THABONG LIVES, BREATHES AND PRODUCES FOOTBALL LEGENDS!
SAY NO TO DRUGS, WE CYCLE TO STOP THE ROT!
TETO HIGH SCHOOL CLAIMS GLORY!
EMPOWERING GBV SURVIVORS ON 16-DAYS OF ACTIVIST AGAINST ABUSE!
SATISFIED CLIENTS: YOU SPEAK
OUR GO TO MEN ON THE GROUND
DISKI99 SUCCESS ALL HAIL TO YOU!
Diski99 is more than just a football event.
Our annual school’s sport tournament, which looks into soccer and netball, was a monster success this year at Thabong’s Zuka Baloyi Stadium.
We, as Net Nine Nine, need more of such development tournaments that keep kids out of crime infested streets and into the sport fields.
It was an amazing scenery at the Zuka Baloyi Stadium on the weekend of 29 November 2025, with all learners excited about the day, and the prizes we had on offer.
We see it as an investment in the future of our young people.
At Net Nine Nine, we believe that access to opportunities, whether digital or sporting, open doors to brighter futures.
My heart was filled with warmth and happiness seeing learners perform at this level, and it reaffirmed why partnerships like this matter.
Sport remains a powerful tool for discipline, unity and development, and this is what we’re drilling into the minds of our children.
The Diski99 Tournament embodies these values, and we are proud.
Once again, congratulations to all the teams, more especially those that pushed to the final and ultimately won it.
But overall, we believe that everyone was a winner on the day.
By just being there made a huge difference.
Spending the entire day at the Thabong stadium and seeing the energy and youthful talent, as the Diski99 tournament returned for its latest edition, I was inspired.
At the end, our Net Nine Nine team worked tirelessly to ensure that the event was a success.
They all deserve a pat on the back!
The enthusiasm from learners, educators, officials and community members made one thing clear - Diski99 is shaping the future of school sport, creates pathways, nurture talent and strengthen the foundation for a vibrant, competitive and socially cohesive sporting ecosystem.
Dr Nicholas Thipe
Dr Nicholas Thipe
TETO HIGH SCHOOL CLAIMS GLORY!
A launchpad for the 2026 school sport calendar!
The Zuka Baloyi Stadium in Thabong, Welkom, was alive with energy and youthful talent as the Diski99 Tournament returned for its latest edition, a product of fibre internet network company Net Nine Nine (Net99).
The tournament once again proved its value as a flagship platform for school sports excellence while setting a powerful tone for the province’s 2026 school sport calendar.
More than just a competition, the Diski99 Tournament is a development-driven initiative designed to empower learners, encourage healthy lifestyles and ignite dreams of sporting success.
With the support of provincial government and a committed corporate partner in Net Nine Nine, the event has quickly become a cornerstone of grassroots football development in the Free State.
This year’s edition saw competitive and disciplined displays from 16 participating schools, showcasing the immense talent that continues to emerge from township communities.
The atmosphere at Zuka Baloyi Stadium reflected not only competitive spirit, but also the shared vision of uplifting young people through sport.
After a day of intense fixtures, Teto High School rose above the competition to claim top honours in the football category.
Their consistent teamwork, skill and composure throughout the tournament earned them the coveted R3 000 cheque, a reward that symbolises both their athletic excellence and commitment to discipline.
Lephola High School, despite their promising run and strong semifinal appearance, narrowly missed out on a podium finish but were celebrated for their determination and impressive display of talent.
Leseding Secondary School fought their way to a respectable third-place finish, securing the bronze position after a spirited playoff performance.
Net Nine Nine has been a critical driver of the Diski99 tournament’s growth and impact. Beyond providing high-speed internet infrastructure in communities, the company continues to invest in youth development and education, ensuring that its contribution extends far beyond connectivity.
Net99 Group CEO Albert Oosthuysen, COO Andrew Cohoe, Chief of Staff Nicholas Thipe, Customer Experience Executive Michelle Yunnie, Head of HR Dricus Bosman, Head of Marketing Richard Genlloud, Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreationn Chief Directors, respectively - Vincent Khetha and Kutlwano Tlhakudi - were some of the dignitaries that graced the occasion.
