Siphelele Nketo

HOPES were restored for improved service delivery, infrastructure development and economic growth during the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) programme at the Umuziwabantu Local Municipality.

The recent programme allowed communities to identify their most pressing needs like water, sanitation, road repairs and housing and present their concerns directly to the local leadership.

Mayor Sboniso Zungu led the programme as he engaged the public and also received input on the draft IDP and budget that was presented to the municipal council on March 30.

In reflecting on the roadshows, Zungu said that this was an opportunity for the current council to assess what was achieved in relation to projects promised to the public at the start of their term in 2021.

He noted progress on the commitments made, while also acknowledging that difficulties were encountered in some areas.

According to the municipality, the draft budget reflected the current economic environment. Budget cuts from higher spheres of government resulted in reduced grant allocations to municipalities. 

“This limited budget affects our ability to expand services and invest at the scale required to meet growing community needs. Implementing strategies such as strengthening our revenue collection is therefore critical to generate revenue and increase our municipal reserves,” said Zungu.

Among community concerns raised were the poor road conditions, the need to improve sports facilities for the youth, and unemployment.