Weekly Pulse: Strength, Spirit, and Service Drive Communities Forward

From national breakthroughs to local acts of kindness, this week’s Weekly Pulse captures a powerful blend of progress, perseverance, and people power across South Africa. The national spotlight shone on sporting triumphs - from the Springboks’ back-to-back championship win to the Proteas Women’s record-setting cricket feats, while Eskom’s Kusile Unit 6 marked a new milestone in strengthening the country’s power grid.

On the home front, Potchefstroom hosted the Military Skills Competition 2025 and celebrated the NWU Eagles’ Varsity Netball glory, Ikageng pulsed with youth creativity and environmental pride, Klerksdorp advanced in entrepreneurship and infrastructure renewal, and Carletonville balanced tragedy with triumph as its residents once again showed unity and resilience.

National

Champions Again: Springboks Survive Late Scare to Seal Back-to-Back Titles

The Springboks clinched the 2025 Castle Lager Rugby Championship title with a narrow 29–27 win over Argentina at Twickenham. Overturning a halftime deficit, the team showed trademark resilience to secure back-to-back championships and reaffirm their dominance on the international stage.

SPAR Baby Proteas Finish Fourth in Historic World Cup Run

South Africa’s Baby Proteas concluded their Netball World Youth Cup campaign with a record-breaking fourth-place finish, their best in history. Despite losing the semi-final and bronze playoff, the team’s performance inspired pride and optimism for the future of South African netball.

Tazmin Brits Makes ODI History with Five Centuries in 2025

Proteas opener Tazmin Brits became the first woman in cricket history to score five ODI centuries in a single calendar year. Her latest ton, 101 off 89 balls against New Zealand, not only sealed victory but crowned a phenomenal year of consistency and excellence.

Proteas Women’s World Cup: A Rough Start, Then Redemption

The Proteas women’s cricket team bounced back from a heavy opening loss to England with a commanding win over New Zealand. The turnaround showcased their fighting spirit and hinted at a resurgence as the tournament continues.

South Africa Women Edge India by 3 Wickets in Nail-Biting Match

In one of the most thrilling finishes of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, South Africa edged India by three wickets thanks to a heroic 84 off 54 balls from Nadine de Klerk. Her fearless innings, laced with eight fours and five sixes, turned the match on its head.

Kusile Unit 6 Goes Commercial – Strengthening South Africa’s Power Supply

Eskom achieved a major milestone with the commercial launch of Kusile Power Station’s Unit 6, adding 800 MW to the grid. Together with Medupi, the fully operational plants now contribute 9,600 MW, improving grid reliability and easing the risk of load shedding.

Minister Groenewald Secures 50 Farms for Prisoners in Drive Toward Self-Sufficiency

Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald announced a groundbreaking initiative to allocate 50 farms to South African prisons. The program aims to reduce food procurement costs, train inmates in agriculture, and promote rehabilitation through productive work.

Government to Block Cellphone Signals in Prisons

The Department of Correctional Services confirmed plans to install signal-blocking technology across prisons to curb gang operations. A pilot rollout at five high-risk facilities, including Pollsmoor, is expected before year-end as part of a national crackdown on illicit communications.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak Hits Merafong Amid Nationwide Livestock Crisis

State veterinarians confirmed a Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreak in Merafong, with Losberg near Fochville hardest hit. Emergency vaccination and quarantine measures are underway, but vaccine shortages have slowed containment efforts, raising alarms for farmers and supply chains.

Railway Tracks Are Not Playgrounds: A Call for Awareness and Responsibility

Communities are urged to prioritise safety as railway tracks continue to pose life-threatening risks. The piece calls for vigilance, especially among youth, and reminds the public that railway property is not a playground but a high-risk zone where awareness saves lives.

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

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Potch Gazette

News & Council

JB Marks September Service Delivery Report Highlights Progress and Infrastructure Investment

The JB Marks Local Municipality released its September report showcasing infrastructure progress, preventive maintenance, and water supply stabilisation efforts. Despite seasonal and resource challenges, the municipality emphasised sustainability and accountability in strengthening local infrastructure.

JB Marks Municipality Warns Against Throwing Objects onto Power Lines

Residents were urged to avoid the dangerous and damaging act of throwing foreign objects, such as tyre wires, onto power lines, a practice that causes costly outages and poses life-threatening risks to the community.

