Blog

In the wake of devastating fires that have ravaged large parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has called for a review of how funding is allocated to local government, especially for small rural municipalities.

The MEC made this call yesterday, 11 July, during a visit to disaster-hit areas under Nkandla and uMlalazi Local Municipality, where 196 houses were totally destroyed by the runaway fires, resulting in one life lost, three people injured, and 751 people affected.

During the visit, the MEC was accompanied by the Mayor of the uMlalazi Local Municipality, Cllr. Queen Xulu, the leadership of the Nkandla local municipality, and senior officials from the Provincial Disaster Management Centre. The delegation visited the Gazu household to provide support and monitor the rollout of interventions, including the construction of a Temporary Residential Unit and other interim relief measures aimed at supporting the family during this difficult time.

As part of a broader intervention, MEC Buthelezi handed over fire beaters, which will
be distributed to municipalities in the Zululand and King Cetshwayo Districts.

This vital equipment will bolster the municipalities’ capabilities to combat future fire outbreaks in surrounding communities.

“Our small municipalities are struggling in terms of capacity and desperately need more resources so they can implement preventative measures that will mitigate the impact of disaster incidents. We are committed to championing this call for a review of how municipalities are funded, especially in light of the reality of climate change and the constant incidents that put more strain on the limited resources of our smaller
municipalities based in rural areas,” stated MEC Buthelezi.

Impact on Farmers
The raging fires destroyed pastures and livestock in both the King Cetshwayo and Zululand Districts. Preliminary assessments show that over 3,000 hectares of grazing land and crops were destroyed by the veldfires. The Provincial Disaster Management Centre, working with other departments, continues to roll out interventions aimed at assisting farmers badly affected by the runaway fires.

The MEC for Cogta will visit affected farmers in the Ulundi Local Municipality on Sunday, where he will roll out relief aimed at supporting farmers affected by the fires.

This afternoon, MEC Rev. Buthelezi held his first meeting with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders in Durban. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Local Houses across the 11 districts in the province.

Amakhosi through the Chairperson of the Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Inkosi Shinga presented a list of issues that they felt the MEC will need to look into as he continues with his duties as the MEC.

“Amakhosi of this Province have a critical role to play in shaping the discourse around the institution of traditional leadership in our country. Our aim is to ensure that Amakhosi are treated with utmost respect
while also being allowed to champion development for our communities.

We will amass the requisite legal expertise to assist us in this process. We are also deeply concerned about the safety of Amakhosi and this is why I have asked the Department to investigate solutions that we can implement immediately to disrupt the scourge of the killing of Amakhosi,” said MEC Buthelezi.

The MEC assured Amakhosi that their issues will be dealt with extensively at a meeting of the Premier with all Amakhosi of the province as today was just a precursor to that meeting which will detail what the 7th Administration has in store for the institution of traditional leadership. He further announced that while he has already instructed the department to employ 241 EPWP workers to assist with the cleaning of the Traditional Administrative Centres.

Durban, 1 July 2024: Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, congratulates Hon. Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa on his appointment as Minister of Cooperative
Governance and Traditional Affairs.

With his extensive experience at local government level and his unique background of understanding traditional leadership systems Hon. Hlabisa brings a wealth of experience and knowledge essential for steering our municipalities in the right direction. “We are also looking forward to engaging directly with the Minister on strategic platforms such as
MinMec, where all the MECs for Cogta receive guidance on pertinent issues affecting legislation governing the sphere of local government and the institution of traditional leadership in our country,” said Rev. Buthelezi.

The appointment of Honourable Velenkosini Hlabisa signals a new chapter in the National Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, and Rev. Buthelezi is optimistic about the positive impact it will have on the country’s local government and traditional leadership landscape.

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) alerts the public to fraudulent activities on social media, particularly Facebook, where scammers are using the name of MEC Rev. Thulasizwe D. Buthelezi to deceive individuals by promising jobs in exchange for money.

We condemn the actions of these impostors who mislead citizens into believing they are interacting with the MEC. Please be aware that the MEC does not have a Facebook page; all official communication regarding the MEC Is conducted through the department’s official page: (http://www.facebook.com/kzncogta).

