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The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has welcomed the suspension of five officials, which includes the Chief Financial Officer, and two Directors which includes the Director for Supply Chain Management.

The officials are suspended due to allegations of financial misconduct that occurred in the run-up to the May 2024 elections.

The suspensions send a strong message in restoring a culture of good governance and consequence management in the department.

Issued by the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department.

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has welcomed the arrest of Mr Gcina Bethuel Nkosi, who appeared before the Danhausser Magistrates Court, where he was granted bail. He was apprehended by the Danhauser SAPS for falsely claiming to be a king within the Amajuba District.

MEC Buthelezi believes that the arrest sends a clear message to other potential fraudsters that law enforcement agencies will not tolerate individuals who attempt to deceive communities with false claims of kingship, which are nothing more than figments of their imagination.

Falsely claiming to be an Inkosi or a King is an offence in terms of the KwaZulu-Natal Traditional Leadership and Governance Act No. 5 of 2005, Section 51(1)(a), which states:
(1) A person is guilty of an offence if that person-
(a) purports to be a traditional leader in terms of this Act without having been recognised as contemplated in this Act;

MEC Buthelezi has commended the SAPS for their work in upholding the law and protecting the integrity of traditional leadership structures. This action reaffirms the commitment of law enforcement to safeguard communities from such deceptive practices.

The MEC further warns those who refer to themselves as kings in KwaZulu-Natal to desist immediately, as they risk a similar fate. There is only one King in KZN – King Misuzulu kaZwelithini.

Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, met today with the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Commission on Traditional Leadership Disputes and Claims. This Commission, established under the KZN Commissions Act, addresses unresolved traditional leadership disputes and claims.

This inaugural meeting between MEC Buthelezi and the Commission served as an opportunity for the MEC to acquaint himself with the Commission’s work since its establishment in 2022. The MEC received updates on the Commission’s progress and the challenges it faces.

During the meeting, MEC Buthelezi reaffirmed the department’s commitment to supporting the Commission’s independence and resource needs. “We are dedicated to the mission of this Commission, as it is crucial in resolving issues that could potentially destabilise our communities. We trust that the Commission will act swiftly to address the matters brought before it,” stated MEC Buthelezi.

The Commission comprises three commissioners: Chairperson Mr. Themba Sithole, Advocate Mawande Mazibuko-Mudau, and Mr. Jabulani Sithole.

Issued by the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department.

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, today concluded a succesful meeting with a delegation from the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s School of Social Sciences, led by Prof. Vivian Ojong who is the Dean & Head of School and Professor Emeritus Paulus Zulu, Project Manager for the Leadership and Good Governance Programme.

This meeting finalised the Amakhosi Empowerment Programme, designed to upskill amakhosi in leadership, rural economic development, natural resource management, land administration, governance, and legislative frameworks.

This programme, a collaboration between the department and UKZN, will commence with an initial cohort of 50 amakhosi. These leaders will undertake a 12-month course at UKZN, featuring modules aimed at equipping them to lead diverse and dynamic communities effectively.
The initiative underscores the department’s commitment to supporting the institution of traditional leadership within the province.

Furthermore, the programme offers amakhosi the opportunity to further their education, as the course is credit-bearing and can be applied towards pursuing degrees.

The MEC for COGTA reaffirms his dedication to restoring the dignity of amakhosi through thoughtfully designed programmes that empower and uplift them as custodians of our culture and way of life.

Issued by the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department.

The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has praised disaster response teams, first aid responders, social partners, and all government agencies for their swift action following the snowstorm that hit the Midlands on Friday and Saturday. These teams worked tirelessly throughout the weekend under challenging conditions to reach stranded motorists and provide relief, preventing what could have been a mass casualty event.

Rev Buthelezi has also extended his condolences to the family of Ms Nozibele Nzonzo, 39, who tragically passed away on Saturday after being exposed to extreme cold while stuck in a taxi caught in the snowstorm.

With all routes now reopened, motorists are urged to drive safely. The department also alerts communities downstream of the Tugela River catchment areas to the potential flooding due to snowmelt in the highlands.

