Section 63 plan targets Emfuleni wastewater system in Rand Water reset

The Section 63 initiative forms part of Rand Water’s structural reset of Emfuleni’s wastewater system, while a wider government-focused programme highlights urgent priorities across KwaZulu-Natal, including disease control, border security, infrastructure, job creation and food security.

The programme, identified as an initiative by IOL under the banner “Taking Government to the People”, brings together updates involving provincial, local and national government.

KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC for Agriculture has outlined urgent plans to speed up vaccinations during the Foot and Mouth disease outbreak. The proposals address the financial pressure placed on farmers, an issue raised during the recent FMD Indaba conference.

Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has also visited the Golela Border Post as part of efforts to strengthen border security and tackle cross-border crime. During the visit, he engaged with local leaders and communities about growing concerns in the area.

In Port Shepstone, a new small harbour development is set to be launched with the aim of creating employment and supporting economic growth. The project is expected to generate R4.41 billion in business revenue and provide 5,808 jobs for the local community.

The updates are presented under a “Trending in Government at Work” section, which includes a series of economic, environmental and social initiatives.

MEC Zondi has stressed the need for closer co-operation between business leaders and government representatives. The comments were made at the Durban Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Gala Dinner, where the stated aim was to help revive KwaZulu-Natal’s economy.

The Urban Agri World Summit is another focus of the programme, bringing stakeholders together to encourage collaboration in the fight against food insecurity.

MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has praised Ulundi’s Local Economic Development initiative. The programme supports small-scale farmers and is intended to help create sustainable livelihoods.

Buthelezi has also launched a summer disaster risk reduction campaign in KwaZulu-Natal. The campaign is designed to educate communities about climate-related hazards and follows recent devastating floods.

In the Uthukela District, MEC Mbali Shinga is leading work to address food insecurity and poverty. The measures include distributing food parcels and promoting sustainable agriculture in an effort to support vulnerable communities.

Sport is also included in the government programme. Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, working with sports federations, has launched the Sport Against Crime initiative in KwaZulu-Natal. The project provides training kits to hostel teams and promotes youth development through sport.

The programme includes sections for National Government and a Provincial and Local Government Directory, placing the Emfuleni wastewater reset alongside a broader collection of public-sector initiatives across the province.