Nursing organisation condemns shooting of nursing students

By Ofentse Mokae
31 August 2009

The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa has strongly condemned the shooting of nursing students at the Mmabatho Nursing Colege in North West.

This follows after students at the college embarked on a protest to voice their demands.

Amongst the demands, students want housing allowances to be made available to all students as well proper personnel to cook for them.

DENOSA’s North West Provincial Organiser Wayne Ntshabele says they are further dismayed that four students have been injured after being shot by police and a further eight have been arrested for alleged public violence.

Ntshabele says they want to emphasise that none of the demonstrating students embarked on any public violence.

Two appear in the Mitchell’s Plain court for stolen abalone

By Nomava Nobumba
31 August 2009

Two suspects have appeared in the Mitchell’s Plain Magistrate court this morning, for being in possession of abalone worth more than R600 000.

The suspects were arrested at different houses in Eastridge on Saturday.

“The WC Organised Crime Unite received the information from the public and that led to the obtaining of the search warrant,” said Inspector November Filander.

On their first operation police confiscated more than 5 000 abalones and a 43 year old man was arrested.

At the second address a 41 year old woman was arrested after the following items were found in the house: crayfish tails, abalones and illegall cigarettes.

Minister sets up Home Affairs hotline for public

By Khanyisa Tabata
31 August 2009

Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini -Zuma has set up a hotline number in her office to allow the public to direct complaints to her.

The hotline number will be used to enable the minister to unlock any problems that members of the public may experience with other sections of the department Department of Home Affairs.

However, the hotline number will not replace the normal call centre number of the department, 0800-6011-90, which will continue to deal with ongoing concerns of the public.

The hotline comes after a 22 year old man from KwaZulu-Natal committed suicide shortly after he was allegedly refused an urgent ID application, and had papers torn up by a Pinetown Home Affairs’ officials.

According to the department, the man was applying for an urgent documentation so he could start a new job on Monday but department officials refused to help him because they suspected him of being a foreign national.

He later committed suicide on Friday night.

After incident Zuma-Dlamini has sent senior departmental delegation to visit the Home Affairs offices in Pinetown to investigate circumstances around Skhumbuzo Mhlongo.

The delegation led by Acting Deputy Director-General Vusi Mkhize and senior officials from the province will visit the regional office to determine the identity of the official who handled the application for an ID by the deceased.

After the investigation, the delegation will recommend the course of action to be taken to remedy the situation.

The hotline number: 0800-2044-76 will be operational every day of the week and has voice recording facilities for members of the public to leave voice messages.

Arrests for drug possession and theft

By Kim Saulse
31 August 2009

Maitland Police seized cocaine worth R15 000 at the weekend in Brooklyn.

Police spotted a suspicious maroon Tata Indica at the corners of Dorp and Van Riebeek Street , and proceeded to search the vehicle.

The motorist, a 27 year old male, was arrested and will appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court today.

In a separate incident, police were alerted of a housebreaking at Marine Drive in Paarden Island.

On arrival, police arrested a 33 year old man, who was breaking into a motorbike shop. The suspect stole eight motorbike jackets valued at R16 000.

The man will also appear at the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court today.

Ghost Squad arrests alleged counterfeiter

By Khanyisa Tabata
31 August 2009

A suspect has been arrested for possession of ink and paper that is commonly used in the production of counterfeit money.

The suspect was arrested after he was asked for his driver’s licence, and the officer noticed that he swapped licences and became suspicious.

The suspect was arrested and the matter is now being investigated by the Commercial Crimes Branch of the South African Police Services.

During peak hour traffic, the same day, the Ghost Squad set its sights on the notorious N2 bus and minibus taxi lane.

“They issued a total of 162 traffic fines for various offences which included 52 for illegally driving in the BMT lane, 26 for taxi offences and 27 for passenger overloads,” said Merle Lourens, Traffic Media Spokesperson.

“The use of unmarked cars and motorcycles allows members of the squad to catch erring drivers unawares and with great success, which is exactly what we intended,” added Lourens.

Tik valued at R50 000 seized in Maitland

By Kim Saulse
31 August 2009

During routine patrol duties at the weekend, Maitland police apprehended two suspects for possession of tik.

Police spotted the vehicle they were travelling in at Station Road in Maitland. After searching the vehicle, police seized two packets of tik, with an estimated street value of R50 000, hidden in one of the door pockets.

The 19 year old female and 35 year old male, are in police custody and will appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court today.

They face charges of drug possession.

MEC to launch Women Builder’s Program

By Ofentse Mokae
31 August 2009

Western Cape MEC for Housing in partnership with the South African Women in Construction will today launch the Women Builders Programme.

The launch will be held in a site called Kewtown Housing Project.

Spokesperson for the MEC Zalisile Mbali says the programme is aimed at celebrating the 53rd anniversary of the historic 1956 Women's Anti Pass March

Security union accuses Defence Minister of arrogance

By Ofentse Mokae
31 August 2009

The South African Security Forces Union has accused Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu of being arrogant.

The union says she is failing to embrace what it calls the new culture of the post-Polokwane African National Congress.

The union’s national executive committee met over the weekend and resolved to fight the intended dismissal of three-thousand soldiers.

This follows their protest at the Union Buildings in Pretoria last week.

The union also wants the police’s actions against the protest march investigated.

Sasfu resolved to continue fighting until soldiers are no longer the worst paid members of the security cluster.

President officially hands over housing project

By Ofentse Mokae
30 August 2009

President Jacob Zuma today officially hands over a housing project to the community of Balangani village in Limpopo’s Vhembe district.

The project is part of government’s rural development initiative led by the Department of Local Government and Housing.

Zuma will later deliver a key-note address at an official switch-on ceremony in government’s electrification programme at Mushiyani village.

This forms part of the Energy Department’s electricity roll-out programme to communities.

Controversial public transport system kicks off

By Ofentse Mokae
30 August 2009

Transport Minister S’bu Ndebele says he is pleased that taxi operators failed to stop today’s launch of the Bus Rapid Transit system in Johannesburg.

In a statement, Ndebele also commended the taxi industry for addressing the issue through negotiations and the courts.

The taxi industry had tried an eleventh hour court application to the South Gauteng High Court to prevent the launch of the BRT.

Ndebele says the government is now able to move a step closer towards providing safe, efficient and affordable public transport.

Earlier Cosatu reaffirmed its full support for the launch of the Bus Rapid Transit system.

The trade union federation said it utterly condemns threats by some taxi operators to unleash violence on drivers and passengers.

Health authorities probe baby formula

By Ofentse Mokae
30 August 2009

The baby formula S26, banned in Tanzania earlier this week, is under investigation by health authorities in South Africa.

The product is manufactured in Sandton, Johannesburg, by Aspen Pharmacare.

Tanzanian authorities banned it after reports that babies were getting sick after eating it.

However, no problems with the product have been reported in South Africa and Aspen says the product sold in Tanzania may be counterfeit.

National Health Department spokesperson Fidel Hadebe, says they are taking no chances, however, and the product is being tested.

President Zuma positive about Middle East solution

By Ofentse Mokae
30 August 2009

President Jacob Zuma says a solution to the conflict in the Middle East between Israelis and Palestinians is more possible now than ever before.

President Zuma was addressing the South African Jewish Board of Deputies conference in Sandton.

He said the only viable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was one that ended the occupation that began in 1967.

The President says the aspirations of both parties should be fulfilled for independent homelands through two states for two peoples: Israel and an independent, adjoining and viable state of Palestine.

Alleged plot to kidnap Defence Minister revealed

By Ofentse Mokae
30 August 2009

Security forces have been placed on high alert after an intelligence report warned of an alleged plot by disgruntled South African soldiers.

The intelligence report says the plot is to abduct top military officials, including Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu.

Reports says acting chief of the South African National Defence Force, Lieutenant-General Themba Matanzima said that several soldiers were under investigation and some faced charges of rebellion.

They face dismissal if convicted.

The alleged plot was first revealed in an affidavit by Matanzima, filed in the High Court in Pretoria on Tuesday,

It says that Military Intelligence had exposed a plan to kidnap senior military officials at a function at a military base earlier this month.

Earlier former housing minister Sisulu was on hot heals with the security forces.

The South African Security Forces Union called on its national leadership to analyse the performance of the minister as well as her fitness to hold office.

It accused Sisulu of ignoring the need to engage with them against the backdrop of impoverished soldiers’ condition.

Cosatu gives full support to the launch of the BRT system

By Ofentse Mokae
30 August 2009

The Congress of South African Trade Unions has reaffirmed its full support for the launch of the Bus Rapid Transit network in Johannesburg today.

The trade union federation says it condemns threats by some taxi operators to unleash violence on drivers and passengers.

National spokesperson Patrick Craven says the union fully supports the BRT as a reliable and alternative transport for the general public.

He says their against the violent minority taxi industry.

“The public has the right to safe, reliable and punctual public transport, and will fully support the new transport project,” said Craven.

Craven says the minority of taxi owners cannot be allowed to think they can get away with using violence to prevent government from carrying out a policy for which it has a clear mandate.

Surfer killed by shark at Mossel Bay

By Ofentse Mokae
30 August 2009

A shark attack on the Southern Cape Coast has claimed the life of a 23-year-old surfer.

