Press Releases

Kouga launches free online jobseeker database

Kouga launches free online jobseeker database

A day in the life of Linda Jack

Kouga Local Municipality Chief Librarian, Linda Jack, has dedicated nearly three decades to transforming Kouga's libraries into vibrant community hubs where a lifelong passion for reading continues to inspire learning, promote literacy and create opportunities for residents of all ages.

Kouga secures long-term homes for local animal welfare organisations

Two of Kouga's long-serving animal welfare organisations have received a significant boost after Kouga Local Municipality approved long-term right-to-use agreements that will allow them to continue providing essential services to communities across the region. At a Special Council meeting on 27 July 2026, Council granted final approval for Jeffreys Bay Animal Rescue to continue occupying a portion of Erf 8783, Jeffreys Bay, and for SPCA Assisi to continue operating from a portion of Erf 499, Humansdorp.

Kouga announces Toughest Firefighter team for 2026 national competition

Kouga Fire and Rescue Services has announced the seven firefighters who will represent the municipality at the Toughest Firefighter Association (TFA) competition in George from 1 to 4 October 2026. The team was selected following Kouga’s Toughest Firefighter Trials, which tested firefighters’ strength, endurance, discipline and practical firefighting skills. The 2026 Kouga team comprises: Hankey Fire Station: Fireman Geoffrey Smith. Humansdorp Fire Station: Fireman Jermaine Groep and Fireman Sean du Toit. Jeffreys Bay Fire Station: Senior Firefighter Ashley Makoba, Fireman Curtis Jantjies and Fireman Pieter van Taak. St Francis Bay Fire Station: Fireman Benito Wabani.

Pellsrus weightlifters crowned South Africa's best U14 team

A group of young weightlifters from Pellsrus Primary School in Jeffreys Bay has rewritten Kouga's sporting history after dominating the 2026 South African U14, Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships, returning home with eight gold medals, one silver medal, three Champion of Champions titles and the coveted Best U14 Men's Team in South Africa trophy. Their remarkable achievements were officially confirmed by the South African Weightlifting Federation. The nine-member team, coached by Pieter Pretorius, represented the Eastern Cape with distinction and produced one of the most successful performances ever by a Kouga weightlifting club at a national championship.

Kouga extends Revenue Enhancement Programme to encourage compliance and protect electricity network

Residents now have until 30 October 2026 to take advantage of Kouga Local Municipality's Revenue Enhancement Programme after Council approved a four-month extension at a Special Council meeting on 27 July 2026. The programme provides residents with an opportunity to voluntarily regularise tampered prepaid electricity meters and register rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems without incurring the penalties that would ordinarily apply. Originally launched on 1 March 2026 and due to end on 30 June 2026, the initiative has already resulted in an increase in Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) registrations. However, Council recognised that additional time is needed to encourage greater participation and improve compliance across the municipality.

Halalisana: Growing hope, opportunity and entrepreneurs in Kouga

ThisAbility shines a light on inclusion, courage and local talent

Talented emerging filmmaker Vicki Fourie is proving that powerful stories can emerge from local communities and resonate with an international audience. Her debut short film, ThisAbility, is more than a crime thriller. It is a moving celebration of courage, inclusion and human potential, while also highlighting the remarkable creative talent found within the Kouga region. Growing up in a ministry family and moving around South Africa, Fourie describes herself as "a Free State girl through and through," but says Jeffreys Bay will always hold a special place in her heart.