Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe

In the photo: A wide-angle view of the solidarity demonstration held outside George City Hall on 18 September 2026, drawing municipal staff and community members together to protest against GBVF.

In solidarity with efforts to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa, George Municipality officials, accompanied by Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson, joined millions of South Africans in taking a stand against violence against women and children.

Officials gathered outside George City Hall on Friday, 18 September 2026, at 13:00, following reports of nine women who lost their lives to alleged gender-based violence in Kempton Park and surrounding areas.

Dressed in black as a sign of mourning, the officials observed a moment of silence following a prayer led by Pastor Ahene Jonathan. An empty coffin was placed at the gathering as a symbol of the call for an end to the killing of women.

According to one of the organisers, Khanyisile Fortuin, a George Municipality official, LGBTQI+ and HIV/AIDS Project Coordinator, and GBVF activist, the empty coffin represents the demand that no more women lose their lives to gender-based violence.

“Enough is enough! We can no longer normalise women being killed and buried because of gender-based violence. We say, as women: my body, my choice; my body is no one’s crime scene. We have had enough, and this coffin in front of us will remain empty of women’s bodies,” Fortuin said.

The Executive Mayor expressed his sadness at the ongoing killings of women in South Africa and emphasised that such incidents should not simply be treated as crime statistics. “This is a great concern. We cannot just take these killings as another statistic in the crime records of South Africa,” Mayor Johnson said.

“We are standing behind an empty coffin that symbolises that enough is enough. Women should not be judged because they choose to wear certain types of clothes, go for a jog or simply go to the post office. This is not fair to our women, young women, and women of all ages in this country.

“We say to the men: please stop this behaviour and work with us. And to the women: speak out. Let us not allow this to continue,” Mayor Johnson said.

Ms Marilyn Olifant, Founding Director of Legally You, an organisation working against GBVF, also attended the gathering in support of the demonstration. “We will not allow any further gender-based violence or domestic violence in this district. This is the end. This is enough. We will continue our collaborative approach with all stakeholders within this jurisdiction to fight GBVF,” Olifant said.

Speaking on behalf of men, George Municipality official Mongameli Kaliko called for moral regeneration and a renewed commitment among men to protect women and children and promote safer communities. “There was a time when women could walk freely without fear in the streets of George. Where is our humanity? Where is the love, peace, harmony, and protection? “I want to say to men: when women meet you, they must see protection and love, and when children meet you, they must see care. Moral regeneration must begin in our homes and families. As men, we need to lead young boys by example and show them that love can overcome violence,” Kaliko said.

The gathering also featured placards carrying messages such as “Silence protects the perpetrator of the victim” and “April 2026 – June 2026: 11 532 Sexual Offences – End GBV”. Officials also expressed their solidarity through song, including the isiXhosa song “Senzeni Na?”, meaning “What have we done?”

The Municipality continues to support initiatives that promote awareness, prevention and collective action against gender-based violence and femicide.

“Thank you to the staff of the George Municipality who came out in solidarity against gender-based violence and the brutal killing of women and children,” Mayor Johnson concluded.

In the photo: Heavy rain blankets parts of George as severe weather moves across the area.

George Municipality has activated its contingency plans and placed relevant municipal services on high alert following weather warnings issued for George and surrounding areas.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 4 warning for disruptive rain affecting George and surrounding areas from 12:00 today, Thursday, 3 September, until 23:59 tonight. Rainfall accumulations of 20–40 mm are expected, increasing to 50–70 mm in mountainous areas.

A Level 2 Yellow Warning for strong to near-gale-force southeasterly winds of 40 to 50 km/h is also in effect from today through Friday morning. Along the south-west coast, winds could reach gale-force speeds of 65–70 km/h.

According to SAWS, the predicted conditions may result in flooding of roads and settlements, including informal and formal settlements; fast-flowing streams posing a danger to life; possible damage to roads and bridges; and major disruptions to traffic flow where roads are flooded or closed.

The George municipal area, including George, Uniondale and Haarlem, may be affected, along with other parts of the Garden Route.

