A Week of National Pride and Local Resilience

As September begins, South Africa is buzzing with stories of progress, perseverance, and pride. From the rollout of SASSA’s biometric enrolment system to the Springbok Women’s historic Rugby World Cup achievement, and from Potchefstroom’s vibrant Geesfees to Klerksdorp’s youth empowerment initiatives, this week reflects the energy of a country determined to build, celebrate, and overcome challenges together. The Weekly Pulse brings you the key stories shaping National headlines, Potchefstroom, Ikageng, Klerksdorp, Carletonville, and StroomStories.

National

News

SASSA Rolls Out Biometric Enrolment for Social Grants

From 1 September, all SASSA grant beneficiaries must register through biometric verification. This initiative reduces fraud, prevents duplicate payments, and ensures grants reach rightful recipients, building integrity in the system.

Suicide Awareness Month: A Call for Hope and Prevention

September marks Suicide Awareness Month, a campaign to break stigma and encourage compassion. By fostering open conversations and promoting support, the initiative aims to save lives and bring healing.

Appel Releases Mini-Album “Genesis”

Musician Appel has released a new five-track album, Genesis, blending themes of faith, love, inspiration, and nostalgia. The project is set to resonate deeply with listeners across the country.

Sports

Springbok Women Reach World Cup Quarter-Final for First Time

The Springbok Women have made history by qualifying for their first Rugby World Cup quarter-final, with victories over Brazil and Italy. Their achievement marks a turning point for women’s rugby in South Africa.

Springboks vs All Blacks: High-Stakes Clash Ahead

South Africa faces arch-rivals New Zealand at Eden Park in a Rugby Championship showdown. With a mixed start to the campaign, the Boks are under pressure to perform while fans expect another classic battle.

Community

TRACTOR Awareness Rally Launches in Potchefstroom

On 30 August, the TRACTOR Awareness Rally began its 1,900km journey to Bredasdorp to raise awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s. The initiative brings families and communities together in solidarity.

TRACTOR Rally Brings Hope in Britstown

After Hopetown, the rally reached Britstown, continuing its message of remembrance and resilience. Coordinated by NWU, the campaign connects caregivers, families, and communities along its route.

Ward 01 Community Clean-Up

Residents will tackle an illegal dumping site on 3 September as part of the Letsema Programme. The initiative promotes dignity and collective responsibility for public spaces.

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

Potchefstroom

News

Week 35 Diary Captures Local Life

From tractor rallies and escape rooms to padstal pitstops and Geesfees excitement, Week 35 was full of colour and connection. The diary highlighted how Potchefstroom balances giving back with celebrating life.

Potch Geesfees 2025: “Ploeg Terug” Theme

The Geesfees closed on a high note, with volunteers, organisers, and festivalgoers uniting in generosity and joy. The event reflected the power of community collaboration.

JB Marks August Service Delivery Overview

The municipality’s report outlined progress in roads, electricity, water, and sewage services despite ongoing challenges. The update reassures residents of steady, tangible improvements.

Abraham Kriel Children’s Home Faces Strain

Serving over 200 vulnerable children, the Abraham Kriel Home now struggles with limited funding. The community is called on to help sustain its vital mission.

Tourism Monitors Programme Offers Youth Opportunities

Applications are open for the national Tourism Monitors Programme, offering youth training in tourism and conservation. The project tackles unemployment while nurturing future custodians of heritage.

Weekly Group Update (4 September)

Potchefstroom’s WhatsApp groups continue to be essential for real-time service alerts, emergencies, and community support. Last week highlighted frustrations, quick responses, and ongoing engagement.

Weekly Overview of Safety Incidents (4 September)

Potchefstroom faced fire bans, infrastructure failures, and rising crime alerts. Reports from First Responders underscored the need for vigilance and rapid collaboration in ensuring community safety.

Sports

NWU Eagles Netball Triumph Over Maties

The NWU Eagles defeated Maties 55–41 at home, securing a top-three spot in Varsity Netball. Their form and momentum promise exciting matches ahead.

Join Potchefstroom’s Junior Rugby Club

The Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub, the town’s only junior rugby club, invites new members for the 2025/26 season. With a legacy spanning 135 years, the club continues to foster youth rugby talent.

SA Army Fittest Soldier Competition 2025

The Army’s Fittest Soldier Competition tested endurance, logistics, and mental resilience in Potchefstroom. Events such as the Artillery Surprise and Land Obstacle Course showcased operational readiness.

Dust, Hills, and Triumphs: Potch Track Club at ACNW XC Champs

Potch Track Club athletes excelled at the Athletics Central North West Cross Country Championships. Against tough terrain and stiff competition, the runners secured podium finishes, proving their strength and depth of talent.

Council

JB Marks Launches Phase 5 of Service Delivery Campaign

Phase 5 of the Thuntsa Lerole campaign began on 1 September, intensifying municipal service delivery. The programme aims to reach both rural and urban communities with faster, more reliable improvements.

Operation Basadi: Women Lead N12 Roadblock

Women-led policing operations under Shanela II conducted a major roadblock on the N12. Hundreds of vehicles were checked, fines issued, and visible policing reaffirmed.

Foot-and-Mouth Vaccination Drive at Rysmierbult

National and provincial leaders oversaw cattle vaccinations to curb Foot-and-Mouth Disease. The campaign aims to safeguard rural livelihoods and economic stability.

