The past week in Klerksdorp and the broader Dr Kenneth Kaunda District has been defined by significant announcements from the North West Provincial Government, a renewed focus on local governance issues, and deeply personal community stories that captivated the region. From substantial funding allocations for essential services to high-profile municipal investigations and gripping local drama, the area witnessed a complex mix of progress and pressing challenges.

R1.4 Billion Provincial Fund Injection Targets Klerksdorp’s Key Services

North West Premier Kagiso Lazarus Mokgosi confirmed a substantial financial boost for the province, announcing an additional R1.4 billion in the 2025 Provincial Adjustment Budget, with specific benefits slated for the Klerksdorp area. The funds prioritize Health, Education, and Public Works and Roads. Locally, the Matlosana Municipality is nearing completion on a R39.5 million project to refurbish Electrical and Mechanical Equipment at key water pump stations in Jouberton, Ellaton, Kanana, and Khuma, aimed at securing a more consistent water supply. Furthermore, the health sector received R200 million for the employment of additional nurses and doctors, alongside the procurement of 54 new ambulances due before the year’s end. On road infrastructure, R256 million was allocated to Public Works and Roads, including R150 million specifically for repairing flood-damaged roads and bridges.

Governance Under Scrutiny: Matlosana Municipality Developments

The Matlosana Municipality faced multiple challenges and governance updates over the reporting period. Premier Mokgosi confirmed the conclusion of the Section 106 investigation into alleged maladministration and corruption within the municipality, with the MEC for CoGTA now tasked with implementing the findings.

In a separate but related development, the R81 million contract awarded to 20 Elevation Construction for upgrades at a municipal landfill site was terminated by Matlosana. Democratic Alliance (DA) Cllr Johannes le Grange stated the cancellation followed a lack of meaningful progress by the July 2025 completion deadline. The DA had previously highlighted several "red flags," including the company's alleged lack of equipment, non-compliance with tax and bank guarantee requirements, and its status under business rescue when the contract was awarded. Allegations have since emerged linking the company to the family of Speaker, Cllr Stella Mondlane, who has not yet responded to the claims of conflict of interest.

Community Road Maintenance and Law Enforcement Concerns

The Roads Department was active in the Flimieda area this week, executing pothole repairs on Kirsten Road, Iris Street, Wistaria Avenue, and Gousblom Road, following last week's tarring work on Lautz Avenue. The municipality stated this work is part of an accelerated service delivery programme.

In a concerning law enforcement matter, a specialised syndicate targeting BMW GS motorbikes struck again in Neserhof, stealing a motorcycle from a locked garage. The owner, Sean Benn, reported that the thieves poisoned his two bullterriers and used the same white Hilux bakkie connected to all previous syndicate thefts, raising questions about police visibility and the prolonged failure to apprehend the suspects. Benn has offered a R20,000 reward for the return of a critical backpack containing important keys.

Municipal Billing Crisis and Efforts to Modernize Operations

The Matlosana Municipality addressed the ongoing billing crisis that has resulted in residents receiving vastly inflated municipal accounts, such as the widely reported case of a resident whose bill soared to R131,000. The municipality acknowledged the chaos caused by the transition to a new system, which requires residents to submit their own readings. They attributed the issues to a "transition period" as meter reading is brought back under municipal control, leading to high estimated readings in the interim. Officials reassured the public that improvements are expected from February 2026, when newly trained meter readers will begin providing accurate, physical readings to correct the current estimates. Residents were advised to pay an amount based on their expected usage until the corrected statements reflect.

Five Suspects Apprehended in Municipal Job Scam

Five individuals, including two municipal officials, appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court this week on charges of fraud, corruption, and impersonating municipal officials. The suspects allegedly charged job seekers R10,000 per vacancy for employment contracts they never fulfilled. The Provincial Organised Crime unit responded to complaints from victims. The arrested individuals, Paul Itumeleng (60), Tuelo Molekane (40), Simon Sethabela (50), Thabo Kgafane (32), and municipal worker Sipho Sikhakhane (44), were remanded in custody, with the case postponed to December 10 for further investigation.

Tragic Accident and High-Profile Robbery Investigations

The community was left in shock following the tragic deaths of retired pastor Michiel Erasmus (69), his wife Betsie (68), and their son, Martin (47), in a motor vehicle accident on the N12 between Fochville and Westonaria. The accident occurred amidst a severe hailstorm and cloudburst. The Erasmus couple were highly regarded and active members of the Lede in Christus Church in Freemanville.

Meanwhile, the Hawks are investigating an alleged armed robbery at Voi Lodge, a game farm near Hartbeesfontein. The victim reported being tied up in the early hours of Monday, December 8, while suspects stole a reported 98 rhino horns, two cellphones, and R50,000 cash. While police confirmed the investigation, they did not disclose the full extent of the loss, stating the matter remains at a sensitive stage.

Heartfelt Reunion and Community Recognition

The gripping story of Kaptein, a Doberman Pinscher missing since November 20, reached a happy conclusion this week when the dog was found severely underweight on a farm in the Hartbeesfontein district, approximately 10 km from where he disappeared. The owner, Angelique Rossouw, had been targeted by scammers during the search, adding to the trauma. The news of Kaptein’s safe recovery prompted an outpouring of joy from community members across the country who had been following the story.

In a celebration of professional dedication, the third Trauma First Responder Chaplaincy Awards Ceremony was held in the city, honouring individuals who co-operate closely with the Chaplaincy. Awards for Dedication, Excellence, and Bravery were presented to members of EMS, SAPS, Fire & Rescue, Private Security, and Traffic Departments.

Finally, Klerksdorp's own Stefaans Coetzee was honoured with a Kokertoekenning by the Afrikaanse Taalraad for his work in empowering Afrikaans, particularly through his role as the heart of the Klerksdorp Boekefees.

Looking Ahead

The various investigations into local governance and infrastructure projects are set to continue dominating the headlines in the coming weeks. The community will closely monitor the municipality’s commitment to service delivery improvements, particularly concerning the troubled billing system and the implementation of the new provincial funds. The Matlosana Municipality faces a critical period of accountability and modernization as it strives to secure essential services and restore public trust.

#TheGoToGuy #KlerksdorpNews #Matlosana #NorthWestBudget #LocalGovernance

💧🛣️🗞️🚨