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Wednesday, 14 January 2026
Thamsanqa Mfazwe, outside the Waaihoek Wesleyan Church. PHOTOS: Teboho Setena
Party’s inception and impact on country revisited
History still influential TEBOHO SETENA
The significance of the iconic Waaihoek Wesleyan Church in Bloemfontein took centre stage on Thursday 8 January, with the celebration of 114 years of the African National Congress (ANC). The church is the birthplace of the ruling party. However, it also stands out as the catalyst for other important events in the community beyond being the venue where the ANC - formerly the South African Native National Congress (SANNC) - was formed. On 8 January 1912, intellectuals gathered inside this church to form the ANC. Marking the 114th milestone of the ANC, the Mangaung Metro Municipality (MMM), led by mayor Gregory Nthatisi, held a celebration on Thursday. Isaac Moroe, an ANC stalwart, explained why the church still stands as a powerful symbol of unity, resistance, and hope in achieving the liberation of Black people. Moroe mentioned that visionaries included Thomas Mtobi Mapikela (1869 – 1945), who was one of the founding fathers of the ANC in 1912. He mentioned that Mapikela and the Swedish-born Rev. James Scott were among the pioneers in the
Princess Gaboilelwe Moroka(front, left) with members of her royal house, the Barolong boo Seleka, who attended the ANC’s celebration of 114 years since its establishment.
construction of the Wesleyan Church, also known as the Wesleyan Methodist School Church. According to historians and his peers, Mapikela was a highly skilled carpenter and bricklayer, making him a key figure in the construction of the church building, which is shaped like a cross. “The work to construct the church took over a year. It started in 1903 and was completed the following year,” said Moroe. Moroe stressed that the church was very significant in shaping the community. “This church also served as a school and a com-
munity hall. It was a hub of significant activities in addition to a place for worship,” said Moroe. He mentioned that initially the church was situated on St. George Street. “As the segregation of Black people intensified, the church was relocated to a township called Waaihoek, where the new site was approved in 1901, with construction beginning in 1903,” said Moroe. According to Moroe, the All-African Convention in 1909 was critical in paving the way for the formation of the ANC. He mentioned that after White people met in 1910 to discuss and ultimately form the Union of South Africa, Black people responded by gathering in Bloemfontein in 1912 to form the ANC. “There was a very serious debate about why there was a woman present at the meeting. Charlotte Maxeke was the only woman in attendance among the scores of men. It was explained that Maxeke was academically more qualified than all the men present at the meeting. Thus, she was the first woman in South Africa – not just the first Black woman – to have obtained a university degree," Moroe explained. Moroe shared with the audience in the packed church how the journey spanning more than 11 decades began on that day inside the church. Those in attendance included Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and Princess Gaboilelwe Moroka of the Barolong boo Seleka traditional community.
Isaac Moroe delivered history on the significance of the Waaihoek Wesleyan Church in the founding of the ANC.
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BloemExpress
2 NEWS
14 January 2026
Province welcomes its Ready for seat and its challenge New Year newborn batch The newly appointed Free State Government director-general, Dr Molefinyana Phera, officially resumed his five-year office tenure on Thursday, 1 January. He had been acting in the position for more than a year and this stood him in a good stead for the important position in the provincial government.
MA, LLM, LLB, and a BTech in Public Management, as well as university-accredited diplomas. Phera succeeds Kopung Ralikontsane, who had a lengthy term in the powerful position. The latter held the position from 2013 until his retirement at the end of August 2024. Ralikontsane began his term under former Premier Ace Magashule. Dr Molefinyana Phera PHOTO: Premier MaQueen LetsoPhera was born and raised Supplied ha-Mathae announced in in the Masilo township December the appointment of Phera to the of Theunissen. He is a proud product of a influential position in the provincial govern- small-town upbringing and brings with him ment. His five-year term is set to run until 31 a strong background in political and trade December 2030 in terms of the agreement. union activism. He entered the public serLetsoha-Mathae highlighted that Phera's vice in July 1994 at the age of 21, beginning appointment comes with high expectations. his career at the entry level. As he advanced This include strengthening governance and academically, he also developed organically improving service delivery in the Free State. and professionally within the ranks of the “I am confident that he will lead the public service, serving in both the Free State administrative machinery of the Free State and the Northern Cape. Government towards becoming a capaIn 2002, at the age of 28, he was appointed ble, ethical, and developmental organ of to his first senior management position. He state, firmly focused on serving the people has since accumulated approximately 22 with integrity and dedication," said Letsoyears of experience in senior and executive ha-Mathae. management service. Phera comes with a wealth of experience Accepting the appointment, Phera in the public sector and a strong background indicated that he has answered the higher in the legal profession. By profession, Phera call of public service. “I humbly accept my is an advocate of the High Court, a Charappointment as the sixth director-general of tered Governance Professional (CGP) and the Free State Government since the advent a Chartered Human Resources Professionof democratic governance in April 1994." al (CHRP) with current registration with He has committed himself to the course. the relevant professional bodies. He is an “I am ready to serve with integrity and accomplished scholar in Governance and professionalism. This is a responsibility I do Law. Phera's qualifications include a PhD, not take lightly,” said Phera.
On New Year's Day 2026, a total of 72 babies were born in public health facilities across the Free State. The numbers were evenly split with 36 boys and 36 girls, according to the provincial Department of Health. The youngest woman to give birth was a 16-year-old mother at the Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein. The oldest woman to give birth was Mobulelo Magwebu (45), from Bethulie. She gave birth to a baby boy weighing 3 180 g (or 3.18 kg) at the Bethulie Hospital. The department highlighted that the Bongani Regional Hospital in Welkom had the highest number of deliveries - seven in total. This year's figure of babies born on New Year's Day is lower than that of 2025, which stood at 85 babies born in public hospitals, consisting of 33 boys and 52 girls. The department announced that a total of 88 babies were born at public healthcare facilities across the province on Christmas Day, 25 December 2025. This translates to 48 boys and 40 girls. The Bongani hospital led with 15 babies. The breakdown for babies born per district is as follows: ■ Mangaung Metro: 29; ■ Thabo Mofutsanyana: 27; ■ Lejweleputswa: 21; ■ Fezile Dabi: 9; and ■ Xhariep: 2.