As the tournament concluded, the enthusiasm from learners, educators, officials and community members made one thing clear - Diski99 is shaping the future of school sport.
It is creating pathways, nurturing talent and strengthening the foundation for a vibrant, competitive and socially cohesive sporting ecosystem.
With 2026 on the horizon, the province can look forward to an even more impactful school sport programme, one grounded in partnerships, purpose and the power of youth.
TETO HIGH AND THABONG PRIMARY GRAB 2025 DISKI99 HONOURS!
Last 8 SOCCER
RESULTS:
Teto High School (6) 1-1 (5) ThutaGauta
Lebogang 0-2 Leseding
Lephola High School 1-0 Nanabolela Secondary School
Letsete Senior Secondary School (3) 0-0 (5) ThutaGauta High School (Best losers)
Net99 Masters 0-4 Reitz Park Masters
SEMI-FINALS
Teto High School 1-0 Leseding High School
Lephola High School (4) 0-0 (3) ThutaGauta High School
THABONG LIVES, BREATHES AND PRODUCES FOOTBALL LEGENDS!
Thabong, a vibrant township in Welkom in the Free State, stands proudly as one of South Africa’s richest breeding grounds for football talent, and the 2025 Diski99 Cup revived those memories.
Long before stadium lights and television cameras highlighted its contributions, Thabong was already shaping young boys into future football heroes, and today those efforts are bearing fruit.
On 29 November 2025, that legacy was on full display as emerging stars lit up the Zuka Baloyi Stadium during a community tournament that brought back memories of the township’s golden football past.
Football is not just a sport in Thabong, it is culture, identity and a shared heartbeat passed down through generations.
The streets, schools, open fields and even informal dusty pitches have produced remarkable talents who rose to national prominence, and many youths are encouraged by their stories.
The township’s football tapestry is woven with stories of resilience, opportunity and raw passion that continue to inspire today’s youth.
One of the township’s celebrated sons is Charles Motlohi, a former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder known for his discipline and artistry in the centre of the park.
Motlohi remains a symbol of possibility for many young boys in the community.
His journey from Thabong’s dusty fields to the professional stage is a powerful reminder that talent thrives wherever passion is nurtured, an objective that inspired Net Nine Nine to take the Diski99 to the township known for its happiness.
Motlohi played a quiet yet impactful role in shaping football culture in the Free State, inspiring young players to dream beyond their circumstances.
Not far from Zuka Baloyi Stadium stands the family home of another Thabong-born football stalwart, Edward Dlamini, the former Orlando Pirates defender.
For many residents, Dlamini’s story is deeply personal: a local boy who made it to the elite ranks of South African football.
His parents’ house, standing right beside the stadium, is an everyday reminder to young players that greatness can literally come from the neighbourhood. Dlamini’s defensive strength and leadership on the field earned him respect nationwide, but his roots remain firmly planted in Thabong’s proud football soil.
A short distance away, opposite Lephola Secondary School, resides another household tied to one of South Africa’s iconic football voices: the family home of Baba Mthethwa.
Known across the country for his charismatic presence on SuperSport TV and his unmistakable catchphrase “Hothaata Banna!” – a spirited call meaning “It’s heating up, guys!” – Mthethwa’s influence reaches far beyond commentary.
As a businessman and community motivator, he embodies the spirit of Thabong: lively, passionate and unapologetically authentic.
HOME TO CHARLES MOTLOHI, BABA MTHETHWA, SIZWE MABENA AND EDDIE DLAMINI
His success in sports media continues to inspire young dreamers who see football careers beyond the pitch.
Across the main road, in the serene neighbourhood of Oppenheimer Park, lies the home of yet another distinguished son of Thabong – Sizwe Mabena, a respected SABC TV and radio soccer commentator.
Mabena’s powerful voice and insightful analysis have guided fans through countless matches on national platforms.
His rise from the township’s football-loving environment to becoming a trusted voice in South African sports journalism reinforces the depth of talent Thabong has contributed to the nation.
These figures – Motlohi, Dlamini, Mthethwa and Mabena –represent only a part of Thabong’s football legacy.
