Gert Sibande District Municipality conducts State of the District Address
The district stands at 19 Covid-19 cases of which Lekwa had two positive cases, both recovered.
According to a recent press release, a virtual meeting. attended by several stakeholders, took place during which a variety of important issues was discussed.
With the coronavirus first and foremost in everybody’s minds. statistics were released.
The district stands at 19 Covid-19 cases of which Lekwa had two positive cases, both recovered.
A message of comfort was extended to those families who lost their loved ones because of the epidemic.
The statement referred to the implementation of the lockdown regulations and preparations for phase 3 of the lockdown.
The wearing of face masks, staying at home those above the age of 60, as well as the vulnerable were mentioned. The establishment of the district-wide Solidarity Fund has been finalised.
The district received R350-million after the president declared a National State of Disaster of which R1 043 000 was allocated to Lekwa.
The statement also cited their vision namely ’A community-driven district of excellence and development’.
The district furthermore hired water tankers for all the municipalities in the district.
A clean audit opinion was obtained for the second consecutive year and those municipalities, that have regressed in their 2018/20-19 audit outcomes, will be supported.
Lekwa has been supported with a finance specialist as well.
IDP and Budget Consultation meetings were virtually conducted from 18 to 20 May.
The statement went on to say that there is a need to implement their projects with increased pace.
As regards water provision, stabilisation is needed, whereas sewage spillage remains a constant challenge and Rooikoppen was mentioned.
Roads furthermore are being graded or bladed and the district is reliant on the provincial Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport.
As regards electricity, mention was made of the municipalities exceeding the notified maximum demand.
Waste removal is being done, but is limited by resources.
There is a demand for low-cost housing. The press release also referred to the impact of the Covid-19 epidemic putting a huge strain on the economy.
The district however, is planning to intervene with an agricultural and forestry strategy, direct funding and support for informal traders, mandatory and labour-intensive activities, updating the manufacturing database, lobbying in the mining industry and supporting the tourism industry.
The statement concluded with a request for the approval of the 2020/2021 budget of R392 086 917.
In terms of the budget, it was noted and certain budget-related policies will be submitted to the bylaws and policies committees.
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