Gauteng government aims to hire 6 000 people to fix potholes

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is set to employ 6 000 people to fix potholes in the province.

According to The Citizen, Lesufi made the announcement on Sunday, 14 May in Dobsonville during the provincial government’s initiation of the “green army,” a Cleaning and Greening Expanded Public Works Programme.

The green army will conduct clean-ups, collect waste from households, recyclable and non-recyclable, support waste pickers, and recycle buy-back centres. They will also provide environmental support through greening initiatives.

CRIME-FIGHTING UNIT

The South African previously reported that the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety welcomed the newly launched crime-fighting unit on 1 April by Lesufi.

Three thousand reported for duty after 3 months of training.

This is the first cohort of the 6 000 wardens.

ALSO READ: Gauteng to see 6 000 crime fighters deployed around townships

REPLICA OF STREET COMMITTEES

“This government-led initiative is more like a replica of what was historically known as Street Committees, where community members organised themselves to provide safety and security in their neighbourhoods.

“Unlike Street Committees, this initiative is government-led and funded, and the Committee is concerned that there seem to be an over-reliance on government to provide peace and security in communities and that there is little being done by residents to assist government in fighting crime,” Committee Chairperson, Bandile Masuku said.

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GREEN ARMY

Speaking to his “green army” Lesufi promised to extend their contracts if they do what they’re supposed to be doing.

“I want to give you this promise, if you do what you are going to do, I’m going to add six months more in your contracts.

“I am granting you an additional six months so that you can continue your work in our communities,” said Lesufi.

ALSO READ: Lesufi’s Crime Busting Wardens invade drug territory [VIDEO]

[WATCH]: Premier @Lesufi addresses the newly recruited Green Army at Dobsonville Stadium. The Greening Army will conduct clean-ups of illegal dumping and litter-picking in TISH areas; including surrounding communities, main roads & open spaces. #BontleKeBotho #ZeroWaste pic.twitter.com/fVCgu80s0Y

— Gauteng Provincial Gov (@GautengProvince) May 14, 2023

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This article was originally published by SINOTHANDO SIYOLO.