This week’s Weekly Pulse brings together a vibrant mix of local and regional updates that showcase our communities at their most dynamic. From large-scale municipal developments and international academic collaborations to grassroots sports triumphs, cultural festivals, and human stories of resilience, each article reflects the collective heartbeat of the places we call home. Let’s dive into the highlights shaping Potchefstroom, Ikageng, Klerksdorp, Carletonville, and beyond.

National

NextExchange Heads to Kroonstad for One-Day Buying Event

NextExchange, a leading name in the buying and valuation of precious metals and collectibles, will visit Kroonstad for a special one-day event on 27 August 2025. Residents can bring in gold, silver, coins, and other valuables for expert appraisal at Brüder Coffee, with immediate EFT payments offered. The event provides a secure, accessible opportunity for community members to convert their collectibles into cash with trusted professionals.

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

PotchGazette

Council & Service Delivery

• Potchefstroom–Ventersdorp Demerger Debate

  Thousands of petition forms were submitted, yet the Demarcation Board decided against demerging the municipalities. Residents view the decision as politically motivated, echoing frustrations first felt in 2015.

• Ward 7 Sewage Blockages

  Ongoing sewage spillages have created environmental and health risks, with residents demanding urgent municipal action.

• JB Marks Community Growth Initiatives

  Through programmes on youth empowerment, disability awareness, and financial literacy for NPOs, the municipality demonstrates a commitment to inclusion and sustainable development.

  
  

• JB Marks Service Delivery Update

  Recent updates note progress in road repairs, new streetlights, and improved water system stability. However, risks remain in key zones such as the Ventersdorp Road reservoir and ongoing maintenance sites.

Community & Heritage

• Potch and Jack the Ripper?

  A headstone in Potchefstroom links to Rachel Laskin (Lizzie Silver), whose life intersected with Joseph Silver, a notorious criminal speculated in connection with Jack the Ripper. The story is less about proving a crime link and more a call to remember women like Rachel and reflect on exploitation, crime, and historical speculation.

  
  

• Paws Haven: Dogs and Cats Await Adoption

  Shelter animals in Potchefstroom, from loyal dogs to affectionate cats, are ready for permanent homes. Adopting not only transforms one animal’s life but also opens space for more rescues.

• StoormCares: Tshwaraganang Daycare Centre

  Serving children with disabilities, this centre provides education, dignity, and independence. The community is called to help the centre regain resources and mobility to continue its vital mission.

  
  

• StoormCares: Abraham Kriel Children’s Home

  The home continues to uplift vulnerable children, from supporting higher education to restoring health. Community support ensures its legacy of hope lives on.

• The Go-To Guy – Week 33 Diary

  From school pride and Italian flavours to dance battles in Ikageng and environmental awareness, Week 33 captured the spirit of resilience and creativity. The diary reminded readers that Potchefstroom and Ikageng thrive on joy, responsibility, and community solidarity.

Events & Culture

• Potch Geesfees 2025

  This year’s line-up includes headline artists like Ivan Roux, Juanita du Plessis, Leah, and rising star Stephan Fourie. Exhibitors will showcase food, fashion, homeware, conservation, and children’s activities. A wine route featuring over 60 wines adds flavour to the festival. Performers like Oppi-Stoep Dans Orkes and JP Dix will bring energy and heartfelt storytelling to the stage.

• Biltongfees 2025

  Hosted by Amelia Nasorgsentrum, the event featured Dozi and Jakkie Louw, family-friendly activities, auctions, and a lively, festive atmosphere. The evening was hailed as a great success.

  
  

• NWU Comedy Night

  A night of laughter raised funds for the NWU We Care Bursary Fund, blending cultural entertainment with student support.

• NWU Gallery – FloraVenus

  This exhibition, running until September, explores themes of feminine duality, ancestral wisdom, and transformation through contemporary art.

• Welwees Basaar Brings Community Together

  The Potchefstroom Service Centre hosted its Welwees Basaar, drawing residents to a lively event filled with stalls, services, and entertainment. The gathering not only highlighted wellness and health but also emphasised care for senior citizens.

Education, Science & Partnerships

• Botswana & NWU Strengthen Ties

  An NWU delegation visited Botswana to expand academic partnerships and regional cooperation.

• NWU & New Zealand High-Performance Sport Partnership

  The university’s new collaboration with New Zealand aims to advance sports science and athletic performance, linking NWU with a global leader in rugby research.

• New Parasite Named After NWU Scientist

  Prof Louis du Preez was honoured with a new parasite species, Latergator louisdupreezi, named after him, further recognising his international contributions to science.

Sport

• NWU Eagles Football Updates

  The Eagles edged CUT 1–0 in Potchefstroom and later held UP-Tuks to a stalemate in Mahikeng, showcasing resilience in Varsity Football.

• Potch Dorp Rugby Second Team Season Recap

  Despite a heavy 55–7 semi-final defeat against the Northam Wolves, the team celebrated a season of growth and resilience. Their top-four finish in the 2025 league reflects determination and camaraderie on and off the field.

• NWU Eagles vs UP-Tuks – Mahikeng Stalemate

  In front of a vibrant home crowd, the Eagles fought hard against UP-Tuks to earn a draw. First-year BA Humanities student Mlamleli Kokela stood out for his disciplined play, while the live DStv SuperSport broadcast extended the excitement nationwide.

Community and Security

• Vat Verniet Tafel

  The second event, fuelled by community donations, provided essentials with dignity and love. Organisers call for more volunteers, reminding residents that ordinary people can make extraordinary differences.

• Weekly Ward Group Summaries (8–21 August)

  WhatsApp groups continue to play a crucial role in sharing updates on outages, sewage problems, emergencies, and service issues, reflecting active resident engagement.

