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IOL News
05-08-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Bredell yet to decide on intervention in Knysna Municipality
MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell. Image: Facebook LOCAL government MEC Anton Bredell has yet to take further action after announcing in June his intention to intervene in the Knysna municipality, citing 'reasonable grounds' that it was failing to meet its executive obligations under the Constitution and other legislation. Approached for comment on the status of the intervention, spokesperson for Bredell, Wouter Kriel said: 'Minister is still studying and applying his mind to the response received from Knysna Municipality." Knysna Municipality said they have responded to the MEC. "We have not received any further correspondence at this stage," said Knysna Municipality spokesperson, Christopher Bezuidenhout. Late in June, Bredell said the notice issued to the municipality on June 26, details the municipality's persistent and ongoing failures to fulfil its executive obligations relating to delivering basic services, particularly in wastewater/sanitation management, water and refuse management. "These failures are associated with and caused by systemic governance issues on the part of the municipality; council's failure of a prioritised response; prolonged infrastructure neglect; budget allocation decisions; accountability failures in the municipality's management of wastewater /sewerage, water provision, and refuse management.' Shortly after Bredell's announcement, Knysna Mayor Thando Matika pushed back against the provincial government's plan to dissolve the municipal council, maintaining that Knysna is on the right path to recovery. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Matika last month said they had implemented structural reforms and enhanced service delivery since the Council adopted the Consolidated Executive Obligations Monitoring and Enforcement Framework (CEOMEF) in June 2024. 'The journey is far from over but Knysna is on the correct path. A series of administrative and governance improvements were undertaken,' the mayor said at the time. Matika had highlighted key infrastructure improvements in 2024, including an upgraded waste transfer station and enhancements to water and sanitation systems. In response to a 2025 wastewater non-compliance notice, the municipality addressed mechanical faults, engaged stakeholders in a regulatory workshop, and committed to weekly effluent reporting and a coastal discharge permit application. Knysna United said while officials were trying to turn things around, in their view most of the problems were endemic. 'We know the municipal manager and the new mayor are trying their best. It however is hard and most of the problems are endemic and definitely require some kind of intervention. We must all put Knysna first and if we do that then we must welcome intervention. The problem, however, is what kind of intervention. Are we talking about administration or about new elections or both? We will definitely support administration, maybe until the LGE 2026. In terms of new elections now, we are not sure and are busy consulting on this matter. 'We would want the administrator to prioritise the prosecution of all cases of corruption. Also to recover all wasteful and fruitless expenditures from whoever was involved. There must be consequence management,' said Knysna United's Ralph Stander. Cape Times
IOL News
30-07-2025
- General
- IOL News
Western Cape declares Wilderness Nature Reserve to protect biodiversity
The Wilderness Nature Reserve Image: CapeNature In a significant stride towards bolstering environmental conservation, the Western Cape has officially declared the Wilderness Nature Reserve, encompassing over 643 hectares near Heidelberg. Declared as a Provincial Nature Reserve on 17 July 2025, this new sanctuary plays a crucial role in preserving freshwater biodiversity, safeguarding endangered species, and establishing vital ecological corridors. The Wilderness Nature Reserve features a wealth of biodiversity, including the Critically Endangered Breede River Redfin. It also provides a crucial breeding area for the Black Harrier, recognised as the rarest raptor in southern Africa, and classified as an Endangered species. This new reserve is not just a haven for wildlife; it is paramount for maintaining the delicate balance of local ecosystems. Approximately 615 hectares of the reserve have been designated as a Priority Biodiversity Area, linking directly to the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area—a formally protected Provincial Nature Reserve recognised as part of a World Heritage Site. This strategic connection enhances biodiversity conservation efforts across the region. MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, praised the collaborative efforts between CapeNature and various landowners that led to this declaration. 'This new reserve is not only a haven for wildlife; it is paramount for maintaining the delicate balance of local ecosystems,' he said. 'Our commitment to expanding protected areas is essential in the face of biodiversity loss and climate change.' The establishment of the Wilderness Nature Reserve is a proactive measure that guarantees the long-term health and resilience of the province's biodiversity. It protects critical components of the ecosystem, ensuring that vital species have a secure habitat where they can flourish. Moreover, this nature reserve serves as a key ecological link to the adjoining Boosmansbos Nature Reserve, significantly enhancing the overall network of protected areas. The properties hold immense conservation value, not only by offering habitat for threatened species but also through their contribution to essential ecosystem services, acting as a critical catchment for the Duivenhoks Dam that supplies water to communities downstream. Landowners interested in protecting their land formally are encouraged to reach out to CapeNature's Antia Wheeler at awheeler@ or Kaylin Reid at kreid@ for guidance and assistance.
