Bloem Express - E-edition 5 November 2025

Familyoffourinruins

TEBOHO SETENA

A family of four is homeless after a devastating fire ripped through their home in Rocklands, Bloemfontein The unexplained fire has left the Mogorosi family in ruins.

Lerato Mogorosi says all their property, including essentials such as identity documents and birth certificates, were burned to ashes The other family members are mother Dimakatso Mogorosi, Mojabeng and Keamogetse

The four made a daring escape from the blaze that engulfed their home in the early hours of 27 October They escaped unharmed with only the clothes they were wearing when going to sleep

Lerato says her sister, the first to hear a loud bang at around 03:30, woke everybody up Following the loud bang, the house filled with smoke

Most devastating is that all of them are unemployed, making it even more difficult to start rebuilding their lives, and their home of decades

What is more, part of the house had been turned into an early childhood development centre, Maadimo Daycare

“The crèche was our main source of income for survival for several years Due to the fire, the crèche is not operating It was managed by my mother, who receives a state grant,” says Lerato

The Mogorosi family is appealing for any aid from the public, in the form of clothes and food, to ease their plight

The four are temporarily staying with a family member,

The remains of the car in the garage of the Mogorosi family,after a fire

who is also struggling to make ends meet

“We do not have sufficient food and are appealing for help

“The food we received earlier was insufficient to sustain us, ” says Lerato

She explains that, even with help from their neighbours, they were unable to put out the blaze

“By the time firefighters arrived, the fire had engulfed

the whole house, and the blaze was going through the roof,” says Lerato

The family is yet to quantify the exact costs of rebuilding their lives, including making the house fit to live in again

Lerato says they would appreciate each and every donation from good Samaritans; even material to revive the crèche

Anyone willing to assist can call her on 075 254 7100

Vulnerable giants given a lifeline

LIENTJIE MENTZ

A groundbreaking programme was launched at the Amanzi Private Game Reserve near Winnie Mandela (Brandfort) that will give a huge boost to the international research on giraffes

With this step, the University of the Free State (UFS) is taking wildlife research to new heights

At the launch on Wednesday 29 October at the reserve, a first-of-itskind, dedicated Giraffe Research Programme was introduced This will be committed to the advancement of international scientific collaboration in the study and conservation of giraffes

The launch marks the next phase in a research journey that has already placed the UFS at the forefront of giraffe science and research excellence Over the past decade, a team of researchers, led by Prof Francois Deacon of the Department of Animal Science, has made significant contributions to understanding giraffe behaviour, physiology and ecology

Despite their towering presence on the African continent, giraffes are quietly disappearing Today, fewer than 100 000 remain in the wild a sobering reminder that their future is far from secure and that research excellence like this is key to ensure their survival

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as vulnerable, with populations declining by more than 40% over the past three decades

This new infrastructure at the Amanzi Private Game Reserve combines on-site research laboratories with spacious, stress-free habitats In this hands-on environment, veterinarians, scientists and students can work closely with giraffes

Over the past seven years, Deacon’s team has conducted 254 successful sedations and captures, carefully building the expertise needed for the next delicate step: the first embryo transfer in wild giraffes

Deacon explained the need to provide a safe and controlled environment for research In an encampment that was built at the main building of Amanzi, researchers hope make huge strides in the preservation of giraffe

FOCUS ON: BLOEM SPA HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE

“The facility will provide a safe and controlled environment where the world’s first giraffe embryo (in this environment) can develop and grow, and where we can collaborate to produce the science needed to turn the extinction of the giraffe around,”

he said

“The general public may not see the results immediately, but 20 years from now, what we are doing today will be vital in creating a biobank of viable

giraffe embryos and calves that can be used in surrogate animals, supporting sustainable conservation practices for future generations”

About 12 departments at the UFS are already involved in the research project in one way or another This includes researchers from the Department of Animal Science to the Departments of Zoology and Entomology, as well as Chemistry and even Information and Communication and Technology Services, which contributes to 3D-modelling, software and monitoring of the animals

The project also offers opportunities for collaboration with conservation organisations and universities worldwide, positioning the UFS as a leading hub for giraffe and large-mammal research in Africa

