Tembisa Community Forum to tackle incorrect municipal bills
From fighting substance abuse to challenging the City of Ekurhuleni on billing, the TCF has outlined a bold agenda for 2026.
The Tembisa Community Forum (TCF) has outlined its primary mission for 2026 as addressing unfair and incorrect municipal billing, particularly where it affects vulnerable and low-income residents.
The organisation aims to advocate for the community’s rights by promoting fair billing practices and holding the municipality accountable where there is a lack of service delivery.
“TCF as an organisation addresses issues such as a lack of public participation from the municipality, weak policy engagement and implementation, crime, substance abuse, inequality, as well as various other service-related matters,” said Kenny Nkomo, deputy secretary general of the TCF.
Reflecting on 2025, Nkomo said the forum achieved significant milestones, including organising a community march and strike action that led to the cancellation of what it described as an unfair service fee implemented by the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE).
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“This is one of the biggest breakthroughs and highlights for our community,” he said.
The TCF distinguishes itself by actively involving community members in decision-making processes and advocating for the voices of marginalised individuals. The organisation says it ensures diverse representation through community engagement and partnerships with local organisations.
The forum has also built partnerships with other community forums across the city to address various issues and to work collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure meaningful impact in representing residents.
The obstacles faced in 2025 included limited resources and bureaucratic hurdles. According to the organisation, it will address these challenges in 2026 by strengthening partnerships with stakeholders and the broader community.
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Urgent needs identified by the TCF include improved and consistent policy implementation across all communities, infrastructure upgrades, and the enforcement of fair billing practices.
How to get involved
Residents who wish to support or get involved in the TCF’s work can:
• Attend community meetings and events
• Volunteer as a sectional leader in their respective ward or area
• Donate resources or professional expertise
• Raise awareness about TCF’s work on social media.
