Pretoria Central

4 SEPTEMBER, 2020 • 012-842-0300

‘Stop the farm murders and GBV’ bike protesters demand

Desmond and Rika Hattingh was among thousands of bikers from across the country who gathered in Pretoria, calling for an end to farm murders, gender-based violence and racism on Saturday. Despite not having any permission from authorities, the ‘Stop farm murders’ movement went ahead with its demonstration, which saw crosses and fl owers being placed at the gates of the Union Buildings. “We need to follow through with the rainbow nation and unite against these crimes,” they said. For more pictures and to read the full story, see page 4. Photo: Noxolo Sibiya. Metro to probe bill issues ‘We are looking into the matter, I have received a lot of complaints from residents complaining of incorrect billing. This led to us instructing the department to look into the system and see if there was anything wrong.’

Sinesipho Schrieber with hardly any social distancing in place. said the metro had not “anticipated” to have billing complaints and avoid cut-offs by the Nawa said the move to implement cut- such a large number at the offi ces. metro. The Tshwane metro has announced it will offs was to ensure economic restart for the “It is quite a sensitive time and I think to Many said the metro’s “red demand investigate its billing system following metro. respond to this, the metro should improve letters” gave them sleepless nights. hundreds of complaints from residents of “Yes, the President did announce that at its online programmes responding to Resident Deiza Malose believed the “incorrect” billing. the beginning of the lockdown; however, complaints so that we do not have many metro was “shifting” its fi nancial burden to Tshwane administrator Mpho Nawa said we must note that as we entered into new people in the same place, a system to residents. the team of administrators had instructed the lockdown levels the resumption of the attend to complaints while people are in the “The metro has no money to pay now fi nance department of the metro to probe the economy was set in place and this was the comfort of their homes. they are billing residents these ridiculous system. same as for the city. It was mainly done to “The TMPD is also assisting us in trying amounts. Tshwane metro is bankrupt, so to “We are looking into the matter, I have ensure revenue collection for the metro so to keep social distancing.” recoup money it disconnected thousands of received a lot of complaints from residents we may be able to render services.” This as desperate Pretoria residents residents’ electricity indiscriminately, even complaining of incorrect billing. This led to On the lack of social distancing at some queued at various Tshwane metro municipal those who paid their accounts,” Malose us instructing the department to look into of the metro’s credit control offi ces, Nawa offi ces this past week to lodge “incorrect” claimed. the system and see if there was anything Another resident, Solomon Mthimunye, wrong,” Nawa said. who stood in the queue for hours at the “We are defi nitely feeling the pressure, credit control offi ces in Pretoria last Friday, residents can rest assured that we are said he feared for his health. looking into the matter.” “I am upset because I am forced to Nawa said the metro was also looking stand in this line because the metro cut my into developing a better system to facilitate electricity already without any warning. billing that could “reduce” billing mistakes. “Even though I have underlying diseases I “We did not anticipate that things will get have to come here to solve the matter so the this bad but we are looking as to what the metro can restore my power,” he said. problem might be.” Former ward 42 councillor and electrical Nawa said the management would receive engineer Phillip Nel, who has for years a report from the fi nance department this analysed the metro’s billing system, said it week. was fl awed and needed to be fi xed. Contrary to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s “It is not possible that hundreds of people call in March that there should be no load cry of incorrect billing and the metro shedding/power cuts, the Tshwane metro believes there is nothing wrong with the under level 2 forged ahead with cutting system,” Nel said. power for residents who were in “arrears”. “Over the years, the incorrect bills This saw hundreds of residents fl ooding Tshwane resident Hellen Leballo (front) is unhappy for waiting in a queue for a long time to have been a headache to many families in to the various metro credit control offi ces receive assistance from the Tshwane metro’s fi nancial services department. Photo: Ron Sibiya Pretoria.” 2 NEWS PRETORIA CENTRAL REKORD 4 SEPTEMBER, 2020 Phased return of TUT students runs smoothly Reitumetse Mahope higher education department. The batch of students consisted of senior The Tshwane University of Technology and fi rst-year students to the Pretoria, (TUT) says the phased return of its senior Ga-Rankuwa and Soshanguve campus students to residences went smoothly. residences. “Everyone is settling well,” said TUT TUT vice-chancellor Prof Lourens van deputy vice-chancellor for teaching, learning Staden, in a communiqué to students, said and technology Professor Stanley Mukhola. the phased return would include students “In line with our revised plans submitted studying their post-graduate, BTech, to the department of higher education and advanced diploma and fi nal-year diplomas training, students - including master’s and and professional degrees, as well as honours doctoral students - will commence with students. laboratory work from 7 September.” “Students living with disabilities and He said TUT’s bus transport services members of the ISRC and CSRCs are also would also start operating on the same date. included,” said Van Staden. Face-to-face teaching for fi nal-year He said multi-modal teaching and learning students would kick-off on 14 September. would continue. These included third- and fourth-year Picture for illustration. “This means students who have access to professional degree, B Tech, advanced devices for digital teaching and learning will diploma and honours students. “Movement on campus will also be to level 1. be able to use these to study. Alternatively, Mukhola said although the country limited.” “We welcome