EDITOR – I take this opportunity and thank all contractors, volunteers and staff members employed by eThekwini Municipality who fall within the jurisdiction of Amanzimtoti and close surroundings.
In the last 12 months, but especially in recent months of this year, I have taken particular note of the improvement when it comes to service delivery in general.
Our municipal workers are putting in that added, extra effort to make sure of positive change. This goes to prove that our municipal workers have pride and are passionate about their job, but much more importantly, the community they are serving.
Our beaches, especially along Doonside and Warner beaches are a lot cleaner and free from litter. This in return makes it safe for all beachgoers, wildlife and sea life as a whole.
Early mornings every day, which most don’t get to witness, our shark nets are checked out at sea to make swimming in designated areas safe for all during the day and our lifeguards are on patrol 24/7. Their efforts is greatly appreciated.
Trees, shrubs, lawns and grass are being cut back more often, much effort is now focused on making our entire community more inviting and appealing.
Metro Police and the South African Police Service do their rounds in patrolling most areas. While we as a community want it done on a more frequent basis in more areas, needless to say we do appreciate their continued efforts.
Our roads are being re-tarred where there is a need and a fresh coat of paint added to old lines, making it safe for motorists and pedestrians alike. Potholes are being filled more often, faulty traffic and street lights are being attended to almost immediately once reported. Some reports and complaints will take time to resolve, be patient in this regard as the job will be done at some time or another, depending on the urgency and any backlogs at the time.
New sign boards bearing street names are being replaced with new ones where required, due to rust which cannot be prevented, or have perished with time, or have just gone missing.
I have also noticed cleaner streets and parking lots with less litter around. In most places, there is no litter at all.
I have spoken to many tourists to our area and most are impressed and have seen a significant positive change in terms of service delivery.
This is all good news, but our municipal workers cannot achieve this entirely on their own. We as a community have also a responsibility and role to play when it comes to service delivery within our area and surroundings. We cannot entirely rely on municipal workers 24/7- I agree, much more needs to be done in order to make our community tops again. But, we can only achieve all this as a community, be vigilant and report anything that needs to be fixed and do your bit in making a positive change. A vigilant and clean community is also known to be almost crime-free.
When deciding to take a stroll along our beaches, or a walk down the road, or a picnic at some public spot, take a small plastic bag with you and pick up any litter laying around and also dispose of your own litter in any dirt bin close by. Don’t leave it for someone else to pick up. An extra pair of hands can make all the difference.
When coming across a pothole, missing manhole cover, water leak, faulty traffic light, faulty light pole, or anything in general, report it to customer care at eThekwini Municipality. Don’t ignore the situation or always complain that nothing gets done in the hope that someone else will report it – take responsibility and report the matter of concern. I do it, so can you. It’s the right thing to do.
A community that is prepared to make things work, gives hope for all.
Once again, a big thank you to our municipal workers, contractors and volunteers. You do us proud, keep up the good work. It does get noticed and is appreciated by many.
Take pride in your community. Act today – let’s make Amanzimtoti and surroundings the place to be.
KEITH THURLEY
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