The Mathibela Traditional Council offices remain unoccupied due to an uncompleted borehole, resulting in the building having no water supply.

Construction of the R5m office buildings commenced in December 2022 and was completed in July 2023.
The Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) visited the construction site of the council offices in Oakley, Bushbuckridge Local Municipality on Thursday, September 16.

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The visit was part of the week-long Taking the Legislature to the People programme in the area. Community members had an opportunity to directly engage with authorities with the aim of asking government to give an account of its service delivery and progress.

Coghsta said its aim to support traditional leaders through the provision of offices and other resources remains key in service delivery.

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The president of Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa, Kgosi Mathupa Mokoena, who also participated in the visit, indicated that there are a few challenges that need urgent attention before occupation can take place.

Mokoena mentioned issues such as the lack of water and the replacement of fans with air conditioners. He further requested that there be should be pavement from the main road to the entrance of the building.

The constructor that was hired to install the borehole was allegedly said to have left without completing the borehole and members recommended that the retention amount be used for the outstanding issues.