back our senior students students must use their printed study was now at level 2 of the risk-adjusted He said the phased return of fi rst-year and look forward to reintegrating our fi rst- material to continue with their studies,” Van strategy, adherence to Covid-19 protocols students to residences would commence on years in September, as well as our second- Staden said. and regulations was still critical, including 14 September. year students when the lockdown is adjusted TUT spokesperson Willa de Ruyter wearing face masks, regular washing and “Face-to-face teaching for fi rst-year to level 1,” Mukhola said. also said no outside visitors, students or sanitising of hands, as well as maintaining students will commence on 21 September, Last week, TUT warned students SRC gatherings would be allowed on any social distancing protocols. while multimodal teaching will continue. returning to campuses that movement campuses until further notice. He said in line with national regulations “An announcement with regards to the would be limited as the fi rst cohort of De Ruyter said no students with alcohol restricting social gatherings, the curfew at return of second-year students will be made students returned to university residence in their possession would be allowed on residences was 22:00. once the national lockdown has been revised in accordance with plans approved by the campus or residencies. Digital learning devices for varsity students are prioritised Reitumetse Mahope serious concern that the process using false fl ag accusations about must be beyond reproach given supposed “sabotage and undue The higher education minister recent experiences of reported interference” by the department to has tasked the National Financial corrupt practices experienced mask their own interests in trying Aid Scheme (NSFAS) with the around Covid-19 procurement of to gang-press NSFAS into making procurement process of digital PPE.” shoddy decisions. learning devices such as laptops. Nzimande said the administrator “This will not be allowed to take Minister Blade Nzimande said of NSFAS had informed him that root in the post-school education the learning devices were for none of the bids competing for and training system.” NSFAS-funded students currently the supply of learning devices He said NSFAS was starting registered at universities and as specifi ed in the bid process the process of learning devices technical and vocational education had achieved the mandatory procurement from scratch in order and training (TVET) colleges. requirements as required in the bid to follow the letter of the law. University students who are document. “Government policy is clear not funded in the scheme did not “For this reason, no tender was that our procurement process must qualify “under the Covid-19 digital awarded. promote an inclusive economy learning device scheme”. “This is, of course, unfortunate with diverse players, with specifi c Photo for illustration purposes. “The provision of such devices and regrettable only in the sense priority given to credible broad- is extremely urgent. As part of that the procurement of learning based black economic enterprises This comes as parliament had, committee on higher education, the government’s response to devices will not take place right to ensure we that broaden the base last week, expressed concern over science and technology Philly Covid-19, a formal, transparent, now. of our economy,” he said. delays in procurement of laptops Mapulane said. competitive tender process was “However, we are also quite “Although this puts us back for the NSFAS qualifying students. “Students have since been followed,” said Nzimande. clear that the rules of good in terms of the quest to access “It is now four months since eagerly awaiting the delivery He said the DHET had governance and due process must suffi cient learning devices, we will minister Blade Nzimande of these laptops which quite adopted this route instead of an be followed to ensure a judicious stay within the law. announced that government unfortunately to date, remain emergency tender process to avoid outcome in the public interest.” “The results of this process will will procure laptops for all undelivered as a result of any deviation from the normal Nzimande said the DHET was be open for public scrutiny once NSFAS qualifying students in unnecessary delays in the competitive procurement process. also aware of a campaign driven the process is independently and universities and TVET colleges,” fi nalisation of the procurement “The reason for this was our by some commercial interests, fairly completed.” the chairperson of the portfolio processes by NSFAS.” Free TV initiative to help matrics under Covid-19 Reitumetse Mahope “While all learners have lost school additional language, history and business time, this is most acutely felt by grade 12s studies. The Department of Education this week where marks are important for career and Woza Matrics will be broadcasted on launched Woza Matrics, a free-to-air university choices,” said Motshekga. SABC 3 and all DSTV packages as well as television initiative aimed at supporting She welcomed the initiative as it would on Openview (Channel 122) from 08:00- 2020 matric learners disrupted by the go a long way in assisting all learners in 10:00 and 13:00-15:00 every day, 7 days a Covid-19 pandemic. matric to prepare for the fi nal examinations week. Basic education minister Angie which start in November. It will also be available for free on the Motshekga launched Woza Matrics on The 12-week Woza Matrics campaign DSTV Now Catch-up app. Tuesday. will start on 1 September. SABC CEO Madoda Mxakwe said, “we Woza Matrics was developed by the It will support grade 12 learners in the are pleased to be one of the key role-players department in collaboration with the build-up to their fi nal matric exams by in saving the 2020 matric year”. National Education Collaboration Trust, providing quality educational content in Mxakwe said as a public service the SABC, Multichoice and eMedia the following subjects: maths, life sciences, broadcaster, they had a duty bound to Investments as well as with educational geography, physical science, accounting, ensure their content included a signifi cant content providers and other educationalists. economics, math literacy, English fi rst amount of educational programmes.

