The provincial secretary, Shadrack Tlhaole, tells OFM News residents are angry and frustrated over a number of issues across municipalities in the province. Tlhaole adds there are hospitals and clinics that are dilapidated, and a shortage of nurses and doctors is also experienced across the province.

Tlhaole further alleges the premier does not have an office at the Department of Education or the Department of Health. The EFF is also concerned about the announced donation of R500 million to be spent on fixing potholes in Kimberley in the Sol Plaatje Municipality.

Tlhaole highlighted these concerns ahead of the premier's State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the Mxolisi Dicky Stadium in Upington, in the ZF Mcgawu District Municipality.

In 2021, Saul announced his provincial government will pump millions into the Sol Plaatje Municipality for urgent infrastructure development. Saul said R215 million would go towards urgent maintenance work to fix potholes, as well as sewer and water leakages. Another R53 million had been signed off to purchase land next to the N12 for housing.

Also in his previous speeches, Premier Saul had announced that his government was working in earnest to look at ways to improve the management of health facilities as a critical aspect of moving the health system forward.

He said the administration had articulated a vision of a modern, growing, and successful province. "At the heartbeat of this, is the revitalisation of our primary healthcare system by improving the quality of health services that we provide to our people. I am a firm believer that most of you are not here by choice or circumstance.

Most - if not all of you - did not choose to become doctors and nurses. I believe that the health profession chose you to be the servants of the people. Whilst it will be challenging, I can assure you it will be worth the time, sacrifice and commitment you pour into your work over the next two years," Saul added.

OFM News