and has been seen several times on television screens. Some of the local artists that are making a huge mark in this industry will be the likes of Jah- Rose who will be launching her book next week (On the 30th September) at the same venue in Pacofs. The book is called Rooted from the heart. This must be a thriller as Jah- Rose says: “I have finally delivered after being pregnant for 6 years” which of-course she means that it took her 6 years before she released her first Anthology which promises to make an impact locally and internationally.
Just when you think you have tasted all the flavors of the night then comes Itumeleng Modise who does stand up comedy to its core and justice. He will leave you falling of your seats; as a result, I always hold on to mine and somehow I find myself standing and laughing out loud!! This comedian has a potential to break through the barriers of uncertainties as he has taken Free State by storm, months ago he was seen performing at Un- Invited guests that is an annual standup Comedy which features the well known Trevor Noah and Kagiso of Pure Monati Show.
The mesmerizing Sotho combined pieces of Kwazi will leave you gulping for air after he has done his famous “Simatla” and Ke rata basadi poems to mention a few. He takes you back to Qwa qwa as he is a proud Sotho speaking poet. The Star Naledi and Icebound run the show with their smooth operation that sees a quality registration process for artist to perform on the night. (Cappucino ) Hamilton Pieterson on the other side serves all artists with paperwork and registration and putting order in the house.
The entrance is free for all; so come and see this masterpiece show of the magnificent talents of the likes of Psychotherapy, Shila, Black milk crew, Big-Bucks, CAPPUCINO, Rethabile, Dee, Bonolo, Nasty, etc. the list is endless.
Everyone is invited to perform as this is an open mic session.
Folks I gotta pen down with love.
SEPTEMBER 17 – SEPTEMBER 23 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Minister revels in Correctional Services fete” By F (page 2)
Reproduced below:
Minister revels in Correctional Services fete
By F Qoopane
Honourable Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, the Minister of Correctional Services attended the Certificate Award Ceremony for 498 offenders at the Mangaung Correctional Centre in Bloemfontein on Tuesday this week (4 September 2010)
The Minister herself received the Honour of Liberty Awards 2010 from the Centre. This was to honour her for advocating the development of young offenders in all the prisons in the country
The Minister congratulated all the offenders who received 198 certificates in Kha Ri Gude programmes, Abet level 4, Grade 12 NQFLZ. And also other offenders who received 750 certificates in courses in Vocational skills Development programmes. These courses included woodwork, basic computer skills, horticulture etc.
She thanked the management for the seriousness they are attaching to issues of education and congratulated the Centre on receiving various awards including the Nosa Audit-Five Star rating awards in 2009 and 2010.
When addressing the offenders, the Minister said: “I’d like to talk to you as a mother, I have four sons, I don’t talk to you from a position of a Minister when you are here, your mothers at home they don’t sleep; they worry about you. Some of your relatives, they don’t want to visit you, they say they don’t want to do anything with you,”
“Our priorities include desiring a list of the offenders who have not been visited by their families. We want them to visit you and give you full support while you are here,”
According to the Minister, this month her Ministry will launch the Offenders Labour Framework. This will enable all offenders to be involved in Offender labour, and make a contribution to the society.
The Minister further said her office has received bad news that a priest was stabbed with a knife by one of the offenders. “Attacks on nurses and clergies here are a matter of concern, because these are the people who give you care. It is totally unacceptable for you to do sad bad behaviour”
Also:
PARALLAX SNAPS
With Hector Kunene
Pax Nova Hall reverberates!
It was a palpitating event in Bloemfontein this past Sunday (13 September 2010) as the comrades and fellow supporters gathered to commemorate the fallen hero leader of the Black Consciousness Movement, Steve Bantu Biko.
The event was organized by the Steve Biko 33rd Anniversary Commemoration Committee / Mangaung and spearheaded by Ngane yesizwe Sout. The slogans and songs chanted during the commemoration brought back the memories of the core meaning of what the struggle was all about. Although the battle continues as the emphasis were made by different speakers who took center stage and delivered their prepared and unprepared monologues and dialogues, from roots of poetry with drums and guitars to written and spoken words of wisdom.
The cultural icons that graced the events are the likes of the well known activist and writer Mr. Flaxman Qoopane who recited a powerful poem about the death of Biko. He also gave a speech which shook the house about his activism and the experience that saw him being exiled. Qoopane also brought along the famous gallery to embrace and commemorate the fallen soldier. It was emphasized by the comrades that we should never by any means forget the meaningful gesture that resulted in the death of Biko.
