MIDDELBURG – Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Mhlonishwa Masilela, hosted a Mayoral Outreach Programme at Eric Jiyane Community Hall on Saturday, May 4, 2025, where residents from Wards 18, 19, 20, and 22 voiced their frustrations over ongoing service delivery challenges.
The mayor was joined by Members of the Mayoral Committee, Ward Councillors, Ward Committee Members, and other municipal officials, who listened to pressing concerns raised by the community. Mayor Masilela assured residents that the municipality is committed to working towards resolving these issues.
Key complaints raised by residents included:
- The high cost of electricity,
- Poor maintenance of stormwater drainage systems,
- Non-functional streetlights, and
- The deterioration of infrastructure.
In Ward 18, community member Lindiwe Medanane raised concerns about the poor sanitation conditions in areas occupied by undocumented foreign nationals.
“The area is filthy and has a terrible smell because people don’t have proper toilets. They burn tyres to keep warm in winter, which poses health risks. It’s also being used as an illegal dumping site, and the residents don’t pay municipal rates,” she said.
In Ward 19, Sihle Mnguni reported that the stormwater drainage systems in Mathaileni, especially along Matlapa Street, are neglected, leading to further infrastructure damage.
From Ward 20, Johannes Hlumbane appealed for speed humps on Sibanyoni Street in Riverside.
“Children are in danger because cars race and speed in the area. Even adults are at risk. We need speed humps to keep the community safe,” he said.
In Ward 22, Lorraine Mokoke shared her frustrations with electricity and water services.
“The electricity is constantly tripping. It feels like we live in rural areas, yet we pay high tariffs. On top of that, we have low water pressure, and the water that does come out is dirty,” she said.
Mayor Masilela thanked residents for their engagement and emphasised the importance of ongoing community participation in helping the municipality address service delivery shortcomings.
“Community feedback is vital for us to improve the way we serve. We are listening, and we will do our best to address these challenges,” he said.
