E-Toll Deadline Whooshes by Yet Another Deadline on the Announcement on the Future of the Unpopular E-Tolls System by Government Went by Last Month

APRIL 9, 2021 • 012-842-0300

Sanral puts Dec 2013 temporary hold on July 2019 Decision on Mar 2021 pursuing non-payers solution is delayed

E-tolls system Transport minister Cabinet mandates is launched again fails to Mar 2019 transport minister to Dec 2020 announce solution come up with solution

DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Roads and Transport Fred Nel said lack of announcement was disappointing. E-toll deadline whooshes by Yet another deadline on the announcement on the future of the unpopular e-tolls system by government went by last month.

Sinesipho Schrieber scrapped altogether or continued before the “It has just given us more wind under the government missed several deadlines. beginning of the fi nancial year, which was our sails to tackle government on this.” “It’s clear that cabinet has not made a The government has missed yet another this April. Duvenage said the government would decision on the matter, but the minister deadline to come to a decision on the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) have to continue funding the project, which cannot drag us along like this.” future of the much-maligned e-toll system Wayne Duvenage said the broken promises has been boycotted by many motorists who Nel said the DA would be writing to last month. on the deadline of e-tolls was eroding simply refuse to pay. Gauteng Premier, David Makhura, urging This as a civil society group and a local public trust in the government. “At some point, they have to make a him to lodge an intergovernmental dispute opposition political party have vowed to “It is ridiculous that they are making decision. with the National Department of Transport continue fi ghting for the scrapping of the these promises for the last two years and “They cannot aff ord not to make a for the urgent scrapping of e-tolls. Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project nothing happens,” Duvenage said. decision and they will have to make it “For the past 18 months, Mbalula has (e-tolls). Duvenage said the latest deadline missed soon. been continuously kicking this can down Gauteng motorists are yet to see a came as no surprise as the government “But either way, society has made that the road. decision on the future of e-tolls as the failed to meet several deadlines from 2019. decision for them.” “It is clear that it is just another political Department of Transport missed yet “This is just another example of DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Roads ploy to further delay the matter,” he said. another deadline for end-March. how they further distance and alienate and Transport Fred Nel said the lack of an “Given the recent announcements that Minister Fikile Mbalula previously said themselves from society.” announcement was disappointing. all toll fees would soon increase, despite that a decision to resolve the impasse over Duvenage said the delays in a decision “Mbalula is full of false promises. the desperate state of the economy and the the e-tolls would be announced by then. by the government would only strengthen “I don’t know whether we can believe subsequent damage to livelihoods during The deadline, however, came and went motorists calling for the e-toll system to be him that he is actually serious about this the strict Covid-19 lockdown, it is even without any word from authorities. scrapped more resolute. issue.” more important to get rid of e-tolls as soon Mbalula promised they would make “Whether they make their decision or Nel said while the matter also remained as possible.” their fi nal decision on whether e-tolls be not, we will continue to fi ght this. in cabinet’s hands, it was unfortunate that Nel said for too long the residents of Gauteng have been paying for something they were not consulted on and cannot aff ord. “The people of Gauteng must no longer be burdened by this unworkable system.” Gerhardus Mulder Nehee Leboo Barend Stander The implementation of e-tolls in 2013 has been met with public retaliation with E-toll was the biggest waste Yes, they must remove When I fi rst moved to many motorists refusing to pay. of money. I have never and them (e-tolls). According Pretoria I paid e-tolls but Political parties and civil organisations will never pay it. Even if they make it illegal to to me, it’s a scam. Now people have lost after realising how few people actually pay, I have also put pressure on the government own a vehicle if you don’t pay. I will then be their jobs because of Covid-19 and they stopped. to scrap it. a criminal and still not pay it. We pay enough can’t aff ord to pay tolls. Even before the Government expects us to keep paying and The department of transport had yet to taxes on fuel. Why pay to drive on roads that pandemic people couldn’t aff ord to pay them, yet they can’t decide on whether the system comment at the time of going to print. What our readers had to say are actually worse than before? government must pay them, not us. should stay or not. 2 NEWS PRETORIA WEST REKORD APRIL 9, 2021

