The uMfolozi Municipality, led by the Honourable Mayor, Councillor Xolani Bhengu, has approved the 2026/27 financial year budget, which will come into effect at the start of the new financial year in July.
The budget, amounting to R289,626,885, was approved during a council meeting held on Thursday, 28 May 2026, at the Council Chamber.
While presenting the budget, Mayor Bhengu emphasised that the country’s economic conditions remain unstable, and the sharp increase in petrol and diesel prices has worsened the situation. He said that despite these challenges, it remains the municipality’s responsibility to use the limited resources available to deliver services to communities.
He further stated that the municipality has prioritised finding ways to generate its own revenue instead of relying solely on funding from provincial government.
A large portion of the budget will be directed towards infrastructure programmes and the economic development department in order to support local businesses and create much-needed job opportunities. Additional funding will also assist indigent households to access free basic electricity units once they have purchased electricity.
Mayor Bhengu said the municipality will ensure that development funding directly addresses community development priorities.
He also thanked councillors for working together in delivering services to communities and expressed appreciation to municipal employees led by Municipal Manager Mr Fred Mazibuko.