Media Release: 125 Homeless people attend health education session at George Night Shelter
For Immediate Release
21 April 2023
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is dedicated to improving, amongst others, the health and well-being of marginalized members of the Garden Route. On 19 April, Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) held an education session with homeless community members. EHPs Sive Mkuta and Lusizo Kwetshube who drove the initiative educated the attendees about communicable diseases, personal hygiene, and environmental hygiene.
The session took place at George night shelter where 125 homeless people gathered. EHPs also distributed pamphlets and disinfectants.
These types of health education sessions are of critical importance as marginalized communities often do not have adequate access to healthcare resources. This is why empowering the homeless serves as a preventative measure for them to adopt best practices linked to hygiene practices. It empowers them to take control of their health and reduce their risk of contracting illnesses.
Die Tuinroete Distriksmunisipaliteit se Omgewingsgesondheidspraktisyns (OGP) Sive Mkuta en Lusizo Kwetshube, het gister ‘n inligtingsessie met 125 hawelose persone by die George-nagskuiling gehou. Die doel van die sessie was om wenke met die groep te deel oor die verbetering van algehele gesondheid en welstand. Die praatjie het hoofsaaklik gefokus op onderwerpe soos oordraagbare siektes, persoonlike higiëne en omgewingshigiëne. Dis geen geheim dat hawelose persone beperkte toegang tot gesondheidshulpbronne het wat die impak van siektes kan verminder.
Impact-Based Severe Weather Warning: Level 2 for Damaging Winds
The Cape Town Weather Office has issued an Impact Based Warning for damaging winds for today until 23h00 tonight.
Areas in the Garden Route district affected by damaging winds include Bitou, George, Hessequa, Knysna, and Mossel Bay.
Legal notice:
“This warning from SA Weather Service must be communicated as received and may not be altered under any circumstance.
It must be forwarded or communicated in its entirety and no portion hereof may be replicated or copied and distributed.”
Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Disaster Management Centre at 044 805 5071.
Media Release: Oudtshoorn air quality rated the best in Africa
For Immediate Release 17 March 2023
A recent study conducted by Swiss technology company IQ Air, with the backing of the United Nations Environment Programme, has revealed that Oudtshoorn, located in the Western Cape of Africa, has secured the top spot in the list of 15 least polluted regional cities in Africa. The efforts invested over the past decade to enhance the air quality in Oudtshoorn have paid off, as it was historically one of the most polluted towns in the Garden Route district.
According to Dr. Johann Schoeman, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Manager: District Air Quality Control: “The positive strides made to mitigate air pollution in the region have been attributed to Garden Route’s appointment as the Licensing Authority for Listed activities”.
“Air Quality management requires teamwork and needs the collaboration of various role-players.”
“Credit must be given to the Western Cape Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs, Oudtshoorn Municipality, and Industry. Air Quality in Oudtshoorn is managed through an Air Quality Management plan, coordinated by the GRDM and adopted by the Oudtshoorn Municipality,” said Dr Schoeman.
Industry buy-in has played a crucial role in achieving the visible results we see today. As residential developments continue to encroach upon industrial zones, it becomes increasingly vital to effectively manage emissions through innovative technology. Johnsons Bricks has set an excellent example with the introduction of their rotary kiln system, which has significantly reduced hazardous emissions such as Sulphur dioxide and Particulate Matter through advanced mitigation and control. Similar technological advancements have been implemented in other industries in Oudtshoorn, including the Cape Karoo International Tannery and abattoir.
Another innovative solution has been the GRDM Clean Fires campaign. For the last seven years, GRDM has incorporated air pollution awareness as part of its community awareness-raising activities. The project was identified due to poor air quality in especially the informal settlements, caused by fires used for household purposes such as cooking and heating. A three-year tender was awarded to Mingcele (PTY)Ltd to develop the study packs and facilitate the training at Primary Schools within the Garden Route until 2024. The Western Cape Education Department was approached whereby the Clean Fires campaign is now incorporated as part of the Grade 3 curriculum. The course material is printed in Xhosa, Afrikaans and English.
Each participating school receives a study pack with the study material that is very convenient for the teacher. The course material is in line with the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS), is printed in English, isiXhosa, and Afrikaans. Since its inception, the project reached all the primary schools in the garden route. The project is rotated in the region with last year (2022), again focusing on the Klein-Karoo region. Thirty-nine schools were reached, amongst others in Oudtshoorn, Uniondale, Volmoed, De Rust, Calitzdorp, Avontuur, Haarlem and Ladismith areas. It is anticipated that 4 family members are reached per child with a cumulative impact of 8132 community members reached through this project for last year alone.
We acknowledge that there is still room for improvement and GRDM Air Quality unit will continue to strive for Air Quality worthy of the name: “Garden Route”, We want to protect the region against exploitation and build on the constitutional right to a clean environment.
