What are the opening hours?

Monday 08:00 - 06:00 Tuesday 08:00 - 18:00 Wednesday 08:00 - 18:00 Thursday 08:00 - 18:00 Friday 08:00 - 18:00 Saturday 09:00 - 11:00

Morongwa ( Community Newspaper ), Vryburg (2026)

09/01/2026

FAMILY CONFIRMS PASSING OF BISHOP DANIEL MATEBESI

MAHIKENG - The family of Bishop Daniel Matebesi has confirmed his passing, describing his death as a profound loss to both religious and social communities across the North West Province.

In a family statement released on Friday afternoon, 9 January 2026, the family said Bishop Matebesi died after a short illness on the 09th of January 2026 at around 05h00 in the morning at his home in Mahikeng. They noted that his passing "has left a void in the social and religious communities around the North-West province."

Bishop Matebesi was widely respected for his leadership and his role in bringing people together through faith. According to the family, his leadership skills and role of uniting people through the word of God has played a major role in promoting moral regeneration in the North-West province.

He was also known for using media as a tool for ministry. The family stated that he "meticulously used the broadcasting space as a platform to advocate, teach and spread the word of God," particularly through his work on Motsweding FM, where he served as a preacher for four years.

Beyond the pulpit and the airwaves, Bishop Matebesi was deeply involved in community work. The family described him as a social activist who played a prominent role in communities, intervening and mitigating challenges that affected ordinary people on the ground.

His service extended across several key organisations. The family confirmed that Bishop Matebesi served with distinction as President of the South African Ministers Fraternal (SAMIFRA) for 18 years, President of the South African Christian Ministers Council (SACMIC) for six years, a member of the RSA State President Interfaith Forum, Patron of the GBV Forum, and District Chairperson of the Moral Regeneration Movement in Ngaka Modiri Molema District.

Details regarding the memorial service and funeral arrangements have not yet been finalised. The family said that details on the memorial service and funeral will be communicated in due course.

They also expressed gratitude for the support received, saying they "appreciate messages of support and comfort which have been expressed from all quarters since the announcement on the passing-on of Bishop Daniel Matebesi."

09/01/2026

FIVE PEOPLE ARRESTED FOR DEALING IN DRUGS

SCHWEIZER-RENEKE – Police operations against drug-related crime in the Mamusa Local Municipality have led to the arrest of five suspects in Schweizer-Reneke and Ipelegeng over the past few days.

Three suspects, aged between 29 and 42, were arrested on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, in Schweizer-Reneke following information received by police that was swiftly operationalised. Two of the suspects were apprehended during the morning at Delport Street and Buiten Street, while the third was arrested later in the afternoon at Schweizer Street.

During these arrests, police seized substances suspected to be crystal m**h and mandrax with an estimated combined street value exceeding R50 000. The arrests form part of ongoing efforts to curb drug dealing and related criminal activities in the area.

The three suspects appeared before the Schweizer-Reneke Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 8 January 2026, where their cases were postponed. Griffiths Masopi Edigile (29) had his case postponed to 14 January 2026 for a bail application. Nnambi Alloyseus Okokwa (42) will return to court on 15 January 2026 to allow time to secure legal representation and for a possible bail application. Patrick Nkuta (29) is also expected back in court on 15 January 2026 for a bail application. All three suspects remain in police custody.

In a related development, police carried out further operations in the early hours of Thursday, 8 January 2026, at around 06h00, in Ipelegeng Extension 14. Two additional suspects were arrested in connection with drug-related offences. Details surrounding their court appearances are expected to be released as investigations continue.

09/01/2026

[BREAKING NEWS] Reports coming in indicate that Bishop Daniel Matebesi has passed away at his residence in the early hours of Friday.

He was a widely respected religious leader and a well-known voice to audiences across the North West, largely through his radio work. Bishop Matebesi co-presented a Sunday spiritual programme on Motsweding FM, offering teachings centred on faith, prayer, and moral values.

This story is still developing.

09/01/2026

VRYBURG - Football trials hosted by James Mothibi Sports Academy are currently underway at Colridge Stadium in Vryburg. Football enthusiasts from across the district have gathered to showcase their talent, all hoping to catch the eye of scouts and secure a place in professional football structures.

The James Mothibi Sports Academy says the trials are aimed at identifying and recruiting young players with potential, creating pathways for them into professional football and long-term development opportunities.

08/01/2026

TRIALS OFFER YOUNG PLAYERS PATHWAY TO PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL

VRYBURG - Aspiring young footballers in the North West Province will have an opportunity to showcase their talent when the James Mothibi Sports Academy hosts open trials in Vryburg this week.

