City Engages With Communities At Othongathi Town Hall

THE City engaged a full house of residents from the North at today’s IDP-Budget Consultation held at Othongathi Town Hall.

Residents from wards 35,48,49,50,51,52,58,59,60, 61,62,102,106 and 110 attended to find out about what’s to come in their area in the next financial year and to have their say.

With a massive R74.7 billion budget, the aim was to gather residents and inform them of ward priorities and financial allocations.

This also forms part of the budget process, guided by the Municipal Finance Management Act.

Deputy Mayor Councillor, Zandile Myeni, kicked off the day’s proceedings by emphasising that the City is aware of the challenges faced in the area and is working hard to resolve them.

“This region has been repeatedly affected by disasters, including recurring floods and the recent tornado. These catastrophic events have caused extensive damage to water, electricity, road, and housing infrastructure. While we have acted swiftly to restore basic services in many areas, much work remains, particularly in stabilising water supply.”

Councillor Myeni said that there are plans to upgrade the oThongathi Water Treatment Works to improve supply, alongside an ongoing pipe replacement programme.

Over R871 million has been allocated in the 2026/27 financial year to cater for projects in the zone. These include Cornubia Phase 2 housing project, upgrade of market facilities, installation of safety mechanisms, road infrastructure, sewer replacement, Umbhayi housing project and others.

Other major developments transform this region economically and create jobs. Deputy Mayor Myeni said:

“The northern corridor of our City is home to some of the most significant catalytic developments in the province.”

The Dube TradePort, located adjacent to King Shaka International Airport, is a world-class logistics and industrial hub, which has attracted billions of rands in investment and continues to drive growth in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and air freight logistics.

Not too far away from oThongathi, the Sibaya Precinct is a flagship mixed-use development expected to exceed R25 billion in total investment over time. It will incorporate residential estates, commercial nodes, and tourism infrastructure, and is projected to create over 70,000 sustainable jobs.

Residents were vocal about issues relating to roads, housing, water outages, tariff increases and the need for improved recreational and educational facilities.

The draft IDP/Budget is available on the City’s website, www.durban.gov.za and feedback can be submitted to comments2021@durban.gov.za

More information on future consultations will be published on eThekwini’s social media platforms and in local media.