ActionSA has praised the City of Tshwane for its efforts in revitalising several previously neglected sites following a recent tour.
Michael Beaumont, ActionSA National Chairperson, stated that the party visited various areas in the City last year, where residents endured long-term, severe service delivery failures—from sewage spills in backyards to communal spaces turned into dumping grounds.
Beaumont said the scale of their findings from the fact-finding mission in September 2024, coupled with the starkly varied experiences of service delivery across the City, prompted ActionSA to reassess its position in the governing multi-party coalition at the time.
“Today, we returned to these areas to assess the progress made under the leadership of ActionSA Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya and her coalition team. This follows a series of engagements with Mayor Moya, during which ActionSA has had the opportunity to evaluate the government’s plans to address the significant legacy of service delivery failure it inherited.”
He added that the party visited several areas, including Soshanguve Block H, Rietgat Sewage Treatment Works, and Soshanguve Reservoir, where water was leaking down the road and concerns over infrastructure and water loss were raised. They also visited Makhaza Sports Ground, where illegal dumping on the sports field led to waste blowing into the cemetery, and observed significant improvements.
Beaumont said the Rietgat Sewage Treatment Works had been severely vandalised, resulting in significant infrastructure damage and theft. In August 2023, security guards were held hostage at gunpoint, and cables were stolen, disrupting operations. However, repairs have since been underway to restore the water treatment facility.
“A new security fence has been installed, and contractors are working to replace the stolen equipment. Repairs will focus on restoring critical wastewater treatment systems to ensure proper functioning. The facility is projected to be fully operational by 30 June 2025. The project aims to restore wastewater treatment capacity, prevent environmental contamination, and secure long-term infrastructure stability,” he said.
Beaumont also highlighted the transformation of Soshanguve Block H, where sewage had been spilling into a resident's backyard. He stated that the resident now lives with more dignity, as the City has addressed the sewage spill.
Speaking to The Star, DA Ward 101 Councillor Malcolm de Klerk voiced his concerns over the deteriorating state of some wards, stating that service delivery has worsened.
"I'm truly disappointed in the way my ward is looking, and the level of service delivery has gone to such a level that we now live in another failed municipality. The service delivery has worsened."
However, Beaumont praised Moya for her continued dedication to addressing the challenges, acknowledging the long road ahead. However, he stressed the importance of recognising achievements, noting that today’s visit confirms Tshwane is finally making progress.
“It is pleasing that Dr Nasiphi Moya and her team continue to tackle the difficult work with the humility of knowing how much more needs to be done. However, it is necessary to give credit where it is due and to acknowledge that today’s visit confirms that Tshwane is moving forward for the first time in a very long time,” he said.
The Star
masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za