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18 September 2024 Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca National Skills Fund Launch – a focus on Hospitality and Tourism

Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca National Skills Fund Launch – a focus on Hospitality and Tourism

18 September 2024

Today, 18 September 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) witnessed a historic moment with the official launch of the National Skills Fund Hospitality and Tourism Project for the Garden Route. This training project is coordinated by the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) – the first and only Skills Mecca at a municipality in South Africa.

The primary goal of the Skills Mecca is to create jobs and improve livelihoods across the district by offering work-based learning opportunities for unemployed individuals, helping them develop the skills needed to secure meaningful employment. In doing so, the programme also strengthens the local economy.

Attendees at the launch event  included the Principal, her team and learners from Carpe Diem school, representatives from the National Skills Fund, CEOs of Sector Education and Training Authority and members of the business and tourism community, learners, councillors, officials, and other key stakeholders involved in the district’s skills development efforts.

Elzeth Grobler, Principal of Carpe Diem School, welcomed the guest to ‘the best special needs school in the district’. She provided a brief overview of the school and said: “We are a unique school with all disabilities except blind students. We do not just educate, but we strive to prepare each learner to reach their full potential”.

During his speech, GRDM Executive Mayor, Cllr Andrew Stroebel, highlighted the significance of the three Skills Summits previously held by the GRDM. At these summits, stakeholders unanimously supported the initiatives of the GRSM, leading to the development and endorsement of ten strategic resolutions that now guide the Skills Mecca’s objectives.

Cllr Stroebel emphasised that the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project directly aligns with one of these key resolutions, which focuses on linking skills development to investment and economic development opportunities. This connection, he noted, is vital for advancing the well-being and prosperity of all communities within the Garden Route District.

Mayor Stroebel further highlighted the broader success of the GRSM beyond the current project. He mentioned other successful initiatives, such as the Home-Based Care Personal Assistants programme, Patrol Officers training, and Renewable Energy Workshop Assistants. “Collectively, these projects have created over 54 jobs and directed R8 million into local communities and households, showcasing the tangible impact of skills development in our region,” he stated.

Stroebel also shared an interesting fact from the impact analysis: “For every learner on a Skills Mecca programme, which includes a stipend, there is a benefit for 3.56 persons in that learner’s household. So, every Rand spent has a significant ripple effect on our community.”

Athenkosi Tshayingwe from the Department of Higher Education and Training expressed gratitude for being part of the impactful project. He highlighted that the initiative aims to train, mentor, and develop 400 unemployed residents of the Garden Route District, focusing on youth aged 18 to 35, to enhance their employability in the Tourism and Hospitality sector, with 200 specifically trained as cooks.

Tshayingwe also emphasised his department’s commitment to skills development, noting that the National Skills Fund (NSF) has invested over R5 billion in the Western Cape, benefitting more than 40,000 learners. The NSF has allocated R36.3 million to the GRDM project to equip young people with skills needed by the local industry and address unemployment.

Several beneficiaries of the GRSM program, rolled out in previous financial years, shared heartfelt testimonies during the event. These individuals, who are still gaining valuable practical experience, expressed their gratitude to the GRDM Skills Mecca for the opportunities provided. Their success stories underscore the program’s significant role in empowering communities and opening doors for personal and professional growth.

Alderman Stephen de Vries, who has a history of serving as the Chairperson of the Training and Development Committee at GRDM, shared his reflections during the event. He expressed pride in the program, stating, “The Skills Mecca is truly fulfilling the vision it set out to achieve.” Highlighting the initiative’s unique origins, he added, “To my knowledge, it is the only program of its kind in the country, born from the aftermath of a fire disaster.”

He concluded his speech by thanking all stakeholders for playing a role in this remarkable initiative. De Vries left the beneficiaries and learners with a powerful message, encouraging them not only to focus on becoming employable, but also to become entrepreneurs.

Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, Portfolio Chairperson of GRDM Corporate Services, delivered the vote of thanks at the event, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Carpe Diem team and learners for their excellent performance and for hosting the event at their facility. She also extended her appreciation to the beneficiaries of the Skills Mecca initiative, who shared their personal learning experiences, inspiring all stakeholders present.

