CHARLOTTE MAXEKE TREATMENT CENTRE TO BENEFIT COMMUNITY

President Cyril Ramaphosa paid tribute to the Free Social workers from the Department of Social Devel- representatives and other distinguished guests kicked The center has been operational and started with ad- State province, saying it was in the province opment and various stakeholders such as Department off the Freedom Day Celebration with a tour around missions in May 2021. The 16 core staff members who where many struggles were waged against colonial of Health, Department of Education, Department of the treatment centre. Ntombela announced were appointed in January 2021 have completed the rule and later the apartheid regime. Ramaphosa led Justice and Constitutional Development, South Afri- that over 100 people will be employed at the centre development of the treatment programme and other the 2021 Freedom Day celebrations in Botshabelo and can Police Services, NGO sector and FBO sector will and the majority of the staff members will be women relevant policies and procedures for the center. The officially opened the Charlotte Maxeke Treatment handle the referrals to the facility for all government with special preference from local women and youth remaining 84 staff members will also be appointed to Centre on Tuesday 27th April under the theme: “The subsidized services provided at the centre and service especially for all entry level posts which does not re- assume duty. year of Charlotte Maxeke - the meaning of freedom users who can afford to contribute towards their treat- quire previous experience or Matric qualifications. About 22 staff members were employed from Decem- under COVID-19. ment are also welcome to do so following the policies The 104 staff members which includes professional ber 2020 at the center to start with the operationali- The Charlotte Maxeke centre is a state of art facility and procedures of the centre. social workers, professional nurses, psychologists, zation of the centre and Me Dithuso Monare who is run by the state which provides treatment to people President Ramaphosa together with the Minister of care workers, occupational therapists and support a Social worker by profession for more than 30 years with substance use disorders. This alcohol and drug Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu, Deputy Minister staff ranging from catering services, cleaning servic- and previous acting Mangaung Metro District Direc- free facility is situated at section G in Botshabelo next Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, Premier of the Free State es, gardening, administration services and security tor has been appointed as the Centre Manager and to Botshabelo Regional Hospital. This facility admits and MEC for Social Development in services will ensure that service users receive effective other promotional posts have been filled by provin- both voluntary and involuntary service users in terms the province, Mamiki Qabathe, Charlotte Maxeke treatment and a comfortable stay for the entire period cial and district officials who have been working in of Act 70 of 2008. surviving relatives and Charlotte Maxeke foundation of their treatment programme. the department.

1. ABOUT THE NAME the prescripts of the Prevention of and Treatment 4. SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED • Child and Youth Care Workers. Charlotte Maxeke Treatment Centre. of Substance Abuse Act 70 of 2008, which was pro- The following services will be provided at the Cen- The Centre is named after a struggle icon and a claimed by the President in March 2013 and the tre: 6 INTER-SECTORAL COLLABORATION leader per excellence. Her contribution to the lib- National Drug Master Plan 2013-2017 that was • Pre-admission Detoxification and all related complications will eration of this country is well documented in the approved by Cabinet in June 2013. The two docu- • Detoxification, be handled jointly and with assistance from the annals of history. The naming and opening of the ments advocated for the strengthening of preven- • Treatment, Department of Health, as guided by the Implemen- Centre on the 27th April 2021 was a celebration of tion and treatment services. • Re-integration and After Care tation Protocol. her legacy in the very year named : Year of Char- The bid was in response to this gap in service de- (Re-Unification). Vocational skills development will be done in col- lotte Maxeke livery. The country had only eight public in-patient • Vocational skills development laboration with other government Departments 2. LOCATION treatment centers concentrated in five provinces that have been identified to assist in the skills de- The Centre is located in Botshabelo Location which namely, Western Cape (3), KwaZulu Natal (2), The duration of the treatment programme is de- velopment of the service users before exiting the is part of the Mangaung Municipality. It occupies Mpumalanga (1), Gauteng (1), and Limpopo. Free signed over 3 months (12 weeks) for both adults programme. 17 hectares. It stands adjacent Botshabelo Hospital. State province had none. Clients referred to the de- and adolescents. 3. PROJECT BACKGROUND partment had to be referred to other provinces for 5. PROFESSIONAL STAFF 7. INTAKE CAPACITY OF THE CENTRE In July 2013 the Department of Social Development a service. The ever growing demand for the service Services will be provided by a Multidisciplinary Charlotte Maxeke Treatment Centre has a 40-bed submitted a bid to request funding to support the provided a business case for the bid for construc- Team (MDT) composed as follows: capacity, which will accommodate 20 adult males, anti-substance abuse services, which included both tion of this facility. • Social Work Manager 10 adult females, 5 adolescent boys and 5 adoles- funding for prevention services (campaigns), and The construction of the centre commenced during • Nursing Manager with nursing staff, cent girls. for the construction of treatment centre. 2015/16 financial year and was completed in Oc- • Psychologist The allocations requested were in accordance with tober 2020/21. • Social work supervisor and

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EDITORIAL FSPG NEWS | Editorial TEAM Although we have made remarkable progress since 1994, inequality, poverty and unemployment remains one of the most glaring obstacles to South Africa’s goal of national unity and social cohesion.

At the time of going to print, the Province and defeat this virus which continues to wreak havoc, dom, comes great responsibility - A responsibility indeed the entire country, was right in the belly and restlessly manifest itself in our communities. to help those who need our help to realise the true of what those in the know, call the “third wave” In this edition, we lead with the exciting visit by freedoms of a fruitful life free of substance abuse.” of the Coronavirus Pandemic. This compelled President Ramaphosa to the province on Freedom the President of the Republic of South Africa, His Day (27 April 2021), which coincided with the of- This edition chronicles some of the good work the Excellency, Cyril Ramaphosa, after the necessary ficial opening of the Charlotte Maxeke Treatment Free State Government, under the sterling lead- consultations, to move the country to Adjusted Centre. All this, took place in Botshabelo. ership of Premier Sisi Ntombela. The Free State Level 4 of the National Lockdown on June 28, In honour of the iconic Charlotte Maxeke, on this has a good story to tell, under very strenuous cir- 2021. It goes without saying that there are some 150th anniversary year of her birth, we are hon- cumstances due to the Coronavirus. Indeed as a in our communities who are suffering from what oured that the President officially opened a 40- province and a country, we have made remarkable is now termed “Pandemic Fatigue”, and thus, no bed capacity treatment facility, befittingly named progress since 1994, although inequality, poverty longer necessarily adhere to disaster management after Mama Charlotte, in commemoration of and unemployment remains glaring obstacles to regulations and observe the necessary protocols, Freedom Day, in our province – the heart of Free- South Africa’s goal of national unity and social which is putting the lives of citizens in danger, es- dom, the birthplace of Democracy. The historic cohesion. pecially at places of entertainment. event was indeed a symbolic measure in reassur- People must continue to exercise extreme cau- ing the South African society that government’s There is no doubt, however that working together tiousness, and urge others to be responsible and commitment to gender equality remains strong as communities, we can defeat the Coronavirus accountable for their actions. As communicators, and resolute. and all social ills South Africa faces, to ensure that we are heeding the call to assist our caring gov- We have come to know that what the courageous we enjoy our hard earned Freedom, in harmony ernment in communicating the dangers of the Mama Charlotte Maxeke displayed in her lifetime, and prosperity. Coronavirus, but also, as part of our strategy, per- during a very difficult period in our country, was sistently talk to the importance of vaccination. To indeed inspirational. As a befitting gesture, the We do hope you enjoy this edition. this end, as you, our avid reader, will see in this treatment centre named after her, seeks to help to Re Ya Aha! first quarter publication, we seek to build aware- free our community in the Botshabelo area, from ness and confidence in in the vaccine programme substance abuse. As the Premier of the Free State, Setjhaba K. Maphalla and mitigate vaccine hesitancy and misinforma- the mother our of province, Sisi Ntombela, said tion. This is important in order to collectively on the day: “We must remember that with Free- Editor-In-Chief