The trials are scheduled for Friday, 09 January 2026, at Coldridge Stadium, with registration starting at 07:30 and kick-off at 09:30. The initiative targets players across several age groups, including U13, U15, U17, U19 and U21.

According to the organisers, the trials aim to identify promising talent that can be developed through the academy’s structured football programme. Selected players may also gain exposure to professional DDC (Diski Development Challenge) teams, offering a pathway into higher levels of competitive football.

Participants are required to bring their own playing kit and a water bottle, while a registration fee of R120 applies.

The James Mothibi Sports Academy is known for its focus on youth development and providing opportunities for players from local communities to advance their football careers.

For more information, interested players and parents can contact +27 71 771 9134.

08/01/2026

BABOON SPOTTED ROAMING BLOEMHOF STREETS

BLOEMHOF - Residents of the small agricultural town of Bloemhof in South Africa's North West Province have been placed on high alert following sightings of a lone baboon wandering through urban areas.

The Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality issued an urgent public notice today, warning that the animal has been spotted roaming within the town limits and may pose a potential danger to locals.

"At this stage, there are no immediate means available to safely contain or engage the baboon," the statement read. "Relevant authorities are making efforts to address the situation."

Residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant, avoid any approach or interaction with the animal, and keep children and pets indoors whenever possible until the situation is resolved. Further updates will be provided as developments occur.

While no injuries have been reported in this case, authorities emphasize caution, as baboons can become aggressive if cornered or provoked.

04/01/2026

FREAK THUNDERSTORM HITS HUHUDI - ONE CHILD DEAD

HUHUDI - A severe thunderstorm swept through Huhudi shortly after midday on Sunday, leaving destruction in its wake and claiming the life of a child.

Residents reported sudden heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning that caused extensive damage. Several homes experienced flooding as water entered living areas, while falling trees disrupted roads and power lines, leaving much of the town without electricity.

The storm also caused significant traffic disruptions, as streets were flooded and debris blocked key routes.

Tragically, one child lost their life during the storm.
North West Police Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, said the child was caught in fast-moving water during the storm and later died.

Residents have taken to social media to share images and videos showing the extent of the damage. In one widely shared video, floodwaters can be seen inundating Mompati Mall, where workers were observed sweeping water out of the shopping centre.

04/01/2026

HOMECOMING CELEBRATIONS MARK SUCCESSFUL INITIATION SEASON ACROSS NORTH WEST

TAUNG — The North West province was alive with colour, song and tradition on Saturday, 03 January 2026, as families and communities gathered across the province to celebrate the return of initiates from initiation schools.

The homecoming celebrations marked the end of an initiation season that began in late November and early December 2025, when young men from different parts of the province were taken to initiation schools as part of a long-standing cultural rite of passage into manhood.

Despite challenges that marred the season — including the reported deaths of three initiates in Klerksdorp and Mahikeng, as well as the shutdown of several illegal initiation schools by provincial authorities — the majority of legally registered schools recorded successful outcomes, with initiates returning home safely.

One of the notable celebrations took place at the Charlmans residence in Taung Extension 5, where Tshepang and Tshepiso Charlmans were warmly welcomed home after spending a month at initiation school. The celebration drew relatives, community members and dignitaries, turning the homestead into a vibrant space of song, dance and cultural pride.

The homecoming was marked by a rich fusion of Setswana and Xhosa traditions, reflecting the cultural backgrounds of both parents. Elders from both families came together to formally receive the young men, symbolising unity and shared responsibility in shaping their journey into adulthood.

Tshepang and Tshepiso are among many initiates who successfully completed the month-long initiation process, which aims to prepare young men to become responsible, disciplined and respectful members of society.

Speaking during the celebrations, initiation school principal Steven Mushi said his school received 118 initiates at the end of November 2025, and all returned safely to graduate on Saturday. Mushi described the outcome as a testament to doing things "the right way".

"We are intentional about breaking the stereotype that initiation schools are money-making schemes," said Mushi. "What we do is not for profit. Our focus is on discipline, cultural education and shaping these young men into respectful individuals who will positively contribute to their communities."

He added that the core purpose of initiation is to instil values, responsibility and cultural understanding, rather than exploitation.

Among those in attendance at the Charlmans homecoming were Dr Bengeza and the North West MEC for Agriculture, Madoda Sambatha.

As the welcoming of initiates ended on Saturday, the 2025/26 initiation season stands as a reminder of both the importance of safeguarding cultural traditions and the responsibility to protect young lives through lawful and ethical practices.