Caption for Featured Image: FLTR: Ald Stephen de Vries (GRDM), Themba Ndhlovu (CATHSSETA), Cllr Andrew Stroebel (GRDM), and Chris Mudau (SASSETA), united at the event, collaborating to foster skills development and community upliftment.

Did you know?

The Skills Mecca has promoted collaboration, cooperation, and integration among all skills development stakeholders within the district, and today’s launch of the National Skills Fund Tourism and Hospitality Project reflects the ongoing commitment to this mission. Learn more about the Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative here: skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za

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12 September 2024 Media Release: Basic Wildland Firefighting Training Facilitated by GRDM and Southern Cape Fire Protection Association

Media Release: Basic Wildland Firefighting Training Facilitated by GRDM and Southern Cape Fire Protection Association

12 September 2024

In collaboration with the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (SCFPA), the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) this week facilitated a Basic Wildland Firefighting training session for participants from the Fransmanshoek Conservancy. The training also included representatives from the ’Boggomsbaai, Vleesbaai, and Springerbaai’ conservancies, as well as Buffelsfontein and the EPC Farm.

The training initiative aimed to equip local communities and conservancy members with essential firefighting skills to enhance their preparedness and ability to respond effectively to wildland fires. By including representatives from various local communities and conservancies, the training promoted a collaborative approach to managing vegetation and veld fires.

Essential topics covered, includes:

  1. Fire weather and danger index.
  2. Fire behavior and safety precautions.
  3. Detection and notification protocols.
  4. Personal protective clothing and equipment.
  5. Fire environment and risk assessment.
  6. Basic and incipient suppression techniques.
  7. Fuel load management and risk management practices.
  8. Fire prevention activities.
  9. Scope of practice for community first responders

This training will also empower participants with the knowledge and skills to safely manage incipient vegetation and veld fires, reducing the risk of larger fires that could damage properties, infrastructure, and the environment.

Benefits of this training include:

  • Enhanced firefighting knowledge and skills in the area.
  • Improved collaboration and coordination among local communities, conservancies, and authorities.
  • Increased awareness of wildland fire risks and prevention strategies.
  • Better equipped and trained personnel to handle vegetation fires.
  • Reduced risk of property damage and environmental impact.
  • More knowledgeable residents, especially regarding the notification of risks to authorities.

Assisting conservancies with basic firefighting training is important for enhancing quick detection and potential suppression while firefighting authorities are en-route to a fire notification.

To continue providing participants with thorough basic training and reinforcing safety measures for vegetation fires, a second phase of practical training will be added.

Featured Image caption: Fire Chief Deon Stoffels and Station Commander: Operations Heinrich Leslie facilitating the training session.

 

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04 September 2024 Media Release: Emile Conrad, Senior Firefighter at Garden Route District Municipality Set to Attend and Participate in the World Firefighter Games

Media Release: Emile Conrad, Senior Firefighter at Garden Route District Municipality Set to Attend and Participate in the World Firefighter Games

4 September 2024

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is proud to announce that Emile Conrad, a Senior Firefighter, will be representing South Africa at the prestigious World Firefighter Games, set to take place in Aalborg, Denmark, from 7 – 14 September 2024.

The World Firefighter Games, a bi-annual event, brings together firefighters from around the globe to compete in a variety of sports and foster a spirit of camaraderie. This year, approximately 3,000 firefighters are expected to attend the event in Denmark, where they will participate in 40 different sports. The Games, which began in 1990 in Auckland, New Zealand, were most recently held in Lisbon, Portugal, in 2022. Aalborg, Denmark, aims to create an unforgettable experience with a focus on sport, community, and unique cultural exchanges.

Cllr Jobiet Hoogbaard, Portfolio Chairperson of Community Services under which the GRDM Fire Services reside, extends his best wishes to Emile Conrad, encouraging him to do his best, represent South Africa and the Garden Route District, and above all, enjoy himself at the World Firefighter Games.

Among the many competitions, the “Toughest Firefighter Alive” (TFA) event stands out as the pinnacle of the World Firefighter Games, renowned for being the most challenging firefighting competition globally.

