No work done yet on community hall in eMbalenhle
According to Mazibuko, Zuma apparently said they expected the contractor to build a security house and install a fence around the hall and the yard before beginning with renovations.
The DA in Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) will table a motion that the Executive Mayor Nhlakanipho Zuma provide a comprehensive plan for the upgrades of the Sijongile Ndamase community hall in eMbalenhle.
According to the DA PR councillor, Thomas Mazibuko, Zuma announced at a soil-turning ceremony on August 25 that renovations to the hall were to begin immediately and that they already appointed a contractor.
Zuma apparently said they expected the contractor to build a security house and install a fence around the hall and the yard before beginning with renovations.
Mazibuko also said on September 7, during the Mpumalanga Premier’s imbizo, the mayor promised the renovation of the community hall would start on September 13. However, renovations have still not started.
“Despite their endless promises, the community hall remains abandoned with broken windows, broken doors, plumbing leaks, vandalised toilets and walls.
“This goes to show that individuals who are self-centred and do not care about the needs of our residents manage the municipality’s facilities,” said Mazibuko.
The hall is meant to provide opportunities for the community, such as educational programmes facilitated by the municipality and other stakeholders.
It is supposed to serve as a facility for different purposes and activities in the community – a centre for public engagement where information and ideas are shared and provide a support system for community projects such as community gardening services, substance abuse awareness and facilitating clean-ups.
“Ironically, the mayor keeps contravening the municipality’s vision, which calls for excellence, transparency, openness and responsiveness,” said Mazibuko.
He said through their motion, they will demand the exact time frame for these renovations and the budget set aside for these renovations. The GMM spokesperson, Lucky Mhlongo, said the contractor appointed to fence the hall is currently on site and has resumed his work.
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