SALDANHA BAY MUNICIPALITY
NEWSROOM
MEDIA RELEASES
Louwville Housing Project: Building Homes, Strengthening Communities
06 July 2026
A day of celebration and new beginnings unfolded today as 38 completed homes were officially handed over to their new owners at the Louwville Housing Project in Ward 13. Among the proud beneficiaries was 86-year-old Mrs Engelbrecht, who received the keys to her new home with great joy.
The handover ceremony was attended by the Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, Mr Tertuis Simmers, together with the Executive Mayor of Saldanha Bay Municipality, Alderman Marius Koen, members of the Mayoral Committee, beneficiaries, and members of the community.
Addressing those gathered, Minister Simmers spoke of the significance of receiving the keys to a new home.
“A key represents far more than a house. It unlocks opportunity, security, dignity and the promise of a better quality of life.”
Mayor Koen congratulated the beneficiaries on reaching this life-changing milestone. There were emotional scenes as families unlocked their front doors for the first time, stepping into homes they can finally call their own after years of waiting.
The Louwville Housing Project was initiated by Saldanha Bay Municipality in partnership with the Western Cape Government, particularly the Department of Infrastructure, to help address the significant housing demand across the municipal area.
The municipality currently has more than 13,000 applicants on its housing demand database, with over 6,000 of those applicants residing in Vredenburg, particularly in Wards 10 and 13.
Recognising this need, the Municipality embarked on the Louwville Housing Project to provide well-located, fully serviced housing opportunities to qualifying beneficiaries. The project forms part of the Municipality’s broader vision of creating integrated, sustainable, and inclusive human settlements where residents have access to essential municipal services, schools, healthcare facilities, public transport, and economic opportunities.
Like many major public infrastructure projects, the Louwville Housing Project has faced its share of challenges. Through the commitment and collaboration of municipal officials, the Western Cape Government, consultants, contractors and community stakeholders, these challenges were overcome, allowing the project to reach this important milestone.
The project was developed with several key objectives:
- Reduce the municipal housing backlog.
- Provide secure home ownership to qualifying beneficiaries.
- Prioritise households currently living in backyard dwellings.
- Create a safe, dignified, and sustainable residential neighbourhood.
- Deliver fully serviced residential properties with access to water, sanitation, electricity, roads, and stormwater infrastructure.
- Stimulate local economic development through employment opportunities for local labour and emerging contractors.
- Build stronger, more resilient communities.
The Louwville Housing Project comprises 155 completed housing units, all built in accordance with national housing standards and 38 houses completed now ready for occupation.
This development represents far more than bricks and mortar. It is an investment in people, families, and the future of our communities. Every home delivered restores dignity, creates stability, and provides a foundation on which families can build better lives.
The Municipality’s Human Settlements Department will continue collaborating closely with beneficiaries throughout the occupation process to ensure a smooth transition into their new homes.
While today marks a significant achievement, it is also a reminder that much work remains. Thousands of families across the Saldanha Bay municipal area are still waiting for housing opportunities.
The successful completion of this phase strengthens the Municipality’s commitment to continue delivering sustainable human settlements. Saldanha Bay Municipality remains focused on identifying further opportunities, securing funding, expanding housing programmes and ensuring that many more families can experience the security, dignity and hope that come with owning a home.
Clarification Regarding Incorrect Allegations Made During Special Council Meeting
26 February 2026
The Saldanha Bay Municipality held a Special Council Meeting today, 26 February 2026, for the election of an Executive Mayor. The voting was in terms of the Municipal Structures Act, in particular Schedule 3, Election of Municipal Office-Bearers.
The Saldanha Bay Municipality notes with concern that, during the Special Council Meeting, a junior municipal official was publicly named and accused of having torn up a ballot paper.
The Municipality places on record that this allegation is incorrect, unfounded, and wholly inconsistent with the established procedures and conduct of its officials.
Municipal officials are not involved in political voting processes, including the handling of ballot papers during Council proceedings. Their role is strictly administrative and governed by legislation, internal policies, and ethical standards.
