Standard E-Edition 19 March 2026

Less redtape forevent-travelvisas

Anew visa scheme aimedat fast-tracking international-event travel could give South Africa’s tourism and events sectorasignificant boost.

TheDepartmentofHome Affairs has launched the Meetings, Exhibitions, Events and Tourism Scheme (Meets), avisa-reform initiative designedtostreamlinethe processingoflargegroup applications linked to major international events. The scheme is expectedtoplay akey role in strengthening South Africa’s positionas aglobal host for conferences, exhibitions, sportstournaments and cultural events, while directly benefiting event organisers, international delegates,performers and technicalteams needing to travel within tight timelines.

“The launchofMeets marksanother decisive step on our journey of digitaltransformation,” said Minister Leon Schreiber.

“By modernising ourvisa system we are positioningHome Affairs as an economic enabler thatsupports tourism,investment andallows forjob creation. The events sector is apowerful driver of growthand Meetsensuresour visa regime matches South Africa’s ambition to host world-class international gatherings.”

Meetsintroduces asecure channel to process high volumes of time-sensitive visa applications for groups attending international events in the country. The system aims to cut redtape andimprove turnaround times throughthe use of technology, ensuring that South Africa can respond swiftly when selected as ahost nation.

The department said large-scale events, including music concerts, global trade exhibitions such as the Mining Indaba, World Cup tournaments and international academic conferences, often require entire teams to traveltogether. These include per-

Hitte laat damme se watervlakkedaal

Die somer raak lank en Wes-Kapenaarsbegin uitsiennakoeler dae en die reënseisoen. Die Theewaters-kloofdam (foto) se watervlakkestaan tans op 48,4%teenoor 68,3% verlede jaar,sêdie departement vanwater en sanitasiesesyfersvan 16 Maart. Stettynskloofdam buite Worcester staan op 47,2% (51,3%verlede jaar), Brandvleidamisop38,3% (51,1% in 2025) en die Kwaggaskloofdamstaan op 38,5%(50,1%verlede jaar). Foto:Johan Olivier

formers, delegates and technical staff, allof whom rely on efficient visaprocessing to meet strict event schedules.

Through Meets organisers willbeable to submit streamlined online applications tailored specifically for such events, replacing what has previously been described as fragmented and uncertain processes. The initiative is also expected to unlock greater economic impact by enabling smoother participation from international visitors.

Domestic event organisers withaproven track record are invited to submit expressions of interest to participate in the scheme. Successful applicantswillberequired to enter into aformalmemorandum of agreement with Home Affairs to regulate participation and governance.

“South Africaalready possesses the infrastructure, venues andglobal appeal required to host premier international events,” Schreiber said. “Through Meets

we ensure our visa system becomes acompetitive advantage that helps attract even more conferences, exhibitions, sportstournamentsand cultural eventsthat create jobsand stimulateeconomic growth.”

Early in March Western CapeMEC for Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Dr Ivan Meyer shared his approval for theMeetsvisa scheme. He said for theWestern Cape’s eventsindustry Meets is agame changer. “By reducing administrativebarriers for event organisers and delegates we can attract more international business events, boost hotel occupancy,local transport,restaurants, tourism services and themany small businesses that depend on visitor activity.This means more economic activity, more jobs, and astronger, more resilient provincial economy. Apply for theMeetsvisa scheme via www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/meets.

Polisieman in hofnábeweerde misdrywe

’n Polisiebeampte vanWorcester het op Maandag16Maart in dielanddroshofverskyn op vieraanklagte wat verband hou metseksuele misdrywe.

Die 58-jarigeman het verskyn op twee aanklagte vanseksuele aanranding, een vanontbloting van sy geslagsdeleaan ’n minderjarigeen seksuele intimidasie.

Hy is steeds in aanhouding.

Diesaak is tot 24 Maartvir ’n formele borgtogaansoekuitgestel Ingevolge wetgewing mag beskuldigdes in sake van seksuelemisdrywe nie in diemedia geïdentifiseer wordvoordat hulle in diehof gepleit hetnie Indiendie bekendmaking van die beskuldigde se naam dieslagoffers kan identifiseer, mag sy of haar naam ook niegepubliseer wordnie

Kalandershelpplantpes in dam beheer

Die probleemmet die toegegroeide daminWorcester tussen dieHoërskool Montana en Mountain Mill-rylaan geniet aandag,het die Breedevallei-munisipaliteit gesê

Die vinnig groeiende waterplant Salvinia molesta het hande uitgeruken bedek die hele oppervlakvan diékleiner dam.

Die munisipaliteit het gesê hy beheer die onkruid op ’n biologiesemanierdeur salvinia-kalanders vry te laatwat die plantsegroei mettertyd beperk

“Hoewel dié proses doeltreffendis,

neem ditgeduld om te wag dat die natuursyganggaan. Diemunisipaliteit houdie situasiefyn dop en salbykomende stappe neem indiennodig,” het diemunisipaliteit gesê

Inligting gesoek oorverkooldelyk in veld

Die polisie soek na inligting nadat die verkooldelyk van ’n onbekende vermeendemoordslagoffer dieafgelope Maandag (16 Maart) op Lilly’s Farm in Worcester aangetref is.

AO VathiswaJacobs, ’n polisiewoordvoerder, sê diegeslagvan dieoorledene is in hierdie stadium nogonbekend.

Geklassifiseerd/Classifieds: CharlricaJulies:079 649 0308 (charlrica.julies@novusmedia.co.za)

JaydeneSampson: 071 434 6474: (jaydene.sampson@novusmedia.co.za)

Verspreidingsnavrae/Distributionqueries: 079 649 0308 (stefan@novusmedia.co.za)

Redakteur/Editor: MarykeSwart maryke.swart@novusmedia.co.za

Joernalis/Journalist: Ronelvan Jaarsveld (ronelvjaarsveld@novusmedia.co.za)

Diémetode is ookinvorige jare gebruik.Indie larwe-stadium vreet die kalanders diesalviniasegroeipunte en wortels, terwyl ouer larwesindie risoom in grawe wat die blare laatafval. Volwasseinsekte vreetdie blare Dieplante wat beskadigis, salnadie bodem van diedam sink waardit mettertyd vergaan. yr (ken.mcintyre@novusmedia.co.za)

Volgens haar hetdie polisie ’n moorddossier geregistreer Niemandisnog in verbandmet die voorvalinhegtenisgeneemnie Enigeen metinligting wat meer lig op diesaak kan werp, kan die Worcester-polisieby0233488605 skakel. -Enrico Claassen

Uitgewer/Publisher: Stefan Kolver (stefan@novusmedia.co.za)

Wildschuttindie kolinNew York

Ronél

vanJaarsveld

Adrian Wildschutt, ’n langafstandatleet van Ceres, se segetog duur voort nadat hy die eersteSuid-Afrikaner geword het wat die gewilde New York-halfmarathongewen het.

Dié 27-jarige atleet het die wenstreep oorgesteekmet sy hande in dielug en ’n breë glimlagopsygesig.Hyhet dieafstand in ’n indrukwekkende 59:30 afgelê met ’n gemiddelde spoed van2:50 minute per kilometer.

Die lae temperature was’nuitdaging, veral omdat hy tot onlangs nog in die warm Suid-Afrika was. Kortvoor sy aanslag op die laaste paar kilometer

gehardloop

Vanjaarsemarathon het ’n rekord opgestelmet 30 229 hardlopers watdie wedloopvoltooihet.

Wildschutt, wat deesdae in Flagstaff, Amerika,gebaseer is waar hy vir Northern Arizona Elite hardloop, het ’n indrukwekkende jaaragter die rug. Hy het vyfnasionale rekords agter sy naam,het aan vier wêreldkampioenskappeeneen Olimpiese Speledeelgeneem en is tans eenvan die tien vinnigste mansindie wêreld in die 10 000 m, volgens Northern ArizonaElite.

Die afgelope jaar het hy die Suid-Afrikaanse rekord in die 5000 min12:55 asook in die 10 km (27:28) verbeter. Hy hetdie 10de plek in die 10 000 mbydie

400 000 oues wagná28jaar nog

EnricoClaassen

Die Civil Servants Pension Redress Movement (CSPRM) het ’n formele skrywe aan Suid-Afrikaanse politieke partye in dieparlement gerig en dringende politieke ingryping versoek om die gesloer met betrekkingtot pensioenregstelling virgewese staatsamptenare te helpbespoedig.

