Kathu Gazette

18/12/2024

13/12/2024

KURUMAN
New mall constructed in Kuruman
Victor Mulangisi
There was a hive of activity on December 02, 2024 at the defunct Transnet structure, where earthworks are busy paving the way for the new Segonyana Mall.
An official sod-turning event took place at the site and stakeholders witnessed a big investment drive involving the host municipality, the Moolman Group and other private partners.
A brief from the municipal manager Mr Martin Tsatsimpe, who co-hosted the event with the mayor Neo George Masegela and councillors, said that the new mall will open in November 2025. The ten thousand square-meter precinct will accommodate a maximum of about 35 retail shops, creating almost five hundred employment opportunities.
Members of the local workforce are being employed during the construction phase, except in specialty areas. All investing partners believe that locals must enjoy these benefits, because the objective of the project is to empower members of the community. Backed by Boxer and Shoprite, the complex will accommodate other outlets that never existed in town before.
The mayor of Ga-Segonyana said that the town has more to offer and those with an appetite to invest will be received with open arms. He also urged investors and business owners not to neglect their obligation to maintain the buildings after completion. While town authorities must maintain the municipal by-laws, property owners must keep them clean to add value and attractiveness to the town.
The mayor elaborated on how the public-private partnership works concerning the Segonyana Mall and how such an arrangement trickles down to the residents.
With the rapid growth in the mining town, infrastructural development has become necessary to decongest social and amenity services.

13/12/2024

KURUMAN
Municipal audits show improved financial care
Victor Mulangisi
This is the first time writing about positive audit outcomes that the writer feels it resonates a collective sense of accountability among the region’s municipalities. The 2023-2024 audit results were released on November 30, 2024 which caused an array of different opinions.
The district municipality’s positive image was slightly dented compared to the previous years. It obtained an unqualified opinion with matters to resolve, meaning certain areas needed some scrutiny. In previous years, it used to receive an unqualified report and opinion. Bearing in mind that it is his first year in charge of the municipality, the guiding opinion from the auditor will empower Mr Klaas Teise for the next audit. Otherwise, the result showed consistency with the previous years.
Similarly, the Ga-Segonyana local municipality had an unqualified audit report and opinion with fewer matters to resolve and this was an improvement, too, compared to the previous outcome. This is one of the busiest municipalities regarding transactional records and therefore, getting this kind of outcome showed a positive correlation between actual activities and the final trial balance. Well done to Mr Martin Tsatsimpe and his team.
For the first time, the Joe Morolong local municipality came out of an abyss after obtaining a qualified report and opinion, meaning that several issues had to be resolved before an unqualified report could be issued. It was none the less a significant improvement on the past years, because the auditor usually issued a disclaimer of opinion which constitutes a much harsher stance. The mayor expressed his gratitude and attributed this positive achievement to the chief financial officer at the helm for working hand in glove with the municipal manager, Ms Boipelo Motlhaping.
The Gamagara local municipality also received unqualified opinions on a few matters. This municipality has performed diligently to ensure sound financial activities and service delivery projects, all of which are credited to Mr Lebogang Seetile and the team.
All in all, the John Taolo Gaetsewe municipalities have shown improved financial prudence, which is commendable. This year’s audit results should encourage them to further up their game in preparation of the 2024-2025 audits.

13/12/2024

KURUMAN
Voormalige VLV voorsitter vereer

Marelie Keuler, voorsitter van die VLV Kuruman tak vanaf 2003 tot 2008, se 50 jaar kenteken is op Saterdag 7 Desember 2024 deur die sameroeper van openbare sake, Elien Menge, aan haar oorhandig. Sy het ook ‘n trofee ontvang nadat sy as wenner aangewys is in die gevorderde blommerangskikking afdeling tydens die sirkel konferensie met die tema Afrika inspirasie. Marelie en haar tweelingsuster, Dorothy, behoort albei aan die South African Flower Union (SAFU).
VLV kommunikasie

Fotos:
Marelie Keuler ontvang haar 50 jaar kenteken van Elien Menge.