“The most potent weapon in the hands of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed” Steve Biko said. Shockingly, the man who made the revolutionary movement Black Consciousness was a young man who was born in 1946 and died in 1977 just after the Soweto student uprising 1976. Biko was brutally murdered and his blood did not dry on the ground without a revolutionary impact. He was only 31 years young when he fell - which means he had been fighting from an early ripening age.
The challenge now remains with the current generation whether this event will be graced or disgraced. Some of the well known artists around Free State who gracefully delivered their support were guitarist Seleke Botsime who sang a revolutionary song, Mr. Magic Khotseng who led a song Senzeni na? and shot through the roof with an inspiring piece of poetry together with the likes of Serame “Icebound” Makhele, the forefront man of the poetry sessions at Pacofs who rendered a piece alongside fellow comrade Zito,
Jah- Rose stood out for the women and proved once again that when we come together for a common goal, gender loses its power, and yours truly myself with a piece inspired not just by an event, but by an act to bring about change. Further information about Steve Biko is well recorded in The Black Consciousness Movement website.
I salute you folks!
SEPTEMBER 10 – SEPTEMBER 16 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Marathon gets people energized” By Neo Mvubu (Front page)
Reproduced below:
MARATHON GETS PEOPLE ENERGISED
By Neo Mvubu
Many provinces have had their fair share of marathons and now the Liberation Route Marathon in the Free State will be the first of its kind. The 65km race scheduled for next month is expected to generate a great deal of excitement.
The Liberation Route Marathon was organised by Umendo Trading in partnership with Izindwe Marketing and My Arts Lifestyle.
According to Khaya Mntsantsa, the Project Manager, this will put the province back on the map once again. The race will take place on the 17th of October, starting from Thaba Nchu and ending in Bloemfontein at the Seisa Ramabodu Stadium.
The N8 route has a very significant importance as “its history can be traced as far back as during the difaqane wars,” said Mntsantsa. He added by saying that King Moshoeshoe, Sekonyela and others used the route and that it is the route that has linked two nations, Lesotho and South Africa.
To date, there are 2300 participants who will be entering the race. Many are experienced runners while others are novices in marathon running. Those that will be coming from far off places will be accommodated at various hotels from around and within Bloemfontein such as Naledi Sun, Baines game lodge and Bloemspa Lodge.
There will be transportation for the athletes such as Mango and Avis that will take them from rather distant destinations. There will also be transportation that will take the athletes to and from their hotels, so there won’t be any problems in that regard.
Free State News learnt that there are many sponsors that have invested in the project, SAB, Coke, Sanlam and a few government departments have invested large amounts to see the success of this event. The winners of the 65km race will get R30 000, the 10km race winner will receive R5000. People are encouraged to participate in the race as this race will help bring athletics and other sports on the same level as soccer.
David Koloane, a well known marathon runner said that he is happy to see that the government has lent a helping hand in the investment of athletics. He said that for many years other sports found it hard to get sponsors whereas soccer found prominence. The Liberation Marathon, he said, will help boost the morale of different types of sports.
SEPTEMBER 03 – SEPTEMBER 09 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Celebrating the life of Steve Biko” By S Botsime (Page 2)
Reproduced below:
Celebrating the life of Steve Biko
By S Botsime
September 12, 2010 will be thirty three years since Steve Biko, the founder of the Black Consciousness philosophy in South Africa, was assassinated in Pretoria.
In a special tribute to Steve Biko and to rekindle and remind the people of Mangaung and Free State of his contribution to the understanding of oppression and the forces of oppression, Steve Biko 33rd Anniversary Commemoration Committee/Mangaung is organizing an activity next week Sunday at the Pax Nova Hall at Bochabela.
Biko left us with a simple task, says Masilonyae Lefuo, one of the organizers of the event. “As the ultimate teacher of the nature and the art of oppression, he left us with the task of carrying the torch. His message was clear and unambiguous. We have the benefit of his life work of scholarly activism, which can be used by the working people to cut through the maze of the politics of race that consume our societies.”
He continued: “Today, more than at any other time in history, our people, the working people can begin anew to engage the new phase of the struggle for transformation. To this end, we encourage the self-mobilization of activities across the province”.
