Weekly Pulse: A Nation Moving Forward, From Global Pride to Local Progress

As October 2025 draws toward its close, South Africa pulses with a mixture of momentum, resilience, and renewal. From the national stage, where the Women’s Proteas shine and leadership shifts at the highest levels, to the spirited communities of Potchefstroom, Ikageng, Klerksdorp, and Carletonville, this week’s stories reflect a nation not standing still. Whether it’s sporting triumphs, civic leadership, or grassroots service, the threads of progress run deep across every community.

National

Women Proteas Seal Semi-Final Spot with Dominant Win over Sri Lanka

South Africa’s Women’s Cricket Team delivered a commanding 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Colombo, securing their place in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup semi-finals. Led by precision bowling and fearless batting, the Proteas proved why they remain one of the tournament’s strongest contenders. Their consistency and composure on the global stage continue to inspire national pride and elevate women’s sport in South Africa.

The Hidden Danger Inside Manholes

Across South Africa, everyday infrastructure poses unseen risks, particularly manholes that conceal lethal sewer gases. This in-depth feature explored how a lack of public awareness and safety barriers can lead to tragic incidents. Experts urge residents to avoid open drains and report hazards immediately, stressing that understanding the invisible danger of sewer gas is essential to preventing further loss of life.

Erasmus Rewards Rising Star & Reshapes Squad for Year-End European Tour

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has announced a 36-man squad for the year-end European tour, blending World Cup-winning veterans with a new generation of emerging stars. The tour promises to test South Africa’s depth and adaptability against top-tier northern hemisphere teams, as Erasmus balances stability with strategic renewal in pursuit of sustained rugby excellence.

President Ramaphosa Appoints Enoch Godongwana as Acting President During Key International Visits

With President Cyril Ramaphosa abroad on high-level diplomatic engagements, Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has been appointed Acting President from 21 to 27 October 2025. The decision ensures stability and uninterrupted governance during a critical week of international negotiations, reinforcing confidence in the country’s leadership continuity and institutional strength.

Online Survey: The Media’s Influence on Tourists’ Willingness to Fund Rhino Conservation

Michelle du Preez, a PhD student at North-West University, launched an online survey exploring how media coverage shapes tourists’ willingness to contribute financially to rhino conservation. The study aims to inform wildlife protection strategies and deepen understanding of how storytelling and awareness campaigns can drive tangible conservation outcomes.

Women Proteas Power to the Top: South Africa Crush Pakistan to Lead CWC25 Standings

The Proteas Women continued their unstoppable form, dismantling Pakistan by 150 runs (DLS method) to climb to the top of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup standings. With five consecutive wins, the team now stands as a dominant force heading into the knockout stages, blending confidence with clinical execution in every performance.

Did You Know? October Marks a Month of National Awareness Campaigns

October in South Africa brings a calendar filled with educational and advocacy initiatives, from Mental Health Awareness to Transport, Breast Cancer, and Environmental Month. Each campaign calls attention to crucial social and health issues, encouraging citizens to engage, learn, and act. Together, these observances remind us that awareness is the foundation of progress.

Read these stories and more here: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/the-gazette

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Potch Gazette

Community & News

The Go-To Guy | Week 42 Diary

Potchefstroom and Ikageng thrived with community energy this week, a blend of leadership, innovation, and compassion. From youth empowerment and animal welfare to athletic excellence and small business growth, the week’s stories captured the city’s resilient, heart-driven identity.

Academic Excellence Meets Leadership: Mayor Thithiba Ka Qhele Earns Master of Laws

Marking a milestone in his public service journey, Mayor Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele celebrated the completion of his Master of Laws degree in Environmental Law and Governance. The achievement reflects his commitment to ethical, sustainable governance, setting a positive example of continued learning for community leaders.

Advanced Traffic Advisory: Road Closures Announced for Letsgo Potch Marathon 2025

The annual Letsgo Potch Marathon returns on 25 October, bringing both excitement and temporary road closures across the city. Motorists are advised to plan ahead as thousands of runners take to the streets, celebrating fitness, unity, and the scenic beauty of Potchefstroom’s routes.

