Whereaboutsunknown
TEBOHO SETENA
Their disappearances remain unexplainable. Despite this, police investigations persist and all possible leads are being followed with the hope to find them alive
This frantic search is for the kidnapped Kamogelo Baukudi (19), a learner of the Martie du Plessis Special School in Bloemfontein, and Lerato Masiu (23) and Lesego Mamello Motaung (22), two women who were reported missing in Bloemfontein late in 2023
The police have their hands full in trying to piece this puzzle together by locating them and arresting perpetrators involved In addition, no reward has been offered for information that could lead to the victims’ whereabouts thus far
A clarion call has been made to the public to assist with reliable information that could help solve these cases
Kamogelo was kidnapped on Thursday, 5 June, at approximately 11:55, after the vehicle he had been travelling in was stopped by two men who allegedly presented themselves as police officers, and accused Kamogelo and his driver of transporting drugs
The unknown men then took Kamogelo into their vehicle – he has not been seen since
Thus far, the police have discovered the cellphones of both Kamogelo and his driver, Daniel Malebatso According to the police, these items were found disposed of under the bridge in Ferreira Road
In a statement issued on Monday, 16 June, Kamogelo Mogotsi, spokesperson for the Department of Police, said that reinforcements to the established multi-disciplinary investigative team comprises, amongst others, detectives, members of the Crime Intelligence and Visible Policing unit, a hostage negotiator, along with the assistance of private security
“The team has followed up on various leads, and has spoken to family members and friends
It has also engaged with their sources in an attempt to find the missing teen,” said Mogotsi
A police officer (42), suspected of being involved in the kidnapping, is set to reappear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on 24 June, following appearances on 9 and 13 June,
respectively
He faces charges of kidnapping and extortion
Initially, a case of kidnapping and impersonating a police officer was opened at Bloemfontein’s Park Road Police Station on the day of the reported kidnapping
It was reported that Kamogelo had allegedly been taken by two unknown men, one wearing a police uniform and the other a blue tracksuit
Brig Motantsi Makhele, spokesperson for the provincial police, indicated critical information possibly linking the 42-year-old officer and the ongoing probing regarding the kidnapped Kamogelo is sub judice
■ Impersonation of the police also played an active role in the disappearance of Masiu
The police reported that information received
from Masiu’s parent claimed that before her disappearance, she had come home with an unknown African male who claimed he was a police officer investigating an incident on Facebook, involving Masiu
She never returned home after leaving with the purported police officer on 16 November 2023, at about 12:30, raising suspicions of human trafficking
In the case of Motaung’s disappearance, there were conflicting reports
The police said that according to information received from her aunt, she (Motaung) had left her home in Uitsig, saying she was going to work at a foodchain restaurant in Zastron Street, Westdene
However, one of Motaung’s colleagues alleged that she had reported being sick with ulcers
Anyone with information regarding Kamogelo’s whereabout is urged to contact the following investitive officers: Lt Col Kelaotswe Lebodi on 082 527 6348, Lt Col David Ramasoala on 082 527 7390, or Capt Sabata Jafta Moseme on 082 526 2713 Alternatively, they can drop an anonymous tip on the MySAPS App or call the police’s Crime Stop number: 08600 10111
Lerato Masiu
Lesego Mamello
State of routes can result in great loss
MARTI WILL AND MADLI GROBBELAAR
The Free State Department of Roads has acknowledged in a submission to the Infrastructure Portfolio Committee that a respective R30 billion and R15 billion will be needed to repair the tarred and gravel roads in the province
This is equivalent to the total budget of the Free State government for the new financial year
Armand Cloete, FF Plus member of the provincial legislature (MPL), said the FF Plus revealed in April 2023 that the province would have to fork out R28 billion at that stage to fully repair tarred roads in the Free State
In 2025, the largest part of the provincial budget has been allocated to social departments such as health and education for years, while road infrastructure has been lagging behind Cloete said the province has handed over 18 roads to the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) for repair work
This department has also indicated that processes are currently being followed to obtain national disaster management funds for flood-affected roads in the province
Jafta Mokoena, DA spokesperson for Roads and Transport in the provincial legislature, said after the state of the province address (Sopa) in February, he strongly disagrees with Premier Mcqueen Letsoha-Mathae’s claims about road infrastructure and the investment of R1,9 billion in construction projects
He says despite this substantial sum, the Free State’s roads continue to deteriorate, leaving citizens to navigate unsafe and poorly maintained infrastructure
There have been numerous complaints from residents and local businesses regarding the condition of the Clocolan-Marquard road and the impact it has on the community
According to the Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport, construction on the Clocolan-Marquard road was scheduled to commence on 1 June On 9 June, during an oversight visit by DA councillor Jose Coetzee, the Setsoto Municipality, along with members of the legislature, Dulandi Leech and Jafta Mokoena, found that no construction had commenced
The site office was closed, no workers were present, and there was a concerning absence of construction equipment and materials While no official explanation has been provided, it has come to the DA’s attention that several other infrastructure projects across the Free State appear to be experiencing similar delays, possibly due to financial constraints
“However, this has not been con-