The National Sea Rescue Institute’s Craig Lambinon says the man had been surfing with a friend between Glentana and Outeniqua near Mossel Bay yesterday afternoon.

His friend brought him to shore after the attack.

When emergency personnel arrived at the scene, they found the man’s right leg had been bitten off below the knee.

He was taken to hospital in George where he passed away.

He says the family of the deceased has been contact and they have passed their condolences to the family.

It is not yet known what species of shark was involved in the incident.

Another city police member killed

By Ofentse Mokae
29 August 2009

A Cape Town police member was shot and killed during a housebreaking in Constantia this morning.

The home owner was wounded in the attack.

ER24 spokesman Tristan Wadeley says he was rushed to hospital in a serious but stable condition.

Paramedics’ efforts to save the officer’s life were unsuccessful.

Police have not yet revealed whether anything had been stolen or whether any arrests have been made.

Teenager absent from school beaten to death

By Ofentse Mokae
29 August 2009

A fifteen-year-old Delft schoolgirl was beaten to death with an electric cord, allegedly by a relative angry that she had stayed away from school.

Ncebakazi Poleki, a Grade 8 pupil at Leiden High School, who would have turned 16 two days before her ultimate death became another casualty in South African's shocking child murder statistics.

Horrified neighbours and friends claimed the man constantly beat Ncebakazi.

Teachers at her school as well her friends say that she was a good child who always had a smile on her face.

They say with the smile always on her face, they thought nothing of the bruises she sometimes had on her arms, or the scar left on her pretty face.

The man suspected of the murder was arrested and charged with murder.

He will appear in the Bellville Magistrate Court on Monday.

Minister shocked after man commits suicide over identity document

By Ofentse Mokae
29 August 2009

Home Affairs Minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has expressed her shock after a KwaZulu-Natal man committed suicide after being refused an identity document.

The 22-year-old had apparently been promised a job if he could produce the document on Monday.

But it is alleged that Home Affairs officials accused him of being a foreigner and tore up his papers.

Dlamini Zuma is visiting Umzimkhulu today.

She has promised strong action against officials found guilty of wrongdoing.

Ministerial spokesperson Ronnie Mamoepa said the minister’s visit was to address service delivery issues.

“The minister’s visit here today in Umzimkhulu in KwaZulu-Natal is to engage community stakeholders on service delivery,” said Mamoepa.

Mamoepa said according to their department, a programme of action is expected to be developed for the upgrading of service delivery to the community.

Full blown taxi strike still possible

By Ofentse Mokae
29 August 2009

The South African National Taxi Council says taxi operators' next step will be either a complete withdrawal of services in the Soweto area, or a full blown strike.

Taxi operators are to meet tomorrow to decide on their way forward.

This follows the North Gauteng High Court’s dismissal of their urgent application to halt the implementation of the Bus Rapid Transit System.

Government says the BRT system will begin in Johannesburg and Soweto next week, and be expanded initially to Pretoria, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

Cosatu slams premier’s overseas trip

By Ofentse Mokae
29 August 2009

The Congress of South Africa Trade Unions in the Western Cape has slammed Premier Helen Zille’s trip to Germany.

Cosatu’s Tony Ehrenreich alleges that the trip will include a visit to family there.

He wants to know whether taxpayers are footing the bill.

Ehrenreich says there is a huge crisis in the Western Cape, but doesn’t spell out what it is.

Cosatu has called on the Public Protector to investigate what it regards an unauthorized expenditure by the office of the premier.

Meanwhile the union yesterday backed off its demand that Premier Helen Zille reconstruct her male male-dominated cabinet in the Equality Court.

Ehrenreich says Zille’s legal team were scheduled to sit down for talks on an out-of-court settlement.

Ehrenreich laid a complaint with the court after Zille appointed 10 men and no women other than herself to her cabinet in May.

League condemns suppression of soldiers

By Ofentse Mokae
29 August 2009

Workers International Vanguard League has condemned in the strongest possible terms the brutal suppression of the soldiers march on Wednesday to the Union buildings.

In a media statement the league says the soldiers should have the full right to protest as well as the right to strike.

League secretary Shaheed Mahomed says it is a disgrace that rank and file soldiers earn such low wages while the officer corp and generals earn huge pay packets, sitting in their comfy armchairs while sending soldiers into life-threatening situations.

“We fully support the right of soldiers to elect their leaders in the army and that their leaders should be subject to instant recall,” said Mahomed.

Mahomed say they fully support the demand for a 30% salary increase, a demand which is fully justified and fair.

He concluded they what they need are workers and soldiers action committees to defend this current struggle of the soldiers for a living wage and other demands.

“We need to unite to defend communities for their struggles for jobs for all, for bread, for decent housing for all, for free adequate health care for all; for increasing wages when prices increase,” he said.

The league says they demand the immediate unconditional release of the 2 arrested soldiers, the immediate lifting of the suspension of all soldier protestors.

They also demand a 30% increase in wage for soldiers and the entire working class, an increase to the soldiers wage to a minimum of R5000 as wages must increase when prices increase.

Security union challenges defence minister

By Ofentse Mokae
29 August 2009

The South African Security Forces Union has called on its national executive committee to analyse the performance of Defence and Military Veterans Minister Lindiwe Sisulu.

The union also wants its leadership to confirm her fitness to hold office.

The union says the culmination of events of last Wednesday, with police stopping a soldiers’ march to Union Buildings, has drawn attention to the state of the National Defence Force.

It accuses Sisulu of ignoring the need to engage with them against the backdrop of impoverished soldiers’ condition.

Zimbabwe ready to move forward - Zuma

By Khanyisa Tabata
29 August 2009

President Jacob Zuma says Zimbabwean leaders are ready to tackle political and social challenges head-on.

He was speaking at a gala dinner in his honour in Harare on Thursday night.

President Zuma said he was encouraged by how Zimbabwe’s unity government had put their differences aside to serve ordinary citizens.

He said the inclusive government had made significant progress since its formation.

These positive developments are a result of the historic signing of the Global Political Agreement and the subsequent formation of the inclusive government.

President Zuma said the Southern African Development Community (SADC) remained at its disposal for assistance.
He said the remaining issues were not insurmountable and could be overcome.

Both President Robert Mugabe and Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai greeted President Zuma at the airport on Thursday, where he received a 21-gun salute.

Zimbabwe's inclusive government, now just over six-months old, is believed to be on shaky ground with high tensions between the political leaders.

Tsvangirai's party, the Movement for Democratic Change, recently appealed to the South African government to help resolve conflict over certain appointments, while the ZANU PF, the party chaired by President Mugabe, have claimed the MDC is dragging its feet on efforts to convince the west to remove their sanctions.

Busa wants a meeting with Presidents

By Khanyisa Tabata
28 August 2009


Business Unit South Africa has called for an urgent meeting of the President’s National Stakeholders Advisory Council to discuss the large financial loss recorded by Eskom in the last year.

The power utility recorded an operating loss of nearly R3.2 billion and a total loss of over R9 billion on Thursday.

Busa said it was deeply concerned at the magnitude of the financial loss sustained by Eskom, saying that such losses were not sustainable.


It explained that the size of the loss had clear implications for the “mix” of tariff increases, loan financing and additional state funding which will now be necessary to provide sustainability.

It said this was keeping interest rates higher than they otherwise need be and this should be balanced against Eskom’s funding needs.

Chief Executive Officer Jacob Maroga said Eskom had embarked on a huge expansion programme in the previous year as the power utility worked around the clock to keep the lights burning and ensuring a lasting recovery of South Africa's power system.

Eskom Holdings Chairman Bobby Godsell said as the financial results indicate, the operation recovery plan applied by Eskom came at a high financial cost.

He said 44 million tones of additional coal were purchased while power stations were operated at well above design levels.

Eskom spent R30 billion on its new power station building programme, compared to R18 billion the previous year.

But Godsell said the utility wanted to save R22 billion in the current financial year.

Four arrested for fatal stabbing at shebeen

By Kim Saulse
28 August 2009

Khayelitsha Police managed to trace four suspects, aged 25,27,32 and 33, believed to have been in involved in the murder of a Khayelitsha resident at the weekend.

It is alleged that Unathi Leleki, from Site B, was fatally stabbed at a shebeen after an argument ensued with the group.

SAPS spokesperson Constable Mthokozisi Gama said: “The group went outside where it is believed that a stabbing incident took place resulting in the death of Unathi Leleki from R Block, Khayelitsha.”

The suspects appeared in Khayelitsha Magistrates Court this morning on a charge of murder.

Teen has beaten to death by father

By Nomava Nobumba
28 August 2009

A 42 year old man is due to appear in the Bellville Magistrate court after allegedly assaulted and killed her 15 year old daughter in Leiden, Delft yesterday.

It is alleged that an argument occurred between the father and the deceased, because she failed to attend school.

The suspect then started to beat his daughter with a piece of electrical wire.

Captain Wilson of Delft police station says preliminary investigations have indicated that the deceased died as a result of beating and the father is facing murder charge.

“The suspect will appear in the Bellville Magistrate court on Monday,” confirmed Captain Wilson.

Nofemela a free man

By Khanyisa Tabata
28 August 2009

Correctional Services Minister, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has approved parole for apartheid-era police hit squad member, Butana Almond Nofemela, after 22 years in prison.

