DA wants provincial government to invest in town near Standerton
According to the party, many of the important policies and planning support needed to assist with revitalisation of economic activities, have not yet been put in place by the Mpumalanga government.
The DA has written to the Mpumalanga provincial government, requesting them to consider investing in Wakkerstroom in the Pixley Ka Seme Municipality.
They want this small-beautiful town into one of the province’s tourist destinations.
According to a press statement from the party, Wakkerstroom is the second-oldest town in the province, rich in history, with natural grasslands, wetlands and a hotspot for bird watching.
The Pixley Ka Seme Municipality is ravaged by the current load-shedding, with water shortages and deteriorating paved and unpaved roads, a major deterrent to tourism.
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The area has a population of 6 800 and relies solely on farming revenue. The rate of unemployment is high.
Cash injection through tourism will bring hope again for jobs and the creation of small businesses.
Wakkerstroom, established in 1859, was once a thriving service centre for a surrounding rural agricultural region, but this traditional economy has faded.
The DA said this area’s economy can be revitalised. According to the party, the Mpumalanga government has not implemented the many policies and planning support needed to revitalise economic activities.
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Upon a recent oversight visit to the municipality, it came to light that the residents are left to fend for themselves as they battle an inconsistent water and electricity supply.
The recent load-shedding has also severely affected many businesses in the town. It forced some business owners to close their doors. Roads are also in a state of disarray and need urgent attention.
The DA has written to the premier, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, requesting the renovation of the Wakkerstroom Tourism and Education Centre, initially built as a training centre for the Community Bird Guides.
According to BirdLife South Africa’s website, they and BirdLife International recognised the Wakkerstroom Tourism and Education Centre as both a national and global Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).
It is home to globally threatened bird species such as African Marsh Harrier, Grey Crowned Crane, Rudd’s and Botha’s Lark, and the Yellow-breasted Pipit.
The DA also called on the provincial government to invest in renovating the tourism commercial shops and also re-invest in renovating all the streets around and in Wakkerstroom.
