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07 October 2025 Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca Forum Strengthens Regional Collaboration to Tackle Youth Unemployment

Garden Route Skills Mecca Forum Strengthens Regional Collaboration to Tackle Youth Unemployment

Immediate release
07 October 2025

Last week, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) successfully revived the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) Forum, to strengthen collaboration among municipalities and stakeholders in advancing skills development across the district.

The forum brings together Skills Development officials from all seven local municipalities to coordinate efforts, share information, and take ownership of opportunities identified through the GRSM. This renewed collaboration marks a significant step towards institutionalising the Skills Mecca model and ensuring that the region’s skills development initiatives are aligned and impactful.

In his opening remarks, Thembani Loliwe, Chairperson of the Forum and GRDM Strategic Manager, highlighted the importance of a united approach to addressing one of the district’s most pressing challenges, which is youth unemployment.

“To strengthen the institutionalisation of the Skills Mecca in the region, it is vital that all municipalities work together to address youth unemployment, which currently stands at a staggering 62%. A regional approach to tackling this pandemic is key and aligns directly with the District Development Planning (DDP) model, which advocates for coordinated regional planning and joint efforts to address shared challenges,” said Loliwe.

He added that municipalities should view the Skills Mecca as a shared service, noting that GRDM and its local municipalities will work together to develop a shared service agreement. This will ensure that the Skills Mecca is not only a concept but becomes integrated into the budget processes of local (B) municipalities, as it already forms part of their Integrated Development Plans (IDPs).

“This platform will also ensure that local municipalities have first-hand access to information on all projects under the Skills Mecca and are included in decision-making processes,” Loliwe explained.

Loliwe further emphasised that the forum aims to improve communication with all stakeholders and provides a platform for meaningful contributions from partners in the skills ecosystem.

During the meeting, Reginald Salmons, GRDM Coordinator for Skills Development, presented both current and historical projects implemented under the GRSM. Representatives from each local municipality also showcased their respective skills development projects and programmes, highlighting local progress and challenges.

The meeting was well-attended by Local Economic Development representatives, Integrated Development and Skills Development Managers, and Coordinators from all municipalities across the district.

As part of the next steps, the Forum will develop a Terms of Reference (ToR) to formalise its operations, reporting structures, and rules of engagement. Additionally, all projects will be mapped across the district to avoid duplication and promote effective coordination.

The next Garden Route Skills Mecca Forum meeting is scheduled to take place from 19 to 20 November 2025, where members will continue strengthening regional cooperation to empower the youth and drive inclusive economic growth.

ENDS

3 October 2025 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Honoured with Certificate of Achievement for Fourth Consecutive Clean Audit

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Honoured with Certificate of Achievement for Fourth Consecutive Clean Audit

3 October 2025

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has once again demonstrated its commitment to good governance and sound financial management. On 2 October 2025, at the Local Government Indaba in Johannesburg, the municipality received a prestigious Certificate of Achievement for obtaining a Clean Audit for the 2023/24 financial year. This is the fourth year in a row that GRDM achieved this milestone.

GRDM is among only 14 district municipalities, out of 44 across the country to receive this recognition. The certificate was presented by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr. Velenkosini Hlabisa, who commended the municipality’s dedication to accountability and transparency.

Accepting the certificate on behalf of the municipality, GRDM Municipal Manager, Mr. Monde Stratu, expressed pride in the achievement and acknowledged the collective effort behind the success.

The certificate of recognition reads:

“Your commitment to sound financial management, transparency, and good governance sets a benchmark for excellence in public service and inspires confidence in local government.”

Feature image: GRDM Municipal Manager Monde Stratu (fourth from the right) receiving the award.

ENDS

Garden Route Export Awareness Seminar 2025 in Partnership with Landbank

A GARDEN ROUTE EXPORT AWARENESS SEMINAR WILL TAKE PLACE ON 30 OCTOBER. This initiative is driven in partnership with Landbank.

VENUE: De Jagers Sports Complex, 82 Voortrekker Street, Oudtshoorn.

TIME: 08h30.

RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/4ce2jh8v

Download the Programme here: Programme for Garden Route Export Seminar 2025

Are you interested in expanding your business internationally? Are you an exporter ? Would you like to know more about the export support available for your business? No matter where you are on your export journey, the Garden Route Export Seminar is a valuable platform for businesses (including) those led by women, youth, and persons with disabilities), to stay informed with the latest export news and expert advice. This event offers access to the latest export information, insights into market opportunities and connect with key stakeholders in the export ecosystem.

FOCUS AREAS

• Support and assistance for export promotion and Marketing.
• Financial and support programs:
i. Grants /Loans sector specific incentives(financial support or benefits for business specific sectors.
ii. Export training programs.
iii. Information on relevant issues affecting trade.

