I WOULD like to inform the residents of eThekwini, especially those in the security and cleaning industries, that after exploring various options of insourcing their services, it proved to be unaffordable for the City. It was proposed during a Full Council meeting on 12 March that the eThekwini City Manager promptly explore the implementation of a social enterprises model. This model involves organising cleaners and security guards into cooperatives and social enterprises, from which the Municipality will source these services. As the leadership of the City, we fully support the decent work agenda and better treatment of vulnerable workers in eThekwini. We have given the City Manager and his team three months to explore these proposals so that we become more responsive to the plight of cleaners and security guards. In addition, I want to provide an update on the ongoing issue of insourcing those who are part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

This matter was raised by unions regarding the permanent employment of those in the EPWP. While this matter was conciliated by the CCMA, no resolution was reached, and it is now proceeding to full arbitration. We must allow these processes to be concluded. Moreover, in our efforts to reduce water losses and ensure accurate billing of residents, the Municipality began a new meter reading contract on 13 December 2023. Additionally, two new meter reading platforms were commissioned and implemented during the same period. These platforms feature improved technology, allowing readings obtained and captured into handheld terminals to be photographed with a time and date stamp. All meters found and read during the reading cycle are also logged on GPS for future location by the meter reading and maintenance teams. 

Furthermore, all readings obtained are audited within the platforms, which have business intelligence built into them to ensure that the readings being sent to the Revenue Management System for billing are accurate and reflect the true consumption of the customer. I am pleased to report that in the January/February cycle, over 500 000 properties were visited, of which 393 822 properties were billed on actual readings, marking an improvement from 22 percent to 75.51 percent. The remaining 127 793 properties were estimated because meter readers could not obtain accurate readings due to various reasons such as broken, vandalised, or inaccessible meters.

On a more sombre note, I am saddened by the recent passing of veteran newscaster Joe Maruping and Ukhozi FM presenter Bheka Mchunu. This is a significant blow to the nation as their roles went beyond merely informing listeners. They were the guardians of the isiZulu language in their work for Ukhozi FM, the world’s second largest radio station. The preservation of a language is essential as it ensures the continuity of culture. Maruping and Mchunu utilised the station’s platform effectively to uphold traditions and customs, fostering a deep connection with the over seven million listeners of the station. I extend my sincere condolences to the families of Maruping and Mchunu, their friends, the South African Broadcasting Corporation, and Ukhozi FM.