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ActionSA demands State of Emergency on Sekhukhune drinking water crisis

SEKHUKHUNE - ActionSA political party in Limpopo, has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to urgently declare a State of Emergency on the water crisis in Sekhukhune, citing it as a humanitarian emergency rather than a mere service delivery challenge.

According to the party, Sekhukhune Region is currently facing a catastrophic water crisis, with communities left without reliable access to water for years.

The party demands immediate action to address the crisis, citing water as a constitutional right.

Tonic Manchidi, ActionSA Treasurer in Limpopo, has accused Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM) for consistently failed to provide sustainable water solutions to its residents.

“The Water Tankering Programme, intended as a temporary relief measure, has collapsed due to corruption and abuse. Municipal officials have allegedly colluded with service providers to steal public funds, resulting in water trucks arriving irregularly or not at all. This has forced residents to fend for themselves in unsafe and degrading conditions,” Manchidi said.

He added that during the party’s door-to-door engagements in Ga-Masemola and Mphane Villages, ActionSA witnessed first-hand the daily struggles of residents.

“Children walk long distances to rivers to fetch water, exposing themselves to danger and missing school. In Phokwane, residents collect water from dangerous areas near Lefakong Mountain. Tragically, the crisis has already claimed a life, Mr Jerry Matlala, a resident living with a disability, who lost his life after falling into a river while trying to access water,” informed Manchidi.

He said water crisis in the region has taken a significant economic and emotional toll on the community.

“With high unemployment and deep poverty in Sekhukhune, many families cannot afford to buy water. The lack of water deepens poverty and inequality, forces children to miss school, undermines health and dignity, and strangles small businesses and local livelihoods,” explained Manchidi.

He called for the municipality to prioritize urgency of the situation and supply people with drinkable water.

"The people of Sekhukhune cannot continue to live like this. The time for intervention is now. We call on President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare a State of Emergency on the water crisis in Sekhukhune, deploy national resources to ensure transparent and reliable emergency water supply, investigate and prosecute corruption linked to water tankering and infrastructure sabotage, and fast-track long-term water infrastructure solutions for the region," Manchidi said.

Leolo’s pupil among the country’s top achievers

PRAKTISEER

Leolo Technical High School’s Thabo Mathake flew the Tubatse flag high in the 2025 matric results. Mathake was part of the group invited by the minister of basic education Siviwe Gwarube, as one of the top achievers when she announced the results on
January 12.

This 18-year old lad from Praktiseer was the second best pupil in technical science nationally. He plans to study electrical engineering at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).

Another learner who excelled on the provincial stage is Mogale wa Bagale’s Jason Moime.

 Moime was honoured for being the top learner in the province in engineering graphics and design by the Limpopo MEC for education, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya. He accumulated a total of 288 marks.

2025 was one of  Sekhukhune East’s best years, once again the district was honoured for being the most improved in Limpopo.

The district won the same award for the 2024 results. The award was handed to the district director, Dr JF Malatji, during the Limpopo matric results announcement event on January 13 at The Ranch Hotel in Polokwane.
Sekhukhune East is the fifth best district in Limpopo out of 10 , with a matric pass rate of 86.7%. The district improved its performance by 12% between 2023 and 2025.
In 2023, it achieved a pass rate of 74.7%, followed by 84.0% in 2024.

Some of the schools that managed a 100% matric pass rate in the Sekhukhune East include  St Thomas College, Calvin College, Mathafeng, Magatagabotse, Magobanye, Makuane, Matsebong, Molepane, Ngwanagwato, Tlouphuti, Shorwane, Sengange, Semoriri, Ratanang, Phutinare, Nyaku and Ngwanangwato high schools.

Re Roka Dieta Project” brings smiles to Dennilton school children

DENNILTON - In a heart-warming community support initiative, a local youth group has launched a shoe repair project to benefit children in need.

The "Re Roka Dieta" project, which translates to "Let's Repair Shoes," was born out of a desire to help children who attend school wearing worn-out shoes. The project aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local children and create a better future for the community.

Lucky Malunga, YouthLife Programme Chairperson, said the idea was first conceived in December 2024 while assisting the community and schools through the YouthLife Programme in Dennilton and other neighbouring villages.

 YouthLife Programme is another brainchild of Malunga, which is set to uplift young people in Elias Motsoaledi Villages.

"I noticed that there are children who go to school wearing worn-out shoes. That broke my heart because I knew that there's nothing I could do to help," Malunga said.

However, things took a turn for the better when Adam Madimetja Shiane, also known as Kora, a skilled shoe repairer, approached Malunga with an offer to repair the children's shoes for free. "You're a Godsend," Malunga said, recalling the moment Kora offered his services.

With Kora's expertise and the assistance of other young people, Kgaugelo Malaka and Malebo Alice Phora, the project has already repaired over 100 shoes since its launch on 15 September 2025. The project has brought immense joy to the children, who can now attend school with confidence and comfort.

