NoordkaapBulletin E-Edition - 22 January 2026

‘Surprise development’aconcern

CHARNÉ KEMP

TheNorthern Cape Departmentof Education hasconfirmed plans to build aprimaryand asecondary school on asitenearMediclinic Gariep in Kimberley,but hasfailed to addresscritical questions about environmentalauthorisation, municipal approvals andcompliance with national school infrastructure standards.

In its brief responsethe department confirmed onlythat the site “has been earmarkedfor the construction of twonew schools”and that land had been purchasedfromthe SolPlaatje Municipality.

Thedepartmentacknowledgedthat “all legislativeprocessesand compliance matters arenot yetconcluded and thereforethe construction cannot commence”.

However, the departmentconfirmed that “preparatory work is currentlyinprogressand therefore containershavealready been placed on site”.

Thetemporaryclassrooms with watertanks visibleinthe background.No trees,for shade,orplaygroundwith grass canbeseenonthe premises PHOTO:Charné Kemp

This raised questions aboutwhat constitutes“construction” and whether placing temporaryclassrooms on undevelopedland requires the same environmental and planningapprovalsaspermanent structures Aresidentvoicedconcerns about

the lack of runningwater andsewage infrastructure, in additiontothe absence of aplayground, grassand shade.

“Isthe gravel road leadingtothe school an official road?Where do the learners reside?How aretheybeing

N12throughWarrenton causes worry

CHARNÉ KEMP

Motoristsand pedestrians travelling alongthe N12 national road through Warrentonface hazardous conditions due to broken street lightinginfrastructureand poor vergemaintenance

This raises seriousquestions about the South African National Roads Agency’s(Sanral) oversightofthis majorroute

Field observations in December revealedmultiple streetlight poles snappedattheir base,with others bent at precarious angles over the roadway.Accordingtoreports,these poles have remainedinthis dilapidated statefor severalmonths,leaving theroadwithout functional lighting and creatingdangerous night-driving conditions

Themaintenance failures extend beyond lightinginfrastructure.Road verges showedsignificant neglect, with kerbsovergrown with weeds, contributingtoanoverall impression of dereliction alongwhat shouldbea well-maintainednational artery

By January, thesevergesatthe entrance to Warrentonhad been cleared. However, some broken poles were still lyingbeside theroadduring asiteinspection on 14th January, and severalbrokenand missingstreet-

lights hadnot yetbeenreplaced

Sanral’s documentedmaintenance standards mandatespecificcontractorsfor “preventativeand corrective maintenance” of lightinginfrastructure under Routine Road Maintenancecontracts

Theagency’smaintenance framework requirescontractors to conduct routine dayand nightinspections to identify faults

Theextendedperiodfor which brokenpoleshaveremainedunrepaired raises questions aboutwhether these inspections arebeing conductedas requiredand, if so,why theyhave failed to triggerrepairs.

AccordingtoSanral’s protocols, fallenordangerously leaningpoles wouldlikelybe classified as “category A” faults,requiringimmediateemergencyresponseunder the agency’s keyperformanceindicators.

Themonths-longneglect suggests these critical responsetimelines have not been met

Maintenanceprotocols outlinedin severalnational standards establish requirements for cleaningschedules, bulk lamp replacementsand other preventativemeasures.

“Sanral is awareofthe street-lightingand vegetation challengesonthis section of the N12. We have been engaging with the Magareng Munic-

ipality through thememorandum of understanding negotiations to ensure coordinated solutions and acknowledge that the condition of the lighting affects road user safetyand visibility, particularly at night,”a Sanral spokesperson said in responsetoenquiries

Theagencyconfirmed maintenance teams hadbeeninstructed to addressthe hazards

Damagedand unstable lightpoles that poseda safetyriskwereprioritised forremoval.

Sanral stated that routine inspections continue alongthissection of the N12, encompassingdaily route patrols and scheduledoversight inspections Theagencyindicated that the mattersraisedwerebeing addressedthrough its routine maintenance processes.

“Sanralremains responsible forthe safetyand condition of the national road network andwill continue to monitor this sectionofthe N12to ensurethat risks to road usersare managedappropriately,”the spokesperson added.

However, Sanral did notaddress questions aboutwhether the contractorwas meetingits contractual obligations,why category Afaults remained unaddressedfor severalmonths,or what specificmeasureswereinplace to preventsimilar lapses in future.

transportedtoschool? Will there be anytrafficand pedestriansafety measures? Does the school have a headteacher and aschoolgoverning body (SGB)?

“Thesetemporary classrooms are hot in summer,and theyhavenoair conditioning. Waterintanksseems to be the only source of waterand it is unknown howsewagewill be managed. To topitall, thereisno shadeinsight, let aloneaplayground with lawn Theconstructioncame outofthe blue and no neighbours or businesseswerealerted. We as aconcernedand affectedcommunityneed answerstothesequestions.”

Thedepartmentdid notprovide confirmation on whether environmental authorisation under the National Environmental Management Acthas been obtained,despitethis beinga legalrequirementbeforeany construction begins.

Thesite’snatural Kalahari savanna vegetation and camelthorn trees would typically require significant environmental assessment, including the appointmentofaregisteredenvironmental assessmentpractitioner

and apublic participation process. Searches of Northern Cape Provincial Gazettes,Sol PlaatjeMunicipality notices,and DepartmentofEducation announcements for2024-’25 yielded no publishednotices regardingenvironmental authorisation,building approvals, land useapplications, or public consultation processes. Critical questionsabout bulk water and sewageinfrastructureremain unanswered. Thesiteallegedlylacks connectiontomunicipal waterand sewagesystems,relyinginstead on watertanks. TheNational Minimum Normsand Standards forSchool Infrastructuremandates that schools have sufficientwater supplycomplyingwith the WaterServices Act, and proper sanitation facilities,with pit toilets and bucketlatrinesprohibited Thedepartment’sstatementthat construction “cannotcommence” until “all the paperworkisinorder” contradicts the physicalrealityof containersalready placedonsiteand what appearstobesitepreparation work underway.

■ Visitnoordkaapbulletin.co.za to read the fullstory

BEK-EN-KLOUSEER-KRISIS DUUR VOORT

HELENA BARNARD

Landbou-organisasies verwelkom die aankondiging dat ’n versoek deur die departement vanlandbou gerigsal word om ’n ramptoestand rondom die wydverspreidevoorkoms vanbek-enklouseer af te kondig.

