Secunda, Mpumalanga – Terwyl die Laerskool Secunda (L/s Secunda) netbalspan voorberei om geskiedenis te maak by die komende SASN (Suid-Afrikaanse Skole Netbal) Kampioenskappe, het die span ‘n inspirerende motiveringspraatjie ontvang van Johan Steyn, bekend vir sy betrokkenheid by die TV program “Die Brug”.
Die span het gekwalifiseer vir die gesogte toernooi, wat op 25 en 26 Julie 2025 by Hoërskool Pietersburg in Polokwane plaasvind. Dit is die eerste keer dat ‘n netbalspan van L/s Secunda hierdie vlak bereik het.
Tydens sy toespraak het Steyn sleutelbeginsels beklemtoon wat diep met die atlete en hul families geresoneer het:
Spanwerk: Hy het die belangrikheid van elke speler se bydrae tot die span se sukses beklemtoon.
Belangrikheid van Elke Wedstryd: Steyn het onderstreep dat elke wedstryd tel om hul doelwitte te bereik.
Doel van Deelname: Hy het die span aangemoedig om na te dink oor hul redes vir deelname en om na uitnemendheid te streef.
Geloof en Talent: Steyn het die spelers daaraan herinner om die unieke talente wat elkeen besit, te erken en te waardeer.
Voorreg van Deelname: Hy het die eer beklemtoon om hul skool by ‘n nasionale kampioenskap te verteenwoordig.
Ondersteuning en Aanmoediging: Steyn het spelers en ouers aangemoedig om ‘n ondersteunende en opbouende omgewing te bevorder.
Genot: Hy het hulle daaraan herinner om die ervaring te geniet en blywende herinneringe te skep.
Dankbaarheid: Steyn het die span aangemoedig om dankbaar te wees vir hul talente, spanmaats, afrigters, ouers en ondersteuners.
Afrigter Carin Brandow, Netbalhoof Marietha Cole en Biokinetikus Minette Schneider was instrumenteel in die voorbereiding van die span vir die kompetisie. Die span bestaan uit:
Kara J. v. Rensburg
Miané Schneider
Miané Bester
Carlé Cole
Elana Klein
Anna-Lynne v Heerden
Melize Smit
Sheminke v Aswegen
Die L/s Secunda netbalspan is gretig om teen 47 ander spanne van regoor die land by die SASN Kampioenskappe mee te ding. Die skoolgemeenskap wens hulle alle sterkte toe terwyl hulle L/s Secunda op die nasionale verhoog verteenwoordig.
Secunda, July 21, 2025 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality has called on Executive Mayor Nhlakanipho Zuma to provide clarity on a tender for the refurbishment of bus shelters in Secunda. In a statement released yesterday, the DA revealed that a local business had offered to refurbish eight public bus stops at no cost to the municipality, requesting only the right to advertise on the structures.
According to Fiona Pelman, DA Councillor in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, the business’s proposal included structural repairs, repainting, roof and seating installation/repair, refuse bin placement and maintenance, and ongoing upkeep for three years.
Councilor Fiona Pelman
However, the municipality’s Department of Planning and Development responded to the proposal by stating that an open tender for bus shelter rehabilitation was being compiled due to numerous similar applications. Despite this communication on March 5th, the DA reports that no such tender has been advertised, raising concerns about the municipality’s willingness to accept cost-free solutions for infrastructure improvement.
The DA highlights the dilapidated condition of bus shelters in Secunda and questions why the municipality appears hesitant to lease these structures to private entities willing to undertake repairs at no expense to taxpayers.
In light of these concerns, the DA has formally requested Mayor Zuma to report to the council with a detailed plan for the municipality’s bus shelters. They are demanding a clear timeline for the tender process if the municipality intends to involve private individuals in the refurbishment efforts.
The DA emphasises its commitment to holding public officials accountable and ensuring efficient infrastructure development in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality.
Mbombela, July 22, 2025 – In a statement delivered to the Mpumalanga Legislature today, DA MPL Trudie Grovè-Morgan sharply criticised the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs’ (DARDLEA) 2025/26 budget of R1.6 billion, accusing the department of “deliberate misinformation” and a pattern of unfulfilled promises.
Trudie Grove-Morgan
Grovè-Morgan, in her capacity as a Democratic Alliance Member of the Provincial Legislature, expressed concerns about the department’s allocation, particularly highlighting the stalled Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market and the misrepresented status of the Mkhondo Agri-Hub.
Fresh Produce Market Delay
The DA MPL noted that the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market, touted as a transformative project to connect smallholder producers with international markets, had failed to open as promised on 1 April 2025. Grovè-Morgan described this as a “bad April Fool’s joke at the expense of poor farmers.”
Agri-Hub Misrepresentation
The statement further challenged the department’s claim that plans were underway to integrate the Mkhondo Agri-Hub into the aforementioned Fresh Produce Market. She stated that the Agri-Hub is currently non-operational due to storm damage, contradicting the department’s narrative. Grovè-Morgan urged the department to cease disseminating false information, which she stated undermines legislative oversight.
Unfulfilled Promises
Grovè-Morgan highlighted a recurring pattern of capital projects and agro-processing schemes that are presented in budget cycles without tangible progress. She cited the Mkhuhlu Agri-Hub as an exception but noted its limited scope.