Malunga appealed to the community for support, stating: "We ask for assistance from the community. Any form of donation will be appreciated, even if it's not money, it can be in shoe repairing materials."

The "Re Roka Dieta" project is a shining example of the impact that can be made when community members come together to support a common cause.

"Together we can make a meaningful difference and create a better future for a community," Malunga said.

Elias Motsoaledi Municipality facing heat from SAMWU picket

GROBLERSDAL

Members of the South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU) at Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality (EMLM) in Groblersdal, have taken to the streets to raise concerns about workplace conditions, fairness, safety, and professional development.

The ongoing picketing, which commenced on Tuesday 14 October 2025, sees demonstrating municipality employees gathering at the EMLM Office in Groblersdal every day at lunchtime, from 13:00 to 13:30 to raise their concerns.

They say they feel neglected by elected SAMWU leadership in the sub-region, specifically the Chairperson Steve Magaga, and the Secretary Puti Tau, who are allegedly perceived to be siding with management rather than representing workers’ interests.

The workers' concerns include unfair labour practices, lack of tools of trade, unfair allocation of allowances, and safety concerns.

Specifically, they are demanding an open-led forum with elected SAMWU leaders and workers to review grievances and a clear, time-bound plan for addressing concerns raised by members.

They also want immediate provision of adequate PPE and work attire, including replacements at regular intervals, and a stock-and-service policy ensuring timely repairs and replacements.

They are aggrieved about transparent, criteria-based policy for all allowances, independent oversight of the allocation process, and regular communication on how decisions are made and who is eligible.

They say they need an urgent safety action plan, including enhanced security measures, incident reporting, and crisis response protocols, particularly for operators of yellow machinery who have faced multiple hijackings and criminal abuse incidents.

The workers are also demanding fair treatment and recognition for Traffic Officers and clear plans for integrating Traffic Wardens into the municipality's system.

According to Kenneth Maphopha, SAMWU Shopsteward in EMLM, workers are demanding immediate attention to their grievances.

SAMWU members are calling for immediate intervention from regional and national leadership to address these concerns and restore proper leadership.

"Workers are angry and if there is no intervention, then they will have no option but lead themselves and confront management on their own," warned Maphopha.

The union has given management two weeks to convene a joint stakeholders’ forum to discuss these grievances and provide a detailed action plan with timelines and responsible parties.

"We urge management, the elected SAMWU leadership, and relevant stakeholders to convene a joint stakeholders' forum within the next two weeks to discuss these grievances," Maphopha emphasized.

Simon Makua, EMLM Spokesperson, said the municipality has not received any formal grievances or official correspondence from SAMWU outlining their concerns.

"However, we are aware of a video circulating showing a few individuals affiliated with SAMWU picketing during their lunch time . While we respect the right of employees to express themselves, we encourage that all concerns be raised through the proper and recognised channels to ensure constructive engagement," he said.

Makua indicated that the municipality remains committed to fair labour practices, workplace safety, and professional development.

"We encourage organised labour and all employees to utilise the Local Labour Forum (LLF) for raising and resolving workplace-related matters. Regarding the request for a joint stakeholders’ forum, the municipality has not received a formal proposal to this effect. Nonetheless, we remain open to dialogue and engagement, provided proper protocols are followed," he stated.

Makua conclude by saying that the municipality values the contribution of all its employees and are committed to fostering a safe, fair, and productive working environment.

Court application dismissed, DUP vows to appeal

SEKHUKHUNE

The North Gauteng High Court has on Thursday 16 October 2025, dismissed the Democratic Union Party's (DUP) application to declare the 2024 National and Provincial elections unconstitutional.

The party had cited concerns regarding the constitutionality of the Electoral Act and the perceived irregularities surrounding the electoral process.

Before falling under ActionSA political organization's Green Umrella in a merger that occurred in September 2025, DUP boycotted the 2024 general elections, citing the unconstitutionality of the Electoral Act.

The party argued that the Act failed to provide adequate mechanisms for ensuring accountability, responsiveness, and openness by public representatives to voters.

Additionally, the Act does not provide procedures for voters to cancel the contractual relationship with elected public representatives through recall.

The DUP requested the court to allow South Africans to elect the President and Premiers directly through a separate ballot box.

The party asked the court to order the legislature to set limits on the size of the cabinet as part of its oversight exercise over the executive.

During the proceedings, Acting Judge De Vos dismissed the application, citing concerns that the relief sought by the DUP was too abstract and not based on specific facts.

The judge questioned why political parties were not cited as respondents, to which the DUP's legal representative explained that it would be impractical to do so given the widespread nature of political parties across the country.

