vista-e-edition-18-june-2026

Thursday,18June 2026

Crisis shows signsofp

Spilla surve

MARTI WILL

TheDepartmentofWater andSanitation (DWS) andMatjhabeng Local Municipality areworking to resolve persistentraw sewage spillages at the corners of Blesbok andAnderson Street in St Helena, Welkom,after months of legalbattlesand unfulfilledpromises.

Thesewagestreamhas flooded surroundingroads,runningpastthe St HelenaPrimary School’s gateand creatinghazardous conditions forthe nearby Checkers shoppingcomplex, crèches, businessesand residents.Learners have been forcedtonavigatethe sewage streams daily, whilstthe road from Unicor Road to the shoppingcentreremains impassable due to overgrownbushes, branches and potholes

Thecrisisstems from acollapsed stretch of sewerreticulation pipeline caused by ageingsanitation infrastructure, leadingtooverflowingmanholes and widespreadspillage.

Thesewageposes health risksthrough strong odours and thepossibility of infectious diseases, whilstdamaginginfrastructure, affectinglocal businesses and lowering the community’squality of life.

In April2025, thehighcourt found that Matjhabeng and theLejweleputswa District Municipalityhad failedtomeet constitutional and statutoryobligations to provide adequate sanitation at theSt HelenaCheckers site

In November 2025, theactingmunicipal managerofMatjhabengand the municipal managerfromLejweleputswa appeared in courtregarding theongoing situation.

Despitetwo courtorders, the munici-

pa te 2025 be by p the tr As is ed in lo c in su for the to thir bil ma to as non-bi ca sh for wa tion re ip to commen

Irregular voting raises suspicion

TheDAhas requesteda full report on theMatjhabeng Local Municipality councilmeeting held on 2June, after59votes were recorded despite only52councillors being presenton thevirtual platform

Themeetingwas scheduledto begin at 15:00, butthe councilwas still waitingfor aquorum at 15:15. About 90 minutes later, when adivision was calledonthe Integrated Development Plan (IDP), only52councillorswere

present.

Actingspeakercouncillor Molefi Moetiinitially ruledthat councillors wouldberequired to activatetheir cameras when votingtoverify their identities. However, thisrequirement wasnot applied aftercouncillors exertedpressureduringthe voting process. Councillorswho were not presentwhenthe vote wascalled were allowed to join themeetingand participateinthe vote.Acouncillor who hadsubmittedanapology was also permittedtovote.

When the finalresults were announced, 59 voteshad been recorded –40infavourofthe plan, 17 against, andtwo abstentions.DAcouncillor AbigailSchoemansaidthe sequence of events warrantedurgentclarification.

“Ifonly52councillorswerepresent when the division wasinitiated, council andthe public deserve aclear explanationastohow 59 voteswere ultimatelycounted,” Schoeman said. Shesaidthe explanation that some councillorsweresharing devices or

connectionswas difficult to reconcile with the fact that allcouncillorsare providedwith the necessaryequipmentand connectivitytoparticipate independentlyinvirtual meetings Schoeman questioned whytechnicaldifficulties were notreportedfor an extendedperiod, only foradditional councillorstobecome available during acrucial vote Themunicipalityemploys an supportteamtoassist councillorswith technicalchallenges. TheDAhas calledfor afull report on attendance recordsfor the meet-

ing, clarification regardingthe participation and votingeligibilityofall councillorswho voted, confirmation of the procedures followedduring the division,and areview of council's virtual meetingprotocols “Democracydepends notonlyon the righttovote, butonaprocessthat is transparent, credible,and beyond reproach.Residents deserve confidence that council decisionsare taken lawfully, fairly, and in accordance with democratic principles,” Schoemansaid.

Life storyof exceptional manreaches itsfinal chapter

ShadrackMaboea, ajournalist,entrepreneur and communityleader in the Free State, hasdied. Born on 3October 1962 in Afrikaskop,Eastern Free State, to Nyaole andMamothithi Jacobina Maboea, he wasthe youngest of three siblings.His brotherApesi and sister Paulinapredeceased him. Aftercompleting primaryeducationinAfrikaskop,Kestell, he began secondaryeducationat Thotagautain1980, latermatriculatingatLebogang Secondary School in Thabong. Hisacademic abilityearnedhim ateachingpostat Thotagauta Secondary School Maboealater worked as ataxidriverand cashier at Welkom Hotelfor adecade. In 1991, he pursued journalism, enrollingatBirmanBusinessCollege in Johannesburgfor adiploma in Journalism

He furthered hiseducationatthe South African AcademyofDramatic Arts,earningacertificate in TelevisionPresenting.

He joinedthe Goldfields Tribune as areporter andcontributed to the Free StateExpress as afreelancer beforetransitioningtothe Welkom Publicity Association.

In May1994, Maboea joinedthe Welkom Transitional Council as citysecretary forten yearsbefore movingtoLocal EconomicDevelopmentand Spatial PlanningasanSMME coordinator until 2014.

He andhis wife co-foundedWelkom Tours, a travel agencythatbroke barriersinapreviously segregated industry.

Maboea laterfounded Free StateSportsFocus,a publicationoperatinginthe ThaboMofutsanyana

District with areadership of 300 000, and establishedLesediPhotographic Studios,whichexpandedthroughout the Eastern Free State. In 2020, he expandedintoproduction, hosting his firstproductionwith MasupatselaFM. CarolDavidson,who met Maboeainthe 1980s, said he demonstrated exceptionalmanagement skills,coordinatingVIP visits to Welkom,the inceptionofthe Welkom flea market and the annual Christmaslightsdisplay

Maboea is survived by his wife Maureen, six children and grandchildren

He will be laid to rest on Saturday 20 June.A funeralservice will be heldatthe FerdiMeyer Hall from 08:00 to 10:00, followedbyintermentatthe PhakisaCemetery. – KhojaneMatutle

Connectiontothe Source

is whereyou find peace

IloveActs 17:28 which reads, “For in Himweliveand move andhaveour being.” If we fullyunderstoodwhatthis statementmeans we would live in a constantstate of peaceand fulfilment within,despitethe circumstances which surroundus.

