MIDVAAL. – The Executive Mayor of Midvaal Local Municipality (MLM), Alderman Peter Teixeira has urged the youth to take advantage of the opportunity to engage with the municipality and work together to find lasting and sustainable solutions.

This follows the success of the first engagement meeting with the youth of Lakeside (Ward 6) as part of the Buang Batjha youth listening campaign.

The Executive Mayor was flanked by the MMC for Development and Planning, Mokete Motsamai, MMC for Community Services,
Thembi Modiba, MMC for Engineering Services, Reginald Hubbard and PR Councillor Koena Hoyane.

The meeting was attended by over 150 young people to discuss the socioeconomic challenges they face and present solutions.

The discussions covered a range of pressing issues such as unemployment, gender-based violence, substance abuse, crime, and developmental needs within the Lakeside community.

Teixeira said: “Listening to our people is non-negotiable, and it is especially important that the youth have a voice in the development of Midvaal and the country.

“The municipality will ensure that these engagements extend beyond mere talk and produce a sustainable youth program that will address the challenges and social ills faced across Midvaal.”

The Buang Batjha listening campaign will extend across all 15 Wards in Midvaal to allow for a diversity of ideas and perspectives.

“It is only through active collaboration and listening to the voices of our youth that we can build a better and brighter future for all,” he added.