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07 August 2025 Media Release: GRDM Air Quality Unit Delivers Perfect Score in National Emissions Reporting

Media Release: GRDM Air Quality Unit Delivers Perfect Score in National Emissions Reporting

For immediate release
07 August 2025

The “National Atmospheric Emission Inventory System” (NAEIS) is an internet-based emissions reporting system which is a component of the South African Atmospheric Emission Licencing and Inventory System (SAAELIP) portal. NAEIS allows for regulated industries, as well as authorities to report atmospheric emissions from all sectors, for the purpose of compiling a national atmospheric emission inventory profile.

The system is legislated through the National Emission Reporting regulations that prescribe NAEIS reporting. Emission inventory means an accounting of the number of pollutants discharged into the atmosphere and it contains the total emissions for one or more specific greenhouse gases and air pollutants originating from all sources in a certain geographical area and within a specified time span.

Furthermore, the system is a web-based atmospheric emissions monitoring and reporting system that is aimed at providing accurate, current and complete information on all significant sources of identified atmospheric emissions, including greenhouse gas emissions from South Africa. NAEIS introduces a single national reporting system of atmospheric emissions, which will be used:

  1. To inform policy formulation;
  2. For the Republic of South Africa to meet its obligations under the United Framework Convention on Climate Change and any other international treaties to which it is bound; and
  3. To establish and maintain a National Emission Inventory Profile.

To comply with the reporting regulations, Facilities must report emissions from the preceding year.  The NAEIS system is open for reporting from 1 January to 30 June each year.

Since the start of NAEIS reporting in 2015, the GRDM Air Quality Unit, under leadership of Dr Johann Schoeman, District Manager for Air Quality, arranged training sessions for its industries to assist them with their NAEIS reporting. Since the start, the Garden Route had a 100% submission of NAEIS reports.

Schoeman highlighted: “This 100% submission rate was achieved through relentless assistance to our Industry”. In addition, Schoeman explained GRDM’s role and said: “We guide the industry through special NAEIS completion target-group sessions, appointments and personal assistance”. He further stated that most of the larger industries also have the capacity to appoint consultants to assist them with NAEIS reporting. “We therefore focus on the smaller industries that do not have the capacity to do the reporting, he added.

“Within the Garden Route, we have 25 Facilities that must report on NAEIS and for 2025 we again achieved a 100% submission rate with all of them reporting within the deadline”.

After the NAEIS reporting cycle, Authorities will audit the NAEIS report after which the National Department will do the National verifications.

ENDS

06 August 2025 Media Release: Indian Consul Visits GRDM to Explore Potential Collaborations

Media Release: Indian Consul Visits GRDM to Explore Potential Collaborations

6 August 2025

This week Tuesday, the Consulate General of India in Cape Town, led by Consul Ruby Jaspreet, along with the Vice Consul General Mr Prince Kumar and their Marketing Officer Ms Mkize, officially visited the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM). This marked the Consul General’s first official visit to the region since her appointment in January 2025, a first-ever visit by the Consulate General of India.

The Garden Route District Municipality delegation led by Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel opened the meeting signalling it a ‘historical event’ by welcoming the guests to the beautiful Garden Route.  He gave a brief overview of the district, the major towns that constitute the region, and highlighted several picturesque features that the region is endowered with in which any visitor can enjoy.

In response to the Executive Mayor, the Consul General thanked him and his delegation for the warm and sincere welcome and further expressed that they were ‘very grateful’ to be in the Garden Route District. She noted that the Consulate has had a 30-year presence in Cape Town and emphasised their interest to expand their footprint to other parts of the province. In outlining the purpose of their visit, she began by referring to the historic trade relationships that this region, province and country share with India. She reduced her submission to India’s strengths; priority sectors; and potential areas of collaboration that could serve to further enhance the already existing relations.