Temporary Road Closures and Upgrades Across Potchefstroom

Oudebrug Street will close on 6 October for heavy-lift construction, while Louis le Grange Road undergoes rehabilitation and paving. Both projects form part of JB Marks’s infrastructure improvement programme aimed at enhancing road safety and traffic flow.

JB Marks Municipality Restores Systems and Accelerates Service Delivery

After a temporary system outage, municipal services have been fully restored. The municipality also reported visible progress under its Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, including upgrades at Lakeside Resort (Potch Dam).

Committee Oversight Visit Highlights Heritage Preservation Needs

The Sport, Arts and Culture Portfolio Committee visited key heritage sites in Potchefstroom, emphasising the need for ongoing preservation and restoration to protect the city’s cultural legacy for future generations.

Community Updates from Local WhatsApp Groups (25 Sep – 8 Oct)

From broken cables to blocked drains and low water pressure, Potchefstroom’s community WhatsApp groups continued to serve as vital platforms for real-time safety and service alerts, fostering accountability and rapid response.

Community & Events

Potch Geesfees Lets New Life Bloom on the N12

As part of its community upliftment vision, Potch Geesfees volunteers cleaned and landscaped the N12 medians, creating four new “water-wise” gardens that now welcome visitors with colour and pride.

Potch, Let’s Help – Volunteer Hairdressers Needed

A heartwarming outreach under the “Vat Verniet Tafel” initiative calls for volunteer hairdressers to provide free haircuts on 25 October. The goal: restoring dignity and spreading kindness among underprivileged residents.

Paws Haven – Helping Hands for the Helpers

Paws Haven appealed for community support to provide rain gear for staff and volunteers working through tough weather to care for rescued animals, a reminder that welfare begins with those who give their time selflessly.

Bafenyi Trust – Hope and Sustainable Change

For over a decade, Bafenyi Trust has empowered Potchefstroom’s most vulnerable through education, skills, and mentorship. Its 2025 Christmas Project seeks 1 300 donated gifts to bring festive cheer to families in need.

Potchefstroom Museum Art Gallery Hosts Four Simultaneous Exhibitions

The Potchefstroom Museum Art Gallery unveiled four exhibitions spanning landscapes, textiles, ceramics, and mixed media, showcasing both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary South African creativity.

A Brew-tiful Way to Celebrate International Coffee Day

Potchefstroom’s love for coffee took centre stage on 1 October as cafés marked International Coffee Day, celebrating both classic brews and the rising popularity of iced coffee as a community ritual.

Sports

NWU Crowned Varsity Netball 2025 Champions

NWU Eagles made history with a 57–49 victory over UFS Kovsies, claiming their third Varsity Netball title and their first since 2016 in front of an ecstatic crowd in Bloemfontein.

Aphelele Sibisi from NWU Named FNB Player of the Tournament 2025

NWU captain Aphelele Sibisi earned the coveted FNB Player of the Tournament title for his leadership and outstanding performance throughout the Varsity Football season, receiving a R10 000 cash prize and a new Hertz-sponsored Suzuki Swift.

North West Dragons Announce Squad for WSB Western Province Clash

The North West Dragons confirmed their traveling squad for the 4-Day Series against Western Province, seeking to continue their strong start to the red-ball season with momentum and determination.

Defence & Heritage

Military Skills Competition 2025 Opens with Training and International Camaraderie

Potchefstroom welcomed soldiers from seven nations as MILCOMP 2025 commenced, emphasising discipline, precision, and cooperation among international military forces.

MILCOMP 2025: From Water Challenges to Precision Shooting

The competition entered full swing with participants testing their strength and skill in water obstacle courses and marksmanship events, highlighting fitness and unity across armed forces.

Nations Unite at MILCOMP 2025: Conquering Endurance Fronts

In its final days, MILCOMP 2025 saw soldiers push through the gruelling Land Obstacle Course and 8 km Combat Run, ending not only with medals but lifelong friendships and mutual respect among international participants.

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 & Culture

Dr KK District Gospel Clap & Tap Competition Shines in Potchefstroom

The Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Gospel Clap & Tap Competition filled the Govan Mbeki Hall with powerful performances and faith-driven energy as choirs from across the region celebrated unity through song. Hosted in partnership with the Department of Arts and Culture and JB Marks Municipality, the event showcased one of South Africa’s most soulful gospel traditions.

