The Johannesburg Ombudsman and Speaker’s Office held its Annual Citizen Information Clinics at the Crown Gardens Recreation Centre under the theme ‘Working Together to Deliver Real Solutions’.

The session aimed to empower residents, improve municipal responsiveness, and rebuild public trust through civic education.

Residents were equipped with knowledge to exercise their rights and navigate challenges relating to service delivery, maladministration, and human rights.

Guidance was also provided on how the Office of the Ombudsman can assist the community in addressing service delivery concerns.

Residents raised important issues, including road infrastructure, traffic lights, and street lighting. While the Johannesburg Ombudsman does not implement services directly, the office ensures that all concerns are formally reported and monitored to achieve meaningful outcomes.

The programme was officially opened by Councillor Stuart Marais, who welcomed residents to the session.

Regional director for Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM) in Region F, Irene Mafune, highlighted the office’s role as “a conduit between the community and City of Joburg, helping to facilitate and fast-track service delivery resolutions.”

Louisa Maphoto from the Johannesburg Ombudsman emphasised that good governance begins with active community participation.

She encouraged residents to raise service delivery concerns promptly to ensure fair and timely resolutions wherever possible.

The office encouraged all participants to contribute actively, noting that community participation is key to the success of the sessions and to improving service delivery in Johannesburg.

Residents were reminded that their voices matter and that the Ombudsman’s Office is committed to ensuring their concerns are heard and acted upon.

For more information, contact 010 288 2800, email at complaints@joburgombudsman.org.za, or visit the website at www.joburgombudsman.org.za