Mossel Bay
Municipality: Where heritage meets growth
Mossel Bay,
officially proclaimed a town in 1848 and a municipality in 1852, has grown into
one of the Western Cape’s most dynamic and well-managed local governments.
Following the municipal restructuring of December 2000, the current Mossel Bay
Municipality was formed through the amalgamation of various smaller
municipalities within its boundaries, creating a diverse and expansive
jurisdiction of 2,007 km².
The municipal area
includes a rich tapestry of towns and settlements:
Mossel Bay, Dana
Bay, Hartenbos, KwaNonqaba, Great Brak River, Klein Brak River, Glentana,
Toekoms, Jonkersberg, Herbertsdale, Friemersheim, Boggoms Bay, Vleesbaai,
Brandwag, Ruiterbos, Buisplaas, D'Almeida, Fraaiuitsig, Outeniqua Beach,
Reebok, Southern Cross, Hersham, Dwarswegstrand, and Tergniet - each
contributing to the region’s cultural and economic vitality.
Strategically
located along the N2 highway, Mossel Bay sits approximately halfway between
Cape Town and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). It is bordered by George Municipality
to the east, Langeberg to the west, and Oudtshoorn to the north, with natural
boundaries formed by the Gouritz River, Outeniqua Mountains, and Maalgate
River.
A town on the rise
In recent years,
Mossel Bay has recorded exceptional growth, becoming a top destination for
semigration and investment. Families and professionals are relocating from
major cities in search of safety, quality of life, and reliable service
delivery. In 2024, Mossel Bay was named the Number 1 semigration destination in
the Western Cape, with Great Brak River ranking fifth.
This growth is
underpinned by strong municipal performance. In 2024, Ratings Afrika named
Mossel Bay the Most Financially Sustainable Municipality in South Africa. The
town’s high payment rate, strategic budgeting, and transparent governance
continue to attract investors and residents alike.
The municipality’s
2025 budget prioritises service delivery, infrastructure investment, and
economic resilience, aligning closely with its Integrated Development Plan
(IDP) and long-term vision for inclusive development.
Mossel Bay’s economy
thrives on a foundation of agriculture, fishing, light industry,
petrochemicals, and tourism. Agricultural outputs include aloes, livestock,
dairy, ostriches, timber, vegetables, and wine, while the town’s coastal
location supports a robust fishing sector and maritime activity, not to mention
a thriving tourism industry.
The municipality
continues to invest in local enterprise development, financial management, and
public-private partnerships, ensuring that growth benefits all communities.
An ‘iconic’
destination
Tourism remains a
cornerstone of Mossel Bay’s identity, drawing visitors to its Blue Flag
beaches, heritage sites, and eco-adventures. The town hosted major events like
IRONMAN 70.3, boosting brand exposure on a broad scale and securing growing
visitor numbers. According to the 2024 Tourism Quarterly Report, Mossel Bay saw
a marked increase in domestic and international visitors, with strong
engagement across social media and marketing platforms.
Whether you're
visiting for a weekend, exploring investment opportunities, or seeking a new
place to call home - Mossel Bay welcomes you with open arms. Here, heritage
meets innovation and growth. With world-class amenities, responsive governance,
and a lifestyle that blends coastal charm with economic opportunity, Mossel Bay
is more than a destination - it’s a place to belong.
Welcome to Mossel
Bay - where your future feels like home.