Emile Conrad secured his place on the South African team after winning last year’s South African National TFA in Mossel Bay. At the previous World Firefighter Games in Lisbon, Portugal, in 2022, Conrad impressively ranked 10th overall and secured 2nd place in his age category (38-40). This year, Emile aims to surpass his previous achievements while continuing to promote fitness and conditioning within the firefighting community. Emile is scheduled to depart from George today, 4 September 2024 and return on 17 September 2024.

 

GRDM Council and Management extend their best wishes to Emile Conrad as he represents the Garden Route District Municipality and South Africa at the World Firefighter Games. May his strength, determination, and commitment guide him through this challenging and demanding event!

Featured image caption: GRDM Executive Mayor Alderman Stroebel wishing Emile Conrad well for the upcoming World Firefighter Games competition in Denmark, encouraging him to bring pride to the district and the nation.

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30 August 2024 Media Release: Occupational Firefighter Course intake done and dusted with programme – GRDM the first of 44 Districts to offer it!

Media Release: Occupational Firefighter Course intake done and dusted with programme – GRDM the first of 44 Districts to offer it!

30 August 2024

On Tuesday, 27 August 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire & Rescue Services, in collaboration with the GRDM Skills Mecca programme, marked a historic milestone with the Occupational Firefighter Graduation Ceremony. This event was a significant achievement as GRDM became the first district municipality in South Africa to offer and complete this type of qualification.

The prestigious event was attended by Chief Fire Officers from local municipalities within the district, Councillors, the GRDM Municipal Manager, Skills Mecca team, firefighters, officials, graduates, and their families and training stakeholders.

In his address as the administrative head of GRDM, Municipal Manager Monde Stratu, delivered a message of support, stating, “It is indeed a wonderful day when we celebrate people who made the decision to do something with their lives, follow through with it, and see it to the end.” Stratu emphasised the importance of education, adding: “At our institution, we take education very seriously and believe that education, in any form or shape, contributes to the development of both the individual and the country. There is a concept known as human development, and countries around the world are measured in terms of human development. One of the key measurements used is education, is quality – how many people have access to it, and how long they stay in the education system.”

Stratu further highlighted the broader impact of education, remarking: “Sometimes it appears that people do not understand the value of education beyond individual benefit. When the country invests in you, you benefit individually, but the best return on that investment is societal development. Are the people we are training giving back to society and their communities, so that the communities they live in grow? That is why, in my opinion, occasions of this nature are important to underline the importance of education.”

Trix Holtzhausen, GRDM Executive Manager of Corporate Services, under which the Training and Development Section of GRDM falls, encouraged and congratulated the graduates with the following words: “You have taken on one of the most challenging and noble professions. One that demands bravery, selflessness, and an unyielding commitment to protecting others. Your journey through this rigorous program has prepared you not just to respond to fires, but to lead with integrity, compassion, and strength.”

GRDM Fire Chief, Deon Stoffels, provided a brief overview of the journey leading up to the day’s proceedings, highlighting both the challenges and successes experienced throughout the process. He took the opportunity to acknowledge and thank all the stakeholders and officials involved for their contributions and support in making the event possible.

During the keynote address, Councillor Jobieth Hoogbaard, Portfolio Chairperson for Community Services, congratulated the graduates and emphasised that the training program was more than just another initiative. “It represents the various municipalities’ investments in the well-being and security of our citizens. You are now part of an elite group of professionals who put their lives on the line every day to protect others,” he stated. Hoogbaard concluded his speech by reminding the firefighters that they will face challenges that would test their physical and mental limits, but he expressed his confidence in their readiness: “I have every confidence that you are ready for it, as you have been equipped over the past months with the latest techniques, technologies, and best practices to respond to emergencies and save lives.”

Both Ms. Aneeka Jacobs, Provincial Manager of Western Cape LGSETA Skills Development, and Dr Florus Prinsloo, GRDM Skills Mecca Programme Coordinator, addressed the graduates on behalf of their respective institutions. They commended the group for their perseverance and determination, which ultimately led to their successful completion of the Occupational Firefighting NQF Level 4 Programme.

The graduates impressed the guests with a captivating display of their marching skills, showcasing the discipline, precision, and teamwork they developed throughout their training. Their performance not only demonstrated their commitment to excellence but also added a sense of pride and celebration at the graduation ceremony, highlighting the hard work and dedication they put into becoming firefighters. In conclusion, certificates were handed over to the graduates, with some receiving special recognition for their outstanding performances.