Fortune 40 Programme Concerns
The DA MPL also raised concerns about the Fortune 40 Programme, questioning the lack of impact assessment, beneficiary selection criteria, and graduation rates from dependency to commercial viability. She argued that the department continues to reallocate funds under the “pretext of youth empowerment” without providing adequate justification.
Call for Transparency
In conclusion, Grovè-Morgan called for urgent clarity on the operational status of the Mkhondo Agri-Hub, a verifiable progress report on the Fresh Produce Market, and an independent impact assessment of the Fortune 40 Programme. She emphasised the need for tangible outcomes that uplift the youth and secure their place in the agricultural economy, stating that the budget must be regarded as “technically inflated, strategically misleading, and politically unaccountable” until such transparency is provided.
Shortly after the disagreement on the Parliamentary report on Farm Safety between the DA and the VF+, SAAI released the statement below. But first a little background on SAAI.
The Southern African Agri Initiative (Saai) is an agricultural interest network for farmers by farmers, which is committed to protecting and promoting the rights, values, ideals and needs of family farmers in the primary produce sector.
Family farmers are an essential part of rural communities, providing food and stability. However, they face new challenges, including climate change, corporate takeovers, and government interference. The Southern African Agri Initiative (Saai) was created to protect and promote the rights of family farmers. Saai focuses on policy influence, strategic solutions, and partnerships to address issues like poverty, hunger, gender equality, responsible production, and climate action. The organisation also emphasises the importance of education, health, energy, and water access for farmers. Saai strives to preserve rural communities, combat urbanisation, and create sustainable agricultural practices.
The report on farm safety presented before Parliament marks a significant breakthrough in acknowledging one of agriculture’s greatest challenges.
However, it still falls short and is out of touch with the realities that farmers face on the ground every day. In the contentious parliamentary debate surrounding the report, Saai will not side with the Freedom Front Plus (FF+) or the Democratic Alliance (DA), but—as true to our calling—will articulate the voice of the farmers.
Farmers largely rely on the DA and FF+ to represent their political interests in Parliament and are concerned about the deep differences in the two parties’ approaches to a matter that is vital to their survival. Ironically, the political entity that most accurately reflects the current security concerns of South African farmers is the Trump administration in the United States. None of the security-related conditions it set for restoring relations with South Africa are addressed in the report:
That farm murders be declared a priority crime, and
That the ANC distance itself from “Kill the farmer, kill the boer.â€
The fact that the report acknowledges the extraordinary brutality that characterizes farm murders is a major breakthrough. It is the first time it has been officially accepted that the nature and extent of farm murders are abnormal and cannot be compared with the country’s already high general murder rate. Farmers also welcome the recommendation that a specialized unit within the SAPS be established to combat farm attacks and stock theft. That these acknowledgments still do not justify declaring farm attacks a priority crime is inexplicable and raises suspicions.
The greatest challenge lies in implementation.
What troubles farmers about the report is that it recommends parliamentary visits to farms to seek out examples of farmer-worker conflict or poor labour relations. This stems from an old ANC narrative that farm murders are driven by worker mistreatment—something that was investigated and rejected by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2014. In 2015, the ILO, together with the University of Cape Town and the University of KwaZulu-Natal, published a report on farmworker conditions which debunked this narrative. The parliamentary report makes no reference to these reports, nor to what has changed since then.
Saai wants access to the data on which the report’s findings are based.
Apart from the fact that there is no scientific basis in the farm murder data for allegations of poor labour relations, the logic behind this argument is alarming. This is a report about farm attacks, yet it scrutinizes labour relations. It implies that disputes between workers and their employers—farmers—might somehow justify brutal murders!
Underlying the report are several serious allegations against a dysfunctional state, and this should have been Parliament’s focus instead:
What is so ineffective about the regulatory labour environment that Parliament must conduct farm visits to find out why workers resort to murdering farmers, instead of asserting their rights through the CCMA or labour courts?
Why must Parliament decide on better cooperation between police stations and farm watches, and how does this relate to the recent revelations about SAPS involvement in organized crime at the highest levels?
The Brendin Horner farm murder in Paul Roux illustrated how difficult it can be for farmers to cooperate with local police stations—whether it concerns farm attacks, stock theft, or trespassing. Saai is involved in several cases—on behalf of both black and white farmers—who are instituting civil claims against the SAPS due to losses suffered from police inaction against trespassing, crop thieves and poachers on farms. During Willie Aucamp, MP from the DA’s speech on the report, Members of Parliament from the MK party interrupted him, saying he made them feel like singing “Kill the farmer.†Regardless of what the Constitutional Court may say, the rest of the world—especially the USA—does not accept this call to murder as a mere cultural tradition. It has no place in a civilized South Africa and should have been addressed in the report.
While the report brings us across the advantage line, it still falls short of restoring farmers’ confidence in the political or state system. Far more decisive investigations are required to address farm murders as a stain on South Africa’s recent history. The most recent incident comparison meeting has once again proven that the true extent of crime on farms and in rural areas is severely underestimated, particularly because many incidents are not reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
A comparison between statistics from external stakeholders and SAPS’s database reveals shocking discrepancies:
Only 50% of all livestock theft incidents reported through organized structures are recorded in the SAPS system.
