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Matatiele Local Municipality has begun a rapid pothole-repair programme in Ward 19. Mayor Patrick Stuurman led the operation this week, joined by senior officials and infrastructure managers. The project aims to prepare the town for heavy December traffic as residents return home for the holidays.
What Happened
Mayor Patrick Stuurman visited Ward 19 to oversee the closure of multiple potholes across key roads in the town. He was accompanied by the municipal executive committee, Municipal Manager Lizo Matiwane, and infrastructure department managers.
Teams moved through the town on 3 November 2025, sealing high-risk sections first. The repairs form part of the municipality’s broader infrastructure upgrade plan for both urban and rural areas.
Stuurman said the programme aligns with Matatiele’s commitment to safer and smoother local roads.
Official Response
Mayor Stuurman explained that the municipality wants all strategic routes ready before the festive season rush.
“We expect traffic to increase as people return home. By the tenth of this month, this project should be finished,” he said.
He added that the repairs shows the municipality’s duty to create safer road conditions and maintain essential infrastructure.
Community Impact
Residents have welcomed the initiative, saying smoother roads will reduce accidents, travel delays, and vehicle damage. Local taxi operators also noted that the work arrives at the right time, as holiday travel usually brings heavier traffic.
The municipality plans to continue similar interventions across other wards.
