The HILLS Community Newspaper

The HILLS Community Newspaper local newspaper publishers that focuses only in MAQUASSI HILLS communities towns Wolmaransstad,leeudoringstad,witpoort,boskuil, oersonskraal

The Hills community newspaper seeks to encourage civic debate and serve the public interest of our community. We are a community newspaper and website with related multimedia journalism components including investigative journalism. The Hills community newspaper connects (a technology oriented documentaries). We cover the whole Maquassi hills local municipality and the surrounding towns including

its people,communities and business district. We seek to portray the full diversity of our community and to give voice to those who live, work,or go to school within it. We aim to encourage public conversation around the issue,trends and success around our covering areas. We follow professional journalism standards and practices, we make every effort to ensure that our reports are accurate and balanced. We believe people must be well informed in order to make decisions regarding their lives and their local and national communities.it is our role as journalist to provide this information in an accurate and comprehensive way,timely and understandable manner. The Hills is published both in print and web as a free provider of news and information about our
Local community. The printed newspaper is published weekly and the website will be updated with original contents weekly. The Hills is produced by our youth and other volunteering men and women in our district, however we are not a gossip newspaper and as such we adhere to strict journalistic standards and practices. All staff members,reporters,photographers and editors are all trying to follow journalism code of ethics and they enjoy being independent from community and the board. Our staff members strive to embrace and practice profesional journalistic standards at all times. we take our role as Maquassi hills community news provider very seriously. We put the interests and needs of our community at the forefront of our coverage and aim to enhance informed decision-making among our readers. We recognise our responsibility to our community, to our news source and to our readers and we do our best to serve those interests with intergrity. We make every effort to verify the facts we report and to give voice to the range of interests present in our communities and we want our communities to trust The Hills and we work actively to earn that trust and we believe good faith with readers is the foundation of good journalism.

10/09/2025

MEC WESSELS MORWENG LAUDS NORTH WEST POLICE FOR SWIFT ARREST OF SUSPECTS IN THE ANC YOUTH LEAGUE MURDER

The MEC responsible for the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, has applauded the South African Police in the Province for the swift response and eventual arrest of suspects in the murder of the ANC Youth League member. It is reported that the Youth League Members were traveling from Limpopo to Kimberly in the Northern Cape to attend the League’s National General Council that will be held later this week.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the deceased and six others were victims of the circumstances and not necessarily targeted when their vehicle was being shot at. Whilst six others were found to have been physically unharmed, one was unfortunately found to have died.

The Police were alerted of what was initially reported as a suspected hijacking attempt on the morning of Tuesday, 9th of September 2025.

Responding swiftly, the Leeudoringstad SAPS members rushed to the scene of the reported incident. The travelling members of the ANC Youth League reported that their vehicle came under a hail of bullets and described the vehicle from which the shots came.

Following the lead the Police found the described vehicle with two people involved in an accident. They explained to the Police that they are working for a private security company contracted to state owned company, Transnet and were chasing people who were stealing cables.

They further described the vehicle they were pursuing. The two were arrested and police further followed the lead for the described vehicle which they later found with five men. They had the suspected stolen cables and admitted that they were being pursued by a security vehicle. They were also promptly arrested.

On being briefed MEC Wessels Morweng who is also the Provincial Chairperson of the ANC Youth League lauded the speedy response of the Police under the stewardship of acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng.

“We couldn’t be prouder of our men and women in blue. We extend our profound thanks to the police and General Asaneng. We also take this opportunity to extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and his political home the ANC. We are equally wishing speedy emotional recovery to those who were travelling with the deceased”, said MEC Morweng.

18/08/2025

SASSA CONCERNED ABOUT COMPLAINTS OF UNLAWFUL DEDUCTIONS ON
SOCIAL GRANTS

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is deeply concerned by the upsurge in what appears to be unlawful deductions by financial service providers targeting social grants beneficiaries.

SASSA has been inundated with enquiries from its beneficiaries, stating that their grant money is consistently being deducted by various insurance companies that they have not signed up for, believing that the Agency is working with these companies.

