HOLDING her breath, visibly nervous and constantly pacing was a young woman who led the creative design team for this year’s Christmas lights project.

When the City Mayor Cyril Xaba pulled the lever to turn the lights on, the sparkle and glow of Pixley KaSeme Street (formerly West) was met with ululation, honking, whistles, and applause from onlookers and motorists.

Tuma Segatla is the woman behind the wonder of lights and designs illuminating the street and the City Hall at night this festive season. She was the Christmas Lights Project Manager. “It feels good to be part of history, and to see the work my team and I put in come to life brings pure joy. It’s a feeling I cannot explain in words,” she sighed.

On how this year’s concept came about, she shared that the team always revisits previous designs, looks into the work of other metros/municipalities, and incorporates all of that with Christmas themes and symbols. Looking forward to 2026 already, Segatla shared that the work has already begun.

Xaba said the switching on of the Christmas lights was confirmation of the City’s readiness to welcome 1 300 000 visitors. “The festive season is upon us, all visitors and locals coming to the city must feel welcomed. We want to give them a memorable experience, as we have made significant improvements this year. Wherever they go, they can be assured of safety and security,” Xaba added.

The Director of Energy Management Directorate, Philani Shange, thanked the Electricity Department team on the ground, whose dedication and endless hours saw the installation come to life.

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