The public is also welcome to contact the District Air Quality office for any further information on the project. The office number is 044-6930006 during normal office hours.
Feature Image: Istock: Beautiful wine valley in Oudtshoorn Western Cape South Africa
Media Statement: GRDM Council takes action to protect the institution’s reputation and that of MM Monde Stratu
For Immediate Release
14 March 2023
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Council unanimously expresses its support for the GRDM Municipal Manager (MM), Monde Stratu, who has been maliciously prosecuted for fraud, forgery, and uttering. The Council has granted approval for the MM to be legally represented.
The Council also granted the administration permission to take legal action to protect the reputation of the institution and that of the MM.
The Council believes that there are no reasonable grounds or evidence available to date to conclude that the MM has committed an act of misconduct. The Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Anton Bredell, will be notified about the recent Council developments.
Pictured: Executive Mayor, Alderman Memory Booysen (left), with Municipal Manager, Monde Stratu (right)
Media Statement: Legal action against Garden Route DM Municipal Manager a distraction from ongoing discussions between municipalities
9 March 2023
On 8 March 2023, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Municipal Manager (MM), Mr Monde Stratu was ordered to appear before the Knysna Magistrate Court on 9 March 2023. A docket was opened regarding the treatment of properties belonging to the GRDM in the Annual Financial Statements of both the GRDM and Knysna Municipalities.
Both municipalities have, for years been engaged in discussions regarding the properties of the GRDM that are situated in the Knysna municipal area.
As the Executive Mayor of the GRDM, I am expressing my disappointment at how this matter is being handled by the law enforcement agencies and that it flies in the face of the fruitful discussions that are taking place between the two municipalities.
The Executive Mayor of Knysna, Councillor Aubrey Tsengwa has reiterated that both municipalities agreed not to declare any disputes, but to continue with discussions to find an amicable solution.
According to Mr Phineas Sebola, the Municipal Manager of Knysna, the Knysna Municipality did not even receive any legal documents related to the impending case against the GRDM MM. He believes that the matter does not need to go to court, as negotiations between the two municipalities are already proving to be productive.
Furthermore, Knysna Municipality took a resolution on 21 July 2021 to continue with engagements to find amicable resolutions in the spirit of cooperative governance. However, I am astounded that despite the ongoing discussions a criminal case was opened against the MM of GRDM.
A delegation from GRDM met with Knysna on 1 February 2023 to further discuss the properties in question and the meeting was very positive. Knysna Municipality delegation, led by the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Alberto Marbi, Cllr Neil Louw, Cllr Susan Campbell and the Municipal Manager agreed to write an item to the Knysna Municipal Council and recommend a possible solution for these properties. It is extremely surprising that during or after deliberations, the information regarding a case opened against the GRDM MM was not disclosed.
I and the Executive Mayor of Knysna have agreed that this amounts to malicious prosecution marred with procedural flaws aimed at tainting the reputation of the two institutions and further embarrassing the MM of GRDM.
The Executive Mayor of Knysna and I have come to a mutual agreement that the actions being taken against the two institutions are an act of malicious prosecution. Furthermore, we have noted that there are significant procedural flaws in the process, with the intention to harm the reputations of these organisations and to cause further embarrassment to the MM of GRDM.
Issued by the GRDM Executive Mayor, Alderman Memory Booysen
Alert: Garden Route Water Security Workshop is underway
7 March 2023
Water is a precious resource that’s essential for all living organisms. The Garden Route region in South Africa is facing significant water challenges due to climate change, population growth, and economic development. Today, 7 March 2023, a meeting is being held to discuss strategies for achieving a water-secure future. Representatives from various sectors will identify key water-related challenges and develop sustainable solutions.
The proposal to designate the Garden Route District Municipality as a Water Services Authority for Bulk Water and Sanitation Infrastructure will also be discussed. This will enable better coordination and implementation of strategies to improve water security.
Achieving water security is critical for sustainable development, and all stakeholders are going to participate in the workshop.
Together, we can build a resilient and sustainable future for the Garden Route.
ALERT: CALITZDORP HOT SPRINGS TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO FLOODS
5 March 2023
We regret to inform the public that Calitzdorp Hot Springs has been closed due to severe flooding caused by the recent torrential rains. The safety and well-being of our guests and staff are of utmost importance, and we have decided to temporarily suspend all operations until the necessary repairs are completed.
The main building and Roman bath area have been affected, as well as the camping area and some of the roads of the resort.
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide a specific date for the reopening of the resort as it is dependent on the weather conditions and the progress of the repairs. However, we assure the public that we are working diligently to restore the facilities as soon as possible and hope to welcome guests back to Calitzdorp Hot Springs in the near future.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding during this challenging time. Please stay tuned for further updates on our website and social media platforms.
