16 AUGUST 2026 – The Mkhondo Municipality, through the Department of Planning and Economic Development led by MMC Thembi Khumalo, held a community engagement meeting at Thokozani Tennis Courts. The meeting aimed to inform residents about the planned project to eradicate asbestos in affected residential areas.
This community engagement follows a request made by the Municipality to the Mpumalanga Department of Human Settlements for assistance in removing asbestos from affected residential areas.
The Department warmly welcomed the Municipality’s request, paving the way for the project to commence.
Mr Ntando Bembe, General Manager of Planning and Economic Development, explained that the purpose of the meeting was to officially introduce the asbestos eradication project to affected community members and to provide them with information regarding the planned activities and procedures to be followed.
During the meeting, Mr Mxolisi Ncamphalala explained the health risks associated with asbestos exposure and provided residents with information on how the project would operate.
He added that the process would begin with an assessment of affected houses to determine the extent of asbestos-related issues and the work required.
Residents were encouraged to cooperate with the project team by ensuring that an authorized person was available at their homes during scheduled assessments and other related activities.
This will assist the project team in carrying out the necessary work efficiently and successfully, and ensure that project execution proceeds without unnecessary delays.
The first phase of the project will benefit approximately 100 residents across Mkhondo and is scheduled for completion by the end of September 2026.
