MEC Mamabolo assessed areas affected by sinkholes in the City of Tshwane
By: Prudence Motsila
11 May 2025 
In response to the escalating sinkhole crisis in Tshwane, Gauteng MEC for Infrastructure Development and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Jacob Mamabolo, visited Centurion to assess the most critically affected areas. The City of Tshwane has declared the presence of 63 sinkholes a disaster, attributing the situation to historical underinvestment in infrastructure.
MEC Mamabolo was accompanied by the Head of the Gauteng Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC), Mr Tshepo Motlhale, and several key members of the Tshwane Mayoral Committee, including Mr Coetzee, Ms Sarah Mabotsa, Ms Palesa Modise, and Ms Kholofelo Morodi. The delegation conducted an on-site inspection to understand the full scope of the damage and engage with city officials on coordinated interventions.
Ms Kholofelo Morodi, MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, highlighted the city's preliminary plans to address and mitigate the sinkhole issue. However, she noted the complexity of the challenge, citing multiple contributing factors and acknowledging the city's inability to provide definitive timeframes for repairs.
"At this stage, we've prioritized public safety by cordoning off affected areas and ensuring that residents continue to have access to essential services such as water and electricity," said MMC Morodi. "We're grateful for the support of the provincial government, as significant funding will be required to address this crisis."
One of the most active and dangerous sinkholes in Centurion first emerged in January 2025. It was triggered by a failed stormwater drainage system. A blocked stormwater pipe caused water to overflow through manholes and onto surrounding surfaces. At the same time, leaking sewage contributed to underground erosion, eventually compromising the stability of the area and causing the ground to collapse.
MEC Mamabolo emphasized the geological challenges inherent in dolomitic areas such as Centurion, which are naturally prone to sinkhole formation.
"Like Merafong, which we visited last week, Centurion's dolomitic ground requires continuous monitoring and proactive infrastructure management. Smart, long-term interventions are critical if we are to protect communities and prevent future disasters," Mamabolo said.
The provincial government's visit marks the beginning of a broader intervention strategy that includes technical assessments, community engagement, and the mobilization of financial and engineering resources.
Residents are urged to stay clear of cordoned-off zones and report any signs of ground instability to city authorities.