Kefuwe Motaung (left) holding her baby with Khasiane Dibe, midwife at the Bongani Hospital. Photo: Supplied
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Entries are officially open for the 2026 Mimosa Mall Marathon, set to take place on Saturday, 28 February. This year's is the third edition of sporting event which debuted on 2 March 2024. Runners of all levels are invited to be part of one of Bloemfontein’s most anticipated sporting events. Whether you are a seasoned marathon runner aiming to secure a Comrades Marathon qualifying time, or a social runner simply looking to enjoy a fun and active day out, the Mimosa Mall Marathon offers a race for everyone. Distances include the full marathon, half marathon, 10km, and the ever-popular 5km fun run, making it an inclusive event for serious athletes, families, and first-time runners alike. A highlight of the event is its unique and fast route, which starts and finishes at Mimosa Mall and takes runners through some of Bloemfontein’s most iconic landmarks. Participants will run through the Tempe Military Base, the University of the Free State, and Grey College, offering a scenic and memorable race experience supported by enthusiastic spectators along the way. The marathon remains an official Comrades Marathon qualifier, giving long-distance runners the opportunity to test their endurance and secure a qualifying time
early in the season. Non-club runners participating in the 10km, 21km or 42km distances, will be required to obtain a temporary licence during the online entry process, while licensed club athletes may enter using their valid licence details. Beyond the race itself, the Mimosa Mall Marathon promises a vibrant race-day atmosphere. The running village at Mimosa Mall will be packed with exhibitors and lively activations, creating a festive hub for runners, supporters and families to enjoy from start to finish. Hosted in association with Bloemfontein Striders and the Louzanne Coetzee Foundation, the Mimosa Mall Marathon has grown into a standout fixture on the local and regional running calendar, known for its strong organisation, welcoming environment and community spirit. With entries now open, the Mimosa Mall Marathon once again offers a day where families and the community come together at the heart of the Free State - Mimosa Mall, Your Mall. Entries for the 42km and 21km races close on 26 February. 10km and 5km runners may still register the day before race day at the registration village. To enter and for more information, visit www. mimosamall.co.za
14 January 2026
BloemExpress
NEWS
3
School remains closed after storm TEBOHO SETENA The Boitumelong Special School in Thaba Nchu, severely damaged by a gale-force storm in November last year, remains closed and is not ready for the resumption of learning programmes. The devastating storm struck the school at midday on 24 November, causing extensive damage to its infrastructure. Multiple corrugated iron roofs were ripped off buildings, while fences around the sports facilities were also destroyed. According to the Department of Education, the impact of the storm has been far-reaching. Departmental spokesperson Howard Ndaba said the damage has resulted in a further delay to the resumption of learning and teaching programmes for the new academic year. The provincial Department of Education has not yet quantified the cost of rebuilding the badly damaged sections of the school. Classes were suspended to allow for safety measures, reorganisation and a full assessment of the damage
The photo attest to the damage due to a gale storm at the Boitumelong Special School. Photos supplied
Damage to the fence of the school’s sport facility due to the devastating storm.
following the natural disaster. Ndaba said the department is in the process of making alternative arrangements to accommodate the 384 affected learners and teaching staff. The incident has affected learners
Several autistic learners reportedly experienced severe meltdowns as a result of the traumatic incident. While no fatalities were reported, one teacher sustained minor injuries when part of a ceiling collapsed inside one of the school buildings.
with severe intellectual disabilities, including 44 autistic learners. All learners have since been returned to their homes until further notice. Eight classrooms were left in ruins after their roofs were blown off.
The department has appealed to the public for assistance to help mitigate further damage while departmental engineers continue to assess the situation and determine the full extent and cost of the damage to the school’s infrastructure.
Matric: Class of 2025 hits historic pass rate Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube stated that the national pass rate of 88% for the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations marked the highest matric pass rate in South Africa's history. She was speaking during the announcement on Monday 13 January at the Mosaïek Church in Fairlands, Johannesburg. Alongside Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule, Gwarube emphasised that the results represented genuine progress in educational quality, not merely improved access. The 88% pass rate represents a 0.7 percentage point increase from the previous year's 87.3%. The milestone achievement comes as more than 920 000 candidates sat for the 2025 NSC examinations nationwide, making it the largest national assessment process ever undertaken in the country's history. Over 656 000 learners successfully passed their matric examinations. This cohort of learners represented a total of 6 950 schools nationally. Provincial performance rankings
Overall, all provinces achieved above 83%. The Free State lost its distinction of first position nationally, held for nine years, to KwaZulu-Natal, which for the first time attained an impressive 90.6% pass rate. The Free State claimed second position with a commendable 89.33% and Gauteng third place at 89.06%. The Free State has obtained first position seven times in the last ten years, including four consecutive years from 2021 to 2024. The years are as follows: 2019 (88.4%), 2020 (85.1%), 2021 (85.7%), 2022 (88.5%), 2023 (89.0%) and 2024 (91.0%). The Eastern Cape recorded the lowest pass rate at 84.17%, while the Northern Cape showed the biggest improvement among provinces with 87.79%. The complete provincial standings show North West (88.49%), Western Cape (88.2%), Northern Cape (87.79%), Mpumalanga (86.5%), and Limpopo (86.15%) rounding out the top performers. The top-performing KwaZulu-Natal province and Limpopo have the largest number of schools, 1 764 and 1 278 respectively.
