The City of Matlosana closed the week with a series of significant governance, humanitarian, and economic-development initiatives aimed at improving service delivery, supporting vulnerable households, and empowering local businesses. From clarifying the use of Residential Permits to providing disaster-relief packs and advancing SMME development, the municipality demonstrated a broad commitment to community well-being and regulatory accountability.

Residential Permit: Municipality Clarifies Purpose, Conditions, and Misuse

The City of Matlosana issued an important clarification regarding the proper use and legal standing of the municipal Residential Permit, which grants formal permission to reside on a City-allocated stand. According to the Human Settlements Department, the permit serves as proof of lawful occupation and binds holders to adhere to all relevant by-laws and legislation.

Key Compliance Conditions

Residents holding a Residential Permit must:

• Pay all municipal taxes and levies on time.

• Comply with the National Building Regulations (Act 103 of 1977), including obtaining approved building plans before any construction.

Zero-Tolerance for Fraud

The municipality cautioned against the growing issue of individuals selling or soliciting money for permits. Important reminders:

• The Residential Permit is not for sale under any circumstances.

• Payments may only be made directly to the municipality for valid, approved transactions—such as changes in ownership.

• Valid permits are stamped and signed by authorised senior officials; unsigned documents are invalid.

Residents were encouraged to report any irregularities to the Human Settlements Department as part of efforts to strengthen internal controls and reduce illegal occupation practices.

Relief for Irene Park Residents Following Heavy Rains

In a coordinated disaster-response effort, the City of Matlosana partnered with the Red Cross and the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Disaster Management Centre to support families affected by recent heavy rains in Irene Park.

Humanitarian Support Delivered

Affected households received a range of essential relief items, including:

• Sponge mattresses and blankets

• Hot-plate stoves and urns

• Plates, utensils, and basic toiletries

• Other household necessities

During the handover, the Executive Mayor, Cllr Fikile Mahlophe, thanked all disaster-management teams for their swift mobilisation and compassionate service to vulnerable residents.

Addressing Flood Risks

The municipality confirmed that:

• Assessments are under way to explore possible relocation for families who remain at risk due to recurring flooding.

• Storm-water drainage capacity in the area has been expanded to help manage future heavy-rainfall events.

Residents expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support and the municipality’s ongoing efforts to secure long-term solutions.

Strengthening Local Businesses: SMME Training in Partnership with Nedbank

As part of its commitment to economic resilience, the City of Matlosana, through its Local Economic Development (LED) Directorate, delivered a five-day intensive business training programme in partnership with Nedbank. A total of 30 local SMMEs benefited from the initiative.

Programme Highlights

The training focused on practical tools to improve business sustainability and competitiveness, covering:

• Financial management and budgeting

• Marketing strategies and brand development

• Business planning and sustainability models

• Customer service excellence

• Tendering processes and compliance requirements

Participants gained crucial knowledge aimed at fostering stability, enhancing operational capacity, and contributing to job creation and local economic growth.

The City thanked Nedbank for its ongoing support and reaffirmed its commitment to building platforms that encourage innovation, skills development, and long-term economic empowerment.

Overview

This series of interventions, from regulatory enforcement to humanitarian assistance and economic upliftment, reflects the City of Matlosana’s multi-layered approach to community development. By strengthening compliance, supporting vulnerable households, and investing in SMMEs, the municipality continues working toward a safer, more resilient, and economically active region.

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