The commemoration will be held under the theme: “Steve Biko: Racial Unity, Resistance and Transformation.” It starts at 1pm. The Steve Biko 33rd Anniversary Committee/Mangaung can be contacted as follows: Fikile Qithi, 079 815 8845, Masilonyane Lefuo, 072 59 1036, Reverend Thamni Khani, 083 422 4138, Peter Maloro, 082 944 5229
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 celebrated its 10th year anniversary last year). 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
News Desk
S. Botsime
Neo Mvubu
Contributors
Flaxman Qoopane
Office Assistant
Gavin Ignitius
Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang
Contact number:
051 447 1655
SEPTEMBER 24 – SEPTEMBER 30 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Naledi Mayor ‘Makitle’ at the helm!” By S Botsime (Page 2)
Naledi Mayor “Makitle” at the helm!!!
Seleke Botsime
The Inauguration of the Mayor of Naledi, Mr Johnny John Mokitle was hosted with panache, with general excitement around, last Friday. The occasion was held at Wepenaar High. The programme director was Mr Mahloko who welcomed everyone who attended the function, including the councillor from different opposition parties and even councillors from as far as Mantsopa.
He called on the Reverend to grace the occasion with a prayer and the scripture that was read was from Genesis 7:1.The message was to the effect that being a leader, one is bound to have enemies irrespective of how hard one tries to be in the eyes of the community. The message to the new mayor was that he must learn not to burn the bridges as he might need them.
Thereafter, the podium was given to Mr. Thatho Mazingwana who thanked everyone including the mayor, Chief whip Mpho Gift Tladi, Ntate Sello Ntsepe and Mr Moeketsi Tshoeu and others. He said that it is very important that people should respect the occasion as the day marked a beginning of another milestone. Mr Mokgothu was called to swear in the Mayor in his capacity as the Magistrate of Motheo. The new mayor was asked to raise his right hand and was sworn in in front of the entire guests who would act as witnesses for the occasion. .
When Mr Makitle finally delivered his speech he thanked all those who supported him through the hard times and most of the entire almighty since anything is possible with Him. He asked for a moment of silence for all those who have passed on, and said that God determines who lives or dies. “We manage to see hope when people go to the polling station to vote for the parties that they believe will make change in their life and through our understanding we have realised that we shall overcome.” He added that some of the challenges that Naledi is faced with include shortage of electricity, joblessness and poverty “but in time all will be overcome”.
He stressed that it is the responsibility of everyone who has been nominated to lead the people, to fight for change and to create a better life for all. His last words were that he will surround himself with people who have vision. He also thanked his parents who had been pillars of support for him.
Councillor Tshwene from COPE said that he was very impressed that Mayor Makitle is the new mayor of Naledi as they have a good working track record with him at Cope. “On behalf of my party we support the new Mayor whole heartedly and we thank everyone who graced this occasion”.
Also:
Parallax Snaps
With Hector Kunene
POETRY AT PACOFS IN FULL SWING!
Thursday nights at 18h00 at Pacofs have suddenly changed the atmosphere in the genre of written and spoken word as the sessions heat up night in and night out!
Evidently so the gatherings have seen full house and no empty chairs for the past weeks since the opening and the number is estimated to rise from 120 guests to higher escalation. You may ask yourself the reason behind such a turn up and you might think that the spectators are growing; only to realize that it is the artists themselves who have graced and supported their own materials and perfected their crafts.
The Lesedi Jazz Room is always packed to the rafters! As a result there is a possibility of the show being moved to a bigger venue. It’s all about lights, cameras, microphones, drums, violin, guitars, keyboard, pen and paper and action that has brought the artists in the Free State together doing their own thing at their own time for their own benefits. Just when you think you have heard poetry, then comes melodic tunes; whilst still recuperating from that you are smashed with Ragga beats and Soul Music. Before you even think of leaving the venue, they announce that De la zee will perform next and you wonder if you will still get a taxi home! Already Mandela and Zito (De la zee band) has a flock of fans who have embraced their gifts of music and the hit songs like Jamani uyayidlinyama, Va-va vo-om and Dirurubele.
The session has invited and seen the likes of David Wa Mahlamela who has won himself a crowd after winning several poetry awards and has been seen several times on television screens. Some of the local artists that are making a huge mark in this industry will be the likes of Jah- Rose who will be launching her book next week (On the 30th September) at the same venue in Pacofs. The book is called Rooted from the heart. This must be a thriller as Jah- Rose says: “I have finally delivered after being pregnant for 6 years” which of-course she means that it took her 6 years before she released her first Anthology which promises to make an impact locally and internationally.