When we look at the life of David,we seeaman who amidstthe worstcircumstances and insurmountable odds was able to slaythe bear,lion and giant, escape Sauland defeat numerousenemies to become the King of Israel.

ButDavid’s greatest weapon wasnot a swordorthe favour of men.

In Psalm 139 we cansee David’s experiential knowledge of the Spirit ofGod

He knew that he could neverexist in anytime orspace wherethe Spirit of Godwould not be with him

This relational connection with his Father enabledhim to defeat enemiesand overcome obstacles and to be restored after fallingintosin.

Samuel describes David in 1Samuel 13:14 as “a manafter God’sown

19 JUNE

TheBlessingsAnimal ShelterGolf Daytakes placeatthe Oppenheimer Golf Club.Big prizes areupfor grabs. Dial 057353 2131 forbookings and moreinformation.

27 JUNIE

TheUitsig Boutique Hotelhosts the Uitsig Wine Fest.Gates open at 12:00.This year's festival wil be bigger and betterwith food stalls,kids entertainment,livemusic by Stofpad and the involvement of over15wine farms. Fires willbelit late afternoon.Dial 057 050 1040and gettickets on quicket.com.

heart,”implyingDavid hadanabsolute, unwavering faith in God, lived in true repentanceinresponsetothe mercyof God, desiredand knew God’spresence and despitehis failures desired to follow God’slawsand decrees

David knewGod,not onlyinthe lawful sense, butrelationally.

David trustedGod andexperienced the faithfulness of Godinmanycircumstances. David wasconnected to his source

George MacDonald,a mentorofC.S Lewis, wrote,“It is themercy of Godthat manisnot satisfied with hisown being… He createsanunsettlednessinside,so we would search for thesource.”

We were createdfor relationship with ourcreator.Wecan search forall our lives, as many do,for meaningor“happiness”,whentruejoy and peacecan only be found whenwemeetthe author of ourlives

Maythe perfectloveofGod find you as yourespond to the cryofyourheart to knowhim as yoursource.

–LanaArchontakis of theKingdom Ministries

Welkom’s market:Atroubling picture

Pogisho Mholo,community activist, Matjhabeng:

TheWelkomFresh Produce Market, amunicipal assetowned andoperated by the Matjhabeng LocalMunicipality,has become the subject of growingconcern amidreports of severe financial and operational challenges

As acommunityactivistand concernedresident, Ibelieve an urgent investigationintothe affairs of the market is necessary.Fresh produce markets play avitalrole in local economies by supportingfarmers, traders, transporters andinformal businesseswhilstgeneratingmunicipal revenuethrough commissions,rentals and otherservices

However, informationcontained in assessments conducted as part of Matjhabeng’s Financial Recovery Plan paints atroublingpicture.

Themarketreportedlyhas a vacancyrateexceeding90%,raising seriousquestions on its abilityto operateeffectively.

Financially, the situationappears

equallyalarming, with annual revenueestimated at approximately R266 000 againstexpenditureof around R3 million.

Reportsofdeterioratinginfrastructure, inadequate maintenance, intermittent watersupply, poor

Arts Competition from 09:00 at theAdelaide Tambo SecondarySchoolinThabong, Welkom, featuring drama, poetry, traditionaldance and GWIJO Music. Workshopswillbeheldfor registeredgroupsbeforethe main eventto help with preparing and shining on stage. Dial 072632 2082.

1AUGUST

cleaning standards and concerns over tenant retention also threaten the market’s sustainability. Continueduse of EPWP participants and contract workersincritical operational functionsraises questions. What is the market’s annual turnover? Whydostaffing vacancies remain so high?

What turnaround strategy has council approved to restorethe market to profitability? Areits assets beingfullyutilised to supportlocal agricultureand economic growth?

Themarketshould be acatalyst fordevelopment, servingcommunities and creatingopportunities Instead, it appearstobeaneglected municipalasset operatingfar below its potential.

Accountability, transparencyand intervention areneededfor this assettofulfilits intendedrole in growinglocal economy.

11

JULY

Calling allschoolsinLejweleputswa and surrounding areastotakepart in aPerforming

TheHospiceGoldfields Masquerade Ballwillbe held.Stepintoanight of timeless elegance and intrigue.The venue is Salt andPepper,and it starts at 18:00.For VIP entry, tickets cost R500 per person or R4 000per table. Thereare 98 seatsavailable.Masks arecompulsory forthe event and canbeordered at R100 each.Tickets includeathree-coursediningexperiencewith complimentarywine.A cash barwillalsobe available. Dial 083778 9774 forreservations andtickets

Gun anderspanne ook plekindie son

JC Erasmus,Riebeeckstad:

Publisiteit en bemarkingisnoodsaaklik vir skole, want ’n skoolmoetsoos’n besigheidbedryfwordomgehalte-onderwysenonderwyserstekan bekostig Wategter vir my opvallend is (op sosiale mediaeninkoerante) is die gebrekaan erkenningvir dié watinBof C-sportspanne hulhartvir hulskole uitspeel. Geen skoolkan ’n kampioenskapsbyeenkoms met slegseerste spanne aanbied nie

Onswordgebombardeermet aksiefoto’svan spelersineerstespanne

Dit is goed,wantpresteerdersis’naanwins.Maarwat vanspelers in die laer spanne?Diegene watvir elkeoefening opdaag;elkewedstrydspeel (hetsyverloor of wen); trots sy of haar sportklere aantrekomsyskool te verteenwoordig. Hier in my gewesteis’nC-netbalspannetjie watonoorwonne in al sy wedstrydeisengroot en sterkskole poegaaigespeel het. Maar nêrens word erkenninggegee nie.Erkenningisvandagmaklik,met sosiale mediawaaral diespasieindie wêreld beskikbaar is Vroeër wasdit moeiliker en moes skole “baklei” virruimte in ’n koerant. Terloops,ek is lankal nie meer ’n ouer met kinders in die skoolnie en skryfnie die weens“suur druiwe” nie

Leadershipisaduty, notaweapon

In everyworkplace,leadership should be definedbyresponsibility, fairness, andaccountability– not by intimidation, abuseofauthority, or personal vendettas.

