EDITOR – On 28 October, our hard-working Council “approved a proposal to introduce eThekwini Municipality Television (EMTV) to residents. The Municipality supports the initiative which would serve as a critical tool to showcase the City’s achievements to the public.”
The Council decisions do not say whether the proposal was “unsolicited” or not. Or whether time permits not going the Section 36 route.
However, besides saying it “would serve as a critical tool …”, the Caring City wannabe also uses a host of phrases to justify a tender, and resultant wasteful expenditure we would soon hear of.
Some phrases are – “digital solution that is prompt, responsive and expedient for the provision of highly effective customer service”, “Gumede said it was a wonderful idea”, “without being censored by media about the work the City is doing”, “What should prevent us from having a station that will be sponsored?”, “another medium we use to communicate with residents”.
Eish!
So, in essence, Ezasegagasini and the loads of promotional books, magazines, flyers, social media, event sponsorships, etc. etc. have not been enough to render a sizeable slap on back to the City. If only it seriously stopped talking about how good it was, and actually started seriously doing good, it would (not could) soon be a Caring and Livable City – well before 2030.
It would be interesting to follow how this plays out, given that eMTV “will be sponsored”. Even more interesting will be more excuses from the Communications Head.
OK, you can’t tune in – EMTV is only for Sizakala Customers Centres across the Municipality. All 32 of them.
Mahmood
North Beach