Die beweging is ’n Suid-Afrikaanse organisasie sonder winsbejag, wat voorspraak maak vir voormaligeenafgetrede staatsdienswerknemers wat onder pensioendiskriminasie tydens die Apartheidsera gebuk gegaan het.

Die aangeleentheidspruit uit historiese pensioen-ongelykhede, wat tydens Suid-Afrika se demokratieseoorgang erken is.

Die Waarheids-enVersoeningskommissiehet vroeër verskeie ongereg-

Recent fires in parts of the winelands have posed risks at alocal level, affecting individual farms and infrastructure, but have not had asignificant impact on South Africa’s overall wine production.

According to Wanda Augustyn, head of brand and communications at SA Wine, the damage waslargelyconfined to specific areas,with some vineyards and on-farm infrastructure, includingirrigation systems and pipes, impacted Augustyn said theseincidentsmay have short- to medium-termimplications for vineyard management and recovery, particularly for affected producers.

However, sheemphasised thatthe fires were limitedinscope.

tighedegeïdentifiseer watreggestel moes word envervolgens beleidsbesluite beïnvloed het, insluitend die Bedingingsraad se Resolusie 7van 1998.

Stephen Sass, die nasionalepresident vandie CSPRM, sê dis byna driedekades laterenduisende geraakte pensioentrekkers hetnou nognie die regstelling wat destyds beoogis, ontvangnie.

Volgenshom raak die situasie toenemend dringend aangesiendie meeste van die geraakte begunstigdes noubejaard is.

Sasssê: “Elke jaarsterf meer pensioentrekkerssonderomdie geregtigheidte ervaarsoos hulle belowe is.”

Volgens Sass het die CSPRM ’n eenvoudigeenpraktiese oplossing voorgestel omdie proses te versnel, watbehels die implementering van vastebedragpensioenregstellingsvoordelevir onderskeidelik manlikeenvroulike pensioentrekkers, eerder as langdurige aktuariële berekeninge.

Hy sê die organisasie glo hierdie benadering saldie regeringinstaat stel om die program vinnig in te stelentoe te pas, terwyl regverdigheid en waardigheid vir die betrokke pensioentrekkers verseker word.

Volgens Sass versoek dieCSPRMpolitieke partye om die morele en politieke verpligtinge wat uit die Waarheid-en versoeningsproses voortspruit, te erken en die dringende afhandeling van die pensioenregstellingsprogram te ondersteun.

“Dit is nie bloot’nadministratiewe aangeleentheidnie. Dit is deel van die onafgehandelde werk van geregtigheid en versoening in Suid-Afrika.”

Die CSPRM sê by monde van Sass hy sien daarnauit om metpolitieke partye en die regering in gesprek te treeom’n praktiese en menswaardigeoplossingvir hierdie saak te vind

Volgens David Jantjies, dieCSPRMse

Firesare lowrisk to wine

"It is important to notethatthe fires were limitedtorelatively small, localised areas and were not widespread across the winelands. As aresult, totalnationalharvest volumes and overall wine production are not materially affected."

She added that producers are well accustomed tomanagingsuch challenges and haveestablished risk management practices in place to mitigate damage and support recovery.

MONITORINGSMOKETAINTRISKS

Concerns around smoke taint, apotential side effect of vineyard exposure to wildfire smoke, are being closely managed by the industry.

Augustyn said producers and winemakersroutinely monitor grapes during the harvest period for any signs of smoke-related compounds, particularlywhen fires occur nearby.

Even vineyards notdirectlyaffected by flames may experience secondary impacts such as heatand water stress, she noted.

However, the industry haswell-established protocols to assess and address potential smoke taint.

MITIGATIONMEASURESINPLACE

Where risks are identified,producers follow arange of strategies to protect wine

nasionale adjunk-hoofsekretaris,veg die organisasie reedssedert 23 Mei 2019 vir pensioenregstellingnaaanleiding van dieBedingingsraad se Resolusie 7van 1998.

Hy sê teen2019 was daarmeeras 450000 pensioentrekkers en afhanklikes op diestaatsamptenaresepensioenfonds se boeke.

Volgens homhet slegs 54 000 van hulle tot dusverpensioenregstellingsontvang. Nagenoeg400 000 pensioenarisse wag nog.

Jantjiessêdie staatsdiensamptenare se pensioenfonds is R2,69 triljoensterk Volgens homisdit die sterkste pensioenfonds in Afrikaenagtsteindie wêreld.

“Ons (CSPRM)het sopas teruggekeervanaf ’n nasionale vergaderingin Kimberley en diebegunstigdesiswoedend oordie pensioenregstellings wat so sloer.”

quality.

Augustyn explained that careful harvesting and gentle handling of grapes are critical, as smokecompoundstend to concentrateinthe skins.

Additional measures include removing leaves and other material that may carry smokeparticles, processing grapes at cooler temperatures, and limiting skin contact during winemaking. In cases where further intervention is required, winemakers may apply techniques such as activated carbon or yeast hulls, as well as more advanced processes likereverse osmosis to remove volatile phenols.

“Adjustmentsinwinemaking style, including producing rosé or wines for early consumption, may also be considered.” Augustyn said.

Wind farmslaunchbusiness supportprogramme in Karoo

Twelve small business owners in the rural Karoo have received asignificant boost through anew capacity development programme launchedbythree wind farm operators in the region.

The Roggeveld, Brandvalley and Rietkloof SMMECapacity Development Programme was officially launchedata gathering in Sutherlandearlier this year, bringingtogetherentrepreneurs,community leaders and programme partners to mark the start of the 2026 initiative. LedbyRed Rocket in partnershipwith the VeersGroup and JLK Group,the programme responds directlytoPresidentCyril Ramaphosa's "Thuma Mina" call for South Africanstodrivechange in their communities. The initiative addresses acriticalgap in rural areas where access to business support and funding remains severely limited.

Inhis 2026 State of the Nation Address, Ramaphosa highlighted the potential of small businesses to transform the country's employment crisis, noting that if every SMME employed just oneadditional person,South Africa couldcreate 3 millionjobs.

The programme targets businesses in Laingsburg, Sutherland and Matjiesfontein, providing mentorship,coaching and grant funding to help existingsmall enterprises build sustainableoperations Beneficiariesoperate across hospitality, manufacturing, construction, and travel andtourism sectors.

At the launch held at the NG Church Hall in Sutherland, the 12 selected businesses received formal contracts and equipmentpackagesincluding laptops, printers,routers andsoftware licences. Five beneficiaries are basedinSutherland, five in Laingsburgand twoin Matjiesfontein.

Executive Mayor of the Karoo HooglandMunicipality, JJ vander Colff, who attended theevent, welcomed the investment in local enterprisedevelopment.

"This is amomentofpride for local businessesasRed Rocket empowers them to build abetterfuture. Without thiskind of investment, opportunities to start and sustain businesses would remainscarce, given the barriers they face," Van der Colff said.

He expressed hope that the programme's impact would extendbeyond the immediate beneficiaries, creating what he described as aripple effect of growthand resilienceacrossthe Northern Cape.

The programmeoffers ongoing support focusedonfinancial management, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency and business automation. Grantfunding, administered through JLK Business Consulting, aims to instilaccountability andsound governance whiletracking business progress.

RuanMynhardt, Head of Economic Development andProjectExecution atthe Veers Group, saidthe initiative addressed practical barriersthat often

preventsmall enterprises from scaling.

"This programmeisfar more than business developmentand mentorship; it's aboutstrengthening resilience and unlocking potential.Manysmall enterpriseshave goals butlackthe support neededfor them to succeed. Our role is to closethatgap,"hesaid.

During the launch,beneficiaries shared testimonialsabout their entrepreneurialjourneys. Elize Fundakubi of Nomani Enterprises in Laingsburg,which providespassengerand goods transport services, delivered an emotionalaccount of overcoming personalstruggles.