SASSA has consistently distanced itself from any insurance company that uses the
good name of the Agency to achieve its goals. CEO Themba Matlou has reiterated that SASSA has no authority to make any deductions on social grants without the consent of the beneficiaries.

“We have utmost respect for our beneficiaries and the Act governing social assistance in the country and we will never do anything to shortchange our clients. Your money is your money, if you qualify for a grant, the money belongs to you and as SASSA we have no right, nor authority to dictate how you utilize it”, he emphasized.
The CEO is on record emphasizing that not at any point will SASSA work with funeral
schemes and insurance companies as it is not legislated, urging all beneficiaries who
have fallen victim to immediately visit the SASSA local office to report the matter for
investigation.

Alternatively, clients who dispute signing a funeral policy with the financial services
provider are advised to immediately dispute the deduction by sending a SMS to 34548 with their Identity number and the financial services provider’s name. They should also visit the insurer or the financial services provider to cancel the policy.
In line with Regulation 29 of Social Assistance Act of 2004, the Agency may allow only one deduction per month not exceeding 10 per cent of the value of the beneficiary's social grant for a funeral policy issued by an insurer registered under the Long-term Insurance Act, 1998 (Act No. 52 of 1998) to be made directly from a social grant. The Regulation says the beneficiary of the social grant must consent to such deduction by electronic communication or any other means of communication and has submitted such consent by electronic communication or any other means of communication to the Agency.

It is important to emphasize that funeral deductions are not permitted from child-related
grants, such as the Child Support Grant, Care Dependency Grant, or Foster Child
Grant. Similarly, Temporary Disability Grant, are excluded from funeral deductions
altogether

30/07/2025

*North West Municipalities Face Financial Woes as Equitable Share Withheld*

Mahikeng - In a bid to ensure financial accountability, National Treasury has withheld the equitable share of six municipalities in the North West province. The affected municipalities include Tswaing, Kgetleng Rivier, Naledi, Maquassie Hills, Ditsobotla, and Mamusa Local Municipalities.

According to the directive from National Treasury, these municipalities are required to provide proof of payment or payment arrangements with third-party service providers before their equitable share can be released. This move is aimed at ensuring that municipalities prioritize their financial obligations, particularly with regards to paying salaries.

The provincial Co-operative Governance Department has stepped in to facilitate the release of the equitable share for the affected municipalities. MEC for Co-operative Governance, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, addressed the media in Mahikeng, assuring that the department is working tirelessly to resolve the issue.

In a positive development, Ditsobotla Municipality has committed to paying its third-party service providers, and a tranche payment of R15.6 million was released on July 25, 2025. Mamusa Municipality has also pledged to settle its outstanding debt with SARS, amounting to R7 million, once it receives its equitable share. The municipality has further committed to paying the remaining balance of R2.5 million.

The equitable share is a critical component of municipal funding, enabling municipalities to fulfill their financial mandates. The withholding of these funds has raised concerns about the financial stability of the affected municipalities. However, with the intervention of the Co-operative Governance Department, it is hoped that the situation will be resolved soon, and the municipalities will be able to access their allocated funds.*North West Municipalities Face Financial Woes as Equitable Share Withheld*

Mahikeng - In a bid to ensure financial accountability, National Treasury has withheld the equitable share of six municipalities in the North West province. The affected municipalities include Tswaing, Kgetleng Rivier, Naledi, Maquassie Hills, Ditsobotla, and Mamusa Local Municipalities.

According to the directive from National Treasury, these municipalities are required to provide proof of payment or payment arrangements with third-party service providers before their equitable share can be released. This move is aimed at ensuring that municipalities prioritize their financial obligations, particularly with regards to paying salaries.

The provincial Co-operative Governance Department has stepped in to facilitate the release of the equitable share for the affected municipalities. MEC for Co-operative Governance, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, addressed the media in Mahikeng, assuring that the department is working tirelessly to resolve the issue.