firmed, and the DA will continue to thoroughly investigate the matter,” says Coetzee
The R76 road between Kroonstad and Steynsrus has been in a very bad condition for some time and repairs have begun on the road DA councillor Spaski Geldenhuis of Kroonstad points out that the R76 is not the only road in the area that requires urgent attention
The routes connecting Kroonstad to nearby towns like Koppies, Edenville, Vredefort, and the old Lindley road are also in a state of disrepair, making every trip a nerve-racking experience “These roads are a challenge for motorists and desperately need repairing It is not just about convenience it is about ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members who rely on these roads daily,” he says In the town of Hennenman, which falls into the Lejweleputswa District, extreme road conditions are affecting major industry A petition with more than a million signatures from ward 3 in this beleaguered municipality have highlighted the dire conditions Maxie Badenhorst, DA councillor for the ward, says despite years of formal submissions, complaints and photographic evidence from the DA, the municipality has failed to act
The Dr van der Bijl Road, a critical route to major employers Tiger Milling and Senwes, has become inaccessible Although R5 million was allocated in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality Integrated Development Plan (IDP), since 2021, no work has been done
Heavy-duty trucks are rerouted through residential and business areas, damaging roads and endangering residents In Phomolong, roads near the clinic are so damaged that emergency services struggle to access the area Ongoing sewage spillages are further destroying roads, creating inhumane living conditions
The DA demands repairs to Dr van der Bijl Road and the broader ward 3 road network Tiger Milling has already flagged production losses and cost increases due to failing roads Without urgent action, Hennenman risks losing a major employer FF Plus councilor Irma Heyns from Senekal says the road between Senekal via Rosendal and Ficksburg –known as the R70 – is closed The road is half-completed and the deadline for the R70 to be completed was last year November According to Heyns, the Marquard-Clocolan road known as the R708 is also in a state of disrepair and very dangerous for motorists “Trucks using the R708 are worsening the state of the road; it takes almost an hour to drive only 30km on that road Cars have to pull over if a truck comes from the front”
XUAL PREDATION AWAITS BAIL RELEASE
choice She said the man faced multiple charges of sexual exploitation, sexual grooming, facilitating the creation of child pornography recruiting a child with financial or other rewards for the purpose of creating pornography, and using a child for the purpose of benefiting from pornography These charges pertain to two teenage boys, aged 15 and 16 years
The suspect was arrested in the Western Cape in May, and first appeared in the Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court regarding the matter The Free State Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) unit traced and arrested the man for his alleged involvement with minors in Dewetsdorp Following his appearance, the case was
transferred to the Free State
His arrest follows a complaint lodged in February 2025 by a clinical psychologist at a school in Dewetsdorp Earle said the investigation was ongoing
■ The sexual exploitation of children through online platforms has been identified as a significant problem in South Africa
In 2023 the Free State High Court sentenced Mario Guisti (36) to 8 400 years’ direct imprisonment for sexual offences involving children He was found guilty on 1 010 charges for the rape of two minors boys, one charge of human trafficking, and 1 007 charges of the possession, creation and distribution of child pornography
Library wheel
The 1 000 beneficiaries of AVBOB Road to Literacy c have been announced
This project, in collabor with Oxford University Pr Africa, is a nationwide tro initiative
It continues to improve books in communities ac Africa, with a focus on sch non-profit organisations ( The announcement abo beneficiaries was made at hosted in Sandton, Johan
29 May
The project addresses t challenges of low literacy meracy levels at foundatio providing culturally and l relevant materials in all 11 written languages
This year ’ s campaign re stantial growth from the 1 trolleys distributed in its i year, 2022
Each of the 1 000 mobil includes 500 books from O University Press SA, selec port literacy and numerac alignment with the Curric Assessment Policy Statem curriculum
The total number of bo uted this year will exceed from 250 000 in 2024
Each library is valued a bringing the total investm 2025 campaign to R57 mi The trolleys are designe
FOCUS ON: EC
Hair therap
The product to solve a ran hair-related issues includ itchy scalp is now at you Intended for men and w More Knocking has been
HIKES SET
While the Mangaung Metro Municipality’s (MMM) service delivery remains a concern, the municipality’s hikes for basic services, property rates, water and sanitation for the current fiscal term will be implemented on 1 July
These range from 4,4% to 11% as announced by the executive mayor, Gregory Nthatisi, during the budget presentation for the metro on 27 May
Property rates, water, sanitation and refuse collection are core of the metro’s operational budget The municipality’s ability to render these basic services is subject to the challenge of defaulting payments, by residents and business, and government departments
Nthatisi said the municipality has intensified the effort by introducing the Debt Incentive Package that is aimed at encouraging customers to pay for services, and relieve household debt Teboho Setena
oast to excellence
across the Free oured for their a glamorous event iversity of Free Novus Media
nt will take place on ber, at the Monte de Bloemfontein yl, general manager ommunity News nd Northern Cape, hip allows Novus t and celebrate vements while connection between munities netball player it will once again ceremonies and Rethabile Mol radio presenter e University of the Louzanne Coetzee, e medals at the s and was named ar of the Year, will be e speaker ally impaired athlete, al in the T11 category e and a bronze medthon at the 2020 s held in Tokyo She nze medal in the T11, 2024 Paralympic ris ovide a vital ur the remarkable our studentState stars,” says or of KovsieSport,