Volgens diéorganisasies, onder meer Saai, bied die aankondiging egternie die nodigeoplossing virboerewat in ’n oorlewingstryd verkeer nie.

“Boerehet fermer, meer kragdadige duidelikeenpraktieseoptredeverwag om hul boerderyeweer op dreeftekry en sekerheid te verkryoor hoe die nasionale bekampingstrategie uitgerol gaan word,” sê Saai in ’n verklaring. Saai sê voorts die gebrek aan ’n strategie vir rondloperbeeste in informele nedersettingsenkommunalegebiede, tesame met die ineenstorting vanwetstoepassing en infrastruktuur rakende die skut vanvee,ondermyn diegeloofwaar-

digheid vandie nasionalestrategie

Die minister vanlandbou, John Steenhuisen, hetaangedui die bestryding vanbek-en-klouseer totdie punt vanuitwissing, kan’nprosesvan tien jaar wees.Inenting is ’n belangrike deel vandie oplossing, maar slegsasdeel van 'n groter veldtog. Ditmoet beheer van beweging en dieafdwing vankwarantynmaatreëlsinsluit. Die uiteindelike doelisomdie beken-klouseervryestatus vanSuid-Afrika te herwin sodatdie veebedryfweer toegang totalleinternasionalemarkte kanhê. Dit behels ook dieherstel van Suid-Afrikasevermoë om entstowwe vir diesiekte te vervaardig

Intussen hetdie organiseerders van diejaarlikse Bloemskou, watvanjaar vir die143stekeer aangebied word aangekondig dat die vee- en kleinvee-afdelings vir2026 gekanselleer is weensdie wydverspreidevoorkoms van bek-en-klouseer

MEMBERSOFCOUNCILCHANGE CHAIRS

Recent changes in the executive council of the Northern Cape Provincial Government have been announedbythe premier,DrZamani Saul. NontobekoVilakaziwillassume theroleofMEC forHealth, while Mase Manopolewillmakethe move to the

Department of Social Development, Youth Womenand Peoplelivingwith disabilities.

Lebogang Motlhaping has been appointed as the MECresponsiblefor Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform.

Rewards reaped

HELENA BARNARD

Throughout her school career, Jiawen Huang achievedtop results.

Results of ’25cement successes built upon

HELENA BARNARD

TheKimberley Girls’ High School (KGHS) hasmorethanone reason to celebrate. Last week,with the releaseofthe 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinationresults, the school wasannouncedas the toppublic school in theNorthern Cape,with a98,9% pass rate

It is alsothe toppublic school in the Frances BaardDistrict,and the topschoolfor Mathematics

JiawenHuang,topmatric achiever in theNorthern Cape PHOTO:Supplied

Last week,this 2025 matriculantatthe Kimberley Girls’ High School (KGHS) wasannouncedas thetop achiever in theNorthern Cape with therelease of the National Senior Certificate(NSC) examination results

Jiawen is also the topcandidateinthe province in Accounting, Life Sciences and Music. Despitelanguagebarriers, she is thetop 2025 matriculant at the KGHS in all eightofher subjects,and wasawarded the most prestigious HonoursBlazerfor maintaininganaverage above90% in Gr.11 and Gr.12.

Although she wasonlyintroducedtoAfrikaans at the ageof10, sheisthe toplearner in Afrikaans and received the Niewoudt Trophyfor topAfrikaans marksinGr.12.

“I paid closeattentioninclass,asked questions when Ididn’t understand,and made an efforttouse Afrikaans beyond theclassroom Over time,repetition and exposurehelpedbuild my confidence.With patience, supportfrom my teachers, and perseverance,the language graduallybecame somethingIwas comfortable with,” Jiawen says With apassion for Sciences and astrong curiosityabout howthings work,especiallythe humanbody, Jiawen intends to studyMedicine (MBChB) at Stellenbosch University(SU).

“I hopetocontributetoimprovinghealth outcomes and providingcompassionate care. Ultimately, Iwanttouse my knowledge to make apositivedifference in the lives of others, particularly within my community.”

As the topMusic candidate, Jiawen discovered that musicprovides acreativeoutletand away to recharge mentally.

“Rather than competingwith each other, these areascomplementedone another andcontributed to my overall growth.Itreated musicwith thesame levelofcommitmentasmy studies, whichhelped me stay organised.”

Through her involvementinschoolactivities andservingaschairpersonofthe choirand science club,she learntthat leadership is more aboutservicethanauthority.

“Itinvolves listeningtoothers, workingas ateam, and leadingbyexample.Ilearntthe importance of responsibility, communication, and supportingotherssothat everyone cansucceed.Leadership alsotaughtmepatienceand adaptability, as differentpeople require different approaches

“Theselessons have shaped howIinteract with othersboth inside and outside theclassroom.”

During her school years, her studyroutine was built around consistency. This recipientofmany academic awards made sure sheunderstood her work dailyinsteadofleavingeverythingfor exams

“I plannedmytime carefully, brokemywork into manageable sections,and prioritised subjects that needed moreattention. Ialsomade timetoreviseregularly and askedfor help whenever Iwas unsure. Maintainingbalancethrough musicand leadership activities helped me stay focusedand avoid burnout,which made it easier to stay consistent acrossall subjects.”

Oneofher biggestchallengeswas adapting to anew language environmentinher earlyschool years, when shewas unfamiliar with English or Afrikaans.She remainedpersistent, practised consistently and, through this,not onlymasteredthe languages, butalsolearntthatgrowth is possible with determination and support.

Jiawen speaks Mandarin, English, and Afrikaans,remarking that each language represents adifferentpartofher journeyand growth

Herfavourite Afrikaans expression is “aanhouer wen” This phraseresonates deeplywith herjourney.

“Itreminds me that challengesare part of growth,and that persistence is often what turns difficultyintoachievement.”

Theprovince’stop learner, Jiawen Huang, matriculated at the KGHS with eightdistinctions, with twoofher classmates ranked amongthe province’s 20 top achievers

In the subjecttop achieverscategory, the KGHS producedthe top learners in Accounting, Business Studies,Life Sciences andMathematics.