Faith, Hope, and Restoration: Potchefstroom’s Youth Making a Difference

At just 22, Peterson Sebati and his team at Retsa Tsela are revitalizing Potchefstroom’s public spaces through faith-led community work. Their efforts have sparked widespread admiration, proving that lasting change begins with small, selfless acts of service.

What’s On in Potchefstroom | 24–31 October 2025

From family fun runs to concerts and charity events, Potchefstroom’s week ahead promises energy and connection. Locals are encouraged to support these initiatives that celebrate creativity, culture, and togetherness.

Potch, Kom Ons Help Om #OnsDorp Skoon Te Maak

AfriForum’s local cleanup drive under the #OnsDorpSkoon banner invites residents to join forces in restoring Potchefstroom’s streets and parks. The initiative promotes pride of place, environmental care, and collective responsibility for cleaner, safer neighborhoods.

Protect, Prevent, and Provide Hope: Paws Haven’s Ongoing Mission

Paws Haven called on residents to prioritize pet microchipping after rescuing several unclaimed animals. The shelter emphasized how this small act can make a life-changing difference, enabling lost pets to be quickly reunited with their families.

One Day to Go for the Next Vat Verniet Tafel

Excitement builds for the next Vat Verniet Tafel as volunteers finalise preparations and donations pour in. The outreach initiative continues to embody Potchefstroom’s compassionate spirit, where giving back is a shared community tradition.

Sports

Match Day Showdown: North West Dragons vs DP World Lions

Cricket fans were treated to a high-stakes clash at the DP World Wanderers as the North West Dragons faced the formidable Lions in the CSA 4-Day Series. Both sides fought fiercely for dominance, with the Dragons’ disciplined bowling and determination showcasing their growing maturity in domestic cricket.

North West Dragons Show Fighting Spirit at Wanderers

After a tough start, the Dragons showed grit and teamwork in their 4-Day Series matchup against the Lions. Their perseverance under pressure highlighted the squad’s growth and hunger to reclaim their standing in South African cricket’s upper tiers.

Dragons Fight Back Fiercely on Day 2 at Wanderers

The North West Dragons stormed back on Day 2, posting a solid total and reducing the Lions to 39/4 at stumps. Strong performances from Nyaku, de Swart, and Mothoa set the stage for a potential turnaround victory.

Education & Empowerment

JB Marks Executive Mayor Inspires the Matric Class of 2025

Executive Mayor Cllr. Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele delivered a motivational address to the Matric Class of 2025, urging them to pursue their dreams with integrity and resilience. His message reinforced the transformative power of education as a cornerstone for leadership and personal growth.

Keeping Kids in School: Feeding Dreams, Building Futures

Bafenyi Trust continued its inspiring mission to support vulnerable learners by providing uniforms, stationery, and essential documentation. The organisation’s efforts ensure that no child is left behind due to poverty, proving that compassion and education can transform futures.

Public Safety & Awareness

Potchefstroom Weekly Safety and Community Report (15–22 October 2025)

Compiled by Potchefstroom First Responders, this report outlined safety operations, emergency responses, and local awareness efforts. It underscored how coordination between residents, responders, and law enforcement continues to strengthen community safety.

Weekly Community Report: Infrastructure, Safety, and Local Updates

Updates from JB Marks Ward groups showcased progress in infrastructure repair, waste management, and service restoration efforts. These regular reports foster transparency, helping residents stay informed and engaged in municipal development.

Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/potch-gazette

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Ikageng Gazette

Community & News

Potchefstroom Schools League Finals Shine at Ikageng Stadium

The long-awaited Potchefstroom Schools League Finals delivered an unforgettable day of youth talent at Ikageng Stadium. Learners from across the region competed fiercely in soccer and netball, cheered on by families, teachers, and community members. The event celebrated teamwork, sportsmanship, and the bright future of local school sport.