Jaspreet further highlighted the following key areas during her address:

  • Exploring potential areas of cooperation between India and municipalities in the Garden Route District.
  • Providing an update on various capacity building initiatives led by the Government of India.
  • Identifying opportunities for educational collaboration.
  • Tourism and creating programmes for Tour Operators to increase the Indian market.
  • Energy with specific focus on Renewable Energy.
  • IT Sector with specific focus of Digitalisation.
  • Discussing strategies to enhance two-way trade and investment.

The Executive Mayor responded with a few remarks, highlighting on current opportunities in the Garden Route that aligns with some of the key areas touched on by the Consult General.  He briefly elaborated on several developments and opportunities in the region, including the public-private partnership between GRDM and Solar Energy Africa for the establishment of a new Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station in George, one of the first of its kind in the region.  “This initiative serves as an opportunity to promote the Garden Route as a green energy route,” said Stoebel. He further highlighted some of the agricultural products exported from the region to Dubai and other European countries.

Lusanda Menze, Executive Manager of Integrated Planning and Economic Development delivered a presentation on behalf of the GRDM.  He emphasis the importance of creating and enabling an environment that is attractive to investment. He unpacked the Growth and Development Strategy of the GRDM that serves as a 20-year roadmap for development in the region, supported by a strong implementation structure and offering opportunities for collaboration and joint decision-making.  It includes, amongst others, various investment opportunities in the region, as well as the current catalytic projects assisting in economic growth.  These include the Garden Route Regional Landfill Facility in Mossel Bay, the Agro-processing Facility in Oudtshoorn, and the GRDM Skills Mecca initiatives which was established to identify skills gaps and demands across all sectors and to ensure the supply of relevant skills to meet those demands.

Menze concluded with some of the proposed infrastructure and energy investment opportunities, including the planned Solar PV Plant in Dysselsdorp, and the Digital Transformation Connectivity and Data Centre project, which aim to ensure consistent access to information across region.  He also mentioned other proposed projects related to Urban & Economic Development as well as Transport and Logistic Enhancement, which include the development of the Port of Mossel Bay, the Expansion of the George Airport, and the establishment of a Fresh Produce Market in the region.

Some of the slides presented by GRDM

Richard Dyantyi, Manager: District Economic Development, Tourism and EPWP, during his remarks re-emphasised the existing Indian market in the region, highlighting the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn as one of the main ‘drawcards’ and key attractions for Indian tourism market.

From a Tourism perspective, GRDM Regional Tourism Officer, Denver Johnson, highlighted the fact that there is currently no direct flight between India and South Africa, and that the cost and safety perception remain key challenges for the Indian market.  He also noted the limitations in accommodation offerings across the region particularly in meeting the Indian market’s dietary requirements, which often include the need for separate kitchen facility.  However, he pointed out that there are already certain establishments and restaurants in the Garden Route & Klein Karoo that offer such facilities, presenting opportunities for future expansion to better service this growing market.

Following the GRDM delegation’s presentation along with inputs from the two Members of the Mayoral Committee, Ald. Rosina Ruiters and Councillor Dave Swarts, and the Acting Municipal Manager, Raisa-Mlandu, the Consul General of India posed a few questions to gain clarity on specific projects and their value propositions. She thanked the GRDM for a well-delivered presentation and reassured the Executive Mayor and delegation that they have identified several projects highlighted during the presentation where the Government of India would consider collaborating with GRDM and expressed her interest in further discussions and engagement.

Featured image and above: The Consulate General of India’s delegation with the Garden Route District Municipality delegation during the meeting.

In conclusion, and in closing a very fruitful deliberation, the GRDM Executive Mayor thanked the Indian delegation for choosing the GRDM for their visit.  He expressed that as the Garden Route Municipality, they look forward to future collaborations that will yield mutual benefit for both parties.

04 August 2025 Public Notice: Micro-, Small, Medium, Enterprise (MSME) Support and Development Programme

Public Notice: Micro-, Small, Medium, Enterprise (MSME) Support and Development

Garden Route District Municipality – Call for Business Proposals

Notice in English | Notice in Afrikaans | Notice in Xhosa

Garden Route District Municipality is embarking on a programme to help dynamic and committed entrepreneurs to grow
their own businesses. A broad scope of non-financial assistance will be provided, which will include compulsory business
development interventions and training. Only viable applicants with a credible business profile must apply.