"Your current circumstances don't determine your future. The time is now; getupand reach foryour dreams,"she said Cheryl Persensie, Economic Development and Compliance Manager at Red Rocket, highlighted the broadereconomic significance of smallbusinesses, notingthat SMMEsemploy approximately 60% of South Africa's labourforce, represent morethan90% of formal businesses, andcontribute roughly34% to GDP.

"The funding mechanism we have establishedisaimed at unlocking opportunities for SMMEstoovercome operational barriers andenablesustainable business growth,"Persensie said.

The businesses supported throughthe programme rangefromconstructionand plumbing services to tourism ventures, waterpurification, photography and accommodationproviders. The diversity reflects the varied economic opportunities in the region, particularly those linkedtothe growing renewableenergy sector and the area’s tourism potential

Amongthe beneficiaries are Makoti Construction, which provides mechanical services andequipment maintenance torenewable energyoperators in Sutherland; CapeQuaggaAdventures, offering adventure tourism andastro-tourism experiencesinthe Karoo; andLaingsburg Water, which supplies bottled water acrossthe region.

The SMME programme formspart of RedRocket’s broader socio-economic development strategy. In February,the wind farmoperators announcedthat38 students from the region arecurrently receivingsupportthroughthe Roggeveld, Brandvalleyand RietkloofBursary Programme.

The 2025-2028 SMME cohort will receivesupport over the coming years as the programmeaims to create lasting localimpact by enabling businesses to expand services, improve competitiveness and contribute to employment in communities where economic opportunities havehistorically been scarce

Forrural areas in the Karoo, where geographical isolation andlimited infrastructure present ongoing challenges, the programmerepresents apractical intervention designed to strengthen local economicresilience andcreate pathways to financial independence forsmall business owners andtheir employees.

Diepragtigedubbelreënboog is Dinsdagmiddagvan ’n plaas buiteAshton geneem nadat reën in die streek gevalhet Foto:Francois Lombard

Leopardsarefake

JanaScheepers

Twoimagesofaleopardreportedly walkingthrough the streets of Pniel that went viral on social media have been confirmedasbeing generated by artificial intelligence(AI), raising concerns about misinformation and its impact on wildlifeconservation.

The images circulated widely last week, prompting residents in the Winelandsto warn one another to stay alert and keep doors closed amid fears that aleopard had entered the town.

However, the Cape Leopard Trust (CLT) hasconfirmedthatthe photographs are not real.

IMAGESNOTREAL

Jeannie Hayward, communications and media managerofthe CLT, said theorganisation used several methods to determine thatthe imageswere artificially generated

“We used acombination of methods ranging from very careful and critical visual inspection based on what we know aboutleopard ecologyinthe region, plus reverse image searching and AI detection tools,” Hayward said.

She explained that the images were likely created after agenuine video clip surfaced onlineshowing aleopard walking alongamountain path on theslopesof Simonsberg.

"The creationofthese images was likely prompted by avideo clip of aleopard on a mountain path taken by acamera trapon the slopes of Simonsberg,” Hayward said.

According to the CLT, the video itself is authentic andshows ahealthy leopard patrolling its territory in theBoland mountains.

NEGATIVEIMPACTONCONSERVATION

Hayward said the spread of AI-generated wildlife imagery is deeply troubling for conservationists.

“It is very concerning,frustrating, infuriating, andsad. Real raw nature is already so unbelievably diverse and mind-blowingly amazing, there really is no need to create an additional layer of fanciful fake content to confuse matters,” she said

While some AI-generated content is easy to identify, Hayward warned that it is becomingincreasingly difficult to distinguish between genuine andfabricatedimages.

“TheseAIimagesare sensationalist and go viral for all the wrong reasons. Unfortunately most people don’t realise theimpact andconsequences of distributingthese images.”

She added that misinformation about leopard behaviour can haveserious consequences forconservation.

Hayward said false images showing large leopards casually walking on tarred roads during theday could createthe impression that theanimalsare boldand comfortable around people.Leopards in theWestern Cape mountains are highly elusive and generally avoid humans.

Images suggesting they roam freely through built-up areas can spark unnecessary panic among residents whilealso creating theimpression that theanimals are common.

In realitythey occur at low numbers in theCape, Hayward said,warning that such misconceptions couldundermine conservationefforts.

Although leopards havebeen photographed by camera traps in theSimonsberg region for years, sightings by people remain rare.

Hayward said theanimals occasionally move between mountain areas, including across theBanhoek Valley, but they typically travel at night and avoid towns.

“It is extremely unlikelythat aleopard in this region will simply strut so nonchalantly in front of cars approaching and through abuilt-up suburban area in the day,”she said.

She urged members of thepublic to verify wildlife images before sharing them online.

“Use reverse image searches and AI detection tools to check whether an image is real or fake-most of these tools are freely available,” Hayward said

However, she cautioned that such tools are not perfect and encouraged people to apply critical thinking and consult wildlife expertsifthey are unsure about the authenticity of an image.

“If you are unsure, contact an organisationwho specialises in that particular animal or behaviour forguidance,” she said

DECLINEINNUMBERS

Research conducted by theCapeLeopard Trust showsthat leopard populations in thegreater Cape region occur at much lower densities than in savannah and bushveld areas.

Illegal hunting using snares and packs of dogs, along withhabitat loss and fragmentationcaused by agricultural and urban development,remain among thebiggest threats to thespecies.

Hayward said misinformation that fuels fear or misunderstanding about leopards ultimately places additional pressure on already vulnerable populations.

Bonnievaler skitter in Kaapse ren

EnricoClaassen

Sy het ‘‘net vir die lekker’’ ingeskryf omdat sy ‘‘’n rustige race’’ wou hê.

Groot was haar verbasingtoe sy in haar ouderdomsgroep (o.23) in die vyfde plek geëindig het in diejaarlikse Cape Town Cycle Tour watop 8Maart plaasgevind het.

Fietsryers van oordie wêreldheen neem jaarliks aan die Cape Town Cycle Tour deel.

Silke Bester (19) van Bonnievale vertel aan Standard Breederivier Gazette dat sy die fietstoer met geen groot verwagtinge aangedurf het nie omdatdit maar die eerste keer was dat sy deelgeneemhet “Ek het aanvanklik net vir die lekker ingeskryf en wou ’n rustige race hê, maartoe het CTCT (Cape TownCycle Tour)myindie groep Elite Women geplaas

“Ekhet nie geweet watomteverwag nie.”

Volgens Bester het sy die 78km-afstand aangedurf. Sy vertel datdie senuwees tog so bietjie geknaaghet omdat dit “redelik chaos”was.

Volgens Bester wasdie steiltes wat sy moesuitry vir haar’nuitdaging.

Sy sê sy het haarself verras omdat sy by meeste van die steiltes saam metdie groepgebly het.

“As ek agter geraak geraak het, het ek hard gewerk om weer by die groepaan te sluit.

“Ekisbietjie geïntimideer deur al die bekendes watbydie wegspringpunt was, maar dithet gehelp dat ek hulle nie kon siennie omdat ek verder terug in die groepbegin het.”

Volgens Bester het sy nie spesifiek vir dieCTCTvoorberei nie. Sy sê dit was’n laaste-minuut-inskrywing.

Volgens haar was sy aanvanklik nie

Meet, greetBluey andBingo

Two of children’s television’s most belovedcharacters Blueyand Bingo will make aspecial appearance at CapeGate Shopping Centre on Saturday (21 March). The free meet-and-greet willrun in two sessions (10:00 to 12:00and 12:30 to 14:30) givingfamilies ample opportunity to spend amomentwith theiconicBlue andRed Heeler siblings. Parents are encouraged to bringtheir ownphones, withdedicated assistants on handto help capture the moment

Sinceits debut Bluey has captured the hearts of children and parents alike with its warm portrayal of family life, imaginative play and genuine humour. Created by Australian dad Joe Brumm and produced in Brisbane, the show drawson real locations and uses the voicesofthe production crew’s ownchildren to bring its characters to life. Six-year-oldBluey

and her4-year-old sister Bingohave becomehousehold names

“We know howmuchchildren love Blueyand Bingoand we wanted to create aspecialfree-to-attend experience that families couldenjoy together,”saidZoë Enslin,Marketing ManagerofCapeGate Shopping Centre.

