The Limpopo Department of Education is addressing sanitation issues in schools with over 540 using pit latrines; however, some still rely on inadequate mobile toilets. In the Joshlin Smith disappearance case, testimony continues at court. Lastly, Joburg traffic light repairs have escalated in cost due to vandalism.
In Limpopo, the Department of Education has reported that 540 out of 564 schools rely solely on pit latrines, a situation highlighted by a High Court order from 2021 aimed at addressing this issue. A report submitted in 2024 indicated that only eight schools remained for the removal of these facilities, with the completion targeted by the end of March 2025. Despite these efforts, Section 27 uncovered in February 2025 that schools continue utilizing mobile toilets, which are insufficient for the needs of over 1,000 students, often leading to unsanitary conditions including rapid overfilling and infestations.
In an unrelated matter, Detective Captain Wesley Lombard is set to continue his testimony regarding the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith at the Western Cape High Court. Lombard took charge of the case a week after Joshlin’s disappearance on February 19, 2024, noting a lack of emotional response from her mother, Racquel “Kelly” Smith. Kelly, along with her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, faces serious charges, while Lourentia Lombaard has become a state witness. Meanwhile, Joshlin’s father, José Emke, remains hopeful for truth in this case, with over 40 witnesses anticipated to testify throughout the trial.
The City of Joburg announced that the cost to repair vandalised traffic lights has reached R300,000, largely due to enhanced measures implemented to prevent future damages. This increase in repair costs has ignited criticism concerning the delayed restoration of traffic signals, contributing to traffic congestion at major intersections within the metro area. Currently, over 250 out of 2,000 traffic signals have been vandalised, prompting the Joburg Roads Agency to prioritize 17 vital intersections for repair, with further restorations reliant on provincial budget approvals.
The current situation in Limpopo highlights significant challenges in sanitation within schools, despite government efforts to eradicate pit latrines. Concurrently, the ongoing judicial proceedings regarding Joshlin Smith’s disappearance reveal complexities surrounding the involved parties. Additionally, Joburg faces a pressing problem of vandalised traffic lights leading to increased repair costs and public frustration. Collectively, these issues underline the urgent need for effective governance and community engagement to address public health and safety concerns.
Original Source: allafrica.com
