Ulundi, 21 October 2025 – KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has commended the Ulundi Local Municipality for its visionary Local Economic Development (LED) initiative aimed at empowering small-scale farmers. The programme, which culminated in the handover of 480 goats to cooperatives and farmers from all wards (24) in Ulundi, marks a significant milestone in community-driven development.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony, MEC Buthelezi praised the municipality for translating community aspirations into tangible outcomes. “This programme is a shining example of responsive governance. It demonstrates what is possible when municipalities listen to their people and act decisively. Ulundi is setting the pace for rural economic transformation,” said Buthelezi.
The intervention follows extensive Integrated Development Plan (IDP) consultations, where residents identified agricultural support as a priority. The LED programme was designed to address this need by providing livestock to qualifying cooperatives and farmers, thereby enhancing food security, income generation, and local enterprise development.
Ulundi Mayor, Councillor Wilson Ntshangase, reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to practical, community-aligned development. “We are proud to implement programmes that reflect the voices of our people. This goat farming initiative is not just about livestock—it’s about dignity, sustainability, and economic inclusion,” he said.
The programme has already begun to yield positive results. One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Nokuthula Mthembu from Ward 12, shared her excitement: “Receiving these goats has changed my life. I now have the means to grow my farming business and support my family. I am grateful to the municipality and the MEC for believing in us.”
Zululand District Municipality Mayor, Councillor Michael Khumalo, also lauded the initiative, noting its alignment with broader district development goals. “Ulundi’s LED programme complements our district’s efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development. It is encouraging to see local municipalities taking bold steps to uplift their communities,” said Khumalo.
Adding a national perspective, Inkosi Zuzifa Buthelezi, a member of the National Parliament’s Cogta Portfolio Committee and Inkosi yaKwaPhindangene, emphasised the importance of integrating traditional leadership in development planning.
“This programme reflects the values of our people and the legacy of our forebears. As amakhosi, we must continue to support initiatives that empower our communities and preserve our heritage,” he said.
The goat farming programme is part of a broader wave of economic revitalisation in Ulundi.
Recent developments include the construction of a new Toyota dealership and the earmarking of a University of Zululand campus in the town, both of which are expected to stimulate job creation and attract investment.
In his budget speech earlier this year, MEC Buthelezi announced a R40 million investment to upgrade Ulundi’s electricity infrastructure. “This investment will expand the electricity grid, paving the way for further economic growth and improved service delivery,” he said.
Ulundi is also set to benefit from a R110 million refurbishment of the historic legislature building, a project spearheaded by Premier Thami Ntuli and MEC Buthelezi. The initiative will not only honour the legacy of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi but also create jobs and enhance government presence in the region.
“This is a new era for Ulundi,” concluded MEC Buthelezi. “We are building a future where rural communities are not left behind but are at the forefront of development.”
Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.
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