The municipality kicked off its Service Delivery Roadshows in early November, an essential pillar of transparent, accountable and community-centred governance. Led by the Executive Mayor and supported by Members of the Mayoral Committee, the outreach sessions took government directly to residents across multiple wards. Remaining engagements are expected to be concluded in the coming weeks.
Through these dialogues, communities have shared challenges, proposed solutions, and gave feedback on municipal performance, priorities and budget allocations. This input helps refine development strategies and ensures that planning reflects the real needs and lived experiences of residents.
The city also presented updates across critical service areas, including wasterwater treatments, stormwater management, road maintenance, procurement of by-law enforcement vehicles, upgrades to libraries and recreational facilities, SMME contracting and job creation, housing projects, and other initiatives aligned to the municipality’s sustainable city agenda.
While priorities differ from ward to ward, several common concerns have consistently surfaced: abandoned and unsafe municipal buildings, water supply interruptions, deteriorating roads and potholes, crime, youth unemployment and drug abuse, limited access to business and job opportunities, public dumping, and unmanaged open spaces.
Although the programme was briefly paused due to recent Level 9 disruptive weather conditions, the municipality remains committed to engaging every community. Sessions will resume to ensure no area is left behind.
During the engagements, the Executive Mayor emphasised that building a sustainable, thriving city requires active partnership between government and the people it serves. “These engagements are not just an obligation – they are essential for shaping a future where growth, resilience and inclusive development are realised,” said Cllr Sele.
The municipality extends its appreciation to all residents who have participated so far and encourages even broader involvement as the roadshows continue across the city.