Manguzi, 17 June 2025 – The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, today announced significant multimillion-rand investments into the uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality. These substantial commitments form part of the departments ongoing efforts to uplift residents, foster economic empowerment, and stimulate sustainable growth within the municipality.
During a ceremony held at the Shayina Multi-Purpose Centre in Manguzi, MEC Buthelezi addressed thousands of residents, detailing the scope of the new investments. In addition to the broader financial injection, the MEC personally handed over essential supplies and equipment valued at R3 million to various small and emerging businesses within the municipality, directly supporting local entrepreneurship and job creation initiatives.
MEC Buthelezi was joined by the Mayor of uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality, Councillor Thembinkosi Khumalo, and the municipality’s leadership. The supplies distributed included items such as fencing, grass-cutting tools, catering equipment, seedlings, and farming tools. These provisions aim to support local businesses, with a particular focus on youth-owned enterprises.
Addressing the gathering, MEC Buthelezi highlighted the department’s commitment to supporting communities through various interventions. He stressed the importance of backing small businesses as they contribute significantly to economic stability.
“Our commitment extends beyond words; it is about actions that directly affect our people,” said MEC Buthelezi. He also acknowledged the uMhlabuyalingana municipal leadership for organising this programme.
In his remarks MEC Buthelezi detailed three key interventions planned to enhance the socio-economic landscape of uMhlabuyalingana:
The first is a R5 million project for installing solar street lights in Mbazwana. This development aims to significantly improve public safety and security for residents.
The enhanced lighting is also expected to encourage investment, potentially stimulating local economic activity.
This project aligns with the department’s strategy to improve economic prospects in small towns across the province.
Secondly, MEC Buthelezi announced the commencement of construction for a Youth Enterprise Park within the municipality. This hub will offer resources such as Wi-Fi and affordable office spaces.
By providing an environment conducive to collaboration and business development at reduced costs, the Youth Enterprise Park aims to help young entrepreneurs develop their ventures and contribute effectively to the local economy.
Finally, the MEC mentioned that discussions with Vodacom for the installation of network towers in underserved areas within the municipality are well underway. This intervention seeks to significantly improve mobile and internet access in communities that have experienced poor connectivity during the current year. This partnership with Vodacom supports the provincial government’s aim to leverage technology for inclusive development.
These investments and projects demonstrate the KZN Provincial Government’s comprehensive approach to supporting communities, fostering economic growth, and working towards a more prosperous future for residents of uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality.
Issued by: The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.
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