■ Keep an eye on Novus Media’s community newspapers in the Free State –BloemNuus, BloemExpress, Vista, and VrystaatKroon – for more information about this year ’ s nominations and other details about the 2024 Sports Star of the Year awards event
The evening’s proceedings will begin at 18:00 for 18:30
Tickets cost R480 for a single ticket or R4 800 for a table of ten
Direct enquiries at Ainslee Oosthuyen at 074 120 4450, or send email to ainslee@spottedapple co za
Louzanne Coetzee,who was named the 2024 Sports Star of the Year,will be this year’s keynote speaker. Photos: Supplied
Former Protea netball player Vanes-Mari du Toit will be the master of ceremonies
Rethabile Moshounyane,local radio presenter and student will be the co-host alongside Vanes-Mari du Toit
Payout declared forfeit
TEBOHO SETENA
The wife of a slain Botshabelo teacher
might lose large amounts of money in pension fund benefits, including investments These were initially paid out to her after the brutal murder of Fezile Frederick Mnyobisi on 15 September 2023
In the course of investigations the police have however identified Halimmah
Thamando Mnyobisi (39) as a prime suspect in the murder case
The possibility of her losing all the benefits paid to her comes after the Bloemfontein Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) unit of the Hawks, together with the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU), secured a forfeiture order
This, in turn, followed a preservation order granted by the Free State High Court in February
“A payout of about R3 million was paid into Halimmah’s bank account
She used some of the money to buy assets,” said WO Fikiswa Matoti, provincial spokesperson for the Hawks
She confirmed that Halimmah was the main beneficiary of the deceased’s pension
Halimmah reportedly received a R300 000 pension payout from the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), in addition to a payment of more than R260 000 as part of investments of the deceased teacher
Mnyobisi, who was originally from the Eastern Cape, worked at the Refihlile Primary School in Botshabelo’s
Section C
Police investigations into the murder revealed that the teacher sustained more than 30 stab wounds on the torso
He was attacked at night in a corridor at the Setjhaba se Maketse Combined School in Section H1
Halimmah is implicated as the prime suspect in the murder case, with her three suspected accomplices being Vusumuzi Daniel Nqele (43), Moeketsi Innocent Manko (35) and Abdool Thamando (35)
“The investigation revealed that Halimmah and the three accomplices allegedly orchestrated the murder,” said Matoti
The slain teacher’s spouse was arrested in Sandton, Gauteng, in November last year
At the time of her arrest, she was
reportedly staying with a boyfriend at a luxury unit in Sandton
Halimmah and the three co-accused are set to reappear in the Botshabelo Magistrates’ Court on 7 July
They are facing charges of murder and conspiracy to murder
All the suspects are still remanded in custody
■ In the beginning stages of the investigation into the incident that had claimed Mnyobisi’s life, the Botshabelo police initially opened a case of robbery and murder for further investigation
Halimmah reportedly used a private vehicle to rush Mnyobisi to the Botshabelo Regional Hospital after he had been attacked
The district surgeon declared the victim dead after examining him, together with the police
Grim act of violence met with punishment
TEBOHO SETENA
The Free State police has welcomed the sentencing of Klaas Banyane (45) to 18 years’ direct imprisonment for the savage murder of his lover in June last year. The murder is related to the gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) that is widespread in South Africa
Banyane had doused the victim with petrol and then set her alight She died days later
The sentencing of the murder accused was the culmination of an investigation that was conducted by Sgt Itumeleng Mara, who traced Banyane to Verkeerdevlei
The officer uncovered compelling evidence, which was presented in the court against the culprit
According to Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, provincial spokesperson for the police, it is this that led to successful prosecution during the trial held in the Botshabelo Magistrates’ Court
Banyane, sentenced on 5 June, was found guilty by the court of ruthlessly murdering his lover
“The victim succumbed to burn injuries at the Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein on 24 June,” stated Kareli
He confirmed that the horrific incident had occurred on 17 June at the couple’s residence in Section A, Botshabelo
Kareli said after the victim had died, the initial charge of attempted murder was changed to murder
“Following the incident, Banyane fled the scene after being confronted by community patrollers “The investigating officer, Mara, tirelessly followed up on his whereabouts, leading to his arrest in Verkeerdevlei,” said Kareli
■ In May 2023, a woman was killed in a similar fashion, purportedly by her husband: doused with petrol and set ablaze in Botshabelo
This victim, Dolly Maitumeleng Lebetsa, also died at the Pelonomi Hospital
This was two months after enduring a previous ruthless attack, allegedly carried out by her spouse, Dikgang Lebetsa
The police reported that before Dolly had died, she managed to provide details indicating that the reason for her savage attack was conflict over transport money
The police reported that the husband had allegedly accused the deceased of stealing money he had kept for transport
It is believed that Lebetsa then doused her with petrol and set her alight at their place of residence in Section A, Botshabelo
In pursuit of justice, Motshidisi Koloi, former MEC for Social Development, has taken up the matter with the justice system This effort involves the police and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)
Slain teacher Fezile Frederick Mnyobisi Photos: Supplied The murder accused,Halimmah Thamando Mnyobisi.