Publicly naming an employee — particularly a junior official — on the basis of an unverified claim is both inappropriate and unfair and has the potential to cause reputational harm to an individual who has no role in political decision making.
Saldanha Bay Municipality reaffirms our commitment to:
- Protecting the integrity and dignity of municipal staff;
- Ensuring accurate public information; and
- Maintaining a professional, impartial administration in service of all residents.
Election of Executive Mayor and Appointment of Mayoral Committee Members
26 February 2026
Alderman Marius Koen, from the Democratic Alliance (DA), was elected as the new Executive Mayor at Saldanha Bay Municipality’s Special Council Meeting earlier today.
To support Ald. Koen, the following Mayoral Committee Members (MAYCO) have been announced, namely Cllr. Jaco Kotze (Portfolio: Finance and Infrastructure and Planning Services), Ald. Sinah Mamabolo (Portfolio: Corporate and Public Safety Services), Cllr. Wilhelm America (Portfolio: Economic Development and Strategic Services), Ald. Eventhia Vaughan (Portfolio: Office of the Municipal Manager) and Cllr. Michael Schaffers (Portfolio: Community and Operational Services.) Alderman Olwene Daniels will continue to serve as Speaker of Council.
The newly elected Executive Mayor and Mayoral Committee Members of the Saldanha Bay Municipality are congratulated on their appointment to these important leadership roles as they assume their respective positions in service of the local community.
It is trusted that their term of office will be guided by integrity, wisdom, dignity, and a steadfast commitment to serve the residents of the Saldanha Bay Municipal area.
Saldanha Bay Municipality takes proactive measures to prevent the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease
09 February 2026
Saldanha Bay Municipality notes with concern the confirmed cases of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Drakenstein and Mossel Bay Municipalities, as well as reported cases within the City of Cape Town.
In response, the Municipality is working proactively with State Veterinary Services, the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, and other key stakeholders to fast-track the implementation of strict biosecurity measures across the Saldanha Bay Municipal area.
Municipal teams are on high alert, and farm owners and livestock handlers are urged to cooperate fully with law enforcement and traffic services when requested to comply with movement restrictions and biosecurity protocols. Such cooperation is essential to curb the spread of the disease.
Saldanha Bay Municipality strongly urges all farmers — both commercial and small-scale — to comply with all prescribed biosecurity requirements and to act responsibly in safeguarding their livestock and livelihoods.
The Municipality will continue to work closely with the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre, the Department of Agriculture, and the National Department of Agriculture in coordinated efforts to prevent the further spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
Any suspected cases or related concerns can be reported to the Saldanha Bay Municipality’s 24-hour Public Safety Control Room on 022 701 6834.
Traffic Services Reports Multiple Incidents and DUI Arrests Over Weekend
02 February 2026
The Saldanha Bay Municipality’s traffic services responded to a busy end-of-month weekend, with a series of single-vehicle accidents reported between 21:00 on Sunday, 1 February 2026, and 01:30 Monday morning. The final incident, which resulted in a fatality, was cleared by standby officers at approximately 05:30.
In addition, three individuals were arrested for driving under the influence over the weekend. All arrests involved breathalyzer readings significantly above the legal limit.
Drinking and driving is a serious and preventable offence that endangers lives. Motorists are reminded that choosing to drive while impaired carries severe legal consequences and can result in irreversible harm. The Municipality urges residents to make responsible decisions by arranging a sober driver or using alternative transportation to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.
Saldanha Bay Municipality Strengthens Pro-Active Beach Safety Measures Through Lifeguard Deployment and Strategic Partnerships
18 December 2025
Saldanha Bay Municipality continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to public safety through the implementation of a comprehensive Beach Safety Programme, initiated as part of the Municipality’s operational plan for the current financial year.
The programme has been established to enhance safety capacity at municipal beaches and swimming facilities, while simultaneously creating employment and accredited training opportunities for young people within the Saldanha Bay Municipal area. With the Municipality’s coastline remaining a popular destination, particularly during peak holiday periods, this initiative forms a critical component of SBM’s preventative and proactive approach to reducing drowning incidents.