Current partners who share Deacon ’ s vision for giraffe conservation on the African continent include Save the Giraffes (a US-based NGO), Absolute Genetics, Ramsem and the Kroonstad Animal Hospital

Deacon explained the encampment at Amanzi would not only offer a wide range of opportunities for research, but also bring giraffes close to visitors to the game reserve A deck was built that takes visitors above the encampment It is hoped the giraffes will be tame enough for visitors to engage with them from close up This is reminiscent of the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya where visitors can feed the animals

Guests invited to win by joining celebrations

The Bloem Spa Hotel and Conference Centre

kicked off its month-long 20th anniversary celebration on Monday 3 November hosting an exclusive celebratory function with 30 staff members some of whom have been with the hotel since the current management of Manny and Teresa Viveiros took over on 2 November 2005

The celebration saw the cutting of a cake and special gifts being presented to longest-serving employees

To celebrate this anniversary Bloem Spa Hotel and Conference Centre invites guests to visit the establishment They are encouraged to make use of the facilities whether for accommodation or conferences, or just dropping in for a coffee, lunch, or a spa treatment

What is more guests are being rewarded for their continued patronage

The biggest prize is a nights stay in the suite, breakfast and dinner included, and the Spa Tropical Experience package

Visit Bloem Spa Hotel and Conference Centre and stand a chance to win prizes on offer

Selfless giving rewarded with receiving

LIENTJIE MENTZ

A 81-year-old Bloemfontein man is the winner of a brand new Renault Kwid Climber worth R222 000 Engo Free State’s Project of Hope concluded joyfully at Renault Bloemfontein on Friday 31 October, with Izak Gelderbloem drawing the right key to open his new car.

Five finalists were selected from entries received from all over, and along with companions; sponsors Renault Bloemfontein, Novus Media and Evolve Audit and Advisory; as well as Engo’s staff, attended a morning full of excitement

The other finalists who participated in the final draw are:

■ Braam Minnaar, from Wesselsbron;

■ Gideon Mostert, from Bloemfontein;

■ Ntabeleng Tsimile, from Senekal; and

■ Bianca Strauss, from Vanderkloof Gelderbloem, who lives on his own in a townhouse in Raymond Mhlaba Street, said he was excited about this big gift

“I can only say thank you Thanks, to my Heavenly Father”

Up until now, Gelderbloem has driven an old vehicle, and this is the first time he will own a car that has power steering

His daughter, Ansie Cramer, who attended the morning of the draw with him, said her father would have to get back to practicing driving first

are from the left

Braam Minnaar,Izak Gelderbloem,Ntabeleng Tsimile,Bianca

Strauss and Gideon Mostert PHOTOS: Lientjie Mentz

“He just drives to church on Sundays, and then comes to visit me Otherwise, we take him around town if he needs anything”

Gelderbloem got his winning ticket from Rev Jannie Smith of the Dutch Reformed Church De Bloem Smith is also the chairman of Engo’s governing body

Gelderbloem, who made donations in return for two tickets, on Friday said that he would definitely be doing so again next year

The public was invited to make a

UFS and its students look to the future

LIENTJIE MENTZ

Following constructive engagement between the University of the Free State’s (UFS) Executive Management Committee (Exco) and student leadership structures, an agreement has been reached on the phasing out of provisional registration at the institution

This comes after student-led protest action and incidents of arson and violence on the Qwaqwa campus on 13 October, which led to damage to property such as buildings and vehicles

Two staff members were assaulted; one student was injured; and 37 security officers were injured, two of whom were admitted to the intensive care unit

Following a safety risk assessment, the Qwaqwa campus was closed on 14 October, and students were requested to temporarily vacate university residences within 24 hours

They were subsequently allowed to return to the campus from 22 October after safety had been restored and the campus was secured

Lacea Loader, senior director of Communications and Marketing at the UFS, said the university deeply regretted the events and continued to provide support to affected staff

The protests came after the UFS reviewed the provisional registration process and found that it no longer served its original intended purpose: to allow academically deserving, but financially constrained, students to continue their studies while making plans to settle outstanding debt