It has been reported that Mapisa- Nqakula emphasised that the decision was taken after broad consultations with legal practitioners.

Nofemela was sentenced to death in 1986 for the murder of farmer Johannes Lourens near Brits.

The sentence was later changed to life imprisonment. He also confessed to killing human rights lawyer Griffiths Mxenge in 1981 and Zwelibanzi Nyanda.

He was granted amnesty by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission for his confession which led to the exposure of the Vlakplaas police hit squad.

The decision comes after the chairperson of the NCCS, Judge Siraj Desai, submitted recommendations for Nofemela's parole to Minister Mapisa-Nqakula, earlier this month.

The council recommended that Nofemela be granted parole, provided the Department of Correctional Services refers him to an appropriate agency for psycho-social support for the purposes of assisting him with reintegration.It also recommended that he undergo the usual pre-release programmes and that he does not have access to firearms.

Four arrested for fatal stabbing at shebeen

By Kim Saulse
28 August 2009

Khayelitsha Police managed to trace four suspects, aged 25,27,32 and 33, believed to have been in involved in the murder of a Khayelitsha resident at the weekend.

It is alleged that Unathi Leleki, from Site B, was fatally stabbed at a shebeen after an argument ensued with the group.

SAPS spokesperson Constable Mthokozisi Gama said: “The group went outside where it is believed that a stabbing incident took place resulting in the death of Unathi Leleki from R Block, Khayelitsha.”

The suspects appeared in Khayelitsha Magistrates Court this morning on a charge of murder.

25 year old arrested for theft in Khayelitsha

By Khanyisa Tabata
28 August 2009

One person has been arrested in Khayelitsha for being in possession of stolen property. The 25 year old was arrested after police conducted a search in R Block, Khayelitsha.

The suspect was arrested after an intense investigation by the members of the police and from the assistance from the public.


“To surprise we found the young man in the house, dressed partially in police uniform. The suspect was arrested and taken in for questioning”.

“It was later established that the uniform had in fact been stolen from a Police Official in a housebreaking during July 2009” said police spokesperson Constable Mthokozisi Gama.

Anyone with additional information or who has any knowledge of the suspect possibly committing crimes dressed in police uniform is requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Glandstone Kasper, Detective Services, Khayelitsha on 079 880 9833 or 021 360 2300 during office hours.

Police looking for a house robbery suspects

By Khanyisa Tabata
28 August 2009

Khayelitsha police are looking for the three suspects involved in a house robbery incident that occurred in Site B area on Sunday.

It is alleged that the three unknown men entered the house in QQ section and one of the suspect point the owner of the house with a firearm demanding cash.

The complainant alerted her neighbour who immediately gave a chase after the running suspects.

“The owner handed them a small amount of cash and they fled from the scene on foot”.

“The suspects realised that they were followed and fired a shot towards the neighbour.The bullet missed him and struck a 14 year old boy, playing nearby, in his left thigh said police spokesperson Mthokozisi Gama”.

Anyone with the information is kindly requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Glandstone Kasper on 079 880 9833 or 021 360 2300.

Strand man found dead in flat

By Kim Saulse
28 August 2009

Strand police are investigating a case of murder, after the body of a 45 year old man was discovered by relatives in his flat yesterday.

The deceased was naked and his throat was slit. Intense investigation by police led to the arrest of 3 suspects, one of which is a former policeman.

The flat was also ransacked but police could not yet determine what had been stolen.

“Yesterday at about 17:00, police also recovered the deceased’s blue VW Polo abandoned in Khayelitsha,” said SAPS spokesperson Inspector Walter Sinton.

The suspects will appear in the Strand Magistrates’ Court soon.

Two dead and four arrested

By Nomava Nobumba
28 August 2009

Four men have been arrested for attempted murder after a shooting incident in Riebeek West yesterday.

It is alleged that the suspects, driving in a white Toyota Corolla, went into a shop in Hof Street demanding money that the shop owner allegedly owed them.

An argument ensued during which two of the suspects took out firearms and fired shots at customers inside the shop.

Two men sustained gunshot wounds during the incident and were both taken to hospital.

Captain Bernadine Steyn says the suspects fled the scene in the Toyota Corolla and drove towards Riebeek Kasteel.

Two of the people who were in the shop during the incident followed the suspects in a Toyota bakkie.

“The occupants in the bakkie allegedly tried to push the Corolla off the road after which both vehicles lost control and overturned. Both occupants in the bakkie passed away on the scene,” said Steyn.

Steyn also said that one of the suspects broke his leg during the accident and he is currently in hospital under police guard.

The other three suspects were arrested on the scene and they will appear in the Malmesbury Magistrates’ court soon.

Government toughens up on criminals

By Khanyisa Tabata
28 August 2009

Cabinet had some strong words for people who commit violent acts in the name of protesting, indicating its growing impatience with law-breakers.

Cabinet was adamant that while the right to protest was acknowledged and respected; it could not be exercised at the expense of law abiding citizens.

Whilst the right to protest by those who are unhappy about the BRT is respected, this right cannot be exercised at the expense of law abiding citizens who have an equal right to a safe, punctual and efficient ride between home and work.

Meanwhile, Defence and Military Veterans Ministerial spokesperson Ndivhuwo Mabaya said that soldiers who were implicated in yesterday’s protest would be suspended with immediate effect and without pay.

He said army generals were meeting in Pretoria this morning to discuss the behaviour of the soldiers affiliated to SANDU.

Two people were arrested at the scene and are facing charges of public violence. A third suspect was arrested allegedly for possessing an illegal firearm. Mr Mabaya said they would face the Military Tribunal.

Cape Town drivers not taking part in a strike

By Khanyisa Tabata
28 August 2009

Johannesburg will become the first city to launch the system which aims to provide state-of-the art public transport ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

However, some taxis associations have threatened to register their unhappiness with the BRT in a rolling strike action planned for next week, and have also threatened violence.

Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane said the city authorities will not bow to the threats.

She said the City of Johannesburg will also oppose any legal action by taxi operators to block the launch of the BRT.

The United Taxi Association Forum on Thursday lodged legal papers at the Pretoria High Court to have the launch of the BRT suspended. The forum wants the court to suspend BRT operations until further talks had taken place between the industry and government.

About 90 taxi drivers had been trained so far to drive the ReaVaya buses. According to the Premier, the Johannesburg BRT steering committee is engaged in further talks with taxi operators to have more drivers trained.

Government has also condemned threats of violence made by the taxi industry, against the implementation of the BRT system. In Cape Town spokesperson for National Taxi Alliance Mvuyisi Mente said they are not taking any part in any strike commuters can expect taxis on the road. Mente said they are still talking with the cities representatives about the BRT system.

Woman appeared in court for abduction

By Nomava Nobumba
27 August 2009

A 31 year old woman has appeared in the Bellville Magistrate court this morning on the charges of abduction.

Bulelwa Xeza was arrested yesterday in her home in Mfuleni after the baby boy was found unharmed.

Police say the boy fit well the description of baby BZ Ncumani who was abducted in Tygeberg hospital last month.

The case has been postponed to the 3rd of next month for bail information.

The suspect will remain in custody until her next court appearance.

Two arrested for possession of stolen vehicle in Woodstock

By Kim Saulse
27 August 2009

Police arrested two male suspects in Albert Road, Woodstock yesterday, for being in possession of a vehicle that was reported stolen in a hijacking incident during September, last year in Boksburg.

Police made the arrest during routine patrols in the area, when they noticed a silver grey Audi A4 vehicle speeding away from a drug outlet in Albert Road, Woodstock.

“We tested the registration number of the vehicle which confirmed that the vehicle was reported stolen during a Hijacking in Boksburg.

“During a pursued the vehicle was stopped in Albert road, and the police arrested the two occupants,” said SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Hilton Malila.

The two suspects, currently in police custody, will appear in the Cape Town Magistrate court tomorrow.

They face charges of Possession of a stolen vehicle.

Two suspects arrested for housebreaking in Woodstock

By Khanyisa Tabata
27 August 2009

Two suspects aged 12 and 33 years old have been arrested in Woodstock for house breaking in Victoria Road, Salt River.

The arrest follows after police members on routine patrols, responded promptly to a Business breaking in progress complaint in Victoria Road.

“A preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects forced the front burglar gates open to gain excess to the business.

“The two suspects currently in police custody will appear in the Cape Town magistrate court on tomorrow on chargers of Housebreaking and theft,” said police spokesperson sergeant Hilton Malila.

While searching one of the suspects, police recovered painting equipment that was stolen from the business.

Policemen arrested for armed robbery and kidnapping

By Kim Saulse
27 August 2009

SAPS arrested two suspects,aged 31 and 35 years old, following an intense investigation where police members were implicated in an armed robbery and kidnapping incident in Salt River on Monday night.

“The two arrested suspects are both constables and were stationed at the Western Cape Flying Squad Unit in Pinelands.

“Police are still pursuing leads to arrest the other outstanding suspects,” said SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Hilton Malila.

It is alleged that six police members entered a shop in Salt River late Monday evening, claiming they were looking for drugs.

They robbed the store of cigarettes and airtime vouchers worth more than R10 000.

The shop owner and his assistant allege they were assaulted after which they dropped off in Langa.