Strategic Partnerships
The programme is implemented through a broad network of stakeholders and partners under the Saldanha Bay Safety Initiative (SBSI) framework. These include, among others:
South African Police Service (SAPS) and SAPS Sea Border Unit; Forensic Services and the Forensic Pathology Service (Western Cape Government); Department of Health and Wellness and Vredenburg Provincial Hospital; Emergency Medical Services (EMS); West Coast Medical Rescue; South African National Parks (SANParks); Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment; National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI); Department of Social Development; Sea Harvest Foundation; Aquarius Mogs; Pick n Pay IPIC Vredenburg; Dischem Weskus Mall Vredenburg; Sweet Bonanza Vredenburg; Prinro Vredenburg; Think Water; Avedia Energy; Vaalmac Saldanha; Westarcor Engineering; Captain’s Cabin Saldanha; and Cartol Saldanha.
Empowering Saldanha Bay MUNICIPAL AREA’S SMMEs: NOVEMBER – A Month of Connection, Growth, and Opportunity
12 December 2025
The SMME Month Event was established to empower and uplift Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) across Saldanha Bay Municipality by providing a dynamic platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and access to financial opportunities, mentorship, and meaningful partnerships. At its core, a special event held on Thursday, 20 November 2025 aimed to stimulate economic growth, drive job creation, and support sustainable development throughout the region.
A key objective was to strengthen networking by creating spaces where SMMEs could connect with potential partners, mentors, and financial institutions. These engagements enabled entrepreneurs to form valuable relationships and opened doors to future collaborations.
We also set out to broaden partnerships between SBM, SMMEs, larger businesses, financial institutions, and a range of stakeholders—encouraging collective growth and reinforcing the resilience of the local economic ecosystem.
Another important focus was the improvement of business skills. Through various sessions and interactions, SMMEs were equipped with practical knowledge to grow, sustain, and elevate their enterprises, ultimately enhancing productivity and competitiveness.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our event partners—2H Business Solutions CC, Snyer Business Consulting, the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and their funders, DEDAT, Freeport Saldanha, NYDA, JJS Solutions, and Tysys—for their invaluable contribution.
Finally, to the 116 stakeholders who attended: thank you for helping make this event a milestone moment for the Saldanha Bay Municipal area’s business community. Your presence, insights, and enthusiasm truly lifted the day and brought our shared vision to life.
Saldanha Bay Municipality and NSRI Empower Local Youth Through Survival Swimming
08 December 2025
Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death among young children worldwide. While no lesson can remove the risk entirely, proper swimming instruction greatly reduces the chances of tragedy. Teaching children vital skills such as floating, breath control, treading water and swimming to safety can save lives.
To help protect young people in our communities, Saldanha Bay Municipality, in partnership with the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), continues to roll out its annual Survival Swimming Programme. The initiative runs twice a year – ahead of the December festive season and again before Easter – to help prevent drowning incidents.
On Friday, 5 December 2025, the latest Survival Swimming event was held at Weskus Skool in Saldanha, marking the fifth programme hosted locally with the NSRI. This initiative forms part of the Saldanha Bay Safety Initiative (SBSI) and the municipality’s ongoing Disaster Risk Reduction programmes aimed at ensuring a safer festive season, whether at the beach or during severe weather and flooding.
Key partners included the Department of Education, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the South African Police Service (SAPS), the SAPS Diving Unit, SAPS Sea Border, the Department of Social Development, Arcelor Mittal Science and Research Centre, municipal Disaster Risk
Management volunteers and other stakeholders.
The NSRI’s Survival Swimming Programme provides free training to youth and adults in under-resourced areas, teaching essential water safety skills and helping to build confidence around water. Around 80 learners participated, with learners nominated from:
• Masiphatisane Primary School
• Panorama Primary School
• Diazville High School
• Weskus Skool
• St Andrews Primary School
• Eden Primary School
• Weston Senior Secondary School
• Louwville High School
We also extend our appreciation to the parents who supported and accompanied their children on the day.
