Negotiations between Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and landowner Dr Albert van Rooyen over the possible sale of 85ha land for Grogro informal settlement are ongoing, with both parties having completed independent valuations. Residents, numbering about 1,000, have protested violently after the removal of illegal electricity connections, as the metro cannot legally provide services on private land. The community rejects relocation options and insists on staying.
The Grogro informal settlement, situated just off Kragga Kamma Road between Theescomb, Sherwood and Baywest in Nelson Mandela Bay, has existed for about 40 years. Its roughly 1,000 residents resorted to illegal electricity connections for power, leading to protests starting in October 2025 after municipal officials removed them, leaving the area without electricity. A recent protest last month involved clashes with Public Order Policing, disrupting traffic and businesses on the city's western outskirts. Community leaders demanded a meeting with mayor Babalwa Lobishe, who explained that the landowner seeks R80-million for the 85ha property and that the city would obtain its own valuation. Dr van Rooyen maintains this price is reasonable, given previous offers he declined due to informal occupation. Both sides have now finalised independent valuations, though details remain confidential amid ongoing talks. Municipal spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya stated: “The City can confirm that the valuation of the property has been completed. As this forms part of a confidential negotiation process... the details... cannot be disclosed at this stage.” He noted weekly updates to community leaders and a commitment to fast-tracking a resolution legally. Community leader Zukile Futa confirmed they are informed and awaiting progress. Van Rooyen said negotiations with the city's legal team are advancing, but he is unlikely to accept a lease alternative, as services cannot legally be installed on private land. Mayor Lobishe mentioned relocation to N2 North as a fallback, though most residents oppose it.
