KOUGA – The Media and Communication Section in the Office of the Deputy Municipal Manager at Kouga Local Municipality has received national recognition for its work during one of the municipality’s most challenging emergencies.
The team received the Crisis Communication Excellence Award at the 2026 National Communicators Forum (NCF) Awards. The event was hosted by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) in Cape Town.
The award recognises teams that deliver clear, consistent messaging during emergencies. It also honours communication that provides accurate and timely information that guides, informs, and reassures the public during difficult situations.
Responding to the January Fires
Kouga Local Municipality submitted the nomination following the devastating fires that swept across the Kouga region from 6 to 15 January 2026.
The fires threatened lives, homes, infrastructure, farms and the natural environment. As a result, the event became one of the most demanding disaster responses in recent municipal history.
From the start of the crisis, the municipality activated its Disaster Joint Operations Centre (JOC). This centre coordinated the emergency response across multiple teams.
The Media and Communication Section formed an essential part of the JOC. Their role focused on ensuring that verified and accurate information reached residents, businesses and stakeholders as quickly as possible.
Clear and Continuous Public Updates
During the emergency, the team issued regular updates across digital platforms and traditional media channels. In addition, they produced internal staff briefings, public advisories and safety notices.
The team also engaged directly with affected communities. At the same time, they worked to counter misinformation and clarify evacuation procedures.
Residents received regular updates on road closures, firefighting progress and available relief measures. Consequently, the communication flow helped communities stay informed while emergency teams worked on the ground.
Importantly, the strategy covered both internal and external communication. Municipal leadership, operational teams, councillors and emergency responders remained aligned and informed. Meanwhile, residents received clear and reassuring updates during a period of uncertainty.
Dedication Beyond the Call of Duty
Kouga Media and Communication Manager Monique Basson said the award reflects the dedication of the entire team.
“This award is a testament to the incredible resilience, professionalism and commitment of our Media and Communication team,” Basson said.
“During the fires, our team worked extended hours, often late into the night and over weekends, to ensure that residents received accurate and timely information. They went the extra mile because they understood the critical importance of communication in protecting lives and maintaining calm.”
Basson added that crisis communication plays a vital role during emergencies.
“In times of crisis, communication becomes a lifeline. Our responsibility was to ensure that every message remained clear, factual and constructive. We understood that our words could either create panic or build confidence. Therefore we communicated with empathy, transparency and responsibility.”
Leadership During the Crisis
Basson also acknowledged the leadership of Deputy Municipal Manager Dawie de Jager during the disaster response.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to Deputy Municipal Manager Dawie de Jager for his exceptional handling of the disaster,” she said.
“He navigated a complex and rapidly evolving situation with clarity and calm. Furthermore, he motivated teams and ensured strong coordination within the Joint Operations Centre.”
According to Basson, this leadership helped communicators remain fully informed throughout the response.
“As a result, we could keep the public accurately and responsibly informed at all times. His leadership played a key role in the effectiveness of our communication strategy.”
Strengthening Public Trust During Emergencies
The recognition at the National Communicators Forum Awards highlights Kouga Local Municipality’s commitment to transparency, accountability and community-focused governance.
By integrating communication into its disaster response structures, the municipality ensured a steady flow of information between emergency teams and the public.
As a result, trust remained strong during a difficult period.
The Crisis Communication Excellence Award recognises the team’s work during the January fires. At the same time, it emphasises the important role that strategic communication plays in disaster management and public safety.
For Kouga, the award stands as both a proud achievement and a strong reminder of its ongoing commitment to protecting and supporting its communities.
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