TEACHER VACCINATION LAUNCH A SUCCESS

The official launch of the vaccination for turned up. The department had to move ers, teaching staff, administrative staff and the teaching staff at the Gonyane Primary swiftly to accommodate all of them. MEC cleaners received their shots regardless of School in Mangaung took place on 23 June Makgoe, who was also vaccinated on the their age. 2021. Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela day explained that their plan was com- Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela was ex- joined by Health MEC Montseng Tsiu and promised by the message the teachers re- cited about the vaccination of teachers. Education MEC Tate Makgoe opened the ceived. “Teachers stood firm and protected the vaccination site where more than 500 ed- “Apparently some of them were told that education of our children. These are the ucators got their first jabs. The vaccination the vaccine may finish. But you can un- soldiers that said we are going to assist our continued in other parts of the province derstand that people are anxious to get the government to fight this war of Covid-19. bringing the total number of vaccinated vaccine. Even when we asked them to go So today it’s their turn to get the jabs. I am teachers to 4282 on the launch day. back and come the following day, they re- happy and excited about it”, she said. Some of the vaccinated teachers expressed fused”, said MEC Makgoe. The vaccination campaign was expected to relief and confidence that they will be able Education Minister Angie Motshekga an- take 14 days by national set standards and to continue with their duties without any nounced that the staff in the private and the Free State was committed to vaccinate fear. The department had made arrange- public basic education sector will receive their entire 32 000 personnel. ments for the vaccination of 500 teachers their single-shot Johnson & Johnson vac- but more teachers and non-teaching staff cine from 23 June until 08 July. The teach-

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RAMAPHOSA ENGULFS MANGAUNG PRESIDENT CELEBRATES FREEDOM DAY IN BOTSHABELO

President Cyril Ramaphosa visited protection for all. We have made great Mangaung for Freedom Day com- progress towards realising the rights memorations on 27 April. of our people to a better life and in The commemorations, held in Bot- advancing human dignity. And yet, shabelo, were also attended by the even as we have lived in a demo- Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture cratic country for the past 27 years, Nathi Mthethwa, acting Minister we know that across many parts of in the Presidency Khumbudzo Nt- South Africa, the promise of 1994 has shavheni, Premier Sefora Ntombela not yet been fulfilled,” said President and Members of the Executive Coun- Ramaphosa. cil. He continued: “For those who con- President Ramaphosa said it has been tinue to suffer from lack of basic of a difficult but fulfilling journey since services like running water; for those South Africa attained freedom in living in fear every day from violence 1994, but added that more still need- and crime; and for those who have no ed to be done to improve the lives of jobs to support themselves and their South Africans. He added that most families, true freedom remains elu- people still live in abject poverty, sive. The legacy of apartheid remains whilst many more still do not have a defining feature of our land.” water and electricity. The President made an assurance that “This year marks 27 years since we government was working hard to en- attained our freedom from apartheid sure a better life for all South Afri- rule. On this day we recall the historic cans. events of the 27th of April 1994 when Premier Ntombela thanked President we voted for the first time… Today Ramaphosa for choosing the Free we have a country where all enjoy State province to celebrate Freedom human rights and freedoms. We have Day. a Constitution that is a shield and a

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Challenges facing businesses and industries in Ma- visit. slaughtering, and relies on electricity for storage. At luti-a-Phofung featured strongly in the two previous A delegation made up of DESTEA, Maluti-a-Phofung times we even consider relocating due to these prob- oversight visits by the Deputy President David Mabu- Local Municipality, Department of Small Business lems”, she said. za at Maluti-a-Phofung. These issues were raised by Development (DSBD), SEDA, MAP SEZ, FDC and Addressing the meeting, DESTEA’s Head of Depart- businesses during the presidential visit to the area as the Office of the Premier held a meeting with repre- ment, Dr Mbulelo Nokwequ said, “Such engagements If these problems cannot be attended to, the local one of the identified service delivery hotspots in the sentatives from business formations on 18 June 2021. are critical to enhance government plans towards economy will suffer which will result in job losses. country. More than fifty representatives from eight business economic development of the Free State. They should Sustainability and success of localization and indus- The constant disruption of electricity and water sup- associations attended the meeting. be held quarterly and be monitored for progress and trialization depends on reliable supply of electricity ply were some of the main issues that have caused Issues raised at the meeting ranged from lack of busi- challenges if any. It is however important that busi- and water, good roads infrastructure as well as stable service delivery protests in Maluti-a-Phofung Munic- ness opportunities, unstable electricity and water sup- ness formations form networks and exchange views labour force, among others. ipality. Unstable supply of electricity and water has a ply and poor infrastructure within the municipality, if we are to avoid regionalization of economic plans. The intervention plan to turn the situation around, the direct effect on the local economy of the municipality lack of communications, poor waste management, As government, we are compelled to create conducive meeting agreed, will have to include, among others, negatively affecting SMME’s production and manu- lack of support of SMMEs and informal traders, lack environment for interaction and effective implemen- improved collaboration with the business chambers; facturing. of transparency on how FDC buildings are sold and tation of plans”. open day with business chambers to identify opportu- Following these visits, the Deputy President instruct- rented and maintenance in the industrial parks. Maluti-a-Phofung is a critical area where important nities available within the SEZ and DESTEA and FDC ed that engagements with business formations in Ms Mofedi Nkabinde, the founder of GMT Holdings, industrial parks, and MAP SEZ in to set up a steering committee to deal with problems the area be held urgently in order to work out Ma- one of the factories within the SEZ industrial area, are all situated. Factories in these areas are in in the industrial parks and develop an urgent strate- luti-a-Phofung SMMEs Multi Sectoral Intervention lamented the constant disruptions of electricity and the textile, furniture, plastic, agro-processing, leather gy to retain and attract investments in the parks. The Plan. This plan will then be presented to the Deputy water supply which hampers operations of her abat- as well as auto-mechanics and have created more than Department of Small Business Development will also President and other principals during his follow up toir business. “Our business relies on water during ten thousand permanent job opportunities. increase the tempo of its campaign on the Township and Rural Economic Programme (TREP) incentives. PARENTS URGED TO REGISTER CHILDREN FOR SCHOOL

The Free State Depart- formative years of educa- school report card for ment of Education is tion. learners who have been to urging parents to register school. their children in time for “Primary schooling re- Foreign learners are re- the 2022 school year. mains our priority as it quired to have a study improves the learning permit in order to be ad- Registration for children outcomes in Mathematics mitted at school. starting Grade R and and languages across all Grade 1 opened in April grades,” said Makgoe. The MEC said it’s impor- and will remain open un- Children eligible for ad- tant for learners to be reg- til July 31. mission for Grade R are istered by the start of the those aged four and half new school year so that Education MEC Tate years old and turning five they don’t lose time at the Makgoe encouraged par- before June 30 in 2022. beginning, a very impor- ents to carefully choose tant period when starting the right schools for their Those going into Grade school. children and register them 1 should be five and half “The Free State Depart- on time and avoid the last years old and turning six ment of Education will minute rush. before the end of June continue to emphasise next year. building the foundations He says early child learn- for learning and it’s im- ing and primary school The following documents portant that these learners education are very impor- are required for regis- start their schooling in tant and children should tration: birth certificate, earnest in the new year,” not be disadvantaged immunisation card and he said. by missing out on those a transfer letter or last