Only 15% of all illegal hunting incidents, especially those involving dogs, are officially registered.
From January to May 2025 alone, 72 farm attacks and 10 farm murders have already been reported, reflecting an increase compared to the same period last year.
These differences indicate that very little crime is reported in rural areas, leading to misinterpretation of crime trends and misallocation of resources.
Saai makes an urgent appeal to all farmers, land users, and rural communities to report every crime incident to SAPS, no matter how minor it may seem. This includes:
Farm attacks or murders
Illegal hunting with dogs or other means
Livestock theft, game theft, and poaching
Unlawful trespassing on property
Theft of cables, solar panels, water pumps, tools, and any equipment essential to farming operations
There is growing concern that the lack of official case numbers not only hampers investigations but also undermines the state’s ability to effectively manage crime in rural areas. Crime that is not officially recorded does not get investigated or acted upon.
Saai is currently actively involved in external working groups with SAPS to ensure that the definitions and classifications of rural areas, farm attacks, and related crimes are comprehensive and inclusive.
As part of this work, Saai has submitted a detailed document to SAPS, specifically addressing:
What should be considered a “rural areaâ€
The inclusion of smallholdings, communally farmed land, game farms, and settlements
Proper recognition of victims: farmers, farm workers, residents, visitors, and service providers
The importance of economic sabotage, infrastructure destruction, and theft as key elements of farm-related crime
This contribution is an effort to make SAPS’s statistics, prioritization, and resource allocation at ground level more realistic and targeted.
Saai will continue to prioritize this issue at a national level in partnership with other stakeholders in the agricultural sector. The organization sees it as a core responsibility to support family farmers and rural communities in their right to safety, justice, and sustainable food production.
A parliamentary report addressing farm attacks and rural safety has exposed significant divisions between political parties, most notably the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus). While the DA has embraced the report as a crucial first step, the VF Plus has strongly rejected it, citing “misconceptions and flawed assumptions.” This article will delve into the key points of contention between the two parties.
Key Recommendations of the Report:
The parliamentary report in question aims to address rural safety concerns, with a focus on farm attacks. Its main recommendations include:
Establishing a specialised and funded Rural Safety Unit within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Conducting a national audit of rural policing capacity.
Improving cooperation between SAPS and community safety structures like farm watches.
Strengthening intelligence and cross-border crime coordination to combat livestock theft.
Addressing the low conviction rate in rural crime cases through better police-prosecutor collaboration.
Providing assistance to vulnerable farmers.
Categorising rural crime statistics separately for better monitoring and response.
The Democratic Alliance’s Stance:
The DA has lauded the report as a “fundamental step in the right direction,” emphasising that it is the first time Parliament has officially recognised the severity and brutality of farm attacks, rural violence, and livestock theft in a multi-party context. They view the recommendations as practical solutions derived from evidence-based discussions and collaboration with stakeholders. The DA has strongly criticised the VF Plus for voting against the report, accusing them of political opportunism and effectively voting against rural safety. They have also defended a specific recommendation in the report calling for parliamentary oversight to protect all rural residents, including farmworkers, against exploitation and intimidation, stating it is not a “blaming of farmers” but a matter of basic human rights.
The Freedom Front Plus’s Rejection:
The VF Plus, however, has voiced strong opposition to the report. While acknowledging “few positive aspects,” they argue that these are overshadowed by “several misconceptions and flawed assumptions.” A central point of contention is the report’s recommendation for targeted oversight visits to agricultural areas, focusing on potential human rights violations against farmworkers, including intimidation, humiliation, and abuse by farm owners. The VF Plus believes this digresses from the report’s original objective of addressing attacks on farming communities.
Furthermore, the VF Plus criticises the report for not prioritising farm murders as a specific crime, despite acknowledging their “unique nature” and extreme brutality. They also lament the report’s failure to mention or condemn inflammatory statements like “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer.”
The core differences between the DA and VF Plus’s perspectives stem from:
Focus on Farmworker Welfare: The VF Plus views the report’s emphasis on potential exploitation of farmworkers as a misdirection, while the DA sees it as essential for balanced protection of all rural residents.
Prioritisation of Farm Murders:Â The VF Plus believes farm murders should be explicitly recognised and treated as a priority crime, a stance not reflected strongly enough in the report, in their view.
Interpretation of Motives: The DA accuses the VF Plus of political opportunism, while the VF Plus suggests the DA has been swayed by ideological considerations.
Conclusion:
The parliamentary report on rural safety has become a point of contention, highlighting the differing priorities and perspectives of the DA and VF Plus. The DA views the report as a crucial first step towards addressing farm attacks and improving rural safety for all, while the VF Plus believes it is flawed by its focus on farmworker welfare and its failure to prioritise farm murders as a distinct and pressing issue. This divergence underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the issue of rural safety in South Africa.
Appointment of Mr. Godfrey Ntombela as Head of Department for Culture, Sports, and Recreation
The Premier announced the immediate appointment of Mr. Ntombela to this position, following a thorough selection process. The role involves providing leadership, strategic planning, resource management, and upholding core values such as honesty, integrity, loyalty, accountability, and transparency. Previous contract extensions and a fraudulent activity involving his electronic signature, linked to an R80,000 payment, were also addressed, prompting investigations in collaboration with SAPS.