The Department, alongside MEC Buthelezi, unequivocally states that neither the MEC nor CoGTA requires any form of payment for employment opportunities. All legitimate job openings are advertised
through official channels, and recruitment processes are conducted transparently.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, we urge the public to:

• Verify the authenticity of social media accounts claiming to represent public officials.
• Report suspicious accounts or fraudulent activities to the relevant authorities or social media
  platforms.
• Refrain from sharing personal information or making payments to unverified sources.

The Department is actively collaborating with law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute
these scammers. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Durban, Thursday 27 June: Today, The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, introduced Dr Mike Sutcliffe and Dr Cassius Lubisi as the two Governance Experts appointed by Cogta under section 154 to lead the intervention in Ethekwini.

Addressing the Executive Committee the Mec said, “Our aim is to restore Ethekwini to its former status as the jewel in the crown of KZN”. This action by the provincial government underscores the commitment to clean governance and accelerated service delivery as pronounced by Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli.
The strategic support under 154 will entail:
• Building a clean, effective, efficient responsive and accountable local government.
• Implementation of findings of investigation reports.
• Addressing non-compliance with terms and conditions, including poor spending on allocated
grants for various projects.
• Strengthening partnerships between communities’ civil society, the business sector and other critical role-players to restore public and investor confidence.

The appointed team will provide monthly reports to the Mec and will be in operation for twelve months starting from 1 July 2024.

The Executive committee welcomed the Mec’s intervention and committed to work together with the appointed team.

On the, 18th June 2024, hundreds of people, including leaders of political parties, Amakhosi, government officials, and members of the media gathered at the Woodburn Rugby Stadium to witness the inauguration of KwaZulu-Natal Premier-elect Mr. Thami Ntuli.

The august occasion which was directed by the Director-General (DG) Nonhlanhla Mkhize in the Office of the Premier was presided over by KwaZulu-Natal High Court Judge President Ms. Thoba Poyo-Dlwati. Judge Poyo-Dlwati carried out her duty in fine fashion as she swore in Ntuli as the Premier of the province too much elation at the venue of the inauguration.     

In his first address as the Premier of the province, Ntuli said the Government he was honoured to lead, stands on the cusp of a new beginning. He also expressed that he intends to lead a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) based on the principles of Buntu-Botho. “A Government that will ensure that service delivery is rolled out to all the people of this Province.”

In the latter part of his address, the Premier announced members appointed to his Cabinet in terms of section 132, (2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996, in the following order:

1. Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs – Hon. Rev Musa Keith Zondi, MPL.

2. Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) – Hon. Rev Thulasizwe Dominic Buthelezi, MPL

3. Health – Hon. Ms Nomagugu Simelane, MPL

4. Social Development – Hon. Ms Mbali Cynthia Shinga, MPL

5. Public Works and Infrastructure – Hon. Mr Lukas Marthinus Meyer, MPL

6. Finance – Hon. Mr Francoise Adrianus Rodgers, MPL

7. Agriculture and Rural Development – Hon. Mrs Thembeni Petty kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, MPL

8. Transport and Human Settlements – Mr Siboniso Amstrong Duma, MPL

9. Education – Hon. Mr Siphosihle Emmanuel Hlomuka, MPL

10. Sports, Arts and Culture – Hon. Mr Mntomuhle Khawula, MPL

In concluding his address, the Premier unequivocally stated that he expected members of his Executive to hit the ground running to start with the mammoth task that lies ahead, of rebuilding the province of KwaZulu-Natal. “Together with my new Cabinet, I promise that we will work for you. We will deliver services, opportunities, and ultimately, hope and prosperity. I ask the People of KwaZulu-Natal, to partner with us, as we start the process of rebuilding KwaZulu-Natal.”

Ladysmith – The KwaZulu-Natal Disaster Management Teams have provided a swift response to the flooding in Ladysmith town and surrounding areas, which was caused by heavy rains last night. Our teams, including SAPS, Traffic Police, Emergency Services, and social partners, were on high alert, closely monitoring different areas due to the level 2 warning issued by the South African Weather Services.