Marelie saam met haar Afrika inspirasie blommerangskikking.

13/12/2024

KATHU
Martial Arts tournament a resounding success

On 30 November 2024 students from various martial arts disciplines gathered to compete in the thrilling Summer Challenge, a premier tournament that showcases the skills and dedication of these young athletes. Both Konoha Martial Arts branches from Kathu and Kuruman competed and the students collectively secured an impressive 55 gold medals, 22 silver medals and10 bronze medals.
This remarkable achievement is a testament to their hard work, perseverance and teamwork as well as the expert instruction provided by their senseis.
An overjoyed Shihan Rainer commented, "Oss! I am incredibly proud of every one of our students who competed in the Summer Challenge. I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Sensei Janko and Sensei Armand for their outstanding contributions to our martial arts community."
Konoha Martial Arts communication

Photo: The proud students from Konoha Martial Arts.

13/12/2024

KATHU
Sishen Classic charity golf day raises millions for community upliftment

The second annual Sishen Classic charity golf day, hosted by Anglo American Kumba Iron Ore at the Kalahari Country Club was a landmark event raising an impressive R2.6 million to support youth-focused initiatives in the Kathu region. The day combined a love for golf with a strong commitment to community development.
The charity event was designed to create lasting change in the lives of local youth by addressing critical challenges such as access to specialised education, mentorship and life skills development. Through uniting stakeholders around a shared purpose, the initiative demonstrated the power of collaboration to ensure meaningful social impact.
“This event exemplifies our commitment to uplifting our communities and forging strong partnerships that amplify our impact. By working together, we can invest in meaningful change and transform lives,” said Tracey Vollmer communication and events specialist at Sishen Mine, Kumba Iron Ore.
The funds raised will directly benefit five organisations dedicated to empowering local youth namely Kathu Combined School, Sprout Academy, Rethusa Bana NPO, Bethlehem ECD Centre and Kalahari Eye Warriors.
Reflecting on the day, Jean du Plessis, senior operational manager at Komatsu, who was the title sponsor of the event, shared his thoughts on the initiative. “Our partnership with Kumba Iron Ore allows us to expand our reach and impact, ensuring that young people in our communities have access to the resources they need to thrive”
Sponsors and participants raised a combined R1.18 million, which was matched by Kumba’s Exco team with an additional R1.2 million. Proceeds from auctioned collector items contributed to the total, reflecting the collective generosity of all involved
Sponsors for the day included local and established companies, such as Komatsu, Fedatech, Epiroc, Motshini, Otraco, Barloworld, BME (Omnia Group), Kele Mining, KPC Consulting, Excell Mining, AND310, Tshepa Basadi, Kalahari Dust-a-Side, and DeNovo.
Anglo American communication

Photo 1 Price winners

Photo 2: Player in action at Sishen Classic Golf Day

13/12/2024

MAPOTENG
Businesses support local NPO

On 9 December 2024, twenty elderly members of the community were fortunate enough to receive food parcels from Retlakgona small business forum. This was made possible by the generous donations from the affiliated businesses Trust Plant Hire, Meziscore and Precision Hydraulics in Kathu. The general manager, Mr Arthur Woolls commented, “We support the mission of Retlakgona and provide funding on a regular basis to enable them to continue with their humanitarian work.”
This NPO was established in Mapoteng during September 2022 by members of the local community with the mission to increase employment opportunities and raise funds for the less fortunate in the Mapoteng community.
Ms Mpho Skeiman, the secretary of Retlakgona, can be contacted at 079 1001 825, to make a donation or for more information on their latest projects.
Retlakgona communication

Photo: Mr Arthur Woolls (middle) with elderly members of the community who received food parcels from the NPO, Retlakgona.