What unites them is not just their success, but their roots in the same streets, schools and community grounds that continue to nurture new talent.
Their journeys tell a powerful story: that Thabong is not merely producing footballers and commentators, but shaping a football ecosystem that touches every corner of the game.
On 29 November 2025, the Zuka Baloyi Stadium once again became a stage where new dreams were shaped.
Young stars showcased their skills with the same hunger and determination that lifted generations before them.
The cheers echoed not just for goals scored, but for the legacy being continued.
Thabong remains a township where football is not just played but lived.
And as long as its fields continue to welcome young feet, South Africa can be certain that more stars, voices and legends will rise from its vibrant heart.
NET99’S JOB CREATION DRIVE EMPOWERS HEBRON!
The community of Hebron is witnessing a wave of opportunity and empowerment, thanks to Net Nine Nine, South Africa’s leading Internet Service Provider (ISP) committed to bridging the country’s digital divide and creating jobs.
As part of its ongoing mission to expand inclusive digital access, Net99 has invested in the training and development of local youth, equipping them with skills to participate in the company’s upcoming fibre rollout project set to go live before the end of November.
Over two days, 6–7 November 2025, Net Nine Nine conducted intensive training sessions aimed at empowering Hebron’s young people with both technical and sales knowledge. Residents came in their numbers to the Bakwena ba Mogopa Tribal Home.
This initiative was designed not only to prepare them for employment but also to position them as active participants in the town’s growing digital economy.
“Our goal has always been to create opportunities where we operate,” said Net Nine Nine Regional Manager, Ronny Mofokeng. “We don’t just bring fibre; we bring empowerment, jobs, and upskill SMMEs. By training and hiring from the community, we ensure that Hebron grows with us.”
The training programme, conducted by Minky Msimango, Thapelo Masilo, Thobani Dlamini and Siya Gumede, focused on areas such as customer engagement, fibre network awareness and digital literacy, laying a strong foundation for the new recruits to thrive in their roles.
“With the sales team now identified and ready to hit the ground running, Hebron is abuzz with anticipation for what this project will mean for its residents,” said Hebron King, Loth Fancy Masilo.
Local leaders have applauded the initiative, describing it as a turning point for the youth who have long faced challenges with unemployment and limited access to technology.
The introduction of fast and reliable fibre internet is expected to transform homes, schools and small businesses, enabling the community to connect, learn and grow like never before.
For many in Hebron, the Net Nine Nine project represents more than just connectivity; it symbolises hope, empowerment and progress.
As the fibre rollout nears its go-live date, the community stands ready to embrace a new digital era, driven by its own young people who now have both the skills and the opportunity to shape their future.
“It’s all systems go,” added Mofokeng. “Our team is ready, our network is almost ready, and Hebron is ready for the future.”
With November fast approaching, the countdown to Hebron’s digital transformation has officially begun, and its young people are
SAKHILE KWANHLANGA’S NEW ERA OF CONNECTIVITY!
Two vibrant communities in Mpumalanga, Sakhile and KwaMhlanga, have stepped boldly into the digital age after receiving long-awaited high-speed internet connectivity from ISP Net Nine Nine.
The rollout, completed a week apart, marks a significant milestone in expanding digital access to previously underserved areas and empowering residents through reliable, modern infrastructure.
In Sakhile, excitement filled the air as community members gathered in large numbers to witness the official switch-on of Net Nine Nine’s fibre network, opening a world of opportunities for the youth and a haven for entrepreneurs.
Parents, business owners, learners and local leaders all celebrated this new chapter, acknowledging that digital connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
The live activation signalled hope for improved communication, stronger local enterprises, enhanced learning opportunities and greater access to essential online services.
In KwaMhlanga, often referred to as the cultural heart and proud mecca of the Ndebele nation, the development was welcomed with warmth and gratitude.
Community elders, youth groups and households expressed their appreciation for the meaningful change that internet access will bring to everyday life.
For many, it represents a bridge between tradition and modernity, a chance for the community to
preserve its rich heritage while thriving in a rapidly digitalising world.
