BABANANGO, 4 JUNE 2026 – In a decisive move to protect regional development, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, today convened a critical Stakeholder Summit at the Babanango Game Reserve. The summit was specifically called to ensure that economic opportunities are unlocked for local communities while sending a clear, firm signal to investors that their investments are safe in KwaZulu-Natal.
The intervention follows recent protest actions affecting operations at the reserve. Meeting with Amakhosi, reserve management, and community members, MEC Buthelezi emphasized that Babanango falls under the Zulu Monarch’s authority and must be respected as a vital economic engine.
The MEC highlighted the project’s profound local impact, commending investor Mr. Hellmuth Weisser and management for creating approximately 250 local jobs and providing critical infrastructure like boreholes and Wi-Fi to neighbouring schools.
“The objective is to create a platform where all voices can be heard while safeguarding investments that bring employment opportunities and socio-economic development to our communities,” said MEC Buthelezi.
Warning that disruptions jeopardise tourism and future capital, the MEC urged parties not to politicize grievances. To institutionalize this stability, he proposed a COGTA-led representative committee to resolve disputes through proper channels. The Department remains strictly committed to securing a peaceful, pro-growth environment where both community partnerships and investor assets thrive.
ENDS