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Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, with his senior management team on Saturday, engage with the executive committee of the Gauteng Community Policing Board in a continued drive to strengthen and enhance relations between the SAPS and communities. Photo: Facebook Lieutenant General Elias Mawela. ‘Close ties’ behind crime drop in some areas Reitumetse Mahope “Gauteng currently contributes 28,4% the value derived from the police and According to the crime stats released by of the country’s crime while the crime in community collaboration, since his arrival in police minister Bheki Cele, Pretoria Central Close ties between Pretoria CBD and 2019/2020 dropped by 2,2% meaning over Gauteng in February 2019. police station came in eighth on the top 30 Sunnyside community members and police 10 400 counts less than in 2018/2019. He said he engaged with communities stations in 2019/2020 for reported serious have seen a reduction in crime in the area, “This reduction is to a greater extent serviced by the top 40 stations that crimes even though there was a decrease the Gauteng police commissioner has attributable to the partnerships and the contributed the most volumes of crime in the from 8 941 cases to 7 866 in 2019/2020. reported. integration of resources with other law previous fi nancial year. Sunnyside police station was in the 17th Lieutenant-General Elias Mawela together enforcement agencies in the province, “Subsequent commitments by those spot having recorded 7 044 cases from 7 833 with his senior management team engaged private security, neighbourhood watch communities to work closely with their the previous year. with the Gauteng community policing board structures, community patrollers, and other stations saw known crime heavy-weight Gauteng recorded an overall of 463 509 executive committee to strengthen and civil society structures.” stations reduce crime in their areas, such as serious crimes which was a decrease from enhance relations between the police and She said a number of successful Pretoria Central, and Sunnyside.” the 474 005 recorded in 2018/2019. residents on Saturday. intelligence-driven operations conducted The police and the CPF have reaffi rmed Sunnyside police station also featured Police spokesperson Brigadier Mathapelo regularly in Gauteng emanated from their commitment to partner and strengthen among the country’s top 30 stations with Peters said central to this engagement information and tip-offs received from relations towards eradicating crime and common assault cases. was the police’s response to crime in the community members. ensuring the safety of the residents of The station had 727 cases reported in the province. “For instance, in relation to the fi ght Gauteng and their properties. year 2019/2020, an increase of 5.8% from Peters said Mawela presented the crime against drugs, 13 clandestine drug Two Pretoria Central police stations were 687 from the previous fi nancial year. statistics of the 2019/2020 fi nancial year, laboratories were shut down and 35 suspects among the top 30 stations in the country Pretoria Central was among the top 30 as well as the statistics of the fi rst quarter arrested in the last fi nancial year.” when it came to serious crimes including stations in the country with the highest (April to June) of the current fi nancial year. Mawela in his presentation, highlighted arson, murder, rape, robbery and burglary. common robbery reported cases. Drunk driving costs country 17766/4-9-20 billions, says new research Reitumetse Mahope throughout the year as evidence showed that 55% of fatal crashes occurred at night. Drunk driving accounted for 27.1% of fatal “About three out of fi ve happen over the crashes in South Africa and is estimated to weekends and 70% happen during non- cost the economy R18.2-billion each year, vacation periods,” said Zwane. new research revealed. He recently called on law enforcement The research was done by the Road authorities to step up their drunk driving Traffi c Management Corporation (RTMC) operations every night and make it diffi cult in collaboration with the South African for drunk drivers to use public roads. Medical Research Council and Unisa. This come as minister of transport Fikile This as the government is pushing for Mbalula during an alert level 2 transport a 0% alcohol level for motorists with the directions media briefi ng, spoke of a bill introduction of the Road Traffi c Amendment that introduced a 0% alcohol level for all Bill. motorists. The research found that alcohol- “The Road Traffi c Amendment Bill attributed crashes accounted for the smallest was introduced earlier in June this year in proportion of cases at 5.5% while speeding parliament and introduces 0% alcohol level stood at 52%, followed by other driver risks for all motorists,” said Mbalula. at 42%. He said section 65 of the principal act It also found that pedestrians were three had been amended as follows: “No person times more likely to die in a crash where the shall be on a public road and drive a vehicle; driver was intoxicated. occupy the driver’s seat of a motor vehicle RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane as the engine runs, while there is any said drunk driving operations had to be concentration of alcohol in any specimen prioritised during the night, weekends and of blood taken from any part of a person’s body.” The amendment follows the recent death of three Tshwane metro police offi cers were killed in a head-on collision with a suspected drunk driver recently. “We need to strengthen the law and ensure that innocent lives are saved,” said Mbalula. Mbalula recently shared sentiments with Tshwane metro police chief Lieutenant- DOWNLOAD THE General Johanna Nkomo that “since the announcing of level 2, alcohol has been an VODACOM BULLS APP issue for the government”. A tearful and emotional memorial service YOUR #BULLSFAMILY AT YOUR FINGER TIPS was held for the three offi cers. They were Ndimafhi Edward Phaduline, Khathutshelo Mukwevho and Silas Marisane Phala who served in Region 3. Selalapoo Mashilo, cousin of Constable Phala said it is sad that he died under curfew when people were not supposed to be on the Photo for illustration only. road. 4 NEWS PRETORIA CENTRAL REKORD 4 