Unfortunately,there areenvironmentswhere some individuals in senior positions misusetheir power to silence,victimise, or target employeessimplybecause theyhold authority.

Apositionofleadershipisnot a weapon to provea point. It is nota licence to humiliateothers, spread hatred,orcreatefearwithin ateam. True leaders uplift,guide,and correct with integrity.

They understand that respect is earned through competence, consistency, and ethical conduct –not through threats or emotional manipulation

It becomes even moreconcerningwhen thosewho misusetheir authorityare themselves failing dismally in their responsibilities

Insteadofaddressing their shortcomings,theyshift focusonto employees,creatingunnecessary conflictand victimisation to distract from their ownfailures

This behaviour damagesmorale, destroystrust,and weakensthe entireworking environment.

Employeesdeserve to work in spaces wherefairness, professional-

ism,and mutual respectare upheld. Leadership should neverbeabout revenge, ego, or provingsuperiority. Senioritydoesnot make someone untouchable, and authorityshould neverreplace accountability. Organisationsthrivewhen leadersleadbyexample, communicate honestly, and treatevery employee with dignity. Thestrongest leadersare not thosewho instil fear,but thosewho inspireconfidence,growth, and teamwork.

Letusstopusing positionsof powertooppressothersorsettle personal scores.Leadership is a dutytoserve,protect,and build –nottointimidateand destroy.

Iminé vander Sandt by vandie kombersewat ná haar versoek ontvangis.

Kleuterdryf kombersprojek

MARTI WILL

Metgroot oë en in ’n sagtestemvertelIminé van der Sandt (5) hoekom sy nie wil hê mense moet hierdiewinterkoudkry nie: “Ekwil hê hulle moet warm wees en lekker slaap”,sêdié kleutermet ’n eenvoudwat reguit na diehart spreek.

Hierdie medemenslikheid hetdie vonk geword wat“Imi se Liefde”tot lewegeroephet –’n projek watbinne 48 uur die hartevan menseoor diewêreld heen geraak het

Vankleins af hetIminé se ouers, Gaylin en Chané nd Sandt kh fyn

Vista‘morethana newspaper’

Goldfields Hospice extended its sincereappreciation and gratitude to Vista newspaper forthe outstandingsupport, kindnessand dedication shown to the organisationfor morethan30years

Since the establishmentof Goldfields Hospice Welkom, Thabongand Virginia, Vista hascontinuously played an importantrole in promotingthe organisation’sprojects,fundraisinginitiatives andcommunityoutreach programmes

Through consistent news coverage,the newspaperhas helped create awarenessofthe vitalservices provided by the hospice andthe difference it makesinthe livesofpatients andtheir families

RayGoodsell, chairpersonof Goldfields Hospice,and Tanja Schutte, office manager, expressedtheir heartfelt thanks on behalf of the community, staff,volunteers, patients and families who have benefited from Vista’s ongoingsupport

“Vista hasbeenmorethan just anewspapertous. The publicationhas been aloyal partner in helping us share ourmessage of care, compassion and dignitywithin the Goldfields community. Their willingnesstosupport ourprojects andchallenges throughoutthe yearshas made a meaningful impact on our organisationand the people we serve. ”

Goldfields Hospice also congratulated Vista on its 55th anniversary Thenewspaper’s dedication,commitmentand continuedsupportofthe Goldfields communityhavenot gone unnoticed. Fordecades, Vista hasremainedatrusted voice in the region and avaluedsupporteroforganisations workingtoupliftand care for the community. Goldfields Hospice thanked Vista for beingpartofits journeyand for continuingtomakeapositive difference in the lives of so many people acrossWelkom and the Goldfields community.

Afirstfor theGoldfieldsArea

Duetochanges made,regarding after-hour emergencies, ateamofeight of Welkom's topMedical PractitionershavecometogethertoopenthisAfterhoursMedicalWalk-InPracticeinTheGoldfields.

Theiraim is to provideprofessional andhigh-standardmedical serviceto boththeirexistingandnewpatients.

AllMedicalAidsarewelcomeaswellasprivatepatients.

pa Nn-Care-Excel�ence en

MondaystoSaturdays:18:00 -21:00 Sundays:17:00 -20:00

389Stateway, Doorn, Welkom (Dr. Y. Cronje's Surgery)

RH Matjhabeng Private Hospital continues to play avitalrole in providing quality healthcare servicestothe people of Welkom and the broader Lejweleputswa region. As one of only two private hospitalsserving the community, thefacility remains committedto ensuringthat residentshave access to comprehensive,patient-centred healthcare close to home.

Strategically located along theR730 andR34 routes enteringWelkom from Kroonstad, as well as theR73 routefrom Bloemfontein via Virginia, RH MatjhabengPrivate Hospital is perfectly positioned to serve communitiesacrossthe region. Its accessible location allows patients andtheir families to reach the hospital withease,making it a trustedhealthcare destination for theresidents

Thehospitaloffersa comprehensive rangeofhealthcare services to bothinsured and uninsuredpatients. Through its affiliation with the National Hospital Network, RH Matjhabeng Private Hospital is contracted with most medical schemes, while making provisionsfor private payingpatients,enablingbroader access to quality private healthcare for thecommunity.