IMPORTANT

Applicants MUST complete an application form (obtained from either the District Economic Development Office, 54 York Street, George, 6530, our satellite offices or per email smme@grdm.gov.za). Completed forms must have the following IMPORTANT supporting documents attached:

  • Company Profile or Business Plan.
  • 6 months recent bank statements.
  • Business registration document with certified ID copies of the owner.
  • Latest certified SARS/Tax certificate.

CRITERIA

  • Must be a registered business operating for 1 year and/or more.
  • Must have a viable business with clear directions/deliverables.
  • Must be available to do a presentation to a selected panel and to attend the compulsory business development interventions and training identified by the panel.
  • Must be SARS registered.
  • 100% South African-owned.
  • Formally registered for 1 year or incorporated e.g., with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC); and must be in operation for the mentioned period.
  • Operating and residing within the Garden Route.
  • Classified as a MSME in terms of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act 21 of 2024.

All applications must be in an envelope, stating “2025/2026 MSME Support and Development Programme – Garden Route District Municipality” and be delivered at 54 York Street, George, 6530 or at any Garden Route District Municipality offices for attention Johannes Jafta or emailed to smme@grdm.gov.za. Enterprises that benefitted from the previous programme from 2019 to 2025 will not be considered.

  • Please provide us with a detailed outline of your business profile, together with all the required proof. I
  • f you don’t adhere to the set criteria, consider your application as unsuccessful.
  • Only shortlisted enterprises will be contacted to present their business to an adjudication panel in person.
  • Only the top businesses with reference to the set criteria will be selected/considered.

CLOSING DATE

Friday, 29 August 2025 by 13h00.

NO LATE APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED.

All enquiries can be directed to the Garden Route District Municipality Economic Development Office at smme@grdm.gov.za or at 044 – 803 1401.

If you do not receive feedback from us within 3 months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. The Garden Route District Municipality also reserves the right not to make a selection for the abovementioned programme.

N Raisa-Mlandu (Ms)
Acting Municipal Manager
54 York Street
PO Box 12
GEORGE
6530
Notice number: 71/2025

Download the .jpg notices below:

04 August 2025 Update 8: Gwaiing Road Construction Works, George

Update 8: Gwaiing Road Construction Works, George

The Road Construction team of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) remains fully focused on the upgrading of the Gwaiing Road between the R404 and the R102.

The basecourse layer on the right hand side (RHS) lane has been completed in full, and operations have now been shifted to the left hand side (LHS) lane.

Due to the inclement weather conditions, however, the curing and finishing of the final surface on the RHS lane is still in process, and once completed, the surface will be primed, and would then be ready for the final bituminous surface seal. Preparation works on the underlying layer on the LHS lane is also being completed, after which the G5 material will be imported for the construction of the LHS lane subbase layer.

Completion date of the project still remains at 31 January 2026.

ENDS

04 August 2025 Media Release: 13 MSMEs in the Garden Route Receive Boost from GRDM’s Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Support Programme

Media Release: 13 MSMEs in the Garden Route Receive Boost from GRDM’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Support Programme

4 August 2025

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) continues to help drive economic growth and job creation in the region through its Micro Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) support programme. To date, GRDM invested more than 3 Million Rand in 121 beneficiaries since the programme’s inception in 2019. This year alone, 13 small businesses from various towns across the district are benefiting from the programme, of which the handover to MSMEs took place on 1 August 2025 . The GRDM partnered with Cape Agency for Sustainable Integrated Development in Rural Areas (Casidra), Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (Sedfa) to procure the goods for the beneficiaries. These institutions, including Local Economic Development (LED) Managers from Local Municipalities, and the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (WCEDP), formed part of the committee responsible for selecting the beneficiaries of the programme.