Nature helps with healing
TEBOHO SETENA
Eco-friendly gardening benefits for both people and planet are far greater than can be imagined
For this reason, Hospice Bloemfontein has transformed its garden to complement the crucial healthcare it renders to patients
The hospice opened the garden on 3 June, for the relaxation of staff members, patients and families during visits
Dr Dalene van Jaarsveld explained that the initiative to transform the garden was part of resonating with nature, creating a healthy environment essential for promoting good health and providing access to safe and healthy living spaces
She said patrons of the hospice, which include volunteers from the community and funders, contributed to transforming the garden into the living space it is now
This innovative work, which began in 2024, entailed making the garden accessible for wheelchair-bound patients for whenever they so wish to relax in the sun Van Jaarsveld explained the idea of transforming the garden came about due to the importance of nature to
people
“Gardens provide extra hope to people and patients
“Seeing creatures such as butterflies also further enhances attachment to nature
“A maintained garden enhances the wellness of all who visit it,” Van Jaarsveld explained
“We are grateful to those who continue to help improve the lives of others”
She said the families of patients and patients themselves have the freedom to relax outside, and to interact with nature, unlike before
The transformative work included the expansion of
“There is tremendous need for hospice care in the Free State
“Donors from America have been helpful in keeping some centres open
“Communities are key to sustaining hospices and palliative care, ” said Van Jaarsveld
“There were 15 hospices in the Free State, but some closed because of funding Hospice Bloemfontein is here thanks to contributions from private entities”
Losses are widespread
MPUMELELO NCUBE
Femicide has become a defining feature of the South African social landscape, warranting urgent and sustained attention from the social sciences
Tragically, the country has emerged as one of the global epicentres of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) This endemic phenomenon calls upon scholars and practitioners not only to analyse, but to assist society in contextualising and resolving it
Femicide refers to the gender-based killing of women, primarily by men – often in the context of intimate partner violence (IPV) It is also in broader socio-spatial settings where women are rendered vulnerable This phenomenon is both a symptom and an outcome of deeply entrenched patriarchal structures, systemic gender inequalities, and moral decay within society
Olorato Mongale’s brutal murder evoked profound memories of a similar trauma my family endured in August 2019 My sister had taken a day off from work due to illness and was at home with her domestic worker A young man had been contracted to repair leaking roof tiles and arrived with a male relative to assist him Unbeknownst to the two women, they had effectively let their murderers into their home
eight rooms to accommodate more people in need of the service and care provided by the hospice
“The expansion of rooms was in consideration of the fact that there is a lot of science behind palliative care
The hospice collaborates with the Palliative Care Group in the state hospitals, including the Universitas, National and Pelenomi hospitals in Bloemfontein
CAMPAIGNS AIM TO INTENSIFY FREE STATE’S FIGHT AGAINST HIV AND TB
The Free State Department of Health launched the Close the Gap campaign, aimed at reducing the rate of HIV infections, as well as the End TB Campaign, in Botshabelo on Friday, 13 June
This initiative comes in response to the alarming statistic that Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, minister of Health, released in November last year It revealed that 1,1 million South Africans who know their HIV status are not receiving the antiretroviral (ARV) treatment they need
Mondli Mvambi, spokesperson for the department, said a treatment gap of 22 631 individuals has been identified
“The Mangaung Metro district represents the largest share at 16 666 This launch serves as a rallying call for all stakeholders in Botshabelo and across the Free State to unite in our efforts to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against HIV The Close the Gap campaign aims to bridge this divide by December 2025,” he confirmed
He said the End TB campaign aimed to test a total of 5 million people across the nation for TB by the end of 2025 In the Free State, the target is to test 179 462 individuals, recognising that those presenting symptoms at clinics are the largest group in need of testing
Mvambi said the campaign would prioritise several critical areas, including increasing access to treatment, improving men’s health, and enhancing pediatric and adolescent HIV care
Youth Month focusing on creating safe spaces
The Free State government’s commemoration of Youth Month is focused on engaging youths in the creation of safe spaces
Emphasis is placed on discussions about identity, masculinity, mental health, gender-based violence (GBV), peer pressure and leadership The programme engages boys to promote accountability, community responsibility, and identifying the role of young men in combating GBV Provincial government, led by Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, embarked on this programme in the spirit of Youth Day, observed annually on 16 June, paying tribute to the 1976 Soweto Uprising
This event is regarded as historically pivotal in youths’ struggle for better education
