Residents of Thembisa, Burgersdorp facing a waterless Christmas

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Residents of Thembisa, Burgersdorp facing a waterless Christmas

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™ 

Residents of Ward 5 in Thembisa, Burgersdorp, have been without running water for more than seven consecutive days, despite water provision being a core municipal responsibility and a constitutional right. For families in this community, the consequences are severe and degrading.

Water tankers are wholly inadequate. They do not arrive daily and do not provide near enough water to meet basic household needs.

Elderly residents and children are forced to walk long distances in extreme December heat, carrying heavy buckets in the hope of collecting as little as five litres of water. At communal water points, desperation quickly turns into conflict as supplies run out. Many households cannot afford bottled water, leaving them with no safe alternative at all during peak summer temperatures.

The Democratic Alliance is deeply concerned that communities like Thembisa continue to suffer prolonged service delivery failures while municipal leadership fails to execute the most basic of functions. The result is a crisis that has become routine and normalised, and calls for remedial action is ignored.

The Joe Gqabi District Municipality is responsible for water provision, yet outages in Thembisa are frequent and often go unresolved. This points to serious failures in infrastructure maintenance and contingency planning. Emergency measures such as water tankers are clearly insufficient and cannot be turned into an ongoing substitute for a functioning water system.

I have written to the Municipal Manager demanding an urgent explanation for why residents of Thembisa are repeatedly left without water, and insisting on a permanent and reliable solution. At an absolute minimum, water must be restored to household taps on a predictable schedule, no less than every second day, while long-term infrastructure failures are addressed.

Access to water is fundamental to human dignity and health. No community should be expected to endure prolonged outages, especially over the Christmas period, when families should be focused on rest and care rather than survival.

The Democratic Alliance will continue to hold those responsible accountable until residents of Thembisa receive the reliable water supply they deserve. The people of the Eastern Cape deserve leadership that delivers basic services consistently and competently.

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Thohoyandou police has activated a manhunt for suspect

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Thohoyandou police has activated a manhunt for suspect

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™ 

POLOKWANE - Thohoyandou police has activated a manhunt for suspect following a murder and attempted murder committed at a liquor outlet on Wednesday 17 December 2025 at about 00:05.

Police received a complaint of a murder at a local hospital and rushed to the premise. Upon arrival found a medical personnel who pointed out a lifeless body of a 27-year-old male on the bed with a stab wound on the chest.

Furthermore, police were shown a 29-year-old male victim who was also having a stab wound on the right shoulder. The police were informed that the victim was standing outside a local tavern with his friend (deceased) and a female companion at Tshikunda village.

Suddenly, an unknown male approached and started to stab a 27-year-old victim and also 29 year old with a sharp object without saying a word. The suspect immediately fled the scene on foot following the incident.

The duo were immediately rushed to a local hospital with a private motor vehicle, but a 27 year-old male victim was certified dead on arrival at the medical facility.

A 29 year-old male victim survived the incident and is admitted at the hospital for medical attention. The motive of the incident is unknown at this stage

Anyone with information that can assist with the investigations should contact the Investigating Officer Sergeant Gethe Mpho on 079 380 1132 or crime stop number 08600 10111 or nearest police station or MySAPSApp.

Police investigations are continuing.

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Home Affairs arrests seven Kenyan nationals illegally working on “refugee” applications

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Home Affairs arrests seven Kenyan nationals illegally working on “refugee” applications

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™ 

The Department of Home Affairs, in collaboration with other arms of law enforcement, executed a routine, lawful operation in Johannesburg targeted at suspected violations of South African immigration law. The operation followed after intelligence reports indicated that a number of Kenyan nationals had recently entered South Africa on tourist visas and had illegally taken up work at a centre processing the applications of so-called “refugees” to the United States. This was despite the fact that earlier visa applications for Kenyan nationals to perform this work had been lawfully declined by the Department.

During the operation, seven Kenyan nationals were discovered engaging in work despite only being in possession of tourist visas, in clear violation of their conditions of entry into the country. They were arrested and issued with deportation orders, and will be prohibited from entering South Africa again for a five-year period.

The operation was carried out according to the same procedures that has seen Home Affairs dramatically intensify deportations over the past 18 months, as the South African government diligently works to turn around the long-standing abuse of our immigration and visa system. No US officials were arrested in the process, the operation was not conducted at a diplomatic site, and no members of the public or prospective “refugees” were harassed.

The operation reinforces Home Affairs’ commitment to enforcing the rule of law without fear or favour, as no person or entity is above these laws. It also showcases the commitment that South Africa shares with the United States to combating illegal immigration and visa abuse in all its forms.