The Eastern Cape and Gauteng have 964 and 938. Mpumalanga has 583 schools, Western Cape has 469 schools, North West has 449 schools and Free State has 359 schools. Northern Cape has the lowest number of schools, 146. No-fee schools show strong performance In a particularly encouraging development, over 66% of bachelor passes were obtained by candidates from no-fee schools, demonstrating that excellence is emerging as a consistent pattern rather than an exception in township and disadvantaged communities. “There has been encouraging progress in township and no-fee schools, where excellence is emerging as a consistent pattern rather than an exception,’’ Gwarube noted during her address. Mixed results in gateway subjects However, the results revealed concerning declines in critical gateway subjects. Mathematics pass rates dropped from 69% to 64%, while
accounting fell from 81% to 78%. Physical sciences showed modest improvement, rising slightly from 76% to 77%. These gateway subject results underscore ongoing challenges in preparing learners for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers, despite the overall positive trajectory. Foundation challenges highlighted Gwarube used the announcement to highlight fundamental systemic issues, particularly in early childhood development. She illustrated the inequality gap through contrasting stories of two fictional children – Lindiwe from a privileged background and Sipho from a disadvantaged community. "The thrive-by-five index that we released in September indicates that 42% of children aged four to five are developmentally on track. Too many children start school already behind, and that gap compounds each year," Gwarube explained.
Retention rates and dropout patterns The Minister revealed that while 84% of learners nationally progress to Gr. 10, the sharpest declines occur between Gr. 11 and 12, where dropout pressures intensify significantly. “The largest dropout pressures did not span the entire system, but intensified specifically from Gr.11 onward,” she noted, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions during these critical years. Debunking the 30% myth Gwarube took the opportunity to dispel the persistent myth that 30% constitutes the matric pass mark, calling on political leaders to avoid populist rhetoric that discourages learners from pursuing diverse post-school pathways including skills training and other alternatives to university degrees. “Sloganism undermines differently talented learners by devaluing the NSC, which requires meeting minimum standards across a full subject package, including higher thresholds in key subjects” she warned.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY AWAITS ENTREPRENEURS The multinational corporation Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) has opened an entrepreneurial opportunity for ambitious South African entrepreneurs in logistics. The partnership venture will involve delivering iconic Coca-Cola products to the market. In short, the organisation and coordination involved in moving goods from one place to another - ensuring that goods are transported smoothly, securely, and promptly. This opportunity in the company's strategic distribution is made available for 100 qualified entrepreneurs in the Free State (Bloemfontein), Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. The successful entrepreneurs will be responsible for independently managing a warehouse and distribution operation of Coca-Cola products within a designated area. “We are seeking dynamic and driven entrepreneurs who have the potential to successfully partner with the CCBSA as strategic distributors in the areas where we are located and do business,” said Kooglan Naidu of the CCBSA. Successful candidates are required to have their
own fleet consisting of a minimum of five delivery trucks. They must also own or have access to minimum warehouse space of 1 000 m². “Candidates must have experience as an entrepreneur, live in the area of operation and have insights into the community. “They should have good product and industry knowledge and be proficient in articulated truck operation," Naidu stressed. He said the company was striving for excellence across its value chain and partnering with customers for growth. "We are dedicated to creating value and delivering exceptional service across every touchpoint of our business. We create value for our customers through service excellence and total customer centricity, end-to-end across our business. “We help our customers to grow with leading intrade execution and best-in-class distribution. And strategic distributors are our key partners in this endeavour," said Naidu. Interested candidates should apply at ccba. erecruit.co and include their area in the subject line. The closing date for applications is Friday 16 January.
NM10016919-EX090725
BloemExpress
4 NEWS
14 January 2026
Learner celebrated for Proliferation is making province proud major trouble My View
Bokang Mokubung (17), a learner of the Bluegumbosch Secondary School in Phuthaditjhaba – Qwaqwa in the eastern Free State - has emerged as the shining star of the 2025 Free State matric cohort. He attained the first position among the top three learners in quintile 3 schools for mathematics in the country. Mokubung's success is due to hard work and dedication. The bright learner's father died while he was still in his mother's womb. However, his family ensured that he remained grounded and focused on education, and he duly rewarded them with impressive
Bokang Mokubung Photo: Supplied
results. Mokubung's Mathematics teacher, Ernest Thabo Moroane, said the learner's achievement hardly came as a surprise. Moroane's guidance clearly had an impact on Mokubung, who shared his knowledge with his classmates. During the 2025 school year, Mokubung would leave his home early to make it to school before teaching commenced to assist his classmates, and they would do the same in the afternoon. "I have a passion for teaching and assisting those in need, and that is why it was important for me to help my struggling classmates. I am happy that my efforts were not in vain because, looking at the social media posts of most of my classmates, they did well in Mathematics. It was all worth it and I am proud," said Mokubung. He intends to study Actuarial Sciences at the University of Pretoria (UP) this year. “He is a selfless young man who is willing to assist his fellow learners. He would arrive early at the school and leave late in the afternoon to ensure that other learners did not struggle. I am not surprised by his achievement because he worked hard for it and it is well deserved," said Moroane. Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae has expressed joy and pride over Mokubung's achievement, attributing this to the sacrifices that
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he made. “The Free State Government congratulates Bokang for his wonderful achievement. Through hard work, Bokang has put our province on the map. We take this moment to say well done to him and wish him all the best for the future,” said Letsoha-Mathae. Jaco Deysel of the Hoërskool Jim Fouché in Bloemfontein achieved nine distinctions. He is one of two Gr.12 learners from the Free State who are among the six recipients of a prestigious bursary of R5 million awarded by Eskom. This followed his presentation of his project at the 2025 Eskom Expo International Science Fair national final held in October last year. Jaco was awarded a full bursary for his project “The Impact of a Lookup Table Design on AES Encryption Speed and RAM Demand.” His research responds to the growing need for strong and robust encryption systems. Currently, the strongest military-grade data protection method available, the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), demands high processing power, making it inaccessible to most start-up businesses. Jaco designed and developed a computer programme to encrypt and decrypt five differently sized text files using AES, resulting in enhanced performance and broader accessibility to AES in resource-constrained environments such as small businesses.