ENQUIRIES
Marthinus Van Wyk | E-mail: Export.Seminars@westerncape.gov.za | T :021 483 3106

Farmers attending will have the opportunity to engage directly with Land Bank representatives on funding and agricultural insurance solutions designed to support growth, manage risks, and expand / unlock new export opportunities.

 

1 October 2025 Media Statement: GRDM Council Welcomes Outcome of Environmental Impact Assessment on Erf 1297, Wilderness

Media Statement: GRDM Council Welcomes Outcome of Environmental Impact Assessment on Erf 1297, Wilderness

1 October 2025

At a Special Council meeting held on 30 September, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Council noted and accepted the outcome of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted for the proposed development by a lessee of Erf 1297 in Wilderness, commonly known as the Kleinkrantz property. This follows the 12 September 2025 EIA outcome by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) who rejected environmental authorisation (EA Ref: 14/12/16/3/3/1/3065) for the proposed development on the site.

The outcome confirms that significant portions of the site are environmentally sensitive and unsuitable for large-scale development. The DFFE decision is legally binding, meaning the proposed development as submitted cannot proceed. Council has therefore resolved to terminate the long-term lease agreement between GRDM and Waterleaf Properties (Pty) Ltd, in line with the provisions of the lease contract.

Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel also welcomed the outcome, noting that it provides much-needed clarity for the future of this strategic municipal asset: “The Garden Route is world-renowned for its pristine natural environment. The GRDM Council has a duty to balance development aspirations with environmental sustainability and not compromise the environment. The EIA outcome reaffirmed the ecological sensitivity of a part of this property, and as such, large-scale development will not be feasible. We respect the findings of the environmental authorities and support this decision.”

A portion of the property, which is approximately 2.1 ha of the total 30 ha, was partially developed more than two decades ago. That limited footprint is part of the area where continued low-impact, sensitive use may still be considered, but only if aligned with conservation value and subject to legal, environmental, and planning compliance.

Council will explore all options for the property’s future. Among these is the possible alienation of the environmentally sensitive portion to a public conservation authority, ensuring that the ecological value of the site is safeguarded for generations to come.

Executive Mayor Stroebel concluded: “I want to thank all the residents and interested stakeholders of the Garden Route for their patience and engagement throughout this process. Your continued interest has been invaluable in guiding us toward a sustainable outcome.”

ENDS

30 September 2025 Update 10 – Gwaiing Road Construction Works, George

Update 10 – Gwaiing Road Construction Works, George

The upgrading of the Gwaiing Road between the R404 and the R102 remains the focus of the GRDM Road Construction Team.

The right hand side (RHS) lane has since been primed with a bituminous prime. The lane still remains closed to traffic as this is a preparation layer for the final seal.

Testing has been done on the surface of the primed layer, to finalise the application rates for the final seal. Once the design has been approved, the final seal will be placed on the lane. This operation will occur over a 4 day period with ideal weather conditions, after which the traffic will be shifted to the completed RHS. This will then allow for the continuation and completion of the construction of the left hand side lane.

The Concrete Section remains in the process of completing the concrete-lined side drains.

Completion date of the project still remains at 31 January 2026, with the progress standing at 85%.

ENDS

30 September 2025 Media Release: GRDM EHPs in Knysna promote Clean Air Awareness at Nekkies/Sanlam Mall in celebration of World Environmental Health Day

GRDM EHPs in Knysna promote Clean Air Awareness at Nekkies/Sanlam Mall in celebration of World Environmental Health Day

For immediate release
30 September 2025

The Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from the Municipal Health Section based in Knysna, rolled out a Clean Air Promotion Campaign at the Nekkies/Sanlam informal shopping and entertainment centre, in celebration of World Environmental Health Day.

This area, known for frequent open burning of waste, was strategically selected to raise awareness on 26 September 2025, about the dangers of open burning and its impact on both public health and the environment.

The primary goal of the campaign was to educate the public on the risks associated with open waste burning, including: The release of toxic air pollutants that contribute to respiratory illnesses and other chronic diseases. And the environmental impact, such as poor air quality and contribution to climate change.

Health related topics covered include:

  • The inhalation of smoke and toxic fumes;
  • Alternative waste management methods, such as waste separation and municipal collection;
  • Legal implications of open burning; and
  • The importance of community responsibility.

The campaign empowered the community with knowledge and tools to report and prevent illegal burning activities. Community members were provided with educational  magnets  designed to serve as reminders in their homes. The magnet papers include contact details to report incidents of illegal waste burning, helping residents take an active role in protecting their environment. Participants furthermore appreciated the visual and practical materials, which made the information easy to understand and applicable in daily life. The interactive approach encouraged open dialogue, where locals shared their experiences and challenges related to waste management.