‘Final Covid compliance warning’ to local hospital Reitumetse Mahope spokesperson Zandile Mthimunye, however, denied that the hospital had Tshwane District Hospital was one not followed health and safety of several Gauteng health facilities protocols. that received a fi nal warning for not According to Mthimunye, Tshwane complying with occupational health and District Hospital merged with Steve safety legislation during Covid-19. Biko Academic hospital to fi ght This was revealed by Gauteng health Covid-19 together in March last year. Tshwane mayor Randal Williams. MEC Nomathemba Mokgethi. She said the decision was made during Her written reply was in response to a a meeting held between representatives question by DA Gauteng shadow MEC of the two hospitals chaired by cluster for health Jack Bloom in the Gauteng head Dr. Mathabo Mathebula. provincial legislature. Mthimunye said further a meeting with ‘Lowest’ property rate The managements of Chris Hani acting MEC Jacob Mamabolo was held Baragwanath, Helen Joseph, Rahima in August last year. Moosa, Wits Oral & Dental, Medunsa During this meeting a report about Oral & Dental hospitals, among others, occupational health and safety issues increase ever for city also received such warnings. was submitted to the MEC as requested. Gauteng health spokesperson Kwara “However, the MEC at that time was Kekana said these warnings were part of under the impression that Tshwane ‘An increase of only 2% is proposed for property rates while “consequence management”. District Hospital will submit a separate According to Mokgethi, Tshwane report, hence it was not recorded. refuse removal charges will increase by 4.1%.’ District Hospital’s management failed “As far as we know, both hospitals are to hold a daily meeting on personal fully compliant with all occupational Noxolo Sibiya property owners and consumers, particularly protective equipment (PPE) or hold health and safety regulations to date.” when it comes to the payment of property environmental risk assessments and Mthimunye said Tshwane District and Tshwane metro mayor Randall Williams rates and service charges,” he said. health and safety meetings. Steve Biko hospitals were still working said the metro took a fi rm decision to keep “As the consumption of electricity, “I am concerned that CEOs of major together. property rates hike as low as possible. water and by implication, sanitation, can hospitals neglected occupational health “The hospitals have developed a clear This was announced by Williams on be managed by residents I implore you to and safety during the pandemic as this contingency plan to manage any [Covid] Wednesday, saying this was an eff ort to manage and track your consumption.” increased the risk of staff contracting the resurgence. They continuously hold joint help residents manage Eskom’s 15.63% He said the metro would continue to virus,” said Mokgethi. meetings to monitor changes and come electricity hike. scrutinise every budgeted expenditure Tshwane District Hospital up with improvement plans.” Williams said the metro took a fi rm category to identify savings that could decision to keep the rates hike as low as potentially further reduce things such as the possible. property rate increase. “An increase of only 2% is proposed for “We will do all we can to ensure that property rates while refuse removal charges Tshwane is an aff ordable place to live,” he will increase by 4.1%,” Williams said. said. “This property rates increase is the lowest Should residents wish to comment on in the city’s history. the tariff increases, they can do so on the “Of particular concern, however, was the Tshwane website. steep increase of 15.63% in the cost of bulk purchases from Eskom eff ective 1 April 2021.” Williams said the metro “had no other choice” but to pass this cost increase on to customers and a tariff increase of 14.59% eff ective 1 July 2021, was proposed in the draft budget for 2021/22. Eskom’s tariff hike was not the only binding increase. Similarly the metro was bound by the tariff increase for bulk purchases of water from Rand Water compelling it to increase the water tariff by 8% while sanitation charges will increase by 10%. “The compilation of the city’s budget, the draft 2021/22 medium-term revenue and expenditure framework, was challenging. Especially given the current economic environment and the challenges facing Photo for illustration purposes. Photo: File

Contact us Publisher Code of Conduct Audit Group Editor: Rekord is owned and published by Capital This newspaper has committed itself to report The distribution of this Sunette Visser / [email protected] Media, 32 Orpen Ave, Lydiana, Pretoria news truthfully and accurately, and to publish ABC newspaper is 0184; and printed by North West Web comment that is fair, in accordance with the highest independently audited Tel: 012 842 0300 Business Manager: Printers (Pty) Ltd, 13 Coetzer Street, standards of journalism as set out in the Press to the professional Sabine Goodwin / [email protected] Rustenburg, 0300. All rights and the Code of South Africa. Complaints that this code standards administrated Address: 32 Orpen Ave reproduction of all reports, photographs, has been breached may be lodged with the oﬃ ce by the Audit Bureau of Lydiana, Pretoria Sales Manager: drawings and all materials published in this of the Press Ombudsman. Written complaints, with Circulations of South 0184 Bianca Pretorius / [email protected] newspaper are hereby reserved in terms of a copy of the report concerned, may be sent to the Africa. Section 12 (7) of the Copyright Act No 96 press Ombudsman: (Fax) 011 484 3612 or e-mail: Total weekly distribution: Distribution: [email protected] of 1978 and any amendments thereof. [email protected] 60 100 012 335 3760 PRETORIA WEST REKORD APRIL 9, 2021 NEWS 3 Over 500 nabbed in Easter police sweep In one of the successes, six cellphones valued at R9 000 as well as a toy gun were recovered.

