Weekly Pulse: Hydrogen Breakthroughs, Rising Crime, Local Triumphs, and Community Spirit Shine Across Our Region
- Karen Scheepers
- Aug 29
- 6 min read
Your comprehensive weekly round-up of national highlights, local updates, community initiatives, and inspiring stories from across our region.
As August draws to a close, South Africa reflects on both challenges and triumphs, from national innovation in clean energy to grassroots stories of resilience and community. This edition of The Weekly Pulse brings you the latest from National headlines, Potchefstroom, Ikageng, Klerksdorp, Carletonville, and StroomStories.
National
NWU and HySA Infrastructure Drive Green Hydrogen Innovation
North-West University (NWU) and Hydrogen South Africa (HySA) Infrastructure have launched advanced electrolysis testing stations to support green hydrogen production. The facilities will help lower costs and improve local adoption, placing South Africa at the forefront of clean energy research and sustainable power.
South Africa Confronts a Surge in Crime
The latest annual crime report reveals that South Africa still faces alarmingly high crime rates, with over 1.5 million housebreaking incidents recorded in the past year. Gender-based violence, hijackings, and violent assaults remain widespread, underscoring the urgent need for stronger interventions to improve safety nationwide.
August Gazette Edition Released
The August Gazette is now available, covering a wide range of stories from the Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp demerger debate to Amelia Aftercare Centre’s funding crisis. Readers will also find sports victories, school achievements, community projects, and local lifestyle updates, reflecting the vibrant heartbeat of the region.
Read these stories and more here: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/the-gazette
Potch Gazette
News
Santi Britz Nominated for Inspirasievrou 2025
Potchefstroom’s Santi Britz has been recognised as one of 50 finalists for the Inspirasievrou 2025 award. Her nomination honours her resilience and advocacy against gender-based violence, offering the community a chance to support a local leader with national influence.
NWU Announces Postgraduate Funding
NWU has committed to fully funding qualifying postgraduate students, aiming to reverse declining Master’s and PhD enrolments. This initiative will strengthen South Africa’s research capacity and ensure more equitable access to advanced education.
Women of NWU: Shaping the Present, Inspiring the Future
This Women’s Month, NWU highlighted the vital role women play in teaching, research, leadership, and community engagement. The recognition went beyond achievements, focusing on resilience, mentorship, and the invisible labour of balancing multiple responsibilities.
NWU Researcher Steps into SA Heart® Leadership
Professor Ruan Kruger, from NWU’s Hypertension in Africa Research Team, has taken on a key leadership role within SA Heart®. His appointment strengthens South Africa’s research impact in cardiovascular health and underscores NWU’s contribution to medical science.
Deon Groot and Bok van Blerk Headline Potch Geesfees
Potch Geesfees will showcase top Afrikaans talent, with Deon Groot delivering heartfelt ballads and Bok van Blerk bringing powerful storytelling through music. Their performances promise to make the festival a memorable celebration of culture and connection.
Potchefstroom Library Reading Competition & Staff Farewell
The library hosted a lively reading competition for learners while bidding farewell to two long-serving staff members. The event highlighted the library’s dual role in nurturing literacy while honouring decades of community service.
Amelia Aftercare Centre Faces Funding Crisis
After a 60% subsidy cut, Amelia Aftercare Centre is struggling to survive and calls on the community for support. The organisation remains committed to providing a home for vulnerable residents but urgently needs sustainable funding.
AfriForum Buurtspan Strengthens Safety
AfriForum’s local neighbourhood watch continues to play a critical role in Potchefstroom’s safety network. By working with SAPS and CPF structures, volunteers help curb crime and improve neighbourhood security.
Weekly Group Updates and DA WhatsApp Initiative
Community WhatsApp groups remain crucial for sharing updates on electricity, water, and refuse collection. In addition, the DA launched a new WhatsApp initiative to provide residents with timely political and service delivery news leading up to the 2026 elections.
Council
Promosa Lease Agreements Distributed
JB Marks Municipality began handing out long-awaited lease agreements to Promosa Hillside and Graveside residents. The initiative brings dignity and security while laying a foundation for improved housing development.
Community
Farmers’ Information Day
The North West Department of Agriculture hosted an information day in Potchefstroom to bring resources and funding insights closer to farmers. The programme aimed at strengthening agricultural development in the district.
Paws Haven Honoured on International Dog Day
International Dog Day on 26 August highlighted the importance of adoption, shelter support, and responsible ownership. Paws Haven encouraged residents to contribute to its mission of protecting and caring for local dogs.
Potch Diary Week 34 Highlights
From student teachers to Ikageng street culture, Week 34 was filled with energy and community celebrations. The diary captured live music, birthdays, wellness, and sport development as reminders of local vibrancy.
Sports
NWU Netball Opener & Madibaz Comeback Thriller
NWU opened their Varsity Netball campaign with a commanding 63–29 victory over Varsity College, showing dominance early in the season. However, their momentum was checked when Madibaz stunned them with a 52–48 comeback, proving how competitive the tournament will be.
