Acceptance Speech by Ald. Marais Kruger, newly elected Executive Mayor
11 November 2025
Good morning,
Honourable Speaker,
Deputy Executive Mayor,
Councillors,
Municipal Manager,
Senior Management,
Representatives from our Local Municipalities,
Community partners, the media, and all guests present, all protocol observed.
Thank you for being here today. Stepping into this role within the Garden Route District Municipality is both an honour and a responsibility. Our district spans over seven Local Municipalities, each with unique communities, strengths and challenges. Yet, we are united by one shared commitment: to work for the wellbeing and development of the entire Garden Route region.
The work of a district municipality is sometimes not always seen directly at community level, but it is deeply impactful. We support, coordinate and strengthen service delivery across the region. We plan for what lies ahead – for economic development, tourism growth, environmental protection, regional infrastructure, and municipal support. And importantly, we carry a critical role in disaster management and fire services, especially in a region prone to wildfires.
Our Fire & Rescue teams work day and night to protect lives, homes, farms, and natural habitats. Their bravery and dedication remind us what service truly looks like and they deserve our full support as we continue building resilience and readiness across the district.
As we begin this new chapter, our focus remains practical and people-centered:
• To work collaboratively with all our local municipalities
• To strengthen and resource regional disaster management and fire services
• To improve long-term planning and sustainability in our environment and infrastructure
• To support economic development and job creation that brings dignity to households
• And to invest in opportunities for our youth across communities, towns and rural areas.
We may come from different political backgrounds, but our responsibility is shared. The people we serve expect us to work together, respectfully, constructively and with purpose.
To our administration, thank you for your continued commitment. The district relies on your professionalism every day.
To our partners, community organisations, businesses, education, tourism, safety structures, traditional and faith leaders, your work strengthens our region, and we value your collaboration.
And to the people of the Garden Route, we are here to serve you. Your needs, your voices and your dignity remain at the centre of our work. Let us move forward together, building a district that is safe, resilient, inclusive and full of opportunity for all who call the Garden Route home.
I also want us to urge everyone focus not on who is important, but rather acknowledge ‘what is important’.
Thank you.