• Weekly Safety Incidents Overview (15–20 August)

  Potchefstroom and nearby towns reported a series of public safety concerns including fires, serious accidents, stolen property, and arrests linked to copper theft and immigration offences. This objective overview highlights both community vigilance and responder action.

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

Ikageng Gazette

Community & Lifestyle

• Spring Fiesta Re-Opening at K9 Lifestyle

  Residents welcomed spring with food, music, and social gatherings at the re-launch of K9 Lifestyle Shisanyama & Carwash.

• Royal Rumble Spin & Music Event

  The CSA Showgrounds will host this motorsport and music festival on 30 August, fusing car-spinning thrills with live performances.

  
  

Sport

• TTSA Wins Dlala Diski Mshaya U-15 Tournament

  Emerging as champions at Sarafina Stadium, TTSA impressed with teamwork, resilience, and consistency.

• E’Kasi Diski Challenge 2025

  Scheduled for October, this U-17 football tournament will showcase township talent and provide development kits for participants.

• Modified Hockey Programme Launch

  SAHA, North West Hockey, and Promosa High School introduced grassroots hockey to schools, laying the foundation for future growth.

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

Klerksdorp Gazette

Events & Festivals

• Klerksdorp Sevens Festival (3–4 October)

  Celebrating 15 years, this festival brings together sport, music, food, and festive energy. Teams and supporters from across southern Africa will join the fun.

  
  

Council & Service Delivery

• Thuntsha Lerole Phase 5 in Manzilpark

  Leaders launched the next phase of this accelerated service delivery initiative, emphasising accountability and responsiveness.

• Law Enforcement Roadblock

  Joint operations promoted road safety and honoured Women’s Month with awareness initiatives.

  
  

• Planned Power Outages & Water Disruptions

  Residents of Klerksdorp and Flamwood experienced scheduled outages for critical maintenance. These interventions aim to ensure long-term reliability.

  
  

• Skills & Enterprise Development

  Training graduates in water management and empowering informal traders demonstrated the city’s commitment to building livelihoods.

  
  

• Title Deeds Distributed in Kanana

  Families gained long-awaited legal ownership of homes, enhancing security and access to financial opportunities.

  
  

Community

• PSiRA Mobile Outreach Programme

  Running 20–22 August, the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority is hosting a roadshow in Klerksdorp. The outreach brings regulatory services closer to local businesses and security personnel, ensuring compliance and support.

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

Carletonville Gazette

Council & Governance

• Clarification on Appointment of Deputy CFO

  Merafong City Local Municipality released an official statement addressing concerns around the appointment of its Deputy CFO. The clarification focused on ethical hiring practices, institutional restructuring, and public accountability.

• Temporary Road Closures for SOCA 

  The municipality announced short-term road closures in Carletonville to facilitate the State of the City Address at the Civic Centre. Residents were advised to plan around the event to avoid disruptions.

• Independent Look at the 2025 State of the City Address

  Delivered by Executive Mayor Nozuko Best, the SOCA reviewed municipal achievements, ongoing challenges, and future plans under Vision 2035. The address touched on financial recovery, service delivery, youth empowerment, and long-term infrastructure renewal.

Community & Development

• Historic First Electricity Switch-On in Khutsong South Extensions 5

  Residents celebrated as electricity was connected for the first time, marking a milestone in local infrastructure development. The event symbolised progress and opportunity for improved living conditions and economic participation.

  
  

Sports & Schools

• Mnr. & Mej. Callies 2025

  Hoërskool Carletonville dazzled with its annual Mr. and Miss Callies competition. Contestants showcased confidence, style, and talent, making the evening a highlight on the school calendar.

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

StroomStories

SkoolKompas – Aspiring Teachers at Laerskool President Pretorius

On Monday, SkoolKompas welcomed Louisa Thompson, Lea Hugo, and Aleonor van Rijswijk, three aspiring teachers who recently completed three weeks of practical training at Laerskool President Pretorius. They shared insights into classroom life, the joys and challenges of working with young learners, and why they believe teaching is one of the most rewarding professions. Their stories highlighted passion, patience, and the vital role of mentorship in shaping the next generation of educators.

SportStroom – Weermag Rugby NW

Wednesday’s SportStroom turned the spotlight on Weermag Rugby NW, featuring coach Angelo Jacobs alongside players Robyn Smith and Keaghan Plaatjies. The discussion explored the discipline, teamwork, and pride that drive their success both on and off the field. From the camaraderie of the squad to the physical and mental demands of the game, the session painted a picture of rugby as not only a sport but also a symbol of resilience and shared identity.

StroomStories Live – Oppi-Stoep Dansorkes

Thursday’s StroomStories brought music to the fore with the Oppi-Stoep Dansorkes, a group known for infusing every performance with passion and energy. The band members shared their journey from humble beginnings to becoming a fixture in local music, as well as their love for traditional dance styles like sokkie and langarm. With their next big performance set for Potch Geesfees on Saturday, 30 August at 15:00, they offered a lively preview of the excitement festivalgoers can expect. Their story underscored the unifying power of music in celebrating culture and community.

Closing Thoughts

From grassroots clean-up campaigns in Ikageng to infrastructure launches in Carletonville, scientific breakthroughs at NWU, and the excitement of Potch Geesfees, this week’s Weekly Pulse showcases resilience and unity. These stories remind us that progress comes not only from major projects and leadership decisions but also from ordinary citizens giving their time, creativity, and passion. Together, these diverse moments paint a picture of thriving communities across our region, united by shared purpose and collective energy.

We’ll see you next week for more stories that matter. Until then, stay informed, stay safe, and stay connected.

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