“As a result of the review,

it became clear that modifications needed to be made expeditiously and that a fairer, equitable and financially sustainable support system for students should be implemented,” Loader said in a news statement

She said the decision to phase out provisional registration approved by the UFS Council on 26 September addressed the financial pressures facing both students and the institution, while carrying forward the university’s values of care and social justice in a format that is more beneficial to students

The university’s exco, the Institutional Student Representative Council (ISRC) and the Campus Student Representative Councils (CSRC) have jointly agreed on a phased implementation of the council’s decision: to phase out provisional registration over two years in 2026 and 2027 This will allow concessions for students with outstanding debt, and ensure that all registered students have access to their official academic records

This agreement confirms the council’s decision to bring an end to provisional registration As of 1 January 2028, all students will be fully registered

“The university extends its appreciation to staff, students, and all stakeholders for their patience, commitment, and resilience during this challenging period The UFS is focused on the successful completion of the 2025 academic year and looks forward to continuing constructive engagement with student leadership and the broader university community,” Loader said

donation of R50 and be in the draw for the chance to win the Renault Kwid Climber A total of 6 719 tickets were sold in this year ’ s Project of Hope De Wet Claassens, executive director of Engo, said everyone who participated in the project was a winner The funds raised from the Project of Hope

will support Engo’s programmes, including its child and youth care centres, disability care, aged care and family care programmes

“At Engo, we believe that Eternal Hope lies not only in great deeds, but in every gesture of giving The Project of Hope is a testament to that a reminder that when we stand together, we can truly colour the world around us with hope,” says Claassens ■ Engo is a non-profit organisation based on the Christian values of courage, excellence, honesty,

integrity, care and empathy, and has been creating Eternal Hope (“Tshepo Esafeleng”) in the Free State for more than a century This year marks the 12th time that the Project of Hope has been presented It is a project in which Novus Media Community News and its Free State newspapers, BloemNews, BloemExpress, Vista and VrystaatKroon, have been involved from the outset

For more details or to get involved, send an email to info@engo co za or dial 060 548 5543 Also visit engo co za

Rewarded for showing that they mean business

The Central University of Technology (CUT),Free State,presented awards to a group of female students of the Bloemfontein and Welkom campuses to acknowledge outstanding progress in the Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (Sweep) Chapter programme, which supports female student entrepreneurs and fosters inclusive economic participation Recipients are from the left Jo-Anne Lekgetho, Kabelo Makhetha,Retshedisitswe Moiketsi,Dimakatso Serakwana,Bhunganekazi Wandi Radebe,Phelokazi Mfengwana,Nkawana Pontsho and Maserai Rose Moropoli The awards were given to mark the one-year anniversary of the programme’s inception on 23 October PHOTO: Supplied

MAN IMPRISONED FOR

The Bloemfontein Regional Court has sentenced a man who raped a woman at knifepoint to a minimum of 15 years’ direct imprisonment

Motlalepule Elias Modise (29) was found guilty of housebreaking and rape on the night of 2 July 2023

The court handed down the sentence on 24 October after the conviction of the accused on 30 September

The court heard that the victim, now 27 years old, was raped at knifepoint at her house in Peterswartz Modise was known to the victim

His conviction and sentencing was based on compelling evidence gathered by the investigative officer, including the testimony of the victim

Evidence presented in court revealed that Modise had entered the house through a window at about 23:00

The victim was breastfeeding her baby when the intruder entered the house, armed with a knife

15 YRS FOR RAPE

The victim testified that he had threatened to stab her with a knife upon realising she was able to clearly identify him The victim described a harrowing rape at knifepoint by someone she knew

Modise reportedly ordered the woman to undress and then raped her Although the complainant screamed for help during the attack no one came to her rescue

The following morning, on 3 July, she reported the incident to her neighbor who then advised her to immediately report the matter at the Bloemspruit Police Station

Modise, who had evaded the police for over two months, was arrested on the night of 11 September 2023 after the investigative officer devised a way to arrest him

Following his arrest, the officer successfully opposed bail and Modise was remanded in custody until his conviction

