By OBAKENG MAJE
26 May 2025- Inaccessible roads across the North West province, particularly in rural areas, continue to be a challenge. The residents of Madipelesa village, near Taung said, this has affected their livelihoods for the longest time and the North West Department of Public Works and Roads ignores their plea.
The community embarked on a peaceful protest last week and submitted a memorandum of demand to the North West Department of Public Works and Roads. Teaching and Learning was also affected as all roads in the village were barricaded with stones and tree branches.
One of the community leaders, Bolelang Mogamisi said they demand a tarred road and improved infrastructure. Mogamisi said the community demanded a tarred road from Madipelesa to Seoding village.
“That road is crucial for our daily execution. We use it to and from town. So, we are in desperation regarding its deplorable state. Truly speaking, the road is gravel and its overall state is poor.
“Despite numerous attempts to engage the North West Department of Public Works and Roads to construct a tarred road for us, our plea fell in deaf ears,” he said.
Mogamisi further said they demand an upgrade and the existing gravel road be tarred. He added that the department must ensure that the road is safe and durable.
“We have written letters in the previous juncture. Given the department’s lack of response to our concerns, we are left with no choice but to take drastic measures.
“We urge the department to take immediate action in addressing our concerns and avoid further disruption within our community. We are united in our demand for a tarred road,” said Mogamisi.
He said as a community, they deserve safe, durable and well-maintained infrastructure that supports their daily lives and economic activities.
The North West Department of Public Works and Roads spokesperson, Mmakgori Tong said: “The department is aware of the community’s demand. We have also received a memorandum and we will respond to it within 14 days.”
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said access to schools in Madipelesa has been blocked due to barricades and burning tyres, resulting in the suspension of teaching and learning activities. Molokwane said the disruption was linked to community protests concerning service delivery issues.
“The District Office has informed the principals of the affected schools to adjust schedules and allocate additional time for learners to catch up on missed lessons.
“This measure aims to reduce the adverse effects of the disruption on learners’ education. Police personnel were on sight to maintain safety and order during the protests,” he said.
Molokwane said the department strongly advises learners to avoid participating in the demonstrations, warning that involvement could jeopardize their safety and may lead to legal consequences.
The Guardian 