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BROWN CALLS FOR THE INCLUSION OF YOUNG PEOPLE

On Wednesday, 16 June 2021, MEC for from disadvantaged communities in Op- we can do as the Free State Provincial solved until the government restructure Finance Gadija Brown, joined by coun- permans and the surrounding towns. Government is to ensure that our eco- the system and allow full participation cillors from Letsemeng Local Munic- Brown and councillors ticked through nomic policy includes youth and that we of young people in the country’s main- ipality and community leaders visited a whole host of problems and concerns prepare the next generation of leaders to stream economy. Oppermans Intermediate School in presented by school administrators and take up the baton and effect change in Staff and learners were thrilled after get- Oppermansdorp near Koffiefontein to learners, giving young people optimism our province and the country as a whole” ting donations from MEC Brown. commemorate Youth Day with learners and the guidance they need to become said MEC Brown. School principal Mr Wiesie thanked from grade 6 to 9. Youth Day this year leaders in politics and business; and, in She acknowledged that economic ine- both MEC and the councillors for their was commemorated under the theme: particular to deal with the challenges that quality and decent education to all young generosity. “We are very pleased by the “The Year of Charlotte Mannya Maxeke: they are facing on a daily basis. people are the serious public concerns. donations we received and we believe Growing youth employment for an inclu- “While there are many issues that I She maintained, however, that these is- that they will make a difference to our sive and transformed society.” care about and intend to work on, I am sues, as well as others affecting young learners as the majority of their parents The school caters for learners mostly convinced that the most important thing people in particular, would not be re- are unemployed,” said Wiesie.

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riculture and Rural Development, farmers with production inputs for Dr Takisi Masiteng and some of the planting of sunflower and maize on senior managers of the department 406 hectares. Van der Merwe from visited the farm, during the harvest Kleinheuwel farm added that they day. can achieve more through partner- Broedersrust Farm, situated in ships between the black and white Ward 26 in the Mangaung Metro, farmers. “Partnerships are very im- was purchased in July 2012 by the portant and ours has grown into a Department of Rural Development good and productive one and we are and Land Reform through the Pro- proud of our achievements thus far”, active Land Acquisition Strategy he added. Programme. Farming activities started immediately after the acqui- sition and the lease agreement was signed in 2012. Through a partnership with his neighbour, Mr Frekkie van der Mer- we and other farmers, they managed to plant 1200 hectares of sunflower. Last year these farmers suffered great losses following heavy rains that swept most of their crops and continued to damage the fields. MEC William Bulwane had paid them a visit to assess the extent of They have secured markets for their the damage accompanied by the de- produce as they also farm with PARTNERSHIP YIELDS GREAT partment’s technical teams. maize and peanuts. HOD Dr Ma- “The department assisted us a great siteng wished them well and said deal, after those floods damaged our that farming is not easy. He con- HARVEST crops and caused massive damages cluded by appreciating all the efforts A group of farmers in Bainsvlei evident when, crop farmer Dr Dan ers who are also in partnership with to the fields. The support from the and said that much is to be done in outside Bloemfontein, have proven Mosia harvested sunflower on his him. Mosia planted about 1 200 department really meant a lot to us”, order to bring back the Free State that joining hands can yield great farm Broedersrust on 26 May 2021 hectares of sunflower. said Van Der Merwe. province to the status of being the results and a good harvest. This was with the help of neighbouring farm- The Head of the Department of Ag- The department assisted these bread basket of the country.

SOUTH AFRICA AND LESOTHO TACKLE CROSS-BORDER CRIMES

Police, Roads and Transport MEC Affairs and the Kingship of the area. together to put a stop to the crime us is vital and in the best interest of all Sam Mashinini, visited the Harapit- The main topic for discussion was on threatening the safety of people on of us,” said MEC Mashinini. si borderline between the Mountain crimes happening along the border- the Harapitsi/Zastron borderline and Kingdom of Lesotho and South Africa line, including stock and vehicle theft, hampering good relations between MEC Sam Mashinini and his team on 28 April 2021 to assess the numer- human trafficking and car-hijacking. the two countries. The Basotho coun- visited sites along the Harapitsi/Zas- ous complaints about cross-border People farming in the border areas terparts also agreed to work together tron borderline to acquaint them- criminality. were also there to raise issues such as with the farmers in the region. selves about the crime situation be- MEC Mashinini was accompanied illegal grazing on their land, theft of “South Africa and Lesotho are de- tween South Africa and Lesotho. by the Director of Civilian Oversight livestock and people without the nec- pendent on each other. I urge you to Some farmers gave the MEC a practi- Mokgethi Masilo. They met with rep- essary work permits who earn an in- find and implement ways and means cal demonstration on how their fences resentatives of both countries’ law en- come in South Africa. The MEC and to restore peace and unity between are jeopardised by cunning criminals forcement units, the SANDF, Home the farmers agreed that they will work our countries. Good relations between to get illegal access to their land

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PAVING ROADS TO UPLIFT COMMUNITIES

The Township of Relebohile in the small assist in changing the outlook of their key ume roads from gravel streets to paved phase wherein participants do practi- town of Luckhoff recently enjoyed some local streets as it was difficult to navigate streets utilizing inter-locking paving cals when the actual rehabilitation work form of a relief when its critical local and move around the area, especially dur- blocks including the formalization of the and paving of the street takes place,” said streets received upgrades and jobs were ing the rainy season. storm-water network. MEC Koloi. created for the community members. On The focus of the programme is the up- 21 June 2021 the Department of Pub- Their appeal landed on the doors and ears grading and paving of township streets as Thirty five (35) young people from the lic Works & Infrastructure, launched its of the Department and Public Works and well as the replacement of old infrastruc- community participated in the project. At Township Rehabilitation Programme Infrastructure MEC Tshidi Koloi gave ture. In order to fight poverty, develop the completion of each TRP Project, the (TRP) in Relebohile where 600m of local their request a green light. A two phased skills and create work opportunities, the Department makes sure that participants streets received permanent rehabilitation paving project was then implemented in department has integrated training with- are equipped with the knowledge base and upgrades. Relebohile. Today, the paved streets en- in the TRP (from the class during the inception pe- ables the community to move around riod) and the practical part (they receive The need to have the streets upgraded easily and the provision of services runs The Department prides itself on these during the implementation phase of the came from the Relebohile Community smoothly. closer to life projects, especially where project.) Participants also receive an NQF during an oversight visit in the area. They locals receive training and get certificat- Level 3 certificate upon the completion of requested the Provincial Government to The TRP entails the upgrading of low vol- ed. “Our TRP initiatives offer a training the project.

