While the first part of this series focused on the progress reported by Msukaligwa Local Municipality during the 2021–2026 political term, Executive Mayor Alderwoman M.P. Nkosi also acknowledged that significant challenges remain.
Read More: "Mayor outlines progress during five-year political term"
During the 2026 State of the Municipal Address, Nkosi highlighted the municipality’s financial pressures, aging infrastructure and remaining backlogs in water, sanitation and roads. She also addressed concerns raised by residents and outlined projects planned for the 2026/27 financial year as the municipality works to build on the progress reported during the term.
Financial pressures and debt
Facing continued financial strain, with consumer debt rising from approximately R951.5 million to R1.5 billion, creditors increasing to R2.19 billion and the municipality’s liquidity ratio remaining at 0.5:1, despite ongoing implementation of the Financial Recovery Plan and debt-relief measures.
Remaining service-delivery challenges
Addressing persistent backlogs in water, sanitation and roads, together with ageing infrastructure, sewer spillages, potholes, faulty public lighting and continued service challenges in rural and farming communities.
Community concerns and law enforcement
Responding to residents’ concerns about crime, unemployment, substance abuse, illegal dumping, infrastructure vandalism, unlawful businesses and undocumented immigration through cooperation with law-enforcement agencies and stronger enforcement of municipal bylaws.
Projects planned for 2026/27
Planning further investment in water, sanitation and electricity infrastructure, including a two-megalitre tank for Everest and Khayelisha, sewer projects in Warburton and Ermelo extensions, boreholes and sanitation facilities in farming areas, and electrification in Extension 5.
Replacing aging water infrastructure
Preparing to replace asbestos water pipes across Ermelo and Wesselton through the Ermelo Cluster 1 project to reduce water losses and improve water pressure.
While the municipality has outlined several projects and priorities for the years ahead, Nkosi acknowledged that further progress will depend on disciplined financial recovery, continued infrastructure investment and cooperation between government, residents and local stakeholders. She said the municipality’s task was to protect the progress already made, address the remaining bottlenecks and continue building a stronger and more sustainable Msukaligwa.
“Five years ago, we accepted the mandate to lead. Today, we account for the work done. Tomorrow, the work of building a stronger, more sustainable Msukaligwa will continue,” Nkosi said.