24-hrsAccident and Emergency Unit, which is equipped to manage

awide range of medical emergencies andtraumacases.RH Matjhabeng PrivateHospitalalso supports patients covered under the (COIDA/WCA/RAF) ensuring that employees injuredonduty receive timely and appropriate medical care

Supporting the emergency services is a 24-hourRadiology Unit, providingaround-the-clock diagnosticimaging services. This capability enables healthcare professionals to rapidly diagnose injuries and medical conditions ensuring that patients receive promptand effective treatment regardless of the time of dayor night. Enhancing the comprehensiveservices offeredby the hospital is the onsite Renal DialysisCentre, rendering dialysis services to internationaland externalclients.

Akey strength of thehospitalisits team of highlyexperienced medical specialists whoprovide expertcare acrossavariety of disciplines. These include physicians, general surgery, obstetricianand gynaecology, orthopaedicand spinesurgery ophthalmology,urology, neurosurgeon, non-invasive cardiology, ear,noseand throat, maxillofacial,and dentalsurgery. The specialists are supported by a strong referral network of general practitionersfrom Welkomand

surrounding areas, ensuring continuity of care andpositive patient outcomes

Beyond clinicalexcellence, RH Matjhabeng Private Hospital places significantemphasis on patient experience. The friendliness and professionalism of staff,reduced waiting times, anda clean, welcoming environmentare among themanyfactors contributing to high levels of patient satisfaction. These efforts formpartofthe hospital’songoing commitmentto delivering healthcare that is both compassionate andefficient

Patient feedback continuesto reflectthe hospital’s dedicationto qualitycare. Positive comments and recommendations shared on the hospital’ssocial media platforms serve as atestamenttothe trust thecommunityplaces in thefacility andthe exceptionalcareprovided by itshealthcareprofessionals

As healthcareneeds continue to evolve, RH Matjhabeng Private Hospital remains steadfast in its mission to provide accessible, highqualitymedical services to the people of Welkomand thegreater Lejweleputswadistrict, ensuring that patientsreceive thecarethey need, whentheyneeditmost.

Redeneer op hoër vlak

Die Hoërskool Wessel Maree het in Mei sy interne redenaarskompetisie gehou.Die senior wenners is vanlinksBonoloNtleru (eerste,gr.11),TlhonolofatsoMenyatso(tweede,gr.11) en Gugulethu Molete(derde,gr.11).Indie top-plekkeasjuniorredenaars is Bohlokwa Motsoeneng (eerste,gr.9), Reitumetsi Galeboe (tweede,gr.9) en MphoTotobala(gr.10) FOTO:Verskaf

Young voices on watercrisis

Five schools in theLejweleputswa District competed in apublic speaking competitionaddressing waterand sanitation challenges

During this eventon5June at the Welkom Technical High School, four teams advancedtothe provincial round.

Theevent washostedbythe Free StateDepartmentofWater andSanitation (DWS), in partnership with the DepartmentofEducation.

Gr.11and Gr.12learnersofthe LepholaSecondarySchool, Mamello SecondarySchool, Mamellang Thuto SecondarySchool, KhelengSecondary School and Relekile SecondarySchool made up the teams.Eachteamwas composed of three learners

Participants presentedresearchand solutions on “A water-wise leadership forcommunityresilience: Educating, empowering andmobilising citizens

Charging forwardwithdaringmoves

Fivelearners of the SetshabeloPublicSchool in Thabong have qualifiedtorepresent the Lejweleputswa District at the ProvincialIndividual Chess Tournament.They were selected during Lejweleputswa chess tournaments heldinMay and June.Individual tournamentswilltakeplace in August.Fromthe left areLetsela Mahlomola(coach),KeitumetseKhoelane,ToleranceMachisi,Disebo Tau(coach),ThutoTshehlane,Mpho Ntsane,TeateaKananeloand Lerato Bilingani (assistant coach).“This outstanding achievement reflects the learners’dedication,discipline,critical thinking anddetermination.Through countlesshours of practiceand perseverance,theyhavedemonstrated the qualities of truechampions,”saysTau. PHOTO:Supplied

Crime rate reduction showsprogress

More than half of police precincts in the Lejweleputswa District recordedlower crime rates in thepastyear, according to thelatestSAPS statistics

Twelveofthe district’s 21 precinctsreported fewer crimes betweenApril 2025 and March 2026 comparedtothe previous year,while five recordedincreasesand four remainedstable. Thedistrict recorded 10 634 casesofviolent crimes and4260 property crimesduringthe period.Violentcrimes include murder,assault, robberyand rape,while property crimes cover burglary,theft and vehicle-related offences Ventersburgshowedthe mostsignificant improvementwith an 18% declineinreported crimes Theunissenfollowedwitha 17,4% drop,

while Meloding,Wesselsbron and Welkom recorded decreasesof15,3%,15,1% and13,8% respectively

Among larger precincts with morethan200 reported crimes,Welkomregisteredthe biggest absolutereduction, followedby Thabong, which sawcrime fall by 12,6%

Threeprecincts bucked the positivetrend. Bothaville recordeda6,5% increase in crime, whileAllanridge andWinburgreportedrespective risesof5,9% and5,7%.

Four precincts remainedstable with changes within 2% –Boshof,Hennenman,Odendaalsrus, and SunriseView.

Thestatisticscover theSAPS’ quarterly data publishedonFriday29May

PROGRAMME TO ENCHANCELEARNER SAFETY

More than 850 learners of the Welkom High School attended aschool safety programme as part of ChildProtection Week activities.

Thesession, heldon27May, brought together Gr.8 to Gr.10learners with police, school management and wellness professionalstoaddress social challenges affecting young people.

TheLejweleputswa District Partnership Policing, Welkom SAPS and the Central University of Technology(CUT), Free State Wellness unit participated.

Arepresentativeofthe SAPS Lejweleputswa District Partnership Policing presented on

severalissues affecting learners andcommunities. Theseincluded drugabuse andits impact on youthdevelopment; gangsterism and peer pressure;school safety and reportingofcriminal activities; teenage pregnancy andits effect on education; and gender-based violence(GBV) Also addressedwas the aspectsofwellbeing,selfesteem, mentalwellness and the importanceofseekinghelp when facing social or emotional challenges.

