The Mangaung Metro Municipality (MMM) outlined its strategic roadmap to address community service needs across its wards during an Integrated Development Plan (IDP) review meeting.
Dr Thanang Thinda, Head of the Community Services Portfolio, provided a detailed breakdown of ward-based aspirations, ongoing projects, and the funding strategies aimed at achieving them over the coming years.
“The purpose of this process is to track and ensure the implementation of community aspirations based on input from residents,” said Dr Thinda.
Several wards raised issues ranging from recreational park development and tree pruning to cemetery upgrades and illegal dumping. In Ward 20, for example, R5 million has been earmarked over three years for tree pruning near power lines, park development in Brandwag, and fencing in Westdene. However, challenges remain, such as coordination with Centlec and securing infrastructure funding.
Many projects are being addressed through the city’s operational budget, with support from the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and Community Works Programme (CWP). Wards 21, 23, and 24 noted challenges related to staff shortages and equipment, which the municipality plans to address through rotating teams and equipment-sharing.
Waste management remains a top priority, with Wards 6 and 8 focusing on regular waste removal and illegal dumping education. R3 million has been committed to support these efforts.
In Ward 18, law enforcement has been called in to address smoke pollution and illegal activity at the Southern Landfill Site, with R6 million allocated for site fencing. Meanwhile, Ward 44’s plan to close and rehabilitate the Northern Landfill Site is moving forward, though suitable land for relocation has yet to be found.
Across Wards 32 to 49, the city is investing in new parks, cemetery fencing, and environmental upgrades. The rehabilitation of the Dewetsdorp cemetery in Ward 43 and fencing projects in Zone 3 are among the major projects, with over R8 million in funding sourced from grants and the Municipal Infrastructure Grant.
Justine Fortuin