Particularly with schools closed, parents are advised to ensure that children do not play near unguarded large bodies of water, especially rivers and dams. Disaster management teams will continue to monitor areas along the Tugela River, from Ladysmith to uMsinga.

WATER SAFETY MESSAGES

• Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
• Determine your best protection based on the type of flooding.
• Evacuate if instructed to do so.
• Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
• Stay where you are.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING

• Find safe shelter immediately.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
• Remember, just 15 centimetres of moving water can knock you down, and 30 centimetres can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
• Depending on the type of flooding:
  • Evacuate if instructed to do so.
  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
  • Stay where you are.

Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) convened a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) meeting this morning, where District Disaster Management Centres provided updates on relief efforts following the disruptive snowstorm that affected the interior parts of the province since yesterday. The snowstorm has blocked major routes, including the R74 (Harrismith to Bergville), R74 Greytown/Colenso Road, N3 (Harrismith to Tugela Toll), R617 (Kokstad to Underberg), and N3 Northbound, among others.

Multidisciplinary interventions have begun to yield results, with some stranded motorists receiving support in the form of soup kitchens, shelter, and blankets. Local municipalities, in conjunction with other state organs, have mobilised graders to clear snow in affected regions, prioritising major routes to facilitate emergency access.

Residents are urged to stay off the roads and avoid using alternative routes, as inclement weather conditions are expected to worsen. According to the South African Weather Service, a Level 8 warning for further disruptive snow is in effect for Alfred Duma Ladysmith, Dr N. Dlamini-Zuma – Underberg, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Inkosi Langalibalele Escourt, Inkosi Langalibalele Sobabili, Mpofana Giants Castle, Mpofana Mooi River, Okhahlamba and uMngeni. This warning indicates a potentially life-threatening weather occurrence.

The heavy snowfall has also caused fallen trees, further complicating the situation. Residents living near the N3 who can assist stranded motorists with supplies are encouraged to do so safely.

The heavy snow has disrupted essential services, including water and electricity, in several communities. Technical teams are working to restore these services as quickly as possible, but residents should prepare for potential delays due to the weather conditions.

Residents are strongly advised against snow chasing, as road conditions are extremely dangerous. Communities in the northern parts of the province continue to experience heavy rains, raising concerns about localised flooding. Disaster management teams are providing support to these areas, and residents are warned to remain vigilant.

Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels.
Issued by the KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi.

Disaster Management teams are actively monitoring conditions across the province as heavy snowfall and rain continue to affect various areas. The severe weather has resulted in the closure of the N3 between Harrismith and Tugela Toll, as well as the R617 between Kokstad and Underberg. Additionally, routes such as the N2 Ingeli and N3 Mooi-River are under close observation.

Residents planning to travel on these roads are strongly advised to postpone their journeys due to the current hazardous conditions. For those already on the road, please exercise extreme caution and avoid speeding, as roads have become dangerously slippery. Efforts are being made by disaster management teams to reach stranded motorists and provide necessary assistance.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre is coordinating multi-sectoral interventions to provide relief and facilitate the clearing of roads where necessary.

The adverse weather conditions are expected to persist through Saturday, 21 September.

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Safety Tips for Motorists Stuck on the Roads:

1. Stay in Your Vehicle: If you are stranded, it is safer to stay inside your vehicle and wait for help. Do not leave the vehicle to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 metres.
2. Signal for Help: Display a brightly coloured cloth (preferably red) on your radio antenna or hang it out of the window to signal for help. Raise the hood after the snow stops falling.
3. Run the Engine Sparingly: Run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour to stay warm. Ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
4. Conserve Fuel: Use your vehicle’s heater sparingly to conserve fuel. Keep a window slightly open to allow fresh air in.
5. Stay Visible: Keep the dome light on at night when running the engine. This uses a small amount of electricity and helps rescuers see you.
6. Stay Warm: Use blankets, extra clothing, or anything available to stay warm. Move your arms and legs occasionally to maintain circulation.
7. Stay Hydrated: Drink fluids to avoid dehydration, but avoid alcohol as it lowers body temperature.

Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

19 September 2024

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, warns residents of severe weather conditions expected to affect large parts of the province from tomorrow, Friday, 20 September, until Saturday, 21 September.

