Outgoing Tshwane Mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa on Tuesday bid farewell to the residents of South Africa’s capital city, saying he has done his best.

"It’s one thing to run through a laundry list all the things we’ve done. But ultimately, the true test of our term of office, is the impact we have made on our citizens’ lives," Ramokgopa said during an emotional end of term speech at Freedom Park.

"Have the lives of our people improved? Do they have better transport, more job opportunities, a roof over their heads, water and electricity, food to eat, and the opportunity to thrive in a bold new digital world.

"We believe our interventions have made an appreciable difference. We have done our best, but we know there is still much to do."

Ramokgopa also had a message for the next administration to run Tshwane: "We must continue to strive for excellence – that is our responsibility. It is easy to accept mediocrity. It is hard to demand excellence but that is what this great city and its citizens deserve".

"To my colleagues, across all political parties, continue to serve our people with dignity and pride, remembering that you are serving your nation, and that is a privilege."

Ramokgopa expressed his desire for the governing African National Congress (ANC) to outwit opposition parties which are currently engaged in extensive campaigns to woo Tshwane residents ahead of next week’s local government polls on 3 August.

"We remain ready, willing and able to continue serving our people honestly, meticulously and judiciously," he said.

"Our people know very well who their dependable servants are, and who will work with them to achieve the dream of a better life for all."

To the municipal employees, Ramokgopa said he hopes Tshwane would continue to thrive even after his imminent departure.

"On a personal note, in a few days, I will turn off the lights in my office for the last time, and leave the team that leads the City of Tshwane," he said.

"My service to all of you will be over, but the wonderful memories, the lessons learnt and the achievements we have made together will stay with me as long as I live. Thank you."

Endemic violence broke out across the Tshwane metro in June with roads blocked, numerous vehicles burnt out, and shops looted particularly in townships such as Atteridgeville, Mamelodi, GaRankuwa, and Hammanskraal.

Protesters were against the ANC’s selection of Thoko Didiza as the mayoral candidate for the metro to replace the incumbent mayor Ramokgopa.

At least five people reportedly died in the skirmishes.