PHUTI MOSOMANE
DEPUTY President Paul Mashatile is expected to conduct a two-day oversight visit to troubled eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and uMgungundlovu District Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Province.
Spokesperson Vukani Mde announced on Wednesday that Mashatile will be conducting a two-day oversight visit to the KwaZulu-Natal province, specifically the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and uMgungundlovu District Municipality.
The visit, scheduled for Thursday and Friday, aims to engage with stakeholders from various sectors, including education and training, agriculture, commerce, and industry.
The first day of the visit will focus on the implementation of the District Development Model (DDM), which aims to improve the functioning of municipalities and address the challenges faced by communities.
Mashatile’s presence is expected to provide assistance in the effective coordination of different spheres of government to support the DDM’s roll-out.
During the visit, Mashatile will visit the Ntshongweni Catalytic Project site, where a smart city is being constructed between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
The project highlights the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality’s collaboration with various stakeholders to provide critical work skills to local community members.
It is estimated that the project will attract around R15 billion in investments over the next 10 to 15 years, contributing to increased economic activity in the area.
Another key stop on the itinerary will be the Cedara College of Agriculture, where Mashatile will witness collaborative activities and programs related to cannabis production, seeds and seedlings, animal feed, livestock breeding, and indigenous chicken production.
The college, in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Agricultural Research and Training Institutes, plays a vital role in supporting young and emerging farmers.
The deputy president will engage with these farmers and discuss government initiatives and programs aimed at providing support to the agricultural sector.
On the second day, Mashatile will chair a meeting of the Human Resource Development Council at the uMgungundlovu TVET College, Plessislaer Campus in Pietermaritzburg.
The college has established partnerships with government departments, municipalities, non-governmental organizations, and private sector companies to fulfill its mandate, which includes programs such as student placements for work-integrated learning.
Joining Mashatile during the two-day visit will be Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, Blade Nzimande; Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza; and Minister of Public Service and Administration, Noxolo Kiviet.
Additionally, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and North West Premier Bushy Maape will also be present to support the deputy president’s engagement with the stakeholders.
The visit of Mashatile to these troubled municipalities demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing challenges, promoting collaboration, and supporting development initiatives that will ultimately benefit the communities of eThekwini and uMgungundlovu.
INSIDE POLITICS