NEW Ekurhuleni Mayor, Mzwandile Masina, wants his administration to be remembered for the quick resolution of community issues and accelerated service delivery. And to achieve maximum results, the metro has committed itself to talking less and acting more.
Masina also committed himself to building a power station in Ekurhuleni as well as establishing a commissioner to fight fraud and corruption within the metro.
Masina took this bold stance during his acceptance speech at a council meeting on August 31 in Germiston.
“We have set ourselves a goal of a 24-hour turnaround time to service delivery interruptions such as water leaks, street-lighting, malfunctioning traffic lights and many similar disruptions. At the forefront of this progressive programme will be the launch of the service delivery app that uses GPS coordinates which will allow residents to report service delivery issues, accompanied by a picture and address for easy reference and attention,” the mayor announced.
This means fixing service delivery issues such as water leaks, potholes and power outages would take less time, preserving the much-needed water supply which is slowly running dry.
Masina said Ekurhuleni would build internal capacity to reduce outsourcing of key municipal services, such as these, to ensure a faster reaction time.
Speaking at a Press Club session in Germiston on August 29, Masina said building a power station in the metro was also on the cards. “The power station is to ensure security of supply to residents as we electrify more areas. The paperwork for building a substation will start in the next three months.”
The power station would be backed by alternative and renewable energies.
Masina also showed his determination to fight fraud and corruption through plans to appoint a commissioner to probe all tenders suspected to have elements of corruption. The former Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry made it clear the metro was serious about running a clean government and this matter was a “critical priority”.
“We envisage being the most vigilant anti-fraud and corruption municipality in the land. Each time fraud and corruption allegations emerge, we want to be well equipped to kill them immediately.”
To promote the city’s rich heritage, special attention would be given to renaming streets, certain major roads and entrances in the city after those who played a role in the liberation struggle.
“Being the home to the likes of Bertha Gxowa, Chris Hani, Oliver and Adelaide Tambo, Thomas Nkosi – I am sure this gesture will be well received by our people, especially the families of these heroes and heroines.”
Special consideration would also be given to renaming major roads after women, such as Winnie Mandela, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Gill Marcus and Limpho Hani, who have made and continue to make outstanding contributions to the country.