Tonic Manchidi, former DUP President and current ActionSA Limpopo Provincial Treasurer deployed in Sekhukhune, indicated his intention to appeal the judgment.

"We believe that the orders we sought are in line with the Constitution and necessary to ensure accountability and responsiveness in public representation," Manchidi said.

Manchidi stressed that DUP's application challenged various aspects of the Electoral Act, including the constituency-based electoral system, the right to recall elected representatives, and the IEC's failure to conduct adequate voter education.

"We believe that the orders we sought are in line with the Constitution and necessary for the country. The Constitution of the country is based on the values of human dignity, equality, and freedom, which are currently missing in South African public life," he said.

Affiliation issues halts Sekhukhune Regional Football League kick-off

SAFA Sekhukhune has delayed the resumption of the Hollywoodbets Sekhukhune Regional Football League due to lack of affiliation from participating football teams.

Mayor officially hands-over Maepa Access road project

MAEPA

Gone are the days when Maepa residents will travel on dusty and undriveable roads  in the village.

The community led by the traditional authority representatives and the local councilor  were the recipients of the 4.5 kilometres Maepa Access road  on Wednesday February 11.

 Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality’s mayor Eddie Maila officially handed the road project to more than 200 delighted community members.

Handing over the completed project, Maila thanked the community of Maepa for their support during the erecting of the road.

"We are gathered here today to officially hand over the Maepa road project to the community. This is an honour and privilege for this council to fulfil the promise made to change the lives of our communities. The community of Maepa has been starved off service delivery for many years and here we are today to hand over this well constructed road project," said the mayor.

He thanked the community leaders and the tribal council for working with government to make this project a success. 

"We are also happy that during the implementation of the project, many people benefitted in terms of employment and business opportunities. This project is going to change the lives of many people in different ways. The face of this village has completely changed as access has been improved and even the travel distance from the main road into the village. Many economic activities will take place due to accessibility and turn around time. ."

Maila made an appeal for the community to take care of this project and increase its lifespan. "We must desist from damaging infrastructure when we are confronted by challenges. The doors of the Office of the Mayor are always opened for any engagement at any given time. We cannot afford to damage our legacy, but our main objective is to guard against any vandalism especially on infrastructural projects."

He commended the Maepa people for playing an important role in ensuring that the project is not delayed during the implementation. He said this has assisted the FTLM to spend 100% on both MIG and INEP projects.

Representing the communities, resident, Paulinah Coetzer, thanked the FTLM for  promising them a road, and delivering on their promise.

“As a community, we are excited about this milestone, we will easily manoeuvre around the village. We are also satisfied with the quality of the road made by the contractor.

“We are relieved that FTLM has finally heeded our pleas for  a proper road. ”

The Maepa road project started on 2 September 2024, it  was erected by Tseamiso Trading Contractor.

The contractor thanked the community for supporting them in orchestrating the successful project.  

Bothashoek’s Illegal water connections a major safety concern

BOTHASHOEK

Some residents in Bothashoek, Ward 20 of the Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality are still struggling to access clean water.

 According to residents, illegal water connections in the area have left many villages with dry taps.

Residents have been without running water for quite some time now because of these actions. Not only is illegal connections depriving residents of water, they also pose danger to communities, especially children.

One of the affected residents, explained that the problems started when locals and business people connected to the main pipeline on the Bothashoek road, which links to the R37.

"Illegal connections were made, but because the Sekhukhune District Municipality is failing to provide clean water to the residents, none of the municipal workers intervened, they folded their arms and ignored these illegal deeds," alleged one of the residents in Mahubahuba.


Another local resident complained that the illegal connections leads to water spillage all over the ground because pipes were inserted illegally and directed to people’s households.

“We are all deeply affected by this, because when people start taking matters into their own hands, they ruin the water infrastructure. We need the SDM to take accountability and ensure they bring water to the people” added the community members.

On 18 November 2025, this publication forwarded queries to the spokesperson for the SDM, Lemson Moropjane, part of the questions included reasons for the shortage of water in Bothashoek, as well as the SDM's failure to intervene in the illegal connections.

Unfortunately, the SDM was yet to respond on these matters, the Sekhukhune Times will run a follow-up when they respond.

Elandskraal Sports Facility in shambles

ELANDSKRAAL

The Elandskraal Sports Facility in Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality (EPMLM), is on the brink of collapse.

Despite millions of rands being spent on the multipurpose sports centre, the facility is plagued by lack of maintenance and repairs, leaving it in a state of despair.

The neglect has sparked fears that the facility will end up being a “White Elephant”, a symbol of poor planning and bad service delivery.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in EPMLM has raised concerns about the state of the sporting facility.

DA Councillor in the municipality, Flip Jacobs, has been vocal about the municipality's failure to maintain the facility, citing poor planning and bad service delivery as the main contributors to its neglect.

"Our residents deserve better services," Jacobs emphasized, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in municipal governance.