Eliot Mahlase

More than 500 people were arrested in Pretoria during the Easter period following Tshwane district operations. The operations were aimed at reducing serious violent crimes such as truck and vehicle hijacking, business robberies, house robberies, theft out of motor vehicles and theft. Police spokesperson, Captain Augustinah Selepe, said roadblocks were mounted on major routes where stop and searches were conducted. During this period, police arrested more than 500 suspects for crimes including murder, rape, operating a shop without licence, drinking in public, dealing in liquor without a licence, possession of dagga, dealing in drugs, contravening of the disaster management act, driving under the infl uence of liquor, illegal immigration and possession of dangerous weapons. “As part of law enforcement, collaborative eff orts were heightened with increased visibility and more than 6 000 persons and 3 900 vehicles were searched and road traffi c fi nes in excess of R120 000 were issued,” Selepe said. “These eff orts which are intended to counter all forms of criminality also led to the arrest of four armed robbery and carjacking suspects in Soshanguve. “Members of crime intelligence, national intervention unit and SAPS Rietgat visible Tshwane police nabbed over 500 people during their Easter operations. policing pounced on these suspects after receiving information from the community.” two magazines and eight rounds of live Acting district commissioner Major- to be fl outing Covid-19 health and safety It is alleged that these crimes were ammunition,” Selepe said. General Yvonne Botsheleng welcomed the protocols are still on. The police are urging committed in Phake village, Mpumalanga. “During the arrest, a toy gun as well as six arrests and urged motorists to continue to members of the community to be mindful of “The four suspects were found in cellphones valued at R9 000 were recovered observe the rules of the road and to exercise the threats of Covid-19, to travel only when possession of two unlicenced fi rearms with groceries valued at R10 000, and a patience. it is necessary and to avoid crowded places,” with their serial numbers are fi led off , hijacked Toyota Hilux bakkie.” “Operations against all persons found she said. Withdrawal of cases big concern for west police Eliot Mahlase reminded of the social worker services rendered by an organisation called Youth Pretoria West police are concerned about for Survival. a high number of cases being withdrawn “This organisation is based at the at the station lately. Pretoria West police station and consist There has been a lot of cases opened of friendly social workers and volunteers and then withdrawn within a matter of who are always willing to assist. days, and most of these cases related “The station’s trauma centre is free of to gender-based violence, said police charge and anyone who has related social spokesperson Constable Sibongile Vuma. issues is welcome to visit our trauma Last week, the social crime prevention, unit,” Vuma said. trauma centre, sector manager, and “The responsibility of the police is to communication offi cer of Pretoria West ensure the public is safe. That can only police station visited the Lotus Gardens be done if we work closely with the SPICES GALORE AT OUR clinic to inform the public about the community. crimes happening in the area. “That’s why we are asking the SPICEGRO RETAIL STORE! “The main visit was to address the issue community to join in the fi ght against of withdrawn cases. We assure the public crime. During our awareness campaigns, that police won’t have time for those we hand out pamphlets which focus Spices Speciality Ingredients who come to the station only to withdraw more on domestic violence, gender-based cases shortly after being reported,” Vuma violence and theft.” said. She also urged the community to report Herbs Sauces & Marinades “People are taking advantage of state offi cers who abuse their power. resources to satisfy their wants or even “The community is reminded that no Seasonings Sausage Casings worse, they open a case only to make a police offi cer is above the law and if they 18509/9-4-21 statement to the suspects. As soon as the feel like offi cers are abusing their power, Marinades All Hunting Goods suspects are arrested, then the victim all they should feel free to report them,” of a sudden withdraws charges. Vuma said. “In some instances, money was off ered Packaging Butchery Requirements in return to withdrawing the case,” Vuma said, adding the station was monitoring the opening of false cases. Visit our Mayville Store for the ultimate spice She said most cases were opened by women. “Gender-based violence is a nationwide problem and each and every case that is 924 Paul Kruger Street, Mayville, Pretoria opened, we take seriously. Women are encouraged not only to open a case but T +27 (0)12 023 0119 also to visit our trauma unit for help,” she said. Vuma again warned of perjury, saying T +27 (0)11 794 8096 those found guilty would be charged and E [email protected] arrested. Report real cases to the police and also W In seeking closure, the community was www.spicegro.co.za report offi cers that abuse power. 4 NEWS PRETORIA WEST REKORD APRIL 9, 2021 Moot-gemeenskap is in rou gedompel na skielike dood van geliefde dokter ‘Sy het haar pasiënte met respek en deernis behandel en na haar pasiënte se grootste behoeftes geluister.’

Carli Koch gevier het. ’n Pasiënt van Loots, Christa Brink, Die familie en vriende van ’n bekende sê dat sy Delene as ’n buurvrou, dokter, dokter in die Moot, Delene Loots (59), vertroueling en vriendin sal onthou. is in rou nadat sy einde Maart skielik “Sy het altyd haar beste vir haar oorlede is. pasiënte gegee het. Sy het altyd daardie Sy was die afgelope 24 jaar werksaam ekstra myl gestap. by dr. Johann van Niekerk se algemene “Delene het ’n hart vol liefde, vir haar Frederick Nel. Foto: Facebook praktyk in Waverley in Pretoria. Skepper en medemens gehad, maar sy het Loots se gedenkdiens het Maandag by ook ’n goeie sin vir humor gehad. Doxa Deo Moot in Ben Swartstraat in “Ek gaan jou baie mis. Rus in vrede,” Môregloed plaasgevind. sê Brink. Broer, Johan, vertel dat sy suster ’n Nóg een van dr. Loots se pasiënte, Hengelaar-pa sterk “onvoorwaardelike en opregte liefde vir Charmaine-Li de Blanche, sê dat haar haar medemens gehad het”. hart stukkend is oor haar heengaan. “Sy was lief vir die buitelewe, veral die “Delene was ’n uitstekende dokter, plaas,” sê hy. maar ook ’n diep, omgee mens,” het ’n aan in hospitaal na Loots het medies aan die Universiteit gebroke De Blanche vertel. van Pretoria gestudeer. ’n Ander pasiënt, Cecilia van der Sijde, Sedertdien woon sy al die jare in die sê dat die dokter ’n baie spesiale mens Moot. was. Dr. Johann van Niekerk sê dat die “Ons het altyd lekker saamgelag. ’n dodelike infeksie praktyk, haar kollegas, pasiënte, familie “Rus sag, ek gaan jou regtig mis.” en vriende met groot hartseer van Loots Corlia van Deventer “Die sny aan sy been was eintlik baie se ontydige dood gehoor het. klein. Maar hy het geweier om dokter toe te “Hierdie praktyk het nie net ’n kollega ’n Pa van Kameeldrift sterk in die Zuid- gaan,” sê Roelien. verloor nie, maar ook ’n vriendin. Afrikaans hospitaal aan nadat hy verlede Die “klein snytjie” het egter die erge “Haar afsterwe is ’n groot verlies vir maand ’n snywond aan sy been opgedoen bloedinfeksie veroorsaak. Frik het in ’n paar ons almal. Sy was ’n suster in Jesus het, wat ’n gevaarlike bloedinfeksie tot dae, na die uitstappie, baie siek geword en Christus,” sê Van Niekerk. gevolg gehad het. het gesukkel om asem te haal. “Sy sal ’n groot leemte agterlaat. Die 39-jarige Frederick (Frik) Nel, ’n pa Hy moes dringend na ’n hospitaal gehaas “Haar ongeloofl ike toegewyde liefde en van ses, het by die Hartbeespoortdam gaan word. sorg vir haar pasiënte en medemense sal visvang toe hy die snywond aan sy been “Oorspronklik is hy in ’n staatshospitaal ons altyd bybly, ” sê hy. opgedoen het wat hom byna sy lewe gekos opgeneem, maar weens ’n tekort aan Dr. Pieter Snyman, wat Loots as ’n het. beddens is hy in Zuid-Afrikaans opgeneem,” dokter sowel as ’n vriendin geken het, sê Sy vrou Roelien Steenberg het Dinsdag sê Roelien. dat sy deur die wat sy in aanraking gekom gesê dat dit beter gaan met hom. Frik se toestand het geweldig versleg en het, baie gemis sal word. “Die pyp wat in Frik se keel was (om hom met dié dat hy ’n diabeet is, was sy lewe in “Sy was ’n briljante dokter. suurstof te gee) is uit,” het ’n verjeugde gevaar. “Sy het haar pasiënte met respek en Roelien aan Rekord gesê. Op 23 Maart is Frik na die intensiewe deernis behandel en na haar pasiënte se “Hy haal nou self asem.” sorgeenheid van die Zuid Afrikaans grootste behoeftes geluister,” sê Snyman. Op 14 Maart het Frik saam met sy seun hospitaal oorgeplaas. Loots sou vanjaar haar 60e verjaardag en susterskind gaan visvang by die dam. Hy Roelien sê sy infeksie-telling, bloeddruk Dr. Delene Loots. het sy vislyn, wat tussen hiasinte in die dam en suikervlakke was toe baie hoog. verstrengel geraak het, uit die water gehaal Sy been, waarop die “klein snytjie” is, was toe hy glo gegly en sy been op ’n klip oop baie geswel en dokters het blykbaar ook in gesny het. ’n stadium oorweeg om sy been te amputeer. Frik is aan ’n ventilator gekoppel en in ’n geïnduseerde koma geplaas. Roelien sê hy is stadig oor die Paasnaweek uit dié koma gebring. Daar word nóg toetse gedoen om vas te stel watter bakterieë in Frik se bloed die erge infeksie veroorsaak het. Roelien sê ten spyte van Frik se onlangse beterskap, sit die familie nou met die bekommernis van ’n enorme hospitaalrekening. Roelien het Maandag op Facebook gesê Jo’burg Child Welfare is a non-profit organisation founded in dat die rekening reeds meer as 1909. We provide a range of direct services to abused, abandoned, neglected, orphaned and vulnerable children (including those R100 000 beloop. Die totale bedrag van sy who are infected or have been affected by HIV and AIDS in the hospitaalrekening is egter meer as R280 000. greater Johannesburg area.) In ’n desperate poging om fondse in te Last year, thanks to our supporters, samel, probeer die gesin ’n motorfi ets, wat geskenk is deur vriende, te verkoop. Teen we helped 55 000 children and their druktyd, was die motorfi ets nog nie verkoop families. nie. Roelien en familie het sosiale Cash donations help us meet the daily and monthly operational costs. platforms en ook die BackaBuddy- fondsinsamelingsplatform gebruik om ook te Donations of goods help us to save money on the costs of things like nappies and formula. Gift parcels for the children make Frik in die Zuid Afrikaanse hospitaal. probeer fondse insamel. them feel special and loved - something we all want to feel.

