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Mandeni, 30 August 2024 – The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, today launched a Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness programme in the Macambini area under the Mandeni Local Municipality. The event was attended by members of the KZN Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, including Inkosi Mathaba and Inkosi Sithole, the Deputy Chairperson of the KZN Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.

In his remarks, Inkosi Sithole emphasised the need for a restoration of values within our communities and urged all sectors to actively participate in raising children and young people in the right way.

The event also celebrated the strides made by the Thumumlilo Foundation, in its programmes focused on the ilembe district aimed at inspiring young people to pursue education.

Cllr Thobani Shandu, the Mayor of the Ilembe District, called upon all men to play their part in the fight against GBV.

In his remarks MEC Buthelezi acknowledged the role of amakhosi in advancing and protecting the rights of women and children. He also recognised the Thumumlilo Foundation for empowering young women through education and acknowledged Ukhozi FM presenter Mroza for her role among the youth. Additionally, MEC Buthelezi announced the adoption of the Thumumlilo Foundation, further supporting its mission to inspire and educate young people.

MEC Buthelezi highlighted the newly launched Women Advancement Fund, introduced by the Premier earlier today, and encouraged women in the Ilembe District to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the government.

He also called for the restoration of family values in communities, led by traditional leaders who are the custodians of Zulu customs and cultures. The MEC announced that customs and practices such as isibaya samadoda, where young men are mentored and taught about leadership, will be promoted. The department intends to partner with amakhosi on engagements like this to engage communities and raise awareness about gender-based violence.

The event marks a step towards addressing and combating Gender-Based Violence in the region, fostering a safer and more supportive community for all.

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

Durban, August 27, 2024 – KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, who also serves as the Prime Minister of the Zulu Nation, has called for greater involvement from social partners in developing medium to long-term responses to disasters and in assisting families in need.

MEC Buthelezi made this call today during the handover of a new house to the Jikela family, who lost five members in the devastating Durban floods of 2022. The construction of the new house was made possible by the Mahlasedi Foundation.

The floods tragically claimed the lives of Princess Bonakele Jikela, her children Yenzokuhle and Elimiyo, as well as the children of Princess Sindisiwe Jikela, Akhile, and Zekhethelo. In response, the Mahlasedi Foundation, led by Pastor Bert Pretorius, constructed a seven-bedroom home for the surviving family members. The house was officially handed over today at the Georgedale site of the Church of the Holy Ghost, which generously donated the land for this purpose.

In his remarks, MEC Buthelezi commended the foundation for their selfless response. “When tragedy struck our province, the Mahlasedi Foundation stepped in to provide a lasting solution for a family that had lost everything. This clearly indicates the importance of social partners taking up some of the responsibilities often left to the government alone, particularly in finding long-term solutions to the needs that face our communities, especially in the wake of disasters,” said Buthelezi.

He also noted the significance of the day, marking what would have been the birthday of his predecessor, uMtwana wakwaPhingangene (Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi). “Today is a poignant day as we honor the memory of uMtwana wakwaPhingangene, who shared close ties with the Jikela family and was a strong proponent of the partnership between government and social partners, such as the Mahlasedi Foundation, for the betterment of the lives of our communities. It is fitting that on this day, when we would have celebrated his life, we are wiping away the tears of the Jikela family through this generous act of compassion.”

The handover was also attended by MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Mr. Siboniso Duma, and Mr. Blessed Gwala, MPL, who played key roles in coordinating efforts between the family, the foundation, and the church to ensure the success of this project.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Prince Philemon kaTshelendoda kaDinuzulu expressed deep appreciation for the support received. “The assistance we have received following the tragedy that struck our family is deeply appreciated. We are thankful to all who made this day possible, especially the Mahlasedi Foundation and Pastor Bert Pretorius.”

Issued by: 

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs

On August 20, the Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Mr. V.F. Hlabisa, accompanied by the MEC for KZN CoGTA, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, and the eThekwini Mayor, Cllr Cyril Xaba, convened in Durban to review the progress of the eThekwini Working Group. This group plays a pivotal role in addressing the municipality’s key challenges and ensuring effective service delivery.

The meeting was cordial and productive, providing the Minister with a comprehensive report on the efforts and achievements of the Presidential Working Group. The report also detailed the Section 154 support provided by CoGTA, which is designed to strengthen the capacity of municipalities like eThekwini.

A significant outcome of the meeting was the consensus that all available support mechanisms must be fully utilised to achieve the desired outcomes. Going forward, it was agreed that the Presidential eThekwini Working Group will serve as the overarching coordinating structure for all support efforts. This will ensure that the various initiatives are aligned and implemented efficiently, maximizing their impact on the ground.

The meeting underscored the commitment of both national and provincial CoGTA, in collaboration with local leadership, to drive sustainable development and improved service delivery in eThekwini.

Ends

Kuyintokozo kimi ukuba ngethule ithimba engiliqokile ukuba lixazulule imibango esiyande kakhulu ezizweni zamakhosi.  Isilo esidala uMdlokombane saqala uhlelo lokuthi iNdlunkulu kaZulu ibambe iqhaza lokuxazulula nokudala ukubuyisana lapho kuqubuka khona imibango. 

