Alan Schonken, who has taken the reins as president of the Endumeni Chamber of Commerce, believes the biggest challenge facing already-struggling local businesses is the chaos in local government.

“The malfunctioning of Endumeni Municipality and Umzinyathi District Municipality means that they do not see to their core responsibilities – providing quality services such as water, electricity, roads, etc, to allow businesses to operate efficiently. Businesses are up against so many economic challenges, so the last thing they need is to worry about undrivable roads and effluent running through their premises,” said. Schonken, who started his Glencoe-based construction business in 2000.

He called on the SAPS to probe charges of corruption following the release of a report revealing widespread tender corruption and other irregularities within the municipality.
“There is no consequence management in our municipalities. Reports recommend that officials be charged, but these officials simply move on to the next municipality and continue their actions. No one cares. It is not like in previous years, when people took working for the municipality as an honour to serve their town. Now it’s just a very well-paid job.”

He added that the out-of-date municipal website was also of concern. “It is worrying that most contracts are awarded to companies in Mpumalanga, Durban and other towns. Surely the municipality’s first loyalty is to businesses that pay rates here? Most of the roadwork done is of inferior quality, which local businesses would take pride in doing for their town, businesses that are just ignored. We would like an explanation.”
Schonken concluded that municipalities should be treated like any other business.

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