Our district is predominantly a mining and agricultural district, with a lot of potential yet unlocked. The climate is favourable for outdoor living with a great number of "sunny" days throughout the year.
Two of the largest rivers, the Orange and the Vaal, flow through our district.
Our population has been estimated at 324 798 in Census 2001 and we have a reputation
for being friendly and hospitable people in the Province of the Northern Cape.
The district comprises of four local municipalities plus a rural district management area. Kimberley, located in Sol Plaatje Municipality, is the capital of the province, and also the home of our head offices as a district municipality.
HISTORY
The District Municipality was named after Frances Baard, a woman who was born in Beaconsfield, Kimberley, and who played an important role in the struggle for democracy in South Africa.
In 1955 she was involved with the drafting of the Freedom Charter and was part of the 20000 strong march of women on the Union Buildings (Pretoria) on 09 August 1956 to protest against passes for women.
On 18 October 1956 she was arrested and charged with treason, but later released. During the State of Emergency in 1960 she was arrested and imprisoned, banned in 1963 and banished to Boekenhout and Mabopane after 1969.
She lived here until her death in 1997. We believe that she represents those ordinary and lesser - mentioned people who have dedicated their lives to the fight against oppression without wide public acknowledgement. The then "Diamantveld District Council" was named after Ma Baard on 26 June 2001.
OUR VISION
The Frances Baard District Municipality will be a municipality with a clear developmental focus, providing quality services to all its people.
OUR MISSION
The Frances Baard District Municipality is committed to provide and improve the quality of services and therefore improve the lives of all its communities by:
Promoting Social and Economic Development
Providing and maintaining affordable and optimal quality services
The economic, efficient and effective utilisation of all its available resources, and
Effective Stakeholders and Democratic Community Participation
OUR COAT OF ARMS
Explanation of symbols:
Arms: Separating the top section from the bottom of shield are bands of blue waves which represents the Orange and Vaal Rivers which flow through this region. A green band between the blue bands signifies the fertile soil found along the banks of these rivers.
Located at the bottom of shield, is the historic rock art paintings of the Khoisan. These paintings contribute significantly to the historical value of the region. A diamond placed above shield signifies economic as well as historic values of the region.
The rays of the Northern Cape sun is placed right above the shield, signifying energy, strength and life-giving capabilities.
Supporters: Dexter and sinister are flamingos on each side of shield. A bird common to this area and well known for its beauty.
