George Municipality Enhances Community Safety
George Municipality Enhances Community Safety with High Mast Light Installations

In the photo, the Portfolio Cllr for Electrotechnical Services Nosicelo Mbete and Mayor Leon van Wyk are switching one of the high mast lights
In a proactive move to address safety concerns and combat criminal activities, the George Municipality has successfully implemented a comprehensive lighting initiative over the past six months. Strategically positioned in Thembalethu, Lawaaikamp, Parkdene, and Borchers, 30 high mast lights now illuminate areas that historically suffered from low to no lighting. This transformative endeavor not only aims to brighten high-density zones but also plays a pivotal role in fortifying community safety.
Commending the Municipal Electrotechnical Services for their swift execution, Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk highlighted the multifaceted benefits expected from the installation of these high mast lights, emphasizing their role in crime prevention and heightened security.
According to Mayor van Wyk, “The augmented illumination serves as a formidable deterrent against criminal activities, granting communities increased visibility and the capacity to monitor and mitigate cable theft and vandalism of municipal resources and property. Adequate lighting significantly diminishes safety risks associated with nighttime activities. With an effective radius spanning approximately 50 to 60 meters, these high mast lights contribute substantially to the overall security of our communities.”
The distribution of the high mast lights is as follows:
- Thembalethu: 18 high mast lights distributed across various wards.
- Parkdene: 5 high mast lights.
- Lawaaikamp: 4 high mast lights.
- Borchards: 3 high mast lights.

Mayor Leon van Wyk says the installation of these high mast lights is expected to increase safety
According to the acting director for Electrotechnical Services, Kobus Wilken, this initiative was made possible through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) and a portion came from the George Municipal’s own funding. “The Municipality submitted funding requests to address the critical need for improved lighting and successfully secured approval from the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) for the installation of the 30 high mast lights. The MIG allocated a total of R17 million, supplemented by an additional R2 million from municipal funding,” Wilken said.
The Portfolio Councillor of the Electrotechnical Services and Fleet, Councillor Nosicelo Mbete urged the public to preserve these important assets. “While celebrating this significant milestone, the Municipality urges the community to play an active role in safeguarding this essential infrastructure against theft and vandalism. The success of these installations relies on the collective effort of residents to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the high mast lights,” Cllr Mbete said.
The Municipality is confident that these installations will contribute to a safer environment and provide residents with the assurance of well-lit public spaces.