The 2025 National Youth Day and Youth Month celebration is marked under the theme “Skills for the Changing World: Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation,”
supported by the tagline “Gear Up for Greatness”
According to Letsoha-Mathae, the theme emphasises education, skills development, and economic opportunities for young people
She said a series of events would also seek to address persistent challenges while assessing progress in youth empowerment The theme for the province is “Empowering the Free State Youth for a Sustainable Future”
Historical importance
“The blood of the Class of ’76 was not shed in vain Today, we honour their sacrifice by equipping our youth with the tools to thrive – not just as job seekers, but as job creators, innovators, and leaders of a Free State that leaves no one behind,” said Letsoha-Mathae She pointed out that despite
progress, the youth of the Free State continued to face challenges such as unemployment, limited economic opportunities and social exclusion
“Youth Month 2025 will not only honour past struggles, but also drive impactful programmes to advance sustainable youth development in the province
“Youth Day serves as a reminder of the courage displayed by young South Africans who boldly protested the apartheid regime’s imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction
“Their peaceful demonstration was met with brutal force, resulting in a tragic loss of lives and the exile of thousands,” said Letsoha-Mathae
GBV dialogue, in the form of a breakfast, will be held at the University of the Free State (UFS) in Bloemfontein, on Friday, 20 June This will be followed by the Youth Digital Revolution colloquium, set to take place on 25 and 26 June
What followed was an act of unimaginable violence The domestic worker was stabbed and burned beyond recognition in her living quarters My sister was strangled in her sitting room Although petrol had been poured over her body, the fire failed to ignite Ironically, one of the assailants sustained burn injuries in the attempt A swift intervention by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department and the police led to the arrest of the perpetrators shortly thereafter However, justice was partial and uneven While one was eventually handed two life terms, the other was acquitted due to prosecutorial inadequacies, despite compelling physical evidence linking him to the crime
Such partial justice, while technically consistent with the rule of law, exposes deficiencies in South Africa’s criminal justice system, particularly in its response to GBVF This systemic failure compounds pain experienced by bereaved families as they grapple not only with loss, but also with the knowledge that impunity persists The onslaught continues as countless women are murdered in spaces once considered safe: homes, post offices, workplaces, educational institutions, taxis, and communities both urban and rural
For my family, the grief has become a permanent wound, one that is managed but never healed For the families of Mongale and Lukhona Fose (14), including many others, the pain remains raw and immediate The post-traumatic experience of femicide victims’ families is marked by psychological distress, unresolved grief, and existential questioning The social support structures that may surround families immediately after the tragedy eventually fade This experience is not unique It resonates across the country, in both known and undocumented cases Often, these murders do not even make it into the public domain
For many families, the failure of the state to provide effective justice is further aggravated when perpetrators are released after serving minimal sentences, due in part to the principles of restorative justice While such principles have merit in contexts where rehabilitation and reintegration are feasible, their application in the context of femicide, where the ultimate price has been exacted, can be ethically and emotionally problematic for the bereaved South Africa’s femicide crisis is multi-layered The call for a national dialogue on femicide is therefore more than a call for awareness It is one of social transformation, a reimagining of how society addresses power, justice, gender, and morality As social scientists, we must interrogate not only the structural conditions that perpetuate violence, but also the epistemological, spiritual and cultural tools available within African worldviews to reconstruct
Staff members of Hospice Bloemfontein at the official opening of the garden are,from the left,Rina Lubbe (sister),Magriet Kennedy (sister),Hanneke Lubbe (manager),Joshua Cooper (administrator),Dr Dalene van Jaarsveld,Teboho Tjakata,Mardia Visser (sister), Melinda Janse van Rensburg (sister) and Rianxa Roux (sister)
Patrons of Hospice Bloemfontein who attended the opening of the garden are,from the left,Martie Bloem,Willem Ellis,Sharon de Kock,Stephanie Pretorius,Tanya Schoeman and Jaco Spies Photos: Teboho Setena
Entrepreneurial knowledge ecosystem pursued
The University of the Free State (UFS) inaugurated its first woman vice-chancellor and principal at a glittering ceremony held the Bloemfontein campus on 9 June She was appointed to the influential position on 1 February becoming the university’s 15th vice-chancellor and principal to lead the institute in its 121-year long history
In her inaugural address, titled “Walking Together with Purpose: Unlocking Excellence to Lead Change” , Klopper outlined her vision to transform the UFS into a research-led powerhouse that harnesses artificial intelligence (AI) while preserving human connection and African identity
Klopper challenged the higher education sector to confront an uncomfortable reality about the pace of technological change versus educational transformation
