The City of Johannesburg’s Government of Local Unity (GLU) remains steadfast in its vision to create a liveable, resilient, and sustainable urban environment for all residents. This commitment was reiterated by the Acting Executive Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero (MMC for Finance), during a recent hybrid Integrated Development Plan (IDP) meeting held at Rabie Ridge Hall on Saturday, 6th April 2024.. The meeting boasted a significant turnout, with residents from Region A actively participating both in-person and virtually. Councillor Sthembiso Zungu, Chief Whip of Council, served as the programme director, encouraging residents to engage openly with the City’s leadership.

Several prominent figures from the City Council were present, including Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) responsible for Group Corporate and Shared Services, Cllr Loyiso Masuku, MMC for Human Settlements, Cllr Anthea Leitch, MMC for Development Planning, Cllr Eunice Mgcina, MMC for Health and Social Development, Cllr Ennie Makhafola, MMC for Economic Development, Cllr Nomoya Mnisi as well the City Manager Floyd Brink.

The day commenced with exhibitions from various City departments and entities, highlighting their diverse service offerings. 

Among these, the Health and Social Development department conducted screenings for chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes, demonstrating the City’s commitment to promoting public health and well-being.

In his address, MMC Morero ed the GLU’s commitment to prioritising core services and delivering them effectively to all Johannesburg residents. 

“Getting the basics right is our primary focus,” he stressed. This includes accurate billing, efficient revenue collection, by-law enforcement, and maintenance tasks like grass cutting, road repairs, and functional streetlights. “Our collective efforts are geared towards ensuring that residents receive the services they rightfully deserve,” MMC Morero elaborated, highlighting the City’s dedication to enhancing urban living standards.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by unreliable electricity supply, he disclosed that the City is actively engaging independent power producers to enlist their involvement in sourcing alternative energy solutions. 

This proactive approach aims to alleviate the impact of higher stages of load shedding on Johannesburg residents.

“Infrastructure development and the formalisation of informal settlements in the City stand at the forefront of our agenda as the Government of Local Unity,” asserted MMC Morero. “Our aim is to revitalise aging infrastructure and address the housing backlog by providing serviced stands to residents who are capable of self-building,” he explained. This proactive approach not only improves living conditions but also fosters community empowerment and sustainable urban development.”

Cllr Zungu encouraged residents to participate wholeheartedly in the discussions. “This meeting serves as a platform for the community to engage directly with us, their city representatives. We are here with open ears, ready to listen and respond to your concerns,” he emphasised, highlighting the City’s commitment to being responsive and attentive to the needs of its residents.

Residents were afforded the opportunity to voice their concerns and contribute to the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) process. Nkosohlanga from Ward 77 raised a pressing issue regarding unattended stalls in the area. 

He highlighted that these vacant stalls have become a haven for “nyaope” boys and a hotspot for criminal activities, posing a serious threat to the community’s safety and well-being.

In response to the questions and concerns raised, MMC Masuku commended the residents for their active participation and assured them of the City’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order. She emphasised that the City will not tolerate any form of lawlessness, particularly the escalating issue of land grabs. 

MMC Masuku called upon law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against perpetrators, demonstrating the City’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of its citizens.

Charlie Jones of Rabie Ridge voiced his concerns about the limited job prospects available to the youth and urged the city to prioritise economic development initiatives. 

He emphasised the importance of creating ample opportunities for young people to become self-sufficient. 

Additionally, Jones expressed apprehension regarding the increasing occurrences of land grabs in the area and urged prompt action from the city to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control within Region A.

In her response, MMC Mnisi outlined the city’s strategy of fostering an environment conducive to youth entrepreneurship. “We are dedicated to providing the youth with the tools and resources they need to become successful entrepreneurs,” she stated. “This includes access to opportunity centers where they can discover various avenues for growth. Furthermore, the City has implemented an approved informal trader’s policy aimed at regulating and supporting entrepreneurs throughout Johannesburg,” MMC Mnisi elaborated, emphasising the City’s commitment to empowering its youth and promoting economic development.

MMC Mgcina acknowledged the progress made in Region A, commending it as one of the most dynamic areas in the City. 

However, she admitted that significant challenges still persist, and more efforts are required to enhance the well-being and prosperity of the community. 

This acknowledgment reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of its residents and striving for continuous improvement in their quality of life.

 

Written By Luyanda Lunika