Just when you think you have tasted all the flavors of the night then comes Itumeleng Modise who does stand up comedy to its core and justice. He will leave you falling of your seats; as a result, I always hold on to mine and somehow I find myself standing and laughing out loud!! This comedian has a potential to break through the barriers of uncertainties as he has taken Free State by storm, months ago he was seen performing at Un- Invited guests that is an annual standup Comedy which features the well known Trevor Noah and Kagiso of Pure Monati Show.
The mesmerizing Sotho combined pieces of Kwazi will leave you gulping for air after he has done his famous “Simatla” and Ke rata basadi poems to mention a few. He takes you back to Qwa qwa as he is a proud Sotho speaking poet. The Star Naledi and Icebound run the show with their smooth operation that sees a quality registration process for artist to perform on the night. (Cappucino ) Hamilton Pieterson on the other side serves all artists with paperwork and registration and putting order in the house.
The entrance is free for all; so come and see this masterpiece show of the magnificent talents of the likes of Psychotherapy, Shila, Black milk crew, Big-Bucks, CAPPUCINO, Rethabile, Dee, Bonolo, Nasty, etc. the list is endless.
Everyone is invited to perform as this is an open mic session.
Folks I gotta pen down with love.
SEPTEMBER 17 – SEPTEMBER 23 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Minister revels in Correctional Services fete” By F (page 2)
Reproduced below:
Minister revels in Correctional Services fete
By F Qoopane
Honourable Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, the Minister of Correctional Services attended the Certificate Award Ceremony for 498 offenders at the Mangaung Correctional Centre in Bloemfontein on Tuesday this week (4 September 2010)
The Minister herself received the Honour of Liberty Awards 2010 from the Centre. This was to honour her for advocating the development of young offenders in all the prisons in the country
The Minister congratulated all the offenders who received 198 certificates in Kha Ri Gude programmes, Abet level 4, Grade 12 NQFLZ. And also other offenders who received 750 certificates in courses in Vocational skills Development programmes. These courses included woodwork, basic computer skills, horticulture etc.
She thanked the management for the seriousness they are attaching to issues of education and congratulated the Centre on receiving various awards including the Nosa Audit-Five Star rating awards in 2009 and 2010.
When addressing the offenders, the Minister said: “I’d like to talk to you as a mother, I have four sons, I don’t talk to you from a position of a Minister when you are here, your mothers at home they don’t sleep; they worry about you. Some of your relatives, they don’t want to visit you, they say they don’t want to do anything with you,”
“Our priorities include desiring a list of the offenders who have not been visited by their families. We want them to visit you and give you full support while you are here,”
According to the Minister, this month her Ministry will launch the Offenders Labour Framework. This will enable all offenders to be involved in Offender labour, and make a contribution to the society.
The Minister further said her office has received bad news that a priest was stabbed with a knife by one of the offenders. “Attacks on nurses and clergies here are a matter of concern, because these are the people who give you care. It is totally unacceptable for you to do sad bad behaviour”
Also:
PARALLAX SNAPS
With Hector Kunene
Pax Nova Hall reverberates!
It was a palpitating event in Bloemfontein this past Sunday (13 September 2010) as the comrades and fellow supporters gathered to commemorate the fallen hero leader of the Black Consciousness Movement, Steve Bantu Biko.
The event was organized by the Steve Biko 33rd Anniversary Commemoration Committee / Mangaung and spearheaded by Ngane yesizwe Sout. The slogans and songs chanted during the commemoration brought back the memories of the core meaning of what the struggle was all about. Although the battle continues as the emphasis were made by different speakers who took center stage and delivered their prepared and unprepared monologues and dialogues, from roots of poetry with drums and guitars to written and spoken words of wisdom.
The cultural icons that graced the events are the likes of the well known activist and writer Mr. Flaxman Qoopane who recited a powerful poem about the death of Biko. He also gave a speech which shook the house about his activism and the experience that saw him being exiled. Qoopane also brought along the famous gallery to embrace and commemorate the fallen soldier. It was emphasized by the comrades that we should never by any means forget the meaningful gesture that resulted in the death of Biko.
“The most potent weapon in the hands of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed” Steve Biko said. Shockingly, the man who made the revolutionary movement Black Consciousness was a young man who was born in 1946 and died in 1977 just after the Soweto student uprising 1976. Biko was brutally murdered and his blood did not dry on the ground without a revolutionary impact. He was only 31 years young when he fell - which means he had been fighting from an early ripening age.