Safiya Stanfley,headmistress since2023, said that in addition to these achievements,a 98% pass rate wasachievedin2025 for learners in Gr.8 to Gr.11, with Gr.11 learners attaininga 100% pass rate

Sinceher appointment, Stanfley began changingprocesseswith a focusoncommunicationtoand from the provincial Departmentof Education. Teachers were encouraged and supportedfor further

training, andatparents’meetings,a 100% pass rate wasemphasisedas the goal.

Theschool’sprevious100% pass rate wasin2018.Overrecent years, the school made progress in increasing its matriculationpass rate:98% in 2022, 96,6% in 2023, and96,8% in 2024.

“Weaimedtoget parentsand learners to commit to this target, with maximumoutput,” shesaid. ExtraMathematics classesfor Gr.12 learners were available

everyMonday, Tuesday, and over weekends accordingtoa specific timetable.

“Atthe endofeachterm, we analysed the overallresults and focusedonsubjects we were not satisfied with,” Stanfley remarked

Part of the analysisinvolved focusedcommunication with subjectheads,the reviewingof assessments,and discussionswith parentsand learners.

Theschoolboastssome very involved parents, whilstlessengaged

parentsand thoseofunderachievinglearnersare specificallyinvited to parents’ meetings

Lookingforward to 2026 with approximately1050 learners, thereismuchtoanticipate. Eight newlybuilt classes forMathematics and Mathematical Literacy were occupiedatthe beginning of the year Thesportsgrounds arebeing upgraded, with among otherssix netball, hockey and multipurpose courts

Currently, the KGHS hasthe highestnumberoflearnersstudyingAccountingand hasoffered Consumer Studies since 2024. Theschoolboasts22staff members involved in marking NSCpapers. Mathematics teacher Ruann Blignault wasappointedasa national examiner forMathematics Paper1,whilst Lillian Khapawas appointedasinternal moderator forConsumer Studies preliminary examinationsinSeptember.

“Wewill continue providing supportand trainingopportunities to educators, maintaininginvolvementwith the wider community and allrelevant departments,” Stanfley said.

“Parents areknockingdownour doors,but ourclasses arefull.”

Forthe KGHS,established in 1887, the futurelooks bright.

Topskole en -kandidatemet trotsaangewys

Die14084 Noord-Kaapsekandidatewat verlede jaar die nasionale seniorsertifikaat-eksamen afgelê het,het ’n slaagsyfer van87,8% behaal–beduidend beteras2021 se 71,4%

Tydens die geleentheid op 13 Januarie waartydens die 2025-matriekuitslaeaangekondigis, is die KimberleyGirls'HighSchool(KGHS) as dietopskool in dieprovinsie aangewys. Sediba Academy is die top- onafhanklikeskool. Diedrietopskole in kwintiel 1tot 3isdie HS EnochMthetho,HSKenhardt en Rietfontein

Gekombineerde Skool.

Jiawen Huangvan dieKGHS is as die topkandidaataangewys. Die resvan die 20 topkandidate in die Noord-Kaapis: 2. Kari AdrianaLouw(HS Upington); 3. Erwin LucasOsego (BaitiredeTegnieseenKommersiëleSkool); 4. MiaTruter(HS Diamantveld); 5. Portia Mohodi Ketshepaone (HS Bothithong); 6. JeffreyMmerekiTsholofelo (HS Galaletsang); 7. Kayleigh Swart(HS Adamantia); 8. CarenGorrahJaime (HS Hopetown);

9. Anikavan der Merwe(HS Diamantveld); 10. Rico vanHeerden (HS De Aar);11. Layla Aysen(KGHS); 12. MilanSnyman(HS Diamantveld); 13. ThabisoAsarWilliam (HS Tetlanyo); 14. Danika Meyer(HS Diamantveld);15. Ethol Duthie Farren (HS De Aar);16. Katlego Mabilo (Baitirede);17. PearlmaDisipi Didintle (HS Bankhara Bodulong);18. QueenLucas Lithemba (KGHS);19. Caitlin Marichen Mouton (HS Namakwaland); en NonhlanhlaNyamagoronga (HSVuyolwethu)

Hou eeue al waaksaam oor woestynwag

Dit is nie net in wolkewaar dolfyne,hasies of ander voorwerpe raakgesienwordnie.Die neiging om dit te doen,staanaspareidolie bekend:wanneer’nmensallerlei voorwerpe,patrone vanlig en skaduwee,enmeer, in jou waarneming na gesigte of iets bekends omskakel.Anders as met wolke,waar diewaarneming vinnig voor die sonverdwyn of vervorm,bly dit wat’nmensinrotsesien,eeue lank dieselfde –afhangend vanhoe die ligofskaduwee op die tydstipvan waarneming val.Hierdie hondgesig met spits oreisopdie Kokerboomkloof-kampterrein in die Richtersveld-Nasionale Park opgemerk.En terwyl die hittegolweoor dié bergwoestynbewe,sing ’n mens saam met die sonbesies:“Who letthe dog(s) out?”

FOTO:Helena Barnard

Juweeltjie

rand

Die naam vandié Suid-Afrikaansegeldeenheid is afgeleivan "Witwatersrand", 'n laebergreekswat deurGauteng strek en as 'n waterskeidingdien. Goud is in die1880's hier ontdek en vandie grootste en diepstegoudmyne terwêreldword hieraangetref – Bron: Facebook /VivA Afrikaans

■ rand-en-sentmense: jong, modern geletterde mensesonder outydse waardes.

■ geldmannetjie: kasregister

■ tierevel,tiervel: R200-noot,naaanleiding van dieafbeelding van'nluiperddaarop.

■ gele: geldnoot só genoemvanweësykleur

■ koopsels maak: Inkopies doen.

■ koop se gatsit oop,enbetaalsegat sitkaal: as iemand iets noodsaakliks nie kanbekostignie

■ grondkoop: onwillekeurigekennismaking met moederaarde,deur te val.

– Bron: Annerlike Afrikaans, Woordeboek van Afrikaansekontreitaal deur Anton F.Prinsloo

Aanlyn leer ideaal virslim word,asjydit slim gebruik

Terwyl hewige vloede in dienoordevan die land lewe ontwrig en lewe neem,duur die geensins makliker stryd teen wegholbrande en droogteindelevan dieWes-enSuid-Kaap, en dieKaroo,voort.

