AT a recent event in KwaNobuhle, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Mmusi Maimane, the leader of Build One South Africa (BOSA), criticised the local government’s handling of disaster relief funds. According to Maimane, months after National Treasury allocated funds for critical infrastructure repairs, including a bridge, no action has been taken. “Not a single cent has been spent. Not a single contractor has been appointed,” he claimed.
Maimane expressed concern that these funds might be returned to Treasury, leaving the community in a dire situation. He described the inaction as “criminal negligence,” emphasising that investment in infrastructure is crucial for economic growth. “This is not just incompetence; it is criminal negligence,” Maimane said, citing daily hardships faced by residents, such as water interruptions and broken roads. He called for immediate intervention, demanding the appointment of a contractor within 14 days and regular updates to the community. Maimane pledged to bring the issue before the Standing Committee on Appropriations to ensure accountability and prevent the loss of earmarked funds. “KwaNobuhle deserves better. Nelson Mandela Bay deserves better. South Africa deserves better,” he concluded.
In response to Maimane’s statements, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe addressed what she deemed misinformation regarding the funding situation. “He is misinformed, we have not received the R89 million that the national government promised us,” Lobishe clarified. She explained that the municipality committed R44 million, and subsequently, R53 million was received, which is not allocated for the bridge project. Lobishe revealed that the municipality is concluding contractor appointments for projects linked to the R53 million, with work expected to commence after 21 days. She emphasised that the funding for the bridge is still pending.
Municipal spokesperson, Sithembiso Soyaya added, “Regarding the funds for R53 million, a tender has been advertised and the municipality will appoint the relevant contractor/s as per SCM policy. It is premature to speculate about funds being withdrawn. We plead for all stakeholders to verify information and obtain updates on service delivery issues with the municipality before misleading and speculating.”
On the same day, Lobishe engaged directly with the community in response to protests over service delivery issues. She visited KwaNobuhle, Rocklands, and other areas to address concerns about sanitation, water leaks, housing, and electricity shortages.
“I assured residents that electricity installation will proceed and that discussions are ongoing regarding the possible relocation of affected households,” she said. As part of immediate relief efforts, food parcels were provided to a disabled resident in distressing conditions. Lobishe stressed the importance of safeguarding municipal resources and urged residents to avoid vandalism. “I call on the community to work alongside us in building a better future for all,” she concluded.
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