Central Karoo communities left highly appreciative of Minister Simmers’ empowerment outreach
The Western Cape provincial Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, began his two-day outreach programme of the Central Karoo, with a council meeting at the Laingsburg Municipal Chambers. The Department of Infrastructure’s executive management led by Minister Simmers, presented its 2023/24 and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework business plan.
The Laingsburg Municipality received a comprehensive presentation, which not only focused on the department’s plans in the region; but also highlighted how the municipality can be empowered to access and better utilize the various grant funding. Each grant aims to uplift the local communities.
This is part of the Minister’s infrastructure framework to ensure improved collaborations between the spheres of government. Speaking on the session with the local government Minister Simmers said: “The delivery of service for this community is a shared responsibility between the spheres of government. This type of session provides us with the opportunity to further strengthen our ties as a government and accelerate service delivery to all the residents of the Western Cape.”
The Minister and his delegation traveled on to Beaufort West, where they met an enthusiastic crowd of youth at the Youth Services Recruitment Drive. The early commencement of the event allowed the youth of Beaufort West to engage the Minister and delegation at length. Previous beneficiaries of the department’s Apprenticeship programme were also at hand to speak to their peers about how it has changed their lives for the better.
An attendee who was highly appreciative of the department’s initiative, Mr. Collin Moses said: “I am delighted to be here today together with my friends. As these opportunities provide us with a sense of belonging and give us hope of becoming future entrepreneurs and contractors.” Also, in attendance was an aspiring civil engineer who was eager to apply for the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary programme. The Masakh’iSizwe bursary programme aims to address the skills shortage in the transport, engineering, and built environment.
Day 1’s proceedings concluded with a public meeting with the community of Nelspoort. Minister Simmers took the opportunity to dispel misinformation related to his department’s service delivery and intended plans for the small town. The community was highly appreciative of the transparency of the engagement and urged the Minister to maintain the open communication channel he has with the community. The Minister presented the community with consumer education, as to how they can get involved in the planning of future projects in the area.
“I am happy with today’s outcomes, as we were able to dismiss all the false information that circulated in this community. On the other hand, we reassured the community of our commitment to working closely with them. In a bid to ensure we find innovative solutions that will accelerate the delivery of infrastructure projects and opportunities for them” said Minister Simmers.
Minister Simmers further added: “Without the involvement of the community it will be impossible for any sphere of government to deliver adequate services. All entities are codependent in the creating of socio-development opportunities, therefore, I will always advocate for inclusivity.”
Day 2 of the Minister’s Central Karoo outreach will include the re-opening of the N12 and engagements with the Beaufort West and Prince Albert Municipalities.
Media Enquiries:
Ntobeko Mbingeleli
Spokesperson for Minister Tertuis Simmers
ntobeko.mbingeleli@westerncape.gov.za
021 483 8067 (o)
061 447 7851 (m)