PILOT BLUE FLAG STATUS AWARDED TO GONUBIE & KIDDS BEACHES
The recognition marks a significant step toward achieving full Blue Flag accreditation. This internationally recognised eco-label recognises beaches that meet the highest standards in environmental management, water quality, safety, services, and environmental education. The BCM said the achievement reflects its continued commitment to improving the quality, safety, and sustainability of the city’s coastal environments while promoting responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.
Under the pilot programme, the municipality will continue to work closely with WESSA and other stakeholders to meet all the criteria required for full Blue Flag status. This achievement will include further improvements to beach facilities, water quality monitoring, waste management, and public awareness programmes for the 2025/26 financial year to replace decommissioned and auctioned law enforcement vehicles, ensuring the department maintains operational efficiency.
“These investments are part of a deliberate sustainability plan aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of our Public Safety and Protection Services, which include by-law enforcement, traffic management, and crime prevention across the Metro,” she said. Portfolio Head for Public Safety and Emergency Services, Councillor Amanda Mnyute, urged municipal officials to handle the new vehicles responsibly.
“Municipal assets must be used to serve communities, not for personal benefit,” she said. “These vehicles will help our officers respond swiftly to service delivery issues and improve safety for all residents.” Faku echoed these sentiments and emphasised that public safety is a shared responsibility.
“Government alone cannot succeed without the cooperation of our communities. We call upon all residents to work hand-in-hand with law enforcement agencies, to report crime, respect public spaces, and help build a safer environment for everyone,” she cautioned.
The BCM Law Enforcement Services Department plays a vital role in enforcing by-laws, protecting municipal assets, and maintaining public order across East London, Mdantsane, Qonce, and surrounding rural areas. The department works closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS), ratepayer associations, and internal municipal units to ensure coordinated operations.
BCM Executive Mayor Cllr Princess Faku welcomed the announcement, describing it as an important milestone for the city.
“We are deeply proud of this achievement, as it reflects our commitment to maintaining and enhancing the natural beauty and environmental integrity of our
coastline. “The awarding of Pilot Blue Flag Status to Gonubie and Kidd’s Beach demonstrates that we are on the right path towards achieving full Blue Flag accreditation,” beamed
Mayor Faku. She said the recognition also reaffirms Buffalo City’s growing reputation as a sustainable and attractive
tourism destination.
“Our beaches are not only places of leisure but also vital environmental assets that we must protect for future generations. We will continue to invest in improving coastal management practices, ensuring safety, and promoting environmental education among our communities and visitors,” she emphasised.
In closing, Faku expressed the municipality’s gratitude to the City’s law enforcement officers for their dedication and service.
“Let us continue to build a City that is not only beautiful but also secure — a City that stands as a beacon of progress, unity, and hope.“Together, we can and will make Buffalo City safer for all,” she concluded.
2025-11-25