SEPTEMBER, 2020 ‘Stop farm murders, GBV’ bikers demand Noxolo Sibiya they were the backbone of the economy. “The people have had enough. We are fed WHAT DOES THE Thousands of bikers from across the country up with all the killings and robberies,” he COMMUNITY SAY? gathered outside the Union Buildings, said. calling for an end to farm murders, gender- “It’s not even safe to do anything in this Gerhard and Haniki Vosloo. based violence and racism on Saturday. country anymore. This used to be a free “Being here today is to make government Without any permission from authorities, and peaceful country, but not anymore. aware of the wrongs the “Stop farm murders” movement went Hundreds of thousands will starve if farmers being done against ahead with its demonstration, which saw are not protected.” farmers. The crosses and fl owers being placed at the gates A prayer session was held where the masses here of the Union Buildings. bikers asked for God’s help in ending farm today are just a “We need to follow through with the murders. small part of the community calling rainbow nation and unite against these Police minister Bheki Cele has for intervention crimes,” said organiser Tommie Blignaut. promised his department would and justice. This is Blignaut said he was proud of the bikers toughen its stance on farm killings. a multiracial cause who managed to pull the event off in an During his presentation of the because everyone is organised way. He said the event, which crime statistics for 2019/2020, tired of a government that is saw people from Mpumalanga, Free State, Cele said his ministry was taking corrupt and lacks accountability.” KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape attend, farm killings “very seriously”. was a major success. “Why would people go and Stephen Moloadi “This is what happens when we hold kill people so brutally and take “We are here to support hands and do something productive. Our nothing?” he asked of a recent the cause. Farmers voices have certainly been heard.” farm attack in the Northern Cape are under siege. The The group also called for the death penalty in which three people were killed and death of farmers is to be reinstated against those guilty of killing nothing was stolen. the death of the farmers. agriculture sector Protester Roger Ellis drove from Kempton in this country and Park to place a cross at the Union Buildings we cannot allow as a way of sending his message. that to happen. As “We are here to support a very worthy a biker, it is part of my social responsibility course aimed at preserving the lives of our to call for an end to this.” farmers,” he said. “Authorities handle farm murders like normal murders. We need them to be Andre Wasilewski classifi ed separately. There is a specifi c (Secunda) “We need the death targeting of farmers and it needs to stop. All penalty to send a lives matter.” strong message Another protester, Vania Nortje, said to perpetrators. farmers had no one speaking out for them as Farmer’s live are they faced death on a daily basis. valuable and their “I don’t agree with the death penalty. I am killings must stop.” not God. But I do think that there is a need to protect our farmers. More can be done to prevent the violence against them.” Protester Desmond Hattingh said the Elize and Duimpie van Wyngaardt violence in the country led to people living The group also called for the death Vania and in fear of losing their lives and this was (Bloemfontein) penalty to be reinstated against those Pierre Nortjie “Farmer’s lives “tiring”. guilty of killing farmers. (Vanderbijlpark). matter.” He said farmers needed to be preserved as

The group also called for the death penalty to be reinstated against those guilty of killing farmers. Bikers from across the country gathered outside the Union Buildings. Grace period for renewal of licences discs now over Motor licence discs that expired during the hard lockdown grace period has come to an end

Sinesipho Schrieber permits and roadworthy certifi cates that 26 March, up to and including 31 May, are expired between 26 March and 31 May, were deemed to be valid for a period ending on 30 The transport department has warned deemed to be valid until 31 August. This November. motorists that the grace period for motor grace period, which was announced back in Departmental spokesperson said Ayanda vehicle licence discs, temporary permits and May, has come to a close on Monday. Allie-Paine said no further extensions would roadworthy certifi cates that expired between - All learner’s licences, driving licence be granted and those who fail to renew on 26 March and 31 May has come to an end. cards, temporary driving licences and time would have to pay applicable penalties Failure to renew these can now result in professional driving permits that expired or face repercussions for late renewal. penalties, according to the department. between 26 March and 31 August, are “All driving licence testing centres, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula The following deadlines were set out by deemed to be valid until 31 January 2021. registering authorities, vehicle testing at the Centurion licensing center the department: - Motor trade number licences that expired stations and driving schools resumed in June. Photo: Twitter - Motor vehicle licence discs, temporary during the period that commenced from services in June.” PRETORIA CENTRAL REKORD 4 SEPTEMBER, 2020 NEWS 5 Tshwane denies service delivery issues looming Reitumetse Mahope

