Merebank councillor to push for better service delivery in 2021

WARD 75 PR councillor Sthembiso Ngema took a moment to reflect on the challenges and breakthroughs within the Merebank community from the previous year and plans for 2021.

“Compliments of the new year to all the members of the community; the ratepayers who are our bosses. Without them there would be no municipality. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost loved ones due to Covid-19. With that said, it is important that we don’t turn a blind eye on this virus. Unfortunately there are still people who don’t understand that the existence and seriousness of Covid-19. People need to realise that this thing is real and it is rife. It is taking people’s lives. People are losing their jobs and businesses. The youth’s academic future hangs in the balance. Whatever call that government makes to curb this, we must adhere to it and all the safety measures. It is also important to encourage that those who have more, share with those who have less. That is the spirit of Ubuntu,” he said.

He highlighted internal issues within various local governmental departments which could contribute to the spread of Covid.

“In public places such as the post offices where there are long queues and no social distancing. This can pose an added threat to Covid-19 infection in local communities. This gives a sense of contradiction to what the government is advising the people. We have read that at least 7000 people have been arrested due to failing to wear a mask in public spaces. However, we need the city and law enforcement to not only go with the intention to arrest people, but also take time to educate them. To tell people why it is important to sanitise and wear a mask. We would appreciate just as much effort in arresting the real criminals out there. In local service deliver matters, Ngema noted the ongoing issue of faulty water pipe systems throughout Merebank.

“Our water systems are in shambles. There is a leak after a leak, a burst pipe after a burst pipe and blocked sewers are an ongoing nightmare It takes long for the municipality to attend to and fix a problem. The head of water and sanitation needs to invest in the infrastructure. We have seen the city failing to communicate and work with the community when it is faced with issues of being understaffed or having insufficient resources. They weren’t able to coordinate water trucks when there were water shortages throughout eThekwini recently.

“The issue of overgrown grass on verges, parks and other public spaces is another priority. We already have a petition signed by residents which will be handed over to the department of parks. In 2021 I hope to work towards achieving my plans from the previous year which I was not able to fulfill. I’m prepared to push more. There is an importance to respect our residents because they are ratepayers who are within their right to call out issues. We want a municipality that is communicable, delivers services to the poor people and creates a city that is conducive for investors to come and increase job opportunities. In 2021 we want to see a municipality that is accountable to its residents as well as officials that available to help the greater public.

“I have also built a relationship with Food 4 Life to help feed the disadvantaged within my ward. I also hope to engage with other stakeholders to try and come on board to ensure no one goes to bed hungry,” said Ngema who will be putting his name forward for councillor in the upcoming local government elections.  

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