Addressing Contract Extensions and Allegations of Fraud
Mr. Ntombela’s contract was extended multiple times by the former and current Premiers. His recent rejection of a five-month extension, citing a previous extension until 2027, was refuted by the former Premier, who clarified no such extension beyond September 2024 was given. A serious matter involving the alleged forgery of the former Premier’s electronic signature and misappropriation of funds is under investigation.
Changes to the Provincial Executive Council
The Premier highlighted the need for governance improvements and announced several leadership changes aimed at strengthening service delivery and addressing provincial challenges.
New MEC Appointments and Key Focus Areas:
Ms. Lindi Lettie Masina – MEC for Education:
Improve matric pass rate to 90%
Promote Maths and Science participation
Implement eLearning starting from Grade 10 in 2026
Support exam preparations and resource provisioning
Foster community and union engagement
Ms. Jester Sidell – MEC for Economic Development and Tourism:
Drive projects like Nkomazi SEZ and feasibility studies for Mariepskop Mountain Cable Car and Hazyview Water Wave
Develop tourism, SMMEs, industrial parks, and infrastructure
Support investment initiatives and skills development
Ms. Khethiwe Moeketsi – MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs:
Ensure successful operation of the Mpumalanga Food Market
Support farmers and rural enterprises
Prioritize agro-processing and value addition
Ms. Nompumelelo Hlophe – MEC for Social Development:
Expand social assistance coverage
Improve child care services and establish the Khuseleka Centre for GBV victims
Reduce substance abuse and support NGOs
Remaining MEC positions stay unchanged.
Acknowledgment and Future Outlook
The Premier expressed appreciation to outgoing MECs, congratulated the new appointees, and emphasized that these changes aim to promote inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and building an ethical, capable government to better serve the people of Mpumalanga.
The Sasol Highveld Photography Club (SHPC), renowned for its dedication to photographic excellence and the personal development of its members, recently held its monthly club meeting with great success. The meeting, which took place in July 2025, brought together club members, guests, and respected guest judge Mr. Peter Cavanaugh, for an evening of creative appreciation, critique, and community engagement.
With 61 entries submitted across a wide range of photographic categories, the evening provided a compelling showcase of local photographic talent. Categories included Nature, Photojournalism, Monochrome, Pictorial, Scapes, Nature – Birds Only, and the Set Subject. Each image presented a unique narrative, style, or technique, affirming the diverse interests and evolving capabilities of the club’s membership.
Recognising Talent and Growth
June’s top performers were celebrated during the meeting:
Senior Winner: Mr. Peter Winnan
Junior Winner: Ms. Hanlie de Beer
Their recognition reflects SHPC’s emphasis on continuous improvement through constructive critique. Members are encouraged to grow not only through competition but through active engagement with judges feedback and fellow members insights.
The club employs a grading system to track members’ development. Entrants are scored and assigned award levels based on their skill level. These range from Bronze (awarded when key technical or creative elements are missing), to Silver, Gold, and ultimately the prestigious Certificate of Merit (COM), granted when a photograph excels in both execution and artistic impact.
PSSA News and Achievements
The July meeting also featured updates on ongoing and upcoming Photographic Society of South Africa (PSSA) events and competitions. Noteworthy achievements by SHPC members in recent competitions were acknowledged, including:
Sussa Pelser “ Albino White Lip Tree Viper (35)
Leon Pelser “ Thunder and Lighthouse (35)
DNE Smit “ Blouberg Blue Hour (37)
Louis van der Walt “ Rain Spider (32)
Yolandi Geyser “ Bee Painting (29)
These results reflect the consistent participation and competitive standard of the SHPC at national level. Members were reminded to select Sasol Highveld Photography Club as their nominated club when entering PSSA salons and competitions.
Interclub Participation and Upcoming Salons
Preparations and participation for the PSSA Interclub Competition 2025 were also highlighted. The club submitted 117 images across four major categories, and 33 entries under the Open – Senior and Open – Junior divisions. Members are encouraged to continue engaging with upcoming PSSA salons and external photography events as part of their creative journey.
A Club Built on Passion and Support
Beyond technical skill, SHPC places great value on enjoyment, mentorship, and community spirit. By fostering an environment where members receive feedback from experienced judges and peers, the club ensures that both new and seasoned photographers are given equal opportunity to learn and grow.
Members are also reminded to update their personal information such as birthdays on Photovault to ensure they receive appropriate recognition and communication.