Tshwane administrator has refuted claims that residents were set to face service delivery disruptions this month, due to an expiration of one of the metro’s core service delivery tenders. The DA Tshwane mayoral candidate Randall Williams said the party had learnt that one of the metro’s core service delivery tenders to lease construction vehicles, refuse removal trucks and Residents are patiently waiting in a long queue to pay their specialist yellow plant machines as municipal bills at the Tshwane metro’s fi nancial services department. well as equipment, had expired on Photo Ron Sibiya Tuesday. “With no contract in place, from 1 September, operations in the metro will grind to a halt, as Frustrated residents departments are no longer able to provide crucial basic service delivery to Tshwane residents, with Tshwane Head Administrator Mpho Nawa. warned not to bribe no vehicles or equipment.” Williams alleged that the metro itself problematic and offered poor closed in July. also had no new tender set to value for money for the metro”. “To date, the tender has not municipal employees replace it. “Prior to the ANC’s power been adjudicated or awarded. As “The CSS46 tender in question grab in Tshwane fi ve months a result, they have compromised allows the metro to hire key ago, the DA had begun a process the municipality’s operational ‘People must be aware of this and not service delivery vehicles and of extracting the metro from the effi ciency to an even greater extent give in to this pressure, they must be equipment as and when they are contract and restructuring the than they had already done over required. Multiple departments tender to derive more value from the past fi ve months, due to their on the lookout.’ across the city are dependent it.” incompetence.” on this tender to support their He said that this work was Administrator Mpho Nawa said operations.” undone when the ANC “unlawfully the contract had not ended as it had Sinesipho Schrieber “I moved into this house in December, and paid monthly, He said this included refuse dissolved the municipal council been extended. and placed the Tshwane metro “The contract has been extended The Tshwane metro has but in the metro’s system it removal trucks, tractor loader under administration”. for a month, until we conclude cautioned residents against accounts for 190 days of unread backhoes used by the water and “The ANC administrators processes (to the tender). bribing any offi cial after reports readings. This is just bizarre to sanitation teams to respond to subsequently extended the existing “I deny what the DA is claiming that some defaulters have fallen me, because we sent emails of leaks, and specialist electricity faulty CSS46 contract, which that there won’t be services. prey to a bribery scheme to keep readings but they still estimated trucks. expired on 31 August,” Williams Nothing of this sort will disrupt or the lights on. it differently. There is defi nitely Williams claimed that the said, adding that the metro had stop service delivery.” As hundreds of residents a problem with the system, it is original awarding of the tender, received more than 700 bids for He said services would indeed battle with the “incorrect high not possible for so many people which took place under the ANC the new tender (CSS003) which continue in Tshwane. billing” crisis from the Tshwane to have the same problem. I administration prior 2016, “was in metro, some have reported that cannot imagine how people with subcontractors asked for bribes R65 000 bills feel.” to not switch off the power. Resident Jannie Cotsee said Metro to weed out ‘ghost’ offi cials The metro has been serving his wife Annelie, was also asked residents with demand letters for a bribe of R1 000. to pay their outstanding bills or Jannie said the men gave ‘We resolved to extend verifi cation process to 25, 26 August.’ face being cut off. them the demand letter of Resident JA Flabbert payment from the metro, run for said on Tuesday morning a it as Annelie requested to take Noxolo Sibiya The process started from 14-19 whose status had been verifi ed, subcontractor armed with a photographs of them. August. but did not receive their salaries in demand letter, believed to be “People from Tshwane The Tshwane metro has embarked “The process experienced some the morning, would receive their from the metro, initiated a bribe municipality came to our gate on an audit and verifi cation process technical glitches which led to payment before midnight. for himself to keep the lights on. and said they were sent to cut to weed out so-called “ghost” some legitimate employees not The outstanding ones, who “They are taking advantage the power. They eventually employees, according to head receiving their monthly salaries presented themselves today of our vulnerable situation as asked for R1 000 to not cut administrator Mpho Nawa that were supposed to have been [Thursday] for verifi cation, would we are faced with the debacle the power. When I asked them Nawa said its group audit and paid on Wednesday morning, 26 be paid through the ‘special’ of incorrect billing. Now we to stand for a photo they just risk department had fl agged some August. salary run scheduled for tomorrow are faced with this criminal pushed the letter of demand into employees it suspected of being in “To correct possible mistakes [Friday].” element,” he said. my hands and ran away. the employ of the metro through that may have crept in during Nawa refuted a claim by the “I showed the man that came “People must be aware of this fraudulent means. the audit process, we resolved to Samwu labour union that the to switch off the power the and not give in to this pressure, It also embarked on an audit extend the verifi cation process to administrators have unlawfully payment I recently made as I am they must be on the lookout.” and verifi cation process of all the 25 and 26 August,” he said. withheld the salaries of over 7 000 in discussion to try and resolve Jannie and Annelie also said employees in a bid to ascertain This will give the employees employees. the incorrect billing I received. they were struggling to get the exact number of legitimate a last chance to verify their This was “patently false”, he They are taking advantage of assistance to have “incorrect employees. employment status. said. the situation because they know billing” resolved. Nawa said the metro informed “Throngs of employees heeded “This verifi cation process residents are in a tight spot. Tshwane metro spokesperson its employees and union the call in their last-minute ditch to was meant for all the people of They know people do not have Lindela Mashigo said such representatives of its intention to confi rm their employment status.” Tshwane to know that they are money and now they want to an illegal practice was not embark on this process. He said some of the employees paying the salaries of people that run our pockets dry. condoned and advised residents are legally on the metro’s payroll. “He told me if he does not to report the matters with full “Sadly, this process has switch off the power, he will not