011 298 8500 BANKING DETAILS [email protected] Bank Name: Standard Bank of Account Number: 000 790 060 Edura House, 41 Fox Street, Johannesburg South Africa Ltd Swift Code: SBZAZAJJ Account Name: The Johannesburg Sort Code: 00 10 05 www.jhbchildwelfare.org.za Child Welfare Society Die motorfi ets wat die gesin probeer verkoop. Foto: Facebook PRETORIA WEST REKORD APRIL 9, 2021 NEWS 5 Donations streaming in after bus accident Carli Koch “Our wish is to see Sharlene up on her feet again, able to be a productive member Sharlene Coopoosammy, a Pretoria West of society, supporting her ageing mum who, resident’s life changed in the blink of an eye herself, has several health issues,” said when she was hit by a bus back in October Kisuule. 2019. Martin Bester and his team contacted the The 37-year-old has been bed-ridden ever family to share the wonderful news of two since the horrifi c ordeal. angels who are willing to assist get Sharlene Her greatest dream is to return to work in back onto her feet and to live a normal life. order to support herself and her pensioner Dr Helene Basson, founder of Operation mother, Sylvia Naidoo. Healing Hands at Eugene Marais hospital Zandfontein cemetery. Photo: Stock Image Coopoosammy was on her way to work said that she had the pleasure of meeting when all of a sudden, she was hit by a bus. Coopoosammy last week. “I heard someone screaming ‘be careful’ “She is such a wonderful person,” said and the next moment, I Basson. Boy (14) launches community was fl ying through the “She has severe air.” injuries, but she’s got She was taken to so much potential. clean-up at nearby cemetery Steve Biko hospital “The team of Carli Koch The 14-year-old has been involved in where she remained for surgeons will operate quite a few projects over the last three fi ve months. on both Sharlene’s A 14-year-old boy from Pretoria Tuine years. The doctors did skin- feet, so she can walk and a family friend have launched a He was part of the annual Moot grafts to her left leg and on them again. About community clean-up campaign in the Christmas drive, two food parcel donation fi xed her right ankle. three months after this, Moot. projects in the west of Pretoria, Promed After she was they will do the second Lawrence-Lee Thorpe and Antonette kids fi eld trip as well as an event with the discharged from phase of foot surgery Pretorius have launched a campaign at the Da Gama Angels and Booysens Nood- hospital, she had to and around six months Zandfontein cemetery. kanaal non-profi t organisations for the move back home so that after this, they will do The clean-up action is set to take place less-privileged children in the Moot. her mother could care a total hip replacement on Saturday, 17 April. Thorpe fi rst started the donations in and look after her. with reconstruction of Pretorius, who also has a passion for 2018 when he got involved in a Cape “I am in constant the hip socket,” said the community, was very excited about Town water project. pain. It is very Sharlene Coopoosammy. Basson. the clean-up. “Since 2020, I joined the team of Da frustrating not being Photo: Facebook Another angel, “This will be the fi rst project where Gama Angels where we fed around 1 120 able to look after myself Trevor Case and his Lawrence and I will be working on homeless and the needy on the corners and in my state of mind it is depressing.” team at Accident Angels will sponsor together. and Da Gama and Ribbon streets in The necessary operations for her to be R300 000 to fund the treatment. “We had an informal discussion as to Daspoort every Friday. able to sit, walk and drive were out of reach “We specialise in getting people who where we can help out, and then the idea “Everyone should be treated equally. as she does not have medical aid. were involved in car accidents into private of a clean-up at the cemetery popped into If the community can work together, we However, Coopoosammy can now look hospitals,” Case said. our minds. would make life better for those that are forward to a new chapter in her life as “When we were approached by Good “I have a lot of loved ones buried at the in need.” donations streamed in from good Samaritans Morning Angels, we knew that we could cemetery, and every time I go there, I try Thorpe said there were still a dire need after a friend of her requested fi nancial help. help Sharlene to be mobile and active. and keep it neat and tidy. for donations and sponsorships. Namugaya Kisuule, a friend of “The funds needed to pay for theatre “Interest in the event from the “We currently need donations of food, Coopoosammy sent an email to Jacaranda time include hospital stay, medication, and community is incredible,” she said. blankets and other essential goods,” he FM Good Morning Angels. consumables during Sharlene’s surgeries, Thorpe said they would like to invite said. “Sharlene’s last assessment has indicated to ensure that she gets the best medical the community to come and spend the For more information regarding the that there is no reason that she should not treatment possible,” he said. day with them. cemetery clean-up, the community be able to walk again. It is merely a matter Accident Angels will also assist with the “Anyone is welcome to pop in at any can phone Thorpe on 074-851-7365 or of her getting the necessary surgery and services of biokinetics for rehab after her time,” he said. Pretorius on 067-673-888. rehabilitation. operations. Kankervegtertjie herstel na pokkies haar organe aantas Dié klein vegtertjie, is in 2019 met akute Meyloïde, ’n tipe kanker in die bloed en beenmurg met ’n oormaat onvolwasse witbloedselle, gediagnoseer.

