Note to editors: Please find attached soundbite by Rikus Badenhorst
The DA congratulates the Overstrand Municipality and the Western Cape Department of Mobility on the successful launch of the Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) Demonstration Town Project in Hermanus. This partnership once again proves that when government works together with purpose and accountability, innovation follows.
Main elements of an NMT Demonstration Town include:
• Partnerships with local government, NGOs, and private groups to enhance community participation and sustainability.
• Safe, connected routes for walking and cycling
• Awareness campaigns like Open Streets events
• Traffic calming and improved intersections
• Bicycle distribution with safety training
• Accessibility for all users
Hermanus, chosen as the flagship demonstration town, is showing South Africa what forward-thinking local government looks like, one that plans for people. By investing in walking and cycling infrastructure, Overstrand is creating safer, cleaner, and more connected communities where residents can move with dignity and freedom.
This initiative aligns perfectly with the DA’s vision of a well-run, people-centred government that builds liveable towns and inclusive economies. In a country where too many citizens still walk long distances on unsafe roads to reach work or school, this project represents real tangible progress.
The DA commends Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileko, Executive Mayor Archie Klaas, Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill, and their team for their commitment to prioritising infrastructure that uplifts every resident, from Zwelihle to Sandbaai and from Mount Pleasant to the Hermanus hub.
We are proud to see this DA run municipality once again setting the standard for excellence in service delivery and sustainable urban design.
Where the DA governs, we don’t wait for change, we build it. And through this initiative, Overstrand has taken another step toward a future where every resident can move safely, live healthily, and prosper equally.