Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Marius Marais and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Sello Makoena
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Thabo Mafutsanyana District will formally request that the responsible municipal authorities urgently clear illegal dumping along the gravel road between Fateng Tse Ntsho and Uniondale, and implement measures to prevent further environmental damage while protecting tourism and local economic activity.
The DA strongly condemns the failure of the local municipality to act on repeated requests to address illegal dumping along this critical tourism route ahead of the cycling tour event held on Saturday, 7 February 2026. Two weeks prior to the event, the DA formally requested the municipality to clear and clean the route, but no meaningful action was taken, leaving large sections of the road covered in waste.
This neglect posed serious safety and health risks to cyclists and visitors, while also causing environmental harm and tarnishing the image of Paul Roux as an emerging tourism destination. Tourism events like this contribute to local economic development, support small businesses, and provide opportunities for community upliftment. When routes are left in disrepair, it discourages visitors, undermines investor confidence, and directly affects livelihoods reliant on tourism.
Illegal dumping remains a serious challenge across the district. The municipality’s failure to enforce waste management regulations and maintain public spaces reflects disregard for both residents and visitors, resulting in environmental degradation, public health risks, and lost economic opportunities.
The DA will continue to hold the municipality accountable, monitor progress on waste removal, and advocate for sustainable waste management solutions. Residents and visitors alike deserve safe, clean routes that support tourism, protect the environment, and contribute to economic growth in Thabo Mafutsanyana District.