13/12/2024

KURUMAN
JTG Gospel Choir wins prestigious award
The JTG Gospel Choir’s collaboration with Kholeka on the song Wakrazulwa has been honoured with the National Traditional Song Award at the Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards (MGOMA) held in Mbombela, Mpumalanga on 08 December 2024.
This recognition underscores the power of collaboration and the grace of God in touching lives through music.
The choir extends their heartfelt gratitude to their supporters, fans and the MGOMAs for this incredible honour.
The Kathu Gazette is truly proud of this prestigious award emanating from our local talent.

13/12/2024

KURUMAN
STUDENT BREAKS NEW GROUND WITH BURSARY PROGRAMME SUPPORT

Maipelo Happiness Mmereki, a 20-year-old BSc Geology student at the University of Limpopo, is breaking barriers as the first in her family to pursue tertiary education. Her academic journey has been made possible by the Kathu Solar Park bursary programme, of which she became a beneficiary in 2023.
Growing up in Kuruman, Maipelo’s choice to study geology reflects a deep connection to her community, where mining and agriculture are the backbone of the local economy. Minerals such as manganese, iron ore, tiger eye and crocidolite, the richest deposits of which are found in the Kuruman district, are integral to the area’s prosperity.
“I want to learn more about our earth’s surface and its composition. Being surrounded by mines in my district inspired me to pursue a career as a Mining Geologist,” Maipelo explained.
Kathu Solar Park launched its bursary programme at the end of 2022 to empower talented youth from the John Taolo Gaetsewe municipal area with access to higher education. This initiative, a key component of the company’s socio-economic development strategy, provides comprehensive support, covering tuition fees, accommodation, books and equipment like laptops, alongside mentoring and soft-skills development to prepare students for the world of work.
For Maipelo, the bursary has been transformative. “The bursary is helping me to pursue my dream because it offers all the support a student needs to achieve their goals. It has relieved financial pressure on my family and gives me the mental support I need to focus on my studies,” she said.
Maipelo is currently on track to complete her degree by 2026. Reflecting on her academic journey, she highlighted her love for challenging subjects like Maths and Chemistry, which fuel her passion for learning despite the obstacles she faces.
Looking to the future, Maipelo aspires to work as a Mining Geologist within her community, contributing her skills to the region’s thriving mining sector.
Sandisiwe Mntonintshi, Socio-Economic Development Manager for Kathu Solar Park, concluded, “Maipelo’s journey is an example of how our bursary programme empowers local youth to achieve their potential and make meaningful contributions to their communities. By providing comprehensive support, we are not just investing in education but in the future of our community and its economy.”
Kathu Solar park communication

Photo 1: Maipelo Happiness Mmereki, BSc Geology student from Kuruman.

13/12/2024

KATHU
Gamagara Cares programme improves lives

Gamagara Cares, an initiative of Church and Faith Leaders in the Gamagara Local Municipality, in partnership with Kumba Iron Ore and the Cape Development and Dialogue Centre Trust, continues to drive community development and improve lives.
The programme was launched on 16 and17 April 2024 by the CEO of Kumba Iron Ore, Mpumi Zikalala. It aims to bring different partners together by utilising their diverse resources and expertise while creating caring networks and improving the quality of life of the people in Gamagara.
The Gamagara Cares Programme hosted three Community Leadership Workshops in 2024 where stakeholders (primarily the faith-based sector) were capacitated on the formulation of business proposals. Stakeholders were then required to present their business proposals to a panel consisting of representatives from Kumba and the CDDC Trust. After an organisational assessment process, the highest scoring projects received seed-funding to implement and/or strengthen their community development projects.
The JTG Traditional Khoi and San Community House was one of the recipients of the seed funding and were able to strengthen their existing arts, crafts and culture project in the community of Olifantshoek. The project aims to assist partners in creating sustainable arts-based and crafts-based livelihoods through building partners with arts and crafts dependent co-operatives and communities in Gamagara LM area. The project has a unique focus with the application of cultural heritage as medium for the constructive engagement with the youth.
The seed funding enabled the Kalahari Stoftrappers to participate in the Khapara Rieldans Fees that was held on 26 October 2024 in Paarl, Western Cape. Under the guidance of their coach, Jacobus Jacobs, they won the categories for best rieldanser and best theme received overall second place.
Gamagara Cares communication

Photos supplied by JTG Traditional Khoi and San Community House.


