18 December 2006

As we approach the end of 2006, it is inevitable that our thoughts will gravitate towards some form of introspection about whether this has been a year during which substantive progress has been made in making Mogale City a better place to live for all its people. Despite numerous challenges we have had to negotiate in the course of our work, we remain unequivocal that as a new Council, we are firmly on track in our offensive to accelerate change for the benefit of all our residents. We remain unshakable in our quest for true humanity. We think that our task demands nothing less. We continue to draw motivation from a perennial well of support from different quarters, particularly you, the people of Mogale City.

At the very beginning of this term, what we put emphasis on was that the people of Mogale City must be active participants in the process of governance. In order words, we held, as we still do, the view that residents of this city cannot be curious by-standers while we as politicians run the affairs of their city. As a result the very first thing we undertook was to go to the places where people live and work, so that we get a real feel of the conditions under which people live. This proved a catalyst for the creation of a correct and accurate understanding on the part of the municipality, such that our response is properly conceived.

Since then, in a very short space of time, we have achieved a number of significant successes in the area of service delivery. We think that it is because our response was informed by you, the people. So as an administration we will continue to engage you as an important partner in this long-held freedom cry of a better life for all. We know that our city and our country can only be truly free if all of us enjoy the fruits of liberation. We want to thank you, the people of Mogale City for your continued support and confidence in our ability and commitment to improve your lives.

During this period, let us allow the convivial spirit of the festive season to prevail. This is the time for family, friends and neighbours to strengthen bonds. Indeed, it is a time for all of us to re-commit and strengthen our link with the Almighty. As we do all these things, let us not forget those that do not have anything and anyone. Let us open our hearts to them, and shower them with love and friendship. This is also the time for us to ensure our safety and that of others, particularly on our roads. Let us arrive alive!

To those infected by HIV/AIDS, please know that you are not alone. None of us can ever claim not to be affected by it. Keep strong and live positively. At this time of the year, dedicate your efforts to re-igniting family bonds and cementing friendships.

To the youth of our city, this must be the time for you to re-evaluate your priorities. This country was freed with the blood and sweat of many young people of yesteryear. The way to properly re-pay them for their sacrifices is by continuing where they left off. This is the time to focus your energies on improving your lives. When the new year begins, let us see our young people go out to claim their rightful place at the table of freedom.

On behalf of the municipality, I would like to wish all residents and friends of Mogale City a wonderful and joyful Christmas! I wish you also a prosperous New Year. May the Almighty bless all of us as we take a break to enjoy the fruits of our labour over this past year.

Humbly,

Clr. Koketso Calvin Seerane
Executive Mayor