Oudtshoorn, 04 February 2025 – The Government of Local Unity (GLU) in the Greater Oudtshoorn, the first and only one of its kind in South Africa, has reached the six-month mark with notable achievements. The coalition consists of the African National Congress (ANC), Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus), Oudtshoorn Community Initiative (OGI), Advice Office, and the Patriotic Alliance (PA), together representing 60% of the municipal council.
“From 01 August 2024, in collaboration with the GLU, Speaker Suzane Jansen, and Deputy Mayor Mziwoxolo Tyatya, we have worked tirelessly to build strong relationships with stakeholders and residents,” stated the Executive Mayor of the Greater Oudtshoorn, Alderman Johan Allers.
Significant progress has been made in restoring essential services and improving infrastructure said Mayor Allers. “One of our major successes has been the restoration of streetlights in De Rust, which had been out of order for nearly 15 years. This has greatly improved safety for residents.” The “Ek help ook” river cleanup initiative has also gained momentum, with 30% of the cleanup already completed, fostering environmental awareness and community involvement he further stated.
After a visit from the Deputy Minister of Human Settlements in December 2024, the issues that are being addressed include emergency housing support and infrastructure upgrades. Emergency housing funds have been allocated to assist residents whose homes have collapsed due to floods or other natural disasters, as well as those in urgent need of shelter. Additionally, projects have been approved to replace asbestos roofs, improving health and safety conditions for affected households.
“Infrastructure remains a priority, with approximately 90% of roads repaired despite challenges posed by ageing pipes. We are actively addressing these issues, with funding applications submitted to replace old infrastructure,” the Mayor noted. He also highlighted progress in housing developments, confirming that funding has been secured through Deputy Minister Thandi Mahambehlala, after visiting the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality in December 2024, for asbestos roof replacements and disaster relief materials, funding for emergency housing support and infrastructure upgrade.
“The Spekkop housing project will officially begin in July 2025, while temporary relocation options (TRO) will be provided for affected families. Additionally, negotiations with Transnet and Volmoed property owners are in progress to acquire land for further housing developments, ensuring long-term solutions for residents,” he stated.
The Mayor further emphasized the municipality’s commitment to infrastructure upgrades, following the Acting Municipal Manager, Mkhululi Yekani, securing R65 million from the Treasury. “Proper infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving community. We are committed to improving service delivery and ensuring that our residents see real change,” he said. “These funds will support key projects such as the purchase of machinery to bring the landfill site up to standard, the acquisition of two new waste collection trucks, and the expansion of stormwater systems to prevent flooding. Road maintenance is also a priority, with pothole repairs and resealing efforts underway to improve driving conditions.” Furthermore, Mayor Allers said that 98% of streetlights have been restored, with major roads now equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting. “A well-lit town is a safer town,” the Mayor added, emphasizing the municipality’s focus on sustaining these improvements.
As of 1 February 2025, the new administration has implemented a paperless billing system, eliminating the need to send 14,000 bills by post each month, saving the municipality approximately R1.5 million per year.
Significant attention has been given to sports facilities, resulting in the return of a major sporting event, the Frieda Barnard Gala, to the town. A successful Christmas event was hosted, bringing together the entire community with a special focus on children and to the enjoyment of the entire community.
The GLU remains committed to developing and improving the Greater Oudtshoorn through dedicated service delivery.