TRIBUTE TO LEGENDARY AUTHOR

It was with shock and sorrow that the Free State As a writer, Mme Sefatsa was a Secretary of the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation writers’ organisation called Lekgotla la Sesotho le (DSACR) learnt of the passing on of Mme Suzan Ikemetseng la Bangodi (LESIBA). She was also a Limakatso Sefatsa, a highly celebrated Sesotho member of the Sesotho Language Body. Her con- writer and educator. She departed on 27 June 2021 tribution to the wealth of Sesotho books came in at the age of 90. Mme Sefatsa was born in the form of a drama book called Pakiso, published (Matwabeng) in a little village called Lebabalasi, on by Educum in 1979. Some of her other books in- the 29 September 1930. She was a published author clude Makomo and a series of grammar books for and member of MoabSesotho Writers Organiza- Standard Three, Four and Five, which she wrote tion. with Mr Khotseng. These series are called Mphat- Through the MACUFE-WordFest, Mme Sefatsa lalatsane and were published by Juta Printers. was honoured by DSACR for the impeccable role “The Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture she played in the development of literature in the and Recreation is truly saddened by the departure country. DSACR further honoured her in 2015 by of one of our country’s most revered Sesotho writ- renaming the erstwhile Matwabeng Public Library ers. Mme Sefatsa was a legendary figure whom we to Suzan Limakatso Sefatsa Public Library. continued to honour while she was still with us. From 1950 to 1952, she studied for her Teachers’ We call on those she leaves behind to pick up from qualification at the Strydom College which was where she left and continue to develop and pro- then in Bloemfontein where Pelonomi Hospital is mote Sesotho literature. The Department sends its now. In 1953, she started to work as a teacher. In Mme Sefatsa’s parents as well as her husband, Ntate condolences to her family, colleagues, friends and 1970, she became the Principal of the Lejweleput- Sefatsa, have since passed away. She then moved to all those who followed her work. May her soul rest swa Primary School in Meadowlands, Gauteng. Senekal and in 1986 became a teacher in Senekal. in peace” said MEC Limakatso Mahasa.

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A FITTING FAREWELL TO THE GOOD DOCTOR

On 5 April 2021, celebrated author blow to literature and added that the Premier Ntombela said. great rewards. His accomplishments Dr. Kgotso Maphalla took his last province had lost a gifted wordsmith. “ Dr. Maphalla, said Premier Ntombe- bear testimony to a life lived without breath. “Dr. Maphalla was a living testimony ON BEHALF OF THE FREE la, has left an indelible legacy which any fear of the inevitable. His death The news of Dr. Maphalla’s death, that the pen is truly mightier than STATE PROVINCIAL GOV- will live on for eternity. At his funeral has robbed us of a fountain of knowl- fondly known as KPD, sent shock- the sword. Through his works, Dr. ERNMENT AND THE EN- service, which was also attended by edge. A man of immense talents who waves across the province. An author Maphalla sought to unite Africans TIRE CITIZENRY OF THE MEC for Sports, Art, Culture and was only too happy to share his gift of well over 70 books, Dr. Maphalla especially during a very dark peri- Recreation Limakatso Mahasa and with the world. We are grateful that, was revered across the province for od in our country. The Free State PROVINCE, I WOULD LIKE MEC for Police, Roads and Transport even in death, Dr. Maphalla’s teach- his prolific work and deep love for province has lost a truly gifted and TO SEND MY HEARTFELT Sam Mashinini, Premier Ntombe- ings will continue to inspire us,” she SeSotho language. inspirational man. On behalf of the CONDOLENCES TO THE la said Dr. Maphalla’s achievements said. Upon hearing of the death of Free Free State Provincial Government MAPHALLA FAMILY. bore testimony to his genius. State’s favourite son, Premier Sefora and the entire citizenry of the prov- “We look back, with great pride, on a His son Setjhaba also paid a moving Ntombela said Dr. Maphalla’s death, ince, I would like to send my heartfelt life well lived. It was a rich life. A life tribute to his father, describing him as at the age of 66, had dealt a massive condolences to the Maphalla family,” ” of great sacrifice, pain but also a life of his hero. PREMIER NTOMBELA

PREMIER SADDENED BY DEATH OF MR. RAMAEMA Premier Sefora Ntombela learnt with shock of rector-General of the Free State Provincial Gov- ments of Agriculture and Rural Development the passing away of Ntate Thuso Ramaema. ernment. and Social Development, respectively. Mr. Ramaema, the former Deputy Direc- During his illustrious public service calling, “Ramaema was an astute, meticulous public tor-General in the Office of the Premier, passed Ramaema served in various strategic and de- servant, and was selfless in the execution of his away on Thurday, 24 June 2021 after a prolonged manding positions which include being the duties. We are poorer without his frankness, battle with COVID-19. Ramaema, who was a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Free State boldness and overall professionalism. On behalf Certified Fraud Examiner, retired from public Development Corporation (FDC), Head of of our government and the people of the prov- service in February 2021, leaving the strategic Department (HOD) at the then Department ince, I wish to convey heartfelt, sincere condo- position of DDG in the Office of the Premier, of Economic Development, Tourism and En- lences to his family, extended family, friends, where he was responsible for Policy, Planning vironmental Affairs (DETEA), now known as colleagues and those who are directly and indi- and Governance, and had on various occasions, DESTEA. rectly affected by his passing. May his soul re- when called upon by the Premier, acted as Di- He also served as Acting HOD at the Depart- ceive eternal rest,” said Premier Ntombela.

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Communications and Digital Technologies in Makoane village, in Qwaqwa from the Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams led the public library in Bethlehem. The sites such as celebration of the World Telecommunications schools, clinics and libraries are connected to and Information Society Day in Bethlehem broadband by the SA Connect project under on 17 May 2021. The Minister and her entou- her department. The school was also given 24 rage including Education MEC Tate Makgoe tablets. and Dihlabeng Mayor Councillor Lindiwe The Minister said: “One of the most important Makhalema used the day to switch off ana- government objectives is to expand broadband logue television broadcasting services in that access, and the conclusion of digital migration area. To date sixteen transmitters have been is an important link in achieving this goal. The switched off in the Free State province since conclusion of digital migration will further the beginning of March 2021. free up valuable spectrum and thus enable World Telecommunications and Information widespread availability of broadband for pub- Society Day is celebrated annually on May 17 lic and private use.” since 1969 to mark the founding of Interna- Thanking the Minister for having chosen the tional Telecommunications Union (ITU) and province for the celebration of this day, MEC the signing of the first International Telegraph Makgoe used the opportunity to highlight Convention in 1865. This year’s theme: “Accel- the challenge that Covid-19 has posed to the erating Digital Transformation in challenging province. “When Covid-19 hits the education times”, magnified the significant role of -in system, the department is forced to change the formation and communication technologies way they do things. The children attend school (ICT). for two weeks in a month thus leaving only 100 On the day, Minister Ndabeni-Abrahams also days for contact sessions. This creates a learn- tested the speed and functionality of broad- ing gap. It’s only through unlocking of digital band connectivity that provide learners with technology that we can access learners even internet. She remotely connected to the school when they are home”, he added.