Residents of the area welcomed the initiative, and others expressed their willingness to learn and their commitment towards change. The success of the campaign was due to the strong collaboration among key stakeholders, including the GRDM EHPs Sive None, Linden Herwels, Mthethwa Sithonga, led by Chief EHP, James McCarthy and the Law Enforcement Unit of the Knysna Municipality.

Feature Image: GRDM EHPs and Law Enforcement officials from Knysna Municipality during the campaign.

ENDS

29 Media Release:  GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners of Oudtshoorn Promote Clean Air and Healthier People during National Heritage Celebrations on 24 September 2025 in Oudtshoorn

Media Release:  GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners of Oudtshoorn Promote Clean Air and Healthier People during National Heritage Celebrations on 24 September 2025 in Oudtshoorn

29 September 2025

During the National Heritage Day celebrations in Oudtshoorn on 24 September 2025, attended by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, GRDM Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel, and other national and provincial ministers, EHPs from the GRDM Oudtshoorn office incorporated the World Environmental Health Day theme, ‘Clean Air, Healthy People,’ into the health promotion activities.  They reached a broad audience of approximately 5000 people with vital health and environmental messages.

The attendees at the event included various cultural groups, schools, religious leaders, community leaders, and more. National Heritage Day educational activities, both before and during the celebrations, highlighted the adverse health effects of tobacco use and the importance of smoke-free environments. Awareness efforts emphasized tobacco control and the significance of clean air in promoting respiratory health and preventing pollution-related illnesses. The EHPs health promotional activities encouraged members of the public to adopt healthier lifestyle choices and support initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco consumption and improving air quality, ultimately fostering a healthier and a more sustainable environment for all.

By combining cultural celebration with health education, a joint health education team, including EHPs from GRDM, Community Development Workers (CDW) from Oudtshoorn Municipality, the Event Safety officer, catering unit of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, EHPs from the Presidential Medical Unit as well as community leaders and caterers, all work together.

Health education and awareness topics included the following:

  • Avoid smoking in buildings, tents and during food preparation, smoke only in demarcated areas;
  • Prevent smoke pollution;
  • Proper waste management;
  • Prevent littering and avoid environmental pollution;
  • Consume only drinking water from reputable and safe water sources;
  • Practice good sanitation; and
  • Ensure hygienic food preparation and food safety.

The VIP guests were treated to a mouth-watering braaivleis lunch that honoured our rich local culinary heritage. The meal was prepared under hygienic conditions in a braai area designed to release smoke without causing smoke pollution in the adjacent Bridgton Secondary school hall, where the guests enjoyed their lunch.

-END-

25 September 2025 Media Release: Revival of commercial forestry in the Southern Cape a huge relief

Media Release: Revival of commercial forestry in the Southern Cape a huge relief

25 September 2025

“The Southern Cape’s economy was built on forestry for close to two centuries. Unfortunately, this vital industry, supporting thousands of jobs and a wide downstream value chain, which included saw mills and timber sales, has fallen into sharp decline as major plantations on state land have not been replanted and only small pockets remain on private land,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

One of the unfortunate environmental impacts were that vast areas formerly managed as commercial plantations were no longer managed and thousands of hectares of land succumbed to dense infestations of invasive alien plants. This in turn held considerable risks for the region including potential wildfire disasters, water security and loss of biodiversity.

Over and above the environmental risks posed the demise of commercial forestry coincided with substantial job losses, loss of skilled labour, experience and a generational forestry management culture developed over a century.

The recent reversal of government policy allowing Cold Stream Timber Company (CTC) to replant a number of dormant plantations is a welcome relief to the Garden Route. Commercial forestry can create huge amount of jobs to skilled and unskilled labour at a time when unemployment in the region carries enormous socio- economic risks.

The newly formed Garden Route Risk Reduction Task Team (RRTT) welcomes the additional capacity of the forestry industry in protecting the region against overwhelming fire risks as a result of more available manpower and resources. This will include controlled burns, large scale management of invasive plants, the development of essential fire breaks and critical biodiversity corridors free of invasive plants.

As the Southern Cape again enters a period of low rainfall in the medium term fire risk increases exponentially, as the recent wild fires in Ruitersbos are testimony to. Combatting wild fires are extremely costly, and since its re- occurrence is guaranteed it requires an integrated approach, constant planning, vigilance and a high state of preparedness.

The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and a climate change think tank. www.grefscli.co.za

Photo: The return of commercial forestry brings hope to the Southern Cape socio- economic and biodiversity sustainability

22 September 2025 Opportunities: Financial Assistance towards Further Studies 2026

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TOWARDS FURTHER STUDIES 2026

Applications are invited from students currently enrolled at accredited learning Institutions as well as learners who are currently in Grade 12 or have already passed Grade 12, for financial assistance towards further studies in the 2026 academic year. The financial contribution by GRDM applies only to full-time studies and attendance at SAQA-accredited tertiary or TVET institutions. This is ONLY applicable to students whose parents permanently reside within the Garden Route municipal area.