Saldanha Bay Municipality thanks all school principals for their ongoing commitment to this programme, as well as parents and guardians for providing consent and encouraging participation. Our gratitude also goes to Weskus Skool for making the venue and facilities available.
As we approach the busy holiday period, we urge all beachgoers:
• Do not climb on rocks – they are slippery and dangerous.
• Swim only between the lifeguard flags – these areas are actively monitored to help keep you safe.
Emergency Numbers:
• Public Safety Control Room (24 hours): 022 701 6834
• NSRI Emergency (at sea): 087 094 9774
• NSRI Station 4, Club Mykonos: 082 990 5966
• NSRI Station 44, St Helenabaai: 082 757 2154
Let’s work together to keep our communities safe this festive season.
PAVING THE WAY TO SAFER ROADS – ONE JTTC AT A TIME!
21 October 2025
On Friday, 17 October 2025, the Junior Traffic Training Centre (JTTC) was officially handed over at Masiphatisane Primary School in Vredenburg — marking the fifth centre established within the Saldanha Bay Municipality. (Previous projects that were rolled-out over the last few years included St Andrews Primary in Saldanha, at the previous venue of the Hoopsig Project in Paternoster, and at the Grade R facilities of Diazville and Eden Primary schools, respectively.)
The school community warmly welcomed this vital initiative, which was developed in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Mobility.
The JTTC offers learners a practical, interactive space for road safety education, helping to nurture responsible, safety-conscious road users from a young age.
A standout moment of the day was the spirit of community and stakeholder collaboration. Local partners played an active role in finalising the centre’s layout — a true testament to what can be achieved when we work together to create safer environments for our children.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from Saldanha Bay Municipality’s Mayoral Committee (Mayco), the Western Cape Departments of Mobility and Education, as well as representatives of the Saldanha Bay Municipality’s Public Safety Services department. Their presence reflected a shared commitment to promoting road safety through education.
This handover also formed part of the activities for October Transport Month, a time dedicated to celebrating efforts that enhance mobility and road safety across our communities, nationally.
Together, we’re building safer roads and streets and stronger communities!
STATEMENT BY SALDANHA BAY MUNICIPALITY ON RECENT MISLEADING SOCIAL MEDIA ALLEGATIONS IN RESPECT OF A LAND ACQUISITION AT THE VALUE OF R10MILLION IN PATERNOSTER
8 September 2025
During June 2025 Saldanha Bay Municipality (SBM) became aware of a portion of land in Paternoster that has become available through an auction process. The property in question is centrally located and adjacent to existing services (municipal services, the public interchange and the shops).
The Paternoster community over years has identified land through the Integrated Development Planning (IDP) process as a necessity for economic development, housing and municipal services. The land SBM currently owns in Paternoster is located far from existing services, hence the strategic location of the subject land will facilitate inclusive development of communities close to existing services, instead of placing the community on the outskirts of town. The social media posts suggest that it is in order to place and develop communities on the outskirts of towns moving back to separate development and away from economic opportunities.
PUBLIC NOTICE: STAY ALERT – PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD, SCAMS, AND CORRUPT PRACTICES
4 September 2025
The Saldanha Bay Municipality calls on all its residents, businesses, and consumers at large to stay informed and remain vigilant against the growing threats of bribery, scams, fraudulent activities, and corruption in our communities.
We are receiving increasing reports of the following illegal practices:
🚫 Fake job offers and fraudulent job interviews being arranged under the false pretext of municipal employment
🚫 Individuals impersonating municipal officials to gain trust or payment
🚫 Threats of service disconnection (electricity or water) unless a fee is paid or a specific number is called
🚫 Illegal electricity tokens being sold at a so-called “discounted tariff” – these are not valid
🚫 Fraudsters promising tender awards in exchange for payment – this is a scam and a criminal offence
⚠️ Be aware: The Saldanha Bay Municipality does not charge for job applications, interviews, or tender awards, nor do we make threats to disconnect services in exchange for payment.