The presence of foreign officials apparently coordinating with undocumented workers naturally raises serious questions about intent and diplomatic protocol. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has initiated formal diplomatic engagements with both the United States and Kenya to resolve this matter.

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Joburg Market deepens producer partnerships through farm visit

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Joburg Market deepens producer partnerships through farm visit

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

The Joburg Market recently conducted a strategic farm visit to Vhegies Farm in Mapleton, Boksburg, as part of its ongoing commitment to building strong, sustainable relationships with producers. 

The visit was led by the Transformation and Strategy Department, in collaboration with the Marketing and Communications team, and spearheaded by Transformation Specialist Mbali Sibeko.

The engagement formed part of the Market’s broader efforts to gain first-hand insight into producers’ operational realities and to ensure that its transformation and support initiatives remain responsive and impactful across the agricultural value chain.

“Farm visits like these are critical for the Joburg Market,” said Sibeko. “They allow us to better understand the day-to-day realities faced by our producers and ensure that our transformation and support strategies are both relevant and effective.”

The team visited Vhegies Farm, owned by award-winning farmer Sophy Litshani, a recognised Joburg Market success story. The 20-hectare farm is one of Litshani’s most recent acquisitions and is primarily dedicated to vegetable production. In addition to farming, Vhegies Farm is actively involved in agro-processing, adding significant value to its operations.

The farm features a small on-site packhouse where fresh vegetable packs are prepared for major commercial retailers, including Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Food Lovers Market and Spar. An on-site cold room supports the operation, ensuring quality and freshness throughout the supply chain.

To meet consistent market demand, Vhegies Farm employs around 75 people and operates a fleet of seven trucks. The farm also places strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, with a mobile clinic available on site to support workers’ health needs.

Reflecting on her journey, Litshani said: “Being an award-winning farmer and recently receiving the Best South African Female Farmer award is a proud milestone. It shows that with perseverance and strong partnerships, women can thrive and lead successfully in agriculture.”

The visit provided valuable insight into both the challenges and successes experienced by market-aligned producers. Such engagements play a key role in strengthening partnerships, informing transformation strategies and ensuring that the Joburg Market remains responsive to the needs of its growers. 

Ultimately, these visits reinforce the Market’s role in supporting sustainable and inclusive growth across the agricultural value chain.

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Arrest of Suspect linked to Theft of Traffic Signal Infrastructure

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Arrest of Suspect linked to Theft of Traffic Signal Infrastructure

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

MEC Diale-Tlabela welcomes arrest of suspect linked to theft of traffic signal infrastructure 

The Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has welcomed the arrest of a suspect found in possession of stolen public infrastructure, including traffic signal equipment, following a joint operation by law-enforcement agencies in Ekurhuleni. The arrest was effected this week where members of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Anti-Cable Theft Unit, Thathazonke Anti Crime and Theft unit, working closely with the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate apprehended the suspect. 

The operation forms part of intensified efforts to clamp down on infrastructure vandalism and organised syndicates targeting critical road assets. During the arrest, officers recovered traffic signal lights, control box equipment, as well as driving licences and identity documents found in the suspect’s possession. 

The suspect has since been detained at Katlehong SAPS. MEC Diale-Tlabela commended the officers involved for their swift and coordinated action. “This arrest demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our traffic inspectorate and law-enforcement partners to protect public infrastructure. Traffic signal theft is not a victimless crime,it endangers lives, disrupts mobility, and places an unnecessary burden on the public purse,” said MEC Diale-Tlabela. 

The MEC further emphasised that government remains resolute in its fight against infrastructure vandalism and criminal syndicates. “This arrest sends a clear message: those who damage and steal public assets will be found and brought to book. We will continue to strengthen our collaboration with metro police, SAPS, and specialised units to safeguard our roads and traffic management systems,” she added. 

The MEC also called on communities to play an active role by reporting suspicious activities around traffic lights, control boxes, and other road infrastructure. The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests are not ruled out. 

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Government welcomes decline in SA’s poverty levels

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

Government welcomes decline in SA’s poverty levels

Government welcomes the latest Poverty Trends in South Africa report released by Statistics South Africa, which shows a significant decline in poverty levels over the past seventeen years. The findings mark an important step forward in the country’s ongoing efforts to reduce poverty, improve living conditions, and advance inclusive development.