Dr KK District Celebrates Tourism Storytelling with Schools Competition

Learners from across the district participated in a creative storytelling competition highlighting tourism and heritage. The initiative, driven by JB Marks and the Dr KK District Municipality, encouraged youth to see themselves as storytellers of culture and community pride.

Artist Empowerment Workshop Set for Potchefstroom

Local creatives are set to gain new skills at the upcoming Artist Empowerment Workshop on 22 October at Potchefstroom Town Hall. The full-day event will provide training, mentorship, and business insight to strengthen artists’ professional growth in the creative industries.

SAUCCIF and NAC Host PESP6 Compliance Workshop

In partnership with the National Arts Council, the South African United Community and Cultural Industry Federation hosted a workshop aimed at helping artists and organisations access funding and navigate compliance, part of a broader effort to build sustainable creative economies.

Jewellery Workshop: Where Raw Materials Become Wearable Art

The Mmabana Projects Jewellery Workshop at Promosa Primary invites community members to explore the art of jewellery-making. This collaboration with Kanana CAC transforms creativity into craftsmanship, celebrating local talent and cultural artistry.

Promosa Youth Launch “Keep Pride, Keep Clean” Campaign

Promosa’s youth are taking a stand for the environment through the “Keep Pride, Keep Clean” campaign - a community-driven initiative blending education, art, and action to inspire responsibility and environmental pride among residents.

Sports & Youth Development

Ikageng Schools League Reaches Knockout Stage

Tshupane and Keotshepile Primary Schools topped their streams to advance to the semi-finals of the Ikageng Schools League. With strong defensive records and community support, the young athletes continue to inspire through teamwork and perseverance.

North West ABC Motsepe League 2025/26: Streams Announced

The new North West ABC Motsepe League season promises fierce competition as streams are finalised. Clubs now prepare for one of the province’s most competitive campaigns, where emerging talent meets provincial pride.

Potch Academy FC Ready for Engen Champ of Champs 2025

Potch Academy FC is set to represent North West at the prestigious Engen Champ of Champs tournament in Pretoria. The event, known as a launchpad for professional football careers, gives Potch’s young players an opportunity to shine on the national stage.

Community Unites for Promosa Primary’s Basketball Court Launch

A new basketball court at Promosa Primary was unveiled in partnership with Potch Sports Academy and local youth groups. The launch, filled with music and community participation, highlights the growing commitment to grassroots sports development.

Faith & Community Initiatives

Mount Sinai Parish Youth League Hosts Car Wash Fundraiser

The Mount Sinai Parish Youth League is raising funds through a car wash event on 4–5 October. The initiative blends purpose and fun, drawing community members together to support youth-driven projects that build skills and fellowship.

A-Class Assistant Offers After-Class Help for Learners

The A-Class Assistant Program continues to make education accessible by offering affordable after-school tutoring for learners from Grade R to Grade 9, strengthening foundational learning and long-term academic success in Ikageng.

Aganang FM Invites Community to Programming Meeting

Aganang Community Radio invited listeners and residents to take part in its open Programming Meeting on 19 October at B.A. Seobi Secondary School. The engagement aims to ensure local voices remain central to community broadcasting.

Community Support & Compassion

Potch, Let’s Help: Family Loses Everything in Ikageng House Fire

A devastating house fire left the Hlaoli family homeless, sparking an outpouring of compassion from the Potchefstroom and Ikageng communities. Residents and organisations have rallied with donations and emotional support, proving once again that unity thrives in times of crisis.

Arts & Entertainment

Street Dance Battles Heat Up with DJ Tshepza

Ikageng’s dance culture takes centre stage with the “Combo Meets Vaai” Dance Battles, powered by DJ Tshepza. The high-energy event celebrates rhythm, creativity, and the spirit of urban expression, uniting dancers from across the Vaal region and beyond.

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

News & Council

Kwalata Hiking, Camping & Spring Festival Launched at Faan Meintjies

The City of Matlosana has introduced the new annual Kwalata Hiking, Camping & Spring Festival, hosted at the scenic Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve. The event united outdoor enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and families in a celebration of nature, wellness, and community enterprise, marking a new era for eco-tourism in the region.