Carli Koch “In vandag se tye, is ons stomgeslaan oor verjaarsdag ’n groot makietie hou. hoe mense hul beursies oopgemaak het om “Elke leerder en personeellid word ’n Graad 4-leerder van Laerskool Totiusdal met van Miné se onkostes uit te help,” vertel aangemoedig om Vrydag, 9 April iets te in Waverley, Miné van der Merwe, sterk sy dra wat hulle aan Miné laat dink. goed aan nadat sy in Januarie waterpokkies Desiré sê dat Miné hopelik binnekort met “Miné se gunstelingkleur is blou. opgedoen het. huiswerk kan begin sodat sy nie agter raak “Leerders mag enigiets blou saam met Dié klein vegtertjie, is in 2019 met akute met haar skoolwerk nie. hul skooldrag aantrek – al is dit ’n blou Meyloïde, ’n tipe kanker in die bloed en “Haar gemoedstoestand is nie waar dit moet strikkie in die hare of selfs blou kouse. beenmurg met ’n oormaat onvolwasse wees nie, maar dit is verstaanbaar. “Vir hierdie vergunning, wil ons vra dat witbloedselle, gediagnoseer. “Sy mis haar maats,” sê sy. enigeen wat kan, ’n donasie sal skenk Sy was tot en met Februarie 2020 in “Ons vat dit dag vir dag en elke dag het sy en in ’n rekening wat geskep is sal remissie. eie uitdagings wat ons in die gesig oorbetaal om Miné se ouers met mediese ’n Paar maande later het die kanker weer staar. kostes te ondersteun,” sê Carr. teruggekom. “Ons bid dat sy ten minste die naweek Armbandjies, ‘Brave Heart’, ’n In Augustus het die dokters die familie kan huis toe kom sodat ons haar verjaarsdag fondsinsamelingsprojek wat deur Miné se aangeraai dat ’n beenmurg-oorplanting nodig behoorlik kan vier.” ouers op die been gebring is, kan teen R35 elk is. Jaarliks bied Laerskool Totuisdal ’n of R105 vir drie bandjies aangekoop word. Die operasie was ’n sukses gewees. meriete-geleentheid aan waar leerders vir hul Miné se pa, Pieter, en haar ouer broer, Luan, Januarie 2021 het sy waterpokkies gehad akademiese-, kultuur- asook sportprestasies wil graag die gemeenskap asook die skool wat haar hart, longe en lewer aangetas het. vereer word. vir hul onbaatsugtige ondersteuning Miné se mamma, Desiré, sê dat die dokters Miné is vir haar deelname in die bedank. haar vir vyf minute moes resussiteer. “lewenswedloop” vir haar stryd teen kanker, “Ons stap ’n lang pad met Sy was aan ’n ventilator gekoppel. vereer. Laerskool Totiusdal. “Sedert Januarie sukkel sy om gesond te Die hoof van Laerskool Totiusdal, “Ek kry gereeld oproepe word. Marthinus Carr, sê dat dit ’n voorreg is om van die skool af waar hulle “Sy kan nog nie loop nie, maar ons hoop dat Miné deel van die skool te hê. boodskappe van hoop vir sy binnekort met ’n loopraam sal regkom,” “Jy is ’n vegtertjie wat nie opgee nie en ons Miné stuur. vertel Desiré. kan so baie by jou leer. “Ons kry ons kind Miné se uitstaande mediese onkostes beloop “Jy hardloop ’n lewenswedloop en met jammer. Dit is nie oor die R200 000. liewe Jesus aan jou sy, raak jy by die dag lekker om haar so te sien “Ons weet nie wat ons sonder die sterker. nie. ondersteuning van familie en vriende sou doen “Ons dink en bid vir jou, en ons hou jou “Elke sent, al is dit nie. plekkie by die skool oop sodra jy weer sterk R10 maak ’n groot “Daar is soveel barmhartige samaritane genoeg is om terug te kom,” sê Carr. verskil in ons dogter daarbuite. Die skool wil graag vir Miné se 10e se lewe,” sê Desiré. Miné van der Merwe (9). 6 PRETORIA WEST REKORD APRIL 9, 2021 How Covid-19 has changed us We have been living with Covid-19 for a year now. Here follows a timeline of how it affected the lives of people and the economy.