The suspects will appear in the Cape Town Magistrate Court on Friday.

They face charges of business robbery and kidnapping.

Childline fears rape victims being turned away

By Khanyisa Tabata
27 August 2009

Childline organisation fears too many women and children are turned away while trying to report rape.

Childline South Africa addressed Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Women and Children on Wednesday.

Childline’s Joan van Niekerk queried police’s willingness to attend to rape survivors at stations countrywide.

Physical and emotional abuse cases have almost doubled over the past three years but the number of sexual abuse cases have halved.

Van Niekerk has challenged police statistics as her organisation logged almost 1 million abuse calls last year.

Childline wants police to treat all rape reports as serious and to ensure facilities are provided for victims.

Welcome to Community information network

Library closed

Rondebosch library will be closed for stocktaking from Tuesday 8September until Friday September 11. For details, call 021 689 11 00 or 021 685 3240.

Charity book sale

The annual Cavendish Square Charity Book Sale takes place from today until Sunday on the lower ground floor or Cavendish Square and ground floor of Cavendish Connect from 9am to 7am and form 10am to 5pm on Sunday. Call 021 657 5620.

Talk about Education

“Excellence in Education: what can each of us do to turn our schools into centers of excellence?” is the topic of the second Education Conversation. The event will be led by Western Cape Education MEC Donald Grant and Dr Mamphela Ramphele on Monday from 6:30pm to 8:30 pm in the Library Auditorium in UWC. Entrance is free and snacks and drinks will be served. RSVP by calling 021 461 4239 or email rsvp@educationconvesations.org.

Wellness Seminar

The annual Matis Adventure Boot camp Wellness Seminar will be held at Suiker-bossie Restaurant in Hout Bay on Saturday, September 5 from 8:30am to 1pm. Expert talks, pamper treatments, numerology and more. Tickets are R200. to book, e-mail rene@advebturebootcamp.co.za

If you would like our community information network to announce your community notice, submit a paragraph detailing the information of your event or project. Send those details to news@bushradio.co.za or fax them to 021 448 5451 or call us on 021 448 5450. You can even send a sms to 32158

22 year old reported missing

By Kim Saulse
27 August 2009

A 22 year old woman from Lentegeur in Mitchells Plain has been reported missing.

Shaheema Fisher was last seen at noon on Monday.

She has been described as being fair of complexion with short black hair, round face, brown eyes. She is chubby in stature.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Detective Inspector Charles Julies of Mitchells Plain Police station at 073 804 2000 or 021 370 1706.

Woman found dead in her home

By Nomava Nobumba
27 August 2009

Yesterday morning a 72 year old woman was found dead at her home in Park Road Mowbray.

The body of Norma Scott Worsley was lying in the living room area with a cord wrapped around her neck.

“The deceased was last scene walking her dog earlier in the morning,” said police spokesperson Captain Angie Latchman.

The cause of her death is unknown, but police believe that the woman was strangled.

Captain Latchman says a Post Mortem will done to determine the exact cause of death.

Police are urging anyone with information related to the murder the to please contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Constable Phumela Jinonty at Mowbray police station on 021 680 9580 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Corrupt officials will be dealt with says Zuma

By Khanyisa Tabata
27 August 2009

President Jacob Zuma has once again stressed that government will not tolerate any conduct by public officials that is in breach of the law or public service regulations.

President Zuma said this during his response to questions raised by political parties in the National Assembly.

Congress of the People (COPE) MP Mvume Dandala had asked whether the government intends introducing policy with regard to public servants who have business dealings with the state.

The Auditor General recently released a shocking report where it was revealed that several public servants were doing business with government without following proper procedure.

Zuma said he had instructed the ministers in whose departments such officials were employed to investigate the alleged misconduct.

He had also asked Public Service and Administration Minister Richard Baloyi to speed up the development of the Conflict of Interest Framework and to send it to Cabinet in the next few weeks.

The Conflict of Interest Framework is meant to plug existing holes in public service regulations.

President Zuma also did not rule out the possibility of amending the legislation to protect whistleblowers.

He said most of the wrongdoing occurs when public officials do not comply with existing regulations.

On the question of whether South Africa had responded speedily enough to the current global economic crisis, President Zuma said South Africa has been hailed among the developing countries for providing leadership during the crisis.

Government not doing enough to reduce maternal, infant deaths

By Khanyisa Tabata
27 August 2009

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has admitted that the government is not doing enough to reduce the number of mothers who die during childbirth and the rate of infant mortality.

Motsoaledi said it is clear that they are not doing enough to decrease perinatal and child deaths in our country. Minister Motsoaledi said it was unacceptable that mothers die from avoidable causes.

South Africa is among the 10 countries in the world that have failed dismally in bringing down infant mortality and the country is unlikely to meet this health Millennium Development Goal (MDG) by 2015.

Motsaoaledi has challenged health workers to produce better health outcomes in spite of minimum resources.

Last year, the department launched three national committees to review maternal, perinatal and childhood deaths in South Africa. The principal tasks for the committees were on morbidity and mortality in children under five years of age.

According to a report presented by one of the committees at the summit yesterday, the number of deaths of children under five has increased from 61 percent in 1998 to 70.9 percent in 2007.

The minister said there were a number of social factors, such as poverty, illiteracy, lack of proper housing, lack of access to clean water, inadequate sanitation, which had lead to the proximal causes such as lack of access to good quality health services.

The committee recommended the strengthening of existing health information systems and quality of care by investigating contributing factors as well as strengthening existing child survival programmes and primary health care and emergency treatment and referrals.

The Maternal, Child and Women’s Health Summit is the first ever of its kind, and it aims to obtain consensus on the bottlenecks to meeting the health-related MDGs and to agree on steps to be taken to urgently address the bottlenecks.

Sisulu slams NDF

By Khanyisa Tabata
26 August 2009


Defence Minister and Military Veterans, Lindiwe Sisulu has lashed out at South African National Defence Force members who have indicated they will embark on a protest march to the Union Buildings, in Pretoria.

Soldiers and staff belonging to the South African National Defence Union marched from the Pretoria City Hall to the Union Buildings today. They are demanding a 30 percent wage increase.

The minister said the protest march was unnecessary, irresponsible and in breach of national security.

In a statement, the minister further said she was dismayed with the decision by SANDU to abandon the bargaining chamber and other formal platforms of negotiation. She said their concerns were being addressed by both her and the department.

She said she had shown her commitment to addressing all challenges facing the working soldier and some of the key issues are on the verge of being finalised and implemented.

Sisulu called on the union to return to the bargaining chamber immediately.

She said having considered all their options, the department was considering making a request for a separate dispensation for the Department of Defence that would allow them to deal creatively with the departments own unique requirements.

US senator dies

By Ofentse Mokae
26 August 2009

United States Senator Edward Kennedy died late yesterday after battling with brain cancer.

The 77 year-old was one of the most effective lawmakers in US history and the brother of assassinated President John F Kennedy,

The death of Kennedy is said to mark the twilight of one of America's most legendary political families, with no heirs to the Kennedy name poised to emerge with the same mix of significance, ambition and celebrity.


The Nelson Mandela Foundation has, on behalf of its founder and the board, expressed its regret at the passing of Senator Edward Kennedy.

The Foundation says it mourns, with his family, and the United States of America, the loss of a champion of democracy and civil rights.

In a press statement, Achmat Dangor, Chief Executive Officer of the foundation says Kennedy made his voice heard in the struggle against apartheid at a time when the freedom struggle was not widely supported in the West.

The Foundation remains grateful for his role.

SACTWU and employees fail to reach agreement

SACTWU and employees fail to reach agreement

By Kim Saulse
26 August 2009

The Southern African Clothing and Textile Workers’ Union (SACTWU) met earlier today with clothing employers where possible options to settle a wage dispute were discussed.

According to a media release, the parties could not reach a settlement.

SACTWU has however committed itself to continued talks with employers next week. The union has however decided to proceed with their strike ballot.

“By the close of business yesterday, the union balloted just over 6 000 members in 41 companies. The union expects that close to 15 000 members would have been balloted by the end of today.”

Workers are being offered a 5% wage increase, of R19 per week for non-metro workers and R32 for metro area workers.

Suspect arrested for abduction of BZ Ncumani

By Nomava Nobumba
26 August 2009

Police have finally made a breakthrough in the case of the abducted baby boy when they arrest a 31 year old woman in Mfuleni this morning.

Baby BZ Ncumani was abducted from Tygerberg hospital last month during the visiting hour.

Since then police have questioned a number of people including the hospital staff, but no arrests were made.

Their investigations have led them to a house in Mfuleni where they found an unharmed baby boy.

“The DNA test will be conducted to determine whether the boy is the one who was abducted from the hospital,” said police spokesperson Inspector Bernadine Styne.

The woman was charged for abduction and will appear in Bellville Magistrate court soon.

Welcome to the Community information Network

Rondebosch book sale

The Friends of Rondebosch Library will hold their book sale on Saturday from 9am-11.45am. Call 021 689 4639.

Nominate young achievers

Every year young achievers in the greater Cape Town area are recognised by the Waterfront Rotary Club from the difference they make in their communities. Nominations close on September 1 and should be faxed to 086 549 6142. All nominees must still be attending school.

