Enhancing service delivery through Operation Gijima

Operation Gijima was recently carried out in Lamontville, Umlazi, Merebank, Wentworth, and the Bluff, targeting key service delivery priorities.

The operation included the enforcement of business by-laws and building inspections, the repair of leaking water pipes and ablution facilities, and pothole patching and streetlight repairs.

Litter picking, waste collection, and environmental health interventions, including fumigation, were also carried out during the operation.

The campaign was a joint effort involving multiple city directorates, including the Supply Side and Area-Based Operations, Waste Management, Metro Police, Fire Services, Energy Management, Safer Cities, Environmental Health Quality Control, and Water Services.

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Also assisting were the Business Support Division and Vector Control Division, with additional support from the Department of Home Affairs and the South African Police Service. Senior manager for the South Durban Basin Supply Side and Area Based Operations Directorate, Eurakha Singh, expressed gratitude to all officials involved.

“I convey my deepest gratitude to all participants for a job well done. This operation is proof that collaboration breeds positive outcomes, and we are committed to continuing these efforts regularly,” she said.

The operation also resulted in the arrest of a suspect for contravening the Immigration Act. Business owner, Mandla Ngcobo, commended the municipality’s efforts, saying, “The city is doing an excellent job. More education is required on proper waste management. However, we welcome the repair of streetlights.”

Operation Gijima reflects eThekwini Municipality’s broader vision of boosting the local economy, attracting investors, enforcing by-laws, and promoting a hygienic environment.

The initiative underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable urban management and responsive service delivery.