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25 April 2025 Media Release: Renewal and development of the Garden Route fourth Generation Air Quality Management Plan

Media Release: Renewal and development of the Garden Route fourth Generation Air Quality Management Plan

For immediate release
25 April 2025

Air Quality Management planning is a requirement for all municipalities in terms of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act 39 of 2004).  This process is done every 5 years to adapt to a changing environment.  The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) recognizes its responsibilities, not only as stipulated in the Air Quality Act, but also as a constitutional mandate in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996). The third generation Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) that was approved during 2019 was up for review and renewal, and after more than a year of hard work, the fourth Generation plan was approved by the GRDM Council on 23 April 2025.

During the Council meeting, the Executive Mayor of GRDM, Andrew Stroebel, said: “What makes this project unique is that the Garden Route took the lead, not only developing and renewing its own AQMP, but also coordinating and assisting our local municipalities with the development of their respective AQMPs.  This was also a cost-effective initiative as most of the local municipalities contributed financially towards the development of the AQMPs.”

In the foreword to the AQMP, the Executive Mayor also mentioned:
“It is both an honour and a responsibility to oversee the well-being of our district and its residents. We are a vibrant district that thrives on progress, innovation, and collaboration. I am proud to announce the beginning of a crucial step towards a healthier future for everyone in our district: the renewal of our comprehensive fourth generation Air Quality Management Plan.

According to Dr Johann Schoeman, Manager for District Air Quality at GRDM: “At its essence, an AQMP serves as a strategic roadmap designed to address the pressing issue of air pollution within an outlined geographical area. It starts with a comprehensive evaluation of prevailing air quality conditions, entailing the identification of pollutant sources and a meticulous analysis of temporal trends. Subsequently, the plan describes targeted interventions aimed at mitigating health hazards and environmental degradation stemming from suboptimal air quality.”

The primary objective of this endeavour was to ascertain the municipality’s progress towards the objectives described within the extant AQMP and to provide recommendations for the forthcoming plan spanning the period from 2025 to 2030. The GRDM is also the first municipality in the Western Cape that is on its fourth generation plan.  The AQMP process was facilitated by Rayten Engineering and a copy of the plan is be published on the GRDM website.

Click here to download the document.

The vision of the previous plans, namely: “To have air quality worthy of the name ‘Garden Route’” was carried over to the revised plan as this vision is still relevant to minimise the impact of air pollution emissions on the population and the natural environment of the Garden Route.  The plan was a collaborative effort, with inputs welcomed from the public, industries, consultants, various governmental sectors, and the Air Quality officers of all the municipalities within the Garden Route.  The plan lists all the sources of emissions with the formulation of practical objectives within an implantation plans with timeframes to address air pollution in the whole of the district.

Air quality is a constitutional right and the GRDM recognises the impact air pollution may have on the health, safety, and quality of life of all our citizens. With increased urbanisation and industrial activity in the Garden Route, it is essential to manage the air pollution and ambient air quality.  The commitment to this plan, is to ensure that the Garden Route remains an area that is healthy and safe to live in and to ensure that it remains a pristine tourist attraction.

“Cleaner air will lead to healthier communities, improved economic opportunities, and a more sustainable future for generations to come,” said Dr Schoeman.

Mayor Andrew Stroebel also said: “I encourage every member of our community to familiarise themselves with the AQMP, know their rights and, and share your thoughts and concerns with us. Together, we can live up to our vision of worthy air quality”.

ENDS

23 April 2025 Media Statement by Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel – Garden Route Roads Department Investigation – A Step Toward Clean Governance

Media Statement by Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel

Garden Route Roads Department Investigation – A Step Toward Clean Governance

23 April 2025

During October 2024, I, together with the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Roads Services, Cllr Daniel Cronje, engaged in discussions relating to an investigation by the Western Cape Provincial Government (WCG) Department of Infrastructure. The investigation was said to focus on the performance, efficiency, and possible irregularities pertaining to the Roads Department at the GRDM.