As at March 2021, a total of 19 transmitters have been switched off in the Free State province. Free State is leading, countrywide, on the rollout of the digital migration programme with only Bloemfontein Transmitter to be switched off. The Free State is forging ahead to be the first province in the country to fully migrate to digital

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WESLEYAN CHURCH, A MONUMENT TO BE PRESERVED

INDUSTRIALISATION SUPPORT INCENTIVES The preservation of heritage and During the Centenary celebration Following MEC ’s an- ing local domestic manufacturing and applicant). transformation of the heritage land- of the founding of the ANC in 2012, nouncement of the Industrialization industrialization. They are also aimed • Emerging Manufacturers’ Incentive: scape of our country and province the Church served as a stark remind- Support Incentives on 28 May 2021 at stimulating participation in large To provide enterprises at the incuba- is one of the cornerstones of the er of the historical significance that it the Department of Economic, Small businesses and government supply tion or post-apartheid democratic dispensa- embodies as the celebrations of the Business Development, Tourism and chains while assisting SMMEs to tran- start-up stage, who are in manufac- tion. The acknowledgement, recog- Centenary were hosted in the Church. Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) sition to industrial production levels. turing and industrialisation, with fac- nition and the need to advance the Struggle icons and luminaries from opened online applications for black Job retention and job creation are also tory rental subsidy (R1million max. previously marginalised histories is an across the country, the continent and industrialists on 31 May 2021. When included as the Department works to per applicant). unequivocal mission that needs to be from abroad, including the Ameri- making the announcement, MEC Mo- increase economic distribution in the • Informal Manufacturers’ Incentive: undertaken in a quest for equity and can Civil Rights icon, Reverend Jessie hale committed his department to the province. The incentives are part of a To provide informal/unregistered justice in the heritage arena. Jackson, set foot in this church with integration of black industrialists and strategic approach to accelerate and manufacturers with factory space Towards this goal the Free State Pro- an objective of assimilating the spir- SMMEs in provincial supply chain. transform the economy while increas- rental subsidies, and set-up costs vincial Government has, through the it that dominated the congregants in He highlighted that the “commitment ing employment opportunities. grants to support manufacturing and Department of Sport, Arts, Culture this church 100 years previously. means that support of industrializa- The incentives will assist industrialists industrialisation operations (R300k and Recreation (DSACR), ensured After suffering years of neglect during tion efforts is the fulcrum of our ap- with rental and set-up cost subsidies max. per applicant). the declaration, creation and building the apartheid era, even being used proach to rebuilding our economy”. and is divided into three categories: Potential applicants were advised to of heritage landscapes and museums as a motor vehicle workshop, a dese- R10 million has been allocated for the • Established Manufacturers’ Incen- study the criteria of each incentive to across the province. Amongst several cration of the memory of those who applicants during this financial year. tive: To provide established enter- identify which incentive would best such heritage site and museum is the gathered there in 1912, the Church The Industrialization Support Incen- prises involved in manufacturing and suit their enterprise. Online applica- Wesleyan Church in Bloemfontein. has undergone significant renova- tives will be available for the next industrialisation with factory space tions were opened on May 31, 2021 The historical significance of this -in tions to preserve it as a monument to three years and are aimed at stimulat- rental subsidies (R2million max. per and closed on June 15, 2021. stitution is beyond measure. Its his- popular struggles against oppression. tory is inextricably intertwined with Substantial investment by the Depart- the liberation struggle of this country ment has been made to ensure that and it places the Free State Province this church serves as a preservation of at the centre of this country, not only the heritage of the Free State and the geographically but historically. country at large. More work is in the TICKING THE RIGHT BOXES The Wesleyan Methodist School pipeline in terms of the content de- Church, in what used to be called velopment in the form of exhibitions Waaihoek, in Bloemfontein, saw the as well as the broader development of founding of the South African Na- the surrounding area to be suitable for tive National Congress (ANC), later the museum of this magnitude. renamed African National Congress The museum can be visited at Fort in 1912.The party was founded in the Street, Waaihoek in Bloemfontein. school room located at the church. Visiting hours are from Monday to The church stands in what used to be Friday, 8:00 to 15:30. Visits during a black township in Bloemfontein. It weekends and public holidays are by was here in 1912 that businessmen, appointment and entrance is free. clergymen, journalists, lawyers and However, visits will be aligned to the teachers held a political meeting that COVID-19 Risk Adjusted Levels. laid the foundations of the ANC.

Premier Sefora Ntombela has appealed to ers.“TB remains one of the world’s deadliest ganisaon (WHO) paint a dim picture. Ac- taking their medicaon and they fall ill once mining companies to ensure safety protocols diseases. By taking the commemoraon to cording to WHO, there were 360 000 acve again,” Premier Ntombela said.Willem Gou- are adhered to, to prevent the spread of Tu- the mine, where communicable diseases like cases of TB in South Africa in 2019 and 10 ws from Harmony Gold mine assured the berculosis. The Premier made this call dur- tuberculosis are sadly prevalent, we hope million people globally. Sadly, 1,4 million Premier that they will work hard together ing the commemoraon of World TB Day in that mining communies were once again people succumbed to the disease in 2019. with government to raise awareness and pre- Welkom, Matjhabeng local municipality in reminded of the grave danger this disease These are alarming numbers, more so be- vent further infecons. Premier Ntombela March. Premier Ntombela said places such poses,” Premier Ntombela said.She further cause tuberculosis is a curable disease. Our was accompanied by MECs Limakatso Ma- as mines are a ferle ground for communi- added that stascs from the World Health message to those who have fallen ill of the hasa and Montseng Tsiu and the Execuve cable diseases such as TB, and as such, im- Organisaon painted a grim picture of in- disease is to please take their medicaon and Mayor of Matjhabeng local municipality, plored on the management to put systems fecons in the world and equally in South they will recover. Unfortunately, once they Nkosinjani Speelman in place to safeguard the safety of the work- Africa.“Stascs from the World Health Or- start feeling be5er, some of our people stop

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LAND FOR BATLOKWA BA MOKGALONG

The 26th of June 2021 marked a historic mo- fering people have now regained their pride. ment for Batlokwa Ba Mokgalong. The effects of those evil deeds can still be felt It was on this day that the Free State Pro- to this very day. The devastating poverty and vincial Government, led by Premier Sefora homelessness that we experience today can Ntombela, handed Batlokwa land in Vre- be traced back to land possession,” said Pre- de, Phumelela local municipality. The Pre- mier Ntombela. mier said Batlokwa Ba Mokgalong had been Kgosi Nkgahle Tsotetsi thanked Premier robbed of their land many years ago, result- Ntombela and the provincial government for ing in destitution. helping them get their land back. The Premier “Like many other tribes across the country, was accompanied by MEC for Cooperative Batlokwa Ba Mokgalong were not sparred the brutality and inhumanity of land disposses- sion at the height of apartheid. The result of “ this inhumane act, of forcibly moving indige- nous people off their land, saw them scattered THE VICIOUS APARTHEID RE- all over. Once a thriving community in their arable land, Batlokwa Ba Mokgalong were GIME, FIRED UP BY INSATIABLE now squatters, hopping from one place to the next,” said Premier Ntombela. GREED, WOULD STOP AT NOTH- She said the apartheid regime cared little for ING TO AMASS WEALTH FOR A the wellbeing of the people, and by removing Batlokwa from their land, visited upon them SMALL MINORITY IN THE COUN- unimaginable misery. “Our people were dealt a terrible hand. The TRY, TO THE DETRIMENT OF THE vicious apartheid regime, fired up by insa- tiable greed, would stop at nothing to amass MAJORITY OF THE PEOPLE wealth for a small minority in the country, to the detriment of the majority of the people,” she said. Premier Ntombela said the effects of land dis- ” possession can still be felt today. By getting their land back, said Premier Ntombela, Bat- PREMIER NTOMBELA lokwa Ba Mokgalong could now walk with their heads held up high. Governance and Traditional Affairs Thembe- “Today, the Free State provincial govern- ni Nxangisa, MEC for Health Montseng Tsiu ment corrected the wrongs and injustices of and the Head of Department (HOD) for Co- our painful past. Today, we gave Batlokwa Ba operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Mokgalong their land back. These long suf- Mokete Duma.