Oral oordie land heen woed ’n politieke magstryd op nasionale,provinsiale en plaaslikevlak– ’n strydwat totenmet die plaaslike regeringsverkiesings latervanjaarmeerhewig salword.

By skole hetleerlinge huleie strydindie kleine met die inwinvan nuwe kennisaangepak, en studente mik om eersdaagsdieselfde te doen. Ookvir werknemerswag waarskynlik ’n fase vankennis inwin.

Volgens talle bronne leer elkemenselke dagiets –selfs al is ditnet hoeomvetersvas te maak, fiets te ry,uit te vind waarvoor die geweefde strepe op handdoekebestaan, of om die truuksvan nog’napp te snap

Metdie Internasionale Dagvan Onderwys, eersdaagsop24Januarie,isdie klem op onderwysserol in vredeenontwikkeling, die bevorderingvan lewenslangeleerendie bemagtigingvan individue

In die proses vanleerspeel toegangtot tegnologie,endie wêreldwyeweb met sy apps en platforms, ’n reuse-rol.

Twyfelhoekie

Soos watskole en onderwyskundigesoor die wêreld heen egterbesef het,kan dié apps en platformsegter leer benadeel –afhangend van hoedit aangewendword. Al hoemeerskole,ook in Suid-Afrika en die Noord-Kaap, verban die gebruik vanselfone tydens skoolure. Studies dui daarop datonbeperkteselfoongebruik tydens skoolureleeren aandag benadeel, gedragsprobleme verhoog, en risiko’s vir geesteswelstandinhou. Om ’n selfoon tydens skoolurevan leerlinge te verwyder, lei totverbeterdegedragenleer, hoër punteen verminderingvan kuberboelieryenkulleryin toetseofeksamens

Boonop is dit bekend datoormatige gebruik vansosialemediaplatforms totverhoogde angs, laeselfbeeld, ontwrigteslaap en geestelike moegheid lei, ookvir volwassenes. Dit is weens voortdurende vergelyking, inligtingoorladingen minder kontak met die werklikheid –weereens, afhangendvan hoejydie platformsgebruik

Togisdie wêreldwyeweb propvolinligting oorhoe individue hullewedeur aanlyn leer verbeterenhulself bemagtig. Aanlynkan jy enigiets leer –van kodering, enigeskoolvak,tuinmaak, meganika,tot koekbakofborduur

Terugnalewenslange leer:Gebruik die wêreldwyeweb tenbeste om iets daadwerkliks by te leer,ennie netvir vlugtige,niksseggende en uitmergelende spookasem-tydsverdryf nie

Almal gaan deur diepwaters;kontraskweek begrip

HANNESNOËTH

Twee praktiesestoriesraakmydiep hierdie week.Albei hetmet watertedoen, maarin kontekssover vanmekaar.

Aan dieeen kant word ons oorweldigmet al dievloedeindie Krugerwildtuin en noorde van dieland, terwyl diesuidelikedelevan dielandin droogtena reën smag

Ditwys maarnet hoebeperkons as mens is –daar is eenvoudigdinge bo ons vermoë en dinge waaraanons nikskan doen nie

Die eerste voorbeeldwat my hart raak,is’n videovan ’n olifant-mammawat haar jong kalfie deur die rivier begelei. Sterkstroomofnie,haar kalf kanseker wees datsyagter hom is.Dit is kosbaartreffend

Die tweede voorbeeldis’nwoonbuurtindie midde vandie stad wat– weensbaie redes,maar komons somdit op as swak bestuur –dae lank sonder wateris.

Watmyhartbreek,is’njongseuntjie wathuil omdat hy moet vuilskool toegaan. Vergeetaldie anderongemaklikhede wat waterloosheid virhulle betekenrondomtoilette, kosmaak, dors en watnog alles.Vir hom is dit

Woorde laat rooi sien

KARIN MULLER

“Probeerasseblief verstaan,”sê sy. “Daaristweewoordewat my manrooilaatsien: belasting en verkeerskonstabel.” Sy lag. “Dalk kanjyiets oorhierdietweewoorde skryf.”

Onsalmal hetwoordewat ons rooi laat sien.

Woorde watdie moed watons in ons hart dra, deur ons liggaamlaat uitvloeienindie grond onder ons voetelaatwegsyfer “Trek” is vir my so ’n woord. Nienoodwendig ’n laat-myrooi-sienwoord nie; meer ’n moed-wegsyfer woord.

Omteverhuis is nie altyd ’n slegte ding nie.Soms verteenwoordigdit ’n nuwe begin. ’n Nuwe hoofstuk. Nuwe kollegas. Nuwe vriende.

Dit verteenwoordig dalk ’n beter toekoms.’nBeter lewe

Dit wategter fisiek en emosioneel met ’n trek gepaardgaan, is vir my baie moeilik

In dieeersteplekisdit baie meer werk as waarop ’n mens voorbereid was.

Dit maak nie saak hoeveelkeerjy dit al gedoen hetenhoeveel stelsels jy in plek hetnie

Metdie laaste trek heteknommers in verskillendekleureopdie kartonbokse geverf

Ek het’neksamenblok byderhand gehouen’nlys gemaakvan watter artikels in watter nommer kartonboksis.

Teen die tyddat dit by ons bestemmingaangekomhet,het ons gevradie mensemoetdie kartonbokse met rooi nommersin die kombuis neersit; dié met die blounommers in eenvertrek;dié met nommersingeelin’nander vertrek.

Die geheim is om nie die eksamenblok te verloornie

Iewers kruis’nwoord joupad watslegteherinneringe daarmee saamdra

Soms verloorons hierdie woord of die herinneringe watdaaraan gekoppel is langsdie pad.

Die woordverloor sy emosionele vuishou

Ander kere blyso’nwoord ons lewenslank by.Woordesoos: belasting, verkeerskonstabel, trek Watter onskuldige woordlaat jou rooi sien?

’n gewoon praktieseprobleem.Hywil nievuil skooltoe gaannie.Hyvra so mooi datons hom help, iemand homnet help. Hy wilskoon skool toegaan.

