February remains a defining month in the governance calendar of our nation. As we reflect on the State of the Nation Address delivered by the President of the Republic, Cyril Ramaphosa, we are reminded that decisive leadership and coordinated action are indispensable in confronting persistent socio-economic and security challenges. The President’s address reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening cooperative governance and deploying targeted interventions where they are most required.
Of particular significance to us was the announcement regarding the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to support law enforcement agencies in combating illicit mining activities. This pronouncement echoes a call we made upon assuming office – an urgent appeal for national intervention to address the entrenched and increasingly sophisticated networks of illegal mining that have destabilised our historic mining communities.
As a municipality, we remain steadfast in supporting this coordinated effort. Our administration continues to align municipal by-law enforcement, community safety programmes, and infrastructure protection strategies with national security operations. The protection of substations, water pipelines, and other strategic assets remains a priority, as these form the backbone of service delivery.
Equally consequential this month is the High Court ruling that has unlocked the long-stalled Dr.Sefularo housing development. This decisive judicial outcome clears protracted legal and administrative impediments that have hindered progress and affirms the rule of law as a catalyst for development. With regulatory certainty restored, construction is now positioned to recommence in earnest.
While security and stability are foundational, they are complemented by accelerated service delivery and strengthened governance.
The city continues to advance its Service Delivery Intervention Programme with vigour and precision. This month, our focused intervention reaches Rietvallei Extensions 2 and 3 (Wards 3 and 34), where we are accelerating infrastructure maintenance, addressing service backlogs, and enhancing community engagement platforms. These targeted deployments are deliberate, aimed at restoring dignity, improving living conditions, and reinforcing our social contract with residents. Equally noteworthy is the extension of the programme to Azaadville, reaffirming our commitment to equitable development across all geographic and socio-economic divides. Through interdepartmental coordination and improved turnaround times, we are ensuring that the lived experiences of our communities reflect tangible progress on the ground.
Mogale City has recorded an improved audit outcome for the 2024/2025 financial year. This achievement is a testament to strengthened internal controls, prudent financial management, and our unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. Sound governance remains the bedrock upon which sustainable service delivery is built.
Furthermore, as Gauteng continues to experience elevated water demand, we welcomed Minister Velinkosi Hlabisa of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and other government stakeholders to assess the water situation within our jurisdiction. This collaborative engagement reflects a shared commitment across spheres of government to mitigate supply pressures, strengthen water security strategies, and promote responsible consumption. The sustainability of this precious resource demands coordinated planning, infrastructure investment, and community partnership.
The progress we are witnessing is the result of disciplined planning, administrative reform, and meaningful stakeholder engagement. The President’s announcement affirms that when local government raises its voice in defence of its communities, that voice is heard. It demonstrates that cooperative governance is not a theoretical construct, but a practical instrument for resolving complex challenges.
Let February be remembered as a month of consolidation and acceleration, where security interventions reinforced stability, audit outcomes strengthened confidence, and service delivery remained at the forefront of our municipal agenda.
Together, through coordinated action and unwavering resolve, we are reclaiming our spaces and building a resilient, accountable, and people-centred city.
Executive Mayor of Mogale City
Cllr Lucky Godfrey Sele