EFF’s Dr Mgcini Tshwaku
By Central News Editorial
Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety in Johannesburg, has been honoured as the Best MMC for 2024 in South Africa.
Renowned for his hands-on approach and commitment to improving public safety, Tshwaku’s leadership continues to make Johannesburg a safer city for its residents. His impactful work in 2023 and 2024 has earned him recognition as a leader who delivers effective service and responds promptly to the needs of the community.
Background: The Making of a Visionary Leader
Dr. Tshwaku’s journey into politics and public service is deeply rooted in academic excellence and a passion for transformative leadership. Born on 7 June 1976, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry from the University of Fort Hare, followed by advanced degrees in Chemical Engineering, including a PhD from the University of South Africa.
His political career began with the EFF as the Gauteng convenor from 2013 to 2014. He served as a Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and later as a Member of the National Assembly until 2023, when he resigned to take up the MMC role. His tenure as Johannesburg’s MMC for Public Safety has been marked by decisive actions and effective governance.
Achievements in 2023-2024
Dr. Tshwaku’s work over the past two years has focused on key areas including crime prevention, enforcement of city by-laws, and enhancing the capacity of Johannesburg’s Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).
1. Operation Buya Mthetho (Return to Law Enforcement)
This initiative, launched in 2023, aimed to restore order in Johannesburg’s inner city by cracking down on crime, enforcing by-laws, and addressing urban decay.
• Key Successes:
• Reclaimed hijacked buildings and returned them to lawful owners.
• Closed illegal liquor outlets and non-compliant businesses.
• Seized millions of rand worth of counterfeit goods.
Operation Buya Mthetho demonstrated Tshwaku’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law and improving the city’s livability.
2. Launch of JMPD Tactical Reaction Unit
In response to high-level crimes like kidnappings and cash-in-transit heists, Tshwaku launched the JMPD Tactical Reaction Unit in 2023.
• Impact:
• Enhanced the city’s response to organised crime.
• Improved the safety of residents through targeted interventions.This initiative solidified Johannesburg’s position as a leader in innovative policing.
3. Traffic Management Solutions
Load-shedding often disrupted Johannesburg’s traffic, leading to congestion and safety risks. Tshwaku tackled this issue head-on by deploying 200 JMPD traffic points officers in early 2024.
• Benefits:
• Reduced traffic jams during power outages.
• Ensured smoother commutes across all seven city regions.
4. Addressing Illegal Mining and Urban Decay
Illegal mining operations and urban decay have plagued many parts of Johannesburg. Tshwaku’s leadership brought about tangible change in these areas.
• Actions Taken:
• Dismantled illegal mining activities in collaboration with law enforcement.
• Conducted urban renewal projects, including repairing streetlights, filling potholes, and cleaning up illegal dumping sites.
5. Public Safety Campaigns
Tshwaku’s leadership saw the launch of community-focused safety campaigns that addressed various societal issues.
• Festive Season Safety Campaign (2024): Focused on crime prevention and by-law enforcement during the holiday period.
• Water Safety Awareness (2023-2024): Educated residents on drowning prevention and water safety.• Women’s Month Outreach (August 2024): Distributed sanitary towels to learners and promoted menstrual health awareness.
6. Accountability in Law Enforcement
In December 2024, Tshwaku took decisive action against misconduct within the JMPD, suspending officers caught misusing public resources. This swift response showcased his commitment to accountability and ethical governance.
- Sanitary Towel Drive for Women’s Month
In August 2024, Tshwaku led a sanitary towel distribution drive for learners at Aurora Girls High in Soweto to combat period poverty.
• Purpose:
• Promote menstrual health education.
• Ensure that no young girl misses school due to lack of access to sanitary products.
- Building Safety and Inspections
Following the tragic Marshalltown fire in 2023, Tshwaku prioritised building safety inspections across Johannesburg.
• Actions Taken:
• Inspected over 100 buildings for compliance with safety regulations.
• Evacuated residents from unsafe structures and initiated plans for their rehabilitation.
This initiative underscored his dedication to preventing future tragedies and protecting residents.
- Water Safety Campaign
Recognising the dangers of drowning during summer months, Tshwaku launched a water safety campaign to educate residents on safe practices around water bodies.
• Outcomes:
• Fewer drowning incidents reported during the 2023–2024 summer season.
• Improved awareness of water safety protocols among residents.
- Crackdown on Non-Compliant Spaza Shops
In October 2024, Dr. Tshwaku announced plans to phase out non-compliant spaza shops, starting with a pilot project in Naledi, Soweto. The initiative sought to ensure that all informal retailers adhered to health and safety regulations, thereby protecting consumers and promoting fair business practices.
- Tackling Illegal Dumping
Illegal dumping remained a significant challenge in Johannesburg. In 2023 and 2024, Dr. Tshwaku led operations to clamp down on illegal waste disposal, including the impounding of trucks involved in these activities.
Comparing Tshwaku with Other MMCs
Across South Africa, other MMCs have made commendable contributions to their municipalities. However, Tshwaku’s hands-on leadership and tangible results make him stand out.
• Proactivity: Unlike many MMCs, Tshwaku is often seen on the ground, personally overseeing operations.
• Responsiveness: Residents praise him for addressing concerns promptly and engaging directly with communities.
• Innovation: His creative solutions, such as deploying traffic points officers and launching the JMPD Tactical Reaction Unit, have set him apart.
Community Recognition
Johannesburg residents have consistently lauded Tshwaku’s accessibility and dedication. His active participation in community meetings and willingness to listen to citizens’ concerns have fostered trust and collaboration between the city’s administration and its residents.
• Public Feedback:
• “Dr. Tshwaku is always available when we need him. He doesn’t just talk; he takes action.”
• “Thanks to him, we feel safer in our neighbourhoods.”
A Visionary Leader for Johannesburg and South Africa
Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku’s exceptional performance as MMC for Public Safety in 2023-2024 exemplifies the transformative power of effective leadership. His innovative initiatives, dedication to community engagement, and results-driven governance have not only improved Johannesburg but also set a national standard for municipal excellence.
As Central News, we recognise and celebrate his work, naming him South Africa’s Best MMC for 2024. Dr. Tshwaku’s leadership serves as an inspiration for public servants across the country, proving that meaningful change is possible through commitment, collaboration, and vision.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
_________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #news #politics #business