Twee uiterse uiteenlopende voorbeelde –aan die eenkant’nmawat haar helelyf op die spel plaasomhaarkinddeur ’n watermassa te kry, aandie ander kant ’n ma watnet smeek vir water in haar kraanomhaarkindskoon by die skool te kry. Hierdie uiteenlopende water-uitdagings herinnermynet weer aanhoe uniek verskillende konteksteenuitdagings is Laat onstog maar groeiinons begripvir mekaar.

DS.KOBUSVAN TONDER

“En leef noudie lewe van die nuwemens,wat al hoemeer vernuwe word na diebeeld van sy Skepperentot dievolle kennis vanGod.Hier is ditnie van belang of iemandGriek of Jood is nie, besnyofnie besnynie,andertalig, onbeskaaf,slaaf of vrynie.Hier is Christus alleseninalmal.”

–Kol. 3:10 en 11

Onsonthoudie onskuldige kinderlied“Skyn joulig vir Jesus met ’n helder glans”; en in die refrein sing ons“jy in jouklein hoekie en ek in myn” Eintlik is dit die mees on-Christelikeliedwat onskan sing,want in die Christeliketaalisdie woorde “ek” en “my” so uit soos koekies in die weeshuis.Dié woorde belemmer gemeenskap tussen mense. Dit verhef die individu bo die groepensteleiebelang bo groepsbelang.Indie Christelikewoordeskatword“ek”en“my”vervang met onsendie belangevan die groepvoorop. Die Afrika-beginselvan Ubuntu,“ek is mens deur ander mense”,isnader aandie

Christeliketaalasdie leefwyse waar alles om die individu en eiebelang wentel. Bybelsetaalisinklusiewe taal,sluit in en nieuit nie. SamKobia het gesê:“If youwant to walk fast, walk alone. If youwant to walk far,walktogether.” Onssal opnuut in onskerken land moet leer om diversiteit te waardeer en omarm. Otto Scharmer praatdaarvan as ’n wegbeweegvan ego-gesentreerdheid na eko-gesentreerdheid en ondersteepdie waarde vanoop netwerke waarin onsop’nskeppende manier saam begin soek na onsroepingenrol binne die samelewingwaarinons leef Onssal doelbewus moet leer om uit onsbekende kringtebeweeg –buiteons gemaksone – en te begin praatmet mensevan ander ouderdomsgroepe en uit ander geslagte, klasse en kulture.

Inklusiewetaalbeskikoor die vermoë om die speelveld gelyk te maak.Dan laat staanons ons vooroordele,beterweterigheid en kritiek.Met inklusiewetaalerken onsdie waarde vananderenbesef onsdat onsalmal ’n roltespeel het om vandie kerk of gemeenskap ’n beterplek te maak

Bobbejaan klim die... kerkdak

Metdie gegons oorBloemhof watasKwêla Dorp vandie Jaar aangewysis, wasdit nie netmense watnuuskierig hieroorwas nie. Bobbejaansekind het ookbesluit hy wilkom kykwaaroor die bohaai gaan.

Dié kees,Bloemhof se eie kerkbobbejaan, het onlangs vir ongekende samehorigheid gesorg toehy homself netjies neffens die kerkklok vandie NG kerk tuisgemaakhet

Daleen Steyn, projekleier vanBloemhof se Dorp vandie Jaar-veldtog,vertelverder: “Aksieisonmiddellik geneem, want bobbejaanseonskuldige glimlag het vinnig in ’n pandemonium ontaardtoe daai slagtande die lewensverwagtingvan ’n paar spoghoendersdrasties verkorthet Verskeie planneisberaamomKees se kind weer bostoe te stuur.’n Vrugtelokvalindie vanghok? Nee wat, daai bobbejaanwas te slim vir piesangs en pere.Hy’tgekyk, geknipoogengeloop

Toe, uit dieooste het die buurdorp,Hoopstad, se veearts, dr.PieterBotes,syopwagting gemaak.Hyhet dieheledag by die kerk deurgebring– nieomdat dit

Sondag wasnie,maaromdat hy saam met diebobbejaan-taakspan ’n missiegehad het. Metgeduld,spanwerken’n pynloseverdowingspyl is die liewe

Sinceregratitude runs deep

Iamoverwhelmedwith gratitudeasI reflectonthe incredible Back to School programme that took placeinHopetown on 11 January. Theevent wasa resoundingsuccess, and we giveall praise to the Lord for making it possible

We were blessedtohaveanoutstandinglineup of guestspeakerswho inspired and motivated ourlearners with their wordsofwisdom

Ahugethank you to RubenRoberts (teacher,Steynville High School),Past. ShaunMoses,Somario Hugo (president of Matric 2025), Sr Koekie DorothyOlyn (parentand Sunday school presidentof AGSSteynville), and Christoline Adams, who shared their insightsand experiences with attendees

Aspecial word of thankstoour amazingteamwho worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this eventa reality.

Your hard work and dedicationdid not go unnoticed, and we aregrateful for yoursupport.

To the VanRooyfamily, we thankyou for yourunwaveringsupportoverthe years.

Your encouragement andinvolvementhavemeant the worldtous. We arealsodeeplygrateful to each and everydonor who contributed. Your generosity hashelpedput asmile on a child’s face, and for that, we areeternally grateful.

Aswecelebrate this success, we pray that the Lord will continue to blesseach and everyheart that wasa part of this event. MayHe keep you, guide you,and fill youwith hisloveand peace. Thank you, Lord,for making this Back to School programme asuccess.

■ LadyEL,Hopetown

Care centreinvites voluntaryb

Applications arenow open to apply as voluntaryboard members at the Helen Bishop Child and Youth Care Centre.