Municipal services on high alert

An integrated, multi-sectoral and multidisciplinary response has been mobilised across the Municipality to ensure effective disaster prevention, mitigation, preparedness and response.
Since the weather warning was issued, the Municipality has been assessing its readiness and coordinating response measures ahead of the anticipated weather event.

Municipal services currently on high alert include Disaster Management, Community Services, Planning and Human Settlements, Traffic Services, Civil Engineering Services, Electrotechnical Services and Technical Services.

Personnel and resources have been placed on standby to enable a rapid response to incidents arising from the anticipated weather conditions. Response arrangements also extend to Uniondale and Haarlem.

Executive Mayor of George, Ald Browen Johnson, urged residents to take the weather warnings seriously and to exercise caution as the Municipality continues to prepare for the anticipated con-ditions.

“Our residents’ safety remains our priority. Our municipal teams and relevant services are on standby and ready to respond to incidents as they arise. We urge residents, particularly those in areas vulnerable to flooding, to take the necessary precautions, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and heed any evacuation or safety advice issued by the authorities. We ask residents to remain vigilant, report emergencies as soon as possible and continue to monitor official municipal communication for updates,” said Mayor Johnson.

Residents urged to take precautions

Residents living in low-lying areas, flood-prone zones and areas along natural stormwater flow channels are strongly advised to take extra precautions, monitor weather conditions closely and prepare for possible localised flooding.

Residents should make early arrangements to move to safer or higher ground if conditions deteriorate and evacuation becomes necessary.

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Residents are urged to:
• If possible, stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.
• Never drive on a road covered by water.
• Avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams, particularly where water is above ankle height.
• If trapped in a vehicle during flooding, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground if it is safe to do so.
• Switch off the electricity at the building’s main supply point if flooding threatens the property and it is safe to do so.
• In rural areas, protect or relocate animals to a safe place on higher ground.
• If evacuation is recommended, leave immediately and before floodwater cuts off access routes.

Residents are encouraged to monitor George Municipality’s official social media platforms, website and local media outlets for weather warnings, emergency notices and service updates.
Residents are also urged to save the emergency contact numbers below and report weather-related emergencies as soon as possible.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

GEORGE

Municipal Switchboard
(07:45–16:30)
044 801 9111

Toll-Free Disaster Management – 24/7
0800 424 477

Fire Emergencies – 24/7
044 801 6311
After Hours
044 801 6300

UNIONDALE & HAARLEM

Uniondale/Haarlem Emergency Only
044 801 9189

Uniondale/Haarlem Fire Service
(07:45–16:30)
044 752 1225

Uniondale/Haarlem After Hours
044 801 6300

CIVIL ENGINEERING CUSTOMER SERVICES
Stormwater-related complaints – 07:45–16:30
044 801 9262 / 044 801 9266

COMMUNITY SAFETY
The Safer City Call Centre is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to receive and log safety-related complaints and incidents.

24-Hour Safer City Call Centre:
044 801 6350
044 801 6310
044 801 6389

GARDEN ROUTE DISASTER MANAGEMENT CENTRE
044 805 5071

ENDS

Illustration: A water reservoir constructed as part of ongoing investment in water infrastructure

George Municipal Council has approved the rezoning of a portion of Erf 221, George, paving the way for the future construction of two new bulk potable water storage reservoirs that will significantly strengthen the municipality’s long-term water security.

The decision, taken at a Special Council Meeting held on 23 June 2026, forms part of the implementation of the Municipality’s approved Water Master Plan and long-term infrastructure programme aimed at ensuring a reliable water supply for a growing population.

The proposed reservoirs will provide an additional 33 million litres (33ML) of bulk potable water storage capacity. The project will be implemented in phases, with the first 16.5ML reservoir planned for construction in the near future, while a second 16.5ML reservoir will be developed as future demand and growth require.

The new reservoirs are planned on municipal-owned land situated west of the existing bulk storage reservoirs above the New Water Treatment Works.

Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson welcomed the Council’s decision, describing it as an important investment in George’s future. “While recent rainfall has brought welcome relief to our water supply system, Responsible municipalities must continue planning. George continues to grow, and we must ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with that growth. Today’s decision is a significant milestone towards improving our potable water storage capacity and strengthening the resilience of our water supply system for future generations,” said Mayor Johnson.

The Municipality’s existing bulk potable water reservoirs currently provide approximately 43.6 million litres of storage, equating to about 40 hours of supply under current demand conditions.

Studies undertaken through the Municipality’s Water Master Plan have identified the need for an additional 33 million litres of storage capacity to ensure sufficient water availability during normal operations, peak demand periods, maintenance activities, and emergencies.

MMC for Civil Engineering Services, Cllr Donovan Gultig, said the project forms part of the Municipality’s long-term strategy to safeguard water services. “Additional storage capacity provides greater operational flexibility and improves our ability to manage future growth, maintenance requirements, and unforeseen disruptions. This project demonstrates our commitment to proactive planning and sustainable service delivery,” said Gultig.

Council’s approval authorises the commencement of the required land-use planning processes, including the rezoning of approximately 12 000 square metres of municipal land from Agricultural Zone 1 (vacant/undeveloped land) to Utility Zone to accommodate the proposed reservoirs and associated infrastructure.

The Civil Engineering Services Directorate is currently in the detailed design phase of the project and is simultaneously pursuing the necessary environmental authorisations in terms of the National Environmental Management Act and the National Water Act.

Construction of the reservoirs remains subject to the completion of statutory planning processes, environmental approvals, and future budgetary provisions.

The Municipality will continue to provide updates as the project progresses through the various planning and approval stages.

In the photo: Gee Swart from EDR rescue with role players

Despite unfavourable weather conditions, emergency response teams from across the Garden Route remained committed to strengthening disaster preparedness and inter-agency coordination through a tabletop emergency response exercise hosted at the George Fire Department yesterday.

The exercise brought together various emergency services and response agencies to improve collaboration, strengthen communication, and enhance operational readiness during emergency incidents.

The primary objective of the exercise was to foster cooperation among all role players, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each discipline’s capabilities, equipment and operational procedures, while promoting a unified approach to emergency response. These exercises play a vital role in preparing emergency personnel to respond effectively to incidents and ultimately improve the service delivered to the community.

Practical exercises such as these provide an opportunity to review emergency procedures, identify areas for improvement, and strengthen coordination between responding agencies in a controlled environment before real-life emergencies occur.

The participating agencies included:
• George Fire Department
• South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue and Dive Unit
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Rescue
• Fire Protection Services (FPS) Special Operations Response Team
• EDR Rescue

The continued commitment and professionalism demonstrated by all participating teams reflect their shared dedication to protecting lives and ensuring the safety of communities throughout the Garden Route, regardless of weather conditions.

In the photo: Stakeholders and exhibitors who participated in the Construction and Property Development Expo pose for a group photograph. The expo brought together representatives from George Municipality, SANParks, the Development Action Group (DAG), national and provincial government departments, regulatory bodies, funding institutions, business support organisations, and industry partners committed to supporting the growth of local SMMEs.

Local construction and property development SMMEs gained direct access to compliance support, funding opportunities, and industry networks through a Construction and Property Development Expo held at the Conville Community Hall on 18 June 2026.

The expo was presented through a partnership among the George Municipality’s Economic Development Division, SANParks, and the Development Action Group (DAG), aimed at strengthening local businesses by improving compliance, expanding access to funding opportunities, and providing industry support services.

According to Luvo Bomvana, Manager for Economic Development at George Municipality, a total of 163 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) attended the event, which brought together more than 22 organisations from the public and private sectors. “Participating organisations included the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Department of Employment and Labour, the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC), the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, as well as several funding institutions and business support organisations,” said Bomvana.

He added that the expo equipped business owners with practical knowledge on regulatory compliance, procurement opportunities, and financial support mechanisms available within the construction and property development sector. “Private-sector stakeholders also showcased a range of funding products designed to support business growth and sustainability,” he said.

