MM again commits to inclusive talks

KNYSNA NEWS - Knysna municipal manager Lulamile Mapholoba says a series of engagements with key stakeholders "has reaffirmed the municipality's commitment to transparency, accountability and collaborative governance".

Meetings held on 24 and 25 February brought together Mapholoba, representatives from The Accountability Group (TAG), the Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC) and AfriForum, to discuss pressing municipal challenges and explore sustainable solutions.

Mapholoba met with TAG on 24 February to address concerns regarding critical service delivery issues.

Sewage influx

Among the key topics discussed were the urgent need to fill essential municipal vacancies, the status of water and sanitation infrastructure and the escalating problem of sewage influx into, and high E. coli levels in, the estuary.

TAG also raised concerns about illegal water and electricity connections, waste management deficiencies and the lack of visible law enforcement in the town.

Municipal processes

The organisation further questioned the transparency of municipal processes, including the accessibility of the Section 154 plan, and municipal budget constraints.

Mapholoba acknowledged these concerns and reiterated the municipality's commitment to improving service delivery.

"Stakeholder engagement is not just a procedural requirement, but a fundamental pillar of democratic governance. Knysna residents deserve a municipality that listens, responds and acts decisively," he said. Discussions with the GKBC, held on the same day, focused on economic growth, infrastructure development and the regulatory challenges facing local businesses.

Attracting investment

The chamber emphasised the need for improved municipal support to attract investment and stimulate business activity.

Mapholoba assured business leaders that the municipality remains committed to fostering a conducive economic environment, recognising that a thriving business sector is crucial to Knysna's long-term prosperity.

Mapholoba met members of AfriForum's Knysna branch on 25 February. The organisation outlined its ongoing and proposed projects aimed at assisting the municipality.

Landfill site

These included efforts to rehabilitate the Knysna landfill site, conduct water quality testing, improve road infrastructure and enhance public safety through better by-law enforcement.

AfriForum also expressed interest in collaborating on sustainable solutions for managing waste and in addressing free-roaming livestock concerns.

In response, Mapholoba welcomed AfriForum's proactive approach and reaffirmed the municipality's openness to working with all stakeholders committed to Knysna's improvement.