Celebrate Life Festival

The annual Celebrate Life Festival takes place in at Michael Oak School, Kenilworth, this weekend from 10am to 5pm. Entrance is R50: students, pensioners and disabled person half price: weekend pass R80. Talks and workshop free. Call Caroline Chaplin on 021 762 3965.

Grier at hospice fundraiser

Inspirational speaker and extreme adventurer, David Grier, will present a slide presentation and talk about his experience at a fundraising event for St Luke Hospice tonight at 7:30 at the Capestorm offices, 45 Lester Road, Wynberg. Entrance R30 including wine coffee and snacks.

If you would like our community information network to announce your community notice, submit a paragraph detailing the information of your event or project. Send those details to news@bushradio.co.za or fax them to 021 448 5451 or call us on 021 448 5450. You can even send a sms to 32158.

Police members investigated for armed robbery

By Ofentse Mokae
26 August 2009

Six police members are being investigated for armed robbery and kidnapping.

It is alleged that four police members-dressed in uniform and two others dressed in private clothing, entered a shop at the corner of Burns and Albert roads, in Salt River late Monday evening, claiming they were looking for drugs.

Woodstock police spokesperson sergeant Hilton Malila says the police members raided the shop and took some stock.

“The police members went behind the counter and removed the following items: boxes of cigarettes, air time vouchers with a total value of about R14 200-00,” said Malila.

Malila says after they assaulted the owner they took him and his assistant, seated them in one of the police vehicles, and drove to Langa where they left them.

Malila could not confirm where the police members, who are still at large, were stationed as the case is under investigation.

Classes resume at Sithembele Mathiso High School

By Kim Saulse
26 August 2009

Classes at Sithembele Mathiso High School in New Crossroads are resuming today after the killing of its acting principal, Nomzoxolo Dziba.

Yesterday the Western Cape Department of Education closed the school for the day. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga and Deputy Minister of Police Fikile Mbalula were among the officials visiting the school to speak to teachers and the governing body.

Dziba was gunned down in her office on Monday.

Gugulethu police spokesperson Captain Elliot Sinyangana said the principal was awaiting the arrival of a scheduled appointment.

“Shortly before the incident happened, a white Toyota Corolla was spotted and shots were fired,” said Sinyangana.

He says no arrests have been made and the public are requested to assist the police in their investigation.

Two bodies discovered near Hout Bay harbour

By Nomava Nobumba
26 August 2009

National Sea Rescue Institute has discovered two bodies on the shores of Hout Bay harbour yesterday afternoon.

NSRI Hout Bay responded to the Water Works near Hout Bay harbour following reports from the Police of a body located on the shore.

The body of a male recovered by the SA Police Services who are investigating and it suspected to have died as a result of a fall.

Later on the day, another body was discovered between Hout Bay and Llandudno, near to Duiker Island, on the shore

Cape Town to host soccer derby

By Khanyisa Tabata
26 August 2009

Two of the cities well known teams Ajax Cape Town and Santos will tonight be battling it out for the Premier Soccer League match, when taking on each other in Newlands stadium.

The people’s team says they are looking forward to take the three points tonight after losing on their home ground to Bloemfontein Celtics last week.

The two face each other for the first competitive derby game of the 2009/2010 season.

Both teams have urged their fans to come out to support them.

The Urban Warriors are going to this game on a high note after they have beaten Kaizer Chief in the semi finals of the MTN8 over the weekend.

The Urban Warriors beat Santos 2-1 in their last game in April this year.

Economists predict lower CPI

By Khanyisa Tabata
26 August 2009

Economists are expecting the Consumer Price Index (CPI) figure, the official measure of inflation in South Africa, to continue its downward trend when it is released later this week.

Statistics South Africa will release the data for July today.

Economists say there have been increases in municipal tariffs and they expect this to contribute to the CPI.

The CPI is an index of the prices of a representative of consumer goods and services.

The CPI thus represents the cost of the goods and services of a typical or average South African household.


Stats SA collects the price information each month mainly by sending questionnaires to about 3 600 retailers.

Some prices are collected directly by officials.

The bank therefore explained that the compilation of the CPI for each month takes some time and is published during the second half of the following month.

The Producer Price Index, the prices of goods leaving factories and mines, will be released on Thursday.

In June, the PPI dropped to 4.1 percent year-on-year.

This figure is expected to come in at between -4.0 and -4.7percent from June’s 4.1 percent.

H1N1 deaths rise

By Khanyisa Tabata
24 August 2009

Health Mister Aaron Motsoaledi has issued an instruction to health workers to put all pregnant women with flu-like symptoms on Tamiflu.

This comes after the latest victims of swine flu were pregnant women who were in their last month of pregnancy.

The directive to all health care workers, in line with department of Health of Pandemic Influenza guidelines, is to put pregnant women with flu-like symptoms on Tamiflu treatment.

Dr Motsoaledi said that they should not wait for the test results to first confirm whether they had flu or not.

On Monday, the Department of Health confirmed that there were now 20 H1N1-related deaths in South Africa.

The majority of these deaths are pregnant women with some of them having other under-lying illnesses such as diabetes and TB.

There are over 5000 cases of the H1N1 influenza in the country, with the majority being reported in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

Most of these cases remain in the mild and self-limiting category.

The first swine flu death was a 22-year-old student from Stellenbosch University; the second was a man from KwaZulu-Natal and the third was a 42-year-old male from the Western Cape.

Deputy Police Minister pay visit to crime affected school

By Ofentse Mokae
25 August 2009

Deputy police minister Fikile Mbalula together with Western Cape provincial police commissioner Mzwandile Petros paid a visit to Sithembele Mathiso Secondary School in New Crossroads, Cape Town this afternoon.

This follows after the school principal Nomzoxolo Dziba was gunned downed on the school premises yesterday.

The 52 year old was shot in her office while she was awaiting the arrival of her appointment.

Gugulethu police spokesperson Captain Elliot Sinyangana said the principal was to meet a person who called for an appointment.

“Shortly before the incident happened, a white Toyota corolla was spotted and shots were fired,” said Sinyangana.

He says no arrests have been made and the public are requested to assist the police in the investigations.

Ministerial spokesperson Paena Galena says the purpose of the visit to the school by the deputy minister was to ascertain security measures and meet with school authorities.

“The purpose of our visit was first to ascertain ourselves with security measures at the school and to meet with the school governing body so that the school should be back to normal,” said Galane.

Galane said the visit was also to send their condolences to the bereaved family and the school on their loss.

Earlier it was reported that the Western Cape Education department had closed the school for the day.

Deputy Police Minister pay visit to crime affected school

By Ofentse Mokae
August 2009

Deputy police minister Fikile Mbalula together with Western Cape provincial police commissioner Mzwandile Petros paid a visit to Sithembele Mathiso Secondary School in New Crossroads, Cape Town this afternoon.

This follows after the school principal Nomzoxolo Dziba was gunned downed on the school premises yesterday.

The 52 year old was shot in her office while she was awaiting the arrival of her appointment.

Gugulethu police spokesperson Captain Elliot Sinyangana said the principal was to meet a person who called for an appointment.

“Shortly before the incident happened, a white Toyota corolla was spotted and shots were fired,” said Sinyangana.

He says no arrests have been made and the public are requested to assist the police in the investigations.

Ministerial spokesperson Paena Galena says the purpose of the visit to the school by the deputy minister was to ascertain security measures and meet with school authorities.

“The purpose of our visit was first to ascertain ourselves with security measures at the school and to meet with the school governing body so that the school should be back to normal,” said Galane.

Galane said the visit was also to send their condolences to the bereaved family and the school on their loss.


Earlier it was reported that the Western Cape Education department had closed the school for the day.

Three wanted for shooting incident in Phillippi East

By Kim Saulse
25 August 2009

Phillipi East police are requesting the assistance of the public in tracing three suspects involved in a shooting incident that occurred at Hodi Street in Phillipi East last month.

Seven males were sitting in front of a house at Hodi Street, when they were approached by three males who fired several shots at them . One of the men, a 28 year old from Lower Crossroads sustained injuries to his legs.
The suspects fled on foot.

Anyone with information is urged to Detective Inspector Basson on (021) 370 1952 or 079 8809 821.

Former apartheid prisoners reunited with their families

By Nomava Nobumba
25 August 2009

Robben Island will tomorrow host a site visit for the families of the three political prisoners who died on the Island between 1965 and 1968.

Martiens Batyi, Solomon Makisi and Charlie Mkele were secretly buried in the proper sections of the Stikiland cemetery.

Their families will be taken to Robben Island as well as on their graves and they will get a chance to give the deceased a proper funeral in their place of birth in the Eastern Cape.

“After their families have seen their graves it will be a long process, because the DNA test will be performed,” said Heritage Department researcher Nolubabalo Thongo-Cetywayo.

The process will take five to six months.

The department is also requesting the assistance of the public to find the fourth victim’s relative, John Poni who is believed to be from KwaZakhele township in Port Elizabeth.

Policemen caught in traffic blitz

By Kim Saulse
25 August 2009

Two off duty policeman were among 30 motorists arrested for drunk driving in a traffic blitz by the City’s Traffic Services on Friday.

Traffic services conducted road blocks along Main Road, Clovelly and Kommetjie Road near Oukaapse Weg.

The two officers, both driving their private vehicles were stationed at the Simon’s Town and Ocean View Police Station.

