26 Mar 2025

Kgatleng District Council is taking steps to bolster its revenue collection streams through a new comprehensive financial sustainability strategy aimed at enhancing economic stability.

During his inaugural speech at the full council meeting on Monday, Chairperson Mr Thabo Komane highlighted the dual challenge of the district’s financial situation: while there are hurdles, particularly in generating own-source revenue, there are also opportunities for transformation.

Mr Komane emphasised the urgency of exploring innovative revenue streams tailored to Kgatleng’s economic profile, especially in light of potential future cuts to the Revenue Support Grant. 

“We need to gradually increase our own-source revenue from the current 5.1 per cent to 15 per cent of the total budget within three years, thereby reducing our vulnerability to central government budget cuts,” he stated. He called for modernisation of revenue collection methods and stronger enforcement mechanisms for existing revenue sources.

In addition, the council has outsourced the rehabilitation and operation of the Pilane landfill to Envesys Services (PTY) Ltd, currently in its demonstration phase, set to conclude in August 2025. 

An allocation of P281 million has been approved for landfill expansion under the 2nd Transitional National Development Plan. Mr Komane noted that while the project was still pending initiation, it would involve the Development Manager model and would include new waste cells, recycling sheds, an administrative block, and new equipment. 

He confirmed that compensation for affected properties has been finalised and discussions on implementation were ongoing with the relevant ministry.

Mr Komane also announced the approval and operational status of the Mmamashia, Matebele, Oodi, Modipane, and Dikwididi Development Plan (2022-2046). This plan includes zoning for key areas and underscores the necessity for a structured plan or area-specific guidelines for the Mmamashia Mixed Use Zone, which aims to ensure holistic development. Preparations for these guidelines are currently in progress, with completion expected between April and September 2025.

He also noted that Mochudi Planning Area Development Plan (2007-2031) was approaching its end of validity and required urgent review to align with contemporary development trends and address disaster management challenges.

Mr Komane provided an update on the Self Help Housing Agency (SHHA) scheme, which offers support to low and middle-income households through turnkey projects and home improvement loans. 

He reported that all turnkey projects funded during the 2024/25 financial year have been completed and handed over to beneficiaries, with six home improvement projects initiated, four completed and two ongoing.

However, there are concerns regarding arrears, currently standing at P4.97 millionas of September 2024.

Mr Komane announced plans for vigorous follow-up campaigns, including kgotla meetings and community outreach initiatives in the next financial year to address these issues. ENDS