Contact and Enquiries
For more information about the club, upcoming events, or grading and membership queries, please contact: Louis van der Walt +27 (72) 755 2767
Whether hobbyist or professional, every member of the Sasol Highveld Photography Club is encouraged to pursue their photographic passion with curiosity, courage, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Here are the winning photographs for July:
The best set subject is “Wave backflip” by DNE Smit
The best Junior is Yolandi Geyser with “Pony”
The best Senior is DNE Smit with “The sorceress helper”
Here are the COM and GOLD certificates
Category – Nature – Birds only
A lovely record shot by Piet PotgieterTo the Branch by Johan Viljoen
Category – Set Subject
Stunt Racer at Sunset by Leon PelserPeace by Yolandi GeyserBarrelrace by Anzette SnydersJump for Life by Sussa PelserPJ representation of stunts by Lorraine BothaWaaghals by Hester Griesel
Category – Photojournalism
Flyairlink by Sussa PelserDog and three-year-old by Lorraine BothaSorry Not My Box by Sussa PelserIron Man Finish by Lorraine BothaRodeo by Anzette Snyders
Category – Pictorial
Dragon Fly – H by Louis van der WaltAround thee end by Johan ViljoenDassie 1 by Tiaan MullerLily by Leon PelserAround the bend by Johan ViljoenSunken Dreams by Piet PotgieterSteps 2 by Tiaan MullerCast Out – In The Rain by Louis van der WaltSmoking Old Lady by Leon PelserOne hoof down by Johan Viljoen Black Pearl by Lorraine Botha Life amidst death by Gerrit Myburgh
What a struggle by Piet Potgieter
Dust all over by Hester Griessel
Fatman by Tiaan MullerPinned by Anzette Snyders
Category – Nature
Bushbuck and baby by Gerrit Myburgh
Zebra road block by Gerrit Myburgh
Blou Wildebeest by Yolandi Geyser
Wilderness by Lorraine Botha
Taking Calcium supplement by Gerrit Myburgh
Sipping some nectar Yolandi Geyser
Kosmos 1 by Tiaan Muller
Das by Anzette Snyders
Category – Monochrome
Kinderoret by Hester Griessel
Blaauwberg spiral by DNE Smit
Baby Fox by Yolandi Geyser
Steps 3 by Tiaan MullerDrakensberg Vulture 1 – BW by Louis van der Walt
Category – Scapes
Cloudy Day Over Canola Fields by Sussa Pelser
Soya Farmer by Leon Pelser Harde Karoo landskap by Hester Griessel
Istanbul mosque by DNE Smit
Ash Dam Sunset by Louis van der Walt
Rainbow Over Houses by Sussa Pelser
Stormy clouds by Leon Pelser Oos Vrystaat by Hester Griessel
African Enterprise by DNE Smit Franshoek by Anzette Snyders
Garden Castle River Tides 1 by Louis van der Walt
Left unchecked, veld and forest fires can cause widespread destruction to property. More serious is however the risk posed to the human lives of those traversing in areas prone to veld and forest fires. These risks include not only the fire itself but also the road safety risks of poor visibility caused by smoke and the health risks of smoke inhalation. It is important for the safety of motorists that we share information on these risks as well as recommendations on how to act if confronted with these dangers.
Nature of veld and forest fires
But what are these fires and what should we expect from them? Veld fires can be categorized as “natural†fires and “unnatural firesâ€
Natural fires: They typically occur seasonally and the primary source of ignition is lightning. Due to the source of ignition, occurrence is most frequent during the rainy seasons.
Unnatural fires: They result from the intervention of humans and purposeful or accidental ignitions. Due to the source of ignition, frequency is usually higher than natural fires. These fires mostly occur in the dry season (often protracted by late rains).
Safe Driving Recommendations
When planning a trip during the fire season, check to see what the weather conditions will be like in the area and listen to local radio stations for news on any fires in the area.
Keep maps of your route and frequent travel destinations in your car, and know at least two ways of getting anywhere. If an emergency happens and your primary route of travel is closed, you’ll already know another way to get where you’re going, or you’ll only need to pull over and read the map to figure it out.
There will be limited visibility due to smoke and there may be large volumes of slow-moving traffic – drastically reduce speed, drive carefully and be on full alert.
If visibility becomes very poor, don’t attempt to drive through thick smoke or flame – many accidents occur when drivers attempt this, only to find that they run off the road, collide with stationary obstacles such as other vehicles, or are involved in head-on collisions with other vehicles attempting to drive through from the opposite direction.
Put your headlights and hazards on so that you are as visible as possible to other vehicles, particularly fire tankers / emergency workers.
If you are caught in your vehicle during a veld fire, your vehicle will provide a good degree of protection. Look for a clear area, preferably off the road (areas clear of grass or bush will not sustain fires of high intensity).
Do not leave the vehicle – people have lost their lives by exiting the vehicle, only to be trapped on foot in the open. Your vehicle will help to protect you from radiant heat, which is the main hazard. Close all windows and vents. Switch the ignition off, it is unlikely that the fuel tank will explode from the heat of a passing veld or grass fire.
Stay in the vehicle, as low down as you can get, until the fire front has passed, then exit and inspect the vehicle for damage before proceeding.
If you are in the veld, away from your vehicle, and you see that a fire has started, move from the fire immediately.
Never ignore the fire, even if it seems far away – it can quickly become large and engulf you! The most dangerous situation to be in is when a veld fire is moving up a steep slope, and you are above it with bush and grass between you and the fire. It is estimated that every 10% increase in the gradient of the slope doubles the rate of fire spread.
If you feel threatened and you don’t think you can outrun the fire, or if you are surrounded, then find a ‘Safe Zone’.
A ‘Safe Zone’ can be an area that has already been burnt, or is completely clear of any fuel that can burn, such as a wide road or an old homestead. The clear area should be as large as possible.
