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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.

-END-

22 July 2025 Media Release: Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Visits Garden Route District Municipality to Discuss Skills Development

Media Release: Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Visits Garden Route District Municipality to Discuss Skills Development

For immediate release
22 July 2025

Yesterday, 21 July 2025, the National Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, visited the Offices of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) to engage in discussions and information sharing regarding the importance of skills development in the district and initiatives that can sharpen the implementation of programmes to ensure its overall success thereof.

In welcoming Dr Gondwe, Speaker of Council, Ald. Georlene Wolmarans, noted: “Our district has placed significant emphasis on creating an enabling environment for youth development, education and work-based learning opportunities. A commitment reflected in our adoption of the Skills Mecca model,” she added.

Discussions were mainly revolving around the effectiveness of the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) within the district, matters pertaining to the National Skills Development legislation.

A thorough presentation regarding the overview of the GRSM was delivered by the Strategic Manager in the Office of the Municipal Manager, Thembani Loliwe, who is responsible for overseeing the programme since 1 July 2025.

The presentation covered topics ranging from the initiative’s inception to the number of skills development programmes created and implemented across the district to the partnerships with various stakeholders, such as the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) and the National Skills Fund. These discussions prompted questions raised by Dr Gondwe enquiring about the collaboration between GRDM and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to ensure student success, including placement in organisations for practical skills development. In response to the question, Dr Florus Prinsloo acknowledged that work have already been put into agreements by the GRDM and certain colleges, stating that the development of task teams to ensure the finalisation of agreements hinders the processes.

Dr Gondwe also shared her interest questioning how the GRSM is implemented on local municipal level in the district, to which Mr Loliwe explained the process of Skills Mecca Technicians that are placed at each municipality. Dr Prinsloo elaborated saying that the placement of Skills Mecca Technicians is a coordinated structure, as they have to fulfil a certain role in their respective local municipalities and has a responsibility to report back through the structure in terms of skills development progress made.

Apart from raising the importance of aligning local and national efforts in strengthening skills development, improving coordination and ensuring that communities benefit from inclusive and future-fit education systems, she made an example of the issue of exclusivity. She provided examples highlighting the need to consider various aspects when formalising agreements, such as the distance youth must travel to access TVET colleges. She said: “The distance that youth have to travel from Knysna to Plett or George to access these facilities, is putting an extra financial burden on these students resulting in them dropping out and ending up in front of spaza shops”.

These discussions were the beginning of many discussions to follow, and the Deputy Minister committed to be in the centre of sharpening Skills Development within the district, stating that close relations between the GRDM and the Office of the Deputy Minister will foster growth in the field of skills development.

In closing, Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, MMC for Corporate Services at GRDM, extended words of gratitude to Dr Gondwe for her visit to the GRDM and said: “The GRDM appreciates the commitment of your office to strengthening skills development across all levels of government and society. Regarding Dr Gondwe’s and the department’s continued collaboration with local government, Ald. Ndayi said: “It will be realising a skills development agenda that is responsive, inclusive and forward-thinking”.

GRDM Deputy Executive Mayor, Ald. Vlancio Donson, also thanked all Councillors, officials, stakeholders, and partners who participated and shared their thoughts and ideas. “By working together, we can build skills and create more opportunities for our people,” he concluded.

ENDS

21 July 2025 Media Release: GRDM Achieves 88% Compliance in Latest National Municipal Health Services Assessment

Media Release: GRDM Achieves 88% Compliance in Latest National Municipal Health Services Assessment

21 July 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has once again scored an impressive compliance standard in the latest national assessment conducted by the National Department of Health.

This assessment forms part of a three-year national audit cycle which is focused on the quality and effectiveness of Municipal Health Services (MHS) across the country. The National Department of Health oversees and coordinates MHS nationally. The Department uses this measuring tool to establish whether municipalities meet the prescribed ‘Norms and Standards’ for Environmental Health Services.

In response to the assessment results, Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, said:

“I am immensely proud of the continued excellent work done by our Municipal Health Unit, especially given the challenges faced by municipalities country-wide with regards to funding. Despite limited resources our team continues to uphold the highest standards in service of public health and safety. I would also like to extend my congratulatory remarks to our Mayoral Committee Chairperson for Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard and the Executive Manager for Community Services, Nthabeleng Raisa-Mlandu and the Municipal Health team, from management, to Chiefs and each EHP”.

“Thank you for the tireless community services work you render and thank you for upholding health-standards to be proud of.”

The national audit tool consists of 114 questions grouped into 18 components. These are cover the full spectrum of the MHS mandate. Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) prepare for the assessment by compiling and submitting detailed written records, proof of compliance, and participating in direct observational inspections.

New assessment tool and challenges noted

The 2025 audit marked the first time a newly developed assessment tool was used, which made comparisons with previous years difficult. The tool includes new components, some of which are under debate regarding the scope of services expected from District Municipalities and Metros. In spite of these complexities, GRDM still managed to achieve a solid 88% rating.

On 19 May 2025, the GRDM Municipal Health Services Unit also received a Gold Certificate of Recognition from the Western Cape Government.