DONATE BLOOD The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is appealing to the public to start 2026 by donating blood. National blood stocks remain below optimal levels following the festive season. This call respond to Bleed for Change — a national blood drive that has been running since September last year, running until February 2026. SANBS is urging all eligible donors to visit their nearest donor centre or mobile blood drive.
REDAKTEUR / EDITOR
Teboho Setena teboho.setena@novusmedia.co.za VERKOOPSHOOF / HEAD OF SALES Coleen Cilliers 083 411 1064 coleen.cilliers@novusmedia.co.za ADVERTENSIES/ADVERTISEMENTS Anché de Bruin 083 560 9184 Tania Kotze 072 437 4962 Marcine O’Reilly 083 430 4927 CLASSIFIEDS Nico Flietoor 051 404 7826 Noleen Petersen 051 404 7813 LEGAL/CLASSIFIEDS/VACANCIES nico.flietoor@novusmedia.co.za noleen.petersen@novusmedia.co.za OMBUDSMAN Contact BloemExpress’ ombudsman with reader complaints, queries or suggestions about content in the BloemExpress to George Claassen, at 021-851-3232 or mediaombud@novusmedia.co.za. No editorial material or advertisement may be reproduced without the permission of Novus Media (s ection 12(7) Copyright 1978). BloemExpress proudly displays the “FAIR” stamp of the Press Council of
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THABANG SELEMELA On 18 November 2025, I read an article attributed to the chief of the South African Navy, Vice-Admiral Monde Lobese, bemoaning the underfunding of the navy and the defence force in general. In his tirade, he suggested that this underfunding is a consequence of malice, deliberate action, and sabotage. He terms these “unpatriotic government leaders” and “sellouts” who are turning a blind eye to maritime crime and endangering the navy and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), while pushing for privatisation. I do not wholly agree with the vice-admiral. There is merit to his concern that the safety and security of South Africa - specifically the navy and the army - are a serious reality and threat because of underfunding. Consequently, our national security is highly compromised and vulnerable. South Africa has a serious and acute purse problem. At face value, it would seem that we do not have money, though the opposite is true - how we are spending it is what makes it seem as if we do not have money. The source of it all lies in what I call the proliferation of political patronage. I am convinced that our politicians have made many decisions to dispense patronage so as to curry political favour with the voting citizenry in an effort to secure and ensure their political careers. As a result, they have taken decisions with adverse consequences to the purse of the country, thereby sacrificing a lot of things, key amongst them our national security. I attempt to elucidate a diagnosis of where I believe much of the proliferation resides. Government procurement is the elephant in the room where lots of wastage is occurring, under the guise of BBEE. One understands the rationale behind advancing BEE via procurement, but it is riddled with abuse, wastage, and corrupt practices. Government procurement costs are very high, even for routine things that could be done by permanent public servants, like procuring basic items such as booking flights and accommodation, uniforms, furniture, paper, etc. For these goods, service providers are used at huge profit margins when this could be avoided to save costs. I repeat - corruption is related to these transactions. I am decidedly ignoring other wasteful activities such as government events, where huge sums of money are spent on catering, tenting, etc., to celebrate buying government vehicles or such frivolous activities. Sadly, decision-makers love them and the vanity with which they come. We have a lot of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) that can easily be amalgamated to focus on multiple mandates, yet we have fragmented them so much at huge costs in salaries, goods, and services. Take a serious look at the many Chapter 9 institutions South Africa has and wonder if we would not do better to amalgamate some of them and streamline operations. Given our challenges, there is a real need to reconsider these useful institutions against public interest and repackage them, of course, unless we are worried about the real problem of job losses and related social consequences. It is ironic that I refer to this part as “Government Buildings” - nothing is as misleading, if only government truly owned its buildings. Very few government departments own their buildings and office spaces. They are mostly privately owned by BEE practitioners, at enormous monthly rental costs. More interesting about this phenomenon is that several of these building owners are at best ill-prepared to house government departments from an occupational safety point of view. As a result, the Department of Employment and Labour is hard-pressed to “close” many of these buildings due to their failure to maintain a good occupational and safety track record. Unemployment and poverty are rampant, and wreaking havoc. The state cannot be ignorant of this situation, lest it be considered complicit in a very dire situation. In our country, there is a widespread array of social grants that I concede are difficult to sustain by a country with such a financial deficit. Black schools are beneficiaries of what we commonly call feeding schemes or, more formally, School Nutrition Programmes. Millions of rands are spent to feed children, for many of whom their only meal of the day. We give grants and loans to businesses that may not even have an aptitude for business management and development. I remember learning that business management comes with risk for entrepreneurs; you start and run a business at your own risk - and here you do it at the state's risk. ■ Selemela is the author of Conversations with the Self.
