FROM SINGLE HEIFER TO THRIVING EMPIRE.

NORTH WEST – From a Single Heifer to a Thriving Empire: The Inspiring Story of Thabo Dithakgwe

In the heart of Morokweng, North West, stands a young man whose journey from humble beginnings to agricultural success has become a source of inspiration for many. Meet Thabo Dithakgwe, a successful livestock farmer who turned a childhood gift into a thriving farming enterprise.

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Thabo’s story began at just 13 years old, when his father gifted him a pregnant heifer cow—a symbolic act that would ignite his lifelong passion for farming. When the cow gave birth to a bull calf, Thabo cared for it with dedication and patience. Eventually, he sold the bull to another farmer and, instead of spending the money, he reinvested the profits back into his livestock.

Today, Thabo is the proud owner of a 790-hectare farm, where he raises cattle, goats, and sheep. His operation has grown into a sustainable business known for quality livestock and strong market presence. Among his prized stock are Bonsmara cattle, highly sought-after for their adaptability and beef quality. Some of his top Bonsmara cows fetch over R90,000 each at livestock auctions.

Thabo’s story is more than just about farming—it’s about vision, discipline, and the power of small beginnin

gs. His journey is a reminder that with hard work, consistency, and a deep respect for the land, dreams can be cultivated into legacies.

As agriculture continues to evolve, farmers like Thabo Dithakgwe stand as a new generation of leaders—rooted in tradition, yet driven by innovation and resilience.

FORD SA TO RETRENCH NEARLY 500 WORKERS

Ford South Africa has announced plans to cut close to 500 jobs at its Silverton (Pretoria) and Struandale (Gqeberha) plants.

The company cited a sharp drop in European demand for the Ranger bakkie, worsened by UK tax changes that have hit exports.

The retrenchments mark a major blow to South Africa’s auto sector, which is already under pressure from global economic headwinds.

FORMER MINISTER NATHI MTHETHWA DIES

FRANCE – Former Police Minister Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa has died, just days before he was due to testify at the Madlanga Commission Of Inquiry.

Mthethwa is believed to have fallen from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Hotel in Paris. His body was discovered on Tuesday after his wife reported him missing.

Reports indicate that he sent her a disturbing message shortly before his disappearance.

Mthethwa had been scheduled to give evidence regarding alleged political interference in police affairs dating back to 2011.

ENTREPRENEUR MATOME RAPHOLO STEPS INTO THE MARKET WITH LETREECHA SNEAKER BRAND

PRETORIA – Local entrepreneur Matome Rapholo has taken a bold step in the fashion industry with the launch of his sneaker line under the brand Letreecha.

Rapholo first introduced Letreecha in 2013 as a clothing label, building a following for its unique style and urban appeal. A decade later, in 2023, he expanded the brand into footwear, unveiling a range of sneakers that reflect both street culture and modern design.

Speaking on the inspiration behind his latest venture, Rapholo said the sneakers were born out of a desire to create homegrown footwear that competes on a global scale while staying true to local roots.

Letreecha sneakers have already begun attracting attention from fashion-forward consumers who value originality, comfort, and quality.

Customers can place orders directly with Rapholo on 060 397 3341.

TAUNG MAYOR IN ANOTHER ALLEGED MUNICIPAL VEHICLE CRASH

TAUNG – Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) mayor, Tumisang Garaelwe, has allegedly been involved in yet another crash with a municipal vehicle.

According to sources, the latest incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning at a bridge in Kibitswane village, near Taung. Details surrounding the circumstances of the crash remain unclear, but it is understood that the municipal car sustained damage.

This marks the second reported incident involving Mayor Garaelwe and a municipal vehicle, raising fresh concerns among residents about accountability and the use of public resources.

Community members have expressed frustration, questioning how repeated incidents of this nature are being handled by the municipality. Calls for greater transparency and possible disciplinary action are growing louder.

Municipal officials have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the alleged crash. Efforts to obtain comment from both the mayor’s office and GTLM’s communications department were unsuccessful at the time of publication.

The story is developing.