This situation was a key focus during a cabinet meeting led by president Cyril Ramaphosa at the University of the Free State on Friday (27/3). The discussions focused on the financial and operational health of local governments across the province.

The meeting highlighted many municipalities face significant challenges regarding service delivery and revenue collection. Ramaphosa said 35 of the country’s 257 municipalities were classified as distressed in 2025.

Approximately 63% are currently considered to be at risk. In the Free State, specifically, 70 municipalities are now under administration.

He said underfunding, lack of capacity, and high debt levels contribute to these issues, stating many municipalities are paralysed by poor governance and financial mismanagement, mentioning that when municipalities collect money for water or electricity, it is often used for salaries instead of maintaining infrastructure.

“Restoring the fortunes of local government must be at the centre of our efforts if we are to attract investment that creates jobs and boosts the provincial economy,” said Ramaphosa.

Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae at the University of the Free State. Photo: Free State provincial government

The Free State MEC for cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) Saki Mokoena addressed the specific status of local areas. He confirmed there are currently three municipalities under direct intervention.

Mokoena identified Mangaung, Kopanong, and Mafube as the primary areas of focus. Mafube is currently the most challenged municipality in the province. To assist with these struggles, the government plans to intervene whenever the interests of residents are negatively affected.

“If the interests of municipalities or residents are affected, we are going to intervene because the law allows it,” said Mokoena.

Mokoena said the government is looking toward future improvements through targeted funding. There is a planned investment of R12 million into the Kopanong municipality.

This money is intended to improve the yellow fleet capacity, which refers to the heavy machinery used for construction and service maintenance.

By ring-fencing utilities for water and electricity, the province hopes to ensure that infrastructure is maintained properly.

This strategy aims to stop the cycle of collapsing services and resident protests. Leaders believe improving the local environment will encourage investors to bring their facilities to these regions.

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane  dg

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