Mossel Bay Faces Critical Juncture Amidst Community Concerns

Mossel Bay, a coastal gem in the Western Cape, is experiencing new developments and a thriving tourism scene. However, beneath this economic growth, residents are expressing concerns. Questions are being raised about the transparency of the Mossel Bay Municipality, the potential environmental impact of new industries, and social issues, including recent incidents of xenophobia. Community groups and reports indicate that residents feel their voices are not being heard regarding decisions on tariffs and new projects.

Economic Growth and Mossel Bay Community Concerns

The town is experiencing significant growth, with new energy projects and a busy tourism sector creating jobs in construction, hospitality, and specialised engineering. Mr. Johan van der Merwe, a Mossel Bay construction company owner, reported a 25% increase in calls related to energy projects within six months. He stated that this growth provides real jobs and opportunities to upskill staff.

The municipality estimates that these energy projects could generate hundreds of direct and indirect jobs. Collaborations with institutions like FET College aim to train local individuals for these new opportunities, with the goal of reducing unemployment. Additionally, a tourism and business hub planned for Asla Park, estimated to cost R6 million, seeks R3 million in funding assistance from the Department of Small Business Development.

Despite these developments, many residents feel excluded and frustrated. Organisations such as MossRates, a non-profit watchdog, assert that residents lack genuine input on matters like infrastructure plans, tariffs, and the management of municipal funds. They report that formal suggestions often receive little attention, requests for information are delayed, and councillors do not engage directly on contentious issues.

Financial Transparency and Mossel Bay Community Concerns

A primary concern for residents is the allocation of municipal funds. There is a demand for clear answers regarding municipal budgets and the justification for specific tariffs. This issue extends beyond financial figures, touching upon trust and collective effort for the betterment of Mossel Bay. The call for transparency is intensifying, especially when considering challenges faced by other Western Cape municipalities, such as dam levels or load-shedding updates. For instance, Cape Town's dam levels are currently at 77.7% of total capacity, a decrease from the previous year.

Accountability and Governance in Mossel Bay

The Mossel Bay Municipality has consistently affirmed its commitment to good governance, transparency, and public participation. It pioneered the Local Government Ethical Leadership Initiative (LGELI) in the Garden Route District in November 2024. This programme, established with partners like The Ethics Institute, aims to foster ethical leadership. Municipal Manager Colin Puren stated in September 2025 that the municipality is dedicated to ethical leadership and good governance through transparent, accountable, and regular public communication.

However, community groups and public records indicate ongoing challenges. Certain incidents have eroded public trust. For example, regarding the Municipal Manager's salary, the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) welcomed a decision in August 2023 for Mr. Puren to repay R573,805.75, which was deemed an irregular payment. Opposition parties alleged that Mayor Dirk Kotzé withheld letters from provincial and national ministers recommending a lower salary for Mr. Puren. This situation led to criminal charges of fraud and corruption against the DA caucus in the Mossel Bay council. Mr. Puren is scheduled to repay the money between September 30, 2023, and February 28, 2027, coinciding with the end of his term.

Questions have also arisen concerning the Mountain View housing development, which comprises 278 First Home Finance (FHF) units. By August 2026, over 80% of these units remained vacant because potential buyers were unable to secure home loans. The Western Cape Government has since introduced an Instalment Sale Agreement (ISA) to address this, enabling qualifying families to occupy the homes while working towards ownership. This initiative highlights the importance of initial planning.

Environmental and Social Pressures on Mossel Bay

The rapid expansion of industries, particularly new energy projects, has raised concerns among environmentalists and residents. The potential impact of new industrial activities, such as desalination plants, on marine life and the coastline is a significant long-term worry. While the municipality has initiated projects like the Hartenbos Waste Water Treatment Works Solar PV Plant and Microgrid in November 2025, and a R143 million investment at the Great Brak River Wastewater Treatment Works, some believe these measures are insufficient to address broader environmental risks.

Regrettably, social tensions, including xenophobia, have also emerged. Reports indicate incidents of violence and forced displacement in Mossel Bay. In June 2026, xenophobic violence in an informal settlement resulted in three fatalities and the destruction of 55 shacks. Reports detailed that two Mozambican nationals, aged 27 and 43, died from multiple injuries following an attack, and an 18-year-old South African man was also killed. The Mozambican government reported that five of its citizens were killed in these attacks, affecting approximately 800 Mozambicans, some of whom returned home. Mayor Dirk Kotzé expressed profound concern and sadness regarding these attacks, acknowledging the loss of life, burned homes, and displaced families. The Mossel Bay Municipality confirmed that the process to relocate displaced foreign nationals was underway, with consulates providing assistance. This serves as a reminder of the community's need to collaborate to ensure safety and respect for all.

These challenges indicate that Mossel Bay is at a critical juncture. A balance must be struck between economic success, transparent governance, environmental protection, and ensuring that all community members feel safe and included. Addressing these issues collaboratively will help ensure Mossel Bay remains a welcoming place for everyone.