DIKENI- The Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality held its State of the Municipal Address (SoMA) 2025 on Thursday, 11 September 2025 at the Municipal Council Chambers in Dikeni. The address, delivered by Honourable Mayor Cllr Nomhle Masango highlighted service delivery progress, job creation, infrastructure upgrades and economic development initiatives.
Reflecting on the 2024/2025 financial year and presenting the 2025/2026 project list and budget, Mayor Masango said the municipality remained committed to transparency, accountability and inclusive development.
“We are proud of the strides we’ve made in improving our communities’ lives. From roads and electricity to waste management and economic empowerment, our focus remains on creating opportunities for everyone,” she said.
The municipality invested in core infrastructure, including the paving of roads, installation of high-mast lights and storm damage repairs. New community halls in Quthubeni, Jojozi and Mfiki have improved access to public spaces.
A major achievement was the completion of the Mthonsi Lodge Project in July 2025, which will create 45 permanent jobs and boost tourism.
Furthermore, in Double Drift and Great Fish Nature Reserve a new abattoir and three chalets will benefit the Brakfontein community. Over 80% of local SMMEs now benefit from municipal programmes, surpassing national targets. Projects such as Agra Food Farms, KCM Poultry and Katala Fodder and Tobacco Cooperative were highlighted.
A Youth Business Expo attracted nearly 300 young people, offering mentorship and access to funding through partnerships with DEDEAT, ECDCband the Department of Trade and Industry.
In addition Tourism promotion focused on key sites including Hogsback, Katberg, Maqoma Heritage Site and Fort Hare with homestay projects expanding in Alice and surrounding villages.
To this end the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) created 638 temporary work opportunities. However, the municipality faces a major challenge; over R900 million is owed by residents, businesses and government departments.
“We urge residents to pay for services to help us sustain delivery, while ensuring support for the most vulnerable,” said Mayor Masango.
The municipality concluded by reaffirming its vision for sustainable, inclusive growth delivering on its mandate and building stronger communities.
Photographs: Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality/Supplied
