The Weekly Pulse – 11 July 2025
- Karen Scheepers
- Jul 11
- 6 min read
Your all-in-one community briefing for Potchefstroom, Klerksdorp, Ikageng, and the national stage.
As winter deepens across South Africa, communities are stepping up, from critical healthcare interventions and youth programs to renewed momentum in local governance. In this week’s edition of The Weekly Pulse, we explore the stories shaping lives across Potchefstroom, Klerksdorp, Ikageng, and beyond.
We unpack everything from national conversations on justice reform and sports equity, to fire risk awareness and support for our most vulnerable neighbours. And in true local spirit, we end with a stirring StroomStories, because real stories begin at home.
NATIONAL
Justice, Identity, Sport & Revenue: The Nation in Focus
🧑⚖️ Corporal Punishment Back in the Headlines
Dr. Pieter Groenewald, Minister of Correctional Services, has reopened a contentious debate, calling for renewed national discussion on corporal punishment. His remarks, made during a recent media briefing, were sparked by concerns about spiraling crime rates and overcrowded prisons. The proposal has reignited social and political commentary, splitting public opinion and heating up online discourse.
🪪 #CollectYourID: Extended Office Hours at Home Affairs
In a bid to speed up document delivery, the Department of Home Affairs is running a “#CollectYourID” campaign from 7–21 July 2025. Offices nationwide will remain open until 18:00 on weekdays to assist first-time applicants and long-waiting Smart ID card recipients. The timing aligns with school holidays and aims to support youth access to essential identification services.
🤝 Thabo Mbeki’s National Dialogue at NWU
Former President Thabo Mbeki launched South Africa’s inaugural National Dialogue outreach session at North-West University (NWU). Partnered with the Thabo Mbeki Foundation and the Strategic Dialogue Group, this initiative gathered leaders, academics, and civil society voices to address the country’s growing socioeconomic divides and democratic fatigue.
🏉 Craven Week: Are Elite Schools Dominating?
While billed as a showcase of national rugby talent, Craven Week 2025 has stirred criticism. In Free State's provincial team, 19 out of 23 players hail from Grey College, renewing long-standing concerns over whether merit or institutional privilege shapes national selection.
💸 Springbok Ticket Prices Exclude the Masses
Despite the Springboks’ unmatched popularity, empty seats at Loftus Versfeld during their July Test against Italy left fans asking hard questions. Ticket affordability, or the lack thereof, has emerged as a growing issue, especially for working-class supporters. A match-day that should have united the nation visually exposed the disconnect between pricing and access.
🧾 SARS Tax Season: What’s Changed in 2025?
Tax season officially kicked off on 7 July 2025, with SARS unveiling key updates. These include enhanced auto-assessments, interface upgrades, and technical revisions in tax laws. Taxpayers are encouraged to stay informed and act early to avoid processing delays or missed refunds.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/the-gazette
POTCH GAZETTE
News
👵 Caring for Our Elders: Facilities in Focus
A detailed guide examines Potchefstroom’s elder care network, from retirement villages to hospice services. It includes care levels, contact details, and praise for the tireless staff who provide dignity and safety to the elderly.
🧾 Tax Season Tools & Electricity Scam Alerts
As SARS rolls out its 2025 changes, JB Marks residents are also being targeted by a fake electricity disconnection scam. Authorities urge the public to double-check all municipal communication and report suspicious notices.
🏥 Witrand Hospital in Crisis
With a broken boiler, laundry backlog, and failing security, Witrand Psychiatric Hospital is under enormous strain. Provincial health authorities have been asked to intervene immediately.
Council
⚡ JB Marks Electricity Tariff Increases
A 12.7% average hike has been implemented across all electricity categories for 2025/26. While this is slightly lower than last year’s increase, fixed charges and usage rates have all gone up.
🧾 Indigent Token Delays & Billing Backlogs
Due to admin processing issues, free electricity tokens for low-income households have been delayed. The municipality says steps are being taken to resolve the problem swiftly.
🛠️ Service Delivery Progress Report
Ongoing improvements are being made to roads, water systems, and electrification projects across multiple wards. Paving upgrades and pothole repairs are nearing completion in some areas.
♻️ Garden Refuse Notice
JB Marks Municipality reminds residents that garden waste will not be collected with household refuse. Separate disposal is required.