Do not panic and run at the last minute!
Remember that what will hurt you are the heat that the fire makes, and the lack of oxygen to breathe.
Lie down on the ground, cover your head, breathe deeply before the smoke gets too close, and hold your breath when the fire passes over and around you. If you have blankets or extra clothing with you, try to cover any exposed parts of your body.
Respect and Awareness of Emergency Operations
The police, traffic officials and fire fighters do their best to avert the dangers form veld fires and to protect the public and motorists from these dangers. They also control crowds near the emergency scenes and will provide the most convenient detour for traffic when roads are closed. It is important that motorists obey and pay close attention to these officials. The following should be kept in mind:
Move over when you see flashing lights at the side of the road or the presence of emergency vehicles or fire engines!
Try to stay at least 200 metres from the emergency vehicle.
If an emergency exists ahead, it may be dangerous to the public to drive through the area.
People who drive into an emergency scene may collide with a fire engine, or worse, a firefighter.
Slow down when approaching an emergency scene
Be patient and keep in mind that fire and emergency personnel did not create the emergency, they did not cause the accident and they did not start the fire
Detouring traffic may cause everything to slow down, but it is better getting through slowly instead of getting stuck.
Fire at Schoemanskloof
Prevention and fire strategy
Landowners and especially hospitality and tourism businesses operating in an area where wildfires are a reality should pay particular attention to the protection and safety of their guests and employees. The proper control and management of spreading wildfires involves an integrated approach requiring a well co-coordinated plan to achieve the necessary result.
Any fire strategy should include the following components:
Awareness It is estimated that as many as 90% of unwanted unnatural fires are caused by human intervention. It is important to know where and when these dangers occur and where the danger areas are.
Prevention Prevention and control are the secondary steps in wild fire management and follow directly from awareness. Education and the establishment of management systems may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome under this aspect. Educational materials could be provided to staff and visitors. It is also important not to allow unsafe refuse fires, unattended fires or children access to matches.
Preparedness The best way to be prepared is to comply with the provisions of the National Veld and Forest Fire Act, creating and maintaining adequate fire breaks and to join or form a local Fire Prevention Association (FPA) in your area. The Emergency Response plan should go far beyond showing the shortest exit route.
Should the fire be of the magnitude that threatens the whole area, responsible command should be taken by senior staff knowing local conditions. The decision to evacuate an area could have serious consequences. Roads may be unusable due to being engulfed in fire or smoke, traffic or fire fighting equipment. It is impossible for a person to outrun a rapidly spreading wildfire, particularly uphill.
What are the characteristics of a well co-coordinated response?
The dedicated fire management team must be alerted immediately with appropriate staff and guests also alerted and marshaled to a safe assembly or evacuation point.
A head count should be made and reconciled with visitors and staff records.
Evacuation vehicles on standby in a separate safe area to evacuate guests if necessary.
Rapid deployment of fire fighting resources within the structure of pre-planned emergency procedures.
Communications to the local Fire Prevention Association or Fire Services.
Thatch roofs, buildings and the vegetation in surrounding areas should be drenched.
Surplus combustible materials should be removed wherever possible.
Emergency medical resources should be placed on stand by.
Progress of fire fighting endeavors to be monitored and communicated via a radio system.
Careful watch should be directed on the fire out flanking fire fighters or fresh fire fronts being created.
Suppressed fires should be observed for re-ignition.
Golden guidelines to conclude:
If you cannot see –don’t drive!
Try to move away from the vicinity of veld and forest fires
Respect and obey the guidance of fire, emergency and traffic officials
Do not be the cause of this life-threatening danger – Do not throw away burning cigarette ends!
Do not leave an open fire unattended.
If you see someone playing carelessly with fire, then tell them to stop.
Mpumalanga, South Africa – A damning report by the Office of the Health Ombud has revealed a harrowing case of clinical negligence and systemic failure at Mediclinic Highveld Hospital in Mpumalanga, where 65-year-old patient Mr Izak Gerhardus Liebenberg died following alleged mismanagement during his hospital stay in January 2022.
The investigation, launched following a complaint by the patient’s wife, Mrs Sonja Liebenberg, concluded that Mr Liebenberg was subjected to substandard care, poor clinical oversight, and delays in critical treatment—all of which significantly contributed to his death. The Health Ombud’s report, conducted under Section 81A of the National Health Amendment Act, outlined a series of damning findings and issued urgent recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
Mr Izak Gerhardus Liebenberg
Chronology of Neglect
Mr Liebenberg was admitted to Mediclinic Highveld on 3 January 2022 with shortness of breath and water retention. He tested positive for COVID-19 and was later diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonitis. He had a complex medical history, including chronic kidney disease, ischemic heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and a pacemaker in place.
Despite this high-risk profile, the investigation found that Mr Liebenberg was housed in a general ward under the care of enrolled nurses with limited scopes of practice, rather than in a high-care or ICU setting. Throughout his week-long hospitalisation, vital signs and fluid output were inconsistently monitored, and several abnormal blood test results, including a dangerously elevated International Normalised Ratio (INR) and markers of kidney failure, were either not acted upon or addressed with undue delay.