In his keynote address, Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel said:

“This MSME Programme is one of the ways GRDM is turning its vision of inclusive growth into action. Through this programme, we are giving small businesses the push they need to go further, faster – because we know that real development happens when local businesses are empowered to lead change in their communities”.

“To our partners at Casidra and SEDFA – thank you for your technical expertise, mentorship, and unwavering belief in this initiative. Your collaboration is helping us bring practical, lasting change to our region.”

Mayor Stroebel also thanked the GRDM District Economic Development team and the MMC for District Economic Development and Tourism, Ald. Rosina Ruiters, for their commitment to the programme and ensuring its annual successful roll-out.

The objectives of this initiative remain the same as previous years – to strengthen, improve and expand small businesses by assisting them with equipment, stock, and other essentials. Through this support, the GRDM enables SMEs to grow and contribute meaningfully to job creation within the Garden Route.

This year’s 13 beneficiaries include SMEs from seven local municipal areas in the Garden Route. These include Kannaland, George, Hessequa, Knysna, Bitou, Mossel Bay, and Oudtshoorn. The businesses benefiting from the programme represent a diverse range of sectors, from health and beauty to construction and hospitality. According to Natalie Raubenheimer, Snr. District Economic Development Officer, “86 applications were received, from which we had to carefully select those who matched the criteria of the programme the best”.

Dumisane Meslane, from D Meslane Projects, provided a brief overview how the programme positively impacted his business in the past – it has grown exponentially!

Beneficiaries include:

Kannaland

  • Ebby Homebake – Ebby Gail Plaatjies

George

  • Eden Health Centre – Charlmain Harker
  • EJ Surgical – Shané & Lyle Jamané
  • Kuyenzeka Amalgamated Projects – Cikizwa Vavana
  • Mathyse Enterprise – Carlo Mathyse
  • Netha Lethu Legacy t/a Netha Marketing Links – Khanyisile Hlungwane
  • Timers and Sons – Zikisa Bam

Hessequa

  • Jet Ngomana Construction and Projects – Jetro Ngomana

Knysna

  • Keurhoek Construction – Ralston Pietersen

Bitou

  • Mamzo’s Lounge – Ntomboxolo Mrubata & Malixole Qange

Mossel Bay

  • Lynn’s Services and Solutions – Lynette Jantjies
  • Reflekt Model Management – Danie and Linda Greyling

Oudtshoorn

  • Natural Hair Products – Nirvana Gysman

This year five youth-owned businesses receive support, showcasing the programme’s growing impact on the younger generation. Youth beneficiaries include Netha Lethu, Mamzo’s Lounge, Natural Hair Products, and EJ Surgical.

The application window for this cycle was open from 11 February to 28 February 2025, and the next round will be advertised in the new financial year (ending June 2026).

“GRDM encourages small business owners across the district to prepare for the upcoming opportunity,” said Johannes Jafta, GRDM Economic Development Officer.

The monitoring and evaluation team visits businesses throughout the year to assess progress and impact of the support provided. One standout success from past interventions is Dumisani Meslane Projects, who expanded his business after initial support. Today he owns two trucks from the income he generated after the GRDM supported him.

While the programme is currently led by GRDM, private sector and other government departments or agencies are welcome to partner in the future to scale the initiative. Contact Johannes Jafta, johannes@gardenroute.gov.za or 071 860 8341, alternatively contact Natalie Raubenheimer, natalie@gardenroute.gov.za or 078 800 4172.

The support programme remains inclusive and there are no restrictions based on gender, age, or race. The selection of beneficiaries is based strictly on merit and alignment with the programme’s goals. It is important to note that beneficiaries can only receive support once, ensuring wider reach and opportunity across the district.

More in pictures:

Editor’s note:

The programme was directed by Lusanda Menze, Executive Manager for Integrated Economic Development and Planning.

Feature image: The beneficiaries who received support from the GRDM and its partners.