details so as a full investigation uncovered ghost workers that get paid and had to switch it off could be conducted. have been fl eecing the people regardless of my latest payment. “A bribe is tantamount to of Tshwane of their hard-earned He told me he had mouths to corruption and can be reported money by unlawfully, illegally and feed, then asked me how much I to the authorities. Customers fraudulently drawing salaries they had. I told him I had nothing.” can report the activities to did not deserve.” Flabbert said this practice Tshwaneethicshotline@tshwane. Meanwhile, Samwu has called could persist “as little help to gov.za and DirangM@Tshwane. on the MEC for Cogta in Gauteng rectify incorrect billing was gov.za.” to recall the administrators. offered by the metro”. According to the metro the “They have failed in the tasks “I went to the offi ces and contractors must have ID cards which they had been deployed reported the matter of incorrect and car stickers. for,” said regional secretary Mpho billing and was simply told “Customers are urged to Tladinyane. there was nothing they can do to ask the contractors to produce “Over a period we noted with rectify this. I am now forced to these identifi cation to verify the serious concern deteriorating pay the R18 000 bill. authenticity of the individuals.” labour relations regime in the Photo for illustration only. Photo: Burst on Pexels metro.” 6 PRETORIA CENTRAL REKORD 4 SEPTEMBER, 2020

Gamphani Lungu of SuperSport United celebrates a goal with teammates. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix A late goal puts United in top three Zambian international Ghampani Lungu scored late in the second half to give SuperSport United a 1-0 win over Black Leopards in the Absa Premiership encounter. The match was staged at the FNB stadium last Tuesday night. United brought back some of their regular team members who missed action in their last outing against Polokwane City last week. In the early stages of the fi rst half, SuperSport created scoring opportunities as forward Bradley Grobler almost scored after receiving a pin-point delivery from Kuda Mahachi. On the stroke of half-time Mahachi’s long range effort was saved by the Leopards keeper King Ndlovu who was equal to the task. Both teams needed an early lead as the home side is fi ghting to avoid the axe whereas Matsatsantsa are looking to cement a place in the top-three bracket. As the second half kicked off, United continued creating scoring opportunities but were denied by the Leopards keeper. In the 51st minute veteran Clayton Daniels made way for Zimbabwean international Onismor Bhasera. Bhasera’s introduction saw the Botswana international Thatayaone Ditlhokwe switching from left-back to partner the young Luke Fleurs in the centre-back. A minute later Jamie Webber was cautioned following retribution for his teammate Sipho Mobile. In the 60th minute Teboho Mokoena was also booked after a rough tackle on Leopards’ Tiklas Thutlwa. Four minutes later, coach Kaitano Tembo brought some new fresh legs as the big centre-forward Thamsanqa Gabuza replaced Mbule and Mahachi made way for Aubrey Modiba. In the 70th minute, the match went into the fi nal cooling break with the score still goalless. When the match resumed, young midfi elder Jesse Donn came off the bench for Jamie Webber. Subsequently, Abubakar Mumuni was fouled after he wrongfully made a contact to Modiba in to the box and the referee pointed to the spot. Grobler stepped up to take the spot-kick and the Leopards keeper King Ndlovu made a safe as the United forward missed a chance to increase his goal tally to 14 on the league’s top goal scorers’ chart. Few minutes later Fleurs ballooned his close range effort over the post after he was set up by Thami Gabuza into the box from a set-piece. In the dying stages of the match Lungu followed up Gabuza’s 50-50 challenge with the Leopards keeper with a late winning goal after the latter received a brilliant pass from Modiba. PRETORIA CENTRAL REKORD 4 SEPTEMBER, 2020 SPORT 7 Pretoria brothers hope to join the swimming giants Great heights are predicted for the swimming careers of two brothers from Pretoria Boys High School, who are currently attached to Tuks.

“Swimming is where dreams second,” he explained. that the Olympic legend Michael become a reality.” Swimming was not always the Phelps is 1.93m tall and wears size This pithy and slightly wilful brother’s fi rst choice when it came 14 shoes.) bumper sticker describes precisely to sport. Success for Owethu is all about what TuksSwimming’s Mahan “We both started out playing having a balance in life. Every brothers, Owethu and Tumelo, are football. Although we enjoyed it, time he swims, it is about giving about. Their dream is to be world- the reality was that we were not 100%. The grade 10-learner beaters in swimming in a few that talented,” remarked Owethu, at Pretoria Boys High School years from now. They are under who is the eldest. applies the same dedication when no illusions that to do so are going The turning point came about studying. to take many a long and hard hour when they went for swimming Tuks swimming coach, Linda in the pool. It is a challenge they lessons. They took to the new de Jager, predicts Owethu has the relish. challenge like a fi sh to water. makings to become a champion. Their dad, Dana, will vouch for There is a good reason why for “Owethu is a late developer. He it that motivation is the one thing now, Owethu favours the freestyle will start coming to his own in two his sons certainly don’t lack. events. He seems to be built for years from now. I don’t think he is “Often, my wife and I have it. The 15-year-old is 1.88cm tall only going to excel in the freestyle. to remind our sons that they are and wears size 11 shoes and is still He is improving all the time in children fi rst and conquerors growing. (It is interesting to note the butterfl y. His biggest asset as a swimmer is his passion and dedication. He has defi nite ideas as to what his goals are,” she said. The 13-year-old Tumelo is currently ranked as the second- best butterfl y swimmer in his age group, and he is included in the Lindsay Hanekom in action. Photo: Reg Caldecott South African youth squad. De Jager emphasised that it is essential to ensure there is no pressure on him to be at his