Adding to the excitement, CapeGate is running aFind Bluey &Bingo Competition,givingvisitors the chance to win a R500 Pepvoucher andaR2000 CapeGate Gift Card.Entry details are available in-centreand across CapeGate’s social media channels.

Families are advised to arriveearlyto avoid longqueues. Bluey andBingowill take short comfortbreaks throughout the event, with afull 30-minute breakat 12:00. Entrytothe meet-and-greet is free of charge.

Sis Francine Pietersenkom vrouebeywer

’n Geestelike hoogtepunt wag op Ashton en omliggende gemeenskappewanneer vroue byeengebringword vir ’nkragtige en Goddelik-geïnspireerde samekoms aanstaande week.

Die “God van Geen Beperking”-vrouediens, aangebied deurdie gerespekteerde geestelike leier en profetiese intersessor Sis FrancinePietersen, wat ook in die gemeenskap en op sosiale media deur haar bediening “Prophetic Intercessor Sis Francine Pietersen” bekendis, beloof om ’n diep geestelikeimpaktehêop almal wat dit bywoon.

Hierdie geleentheid vind op Saterdag 28Maart om 14:00 by die Lucern-Saal in

veronderstel om aandie hoofresies deel te neem nie.

“WatCTCTanders maak, is dieaantal deelnemers en die toeskouers langs die pad. “Dit is amazing om die cheers te hoor terwyljyfietsry.”

Bester sê haar belangstellinginfietsry kom van haar pa,Hendrik,af. Volgens haar ry sy al saammet hom vandat sy kan onthou.

Volgens Bester het sy netinhierdie jaar aandie Wes-Kaapse Padkampioenskap deelgeneem waar sy tweede geëindighet in die o.23-ouderdomsgroep.

Sy het voorts in die eerste plekgeëindig in haar ouderdomsgroep in dieWynland-padwedren en by die Trailseeker#1 ’n Top-20 in die Elite-kategorie behaal Bester is tans besig met ’n aanlynkursus in oefenwetenskap.

Sy sê sodra sy haar sertifikaat verwerf,kwalifiseer sy outomaties om ’n algemene fiksheidsinstrukteur te word. SilkeBester

Hewigereaksie ná ‘Wee Pee’

na

LiseBeyers

Kapenaars moes reeds afstand doenvan hul geliefde Nuweland-rugbystadion.Nou is die spyker ook in die doodskis van die geliefde Wee-Pee –oftewelWestelike Provinsie-rugbyspan –geslaan. Dié spansal voorts bekendstaanasStormers XXIII, ’n besluitwat Kaapserugbyliefhebbers behoorlikwarmonder die kraag het.

Die aankondiging is onlangs deur die Westelike Provinsie Rugbyunie gemaak en het onmiddellik hewige reaksie van ondersteuners ontlok watdie naam as deel vandie provinsie se rugbyerfenis beskou.

Die afrigter, John Dobson, hetdie besluitverdedig en gesê ditisgeneem om die span se handelsmerk te versterk en om verwarring tussen die Stormers-spanwat in die Verenigde Rugbykampioenskap (URC) meeding en die span watinCurriebeker-kompetisie speel, uit te skakel.

“Onsmoetmet die tye saambeweeg Die realiteit is datrugby ’n besigheid geword het en onsmoetons handelsmerk versterk om volhoubaar te bly. Die Stormers-naamhet internasionale erkenning en dit maak sin om ditreg deur ons strukture te gebruik,” het Dobson gesê Hy het bygevoeg die naamsverandering sal help om die spansebemarkingswaarde te verhoog en jonger ondersteuners te lok.

SKERPKRITIEKVANUITVERSKEIEOORDE

Die voormaligeWP- en Springbok-losvoorspeler Rob Louw het behoorliksy mond hieroor uitgespoel.

span wordnou Stormers XXIII. Jy kan nie’nstuk van onsrugbygeskiedenis eenkanttoe smyt en dink dat jy met’n nuwe naam ’n beter of meer suksesvolle toekoms skepnie.

“Ekisseker uit die oude doos, maar ’n naam moet virmensiets sê van joukomvandaan.Dit is wat dieWestelike Provinsiealtydwas –’nstreekindie westewat geassosieer is metdie see, berge,vrugte, wyn en goeierugby.Stormers? Watsê dit? Netnog ’n nulliteit.

“Boonop is diegehalte van die rugby wat dieeintlikeStormers speel –dis nou diespan in die‘Eerste Liga’ –deesdae van so ’n aard dat dit niemand inspireer nie. Daarom is daarbymygeen entoesiasme virnog ’n soortStormers in watter hoedanigheid ookalnie.”

LESERSSPOELHULMONDUIT

Novanews-lesers was ooknie skaam om hulle menings te lugnie

“Dis ’n tragedie. My oupa, my pa en ek hetbynagrootgewordopNuwelanden virWPgeskree.Wat moet ek nouvir my seun sê?Dat onstradisieniks meer werd is nie?”vra JohanleRoux.

’n Leservan die Paarl hetgesê: “Hulle kan dienaamverander soveelaswat hulle wil, maar vir my saldit altydWestelikeProvinsiebly. Jy kan nie geskiedenisnet so uitveenie.”

Ashton plaas.

VolgensPietersen is hierdie nie net nóg ’n byeenkoms nie, maar ’n Goddelike afspraak ’n tydwaargrense gebreek word enwaar vroue opnuut salbesef dat daargeen beperking is vir wat Godinen deur hulle kandoen nie.

Die dienssal fokus op aanbidding,die Woord vanGod en profetiese bediening, met’nverwagtingvan transformasie, genesingenbonatuurlike deurbrake. Vrouevan reg oor die streek word genooi om deel van hierdie unieke geleentheid te wees. •Kontak 0609126554 vir noginligting of navrae.

Eerskomende Sondag (22 Maart) leialle paaie na Erikapark in Belharwaar altesame 12 kore verbonde aan die SuidAfrikaanse Kersfeeskoreraad sake gaan uitspook. Dit sal ookdie laasteKersfeeskore-kompetisie vir 2026 wees.

“Westelike Provinsie-rugbyisnie net ’n naam nie, dit is ’n identiteit wat oor meer as 140 jaar opgebouis. Om dit weg te gooi vir handelsmerke en bemarkingsdoelwitte is ’n skande.Wat volgende? Gaan onsdie blou-en-wit trui ookverloor?” het Louw gevra.

Hy het gesê die besluitwys ’n gebrek aanrespek vir die geskiedenisvan die provinsieserugby en die duisendespelers watdie trui mettrots gedra het.

Louw het bygevoeg dat dienaam Stormers in die eerste plek heeltemal onvanpas is vir die spanvan dieWestelike Provinsie en dit moes nooitgebeur het nie.

“Aldra ’n aap’ngoueringbly hy steeds ’n lelike ding”, sê FritzJoubert, afgetredejoernalis

“Dis die gesegdewat by my opgekom het toe ek lees die WP se Curriebeker-

Die kompetisiebegin stiptelikom 09:00. Toegang is R30 vir volwassenes en R20 vir kinders. The Fleet Kersfeeskoor

Marius Weyerssê: “Westelike ProvinsieRugby is so rykaan tradisie en kultuurdat ditdom en ’n absolute sondesal wees om na StomersXXIII oorteskakel. WP-kleure in enigevormvan sportindie Kaapse-streekisdie grootste prestasie!!!” ’n Stellenbosser hetsyfrustrasie uitgespreek: “Eerste Nuweland, noudie naam. Watgaanhulle volgende van ons afvat? Rugby was altydoor tradisieen gemeenskap, maar nougaandit netoor geld.”

Buhlebezulu Bomela sê eenvoudignet: “Nuweland-stadion is weg, nouWPook.” Cobus du Plessissêeenvoudigtongin diekies: “Dis regtig nognie tyd vir’n April-grappie nie!”

Randall Myburgh sê:“Ditgaannie werk nie! Moenie dietradisiewegvatwat al diejarestaan as WestelikeProvinsie, of as Province nie.”

