Kouga Local Municipality has once again demonstrated that good governance and accountable leadership change lives. Recognised as the best performing municipality in the Eastern Cape, Kouga was honoured at the 2025 Municipal Performance Awards for its excellence in financial management, stability, and service delivery.
This achievement is a direct reflection of the trust and resilience of Kouga’s residents, as well as the consistent leadership under Democratic Alliance Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman and the DA-led council. It proves that when stability, planning and accountability come together, communities thrive.
The accolade is particularly significant at a time when many municipalities across South Africa are in deep financial distress. According to Ratings Afrika, the 115 largest municipalities collectively ran an operating deficit of R35.3 billion and face a combined liquidity shortfall of R104.9 billion.
In comparison, the clean audit Kouga received from the Auditor-General underscores disciplined financial management. It demonstrates that resources are not wasted or corrupted but rather directed towards the infrastructure and services that communities depend on.
Kouga has distinguished itself by maintaining stability, investing in infrastructure, and keeping residents at the centre of its governance, ensuring that Kouga continuously strive to create a meaningful life of dignity where its people can thrive.
President Cyril Ramaphosa himself has acknowledged that the municipalities delivering the best results in the country are often led by the DA. In this light, Kouga is not only a model for the Eastern Cape but a practical example for the nation.
I invite Premier Oscar Mabuyane and his executive to visit Kouga and see, first-hand, how disciplined leadership delivers results for residents.
This award is a victory for the people of Kouga. It demonstrates that local government, under DA leadership, can be stable, financially sound, and responsive when grounded in integrity and accountability.
The DA in Kouga will continue to raise the bar, aspiring not only to lead in the Eastern Cape but to be ranked among the very best municipalities in South Africa.
The people of Kouga deserve nothing less than a municipality that works for them every single day, and Kouga has proven it can be done.