“AI capabilities are advancing exponentially, doubling in power every few months However, our educational systems remain fundamentally unchanged from their industrial-era origins,” she stated
“We are preparing students for a world that is transforming faster than we can imagine, using methods designed for a world that no longer exists
“The UFS’ institutional vision rests on five strategic pillars: academic excellence and AI-enhanced research impact, institutional agility in the age of exponential change, a transformational culture for a new generation, systemic sustainability and strategic responsible investment, and collaborative innovation and global integration”
Klopper emphasised that it was essential for the UFS to find its unique place and purpose in confronting the challenges faced by the higher education sector, and not merely emulate what other institutions were doing
“The question before us is not whether we will adapt – it is whether we will step up and lead this transformation or be swept aside by it”
Klopper shared her vision of the university as,
“ a true entrepreneurial knowledge ecosystem, thriving on the creative synergy produced when our best academic minds work together across our three campuses, allowing us to be the very best we can be” She emphasised that preparing students for
Efforts respected
TEBOHO SETENA
A purpose-driven professional nurse, Elisa Koenyama, was given the thumbs up for her impact in ensuring access to healthcare. She was a finalist for the Standard Bank Top Women Awards and second runner-up at the Top Women Pitch Den.
Shortlisted finalists were announced at an event held on 29 May in Johannesburg Koenyama was selected for being the driving force behind the Unjani Clinic in Botshabelo She was selected for her ability to transform the clinic to function effectively, and deliver much-needed professional health services in Botshabelo and other areas in the Mangaung Metro Her latest recognition is a testament to her calling to serve and bring much-needed healthcare to communities Koenyama is also the recipient of many prestigious
awards, which includes the She Award for recognition as health entrepreneur of the year for 2023 She was also a nominee in the Umfiki Awards in 2020, awarded to the newcomer whose statistics exceeds those of her peers, and the Sowetan Heroic Women Awards in 2020 Koenyama officially started working in the private healthcare sector in early 2020 in Section H, Botshabelo
Her small-scale healthcare centre is part of a network operating in South Africa She now has 12 persons working full-time to complement her efforts and investment in the clinic and fully utilises her vast experience in the medical profession, having worked for more than ten years in the public sector at the Botshabelo Hospital and primary healthcare clinic
DECISION-MAKING KEY IN FURTHERING STUDIES
Enrolling mid-year at tertiary institutions in South Africa has some benefits for prospective students
Alucia Mabunda, campus head of the Rosebank College, said research is key for decision-making
If you are interested in potentially enrolling for higher education now instead of waiting until next year, start by researching institutions that offer mid-year
enrolment for the qualifications of interest
“And very importantly, treat the mid-year intake as the true beginning of your academic journey Mentally and practically align your expectations and understand that your academic calendar will now run from July to June each year This will help in planning your studies, holidays, finances, and internship or work
opportunities over the next few years,” said Mabunda
She advises prospective students to consider improving financial planning in the absence of year-end expenses
“By applying early, you will substantially increase your chances of being accepted into the programme that aligns with your dreams and aspirations,” said Mabunda
funding initiatives towards alleviating students fund challenges
This includes the collaborative effort between the vice-chancellor (VC) and the Institutional Student Representative Council (ISRC), the VC-ISRC Imbewu Legacy Fund, ensures that no deserving student is denied access to quality education due to financial constraints
Imbewu – meaning seed – symbolises growth, investment in the future, and nurturing potential
Klopper has invited support for the fund and expressed her appreciation to the Motsepe Foundation for R1,3 million contributed
“This was matched by the university, providing a springboard of R2,6 million,” she confirmed
The VC Talent Magnet Fund is an ambitious recruitment initiative to attract world-class academic talent to the UFS, offering competitive packages and the opportunity to shape Africa’s educational future
Klopper has acknowledged her predecessors’ work in shaping the UFS Some who attended include Prof Frederick Fourie and Prof Jonathan Jansen
Klopper brings with her a wealth of experience, global recognition, an outstanding record of visionary leadership, and academic distinction
the world of work will focus on, “their ability to think creatively, to empathise deeply, to ask the right questions, to challenge assumptions, and to work collaboratively with both humans and AI”
In addition, Klopper announced major new
Her career spans more than three decades and includes eight postgraduate qualifications – including an honorary doctorate from the Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom (UK) – leadership roles on more than 30 national and international boards, and recognition such as being a Fellow of the Academy of Science of South Africa, a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, and the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland
Before joining the UFS, Klopper was the deputy vice-chancellor at the Stellenbosch University for eight and a half years, overseeing strategy, global and corporate affairs
Elisa Koenyama with her award Photo: Supplied
Prof Hester Klopper during her inauguration as the vice-chancellor and principal of the University of the Free
Crinums stay the path
The Free State Crinums remain on track to defending the Telkom Netball League title in division A They fought gallantly to retain the second place with 14 points They have put pressure on the Golden Fireballs, currently leading the log standing with 18 points
The Free State women closed off their day with a dominant 70 – 42 win over the Flames, showcasing their championship pedigree The spirited fight has inspired confidence of the illustrious coach, Martha Mosoahle-Samm Her charges are rising to
Going al
the challenge against sown-in rivals from Gauteng, the Fireballs and Jaguars, with the latter third on the log table with ten points
Mosoahle-Samm’s target is to ensure her team remains in the top four to qualify for the semifinals, which is key to bring them closer toward defending the crown
The Crinums have displayed some determination Evidence thereof is the two players who won the player of the match (POTM) award The deserving recipients are captain Refiloe Nketsa and Liamé de Lange
A toast to excellence
Sports stars from across the Free State will be honoured for their achievements at a glamorous event hosted by the University of Free State (UFS) and Novus Media
This year ’ s event will take place on Thursday, 9 October, at the Monte Bello Estate outside Bloemfontein
Jeannine van Zyl, general manager of Novus Media Community News in the Free State and Northern Cape, says the partnership allows Novus Media to highlight and celebrate outstanding achievements while fostering a strong connection between the sporting communities
Former Protea netball player
Vanes-Mari du Toit will once again serve as master of ceremonies and co-host alongside Rethabile Moshounyane, a local radio presenter and student at the University of the Free State (UFS) Louzanne Coetzee, who has won three medals at the Paralympic Games and was named the 2024 Sports Star of the Year, will be this year ’ s keynote speaker
Coetzee, a visually impaired athlete, won a silver medal in the T11 category of the 1 500m race and a bronze medal in the T12 marathon at the 2020 Paralympic Games held in Tokyo She won another bronze medal in the T11, 1500m race at the 2024 Paralympic Games held in Paris
“The awards provide a vital platform to honour the remarkable achievements of our studentathletes and Free State stars,” says Jerry Laka, director of KovsieSport, arts and culture
■ Keep an eye on Novus Media’s community newspapers in the Free State –BloemNuus, BloemExpress, Vista, and VrystaatKroon – for more information about this year ’ s nominations and other details about the 2024 Sports Star of the Year awards event The evening’s proceedings will begin at 18:00 for 18:30 Tickets cost R480 for a single ticket or R4 800 for a table of ten
Direct enquiries at Ainslee Oosthuyen at 074 120 4450, or send email to ainslee@spottedapple co za
Cheetahs mark a milestone
The Free State Cheetahs are celebrating 130 years of rugby history this year A special commemorative match against Georgia will be played on Friday, 11 July, at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein The event will also feature a fan festival with live music, food, and activities for all ages This landmark event will continue the more than a century of rich heritage, iconic moments, and the passionate rugby community that continues to carry the game forward Georgia will go on to face the Springboks
a week later at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit The Toyota Cheetahs will use this high-calibre match to continue their preparations for the 2025 Carling Currie Cup, which is scheduled to kick off on 26 July
Tickets are already on sale and can be purchased from the Toyota Stadium ticket office, or online at ticketpros co za These cost R100 for the open stand, and R150 for the main stand As a bonus for seasonal and suite ticket holders, this anniversary match is included in the 2025 package
SUPPLIERS' DAYI BLOEMFONTEIN
Invitation to the Central University of Technology's Supplier Day
This event provides an opportunity to inform and empower suppliers within the Bloemfontein Region. The invitation is issued to all suppliers in the following districts (Xhariep, Thabo Mofutsanyana and Motheo Districts)
ONLYSUPPLIERS WHO RENDER THE FOLLOWING COMMODITIES
Date Wednesday, 25 June 2025
Tender Enquiries: Mr Khomogwe and Mrs Mokaeane (tenders@cut.ac.za) Tel No.: (051) 507 4376
Time 08:00-13:00 Venue Artec Hall (Bloemfontein)
Kindly refer to CUTwebsite (https://www.cut.ac.za/tender-bulletins)
Louzanne Coetzee,who was named the 2024 Sports Star of the Year,will be this year’s keynote speaker. Photos: Supplied
Former Protea netball player Vanes-Mari du Toit will be the master of ceremonies
Rethabile Moshounyane,local radio presenter and student will be the co-host alongside Vanes-Mari du Toit
Refiloe Nketsa Photos: Supplied Liamé de Lange
Frans Steyn (left),Free State Cheetahs coach,with Rory Duncan,CEO of the Cheetahs Photo: Supplied
Football tournament shows a growing interest
Participationtakingo
TEBOHO SETENA
This year’s Future Stars Tournament, organised by Bulenani Nikani, captain of Polokwane City FC, attracted 24 teams. Clubs came from as far as the Eastern Cape and Northern Cape, while those from the Free State were in the majority – ten in total.
