ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI DRIVES BUDGET DIALOGUE WITH RATEPAYER ASSOCIATIONS
EThekwini Municipality this afternoon continued its budget consultation process by engaging ratepayer associations at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on the 2026/27 Draft IDP/Budget.
The Municipality, led by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba, outlined key infrastructure investments and service delivery priorities under the R74.7 billion draft budget.
Mayor Xaba emphasised that ratepayer associations are critical stakeholders in an ongoing process of engagement and collaboration.
“As the leadership of the City, we have been engaging continuously with ratepayers. Through these engagements, we have made meaningful progress in addressing service delivery challenges in many areas,” said Mayor Xaba.
The Mayor said the R74.7 billion draft budget, tabled on 31 March at a Full Council meeting, prioritises investment in water and sanitation, electricity, and roads infrastructure.
These sectors remain central to improving service delivery, stimulating economic growth, and creating employment opportunities in eThekwini.
He further highlighted progress achieved in the previous financial year, including improvements in electricity supply stability, service cleanliness, pothole repairs, and interventions addressing water supply challenges.
Mayor Xaba also noted that approximately R50 billion in investment funding is expected to be injected into the local economy through development projects in the Sibaya and Riverside areas.
The Municipality has also established partnerships with private developers for the development of the Durban Amusement Park and the upgrade of the Elangeni and Maharani hotels.
In addition, the Municipality remains committed to managing tariff increases responsibly, improving service delivery and safety, accelerating infrastructure investment, enhancing value for money, strengthening billing and revenue systems, and reinforcing governance and accountability.
The City encouraged feedback from attendees.
Key issues raised included water supply challenges in certain wards, tariff increases, billing system improvements, land invasions, and indigent policy criteria.
Ratepayer associations commended the City on improved service delivery and appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with leadership.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