14 January 2026
BloemExpress
NEWS
A new chapter begins The vice-chancellor and principal of the University of the Free State (UFS), Prof. Hester C. Klopper has expressed confidence in the appointment of Prof. Bulelwa Nguza-Mduba as deputy vice-chancellor: People and Operations. The seasoned higher education leader began her tenure on Friday 1 January, following the university's announcement in November last year. Nguza-Mduba has a strong academic background coupled with managerial experience and expertise in student affairs. She joined the UFS team from the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) in the Eastern Cape. She served as the executive dean of the Faculty of Management and Public Administration Sciences at the WSU. She previously held the role of acting rector of the Butterworth Campus (from 2021 to 2023), where she oversaw institutional operations spanning Teaching and Learning, Governance, Information and Technology (IT) Services, Finance, and Student Affairs. Nguza-Mduba holds a Doctor of Business Administration qualification from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), master's degrees in business leadership from the University of South Africa (Unisa) and education from the UFS, as well as a postgraduate diploma in Higher Education Management from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom. Her academic foundation also includes multiple qualifications in commerce and education from Unisa and the former University of Transkei (Uni-
Prof. Bulelwa Nguza-Mduba
tra), which merged in 2005 with Border Technikon and the Eastern Cape Technikon to form the Walter Sisulu University (WSU). “Prof. Nguza-Mduba brings a wealth of experience and insight to this role. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to advancing innovation and excellence across the higher education sector. Her appointment strengthens the university's strategic focus on people-centred leadership, operational excellence, and socially responsive transformation. I extend my congratulations and best wishes to Prof. Nguza-Mduba for success in this important leadership role,” said Klopper. Her appointment brings the total to four deputy vice-chancellors at the UFS, each overseeing specific portfolios. The others are Prof. Vasu
Reddy, deputy vice-chancellor: Research, Innovation, and Postgraduate Studies; Prof. Anthea Rhoda, deputy vice-chancellor: Academic; and Dr Molapo Qhobela, deputy vice-chancellor: Strategic Initiatives, International and Institutional Affairs. In her new role, Nguza-Mduba will provide strategic leadership for the Human Resources, University Estates, Protection Services, Information and Communication Technology Services, and Commercial Enterprise portfolios. Nguza-Mduba is an active contributor to the national higher education ecosystem through roles in Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), the community of practice for university management, and Higher Education Leadership and Management (HELM). Her scholarly work focuses on entrepreneurship, and she has successfully supervised postgraduate research in public and business administration. Nguza-Mduba is recognised for bridging academia and societal impact, having led initiatives in youth empowerment, tourism partnerships with municipalities, rehabilitative training for inmates, and support programmes for the elderly. She was instrumental in supporting university students through various development programmes. She significantly contributed to third-stream income, securing grants from the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) and the Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA) to advance student support, infrastructure development, and community-based innovation.
5
CUT appoints seasoned chief information officer The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) has a new Chief Information Officer to execute and oversee the institution’s information, cyber, and technology security. The varsity announced the appointment of Galeboe Mogotsi to the important position effective on Monday 5 January. The university stated that Mogotsi’s appointment was in line with its implementation of the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan within the Resources and Operations Division. The varsity is undertaking a focused turnaround strategy to enhance operational excellence and institutional efficiency. Mogotsi's experience in digital transformation spanned nearly two decades. During this time, he consistently delivered technology strategies that enhance service delivery, strengthen governance, and support the creation of resilient, modern digital environments. Mogotsi has served in several senior roles, including Chief Information Security Officer, General Manager for ICT Strategy and Governance, Senior Manager for Cybersecurity Innovation and Deputy Director for ICT. Across these positions, he has earned recognition for aligning ICT capabilities with institutional priorities, improving operational effi-
Galeboe Mogotsi
ciency, and advancing cybersecurity maturity. Mogotsi holds an MBA, a Postgraduate Diploma in IT Management and a B-Tech in IT Management. He is also a Chartered CIO (C-CIO SA) and a Certified IT Business Executive. His work is guided by a strong commitment to innovation, resilience, and strategic excellence, positioning technology as a key driver of institutional transformation and societal impact. The university believes his appointment was significant for the improvement and strategic alignment as well as strengthening the role as a trusted partner in advancing the university's mission and long-term sustainability.
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BloemExpress
NEWS
6
14 January 2026
Suspect Former municipal manager in court for fraud granted bail TEBOHO SETENA
Nigerian national granted bail with strict conditions in drug trafficking case A Nigerian national, Chinomso Henry Onyeachilam (47) has been granted bail with strict conditions in a criminal case of alleged drug possession and trafficking. The bail was set at R10 000 during appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court on Thursday 2 January. Onyeachilam had been remanded in custody following the postponement of his bail application during the month of December. Acting on reliable information, the Bloemfontein’s Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) and Flying Squad arrested the suspect on the N8 road between Botshabelo and Bloemfontein on 14 December. The police received information about a person in Botshabelo allegedly operating a drug laboratory. WO Fikiswa Matoti, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said the conditions include that Onyeachilam must report to the Bloemspruit police station every Friday and honour future court appearances. The suspect will reappear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on 27 January. Matoti said drugs including crystal meth, CAT, and cocaine were discovered inside a Polo the suspect was driving. She said the combined drugs have an estimated street value of R387 800. “The drugs were found hidden inside the removable car radio of the Polo. The vehicle, including three cellular phones were seized as part of further investigation,’’ said Matoti. An investigation revealed that the suspect is legally in South Africa.
The alleged tender fraud, theft, and money laundering case involving the former municipal manager of the Maluti-A-Phofung Local Municipality and the director of a private company (Lesedi Khanya Energy) is set continue on 22 January in the Bethlehem Magistrates’ Court. The suspects are Futhulu Patrick Mothamaha (52), former municipal manager, and Lelokonyane Isak Letseng (45), director of the private company. Both are out on bail set at R10 000 each. The duo's appearance followed their arrests by Bethlehem's Serious Commercial Crime Investigation detectives after the findings of the investigations into alleged fraud at the cash-strapped municipality. Mothamaha faces additional charges of contravention of the Municipal Finance Management
Lelokonyane Isak Letseng
Act. This followed their arrests on 18 November. Lt Col Zweli Mohobeleli, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks, said the fraud matter entails a tender to install electricity transformers in the municipality area. “In 2021, the company was awarded a tender worth R1.9 million to install transformers in the Maluti-A-Phofung Local Municipal-
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or before 30 November 2029. On money laundering charges, Letseng was sentenced to a fine of R10 million, wholly suspended for five years on condition that he is not convicted of the same offence during the period of suspension. Bophelo Botle Solutions was sentenced to a fine of R2 million for fraud and R3 million for money laundering, while Izuz Gibbor was fined R2 million for fraud and R2 million for money laundering. It was discovered that Letseng applied for Covid-19 TERS funding during the period of March 2020 to December 2020, on behalf of ghost workers. The UIF reportedly made nine payments totaling an estimated R800 000 to Bophelo between September 2020 and December 2020. An investigation relating to Izuz Gibbor discovered the UIF paid about R101 555.92 between July 2020 and December 2021.