During the trial, Modise denied all allegations of raping the woman and decided not to testify

During the sentencing proceedings,

AT KNIFEPOINT

Modise’s lawyer pleaded for leniency, and also that the court should deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, and rather impose a lesser sentence

The defense argued that the accused was a first offender and a breadwinner for his family

State prosecutor Azola Key however argued that there were no substantial and compelling circumstances warranting deviation, citing that the victim had been violated in her own private space, which she regarded as a safe space

He took into consideration the complainant’s victim impact statement indicating that she lived in constant fear of men due to the trauma experienced from her rape ordeal at knifepoint

Key further ruled that Modise’s particulars should be included in the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO), as well as that he should be declared unfit to possess a firearm

Teachers shine nationally

Six teachers from the Free State who were finalists in this year’s National Teaching Awards (NTAs) made the province proud, winning accolades at a ceremony held in Boksburg on 9 October They were among the 41 winners, out of 135 finalists from the nine provinces

The Free State had 15 finalists in total The first of the winning Free State finalists are Motseki Mofokeng, who won the Kader Asmal lifetime achievement award Naledi Masienyane, in turn, claimed first place in excellence in primary school teaching Mofokeng and Masienyane currently both work at the Letlotlo Naledi Public School in the Lejweleputswa district Gina Strauss, who works at the Rouxville Primary School in the Xhariep district, achieved second place in excellence in teaching mathematics (general education and training GET) Three Free State teachers achived third places: Sechaba Lekhooa, in excellence in secondary teaching; Tebello Tshabalala, in excellence in secondary school leadership; and Lindiwe Tlake, in excellence in special needs leadership Tshabalala and Lekhooa work at the Kopanong Secondary School in the Mangaung Metropolitan district, while Tlake works at the Mphatlalatsane Special School in the Fezile Dabi district In 2024 the province had three winners, while

Free State teachers who won prestigious awards at this year’s National Teaching Awards (NTAs),with officials of the provincial Department of Education.From the left are Tebello Tshabalala,Sechaba Lekhooa,Motseki Mofokeng,Tsatsi Montso (acting deputy director general for curriculum and district management,educational development and support),Olga Lekitlane (provincial coordinator for the National Teaching Awards), Naledi Masienyane,Lindiwe Tlake,Gina Strauss and Diseko Gopane (chief education specialist in teacher development) PHOTO: Supplied

in 2023 the Free State yielded four recipients The awarding of the annual teachers’ awards coincides with World Teachers Day, observed on 5 October to honour teachers’ contributions in upholding this noble profession

The theme for the 2025 National Teaching Awards is “Empowering Educators: Strengthening Resilience, Building Sustainability” This year the 25th instalment of the Teaching Awards was presented

Staff members lauded for their contribution

The Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, has recognised outstanding staff members for their exceptional performance and continued contributions across various academic and professional areas

The institute honoured deserving candidates at the annual Vice-Chancellor Awards ceremony held on 24 October at the main campus in Bloemfontein

These special awards are presented for excellence in the following categories: research; innovation and entrepreneurship; community engagement; and support services

The ceremony is organised to coincide with events celebrating the teaching profession during October, commencing with World Teachers ’ Day on 5 October

Prof Pamela Dube, vice-chancellor and principal of the CUT, stated that the awards underscored the CUT’s strategic commitment to fostering and celebrating excellence across the institution

“These awards serve as a testament to the remarkable achievements of our staff in research,

Dr Lehlohonolo Monaheng (middle),being presented the award for innovation and entrepreneurship by Prof Wendy Setlalentoa (acting deputy vice-chancellor for Research,Innovation and Engagement, left) and Prof Pamela Dube (vice-chancellor and principal of the CUT). PHOTO: Supplied

innovation, teaching, curriculum development, and community engagement,” Dube said about the acknowledgement given “Your dedication and hard work continue to

inspire us all in striving to reach greater heights and to think beyond boundaries”

Dube congratulated the recipients, highlighting their pivotal role in advancing the CUT’s strategic objectives

In total, 16 staff members received awards:

■ teaching award Tsholofelo Tshabadira;

■ research award Dr Jeanne Coetzer, Dr Thywill Dzogbewu and Dr Chika Chukwuma;

■ community engagement award Itumeleng Kgololo-Ngowi, Collette Maasdorp, Bridgette Mokgosi, Nomfundo Khoza and Dr Lentswe Mosweunyane;

■ innovation and entrepreneurship award Dr Lehlohonolo Monaheng;

■ support staff award Mapaseka Gladys Muso, Malesela Matlawe, Emmanuel Zungu, and Dr Reynell van der Ross; and

■ two additional staff members, Hannelie van der Walt and Sidumo Aubrey Rikhotso, received special awards that align with the university’s core values Van der Walt received the Living CUT Values accolade and Rikhotso earned the ethics ambassador award

Paper packaging embraced

A recent global survey on the print and paper industry has revealed that paper-based packaging remains South Africa’s preferred sustainable packaging choice

According to the South African findings of the 2025 Two Sides Trend Tracker, consumers value paper-based packaging for various benefits, which include: recyclability; biodegradability or compostability; lower environmental impact; affordability; safety; and its ability to display clear product information

According to the survey, 64% said they preferred products ordered online to arrive in paper packaging, which is up from 58% in 2023

Additionally, 58% are actively taking steps to increase their use of paper packaging, while 80% expressed a preference for their online orders to be delivered in fit-for-size packaging

The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (Pamsa) said paper-based packaging has emerged as a positive solution, as it is made from renewable wood fibre from sustainably managed planted forests, or recycled paper fibre

“With increasing pressure to reduce plastic waste and cut carbon footprints, the packaging sector faces intense scrutiny,” said Samantha Choles, communication manager at Pamsa

“We acknowledge right-sizing is not always possible for online retailers

“The good thing about cardboard boxes is that they are fully recyclable regardless of their size, and are welcomed by informal collectors and recycling companies”

She pointed out that the local and global

forest products sector has, for many years, been exploring ways to use renewable materials like wood and cellulose, as well as process by-products like lignin, to substitute materials that have a high environmental impact

When it comes to being home compostable and biodegradable, Choles said 75% of respondents chose paper or cardboard 53% selected it as the best material for the environment, and 51% found it the easiest to recycle

She said the survey had revealed an improvement in recycling habits

In this survey, around 28% of respondents believe that more than 60% of paper and paper packaging is collected for recycling; this is up from 19% in 2023

“The survey showed that 65% of people maintain that only recycled paper should be used to make paper products

“The sole use of recycled paper in paper manufacturing is not possible, however,” explained

Choles

“Paper fibres can only be recycled around seven times, with the fibres shortening and weakening each time

“Without new wood fibre from trees, the paper cycle cannot be maintained

“Our mills, with the help of informal collectors and recycling businesses, do recover about 1,2 million tonnes of paper and paper packaging every year ”

Choles said the survey showed that 81% of respondents clearly understand what types of products can be recycled, an improvement from 78% in 2023

SA’s energy: Think local

MERVYN NAIDOO

South Africa is navigating an energy challenge characterised by intermittent load reduction or shedding, ageing infrastructure and limited generation capacity The country also faces a transmission backlog that affects the seamless integration of renewable energy sources

Although new renewable generation capacity is being developed, the current transmission infrastructure may not fully support the connection of these sources to the national grid or adequately deliver power to areas of high demand As such, limitations within the transmission grid present an important consideration in efforts to expand generation capacity

This is where the independent transmission projects (ITPs) become essential, unlocking private sector investment to accelerate the expansion of South Africa’s transmission network and enable the integration of new generation sources The ITP programme aims to inject 3,222MW of capacity into the grid while catalysing private sector investment Yet, the programme ’ s long-term success will hinge on more than just financial capital; it must actively involve and empower local manufacturers

In an ideal scenario, South Africa’s transmission build programme should be phased over ten to 15 years, ensuring there is sufficient local market capacity to meet demand This steady rollout would enable maximum local participation, particularly among engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors, as well as product manufacturers