Jacobs indicated that it is more concerning that the Elandskraal Sports Facility, which was intended to be a hub for sports and community activities, is now at risk of becoming a rundown and potentially being repurposed as an animal shelter.

A resident, Khutso Malatji, said they are worried that lack of maintenance and repairs has resulted in the facility's deterioration, making it difficult for athletes and community members to use.

“The facility's state is a far cry from its intended purpose, and its neglect has significant implications for the community,” he said.

Malatji indicated that they are concerned that millions of rands spent on the facility have yielded little return, with the facility's condition worsening over time.

“The lack of maintenance and repairs has resulted in a significant waste of public funds, and the community is left to suffer the consequences. The municipality's failure to prioritize maintenance and repairs has led to a situation where the facility's future is uncertain,” he said.

Malatji reiterated that the community is fed up and will embark in a call to action for the municipality to prioritize maintenance and repairs of the facility.

“The community deserves better services, and it is the municipality's responsibility to ensure that public facilities are well-maintained and functional. The fate of the Elandskraal Sports Facility hangs in the balance, and we want the municipality to commit and take the necessary steps to restore the facility to its intended glory,” he said.

At the time of going to press, EPMLM Spokesperson, Life Nape, could not respond to enquiries sent by the paper.

EFF members attacked during Makhuduthamag Municipality Council Sitting

JANE FURSE

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Limpopo say they strongly condemn actions of Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality (MLM), after the party’s councillor suffered a hand fracture, and about ten other EFF councillors pepper-sprayed by the bouncers during a council sitting convened at the municipality offices in Jane Furse on Wednesday 30 July 2025.

According to the party, the tension started when EFF councillors were questioning the municipality's political authorities about pertinent matters that were deferred to the next meeting but never scheduled on the agenda.

The party alleges that during the questioning, the municipality unleashed bouncers on EFF councillors for holding them accountable as part of their constitutional mandate.

The municipality's alleged behaviour was described as "thuggish" and "abuse of power" by the EFF.

EFF Provincial Chairperson in Limpopo, Lawrence Mapoulo, said part of the party’s questioning during the meeting, was the alarming issues of infrastructure projects that would be discussed in committee but committee members are not allowed to conduct oversight.

The EFF also alleged that the municipality is favouring ANC-aligned individuals and relatives in the issuance of permits for taxi operators.

"Only taxis owned by the ANC-aligned persons are allowed to operate within and around Jane Furse," Mapoulo stated.

Recently, a dispute ensued between the Mashadi Local Taxi Association and the MLM over operating permits. The municipality has allegedly denied permits to the Mashadi Local Taxi Association unless they join the Jane Furse 6+1 Mini Taxi Association.

The association's chairman, Christopher Makua, has expressed concerns about the impact on their livelihoods, stating that they will not join the Jane Furse 6+1 Mini Taxi Association due to the expensive joining fee of R15,000.

The EFF has expressed support for the Mashadi Local Taxi Association, citing their constitutional right to choose their own association.

Mapoulo furthered called on the municipality to give the Mashadi Local Taxi Association a permit and not only give permits to their friends in the ANC.

“We condemn the coward municipality for refusing to be held accountable. People of Makhuduthamaga deserve better and they need services as in yesterday,” he said.

Mapoulo said the party also demanded that MLM Mayor, Cllr Merah Mahlase, be held accountable for her actions and that the municipality stops abusing its power.

At the time of going to press, MLM Spokesperson, Thomas Mashabela, could not respond to enquiries sent by the publication.

ANC Sekhukhune hands over new church

MAKHUTJO

The African National Congress (ANC) in Sekhukhune Region, leaded by Regional Secretary Tala Mathope and PEC Convenor of Deployees Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, officially handed over a new church to the congregation of New Jerusalem Church at Makhutjo Village in Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality (MLM) Ward 31.

The new church building initiative is a result of the ANC's intervention in response to the congregation's struggles to build a proper structure.

In 2024, the ANC visited the church and discovered that services were being conducted under a tree.

During that time, the ANC promised to intervene and build a proper structure, and true to their word, they have delivered a beautiful new church building.

The newly handed over church building includes an office and storage space, proper toilets for both males and females, a fence and gate, paved yard, and electricity installation.

During the hand over, the political party also donated 200 chairs to the congregation. Addressing the hand over, Mathope highlighted the importance of making a difference and touching lives.

"We are proud to have been able to make a positive impact on the lives of the congregation and the community. We believe that everyone deserves a safe and comfortable place to worship, and we are happy to have been able to provide that for the New Jerusalem Church congregation," he said.

The congregation and church leadership appreciated the ANC's work and vowed to take care of the infrastructure and continue praying for the people.

"We are grateful for the ANC's intervention and promise to take good care of the new church building," said a member of the congregation.