The report cites that Mr. Liebenberg’s abnormal INR of >10 was flagged at 05:44 on 9 January, yet no action was taken until after 19:00 that evening—an inexcusable delay of more than 13 hours. During this time, the patient also exhibited confusion and extreme fatigue, signs consistent with worsening renal function and uremic encephalopathy, which went largely unaddressed.
Transfer Too Late
On 10 January, Mr Liebenberg was finally transferred by ambulance to Wilgers Hospital in Pretoria after his wife’s persistent requests. Upon arrival, the receiving medical team found him severely dehydrated, delirious, and in acute renal failure requiring immediate dialysis. He was placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and started on Sustained Low-Efficiency Dialysis (SLED), but despite best efforts, he suffered a cardiopulmonary arrest and passed away on 12 January 2022.
Findings of the Report
The Ombud’s office found multiple instances of clinical mismanagement at Mediclinic Highveld, including:
Failure to Monitor Critical Indicators: Repeated failures to adhere to strict fluid intake/output protocols, despite the patient’s known kidney failure.
Poor Documentation and Communication: Incomplete medical records, incorrect reporting of the presence of a pacemaker, and missing or inaccurate consent forms.
Delayed Escalation of Care: A delay of over 13 hours in addressing critical INR levels and failure to initiate dialysis or transfer to high care at an earlier stage.
Substandard Nursing Oversight: The patient was often under the care of enrolled nurses without supervision or input from professional nurses or physicians during key periods of deterioration.
Lack of Informed Consent: A consent form for Fresh Frozen Plasma was improperly filled, and Mr. Liebenberg—reportedly confused at the time—was not in a position to give informed consent.
Importantly, the Ombud concluded that although the exact cause of death could not be medically verified without a postmortem, the cumulative evidence pointed to a trajectory of clinical neglect that significantly worsened the patient’s condition.
Recommendations for Reform
The Health Ombud issued several critical recommendations, including:
Disciplinary Action: The report advises that Mediclinic Highveld consider instituting disciplinary processes against healthcare staff responsible for oversight failures.
Review of Staffing Policies: The hospital must review the practice of assigning complex cases to enrolled nurses and ensure professional nurses or physicians oversee all high-risk patients.
Training and Capacity Building: All clinical staff must undergo training in early recognition of clinical deterioration and strict adherence to monitoring protocols.
Improved Record Keeping: Implementation of mandatory record-keeping audits and ensuring completeness of patient records, especially regarding consent and clinical interventions.
Policy Amendments: The hospital is to amend protocols related to the escalation of care, particularly for patients exhibiting signs of acute deterioration or abnormal laboratory results.
Response from the Family
Speaking after the report’s release, Mrs Liebenberg said, “My husband didn’t have to die like that. He trusted the hospital to help him. Instead, he was left to suffer in silence. No one listened. No one acted. This report finally acknowledges the truth we have been living with since 2022.â€
She added that she hopes the findings will spark change not just at Mediclinic Highveld, but across private hospitals in South Africa.
“This tragic case serves as a painful reminder that no matter the pressures on a healthcare system, patient dignity and safety must remain paramount.â€
Mediclinic Responds
Mediclinic Highveld issued a formal public statement at the time of publication that is included below. According to the report, several meetings were held between hospital management and Mrs Liebenberg, but she was left dissatisfied with the responses and resolution process, prompting her to escalate the matter to the Health Ombud.
A Broader Concern
This case highlights deeper systemic issues in South Africa’s private healthcare sector, particularly around the treatment of vulnerable, high-risk patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. While staff shortages and the burden of care are acknowledged in the report, the findings suggest these factors do not absolve institutions of their obligation to provide adequate and timely care.
As the Ombud emphasized in his concluding remarks, “This tragic case serves as a painful reminder that no matter the pressures on a healthcare system, patient dignity and safety must remain paramount.â€
The Bulletin reached out to the Highveld Mediclinic to discuss the findings. They requested questions to respond to. Several questions were forwarded that included questions of a more personal nature.
Although the questions below formed part of the longer, exhaustive list of questions that were submitted to Mediclinic, The Bulletin extracted these questions from the final report named “FINAL REPORT INTO ALLEGATIONS OF CLINICAL MISMANAGEMENT RESULTING IN THE DEATH OF A PATIENT AT MEDICLINIC HIGHVELD HOSPITAL REF NUMBER: 32186”
Were any health practitioners identified by Mediclinic Highveld (MH) that did not perform their duties diligently and in accordance with clinical and ethical guidelines when providing care to Mr. Liebenberg?
If so were disciplinary action taken and in what form?
Was this disciplinary action reported as ordered?
Did MH put measures in place to monitor, safeguard, and evaluate proper record-keeping of all patients’ medical records?
Was the recommendation done that MH should develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on how to handle and manage laboratory abnormal blood results with urgency?
Was the recommendation that MH should provide Mrs Liebenberg and her daughter with psychosocial support services to help them deal with the loss of their loved one in the given circumstances adhered to?
Was any apology offered to Mrs Libenberg regarding the matter?
The following response was received from Mediclinic:
RESPONSE TO MEDIA ENQUIRY
Due to patient confidentiality, Mediclinic is unable to comment on any patient details around their hospitalisation and care in the public domain.
