MPUMALANGA EXCO MEDIA STATEMENT
18 September 2014
In its weeklong Outreach Visit to Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, the Executive Council held its normal sitting at the Municipality, yesterday, 17 September 2014.
EXCO commended, the Municipality for being one of the best-run municipalities in the country. Its stability and success is ascribed to good leadership and cooperation among the executive mayor, speaker and chief whip. EXCO is however not oblivious of the challenges besetting some sections of the Municipality such as Doornkop, Hendrina and Newtown. The provincial government will work closely with the Municipality to address these challenges that are inherent in all fast-growing municipalities.
State of local government
The Executive Council expressed concern over some aspects of local government in the country and the Province in particular. High among these concerns is the inconsistent and erratic supply of potable water and sanitation as well as electricity bills that municipalities battle with. The problem is exacerbated by electricity theft (illegal connections) and non-payment of municipal accounts by provincial and national departments.
A call is made to all spheres of government to prioritize solar energy and utilize power-saving equipment to reduce the pressure on electricity. Municipalities are also called upon to embark on campaigns to rid themselves of illegal connections and mobilize communities to pay.
Report on status of Doornkop
The Executive Council was briefed on the state of affairs at Doornkop, a restituted land owned by a Communal Property Association (CPA) in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.
Residents in the area are without basic services, such as water, electricity and sanitation. Government and Eskom’s effort to provide solutions are met with resistance. The municipality is also unable to intervene decisively as the land is privately owned.
The Executive Council notes that in the process of trying to resolve the challenge, various statements have been made by various leaders. A political task team is therefore established by the Executive Council comprising MECs for COGTA, DARDLEA, DCSSL and DHS to embark on a fact-finding mission and present workable solutions. The matter should be resolved before the end of the year.
Administrative Approvals
Ms Mavila Doris Hlungwani – appointed Director: HR Benefits and Employee Wellness [Department of Education]
Ms Mokgaetjie Nelly Lekgau – appointed Director: General Education and Training Head Office [Department of Education]
Issued by Zibonele Mncwango
Spokesperson: Mpumalanga Premier
Mpumalanga Provincial Government
Office of the Premier
Tel: (013) 766 2453
Mobile: 079 491 0163
E-mail: zmncwango@mpg.gov.za OR zibonelemncwango@gmail.com