Net Nine Nine’s expansion into both Sakhile and KwaMhlanga forms part of its commitment to closing the digital divide and ensuring that even the most remote communities are not left behind.
By deploying network cables across Mpumalanga, the ISP is contributing to economic participation, educational upliftment and the long-term empowerment of thousands of residents.
As the newly connected households begin experiencing faster, more stable internet, the spirit of progress is already noticeable. From small businesses exploring e-commerce to learners accessing online learning materials, the benefits of connectivity are beginning to ripple through these communities.
For Sakhile and KwaMhlanga, the arrival of Net Nine Nine is more than a technological upgrade; it is the beginning of a future where opportunities are within reach and where digital inclusion fuels growth, pride and possibility.
NETWORK GROWTH
EMPOWERING GBV SURVIVORS ON
16-DAYS OF ACTIVIST AGAINST ABUSE!
Net Nine Nine has taken a bold step in supporting victims of gender-based violence (GBV) in Hammanskraal by donating eight sewing machines to the Great North Business Incubator (GNBI), an organisation dedicated to uplifting women who have survived abuse.
The donation forms part of Net Nine Nine’s commitment to driving social change and empowering women to reclaim their independence through entrepreneurship.
Through GNBI, 20 GBV survivors will undergo sewing and business training designed to equip them with the skills needed to build sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative aims to help these women break free from financial dependence on abusive partners and inspire them to become future designers and business owners.
Joseph Makuvava, founder of the Great North Business Incubator, praised the partnership and highlighted its life-changing potential.
“We want these women to start their own businesses and grow into successful designers. This is the first batch of women, and we expect to assist many more. This programme is about restoring dignity, building confidence and giving
them the tools to take control of their future,” he said.
The timing of the partnership is especially symbolic, as Net Nine Nine and GNBI formalised their collaboration on the first day of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, which runs until 10 December 2025.
For Net Nine Nine, this was not a coincidence but a deliberate stand to show solidarity with survivors and align with a global campaign advocating for safety, justice and empowerment.
Dipolelo Mashaba from Ramotse shared her story with the group of women who filled the boardroom, expressing how these sewing machines will assist her.
“My dream was always to be a fashion designer. Unfortunately, my family didn’t understand my desire at the time, but now such an opportunity has presented itself again. Thanks to Net99 for reviving my dream, and this is another shot at enhancing my career,” she said.
DONATED SEWING MACHINES TO ASSIST HAMMANSKRAAL!
This year’s campaign comes just days before Africa hosts its historic G20 Summit at Nasrec in Johannesburg.
Ahead of the summit, GBV activists marched to the venue to express frustration about the escalating rates of violence in the country, calling on government to declare GBV a national disaster.
Their messages underscored the urgency for stronger interventions, corporate support and community-based empowerment projects such as Net Nine Nine’s initiative.
Net Nine Nine’s contribution demonstrates the company’s growing role as a socially conscious technology provider committed to transforming communities beyond connectivity.
By investing in women’s skills development and entrepreneurship, the company is helping to break cycles of dependency and create pathways to economic freedom.
For the 20 women beginning their training, the sewing machines represent far more than equipment; they symbolise hope, opportunity and a fresh start.
SAY NO TO DRUGS, WE CYCLE TO STOP THE ROT!
The community of Ga-Rankuwa jumped onto their bicycles on 1 November 2025, as tens of residents –young and old – took to the streets for a ride aimed at raising awareness and promoting a drug-free lifestyle.
The initiative, themed “Road Safety and Substance Awareness Ride”, was hailed as a major success by both participants and local leaders. Event organiser Victor Phiri, who leads the Ga-Rankuwa Against Drugs and Substance Abuse Cycling Club, was equally elated.
Organised in collaboration with community-based organisations, schools and local fitness clubs, the event sought to unite the people of Ga-Rankuwa in the fight against drug abuse, which continues to affect many South African communities.
Ga-Rankuwa is synonymous with drug and substance abuse, and unfortunately there isn’t much that politicians and civic organisations are doing to help curb the rot. But Net Nine Nine has been rallying behind this drive for over four years, and it helps one resident at a time.
