Weekly Pulse: Service, Spirit, and Stories Shaping Our Communities
- Karen Scheepers
- 4 hours ago
- 7 min read
12 September 2025
From national milestones in sport and awareness drives to local service delivery updates, cultural highlights, and grassroots community efforts, this week has once again shown how much energy, resilience, and collaboration define our towns and country. The stories of the past seven days reflect both challenges and triumphs, reminding us that progress is made one step, one act, and one voice at a time.
National
News
French Firepower Overwhelms Bok Women
The Springbok Women fell 57–10 to France in Northampton, but the defeat still secured a historic first-ever quarter-final against New Zealand at Sandy Park on 13 September. Their campaign marks a turning point for women’s rugby in South Africa.
Boks Fall 17–24 to All Blacks at Eden Park
Early errors under wet conditions condemned the Springboks to another loss at Eden Park. A second-half fightback showed promise, and the team now turns its attention to Wellington in search of redemption.
Klerksdorp Student Lands Role in Diepe Waters
Leshané Chatwind, a student from Klerksdorp, has earned a place on the popular TV drama Diepe Waters. Her achievement proves how local talent can reach national stages and inspire future creatives.
Sweet Sips and Smiles: International Milkshake Day
Celebrated globally, International Milkshake Day highlights the joy and nostalgia behind this timeless drink, reminding us of the simple pleasures that bring communities together.
Community
TRACTOR Awareness Rally Continues Across SA
From Carnarvon to Robertson, the TRACTOR initiative has carried its message of dementia and Alzheimer’s awareness across provinces, uniting caregivers and communities through compassion and dialogue.
Suicide Awareness Month Observed
September marks global suicide awareness, focusing on breaking stigma, encouraging open conversations, and sharing hope. The message is clear: no one is alone, and support is always within reach.
Park “Mahala” Week 2025
The North West Parks and Tourism Board announced free access to 13 provincial reserves from 28 Sept to 5 Oct 2025. The initiative encourages South Africans to explore local natural heritage while boosting tourism and community pride.
Read these stories and more here: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/the-gazette
Potchefstroom
News
John Steenhuisen Visits Potchefstroom
The DA leader highlighted municipal failures during his oversight visit, urging urgent reform through a six-point plan to rescue North West communities.
Planned Water Disruption at Ventersdorp Road Pump Station
Residents are advised to prepare for a scheduled shutdown affecting large parts of Potchefstroom as upgrades take place at a critical pump station.
JB Marks Ward Map Consultations Announced
Public participation sessions for ward boundary drafts ahead of the 2026 elections invite residents to have a direct say in shaping representation.
WhatsApp Group Updates & Weekly Incident Reports
Community WhatsApp groups flagged pressing concerns, from outages and road hazards to safety alerts, while First Responders’ weekly report emphasised continued vigilance against infrastructure failures and crime.
Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded at JB Marks
The provincial government rolled out Phase 5 of Thuntsha Lerole in JB Marks, delivering multi-sectoral interventions spanning housing, social welfare, infrastructure, and small business support. The programme highlighted the intent to accelerate service delivery at local level.
Week 36 Diary
From classrooms and cricket fields to bakeries, cattle auctions, and business openings, Potchefstroom and Ikageng reflected contrasts of education, culture, commerce, and sport. The week showcased the spirit and resilience of community life.
Walking in Purple: NWU’s Bold Step
NWU’s Purple Walk brought together staff, students, and alumni across three campuses during Giving Week. The event raised funds and awareness to support financially struggling students, highlighting the institution’s commitment to student success.
Where to Get Your Baby’s Immunisation Shots
A comprehensive guide for new mothers highlighted Potchefstroom’s trusted healthcare options, from public clinics and pharmacy-based services to paediatric specialists and community initiatives like Love em Madly Baby Clinic.
Community
Ouma Sarie, DJ Randy & DJ Happy Feet Visit Miguel
A special visit brightened young Miguel’s day, highlighting the power of kindness and reminding families of God’s blessings in moments of joy.
Potch Dames Lentetee 2025
Over 300 women gathered on 6 Sept for an annual Spring Tea, combining food, conversation, and inspiration. With the central message “Jy is genoeg” (“You are enough”), the event reminded women of their worth and power in unity.
Meet the PAWS Haven Team
Behind every rescued paw lies the dedication of the PAWS Haven team, from vets to volunteers. Their compassion and tireless work ensure that vulnerable animals find safety, care, and the chance for a better life.
Vat Verniet Tafel Prepares for 20 Sept Outreach
Organisers are readying another round of food and clothing distribution, showing how small acts of giving multiply into big community impact.
Creative Collaboration Exhibition Opens at Potch Museum
Local artists joined forces to showcase a mixed-media exhibition celebrating diversity, dialogue, and shared inspiration in the arts.
“Adopt Me”: Dogs Seeking Forever Homes
PAWS Haven launched an adoption appeal, showcasing loving dogs ready for new families. Adoption, the shelter stresses, transforms not just the lives of the animals, but the families who welcome them.
Sports
Eagles Soar Over Tuks in Netball
NWU secured a 67–54 away win in Pretoria, consolidating their top-three spot in the Varsity Netball log.
NWU Football Rollercoaster
After defeats to UJ and Tuks, NWU bounced back with a 2–1 win over CPUT and a 2–2 draw against Wits.
NWU Netball vs Kovsies
Kovsies proved too strong in Pretoria, ending NWU’s three-game winning streak with an 83–59 victory.
