Ward 32 councillor Bongani Nkomi said this year has been an extremely challenging one with numerous setbacks but he also highlighted a number of victories.
Nkomo said the notable success of the Covid-19 relief programme driven by residents and himself saw 3 000 families and the local primary school in Klipfonteinview fed.
He also highlighted the success of the Johannesburg Development Agency that has seen the introduction of the BRT bus route and construction of the relevant infrastructure.
“The importance of the bus route is that it connects residents of Alexandra to opportunities in Greenstone, Modderfontein and Long Meadow industrial precinct. This also represents a safe means of transport for residents living in Greenstone who work and go to school in the surrounding areas along the bus route,” said Nkomo.
He said the success of the licence plate recognition cameras have assisted in the fight against crime, leading to numerous arrests and the overall safety of the community.
He gave thanks to the Klipfonteinview Steering Committee and the City of Joburg Opportunity Centre which sought employment for many local youth and job seekers as well as the mobile clinic of Klipfonteinview, which has assisted the elderly and the greater community who previously had to travel to neighbouring areas such as Rabie Ridge for medical attention.
“The greatest challenges continue to be related to service delivery. Erratic supply of power by Eskom has hugely inconvenienced residents and businesses, many of whom are working from home. Crime and by-law enforcement continue to be a challenge for our under resourced police service. The CPF as well as the Guardians in Buccleuch have bridged the gap by demonstrating active citizenry and organizing themselves to assist the Police.”
Nkomi said that Covid-19 exposed City of Joburg’s insufficient resources but noted that the City’s health department has been very proactive in ensuring consistent free screening and testing in the ward.
He concluded, “2020 has been an unforgettable year with many trials and tribulations, what I have personally learned is that the residents of Ward 32 are tremendously compassionate, patient and kind. The unity and Ubuntu on show has filled me with positivity and a hope for 2021… Let us continue to build an open opportunity society, inspired by redress, reconciliation, diversity and delivery of services.”
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