TZANEEN – A second “Welcome to Tzaneen” sign has been erected at the R36 entrance to town near Sunbake, joining the first sign previously installed near Olive Tree, also on the R36.

Signs cost R719 000 for phase one

Both signs form part of phase one of the project, which has cost ratepayers R719 000, approximately R360 000 per sign.

NMK Trading Enterprise, reportedly a Giyani company, was appointed to implement this first phase. The signs now feature fruit basket additions, reflecting Tzaneen’s identity as an agricultural town.

Third sign planned for R71 entrance

According to Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM) spokesperson Vutivi Makhubele, no further additions are planned for the two existing signs.

However, a third sign will be erected on the R71 road from the Tarentaal entrance as part of the project’s second phase.

Makhubele previously said a separate contractor would be appointed for this phase, following standard municipal supply chain procurement procedures.

Residents question the cost

Despite this, community members have described the cost of the signs as exorbitant, venting their opinions on social media.

Municipality holds off on comment

Responding to concerns, the municipality said:

“As previously indicated, the structure is still under construction, and the project has not yet been completed. It remains a work in progress, and the municipality will be in a better position to provide comprehensive clarification and respond fully to enquiries once the project has been completed and officially unveiled. It would therefore be premature to provide final comments while the project is still under way.”

The Herald also contacted the company that erected the two signs, which said it would only respond to questions once the project is complete.