Potchefstroom Weekly Ward Group Update 24 July 2025
- Karen Scheepers
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
Every week, residents across Potchefstroom turn to their local WhatsApp ward groups to raise concerns, share updates, and support one another in navigating ongoing service delivery challenges. From power outages and water issues to street repairs and petition drives, these group chats have become a vital hub for community communication.
This weekly roundup, compiled independently and without political bias, highlights the key topics discussed between Friday, 18 July and Wednesday, 23 July 2025, offering a snapshot of life on the ground and the resilience of those working to keep their neighbourhoods informed.
⚡ Power Outages and Infrastructure Concerns
Numerous reports from residents indicated power outages across multiple suburbs, including Hoff Street, Kamp Street, Beyers Naudé, and Rivier Street. Some noted outages dating back to 2 a.m., with updates suggesting cable theft was likely the cause. There were also repeated reports of prior cable theft incidents in Kamp Street and Mokaba Street earlier in the month.
One resident reported that the power had been restored in parts of Kamp Street by late Tuesday, while others confirmed reporting the outages to the fire department’s control room. Frustrations were evident, especially with perceived delays in restoration and communication.
A message shared on Thursday morning confirmed that the municipality was aware of the outage and that councillors had escalated the matter for urgent attention.
🚰 Water and Sewage Complaints
Several residents flagged water issues, including weak water pressure in areas like Strydom and around Williams and Republiek Street. A burst pipe was reported at the latter location, with an emergency response confirmed.
Multiple frustrations emerged about longstanding sewage leaks, particularly in Nieuwe and Beyers Naudé Streets. Some residents questioned the effectiveness of municipal teams and reported staff appearing disengaged or unresponsive at local service departments. Calls were made for better accountability and a functioning reporting system.
🧾 Reporting Challenges and Suggestions
Confusion over municipal reporting numbers was a recurring theme. Some residents commented on the constant changes in contact details for fault reporting, with limited responses from official numbers. Others shared more direct lines for specific services, including roads and sewage, which were helpful for some.
One proactive resident began submitting formal written requests with signed receipts and photographs to build a paper trail for accountability. This method was shared as a recommendation.
🧹 Refuse Collection and Street Services
Delays in refuse collection were observed in various areas. Residents tracked the refuse truck’s movements and voiced concern when their streets were missed by late afternoon. A few expressed frustration with recurring issues, suggesting that residents need clearer, more predictable schedules for services.
Street light repairs were also reported, with positive feedback shared regarding approval of ward committee funds from the 2024 budget being used for this purpose.
📝 Petition for Municipal Demerger
An active push for the Potchefstroom–Ventersdorp demerger petition gained momentum. Petitioners emphasized restoring Potchefstroom’s governance and services by dissolving the current JB Marks Local Municipality.
Key details:
Forms available in print and digital format (via email: DemergeNOW@gmail.com)
Drop-off points and signing tables scheduled at:
Emslies OK Grocer (Saturday)
Engen Garage (Albert Luthuli Street)
Cachet Park
Vyfhoek Spar
Dienssentrum (Tuesday)
Calls were made for increased accessibility to physical forms for residents who lack printing or scanning resources. Petitioners assured the community that more locations and times would be announced.
📢 General Notices and Communication
Some administrative updates included:
A councillor informed residents they would be away until early August and advised who to contact for serious issues in their absence.
Residents were encouraged to monitor WhatsApp and social media for further service delivery updates, new drop-off locations for the petition, and infrastructure repair notices.
🧾 Closing Notes
This summary reflects collective community concerns, updates, and initiatives across Potchefstroom ward groups. The article is compiled neutrally and without political bias, based solely on verified messages exchanged within ward-specific WhatsApp groups between 18 and 24 July 2025.
Next edition will be released Thursday, 31 July, covering conversations up to Wednesday, 30 July.
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