The State of the Municipal Address (SOMA) for Bushbuckridge was a successful event held at the Thulamahashe Community Hall on 03 October. The event, led by Speaker Cllr B.R. Raganya, featured Executive Mayor Cllr M.L. Moroane, who laid out plans for major community improvements.

The proceedings began with a warm welcome from the Speaker, who invited E. Mashele to open the event with a prayer. Mashele quoted Proverbs 14:29, highlighting the need for patience and wisdom before delivering her prayer. However, before the Mayor could deliver her speech, members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) questioned whether the event was a SOMA or a council meeting, creating a brief disruption.

Once the Executive Mayor took the podium, she made it clear that this SOMA was different from any previous government initiative in Bushbuckridge. She outlined several ambitious projects aimed at addressing critical infrastructure issues and improving the quality of life for residents.

One of the key points in Mayor Moroane’s address was the promise to resolve the long-standing issue of water supply across the municipality. She stressed that every community in Bushbuckridge would soon have access to reliable water. Additionally, she vowed to tackle the area’s deteriorating road infrastructure, a persistent problem for years.

Beyond basic infrastructure, the Mayor highlighted other key development goals, such as the renovation of the Thulamahashe Stadium. She also announced a comprehensive bursary program for matriculants, which would cover all educational expenses, including tuition, accommodation, books, and food. This initiative aims to support local youth in pursuing higher education without financial barriers.

In an effort to further uplift the youth, the Mayor pledged to offer free driving licenses to young people in Bushbuckridge. This, she said, was part of a broader effort to boost employment opportunities and personal mobility for the region’s youth.

The Executive Mayor also stressed the importance of community cooperation, stating that these initiatives would not be carried out in isolation but in partnership with local chiefs and leaders. Additionally, plans were announced to assign street names and house numbers to all properties in Bushbuckridge, aiming to improve the area’s overall infrastructure and services.

Addressing the issue of gender-based violence (GBV), Mayor Moroane expressed deep concern about the rising cases in the community, particularly those affecting women and children. She called on residents to report any incidents of GBV and assured them that the government would intervene and offer support. She also acknowledged the success of Operation Shanyela, a community patrol initiative that has significantly improved local safety, and promised further recognition and rewards for those involved.

The Mayor concluded her address by thanking the community for their participation and reinforcing her administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability. “The purpose of this SOMA is to inform the community about the budget and how it will directly benefit them. We are committed to working together for a better Bushbuckridge,” she stated.