GRDM is the agency function contracted to execute work on behalf of the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure over many years.Funding for this function is provided by the WCG through a grant.

On 22 April 2025, the WCG Member of the Executive Council for Infrastructure, Minister Tertuis Simmers, presented a broad summary of the findings of their investigation to the GRDM Council, municipal management, several employees and representatives of the Garden Route Ratepayers Association, amongst others.

As part of the turnaround strategy I committed to rolling out from July 2024 after I was inaugurated, the new political leadership of GRDM welcomes the findings that will be outlined in the report by WCG.

At the GRDM, we believe that transparency, accountability, and clean governance are fundamental pillars in building a successful and trusted public service model.

Therefore, once the written report is received, it will be formally tabled at a full sitting of the GRDM Council for consideration and implementation of the recommendations to bring those involved to accountability.

Clean governance is non-negotiable. Our residents expect nothing less – especially when public funds are involved.

Service delivery remains a top priority. Our dedicated employees will continue to uphold their duties as the municipality transitions through this important period of reform.

Andrew Stroebel
Executive Mayor
Garden Route District Municipality

17 April 2025 Media Release: Blitz Operations Conducted at Spaza Shops in Haarlem

Media Release: Blitz Operations Conducted at Spaza Shops in Haarlem

 17 April 2025

On Wednesday, 9 April 2025, the Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) from the Outeniqua region of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) conducted a joint inspection in Haarlem, in conjunction with the Uniondale South African Police Service (SAPS) and Law Enforcement Officers from the George Municipality (Uniondale/ Haarlem).

Three shops were visited and thoroughly inspected.

According to Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, “the health and safety of our residents remain a top priority for the Garden Route. These joint inspection blitzes are not only essential for enforcing compliance, but also for continuously educating business owners about the importance of maintaining hygienic environments—especially where food is stored, handled, or sold”.

During the joint inspection the following issues were identified:

  • Inadequate pest control (rodent infestation);
  • Animals on the premises (cats inside food area);
  • Structural shortcomings (water leaking through open seams and cracks in the ceiling);
  • Food products not complying with the labelling legislation were dealt with accordingly.

According to Janine Koopman, GRDM EHP, two shops were closed on grounds of non-compliance with the Regulations governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food premises, the Transport of food and Related matters, section 5, sub regulation (3) (a)(i); (c)(ii), (d)(v), and the Garden Route District Municipality Municipal Health By-Laws, PG. No. 8018 of 10 December 2018, Chapter 2 Relating to Health Nuisances, section 6, (4) (a)(b)(c).

Activities during the Joint Inspection in Haarlem

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17 April 2025 Media Release: GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners promote healthier living at Formosa Primary School

Media Release: GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners promote healthier living at Formosa Primary School

For immediate release
17 April 2025

Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Bitou sub-office, Sophia Marthinus, Zoleka Goniwe and Nokuphiwa Mbali, recently conducted an awareness session at Formosa Primary school in commemoration of  World Health Day (7 April 2025).

A learner from Formosa Primary School in Bitou, eagerly participate in the handwashing demonstration conducted by Environmental Health Practitioners from Garden Route District Municipality.

While addressing Grade 1 learners regarding the purpose and importance of World Health Day, the team also understood the significance of conveying messages that are both age-appropriate and engaging.

The 2025 theme of World Health Day ‘Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures’ placed much emphasises on maternal and newborn health. While this theme focusing on mothers and infants, the communities and the public overall can adapt to the message of instilling foundational health habits in young children.​

The key topic ‘Personal Hygiene’ was presented during the programme with specific focus on topics including: When to wash hands and proper handwashing steps.

These awareness sessions are being conducted to prevent the outbreak of diseases. EHPs are committed to continuously reach out to various communities to conduct awareness and education programmes to prevent the spread of diseases and promote healthier living through proactive engagement, early detection, and community empowerment initiatives.

Personal Hygiene:

Handwashing: Teach the importance of washing hands with soap and water.

