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President Cyril Ramaphosa grants public Holiday 

President Cyril Ramaphosa grants public Holiday 

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared Friday, 15 December 2023 a public holiday in celebration of the Springboks Rugby World Cup triumph.

The Boks won their fourth World Cup when they beat New Zealand 12-11 in the final on Saturday.

ALSO READ: Limpopo performs first-ever robotic assisted knee replacement surgery

Ramaphosa had earlier hinted that he could declare a public holiday should the Springboks win the World Cup.

President Cyril Ramaphosa grants public Holiday to celebrate the Springboks
President Cyril Ramaphosa celebrate with the Springboks

CYRIL RAMAPHOSA DECLARES PUBLIC HOLIDAY TO HONOUR SPRINGBOKS

In his ‘family address’ on Monday night, Ramaphosa said that the Boks rightfully calls for a moment to celebrate.

“I know that many of us want us to have a holiday now to celebrate. But we should all agree that we should give our matriculants time to focus on their exams and celebrate afterwards,” he said.
 
“In celebration of the Springboks’ momentous achievement and the achievements of all our other sports men and women. As a tribute to the resolve of our united nation, I am declaring Friday, 15th December 2023 as a public holiday.
 
“We declare this to be a day of hope, a day of celebration and unity. Our sports men and women have shown us what is possible. We will succeed and we will ensure that we leave no-one behind,” concluded Ramaphosa. 

“Our victorious Springboks will return home tomorrow. We will welcome them with great joy and jubilation. They will conduct a victory tour around the country and I will receive them at the Union Buildings later this week,” he said.

Ramaphosa has also called on South Africans to rally behind the Proteas Cricket team who are also participating in the World Cup in India.   “I want us to now rally behind the Proteas in the same way as we have given our support to the Springboks,” he said.   “I want us all to embark on a period of celebration culminating in a celebratory holiday after our matriculants have finished their exams and the Proteas have done the country proud at the Cricket World Cup.”

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Limpopo performs first-ever robotic assisted knee replacement surgery

Limpopo performs first-ever robotic assisted knee replacement surgery

Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba has congratulated Professor Steve Matshidze for successfully performing a robotic assisted knee replacement surgery at Botlokwa Hospital which is the first of its kind in Limpopo.

MEC Ramathuba has described this surgery as a major achievement and milestone as part of the ongoing Rural Health Matters Campaign. Also aimed at reducing surgical backlogs in rural and remote hospitals.

ALSO READ: Bogus Doctor Matthew Lani arrested

“Robot-assisted orthopedic surgery is a significant step forward in reducing surgical backlogs. Improving the quality of healthcare services in rural communities. The utilization of robotics enhances surgical precision, minimizes recovery times, and mitigates risks for patients,” said the department.

Limpopo performs first-ever robotic assisted knee replacement surgery at Botlokwa Hospital
Botlokwa

“This breakthrough exemplifies our dedication to advancing medical services in underserved regions. It will pave a way to increase the expedition of orthopedic surgical backlog that has for many years been a challenge for an under-resourced province like Limpopo,” it further read.

BOTLOKWA HOSPITAL DOES FIRST-EVER ROBOTIC ASSISTED KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY IN LIMPOPO

“This achievement at Botlokwa Hospital is a testament to the dedication and innovative spirit of our healthcare professionals,” Ramathuba said.

“We anticipate further remarkable developments in the near future. What makes this special is that Botlokwa Hospital is a deep rural hospital. Which is coincidentally built in the village of Charlotte Maxeke. Who is the first black woman to graduate with a science degree in South Africa,” said a very excited MEC Ramathuba 

MEC Lerule-Ramakhanya monitors the start of Matric Exams

MEC Lerule-Ramakhanya monitors the start of Matric Exams

Limpopo Education MEC, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya on Monday morning visited the Taxila Secondary School to monitor the start of Final Matric exams. The province has over 94,000 fulltime candidates registered to sit for Grade 12 examinations this year.

ALSO READ: Unisa to confer Honorary doctorate on Bishop Engenas Lekganyane

The school in the Capricorn South Education District is one of the highly enrolled schools with 292 candidates writing this year.

MESSAGE OF SUPPORT AS FINAL MATRIC EXAMS COMMENCE

Meanwhile, the Limpopo Provincial Government has also sent a message of support to the Matric Class of 2023.