best from to a Local hurdles champ young age. It is no surprise that Tumelo views the legendary athlete Jesse learns some lessons Owens as an inspirational role model. As a swimmer, he admires Chad le Clos. Owethu is a big fan of Michael during the pandemic Phelps who won eight gold medals at the 2008 Olympic Games. In The South African 400m-hurdles dipping under 48 seconds. total, the American had won 28 champion, Lindsay Hanekom Another seven ran times faster Olympic medals. from TuksAthletics thought than 48.50s. It is exciting times When the Tuks swimmers he knew what it is like to to be a hurdler,” he explained. are not at school, or at training, experience the ultimate During last year’s South they are involved with the youth adrenaline rush. Still, when he African Championships in recently got to pull the trigger Germiston Hanekom set a new The brothers Tumelo (left) and Owethu Mahan in the swimming pool at ministry of the Hatfi eld Christian Church. of a rifl e during a hunting personal best when he won Tuks, where they are coached by Linda de Jager. Photo: Reg Caldecott expedition on a farm outside the 400m-hurdles in a time of Vrede, everything changed. 48.82s. He ended the season With the sound of the being one of the 20th fastest in Club manager launch new projects gunshot still ringing in his ears, the world. he saw a blesbok ewe going One of the reasons Hanekom When it comes to TuksRugby are bound to fail. I don’t want to,” As a player and a coach, Boshoff down. His emotions ran wild. is confi dent about being faster Conrad Boshoff can genuinely he said. has actively been involved with Simultaneously he was feeling next year is because his training claim to have been there, done that The webinars in which TuksRugby in more than 200 sad as well as elated. He had partner at Tuks is Sokwakhana and got the T-shirt to prove it. TuksRugby has partnered with games. Needless to say, there had killed, but at the same time, he Zazini, a former youth and There are certainly not many SA Rugby Legends is one of been many highlights. also experienced the thrill of a junior world champion as well who could claim to have played the exciting projects the club is One of the most special hunt. It is a memory during the as a world record holder. for Tuks, coached at Tuks and now involved in at the moment. On moments to him was when Tuks Covid-19 pandemic lockdown “There is a healthy rivalry manages the club. His involvement Wednesday Omar Mouneimne will got to win the Varsity Cup for he will treasure forever. between us, but it will never get started way back in 2001 as a have a more in-depth look into the the fi rst time in 2012 beating “I had the privilege to bitter. Firstly we are friends. It player. Currently, he is the club’s defensive side of the game. He is Maties 29-21. The next year they compete at the 2016 Olympic only changes that few seconds Acting Head of Programme & currently the defensive coach for defended the title thrashing Maties Games and last year’s World when we are racing. I want to Logistics. the Bristol Bears. in Coetzenburg. Championships. Getting to beat ‘Socks’ and vice versa. “One of the last men standing The former Springbok Franco The fi nal settle in my starting blocks in Whoever wins is the best man on since 2001,” is how Boshoff Smit who now coaches Italy and score was front of thousands of spectators the day. For the loser, it is a case jokingly refers to himself. Louis Koen a former Springbok 44-5. is the ultimate rush. There is of going back to the ‘drawing His passion has not diminished fl yhalf presented the fi rst two nothing that could surpass that, board’,” said Hanekom. one bit. After 19 years Boshoff is webinars. or so I thought. I was wrong. To The reason he love racing as committed to Tuks as the fi rst “The idea with webinars is to become a hunter is equally as big against ‘Socks’ is because of his day he sidestepped and dummied assist coaches and players around a thrill if not more,” Hanekom tenacity. He truly wants to be the with a ball in hand wearing the the world. It is absolutely free. We commented. best every time he race. coveted striped jersey. would, however, appreciate any The Tuks-athlete has, “It is a given that if I can stick His dreams, however, have donations. The money is going however, not lost sight of what with him that it is going to be a changed. It is not anymore about towards providing masks and food really matters. His aim is still fast time. We are in agreement being the best for 80 minutes plus parcels. It is one of the projects in to establish himself as a world- that the onus is on us to revive at a time. Now it is all about what which we aim to give back to our class hurdler. He had a lot of South Africa’s proud legacy in can be done to ensure that Tuks community,” Boshoff explained. time to refl ect on what he needs the 400m-hurdles,” he remarked. as a club is the best. Boshoff is, According to Boshoff, due to to do while being “locked down” The challenge is to see who however, a realist. He knows it can his parents being teachers, he got between four walls during the is going to be fi rst to be faster never be about quick fi xes. to grow up next to the side- fi rst few weeks of the Covid-19 than the 47.66s LJ van Zyl ran “To me, the most important lines of various rugby fi elds. pandemic lockdown. The in 2011 when he set the South question will always be what can During most Saturdays, he conclusion is simple. African record. be done to be a better club than would act as the ball boy. “I got to become much faster. “It will, however, be foolish we were yesterday. The Covid-19 Later on, he started playing A ‘high’ 48 seconds is not going to think that next year it is only pandemic has undoubtedly made himself. He was not a too to cut it in international athletics. going to be about ‘Socks’ and me things more challenging. I have lousy scrumhalf. In 1999 As a plaayyeer annd a coc acch, Connrad Last year we had two athletes in the local races. Experience has learned to think on my feet in he represented the Limpopo BoBoshhoff hah s acctit vev ly been innvovolvvede dipping under 47 seconds in taught me never to underestimate these uncertain times. If you can’t Blue Bulls at the Craven week withwiw tht TukuksRs ugbyy in mom re thhan 200 the 400m-hurdles with another anyone,” Hanekom concluded. adapt to what is happening, you in George. games. Photo:PPhhoto o:o RRegeg CCaldecotta ddeccott REKORD I N LLocalocal hhurdlesurdles S cchampionhampion llearnsearns I llessonsessons dduringuring D ppandemicandemic