Joseph Johnston, Chairperson of the Western Cape Chief Fire Officers Committee and Chief Fire Officer of the Mossel Bay Municipality, administering the Firefighter Oath.

Pictures captured during the event, highlighting memorable moments of celebration, engagement, and achievement.

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01 August 2024 Media Release: GRDM Skills Mecca programme launches its first ever RPL Firefighter Programme with LGSETA Funding

Media Release: GRDM Skills Mecca programme launches its first ever RPL Firefighter Programme with LGSETA Funding

1 August 2024

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Skills Mecca programme is coordinating and facilitating skills development projects in collaboration with all seven Garden Route district Local Municipalities (LM) and the Central Karoo District Municipality.

During October 2023, a Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) Discretionary Grant funding window application period opened. GRDM, with the support of other Local Government stakeholders, applied for R1.75 million in funding to offer recognition of prior learning (RPL) to 50 employed municipal officials  for an Occupational Certificate: Fire Fighter. The application was subsequently approved, and the funding was approved for GRDM.

The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for Occupational Certificate for Fire Fighters qualification is a process that results in an opportunity for recognizing and validating existing skills, knowledge, and experience of persons who have been working in the firefighting environment for many years but without formal certification.

The GRDM is an accredited provider and assessment centre with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), specifically for the Occupational Certificate: Fire Fighter NQF Level 4 qualification. This means the GRDM can roll out training and RPL programs related to firefighting.

Yesterday, 31 July 2024, the induction for the program took place for learners from Kannaland, Bitou, the Central Karoo District, Beaufort West, and the GRDM. The RPL programme will officially commence in August 2024.  At the end of the programme, the learners that comply with all the necessary evidence will write an External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) exam, and successful candidates will receive a national certificate.

Feature image caption: Learners from Kannaland, Bitou, the Central Karoo District, Beaufort West, and the GRDM who form part of the RPL programme.

A couple of mood shots captured during the induction session.

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01 August 2024 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘄 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗲𝗯𝗲𝗹’𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵

𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘄 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗲𝗯𝗲𝗹’𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵!

Dear Garden Routers

As South Africans celebrate Women’s Month, I’d like to take this opportunity to honour the remarkable women in our district and around the world whose strength, resilience, and steadfast spirit enrich our communities.

This is a time to acknowledge and appreciate the vital roles women play in shaping our society, from nurturing families to leading businesses and driving social change.

Kom ons gebruik hierdie geleentheid om die prestasies van vroue te vier, hul aspirasies te ondersteun en om ons daartoe te verbind om ‘n meer inklusiewe en regverdige omgewing vir almal te skep. Saam kan ons ‘n toekoms bou waar elke vrou gewaardeer, bemagtig en geïnspireer voel om haar volle potensiaal te bereik.

Together, let’s also unite to stand up against violence aimed at women, honour and celebrate women and mothers who fight for equality, and recognize every strong woman who continues to inspire, lead, and make a difference in the world.

Khumbula – ‘𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝘁’ 𝗔𝗯𝗮𝗳𝗮𝘇𝗶, 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝘁’ 𝗜𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗸𝗼𝗱𝗼’ – 𝗬𝗘𝗦 – 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻, 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸…

Happy Women’s Month!

19 July 2024 Media Release: Celebrating Mandela Day: A Month of Tribute and Action in South Africa 

Media Release: Celebrating Madiba Day: A Month of Tribute and Action in South Africa

19 July 2024

Annually, in July, South Africa comes together to celebrate the life and legacy of former President Nelson Mandela. While 18 July has been declared Nelson Mandela International Day, South Africans extend the celebrations throughout the entire month. This extended celebration offers everyone the chance to heed Mandela’s call to recognise their individual and group efforts to make an imprint and change the world around them.

This year, Nelson Mandela International Day was observed under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.” In upholding this spirit, officials from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) joined people across the globe in participating in community work to honour Madiba’s enduring legacy.

Below you will find a few pictures and short descriptions of what the GRDM officials did across the district:

GRDM Road Services Department

Early this month, Rosemoor Old Age Home management posted an urgent request on social media regarding the facility’s financial crisis and their need for urgent assistance with groceries, meat products, cleaning supplies, vegetables, and adult diapers.

