The assembly, to be attended by over 120 guests from across 31 municipalities, is expected to draw attention to challenges faced by municipalities in the province. These include challenges pertaining to their escalating Eskom and water board debts, high vacancies, lack of revenue collection, and service delivery. The Kimberley-based Sol Plaatje Local Municipality has recently made news over their lack of infrastructure maintenance and the provision of basic services. The municipality specifically came under fire during the ANC’s January 8 celebrations with residents expressing their frustrations to President Cyril Ramaphosa. Many shared their concerns over the lack of sustainable water supply, refuse collection, potholes and alleged cases of nepotism leaving many unemployed. The Salga’s conference, set to be held on Wednesday at the Kimberley Horseshoe Motel, is expected to see Executive Mayors and Senior Municipal officials discuss these issues, amongst others.

OFM News