TheHelen Bishop Child and Youth Care Centre is aregistered non-profitorganisation (NPO)in termsofthe NPOAct,71of1997 and aChild and Youth Care Centre in termsofthe Children's Act, 38 of 2025

Thecentre’scaregiversprovide their services 24 hoursaday, throughout the year,acrossthree wards. Care is providedtochildren from localcommunities

Criteria

Applications to this orthopaedic aftercare centreinKimberley are open for voluntaryboard members whom meet the following criteria:

1. committedtoorganisational growth and communitydevelopment;

2. knowledge and skillsregarding compliance with relevant legislation: Children's Act, NPOAct and Public Finance ManagementAct (PFMA); 3. knowledge regardingservice deliverytochildren; 4. sound financial management skills;

5. enhancedethical leadership; 6. expertisethat will be value addingtoorganisational management;

7. does not have pending criminal casesand no criminalrecord; 8. must not be agovernment officialatthe Department of Social Development; 9. not previously dismissed from anypreviousemploymentasa result of misconduct;

10. accept the role as volunteer with no expectation of remuneration; and 11.currently not aboard member of anotherNPO Applications

Application forms areavailable at the organisation. Submitthe completedapplication formwith requireddocuments to Rev. Yvette Molusior Chrissie Damons at the NPO in Church Street,Utility,Kimberley,byMonday26January.

a. Please notethatall applicants will be subjectedtoavetting and screeningprocess.

b. If you failtomeetthe above criteria,withheld information on yourCV, dishonest with providing of information, youwillnot be considered as avoluntaryboard member.

c. Theoutcome of thevetting processwill be correspondedwith applicants, with no furtherconsultations inthe case yourapplication wasnot successful.

bobbejaangehelpom’ndiep middagslapie te vat.

Soos ’n ware VIPishyveilig oorgelaai, versorgenvrygelaat in sy natuurlikehabitat–waarhynou waarskynlik storiesvertelvan die dorp met diekerkklok,die maklikehoendersendie kleurvolle hoofstraat.”

Die dorp bedank Louis Coetzee watleidinggeneemhet as koördineerdervan die bobbejaan-aksiegroep,vir Botes, en elke lid vandie taakspan watkalm, professioneel en met ’n goeie sinvir humor opgetree het.Elkeinwoner watinligtingdeurgegeehet,word ookbedank.

"Hierdie week het Bloemhof gewys: ons hardloop nienet vir titels nie –ons staansaam, selfsteen ’n kerkbobbejaan."

Tong in die kies word gevradat Kees se kind se attestatebydie NG kerk geligword- hy wasdarem tydelik ’n lid… net sonderdooplidnommer

Diary

31 JANUARY

ThemonthlyKimberley Markets at theBig Hole takesplace from 09:00to14:00.Visit avarietyof food,arts and crafts, andhomemade producestalls,and more. Contact Marais Tesner on 082309 7885 formoreinformation about theevent

7FEBRUARY

ThemonthlyMarket forCharity, witha Valentine's Daytheme, takesplace at the McGregor Museum in AtlasStreet,Herlear, Kimberley,from09:00to14:00 Aback to school drivealsotakes place – donations of school clothes shoes,stationery, school bags,and morewillbedistributed to those who cannotaffordit. Dial 084 3957297 or 079981 1240 formore information

14 FEBRUARIE

Rocco de Villiers tree tydens'n swartdas-geleentheid by die VictoryTowers in Bloemhof op As deel vandié Valentynsaand in 'n romantieseenelegante atmosfeer word 'n driegangmaaltydbedien.Bespreek kaartjies op quicket.co.za

18 TO 21 MARCH

TheLove Dahlias Festival takes placeinDouglas. This involves four days of blooms, workshops, andsignaturedinner experiences. WritetoMareliVisser at sales@lovedahlias.comorvisit lovedahlias.comfor moreinformation.

Stuur dagboekinskrywings,wat gratisgeplaasword,na helena. barnard@novusmedia.co.za.

Beskeieleerder behaal sukses

NICK PRETORIUS

Diablo Bock,’nbeskeie en briljante matriekleerder aandie HoërskoolSaulDamon in Upington,het te midde vanmoeilikeomstandighede die kruin vandie golf met hardewerk en ’n onwrikbare wilnasuksesbereik Dié 18-jarigejongman is as sy skoolse dux-leerder aangewysmet onderskeidings in Afrikaans,Engels,wiskunde,natuur-enskeikunde, lewenswetenskap en lewensoriëntering Diablo gaan vanjaarsystudie in sivieleingenieursweseaan die Universiteit vanPretoria (UP) begin “Mypad na sukses wasnie maklik nie, maar deur dit alles het ek baie hoop en selfvertroue gekrywat my in staatgestelhet om aandie einde vandie jaar suksesvoltewees,”vertelhy. Diablo het ’n gemiddeld van81,4% in 2025 se matriekeindeksamen behaal.Sysuksesskryf hy toeaan baie nagtesestudie en die ondersteuningwat hy vansyouersenonderwysersgekry het.Hysêvir die jeug is die uitdagings oorweldigend, en hy wilopgeenmanier na ’n donker toekoms kyknie

“Mystreweisna’nlewevan uitnemendheid en geluk,” sê hy.Hyisdie seun vanErrol Kellaen Beverly Bock vanUpington,enhet drie sussies en ’n boetie watnog skoolgaan.

“Ekwil ’n aansporing vir hulle wees.Hulle moet na my suksesverhaalopskool kyk,”sêhy. ’n Inskrywing op die skoolseFacebook-blad lui soos volg:“Your storyuplifts us.Your achievementinspiresus. Your futureisbright, and we areproud to have walked this part of the journeywith you. Congratulations, Diablo Bock Youare proofthathoperises.”

Die skoolhet ’n slaagsyfer van92,4% behaal.

Burnssurvivors aspire to inspire

Africa’s first burns charity, Children of Fire,travelled1000 km earlier in Januarytoinspire fire fighters in Kimberleytocarryontheir good work for theareatheyserve

At the KimberleyFireBrigade, youth ambassadorsLetty Ndimande (7), Rien ne Dit Kasongo(12), and Kutlwano Kekana (15) received an enthusiastic welcome and interacted with the fire fighters

BronwenJones,charity founder, explainedits history and work for the past three decades across the continent.

In 2016, Jones waspresented with the British EmpireMedal (BEM) for services to young survivorsofburn injuries in South Africa.

Thechildren dinedatthe Kimberley Club,witnessedanimpromptu mini fire drill arranged at HumanAutoin Kimberley.

During aplannedvisit to the Robert MangalisoSobukwe Hospital, thecharity wastodonateR90 000 worthofgifts to paediatric,child and adultburns patients,and healthcare workers.

