Councillor reflections on 2022: Power problems a headache for east residents

For residents of the east of Pretoria, the year 2022 was marred by problems such as prolonged power outages but local ward councillors are hopeful that 2023 would be better.

Ward 85 councillor Jacqui Uys described this year as “more highs than lows.”

“With the support of a great community we have managed to push through challenges, although service delivery is something of an ongoing matter and every day brings something new. I remain committed to standing with the residents to find an answer for any challenge.”

Uys said she was happy about the rebuilding of the Wapadrand substation which burned down twice in a space of three years. The project will cost R134-million and is expected to be completed in three years.

She said resolving illegal dumping, one in Meerlust Road extension and Glen Avenue in Equestria, was also a success for her ward.

Uys, who is not only a councillor but the DA Tshwane caucus leader and coalition management committee chairperson said she was ‘privileged’ to be holding these positions.

“I was privileged to serve my community on different levels. It has been an enriching and rewarding year for me personally. However I am only able to balance all my comments with the support of my husband and amazing DA colleagues.”

2023 is going to bring exciting upgrades to various roads in the ward, including Lynnwood Road, Uys said.

“To the residents of ward 85 – embrace the Christmas magic, take time to rest and see the wonder of the world around us. In 2023 let us make it our goal to show empathy and grace for each other.”

Ward 91 councillor, Henning Viljoen recounted a 14-day power outage that was caused by a fire at Mooikloof substation in December 2021 as one of the difficult times for his ward.

“As a councillor, I soon realised that there were frustrations with my communications (social media, etc.) it can still always improve,” he said.

Viljoen said intermittent water outages, cable theft, illegal dumping, increased illegal human settlements – Rietfontein and provincial road conditions (Garsfontein Roadd) were all a problem for his ward in 2022.

He said the establishment of a ward branch committee to assist councillors with service delivery issues was a success.

“Community mobilisation and involvement in the fight against cable theft and the establishment of a project steering committee for the refurbishment of the Mooikloof substation are some of our highlights,” Viljoen said.

“A blessed and peaceful break is wished for all our residents and their families and loved ones.”

When asked about plans for 2023, Viljoen said he planned to facilitate an improved turnaround time on service delivery problems and better communication.

“This large city is under strain with providing all services to satisfy all residents and it receives significantly less revenue.

“I see 2023 as a year of significant progression in the bigger SA political context.”

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