Mediclinic can confirm that investigations of any sorts are dealt with comprehensively, ensuring accurate and conclusive outcomes.
Mediclinic remains committed to ensuring our patients receive the best possible care within a safe environment.
When it comes to crafting the perfect cup of tea, lovers of the brew know it’s as much about flavour and ritual as it is about comfort and connection. From black to green, oolong to herbal, every cup tells a story. But what if we told you that behind the soothing steam and fragrant leaves lies a world of chemistry – one that can actually help you brew a better, more flavourful cup?
According to Michelle Francl, professor of chemistry at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, USA and author of Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea, brewing tea is a rich chemical process involving hundreds of compounds that influence the colour, aroma, taste and even health benefits of every cup.
“Tea is the world’s most popular beverage,†notes Francl. “What many people don’t realise is how complex the chemistry behind it truly is.â€
Caption: Michelle Francl, professor of chemistry at Bryn Mawr College and author of Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea
While her book explores the molecular magic in the Camellia sinensis plant – the source of black, green, oolong and white teas, for South Africans, the real intrigue lies in how Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), our proudly local herbal infusion, compares.
“Perhaps the biggest difference between Camellia sinensis and Rooibos is the type of alkaloids they produce,†says Francl.
Camellia sinensis is a source of caffeine, along with theobromine and theophylline – all stimulating compounds that give tea its characteristic kick and slight bitterness. Rooibos, on the other hand, is naturally caffeine-free and instead produces trigonelline, an alkaloid also found in coffee and fenugreek. “Trigonelline is not a stimulant, but studies suggest it may help regulate blood sugar,†Francl explains.
This difference gives Rooibos its mellow, calming character. It’s also less astringent than traditional teas, because it contains fewer tannins – the polyphenols that create that dry, puckering feeling on the tongue.
“Overall, Rooibos is a calming beverage, with a sweet rather than bitter or astringent taste,†notes Francl.
Another fascinating fact is that teas, including herbal tisanes like Rooibos, contain a host of fragrant compounds like linalool, which gives tea its floral scent, as well as geraniol – a compound also found in roses and lemongrass. “These molecules are highly volatile, which is why freshly brewed tea smells more fragrant than one that has cooled.â€
The colour of your brew also depends on pH. Francl says Rooibos, being lower in tannins and higher in flavonoids, shows less dramatic colour shifts than black tea, but by adding lemon juice (which lowers pH) it can brighten the reddish hue.
The art and science of steeping
Francl is quick to point out that steeping time and temperature affect what ends up in your cup – both chemically and sensorially.
“The longer you let anything steep, the more compounds will be extracted. Lighter, more water-soluble molecules come out first. Over time, larger polyphenols are drawn into the infusion, building a more complex flavour, but also increasing astringency.â€
She also highlights that brewing temperature can influence the release of other compounds like theanine, which contributes to black and green tea’s umami flavour and calming effect. Though unlike black or green tea, Rooibos doesn’t contain theanine, steeping it properly still maximises the release of other potentially soothing compounds like aspalathin and quercetin.
So, how long is just right for Rooibos?
“For optimal antioxidant extraction, research shows using boiling water (100°C) and steeping for 10 minutes is best,†advises Francl.
Beyond that, however, the antioxidants begin to degrade due to oxygen exposure. So, timing really is everything.
Red vs Green Rooibos: A matter of oxidation
Caption: Unfermented, green Rooibos (left) and fermented red Rooibos (right)
While most South Africans reach for red Rooibos, the green, unfermented version actually has higher antioxidant levels.
“Fermented Rooibos has fewer antioxidants, because the fermentation process is essentially an oxidation process. Antioxidants act like little sponges soaking up oxygen. Once they’ve reacted, they can’t function as antioxidants anymore.â€
Green Rooibos retains more aspalathin, a rare and potent antioxidant unique to the plant, but one that degrades with time and oxygen. Her advice? “Drink it fresh.â€
Minerals and “tea scumâ€
Francl also cautions against using mineral-heavy water. In teas made from Camellia sinensis, it can result in “tea scum†– a layer of compounds floating on top of your brew. She suspects something similar may occur with Rooibos if the water is particularly hard.
“These mineral-polyphenol interactions can dull flavour, while filtered water can help preserve the taste profile.â€
Why long-steeped Rooibos tastes sweeter
Many Rooibos drinkers report that longer steeping enhances sweetness. Though there’s no formal analysis to confirm this, Francl says it’s plausible.
“Longer steep times increase the presence of maltol, a natural flavour enhancer and vanillin, the same compound that gives vanilla its signature sweetness.â€
A science-based recipe for Rooibos perfection
To brew the ultimate cup of Rooibos, Francl recommends the following:
· Use green Rooibos if your goal is to maximise antioxidant intake
· Choose fresh Rooibos to retain aspalathin content
· Use boiling water (100°C)
· Steep for 10 minutes
· If possible, opt for filtered water to avoid flavour-dulling minerals
Whether you’re sipping Rooibos to unwind after a long day or seeking its health benefits, knowing the science behind the steep can elevate your tea ritual.
As Francl so elegantly puts it, “Brewing tea is not just an art. It’s a beautifully balanced act of chemistry.†So next time you brew a cup, give it the full ten minutes and let science do the rest.