However, accelerating the programme risks overwhelming domestic capacity With limited local EPC resources, fast-tracked builds could open the door to foreign contractors, undermining localisation goals and long-term sector resilience Industrialisation should be high on government’s agenda to counter this risk in a country that is “bleeding jobs”

To safeguard local participation, procurement frameworks must be tightly aligned with national development goals, even when foreign EPCs are involved By localising infrastructure development, investment into domestic capacity is stimulated Local companies begin to build capability, which in turn enables the creation of a robust supply chain that can actively participate in the build programmes required for national infrastructure

The Transmission Development Plan (TDP) is a long-term opportunity spanning potentially 15 years and beyond This visibility is crucial for anticipating demand and aligning procurement practices By shifting to strategic procurement focused on long-term value, infrastructure demand can be leveraged to build local capacity This approach enhances local participation across the value chain, and supports reindustrialisation, job creation and increased electricity demand Ultimately, it drives gross domestic product (GDP) growth and fosters sustained investment in capacity

Localisation enables critical technology and skills transfer to local companies, building longterm capacity to maintain and optimise infrastructure With trained local resources, response times improve and reliance on foreign expertise, with its delays and visa constraints, is reduced Also, localisation and technology transfer foster the development of domestic supply chains for critical spare parts By producing components locally, we reduce import dependency, shorten lead times and improve turnaround efficiency Given the scale of investment required in South Africa’s energy transition, alignment across all stakeholders (government, developers, labour and local industry) is essential Developers should be encouraged to create platforms that support reindustrialisation through localisation Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) must transfer technology to local service providers Where local capacity is saturated, it is crucial that foreign OEMs are encouraged to invest towards capacity expansion in South Africa as opposed to importing South Africa’s renewable energy ambitions offer a unique opportunity With the right strategic alignment and localisation, we can turn infrastructure demand into

able growth ■ Naidoo is the chief

(CEO) of ACTOM Group

Space, tranquility aimed at unlocking recovery

A new alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre will open in Bainsvlei on 6 January

Cherut Executive Recovery Estate

offers a 36-bed centre where patients can receive treatment in a tranquil farm atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city

Lee-Ann Uys, one of the founding members of Cherut says the centre offers patients a fresh start

Cherut means freedom in Hebrew Freedom from addiction We want to give everyone who comes to us this freedom to start anew, she explains

The farm environment gives patients peace and quiet in which true reflection and recovery can take place

There are open spaces with fresh air, open skies, and green fields all of which promises to aid in the recovery process

Recovery happens when there is room to breathe, says Uys

“Here at Cherut we believe in a ho-

listic recovery process its more than just therapy We focus on guiding the body soul and mind to healing through programmes designed for each individual, with activities and opportunity for spiritual growth ” The new rehabilitation centre boasts well-equipped rooms, a dining hall and recreational facilities

A brand new swimming pool and conference room are also envisaged

“The recovery process is challenging enough ” says Uys

We dont believe that the healing process should feel like punishment The estate provides an environment where every patients dignity is respected

Cherut is already registered with medical aids for the 21-day rehabilitation programme

The long-term rehabilitation centre that was located in Shannon up until now, will be moved to Cherut in 2026

Finalists gear up for the big moment

TEBOHO SETENA

The shortlisted seven finalists in 2025 Mr Central South Africa pageant are gearing up for the showdown to take ambassadorship of the men’s contest. The crowning ceremony is scheduled for 15 November in the Sand du Plessis Theatre in Bloemfontein.

This is presented as a partnership between Mr Central South Africa and the Performing Arts Centre of the Free State (Pacofs), celebrating young men with positive traits to inspire a new generation of men and showcase their talent in the industry

“This is more than just a pageant it’s a celebration of youth empowerment, creativity and social impact Mr Central South Africa is standing firm in advocacy against gender-based violence,” said Theodore Chikuma, chief executive officer (CEO) of Mr Central South Africa

