For far too long, many communities along the South Coast of KZN have voiced concerns about poor service delivery, growing poverty, and the visible decline of our towns and neighbourhoods. Many residents feel that their pleas have gone unheard while the challenges facing ordinary people continue to grow.
The values of humanity and ubuntu should be at the heart of leadership. Instead, many people believe they are witnessing increasing homelessness, unemployment, drug and alcohol abuse, theft, and desperation on our streets where no improvement or assistance from government is being witnessed. Families struggle to survive while vulnerable members of society are left without the support they desperately need.
Communities also deserve transparency and accountability. Where allegations of corruption have been reported, residents expect those reports to be investigated thoroughly and without delay. When concerns appear to remain unresolved for long periods, public trust in government institutions is weakened.
The South Coast is home to many registered NPOs, NGOs, businesses, and community organisations that work hard to uplift people. However, there are also concerns from residents about organisations and businesses operating without proper compliance or oversight. Fair enforcement of the law should apply equally to everyone, ensuring that legitimate organisations are protected while unlawful activities are addressed.
A cleaner, safer, and more dignified South Coast is possible. This requires stronger service delivery and new leadership, proper maintenance of public spaces, effective law enforcement, legal homeless shelters and investment in job creation, and meaningful partnerships between government and communities.
The people of the South Coast are not asking for miracles. They are asking for clean streets, reliable basic services including water at all times, accountable leadership, opportunities to earn a living, and a government that listens with compassion and acts with urgency and transparency.
The time for empty promises has passed. Our communities deserve leadership that restores hope, protects the vulnerable, fights corruption wherever it exists, and rebuilds the spirit of ubuntu. Together, we can create a South Coast where every person is treated with dignity and where future generations can live in safe, clean, and thriving communities where there are blessings.
GERALDINE MOATSHE,
HAVE YOUR SAY
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