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The long-awaited reopening of the swimmimg pools in Lenasia Ext 2 has finally arrived, bringing immense relief to the community. After an extended closure, which caused considerable frustration among local residents, the pools are now officially open to the public once again. This marks a much-anticipated return for swimmers and families who have been eager to enjoy the facility.
Lenasia's Action 4 Accountability (A4A), Atlantis Swimming Club, and various stakeholders had tirelessly pressured the Community Development Department of the City of Johannesburg (COJ) to address the prolonged closure of the swimming pools. Their efforts have finally borne fruit, as one of the three pools in Lenasia has officially reopened its doors to the public. This marks a significant step forward, offering the community access to much-needed recreational facilities after a lengthy wait.
COJ's MMC for Community Development, Councillor Tebogo Nkokou, expressed his gratitude and commitment to the community following his recent appointment. He acknowledged the collective efforts of stakeholders, including Action 4 Accountability and Atlantis Swimming Club, in advocating for the reopening of the Lenasia Extension 2 swimming pool.
In his statement, Councillor Nkokou said; “Thank you for reaching out and for your kind words regarding my recent appointment as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development. It is truly an honor to serve the community, and I am committed to ensuring that recreational facilities, such as swimming pools, remain accessible to our residents.”
He further praised the community’s persistence, calling the pool’s reopening a testament to the dedication of local stakeholders and swimming clubs. *“Their efforts in advocating for the restoration of this facility demonstrate a shared commitment to fostering community development, healthy living, and youth engagement. I commend and deeply appreciate their collaboration and initiative in making this possible,”* he added.
Looking ahead, Councillor Nkokou extended an invitation to meet with stakeholders and swimming clubs at the earliest opportunity to discuss their concerns, acknowledge their contributions, and ensure the long-term sustainability of such facilities. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and has requested that all stakeholders liaise with his office to arrange a suitable time and venue for the meeting, with his team facilitating the necessary arrangements.
Zarina Motala from Action 4 Accountability expressed her satisfaction and gratitude following the reopening of the Lenasia Ext 2 swimming pools. She said, “The Ahmed Kathrada team, together with Action 4 Accountability, is pleased that the City of Johannesburg has finally opened the Lenasia Ext 2 swimming pools. This comes after much dedication and advocacy from the community, Atlantis Swimming Club, and all other stakeholders.”
Motala further emphasized the importance of collective effort in making the reopening a reality, saying: “We appreciate the collaborative efforts and the pressure created by all involved, which contributed to the pool's reopening.”
She also expressed hope that the relevant authorities and departments will ensure the proper maintenance of this crucial community facility, stressing the need for ongoing support to sustain the facility's accessibility and benefit to residents.
COJ's spokesperson Nthatisi Modingoane shared positive news about the successful school holiday program recently hosted by the Sports and Recreation Department at the Lenasia Ext 2 swimming pool in Ward 9. The program, which kicked off at 11:30 AM, focused on water safety, swimming pool by-laws, and learn-to-swim activities, offering valuable education and skills to participants.
Modingoane also provided an update on the operational status of swimming pools in Region G, confirming that the following pools are currently open to the public:
1. Lenasia Extension 2, Ward 9
2. Lenasia South, Ward 120
3. Eldorado Park Extension 4, Ward 18
4. Eldorado Park Extension 9, Ward 17
However, he regretted to announce that the Lenasia Extension 10 swimming pool has been temporarily closed since 18 December 2024 due to a mechanical issue with its filtration system. He assured the public that a contractor is already on-site and working to resolve the problem.
Ziyaad Bohardien, Chairman of Atlantis Swimming Club, expressed the club's heartfelt gratitude for the reopening of the Greyville Extension 2 Swimming Pool. He acknowledged that this milestone was made possible by the collective efforts of many, including the City of Johannesburg, the local Ward 9 Councillor, Action for Accountability, and the club members and the broader community. Their support was instrumental in getting the pool repaired and ready for use.
“We invite all swimmers to return and enjoy a safe and fun environment for training,” Bohardien stated. “The Atlantis Swimming Club is excited to continue promoting swimming in our area and creating more opportunities for everyone."
He concluded by thanking all who contributed to this effort and urged the community to celebrate the reopening of the pool, emphasizing that it should be used to its fullest potential.
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