The Executive Committee (EXCO) convened yesterday, 21 July 2026, and adopted several resolutions aimed at accelerating implementation and addressing current service delivery matters within the Municipality. These reports will now proceed to Full Council for further deliberation and approval.
CITY EXPANDS MAINTENANCE PROGRAMME FOR UNPAVED ROADS
EXCO has approved the expansion of the City’s unpaved road maintenance programme to improve access for communities across eThekwini.
An additional 425 kilometres of unpaved roads will be incorporated into the Municipality’s official maintenance programme, increasing the total network from approximately 1,746 kilometres to 2,171 kilometres.
The roads were identified through submissions by Ward Councillors on behalf of their communities, as well as inspections conducted by the Municipality’s technical teams. Formalising these roads ensures they can now be planned for and maintained as part of the official programme.
Many residents rely on unpaved roads to access homes, schools, healthcare facilities, workplaces and other essential services. The expanded programme will improve road conditions, enhance accessibility and support safer, more reliable travel.
Routine maintenance includes regular grading and periodic gravel replacement, with emergency repairs undertaken when necessary. Programmes to upgrade suitable roads to gravel, and where feasible to paved roads, will also continue.
EXCO noted that expanding the network will have financial implications. The estimated additional annual cost is approximately R127.5 million, which will be considered through the Municipality’s Medium-Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework (MTREF) budget processes.
SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIP TO GROW DURBAN’S MARITIME ECONOMY
The City has formalised a strategic partnership with NAVIGO, one of Italy’s leading superyacht industry organisations, to co-host the internationally recognised Yachting Aftersales and Refit Experience (YARE) On Tour Durban this year.
This decision paves the way for Durban to host the inaugural African edition of the YARE Symposium in November 2026, with opportunities to host again in 2027 and 2028. EXCO has approved funding of R5 million per year over the next three financial years, subject to budget approval.
Hosting YARE marks a significant milestone in Durban’s journey to becoming a leading maritime and marine tourism destination in Africa. The event will bring together international superyacht captains, managers, shipyards, marine service providers and industry leaders to explore investment opportunities, build partnerships and showcase Durban’s growing maritime capabilities.
This initiative forms part of the Municipality’s broader Inner City Regeneration Programme, designed to stimulate economic growth, attract investment, strengthen tourism and create employment.
CITY TO WELCOME SOUTHERN AFRICAN LEADERS FOR THE 46TH SADC SUMMIT
EXCO has welcomed the Municipality’s readiness to host the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit in Durban from 3 to 18 August 2026.
According to Acting Director of International and Intergovernmental Relations, Thabi Mfeka, the Summit marks an important milestone for South Africa as it assumes the Chairship of SADC for the next 12 months. It will provide a platform to strengthen regional cooperation, promote economic integration and advance peace, security and sustainable development.
Held under the theme “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”, the Summit will bring together Heads of State and Government from SADC’s 16 Member States, alongside senior officials, policymakers, business leaders and development partners.
Ahead of the Summit, Durban will also host the 9th SADC Industrialisation Week from 27 to 31 July 2026, further promoting investment, trade, innovation and regional collaboration.
Preparations include diplomatic and protocol arrangements, city branding, destination promotion, safety and security planning, traffic management, airport welcome services, VIP transport coordination and readiness of key municipal infrastructure, including water, electricity, roads and the Durban ICC.
Tourism activations and stakeholder engagement programmes are underway to showcase Durban as a world-class destination.
CITY RECORDS STEADY PROGRESS IN STRENGTHENING GOVERNANCE AND RESOLVING AUDIT FINDINGS
EXCO has welcomed progress made by eThekwini Municipality in strengthening governance, accountability and internal controls through the implementation of Internal Audit and Auditor-General action plans.
An update presented to EXCO, covering the reporting period ending 31 March 2026 and tracked to June 2026, reflects the Municipality’s commitment to addressing audit findings and improving financial governance.
As at 31 March 2026, 54% (334 of 623) of Internal Audit findings had been resolved, compared with 48% (278 of 579) at the end of December 2025. Outstanding matters continue to receive focused attention, with priority given to those unresolved for more than 180 days.
EXCO also received an update on the 13 Material Irregularities identified by the Auditor-General between 2020/21 and 2025/26. Of these, five have been resolved, five have corrective action implemented, two remain under further action and one is subject to an Auditor-General directive.
City Manager Musa Mbhele emphasised stronger accountability measures, including incorporating audit action plan implementation into Executive Directors’ performance assessments, weighted at 20%. This has strengthened accountability and encouraged prioritisation of audit resolution.
“The progress achieved demonstrates that the Municipality is moving in the right direction. We will continue working closely with Internal Audit and all departments to ensure outstanding findings are addressed and sustainable governance improvements are achieved,” he said.
Water Service Delivery Contractor Disputes