Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Robert Ferendale and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL. See attached pictures here, here, and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Heilbron has taken decisive action to address the long-standing problem of non-functioning streetlights. After a petition and a formal letter to the Ngwathe Municipal Manager, we welcomed the municipality’s quick response. This is now resulting in visible progress for the community.
After submitting the concerns in writing, I was contacted by the newly appointed Electricity Manager. He visited Heilbron to discuss the issue. This was the first engagement of its kind and set the tone for cooperation towards lasting service delivery.
The official committed to prioritising the problem. Within two weeks, workers began repairing streetlights that had seriously hampered safety and contributed to rising crime, especially in Vegkop and the Heilbron CBD. Efforts are also being made to light the road from Petrus Steyn, a hotspot for accidents due to poor visibility.
We are also encouraged to see that similar repair work has started in other towns within Ngwathe. In Parys, Vredefort, and Koppies, some streetlights have already been fixed, with more repairs expected to follow. While not all areas have been addressed yet, this shows a broader commitment to restoring much-needed lighting across the municipality.
I pledge to monitor the repairs closely and ensure the voices of Heilbron residents remain heard. While service delivery in Ngwathe is far from perfect, this marks a step in the right direction.
We remain hopeful that if managers in other departments, such as Waste Removal and Sanitation, where sewer blockages and spillages are rife, show the same commitment, Heilbron can once again become the clean and thriving town it once was.
Where the DA governs, residents do not need to resort to petitions or letters to receive basic services. The DA remains committed to putting the needs and safety of the community first.