Despiteprior arrangements,access wasdeclinedbythe hospital’s offsite public relations officer

“I knowthat patients liketoget

During the visit to the Kimberley FireBrigade are,from the left,DeonBotha,BronsonMartins,IvanLavon,PatrickPhopone,Bakang Modiakgotla,DingaloTshabadra,NtantaJohn Sephiri (chief),RethabileNgakane,Patricia Sediane,Kutlwano Kekana (burns survivor),FuadMahri,Bronwen Jones (founder),LettyNdimande (burns survivor held in arms),ThembisaMgijima,Vuyiswa Mvalaand RienneDit Kasongo(burns survivor heldinarms) PHOTO:Supplied

presents butmostofall, theyliketo talktousabout howweall healed, how we gotbetterafter beinghurt,”a disappointedLetty said.

Rien added: “Burns survivorsare brothers from anothermother. We supporteachother anditisapity that office people used the excuse of

protocols to preventvisits.”

Kutlwanosaid: “Wetravelledfar with open hearts,tohelp.But visiting the fire brigade and other hospitals

made it worththe effort.”

They then insteadvisited the LenmedRoyal Hospital after swift coordination They met an eight-yearold patient, and giftedhim ateddy bear,ball, books and toiletries He washappy and uplifted by the interactionwith fellowyoung burns survivors.

Thejourneycontinuedtothe WarrentonCommunityHealth Centre wherepatients and staff were happytoreceivethem.A six-year-old awaitingsurgery forappendicitis was divertedfromhis pain by the cheerfulness of other children reachingout to him TheYouth Ambassadors took the remainingsupplies to the ChristianaClinic wherenursesand patients were ecstatic aboutthe impromptu kindness to starttheir year Children of Fire continues to work acrossAfricatoprevent burn injuries, preventand mitigate disasters,and uplift burn survivorsthrough practical action, education,and outreach Thecharity is arranginganinternational climbing expeditionfor teenageburns survivorsand encourages parentsand teachersofchildren currentlyaged11to17years old,to contact them via firechildren@icon co.za to discuss what the journeywill involveand howitwill change their lives forthe better

Eersteskooljaarbeginmet breë glimlagte

Netjiesehare, splinternuweskool-klere, blink skoene en yslikeglimlagte was op Woensdagoggend 14 Januarie by laerskole oordie provinsie heentesien toevanjaarsegr.1’shul eerste amptelike skooldag beleef het Lesers watnog met hulgr.1’svan 2026wil spog,iswelkom om foto’smet diekind se naam, vanenskool te stuur na helena.barnard@novusmedia.co.za.

OmphileSebolai is joined by her father, Meshack Ramonnye,onher first school day at the Du Toitspan PrimarySchool in Kimberley.Omphilesaysshe wants to learnhow to count,and wants to becomeachefone day.Her sister is in Gr.3 in the same school.

PHOTO:Helena Barnard

Uitgevatennetjies staan Chawandrevan Rooyengereed om sy skoolloopbaanaan dieLaerskool Groblershooptebegin FOTO: Verskaf

Ben Everts is ’n gr.1-leerder aan die Laerskool Kathu.Voor sy eersteskooldag het Ben eers sy troeteldier,Zord,gegroet Hy en Zord,’n“bearded dragon”,is byna onafskeidbaar.Ben wil baie graagrugby in die skool speel sodathygoed daarin kan wees – om eendag’nSpringbok-rugbyspeler te word.Hyhou blykbaar niksvan die grys skoolbroekenie,“want grys is ’n lelike kleur,”sê hy FOTO’s:Verskaf

Netjies uitgevatinsplinternuweskoolklere isRhekhina Gopanie,wat eendag’ndokter wilwees.Saam met haar is haar ma,Valdene.Rhekhina se twee sussiesisreeds in dieselfde skool. FOTO:Helena Barnard

REGSKENNISGEWINGS &TENDERS

DRANKLISENSIES

4035

GA-MOCUMI GUESTHOUSE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY IN TERMS OFSECTION 96 OF THE ACT FOR A LICENCENorthern Cape Gambling and Liquor Act,Act 6of2024 Notice is hereby given that it is the intentionto lodge the abovementioned application, particulars of which appear hereunder, with the NorthernCape Gambling andLiquor Board.

1. Munic ipality:

PHOK WANE

MUNICIPALITY 2. Full name, street and postal address of applicant:

KGOTLAETSILE SAMUEL

MOCUMI 3. Kind of license applied for:

RESTAURANT LIQUOR LICENSE

4. Kind of liquor to be sold: ALL KINDS OF LIQUOR; 5. Name under which business is to be conductedand full address of premises: GAMOCUMI GUESTHOUSE Business Address: 256B

PAMPIERSTAD

Ema il : Moc umikg otlaest sile @gmail.com 6. Extraitems to be sold (section 4(5)(a) and (b))SOFT DRINKS & SNACKS &CIGARETTES

VERLORE

DOKUMENTE

4040

T349/2015

VERLORE OF VERNIETIGDE

TITELAKTE

Hiermee wordkennis gegee dat kragtens die bepalings van Regulasie 68 van die Registrasie van Aktes Wet, 1937, dit die voorneme is om aansoek te doen om die uitreiking van 'n gesertifiseerde afskrif van Titelakte

T349/2015 gepasseer deur

PHILLIP DEERLING & IRENE DEERLING ten gunste van JAN GAUBUE &ELYA GAUBUE& MARIA VAN WYK ten aansien van sekere Erf 202 Griekwastad Gelee in die Siyancuma Munisipaliteit, Distrik Hay. Provinsie Noordkaap Groot 1606 (Een Duisend Ses Honderd en Ses) vierkante meter

Alle belanghebbendes wat teen die uitreiking van sodanige afskrif beswaar het, word hierby versoek om dit skriftelik in te dien by die Registrateur van Aktes: Noordkaap te Kimberley binne twee weke vanaf datum van publikasie van hierdie kennisgewing.

Gedateer te Douglas op hierdie 7de dag van Januarie2026

Aansoeker: De Villiers & Bredenkamp Prokureurs

JVZ/LHerselman Adres: 12 CharlCilliersstraat, Douglas 8730Epos: devbred@douglas.co.za

Kontaknommer :053 298 1814

Vrouerugbykrykans

HELENA BARNARD

’n Elite-kompetisie,geskepvir gevestigde en geregistreerde vrouerugbyklubsbinnedie streek vandie Griekwaland-Wes Rugbyunie (GWRU),isbegin

Die nuwe Griekwas-vroueSuperliga is deel vandie voortgesette ontwikkelingengroei vanvrouerugby binne die Griekwaland-Wes-streek, en bouop vorige toernooie

KatSwanepoel, bestuurder van amateurrugbybydie GWRU,sêdit is ’n nuwe konsep in dieunie.Minstens sesvrouerugbyklubs salintuis-en wegwedstryde teen mekaarindie ligawedstrydemeeding.