03/01/2026

MAN DIES AFTER BEING MAULED BY PIT BULLS

VRYBURG - A 39-year-old man has succumbed to his injuries after allegedly being attacked by two pit bull dogs in Vryburg, North West.

The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, 1 January 2026. According to North West SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, police received a report of an inquest from a local hospital.

“Upon arrival at the hospital, police were directed to a surgical ward where a man was found lying on a bed with no signs of life,” said Lt. Col. Tselanyane.

The deceased had sustained multiple wounds and scratches to his hands and legs, allegedly as a result of being bitten by pit bull dogs. Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) transported him to hospital at approximately 02:30 on Thursday morning. He later passed away on Friday evening, 2 January 2026.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that this was not the first incident involving the dogs at the same property. It is alleged that the dogs had previously attacked other tenants, and a related case is expected to be heard at the local Magistrate’s Court in February.

Following consultations with the dog owner, the two pit bulls were euthanised on Saturday, 3 January 2026.

No arrests have been made at this stage. Police have opened an inquest docket and investigations are ongoing.
(picture for illustration purposes)

31/12/2025

Persistent Flooding Plagues Colridge Residents

COLRIDGE - Residents of Cajee Street in Colridge township are enduring yet another rainy season trapped by severe flooding, with massive pools of muddy water turning streets into impassable quagmires and isolating homes for days.

A photograph sent to MORONGWA shows a large, stagnant body of water dominating the foreground, reflecting modest concrete and corrugated iron homes in the background. Vegetation and makeshift fences are partially submerged, highlighting the chronic drainage issues that plague the area.

One resident said complaints have been lodged with the local councillor over the years, to no avail.
"The street is worse during the rainy days, and it remains like that even after the rain stops. We remain trapped in our homes, and school kids fail to attend school."

The resident claimed that Ward 3 Councillor Freddy Mgida had promised assistance, but no action has materialised.
Attempts to contact Cllr Mgida for comment went unanswered.

While major roads such as the N18 near Vryburg have experienced flash floods in prior events, local streets in townships like Colridge bear the brunt of poor drainage systems.

Residents are calling for urgent intervention from the Naledi Municipality to address stormwater drainage and road maintenance.

31/12/2025

Reported No-Show Incidents and Performance Disputes Involving Makhadzi

VRYBURG - South African artist Makhadzi (real name Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona) has, over several years, been linked to multiple reported incidents where she allegedly failed to appear at booked performances or where shows were disrupted.

These cases often involve disputes over payment terms, scheduling, logistics, or safety. While organisers frequently accuse her of breaching contracts, her management has consistently maintained that performances are conditional on full and timely payment in line with signed agreements.

● 2019–2020: Zebediela, Limpopo

Promoters in Zebediela reported that Makhadzi missed performances at separate events in 2019 and 2020. Limited public detail was provided at the time, but the incidents later resurfaced in discussions about repeated no-shows in the area.

● October 2021: Bo die Krans Lodge & Mukondeni, Limpopo

Makhadzi was accused of failing to appear at two separate events in Limpopo. Promoter Dr Phaswana publicly criticised her reliability, while her management responded that she was fully booked and that no confirmed arrangement had been finalised.

● December 2021 (reported in 2022): Private Wedding, Limpopo

A client who booked Makhadzi for a wedding claimed that her team postponed the performance to the following day, resulting in no performance at all. The matter was not publicly resolved.

● April 2022: Mahikeng, North West

Event organisers Miga Events alleged that Makhadzi did not show up for a performance scheduled for 17 April 2022, despite being paid R70,000. They claimed the artist was double-booked and demanded a full refund, stating that communication from her team ceased afterward.

● October 2022: Employees on Safety Event, Steelpoort, Limpopo

Businessman Seth Molapo said he paid over R95,000 for Makhadzi to perform at a corporate event on 4 October 2022. She reportedly did not arrive, citing illness. He later received a partial refund of R40,000 and accused her management of poor communication.

● December 2022: Malapile Park, Limpopo

A promoter served Makhadzi’s former record label, Open Mic, with a R159,000 letter of demand after she allegedly failed to honour a booked gig. The promoter had paid R70,000, with the remainder claimed for damages and related costs.

● December 2022: Musina Rugby Field, Limpopo

A scheduled performance was cancelled following what was described as a misunderstanding over venue payment. Conflicting versions were given by the promoter and the bar manager, resulting in Makhadzi not appearing.