🛡️ How to Report Suspicious Activity:
If you suspect any bribery, corruption, scams, or fraudulent behaviour, do not stay silent.
📞 Fraud Hotline: 022 701-7111
📧 Email: risk.reception@sbm.gov.za
🌐 Website: https://www.sbm.gov.za/fraud-line/
🛡️ Saldanha Bay Municipality Bank Account Details:
▪ The Municipality’s bank account for account payments is the following:
▪ Standard bank, Account number 082437238, Branch Code 050511
▪ No account payments should be made other than to this account.
▪ If any uncertainty, please contact 022 701-7040 / 7129 or enquire at the Revenue Department’s enquiry desk via E-mail: Income.Enquiries@sbm.gov.za
✅ For your safety, always verify before making any payment or sharing your personal information.
✅ Only use official municipal channels for payments and communication.
✅ The correct banking account details of Saldanha Bay Municipality are always available on our official website and billing documents (account).
Together, we can build a safer, more transparent, and accountable community. Your voice matters. Let us stop corruption where it starts.
Your report stays confidential.
#StopScams #ReportFraud #SaldanhaBayMunicipality #ProtectOurCommunity #ZeroTolerance
Swift Action by the Saldanha Bay Municipality Tactical Response Unit leads to arrest
25 August 2025
On Thursday evening, 21 August 2025, municipal CCTV operators noticed suspicious activity near the Vredenburg splash pool in Kooitjieskoof Road. Two individuals were found tampering with municipal infrastructure. The municipality’s Tactical Response Unit (TRU) acted swiftly and caught the suspects on the spot! A criminal case has been opened at the South African Police Service (SAPS) at the Vredenburg branch.
This is a reminder that our community’s safety and infrastructure are not just a shared responsibility, but indeed guarded. Tampering with municipal property will not be tolerated.
Together with law enforcement entities and a vigilant community we can apprehend criminals and thus, ensure for safer neighbourhoods and secured infrastructure.
#CommunitySafety #CommunityFirstApproach #SwiftAction #SaldanhaBayMunicipality #TRU #StayAlert
Women’s Month 2025 – Public Safety Department and Partners’ Community Outreach
14 August 2025
As Women’s Month continues, the women of the Saldanha Bay Municipality’s Public Safety Department, together with the South African Police Service (SAPS), proudly carried the spirit of service to the Hopefield public clinic on Wednesday, 13 August 2025, where they distributed warm soup and bread to the community.
In addition to their outreach, the team conducted a blitz Vehicle Check Point (VCP) as part of the day’s activities. The operation was a success, with: 33 vehicles stopped and five Section 56 notices issued.
Not abiding to traffic and road rules and regulations, can unfortunetaly lead to road users being find for traffic violations. A total value of fines of R2 800.00 were issued.
We salute the remarkable women of the Saldanha Bay Municipality Public Safety Department for their unwavering commitment to both community care and road safety.
Municipality Strongly Condemns Vandalism and Theft
11 August 2025
The municipality unequivocally condemns the criminal acts of vandalism and theft that undermine service delivery and deprive law-abiding residents of the services they rightfully deserve. Recently, we have witnessed a troubling increase in the vandalism of municipal infrastructure, particularly in Ward 2, Witteklip, Vredenburg, where cable theft and damage to street lighting have become alarmingly common. Other areas within the Saldanha Bay Municipality are also frequently targeted.
In June 2025, the municipality recorded 16 serious incidents of vandalism, totalling R76,176.00 in damages. In July 2025, we have already seen eight major incidents, amounting to R65,364.00 with additional forms of damage still being accounted for. To date, the total cost for the year has reached R472,399.00 in the Saldanha Bay Municipal area. These expenses account to a significant loss for the municipality and its rate paying consumers.
Vandalism and theft not only harm municipal infrastructure, but they also negatively affect the lives of residents and ratepayers who rely on these services. No one benefits from criminal behaviour.