SA Army Fittest Soldier Competition in Potch
The 17th edition tested soldiers through grueling events from obstacle runs to endurance walks, reinforcing Potchefstroom’s role as host of this national showcase of strength and unity.
Potch Track Club Excels at ACNW XC Champs
Local athletes conquered dusty trails and tough hills to secure podium finishes, underlining the club’s resilience and rising talent.
Men’s Varsity Football: NWU 1–0 DUT
NWU edged Durban University of Technology with a narrow 1–0 away win, keeping their playoff hopes alive. With the top-four race still open, the victory could prove decisive in securing a semi-final spot.
Celebrating NW Dragons Captain Nthabiseng Nini
Tributes poured in for Dragons women’s cricket captain Nthabiseng Nini, recognised as a leader and inspiration on and off the field. Her example of calm under pressure and dedication continues to uplift teammates and fans alike.
Leopards Platteland Squad Welcomes Potchefstroom Players
Four standout players from Potchefstroom Dorp Rugby Club have been selected for the Leopards Platteland squad, a recognition that celebrates their dedication and highlights the strength of grassroots rugby in the region.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/potch-gazette
Ikageng
News
Helping Hands, Healing Hearts Drive
A local initiative is collecting sanitary pads and toiletries to ensure young girls don’t miss school, restoring dignity and opportunity through community support.
SARS Mobile Tax Unit Visit
The mobile tax service provided accessible, convenient financial assistance for residents in Potchefstroom and Ikageng.
Road Cleaning in Ward 01
The Letsema Programme will see residents join hands to clean Sarafina Street, reflecting the enduring spirit of ubuntu.
Community
Open Air Farmers Market Announced
Set for 28 September at the CSA Show Grounds, this market will blend food, music, and leisure for a day of community fun.
Sebakeng Arts Centre Opens
A new creative hub now offers space for local artists and performers to express themselves and inspire future generations.
Sports
Ikageng School League Log Update
Local schools continue battling for bragging rights in U-15 and U-19 football, with fierce competition promising an exciting season.
Bafana Bafana vs Nigeria WCQ
South Africa prepares for a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, carrying national pride onto the pitch.
Prodigy Super Cup 2025
Scheduled for 20 September at Olën Park, this youth soccer event is set to showcase young talent and inspire future football stars.
MTN8 Final Screening at K9 Lifestyle
Fans can enjoy the Pirates vs Stellenbosch showdown in a festive local setting, blending sport with entertainment.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/ikageng-gazette
Klerksdorp
News
Planned Water Interruptions in Tigane & Khuma
Ongoing disruptions highlight both infrastructure fragility and the municipality’s efforts to address service gaps.
Roadworks & Streetlight Maintenance
Matlosana’s latest infrastructure push aims to improve accessibility and safety, reaffirming the city’s service delivery commitments.
Home Affairs Extends Hours
On 13 September, extended office hours will allow more residents to collect Smart IDs and passports.
Gift of Learning Campaign
Rotaract Klerksdorp is collecting books and stationery this September to support education and literacy.
Water Supply Challenges in Matlosana
Planned maintenance and unplanned breakdowns disrupted supply in multiple areas, highlighting fragile infrastructure and pressing residents to conserve water. Officials pledged to stabilise the system through tanker supply and ongoing repairs.
Service Drives vs Sewer Strains
The week brought mixed realities in Matlosana. Community outreach and service drives showcased resilience, while failures at wastewater plants and extended shortages underscored the urgent need for accountability and sustainable investment.
Community
UNISA Support at Klerksdorp Library
The university hosted application and financial aid sessions, ensuring equal access for students across smaller towns.
Sports
SDC Noordvaalbeker Plate Division Update
Nine schools are expected to compete in the 2026 tournament, with promotion and relegation shaping final entries.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/klerksdorp-gazette
Carletonville
News
Water Restrictions in Merafong City
Rand Water’s 40% restrictions left local reservoirs strained, with tanker deliveries and valve management offered as temporary relief.
Carletonville Faces Project Delays
Unpaid accounts and unresolved sinkhole risks raised concerns over the pace and effectiveness of service delivery.
Community Safety Update (1–10 Sept)
Security operations, school safety talks, and community resilience were balanced by persistent infrastructure struggles.
Community
Jongspan Primary Grade 7 Entrepreneurs’ Day
Learners shone with creative business pitches and confident presentations, showcasing entrepreneurial potential at grassroots level.
Click here to view these full stories and more: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/the-gazette/categories/carletonville
StroomStories
News / Community
Skoolkompas with Marius & Chrisane Pruis (Mon)
Married teachers share their journey and co-authored book.
Heleen & Lerine on Skuur Skoffel (Tue)
A farm-style fundraiser for NG Welsyn at Lekwena Wildlife Estate.
Sportstroom with Benno & Janco (Wed)
Childhood friends turned Luiperds rugby players now bound for Italy.
Hartspad Charity Walk/Run (Thu)
Organisers promote a 20 September event to donate shoes for learners in need.
Closing Note
This edition of Weekly Pulse captures the heartbeat of our communities: the challenges of service delivery, the triumphs of sport, the compassion of outreach, and the creativity of local culture. Each story adds to a mosaic of resilience and pride, reminding us that while obstacles remain, the spirit of unity and progress continues to drive us forward.
Until next time, stay engaged, supportive, and inspired.
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