In the heart of Delmas, a collective of Victor Khanye patriots and businesses has joined forces under the Delmas First initiative to rejuvenate their beloved town.
Delmas First, a non-profit organisation, comprises professionals, entrepreneurs, skilled workers, semi-skilled individuals, and citizens united by a shared goal: to restore Delmas to its former glory and attract investors once more. Established in January 2023, the organisation is already making history by bringing together all business and organisation formations that previously held differing views, which hindered any chance for growth for its growth and also to led serious economic instability.
On Thursday, June 27, over 400 locals and some outsiders gathered at the Joheve Conference Centre in Delmas for a developmental engagement session. The main aim was to outline a masterplan for driving short-term and long-term changes within the municipality while also gathering ideas or contributions from the citizens.
Driven by a vision to enhance infrastructure, generate job opportunities, and support local businesses, Delmas First aims to foster an environment conducive to entrepreneurial growth. With expertise ranging from construction to finance, the group is well-prepared to address the diverse needs of Delmas.
Thabo Motau, co-founder of Delmas First, told the Highveld Chronicle that various Delmas structures have rallied under the banner of Delmas First. “We are meeting to gather suggestions on the best ways to develop our town and to strategize on making it more appealing to investors,” he said.
Motau expressed gratitude for the support received from the Victor Khanye Local Municipality (VKLM), including the police and other structures. “This support has exceeded our expectations,” Motau added. He also highlighted backing from the Nkangala district municipality and local churches.
Motau unveiled parts of the masterplan during the meeting, which will soon be made public. Plans include establishing a weekend market to attract visitors, collaborating with the municipality on projects such as the Nkangala Cargo airport, addressing water scarcity, and tackling unemployment by engaging with mining license holders and businesses considering leaving Delmas due to instability.
Motau noted challenges such as working in isolation and the potential threats from external forces. “Delmas First welcomes anyone needing support to grow their business,” he affirmed.
A primary focus of Delmas First is to enhance the town’s aesthetic appeal. “We are planning to beautify public spaces, restore historic buildings, and create a welcoming atmosphere to attract visitors and potential investors,” Motau emphasized.
Motau further emphasized the importance of local businesses starting to buy from one another and pledged R 100,000, to come from local businesses including himself, to support local churches.
The Victor Khanye Municipality through Mayor Vusi Buda has pledged full support for the initiative, along with local SAPS, churches, and community leaders like Khaya Segone, who voiced confidence in the initiative. Thabo Mashabela, leader of the VKLM Interim Local Economic Development Forum (commonly known as Ebhudzini), also expressed willingness to participate.
By promoting entrepreneurship and self-reliance, Delmas First aims to build a sustainable and prosperous future for Delmas and its residents.