“On behalf of the Limpopo Provincial Government, I extend my warmest wishes and heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you as you embark on this important journey of your matric year. This is a significant milestone in your academic journey,” said Premier Stanley Mathabatha.

MEC Lerule-Ramakhanya monitors the start of Final Matric Exams
Matriculants at Taxila Secondary School

“I want you to know that we are immensely proud of your dedication, hard work, and commitment to your studies. The matric year is a time of challenges, growth, and immense potential, and I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion and excel in your examinations.

“As you navigate through this crucial time, I encourage you to stay focused, motivated, and resilient. Remember that success is not achieved overnight but through consistent effort, perseverance, and a positive mindset. Believe in your abilities, set goals, and work diligently towards achieving them,” he said in a message on Sunday.

FUTURE LEADERS GET READY FOR THE NEXT STAGE 

“I also want to remind you that you are not alone in this journey. Your teachers, parents, and the entire Limpopo community are here to support and guide you every step of the way. Reach out to them for assistance, advice, and encouragement whenever you need it. Together, we will ensure that you have the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive academically.

“On behalf of the Limpopo Provincial Government, I wish you all the success, happiness, and fulfilment in your matric year and beyond. May your hard work be rewarded, and may you achieve the results you desire. Remember, you are the future leaders of our province. We have great faith in your abilities to make a positive impact on our society,” he added.

The exams will end on 5 December 2023.

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Sadness for South Africans as loadshedding is back

Sadness for South Africans as loadshedding is back

Power utility Eskom has announced that loadshedding is back after nine days of relief for South Africans. Eskom made the announcement on Sunday, a day after the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup.  

ALSO READ: Bogus Doctor Matthew Lani arrested

“After nine days of good generation performance and no loadshedding, it is necessary to replenish emergency reserves. Ahead of the anticipated cold weather that will increase the demand for electricity over the next few days,” said Eskom.

“Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 today until 16:00 on Monday. Thereafter, Stage 3 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 until 05:00 on Tuesday, followed by Stage 2 loadshedding until 16:00. This pattern will be repeated daily until further notice.”

POWER UTILITY EXPLAINS WHY LOADSHEDDING IS BACK

“Eskom will closely monitor the power system and communicate any changes to loadshedding should it be required. Breakdowns are currently at 16 150MW of generating capacity while the capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 5 950MW.

“Over the past 24 hours, a generation unit each at Duvha, Grootvlei, Kusile and Matimba power stations was taken offline for repairs. In the same period, a generation unit at Kriel Power Station was returned to service,” they said.

“Eskom teams are working tirelessly to ensure that additional generating units are returned to service as soon as possible. Eskom’s load forecast for the evening peak demand is 24 824MW and Monday’s peak demand is anticipated to be 27 557MW.”

Residents are once again being urged to switch off non-essential appliances.

“We appeal to the members of the public to continue reducing demand by switching off non-essential appliances. We would like to thank those who do heed the call to use
electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00, as this lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system to lower stages of loadshedding.”

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16-year-old boy to appear in court for rape of his 7-year-old cousin

16-year-old boy to appear in court for rape of his 7-year-old cousin

A 16-year-old Boy will appear in court on Monday for the rape of his 7-year-old cousin in Murunwa village in Makhado Limpopo.

According to the police report, the victim went to her cousin’s home with the intention to watch Television. While watching the Television, the suspect took the victim to the bedroom and removed her clothes before raping her.

ALSO READ: Dan Village Woman suspected of killing her nephew arrested

After the rape ordeal, the suspect released the victim who went home and informed her mother. The matter was immediately reported to the police and the rape case was opened against a 16-year-old boy. He was arrested and released under Parental Care.

16-YEAR-OLD ARRESTED FOR RAPE OF HIS COUSIN IN LIMPOPO

The Minor is expected to appear before the Dzanani Magistrate Children’s Court on Monday, 30 October. He is facing charges of rape.

Meanwhile, Police in Bela-Bela have launched a manhunt for two suspects who robbed and raped a 15-year-old girl at Mandela Village. The incident took place on Saturday at about 18:00.

It is alleged that a boy and girl both aged 15 were standing in an open field when they were approached by two unknown males.

One of the suspects produced a firearm and the duo were forcefully taken to an unoccupied church nearby and robbed two cellphones.

