Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality Mayor Outlines Vision for a Brighter Future in State of the Municipality Address

Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality Mayor Cllr David Tladi delivered nuanced overview of the municipality's progress, challenges, and future plans, emphasizing the importance of collaborative governance, community engagement, and sustainable development.

By Mpho Dube

Editor in Chief, Founder and Publisher

The Mayor of Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality, Cllr David Tladi, delivered a comprehensive State of the Municipality Address at the Groblersdal Rugby Stadium on July 24, 2025 with unwavering dedication and a deep commitment to the well-being of his community.

In his address, Mayor Tladi provided a nuanced overview of the municipality's progress, challenges, and future plans, emphasizing the importance of collaborative governance, community engagement, and sustainable development. With a steadfast commitment to improving residents' lives, he outlined key initiatives aimed at driving economic growth, enhancing service delivery, and fostering a sense of community unity and pride.

"We are reminded of our collective responsibility to combat poverty and inequity," Mayor Tladi said, quoting Nelson Mandela's words. "Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a ripple effect that can transform lives and strengthen the fabric of our society. Let us work together to build a brighter future for all our residents, where everyone has access to basic services, opportunities for growth, and a chance to thrive."

The municipality has made significant progress in service delivery, including the construction of roads, electrification projects, and waste management initiatives. Notably, the municipality has invested R29 million in disaster grant funds to address damage caused by heavy flooding, specifically for rebuilding roads. "We are committed to ensuring that our communities have access to reliable and efficient services," Mayor Tladi emphasized.

The municipality has successfully held public participation meetings in 31 wards, ensuring that community needs are heard and addressed. "We value the input and participation of our communities in shaping the future of our municipality," Mayor Tladi said.

The municipality has implemented various youth empowerment programs, including bursaries and mentorship initiatives. In the 2024/2025 financial year, 40 students received R10,000 each to aid their educational pursuits, totaling R400,000. "Investing in our youth is investing in the future of our community," Mayor Tladi emphasized. "We are committed to providing opportunities for our young people to grow and succeed."

The municipality has invested in infrastructure development, including the construction of schools, roads, and community facilities. The municipality has allocated R99 million for capital expenditure in the 2025/2026 financial year, with funding sources including MIG, INEP, and internally generated funds. Some of the notable projects include:

The municipality has allocated R68 million for road construction projects, including the upgrading of Waalkraal access road and stormwater control.

The municipality has allocated R20 million for electrification projects, including the electrification of Mantronmbi and other areas.

The municipality is constructing several schools, including King Nchabeleng School in Ward 04 and Aquaville School in Ward 14.

The municipality's operating revenue budget for 2025/2026 amounts to R762 million, reflecting an increase of R24 million over the 2024/2025 operating revenue budget.

The municipality's operating expenditure budget for 2025/2026 amounts to R753 million, resulting in an operating surplus of R8 million. The municipality has allocated R99 million for capital expenditure in the 2025/2026 financial year, with funding sources including MIG, INEP, and internally generated funds.

"We are aware of the challenges faced by our communities, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to basic services," Mayor Tladi acknowledged. "However, we are committed to addressing these challenges through effective governance, efficient service delivery, and community engagement. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our municipality is a place where everyone can thrive."

"Let us work together to build a brighter future for all our residents," Mayor Tladi urged. "Together, we can achieve greatness and make our municipality a place where everyone succeeds. We will continue to prioritize the needs of our communities, and work tirelessly to ensure that our municipality is a place of opportunity, growth, and prosperity for all."

In conclusion, Mayor Tladi expressed his gratitude to the community for their support and participation in the municipality's activities. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and community engagement in building a brighter future for the residents of Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality.

The State of the Municipality Address provides a comprehensive overview of the municipality's progress, challenges, and future plans. It highlights the importance of collaboration, community engagement, and effective governance in building a brighter future for the residents of Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality.

As the municipality looks to the future, it is clear that there are challenges ahead. However, with the commitment and dedication of the community, the municipality is confident that it can overcome these challenges and build a brighter future for all its residents.

As the Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality looks to the future, it is clear that the leadership of Mayor Tladi will play a pivotal role in shaping the community's destiny. With a strong commitment to accountability, public participation, and service delivery, the municipality is well-positioned to tackle its challenges and build a brighter future for its residents.

As the Deputy Regional Chairperson of ANC Sekhukhune Region, Mayor Tladi's dedication to serving the community extends beyond the municipality, demonstrating his passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others.

The Mayor's vision for a brighter future is not just a lofty ideal, but a tangible reality that can be achieved through collective effort and determination. By working together, the community and the municipality can overcome the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to basic services, and create a prosperous and thriving society for all.

Under Mayor Tladi's leadership, the municipality has made significant strides in service delivery, public participation, and infrastructure development. The allocation of R99 million for capital expenditure in the 2025/2026 financial year is a testament to the municipality's commitment to improving the lives of its residents.

With continued investment in programs such as youth empowerment and infrastructure development, the municipality is poised for sustained growth and development.

As the community looks to the future, they can take heart in the knowledge that their leaders are working tirelessly to build a better tomorrow. Mayor Tladi's compassion and commitment to serving the community, as evident in the ANC Sekhukhune region's visit to a child-headed family in Moteti Village, demonstrate his genuine concern for the well-being of all residents.

With Mayor Tladi at the helm, Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality is set to become a beacon of hope and prosperity, where every resident has access to opportunities for growth and development. The future looks bright, and the community can rest assured that their leaders are committed to making a positive difference in their lives.