The Covid-19 The economic and other social the lift of the cigarette and alcohol Three days later Ramaphosa pandemic ramifi cations were criticised widely ban, minister Nkosazana Dlamini announced the immediate ban of originated in and mostly directed at the NCCC. announced the opposite during the alcohol sales again. WWuhan, China near On April 9, it was announced NCCC briefi ng. By this time, SA was the fi fth- tthehe end of 2019. Since that the country’s national lockdown On April 27, 217 Cuban medical worst aff ected country in the world tthenhen ththee virus has spread would be extended by two weeks. health specialists arrived in SA to with more than 360 000 infections. ImportantImportant datedatess to the rest of the world with South Africans were now brewing assist with the pandemic at a cost On March 1,, 2021,y, the country is through the year Italy, America and Brazil hit hardest pineapple beer and other concoctions of R429-million. Theirr appointment placed back on alert level 1. in terms of mortality. to quench their thirst for alcohol. and Ramaphosa’s announcementouncement that ItIt is predicted March 27, 2020 On March 5, 2020, SA’s fi rst This led to various deaths across the group will be nominatedinated for the tthathat a thirthirdd positive cases, a 38-year-old man the country. The illegal cigarette Nobel Peace Prize werere alalsoso ccloudedlouded wwaveave wwillill The national lockdown from KwaZulu-Natal and his wife trade boomed and the fi scus lost an in controversy. hihitt SoSouthuth starts; the fi rst Covid-19 who had returned from Italy, were estimated R35-million per day. On May 1, the lockdowndown wwasas AAfricafrica death is recorded. confi rmed. The police and defence force moved to level 4, whilele the WesterWesternn araroundound May 1, 2020 Shortly after, a prayer breakfast presence in widespread areas assisted Cape became SA’s Covid-19vid-19 May in Bloemfontein, attended by 859 in enforcing lockdown regulations, epicentre. An estimatedd 1,5 million tthishis Lockdown was moved people, led to 67 new positive cases, but police minister Bheki Cele was people returned to workrk on May 4. yearyear.. to level 4. Western Cape among them Rev Kenneth Meshoe, also criticised as several police On June 1, SA enteredred alert becomes SA’s epicentre. leader of the ACDP, and preacher brutality cases were reported. level 3. Alcohol was permittedermitted to July 23, 2020 Angus Buchan. Regulations like the prohibition be sold for home consumptionumption with On March 15, President Cyril on the sale of sandals and hot food a restriction on tradingg days and Special investigating Ramaphosa declared a national state became a source of ridicule among hours. Schools and universitiesiversities wewerere unit to probe misuse of of disaster with immediate travel South Africans. reopened with a phasedd approach. Covid-19 funds. restrictions and the closure of schools. On April 10, Collins Khoza of Limited domestic air travelravel On March 17, the National Alexandra was assaulted and killed was permitted for businessness December 9, 2020 Coronavirus Command Council by soldiers of the SANDF, becoming purposes. (NCCC) was established. the ninth victim of the police and On June 23, the fi rstst Health minister Dr Zweli On March 23, Ramaphosa military. The Pretoria high court Covid-19 vaccine trial Mkhize announced SA had announced a national 21-day ordered the government to prevent began. entered the second wave. lockdown to commence on March police abuse during the lockdown. On July 9, SA January 10, 2021 27. The fi rst death, Madelein van On April 21, Ramaphosa recorded the highest Wyk (48) of the Western Cape, was announced a R500-billion support number of confi rmed Tshwane Covid fi gures Government warned about also recorded on this day. package for the economy, but infections in one as of Saturday, 3 April ‘huge’ Covid-19 vaccine theft. On April 1, SA began with mass because of corruption some of these day: 13 674. Total cases: 109 491 February 7, 2021 testing, particularly in townships funds never reached its intended and rural areas. The virus spread targets. Lockdown restrictions were Active cases: 796 SA’s Covid-19 vaccines are rapidly and the strict measures of the eased for the fi rst time on April 24 Recovered: 105 705 expiring earlier than planned. national lockdown included a total as part of a phased plan. While 2 990 ban on liquor and cigarette sales. Ramaphosa promised Deaths: Health workers are hit hard Economic impact - The impact of the More than 35 000 healthcare workers pandemic on business contracted Covid-19 by the end of last year “MORE THAN 35 000 performance has been of whom more than 400 died, according to HEALTHCARE WORKERS signifi cant. More than half of the owners of Minister of health, Dr Zweli Mkhize. New CONTRACTED COVID19 stats are not available, which leave unions in small, medium and the health industry sceptical. BY THE END OF LAST YEAR OF micro enterprises say WHOM MORE THAN 400 DIED.” they experienced great According to Dr Angelique Coetzee, uncertainty regarding chairperson of the South African Medical As- the sustainability of their sociation, more than 300 doctors had died by The ban on alcohol showed clearly that businesses during the the fi rst week of February. alcohol-related incidents put an enormous last few months, due to strain on emergency units. The latest data the Covid-19 pandemic, Apart from deaths, a shortage of key on deaths from unnatural causes (such as according to Ipsos SA, workers is just one reason South African vehicle collisions, murders and accidents) a multinational market research and consulting hospitals are facing unprecedented pressure from the South African Medical Research fi rm. Thousands of small from the ongoing resurgence of coronavirus Council, gives some insight. The number of businesses had to close Now to combat the cases, driven by a new variant that appears unnatural deaths dropped dramatically from their doors. more infectious than earlier strains. more than 1 000 in a week to just over 600 after the alcohol ban was reinstated and the - Unemployment has also ‘pandemic of fear’ Admissions have far outstripped last curfew extended on December 28, 2020. risen to unprecedented year’s peak and oxygen and critical care This was signifi cantly lower than forecasted. levels, reaching its Those rising feelings of subsequent conspiracy beds are in short supply. Almost 16 900 They shot up from just more than 600 to highest rate of 30,8% worry and panic that took theories born out of all people suff ered from Covid-19 in the coun-un almost 1 000 with the unbanning and the as 2,2 million jobs were hold of you over the past the statistics. Then anger try’s hospitals as of January 14, accordingng to reduction of curfew earlier lost at the height of the year are very real. followed over all the rules data compiled by independent analyst Suganugan this month. This came lockdown in the second Since the outbreak of and regulations and the Naidoo, who has been tracking the coursese ofof within an inch of the quarter. the Covid-19 pandemic, fi nancial losses. But we kept the virus in South Africa since late April 2020.2020. prediction. people all over the world on negotiating, believing - Tax collection has are being confronted with that there should be an plummeted as a result of their mortality almost answer, trying to control the economic impact of immediately. the fear that took the Covid-19 pandemic, People are in a hold of us. But with Sars forecasting a fi ght or fl ight eventually the With the R300-billion tax revenue mode. fear took over; lockdown, denial shortfall. From came with all depression the outset the subsequent with more - The rand took a roller- we had conspiracy theories suicides coaster ride weakening to isolate born out of all the following, and to its lowest level in ourselves statistics. I do not even April 2020. But it clawed and we want to think its way back to R14,01 were about the family to the greenback and is immo- murders that are currently trading between bilised still to come,” says Nellie R14 and R15 to the dollar. in a national lockdown, Prinsloo, a psychologist of escalating the fear the Alberton. - Ratings agencies have virus brought along. It is so “Although fear is a normal, long warned South Africa big that psychologists are even necessary, response over its growing debt talking of a pandemic of fear meant to keep us safe, we crisis and inability to cut next to the virus pandemic. should note that once the spending or grow the “With the lockdown, fear kicked in can be hard economy. Minister of health, Dr Zweli Mkhize. denial came with all the to stop.” www.rekordnorth.co.za/property 9 April 2021 7 Determining your home’s market value