Reportedly, the boy was hit on the head with a firearm. A 15 year-old girl was raped by the two suspects at gunpoint. Afterwards, the suspects fled the scene on foot and the incident was immediately reported to the police who opened a case of rape and robbery with a firearm.

A manhunt has since been launched for the two unknown suspects. Anyone with information that may assist with investigations should contact the Investigating Officer Warrant Officer Edward Rachoene on 0713550569. Also crime stop number 0860010111 or nearest police station or MySAPSApp.

Springboks Trophy Tour details revealed, Limpopo not part of the plan

Springboks Trophy Tour details revealed, Limpopo not part of the plan

SA Rugby on Sunday announced Rugby World Cup Champions Springboks’ trophy tour details, but Limpopo has been snubbed.  

South Africa beat New Zealand 12-11 on Saturday to win the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. Their second in a row and fourth in total. They have now become the only nation to win the title four teams, only New Zealand come close with three.

ALSO READ: Kaizer Chiefs announce another new signing

The Boks players and staff will embark on a four-day Trophy Tour to major Cities from Thursday. The Springboks Trophy Tour excludes Limpopo who have been excluded from the list of Cities the tour will visit.

The team attended the gala World Rugby Awards ceremony in Paris on Sunday night. They departed for South Africa on Monday morning.

They are expected to arrive back in South Africa on Tuesday at OR Tambo International Airport at 10:55. The World Champions will then commence the tour 48 hours later.

Springboks Trophy Tour details revealed, Limpopo not part of the plan
Springboks Players

SPRINGBOKS TROPHY TOUR DETAILS

Thursday, 2 November

The tour will start in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Soweto, concluding at FNB Stadium.

Friday, 3 November

The tour will take place in Cape Town.

Saturday, 4 November

Durban will have their turn before the tour concludes in the Eastern Cape on Sunday, 5 November.

NO LIMPOPO AS THE WORLD CHAMPS TOUR CONFIRMED

“The locations have been selected for population size in the first three instances and because of the Eastern Cape’s rugby significance in the fourth,” said SARU.

“Satellite tours to Bloemfontein, Nelson Mandela Bay and other centres will be scheduled for 2024. Such tours following the 2019 victory had to be abandoned because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The route for each tour has been prepared in consultation with the respective local authorities and the South African Police Service,” they said.

The Springboks website will also be publishing all the route maps and timings in due course. This also includes SA Rugby Social Media pages.

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Munghana Lonene presenter Mikiel Mabasa dies in horrific accident

Munghana Lonene presenter Mikiel Mabasa dies in horrific accident

Current Affairs show presenter at SABC Radio Station Munghana Lonene FM, Mikiel Mabasa died in a horrific accident on Saturday morning.

The station confirmed in a short statement on Sunday that Mabasa had passed. He was the presenter and producer of the Monday to Friday show, Tiko Axi Etleli.

ALSO READ: Thobela FM presenter JJ Menu has died 

The accident reportedly happened along the Levubu road next to Harnish farm, Vhembe in the early hours of Saturday at about 01:00. He collided with another vehicle whose driver also perished.

“Two people including a well-known radio personality perished during the horrific crash,” said Limpopo Police in a statement.

Munghana Lonene FM presenter Mikiel Mabasa dies in horrific accident
Mikiel Mabasa

HORRIFIC ACCIDENT KILLS MUNGHANA LONENE FM PRESENTER MIKIEL MABASA

“According to the information at this stage, the driver of the VW Polo lost control of the vehicle causing him to collide with a VW Amarok bakkie. Both male drivers were traveling alone and sustained multiple injuries.

“The driver of the bakkie identified as Mr Sauer L from Makhado was transported to the hospital. He was declared dead on arrival. Meanwhile, the driver of the sedan identified as Mr [Mikiel] Mabasa. He was working as a presenter at Munghana Lonene SABC Radio was declared dead on the scene,” read the statement.

Police have also opened a case of culpable homicide and investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Mabasa who is from Ka-Mlamula in the Vhembe District joined Munghana Lonene two years ago.

May his Soul Rest in Peace. 

Bogus Doctor Matthew Lani arrested

Bogus Doctor Matthew Lani arrested

The Gauteng Department of Health has confirmed that the Bogus Dr Matthew Lani was arrested on Sunday evening. Matthew Lani is a TikToker who claims to be and impersonates a medical doctor.