In a positive development, Ditsobotla Municipality has committed to paying its third-party service providers, and a tranche payment of R15.6 million was released on July 25, 2025. Mamusa Municipality has also pledged to settle its outstanding debt with SARS, amounting to R7 million, once it receives its equitable share. The municipality has further committed to paying the remaining balance of R2.5 million.

The equitable share is a critical component of municipal funding, enabling municipalities to fulfill their financial mandates. The withholding of these funds has raised concerns about the financial stability of the affected municipalities. However, with the intervention of the Co-operative Governance Department, it is hoped that the situation will be resolved soon, and the municipalities will be able to access their allocated funds.

*Maquassi Hills Ward Committee Members Trained on Thuntsa Lerole Mobile App*The Office of the Speaker in Maquassi Hills ...
26/07/2025

*Maquassi Hills Ward Committee Members Trained on Thuntsa Lerole Mobile App*

The Office of the Speaker in Maquassi Hills recently hosted a workshop for Ward Committee members on the new Thuntsa Lerole Mobile App at the Wolmaransstad town hall. The training, led by Percy Mokgabi, Head in the Office of the Speaker, aimed to equip committee members with the skills to effectively utilize the app in reporting service delivery challenges in their wards.

The Thuntsa Lerole Mobile App, powered by Survey 123, is part of the provincial government's accelerated service delivery programme. The app allows users to capture and report service delivery challenges, even offline, and send the information once internet connectivity is available. This innovative tool complements existing reporting channels, including the provincial toll-free number, walk-ins, and social media pages.

According to Mokgabi, the app provides evidence-based information on service delivery challenges, enabling the government to respond promptly and efficiently to community needs. The workshop was designed to ensure that Ward Committee members are well-versed in using the app to report service delivery issues, thereby enhancing the government's ability to address these challenges.

The Office of the Speaker plans to continue rolling out the Thuntsa Lerole initiative across the district, with the next leg scheduled to take place in Maquassi Hills on August 1. This initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to leveraging technology to improve service delivery and enhance community engagement.

Executive Mayor Cllr Nikiwe Num Launches EPWP Verification and Orientation Programme in Maquassi Hills17 July 2025 – The...
17/07/2025

Executive Mayor Cllr Nikiwe Num Launches EPWP Verification and Orientation Programme in Maquassi Hills

17 July 2025 – The Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Nikiwe Num, today officially launched the EPWP Verification and Orientation Programme, which will be rolled out across the three local municipalities within the district.

The programme kickstarted in Maquassi Hills Local Municipality, with a strong presence from all wards, including communities from Makwasi, Leeudoringstad, Witpoort, and Wolmaranstad. The Executive Mayor ensured that every ward was well represented, reflecting the district's commitment to inclusive development and fair opportunities.

This initiative, which had previously come to an end due to the completion of its term, has now been revived with fresh energy and a renewed mandate. The verification and orientation process forms part of efforts to reabsorb participants into the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), creating much-needed employment opportunities and upskilling within local communities.

Addressing the participants, Cllr Num expressed her appreciation for the resilience and dedication of those involved. She took time to personally engage with the beneficiaries, offering words of wisdom and encouragement. "This programme is not just about work—it’s about restoring dignity, building skills, and empowering our communities for a better future," she said.

The programme will next move to JB Marks Local Municipality, and will conclude its district-wide rollout in the City of Matlosana.

The Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality remains committed to creating meaningful and sustainable job opportunities through EPWP and other development-focused initiatives.

READING PROGRAMME MARKS THREE YEARS OF TRANSFORMING LITERACY AND EMPOWERING FUTURE EDUCATORSA local reading programme is...
23/06/2025

READING PROGRAMME MARKS THREE YEARS OF TRANSFORMING LITERACY AND EMPOWERING FUTURE EDUCATORS

A local reading programme is making a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners by boosting literacy skills and strengthening the quality of education across local schools in Kanana and Kgakala. Now in its third year, this initiative continues to grow in both reach and impact, and has demonstrated measurable success by fully integrating reading time into school timetables and providing career opportunities for youth.

