Residents of Soweto actively participated in shaping their community’s future at a recent Integrated Development Plan (IDP) session hosted by the City’s leadership. The event, held at the Dlamini Multipurpose Centre in Region D, underscored the municipality’s commitment to inclusive planning through consultative IDP sessions. Cllr. Jack Sekwaila, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Environment, and Infrastructure Services Department (EISD) presented the draft 2024–2025 IDP and budget. Cllr. Sekwaila emphasised the collaborative nature of the IDP process, highlighting it as a “people’s plan” built on resident needs and aspirations. He said that by fostering trust and accountability, the City aims to ensure the plan reflects the voices of the community. Despite ongoing challenges, Cllr. Sekwaila emphasised the City’s commitment to prioritising service delivery and job creation in Region D. With a regional budget allocation of R707,397,518 for the 2024–25 fiscal year, the focus has remained on growth and development since the last IDP session.
The MMC said the City’s strategies for resident well-being and prosperity were focused on service delivery excellence, including job creation and economic growth.
Residents of Region D welcomed the proposed budget while acknowledging ongoing challenges in their area.
Karabo, a resident of Ward 11, called for improvements to sporting grounds, crucial for children’s well-being.
“We hope that with this budget the (municipality) will implement interventions soon,” she said.
Another resident, Ma Lerato from Ward 12, raised concerns about poor stormwater infrastructure leading to flooding.
Others advocated for more garden refuse space and general service delivery upgrades.
Cllr. Sekwaila acknowledged resident concerns and reiterated the budget’s focus on uplifting disadvantaged communities and ensuring equitable access to resources.
He emphasised that addressing service delivery issues is a top priority for the municipality, with proactive measures planned to improve public infrastructure.
“Our IDP ensures every resident benefits and that no one is left behind,” Cllr. Sekwaila noted.
“We are committed to inclusivity, striving to create a City where everyone contributes to its success.”
Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph
15/04/2024
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