“Met tuiswedstrydewordvrouerugby ooknadie gemeenskapgebring,”sê hy.“Lede vandie gemeenskapmoet dit kanwaarneem.”

Swanepoelsêdaarisongetwyfeld vroueindie gebiedvan dieGWRU watrugbytalenthet,enligawedstryde binne gevestigde klubverband sal hulle blootstellingbied. Daar wasreedsbelangstellingvan verskeie vrouerugbyklubs vanoor die Noord-Kaapheen, en Swanepoelsê hulle sien uit na nogaansoeke

Lidene Kruger,’ntalentvolle Griekwas-vrouerugbyspeler,isin2025vir die Springbok VroueSewes-oefengroepgekies.’n Elite-kompetisie,die Griekwas-vroue Superliga,begin vanjaar om talentvollevrouerugbyspelersmeer geleenthede en blootstelling te bied. FOTO:Griekwas

Vrouerugbyspelerswat in die voorry speel, moet vanjaarten minste 20 jaar oudword, en in anderposisies moet hulle vanjaarten minste19jaaroud word

Aansoeke vir die 2026 Griekwa-vroueSuperliga is nouoop,met

FOCUSON: MIMOSA MALLMARATHON

die sluitingsdatumop31Januarie.Let daarop dataansoekeinklubverband gedoen moet word,ennie as individue nie

Virmeerinligting, kontak Kat Swanepoelby082 8223770 of skryf aanrefs@gwrugby.co.za.

Race just aboutamonth away

Runnersatall fitness levels are invitedtotakepartinone of Bloemfontein’s most anticipated sporting events

Entries areofficiallyopen forthe 2026 MimosaMall Marathon, settotakeplace on Saturday 28 February.

Whether youare aseasoned marathon runner aiming to secureaComrades Marathon qualifying time,orasocial runnersimplylooking to enjoy afun and active dayout, the MimosaMall Marathon offersa race foreveryone

Distances include the full marathon, half marathon, 10km, and the ever-popular 5km fun run, making it an inclusive eventfor seriousathletes, families,and first-time runners alike.

Ahighlightofthe eventisits uniqueand fast route, which starts and finishesatMimosa Mall and takesrunnerspast some of Bloemfontein’s most iconiclandmarks

Participants will run through the TempeMilitary Base,the Universityofthe Free State (UFS) main campus,and Grey College,supportedbyspectators along the way.

The marathon remains an official Comrades Marathon qualifier,giving long-distance runnersthe opportunitytotest their enduranceand secure aqualifying time earlyinthe season.

Non-club runnersparticipating over 10km, 21km or 42km will be required to obtain atemporary licenceduring the online entry process, while licensed

Entries areopen forthe MimosaMallMaraton,which is this year scheduled for28 February. PHOTO:Reblex

club athletesmay enterusing their validlicencedetails.

The MimosaMall Marathon promisesa vibrantrace-dayatmosphere.The running village at MimosaMall will be packed with exhibitorsand lively activations, creating afestive hubfor runners, supporters and families to enjoy

Hosted in association with Bloemfontein Stridersand the Louzanne CoetzeeFoundation, the MimosaMall Marathon

hasgrown into astandout fixtureonthe local and regional running calendar,known forits strong organisation, welcoming environmentand community spirit.

Entries forthe 42km and 21km racesclose on 26 February Runnerslooking to take on 10km or 5km maystill register the daybeforethe race at the registrationvillage To enter, and formoreinformation, visit mimosamall.co.za.

Diary

7FEBRUARY

Thefirst eventofthe Oryx Unbound Gravel Series takesplace,with Race2theSkyat theUitzicht Game LodgenearFouriesburg in theEastern Free State. Theroutetakes mountain bikeriders over amixed terrain of gravel roads, hills and farm roads. Choose one of three distances:Unbound (100Miler or 165km), Quest (86km) or Dash (50km) Visit oryxendurance.co.zafor information.

16 FEBRUARY

Women's Twenty20 International (T20I) actionbetween theProteas and Pakistan in theWomen's T20I showdowntakes placefrom18:00 at theDiamond Oval in Kimberley.Book tickets on cricket.co.za

28 FEBRUARIE

Die Upington-Wes-marathon begin om 05:30.Skryf in vir die marathon, halfmarathon,10km- of 5km-wedloop.Dit is ’n kwalifiseringsgeleentheid vir die Twee Oseaneen Comrades-ultramarathons. Skryf in op entryninja.com. Skakel 082622 7109

7MARCH

The56thDiamond Marathon, presentedby theKimberley Harriers Running Club,starts from theStPatrick's CBC in Du Toitspan Road. This popularflat and fast race is one

of thelargest marathons in theNorthern Cape and thesecond oldestinSouth Africa. It first took placein1970. Athletes canenter themarathon, halfmarathon, or 10km event. It is aqualifierracefor theTwo Oceans and Comrades ultramarathons. Enter on quicket.co.za – theclosing datefor online entries is 28 Februaryat23:00

21 MARCH

Thesixth PhakamileMabija Human Rights

Half Marathon, presentedbythe Teemaneng Running Club,takes placefromthe Kimberley Boys'High School. Run21,1km, 10km or 5km. Online entries on peaktiming. co.zaclose on 18 March, whilemanual entries canbedone from 18 to 20 March. Dial 067940 8387 formoreinformation.

Applications forthe 2026 Griquas Women’s Super League,anelite competition created forestablishedand registered rugbyclubs within theGriqualand West RugbyUnion's region, arenow open.The closing dateis31 January. Call KatSwanepoel on 082822 3770 or writetorefs@gwrugby.co.za

ELKE SATERDAG

Neem deel aan die parkrunwaar deelnemers gratis 5km kanstapofdraf. Dit begin om 07:00of08:00,afhangendvan elke ligging se reëlings. Besoekparkrun.co.zavir meer inligting.