1. When to Wash Hands: Highlighted key times to wash hands:

    • Before eating or handling food.​
    • After using the toilet.​
    • After playing outside.​
    • After coughing, sneezing, or blowing their nose.​

2. Proper Handwashing Steps: Demonstrate the following steps:

    • Wet hands with clean, running water.​
    • Apply soap and lather well.​
    • Scrub all parts of the hands, including backs, between fingers, and under nails, for at least 20 seconds.​
    • Rinse thoroughly under running water.​
    • Dry hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Feature Image: Learners from Formosa Primary School attentively observing the practical demonstrations during the presentations conducted by Environmental Health Practitioners from Garden Route District Municipality.

ENDS

16 April 2025 Media Release: GRDM, Western Cape Department of Agriculture, and others participate in a Career Expo and Information-Sharing Session

Media Release: GRDM, Western Cape Department of Agriculture, and others participate in a Career Expo and Information-Sharing Session

16 April 2025

Over the past two days, 14 and 15 April 2025, the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Disaster Management Centre joined the Western Cape Government Department of Agriculture and other stakeholders in hosting a career expo, as well as a awareness and information sharing session in Touwsraten and Calitzdorp.

On Monday, the event was hosted at the Touwsraten Community Clinic in Hoekwil, and on Tuesday, at the Calitzdorp Old Library Building.

The sessions which were scheduled from 10:00 till 13:00 exist to inform and explain to the communities exactly who the different departments and stakeholders are, and what they do and what the youth can do if they want to pursue a career in any of the different fields.

At both sessions, officials from the GRDM Disaster Management Centre (DMC) began their segment by providing the audience with background information on the DMCs role and functions. This was followed by a brief introduction to the concept of disaster management, the importance of coordination in effectively managing emergencies was then explored, along with the sharing of emergency contact numbers and general safety tips.

All the stakeholders present, including officials from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety, GRDM Skills Mecca, Old Mutual, and SA Youth,  each received a 15-minute time slot to share information. Topics covered included scarce skills development, lessons in financial literacy, opportunities to further existing learning capacity, potential career paths to explore, and other valuable learning experiences shared with the session’s attendees.

Each stakeholder had a stall with information on display.  Following the conclusion of the formal proceedings, members of the community had the opportunity to engage with the stakeholders by visiting their stalls to discuss the information shared and ask critical questions.

Touwsraten Awareness and Information Sharing Session

Calitzdorp Awareness and Information Sharing Session

Featured Image Caption: GRDM Disaster Management Officer, Lee-Ann Joubert, presented on behalf of the municipality at the Awareness and Information Sharing Session.

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16 April 2025 Media Release: Environmental Health Practitioners and their role in managing waste

Media Release: Environmental Health Practitioners and their role in managing waste

16 April 2025

Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) are appointed to carry out duties as outlined in the National Health Act (Act 61 of 2003) and Health Professions Act (Act.56 of 1974). These duties, known as Municipal Health Services, are rendered within the jurisdiction of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM). The jurisdiction includes Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Bitou, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland local municipal areas.

In terms of Section 1 of the National Health Act, 2003 (Act 61 of 2003), municipal health includes:

  • Water Quality Monitoring
  • Food Control
  • Waste Management
  • Health Surveillance of Premises
  • Supervision and Prevention of Contagious Diseases, excluding immunisation
  • Vector Control
  • Environmental Pollution Control
  • Disposal of Human Remains
  • Safe handling of Chemical Substances

Waste Management: Promoting Hygiene and Preventing Illegal Dumping

The waste management functions of EHPs include monitoring waste management systems, refuse, healthcare waste, hazardous waste, and sewage.

This means the EHPs have to monitor waste management systems, including health care waste, hazardous waste, sewage and wastewater. Whenever there area health nuisances during the storage, treatment, collection, handling and the disposal of various categories of waste, EHPs will act and issue non-compliance notices to the relevant authorities. If the issues persists, fines are issued.