Upon realising that a significant amount of water was flowing into Ladysmith Town, some of the roads, including the N11 between Newcastle and Ladysmith, had to be temporarily closed to mitigate the risk. Some of the roads will remain closed as the town is still flooded. Approximately 70 people were evacuated from the Ladysmith central placed in the Indoor Sport Center to ensure everyone’s safety.

Our teams also responded to the Steadville Township area, where 15 people had to be evacuated to the community hall, and another 23 in Matiwane were placed in the community hall for their safety.

The Provincial Disaster Teams, working with he Al-Imdaad Foundation for Disaster and the South African Red Cross, have provided disaster relief to the affected people, including blankets and mattresses.

On another incident disaster teams also responded in the area of Msinga, where people residing in a block of rental rooms built along the uThukela River were evacuated, as the river was overflowing after heavy rains.

Our teams are monitoring the situation, and once the area has been confirmed to be safe, they will all return to their homes. At this stage, neither fatalities nor injuries have been recorded as a result of this heavy rainfall. Our teams are on the ground conducting assessments of the damages to households, businesses and infrastructure.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, has appreciated the cooperation between the community and the disaster management teams and communities in mitigating risk by adhering to the evacuation plans to save lives.

“We would like to express our sympathy to all families and businesses that have been affected by yet another rainstorm that hit our province. We commend the swift response by our team, and our priority is to save human lives, particularly as we are still reeling from the devastation caused by rains during the holidays that claims many lives in KZN. We encourage communities to work together with us in this response by adhering to the instructions given to them. We will continue to provide disaster relief, and all our municipalities will be out to ensure every family at risk is assessed to receive assistance. Heavy rains are not over yet, and we plead with communities to continue exercising extreme caution by moving to safer places when it rains,” she said.

The disaster management teams are still continuing with the assessments, and an update will be issued once we confirm all the impacts of the heavy rains.

Ends

Pietermaritzburg – The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management would like to provide an update on the death toll recorded in the months of December and January as a result of inclement weather.

As our teams continue with assessments, the number of people who have tragically passed away has increased to 40, with five still reported as missing. These numbers have increased as our teams continue with assessment while the inclement weather still persists in various parts of the province.

In recent incidents, three drownings were reported in the Harry Gwala District, while two farmworkers were struck by lightning in Bergville. We would also like to confirm that two people have been discovered by the search and rescue teams in Ladysmith; however, their identities are pending confirmation through DNA if it matches with the ones reported missing.

The rains have also left 74 people injured, some were transported to hospitals, while others were treated on the scene. About 800 households suffered damages, with a total of 247 dwellings completely destroyed. This has left 47 people homeless, and over 4000 people have been affected.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, extends her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The department has been in contact with all those affected and is providing necessary support as part of our disaster relief efforts, working together with our social partners. We appreciates the commitment shown by rescue team lead by the SAPS K9 Unit with the support of Al-Imdaad Foundation for Disaster, South African Red Cross and IPSS Medical Rescue who made it possible to recover most people reported missing.

“We would like to commend our search and rescue teams, who continue to work tirelessly on the ground to locate those reported missing. While the loss of loved ones is a painful experience, we find solace in the closure that comes when search and rescue teams recover the remains of those who were missing. Some families have already laid their loved ones to rest, and as a department, we have been by their side, providing support. We also wish a speedy recovery to those who have been injured,” she MEC Sithole-Moloi.

As heavy rains are expected to persist, we strongly advise our community members to remain extra vigilant during rainfall. Those who are driving should exercise caution and never attempt to cross swollen rivers.

Ends

 
On Saturday, 18 November 2023, scores and scores of people of various age groups from iLembe District and surroundings came out to witness and partake in a social cohesion event organised and hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial and Khoi-San Leaders (KZNPHTKL) in partnership with the provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.   

 
The event held at the eMacambini Sports Field under the eMacambini Traditional Authority which falls under the Mandeni Local Municipality saw the striking presence of Zulu regiments and maidens; traditional leaders; politicians; other notable guests; entertainers media personnel; and law enforcement authorities.    