Participants gathered early in the morning, filling the streets with energy and optimism as they cycled through designated routes around the township.
What made the event remarkable was its inclusivity. From energetic youth groups to elderly residents determined to lead by example, everyone played their part, with those without bicycles opting to run or walk.
For many, the ride was not just a sporting activity but a strong statement of solidarity against the scourge of substance abuse.
“My experience in this field has shown me that sport, especially cycling, can be a powerful tool to bring people together and promote positive living,” said Phiri, who also completed the 32 km route.
“By involving both the youth and the elderly, as well as road running, we’re sending a clear message that the fight against drugs is everyone’s responsibility.”
Community members cheered from the sidelines, while local businesses provided refreshments. Prizes for the top cyclists came from Net Nine Nine.
The initiative has been applauded as a model for other communities to emulate.
It emphasised that drug abuse not only destroys lives but also weakens families and communities, especially in the sleepy township of Ga-Rankuwa.
Events like this, Phiri noted, provide a platform to rebuild hope and promote healthy, active lifestyles.
As the cyclists crossed the finish line, there was a shared sense of pride and unity.
The Ga-Rankuwa cycling club proved that when a community stands together, across generations, positive change becomes possible.
GLOBAL COMMITMENT
TO ACCELERATING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION!
Delivering remarks at the opening of the Africa Tech Festival 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, reaffirmed the nation’s strong commitment to advancing an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation agenda.
According to him, this commitment aligns with global development priorities and the principles echoed at major multilateral forums such as the G20.
Gungubele emphasised that digital progress must serve as a catalyst for social inclusion, innovation and shared economic growth.
“Digital technologies must become the great equaliser,” he said. “Communities in cities, townships and rural areas alike must have access to fast, reliable and affordable digital services.”
This is an area that Net Nine Nine has been tapping into, as lives have been changed in areas across the country where we have rolled out our infrastructure.
He outlined South Africa’s core commitments to accelerating the digital economy, noting that these priorities mirror global calls for resilient, futureready digital ecosystems.
These include:
• Expanding broadband networks and speeding up nationwide 4G and 5G rollout.
• Increasing accessibility to smart devices for households, schools and enterprises.
• Scaling digital skills development for youth, workers and small business owners.
• Strengthening cybersecurity and safeguarding the nation’s data.
• Digitising public services.
He emphasised that South Africa continues to collaborate with industry leaders, public institutions and international partners to ensure that digital innovation contributes to employment creation, economic competitiveness and more efficient public service delivery.
“South Africa must be a place where innovators prosper, where emerging enterprises grow, and where technology reduces barriers, cutting costs, shortening queues and bringing essential services closer to every citizen,” he said.
Addressing delegates from across Africa and the global digital community, he reiterated that meaningful digital transformation requires coordinated action.
“Connectivity, skills development and innovation cannot advance in isolation,” he concluded. “We share a collective duty, nationally and globally, to ensure that no citizen is left behind in the digital economy.”
Satisfied Clients
Matsela L
Thank you Kananelo for your assist, my service is back up and can enjoy my internet again. Please make sure the same issue doe not happen again
Nobuhle N
The lady who assisted me, Nqobile, she was friendly and made sure that I’m happy with the results of what she was helping me with
Sylvia M
My name is Sylvia Motene from Sunrise View Rustenburg. I was assisted by this gentleman by the name of Mathibela Molefe. He was so helpful and he told me alot about Fibre. I am a very happy net99 client
Dalton C
Great service I received from the Net nine nine team. My issue was resolved timeously and the Puleng and Thando kept me in the loop throughout the process with regular updates and exceptional customer service t. Thank you team, please keep up the good work. Amazing job giys. are doing
Ndumiso N
I just got assisted by Mpho Martiens from Netnine nine and i am so grateful for her assistance, she was so calm and helpful thoughout the process great communication skills and sweet
I just got assisted by Mpho Martiens from Netnine nine and i am so grateful for her assistance, she was so calm and helpful thoughout the process great communication skills and sweet. Highly recommended keep up my Sister the great service.
OUR GO TO MEN ON THE GROUND
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