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OLDER PERSONS GET THE JAB

Social Development MEC Mamiki Qa- of vaccinating five million people over the She encouraged other old age homes - is instrumental in assisting with linking up bathe joined the campaign to support the age of 60 by the end of June. The first phase funded or not funded by the department old age homes and older persons, 60 years national Covid-19 Vaccine Roll-Out Plan targeted healthcare workers. and are run by NPO’s to ensure that regis- and above residing in the Free State prov- on Thursday 13 May 2021 in Bloemfon- MEC Qabathe also registered to be vacci- tration at these homes is underway before ince to register on the EVD system. Fam- tein. The campaign was targeting unreg- nated with the elderly who had gathered 17 May 2021. The provincial government ilies are urged to assist and register their istered older persons who are members of at Boikhuco old age home to register for has also set plans in motion to mobilise parents and relatives from 60 years and luncheon clubs and residents of Boikhuco vaccination on the EVD system. MEC Qa- older persons not residing in the old age above by login on their computers, lap- old age home who had not yet registered bathe wanted to also ensure that the offi- homes to register on EVD system and get tops or smartphones and log into: https:// for the COVID 19 vaccination. cials provide necessary support for the im- vaccinated for COVID-19. vaccine.enroll.health.gov.za or use no cost Government launched phase 2 of the vac- plementation of the national COVID-19 The Department of Social Development is USSD by SMS system and dial *134*832# cine roll-out on 17 May 2021 with the aim vaccine registration. a custodian of the Older Persons Act and SUBSISTENCE FARM- ERS BENEFIT FROM GOVERNMENT On 12 May 2021, the representatives from the Sol- targeted beneficiaries in Thabo Mofutsanyana Dis- idarity Fund which is an initiative of the Office of trict and Mangaung Metro Municipality Traditional the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to South Communities. Africa together with the Free State Department of “All 41 excess beneficiaries were also allocated their Agriculture and Rural Development paid a visit to vouchers. Redeeming of vouchers was approved and the Thabo Mofutsanyana District with the aim of is still continuing through the seven selected sup- interacting with beneficiaries of the Fund’s Farming pliers within the province: (OVK: Phuthaditjhaba, Input programme. , , Hobhouse, Bloemfontein “One of the negative impact that the pandemic has fertilizer and seeds. She produces a variety of crops The visit was conducted in the following villages: Le- Hinterland, and Mosikili Poultry, Pig done to communities is the inability of previously including spinach, carrots, cabbage, tomato, maize, jwaneng (Thaba Tshweu Tribal Council), Moeding and Vegetable Enterprise in Phuthaditjhaba)” she self-sufficient households to provide for themselves onions, pepper, green beans and sells her produce to in Tsheseng (Batlokwa TC), Matebeleng, Bakwena indicated. said Nomahlubi Mosethedi, Humanitarian Pillars local communities. TC and Tshele (Kholokweng TC). Subsequently, the UK Government committed Project Manager at Solidarity Fund. She further “Farming should be taken seriously as it feeds the The Farming Input programme is designed to ena- co-funding of R25million to this initiative, bringing alluded that the programme is aimed at providing nation and the rest of the world. My dream will not ble subsistence farmers in all 886 selected tradition- the total budget to R100million. DARD assisted with farmers with meaningful and immediate support so be complete without owning a crop farm which I al councils to purchase key farming inputs with a the identification, verification and registration of in- that they can continue farming and contributing to hope the department will assist me with, Sibilwane R2000 e-voucher, allowing them to continue to pro- put suppliers, while CoGTA and LandNNES (Land their families. added. duce food and prevent their households from being Network National Engagement Strategy) assisted in The field visit began at Lejwaneng village, where Most of beneficiaries of farming input E-vouchers pushed into a poverty trap. The Solidarity Fund ap- the identification of beneficiaries. the representatives met with Ms. Sarah Sibilwane, a echoed Sibilwane’ s sentiment that shortage of water proved R75million farming input voucher interven- This is one of the great initiatives that the South Af- backyard farm owner who has received the R2000 in Thabo Mofutsanyana District will not stop them tion, as part of its efforts to ameliorate the negative rican government has done with UK High Commis- e-voucher. She told them that she could not watch from farming to feed themselves and the community consequences of COVID-19 restrictions. sioner in fighting hunger and malnutrition amongst her family starve and immediately thought of do- at large. They urged other farmers and farming com- According to Ms Noluthando Nhlapo, Assistant vulnerable communities. It is a programme intend- ing something. She started to plant vegetables at munities to share information on how best to store Extension Manager from the Department, the Free ed to reach thousands of households affected by the her backyard during the hard lockdown. With the rain water and empower one another. State Province has registered 821 farmers out of 780 pandemic. e-voucher Sibilwane bought farming inputs such as

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MOHALE COMMITS TO LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVEL- OPMENT

Department of Economic, Small these forums must ensure that the Business Development, Tourism identified strategic projects are im- and Environmental Affairs (DE- plemented. STEA) MEC Makalo Mohale has The department was mandated to begun a series of stakeholder en- consult with municipalities and gagements to ensure that everyone compile a catalogue of catalytic pro- is pulling in the same direction with jects which will be used to engage the goal of revitalizing and growing potential investors. The prolifera- the Free Sate economy, particularly tion of illegal businesses, mainly in the township economy post-Cov- the townships, was another issue the id-19. meeting discussed at length. Busi- Speaking to Free State’s local gov- nesses in most townships operate ernment leadership which included without the necessary permits and Mayors, MMCs for Local Economic many do not comply with the appli- Development, and Municipal Man- cable business by-laws as well as the agers, MEC Mohale acknowledged Businesses Act. the devastation that the Covid-19 Furthermore, there has been an pandemic is continuing to have on increase of businesses operated by the local economy. non-documented foreign nationals. To save many enterprises from In this regard MEC Mohale reiterat- definite collapse due to the impact ed the commitment he made in his of strict lockdown regulations, the budget speech earlier this year when department introduced Economic he said, “We will continue to focus Recovery Incentives whose aim was on enforcement of business by-laws to provide financial support to Free to curb trade in illicit goods, build- State enterprises. These incentives ing of illegal business structures, and targeted both the formal and infor- trading without business permits”. mal sectors in the townships and This process, the MEC said, has al- rural areas, in order to save jobs and ready started with DESTEA team create new ones. To date, a total of visiting municipalities to assess the DSACR EMBARKS ON R71million was disbursed to assist- efficiency of available by-laws and ing over 893 Free State enterprises. to assist municipalities with enforce- DESTEA intends to sharpen its at- ment strategies. Recently, DESTEA tention on local economic develop- team visited Koppies in Ngwathe ment this financial year in order to Municipality to roll out this process. OPENING OF LIBRARIES ensure inclusive economic growth. The exercise entailed engagement Efforts will be made to enhance with Municipality LED officials, Law the District Development Model in enforcement officials, and the busi- The Free State Provincial Govern- lic Library in Smithfield which is ment and services, such as com- order to pool financial and non-fi- ness community. Encouraging pro- nancial resources from national, gress was made in this regard. ment recognizes the important role just but one of many centers of in- puters for the visually impaired and provincial and local government. The local government leadership that libraries play in opening the formation excellence that the Free educational computer games, to the The role of functional and well ca- took the opportunity to voice their doors of learning and of culture to State Provinces boasts. This opening existing service. pacitated Local Economic Develop- gratitude on MEC Mohale’s leader- all. The Department of Sport, Arts, of the library follows immediately The construction of the Ishmael ment (LED) offices at local govern- ship and commitment towards en- Culture and Recreation (DSACR) after the opening of another library Morapela Public Library was funded ment was identified as being key to suring a better life for the people of has committed itself to continue de- in Luckhoff. from the Community Library Con- driving economic development and the Free State. They also shared with veloping and maintaining libraries Research has indicated that the ditional Grant which is made avail- job creation. To this end, the meet- the MEC, plans being undertaken that will build our communities de- majority of South Africans do not able by the national Department of ing agreed that both the district by their respective municipalities spite the difficult economic times we take pleasure in reading. The De- Sport, Arts and Culture to provin- and provincial LED forums will be to ensure economic recovery and immediately resuscitated and that growth. find ourselves in as a country. partment intends to challenge this cial departments to transform and Library services continues to play notion and make libraries more at- upgrade public library services in an important role in the advance- tractive to members of our society the country. ment of government priority num- as well as making reading a habit in This well-furnished library also as well as newspapers. • • Educational Toy Library ber one which is Education. We are our households. Apart from exten- boasts children and adult lending Services delighted about the performance of sive book collections, catering for sections, a reading area, reference In addition, the library will provide • • Storytelling, reading our province in the last matric out- all age groups and educational levels section, an activity hall, a study hall, the following services: clubs and community based literary comes. We have no doubt that access – from preschool to tertiary – and computer room and a toy library. • Book lending services activities will be hosted in the Activ- to our over 185 libraries, whether with books in languages prevalent The toy library service will not with various library materials. ity Hall. Community Libraries or Dual-Pur- in the Free State, the new libraries only support early childhood de- • • Reference services with • • Holiday Programmes and pose Libraries which are situated that our government is building are velopment but games such as chess, a hard copy reference collection of National Symbols Project. in schools, have played a critical also equipped with computers for scrabble, monopoly and others will encyclopaedias, dictionaries, atlases, role in the performance outcomes public use and dedicated on-line cater for the needs of the older child yearbooks and Britannica online. This facility is a testimony of the of our matriculants. Membership connectivity for internet access. and adults. • • E-publications and access government’s commitment to edu- of these libraries, which is around All public libraries in the Free State The library is equipped with com- to Internet reference resources cate and better the lives of our cit- Seven hundred and ten, eight hun- province have already been provid- puters providing free internet ac- • • Newspapers and periodi- izens. dred and four thousand library us- ed with IT equipment and Internet cess, e-mail, and word processing cals in hard copy and digital formats It is anticipated that in the next ers undoubtedly incorporate school access, and this service is further en- facilities. Ten tablet computers will • • Business Information MTEF period the following libraries learners. hanced with the provision be available for downloading and Services will be completed: Tumahole, Cor- On 15 March 2021, the Department of tablet computers and Wi-Fi areas. reading e-books and e-periodicals • • Government Information nelia, Bloogumbusch and Van Stan- opened the Ishmael Morapela Pub- This project will add more equip- Services densrus libraries.