“30 people were arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, including a lady driver, a motor cyclist and two off duty policeman,” said City Traffic spokesperson Merle Lourens.

Public hearings take closer look into the labour brokering system

By Ofentse Mokae
25 August 2009

The Parliamentary portfolio committee on labour is hosting public hearings into the labour brokering system.

The hearings which starts today at parliament, will continue until tomorrow and will look into the challenges the country faces with regard to labour brokers not operating in accordance with the Labour Relations Act.

During the hearings, the committee will engage with various stakeholders from trade unions, workers, the business sector, researchers and academics as well as labour brokers.

In an interview committee chairperson, Ms Lumka Yengeni said the aim of the hearings is to get the public’s input before parliament amends the labour relations act.

“The hearings are meant to get the public’s views as well as other stakeholders on labour brokering so that when we amend the labour relations act we would have listened to their views and take them into account,” said Yengeni.

She says the problem with labour brokering system is that workers’ rights are not recognised and that they have no say in their day to day work.

She added that in most cases the brokers are faceless and are the unknown middle men between employers and the workers for financial benefits.

Earlier in the month labour minister Membathisi Mdladlana said the exploitation of workers by labour brokers may soon be a thing of the past as plans are taking place to review the laws that regulate labour brokers.

This followed a research commissioned by his department which indicated that employees engaged through brokers are, among others, paid significantly less than those that are directly hired by employers though they perform the same work.

The amendments to the Labour Relations Act after the public hearings could see labour brokers being banned.

Researchers at the University of Cape Town’s Labour and Enterprise Policy Research Group found using labour brokers dispenses with the problem of unfair dismissal and retrenchment costs and procedures.

The findings say clients are not bound to keep workers for the stipulated periods, as labour brokers promise to replace a worker who the client is unhappy with.

Police launch a search to find gunmen

By Nomava Nobumba
25 August 2009

Gugulethu police are investigating a murder case after Sithembele Mathiso principal was shot and killed on the school premises yesterday.

“52 year old Nomzoxolo Dziba was gunned down on her office while she was waiting for the appointment, after a person called to meet with her,” said police spokesperson, Captain Elliot Sinyangane.

Shortly before the incident a white Toyota corolla was seen on the scene and two shots were heard.

When people came Dziba was down sustaining two bullet wounds in her head.

“At this stage we are looking for the two who fled the scene with a white Toyota corolla,” confirmed Sinyangane.

Police are also appealing to the community with any help that can lead to the arrest of the suspects.

Sinyangane said at the Sithembele Mathiso School and in other schools they have suggestion boxes where people can drop in any information and they do not have to put their names or any contact numbers.

Heroes welcomed today

By Khanyisa Tabata
25 August 2009

President Jacob Zuma is expected to welcome and congratulate South Africa’s latest two medal winners at the World Athletics Championships in Berlin – Mbulaeni Mulaudzi, who won gold in the 800 metres, and Khotso Mokoena who won silver in the long jump.

The Congress of South African Trade Unions will also be hosting a celebration party for the countries medals winners.

"We will join Caster Semenya in Team SA’s Hall of Fame. All three are a credit to their country and role models for young athletes".

“The federation fully endorses the call by Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma that “all of us South Africans, especially women, must rally around Caster and reject with the contempt they deserve the insinuations being made about her gender,” said COSATU spokesperson Patrick Craven.

South Africa’s freedom weakens when women excluded from economy

Khanyisa Tabata
25 August 2009

South Africa’s freedom is diminished as long as women remain outside the mainstream of its economy, says North West MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport, Mahlakeng Mahlakeng.

She said eradicating the legacy of discrimination, inequality and fighting poverty requires the contributions that women can make to the national effort for faster and shared growth and development.

Mahlakeng said her department will soon establish a structure within it Special Programme Directorate so that there is consistency, monitoring and follow-ups to issues raised with the department during the indaba for possible implementation.

The MEC also noted that the National Women’s Day or Women’s Month is not a commercial or frivolous period but a period of solemn reflection.

She further noted that women empowerment and gender parity is not about numbers but opening the space for women to influence meaningful change and make a difference in society.

She warned that government including her department is about service delivery. “Our mandate was never and will never be to make people wealthy or rich,” she said.

The MEC further discouraged women contractors from harping too much on issues like “what is in for me, to how can you help the department to fulfill its mandate”.

She also warned that soon the department may even have to reprioritise, by scaling down tremendously on programmes and divert resources previously allocated to those programmes to key projects aimed at addressing pressing issues like job creation, fighting poverty and rural development where women are subjected to abject poverty in their majority

SA’s Mbulaeni gets gold

By Kim Saulse
24 August 2009

South Africa’s Mbulaeni Mulaudzi added to the country’s great showing at the 12th International Association of Athletics Federation World Championships, by clinching gold in his 800m men’s final.

Mbulaeni emulated Caster Semenya's feat in the women's 800 meters by winning gold in the men's race, while long jumper Khotso Mokoena took silver, to lift South Africa into the top 10 on the medals table at the conclusion of the championships.

Mbulaeni led from start to finish in the race, clocking 1:45.29, with defending champion and Olympic bronze medalist Alfred Yego of Kenya claiming silver and newly-crowned world 1 500m champion Yusuf Saad Kamel of Bahrain, getting bronze.

The result meant the Kenyan-born Kamel failed to repeat his father Billy Konchellah's feat of winning the world 800m crown.

Khotso won a silver medal for his 8.47m jump. American Dwight Phillips, who was world champion in 2003 and 2005, regained his long jump title with a distance of 8.54m.

Meanwhile, Caster will return home tomorrow to a heroine’s welcome.

Yesterday, Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma said South Africans must give the star a heroine's welcome when she returns to the country.

Two Golden Arrow buses crash

By Ofentse Mokae
24 August 2009

Two Golden Arrow buses were involved in an accident under the Vanguard Drive Bridge, in the direction of Wetton this morning.

It is believed that the one bus drove into the rear of another bus in the Landsdowne Road.

Metro Emergency Medical Service spokesperson Anzelle Smit says they were alerted to the scene around 9am this mornig.

Smit says the accident injured nine people but no one was seriously injured.

“Metro EMS treated the patients on scene and all patients were conveyed with Metro EMS ambulances to Hanover Park Community Health Centre,” Smit said.

Vuyisile Mdoda spokesperson for Golden Arrow Bus Service, said his office can confirm the accident but could not give details to the damages caused.

14 year old girl reported missing

By Kim Saulse
24 August 2009

Police are requesting the assistance of the public in the search for 14 year old, Chane Daubern, from the Graaff-Reinet.

She is believed to be accompanied by 19 year old, Daniel Gouws. It is suspected that they are in the greater Cape Town area.

Daubern was reported missing last week Monday after her school notified her father that she did not attend classes that day.

“Her father dropped her off at school in the morning, as usual, and at about 9 o’ clock in the morning, her father received a call from the school saying she had not pitched up,” said SAPS spokesperson Inspector van Rooyen.

He added that this was a sensitive case and could not divulge more information until further investigation.

Minister to launch 2010 visitor information centre

By Ofentse Mokae
24 August 2009

Tourism minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk will officially launch the 2010 Visitor Information Centre (VIC) in Polokwane on Friday.

The newly constructed centre is intended to provide a one-stop information service to tourists requiring information on a wide range of tourism aspects.

In a media statement the department of tourism says the national 2010 VIC's project, which they are funding, will see VIC's developed in five of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa host cities.

“The five identified cities are: Nelspruit in Mpumalanga, Polokwane in Limpopo, Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, Rustenburg in the North West and Bloemfontein in the Free State,” the statement said.

The department said the primary objective of the VIC project is to effectively address the tourism needs of visitors expected to visit in the five host cities in 2010 and beyond.

These less visited provinces were earmarked for the VIC's in preparation for the 2010 Soccer World Cup South Africa, but also to grow tourism arrivals both locally and internationally.

Ten people die in crash near Beaufort West

By Nomava Nobumba
24 August 2009

Ten people died and nine others are seriously injured after their Toyota Quantum overturned between Beaufort West and Aberdeen yesterday.

The taxi crashed into a bus while trying to overtake it and the driver lost control.

“The victims were travelling from the family funeral in the Eastern Cape to Mfuleni in Cape Town,” said Beaufort West police spokesperson, Captain Malcom Potjie.

“The deceased are including five men, four women and a boy,” added Potjie.

City Mayor to visit Dunoon

By Nomava Nobumba
24 August 2009

Executive Mayor Dan Plato will today visit Dunoon where he will meet with community leaders from the area.

On his visit Mayor Plato is intend to hear what residents feel about their most important service delivery needs.

“The Mayor and several officials will walk through Dunoon to assess local conditions. In the aftermath of violent service delivery protests throughout the country, the City of Cape Town is fully committed to improving service delivery in impoverished communities,” said Mayor’s spokesperson Rulleska singh.

The city believes that an important part of this is to maintain a dialogue between residents of the communities and the City’s leadership.

FEDUSA calls to Metrorail workers to go back to work today

By Khanyisa Tabata
24 August 2009

The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) is calling on the Metrorail workers to return to work today.

Commuters from Mitchells Plain, Langa, Gugulethu and Khayelitsha are suffering greatly as a result of the legal protected strike by the United Allied Transport Trade Union (UTATU) members since Monday 17 August.

