Dikgale delivers the 2025 State of the Municipality Address, inspiring hope and unity among residents of Thembisile Hani. (Picture Credit: THLM)
By Thulane Madalane
Kwamhlanga – On Friday, Thembisile Hani Executive Mayor Cllr Lesetja Jacob Dikgale delivered an impactful State of the Municipality Address, resonating with a collective ambition for growth and revitalization ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.
The event recalled traditional Kgotla gatherings, where communal wisdom and unity are harnessed to tackle challenges.
Mayor Dikgale set the tone of his address with the provocative statement, “Any vision without implementation is a hallucination,” urging citizens to engage actively in the transformational journey ahead.
The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as community members gathered to share insights into the municipality’s future.
In a landscape marred by uncertainty and economic difficulties, the Mayor championed a vision to reimagine Thembisile Hani as a modern, dynamic city rooted in cultural heritage.
“We must unite to overcome the shadows of doubt and reflect our proud African identity,” he stressed.
Central to his vision was community solidarity.
By referencing the proverb “Tau tsa hloka seboko di sitwa ke nare e tlotsa,” he highlighted the essence of collaboration, praising local heroes—families, churches, and businesses—who have come together to pave a path toward progress.
Focusing on the youth, Mayor Dikgale conveyed an optimistic message of empowerment through education and self-reliance. He emphasized the pressing need to address youth substance abuse, affirming that it is the community’s responsibility to cultivate values that foster responsible citizens.
Dikgale showcased the municipality’s commitment to reclaiming land and resources while working collaboratively with traditional leaders to ensure developments meet community needs. He introduced a newly adopted bylaw on land invasions as a proactive measure to protect the municipality’s growth ambitions.
Infrastructure development emerged as a priority in his address, with the Mayor presenting ambitious plans to modernize the city’s water systems and road networks, critical for supporting an expanding population. He outlined significant projects slated for completion by 2030, aimed at bolstering water supply and enhancing service delivery to revitalize local economies.
In an effort to boost agriculture, the municipality is forging partnerships with local farmers to promote sustainable practices. A forthcoming collaboration with Eventus Farming aims to enhance crop production and create employment opportunities, infusing hope into the community.
Mayor Dikgale concluded on a hopeful note, advocating for inclusive prosperity. “To realize our potential, we must nurture a culture of innovation and investment,” he declared, calling on all stakeholders to participate in this transformative journey.
As the address wrapped up, the Mayor paid tribute to remarkable women in the community—entrepreneurs, farmers, and advocates—who exemplify strength and leadership. Their inspiring stories encapsulated the spirit of Thembisile Hani—a community poised to rise and redefine its future.
As attendees departed, the resonant words of Mayor Dikgale left a lasting impression, fostering renewed hope and commitment among residents. With a shared vision of an empowered, thriving, and culturally rich Thembisile Hani, the community stands ready to embrace the promise of tomorrow.