TheWelkom policeencouraged learners to respect school rules, uphold disciplineand work withlaw enforcementtoensure

forasustainable waterand sanitation future.”

Participatingschools were identified by the DWSthrough projectcoordinatorK.Sahaand her team This competition is part of seven WaterActionProjects targetingschools with waterand sanitation issues The others include career guidance,celebrationofspecial days,Baswa le Meetse, Aqua Enduro,South AfricanYouth WaterPrize andintervention projects District winnersprogresstothe provincial round,whereoverall winners receivebursaries to pursue studies in waterand sanitation-related fields Bonolo Dlamini of Lephola said she felt excited to participate.

“Through this competition more people will learn aboutthe importance of waterand the impact it hasondaily life,” shesaid.

Adjudicators, educatorsand guests commended participantsfor their preparationand contributions.

Deepening spiritualroots

TheBrotherhood of St Andrew’s Guildatthe Churchofthe Annunciation in Thabongcelebratedasignificant moment on Sunday8June,asitwelcomed newmembers intoits fellowship.The special servicewas conducted by Father Sambo,with assistancefromFather Mohlakoana,thedeacon.Thechurchwas filledwith members of the guild,who gathered to witnessand support theinduction of newbrothersintothe ministry

TheBrotherhood of St Andrew is aministry within theAnglican-EpiscopalCommuniondedicated to bringing men and boys intoacloserrelationship with Christ and to spreading his kingdom in their communities.Atthe AnnunciationChurch,the guildcontinues this mission throughfellowship,prayerand outreach,encouraging other men and boys to take part in thework.Following theservice,membersposedtogether in thesanctuary, avisiblesign of the unityand commitment thatdefines the guild.Theevent also served as acalltoothersin the parish and wider communitytoconsiderjoining the brotherhood and sharing in itspurpose.Theguild at theAnnunciation Church remains open to men and boys whowish to grow in faithand serveChrist through activeministryinthe church and beyond. PHOTO:Supplied

Managementunder scrutiny

saferschoolsand communities. Theprincipal of the school highlighted theimportanceof continuedcollaborationbetween schoolsand stakeholders in protecting children andpromoting safereducationalenvironments.

Theprogrammeaimedto create awareness among learners about social challenges, promotea safe learning environment, encourageresponsible behaviour and strengthen partnershipsbetween schools, policeand therelevant stakeholders.

Theschool safety programme wascompiledbyLejweleputswa DistrictPartnership Policing.

TheDAinthe Lejweleputswa District Municipality will intensify oversightand monitoring of governance,accountability andconsequence managementfollowing the appointmentofa new executivemayor amidongoing concerns over financial mismanagement, governance instability, and decliningservice delivery in thedistrict

Last year,the Free StateANC provincial leadershipreportedly intervenedinseveral municipalities,includingthe Lejweleputswa District Municipality Theleadership change, therefore, formspartofa broader reconfiguration by the ANC in identified troubled municipalities across the Free State.

“This move follows the ANC leadership’s confirmation

that multiple mayors in the province will be removedamid concerns aboutgovernance failures,instability, and decliningpublic confidence,” says Cllr MahaliaKose, DA councillor forthe Lejweleputswa District Municipality.

Over the years, the Lejweleputswa District Municipalityhas facedrecurring controversies,mainlyaround financial mismanagement, corruptionallegations, and governance instability.

Some of the majorcontroversies and issues reported in recentyears include repeated negativeaudit outcomes

Themunicipalityhas also been repeatedly linkedtoallegationsofcorruption, irregular expenditure and weak financial controls

TheDAinLejweleputswa, together with other oversight

bodies and political parties, hashighlighted unauthorised expenditures, irregulartenders, fruitlessand wasteful spending, and poor accountability systems

Thediresituation at the Lejweleputswa District Municipalitywas also highlightedby the recentParliamentPortfolio Committeevisit

During the visit,itwas reported that approximately R141 million of the district municipality’sR156 million budget wasspent on salaries, whichresulted in very limited funds made available foractual service delivery. Thereportexpressed seriousconcern that the Lejweleputswa District Municipalityspends the bulk of its budget on salaries,leaving insufficientfunds forservice delivery.

‘YSBERE’ SWEM DAN

Die jaarlikse Ysbeerswem by Aldam vind op 27 Junie om 12:00 plaas. Op dié geleentheid, ideaal vir Goudvelders, word verwag dat die watervan Aldam sowat 9°Csal wees, terwyl buitetemperature sowat18°Ctot 20 °C behoort die wees as dit nie bewolk is nie.Die byeenkoms gaan voort, ongeag die weer

Belangstellendes uit verskeie dorpe soos Sasolburg, Kroonstad, Odendaalsrus, Virginia, Hennenman,Welkom, Bethlehem, Winburgen Bloemfontein, hetreeds navraaggedoen.

Goeie spangees en 'n verskeidenheid van uniekeklerestyleword verwag.Pryse vir die bestespangees en oulikstekleredrag sal uitgedeel word Vanjaar se begunstigde is Search and Rescue Suid-Afrika. Deelnemers kandie organisasie se uitstalling besoek en die span ontmoet Hekfooie is R100 per motor,die dagswembeloop R100 per persoon, en die nagswemR300 per persoon. Virnavraeoor kampplek, kamers of huisies, skakel 078728 2027, en vir swemnavrae skakel 082851 4584.

Welkom-stoeiers bringnasionalemedaljes huis toe

Lede vandie Welkom-stoeiklub het talle medaljes op die Suid-AfrikaanseGriekse-Romeinsestoeikampioenskapsbyeenkoms verwerf. Op diébyeenkoms,wat op 30 MeiinPretoriagehou is, het591 deelnemersvan oor die land heen meegeding.

Dieklub se stoeiers hetas deel vandie Vrystaatspan deelgeneem

CJ Swarthet in twee afdelings meegedingen’ngoue medaljeindie o.15-afdeling, asooksilwer in die o.20-afdeling, gewen.