As part of the commemoration of Madiba Day, officials of the Roads Services’ George office requested everyone to contribute to this noble cause by donating one or more items from the specified list. Although officials in the Department responded well to the urgent request, the 98 residents, all over 60 years old, are still in dire need of the abovementioned products.

GRDM Disaster Management

As part of the Madiba Day festivities, the GRDM’s Disaster Management and Fire Service teams engaged in a friendly pancake-baking competition. Officials generously provided all the necessary ingredients and equipment for the challenge. The participants showcased their culinary skills, aiming to bake the most pancakes, and the delicious results were joyfully donated to a local children’s home and residents of Emmause Home for Disabled. This initiative not only celebrated Madiba’s spirit of generosity and community service, but also brought smiles to the faces of young ones in need, embodying the essence of Mandela Day.

GRDM Financial Services Department

Mzoxolo Primary School in Lawaaikamp received sanitary towels from officials in the Finance Department. Research shows that when young women from poorer backgrounds lack access to sanitary towels, they often miss school or suffer a loss of dignity by having to use old newspapers or cloths. Girls who cannot afford pads or tampons miss about 5 days of school each month, totalling around 60 missed school days a year.

GRDM Office of the Municipal Manager

The GRDM Executive Mayor, Speaker, and Municipal Manager, along with officials in the departments and political office, also yesterday, honored Mandela’s legacy at the Rosemoor Children’s Home. They generously donated warm clothes, toiletries, toys and groceries to support the approximately 25 children living at the facility. During the visit, the GRDM firefighters conducted an insightful demonstration for the youngsters, educating them on fire safety, including fire dangers, escape procedures, and how to prevent and respond to smoke inhalation. This initiative not only provided essential resources but also imparted valuable life-saving knowledge to the children.

GRDM Integrated Planning and Economic Development

In celebration of Mandela Day, the Integrated Planning and Economic Development Department visited Save Haven Youth Development and After Care (SHYDAC) in Parkdene. The team dedicated their time and resources to paint the building, creating a fresh and welcoming environment. They also cooked and served soup to everyone present. The team generously purchased toiletry packs from their own pockets, which they handed over to the manager, ensuring they have essential personal care items. This heartfelt effort demonstrated the spirit of Mandela Day by making a tangible difference in the lives of those at SHYDAC.

GRDM Community Services: Klein Karoo Municipal Health Services

In commemoration of Madiba’s legacy, the GRDM Community Services Department mobilised its various sub-offices and sections to engaged in impactful activities throughout the day. The Klein Karoo Municipal Health Services Section focused on providing clothes to individuals in need, ensuring that vulnerable community members received essential support.

 

GRDM Community Services: Bitou (Lakes) Municipal Health Services

In Bitou, the Municipal Health Offices dedicated their efforts to ‘The Angels of Joy Playgroup’ in The Crags, Kurland Village. Officials not only assisted with daily tasks but also took the opportunity to educate children and educators on the importance of handwashing practices. Additionally, they generously donated nutritious fruit to support the children’s wellbeing.

GRDM Community Services: Knysna (Lakes) Municipal Health Services

Municipal Health Section officials in Knysna honoured local car guards by serving them each a healthy, warm meal outside their office at 24A Queen Street. The gesture was intended to acknowledge and support the important role car guards play in the community.

GRDM Community Services: Mossel Bay Municipal Health Services

The Mossel Bay Environmental Health Practitioners visited Little Einstein Educare Crèche and Vlinderland Crèche in Great Brak River for Mandela Day. A total of seven teachers and 183 children participated in the morning event focusing on children, aligned with what Madiba stood for in life, as he was very fond of children. When asked what they knew about Mr. Mandela, a toddler responded, “Mr. Mandela loved children.”  Health and hygiene awareness sessions were furthermore conducted at the crèches, followed by demonstrations of proper handwashing techniques for the children and teachers.

GRDM Community Services: Hessequa Municipal Health Services

In Riversdale, officials from the GRDM Hessequa office organised a Soup Kitchen drive at the Suikerbossie Soup Kitchen, providing a warm meal to those in need in the Riversdale area. This compassionate effort not only provided nourishment but also underscored the spirit of solidarity and care that Madiba Day embodies across the GRDM Community Services Department.