We urge the community to take an active stand against these crimes. If you witness any criminal activity, please report it immediately to the police or municipal law enforcement. Working together, we can prevent further damage and safeguard the quality of life for all residents. Together we can keep the streetlights on, together we can protect our streets and neighbourhoods, together we can feel safe where we live.
Celebrating Woemen’s Month: Honouring Strength and Service
04 August 2025
The opening of Women’s Month 2025 was marked by a well-coordinated and inspiring event hosted by Saldanha Bay’s Public Safety Services. The purpose of Women’s Month is to honour the achievements, strength, and resilience of women, while also reflecting on the ongoing journey toward gender equality and the empowerment of women in every sector of society.
This year’s launch event brought together a range of key stakeholders, including representatives from Fire and Rescue Services, Law Enforcement, Saldanha Bay Traffic Services, Provincial Traffic Services, Department of Correctional Services, Emergency Medical Services, and other Saldanha Bay Safety Initiative (SBSI) stakeholders. Their presence underscored the collective commitment to celebrating and supporting women in essential service roles.
The central theme of the event was the historic and powerful declaration: “You strike a woman; you strike a rock.” These words, rooted in the 1956 Women’s March against pass laws, served as a reminder of the unshakable strength and courage women continue to show, especially those serving in the frontline of public safety.
The highlight of the event was a heartfelt message of encouragement and appreciation for women in uniform. These women, who serve in the front line in law enforcement, traffic, emergency response, and correctional services, were honoured for their courage, commitment, and continuous service to the safety and well-being of communities. Speakers acknowledged the unique challenges faced by women in uniform and reaffirmed the department’s dedication to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and empowering work environment.
The event not only celebrated the contributions of women but also served as a platform to inspire younger generations to pursue careers in public safety and essential services. It emphasised the importance of visibility, mentorship, and leadership development for women across all levels.
Saldanha Bay Municipality Public Safety Personnel: Community Outreach in Celebration of Mandela Day
18 June 2025
As part of honouring this year’s Mandela Day, officials in the Department of Public Safety, that consists of Law Enforcement, Traffic, Disaster Management and Fire and Rescue Services, organised an enthusiastic and sincere outreach to the community of Laingville – all in the spirit of the “67 minutes of service.”
As a warm, impactful gesture, the team distributed soup to over 300 children in the area. The initiative aimed to not only honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy of compassion and community service but indeed to create an experience of comfort to young children.
In addition to the soup distribution, the team also visited local crèches, where they handed out loaves of bread to caregivers for the benefit of its youngsters.
The efforts were deemed very much appreciated! Although just small acts of kindness on such a significant day on the South African calendar, the contributions of the team members, came from the heart.
The event highlighted the Public Safety Department’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and social upliftment, particularly in vulnerable areas.
Mandela Day, in its true and intended nature, will always serve as a powerful reminder that even the smallest contributions cán make a big difference.
Thank you to Team Public Safety for your initiative!
Saldanha Bay Steps Up for Safer Pedestrian Crossings
20 May 2025
On 16 May, Saldanha Bay Municipality’s Public Safety Department led a pedestrian safety awareness campaign on Main Street, Vredenburg, alongside Saldanha Bay Safety Initiative (SBSI) partners like the SAPS.
The initiative highlighted the importance of responsible behaviour from both drivers and pedestrians. The campaign focused on using designated crossings, avoiding distractions (such as focussing on your cellular phone while crossing the road), and encouraging motorists to slow down and remain alert to stop timeously for pedestrians at crossings – especially in high-foot-traffic areas.
“Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility,” said a spokesperson. “Together, we can save lives and create safer streets for everyone.”
The municipality will continue rolling out similar campaigns throughout the year to promote a culture of road safety.
Every step counts—let’s make each one a safe one.