The strike has seen the occurrence of unfortunate injuries on the trains due to the overcrowding levels on the trains that have been running.

The strike is also leading to conflict as doors are kept closed at stations due to the overcrowding as people are being kept from entering the trains due to overcrowding, this causes confusing because people think that only certain people are allowed onto the trains.

Secretary General of FEDUSA George Dennis said the strike has shown us as the trade union movement that we need to communicate with the broader community timeously, so they are able to make alternative transport arrangements.

This must be communicated to ensure commuters understand the reasons for the strike action. This was clearly not done in this case and is another reason for the need to end the strike.

This is the same as when Golden Arrow was on strike, Metrorail does not allow people to use their trains as an alternate form of transport. The entire transport system needs an urgent overhaul if it is to serve the needs of commuters.


We call on workers to return to work on Monday and advice management today in order to ensure that roistering is in place to provide proper train service to commuters on Monday.

Minister encourages girls to become scientists

By Khanyisa Tabata
24 August 2009

Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor has called on interventions to ensure that women study to become scientist and that they are able to progress through the system.

She was speaking at the South African Women in Science Awards in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Pandor said girls and women were not supposed to be good at maths or science. She said boys usually do better, because they are encouraged to better.

She said women students in scarce skills faculties and schools need focussed support and mentoring.

She said while many of these initiatives were aimed at young researchers in general, they must include a focus on attracting women to take up these programmes.

The National Advisory Council on Innovation has a committee focusing on Women in Science, Engineering and Technology and the National Research Foundation runs Women in Research Programme.

The National Research Foundation (NRF) offers small grants to undergraduates who have research potential and are in their third or fourth year of study, to learn about research by providing research assistance to experienced academics in their field.

FIFA getting more than what they bargained for

By Khanyisa Tabata
23 August 2009


People from all over the world are responding in their numbers to the call for volunteer applications for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

With little over a week left to submit applications, 47 251 applications have been processed through FIFA.com since the volunteer programme opened on 20 July.

According to a statement by the 2010 Organising Committee, with an average of 1 500 applications being received per day, the volunteer programme is set to break the 50 000 mark by the cut-off date at the end of August.

This would surpass the number of applications received for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, which was 48 167.

Chief Executive Officer of the OC, Dr Danny Jordaan, said the committee was honoured by the tremendous response it had received.

He stressed the importance of the volunteers to the success of the football spectacular, referring to them as the, “face of the World Cup”.

Johannesburg is leading the pack in terms of applications with 11 969 volunteers across the two venues of Ellis Park and Soccer City, while Pretoria has 6 176 applications. Nelson Mandela Bay has 4 752 and Cape Town 4 356, while Durban currently has 3 971.

Despite the high number of applications, anyone still wishing to apply to be a volunteer for the World Cup is encouraged to do so volunteers with specific skills, including those with driver’s licenses wishing to work as transport volunteers, are needed.

Volunteers can apply at www.fifa.com/volunteers2010. Those without internet access or requiring further information about the programme and how to apply at volunteer centers around the country can also contact the toll-free volunteer hotline on 0800 52 52 52.

Dlamini Zuma expresses her support for Semenya

By Khanyisa Tabata
23 August 2009

Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has expressed her support for Caster Semenya.

The minister telephoned Caster in Berlin, Germany to express her support to the Limpopo-born athlete.

Earlier this week, the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) asked for tests to determine Caster's gender. Her masculine build and rapid improvements in performance had led to doubts about her gender.

She was, however, allowed to participate in the event pending the results and went on to win race leading 1 minute, 55.45 seconds.

Minister Dlamini Zuma expressed outrage at the questions that had arisen over Caster’s gender.

She said all South Africans, especially women, must rally around Caster and reject with the contempt it deserves the insinuations being made about her gender.

Kaizer Chiefs meets Ajax Cape Town again

BY Khanyisa Tabata
23 August 2009

In less than an hour the second leg of the MTN8 between Kaizer Chiefs and Ajax Cape Town will be taking place.

This is the second semi final and the winner will face Golden Arrows who beat Amazulu last night in Chatsworth by 2-0.

Later today Ajax Cape Town will take on Kaizer Chiefs in Orlando Stadium. This is also their second meeting for these clubs last week Amakhosi went down to Ajax by 1-0 with the match that saw angry fans throwing missiles at the stadiums.

Kaizer Chiefs have been fined for their unrolling fans behavior; today the team management is hoping the repeat of last week won’t happen again.


Chief will be without their first choice goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune who sustained an injury during the week.

Ajax Cape Town are going to this second round with an advantage as they beat Chiefs last week, but they are not expecting things to be easy as Chiefs are preparing to go to the final.

Two arrested in Macassar for dagga

By Khanyisa Tabata
23 August 2009

Two people have been arrested in Macassar fro being in possession of dagga. The suspects were spotted by flying squad on the N2 freeway when they were fixing their car.

Eager to help, the SAPS members approached the vehicles, where upon the small crowed fled immediately.

“The other suspects, who managed to escape the long arm of the law, are being sought. Dagga with a street value to the tune of R 600 000-00, as well as two motor vehicles, a Toyota and an Opel were confiscated.

“The two aged 20 and 35 from Delft and Belhar respectively are due to make a court appearance in the Strand tomorrow “, said police spokesperson superintendent Andre Traut.

After making a quick judgment on the scene, and discovering a large quantity of dagga next to the vehicles, a man was arrested. Shortly after wards, after a brief pursuit, another man was arrested added Traut.

NSRI calling on people to be careful around the beach

By Khanyisa Tabata
23 August 2009

The National Sea Rescue Institute is appealing to appealing to recreational boaters, sailors, paddlers and bathers to take precautions to ensure their safety on our beaches and at sea.

Despite the approaching summer improving weather conditions the current sea conditions will remain relatively rough for some time still.

Bathers can expect strong rip-currents to prevail along the coast and boaters, sailors and paddlers should expect strong currents, rough sea conditions and big swells.

“We are urging bathers to take care at our beaches and children should have adult supervision at all times around water”.

“We are urging boaters, sailors and paddlers to wear their life-jackets at all times while on water and to carry all safety equipment” said spokesperson for NSRI Craig Lambinon.

Calling the NSRI Emergency Number (for your area) directly, to report a sea rescue emergency, will prevent any delay in the activation of all emergency rescue resources responsible and required to deal with the emergency.

Driver trapped inside a car

By Khanyisa Tabata
23 August 2009

A collision between a Hyundai and a Mazda resulted in both vehicles leaving the road, the Mazda rolled and landed on its roof with the driver still inside.

Paramedics and rescue crews had an interesting extrication last night on the N1, just past the N7, in the direction of Paarl.

“When paramedics arrived, they found the man strapped in his chair upside down, his arm trapped outside the car between the roof of the vehicle and the ground”.

“What also made the rescue tricky was the car had landed in a puddle of water from the recent rains, which was knee deep in some places around the vehicle” said ER24 spokesperson Tristan Wadeley.

Rescue crews from the Fire Department and Metro Rescue used pneumatic bags to elevate the car so they could free the mans arm.

Expects welcome Zuma's meeting with political leaders next week

By Khanyisa Tabata
23 August 2009


Political experts have welcomed the move by President Jacob Zuma to meet with political leaders next week, saying it is a positive move for the country’s development.


The President announced on Wednesday that he would meet with the leaders of the various political parties on 27 August to discuss development issues and other challenges in the country.

He said it was necessary to have this kind of interaction. “The fact of the matter is that we all want to see South Africa succeeding.”

President Zuma was speaking following a meeting with the Democratic Alliance’s Parliamentary leader, Athol Trollip.

This move by the president is seen as a great move that will involve opposition parties taking part in major decision that the president has to make.

These meetings will possibly help the government develop plans that will recover the economy of the country.

Correctional Service Minister issue a warning

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 August 2009

Minister of Correctional Services Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula has issued a stern warning to officials to officials who embarked on an illegal strike earlier this week.

Mapisa Nqakula said the behavior will not be tolerated.

Earlier this week, officials embarked on a go slow demanding the implementation of Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) as well as raising concerns about staff shortages and security.

On Wednesday and Thursday, 95 percent of the 1 558 staff members resumed their duties.

However, 80 officials are still refusing to return to work at the Awaiting Trial Detention Centre. They have been served with letters of intention to suspend them.

The minister said that in terms of the Labour Relations Act and the agreements of the bargaining council, any form of industrial action was prohibited in an essential service and security institution such as Correctional Services.

The Department of Correctional Services further said there was no justification for the illegal industrial action as it was committed to implementing the OSD.

The department has also paid a 1 percent progression in August 2009 to deserving officials, it has given the commitment to pay the OSD adjusted salaries on 30 August 2009 and the implementation of the second phase of the OSD will commence in April next year.

Members of the South African Police Service were also deployed to the centre to ensure the safety of the public

3 suspects arrested in Mitchell's Plain for stealing vehicles

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 August 2009

Three people have been arrested in connection of stolen vehicles in Mitchell’s Plain.

Police arrested four males aged 30, 26, 23 and 25 who are detained at Mitchell’s Plain Police station.

“The suspects will appear in court on Monday 24 August 2009 on charges of possession of stolen vehicle.