Through a series of panel discussions and presentations, participants gained valuable insights into industry requirements, funding opportunities, and best practices for operating competitively within the sector. The programme also included discussions on small-scale rental housing as an emerging economic opportunity within the George municipal area.

Officials from George Municipality’s Town Planning and Building Control sections highlighted the importance of integrated human settlements and housing planning that promotes sustainable development, economic empowerment, and equitable access to housing opportunities.

SANParks presented its interest-free purchase order funding initiative in partnership with SANLAM and guided suppliers through registration processes, procurement requirements, and available opportunities for qualifying businesses.

The event further created opportunities for direct engagement between SMMEs, government departments, funding institutions, and industry bodies, helping businesses build networks and access support services that can contribute to their long-term growth and success.

The Municipality’s MMC for Planning and Development, Councillor Gert Niehaus, said the initiative forms part of the Municipality’s broader commitment to inclusive economic growth and local enterprise development. “This expo is an important platform that brings together government, the private sector, and local entrepreneurs in a meaningful way,” said Councillor Niehaus.

“By improving access to compliance information, funding opportunities, and procurement systems, we are actively enabling SMMEs to participate in and benefit from the local economy. As a Municipality, we remain committed to creating an environment where small businesses can grow, create jobs, and contribute to sustainable development in George,” he said.

George Municipality remains committed to supporting initiatives that stimulate local economic development, promote entrepreneurship, and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

In the photo: Growing shade, beauty, and resilience—one tree at a time

Following the severe storms and strong winds that recently affected the George municipal area, including George, Uniondale, and Haarlem, hundreds of trees have been lost across public and private spaces.

As residents, businesses, and community organisations begin the recovery process and consider replacing damaged or lost trees, George Municipality is releasing updated lists of recommended tree species suitable for planting in the George, Uniondale, and Haarlem areas.

The recommended tree lists have been compiled to assist property owners in selecting species best suited to local environmental conditions, while promoting the planting of indigenous trees that contribute to biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and the unique natural character of the region.
The lists will also guide future tree-planting initiatives undertaken by the Municipality’s Parks and Recreation Section and form part of the broader vision contained in the George Tree Master Plan, which is currently being finalised.

Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson said the loss of so many trees during the recent storms serves as a reminder of the important role trees play in our communities. “Trees provide shade, improve air quality, support biodiversity, and enhance the beauty of our towns and neighbourhoods. As we rebuild after the storms, we encourage residents to plant suitable indigenous species that will thrive in our local conditions and contribute to a greener, more resilient future.”

Tips for Successful Tree Planting

George Municipality encourages residents and businesses to consider the following guidelines when selecting and planting trees:
• All trees included on the recommended lists are indigenous to the George region. Residents are encouraged to visit SANBI’s PlantZAfrica website for photographs and additional information on individual species.
• Choose the right tree for the right location by considering soil type, moisture levels, sunlight, wind exposure, and nearby infrastructure such as pipelines, buildings, and roads.
• Prioritise indigenous trees naturally occurring in your area. Trees from other regions may struggle in local conditions or become invasive.
• Prepare the planting hole properly by digging it twice as wide and slightly deeper than the root ball. Mix compost with soil at a ratio of one part compost to three parts soil before backfilling.
• Create a basin around the tree to retain water and apply a 5–10 cm layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• In windy areas, stake young trees to provide support until they are established.
Consider companion planting with two or three faster-growing indigenous shrubs or small trees to provide shelter and encourage healthy growth of slower-growing species.

Residents are reminded that planting the right tree in the right place not only improves the survival rate of newly planted trees but also reduces future risks to infrastructure and public safety.

The recommended tree lists for George, and for Uniondale, and Haarlem can be downloaded from the George Municipality website:

George Recommended Tree List:
https://www.george.gov.za/george-document/recommended-tree-list-george/

Uniondale and Haarlem Recommended Tree List:
https://www.george.gov.za/george-document/recommended-tree-list-uniondale-and-haarlem/
For further information, residents may contact the Environmental Services Section of George Municipality.