He is well-known as Theo King,

a stage name that is symbolic of his strong fashion and style traits

The eagerly awaited crowning will end the reign of Ernest Mofokeng,

who are breast cancer survivors and remember those who have died.This coincided with Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October The club invited survivors as special guests to enlighten the players and technical team about cancer,as well as the importance of screening They also attended the club’s Premier Soccer League (PSL)

who is expected to hand over the baton to his successor

e fi

for nine primary and 11 leadership traditional healers on 24 October.Recipients successfully completed a training exercise focused on ensuring that they know their responsibilities,as well as how to deal with their patients; how to curb gender-based violence within their communities; and how to follow THO rules and regulations PHOTO: Supplied

Funding to feed traditional medicine research from the roots

The African Medicines Innovations and Technology Development Platform (AMITD) at the University of the Free State (UFS), under the leadership of Prof Motlalepula Matsabisa, will now lead global research into traditional medicine following the awarding of a research grant by the World Health Organization (WHO) The university announced this development on 23 October

The global agency providing leadership on health through its Global Traditional Medicines Centre awarded the grant to the value of R2 299 314,97 (US$133 671) to the AMITD

The funds are to develop an intellectual property (IP) framework for the protection, regulation, and innovation of traditional medicines to provide expert assistance in safeguarding the knowledge, rights and commercialisation pathways

The AMITD, which is located in the Department of Pharmacology within the UFS Faculty of Health Sciences, led a consortium that included the All-India Institute of Ayurveda to bid for the funding, after the WHO had issued a global request for proposals Matsabisa, distinguished African traditional medicine expert and head of the AMITD, said the funding showed the trust that global funders

put in the platform and how much they value the quality of work that is being done at the UFS

“This is great for our traditional medicines research and the quality of research that we do and lead We shall now work on international projects that will influence policies globally The research produced with the funding will go a long way, as we will develop a strategy and a framework for IP protection, and regulation of traditional medicines,” said Matsabisa

“To raise such competitive funding is impressive, and the AMITD is now positioned to work on a global level The funds are coming at the right time, as we are taking our research to impact We are now able to take our work beyond national policy to hopefully influence global policies as well”

Prof Vasu Reddy, deputy vice-chancellor for Research and Internationalisation, says this award from the WHO is not just a recognition of excellence; it is a validation of Africa’s leadership in shaping global health futures

“It is in fact a testament to the intellectual leadership and strategic vision of the AMITD It is a proud moment for the UFS, and a powerful endorsement of our capacity to lead

transformative health innovation that is locally grounded and globally resonant”

In preparing the successful response to the bid, Matsabisa and his team were supported by a network of experienced and dedicated colleagues Among them, Reddy, who not only ensured all pre-bid requirements were met, but also provided consistent encouragement and institutional backing Of the UFS Directorate of Research Development (DRD), Werner Nel, Sugandren Moodley, Mandy Jampies and Dr Glen Taylor played a pivotal role, particularly in the development of the budget Their efforts were strengthened by the contributions of Marisna Nel, chief financial officer (CFO) of the UFS

According to Matsabisa, the AMITD is dedicated to conducting research

that is impactful, socially relevant and policy-influencing

“The AMITD’s motto is very simple Research means nothing if it does not contribute to formal economies, directly or indirectly create decent jobs, improve people’s quality of life, and remain inclusive If the research does not influence policy, does not create intellectual property, cannot be put into practice, and does not produce quality products and services, then it means nothing Research should always be needs-driven and applied in nature,” explained Matsabisa Reddy echoed this sentiment

“This award is more than a research milestone It is a firm commitment to improving lives At the UFS, we live the motto that knowledge must serve humanity, and this project ensures that traditional medicine becomes a driver of health equity, dignity and sustainable livelihoods”

With the award secured, the UFSled consortium has begun its work by preparing to establish a team of legal experts in indigenous knowledge systems (IKS), intellectual property, and access and benefit sharing (ABS) This team will develop a fair and equitable benefit-sharing model to ensure that research outputs benefit both communities and society at large