STAY SAFE. PROTECT SOUTH AFRICA 16 |APRIL - jUNE 2021 | 1ST qUARTER “Building the Free State We Want” THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE FREE STATE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT WOMEN-OWNED CNDC LAUNCHED

The Free State Department of Social De- partnership between the Department of velopment in partnership with Meals Social Development and Meals on Wheels on Wheels Community Services South targets projects such as CNDCs, vegeta- Africa in the Free State launched a com- ble gardens and many other projects that munity nutrition development centre in serve the interest of communities dealing Virginia, Lejweleputswa District. BoMme with social ills. Meals on Wheels con- Ba Boithatelo Bo Botle CNDC project tributes by building fully fitted container was registered in 2016 by a group of eight kitchens for CNDCs, offering members youth and older women in the communi- of the centre accredited trainings and ca- ty of Meloding in Virginia. The centre is pacitating them through skills transfer in currently providing meals to 160 benefi- business management, entrepreneurship ciaries daily. and governance to ensure that CNDCs BoMme Ba Boithatelo Bo Botle CNDC are operated professionally. The launch is one of the projects that were identified of BoMme Ba Boithatelo Bo Botle CNDC by MEC for Social Development Me Ma- coincided with mother’s day celebration miki Qabathe to improve the livelihoods where MEC Mamiki Qabathe handed out of youth, people living with disabilities, 150 food parcels to vulnerable families in women and child headed households. The Meloding, Virginia.

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PROVINCE LAUNCHES PHASE 2 VACCINATION PROGRAMME

On Monday 17 May 2021 Premier Sisi as Phase 2 will focus on vaccinating where 54 vaccines were State Psychiatric Complex. Ntombela and MEC Montseng Tsiu citizens that are 60 years and older. administered. In Lejweleputswa District: Bongani launched Phase 2 of the Provincial This week’s launch was a success as 397 The vaccination statistics are expect- Hospital, Katleho Hospital and Thu- vaccine rollout In Phuthaditjhaba, people received vaccinations at the ed to rise drastically as more vaccine sanong Hospital QwaQwa. Thekolohelong Welfare centre, Other sites are opened throughout the next In Thabo Mofutsanyana District: Di- The launch took place at the Thekolo- sites which conducted Covid-19 vac- couple of weeks. hlabeng Hospital helong Welfare Centre. cinations this week include the Eliza The current active vaccine sites in the The Department of Health continues The Department of Health has taken Liddell Home, in Harrismith where province include the following: to urge the youth to assist the elderly a conscious stance to focus the roll- 128 vaccines where administered In Mangaung Metro: Universitas in registering for the Covid-19 vac- out around old age homes and clubs and the Mmabahloki Clara Home in Hospital, Pelonomi Hospital and Free cine through the EVDS system.

GRADE 12 LEARNERS TO ATTEND WINTER CLASSES

About R10 million has been set and teaching. close on Friday, 02 July 2021 Public schools will reopen on fore plead with our teachers aside for 28 815 grade 12 learn- Some learners will be attend- follow- ing the Pres- 19 July 2021, instead of 26 July and learners to continue to ob- ers from 244 schools attending ing in 8 residential areas and 2021. Schools will make neces- serve the non-pharmaceutical the 2021 winter classes in Free the rest at walk-in centres. All sary arrangements to contin- instructions of Covid-19 virus State which will commence will be provided with hearty ue to provide feeding to those by continuing to wash hands, from 1 July to 18 July. meals during the period of learners who are beneficiaries social distance and wearing of Free State Department of Ed- attendance. which will of the National School Nutri- mask. I further want to implore ucation will once again host differ from one school tion Programme (NSNP). all parents to encourage learn- winter classes for Grade 12 to another. The learners ers to study whilst at home. We learners whilst ensuring that will remain responsible MEC Makgoe continued are living in difficult times of stringent Covid-19 regulations for their transport as to plead with teachers and the pandemic and l wish our such as social distancing and usual. learners to observe the teachers and learners a safe sanitisation of schools are ad- non-pharmaceutical proto- winter break”, said MEC Mak- hered. Meanwhile, Education cols of Covid-19 virus. goe. Due to limited space, schools MEC Tate Makgoe wished with no hostels will only host educators and learners a safe “Following the rise in num- The return of all primary school their learners in order to be winter break. The department bers of Covid-19 infections, and special school learners to able to control the number of announced that the learners schools were forced to close daily attendance will remain learners attending and benefit- will close on Wednesday, 30 ident’s announce- earlier than planned to avoid to the 26 July 2021 in line with ing from face to face learning June 2021 while teachers will ment. the spread of the virus. I there- Risk Adjusted plans.