“The complainants both residents of Lentegeur area, in separate incidents, reported their vehicles stolen at about 14:00 on Friday 21 August 2009.

The vehicles were recovered by 16:30 and handed back to the owners” said police spokesperson IG Williams.

Anyone with information can contact the Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Alexander of the Provincial Organized Crime unit at 021 918 3000/ 0825594686.

Metro cop killed in Nyanga

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 August 2009

A metro police officer was shot dead in Nyanga, this morning while in the process of issuing a traffic fine.

“The officer pulled over a taxi at 7:35am, and was in the process of issuing a fine when a number of people approached him and shot him in the head”.

“They then robbed him of his service pistol and fled. The taxi remained at the scene where the officer died” said Superintendent Andre Traut.

The circumstances surrounding the incident were not yet clear. Further details will be available later added Traut

No arrests have been made as yet.

Two arrested for heroin

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 august 2009

After receiving information via information intelligence Mitchell’s Plain police carried out a string operation in the Town Centre where two men were arrested.

The men were arrested for being purchasing heroine to the value of R10 000 from dealers in the CBD area.

“The transaction took place in an unmarked vehicle. Two Tanzanian men in their mid 20s were arrested”.

“The suspects were detained at Mitchell’s Plain police station. They will appear in court on Monday 24 August 2009 to face charges relating to dealing in heroin” said police spokesperson IG Williams.

Anyone with information can contact the Investigating Officer Detective Constable Norman Branders at the provincial organized unit at 021 918 3000/ 082778 7298.

Arrows face Usuthu for the second leg tonight

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 August 2009

AmaZulu coach Neil Tovey believes that they have the ability and the strength to turn things around on their second round leg of the MTN8 match against Golden Arrows.

Arrows won the first leg last weekend by 2-1 and this means that AmaZulu have to score twice tonight if they want to be in the finals.

The away goal applies but scoring one goal will not be enough to make things easier for the club.

AmaZulu have had a decent start to the new campaign, especially in the light of the tragic death of right-back Jan Sillo.

Tovey's sides were boosted in their build-up to this game by a 1-0 league win at Platinum Stars on Wednesday night.

Mark van Heereden has return to Usuthu from injury. Reports quoted Tovey as saying that they have missed Mark and Sillio.

Striker Richard Henyekane, who scored twice against AmaZulu, was rested for the Cosmos game and should be raring to go again tonight.

The match is due to take place tonight at Chatsworth stadium at 20h00.

South Africa to ask the UN to intervene in Semenya saga

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 August 2009



South Africa will lodge a complaint with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights over the gender test ordered on the country’s middle-distance runner Caster Semenya.

The Portfolio Committee on Sport and Recreation says the Commissioner will need to investigate the gross and severe undermining of rights and privacy by the ruling athletics body, the International Amateur Athletics Federation.

Semenya’s gender has been under scrutiny since her arrival in Berlin for the World Athletics Championship where she won a gold medal in the women’s 800 meters race.

The athletics body has asked Semenya to undergo a gender verification test, given her muscular physique.

The IAAF yesterday said it had to conduct the test to make sure she does not have an unfair advantage over her opponents after a sudden burst onto the scene.

Missing alert

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 August 2009


Muizenberg Polce are requesting the assistance of the public in the search for 37 year old Neleswa Cecilia Ntiziywana, a mental patient, who dissaperaed from her home in Vrgrond in Muizenberg.

Ntliziywana was last seen on Wednesday, 19 August, 2009 when she left home and never returned home.

She was wearing a blue denim jean and black tekkies and a black jacket.

if you know her whereabouts, you can assist to trace her, please call Consatble G T R Meyer on 082 522 1216 or call (021) 787 9016. You can call The Pink Ladies on 072 214 74 39.

President reassures opposition parties

By Khanyisa Tabata
22 August 2009


President Jacob Zuma has reassured opposition parties that he hasn’t appointed a new Chief Justice.

This is after opposition parties wrote an open letter to the president asking him to reconsider his choice.

Last week President Zuma met with Parliamentary Leader of the Democratic Alliance, Athol Trollip.

During the meeting President Zuma confirmed that they did discuss the Presidents announcement that he has nominated Sandile Ngcobo as Chief Justice in the Constitutional Court.

The announcement led to the opposition parties criticising the nomination of Ngcobo saying the process was unconstitutional.

Since then, they have failed to meet a deadline to nominate other candidates for the highest judicial post in the country.

He explained to Trollip in their discussion and said that he was still applying his mind and will consider input from the Opposition parties.

Metrorail services nearing normal operation

By Kim Saulse
22 August 2009

“Rail services in the Western Cape are getting back on track.” This is according to a rail update by Metrorail yesterday.

Yesterday more than 80% of trains were operational. The majority of striking workers have returned to work, enabling a “stable frequency-based service” for the duration of the strike action.

According to the update, random deviation may be due to normal operational issues and/or technical problems and can not be linked to strike action. Malmesbury commuters were taken by bus to a connecting train at Bellville due to technical problems.

All contingency plans remain active until the strike action is officially called off. In the unlikely event of service interruptions, the option of using Golden Arrow Buses after 08:30 and 18:00 for weekly or monthly train ticket holders remains.

The Railway Police and Metrorail continue to monitor commuter volumes and will deploy additional resources as required.

Commuters are strongly advised to ensure train doors remain closed during transit and not to board overfull/moving trains for their own safety. Regular announcements will be made and registered users will receive text service updates.

The Metropolitan Transport Information Call Centre has experienced high call volumes during service interruptions and urge callers to be patient as their calls will be answered. Call 0800 65 64 63 or visit www.capemetrorail.co.za for train times.

Three wanted for house robbery in Durbanville

By Kim Saulse
22 August 2009

Durbanville Police is requesting the assistance of the public in the investigation of a House Robbery that occurred in 21 Culemborg Street, Stellenberg, Durbanville.

Early yesterday morning, four unknown men gained entrance through the bedroom window of the house after smashing it.

One suspect was armed with an axe and stayed with the 62 year old man. The other three suspects searched the rest of the house, one armed with a knife.

The suspects made off with R100 000-00 worth of goods. Two wallets, a laptop, HTC Diamond Cellphone and a Navitec copper watch were stolen.

A case of House Robbery has been opened and trauma counselling has been offered to the victims.

Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of these suspects, is asked to contact the Durbanville Police Station on 021 - 970 3811/2 or during office hours the Detective Branch 021 - 9705600.

H1N1 pandemic to get much worse

By Ofentse Mokae
21 August 2009

The World Health Organisation says the global spread of H1N1 flu will endanger more lives as cases are expected to double every three to four days for several months.

Governments are urged to boost preparations for a swift response.

WHO director Shin Young-soo says the pandemic killed almost one-thousand-800 people worldwide through last week. Southern hemisphere countries are now thought to be more at risk.

Meanwhile the a ninth South African has died of swine flu.

Although the National Institute for Communicable Diseases has not confirmed that 53-year-old Grobbie Grobler had succumbed to the N1H1 virus, it has reported that the media has a copy of his death certificate.

Grobler was a car mechanic in Randfontein on Johannesburg's West Rand. The NICD has confirmed eight deaths due to the pandemic, including three pregnant women.

Learner driver and instructor trapped under truck

By Kim Saulse
21 August 2009

An accident between a car and a truck left three people injured on Champagne Road near Voor Street in Wellington this morning.

“The car was lying on its roof on the bank of a narrow valley with the truck on top of the car. The two occupants of the car, allegedly a learner driver and a driving instructor, were still trapped inside the vehicle,” said ER24 spokesperson Tristan Wadeley.

The truck and car were stabilised with a crane and a lifter while rescue workers used rescue equipment to remove the patients from the car.

“The patients were both in a moderate condition when they were extricated from the vehicle and were taken by ambulances to a nearby hospital. The driver of the truck sustained minor injuries,” said Wadeley.

The cause of the collision is being investigated by the police.

Zuma pledges continued support for African continent

By Nomava Nobumba
21 August 2009

President Jacob Zuma says South Africa will continue to assist in the reconstruction and development of the African continent, especially in post-conflict situations.

Zuma has reportedly saying this at the delivery of the closing address at the South Africa-Angola Business Forum in Luanda yesterday.

The President believes that for peace to hold, Africa needs development.

He also said South Africa aims to join the business community in building a peaceful, stable continent.

Motlanthe slams Semenya’s humiliation

By Ofentse Mokae
21 August 2009

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe says the unfair treatment of South Africa’s gold medallist Caster Semenya proves that intolerances have become the norm worldwide.

Mothlanthe spoke at an HIV summit in Kempton Park, Gauteng this morning.

He says he is extremely disappointed that the 800-metres world champion is being subjected to gender tests to establish whether she is in fact female.

Mothlanthe hopes Semenya’s ordeal will challenge people to become more open minded.

18 year old Semenya who hails from Polokwane in Limpopo won the 800 metres at the World Athletics Champions in Berlin, where she was awarded with a gold medal.

The International Association of Athletics organisation embarked on gender testing three weeks ago.

The news broke about her gender testing after she posted a world leading time of 1 minute, 56.72 seconds at the African Junior champions in Bambous, Mauritius.

Earlier COSATU and the ANC Youth League congratulated the sport science student on her achievements at the tournaments.