He made headlines for presenting himself as an employee of the Gauteng health department at the Helen Joseph Hospital in Johannesburg.

ALSO READ: Father and Son die in suspicious poisoning in Bela Bela 

Lani also claimed to be a medicine graduate from the University of the Witwatersrand. He also claimed that he was registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa and obtained a high school diploma from Cambridge International College. All these were found to be lies. He has always maintained his innocence and claimed he uses a different name. His real name is Matthew Bongani Lani but has also used the name Sanele Zingelwa.

In a video circulating on social media, Lani can be seen being apprehended by security guards.

THE FAKE DR MATTHEW LANI HAS BEEN ARRESTED

“The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) welcomes the capture of the bogus ‘Dr Matthew Lani by security personnel at Helen Joseph Hospital on Sunday night (29 October). He was apprehended while entering the main entrance of the facility,” said the department.

“Lani was caught just before 8pm disguised in a hoodie and wearing a surgical mask with a stethoscope around his neck. He had previously entered the same facility to curate misleading content under the pretense that he was a qualified doctor.

“Immediately after being apprehended, Lani requested to go to the bathroom. Only to attempt to escape by jumping through the bathroom window. When the security realised that he was making a run for it, they called for reinforcement. He was subsequently apprehended again,” explained the statement.

“The police were immediately called. Lani has since been handed over to the police for an official arrest.”

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Dan Village Woman suspected of killing her nephew arrested

Dan Village Woman suspected of killing her nephew arrested

A 51-year-old Woman was arrested for allegedly killing her nephew who had reportedly wanted to sleep with her in Dan Village, Limpopo.

According to the information received, the deceased went to the aunt’s place and found her bathing. He forcefully wanted to sleep with his aunt but the aunt furiously assaulted him with a steel iron and stone on his head.

ALSO READ: Father and Son die in suspicious poisoning in Bela Bela 

He collapsed and was immediately driven to the nearest hospital. He was certified dead upon arrival by the doctor on duty.

The incident was reported to the police, and the investigation led to the arrest of the aunt on Sunday, 29 October 2023, early in the morning at Dan Village. She was charged with murder.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN DAN VILLAGE FOR KILLING NEPHEW

Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the arrest. She further said that it is the police’s responsibility to investigate the crime and bring offenders to justice.

The suspect is expected to appear before Nkowankowa Magistrate’s court on Monday, 30 October. Police investigations are underway.

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Father and Son die in suspicious poisoning in Bela Bela 

Father and Son die in suspicious poisoning in Bela Bela 

A 39-year-old Father and his five-year-old son died mysteriously after allegedly consuming biscuits suspected to have been laced with the poisonous substance in Bela-Bela, Limpopo. The incident took place on Friday, 27 October 2023 at Extension Six. 

Preliminary investigations revealed that the father of the child had a heated argument in the morning with his girlfriend. 

ALSO READ: Rape of a 70-year-Old elderly woman in Rotterdam Village condemned

During the day, the deceased allegedly went to Creche and took his son and left with the 5-year-old until he brought him to his mother in the evening. 

Later on, a five-year-old child started to complain about stomach pains and told her that his father gave him biscuits. The mother quickly rushed him to the local Clinic for medical assistance. But he succumbed to severe pains upon his arrival.

Afterwards, the members of the community at Extension 06, mobilized themselves to attack the father. But the police managed to quickly stabilize the situation. Reportedly, a 39-year-old male went to the Clinic after complaining about stomach aches and informed the Medical personnel that he shared biscuits with his son that were intentionally poisoned by him.

DEATH OF FATHER AND SON ON BELA BELA SHOCK COMMUNITY 

The father was treated at the Clinic and later transferred to Bela-Bela Hospital for medical treatment. But he also was declared dead by the Doctor. The deceased were identified as Mpho Lefoka and Tshepo Koos Ramotsho. 

Commissioner of Limpopo province, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has ordered an investigation into the Incident.

“I would like to encourage everyone who is experiencing relationship or marital problems to seek immediate assistance from professionals such as Social Workers, Marriage Councillors, Pastors and Traditional leaders. This incident could have been prevented had there been consultations for assistance,” general Hadebe concluded. Meanwhile, Police investigations are continuing.