Metsimaholo Municipality fails to prioritise student safety

Issued by Thabang Rankoe – DA Councillor Metsimaholo Local Municipality
25 Jun 2025 in Press Statements

By Thabang Rankoe | DA Councillor Metsimaholo Local Municipality

Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Thabang Rankoe

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Metsimaholo is urgently calling on the municipality to expedite critical preparations for the school term, including road repairs and grass-cutting in greenbelt areas to ensure the safety of commuting students.

It is concerning that the municipality is only now addressing these issues, despite having the entire December break to prepare. In Sasolburg alone, there are four high schools, five primary schools, and a college, all contributing to many learners using green belts to get to school.

However, these areas remain overgrown and neglected, increasing the risk of muggings and other safety hazards for students.

The DA is further alarmed by the state of the roads leading to school entrances. Unrepaired potholes are creating dangerous conditions, particularly during peak traffic times in the mornings and afternoons, which increases the likelihood of accidents.

The DA caucus is therefore urging the municipality to:

  1. Accelerate the repair of roads and cutting of grass in greenbelts.
  2. Provide a clear and transparent schedule with timeframes and specific locations for these maintenance activities to allow for proper oversight.

Failing to act swiftly will not only endanger the safety of students but also undermine their ability to commute to school safely and on time. The DA remains committed to holding the municipality accountable and ensuring that the necessary measures are implemented without delay.