Ward 4 is being called on to unite behind a shared development vision following the recent Seriti Flea Market, School Gadgets and WiFi Handover Programme. An initiative that has once again placed the spotlight on the community’s long-standing needs, from digital access and education support to local economic development and opportunities for young people.
The programme, attended by community representatives, government officials and private sector stakeholders, highlighted the growing importance of partnerships in addressing the challenges facing Ward 4. From improving access to connectivity in underserved areas to supporting learners with digital tools and creating space for local small businesses through the flea market. The event served as both a showcase of ongoing interventions and a reminder of the development still needed across the ward, including in farming communities.
One of the major highlights for the ward was the selection of a Blinkpan school as one of only five schools to receive educational smartphones equipped with Artificial Intelligence technology and support for all 11 official South African languages.
The devices are expected to assist learners in their studies, improve access to educational resources and expose young people to modern technology as digital learning becomes increasingly important.
The handover also built on earlier efforts to improve connectivity in the area. Community members were reminded that Seriti had previously installed WiFi in Blinkpan and KwaMfemfe, with commitments made for the programme to continue expanding into additional communities, particularly farming areas that have often been left behind when it comes to access to digital infrastructure and services.
Creating opportunities beyond the handover
Beyond the school gadget handover, the flea market itself highlighted the intended role of Social and Labour Plan (SLP) initiatives in creating local economic opportunities. The event drew attention to the importance of collaboration between communities, government and the private sector in fighting unemployment, supporting small businesses and ensuring that development reaches all corners of the municipality rather than benefiting only a few areas.
Ward 4 urged to lead just transition and define its development priorities
During the engagement, the importance of the Just Energy Transition (JET) was raised, with Director of Local Economic Development Johannes Silas highlighting Ward 4’s growing role in the process. Silas emphasised that meaningful change and economic transformation should begin in Ward 4, positioning the community as a potential example of what a successful and inclusive local transition could look like for other areas to follow.
The message was clear that economic transformation should not happen elsewhere while Ward 4 remains on the sidelines, but should take root in communities such as Blinkpan, KwaMfemfe and surrounding farming areas, where residents continue to face limited services and economic opportunities.
Another key issue highlighted during the programme was the need for Ward 4 to have a strong and well-defined Integrated Development Plan (IDP) that clearly sets out the priorities of the community. It was indicated that if the mining sector and other stakeholders are to support local development effectively, community needs must be properly identified and aligned with the municipality’s broader development plans.
Community clinic, jobs and youth development top Ward 4 wish list
Among the priorities being proposed for inclusion in Ward 4’s development agenda, are the establishment of a community clinic, the development of a training centre to equip local residents with practical and employable skills, the construction of a community hall accessible to residents and local organisations, and the development of sports facilities for young people and the wider community.
Residents say these are not just projects for one section of Ward 4, but needs that would benefit the ward as a whole, including those living and working on farms who are often excluded from mainstream development.
As conversations about development, investment and economic transition continue, the Seriti programme has reignited calls for Ward 4 residents to organise around a common vision for the future. For many, the message coming out of the event is that development is possible when communities speak with one voice, identify their priorities clearly and ensure that no part of Ward 4 is left behind.
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