Ngethula ithimba Labantwana baseNdlunkulu abasebenze isikhathi eside noMdlokombane benza lomsebenzi.  Ukuzinikela kwabo kulomsebenzi wesizwe kuzoba nomthelela omuhle wokuthula nozinzo ezizweni zamakhosi. 

Umthetho i-KZN Traditional Leadership and Governance Act 5 ka 2005 unikeza igunya kuNgqongqoshe wezokuBusa nokuBambisana esifundazweni ukuba angamele zonke izindaba ezithinta ubukhosi.  Ukwethulwa kwaleli thimba Labantwana elihlanganisa nezingwevu ezisebenze neSilo esidala ezindabeni ezithinta ubukhosi, kuzoqinisa kusimamise isakhiwo sobukhosi Kwazulu Natal.

Ngicela ukumemezela amagama alelithimba:

1. uMntwana uMathubesizwe kaBhekezulu (ozohola ithimba)
2. uMntwana uMbonisi kaBhekuzulu
3. uMntwana uVulindlela kaBhekuzulu
4. uMntwana uMxolisi kaBhekezulu
5. uMntwana uLindi kaBhekuzulu
6. uMntwana uThuthukani kaMcwayizeni kaSolomon
7. Inyosi uBuzetsheni Mdletshe
8. uMfundisi uCanon Hamilton Mbatha
9. uMfundisi uCanon Daniel Mthembu

Imindeni yamakhosi ethintekayo ezodinga ukubambisana nalelithimba izokwaziswa ngokusebenza kwalelithimba ngohlelo lwakwa- COGTA. 

Siyathokoza!

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, yesterday tabled the departments R1.8 billion budget before the KZN Legislature. The budget is aimed at bolstering traditional leadership, enhancing local governance, and driving community development in KwaZulu-Natal.

A cornerstone of the budget is the empowerment of amakhosi as cultural custodians. The department will partner with higher education institutions to provide targeted training, building capacity within the institution of traditional leadership.

To foster collaboration and address challenges faced by traditional communities, MEC Buthelezi announced the KwaZulu-Natal INDABA, a summit bringing together government officials, amakhosi, academics, and other stakeholders. The INDABA will focus on challenges facing the institution of traditional leadership and come up with innovative solutions that will be to the benefit of communities and amakhosi.

To address longstanding challenges of succession disputes within royal families, MEC Buthelezi announced the formation of a panel composed of abantwana basendlunkulu. This panel will leverage their cultural authority and deep understanding of traditional practices to help families resolve disputes. Their goal is to achieve fair and culturally sensitive resolutions, uphold the legitimacy of traditional leadership, and foster community unity.

The budget also earmarks R352 million for strengthening local government. A new approach emphasizing accountability and collaboration will be implemented, with a focus on improving municipal performance in governance, finance, and service delivery. To support struggling municipalities, the department will develop a Municipal Support Improvement Plan and a Provincial Discretionary Intervention Standard Operating Procedure.

Infrastructure development, disaster management, and local economic support will receive R257 million. This funding will enhance the department’s ability to respond to disasters and assist municipalities in maximizing grant expenditure.

The administrative arm of COGTA will be allocated R490 million to optimize departmental operations and foster a skilled workforce. This investment aims to create an environment conducive to sustainable development in KwaZulu-Natal.

MEC Buthelezi emphasized the importance of these initiatives in achieving a developmental state and improving the lives of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.

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

Durban – On Thursday, August 8, 2024, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, urged local government office bearers to be responsive to community needs or face consequences from the electorate.

Speaking at the SALGA KZN Sustainable Governance and Accountability Symposium, MEC Buthelezi delivered a keynote address that underscored the importance of sustainable governance and innovative solutions to meet the challenges that municipalities throughout the province are facing.

MEC Buthelezi pointed out the complexities confronting municipalities, such as climate change, financial limitations, and the imperative for enhanced service delivery. He advocated for a unified approach to governance that is rooted in sustainability and accountability, which he believes are essential for long-term development and resilience.

“Our municipalities are the cornerstone of our communities, and their effectiveness in service delivery is vital for the welfare of our citizens. The current challenges necessitate a reevaluation of our governance methods and the adoption of new strategies,” MEC Buthelezi stated.

He also highlighted the necessity to reassess the financial model for municipal funding, especially considering the recent veld fires that resulted in 15 fatalities last month, demonstrating the urgent need for municipalities to be better equipped for such disasters. MEC Buthelezi emphasized the importance of revising the financial support structures for local governments to ensure their preparedness for future challenges.

MEC Buthelezi praised the joint efforts of all parties involved in promoting accountability and transparency in municipal governance. He encouraged mayors and senior officials to persist in these endeavors, reminding them that sustainable governance is an ongoing process that demands consistent commitment.

“The prosperity of our municipalities relies on our collective capacity to collaborate, innovate, and maintain accountability. Our primary objective is to forge a brighter future for the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” MEC Buthelezi concluded.

The SALGA KZN Sustainable Governance and Accountability Symposium convened key local government stakeholders to deliberate on ways to improve governance practices, focusing on sustainability and accountability.