To inform this framework, Matsabisa and his team have already engaged with coordinators of traditional medicines in the six WHO global regions: Africa (47 countries), the Americas (35), Southeast Asia (11), Europe (53), the Eastern Mediterranean (21) and the Western Pacific (27) The grant will also facilitate the consortium’s participation in key international platforms, such as the second WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit in New Delhi, India, planned for 17 to 19 December Here, the team will provide technical support on traditional medicine, IP and ABS issues Other activities will include in-person and online workshops across WHO regions Reddy emphasised that research must move beyond the lab; it must touch lives, shape economies, and inform policy Taylor, senior director for the DRD, concluded by stating the the AMITD reflects the power of collaboration and vision

“At the UFS Directorate Research Development, we are proud to enable research that is not only globally competitive, but also socially transformative research that creates knowledge, protects heritage, and delivers solutions that change lives”

T10078/2007 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 T10078/2007 passed by MOGAMAT

SAIED MOHAMED

Identity number:

6003305180083 and 8 others in favour of N O R M A N

MOKOTELI

Identity number: 641120 5197 08 3 in respect of certain ERF 186

ASHBURY DISTRICT

B L O E M F O N T E I N PROVINCE FREE STATE IN EXTENT 461 (FOUR SIX ONE) Square metres 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 Deed at Bloemfontein within two weeks from the date of publication of this notice. Dated at BLOEMFONTEIN

07 November 2025, particulars of which appear hereunder.

METRO MUNICIPALITY

Full names, street and postal address of applicant and identity no or registration no:

Club, coach making history

Gallantschargeintosemis

TEBOHO SETENA

By reaching the Carling Knockout

Cup semi-finals, the Marumo Gallants have boosted their chances of winning their first major title as well as their new head coach Alexandre Lafitte’s prospects of securing his first major trophy The club secured a slot after a convincing 4-0 win against former champions Stellenbosch FC in a rain-drenched quarter-final outing played last Wednesday 29 October in Bloemfontein.

As confirmed by the Premier Soccer League (PSL), the Gallants will face Lamontville Golden Arrows FC on Sunday, 9 November, while Orlando Pirates will clash with another Kwa-

Zulu-Natal side, Richards Bay, in the other semi-final on Saturday 8 November The fixture featuring the Bloemfontein based and Durban based Arrows is set to take place at the King Zwelithini Stadium while the other match will be at the Moses Mabhida Stadium

The PSL conducted the draw at the Dr R P Molemela Stadium, immediately after the match between the Gallants and Stellenbosch ended The two winners in the semi-finals will then battle it out for the crown New champions will be crowned given the elimination of former champions Magesi FC, who won the title last year, after beating Sundowns, 2-1 in a final played in Bloemfontein

The Bahlabane ba Ntwa capitalised fully on the heavy downpour to

score an avalanche of goals against Stellenbosch This is the club’s second successive semi-final, building on last season ’ s impressive run under former coach Dan Malesela The Gallants had their run ended by Mamelodi Sundowns, who won 2-0 in the semi-final Progressing to the semi-final brings Lafitte a step closer to achieving the target set by the club’s president Dr Abram Sello as part of the two-year deal signed at the start of this season The club owner set the Frenchman the target of winning at least one major title on offer in South Africa's topflight rank and securing a top eight berth in the PSL From Lafitte’s point of view, it is realistic to deliver on the mandate, drawing inspiration from a knack for remarkable achievements He guided Ivory Coast team Stade

Abidjan to win the Ivorian Ligue 1 in 2023 and it was the club's first league title in 56 years

The Gallants coach Lafitte was pleased with the club’s first big win and securing a berth in the semi-finals just four months into his tenure “I’m very happy to qualify for the semi-finals, and I’m also happy because we did not concede a goal in this match; and scoring four goals, I'm extremely happy” said Lafitte En route to the semi-finals, his team defeated giants Mamelodi Sundowns by 7 – 6 in round 16 of the competition Lafitte and his warriors face a litmus test against Arrows in the semi-final outing He indicated he was expecting a tough clash in the cup competition In this upcoming encounter of the lucrative tournament, the Gallants will be looking to avenge their 0-4 loss to Arrows in a PSL

xture played on Sunday 2 November The Frenchman hopes he will emulate the devastating form which was memorable for scoring four goals in the demolition of Stellenbosch The Gallants pint-sized