Presently, GRDM employs 29 EHPs, a shortfall in the EHP-to-population ratio, which impacts the frequency of inspections, especially on high-risk premises. The ratio currently stands at 1- 28 912 but should be 1-10 000 EHPs/population. This has been addressed previously by the GRDM because of the funding model of district municipalities not providing adequate budget for all the EHPs required. This is also an issue in other districts across the country.

While the new assessment introduced valuable reforms, some criteria evaluated functions not legislatively assigned to District Municipalities, resulting in deductions. GRDM has raised concerns about this misalignment.

Another point to note is that this initial national assessment round included only 17 municipalities across the country, limiting the ability to benchmark results. However, in previous assessments using the former tool, GRDM was the top-performing district in the Western Cape and among the best-performing districts nationwide.

Although this national audit is conducted every three years, the Provincial Department of Health will continue with interim assessments to ensure ongoing compliance and service excellence. GRDM remains dedicated to upholding and improving the standard of municipal health services, regardless of evolving assessment frameworks.

ENDS

Feature Image: Johan Compion, GRDM Manager for Municipal Health and Environmental Services, during an education event which focused on the correct way to wash hands.

15 July 2025 Media Release: GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners Conducted Health Inspections at Oudtshoorn Recreation Grounds During SAMCA Nationals

Media Release: GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners Conducted Health Inspections at Oudtshoorn Recreation Grounds During SAMCA Nationals

15 July 2025

The SAMCA Nationals 2025 was hosted in Oudtshoorn at the Recreations Grounds until 12 July 2025. With athletes from across South Africa, the town’s Recreational Grounds transformed into a national stage for majorette and cheerleading excellence, with participants from provinces such as Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, and the Western Cape. After the Nationals, standout athletes will go on to represent South Africa at international events such as the Majorette World Cup.

Since the Municipal Health Services function is defined in the National Health Act, 2003, and includes key performance areas such as Food Control, Solid Waste Management, and Health Surveillance of Premises, the Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) once again conducted inspections at the SAMCA National event food stalls to ensure compliance with Regulation No. 638 of 22 June 2018.

During the event, EHPs from the Klein Karoo Regional office conducted daily routine inspections at food stalls. EHPs also provided food hygiene education to food handlers during these inspections. This helps ensure that all food stored, handled, and prepared at food stalls is safe, wholesome, and fit for human consumption, while also meeting the applicable quality and safety standards prescribed by legislation.

Additionally, the EHP team carries out inspections and monitors public toilets, wastewater disposal systems, and refuse disposal and removal. They also ensure compliance with regulations relating to smoking in public places and certain outdoor public areas.

What are the Hygiene Guidelines for Food Stalls?

  1. Every food stall owner must be in possession of a Certificate of Acceptability (COA) in terms of R638 of 22 June 2018.
  2. The COA must be available at the food stall and be visible to the public.
  3. People working on the premises must be properly trained in food hygiene.
  4. Suitable protective clothing, which includes a full-length apron and head covering, must be worn by all food handlers.
  5. Proper facilities must be provided for the storage of perishable foodstuffs at temperatures under 5°C for cold food and above 65° for warm food.
  6. All working surfaces must be made of smooth, dust free, non-absorbent and washable material.
  7. Cover and protect all foodstuffs from contamination by dust and insects.
  8. Smoking in food stall is prohibited.
  9. Keep a bucket or bowl with water, soap and preferable paper towels at hand for the wash and drying of hands.
  10. A dustbin with a tight lid must be available for use at all times.
  11. Animals may not be allowed in the food stall.
  12. If the natural ground surface of the premises is dusty, it must be covered with a dustproof, washable ground sheet.
  13. All pre-packed food must be properly labelled. (Foodstuffs and Cosmetic and Disinfected Act, 1972) (Act no 54 of 1972). Provision must be made for the collection and storage of wastewater until disposal thereof.
  14. The stall / premises where food is handled, must always be kept clean and in a hygienic condition.
  15. Smoking in or near food stalls is prohibited and is only allowed in designated smoking area.

For any further information, please contact GRDM Klein Karoo Region Municipal Health Services:
Mr. Francois Koelman (acting)
Chief: Municipal Health (Klein Karoo)
Tel: 044 272 2241
Cell: 076 258 8960

Mr. Johan Compion
Senior Manager: Municipal Health Services, Waste Management and Air Quality Control
jcompion@gardenroute.gov.za

14 July 2025 Save the Date: Council Meeting on 29 July 2025 at 11:00

NOTICE OF A COUNCIL MEETING ON 29 JULY 2025 AT 11:00

Notice is hereby given that a COUNCIL MEETING of the Garden Route District Municipality will be held at the CA Robertson Council Chambers and via Zoom, 54 York Street, George, on 29 July 2025 at 11:00.

Access the stream on YouTube

N Raisa-Mlandu
Acting Municipal Manager
54 York Street
P O Box 12
GEORGE
6530
Tel: 044 803 1300

Notice Number 70/2025
16 July 2025

Download a copy of the notice here: Notice – Council meeting -Ordinary Council meeting – 29 July 2025