Animal group urges welfare resolutions for 2025 As we step into a new year, global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS calls on South Africans to make animal welfare a priority in their New Year’s resolutions. By adopting simple, impactful habits, communities can help create a kinder, more sustainable world for animals, people and the planet. Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa, emphasises: “Making animal welfare a focal point of our resolutions is a powerful way to create positive change for animals, whether through daily acts of kindness or broader lifestyle adjustments. Small, committed actions truly matter and with a collective effort, we can build a
future where animals are treated with the respect and compassion they deserve.” FOUR PAWS encourages communities to use its Animal Welfare Advocacy Guide as a practical toolkit for change. Here’s how you can start: #EatKinder – Reduce animal products in your diet. Try a plant-based braai with local favourites like grilled mielies and chakalaka. Every meatfree meal helps reduce animal suffering and environmental impact. Support ethical brands – Choose cruelty-free and animal-friendly products. Your purchasing power can shape a kinder marketplace. Advocate for animals – Download the FOUR
THE UFS CENTRE FOR LABOUR LAW OFFERS THE FOLLOWING 1 • •
ity. However, the transformers were never delivered. It later emerged that Letseng had submitted an R1.9 million invoice, which was authorised by Mothamaha. The municipality made the payment and thereby suffered a loss,” said Mohobeleli. Letseng is not new to fraud allegations. In 2024, he was convicted of fraud relating to Covid-19 Temporary Employment Relief Scheme (TERS) funds together with his other companies, Bophelo Botle Solutions (Pty) Ltd and Izuz Gibbor (Pty) Ltd. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to ten years' imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years on condition that he is not convicted of fraud, theft, or any crime involving dishonesty. He was instructed to repay the UIF R1 780 017.24 – including 11.25% interest – within five years. The final payment is expected on
SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMME IN BASIC PRINCIPLES OF LABOUR LAW (BPLL) Practical six-month programme on Learning Level 5. Deals with basic legislative principles regulating the relationship between employer and employee. Includes topics relating to basic conditions of employment, dismissals, industrial action, and discrimination. Requirements for admission: O P T I O N 1 | Grade 12 (Senior Certificate) O P T I O N 2 | If no Grade 12 (Senior Certificate): • Minimum age of 23; • Grade 10 with language proficiency in English (any language level) 50%; • Proof of five (5) years of uninterrupted work experience; and • Recommendation letter from a current supervisor/manager. SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMME IN ADVANCED PRINCIPLES OF LABOUR LAW (APLL) Supportive six-month programme on Learning Level 7. Deals with advanced legislative principles regulating the individual and collective labour law relationship. Also incorporates study of secondary sources influencing legislation, e.g. case law. Requirements for admission: Grade 12 (Senior Certificate) and BPLL or any relevant prior learning in labour law. SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMME IN ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION (ALDR) Practical six-month programme on Learning Level 6. Deals with legislative principles regarding conflict resolution, especially negotiation, conciliation, mediation, and arbitration. Requirements for admission: Grade 12 (Senior Certificate) and Learning Level 5 SLP (for example BPLL).
PAWS Animal Welfare Advocacy Guide to learn how to engage with local government, sign petitions, and host awareness events in your community. Educate and inspire – Share knowledge about animal welfare issues with friends, schools and social groups. Change starts with conversation. Be a responsible pet owner – Ensure pets are sterilised, vaccinated and microchipped. Keep them safe during firework season and provide enrichment and companionship. Fiona Miles adds, “by committing to these resolutions, we can start the year with intention and purpose, knowing we are making a meaningful impact.
SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMMES: 4 • • • 5 • • • • •
6 • • •
SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMME IN BASIC PRINCIPLES OF SOCIAL SECURITY LAW (PSSL) Practical six-month programme on Learning Level 6. Deals with legislative principles regarding social security of employees in the workplace. It includes e.g. unemployment insurance and other forms of social assistance. Requirements for admission: Grade 12 (Senior Certificate) and Learning Level 5 SLP (for example BPLL). SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMME IN BASIC PRINCIPLES OF COMMERCIAL LAW (BPCL) Practical six-month programme on Learning Level 5. Deals with legal principles of commercial law. It includes e.g. law of contract, delict, consumer protection, insurance, and credit agreements. Requirements for admission: O P T I O N 1 | Grade 12 (Senior Certificate) O P T I O N 2 | If no Grade 12 (Senior Certificate): • Minimum age of 23; • Grade 10 with language proficiency in English (any language level) 50%; • Proof of five (5) years of uninterrupted work experience; and • Recommendation letter from a current supervisor/manager. SHORT LEARNING PROGRAMME IN ADVANCED COMMERCIAL LAW (APCL) Practical six-month programme on Learning Level 6. Deals with legal principles regulating business enterprises. It includes e.g. partnerships, companies, close corporations, and business trusts. Requirements for admission: Grade 12 (Senior Certificate) and BPCL or any relevant prior learning in commercial law.
APPLICATION AND REGISTRATION:
MODE OF DELIVERY AND ASSESSMENT:
COSTS AND FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS:
An application must be completed online and all supporting documentation (copies of your ID/passport and senior certificate or other educational qualifications) must be submitted on/before 31 January 2026.
MODE OF DELIVERY: Classes are presented by experienced academics and practitioners. Classes are presented in Bloemfontein (UFS Campus) on weekdays between 17:00 and 19:00.
The total costs (registration fee of R3 500 included) are as follows:
Please note that you can only apply for a new programme once all previous debts owed to the UFS have been settled.
Classes in BPLL, APLL, PSSL and BPCL may also be presented in Kimberley, Qwaqwa/Bethlehem, Welkom, Aliwal North and Rustenburg (subject to a sufficient number of participants). Classes in these venues will be presented over six weekends, or by way of a one-week contact session.
ALDR • R11 000
(R9 500 if paid upfront)
PSSL
(R9 000 if paid upfront)
Upon completing your application, you will receive a reference number and banking details to allow you/your sponsor to make the necessary payments on/before 31 January 2026. Proof of payment must be provided before the application is processed. Once admitted, a registration fee of R3 500 is payable. For the discounted fee to be applicable, the full amount of the programme must be settled on/before 31 January 2026. To apply online, visit www.ufs.ac.za/kpa/ faculties/law and follow the necessary prompts.
