Mossel bay: The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, and the Executive Mayor of Mossel Bay Municipality, Alderman Dirk Kotz©, have signed a historic land-exchange pledge to advance the transfer of municipal land for the development of the proposed police station and dog unit in KwaNonqaba. For almost 20 years, officers at the police station have worked from overcrowded and deteriorating premises, supplemented by temporary containers and Wendy houses.

According to South African Government News Agency, the pledge marks a decisive step towards providing a suitable and dignified working environment for police officers in KwaNonqaba. Minister Macpherson emphasized the responsibility of Public Works to ensure that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has the necessary land and infrastructure to protect communities effectively. He stated that the land exchange is part of his commitment to using public property for public good and ensuring that public assets actively contribute to their communities.

Mossel Bay Municipality approved the proposed property exchange in June 2026, following engagements between the Minister, the Mayor, and officials from the Department and the municipality. The pledge commits both parties to cooperate transparently and accountably in completing the legislative, regulatory, and administrative processes required for the proposed exchange.

Under the proposed exchange, municipal land in KwaNonqaba will be transferred to the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure for the proposed new police station and SAPS Dog Unit. In return, department-owned land in Dana Bay will be transferred to Mossel Bay Municipality for the proposed Dana Bay Eco-Tourism Park.

Mayor Kotz© highlighted that the exchange exemplifies the use of public property for public good, supporting better policing and safer communities in KwaNonqaba while creating recreational, tourism, and economic opportunities in Dana Bay. He emphasized that public land should not stand idle but rather make communities safer and improve their quality of life.

Kotz© further noted that the proposed exchange demonstrates the achievements possible when different spheres of government collaborate to meet community needs. The partnership provides a long-awaited home for the KwaNonqaba Police Station and unlocks land in Dana Bay for a park that will benefit residents, visitors, and local businesses. The initiative is a testament to cooperative government producing practical outcomes for all communities in Mossel Bay.