uMfolozi Municipality, under the leadership of His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Xolani Bhengu, held a two-day Integrated Development Plan (IDP) review and consultation session with traditional councils as part of its commitment to inclusive development and service delivery.
The first session took place on Tuesday, 07 October 2025, at the KwaSokhulu Traditional Authority, where the Municipality presented ongoing development programmes for the 2025/26 financial year and outlined plans for 2026/27. The session was chaired by Deputy Mayor, Councillor Timothy Biyela, who represented the Mayor Cllr Bhengu, and was attended by Municipal Manager Mr Fred Mazibuko, councillors, and departmental managers.
Stakeholders such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), and representatives from the King Cetshwayo District Municipality’s Water Department also participated, sharing progress and plans relevant to their sectors.
His Majesty Inkosi Mthiyane expressed appreciation to the Municipality for its continuous engagement and visible progress but emphasized the need to prioritize critical services such as roads, electricity, and water. The Traditional Council also took the opportunity to raise concerns, provide input, and share recommendations for improving services.
The second engagement was held on Wednesday, 08 October 2025, with the Mthethwa Traditional Authority. The Municipality presented current and upcoming development plans, while encouraging collaboration between traditional leadership and municipal structures.
Inkosi Mthethwa thanked the Municipality and urged ongoing mutual respect, cooperation, and partnership to ensure that development reaches all communities within the uMfolozi Municapal area. These sessions formed part of uMfolozi Municipality’s ongoing efforts to strengthen relations with traditional leadership and ensure that community voices are incorporated into municipal planning. Further IDP consultations with Mbonambi, Mambuka and Somopho Traditional Authorities in the coming weeks.