Wian vander Merwehet silwer in die o.15-afdeling ontvang.

In die afdelings virjonger stoeiershet Lewies Jonker silwer in die o.9-afdeling gewen, terwyl Liam Herbst (o.8), RynhardGreef (o.8), Jaredvan derMerwe (o.11), JanPhillipduPlessis (o.8) en Hayden Seider (o.8) elkeen brons verwerfhet

Kaydem Prinsloowas vierdeindie o.10-afdeling, en LebenPrinsloohet ookaan diekampioenskapsbyeenkoms deelgeneem

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SOEK motors, motorwrakke &onderdele om te koopvir kontant. Enige fabrikaat, enige toestand. 076 4933029.

LOST OR DESTROYED DEED: Deedof TransferT2996/1994 FORM JJJ LOSTORDESTROYED DEED

Notice is hereby given in terms ofRegulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, ofthe intention to applyfor the issue of a certified copy of Deedof Transfer T2996/1994 passed by HOWARD OLIVECROMBIE in favor of BRENDA MERLE CROMBIE in respect of ERF 8509 WELKOM (EXTENSION 7), DISTRICT WELKOM,PROVINCE FREE STATE MEASURING 1136 (ONE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED AND THRITY SIX) SQUARE METRES HELD BY DEED OF TRANSFE R T7250/2025 which has been lost ordestroyed. Allinterested persons havingobjectiontothe issue ofsuchcopy are hereby required to lodge thesameinwritingwith theRegistrarofDeeds: Fre eS tate at Bloemfontein within two weeks fromthe date of the publication ofthis notice.

ARTH UR C HA NNON ATTORNEYS

693 R UBE NST EIN AVENUE

MARELETA PLAZA

MORELETA PARK 0167 TEL: 0129973747 E-MA IL: arth ur

DeedofTransfer: T9888/1973 FORM JJJ LOST OR DESTROYED DEED

Notice is hereby givenin terms of regulation 68 of the Deeds Registries Act, 1937, of the intention to apply for the issue of a certified copy of Deedof Transfer T9888/1973 passed by IVOR LAMBERT MYBURGH in favorof JOHN DANIEL BARNARD BORN 7NOVEMBER 1942 in respect of ERF63

RIEBEECKSTAD, DISTRICT WELKOM,PROVINCE FREE STATE IN EXTENT 1 428(ONE FOUR TWO EIGHT) SQUARE METRES

HeldbyDeedofTransfer T9888/1973 which has been lost ordestroyed. Allinterested persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby required to lodge the sameinwriting with the Registrar of Deeds: Fr ee State at Bloemfontein withintwo weeksfromthe date of the publication of this notice. Dated atBLOEMFONTEIN on 11 JUNE 2026. CLAUDE REID 165STANDREW STREET 9300 Tel: (051) 4479881

Email: helgard@claudereid.co.za JH VAN SCHALKWYK/ MH/WE5039

Boedel wyle: CEMasencamp Boedelnommer: 8685/2025

ADVERTENSIEAAN KREDI TEURE EN DEBITEURE

In die boedel van wyle CORNELIA ELIZABETH MA SENCA MP met Ide nt it eit sn ommer: 4209080032082en Boedelnommer : 8685/2025, wie getroud was buite gemeenskap van goedere met ANTHONY MASENCAMP metIdentiteitsnommer: 4111155022081,met laasbekendeadres te De Villier sstra at 42, Wesselsbron, Vrystaat Provinsie, en wie oorlede

Boedel Wyle: JJConradie Boedelnommer: 003319/2026

KENNISGEWING

Hierby word alle persone opgeroepwat vorderinge hetteenofbedrae verskuldig is aan boedel wy le JACOBUS JOHANNES CONRADIE, Identiteitsnommer (3603165005081)en nagelate eggenot e CATHARINA SUSANNA CONRADIE, Identiteitsnommer (4010030028083)inlewe 'n PENSIOENARIS van STROFBERGSTRAAT 2, BULTFONTEIN,oorlede op 5MAART 2026 om sodanigebedrae te betaal aan of eise in te stel teen die boedel binne30dae

ESTATE LATE: HJRAUTENBACH

ESTATE NUMBER: 003511/2026

NOTICE TO CREDITO RS IN DECEASEDESTATES

In the Estate of the Late: Surname: RAUTENBACH First Names: HENDRIK JACOBUS Estate Num ber: 003511/2026 Ident ity Nu mber: 4112095013081 Date of Death:2026-04-12 Last Address: 7HADEDA TOWNHOUSES, IBIS STREET, FLAMINGO PARK, WELKOM

Allpersons having claims ag ainst the above-mentioned estate are required to lodge their clai ms with th e undersigned within 30 daysafter the date of publication hereof. First Names andSurname of Surviving Spouse: MAGDALENA RAUTENBACH

Ident ity Nu mber: 4402090032081

Name andAddress of Executor or Authorized Ag ent: GE RH ARD VOSLOO,VOSLOOEN KIE,C/O BUITEN AND DE KAAP STREET, CBD, WELKOM

ADVERTISER NAME: VOSLOO EN KIE

ADVERTISER ADDRESS: P.O. BOX1451 WELKOM 9460

ADVERTISER E-MAIL: gvosloo@global.co.za

ADVERT IS ER TELEPHONE: 0573527633

ESTATE LATE: ML KHASHANE ESTATE NUMBER: 006307/2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN DECEASEDESTATES

All persons having claims against the under-mentioned estate must lodge it with the Executor concerned within 30 days (orasindicated) from date of publication hereof.