GRDM Community Services: George Municipal Health Services

George Municipal Health officials serving the George, Wilderness, and Outeniqua areas, collaborated on a School Shoe Project at Kommandtansdrift Primary School in the Kammanassie area, near Uniondale.  In honor of Madiba’s legacy, the Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) ensured that each child at the school received a pair of new shoes and socks, a snack pack with sweet treats and a drink, as well as a cake for everyone to share. This project not only provided essential items but also brought joy and celebration to the children, embodying the spirit of giving and community that Mandela cherished.  It also ensured that students in need had proper footwear, promoting their comfort and dignity throughout the school year.

Madiba Day Blood Donation Drive at the GRDM Head Office arranged by Corporate Services

One of the highlights of the day’s celebrations was the blood donation drive in collaboration with the Western Cape Blood Service and George Municipality. This campaign was held for the second consecutive year in honour of Mandela Day at the GRDM head office.

Seventy (70) people attended the blood donation drive, but not everyone had iron levels suitable for donation. Consequently, fifty-two (52) individuals were able to donate blood. This effort has the potential to save a total of 156 lives, as one donation can help three people!

Contributing to this life-saving cause and embodying the spirit of unity and community service that Nelson Mandela championed, is central to this campaign. By doing this, officials not only helped to save lives, but it also inspired others to give back in meaningful ways.

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05 June 2024 Update 3: Garden Route Floods 15h00 update on 5 June 2024

Update 3: Garden Route Floods 15h00 update on 5 June 2024

Issued by the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at 15h00

The GRDM’s JOC remains activated at its Head Office in George because of persistent rainfall experienced in parts of the Western, North and Eastern Cape since 1 June 2024. People in areas near rivers or those who are considering to cross low-water bridges or structures should avoid doing so at all costs. If a residence is prone to flooding, people should move to higher ground to ensure the safety of family members, pets, and livestock.

Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as these can be deeper and faster-moving than what is assumed.

According to Gerhard Otto, the GRDM Head of Disaster Management, “the peak of the floods have not yet reached all areas in the Garden Route district. For the southern parts of the district, it is expected to only peak in the early hours tomorrow (6 June 2024). SAPS Border Police is stationed in Oudtshoorn, with a team on standby in Mossel Bay for any emerging rescue or recovery incidents”.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLANS

Before the GRDM JOC was activated, representatives from the National Department of Water and Sanitation informed several stakeholders about the anticipated floods. These stakeholders included the Water Users Associations, the National Water Resources Infrastructure Southern Operations Management, and downstream residents such as farmers and farm workers. “There is an Emergency Preparedness Plan for each dam in South Africa, which contains contact details of stakeholders and this greatly assists us in responding to emerging risks and disasters,” said Otto.

RESCUES, RECOVERIES & EVACUATIONS

The South African Police Services (SAPS) Diving Unit and the Red Cross Air Mercy Service are currently assisting with rescue operations of people in the region. To date, 17 people have been rescued.

* 11 People (3 women, 4 men and 4 children) rescued from Welgeluk in Oudtshoorn rescued with Pencil Duck.
* 6 People (1 woman, 5 men) rescued from the Meiringspoort Pass with a helicopter.

Calitzdorp Hot Springs has been evacuated because of the downflow of the Olifants River.

ROADS OPENED AGAIN

MOSSEL BAY

1) DR1532 Vleesbay Road (opened again before 15h00 on 05/06/2024)

ROADS REMAINING CLOSED

OUDTSHOORN

1) Meiringspoort (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
2) Swartberg Pass (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
3) N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust where the road crosses the Nel’s river – use the Langkloof route as an alternative (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
4) DR1713/R328 adjacent to the Raubenheimers Dam (enroute to Bergoord) (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
5) Volmoed Road due to rockfalls (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
6) The Cango Caves (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
7) Rooiheuwel Road (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

MOSSEL BAY

1) Geelbeksvlei Road (remains closed since 04/06/2024)

KNYSNA

1) Rheenendal Road off the N2 (remains closed since 04/06/2024)

GEORGE/WILDERNESS/UNIONDALE

1) DR1660 Joncksrust Road (or known as Kliprivier Road) (30km from Uniondale) due to rockfalls (remains closed since 04/06/2024)
2) Prince Alfred Pass between Uniondale and Knysna due to rockfalls and flooding (remains closed since 05/06/2024)
3) Haarlem access on the west side is restricted, access possible from the east turn-off (remains closed since 05/06/2024)

Stompdrift Dam is overflowing (Source: National Department of Water and Sanitation)

Report weather-related incidents to the Garden Route Emergency Call Centre on 044 805 5071.