Funded by Bokamoso Solar in partnership with READ Foundation, this programme was established with the aim of reducing the gap that learners experience in school, especially as a result of Covid-19.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to long-term, meaningful change in education. By investing in both learners and aspiring teachers, we are building a stronger educational foundation and supporting youth employment and skills development,” said Qinisani Siveshe, Social Performance Manager for Bokamoso Solar.

With the successful placement of a second group of learner assistants at four local primary schools, the programme is now fully integrated into the school day, aligning with the timetables at Atamela and Reahola Primary Schools in Kanana, as well as Thusang and Koketso Primary Schools in Kgakala.

This integration provides grade 4 learners with focused support to enhance their vocabulary, reading fluency, and writing skills. Originally conducted outside of school hours, the programme has been redesigned to take place during the school day, a change that has improved learner safety and strengthened the connection between the programme and regular school activities.

“Having Learner Assistants in our school has made teachers’ work more efficient and less stressful. Learners are more confident, their language skills have improved, and learning has become more interactive. Their presence has created a more positive and productive learning environment for both teachers and learners,” said Mrs. M. Marumo, Deputy Principal of Atamela Primary School.

This year’s cohort of Learner Assistants is the first to benefit from the programme’s full range of enhancements. These include training in pedagogy, digital literacy, mental health support, and access to structured professional development pathways. Most of the Learner Assistants are students pursuing teaching qualifications, making the programme a vital step in their professional journey.
As a result, many of the Learner Assistants have secured permanent employment or gained practical teaching experience, while others have improved their communication, confidence, and classroom management skills, demonstrating the success of this initiative.

“Being part of this programme has been a truly rewarding experience for me. I now find great joy in seeing my learners improve. This programme has not only supported their growth but has also helped me become more confident and passionate about teaching,” said one of the Learner Assistants, Alinah Dibolelo Bothitho from Atamela Primary School.

*Fire Awareness Campaign Rocks Kagakala Ext 4*A collaborative fire awareness campaign was held in Kagakala Ext 4, Leeudo...
12/06/2025

*Fire Awareness Campaign Rocks Kagakala Ext 4*

A collaborative fire awareness campaign was held in Kagakala Ext 4, Leeudoringstad, with various departments and organizations coming together to educate the community on fire safety. The event saw participation from the Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Fire Department, Working on Fire from Wolwespruit Nature Reserve, the Community Police Forum (CPF), and Community Safety Patrollers from the Leeudoringstad Police Station.

Mr. Kgomokae, a key speaker at the event, emphasized the importance of responsible behavior to prevent fires. "Reducing alcohol intake is crucial, as intoxication can lead to careless actions like leaving a paraffin stove or 'mbawula' alight, which can cause unnecessary fires and damage to property," he warned.

Mr. Kgomokae also highlighted several crucial fire safety tips for homeowners. "Having an alternative exit door in your home and familiarizing yourself with the layout can be lifesaving in a fire emergency," he advised. "When trapped in a fire, always follow the left-hand rule to find your way out, and ensure all doors are in working order to avoid being trapped."

Additionally, Mr. Kgomokae stressed the importance of knowing whether children are inside the house during a fire and designating an assembly point for families to gather at in case of an emergency. "If you don't have an assembly point, create one," he urged.

Mr. Godiriwamang from Working on Fire also addressed the community, focusing on wildfires and their impact. "In farm areas, it's essential to have fire breaks to prevent the spread of wildfires," he said. "When making fires at home, especially in townships, ensure there are no flammable materials or grass nearby, and that the fire is properly secured."

Mr. Godiriwamang walked the community through the fire danger index colors, explaining their meanings. "For instance, blue and red colors indicate different levels of fire risk. It's crucial to understand these indicators to take necessary precautions," he advised. He also emphasized the importance of responsible behavior regarding fire. "Never let our kids play with matches unnecessarily, as this might start a fire that could get out of control and cause damage to properties or even loss of life," he warned.