ENDS

 

01 August 2025 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) staff reach out to various communities across the district in support of the annual International Mandela Day celebrations

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) staff reach out to various communities across the district in support of the annual International Mandela Day celebrations

For immediate release
1 August 2025

𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 d𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝘆𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗵𝘂

In honour of Mandela Day, Departments at GRDM reached out to various communities and facilities across the district to continue with the legacy left behind by the late and former father of the nation, Nelson Mandela. Teams contributed their 67 minutes towards the international campaign as follows:

Office of the Municipal Manager donate sanitary pads to Tyholora Primary School

Office of the Municipal Manager employees from GRDM chose girls from Tyholora Primary School in Thembalethu, George, as the beneficiary of their sanitary pad donation drive.  Although schools were closed on the day, employees managed to collect the sanitary pads varying from 8 to 32 per pack and handed it over to the school on Thursday, 31 July 2024. This initiative aims to help reduce school absenteeism among girls and promotes dignity. Speaker of GRDM, Ald. Georlene Wolmarans, also attended the handover occasion.

De Hoek Mountain Resort clean graves of possible former owners of the resort

Staff from the Garden Route District Municipal resort, De Hoek Mountain Resort, cleaned nearby graves of the possible former owners of the resort. Die span het hul dankbaarheid uitgespreek en gesê: “Ons is dankbaar dat ons as deel van hierdie veldtog ‘n klein bydra kon maak deur menswaardigheid te herstel”.

𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘃𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗶, 𝗞𝗻𝘆𝘀𝗻𝗮

The Disaster Management team visited the Bergvallei community to create awareness about the Garden Route Disaster Management Centre (GRDMC). A key component of the campaign was raising awareness about the Emergency Communications Call Centre. Residents learned the critical importance of what to say and do when reporting an emergency, ensuring that vital information is conveyed effectively to facilitate a swift and appropriate response. The outreach also included basic life-saving first aid skills education. Lastly, soup and bread were shared with all attendees.

𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗢𝗹𝗱 𝗔𝗴𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲, 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲

The Integrated Planning and Economic Development Department visited the Rosemoor Old Age Home to deliver much needed adult diapers. The donation was warmly received, as the home is often in urgent need of these essential supplies. The staff of the Old Age Home expressed their sincere gratitude for the thoughtful gesture and emphasised how much the support means to the well-being of their residents.

EHPs 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗣𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯

The Garden Route District Municipality’s Bitou (Plettenberg Bay) Environmental Health Practitioners, together with community volunteers, spent the day painting and revitalising the garden at the New Horizons Pensioners Club. The team also made monitory donations in support of Bitou’s Victim Support initiative. This outreach beautifully combines community service, environmental beautification, and meaningful fundraising to uplift elderly residents and strengthen local social support networks.

𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝗹𝗲 and 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗲, hosted 𝗮 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗸𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲

GRDM’s Municipal Health Services in Riversdale, in collaboration with Child Welfare – South Africa-Riversdale, celebrated Mandela Day by hosting a soup kitchen drive at the offices of Child Welfare. The team extended a word of gratitude to all businesses who contributed towards the initiative, including: Riversdale Superspar, JC Slagtery, Savemore Store, the All in One Solomon Shop, Cabby’s Family Market, Lexean and Pop Shop.

𝗪𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀

For the second year in a row, the Western Cape Blood Service was supported by GRDM and George Municipality to promote blood donation. This year’s blood drive was hosted at the George’s Banquet Hall, where every donor also received a pair of warm socks as a token of appreciation. GRDM Employee Assistance Practitioners and George Municipality Practitioners, together with Communicators, worked hand-in-hand to encourage staff and residents to participate in this life-saving initiative. Each person who donated blood can save three lives.

𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 and 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱.

Garden Route District Municipal Fire & Rescue Services visited the George Waste Management Facility, as well as the Men on the Side of the Road in Industrial Street, George. The team handed out hotdog rolls and soft drinks to those present. “It was indeed a humbling experience – it was evident how grateful the beneficiaries were, for just something to put in their stomachs over the lunch time period”.