PRETORIA CENTRAL REKORD 4 SEPTEMBER, 2020 E Challenge supports end to GBV The fi ght to end gender-based violence access to life-changing help. (GBV) has been at the forefront of “SPAR has pledged to take action against conversation this Women’s Month as the gender-based violence by offering tangible Covid-19 lockdown has seen a surge in support to victims on a sustainable basis. cases. SPAR has pledged to take action by I commit myself and my organization to be offering tangible and sustainable support part of working towards a practical solution to victims. The upcoming SPAR Virtual to free our society from all gender-based Women’s Challenge on 26 September is violence,” said Graham O’Connor, CEO, supporting this initiative by donating entry SPAR Group Ltd. fee proceeds to organisations who provide SPAR has partnered with LifeLine and support to victims of GBV. is also supporting many of the country’s SPAR have launched an ongoing care centres. The centres are supported by encourage others campaign aimed at helping to end gender- various SPAR initiatives like the Women’s to do the same – and based violence by using their vast footprint Month ‘Make Change Happen’ bracelets to offer advice, reassurance and media reach to offer GBV victims’ currently being sold in SPAR stores and hope to those who need nationwide. it. There are thousands of The SPAR Virtual Women’s Challenge has people out there who are still extended SPAR’s footprint in supporting the battling the darkness of their fi ght against GBV. For every event entry, experience and could use SPAR will be packing a food parcel for words of encouragement to someone who has experienced GBV. The help them fi nd the light again. food parcels will be distributed with the help Kuter advises that seeking of event partner, the Jacaranda FM Good professional help is crucial. Morning Angels. “Please start talking about The Virtual Challenge campaign is also it, see a professional person, doing its part to bring awareness to the start writing about it, reach out GBV issue. Two of the event ambassadors, to support groups, reach out Philicity Reeken and Leilani Kuter, have to me but please do not walk both experienced GBV and have used the alone with the pain inside you. Virtual Challenge platform to add their Nobody can assure a person voices to the national conversation that their life will be better, and to highlight the fact that South but I personally can assure Africa still has a long way to go you that your life can get in the fi ght to end gender-based better day by day if you violence. take action. There is no “I think we are falling miracle, but you deserve to short in a number of areas. have some wholeness,” she Reporting cases is a nightmare remarked. for women who report them. Police On behalf of SPAR, the investigation is deplorable. Bail is SPAR Virtual Women’s far too low and too easy to get. Rape Challenge race organising apologists are everywhere. Men don’t hold team have extended men accountable and we are still seeing their gratitude to the victim blaming and shaming. Ultimately overwhelming response to the lack of education, poverty and basic the event so far. humanity are just as much to blame,” said For more information Reeken. on the SPAR Virtual With her participation in the Philicity Reeken experienced GBV She also feels that men can do more and Women’s Challenge, campaign, Leilani Kuter, wants to and has used the Virtual Challenge play a pivotal role in this fi ght as well. please visit highlight the fact that South Africa platform to add her voice to the national Both Kuter and Reeken have chosen to www.sparvirtual- still has a long way to go in the conversation about the crisis. share their experiences publicly to help challenge.co.za fi ght to end gender-based violence. Bulls launch an exciting app The Vodacom Bulls have taken another major teams in the world and the history behind the step forward in building their digital brand with Loftus Versfeld stadium. the development of the new Vodacom Bulls The team’s sponsors will also have a App, which was launched on iOS and Android valuable platform of fan engagement through early in July. the new app. Vodacom Bulls fans will now “We’ve all seen, through the Covid-19 #StayConnected closer than ever before to the pandemic and lockdown, the growth of digital #BullsFamily and experience the pride and media. Rugby is going to need new ways of passion of their team at their fi ngertips. connecting with the fans, and the new Vodacom Fans will be able to follow the three-time Bulls App is part of our strategy to grow our Vodacom SuperRugby winners with all the digital presence and offer our fans an unrivalled latest news, videos, and upcoming events – experience both on and off the fi eld,” said including fi xtures, logs, results, team stats – Vodacom Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone. and more, directly on their devices. Michelle van Eyden, Executive Head of The new app will include exclusive content Sponsorship for Vodacom, said: “As a digitally- featuring players and coaching staff, from led company Vodacom always aims to fi nd behind-the-scenes training videos to cooking unique ways for fans to engage with their lessons and the highly anticipated coach Jake’s sports heroes. Column, only available on the app. “The new Vodacom Bulls App will provide Fans will also be able to purchase match just such an opportunity and will keep the fans tickets and merchandise from the Vodacom connected to their favourite team, especially at Bulls shop through the app, and those hungry a time such as this when they cannot be close for some friendly competition can jump into in a stadium, but can still be together in the the unique games for a chance to win prizes. #BullsFamily.” Bulls fans can now be drawn even deeper into the inner circle of their favourite team The most passionate fans can dive into the Download the Vodacom Bulls App at www. by downloading the Vodacom Bulls App and following the activities of their team full history of one of the most iconic rugby bullsrugby.co.za