The community was reminded to abstain from starting unnecessary fires, as they can easily spread and cause harm. "Let's be mindful of our actions and take steps to prevent fires," Mr. Godiriwamang urged.

The Fire Department's contact numbers, 018 596 1400/1111, were shared with the community, along with advice on what to do during emergencies. Mr. Kgomokae reiterated the importance of providing contact numbers when calling for help. "When calling the Fire Department, please provide your contact number first, so we can call you back in case your call gets disconnected due to airtime issues," he said.

The campaign aimed to equip residents with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent fires and respond effectively in emergencies, fostering a safer community for all.

12/06/2025

*Fire Awareness Campaign Rocks Kagakala Ext 4*

A collaborative fire awareness campaign was held in Kagakala Ext 4, Leeudoringstad, with various departments and organizations coming together to educate the community on fire safety. The event saw participation from the Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality Fire Department, Working on Fire from Wolwespruit Nature Reserve, the Community Police Forum (CPF), and Community Safety Patrollers from the Leeudoringstad Police Station.

Mr. Kgomokae, a key speaker at the event, emphasized the importance of responsible behavior to prevent fires. "Reducing alcohol intake is crucial, as intoxication can lead to careless actions like leaving a paraffin stove or 'mbawula' alight, which can cause unnecessary fires and damage to property," he warned.

Mr. Kgomokae also highlighted several crucial fire safety tips for homeowners. "Having an alternative exit door in your home and familiarizing yourself with the layout can be lifesaving in a fire emergency," he advised. "When trapped in a fire, always follow the left-hand rule to find your way out, and ensure all doors are in working order to avoid being trapped."

Additionally, Mr. Kgomokae stressed the importance of knowing whether children are inside the house during a fire and designating an assembly point for families to gather at in case of an emergency. "If you don't have an assembly point, create one," he urged.

Mr. Godiriwamang from Working on Fire also addressed the community, focusing on wildfires and their impact. "In farm areas, it's essential to have fire breaks to prevent the spread of wildfires," he said. "When making fires at home, especially in townships, ensure there are no flammable materials or grass nearby, and that the fire is properly secured."

Mr. Godiriwamang walked the community through the fire danger index colors, explaining their meanings. "For instance, blue and red colors indicate different levels of fire risk. It's crucial to understand these indicators to take necessary precautions," he advised. He also emphasized the importance of responsible behavior regarding fire. "Never let our kids play with matches unnecessarily, as this might start a fire that could get out of control and cause damage to properties or even loss of life," he warned.

The community was reminded to abstain from starting unnecessary fires, as they can easily spread and cause harm. "Let's be mindful of our actions and take steps to prevent fires," Mr. Godiriwamang urged.

The Fire Department's contact numbers, 018 596 1400/1111, were shared with the community, along with advice on what to do during emergencies. Mr. Kgomokae reiterated the importance of providing contact numbers when calling for help. "When calling the Fire Department, please provide your contact number first, so we can call you back in case your call gets disconnected due to airtime issues," he said.

The campaign aimed to equip residents with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent fires and respond effectively in emergencies, fostering a safer community for all.

A 42-year-old Zimbabwean national, Gordon Sibanda, is expected to appear before the Leeudoringstad Periodical Court on T...
06/06/2025

A 42-year-old Zimbabwean national, Gordon Sibanda, is expected to appear before the Leeudoringstad Periodical Court on Tuesday, 10 June 2025 for a bail application, following his first appearance at the Wolmaransstad Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 04 June 2025. The accused is facing a charge of illegal possession of illicit ci******es.

The accused was arrested on Monday, 02 June 2025 after police stopped and searched a truck on the Leeudoringstad/Orkney road, finding 169 boxes of illicit Chief and Re*****on ci******es worth an estimated R850 000,00. Both the truck and the ci******es were confiscated.