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗱𝘁𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗻 𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗲𝗸 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀

Community Services’ Municipal Health section in Oudtshoorn, reached out to the Spies Kamp community, a rural area outside Schoemanshoek, Oudtshoorn. The team donated clothes to the community which they handed over to a community leader/representative within the specific area. They also took responsibility for the sorting and distribution of the clothing items to residents that may have a need.

𝗚𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆’𝘀 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗳𝗳 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗦𝗣𝗖𝗔

Staff from the Finance Department at Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) visited the SPCA today to hand over dog food to the facility. The event formed part of the Mandela Day celebrations and their 67 minutes contribution in honour of his legacy.

Officials at SPCA welcomed the outreach and visit from the officials and extended words of gratitude to the team for their caring hearts in contributing to the wellbeing of the dogs at their facility.

𝗚𝗥𝗗𝗠’𝘀 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗱𝘂𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴

EHPs presented a health education session to the Golden Valley community regarding illegal dumping. Team members also handed out magnets depicting contact information about where communities can report illegal dumping cases. More than 50 households were reached during the campaign. They also joined George Municipality’s Waste Management section and  Environmental Management educators to conduct a clean-up campaign in the same area. They collected over 20 bags within the first hour.

𝗚𝗥𝗗𝗠 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗕𝗶𝘁𝗼𝘂 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗾𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝘆𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝘆𝗰𝗼 𝗹𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗕𝘂𝘆 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝘁𝗼𝘂 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗮

GRDM’s Waste Management Unit, Bitou Municipality and Masiqhame Recycling, launched two Buy Back centers in the Bitou. District Waste Management Officer, Innocentia Sikweyiya, encouraged the community to make use of the Buy Back centers, by separating their waste at home as it will contribute to the reduction of waste disposed at the landfill facility. She emphasised that “promoting recycling is a vital tool for environmental preservation and sustainability”.

𝗞𝗻𝘆𝘀𝗻𝗮 EHPs 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁, 𝗞𝗻𝘆𝘀𝗻𝗮

Municipal Health Knysna office embarked on feeding the destitute community surrounding the Knysna office situated in Queen Street. During the event, approximately 20 people were provided with food and beverages, donated by local businesses, as well as mutual contributions from the Knysna office. “Mandela Day is not just a celebration, but a call to action for all of us, encouraging people to continue Madiba’s fight for a better world by addressing issues like poverty, inequality and a lack of education and health care.”

𝗟𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗵

In honour of International Mandela Day celebrations, the Garden Route Municipal Roads Maintenance and Fire Services teams responsible for the Ladismith area, took part in a soup drive feeding community members residing in the area.

The community welcomed the initiative and extended words of appreciation to the GRDM teams involved.

Die Tuinroete Distriksmunisipaliteit se Padonderhoud en Brandweerspanne het sop aan die gemeenskap van Ladismith uitgedeel. Die gemeenskap het die inisiatief verwelkom en waardeer.
“Baie dankie inwoners van Ladismith – dit was ‘n voorreg om Mandela Dag met julle te kon deurbring”.

ENDS

Feature Image: Speaker of GRDM, Ald. Georlene Wolmarans with staff from the Office of the Municipal Manager, handed over the sanitary pads to the Tyholory Primary School in Thembalethu.

30 Julie 2025 Persvrystelling: TDM se Munisipale Gesondheidsafdeling voer Spaza winkel Blitsoperasie in Oudtshoorn uit

Persvrystelling: TDM se Munisipale Gesondheidsafdeling voer Spaza winkel Blitsoperasie in Oudtshoorn uit

Vir onmiddellike vrystelling
30 Julie 2025

Die Tuinroete Distriksmunisipaliteit (TDM) se Munisipale Gesondheidsafdeling in Oudtshoorn het gister met ander rolspelers in die Groter Oudtshoorn area deel uitgemaak van ‘n spaza winkel blitsoperasie.  Tydens inspeksies het elke rolspeler spesifiek gefokus op hulle onderskeie rolle vir spaza winkels om te voldoen aan wetgewing in hiérdie bedryf.

