AfriForum concerned about Tshwane Metro’s irregular expenditure
AfriForum took notice of recent media reports regarding the Tshwane Metro’s irregular expenditure of more than R1 billion. The organisation is of the opinion that these funds could have been better used to rectify and find feasible solutions to several problems in Pretoria.
The organisation worked hard this past year to fight state decay, landgrabs, pollution and also put pressure on the Metro to ensure that proper service delivery takes place.
AfriForum has already asked the Tshwane Metro several times about the state of the Rooiwal sewerage plant that is not properly maintained and which causes serious pollution in the Apies River. This pollution has a huge impact on farms and households in the area and on water sources. The organisation visited this sewerage plant during the annual blue and green drop project and discussed their concerns about the condition of the sewerage works with the Tshwane Metro. AfriForum recently received photos that shows how the Apies River is being polluted.
Landgrabs on state owned land has increased drastically with illegal structures being erected all over the city. These landgrabs includes Wolwespruit, SuperSport Park, the R21 near Olifant Street and in Moreleta Park behind the Wingate Park golf course. AfriForum made several inquiries to the Metro regarding these landgrabs and also asked their neighbourhood watches in these areas to report new structures that are being erected daily. The landgrabs do not only have an impact on crime in the area, but it also effects the property value of houses and businesses. Entrepreneurs also do not want to start new businesses in these areas.
AfriForum also pressured the Metro on service delivery in Tshwane. Refuse has not been removed for weeks on end due to strikes. Illegal dumping also increased and building rubble is dumped next to the main roads, all of which can cause health risks for residents.
“It is important to find workable solutions for problems. The residents of Pretoria suffer if these problems are not resolved. AfriForum will continue to put pressure on the Metro to find solutions. We will also offer assistance in the areas where we have structures and put workable action plans in place to ensure that residents receive the necessary services for which they pay,” says Jp Nel, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for greater Pretoria South.
Become a member of AfriForum and be part of the solution: SMS your name to 45340 (R1).