STAY SAFE. PROTECT SOUTH AFRICA 18 |APRIL - jUNE 2021 | 1ST qUARTER “Building the Free State We Want” THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE FREE STATE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT THE BATHO HERITAGE ROUTE

East of the Johannesburg-Cape Town edal as part of the mission of the then was typical in the 1920s and 1930s in and speaker of the African National railway line lies Batho Township, regime to enforce racial separation or Bloemfontein. Many of Batho resi- Congress (ANC). Other important Mangaung’s oldest existing Black exclusivity. By 1941 Waaihoek’s last dents even laid out English-style gar- buildings include: Wesleyan Church; Township. The township was estab- houses were demolished and the area dens to complement their houses. Mapikela House; Caleb Motshabi lished in 1918 after a decision by the was reclaimed as a white area known Batho is a township with a rich his- Centre; Sehunelo Secondary School; erstwhile colonial municipal council as Oranjesig. tory and is of great significance for a Masenkeng Stadium; ‘Ramkraal’ Pris- to demolish Waaihoek which was a Today many of the typical red brick number of reasons. One reason is that on; Batho Community Hall; Magasa settlement which defied the existing houses that have become synony- in its early years Batho was seen as a Hall and several others. racial laws. At that time Waaihoek was mous with Batho can still be seen. model township in terms of its lay-out As the Department works towards the Bloemfontein’s oldest black township, Most of these two-, three-, four- and and infrastructure. Another reason establishment of the liberation route but because of its proximity to white five-roomed cottages were built ac- lies in the many historical buildings in the Free State, as part of the Na- Bloemfontein, Blacks were removed cording to plans that were drawn up and sites that may be found there. tional Liberation Heritage Route pro- to Batho while the Coloured people by the Bloemfontein Municipality. One such building is Mapikela House. ject, Batho will certainly find its place were moved to Cape Stands. Later the These houses display the late Victori- This house was built by Thomas in such a significant milestone. coloured people were moved to Heid- an style of architecture – a style that Mtobi Mapikela, a founder member

STAY SAFE. PROTECT SOUTH AFRICA “Building the Free State We Want” | APRIL - jUNE 2021 | 1ST qUARTER 19 THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE FREE STATE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT

PROMOTION OF MULTI-LINGUALISM IN THE FREE STATE

The promotion of all languages ment of Sport, Arts, Culture and in our country and province is at Recreation (DSACR) to establish the centre of our post-apartheid a provincial language unit to ad- democratic dispensation. The vise her on policy and strategy Constitution as well as the Na- relating to the above mentioned tional Development Plan enjoins objectives; and an interdepart- us to ensure the preservation and mental language forum to pro- promotion of all official languag- mote coordination, cooperation, es. and consultation between pro- In a quest to eradicate the dispar- vincial departments and public ities in the treatment of indige- entities on the use of official lan- nous languages in the Free State, guages for government purposes. AARTO EDUCATION IN the Free State Provincial Govern- In terms of this Act every provin- ment, through the Department cial department or entity must of Sport, Arts, Culture and Rec- appoint a Language Official to reation (DSACR), has embarked advise its HOD or Accounting on several initiatives to ensure Officer on the implementation FRANKFORT AND VILLIERS the elevation of these languages. of the language policy and to Amongst some of these initia- compile a report for submission The Department for Police, Roads the events specifically focused on the mented throughout South Africa and tives is the promulgation of the to the MEC for DSACR. The and Transport (DPRT), together with younger generation as road users of will introduce the following signifi- Use of Free State Official Lan- HODs and Accounting Officers the Road Traffic Infringement Agency the future. Mr. Lefa Modise, from the cant changes that will affect motorists’ guages Act. are obliged to report to the MEC (RTIA), hosted a two-day roadshow RTIA explained to the youth that one behaviour and conduct on the road: The Use of Free State Official for DSACR on the on 3-4 June 2021 to inform motorists of the main goals of young people is to • The introduction of a Traf- Languages Act, Act No.1 of 2017, implementation of the language and the public about the Administra- achieve a driver’s licence. What they fic Demerit Point System is aimed at came into effect on 01 June 2017 policy in their departments and as proclaimed in the Provincial entities annually. The MEC will, tive Adjudication of Road Traffic Of- might not be aware of is that although tackling repeat offences in road trans- Gazette on 12 May 2017. This Act in turn, report annually, to the fences Act (AARTO) at Villiers and they need to study and train to achieve port who do not adhere to the rules of applies to all Free State provincial Provincial Legislature of the Free Frankfort. a license - that licence in fact belongs the road. departments and provincial pub- State, on the status and use of The two-fold programme started with to the state. If a driver does not adhere • The delivery of traffic fines lic entities with the objective of official languages by the Provin- the “Know Your AARTO Traffic Fines to the terms and conditions - such as and notices electronically (fines will regulating and monitoring the cial Government for government Status” campaign at the Frankfort not obeying the rules of the road and be sent via email, amongst other elec- use of official languages for gov- purposes. Driver and Learners’ Testing Centre observing road safety precautions at tronic means of receipt). ernment purposes, promoting Commenting about the signifi- (DLTC) on Thursday and continued all times - his or her licence may be • The Road Traffic Infringe- equitable treatment of official cance of this Act, MEC Limakat- in Villiers on Friday. revoked by the state. ment Authority (RTIA) will have the languages of the Free State, and so Mahasa stated that, “To date good language management for we have assisted all local mu- Transport Minister Fikile Mbalu- Road users were also assisted to check power to administer prescribed re- efficient public service adminis- nicipalities in the province, and la announced that phase one of the their AARTO infringement status, habilitation programmes for habitual tration while serving the inhab- the Mangaung Metro, to develop implementation of the AARTO Act and received advice on how to resolve infringers. itants of the Free State province. their own Language Policies. We amendments, which officially -be it by selecting from the legislated • Traffic infringements will The Act gives expression to the will further assist these munic- gan on 1 July 2021, would run until elective options. The AARTO Act will be handled differently – the process Free State Provincial Govern- ipalities in the implementation the end of September. He said there enhance law enforcement in munici- commences when a person who is al- ment language policy adopted by and monitoring of implementa- would be three more phases, lasting palities by introducing a standard, eq- leged to have committed an infringe- the Executive Council; and em- tion of their language policies.” until July 2022. uitable and fair traffic contravention ment receives an infringement notice. powers the MEC for the Depart- In light of June being Youth Month, system. AARTO will soon be imple-

STAY SAFE. PROTECT SOUTH AFRICA 20 |APRIL - jUNE 2021 | 1ST qUARTER “Building the Free State We Want” THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE FREE STATE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT PULE MALEBO REMEMBERED BY DSACR

The Free State MEC for Sport, Arts, According to reports, Mr Malebo Having learnt about Mr Malebo’s dolences to his family, friends, club Culture and Recreation Mrs. Li- passed on in a motor vehicle acci- untimely departure, MEC Limakat- and fans. Indeed Mr Malebo played makatso Mahasa joined the sport- dent on Saturday 05 June 2021. At so Mahasa conveyed her message a pivotal role in promoting foot- ing community in sending heartfelt the time of his passing Mr Malebo of condolence as follows, “We are ball and building the Bloemfontein condolences to the Malebo family was also a columnist for Mangaung deeply saddened and shocked Celtic brand. We will surely miss and the entire sport fraternity on Issue newspaper and had, over the about the passing on of our prov- his football analysis which he did behalf of the Department following years, expressed his passion, analy- ince’s greatest football enthusiast through his newspaper columns. the passing on of one of Bloemfon- sis and knowledge for football par- and administrator Mr Pule Male- May his soul rest in peace.” tein Celtic’s greatest fan, mobiliser ticularly about Bloemfontein Celtic bo. On behalf of the Department, and columnist – Mr Pule Malebo. with his readership. I wish to convey our heartfelt con-

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