Die volgende rolspelers het deel uitgemaak van die operasie, nl:

  1. TDM se Munisipale Gesondheidsafdeling – Oudtshoorn Kantoor.
  2. Die Suid Afrikaanse Polisiediens
  3. Oudtshoorn Munisipaliteit se Brandweer Dienste, Wetstoepassing, Elektriese Afdeling en Plaaslike Ekonomiese Ontwikkelingsafdeling

Daar was altesaam 15 amptenare betrokke by die blits operasie. Die TDM-span het gefokus op algemene higiëne van die voedselpersele, asook etikettering van voedselprodukte op die rakke van spaza winkels.

Van die 5 spaza winkels wat in die Rose Valley area besoek was, was elkeen in besit van ‘n voedselperseel Geskiktheidsertifikaat wat deur die TDM uitgereik is. Enige spaza winkel wat handel dryf moet in besit wees van ‘n geskiktheidsertifikaat om wettig handel te kan dryf.

Drie (3) van die persele is tydelik gesluit aangesien hul nie voldoen het aan die brandweervereistes nie.

Na afloop van elke inspeksie is die bevindinge met die eienaar of persoon in beheer bespreek, asook kort informele bewusmaking gegee met betrekking tot tekortkominge by die betrokke persele.

Gesamentlike Blitsoperasies gee die verskillende instansies ‘n kans om ‘n holistiese benadering te volg oor hoe om die spaza winkels in die Tuinroete te help om te voldoen aan verskillende wetgewings wat van toepassing is op die bedryf van ‘n spaza winkel. Dit gee ook die gemeenskap die gemoedsrus dat daar wel inspeksies gedoen word by dié tipe persele en dat daar opgetree word indien hulle nie voldoen aan standaarde nie.

Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Environmental Health Practitioners serving the Oudtshoorn area, yesterday (29 July 2025) conducted a blitz operation in Oudtshoorn aimed at spaza shops in the area. The purpose of the operation was to inspect spaza shops to determine whether they comply with relevant legislation. The operation was conducted in collaboration with other stakeholders including the South African Police Service and Oudtshoorn Municipality’s Fire Services, Electrical Services and their Local Economic Unit.

All 5 shops that were visited in the Rose Valley area, were in possession of Certificates of Acceptability; however, 3 shops were temporarily closed due to non-compliance with Fire Safety requirements.

EINDE

30 July 2025 Public Notice: Final Performance Agreements for 2025/2026 Financial Year are accessible to the Public

Public Notice: Final Performance Agreements for 2025/2026 Financial Year are accessible to the Public

Notice no. 74/2025

The Final Performance Agreements for the GRDM Municipal Manager and Executive Managers are made public in terms of Section 57 (1) (b) of the Municipal Systems Act for the 2025/2026 final year.

The following Final Performance Agreements are available for public notice.

The documents are available for viewing on the municipal website at www.gardenroute.gov.za.

For more information, please contact the GRDM Manager: Performance Management, Ms Ilse Saaiman, at: Tel: 044-803 1300 / E-mail: pms@gardenroute.gov.za.

Click and download the Public Notice.

Nthabeleng Raisa-Mlandu
Acting Municipal Manager
54 York Street
P.O Box 12
GEORGE
6530
Tel: 044 803 1300
Notice number: 74/2025

29 July 2025 Media Release: Your signature, their future: Are your kids protected?

Media Release: Your signature, their future: Are your kids protected?

For immediate release
29 July 2025

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness encourages all parents to be on the lookout for consent forms that will be sent home for your child to receive the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine.

HPV is the virus that causes cervical cancer.

The vaccine does not contain any live virus or DNA from the virus so it cannot cause cancer or other HPV-related illnesses. The vaccine does not affect fertility; and it’s also not used to treat HPV infections or diseases caused by HPV, but instead to prevent the development of cancers, as outlined by the World Health Organisation.

To safeguard our children’s health, the HPV vaccination campaign was rolled out in our country in 2014 with more than 350,000 young lives protected since its inception. More than 1 200 schools are visited annually in the Western Cape to administer the vaccine, with strong support from parents and communities to safeguard their children’s futures.

