COMMUNITY FED UP OVER DELAYED LEOLO ACCESS ROAD

Ngwaketsi Molamo

The residents of Leolo, a mountainous village in the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality, are frustrated over the delayed construction of a critical 5km access road. The project was handed over by the MEC of Public Works and Infrastructure on August 5, 2025, with an expected start date in the 2025-2026 financial year. However, months have passed with no progress or communication.

The absence of this road has severe consequences, especially during the rainy season, jeopardizing the delivery of essential services such as school nutrition programs, access to clinics, and grant collection for the elderly. Residents are forced to risk their lives crossing rivers and walking long distances, while learners miss valuable class time to collect food intended for schools.

The community has given the municipality until May 9, 2026, to provide a concrete plan for the completion of the road. If they do not receive a satisfactory response, residents threaten to escalate the matter, demanding answers and action.

Man Molamo, a community member from Mohlake, expressed his frustration, recalling a distressing incident where community members had to carry a casket 15km through the mountains. “We’re tired; enough is enough,” he said. “Politicians promised services, but it’s not happening.” He added, “Mokone tše a se tšona” (My man, these promises are not being fulfilled).

Community representative Mrs. Seloane echoed this sentiment: “We’ve had enough . Our people deserve better”. We call on the municipality and the Department of Public Works to prioritize this road.

The people of Leolo have waited long enough. It’s time for action, not just promises. We join their call for the municipality and the Department of Public Works, Roads, and Infrastructure to urgently address this critical issue and deliver the promised access road. If not, we will take our protest to the mayor’s office.