Niekie Boonzaaiersê: “Pateties! Eers bly Nuwelandindie slag en nou naamsverandering. Watisvolgende?”

DieWestelike ProvinsieRugbyunie sê egter die besluit is ten spyte van teenstand finaalendie span salvan die 2026-seisoen af as Stormers XXIII bekendstaan

vertrekdie oggendvan die kompetisie stiptelik om 05:30 vanaf sy orkeskamer in Greystraat, Worcester.

Ensuring smallkids’ needsare met

Every child in SouthAfrica has the constitutional right to adequatenutrition,yet many young children still face uncertainty when it comes to accessing enough healthy food.

Nutrition in the early years is essential for children’sgrowth, development and readiness to learn. Over the past three yearsInceba Trust has equipped principals in Stellenbosch and the Drakenstein with tools and training to monitor children’s growth,strengthening nutrition awareness and enabling more targeted support where it is most needed

The first five years of life are acritical periodofdevelopment, yet nutrition challenges are not always immediately visible. Without regular monitoring, children who may need additional supportcan easilybe overlooked. Recognisingthis, Inceba Trust beganapilot projectin2023,measuring the height and weight of 838 children aged 5to 59 months. This expandedto3 927 children in 2024 and 4331 children in the2025baselineassessment. Afollow-up assessment later that year included2 510 children, allowingprogress to be tracked over time. The nutrition monitoring currently includes morethan100 early childhood developmentcentreslocallyaswell as

Teachersmeasurethe height andweight of children biannually to track their growth andnutrition status.

Worcester andKimberley.

Principals were trained to conduct height and weight measurements accurately and were provided with scales, height charts and guidance. This process strengthened their abilitytounderstand children’s growth andidentify potential concerns early.

“Children who receive nutritious food every daycan grow, learn anddevelopoptimally,” said Nielen Bekker, CEO of Inceba Trust. “When we began measuring children’s growth we saw some children were not developing as expected. Measuring allowed us to understand where support

was needed better and to work alongside early-childhood development centres and partners to respond in practical ways.

The baseline findings highlighted the importance of strengthening nutrition practices within the centres. In response, principals increased their focus on balanced menu planning, food preparation andmonitoring children’sdevelopment This hascontributed to greaterawareness amongstaff andmore intentional daily practices.

Partnerships have also played an important part. Through collaboration with Outsidethe Bowl Africa breakfast porridge was provided to select centres where children were identified as being at greater nutritionalrisk. Made possible through donor funding, it helped ensure assistance reached children who needed it most.

“We are very grateful for thenutritional programme. We are receiving breakfast porridge that supports the children’s growthand development. What Iappreciate most is that we can monitor their progress and see their growth over time. It helps us understand howtobettersupport the children,” explains ThandileMbaqa, principal of ABC Crèche in Kayamandi.

The follow-up assessment at theend of 2025 showed encouraging progress.

The percentage of children showing signs of wasting declined from 4,9% to 3,6%, and underweight declined from 6.4% to 4,5%. Stunting also showed aslight improvement.Atthe same timethe findings highlighted areas that required continued attention, including thehigh percentage of children showing signs of being overweight

Beyond thedataone of themost significant outcomes has been thestrengthening of capacitywithin centres. Principals are now betterequipped to monitor children’s growth, recognise potential concerns and respond appropriately. This knowledge enables early childhood development centres to play an even stronger role in supporting children’s development

The Western CapeDepartment of Health contributed to this work by providing training in anthropometry,ensuring measurementswere conducted accurately. “While nutrition challenges cannot be resolved overnight consistent monitoring, strengthened practices and collaboration are helping to build astronger foundation,” said Bekker. “These effortscontribute to creating environmentswhere young children are bettersupported to grow, develop and enter formal schooling ready to learn and thrive.”

Komstapvandagvir ’n goeiedoelbyDelaBat-skool

Worcester Arbeidsbediening (WAB)nooi die Vallei se mense na sy vierde Een Uur-uitdagingopDonderdag 19 Maart van17:30 tot 19:00 by De la Bat-skool se rugbyveld.

Spanne van vyf lede elk stap of draf vir een uur om ’n 1km-roeteenelkespan

skat hoe ver hulle as span in een uur sal vorder.

Diespan of atleet watdie naaste aan korrek is,isdie wenner.

Verlede jaar het 20 spanne metname soos Die Jolliebokke, Dapperstappers, DieRooirakkers, Die Remskoene en Ace

VOORGESTELDE VERHURING VANGEDEELTE VANERF 2(±2000M²) NKQUBELA,ROBERTSON VIR KLEUTERSKOOLDOELEINDES

Kennis geskied hiermee dat die Raadvan voorneme is om `n gedeelte van erf 2(±2000m²)geleë Nkqubela, Robertsonvir`n3jaarperiodeaanLikhoniLangaCareCentreteverhuurvirkleuterskooldoeleindes.

BesonderhedeinsakedievoorgenomeverhuringisgedurendekantoorurebeskikbaarbyMeSRossouw(Tel.023 –6158023)bydieAshtonKantoor. Regsgeldigeengoedgemotiveerdegeskreweopiniesen/ofgeldigebesware, soosvantoepassing,moetskriftelikennielateras17April2026bydieMunisipaleBestuurderingedienwordnie.

PROPOSED LEASEOFA PORTION OF ERF2 (±2000M²) NKQUBELA, ROBERTSON FOR CRECHE PURPOSES

NoticeisherebygiventhatCouncilintendstoleaseaportionoferf2(±2000m²)Nkqubela,Robertsonforaperiodof 3yearstoLikhoniLangaCareCentreforcrechepurposes.

Details regarding to the proposed leasewillbeavailable at theAshton Office during normal office hours at Ms S Rossouw(Tel.023–6158023). Legalandfullymotivatedwrittenviewsand/orvalidobjectionsasapplicable,must besubmittedinwritingtotheMunicipalManagernotlaterthan17April2026.

DPLUBBE

MUNISIPALEBESTUURDER/MUNICIPALMANAGER MunisipaleKantoor/MunicipalOffice PrivaatsakX2/PrivateBagX2 Hoofweg28/28MainRoad ASHTON 6715

VOORGESTELDE VERHURING VANMUNISIPALEGEBOU AANAGTERKANT GELEE TE ERF776, BONNIEVALEAS`NDIENSSENTRUM

Kennis geskied hiermee dat die Raadvan voorneme is om munisipale gebou aan agterkantgeleë te erf 776, Bonnievalevir`n3jaarperiodeaanHappyValleyDienssentrumteverhuurvirgebruikas`ndienssentrum BesonderhedeinsakedievoorgenomeverhuringisgedurendekantoorurebeskikbaarbyMeSRossouw(Tel.023 –6158023)bydieAshtonKantoor. Regsgeldigeengoedgemotiveerdegeskreweopiniesen/ofgeldigebesware, soosvantoepassing,moetskriftelikennielateras17April2026bydieMunisipaleBestuurderingedienwordnie. PROPOSED LEASEOFMUNICIPAL BUILDING AT BACK SITUATED ON ERF776, BONNIEVALE AS A SERVICECENTRE

Notice is hereby given that Council intends to lease the municipal building at the back situated on erf 776, Bonnievaleforaperiodof3yearstoHappyValleyServiceCentrefortheuseofaservicecentre.

Details regarding to the proposed lease willbeavailable at theAshtonOffice during normal office hours at Ms S Rossouw(Tel.023–6158023). Legalandfullymotivatedwrittenviewsand/orvalidobjectionsasapplicable,must besubmittedinwritingtotheMunicipalManagernotlaterthan17Apil2026 DPLUBBE

MUNISIPALEBESTUURDER/MUNICIPALMANAGER MunisipaleKantoor/MunicipalOffice PrivaatsakX2/PrivateBagX2 Hoofweg28/28MainRoad ASHTON 6715

the Space deelgeneem. WABondersteunChristen-gelowigesinhulle werksplekke. Vrywilligers besoek ondernemings en instansies volgens’ndiensrooster en bring gemiddeld 130 boodskappe per maand by 130 besoekpunte wat deur

sowat 1700 mensebygewoonword. Skryf kollegas, vriende,kinders en families in en kom geniet diegeleentheid.