Province:FREE STATE Est ate Num ber: 006307/2025

Surname: KHASHANE

FirstNames: MASILO LEON

Date of Birth: 1944-08-31 ID Nu mber : 4408315389081

Last Address:207 BLOCK 7, KUTLWAN ONG, ODENDAALSRUS,9480

Date of Death:2025-07-08

Mast er' sO ffic e:

BLOEMFONTEIN

Name of Executor or Aut ho riz ed Agent : MATITOE IV ON NE LUPINDO Address of Executor or Authorized Agent: 207 BLOCK 7, KUTLWANONG, ODENDAALSRUS,9480

ADVERTISER NAME: MO SALA DA NIEL MHLEKOA

ADVERTISER ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 135 31 BOSHOFF STREET ODENDAALSRUS 9480

ADVERTISER EMAIL: matsepes23@outlook.com ADVERTI SER

Estate Late:NS Sam Est ate Number: 002284/2024

LIQUIDATION AND DISTRIBUTION ACCOUNTS IN DECEASEDESTATES LY ING FO R INSPECTION

In terms of section35(5) of the Administration of Estates Act, No 66 of 1965, noticeishereby giventhatcopies of the liquida tion an d distribution accounts (firstand final, unless otherwisestated) in the estates specified below will be open forthe inspection of allpersons with an interesttherein for aperiod of 21 days (or shorter or longer if specially stated) from the date specified or from the date of publication hereof, whichever maybethe later, andatthe officesof the Masters of the High Courtand Magistrates as stated. Should no objection thereto be lodgedwith the Masters concerned during the specified period,the executors will proc eed to make payments in accordance with the accounts.

Province:FREE STATE Est ate Num ber: 002284/2024

Surname: SAM Fir st Na mes: NTOMBIZANDILE SYLVIA South African ID Number: 5604280861083 Last Address:4354MOETI STREET, LA SV EGAS, MOTSETHABONG, 9463 Magistrate'sOffice: WELKOM

Mast er' sO ffic e: BLOEMFONTEIN ADVERTISER NAME: ROSSO UW AN D PARTNERS ADVERTISER ADDRESS: 352STATEWAY DOORN WELKOM 9459 ADVERTISER E-MAIL: deeds@rosven.co.za ADVERTI SER TELEPHONE:

Estate Late: GJHFourie

Estate Number:

004991/2024

LIQUIDATION AND DISTRIBUTION

ACCOUNTS IN

DECEASED ESTATES LYING FOR INSPECTION

In terms of section 35 (5) of the Administrationof Estates Act, No 66 of 1965, notice is hereby given that copies of the liq uidat ion and distribution accounts (first and final, unless otherwise stated) in the estates specified below will be open for the inspection of all persons with an interest therein for aperiod of 21 days (or shorter or longer if specially stated) from the date specified or from the date of publication hereof, whichevermay be the later, and at the offices of the Masters of the High Court and Magistrates as stated.

Should no objection thereto be lodged with the Masters concerned during the specified period, the executors will proceed to make payments in accordance with the accounts.

Province: FREE STATE

Esta te Number: 004991/2024

Surname: FOURIE

First Names: GERHARDUS JOHANNES HERMANUS

South African ID Number: 5212215065083

Last Address: 7AVOCET TOW NHOUS E, ANDERSON STREET, ST. HELENA, WELKOM

First Names of Surviving Spo use: ANN A CATHARINA

Surname of Surviving Spouse: FOURIE ID Number of Surviving Spouse: 5205100083088

Description of Account if other than First and Final: FIRST AND FINAL Magistrate's Office: WELKOM

Master's Of fi ce: BLOEMFONTEIN

ADVERTISER NAME: GROWT HBR IDGE CHA RT ER ED ACCOUNTANTS INC.

ADVERTISER ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 604 WELKOM 9460

ADVERTISER E-MAIL: ro land @growthbridgeca.co.za ADVERTISER TELEPHONE: 057 3532601

Estate Late: RJTheunissen

Esta te Numbe r: 10012/2015

LIQUIDATION AND DISTRIBUTION ACCOUNTS IN DECEASED ESTATES LY ING FOR INSPECTION

In theEstate of the Late: Surname: THEUNISSEN First names: RICHARD JOHANNES Estate numb e r: 10012/2015 Id entity/Pa sspo rt number: 4603265095080

Date of death: 08-09-2015 Last address: 97IRIS ROAD, RESIDENSIA, ODENDAALSRUS, 9480

The FIRST AND FINAL Liq uidatio na nd Distribution Account in this estate will be open for inspectionfor aperiod of 21 DAYS from19JUNE 2026 at the office of the Master of the High Court Bloemfontein and the Magistrate's Office,. First Names and Surname of Surviving Spouse: EMMERENZA MARTHA MAGDAL ENA THEUNISSEN Id entity/Pa sspo r t Number: 4810260093081

Nameand Address of Executor orAuthorized Agent:EMMERENZA MARTHAMAGDALENA THEUNISSEN, 97 IRIS ROAD, RESIDENSIA, ODENDAALSRUS, 9480.

ADVERTISER NAME: NEUMANN VAN ROOYEN

ADVERTISER ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 4 WELKOM 9460

ADVERTISER E-MAIL: admin3@nvrlaw.co.za

ADV ER TISER TELEPHONE: 0833373894 (REF: AStyger/ ACARSTENS) NOTE: b00376

Estate Late: IIMofokeng Estate Numbe r: 002476/2025 NOTICE

In the Estate of the late ISAAC ISAAC MOFOKENG, Identity

Boedel Wyle: CJFourie Boedelnommer: 6018/2024

BOEDELKENNISGEWING EERSTE EN FINALE LIKWIDASIEEN DISTRIBUSIEREKENING

In die boedel van wyle CJ FOURIE (Identi teitsn omme r: 2911295024083), wat woonagtig was te Goldfields Nursing Care, Kokstraat, Welkom en oorlede is op27Oktober 2022. BO ED EL NOMMER: 6018/2024