lie, in the Xhariep district This year ’ s competition was played over three days, from 14 to 16 June
This was the fourth year the former Mangaung United FC captain staged the football tournament as part of Youth Month in his hometown Bethu-
Dynamos FC from Phillippolis emerged as the overall winner The team took home a whopping R35 000 in prize money and a floating trophy, plus gold medals
The newly crowned champions battled for the title against home rivals, Green Lovers The latter settled for a silver medal and R15 000 in prize money for their effort The third prize of R7 000 went to Young Ideas from Burgersdorp in the Eastern Cape
The participating 24 clubs received full sets of playing kit as an incentive for their participation “My plan is to have 32 teams next year I started with 16 clubs, and this year the number rose to 24, inspiring my aspiration for mass youth participation,” said Nikani
Golden Boot tally puts lacklustre strikers to shame
The Council of Southern African Football Associations (Cosafa) Cup championship staged in Bloemfontein from 4 to 15 June produced 44 goals
The tournament features 14 nations
Some of the countries returned home without scoring a single goal, while the double championship winner, Angola, set ablaze the scoring charts
Prolific Angolan goal-getter Laurindo Aurelio, alias Depu, was the toast of the tournament, scoring in every match
His scoring ability saw him break the record in the competition, scoring a brace against South Africa in the final on Sunday,15 June
The final was played in the Toyota Stadium
Aurelio’s exploits inspired his country to win the championship backto-back, as he individually scooped double awards: that of the player of the tournament and the Golden Boot as the top goal-scorer in this year ’ s Cosafa Cup
Angola retained its Hollywoodbets Cosafa title with a 3 – 0 victory over hosts South Africa
Aurelio extended his goal tally to 13, as he collected back-to-back Golden Boots, having also won it last year
This tally is four more than second-placed Felix Badenhorst from Eswatini
Angola finished the tournament undefeated South Africa managed to score five goals in the competition and scraped through to the final –thanks to Mozambique and Zimbabwe drawing their matches
The chronic challenge experienced by strikers, failing to convert golden opportunities, saw some games end goalless
The inability of the 14 nations’ goal poachers to convert the scoring chances they created saw their teams even fail to progress to the semifinal held on Friday, 13 June
Some nations were eliminated based on a slight difference in goals, despite potential opportunity
Retired footballer Benjamin Reed was highly impressed with the goal-scoring exploits of Angolan striker Aurelio
“This is a type of a striker who, first and foremost, knows his role: scoring
goals Others aspects of the game will follow,” he said
Reed is the all-time top goalscorer for Bloemfontein Celtic, with 75 goals
He was a member of the club’s 1985 Mainstay Cup winning team
He also played for Bafana Bafana
He had a stint with other clubs that include Kaizer Chiefs and Manning Rangers
Reed is known for his fierce pace and appetite for scoring goals
Most of the coaches have lamented missed scoring opportunities in games they believed they should have won convincingly Botswana’s incumbent head coach, Morena Ramorebodi, for instance bemoaned missed chances in a match against Comoros
The fixture ended without goals and the South African born, however ,was happy with the performance of his warriors
Angola has show to have an appetite for goals, having scored six goals in all three matches in group B: winning 4 – 0 against Lesotho, 1– 0 against Malawi and playing to a 1 – 1 draw against Namibia
Dynamos FC,the newly crowned Future Stars Tournament winners,with the organiser Bulenani Nikani (middle,back). Photo: Supplied
Retired striker Benjamin Reed congratulating Angola’s goal-getter Laurindo Aurelio, alias Depu,who won the Golden Boot and the title of player of the tournament of the Cosafa Cup 2025 Reed is the all-time top goalscorer for Bloemfontein Celtic,with 75 goals Photo: Teboho Setena