Virnavraekontak Kobusvan den Berghbyarbeid8@gmail.com of skakel 082 459 6316.

Patgroet en bederf bejaardes

AlverUys

Die nimlike Pat Steenkamp, wat die afgelope aantaljare –veralnáhaar aftrede –met haar omgee-hart diep in die harte van vele gekruip het, het haarself weer eens oortref. Sy het in haar laaste termyn as ambassadeur van Caring &Sharing CW 2021 vir 70 bejaardesuit verskillende denominasiesmet ’n puik program, heerlike ete en lekker kuier in die saal van die VGK se gemeente Worcester-Suid op 22 Februarie bederf het.

Pat,wat haar sedert haar aftrede in 2019 totvrywillige dienste by verskeie organisasies verbind het –waaronder dieToevlug rehabilitasiesentrum, uitreiking via jeug-, kinder- en bejaarde programme in Roodewal asook Kansa –het oor diétydperk vele mense ontmoetensodoende’nnetwerk kontakte opgebou wat sy met vrug kon aanwend. Dit was boonop tothaar voor-

deel, want in die proses konsynou, nadat haar ampteliketermynasambassadeur verstryk het, haar eie organisasie sonder winsbejag, Patz Love Foundation, begin om haar liefdeswerk voort te sit. Pat, wat nooit nee sê wanneer op haar nommer gedruk word en uit haar padgaan om te help waar daar nood is, het nie net die bejaardes vir die middag van hul skete en pyne laat vergeet nie, maar ook behalwe die lekkerdriegang-maaltydhulle met bederfies en groot glimlagte op hul gesigte huis toegestuur. Boonop het Esselenpark Sekondêre Skool se hoofseun, Duran Fortuin, die bejaardes met sy pragtige sangtalent in vervoering gehad met sy weergawevan veral “My way” van Frank Sanatra, terwylSalvidor Bruiners se kwinkslae almal laat lag het Die senior burgers was dit almal eens dat dit ’n dag was wat hulle nie sommer gou sal wil vergeet nie.

Paas-rugbyderby

Villagers en Spar stuur sanitêre-doekies-veldtogvan

Breede Valley Municipality/Breedevallei Munisipaliteit/uMasipala wase Breede Valley OPENBARE KENNISGEWING: UITNODIGING VIROPENBARE KOMMENTAAR AANSOEK BYNERSAVIRDIE GOEDKEURING VANELEKTRISITEITSTARIEWE VIRDIE 2026/27 FINANSIËLE JAAR

BreedevalleiMunisipaliteitgaan’ntariefaansoekvirdie2026/27finansiëlejaarbydieNasionaleEnergiereguleerdervan Suid-Afrika(NERSA)indien,met’ngemiddeldeverhogingvan9,01%(op-enafrondingkandiefinal%opsekeretariewe beïnvloed).BreedevalleiMunisipaliteitsekoste-van-voorsiening-studiehet’nverhogingvantussen11,86%en30%oor die geldigheidsperiode aanbeveel. AangesienNERSA ’n 9,01% verhogingvir ESKOMsegrootmaatelektrisiteitsaankopegoedgekeurhet(diekostewatdiemunisipaliteitaanESKOMbetaalomelektrisiteitaantekoop), hetBreedevalleiMunisipaliteitaanbeveelomslegshierdieverhogingaanverbruikersdeurtegee,allaatdiekoste-vanvoorsiening-studie’nverhogingvantot30%toelaat.

DieNasionale Energiereguleerder van Suid-Afrika(NERSA) is ’n staatsinstansie wat verantwoordelik is virdie goedkeuringvan elektrisiteitstarieweingevolge die WetopElektrisiteitsregulering, 2006 (Wet No. 4van 2006), soos gewysig.Hierdiewetbepaaldiebeginselswaarvolgenstariewevasgestelengoedgekeurword.Ditsluitondermeerin dat tariewe en inkomste’ndoeltreffende lisensiehouer in staat moet stel om die volle koste van sy gelisensieerde aktiwiteiteteverhaal,insluitend’nredelikemargeofopbrengs.

Lede van die publiek worduitgenooi om skriftelikekommentaar of vertoë oor die voorgestelde tariefverhoging in te dien as deel van die munisipaliteit se openbare deelnameproses.Die munisipale raad sal alle kommentaar vanaf die publiekoorweegvoordatdieaansoekbyNERSAingedienwordop31Maart2026.

Kommentaar moet voor of op 25 Maart2026 ingedien word aan: DieMunisipale Bestuurder Privaatsak X3046 Worcester 6849 /per e-pos na: tariffs@bvm.gov.za

ISAZISO SIKAWONKE-WONKE: ISIMEMO SOKUNIKAIZIMVOZOLUNTU ISICELOKU-NERSASOKUVUNYELWAKWEENKOKHELO ZOMBANEZONYAKA-MALIKA-2026–27 Kuyaziswa ukuba uMasipala waseBreede Valley uza kufaka isicelo samaxabiso ombane (tariff)wonyaka-mali ka2026/27kuMlawuli kaZwelonkewezaMandla, i-NERSA, esiqukaukunyuka okumalunga ne-9.01% (ukusondezwa phezulu nasezantsi ukuya kweyona %ikufutshane kungenza I %zingafani ncam kuwoonke amaxabiso). Uphando lweendleko zonikezelo mbane(cost-of-supply study) laseBVM licebise ukunyuka phakathi kwe-11.86% ne-30% ngexeshalokusebenzakwalo.Njengokoi-NERSAivumeleukunyukakwe-9.01%kwixabisouMasipalaathengangalo umbane ku-ESKOM, singuMasipala sindulula okokuba sidlulisele kuphela olu nyukokubathengi, nangona uphando luvumelaukunyukaukuyakuthigakwi-30%.

UNERSAliqelalikarhulumenteelinikweigunyalokuvumaamaxabisoombanengokwe-ElectricityRegulationAct,2006 (Umthetho No. 4ka-2006) njengoko uhlaziyiweyo, kubasasaziabaneelayisenisi kuqukaoomasipala. Lo Mthetho uchaza imigaqo elawula ukumiselwa nokuvunywakwamaxabiso, kuquka nemfuno yokuba amaxabiso nengeniso kufuneka zivumele umnini layisenisiosebenza kakuhle ukuba abuyiseiindlekoezipheleleyo zemisebenzi yakhe, kubandakanywanenzuzoefanelekileyo

Uluntu luyamenywa ukuba lungeniseizimvo okanye iingcebiso ezibhaliweyomalunga noku kunyuka kwamaxabiso kucetywayo, njengenxalenye yenkqubo yokuthatha inxaxheba koluntukaMasipala. UMasipala waseBreede Valley ufunaukuvaizimvozoluntuayakuthiazithatheleingqalelophambikokubaafakeisicelosakhekuNERSAngomhlawe 31kuMatshi2026.

Izimvo mazingenisweungadlulanga umhla we-25 ku Matshi 2026 ku: UMphathi kaMasipala Private Bag X3046 Worcester 6849 okanye nge-imeyile: tariffs@bvm.gov.za

PUBLIC NOTICE: INVITATION FOR PUBLIC COMMENT APPLICATION TO NERSAFOR THEAPPROVALOF ELECTRICITYTARIFFS FOR THE 2026-27 FINANCIALYEAR

Noticeishereby given that Breede Valley Municipality will submit FY2026/27 tariff application to National Energy Regulator(NERSA) with an average increaseof9.01% (rounding up and down may affect final %oncertain tariffs) BreedeValleyMunicipality’scost-of-supplystudyrecommendedanincreaseofbetween11.86and30%overitsvalidity period. With NERSAallowinga 9.01% increasefor ESKOM bulk purchases (The costMunicipality pays to buy from ESKOM),BreedeValleyMunicipalityproposestoonlypassonthisincreasetotheconsumerseventhoughthecost-ofsupplystudyallowsupto30%

TheNationalEnergyRegulator(NERSA)isanorganofstateentrustedwiththemandatetoapproveelectricitytariffsin terms of the Electricity RegulationAct,2006 (ActNo. 4of2006) as amended of licensed distributors including municipalities.ElectricityRegulationActasamended(ERAA)prescribesprinciplesthatgovernthesettingandapproval oftariffs.Theseincludetherequirementthattariffsandrevenuesmustenableanefficientlicenseetorecoverthefullcost ofitslicensedactivities,includingareasonablemarginorreturn.