More of their waste-related responsibilities include:

  • Sampling any waste or waste product such as sewage or refuse for analyses.
  • The identification of needs and motivation for the promotion of sanitation.
  • Enforcement of Municipal Health By-Laws and the National Health Act, 2003 (Act 61 of 2003), in cases where health nuisances result from waste handling.
  • Educate communities on issues of waste management and pollution control.
  • Ensuring proper refuse storage, collection, transportation, transfer and processing, materials recovery, and final disposal.
  • Ensuring proper management of liquid waste, including sewage and industrial effluent.
  • Ensuring the proper storage, treatment, collection, transportation, handling and disposal of medical- and hazardous waste.
  • Investigating and inspecting any activity related to the waste stream or any resulting by-products.
  • The function excludes the operation of a waste management system rendered by Local Municipalities.
  • Advocating proper sanitation.

Illegal dumping

Illegal dumping and littering remain ongoing challenges in South Africa. Although the management of illegal waste dumping is not a mandate of GRDM, a whole-of-society approach is essential to keeping the environment clean.

EHPs continuously educate the public about the impacts of illegal dumping. The impacts include environmental pollution, detrimental impacts on the natural resources and habitats around us, as well as biodiversity. The practitioners also create awareness about the diseases caused by illegal dumping and that it attracts rodents and vectors.

Illegal dumping should be reported to local municipalities:

Hessequa Municipality: 028 713 8000 (office hours) 028 713 7917 / 028 713 2222 (after hours)

Mossel Bay: 044 606 5143, 044 606 5000 of 44802 (sms) or admin@mosselbay.gov.za

George: 044 801 6350 or gmun@george.gov.za

Knysna: 044 302 6405 / 060 998 7073 (WhatsApp) or rloxton@knysna.gov.za

Bitou: 044 501 3174/5 or customercare@bitou.gov.za

Oudtshoorn: 044 203 3900 or 044 203 7800/1

Kannaland: 028 551 8000 (office) / 061 602 1095 or customercare@kannaland.gov.za (customercare)

Johan Compion
Manager: Municipal Health & Environmental Services
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za
Tel: 044 803 1300 / Cell: 082 803 5161

Contact details for each municipality:

Bitou Municipality
George Municipality
Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality
Hessequa Municipality
Kannaland Municipality
Knysna Municipality
Mossel Bay Municipality

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10 April 2025 NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) – 100 Training Opportunities for Unemployed

Health and Welfare SETA Training Opportunities 

Programme: NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) x 100

Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!

The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route district municipal area, to apply for training opportunities within the Local Government sphere for a qualification as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities. Applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 60.

Opportunities are currently available within the following municipal areas within the Garden Route district: George x 15, Mossel Bay x 15, Knysna x 14, Ladismith x 14, Bitou x 14, Hessequa x 14 and Oudtshoorn x 14.

Apply here:

Applicants must apply using the GRDM online system called Unemployed Solutions (red button) found at:               https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.

Programme and Entry Requirements:

Applications need to have the following entry requirements:

  • NQF Level 3 qualification, equivalent to Grade 11

Exit Level Outcomes

  • Plan and prepare broad-phase learning environment and stimulating activities that meet the holistic needs of all children in centre-based or non-centre-based settings.
  • Facilitate and mediate all aspects of the daily programme in a centre-based or non-centre based setting.
  • Observe, assess and record each child’s progress according to the age and stage.
  • Compile a report of each child’s progress.
  • Maintain and promote the well-being, health, nutrition, safety and protection of children.

Please note that no stipends will be paid for this training.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED (NB: The system only recognises PDF format documents):

  • A copy of a South African ID Document certified within the last six months.
  • A copy of your highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months.
  • An updated copy of your CV.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Dineo Ramasesane at 044 803 1447 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345, during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within one month of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Download the notice here:

Join the Garden Route WhatsApp Channel for Skills, Jobs and Tenders, by clicking here with your phone: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va92oJoJpe8eiTvq3q33

Closing date: 17 April 2025     
Notice number: 35/2025