As part of the HPV campaign, the National Department of Health has directed that Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (TDaP) vaccine boosters be administered to all eligible children (both boys and girls).

This campaign aims to boost protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough by offering a TD booster to all Grade 5 learners. It helps prevent outbreaks and supports ongoing school-based vaccination. All that’s needed is a signed consent form.

Round 2: School-based vaccination – what you need to know

The second round of the school-based vaccination campaign will take place from 1 August to 30 September 2025. During this period, our school health teams will visit both public and private schools to provide the following vaccinations:

  • HPV vaccine (single dose): Offered to eligible Grade 5, 6, and 7 girls in private schools, with consent.
  • Catch-up HPV vaccinations: Girls who missed the HPV vaccine during the first round in February/March will have another opportunity to receive their dose, with consent, at public schools.
  • Tdap booster vaccine: Administered to all boys and girls in Grade 5 across public and private schools, with consent.

We have been providing the HPV vaccine to girls in our communities for many years. Make use of this opportunity. Protect your daughter against cervical cancer”, said Tonia Aylward, school health nurse for Mossel Bay sub-district.

What about side effects?

You deserve clear answers to make the best choice for your child. Parents may have questions about safety and what to expect after vaccination. The vaccines administered at our schools and clinics are safe and have been tested. These vaccination campaigns are not new, and we welcome questions from parents and communities.

Like any vaccine, some children might have mild side effects such as some redness, swelling or pain where the injection was given, a mild fever, or feeling a bit tired. These usually go away on their own within a day or two. Serious reactions are very rare. If you’re worried about how your child reacts, please speak to your clinic or doctor.

If you’re unsure, please keep asking questions. Look at reliable sources, speak to healthcare workers in your local clinic, or check the Road to Health booklet for details on vaccines and schedules to make the right choice for your children’s future.

Feature Image: Our children grow fast. Let’s work together keep their protection up to date.

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

ENDS

25 July 2025 Media Release: Disaster Awareness Campaign Shapes Young Minds in a Fun and Memorable Way

Media Release: Disaster Awareness Campaign Shapes Young Minds in a Fun and Memorable Way

25 July 2025

During the past week, the Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre (WCPDMC) conducted its annual Disaster Awareness Campaign in the Garden Route district, using a theatre-setup to engage primary school learners. The interactive performances featured Gerry the Giraffe, who educated children on disaster preparedness in a fun and memorable way. This initiative is funded through Santam’s Partnership for Risk and Resilience and was rolled out in collaboration with the Garden Route Disaster Management Centre.

The Western Cape Education Department’s District School Safety Officer nominated schools to participate in this year’s campaign, focusing on eight schools. It kicked off in Bitou, followed by sessions in George and Mossel Bay, and concluding in Oudtshoorn. Similar awareness sessions have previously been rolled out at schools in the region, during which it was established that learners engage more effectively when addressed in their mother tongue. As a result, during this round, the campaign targeted eight isiXhosa first-language schools.

The programme features an engaging 40-minute musical theatrical play designed to educate learners on critical safety and security measures within schools, as well as essential flood and fire awareness. The play also highlights the dangers of contributing factors to disaster risks, such as electrical outages and illegal dumping, and their role in exacerbating fire and flood incidents.

The goals of the campaign are to:

  • Instil a culture of disaster risk resilience within communities;
  • Create awareness and equip learners with basic emergency preparedness and hazard avoidance knowledge by demonstrating practical safety tips; and
  • Educate learners about the emergency numbers (044 805 5071, 10177 and 112).

The ongoing partnership between the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), the Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre, and Santam’s Partnership for Risk and Resilience enables the district to reach  young minds with crucial disaster preparedness information. As GRDM is committed to build resilient communities, this programme serves as a cornerstone of its preventative efforts. Educating youth on these vital topics is an investment in their safety and in the overall well-being of the Garden Route District.

Activities during the Disaster Awareness Campaign in the Garden Route District, where industrial theatre was used to engage and educate primary school learners.

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