Membersofthepublicareherebyinvitedtosubmitwrittencommentsorrepresentationsregardingtheproposedtariff increase as partofthe Municipality’s public participation process. Breede Valley Municipality Council will take all commentsfromthepublicintoconsiderationwhensubmittingtheapplicationtoNERSAby31March2026. CommentsmustbesubmittedtoCouncilonorbefore25March2026to:

TheMunicipalManager Private Bag X3046 Worcester 6849 or viaemailto: tariffs@bvm.gov.za

Suitably qualied individuals with innovative thinking, passionand the right attitude are invited to apply for the following positions at Breede Valley Municipality: Permanent Positions: 1.

Pest Control X2 [T3] 2. General Assistant:Parks &OpenSpacesX5 [T3] 3. GeneralAssistant: Cemeteries X2 [T3] 4. General Assistant: Parks& Cemeteries Touwsrivier [T3]

5. Vehicle Examiner [T7]

6. Administrator: ICT [T9]

7. Administrative Ofcer[T10]

8. Controller: Salaries[T10]

9. Senior Electrician:LVX5[T11]

10. Senior Electrician: HV&MVX2[T11]

11. Engineering Technician:Bulk Metering &Quality of Supply [T11]

12. Senior Manager: HumanResources [T17]

Full Advertisement on Council’s website:https://bvmjobs.mcidirecthire.com/ Closing date 02 April 2026 at 14:00.

JOBVACANCY

POSITION:COMPLIANCE CO-ORDINATOR

ApositionforaComplianceCo-ordinatorisavailableatMontaguFoods.

TheCompliance Co-ordinator is responsible forthe support andassistingin maintaining the company’squality and foodsafetysystems,including supplierdocumentation, audits, traceability,and non-conformance management. Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, food legislation, and customer requirements.Assist with training programs, BRC system maintenance,and the Food Safety and Quality Cu ture Program includingmockrecallsandcontinuousimprovementinitiatives.

TheComplianceCo-ordinatorwillreportdirectlytotheTechnicalManager

EssentialFunctions:

•Maintainandupdateallexternalsupplierdocumentation,certifications supportingdocumentation,productinformationforms,specifications, etc

•Assistwithconductingriskassessmentsonallsuppliers

•Assistwithalternatesupplierssupportingdocumentationandthe approvalofalternaterawmaterialsandpackaging

•Assistwithupdatingfoodlegislation,standardsandcustomer procedures;andupdateandmaintaintheinternalguideline specifications.

•Ensureandmaintaineffectiverelationshipswithrelevantgovernmenta andregulatorybodiestosupportcompliance,approvals,inspections, andongoingoperationalrequirements.

•Createandupdateanydocumentsasmayberequiredforallthe departments-experienceindocumentcontrol.

Capturedatafromvarioussourcesandissuereports

•Assistwithsupplierqualityassuranceaudits.Conductinternalaudits, includinghygieneandhousekeeping.IssueandcloseNCR’s. Leadandsupporttheimplementationofthecompany’sFoodSafetyand QualityCultureProgramtopromoteawareness,accountability,and continuousimprovementacrossalldepartments.

•Assistinmaintainingandimprovingproducttraceabilitysystemsto ensurefullsupplychaintransparencyandcompliancewithregulatory standards.

•Supportandparticipateinmockrecallexercisestoevaluaterecall readinessandensureeffectivecorrectiveactionswhererequired.

•ControlNon-ConformanceSystem.

•Setupqualitycontractsforallproductsproducedonsite.

•Assistindeveloping,managing,andmonitorthetrainingprogramto ensureemployeesareproperlytrainedinfoodsafety,qualitystandards, regulatoryrequirements,andoperationalprocedures.

•AssistwithmaintainingtheBRCsystem.

BasicQualifications,skillsandknowledge: •BScinFoodScienceorNDFoodTechnology

•FullycomputerliterateinallMicrosoftOfficeSuites

•ExperienceinFSSC22000&BRCwithbeadvantageous

•Analytical–abletoanalysedataandstatisticsandcaptureitaccordingly• Problemsolve–abletoassistQC,NPDandproductioninproblem solving

•Communicateclearlyandefficiently

Liaisewithsupplierswithregardstospecificationsandothertechnical issues

BehaviouralCompetencies–attributesrequiredforthejob: Must show leadershipskills. Must be abletoinfluence others in terms of best practice, improvements and be assertiveonstandards, policiesand procedures Action, focusand innovation– Attention to detail. Identifyareas for mprovementandtakeownershiptoimplementthem. Emotional intelligence –work under pressure and handle stress,having a positivemindsettodealwithdailychallenges

Please send yourCVtoChristi at christi@montfoods.co.za before closeofbusiness 27 March 2026. If you have notreceived any feedback by the2 April 2026, your applicationwas unsuccessful. MontaguFoods empowers Employment Equity

In ordertoconsiderany applicationfor employment, we will havetoprocess yourpersonalinformation. The ProtectionofPersonal InformationAct, 4of 2013 (POPIA), provides that when one processesanother’s personal information, such collection, retention,dissemination and use of that person’s personalinformation must be doneinalawful and transparent manner

To give effect to theabove,weare required to provide youwithinformation regarding theprocessingofyour personal information. This information is recorded underthe HR Processing Notice, which can be accessed and viewed on theCompany website at https://www.libstar.co.za/legal/.Printed copies of this Processing Noticecan alsobeaccessed from theHR department. We kindly request that youreadthe HR Processing Noticeto ensurethatyou understand how Libstar uses and processesyour personal information.

JOOSTE

gemeenskap vangoedmet mekaar metbetrekkingtot Erf 19665 Worcester, in die Breede Vallei Munisipaliteit Afdeling Worcester,Wes-Kaap Provinsie watverloreof vernietigis.

Alle belanghebbendes wat teen die uitreiking van van sodanige afskrifbeswaar hetwordhiermee versoekomdit skriftelikintedienbydieRegistrateurvanAktes:Wes-Kaapte Kaapstad,Vloer 4, Inligtingstoonbank,Foreshore Place, Riebeeckstraat2,binne twee weke vanafdatum van publikasievanhierdiekennisgewing

MEYER& BOTHA PROKUREURS LRMEYER RUSSELLSTRAAT102, WORCESTER, 6850 (Verw:LRM/NA/GN0431)

BehaviouralCompetencies

•Strongleadershipandabilitytoinfluenceteamstofollowbestpractices

•Problem-solvingmindsetwithabilitytoidentifyandimplementimprovements

•Highattentiontodetailwithafocusonqualityandstandards

•Action-orientedwiththeabilitytotakeownershipanddriveresults

is

Products Category with

in Montagu, CapeTown, and Johannesburg.Weoperate within adynamic,forward-thinking organizationdedicated to driving innovation, fostering growth, and creating asupportive, inclusiveworkenvironment. As part of the broader Libstar team, our goalistogrowour food brands and category solutions in asustainable and profitable manner. We prioritizebuilding strongrelationships with our customers and aim to be South Africa’s leading producer and distributor of high-quality products and brands.Toachievethis, we believe that our peopleare our greatestasset, and we arecommitted to investing in their development and wellbeing.

PURPOSEOFTHEROLE An excitingopportunity has becomeavailable for aProduction Supervisor to join our dynamic teamina fast-paced FMCGenvironment. The purpose of this role is to overseeand coordinate production operations, ensuring efficient use of resources, adherence to quality and foodsafety standards, and effectivemanagement of staff andproductionprocesses.