IOL News
22-07-2025
- General
- IOL News
CapeNature welcomes 475 new participants into Expanded Public Works Programme
L-R: CapeNature's Thabiso Mokoena, Elizabeth Maggot, Jonathan Jasson, Sakumzi Woyikani, and Graham Lewis. Image: CapeNature CapeNature has proudly welcomed 475 enthusiastic new participants into its three-year Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), reaffirming its commitment to skills development, environmental conservation, and community upliftment across the Western Cape. This significant intake was celebrated at Kogelberg Nature Reserve on Mandela Day, 18 July, a date that serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle against poverty and inequality. The event not only marked the beginning of new opportunities for participants but also highlighted the vital role of meaningful employment in fostering social change. The 2023 Mandela Day theme, 'It's still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity,' resonates deeply with CapeNature's goals for the EPWP. The programme aims to address both environmental challenges and socio-economic issues faced by communities throughout the province. By providing a comprehensive platform for training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, CapeNature is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of participants and their communities. Participants in the EPWP will receive critical training in areas such as invasive species management, wildfire response, biodiversity monitoring, and eco-tourism across various provincial nature reserves. The programme prioritises the inclusion of women, youth, and persons with disabilities, aligning with national targets to support vulnerable groups. Between 2022 and 2025, the programme is set to employ a total of 1,366 participants, offering three-year contracts instead of just one, thereby providing greater job security and opportunities for growth. MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, emphasised the transformative power of the EPWP during the welcoming event. 'During this time, there will be opportunities for training, and you will have the chance to explore your particular interests in conservation, tourism, or working with our many neighbours and stakeholder communities,' he said. Bredell highlighted past successes where participants have made significant advancements in personal development, including securing permanent employment as a direct result of their commitment to the programme. The inspiring stories of past participants illustrate the programme's potential. Thabiso Mokoena, who joined the EPWP after completing his undergraduate diploma, started as an Environmental Education Officer and is now a successful SMME Development Specialist. He attributes his career progression to the valuable skills and mentorship he received through the programme. As CapeNature continues to cultivate a skilled workforce, it remains dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering sustainable development in the Western Cape. This initiative not only invests in people but also in the preservation of nature, proving that meaningful employment can yield profound societal benefits.
The South African
20-06-2025
- Climate
- The South African
Western Cape prepares for winter as storms approach
The Western Cape government has activated its disaster readiness plans as winter cold and wet conditions are forecast to persist into next week. Anton Bredell, the MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, said provincial services are on high alert. 'Our disaster and emergency services are ready to respond swiftly,' Bredell confirmed. 'The Provincial Disaster Management Centre coordinates and supports the district disaster centres, and each local municipality in the province knows what is expected during the coming winter months to keep people safe.' The province's preparation comes amid weather warnings of increased flood risks in vulnerable areas. Following a tragic drowning at a low-level bridge in Slanghoek, officials have reiterated safety precautions. Bredell urged residents to stay informed and prepare for winter emergencies. 'We appeal to the public not to litter or dump in stormwater drains, as this will stop the water from draining away and cause even more flooding,' he said. The Provincial Disaster Management Centre also advised households to prepare emergency kits. A 'grab-and-go' kit should include identification documents, essential medicines, phone chargers, cash, and a first aid kit. 'Assess where you live, as your home may flood if you are near a river or if there is poor drainage,' the centre said. Authorities have emphasised the importance of heeding weather warnings from credible sources such as the South African Weather Service or local municipalities. Residents should evacuate early in flood-prone or low-lying areas and avoid driving or walking through floodwaters. 'Just 15 cm of fast-moving water can knock you down, and a depth of two feet can float a car,' the department warned. Contact with floodwater should also be avoided due to contamination of sewage, fuel, or chemicals. Bredell stressed the role of public cooperation: 'These men and women are trained to keep us safe, and they risk their own lives to do this. We can reduce these risks by giving our full cooperation and sharing a mindset of rather safe than sorry.' Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