Sounding the Alarm: Saving Lives with Further Smoke Detector Rollout in Saldanha Bay Municipality
12 May 2025
The Saldanha Bay Municipality has taken a bold step forward in enhancing fire safety and protecting its most vulnerable communities. Thanks to a generous Capacity Grant from the Western Cape Department of Local Government, through its Directorate for Disaster Management Services, a total of 1,990 smoke alarms have been procured as part of a life-saving initiative. These steps are a continuation and follow-up on investment of an existing programme within the municipality.
This proactive programme forms part of a broader fire prevention strategy first introduced in 2016 by Minister Anton Bredell. Spearheaded by the Western Cape Fire and Rescue Services, the smoke alarm initiative aims to significantly reduce the number of fire-related injuries and fatalities in high-risk communities by providing an essential early warning mechanism.
The official handover of the smoke alarms took place on 7 May 2025 at the Central Fire Station outside Saldanha. The event was attended by members of the Public Safety Management team, Saldanha Bay Fire and Rescue personnel, and delegates from the Provincial Disaster Management Centre. Mr Etienne du Toit, Deputy Director for Fire and Rescue Services at the Department of Local Government, facilitated the formal handover and elaborated on the objectives of the initiative.
Driving Digital Transformation in Saldanha Bay Municipality – Advancing Smart City Goals Through the Rollout of Open-Access Fibre Infrastructure
14 May 2025
Several recent articles and social media posts about the Baobab Smart City project contain inaccuracies and misinformation. Saldanha Bay Municipality aims to provide clarity and offer a factual perspective for better understanding.
Baobab Smart City Project
Since 2017, Saldanha Bay Municipality (SBM) has pursued a strategic vision of becoming an innovative and forward-thinking local authority. Central to this vision was the adoption of a Smart City model, which led to the establishment of the Baobab Smart City Open Access Fibre project.
A business model was crafted, which is based on a municipal-centric approach that, amongst others, would generate a shared open-access fibre infrastructure for the future – one which provide universal access, is transparent, equitable, open, and enabling all local citizens and businesses included in the municipality. This aligns firmly with SBM’s vision, within the confines of legislation and the local government mandate, to develop local infrastructure to enhance service delivery that is relevant and beneficial to áll its citizens.
As part of this commitment, the municipality has actively embarked on and successfully completed the development of an open-access fibre network aimed at providing reliable Internet connectivity to residents and businesses alike, closing the digital divide by all accounts.
Competitive Public Tender
Following extensive planning and comprehensive market research, SBM issued a competitive public tender in accordance with supply chain management regulations and policies. The tender called for qualified service providers to submit proposals for implementing a Smart City model within the municipal area. The first building block, being the installation of a singular master open access network, which would be a digital highway unlocking a wide variety of approved Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
Ongoing Collaboration Initiatives in the Saldanha Bay Municipal Area
14 May 2025
Over the weekend, a series of policing operations took place in different towns of the municipal area, executed by municipal law enforcement and traffic services in collaboration with the South African Police Service. The operations included stop-and-search procedures, foot patrols, vehicle checkpoints, and visits to identified hotspot areas and liquor outlets.
The operations led to the confiscation of liquor, arrests for drug possession, the issuance of section 56 traffic fines totalling over R16,300.00, and law enforcement fines amounting to R11,000.00. These efforts illustrate the vital role that collaboration plays in addressing criminal activities.
We call upon the community to engage with the various law enforcement bodies, alongside our neighbourhood watch programs in their towns and all other law-abiding entities, to ensure that criminals do not take root in any of our towns.
Citizens are encouraged to notify the Saldanha Bay Municipality 24-Hour Emergency Control Room at 022 701-6834 regarding any road safety or by-law infractions, or to report any crime-related incidents to the nearest police station.
Guidance On Assistance Available For Housing Waiting List Applications
15 April 2025
The Saldanha Bay Municipality has become aware of reports regarding a community member, affiliated with a political party, who is allegedly advising residents that she can assist them with housing waiting list applications on behalf of the Municipality.
The Municipality aims to provide clarification on the following matters:
The process of applying for registration on the Western Cape Demand Database (waiting list) may only be facilitated by authorized municipal officials or designated service providers.