Matlosana Hello Festival 2026 Confirmed

The City of Matlosana, alongside the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, announced its support for the Matlosana Hello Festival 2026. Scheduled for 31 December and 1 January at Mshengu Fun City, the two-day event aims to welcome the new year with cultural vibrancy, economic stimulation, and large-scale community participation.

Kanana Water Interruption Successfully Resolved

A major leak repair in Kanana was completed following a planned water supply shutdown on 8 October. The City of Matlosana confirmed that operations restored pressure across multiple extensions, improving overall water reliability.

Roads Maintenance Drives Progress

Extensive resurfacing and rehabilitation works continued across Uraniaville, the Klerksdorp CBD, and key intersections. The municipality urged motorists to follow temporary traffic measures as part of ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and infrastructure quality.

Community & Development

Matlosana Entrepreneurial Flea Market Launches

The City of Matlosana’s LED Directorate hosted a lively Entrepreneurial Flea Market at the Civic Centre, creating a trading and networking platform for small businesses, crafters, and food vendors. The event emphasised innovation, collaboration, and economic inclusion at the local level.

Klerksdorp Library Holiday Programme Brings Joy and Learning

The city’s main library once again turned reading into a celebration through its interactive School Holiday Programme, engaging young learners in creative and educational activities. The initiative reaffirmed how public spaces can foster imagination and literacy among the youth.

Global Leadership Summit Heads to Klerksdorp

Klerksdorp will host the Global Leadership Summit 2025 on 31 October, a day dedicated to inspiring leadership, community building, and transformative ideas. The summit invites local entrepreneurs, educators, and faith leaders to collaborate for positive change.

Business & Lifestyle

Jetour Klerksdorp: A Modern Automotive Experience

The newly launched Jetour Klerksdorp dealership has brought modern design, advanced technology, and affordable luxury to the city’s motoring scene. Located in the growing commercial hub, the dealership promises a premium yet accessible customer experience.

Sports

Leonard Swart Selected for SA Schools Golf Team

Klerksdorp High School celebrated golfer Leonard Swart’s remarkable achievements, claiming the individual national schools title and earning selection for the South African Schools Golf Team. His success reflects hard work, focus, and exceptional sporting promise.

Matlosana Hosts Successful N12 Ultra Marathon

Hundreds of athletes and spectators gathered for the North West N12 Ultra Marathon, held at the Klerksdorp Recreation Centre. The event strengthened Matlosana’s growing reputation as a sports tourism destination, drawing participants from across South Africa and Lesotho.

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

News & Council

Khutsong Reservoir Tragedy Sparks Safety Review

The Khutsong community remains in mourning after the tragic death of a two-year-old who fell into an open reservoir chamber. The incident has prompted calls for greater municipal accountability, safety audits, and improved infrastructure security measures.

Carletonville & Fochville Weekly Roundup

The week reflected a mix of hardship and hope, from sewage spills and public safety concerns to uplifting community achievements and grassroots resilience. Residents continue to push for service delivery improvement while celebrating progress where it emerges.

Community & Human Interest

Carleton Jones Learners Lead with Kindness

Learners from Carleton Jones High exemplified compassion by donating essential goods to a mother-and-child shelter. Their act of generosity highlighted the school’s ongoing culture of service, empathy, and leadership beyond academics.

Hoërskool Fochville Matric Farewell 2025

Fochville’s Class of 2025 celebrated their matric farewell in spectacular fashion, a glamorous evening of style, music, and heartfelt emotion that marked the end of an era and the beginning of new journeys for the graduating class.

Sports

Charmaine Venter Crowned IMMAF World Champion

Carletonville’s Charmaine Venter made international headlines by winning gold at the 2025 IMMAF World Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia. Competing in the featherweight division, she delivered a world-class performance that showcased discipline, perseverance, and South African excellence in martial arts.

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

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Final Note

As the week closes, The Weekly Pulse reminds us that South Africa’s heartbeat lies not only in its victories, but in its communities, those who rebuild, innovate, and inspire change every day. From the roar of stadium crowds to quiet acts of compassion, the stories from National, Potch, Ikageng, Klerksdorp, and Carletonville all echo a shared truth: progress grows stronger when people stand together.

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

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