SUNNYSIDE COMMUNITY HANDS OVER MEMORANDUM TO DISTRICT AND LOCAL MAYOR'S AT THE RIO CASINO IN KLERSDORP. 09/05/2025 :In a...
09/05/2025

SUNNYSIDE COMMUNITY HANDS OVER MEMORANDUM TO DISTRICT AND LOCAL MAYOR'S AT THE RIO CASINO IN KLERSDORP.

09/05/2025 :In a peaceful but firm demonstration of civic engagement, the residents of Sunnyside in Jouberton came together to hand over a Memorandum of Grievances to the Executive Mayor of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, Cllr Nikiwe Num, in the presence of the Executive Mayor of the City of Matlosana, Cllr Fikile Mahlophe.

The community raised pressing service delivery issues that continue to affect their quality of life. Among the most critical concerns highlighted in the memorandum were:

Poor road conditions hindering mobility and safety in the area.
Sewer spillages that are contaminating the nearby Jagspruit River, posing a serious health hazard to families and especially children.
A request for a mobile clinic to visit at least twice a month to provide basic healthcare services in the absence of a local health facility.
The ongoing problem of unmonitored pit toilets, many of which are now full, creating unsanitary and undignified living conditions.

The residents emphasized that these challenges are not just inconveniences but issues that affect their health, dignity, and daily livelihoods.

In response, Cllr Nikiwe Num assured the community that both she and Cllr Mahlophe had received the memorandum and would treat the issues with the seriousness they deserve. “We acknowledge receipt of the memorandum,” said Cllr Num, “and we request at least 14 days to thoroughly investigate these matters and provide the community with a proper response.”

The engagement marked a crucial step in community-government dialogue, as the people of Sunnyside continue to advocate for better living conditions and improved services.

The community now awaits feedback from leadership and hopes for action that will bring real change.

05/05/2025

The introduction of the new North West Liquor Licensing Amendment Act, came into effect on 1 April, replacing the Liquor Act 27 of 1989 (legally ceasing on 31 March).
Under the updated regulations, liquor stores may now operate from 09:00 to 17:00 on Sundays and public holidays, and from 08:00 to 20:00 on weekdays and Saturdays.
Supermarkets that sell wine are permitted to trade from 08:00 to 17:00 from Monday to Saturday, and from 09:00 to 17:00 on Sundays and public holidays.

However, trading hours for liquor at pubs, restaurants, clubs, and taverns have been reduced by two hours. These establishments may now only serve liquor between 10:00 and midnight.
According to research conducted during the amendment process, most contact crimes were found to occur between midnight and 02:00, leading to the decision to limit late-night alcohol sales.
Event licenses allow liquor trading from 10:00 to midnight for businesses, while residential event licenses permit trading from 10:00 to 22:00.

*Celebrating World Book Day with Young Bookworms from Tiragalo Secondary School and Koketso Primary School*The Leeudorin...
23/04/2025

*Celebrating World Book Day with Young Bookworms from Tiragalo Secondary School and Koketso Primary School*

The Leeudoringstad Library hosted a fun-filled World Book Day celebration with learners from Tiragalo Secondary School and Koketso Primary School at Koketso Primary School.

The event was filled with excitement and enthusiasm as young bookworms gathered to share their love of reading.

The celebration featured a lively book fair where learners browsed through various books, discovering new authors and genres. Interactive activities included book-themed games, quizzes, and storytelling sessions, testing knowledge and encouraging creative thinking and communication skills.

The event aimed to promote literacy and a love of reading among learners, inspiring a lifelong passion for reading. The Leeudoringstad Library's community engagement initiatives demonstrate its commitment to promoting literacy in the community.

Learners' Feedback
- "I loved the book fair! I found a new book series that I'm excited to read." - Tiragalo Secondary School learner
- "The storytelling session was my favorite part. I loved hearing about different adventures." - Koketso Primary School learner

The Leeudoringstad Library's World Book Day celebration was a success, inspiring young minds to develop a lifelong love for reading.



Address

Leeudoringstad

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
Friday 09:00 - 17:00
Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
Sunday 08:00 - 13:00

Telephone

+27787859336

Website

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