● October 2023: Kadoma Music Festival, Zimbabwe (Disrupted performance)

Makhadzi briefly walked off stage after a bottle was thrown at her, citing safety concerns. She later returned with additional security and completed her set.

● 2023–2024: Zebediela, Limpopo

Promoters again claimed that Makhadzi failed to appear at different events in 2023 and 2024, adding to earlier reports from the same area in 2019 and 2020.

● October 2024: Macufe Festival, Bloemfontein (Disrupted performance)

Makhadzi accused DJ Oscar Mbo’s team of cutting her performance short by removing her USB due to overlapping schedules and delays. The incident sparked public debate but was not a full no-show.

● December 2024: Kwas London Annual Fun Games & Music Festival, North West

Makhadzi was billed as the headline act but did not perform. Angry fans vandalised and burned the stage, causing an estimated R3 million in damage. Her team stated that the promoter failed to pay the full agreed fee of R180,000 within the required 14-day period, meaning she was not contractually obligated to appear. Police investigated the unrest, but no arrests were reported.

● May 2024: Africa Music Festival, United Kingdom (Disrupted performance)

Organisers allegedly ended her set early due to time constraints caused by production delays, including a reported stage truck accident.

● 25 December 2025: PaperCity Gardens Music Festival, Pampierstad, Northern Cape

In the most recent case, organisers claimed they paid Makhadzi’s R200,000 fee in full upfront, yet she did not arrive. They alleged she cited transport problems and failed to respond to offers of assistance. As of 30 December 2025, neither Makhadzi nor her management had issued a public response.

Makhadzi and her management maintain that they strictly enforce contractual terms and do not perform if payment conditions are not met. Promoters, however, often argue that communication breakdowns, verbal agreements, or last-minute changes contributed to the disputes.

These recurring incidents have intensified debate within South Africa’s entertainment industry, raising broader questions about booking practices, contract enforcement, communication, and accountability between artists and promoters.

30/12/2025

PaperCity Gardens Music Festival Accuse Makhadzi of No-Show

PAMPIERSTAD - The organisers of the 2025 PaperCity Gardens Music Festival have issued a strongly worded official statement accusing South African superstar Makhadzi of failing to appear for her scheduled performance on Christmas Day, 25 December, despite receiving full payment of her R200,000 performance fee.

In a three-part statement posted on social media, Lecweleng Investments (Pty) Ltd, the company behind the event held at Reitlamile Sports Ground in Pampierstad, detailed the sequence of events leading to the non-appearance and expressed deep disappointment in the artist's team.

According to the organisers, Makhadzi's booking was formally confirmed, with the full fee paid in advance. The performance was publicly promoted after the artist herself acknowledged the engagement on her official platforms.

On the day of the festival, which reportedly reached full capacity with thousands of attendees eagerly awaiting her set (scheduled between 04:00 and 04:45), Makhadzi did not arrive. At around 02:00 – just two hours before her slot – the organisers were informed of "transport-related challenges," specifically a tyre issue affecting her travel.

The festival team immediately offered multiple solutions, including arranging alternative transportation, meeting the artist's team at their location, and covering all logistics to ensure safe arrival. However, no response or engagement came from Makhadzi Entertainment, and communication ceased entirely. With limited time remaining and no viable options left, no replacement act could be secured.

The statement criticised the lack of communication as "deeply disappointing" and a "disregard for the supporters who travelled long distances, paid their hard-earned money, and waited through the night." It also highlighted the disrespect shown to the local community of Pampierstad and surrounding areas, who attended in good faith.

While accepting responsibility for their role in booking the artist, the organisers stated unequivocally that they "will not engage or book Makhadzi for any future events." They are formally demanding a full refund of the R200,000 fee, arguing that no performance or service was delivered, and are considering legal options if the matter remains unresolved.

In a message directly to supporters, the organisers apologised profusely for the disappointment, acknowledging the frustration and hurt caused. They emphasised their commitment to integrity, accountability, and community, vowing to continue delivering quality events "for the people."

As of now, Makhadzi and her team have not publicly responded to the allegations in this specific incident. The Limpopo-born artist, known for hits like *Gagalanga* and her energetic live shows, has faced similar no-show controversies in recent years, though details vary.

Morongwa ( Community Newspaper )

09/01/2026

09/01/2026

09/01/2026

09/01/2026

08/01/2026

08/01/2026

04/01/2026

04/01/2026

03/01/2026

31/12/2025

31/12/2025

30/12/2025

Address

Opening Hours

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Monday	08:00 - 06:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 18:00
Thursday	08:00 - 18:00
Friday	08:00 - 18:00
Saturday	09:00 - 11:00