KENNIS WORDHIERMEE

GEGEE ingevolgeArtikel 35(5) vanWet 66 van 1965,dat afskrifte van die Eers te en Fi nale Likw id as ie- en Distribusierekeningin hierdie boedel ter insae lê virallepersone wat daarby belang hetvir 'n per io de van 21 (EEN-EN-TWINTIG) dae vandatumvan publikasie hiervanbydie kantore van die Meester, BLOEMFONTEIN, en die Landdros, WELKOM Indien binne genoemde tydperkgeen besware daarteen by die Meester ingedien word nie, sal die Eksekuteur oorgaantot die verdeling ingevolge die rekening

ODENDAAL MARAIS

INGELYF POSBUS 2620 WELKOM 9460

TEL:057 353-2514

E-POS: in fo @odendaalmarias.co.za WAO/Testament -B/W CJ FOURIE

Boedel wyle: RPIJ Cloete

Boedelnommer: 003846/2025

KENNISGEWING

Kennis geskied hiermee dat ingevolgeArtikel 35(5) van Wet66van 1965 dieEERSTEEN FINALE LIKWIDASIE-EN

DISTRIBUSIEREKENING in die boedel van wyle RUDOLPH PHILIPPUS

IZAKJOHANNES CLOETE

metBOEDELNOMMER: 003846/2 025 en Ide nt it eit sn ommer: 5206125119089,'n meerderjarige manlike persoon, wie woonagtig was te DAVIDSTRAAT 9, NAUDEVILLE, WELKOM, 9459 en wie oorlede is op 13 MEI 2025 ter insaesal lê by die kantoor van die Landdros te WELKOMen die kantoor van die Mee ste rv an die Hoogger egs hof te BLOEMFONTEIN vir'n tydperk van 21 dae gereken vanaf datumvan hierdie Kennisgewing. Indienbinne genoemde tydperk geen besware daarteen by die Meester ingedien is nie, gaan die Eksekuteur oor tot uitbetaling ingevolgedie rekening.

GE TE KEN te

OD END AALS RU So p hierdie 8STE dag van JUNIE 2026. PROK UR EUR VIR

EKSEKUTEUR VAN VUUREN PROKUREURS JOSIASSTRAAT114 ODENDAALSRUS 9480 TEL: 057-3981471 FAKS: 057-3981613 (VERW: CVV/ab/1588-25)

UniqueBlinds Unique Blinds

Charmaine Nortier (11:28:28) with her Green Number.She received aVic Clapham medal.

Thursday,18Junie2026

mate Race capableoftitle

WILL

fthe Harmony lubcompleted desMarathon on ne

The85,77 km “up run” from the Durban CityHall to Pietermaritzburg attracted21633 registered athletes,justshortof the 22 000 entrycap tbyorganisers. ThreeStriders hedwithinthe Bill wanmedal time limit lKhumalo recorded 8:15:29, gStemere finishedin 8:39:41 and Morné Nelcompleted the race in 8:54:36

TheBill Rowanmedal,introduced in2000, honoursthe winner of the first

Elated about big run

Welkom waswellrepresented at the99th Comrades Marathon.Theroute,which started at Durban CityHalland finishedatthe Scottsville RacecourseinPietermaritzburg, measured85,777 km,making it the shortest Comrades “uprun”in recent history.ThreeWelkom runners received Green Numbers thisyear; recognitiongiven by the Comrades marathon association to athletes who have finished tenComrades.Some of the Welkom runners’times: Hendrik Tsokodibane (09:35:41),MbangisoMalindi (11:36:14), Morapedi Leeuw (11:28:58),MakaiMahlanza(11:46:41), RatsiloMaleke(10:44:15),Morena Mphojane(11:58:53), Sekwati Molepo (10:38:00),Morake Tlhobo (07:56:28), NkhetheniMasupa(07:18:11,Green Number),Nthabiseng Tinte(09:46:00,Green Number),Zolani Nyuliwe (09:16:23,Green Number),SthembizoJwele (09:26:12) and Trevor Nkosi(20:22:57).Picturedare some of theWelkomrunners who visitedthe beach before the big run.

Comrades Marathon in 1921, whose winningtime was8:59:00. Nelcompleted hissixth Comrades Club members Daniel Pienaar (10:07:03), George Semoeng(10:27:08), andWerner Rossouw(10:28:42) earned bronzemedals.Bronzemedals are earnedina time of 10:00:00 to 10:59:59. Afurther sevenHarmonyStriders received VicClapham medals They are Jacques du Preez(11:13:58), Charmaine Nortier (11:28:28),Solomon Ratsiane (11:39:36), Mokotsolane Mokharomeso (11:43:20), Pierre Spurr(11:51:20), Andre Els(11:51:42)and Lihle Mzazi(11:54:08) TheVic Claphammedal is namedafter theracefounder

OtherStriderswho completedthe race include BenjaminMokoka, Potlako Sekokotana,Moses Myawuza, Deon Lodder,MeschackLepele, Juan Pierre Kalp and MavisMotaung.

TwoStriders, Nortier andPienaar, achieved their GreenNumbers,given to athleteswho complete their 10th Comrades This year the HarmonyStriders

hadthree Novices:athletes who successfullycompletedtheir firstComrades They areDuPreez,Mzazi and Stemere. Thereweretwo Back-to-Back medals achieved by Semoengand Nyawuza. This is achieved by athletes who entered andcompletedtheir firstComrades the previous year,and didthe same the following year.You then gettwo medals when you finish the second year Athletescan only achieve this once, anditmustbedoneinaconsecutive year

George Kusche wonthe men’srace in record time,breakingthe 18-year-old “up run” record. GerdaSteyn secured her fifth title andfourthconsecutivewin, breaking herown record by five minutes Steynbecame the second womanand seventhrunner overalltoachieve five Comrades wins

The fieldincluded 515 SAPS members, 207 DepartmentofCorrectionalServices athletes, and482 runners raisingfunds through theComrades Marathon Association(CMA) Race4Charity initiative.

TheComrades Marathon was first heldon24May 1921. WorldWar Iveteran VicClapham conceived the race to honour fallen soldiers.