According to the report, the proportion of South Africans living below the Lower-Bound Poverty Line (LBPL) set at R1 300 per person per month in 2023 prices, has fallen to 37.9% in 2023. This represents a notable 19.6 percentage point reduction since 2006. The data further highlights that progress in reducing poverty has been most pronounced among black African and Coloured populations, reflecting the positive impact of targeted social and economic interventions.

The report also highlights areas where continued focus is needed, including improving the economic conditions of women and addressing the emerging rise of poverty among White and Indian communities. The report also reaffirms that the country is moving in the right direction and that sustained investment in social protection, job creation, education, and economic support measures is yielding tangible results.

Government reiterates its commitment to working with all sectors of society to accelerate poverty reduction and broaden access to economic opportunities. Through coordinated policies and targeted programmes, the country will continue striving toward a more equitable and inclusive South Africa.

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Minister Patricia de Lille welcomes Cabinet Concurrence of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan (2025-2029)

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Minister Patricia de Lille welcomes Cabinet Concurrence of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan (2025-2029)

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

The Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille welcomes Cabinet’s concurrence of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan (TGPP), a unified actionable five-year roadmap developed jointly by government and the tourism private sector to unlock the full potential of tourism as a key driver of inclusive economic growth and job creation in South Africa.

The TGPP is aligned with key national policies, including: the National Development Plan (NDP); the National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS); the Tourism Sector Master Plan; the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP), and the Tourism White Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa (2024).

The TGPP sets ambitious but achievable targets to be realised by the end of the seventh administration (2029):

1. Increase international tourist arrivals from 8.9 to 15 million per year
2. Increase international tourist spend from R92 billion to R115 billion per year
3. Grow direct employment in tourism from 750 000 to1 million direct jobs
4. Grow total employment (direct and indirect) to 2.3 million jobs
5. Increase annual domestic trips from 40m to 45 million per year

South Africa’s Tourism sector is already an important contributor to the economy, comprising 8.9% of GDP and providing 750 000 direct jobs. Indirect employment attributable to Tourism is estimated at 1.1m jobs, making Tourism one of the largest employers in the economy.

“In line with the priorities of the GNU, MTDP, and State of the Nation Address, the tourism sector (public and private) conducted a comprehensive analysis of existing strategies and policies. This culminated in the development of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan (2025–2029) a contribution of the tourism sector to the 7th Administration” said Minister De Lille.

Following the extensive consultation, which included various government and private entities in the tourism sector, five priority pillars have been identified to drive accelerated growth:

Ease of Access

Coordinated Destination Marketing

Tourist Safety and Security

Tourism Product Development

Job Creation

Each pillar is accompanied by a plan in the form of strategic interventions designed to unlock progress and remove obstacles to development. An execution lab was formed leading to the establishment of a working group for each pillar, comprising a combination of public and private sector participants, and includes a number of key industry leaders. Public and private tourism entities, including the Department of Tourism, SA Tourism, and the Tourism Business Council of South Africa are involved.

Cabinet’s concurrence of TGPP has been welcomed by the Tourism industry. Chairperson of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa, Jerry Mabena commented as follows:

“We welcome this ambitious and practical plan which will allow the Tourism sector to take its place as a leading sector of the economy. The industry really appreciates the changes in the tourist visa regime and we look forward to substantial growth in

international arrivals. We believe that the Electronic Travel Authorisation system will be a game changer and will allow us to grow international air arrivals by 40-50% over the next few years.”

He added that “A number of substantial challenges still need to be addressed including an aviation strategy that will increase the number of international flights to South Africa, and the resolution of the tourist road transport licensing system which has been a constraint on the movement of tourists to outlying provinces.”

Cabinet commended the sector-wide collaboration that informed the TGPP and noted the important role of the Ministers of Tourism, Home Affairs and Transport in delivering on the Plan. Cabinet reaffirmed its support for the Plan as a critical lever to accelerate economic recovery, stimulate investment, and expand opportunities for communities across the country.

This year has been a highly significant year for Tourism in South Africa. There have been four highly significant developments:

The Tourism Growth Partnership Plan has been developed and endorsed by both the industry and the Cabinet.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation system has been introduced and successfully piloted over the period of the G20, which is expected to be a major enabler of international arrivals.

Tourism arrivals are up by 18.3% year on year to the end of October.

This includes a 13% rise in overseas air arrivals and a 16% increase in African air arrivals.

The G20 has given a boost to international tourism numbers and we expect November arrivals to be up significantly year on year, due to the G20 leaders summit.

Total international arrivals and are projected to grow by 20% for the full calendar year.

Processes are underway to address aviation route development and the tourist land transport licensing system.

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