Community

StroomCares: Santa Project Returns

Preparations are underway for the StroomCares Santa project, which brings gifts, sweets, and joy to Potchefstroom’s children. The initiative continues to spread festive hope.

StroomCares: Jana Steyn a Living Miracle

The story of Jana Steyn, recovering after a serious accident, has drawn prayers and community support. Her recovery is celebrated as a testimony of faith and resilience.

Opening Hearts Through Fostering at PAWS Haven

PAWS Haven appealed for foster homes for vulnerable kittens and puppies. Fostering offers animals a safe start while awaiting permanent adoption.

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

News

Letsema Monday Programme in Ward 20

A clean-up campaign will restore dignity to Ward 20’s public spaces. The initiative reflects the value of volunteerism in community development.

SARS Mobile Tax Unit Visits Potchefstroom

SARS will bring its mobile unit to assist residents with tax services. This effort improves access and compliance for the community.

Nina Movie Screening in Promosa

The film Nina will be shown at PPC Church, highlighting themes of faith and resilience. Audiences can expect an evening of inspiration and fellowship.

Sports

Pre-Season Friendlies at Promosa Stadium

On 7 September, local clubs will compete in pre-season matches to sharpen skills and build team spirit. The event promises excitement and community energy.

Bokone FC Trials for 2025/26 Season

Bokone FC will host trials at Ikageng Stadium on 13 September. Young players have the chance to earn a place in the ABC Motsepe League.

Dust to Dust Soccer Tournament

This weekend’s tournament at Extension 6 Aerial Ground will showcase local football talent. Families and supporters are encouraged to attend and enjoy the festivities.

Inter-Institutional Sports Tournament at Ikageng Stadium

Potchefstroom Hospital will host schools and institutions for a major sports day on 6 September. The event promotes fitness, teamwork, and regional unity.

Community

Old School Jive at Picaroon’s Lounge

On 6 September, Picaroon’s Lounge will host Old School Jive, with Ouma Sarie and Bazil performing. The event blends nostalgia with high-energy entertainment.

Study With Guru After-School Programme 2025

The Study With Guru tutoring programme is launching for learners from Grade R to Grade 9. It aims to boost academic performance and confidence.

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

 Klerksdorp

News

Giving Toys Project Brings Joy

The Maak ’n Kind se Droom Waar! initiative is collecting toys for children in local homes. The project spreads hope and comfort to the most vulnerable.

Planned Water Interruption in Doringkruin and Wilkoppies

Matlosana Municipality will temporarily cut water on 6 September for reservoir maintenance. Residents are encouraged to prepare for the disruption.

Sports

Dragons Inspire at Saamtrek Capping Ceremony

North West Dragons Cricket inspired young learners at Laerskool Saamtrek during a special capping ceremony. Lessons on discipline, teamwork, and pride left a lasting impact.

Grizzly Premier Liga Hockey Heats Up

After Day 2, the Buffels lead the standings with Zebras and Bears close behind. Upcoming matches promise continued competition and excitement.

Community

G20 Exhibition and Dialogue at Jouberton and Taung

The G20 Exhibition brought together TVET campuses, lecturers, and stakeholders to discuss skills, sustainability, and equality. The dialogue prepares youth for the future workplace.

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

Carletonville

News

History of Carletonville

Carletonville’s story reflects resilience, from its mining beginnings to its adaptation beyond gold. The town’s history mirrors South Africa’s broader struggles and triumphs.

Merafong Youth iMbizo Empowers Young Voices

The Youth iMbizo series began in Khutsong and Wedela, giving young people platforms to engage with leaders. The initiative highlights Merafong’s focus on youth development.

Sports

Merafong Mayoral Games 2025 Launched

The launch of the Games included volleyball and chess, promoting inclusive recreation. The programme remains a platform for unity, sport, and talent growth.

FvD Tactical Airsoft Event

Carletonville will host an airsoft event on 14 September, offering tactical play in collaboration with Tier 1 Alliance. The event appeals to both seasoned players and newcomers.

Community

CJHS Maths Olympiad Success

Carleton Jones High School learners excelled in the Mathematics Olympiad, with Thokozani Malindi placing second in the district. Their achievements reflect dedication and academic excellence.

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

StroomStories

Education

Skool Kompas with Chris Conradie

Mr. Chris Conradie of Laerskool President Pretorius shared insights on teaching Technology, Natural Sciences, and Geography. He also discussed discipline challenges in modern classrooms.

Sports

SportStroom with Cricket World Academy

Johan Vorster, John van Wyk, and Diaan van der Merwe of Cricket World Academy discussed cricket training and development. Their work focuses on building the next generation of cricket stars.

Closing Note

The Weekly Pulse, 5 September 2025 offers a tapestry of stories that highlight South Africa’s resilience and spirit. Nationally, the country continues to innovate and tackle challenges, while locally, communities showcase pride, progress, and compassion. From the Springbok Women’s World Cup journey to Potchefstroom’s fostering initiative, Ikageng’s soccer tournaments, Klerksdorp’s youth dialogues, and Carletonville’s history of resilience, the pulse of our nation beats stronger each week. Until next time, stay engaged, supportive, and inspired.

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