Community
🔥 Fire Risk Index Explained
Potchefstroom’s Fire Danger Index recently rose to “Yellow,” indicating moderate risk. Cold fronts often mask fire threats, residents are urged to remain alert, especially in farming areas.
🆘 Amelia Nasorgsentrum in Crisis
A 60% cut in government subsidies has left this care home for intellectually disabled adults facing potential closure. The centre urgently appeals for donations to maintain its 113 residents.
Sports
🏉 Potch Dorp vs Matlosana: Rugby Drama
Two thrilling matches lit up Piet Bosman Park last weekend, showcasing regional rugby pride. Local support was strong, and performances electric.
🏆 Women’s Rugby: Leopards Host SWD EaGirls
This Saturday, Olën Park will host a major First-Division women’s rugby match. The Leopards’ squad includes standout players from Potch Dorp’s 2025 championship team, expect fireworks.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/potch-gazette
KLERKSDORP GAZETTE
News
📞 Emergency Directory Released
A complete contact list of emergency services, from police to utilities, has been published for Matlosana residents. It's a vital tool for safety and preparedness.
🏥 Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital: Then & Now
This major tertiary hospital continues to serve as a medical and academic anchor for the region. The article traces its history, services, and crucial provincial role.
Council
🏗️ Service Blitz in Early July
Between 8–11 July, Matlosana tackled water leaks, resurfaced roads, and hosted community engagement events. The municipality is pushing forward with infrastructure renewal.
🚉 Phelophepha Health Train Returns
From 14–25 July, the iconic Phelophepha 1 train will deliver walk-in healthcare at Klerksdorp Railway Station. First-come, first-served, no bookings necessary.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/klerksdorp-gazette
IKAGENG GAZETTE
News
🗞️ Boitshoko High Gets Published
Learners from Boitshoko High are launching their own school newspaper after media training from The Go-To Guy. Expect fresh local voices and powerful storytelling.
🚗 Youth License Drive in Ward 19
Under #RaethomaRaefetsa, Ward 19 is helping young residents gain learner’s licenses, empowering them with legal mobility and opportunity.
🪪 Home Affairs on Wheels
Mobile units will serve Potchefstroom communities throughout July, issuing IDs and passports, especially to elderly and rural residents.
🫂 Ikageng: Township Through Its People
A touching portrait of Ikageng as more than a place, this feature captures the community’s essence through its culture, rhythm, and resilience.
Council
❄️ Winter Relief in Ward 06
“Operation True Promise” will see 200 duvets and hot meals distributed to those in need. Compassion in action this July.
🎓 ANC Ward 20 Launches Political Training
Grassroots members are invited to a foundational course to build political and community leadership skills.
⛔ Indigent Token Disruption Announced
JB Marks confirmed a pause in token issuance due to financial reconciliation delays.
Community
🏀 Reach Out Academy Hosts Indigenous Games
Ikageng hosted a cultural sports day featuring traditional games and youth engagement, reinforcing community and heritage pride.
🏥 A Call for Hospital Compassion
After a deeply emotional week at Mediclinic Potchefstroom, a local resident calls for better patient-family communication, even amid clinical efficiency.
Sports
⚽ Kayo Stars Face D’Scorpion in Cup Clash
The much-loved Kayo Stars FC, aka “The Queens,” will take on D’Scorpion in the Engen Cup playoffs this Sunday at Tšhing Location, Ventersdorp.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/ikageng-gazette
✨ STROOMSTORIES
Kosie’s Journey to Italy: A Dream Worth Supporting
In this week’s StroomStories episode, we meet Kosie, a passionate young rugby player recently selected for the BRSI Tour to Italy. He and his mother shared their heartfelt journey, reflecting on sacrifices made and the incredible opportunity ahead. The interview calls on Potchefstroom residents to support his campaign.
💜 Support Kosie’s dream here: Back-a-Buddy Link
🧭 Until Next Week…
From service delivery wins to personal triumphs, the pulse of our towns beats strong. Whether it’s through better roads, youth leadership, sports pride, or shared compassion, every act matters. The Weekly Pulse brings these moments to light, because informed communities are empowered communities.
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📬 The community is warmly invited to share their stories, voices, and experiences with us for future editions of The Weekly Pulse.
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