Although the centre does not offer proper distance learning facilities, a participant may enrol as a non-official ‘distance learner’. Such a participant bears the responsibility to engage in self-study, to submit all assignments due and to participate in the examination at the nearest centre. Should classes not be presented at any other centre than Bloemfontein, the examination will be scheduled in Bloemfontein. A distance learner will also bear the costs of study material and certificates to be sent via courier. ASSESSMENT: Successful completion is evaluated by means of assignments and a formal examination in May 2026.
T: +27 51 401 3734/401 2618 | E: centreforlabourlaw@ufs.ac.za Inspiring excellence, transforming lives through quality, impact, and care.
BPLL
• R10 400
(R9 000 if paid upfront)
APLL
• R11 000
(R9 500 if paid upfront)
• R10 400
BPCL
• R9 500
(R8 500 if paid upfront)
APCL
• R10 400
(R9 000 if paid upfront)
If only R3 500 is paid with registration, the remaining outstanding balance must be paid in not more than two instalments – 28 February and 31 March. (A study guide will only be provided upon payment of the registration fee (R3500). A textbook will only be provided upon payment of 75% of the full fee. Marked assignments and feedback will only be provided if payments are up to date.) A participant who cancels after participation will be liable for the full cost.
14 January 2026
BloemExpress
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ESTATE NOTICES
LEGAL & TENDERS
ESTATES: LIQUIDATION & DISTRIBUTION
LOST DOCUMENTS
4205
4040
T20785/2005 LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of the Deed of Transfer Number T20785/2005 passed by THE TRUSTEES FOR THE TIME BEING OF DIE DANKBAAR TRUST REGISTRATION NUMBER: IT120/1996 in favour of HENDRIK DU PLESSIS CLOETE Identity Number: 550104 5019 082 Married Out of Community of Property in respect of PORTION 1 (SONOP) OF THE FARM POTSDAM 1946, DISTRICT BLOEMFONTEIN, PROVINCE FREE STATE IN EXTENT: 248,6103 (TWO HUNDRED AND FORTY EIGHT comma SIX ONE NUL THREE) HECTARES Held by Deed of Transfer T20785/2005 which has been lost or destroyed. All interested persons having an objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds: Free State, at BLOEMFONTEIN, within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. Dated at BLOEMFONTEIN this 12 day of JANUARY 2026. ALETTA JOHANNA BRINK (LPCM 59963) HILL MCHARDY & HERBST INC. 7 COLLINS ROAD A R B O R E T U M BLOEMFONTEIN 9301 TEL (051) 447 2171 E-MAIL: atalia@hmhi.co.za
TE15389/1995 LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Certificate of Ownership TE15389/1995 passed by BLOEMFONTEIN LOCAL COUNCIL in favour of LUTHER KING A R M S T R O N G RALIKONYANA Identity Number 691019 5324 086 and NTHOLE MARTHA MARCIA RALIKONYANA Identity Number 690129 0319 089 Married in community of property to each other in respect of ERF 17039 MANGAUNG, D I S T R I C T BLOEMFONTEIN, PROVINCE FREE STATE IN EXTENT 297 (TWO HUNDRED AND NINETY SEVEN) All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds at BLOEMFONTEIN within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. D A T E D A T BLOEMFONTEIN THIS 12 day of January 2026 HILL MCHARDY HERBST INC. 7 COLLINS ROAD ARBORETUM BLOEMFONTEIN (REF. AJ BRINK/cvdm) Email : christel@hmhi.co.za Tel. 051 447 2171
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T30517/2007 Form JJJ LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Deed of Transfer Number T 30517/2007 passed by Thabang Advicer Makhema, Identity Number 650707 5802 08 0 and Molebatsi Margaret Makhema, Identity Number 730623 0339 08 1, Married in community of property to each other in favour of Samuele Rulufu, Identity Number: 611123 5719 08 4, Unmarried in respect of Erf 21680 Mangaung Extension 15 District Bloemfontein Province Free State which has been lost or destroyed. All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds: Free State at Bloemfontein within two weeks after the date of the publication of this notice. D A T E D a t BLOEMFONTEIN this the 8th day of JANUARY 2026 Applicant : Maree & Partners Attorneys (A H Taute)(LPCM – 57331) Address : P O Box 3293, Bloemfontein, 9300 Email address: anton@mareeprok.co.za Contact number: 051-447 8648
T15421/2007 LOST OR DESTROYED DEED Notice is hereby given in terms of Regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Deed of Transfer Number T15421/2007 passed by P R O V I N C I A L GOVERNMENT FREE STATE, in favour of TAOLE JOB SELAI, Identity Number 4601295533088 and SELLOANE GRACE SELAI, Identity Number 5012251391082, Married in Community of Property to each other in respect of certain ERF 3885, THABA 'NCHU (EXTENSION 19), DISTRICT THABA 'NCHU, PROVINCE FREE STATE, which has been lost or destroyed. All interested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds: Free State at Bloemfontein, 85 Nelson Mandela Drive, Bloemfontein Central, Bloemfontein within two weeks from the date of the publication of this notice. D A T E D a t BLOEMFONTEIN on 09 DECEMBER 2025 APPLICANT M A D R I E V A N HUYSSTEEN (LPCM 59550) WEBBERS ATTORNEYS INC Phone: 051 430 1430 Email: mvh@webberslaw.com
A. VAN STADEN In die boedel van wyle: ANSLEY VAN STADEN Boedel nr: 5482/2022 Meesterskantoor: M E E S T E R BLOEMFONTEIN Identiteitsnommer: 850623 0204 081 Sterfdatum: 17-05-2022 Geboortedatum: 23-06-1985 Laaste adres: 29 VIOLET STREET HEIDEDAL BLOEMFONTEIN 9300, Die eerste en finale likwidasie en distribusierekening in bogemelde solvente bestorwe boedel sal ter insae lê in die kantoor van die Meester van die Hooggeregshof, BLOEMFONTEIN vir 'n periode van 21 (EEN EN TWINTIG) dae vanaf publikasie hiervan. Indien binne gemelde tydperk geen besware daarteen by die betrokke Meester ingedien word nie, gaan die eksekuteur oor tot die uitbetaling, ingevolge die rekening. ADRES: DE VILLIERS P R O K U R E U R S , OLYMPUSWEG 91A, PENTAGONPARK, BLOEMFONTEIN TEL: (051) 023 0251 E-POS: hettie @dvprok.co.za ME H. DE VILLIERS-CHOWLES DE VILLIERS PROKUREURS OLYMPUSWEG 91A PENTAGONPARK