This means that the value of one’s home might not appear to have changed by much if one were to review it every year.

Real estate is one of the between 10-15 years, the value largest medium- to long-term of the home will hit highs and investments many will make lows. within their lifetime. “Over time though, the highs As an appreciating asset, will balance out the lows and will the value of one’s home will result in substantial returns on increase with every year that the initial investment.” passes. Goslett therefore recommends With this in mind, homeowners valuing one’s property once may be tempted to conduct every three to fi ve years or so regular valuations on their just to check in on how much home; but this may be counter- the property has accumulated in productive if undertaken too value. frequently. “Unless the homeowners are As with any other medium- planning on selling, checking the to long-term investments, value of the home too often may homeowners are advised not lead to unnecessary anxiety, to check the value of their especially if the market happens investment too often, says to be performing poorly when Regional Director and CEO of they conduct the valuation. RE/MAX of Southern Africa, “On the other hand, checking Adrian Goslett. the value of one’s property “Home prices appreciate slowly regularly enough can alert the over time. The RE/MAX National homeowner if the market is Housing Report reveals that Q4 currently in a boom where they 2020’s national median price stand to sell for far greater than grew by 5% when compared at a later point in their loan to Q4 2019 while the price of term,” he points out. sectional titles refl ect a 3% drop Those who want to conduct when compared to Q4 2019. regular valuations on their home “This means that the value of ought to enlist the services one’s home might not appear to of a reputable real estate have changed by much if one professional with a fi rm grasp of were to review it every year,” the local market conditions. explains Goslett. “While looking at similar He goes on to explain that the homes on property portals can property market also works in give homeowners a rough idea cycles and will have periods of of what homes in their area are exceptional house price growth selling for, the most accurate followed by periods of low or way to determine a home’s even negative growth. true market value is if a local “Over the lifespan of any given real estate expert conduct a home loan, which is typically valuation.”

A local real estate expert will help most. Photo by Kampus Production from Pexels OVER 96% OF PEOPLE REKORD LIVING IN PTA NORTH THE DO THEIR SHOPPING ON A ADVERTISER’S MONTHLY BASIS BUT IF THEY DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOUR PRODUCT, GUIDE THEY WON’T BUY IT Pta North