The Municipality has not authorized any individual or political party to offer such assistance.
Any information or commitments communicated outside the official municipal communication channels should be regarded with caution.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Municipality’s Housing Office or contact 022 701 6934 for reliable assistance and the latest information on housing opportunities and application processes.
Saldanha Bay Municipality is resolute in its commitment to a fair, transparent, and accountable process for delivering housing opportunities to qualifying beneficiaries.
Saldanha Bay Implements Computerised Learner’s License Testing
11 April 2025
Saldanha Bay Municipality’s Traffic Services is pleased to announce that the new Computerised Learner’s Licence Testing (CLLT) programme is now fully operational at all Driving Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs) within the municipal area.
The new system brings substantial enhancements to the learner’s licence testing procedure by improving accuracy, security, and efficiency through the integration of advanced technology. A major benefit of the CLLT is its capacity to mitigate numerous risks linked to the traditional manual written examination.
The system, implemented by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), will now be used for all learner’s licence testing. It features a comprehensive database of 1 400 questions, ensuring that each test presents a unique assortment.
Introducing “Ranger the Rubbish Rescuer”: Saldanha Bay’s New Waste Management Mascot
12 December 2024
Saldanha Bay Municipality is thrilled to unveil Ranger the Rubbish Rescuer as the official mascot for our waste management department!
Ranger, a wise and energetic sacred ibis, was brought to life following a mascot drawing competition where local Grade 4-7 learners submitted a variety of creative ideas. The winning design, created by Vida Geldenhuys, was selected from many, and she was awarded a cash prize for her work, along with a donation to her school. Vida, together with the other top five competition winners were rewarded with cash prizes at a recent ceremony, in recognition of their outstanding creativity.
As the new face of waste management in Saldanha Bay Municipality, Ranger’s mission is to inspire the community to reduce waste, recycle, and adopt cleaner practices. With his friendly, energetic personality, Ranger will encourage everyone to take responsibility for their environment and work towards a cleaner, greener community. Ranger’s tagline, “Let’s soar to a cleaner future together,” reflects the shared responsibility we all have in making Saldanha Bay Municipality a sustainable place to live and visit.
Join us in welcoming Ranger as he leads the charge in promoting waste reduction and environmental stewardship throughout the municipality. Together, we can make a difference!
LANGEBAAN SEAVIEW PARK SUBSIDY APPLICATION PROCESS
27 November 2024
Saldanha Bay Municipality commenced with the Langebaan Seaview Park housing project subsidy application process and concluded the consultation in September 2024, with further engagements with the community and ward committees up to November 2024. The Municipality will now commence with the subsidy application process with the prospective beneficiaries.
The Municipality will advertise the list of prospective beneficiaries for the Langebaan Seaview Park housing project in the media (Weslander) on 28 November 2024, where applicants can submit subsidy applications.
Who can apply for this subsidy?
- Your name must form part of the list that will be advertised by the Municipality in the Weslander on 28 November 2024.
- Be a citizen of South Africa or hold a permanent residency permit.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be married, be living with a partner, or if you’re single, you must show that you have family members or children who are financially dependent on you.
- Show that your maximum monthly income is R3 500 or less.
- Show that you’ve never owned property before.
VACANCY AND LEARNERSHIP SCAMS
26 January 2024
The Saldanha Bay Municipality has become aware of deceptive municipal job openings and learnership opportunities that are being falsely advertised on external websites. These misleading advertisements include the Municipality’s name, logo, employment application forms, and contact details.
We want to inform you that municipal vacancies advertised on external “learnership opportunities” websites are completely fabricated and are nothing more than scams.
Please note that legitimate employment opportunities at the Saldanha Bay Municipality are only advertised on our official website, the municipal Facebook page, and the local community newspaper.
To view vacancies available at the Saldanha Bay Municipality and to access the official application forms, please visit our website at https://sbm.gov.za/jobs/.
We apologise for any confusion or inconvenience caused by these fraudulent advertisements and assure you that we are taking steps to address this issue.
