The Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality in the Free State is grappling with a severe road infrastructure crisis, with Mayor Gregory Nthatisi revealing that over R7.5 billion is needed to repair approximately 1,600 kilometers of tarred roads and neglected gravel roads. This shocking revelation comes as the metro faces mounting financial scandals, including R1.3 billion in unauthorized expenditure, R277 million in irregular expenditure, and R126 million in fruitless and wasteful spending, according to a recent Auditor-General report.
Roads in “Dire State”
During a live interview, Mayor Nthatisi admitted that 60% of the metro’s roads are in poor condition, with many suffering from potholes, substandard construction, and stormwater damage. He attributed part of the problem to past contractors performing shoddy work, while aging water pipes bursting and eroding roads have worsened the situation.
“Some roads need to be completely revamped from scratch,” Nthatisi said. “Even patching potholes is a temporary fix because water damage keeps destroying them.”
Financial Chaos Under Administration
The metro, which includes Bloemfontein, was placed under national government administration in 2022 due to financial instability and governance failures. Despite intervention, the latest Auditor-General report highlights ongoing mismanagement, with only R700 million of the metro’s R6 billion budget allocated to service delivery.
Mayor Nthatisi defended his administration, stating they inherited a financial mess but have improved revenue collection from 43% to 75%. However, he acknowledged that salaries and grants consume most of the budget, leaving little for infrastructure.
Residents Bear the Brunt
Frustrated residents have long complained about deteriorating roads, water shortages, and poor service delivery. The mayor’s admission that R7.5 billion is needed for repairs raises questions about where the funding will come from, given the metro’s current financial woes.
What’s Next?
Nthatisi promised to stabilize finances and prioritize road repairs, but with the municipality still under scrutiny for wasteful expenditure, skepticism remains high. As winter approaches, burst pipes and further road damage could deepen the crisis.
For now, Mangaung’s residents are left navigating pothole-ridden streets while waiting for a solution that may require more than just money—but a complete overhaul of governance.