KeyResponsibilities

StaffControl:Ensuredailydutiesareclearlydefined,rotatestaffformultitasking, monitortimekeeping,andensuretasksarecompletedeffectively

•EquipmentMonitoringandMaintenance:Maintainequipmentaccordingto workinstructions,reportfaultymeasuringdevices,andmanageissuingof equipmenttostaff ProductionMonitoringandControl:Ensureprocessingparametersmeet specifications,reportnon-conformances,enforceSOPs,andmaximize productionefficiency

HygieneMonitoring:Ensurecleaningstandardsaremaintained,andcleaning validationdocumentationisissuedandcompletedcorrectly

•StoragePractices:Monitorstoragepracticesincludingallergencontroland addressdeviationsfromstandards

•Pre-BatchControl:Conductrandominspectionsofrawmaterials,weights,and traceabilityinformation AllergenManagement:Controlallergenspillagesandensureproperhandling, marking,andstorageofallergen-relatedequipment Meetings:Leaddailyinvocoms,communicatekeyinformationtostaff,andattend relevantoperationalmeetings

FactoryTrials:Participateinfactorytrialsandattendpre-andpost-trialmeetings

ProjectWork:SupportandexecuteadhocprojectsassignedbytheProduction

Manager

•StockTake:Assistwithstock-takingactivitiesasrequired

•Documentation:Ensureaccurateandtimelycompletionofallproduction-related documentation

•Customer-focusedwithacommitmenttoteamefficiency

•Strongemotionalintelligencewiththeabilitytoworkunderpressure

•Goodcommunicationandinterpersonalskills

•Abilitytounderstandandfollowpolicies,proceduresandsafetyre

Qualifications,Skills&Experience

•Grade12qualification

•Goodverbalandwrittencommunicationskills

•Basicmathematicalskills(add,subtract,multiply,divide)

•Strongattentiontodetailandqualityawareness

•Abilitytoanalyseinformationandsolveproblems

•Physicalcapabilitytostand,walk,crouch,kneel,liftupto25kgandworkatheights ifrequired

•Abilitytounderstandandinterpretwrittenandspokeninstructions

AdditionalInformation Youmay occasionally be required to performtasks outside your normal responsibilities,dependingonoperationalrequirements

APPLICATION: Please e-mail your CV to ilze@montfoods.co.za.Late applications will not be considered.Includethepositionyouareapplyingforintheemailsubjectline. Applicationdeadline:27March2026 If you have not received aresponse within two weeksofthe closing date for applications,kindlyconsideryourapplicationunsuccessful.

NOTE:

To consider any applicationfor employment,wewill have to process your personal information.The Protection of Personal Information Act, 4of2013 (POPIA), provides that when one processes another’s personal information, such collection, retention, dissemination and use of that person’spersonal information mustbedone inalawfulandtransparentmanner

Togiveeffecttotheabove,wearerequiredtoprovideyouwithinformation regarding the processing of your personal information. This information is recorded under the HRProcessing Notice,whichcanbeaccessed andviewedontheCompanywebsite athttps://www.libstar.co.za/legal/.

Preference will be given to EE candidates in line with the Company’semployment equityplanandBBBEEstrategy

Please note that you may on occasion be required to perform tasks that are not part of your normal daily duties, but may be necessary due to the operational requirements of the Company

NM10051446-BW190326 VACANCY:GENERAL

Reportingto: Supervisor | Location: Montagu, Western Cape AbouttheLibstarWetCondimentsCategory

of the

forward-thinkingorganization

As part of the broaderLibstar team, ourgoalistogrowour food brands and categorysolutions in asustainable and

relationships with ourcustomers andaim to be SouthAfrica’sleading producer and distributor of high-qualityproductsand

ourpeopleare ourgreatest asset, andweare committedtoinvesting in their development and well-being.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE: An excitingopportunityhas become available

and adherence to food safetyand health& safety standards.

KeyResponsibilities

•Tendoroperate 3M tapemachine thatsealboxes. Observeand check fordefective productstoensurequalityand conformity of nished products

•Pack nished goodsintoboxes and/ or glassproducts

•Reportany qualityormechanicalproblems to thesupervisor

•Weigh andinspect products, verify andreporting to the ller overseer to meet specications

•Replenishpacking supplies such as wrappingplastic, boxes, cartons,tape, ink or labels

Documentand record information (written or electronic)

•Maintainlabels, scales,handsealers andrelated equipment with strong focus on quality

•Contributetodepartmentproduction goalsand maintain aclean and safeworking environment

•WearrequiredPPE andreportequipment malfunctions and accidentsimmediately

•Ensure hygieneand housekeeping standardsare adhered to

•Perform foreign object control checksand completedaily checklists

•Maintainpositiveteamrelations betweenoperationsand maintenance

Perform generaldutiesasassigned by supervisorsormanagement

BehaviouralCompetencies

•Works well with others anda good teamplayer

•Strongattention to detail andcommitmenttoqualitystandards

•Goodcommunicationand interpersonal skills

•Abilitytounderstandand follow policies, procedures and safetyregulations

•Result-driven with afocus on continuousimprovement and efciency

Qualifications,Skills&Experience

•Abletocommunicate clearly, follow instructions and perform basic calculations

•Abletoread, write andunderstandbasic instructions

•Strongattention to detail andquality awareness

•Physical capabilitytostand, walk, crouch,kneel, liftupto25kg and work at heights, if required

AdditionalInformation:You may occasionally be required to perform tasksoutside your normal responsibilities, depending on operational requirements. APPLICATION: Please e-mailyourCVtoilze@montfoods.co.za. Lateapplications

subjectline.

begiven to EE candidates in linewiththe Company’semploymentequityplan and BBBEE

NM10051454-BW190326

sementwerke cement works Sedert1954 Since

( 021873 1154 •www.lategans.co.za

NM10048944-BW050326

Krieketklub pronk metdrieoorwinnings

Hadley Alberts

Worcester United-krieketklub (WUCC) het die afgelope naweekdie Boland-krieketveldelaat gons met drie spannewat triomfantelik van die veld af gestap het. In die Premierliga het United se eerste span(A1) Saterdag in Wellington ’n kragvertoning uitgevoer.Die debutant ShakoerBaderoen het homgoed laat geld met ’n briljante 121 lopies, ondersteun deurdie jong MatthewFisherse64. Die vennootskap van 196 lopies vir die eerste paaltjie het die grondslag vir ’n reusetotaal van 330/4 gelê. Hulleisgoedbygestaan deur Luwayde Siegelaar, wat ’n vinnige 59 van 39 balle gemoker heten Geraldo Cremon met29van 13 balle.

Wellington koneenvoudig nie die druk hanteer nieenisvir 134 uitgeboul, met Marshin Jeftha watdriepaaltjies vir 41 lopiesplatgetrek het. United het dus met ’n oortuigende 196-lopie-oorwinning weggestap –’nvertoning wat groot selfvertrouegebring het. Dietweede span (A2) het aanvanklik gesukkel en net 112 lopies teen Wellington op Bolandpark aangeteken, met Yushri van Wyk (30) en Jerobeam Louw (20) watdie enigste weerstand gebied het. Maartoe United se boulers losbrand,het diewedstryd ’n anderkleur gekry.

Carlos Pekeurhet geboul en 3/16 geneem, terwylReagan Thansei (2/19) en Charlton Haas (2/27) die druk volgehou het. Terill Du Plooyhet dit afgerond met

2/4. Wellingtonisvasgepen en United het ’n 24-lopie-oorwinning behaal. Op Esselenpark het die derde span (A3) sy voorlaasteT20-wedstryd teenKorrektiewe Dienste gespeel en dussykanse beklemtoonomdie T20-kroonbysy 50-boulbeurt-kroon te voeg.Byron Buys het sy ervaring gewysmet ’n stewige 68, ondersteun deur BlapiePienaar (26) United het ’n mededingende 135 in sy spanse20boulbeurte aangeteken.

Die boulers het as eenheidgeboulen KorrektieweDienste tot 120 beperk.Rano Dlamini het in sy vier beurte met2/15 uitgeblink –’n oorwinning wat die span selfvertroue vir die laaste ligawedstryd teen Hexvallei ’n hupstoot salgee Wedstryde wat nogvoorlê,sluit in A3

teenHexvallei in De Doorns (T20), A2 wat tuis teendie Stellenbosch-krieketklubopBolandparksal speelenA1wat teenStellenbosch-krieketklub in Idasvalleitestaan kom Shakoer Baderoen, MatthewFisherenLuwayden Siegelaar vanWorcester United-krieketklub se eerstespan.