The latest warning issued by the South African Weather Service indicates that Level 6 disruptive snow can be expected in parts of the Uthukela, Harry Gwala and uMgungundlovu Districts. These weather conditions pose a danger to life and could lead to temporary road closures due to ice accumulation, causing traffic disruptions on major routes.

Residents in these areas are urged to take necessary precautions, including delaying unnecessary trips, as the risk of entrapment due to icy roads is very high.

A Level 2 disruptive snow warning has also been issued for parts of the Ugu, uThukela, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala and Amajuba Districts. The remaining parts of the province have a Level 2 warning for disruptive rain.

The MEC for COGTA assures residents that disaster management teams, coordinated by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, are on the ground and will closely monitor developments. These teams are equipped to respond to emergencies and provide assistance where needed.

Plans are also in place to clear roads in collaboration with local municipalities and the Department of Transport. This coordinated effort aims to ensure that major routes are accessible and that any disruptions are promptly addressed.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official platforms and trustworthy news sources to receive the latest information and safety advice.

How To Stay Safe

1. Stay Informed:

• Monitor local weather updates and alerts through reliable sources.
• Follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services.

2. Prepare Your Home:

• Ensure you have enough food, water, and essential supplies to last at least 72 hours.
• Keep flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio handy.
• Check that your heating systems are working properly and have a backup heating source if possible.

3. Travel Safety:

• Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must travel, inform someone of your route and expected arrival time.
• Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, food, water, and a first-aid kit.
• Drive slowly and carefully, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

4. Personal Safety:

• Dress in layers to stay warm and avoid hypothermia.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. If you need to go outside, limit your exposure to the cold.
• Check on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance.

Additionally, the severe weather poses a significant danger to livestock. Farmers and livestock owners are advised to take the following precautions to protect their animals:

• Shelter: Move livestock to sheltered areas to protect them from the cold and snow.
• Feed and Water: Ensure that animals have access to sufficient feed and unfrozen water. Stock up on feed supplies in advance.
• Health Checks: Regularly check on the health and well-being of livestock, looking out for signs of hypothermia or frostbite.
• Emergency Plans: Have an emergency plan in place for relocating livestock if conditions worsen.

By taking these precautions, farmers can help ensure the safety and well-being of their livestock during the severe weather conditions.

Issued by the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department.

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi has instructed Ethekwini Mayor Cllr.  Cyril Xaba to ensure that the decision to suspend Deputy City Manager for Trading Services, Mr Sibusiso Makhanya, taken on 13 September 2024, is rescinded within 72 hours.  

The Executive Committee of a Municipality is not empowered by law to suspend senior managers.  It is only the Council that has the discretion to suspend senior managers – and this function cannot be delegated to the Executive Committee.

The purported precautionary suspension of Mr Makhanya is in violation of the Local Government: Disciplinary Regulations for Senior Managers 2010 and thus amounts to maladministration.

It is alarming that all correspondence directed to the Mayor of Ethekwini Municipality is never acknowledged, let alone responded to.

The regressing trend of poor governance, lack of consequence management and maladministration in eThekwini is a cause for concern and may lead to a recommendation  for escalated intervention from the provincial government

Issued by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has today written to the Mayor of eThekwini Metro, Cllr Cyril Xaba, expressing concerns over reports received by the department. These reports, some from whistleblowers, allege fraud, corruption, maladministration, and statutory non-compliance within the eThekwini Metro.

The MEC views eThekwini Metro as the province’s crown jewel and is particularly troubled by these allegations.

The MEC has forwarded these 9 detailed allegations together with the explosive annexures to the Mayor, in the hope that the Mayor will respond to the MEC within the time frame requested.

In accordance with Section 106 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, as amended, the MEC is obligated to act on these matters. Section 106(1)(a) stipulates that if an MEC believes a municipality is failing to fulfil its statutory obligations or is involved in maladministration, fraud, corruption, or other serious malpractices, the MEC must request the Municipal Council or Municipal Manager to provide the necessary information in writing.

As the Executive Authority for Local Government, the MEC is committed to accountability and transparency and will continue to exercise oversight over the sphere of local government within the province without any fear or favour.

Issued by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.