By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

11 March 2025- The Democratic Alliance leader in Northern Cape, Harold McGluwa, who is also a Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) in the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature (NCPL) said foremost priority remains health and education. McGluwa who was part of the Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul’s State of the Province Address (SOPA) debate in Kimberley said, they acknowledge that the health budget is substantial, however, the latest District Health Barometer released by the Health Systems Trust, reveals inefficiencies in budget allocations.

He further said some districts like Namakwa, are spending excessively, while others, such as ZF Mgcawu district, are under-resourced. McGluwa added that, the disparity is reflected in the recent picketing by hospital staff at the Dr Harry Surtie Hospital, who are advocating for improved patient services.

“One sign reads, “Fix the system, save lives,” which also applies to our Emergency Medical Services, particularly concerning ambulance availability. We must ensure that every child receives quality education. Early Childhood Development (ECD) is facing numerous challenges, particularly in townships where many parents are unable to afford necessary support.

“We welcome the commitment to no retrenchments of educators as we strive to improve educational outcomes. This implementation highlights that our government is no longer merely a rubber stamp for decisions. It means that the GNU works for the country and its people,” he said.

McGluwa said it is important to strengthen the Technical and Vocational sector. He said they must strengthen the TVET colleges, shifting the focus from a mining to a university city with the Sol Plaatje University.

“This change will require close collaboration with the department of higher education, to ensure we align our educational system with the evolving job market. I saw Deputy Minister, Dr Gondwe, visited the Kuruman TVET already. Additionally, to combat the issue of impregnators of minors, we also need to begin initiatives at schools and workplaces.

“We must stop the sexual assault of minors who are not old enough to consent. Clinics and hospitals must voluntarily avail critical information to law enforcement. Social development must play their role as well,” said McGluwa.

He said water infrastructure project of R2.5 billion in the capital city is a significant step towards resolving the ongoing water crisis in Kimberley. McGluwa said they acknowledge that contractors have been appointed, and they trust that Saul’s commitment to resolving this issue is genuine.

“However, it is crucial that we engage skilled and capable contractors who can complete their projects. There have been instances where contractors, such as the one who handled the roads in Rietfontein, abandoned their work, leaving projects incomplete since 2023. I appreciate your initiative Premier to engage with the mining sector, which has been long overdue.

“The contributions of the 35 mining companies can significantly bolster the Northern Cape economy, creating jobs across various sectors. As you rightfully say, the Northern Cape is the second-best province in the country that created jobs. Premier, you know that the Western Cape is the best province in the country,” he said.

McGluwa said Boegoebaai Harbour project is a long-time in the making with blended financing and international partners. He said its potential to be a game changer for the Northern Cape must be safeguarded through transparent and accountable management and the inclusion of the local community in order for them to benefit.

“On the topic of renewable energy, it is crucial that we harness our renewable power potential. The establishment of new substations and power lines throughout the province, in partnership with Eskom, will unlock our renewable energy capabilities and integrate solar power into the grid.

“We hope SANRAL will facilitate local companies’ involvement in the R14 billion road projects. Regarding Infrastructure and Municipal Improvements, I commend the discussions with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS),” he said.

McGluwa said the Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Bentley Vass will be excited to collaborate with Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Sello Seitlholo on constructing dams that will undoubtedly mean a lot and improve water quality and the reliability of water supply to the communities. He said it is imperative that they expedite this process, as the deadline of 2030 is too far in the future.

“The commitment by the Premier to strengthen municipalities through improved infrastructure funding is commendable. However, it is concerning that some municipalities are returning unspent funds back to the National Treasury. Sewerage issues are indeed affecting business and tourism in the province, let alone creating a health risk to communities.

“The ongoing failure to get the Homevale Wastewater Treatment Plant fully operational is central to addressing the growing spills along the R31 and the N12, as well as the extremely high-water level at the Kamfers Dam. Sol Plaatje had to face this matter in court. It is concerning in all municipalities with Kimberley and Upington contributing largely to the sewage spills into our dams and rivers,” said McGluwa.

He said Sol Plaatje also lost R80 million in grant funding due to the gross underspending of grant allocations, while Kimberley residents struggle with water shortages and sewage spills. McGluwa said they must collectively hold municipalities accountable for their expenditure to ensure that these funds are utilised effectively.

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