Luiperds Women’s Rugby Advance to the Final
The Luiperds women’s rugby team delivered a powerful performance to beat SWD Eagles in the semifinal. Their determination now sets the stage for an exciting final clash.
NWU Football Fall to UFS in Last-Minute Drama
In Varsity Football, NWU fell short against UFS after a tense match in Bloemfontein. Despite early chances and strong defence, Kovsies sealed a 1–0 win in the dying minutes.
Community Support for Athlete Anzelle Kruger
Local athlete Anzelle Kruger is preparing for the SA IFBB Wellness Championships with the backing of her community. Her journey is an inspiring example of perseverance, discipline, and collective spirit.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/potch-gazette
Ikageng Gazette
Soul Session Fundraiser for a Cause
Aganang FM will host a Soul Session Fundraiser at Katlego Lounge on 5 October. The event blends live performances with DJ sets to raise funds while bringing the community together.
Stanza Mmoki Poetry Evening
The Sebakeng Arts Centre will host celebrated poet Stanza Mmoki on 14 September. His performance promises an evening of storytelling, rhythm, and cultural celebration.
Dream Builders AfterCare Supports Learners
Dream Builders AfterCare continues to provide Grade 1–7 learners with academic and social support. The programme offers children a safe environment to grow and thrive after school.
Kaizer Chiefs vs Sundowns Clash
Ikageng football fans are gearing up for the Betway Premiership showdown between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns. The fixture promises high-intensity action and local viewing excitement.
Help Boipelo Take the Next Step
Community members are rallying to support Boipelo Malebo, who lost her leg in 2019 and now seeks assistance to improve mobility. Her courage and determination have inspired many, and the drive reflects Ikageng’s spirit of compassion.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/ikageng-gazette
Klerksdorp Gazette
Teen Talent Shines in Tienertoneel Production
Klerksdorp High School’s teen actors impressed audiences with their sci-fi stage play SFEER. The production showcased creativity, teamwork, and youthful energy on stage.
SAVF Rethabile CYCC Fun Run Announced
Scheduled for 15 October, the Fun Run will bring runners and walkers together in support of children’s welfare. With Klerksdorp Marathon Club involved, the event is expected to cater to both casual and serious participants.
Council
City of Matlosana Tackles Electricity and Housing Challenges
The municipality has increased engagements with residents to address service delivery concerns. Officials emphasised the importance of accountability and consistent communication for long-term solutions.
Matlosana Outreach Brings Services to Residents
On 28 August, the Office of the Speaker hosted a high-impact outreach programme with Home Affairs and other departments. The event made essential government services more accessible to residents.
National Potato Day at Matlosana Market
The Fresh Produce Market marked National Potato Day with chefs and students highlighting the crop’s contribution to food security. The celebration also recognised the importance of potatoes to households and businesses.
Sports:
THS U/15 and COSASA Victories
Technical High School Klerksdorp’s U/15 rugby side clinched the Noordvaal 4th Division title after a hard-fought campaign. Meanwhile, two young athletes made South Africa proud with double gold at the COSASA athletics meet in Swaziland.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/klerksdorp-gazette
Carletonville Gazette
Carletonville Rugby Victory
Hoërskool Carletonville’s 1st rugby team edged Hoërskool Jan Viljoen 22–20 in a thrilling contest. Their determination and composure carried them to one of the season’s standout wins.
Jongspan’s Support for Callies Rugby
Before their big final, Laerskool Jongspan showed support to Carletonville’s 1st rugby side. The gesture of encouragement underscored the strong community ties between schools.
Academic Achievement at Jongspan
Tshenolo Rabotapi proudly represented Laerskool Jongspan in the EMS district olympiad. His participation highlighted the value of hard work and learning at a young age.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/carletonville
🎥 StroomStories
NWU Tractor Awareness Rally
StroomStories featured the NWU Tractor Awareness Rally, a symbolic cross-country journey aimed at raising awareness about dementia and Alzheimer’s. Running from 30 August to 12 September, the initiative calls for breaking stigma and supporting those affected.
SportStroom with BRSI
This week’s SportStroom hosted Alex Skudder and Jandré Volschenk from BRSI, who specialise in organising international school sports tours. Their work blends athletic competition with cultural exchange and personal growth opportunities.
✨ Closing Note
The Weekly Pulse – 29 August 2025 reflects a South Africa alive with innovation, resilience, and community spirit. From national energy breakthroughs and sobering crime reports to Potchefstroom’s thriving culture, Ikageng’s creativity, Klerksdorp’s achievements, and Carletonville’s school pride, the stories remind us of the challenges we face, but also of the strength and unity that carry us forward.
Until next week, stay engaged, stay safe, and stay inspired.
Follow us online and stay in tune with the towns that move you.
The Weekly Pulse – More than news. It's your neighbourhood, on record.
📬 The community is warmly invited to share their stories, voices, and experiences with us for future editions of The Weekly Pulse.
Comments