BROTHELS, human trafficking, drugs and illegal occupation of buildings – these were some of the illicit activities discovered in Kempton Park as the Siyaqhuba programme kick-started in the CBD this week.
The Siyaqhuba rapid service delivery programme, led by executive mayor Mzwandile Masina, is an important assessment mechanism for Ekurhuleni, as the City strives towards integrating all towns.
“We need to deal with the basics but more importantly reclaim our cities in order to ensure that development happens,” said Masina.
Kempton Park is a strategic town in Ekurhuleni and home to OR Tambo International Airport.
The past two days have affirmed that municipal services are being abused and not accounted for due to lack of synchronisation of service delivery systems, Masina added.
The Siyaqhuba programme practically involves senior officials on the ground with the mayor in order to strengthen accountability.
“While reports are imperative and an integral part of accountability and monitoring, we must also appreciate realities on the ground and challenges of implementation,” Masina added.
Kempton Park is also the driving catalyst for the envisaged Aerotropolis and serves a far greater business community on the continent.
The increase of drug and human trafficking is a serious concern for the City as this compromises security, vulnerable communities and business.
“Strengthening of implementation of by-laws and working with the police remain one of our priorities,” Masina affirmed.
The Siyaqhuba team will address all towns of the City of Ekurhuleni, with an aim of a sustainable rapid service delivery system post the evaluation.
The programme will continue until February 24.