Application forms are available at the GRDM head office and satellite offices during normal office hours (Monday – Thursday 07:30 – 16:30; Friday, 07:30 – 13:30). Application forms can also be downloaded from the GRDM website at www.gardenroute.gov.za.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS THAT ARE FULLY COMPLETED AND IF ACCOMPANIED BY ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW.

Applicants must attach a detailed Curriculum Vitae, cover letter, completed application form, and certified copies of the following documentation: latest Grade 12 results or equivalent qualification; latest examination results (for students currently enrolled at tertiary institutions); certified copy of ID; affidavit of parents’ combined income; and proof of residential address (e.g., municipal account).

Completed applications and supporting documents must be submitted to: Records, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, P.O. Box 12, George 6530. For attention: Training and Development Section.

For any enquiries, please contact Mr Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Berma Losper at 044 803 1344 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe on 044 803 1345 during office hours.

Kindly note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If applicants have not been contacted within two months of the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful.

Closing date: 31 October 2025 Notice number: 99/2025

Click here and download the Official Advertisement.

Click here and download the Official Bursary Application Form.

19 September 2025 Media Release: Close the Gap: It’s never too late to come back or get tested for HIV, TB


Media Release: Close the Gap: It’s never too late to come back or get tested for HIV, TB

For immediate release
19 September 2025

Have you stopped HIV or TB treatment? You’re not alone, and it’s never too late to come back.

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, together with the National Department of Health and community partners, is calling on everyone who has missed appointments or stopped treatment to reconnect with care, without judgment.

Through the Close the Gap and End TB campaigns, we are working to support people in the Western Cape to start and restart HIV or TB treatment.

According to national estimates, around 160,000 people in the Western Cape are living with HIV but not yet on treatment. Provincial patient-level data, however, indicates just over 111,000 people living with HIV have not accessed services in the past 24 months. Across our province, our health teams are focusing on the facilities where the need is greatest, using local data to reach out and bring people back into care.

Our healthcare teams understand that life happens – work, travel, family, personal circumstances or fear can get in the way. But we’re here to welcome you back and to support your journey.

“We must intensify both HIV and TB screening, ensure early linkage to care and maintain treatment adherence to reduce ongoing transmission. The Close the Gap campaign is an opportunity to highlight that Undetectable= Untransmissible (U=U) and ‘YES, we can END TB’ with our Targeted Universal TB Testing(TUTT). We invite everybody to visit our facilities. We are ready to welcome you back to care or start your journey to wellness by knowing your status.”, said Marli Delport, clinical program coordinator: TB & HIV.

Knowing your TB and HIV status is the first step to protecting yourself and the people you love. If you’re living with HIV or TB and you are not treatment, starting or restarting treatment can protect your loved ones and your health.

We’re also bringing services closer to you:

  • Free testing at your local clinics and wellness hub
  • Outreach at taxi ranks, workplaces, schools and malls
  • Confidential support at your local clinic
  • Youth Zones – free testing and counselling available at our local clinic youth zone for young people aged 10 and older; or speak to your school nurse if you need support.

We’re working in partnership with NPOs and community organisations to make sure that, as far as possible, services are delivered in a manner that meets the needs of communities.

Protect your health

  • If you have a persistent cough, night sweats, weight loss or fatigue, visit your nearest clinic or mobile site for a free TB test.
  • Open windows at home, school or work, in public transport like taxis and buses to let fresh air in.
  • Wear a mask if you’re coughing or in crowded spaces.
  • Ask about TB Preventive Treatment (TPT) if you’re living with HIV or have been in close contact with someone who has TB.
  • Complete your TB treatment if diagnosed, even when you start feeling better – stopping early can lead to drug resistance.
  • U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable. If someone with HIV is on sustained treatment and their viral load is undetectable, they cannot sexually transmit HIV. Staying on treatment protects your health and your loved ones.
  • You can choose to abstain from sex to avoid contracting sexually transmitted infections.
  • Use condoms – free at clinics to protect you from HIV, STIs and pregnancy.
  • Ask a nurse at your clinic about PrEP: an antiretroviral medication taken by HIV-negative people to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV.
  • Limit sexual partners to reduce risk.
  • Test every 3 months for HIV if you’re at higher risk.

Here for you

Whether it’s your first time visiting for a test or you’re coming back, we welcome you. No judgment. Just care.

Visit your local clinic or call to find out how to reconnect with treatment today.

This campaign is part of the National Department of Health’s Close the Gap Campaign, delivered in partnership with WHO, UNAIDS and local organisations.

ENDS

For media enquiries, contact:
Nadia Ferreira
Communication Officer
Western Cape Government Health and Wellness
Tel: 044 813 1831
Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za