EThekwini Ward 33 – 100 days on
On her December monthly report, three days away from her 100 days as a councillor, the Ward 33 frontwoman bears all the wins and misses thus far. She remains hopeful of what can be achieved when all stakeholders pull together.

COUNCILLOR Fran Kristopher admits that the ward 33 has seen great improvements amidst challenges. Having been at the helm since September 2024, she breaks down what the residents can look forward to. She feels a lot more can still be done, with the support of relevant role-players.
“At the beginning of December, we saw strategy planning meetings with both Metro and SAPS, together with the Umbilo CPF chair and Umbilo Business Association stakeholders. While I’ve seen great improvements in the safety and security sectors of the ward, I still feel a lot more can be done to enforce stronger measures on illegal business operations and criminal activities plaguing our ward.
“Water – We have had some major pipe leaks and bursts which lasted almost four days, leaving the Congella Fire Department, Victoria Mxenge Hospital and many households without water and being reliant on tanker distributions. I encourage residents to always have at least two days’ supply on hand.”
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On electricity outages, Kristopher highlighted, “This was one the toughest challenges that I was faced with during this term of three and a half months as the councillor, leaving over 10 000 residents waking up on Christmas morning to no power. I was more disheartened as it was totally out of my control and we were at the mercy of the stand-by teams to restore. Fifty-six hours in total was endured by almost 20% of the 10 000 and for me it was one of the worst Christmases I’ve ever experienced – on behalf of the City I once again extend my sincere apologies.”
On prevalent noise and disturbance escalation, she insists that community members report the incidents to the Durban Metro and ensure that a reference number is obtained.
“Regarding Tesoriere Swimming Pool, there were a few challenges surrounding chemicals and pool acceptance levels in the beginning of the season; this however has been resolved since my last meeting with the pool district management and supervisors. There is also an increase of theft of motor vehicles around the pool vicinity and both CPF, security teams and Umbilo SAPS have been alerted to do additional patrols around the area,” she added.
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On the issue of waste collection, she noted disruptions due to vehicle breakdowns, driver shortages and redirection of trucks from landfill sites, but she reassured the community that all routines are back to normal schedules. She also assured the residents of resumed grass-cutting and tree-trimming despite interrupted routines.
Additionally, she shared insights on problematic trucks in the Hillier / Teignmouth area; and the Umbilo bridge reconstruction.
“I’m hoping in the new year to meet with the schools and local CPF/SAPS on finding solutions to additional safety measures which can be implemented. I wish 2025 to be one filled with opportunities and prosperity for all,” she concluded.
Kristopher conveyed a special acknowledgement to those activists, volunteers and sectors who continue to uplift and safeguard the community.
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