City of Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero yesterday announced the formation of a high-powered task force dubbed the “Bomb Squad”, aimed at tackling crime, improving service delivery, and accelerating urban management in the metro.
The multidisciplinary team, comprising former city officials, politicians, and experts from various sectors, was unveiled during a launch event in Soweto. Morero clarified that despite its explosive name, the squad is not a literal bomb-disposal unit but rather a “Project Management Office” tasked with fast-tracking the city’s turnaround strategy.
Who Makes Up the Bomb Squad?
The team includes prominent figures such as:
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Snuki Zikalala (ANC Veterans League chair and former SAPS official) – leading the squad
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Mavela Dlamini (former Johannesburg City Manager)
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Sicelo Xulu (former CEO of City Power)
The squad also includes representatives from national departments, state security, and state-owned entities like Eskom, PRASA, and Transnet.
Volunteer-Driven Initiative
Morero emphasized that most members are volunteering their expertise, with only a few receiving stipends for logistical support. “This is a team of job warriors who want to see Johannesburg succeed,” he said.
Focus Areas
The Bomb Squad will:
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Combat crime (despite recent reports of a 7.9% decrease)
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Improve service delivery (electricity, water, infrastructure)
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Boost economic growth (targeting a 3% increase in five years)
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Support the city’s R89 billion budget, prioritizing infrastructure upgrades
Controversy Over Costs
While Morero assured that the initiative is low-cost, questions remain about stipends for key members like Zikalala. The mayor defended the move, stating that the team’s goal is to “get things done quickly” without burdening taxpayers.
Mixed Reactions
The unusual name has drawn both attention and skepticism. Critics question whether the squad will clash with existing municipal structures, but Morero insists it will complement the work of the mayoral committee and city officials.
With Johannesburg facing persistent service delivery challenges, the success of this unconventional approach remains to be seen.