Mogale City’s Credit Control Division embarked on an extensive drive to recover outstanding debt from defaulting customers under its “Ra Tima” campaign on Tuesday, 8 July. Targeting both households and businesses, the campaign forms part of the broader Operation Qoqimali initiative, which calls on residents to take pride in their city and pay for the services they use. The municipality has emphasised that restoring a payment culture is essential to sustaining service delivery and keeping the city running efficiently.
As of August 2024, residents, businesses, and government entities collectively owed Mogale City R3.5 billion in unpaid municipal accounts. This figure has since surged to R3.927 billion. Of that total, households are responsible for R2.793 billion, an amount that could be used to overhaul ageing water infrastructure. Government departments owe R117 million, and businesses R780 million, funds that could significantly enhance electricity networks and youth development facilities.
To enforce compliance, Credit Control backed by Public Safety officials clamped down on high-value defaulters. A block of flats at the corner of Luipaard and Market Streets was disconnected for owing over R1 million, while San Vito Country Estate in Ruimsig was cut off due to a debt of around R1.7 million. Prominent businesses such as Vivari Hotel and Spa (nearly R3 million) and Malondi Capital Investments (over R1.4 million) were also affected. MMC for Finance Victor Molefe stated that while the aim is not to be punitive, the city must instil a culture of accountability to safeguard future service delivery.
The city is now urging all customers who are struggling to settle their accounts to engage proactively with the city to avoid enforcement action. Flexible payment plans are available, and customers who settle their debt in full within 12 months will qualify for a 100% interest write-off an incentive aimed at encouraging financial responsibility while easing the burden on residents and businesses.
Ra Tima signals a zero-tolerance stance on defaulters because accountability simply can’t wait.