 
Through hosting the event themed “AZIBUY’EMASISWENI” the KZNPHTKL sought to revitalise Zulu culture and traditions for the purpose of instilling a sense of direction, pride, and unity amongst subjects of the Zulu Monarchy. In delivering his address, the Chairperson of the KZNPHTKL Inkosi R.S. Shinga stressed the importance of social cohesion in the progress of the Zulu nation.

Inkosi Shinga told thousands gathered at the event that social cohesion was key to fighting social ills facing communities, particularly in areas under the authority of Amakhosi. “Let us take pride in our culture and traditions as this holds the key to us winning the war against social ills ravaging our communities,” said Inkosi Shinga.

 
Moreover, the KZNPHTKL Chairperson hailed the Provincial Government for supporting events that are vital to nation-building. MEC Sithole-Moloi in her address heaped praise on the Provincial House for identifying social cohesion as an important vehicle to use in nation-building. The MEC also urged traditional leaders to continue leading initiatives that aim to preserve Zulu culture and traditions as this is vital for the nation’s existence and survival.

Furthermore, she called on the youth to prioritise education in order to make a meaningful contribution to society and to live prosperous lives.          

 
Through the event, the KZNPHTKL educated and informed people gathered at the event, particularly the youth about the importance of their heritage and the need to preserve it for future generations. The event also showcased opportunities embedded in Zulu traditional art and cuisine through exhibitions.

 
Ends

 
Issued by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial House of Traditional and Khoisan leaders (KZNPHTKL)

Ladysmith – Amidst a day brimming with commemoration, information exchange, and profound discussions on traditional leadership to conclude Women’s Month, women in traditional leadership roles extend their gratitude to KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, for facilitating a remarkable platform that addressed critical issues impacting them.

This event marked a unique opportunity for female Amakhosi, Ondlunkulu, and Omama Bezizwe to engage in open dialogue and information sharing among themselves, underscoring their invaluable contributions to their communities.

As a fitting conclusion to Women’s Month and the commencement of Heritage Month, MEC Sithole-Moloi dedicated an entire day to engaging with women in traditional leadership roles.

The occasion, which took place at Donga La Boutique in Ladysmith on Friday, was to establish a space wherein women in traditional leadership could candidly address their concerns and exchange best practices from their respective communities, away from the presence of their male counterparts. MEC Sithole-Moloi said In KwaZulu-Natal, where rich culture and history thrive, women have been pivotal in upholding traditional roles.

She stressed that they serve as cultural custodians, ensuring the preservation of heritage for future generations. Ondlunkulu partners with their husbands, the Amakhosi, to address various matters concerning women in their communities. They stand as pillars of support in villages, aiding families in times of distress.

The guests appreciated this platform immensely, as it fostered comprehensive discussions and allowed them to present plans aimed at uplifting their communities. They expressed a collective desire for support in skill development, the establishment of non-profit organisations, and the creation of cooperatives that could generate income to fund community projects. Many also showed keen interest in agriculture due to their access to land.

In response to the discussions, MEC Sithole-Moloi outlined the department’s commitment, through the directorate of traditional affairs, to provide Amakhosi with the necessary resources. She pledged to collaborate with other departments on projects targeting challenges faced by women in traditional leadership roles.

“We are thrilled to have engaged in these conversations and heard your concerns. However, our objective goes beyond that; we aspire to share success stories and witness women in traditional leadership roles making a profound impact. Collaborative governance is our cornerstone, and we are mandated to support traditional leadership. We will liaise with relevant departments to aid those interested in establishing NGOs and cooperatives. Attaining land-related matters is also crucial; women’s empowerment must include land rights.”

MEC Sithole-Moloi continued, “We’re dedicated to nurturing an educational culture among the offspring of traditional leaders. While these children are heirs to Amakhosi, we also aim to cultivate a well-rounded education that equips them to guide their communities effectively.”

Recognizing the immense responsibility shouldered by women in traditional leadership, she encouraged them to stand strong, emphasizing the government’s willingness to provide assistance. MEC Sithole-Moloi also aimed to dispel misconceptions regarding the significance of female leaders in traditional roles, emphasising their role as cultural custodians and educators of the next generation.

She concluded by urging Amakhosi, Ondlunkulu, and Omama Bezizwe to spearhead transformative changes in their communities by leveraging the available support and services from various government departments.

Ends