Ikageng Police Deliver Justice as Murderer Gets 25 Years

Justice was served this week when 61-year-old Molefi Benjamin Ramoholokoane received a 25-year prison sentence for the murder of Maria Masego Fumba. The Potchefstroom Regional Court’s ruling was welcomed by residents as a strong stand against gender-based violence, reaffirming that the Ikageng Police remain resolute in protecting women and vulnerable individuals.

Message of Inspiration: A Call to the Matric Class of 2025

The JB Marks Local Municipality, led by Executive Mayor Cllr. Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele, extended heartfelt encouragement to the Matric Class of 2025. Learners were reminded that their hard work, perseverance, and integrity will shape not only their futures but that of the entire community, a message of hope and pride echoed across schools.

Mount Sinai Parish YL Encourages Learners Ahead of Exams

The Mount Sinai Parish Youth League uplifted learners through heartfelt messages from Bro Thabang Dithlake and Sr Ompone Legotlo. Grounded in faith and motivation, they reminded students to trust in God, remain calm, and believe in their abilities as exams approach, a message of strength that resonated across schools in the area.

Keep Pride, Keep Clean: Awareness Campaign a Huge Success at Promosa Primary School

Promosa Primary was abuzz with excitement as learners joined the Keep Pride, Keep Clean campaign, led by Nthabiseng “Moxie” Mokgethi. The initiative promoted community pride and environmental awareness, encouraging children to become ambassadors for a cleaner, greener Potchefstroom.

Events & Social Life

Get Ready to Turn Up: Sauced Up Fest Coming to Trimpark Potchefstroom!

The year-end calendar is turning up the volume with Sauced Up Fest , a vibrant outdoor celebration set for Trimpark, Potchefstroom. Packed with top DJs, live performances, and a lively crowd, the festival promises to send 2025 out in style with music, food, and unmissable vibes.

Premium Saturdays Light Up Phola Park This October

Ikageng’s nightlife is buzzing once again as Premium Saturdays returns to Phola Park on 25 October. With live performances, DJs, and an unbeatable local atmosphere, the event continues to bring together music lovers and friends for a night of celebration under the stars.

Kador Records to Host Massive Music Video Shoot and Deep House Celebration

Kador Records is turning up the creative energy this weekend with a music video shoot and Deep House Lite After Party at The Eating House, Kwa Oupa. Combining music, visuals, and local artistry, the event will shine a spotlight on Ikageng’s growing influence in the North West entertainment scene.

Art Tree Summer Fashion Show Opens Doors for Aspiring Models

Creativity takes center stage at the Art Tree Summer Fashion Show, themed “Water Your Art Seed.” The event offers aspiring models and designers a chance to showcase their talent before industry professionals, promoting self-expression, confidence, and the power of art as a career path.

Creativity Meets Sustainability at the 4th Annual Waste Fashion Show

Hosted by the Small Five Environmental and Tourism Organization, the 4th Annual Waste Fashion Show will transform Sarafina Hall into a runway of innovation on 25 October. Designers will present eco-friendly creations made from recycled materials, combining style with sustainability to promote environmental responsibility.

Ikageng Gears Up for the Exciting Cashibe World Cup

The Cashibe World Cup kicks off from 18 to 24 December 2025 at Ikageng Stadium, promising an electrifying week of football and community celebration. The tournament highlights the region’s passion for sport and unity, with families and fans encouraged to cheer on their favorite teams.

Honoring the Life of Mpumelelo “Scott” Sontlane at K9 Lifestyle

Friends, family, and community members will gather on 25 October at K9 Lifestyle Shisanyama & Car Wash to honor the memory of Mpumelelo “Scott” Sontlane. The event will celebrate his life and legacy, offering a moment of reflection, unity, and shared remembrance within the Potchefstroom community.

Municipal & Infrastructure Updates

Ward 26 Councillor Hosts Public Meeting for the Elderly

Ward 26 Councillor Tau Huddleston Mogorosi has called on senior residents to attend a special public meeting on 27 October at O.R. Tambo Community Hall. The gathering will address issues affecting the elderly and ensure their voices are heard in shaping local services and support structures.

Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/ikageng-gazette

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Klerksdorp Gazette

Community & News

North West Police Launch Safer Festive Season Operation to Tackle Crime Surge

The North West Provincial Police officially launched the Safer Festive Season Operation in Kanana Township, signaling a united front against crime in the months leading up to the holidays. Running from October 2025 to January 2026, the initiative forms part of the national JCPS Cluster campaign and brings together SAPS, municipal law enforcement, and community partners to improve visibility, strengthen patrols, and ensure safer celebrations for residents.

Matlosana Municipal Workers Down Tools Over Suspensions Linked to Fraud Scandal

Operations at the City of Matlosana came to a halt this week as workers staged a protest against the suspension of two finance officials implicated in a fraud investigation. The demonstration disrupted billing, payroll, and budget processes, intensifying pressure on municipal leadership. Union representatives have called for transparent proceedings, while city management insists that disciplinary measures must follow due process to restore integrity in administration.

City of Matlosana Executive Mayor Encourages the Matric Class of 2025 to Excel

In a message filled with pride and optimism, Mayor Fikile Mahlophe congratulated Matlosana’s matriculants on reaching this pivotal stage of their education. He urged learners to persevere through challenges, emphasising that their success contributes directly to the growth of both the city and the nation. His words highlighted education as the foundation of leadership, empowerment, and opportunity.

Rotaract Klerksdorp Shines a Light on Local Changemakers

In celebration of Economic & Community Development Month, the Rotaract Club of Klerksdorp launched a campaign spotlighting local heroes who uplift communities through service and innovation. Going beyond recognition, the initiative connects resources and volunteers to grassroots needs, strengthening the network of compassion across the city. This marks the first in a series honoring those driving real social change in the North West.

Municipal & Infrastructure Updates

City of Matlosana Engages Jacaranda Residents in Thuntsa Lerole Service Delivery Drive

Residents of Jacaranda gathered this week for a Thuntsa Lerole feedback session hosted by the City of Matlosana. Executive Mayor Cllr. Fikile Mahlophe encouraged households to register for indigent subsidies and voiced the municipality’s continued commitment to enhancing service delivery. The engagement focused on infrastructure needs, welfare programs, and the importance of collaboration between government and citizens to sustain community development.

City of Matlosana Releases Updated Weekly Waste Collection Schedule for Klerksdorp

To enhance efficiency and environmental health, the City of Matlosana announced a revised Weekly Waste Collection Schedule for Klerksdorp. The updated plan aims to improve service consistency, combat illegal dumping, and ensure that all residential areas receive regular, reliable waste management. The city urged residents to adhere to collection times and support initiatives promoting cleanliness and sustainability.

Matlosana: Leaders Inspire Youth and Future Farmers Through Education and Agriculture

Matlosana leaders continued their outreach efforts with two impactful programs this week, one encouraging academic success among learners and another empowering future farmers through hands-on agricultural training at the National Fresh Produce Market. Led by Speaker Cllr. Stella Mondlane-Ngwenya, the initiatives reinforced the city’s vision of equipping youth with the confidence, knowledge, and skills needed to secure sustainable futures in education and enterprise.

Events & Social Life

Matlosana Hello Festival: A Fresh Start to 2026 with Music and Celebration

Klerksdorp is gearing up for one of the North West’s most anticipated year-end events, the Matlosana Hello Festival 2026. Taking place on New Year’s Day at Mshengu Fun City, the festival promises a vibrant mix of local entertainment, soulful jazz, and community celebration. Featuring artists like Mandisi Dyantyis, Zoe Modiga, and Selaelo Selota, the event aims to ring in the new year with unity and positive energy.

Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/klerksdorp-gazette

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Carletonville Gazette

Community & News

Merafong Residents Mobilise for Shutdown Over Service Delivery Failures

Residents of the Merafong City Local Municipality are preparing for a major shutdown on 24 October 2025 in protest against ongoing service delivery failures, corruption, and governance issues. Organised by the Merafong Service Delivery Crisis Forum, the march will unite communities from Carletonville, Fochville, Kokosi, Khutsong, and Welverdiend in calling for urgent intervention from provincial and national authorities. The initiative reflects growing frustration among residents who say their voices have gone unheard for far too long.

Kokosi Primary Teacher Honoured as Gauteng West’s Best Soul Buddies Facilitator

Kokosi Primary School celebrated one of its own, as educator Dipuo Qupe was named Best Soul Buddies Facilitator for the Gauteng West region. Recognised for her dedication to building empathy, teamwork, and leadership among learners, Qupe’s achievement highlights the vital role teachers play in nurturing compassionate and socially aware young citizens.

Merafong Executive Mayor Sends Encouragement to the Matric Class of 2025

Executive Mayor Cllr. Nozuko Best shared a heartfelt message of encouragement with Merafong’s Class of 2025, urging learners to approach their exams with confidence and resilience. Her message, aligned with the Re-Imagining Merafong Vision 2035, underscored education as a foundation for transformation and a brighter future for the next generation.

Carletonville, Let’s Help: Bring Joy to Shelter Animals with the Santa Paws Box Project

The SPCA Carletonville and District launched the Santa Paws Box Project, inviting residents to create festive gift boxes for animals in need. Inspired by the popular “shoebox” concept, the campaign aims to provide shelter pets with toys, treats, and comfort during the festive season. The initiative not only brings holiday cheer but also reminds residents that compassion extends to every living creature.

Carletonville/Fochville, Let’s Help: Gladiator Brings Festive Joy with Annual Christmas Drive

The Gladiator Community Protection Christmas Drive has once again united the people of Carletonville and Fochville in the spirit of generosity. Each year, the initiative gathers support from schools, residents, and local businesses to provide for vulnerable families. It has become a beloved community tradition, showing that small gestures of kindness can make a lasting difference.

Carletonville Weekly Roundup: Police Breakthroughs, Service Delivery Struggles, and Community Triumphs

This week in Carletonville brought both progress and challenges as police reported breakthroughs in key investigations, while service delivery issues continued to test public patience. Community organisations, however, provided a beacon of hope through ongoing outreach projects and youth empowerment efforts, reflecting a town where resilience and cooperation remain at the heart of daily life.

Events & Social Life

Gladiator Christmas Drive Gears Up for Fochville Visit

Fochville is preparing for a festive boost as the Gladiator Christmas Drive returns on 12 December 2025. Organised by the Gladiator Community Protection team, the annual event collects gifts, food, and essentials for families in need across Fochville and Carletonville. Residents and businesses are encouraged to contribute, ensuring that no home is left without joy this holiday season.

Municipal & Infrastructure Updates

Merafong City: Executive Mayor Leads Joint Operation to Enforce By-Laws and Strengthen Community Safety

Merafong Executive Mayor Cllr. Nozuko Best led a major enforcement drive to uphold municipal by-laws and improve compliance with the city’s Credit Control Policy. Joined by key Members of the Mayoral Committee, the mayor oversaw inspections and community engagements aimed at restoring accountability and promoting safer, cleaner neighbourhoods. The operation forms part of Merafong’s ongoing mission to improve governance and rebuild trust between citizens and the municipality.

Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/carletonville

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The Pulse That Connects Us All

As the sun sets on another week, one thing remains constant, South Africans’ unwavering ability to adapt, collaborate, and uplift one another. Every challenge faced was met with purpose, every setback balanced by acts of service, and every community reminded that progress is built one act of courage at a time.

From the national headlines to the quiet corners of our towns, the pulse of this country beats with determination and hope. Whether through sport, education, innovation, or compassion, the stories of this week remind us that the road to a stronger South Africa is not walked alone, it’s built together, every single day.

Until next time, stay engaged, supportive, and inspired.

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