Updates are posted to the GRDM Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/gardenroutedm

The next update is planned for 18h00 today, 5 June 2024.

Feature Image: Photo of the damage to the road at Nels River (Oude Muragie) a few kilometers before De Rust. Provincial workers are already repairing the road (Source: Oudtshoorn Municipality)

11 April 2024 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) leads Community Dialogues to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Mossel Bay and Kannaland

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) leads Community Dialogues to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Mossel Bay and Kannaland

For Immediate Release
11 April 2024

On Tuesday, 4 April 2024, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Mossel Bay Municipality, convened a community dialogue to address the alarming rates of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Mossel Bay. This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat GBV in high-risk areas within the Garden Route District, with a similar dialogue that took place on Friday, 5 April 2024 in Kannaland.

The purpose of these dialogues was to engage the community members and other stakeholders to identify contributing factors and assess the impact of GBV on these communities. Furthermore, the dialogues aimed to develop actionable plans or programs to effectively address this pervasive issue.

These two days brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including local councillors, representatives from the South African Police Service (SAPS), Neighbourhood Watches (NHW), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and various sector departments. This collaborative approach ensured that perspectives from different sectors and community groups were considered in developing comprehensive strategies to tackle GBV.

“As local governments and communities, it is essential that we come together to address Gender-Based Violence,” said Nkosiyabo Lose, GRDM’s Project Coordinator. “These dialogues provide a platform for open discussion and collaboration, enabling us to understand the root causes of GBV and collectively develop effective interventions to address it,” Lose concluded.

Building on the success of the Mossel Bay and Kannaland’s discussion, GRDM plans to implement similar sessions in other municipalities within the district. These initiatives are part of the broader GRDM Community Safety Strategy, with support from the Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety.

Addressing Gender-Based Violence requires a multi-faceted approach, and community engagement is at the heart of these efforts. Through continued collaboration with stakeholders and communities, GRDM are committed to creating safer and more inclusive environments for all residents of the Garden Route District.

Feature Image Caption: In Kannaland, the community dialogue on Gender-based Violence was well attended.

–End–

03 April 2024 Draft 2024-2025 Integrated Development Plan (IDP), Draft 2024/2025 Medium Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework and Multi-Year Budget

DRAFT 2024-2025 INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PLAN (IDP), DRAFT 2024/2025 MEDIUM TERM REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE FRAMEWORK AND MULTI-YEAR BUDGET

Open for Comment

Notice is hereby given that the Garden Route District Municipal Council’s Draft Integrated Development Plan for the 2024/2025 financial year and the Medium Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework (MTREF) Draft Multi-Year Budget for the period 2024/2025-2026/2027, were compiled in accordance with the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 2000 (Act 32 of 2000) and Municipal Finance Management Act 2003 (Act 56 of 2003).

These documents were considered by the Garden Route District Council at a District Council meeting held on Wednesday, 27 March 2024.

These documents will be available for public inspection and comments at all main local libraries, satellite offices and the Garden Route District Municipality’s IDP Unit, 54 York Street George and on the GRDM municipal website www.gardenroute.gov.za.

All comments and inputs must be directed to “The Municipal Manager, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, George 6530”,  rekords@gardenroute.gov.za

Persons who are unable to read or write are encouraged to contact the Garden Route District Municipality during ordinary office hours, where they will be assisted to formulate their written comments or objection.

Written comments and inputs regarding the above documents must reach the Office of the Municipal Manager on or before 30 April 2024.

Please contact the District IDP Manager (Mrs Mercy James) or Budget Manager (Ms Louise Hoek) at 044 803 1300, rekords@gardenroute.gov.za with any enquiries.

Click here to download the Garden Route District Municipal Council’s Draft Amended IDP

M STRATU
Municipal Manager
Garden Route District Municipality