The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has invested R30 million to procure new waste management equipment in a bid to restore the stability of waste collection services and bolster its beautification efforts.
The procurement of seven specialised refuse compactors and water tankers forms part of the 2024/25 Capital Budget.
According to a statement, communities, especially those in informal and previously underserviced areas, can now expect more consistent, reliable, and dignified refuse collection services.
Since 2014, when it last procured a refuse compactor, the municipality has been fully dependent on external service providers for waste removal.
This led to ongoing over-expenditure, which the Municipality deemed unsustainable and unacceptable.
To address the problem, the Municipality developed a three-year plan approved by the Public Health Standing Committee and Council, allowing the procurement process to begin.
Each of the seven new units comes with a comprehensive maintenance plan and is tailored with specialised features, making the procurement economically viable and operationally sustainable.
According to the Metro, procuring new water tankers is also a first in over a decade.
They are confident that these units will play a vital role in the city's drought response and in maintaining the Metro's aesthetics by supporting the greening and beautification of main entrances and public spaces, including flower beds and centre islands.
Executive Mayor Councillor Babalwa Lobishe hailed the investment as a game-changer for the Metro.
“This is a legacy moment for our city. We are putting real action behind our promise to clean up Nelson Mandela Bay.
"This R30 million investment is not just about vehicles – it's about delivering dignity and decent services to our people,” said Lobishe.
Placing another feather in its cap, the metro noted that it was the first time the Municipality independently handled the procurement process and remarkably delivered all units within two months or less.
They hailed the landmark move as a milestone achievement for the institution.
Lobishe said: "This is about building a city we can all be proud of.
“We are not just cleaning our streets – we are cleaning up governance, restoring trust, and renewing hope across Nelson Mandela Bay.”
