DA raises concern as Orkney residents left in darkness amid street light neglect

Issued by Orapeleng Moremedi – PR Councillor, Matlosana
13 Nov 2024 in Press Statements

Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English by Orapeleng Moremedi and in Afrikaans by Inge Wilken

The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls on the Matlosana Municipality to take immediate action and prioritise the repair of 68 broken streetlights across Orkney’s Ward 21, 22, and 28, which have been out of order since 24 October 2024. This issue, which has left key areas of the community without adequate nighttime lighting, not only compromises public safety but also raises urgent concerns about escalating crime.

Located in the heart of North West Province, Orkney is a town celebrated for its mining legacy and tight-knit community spirit. However, residents are increasingly anxious as the lack of functional streetlights casts an unsettling shadow over their neighbourhoods. This darkened environment has hindered visibility for pedestrians and drivers alike, heightening the risk of both accidents and criminal activities.

For Orkney’s residents, proper street lighting serves as more than a convenience—it’s a critical safety measure. Research consistently links well-lit areas with reduced crime rates, as increased visibility deters criminal behaviour. Without these lights, vulnerable areas in Orkney have become potential hotspots for vandalism, robberies, and other unlawful activities. In the first quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year, Matlosana achieved an embarrassing 2nd place in the North West Province for property-related crime with 333 reported cases, and 2nd place in vehicle-related theft with 125 reported cases. These stats rise year after year.

The DA believes that a lack of timely response from the Matlosana Municipality exacerbates the distress and vulnerability felt by residents. This delay represents not merely an inconvenience but a significant public safety issue. With each passing day, these streetlights remain out of order, the Municipality sends a troubling message about its priorities and its commitment to ensuring a safe, secure environment for the people of Orkney.

As representatives of this region, the DA is committed to addressing the risks Orkney residents face due to municipal inaction. We hold the Matlosana Municipality responsible for ensuring the safety and security of this community and will continue to press for immediate, sustained action to reduce crime risks and restore public safety.