For Sipho Kamte, better known as Ivan, working for Kouga Local Municipality is about more than completing a daily task list. It is about people, service, responsibility and making a difference in his community.
Long before most of the community begins its day, there is already a rhythm of planning, problem-solving and service behind the scenes at Kouga Local Municipality. For Sipho “Ivan” Kamte, almost 21 years in municipal service have taught him that a job is not simply about getting through a list of tasks – it is about people, dignity and leaving a positive mark on the community.
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KOUGA – For Sipho Kamte, better known as Ivan, working for Kouga Local Municipality is about more than completing a daily task list. It is about people, service, responsibility and making a difference in his community.
A father of three and a born-again Christian, Kamte joined the municipality in September 2005 after the birth of his first child. He had prayed for an opportunity and applied for a general worker position, but was appointed as a machine operator.
Almost 21 years later, he has grown into a supervisory role, overseeing parks and cemetery-related responsibilities in Humansdorp and St Francis Bay.
Interestingly, municipal work was not what Kamte originally dreamed of.
“My dream job was to be a doctor,” he says.
Today, his role is very different, but his desire to help people remains at the heart of what he does.
Starting the day
Kamte’s working day begins with communication and planning.
“When I arrive at work, I start by gathering everyone – the employees and their supervisors – together and we discuss our weekly tasks,” he explains.
He then checks his emails for urgent matters, attends meetings and deals with issues requiring his attention. In the afternoon, he checks in with supervisors to see how work is progressing.
Planning is particularly important for cemetery services. Kamte and his team prepare schedules for the following day, ensuring everyone knows what needs to be done. His responsibilities include making sure operations are under control and that cemeteries remain clean and properly maintained.
The work behind the scenes
One of the challenges Kamte and his team face is identifying old cemeteries where records are no longer available. Maintaining these spaces can also be difficult when there are damaged fences, livestock entering cemetery grounds, vandalism and drug-related activities that result in graves being damaged.
For Kamte, cemeteries deserve the same care and respect as any important community space.
Weather can also create challenges. Burying a loved one during heavy rain is particularly difficult because wet conditions can damage graves and cause the soil to sink.
Kamte would also like residents to better understand the sensitive circumstances surrounding the reopening of graves where there is insufficient depth for a new burial. These situations require careful consideration and understanding from families.
He believes graves should be properly maintained and filled evenly so families can continue visiting their loved ones in a clean and dignified environment.
Lessons from the job
After years in public service, Kamte says he has learned that everyone is different and deserves respect.
“Always treat people the way you wanted to be treated with respect. Every opinion matters.”
His work has also changed how he views family and life. He believes people should take care of their families and spend time with them while they are alive.
Making a difference
What Kamte enjoys most is knowing that he makes a difference to both the community and his co-workers.
He enjoys helping and motivating employees, resolving complaints and meeting new people. He also values learning about different people and cultures.
One of his most rewarding moments is receiving acknowledgement from his superiors when work has been completed successfully, particularly within the expected timeframe.
Beyond the workplace
Away from work, Kamte enjoys playing golf and spending time with his family. Those who know him may describe him as straightforward, kind and honest.
His faith is also an important part of his life and influences his outlook and approach to others.
Kamte’s advice
His advice to colleagues and anyone entering the workplace is simple: “Treat every workplace as your own business. Respect your co-workers and superiors. Always be a positive person. Ask questions, give your best and respect your work.”
He encourages people to remain willing to learn, ask for help and embrace new opportunities.
His message to residents is equally clear: let us work together to keep our cemeteries clean and ensure our loved ones have a peaceful and dignified resting place.