Thank you to our guests for their continued support, and we look forward to seeing you soon again.
Those who have booked with us for the next two to three weeks will be contacted for full refunds or alternative dates to stay by us.
Media Release: The Connected Economy – A Priority Focus Area for the Garden Route Skills Mecca
For Immediate Release
1 March 2023
The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) is an important initiative that will help to address skills shortages in the Garden Route district, promote economic growth and development. It will also support the realisation of the overall Growth and Development Strategy of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM).
To explore possible skills development options for the ICT element of the Connected Economy, the Garden Route Skills Mecca Forum convened on February 24th, 2023, with relevant stakeholders during a Quarterly GRSM Forum. The Connected Economy is one (1) of seven (7) priority focus areas of the Growth and Development Strategy of GRDM.
Stakeholders present at the Skills Mecca engagement with the MICT SETA.
The focus area was on the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA). A key question answered during the session was about the skills required in the ICT sector. In answering this, Koos Nieuwoudt, ICT Manager for GRDM in summary said that ICT sector continues to evolve and that new skills are required to meet the needs of the industry. Traditional IT skills such as A+ certifications are no longer sufficient, and companies require professionals who are proficient in AI, robotic process automation, data sciences, analytics, and cybersecurity.
Additionally, Niewoudt also shared that soft skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and adaptability are essential for success. The smart region strategy, which integrates digital transformation, offers opportunities for the development of skills in areas such as smart governance, infrastructure, security, environment, mobility, and services. However, he also stated that companies must be mindful of the cybersecurity implications of implementing the smart city concept. With the ever-increasing number of connected devices, cybersecurity is a critical concern, and adequate training and resources must be provided to ensure a safe and secure digital environment.
Skills Development Providers recognised
During the forum, the Garden Route District Municipality recognized eleven skills development providers who had submitted their organization details during an open tender process in 2022 to be considered as pre-approved service providers for Skills Mecca projects and programs in the future. These providers were required to submit proof of accreditation for specific programs considered necessary for the district in the next few years. As part of the recognition process, providers were issued with a Garden Route Skills Mecca Pledge that commits them to support the Skills Mecca.
Ald. Iona Kritzinger (Portfolio Chairperson: Corporate Services), Oscar Martin (Keep the Dream), and Trix Holtzhausen (Executive Manager: Corporate Services).
Ald. Iona Kritzinger (Portfolio Chairperson: Corporate Services), Joanita Martin and Chane Martin (Josmap Training), and Trix Holtzhausen (Executive Manager: Corporate Services).
Ald. Iona Kritzinger (Portfolio Chairperson: Corporate Services), Megan van Rensburg and Monique Oranje (Training Answers) , and Trix Holtzhausen (Executive Manager: Corporate Services).
Ald. Iona Kritzinger (Portfolio Chairperson: Corporate Services), Raoul Du Toit (Phezukomkhono Training Services), and Trix Holtzhausen (Executive Manager: Corporate Services).
Ald. Iona Kritzinger (Portfolio Chairperson: Corporate Services), Rinus van Raai (SA Value Education), and Trix Holtzhausen (Executive Manager: Corporate Services).
A further opportunity for service providers to register with the District Municipality as pre-approved service providers will soon be issued as a tender, and all service providers who offer accredited occupational qualifications or skills programs should watch out for it. The Skills Mecca is particularly in need of qualified and experienced mentors to register with the District Municipality to support small companies in the renewable energy (solar) sector.
Editor’s note: The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) is a concept that originated from the Garden Route Rebuild Initiative (GRRI) in response to the devastating fires that hit the Knysna/Plettenberg Bay district in June 2017. Since 2018, municipalities in the district, along with national and provincial stakeholders, have been working together to implement the GRSM concept as a critical component of the overall Growth and Development Strategy (GDS) of the Garden Route.
Feature image caption: Stakeholders present in person during the Skills Mecca Engagement with MICT SETA (FLTR): Dr Florus Prinsloo (GRDM Skills Mecca Coordinator), Oscar Martin (Keep the Dream), Rinus van Raai (SA Value Education), Koos Nieuwoudt (GRDM ICT Manager), Basil Myners (BM Skills Development), Raoul Du Toit (Phezukomkhono Training Services), Gerda Rappard (Africa Skills Private College), Iona Kritzinger (GRDM Portfolio Chairperson: Corporate Services), Joanita Martin (Josmap Training), Chane Martin (Josmap Training), Trix Holtzhausen (GRDM Executive Manager: Corporate Services), Reginal Salmons (GRDM Coordinator: Skills Development), Megan van Rensburg (Training Answers), Monique Oranje (Training Answers), Onke Jako (GRDM Skills Mecca Intern).