Photo 1 The Kalahari Stoftrappers with their trophy
Photo 2 The Kalahari Stoftrappers in action during the competition
Photo 3 Members of JTG Traditional Khoi and San Community
House with representatives of Kumba and the CDDC Trust. Seated in front on the right is the herbal doctor, Jan Lourens. At the back, third from the left is Chief Dirk Mienies.

13/12/2024

KATHU
Curro Preschool Polar Express extravaganza

Curro Preschool presented the Polar Express concert on 4 Dec 2024. The learners took a fun ride to the north pole, with a few interesting stops along the way.
The concert was enjoyed by the parents, learners and teachers. Curro wishes all parents and learners a Happy Festive season.
On 5 December 2024 the Curro Grade R learners were honoured for their achievements during a beautiful ceremony. Congratulations to all the Grade R learners for successfully completing their train ride through the North Pole. Next stop Grade 1.
Curro Kathu communication

13/12/2024

KATHU
Cares4Gamagara hosts incredible Christmas drive

On 7 December 2024, the non-profit company Cares4Gamagara (Pty) Ltd, hosted their annual Christmas drive at Siyatemba flats.
With the support of amazing sponsors, coaches and volunteers, they shared love and care by distributing sports balls, serving nutritious meals and providing every child with a professional medical checkup. It was a day filled with joy, hope and community connection.
Cares4Gamagara wants to thank their sponsors Anglo-American Sishen Mine, the manager of Corporate Affairs Adriaana Slambert, CoreFM, Namakwari Katexas, TEG, Mica Mining, Zanray Motors, Siyatemba Flats managing committee, UGM clinic, SAPS, High School Kathu and PinPak for their unwavering support
They also want to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Martin and Mrs. Joana Vivier from CRC Kathu for partnering with Cares4Gamagara to make the day possible.
They also want to thank all the dedicated volunteers for their selfless efforts to bring smiles and hope to so many lives. It was an unforgettable day.
Cares4Gamagara communication

Photos: Coaches and volunteers shared love and care to the children

13/12/2024

KATHU
Assmang Khumani hosts its second annual fun run

On 7 December 2024 Khumani hosted its second annual fun run/walk at Gamagara local municipality, which is a creative initiative launched by the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) department. It aims to address the increasing concern that potential job candidates may miss out on opportunities because they do not meet the mining industry’s fitness-for-work criteria. The primary goal of this event is to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the likelihood of respiratory-related health issues in the local community. The main goal of the Khumani fun run is to promote fitness, but it is also about bringing the community together and having fun.This annual event is free for all participants and welcomes community members of all ages and fitness levels.
This year, participants had the opportunity to enjoy a lively aerobics session led by the Gamagara Aerobics Club after crossing the finish line. The fun run/walk reflects Khumani’s core values of collaboration, diversity and care. They have partnered with the Gamagara local municipality and the JTG District Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture to ensure the success of the event. Additionally, Love Life and FAMSA have been crucial stakeholders in the successful ex*****on of this initiative.
On the morning, community attendees flocked to the registration desk with their pets, jogging shoes and sunscreen. Some even brought their kids in strollers. This demonstrated that communities can stay fit while having fun. We will see you at the next Khumani Fun Run in 2025!!!
Assmang Khumani communication