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

Pietermaritzburg – KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, is deeply concerned about a Ms Londiwe Ngcamu who is using the sensitive matter of the protection of amakhosi to scam unsuspecting victims who might be duped into registering for her bogus programme.

The MEC has noted voice notes that are circulating on social media platforms, from  Ms Ngcamu, who calls herself a “princess” calling for military veterans to come forward with their CVs in order to be recruited into this fraudulent scheme.

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) and the Royal Household (Indlunkulu kaZulu) are not aware of any such programme.

Members of the public are warned against these misleading voice notes by someone who has no authority to deal with the matter of the security of amakhosi.

The MEC for Cogta has referred the matter to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for investigation.

The provincial government under the leadership of Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli is making great strides in dealing with the matter of the protection of amakhosi, scammers who attempt to exploit this matter, for personal gain will be met with the full force of the law.

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

DURBAN – KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, met this morning with the eThekwini Ratepayers Movement (ERPM) as part of efforts to enhance relations between the department and stakeholders within the sphere of local government.

The meeting follows correspondence received by the Office of the MEC from the organization, requesting an audience to discuss pressing challenges faced by residents of the metro. The organization, which represents over 57,000 households, emphasized its commitment to working together with the municipality to address the concerns of ratepayers.

In the meeting held in Pinetown, the ERPM outlined its core concerns, including the controversial 6kl backdate charge, billing irregularities, and other service delivery issues. MEC Buthelezi stressed the importance of open dialogue between the municipality and its residents, committing to work closely with the newly elected Mayor, Cllr. Cyril Xaba, to find solutions to these problems.

“We understand the frustrations experienced by eThekwini residents, and we are committed to working collaboratively with the ERPM and the metro to address the substantive issues raised by taxpayers,” said MEC Buthelezi. “Today’s meeting is just the beginning of what we believe will be a fruitful journey that will deliver effective and responsive services to our communities. We are committed to engaging all stakeholders within the sphere of local government, as their voice matters if we are to be effective in transforming this sphere,” added MEC Buthelezi.

Following the meeting, the MEC will engage Mayor Cyril Xaba, for more engagements between the parties in order to find practical solutions that will work in the interest of ratepayers.

ENDS

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

SCOTTBURGH, KZN – The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has re-assured community members under the Umdoni Local Municipality that the department will intervene appropriately to restore good governance and delivery of basic services.

This follows a direct engagement that took place this morning where the MEC met with the protesting members of the community that have blockaded the offices of the municipality, accusing it of service delivery failures and corruption.

In the meeting that took place outside the municipal offices, MEC Buthelezi expressed his concern at the inability of the municipal leadership to deal with the issues raised by the community, which include allegations of corruption and service delivery failures.

The MEC also highlighted the inability of the council to address the Section 106 forensic investigation conducted by Cogta in 2018 and its recommendations, which have yet to be acted upon by the council.

“The failure to act on the forensic investigation by the council creates an unfavourable perception of how seriously the municipality takes the issue of corruption,” said MEC Buthelezi.

In the meeting with the community, MEC Buthelezi committed to writing to the council speaker to convene an urgent meeting to address the matters raised by the community. “We are committed to seeing the concerns of the community being addressed by the municipality. Transparency and accountability are crucial in restoring trust and ensuring effective service delivery,” said MEC Buthelezi.

Furthermore, MEC Buthelezi called on the Exco of the municipality to exercise proper oversight and not allow matters to go unresolved. “The Executive Committee must take a proactive role in ensuring that these issues are addressed promptly and effectively,” he added.

MEC Buthelezi also called upon the community to allow due processes to be followed in the investigation of corruption allegations. “It is essential that we follow proper procedures to ensure that justice is served and trust is restored,” he stated.

The MEC stressed that resolving these issues is a priority and that every effort will be made to ensure the municipality functions effectively and serves the community as expected.

The MEC is committed to supporting municipalities across the province so that they can function effectively and will not hesitate to act where municipalities are not acting in the interest of residents.

ENDS

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

The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of three workers who were fighting a fire in a plantation near Mpophomeni,
Boston, under the uMngeni local municipality. According to reports received by the department, these brave individuals lost their lives while battling the blaze. Additionally, five of their colleagues sustained critical injuries and have been transported to the hospital for treatment.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of these courageous workers who were fighting to protect others from harm,” said MEC Rev. Buthelezi. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragic event and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”

The incident occurred this morning in an area characterized by difficult terrain, complicating the efforts of the fire and emergency services that were deployed to the scene.

This tragedy brings the total number of lives lost due to runaway fires in the province to ten. In response to a call for help from communities in Ulundi and surrounding areas the MEC held a community meeting where he distributed relief and firefighting equipment to people who had been affected by the wildfires.

He assured affected farmers that the Provincial Government will do everything possible to ensure that all those people who have no means to help themselves during this difficult time are provided with the necessary assistance.

MEC Rev. Buthelezi has called for the parts of the province affected by the fires to be declared disaster areas, emphasising the urgent need for additional support and resources to manage the crisis and aid recovery efforts.

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