B.J. MOTHABENG LIQUIDATION AND DISTRIBUTION ACCOUNTS IN DECEASED ESTATES LYING FOR INSPECTION In terms of section 35 (5) of the Administration of Estates Act, No. 66 of 1965, notice is hereby given that copies of the liquidation and distribution accounts (first and final) in the estates specified below will be open for the inspection of all persons with an interest therein for a period of 21 days from the date specified or from the date of publication hereof, whichever may be the later, and at the offices of the Masters of the High Court and Magistrates as stated. Should no objection thereto be lodged with the Masters concerned during the specified period, the executors will proceed to make payments in accordance with the accounts. Late estate BENJAMIN JOHNNIE M O T H A B E N G , ID-no.360107 5373 08 6, last address: 7313 KHOMO STREET, ROCKLANDS, Province of the Master's Office FREE STATE and Master's Office BLOEMFONTEIN. Estate-no. 1285/2025 Advertiser Name: BEZUIDENHOUTS INC. (MH1232) 104 KELLNER STREET, WESTDENE, BLOEMFONTEIN. Advertiser Email: belinda @bezuidenhouts.co.za Telephone:051 448 9755
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Wednesday, 14 January 2026
Top prizes handed to footballers for sporting talent
Players’ potential showcased TEBOHO SETENA Following the successful staging of the 2025 edition of the Le Futur Soccer Tournament, the organisers already have plans in place for the next edition - chiefly to showcase the participating youths’ football talent. The 2025 edition saw five boys’ teams crowned champions across the five age groups. Each of the players gave a good account of themselves during the two-day tournament staged over the weekend of 6 and 7 December. The various clubs competed for titles in the U10, U13, U15, U17, and U19 age groups. The players of the participating teams displayed their footballing talent at Bloemfontein’s Navalsig High School’s sports grounds. The winners and runners-up, as well as the third-place finishers, received their respective and well-deserved gold, silver and bronze medals. The category winners took the ultimate prize which included a travelling trophy each, in addition to gold medals. The clubs competed on a round-robin basis to determine the finalists. El Futuro and Elite Athletes Academy dominated this fifth edition of the tournament, competing in three finals. In the U10 category, El Futuro narrowly beat the Beyond Limits team in a 1 – 0 bout to ultimately claim the crown. The battle for the U13 title saw the Blackants Academy players convincingly beat their Elite Athletes Academy counterparts 2 – 0. The showdown for the U15 title between El Futuro and Elite Athletes Academy was a tough contest. The winner was decided via a penalty shootout. The two teams were deadlocked at the end of regulation time. With their eye on the prize, Elite Athletes Acad-
Luthando Majola of Beyond Limits FC (blue outfit) battles for the ball with Khaya Tlagadi of El Futuro FC during the U19 boys final. PHOTO: Teboho Setena
emy managed to convert six penalties and claimed the top prize as El Futuro had no choice but to settle for silver after scoring five penalties afforded to them, missing one. The final score was 6 – 5.
The contest for the U17 championship saw Elite Athletes Academy narrowly beat El Futuro 2 – 1 to claim the title. In the U19 category, El Futuro fought hard to overcome their rivals,
Beyond Limits, with a 1 – 0 victory. The clubs originated from Bloemfontein, Parys, and Kimberley. Kabelo Rapulane, tournament organiser, said the two invitational clubs who travelled from Kimberley
and Parys gave a good account of themselves. These clubs made it through the group stage of the tournament organised as part of continuing football development and unearthing talent.
Club on the verge of concluding a lucrative deal TEBOHO SETENA The newly-formed football club, Siwelele FC, is on the verge of striking a lucrative deal with the Belgian first division B-team, K. Beerschot V.A., for the services of star player Siviwe Magidigidi (20). Lerato Kholoanyane, chief executive of the club, confirmed in a media statement on Monday 12 January the potential deal with the club in Western Europe. Magidigidi's impressive form has attracted scouts internationally, scoring a brace for South Africa. This was during the FIFA U20 World Cup. Kholoanyane revealed that K. Beerschot first approached the club late last year with negotiations starting immediately for the services of the talented player.
According to her, the deal had been delayed as Siwelele wanted an improved offer. “Their offer at the time did not reflect the value that Magidigidi has brought to our club, nor the impact we believed he still had to make. However, through ongoing conversations, it became clear that the player was eager to test himself internationally and embrace a new chapter abroad. We have always believed in matching ambition with opportunity. When Beerschot significantly improved their offer, more than doubling their initial one, the deal became acceptable and aligned with the best interests of Siwelele FC,” said Kholoanyane. She said the parties were now in the process of concluding negotiations. “The transfer is not yet final. We fully
appreciate the support base Magidigidi has earned among the Siwelele faithful, and we acknowledge the emotional connection many feel,” she said. Kholoanyane strongly believes that Magidigidi's potential is enormous and will impact positively at the new club. “We have no doubt that Belgian defenders will soon be experiencing exactly the kind of trouble he caused across the PSL. We are proud of him, grateful to him, and we look forward to watching his journey unfold,” she said. Kholoanyane said Siwelele will remain the home of the star player. “He will forever be part of our story. He has been a foundational player in our maiden campaign and a young man who helped set our standards both on the field and in the dressing room.”
Siviwe Magidigidi PHOTO: Supplied