10/12/2024

10/12/2024

09/12/2024

Beware of this hidden danger lurking in your house

Mold-related health problems are very real and affect many people every single year and yet mould issues are often misdiagnosed, undiagnosed or left untreated in conventional medicine.
Different types of mould are around us all the time, but some are more dangerous than others and certain people are allergic to mould or sensitive to the naturally occurring toxins, called mycotoxins, that mould can emit. When you are exposed to too much mould, mould that you are sensitive to or certain types of mould known to cause health issues, it can lead to a condition called mould toxicity. Mold toxicity issues are commonly overlooked in conventional medicine, because mould toxicity can cause a wide range of symptoms that can be hard to describe if you have them and hard to piece together for your doctor, especially if they do not have experience and training in mould issues.
The symptoms of mould issues can be divided into two main categories. The first is an immune reaction to mould, which typically involves allergy-like symptoms such as sinus issues, runny nose, itchy skin and eyes, asthma, shortness of breath and more. The second type of mould issue is a chemical and inflammatory reaction to mould. This is driven by mycotoxins, which can initiate an inflammatory cytokine-driven response in the body. And as you might already know about chronic inflammation, this can create symptoms that are vague, broad, and very hard to pin down such as cognitive difficulties (brain fog, poor memory, anxiety), pain (especially abdominal pain, but can include muscle pain similar to fibromyalgia), unexplained weight gain or weight loss, numbness and tingling in extremities or other areas of the body, metallic taste in the mouth, vertigo or dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), digestive issues (especially limited tolerance to food, persistent bloating), significant fatigue that interferes with daily activities, changes in mood, excessive thirst and dehydration, bed-wetting in children, symptoms that resemble hormone imbalances (hair loss, rashes).
The symptoms of mycotoxin-induced illness vary and have no pattern and they are not unique to this illness, which means they can easily be mistaken for something else which makes it hard to diagnose. There is no gold standard in testing for mould or standardised treatment protocol or drug for mould toxicity. There are very limited human-based studies looking at the connection between mycotoxins and human health and the presentation of mould issues is very different among patients. Mycotoxins can cause only some people to launch an inflammatory response. This unpredictable response can go on for years after a long-term exposure in a susceptible individual.
Simple lifestyle steps and practices can achieve a state of better immune health, including eliminating the sources of the mould from the environment and also eliminating common dietary sources of mould, such as grains, coffee and peanut butter. This will help reduce the overall mould burden on the body. Since moulds can colonise the sinuses, you can also take steps to improve sinus health at home, including healing the gut since 70 to 80 percent of our immune system is located there. Lower inflammation can help bring balance back to an overactive immune response. This means following an anti-inflammatory diet and committing to daily stress management habits. Supporting the body’s ability to bind to and eliminate toxins is a key part of healing from mycotoxin exposure. Antioxidants like glutathione and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), charcoal and bitter greens which all support the liver plays a vital part in the treatment.
Mold toxicity is difficult to diagnose, as many patients are pushed aside by practitioners and loved ones, and it involves more than pills for treatment. Toxic mould exposure can be a financially, emotionally, and physically stressful experience and there is no cut and dried diagnosis and treatment. It takes patience, persistence, and recognition that more treatments are not usually the answer. The reality is that more research is needed to truly get a better picture on how to address the symptoms of mould toxicity. In the meantime it is advisable to visit knowledgeable doctors who are ready with a science-backed action plan to get you back to feeling your best.
Parsley health communication

09/12/2024

KURUMAN
World AIDS Day commemorated in running style
Members of the Kuruman running club, joined by beginners and walkers as well as veterans from the community, participated in their World AIDS Day Commemoration long run on 30 November 2024.
The run started at Mokala Mall at 05:00 with members of the Kuruman running club wearing red and white, commemorating World AIDS Day which is observed on the 1st of December each year.
It was a fun-filled day enjoyed by everyone who participated.
Kuruman running club communication

Photo 1: Members of Kuruman running club participating in their World AIDS Day Commemoration run.

09/12/2024

KURUMAN
Gold hat-trick for KHS learner
Juliana Johnson from Kalahari high school participated in the Kata, Kumite and Points events in the Summer Challenge held on 30 November 2024 in Christiana.
Her dedication and hard work paid off, when she won gold in all three of these events.
KHS is very proud of her for achieving these excellent results.
KHS communication
Photo: Juliana Johnson proudly showing off her three gold medals