In the heart of Kouga, one man’s journey reflects resilience, humility and the quiet strength of service. Willie Jantjies, who turns 60 on 10 September, has spent more than three decades building not only a career, but a legacy of dedication and service at Kouga Local Municipality.
KOUGA - In the heart of Kouga, one man’s journey reflects resilience, humility and the quiet strength of service.
Willie Jantjies, who turns 60 on 10 September, has spent more than three decades building not only a career, but a legacy of dedication and service at Kouga Local Municipality.
From Kwagga to Kouga
Born and raised in Kwagga, Jantjies grew up without electricity, relying on candles and lamps to light his family home. That humble beginning makes his career path all the more remarkable.
In 1994, he joined the municipality’s Electro-Mechanical Services section as a handyman – a role that seems almost ironic given his childhood without electricity.
A year later, he was appointed permanently, and in 2008 he advanced to the position of artisan aide. Over the years, he became known for his technical skill, problem-solving ability and steady presence in the workplace.
“As an artisan aide, I assist with technical tasks and ensure that the work is done properly. It gives me great joy when I solve a problem and see that my work has made a difference.”
Anchored by family and community
Jantjies credits his family and community for instilling the values that have shaped his work ethic.
“I was raised in a loving community. My family and my community taught me to work hard, have respect and always do my best,” he reflects.
That foundation of respect and perseverance has guided him through more than three decades of public service. During that time, he has witnessed significant changes in both the municipality and the way municipal services are delivered.
“The biggest change is how technology and innovation have changed how the municipality works. Things are done quicker and more efficiently,” he says.
But while technology may have transformed the workplace, Jantjies believes the fundamental values of public service should never change.
“A good municipal worker should be honest, trustworthy, friendly and hardworking. It is important to always treat all people with respect.”
A Milestone of gratitude
Turning 60 is no small milestone, and Jantjies embraces it with humility and gratitude.
“I am grateful for everything I have learned and achieved in my life. I am blessed to reach this age,” he says. “My 60 years on earth have taught me to be grateful, work hard and not take anyone or anything for granted.”
For Jantjies, reaching this milestone is not about looking back with regret, but looking ahead with anticipation.
“Every day is a new opportunity. Turning 60 is a new chapter for me. There is so much I still want to do and enjoy.”
His birthday is therefore more than a celebration of a number. It is a celebration of endurance, lessons learned, relationships built and the many lives touched through his years of service.
Pride in service
Jantjies’s journey from Kwagga’s candlelit nights to Kouga’s Electro-Mechanical Services section embodies the spirit of progress, perseverance and the dignity of hard work.
“When I look back on my journey at the municipality, I am grateful for every opportunity given to me. I am extremely grateful to Director Theo Madatt, who saw that I was a hard worker and gave me opportunities I never thought I would ever get.”
And when the time eventually comes for him to retire, Jantjies hopes his legacy will be remembered not by titles or positions, but by the way he treated people.
“When I retire one day, I want my colleagues to remember me as someone who was friendly, hardworking, treated everyone with respect and was always willing to assist.”
Who is he when not at work?
Away from the workplace, the father of four describes himself as a homebody who enjoys being surrounded by family.
“I love rugby and my blood is proudly green. And perhaps my colleagues don’t know that I am a very chilled person who loves spending time with my loved ones.”
After 60 years of life and more than three decades of municipal service, how does Jantjies sum up his journey in just three words?
“Grateful, hardworking and happy.”
He explains: “I am grateful for my life, hardworking because I have always given my best, and happy because of the people and memories that are part of my life.”
Three simple words – but together, they tell the story of a man who has spent his life working hard, serving others and remaining grateful for the journey.
