EThekwini Municipality today, 09 May 2026, engaged with communities from the northern region on the 2026-27 draft Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Budget at JL Dube Stadium in Inanda.
The consultation included residents from Wards 3, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 104, 107 and 108.
More than R569 million has been allocated towards development projects and service delivery interventions across the region.
Some of the major projects highlighted include the construction of the eTafuleni Housing Project, Wastewater Treatment Works, Traffic calming measures, road infrastructure upgrades, and the prioritisation of community facilities.
Key projects identified for the region include:
- UMzinyathi Library rehabilitation
- Gravel-to-surface upgrade of Landa Road
- Rotary Stadium upgrades
- KwaMashu Hostel development
- Inanda Swimming Pool refurbishment.
Transport and road safety also feature prominently in the proposed budget, with plans to install traffic calming measures and funding allocated for public transport ranks and shelters.
Residents listened attentively as eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, together with City officials, presented the proposed R74.7 billion budget for the 2026-27 financial year, alongside the Integrated Development Plan (IDP).
Mayor Xaba said the consultation process afforded residents an opportunity to express their views and contribute meaningfully to the Municipality’s planning process.
Residents of the community were also given an opportunity to voice their opinions regarding the proposed budget allocation and raised concerns relating to service delivery infrastructure.
Community members further acknowledged the positive impact of various municipal interventions, including training programmes, and shared how these initiatives have benefited their families and improved their livelihoods.
The community welcomed the presentation of the draft budget and proposed developments for the region.
Mayor Xaba said the budget was aimed at ensuring inclusive governance and community-centred development.
He reaffirmed the Municipality’s commitment to accelerating service delivery, improving quality of life, and prioritising peri-urban communities.
Residents were also informed about several measures aimed at cushioning households amid ongoing economic challenges.
These include:
- Properties valued at R350 000 or less being exempt from rates
- Additional relief, upon application, for households earning R7 000 or less and for properties valued between R350 000 and R750 000
- The first six kilolitres of water to be provided free to qualifying households
- Properties valued under R350 000 to be exempt from refuse removal tariffs
- Residents in rural areas, informal settlements, and non-kerbside areas continuing to receive free refuse removal services
Mayor Xaba further emphasised that the Municipality is actively working to create job opportunities by attracting investment into the City.
“We are attracting businesses to invest billions of rands in the City in a bid to generate more revenue that will be reinvested into service delivery,” said Mayor Xaba.
The community welcomed the planned developments and expressed appreciation for the Municipality’s ongoing engagement on matters affecting local residents.
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