PRETORIA WEST REKORD APRIL 9, 2021 Distributing 39 850 community papers every week 012 842 0300 Former Titans captain bids farewell to sport after a 20-year career As Henry Davids bows out environment that is created. from a two-decade playing “It has allowed guys to come career studded with trophies in and excel. and stunning performances, the “If you look at just two 41-year-old said he couldn’t examples, in Aiden Markram have asked for more. and Theunis de Bruyn. “I’ve had a very fulfi lling “They came in and excelled career, with so many highlights. right away. “I feel blessed to have played “I hope I’ve played my for so long, and to have played small part in that creation of an for my country, which is every environment that breeds success. kid’s dream,” an emotional “It was always very rewarding Davids refl ected. to see as a senior player,” he Davids can boast many said of a team that once scored highlights and achievements 400 on three occasions in a 50- at the end of his career, which over campaign.” Reynardt Louw (links) word voor sy vertrek na Tunisië vir die Olimpiese kwalifi seringstoernooi sterkte toegewens deur include 13 domestic trophies, Davids has always been big sy broer, Brenden, wat self ‘n kranige stoeier is by die Centurion Warriors. Foto: Koos Venter of which he won 11 with the on environment and atmosphere, rampant Momentum Multiply and he said he had been very Titans. lucky to play at venues that were The kid from Pniel really connected to the teams he Centurion-stoeier mik vir represented Boland, the Cape represented. Cobras and then the Titans domestically. “I couldn’t have written the script better,” he said, trying glorie by Olimpiese Spele to claw through the fl ood of memories to cherish. Koos Venter Davids believes ending his career at the Titans was perfect, Groot opgewondenheid en ’n gees because the team dominated for van afwagting heers by die Centurion over a decade. Warriors Stoeiklub, waar lede van “Just look at the Proteas dié bekende klub die vordering van produced here and the brand of een van hul klublede hierdie week cricket we played. Henry Davids in action for the met belangstelling sal dophou. “That was a proper Reynardt Louw het verlede week Titans, busy building one of his achievement as a team, many outstanding innings. na Tunisië in Noord-Afrika vertrek, and I think it’s down to the waar hy aan die Afrika Olimpiese Photo: simondp@actionimage kwalifi seringstoernooi as Vrystyl- stoeier sal deelneem met die oog op kwalifi kasie vir die 2021 Olimpiese Spele in Tokio, Japan. Career Opportunity Die 23-jarige Louw is lank reeds een van Suid-Afrika se topstoeiers Rekord newspaper is looking for successful, dynamic, en sy prestasies op die stoeimat kom ambitious, energetic, goal-driven and eager powerhouse reeds ’n lang pad, sedert hy 16 jaar gelede aan dié sport begin deelneem Advertising Sales het. Behalwe vir ’n gros provinsiale en Consultants nasionale titels het Louw ook al op to sell advertising space in our newspapers, online platforms internasionale vlak sy merk gemaak. and Get It magazine. Hy spog met een goue medalje en drie silwer medaljes op die Afrika- Main purpose r Sell advertising space kampioenskappe, wat beteken hy het r Create revenue for newspapers reeds een keer in die verlede die titel r Meet set targets as Afrika-kampioen verdien. r Provide advertising service to customers Hierdie feit gee Louw selfvertroue, Reynardt Louw is een van Suid-Afrika se beste senior stoeiers en hoop om want hy weet dat hy die knoop kan later vanjaar sy land by die Olimpiese Spele te kan verteenwoordig. Personal requirements deurhak. r Driver’s licence andOWN VEHICLE - “Ek het al teen die manne gestoei Louw het steeds gereeld gedraf, Finansiële Bestuursrekeningkunde please mention this in your application/CV en weet dus wat om te verwag,” het nadat die ergste regulasies van die by Akademia, nadat stoei tot r Excellent selling skills r Excellent communication skills hy aan Rekord gesê. grendelstaat verslap is, terwyl hy onlangs sy lewe oorheers het. r Must have a proven excellent sales record with As junior het Louw ook al in 2014 gelukkig is om ’n redelik goed- Ná skool het hy ’n tyd lank in traceable references sy buiging by die Jeug Olimpiese ingerigte gimnasium tuis beskikbaar Amerika deurgebring, waar hy op r Must have previous sales experience (in advertising would Spele gemaak, waar hy uiteindelik in te hê, waar hy steeds sy krag- en uitnodiging by die Origon State be beneficial) die sesde plek in sy gewigsafdeling fi ksheids-oefeninge kon doen. Universiteit saam met die stoeispan This position offers a remuneration package consisting of: geëindig het. Vir hom was die uitdaging eerder geoefen en aan kompetisies r Basic salary Deesdae stoei hy in die 65kg- om sielkundig gefokus te bly en dít deelgeneem het. r Car allowance gewigsafdeling, wat beskou word as het hy gedoen deur aan te hou oefen “Daar het ek baie van dissipline r Commission on reaching targets een van die moeilikste afdelings op en te glo dat die geleenthede vir en toewyding in die sport geleer, r Pension/Provident fund senior internasionale vlak. deelname gouer eerder as later weer want vir die manne wat in Amerika Candidates who meet the requirements can apply by sending a Soos alle ander sportsoorte het sou kom. Stoei het hom immers op daardie vlak stoei, is die sport ’n motivational letter and CV to [email protected]. stoei die afgelope jaar swaar gely al baie lewenslesse geleer en die leefwyse,” het Louw vertel. onder die Covid-19-krisis en die Covid-uitdaging beskou hy as net Stoei is in die Louw-familie Closing date for applications is 23 April 2021. Submitted applications gevolglike inperkings. Ernstige nog ’n hindernis wat oorkom moet se bloed en Reynardt se broer, can be regarded as unsuccessful should you not receive any communication within 21 days after the closing date for applications. We reserve the stoeiers soos Louw moes maar op word op pad na groter hoogtes. Brenden, is self een van die right not to make an appointment. hul eie fi ks en skerp probeer bly, Dié oud-leerling van Hoërskool Centurion Warriors se uitblinkers, aangesien geen kontak-oefeninge Zwartkop in Centurion studeer terwyl hul pa ook ’n topstoeier was toegelaat is nie. deesdae vir ’n BCom-graad in op sy dag.