The challenge now remains with the current generation whether this event will be graced or disgraced. Some of the well known artists around Free State who gracefully delivered their support were guitarist Seleke Botsime who sang a revolutionary song, Mr. Magic Khotseng who led a song Senzeni na? and shot through the roof with an inspiring piece of poetry together with the likes of Serame “Icebound” Makhele, the forefront man of the poetry sessions at Pacofs who rendered a piece alongside fellow comrade Zito,
Jah- Rose stood out for the women and proved once again that when we come together for a common goal, gender loses its power, and yours truly myself with a piece inspired not just by an event, but by an act to bring about change. Further information about Steve Biko is well recorded in The Black Consciousness Movement website.
I salute you folks!
SEPTEMBER 10 – SEPTEMBER 16 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Marathon gets people energized” By Neo Mvubu (Front page)
Reproduced below:
MARATHON GETS PEOPLE ENERGISED
By Neo Mvubu
Many provinces have had their fair share of marathons and now the Liberation Route Marathon in the Free State will be the first of its kind. The 65km race scheduled for next month is expected to generate a great deal of excitement.
The Liberation Route Marathon was organised by Umendo Trading in partnership with Izindwe Marketing and My Arts Lifestyle.
According to Khaya Mntsantsa, the Project Manager, this will put the province back on the map once again. The race will take place on the 17th of October, starting from Thaba Nchu and ending in Bloemfontein at the Seisa Ramabodu Stadium.
The N8 route has a very significant importance as “its history can be traced as far back as during the difaqane wars,” said Mntsantsa. He added by saying that King Moshoeshoe, Sekonyela and others used the route and that it is the route that has linked two nations, Lesotho and South Africa.
To date, there are 2300 participants who will be entering the race. Many are experienced runners while others are novices in marathon running. Those that will be coming from far off places will be accommodated at various hotels from around and within Bloemfontein such as Naledi Sun, Baines game lodge and Bloemspa Lodge.
There will be transportation for the athletes such as Mango and Avis that will take them from rather distant destinations. There will also be transportation that will take the athletes to and from their hotels, so there won’t be any problems in that regard.
Free State News learnt that there are many sponsors that have invested in the project, SAB, Coke, Sanlam and a few government departments have invested large amounts to see the success of this event. The winners of the 65km race will get R30 000, the 10km race winner will receive R5000. People are encouraged to participate in the race as this race will help bring athletics and other sports on the same level as soccer.
David Koloane, a well known marathon runner said that he is happy to see that the government has lent a helping hand in the investment of athletics. He said that for many years other sports found it hard to get sponsors whereas soccer found prominence. The Liberation Marathon, he said, will help boost the morale of different types of sports.
SEPTEMBER 03 – SEPTEMBER 09 2010
FEATURE OF THE WEEK: “Celebrating the life of Steve Biko” By S Botsime (Page 2)
Reproduced below:
Celebrating the life of Steve Biko
By S Botsime
September 12, 2010 will be thirty three years since Steve Biko, the founder of the Black Consciousness philosophy in South Africa, was assassinated in Pretoria.
In a special tribute to Steve Biko and to rekindle and remind the people of Mangaung and Free State of his contribution to the understanding of oppression and the forces of oppression, Steve Biko 33rd Anniversary Commemoration Committee/Mangaung is organizing an activity next week Sunday at the Pax Nova Hall at Bochabela.
Biko left us with a simple task, says Masilonyae Lefuo, one of the organizers of the event. “As the ultimate teacher of the nature and the art of oppression, he left us with the task of carrying the torch. His message was clear and unambiguous. We have the benefit of his life work of scholarly activism, which can be used by the working people to cut through the maze of the politics of race that consume our societies.”
He continued: “Today, more than at any other time in history, our people, the working people can begin anew to engage the new phase of the struggle for transformation. To this end, we encourage the self-mobilization of activities across the province”.
The commemoration will be held under the theme: “Steve Biko: Racial Unity, Resistance and Transformation.” It starts at 1pm. The Steve Biko 33rd Anniversary Committee/Mangaung can be contacted as follows: Fikile Qithi, 079 815 8845, Masilonyane Lefuo, 072 59 1036, Reverend Thamni Khani, 083 422 4138, Peter Maloro, 082 944 5229
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