Locally Made U-Pouch Trunks from Jockey

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 17, 2025

The underwear scene in South Africa has just got a proudly local upgrade thanks to Jockey as they relaunched their U-Pouch Short Leg Trunks. They are now fully designed, produced, and made in South Africa, offering premium comfort and quality at a price far more accessible thanks to the local production.

The U-Pouch range from Jockey | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’Bringing U-Pouch production home is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of. This move allows us to support local talent, strengthen our manufacturing capabilities, and deliver world-class underwear at a price that stays within reach for South Africans,’’ said Rob Hogg, National Sales Manager at Jockey South Africa.

Engineered for Comfort

The U-Pouch range has been improved for superior fit and everyday comfort. The design provides targeted support, lift, and stability – reducing friction and offering a natural, secure feel for the whole day.

The range is made from a breathable blend of 47% cotton, 47% viscose, and 6% elastane, so you get the best of both worlds combining cotton’s natural softness and airflow with viscose’s smooth, moisture-absorbing comfort. Finished with elastane for flexible stretch, the trunks move effortlessly with the body for all-day ease.

With the short-leg cut you get a clean, modern silhouette that stays in place, while the soft elastic waistband ensures comfort from the morning to the night. The range is available in Small to 2XL and caters to the needs of today’s active, style-conscious South African man.

Premium Quality, Accessible Price

Jockey has been able to reduce the selling price of this product thanks to the local production; this makes it attainable for more South Africans. The trunks come in a 2-pack value format, for even more everyday affordability.

Local Manufacturing Wins

Jockey has a long-term commitment to grow its South African production footprint and elevate local textile expertise. Each pair sold is a celebration of what local manufacturing can achieve – world class quality, proudly made at home.

One of our journalists tried them out for the day and they came back with nothing but good compliments on the look, feel, design and comfort. Try them out for yourself.

For more information or to shop the new range, visit www.jockey.co.za or any Jockey South Africa store nationwide.

Avis gives Mzansi more value for their car rental this summer

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 17, 2025

Avis Car Rental recently launched its 2025 Summer Campaign, giving SA more value when they travel with a really simple offer: book a minimum of four days and only pay for three. 

The Avis Car Rental team at King Shaka International Airport. | Photo: Fred Felton 

Avis invited me to the Durban launch to find out all about it. This deal is designed to make travel easier and more affordable for this festive season. The campaign also boosts customers’ need to explore, connect and enjoy the freedom of the open road.

You can rest assured that Avis have a fleet ready for every journey, from compact cars to spacious vans. The 4-for-3 offer applies to standard cars and van rentals, redeemable through the dedicated Avis Summer Campaign page:

https://www.avis.co.za/car-hire-offers/south-african-offers/summer

‘’Summer in South Africa is about movement – from road trips with friends to reconnecting with family across the country,’’ said Werner van Niekerk – Commercial Car Rental Executive at Avis Southern Africa. ‘’With our 4-For-3 Summer deal, we’re giving customers even more reason to hit the road. It’s our way of adding a little extra joy to our customers’ summer adventures.’’

Avis also has a SafeDrive promise and you can even book your rental using WhatsApp (https://wa.me/27872405431) which makes it easier to plan your trips and travel with peace of mind and focus on the moments that matter.

Avis SafeDrive is a smartphone-app-enabled safety package available in South Africa. For an additional cost of (R20 per day) customers receive access to Impact Alert (immediate assistance in the event of severe accident), a Panic Button (for emergency support), severe weather alerts, and a 24-hour Avis emergency call centre. You can also earn rewards for safe driving behaviour.

When next you fly to Durban you can find the Avis offices at King Shaka International Airport as you come out of the airport. Their friendly staff will guide you through all you need to know and get you on the move in no time.

Book a minimum of 4 days. Pay for 3. Drive happily.

For more information or to book your trip, visit www.avis.co.za

Ts and Cs apply.

Temporary arrangements to freeze advertising of job applications

 

Temporary arrangements to freeze advertising of job applications

THE public is urged to note the temporary freezing of eThekwini Municipality’s online vacancies portal from 1 December 2025 to 1 February 2026 to facilitate a smooth transition to a new recruitment portal.

Temporary freezing of eThekwini Municipality's online vacancies portal from 1 December 2025 to 1 February 2026. Photo: Supplied. 

A report outlining the freezing was noted during an Executive Committee meeting on 19 November.

The temporary suspension of the online portal comes as the Human Resources Directorate’s e-Recruitment service is migrating from the Neptune System to Oracle HCM, a modern, fully online platform designed to simplify recruitment, streamline applications, and enhance onboarding.

The current e-Recruitment link closed on 30 November. From 1 February 2026, all vacancies will be published via the Oracle HCM on the Municipality’s website.

During this freeze, no job advertisements will appear on Neptune or any other recruitment platforms such as the Municipal newspaper Metro eZasegagasini, Sunday Times, LinkedIn, etc.

The only exception applies to the Outreach and Capacity Building Section, which will be permitted to advertise and receive manual bursary applications during this period.

In the event of critical or high-priority positions requiring urgent recruitment during this period, adverts may be approved for publication.

However they will have to follow a manual process as no online advertising will be active. This will be based on the approval of the Human Resources Directorate.

Gas training creates pathways to jobs and business growth

 

Gas training creates pathways to jobs and business growth

FOURTEEN emerging gas installers are now proud certified professionals, ready to take on South Africa’s growing domestic gas installation market thanks to the skills gained through the Basic Liquefied Petroleum Gas Installer Training.

This is a partnership between eThekwini Municipality and Sasol which offered 30 small business owners from across the City training to become qualified gas installers. The intensive two-week course combined both theoretical and practical components to ensure trainees were industry ready.

The theory phase was conducted earlier this year at the City’s Umkhumbane Entrepreneurial Support Centre, while the practical training took place in August at Liquefied Petroleum Gas South Africa’s facilities in Johannesburg.

For Zamokuhle Mbatha, founder of Zami Gas, the training has been a turning point in his entrepreneurship journey.

‘’After receiving my operating certificate, I have already completed five installations. This licence allows me to work on domestic installations. My long-term goal is to advance to commercial and industrial certifications,’’ he said.

Another graduate Mbongeni Nduli, co-founder of Nkanyiso Gas Solutions in Lamontville, said: ‘’Before this training, we only sold and refilled gas. Now we can install gas.’’

 

Cabinet Day drives service delivery

A SUCCESSFUL Operation Sukuma Sakhe-District Development Model (OSS-DDM) Cabinet Day was held in eThekwini on 26 November, led by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli together with eThekwini Speaker Councillor Thabani Nyawose.

This flagship programme, under the DDM, demonstrates government’s commitment to integrated service delivery and collaborative governance. The Cabinet Day focused on Region 7 of eThekwini Municipality, known as the Henry Bona and Archie Gumede Zones, which covers 11 wards including KwaNdengezi, Mariannridge, Thornwood, Tshelimnyama, Pinetown, KwaDabeka, Clermont, and Ndunduma.

The day began with war room engagements across the wards, followed by project site visits before culminating in a large community engagement at the KwaNdengezi sports field where government leaders interacted directly with residents, listening to their concerns, and sharing progress on service delivery.

Among the projects visited were the R293 Housing Development, the KwaLinda Rural Housing Project, the eThembeni Crisis Centre, and local community gardens.

These projects reflect government’s commitment to housing, social support, and food security, directly addressing community priorities. Premier Ntuli said the OSS-DDM Cabinet Day is designed to listen to communities, act on their needs, and ensure accountability.

‘’As provincial government we will continue to brief the Executive Committee and regional councillors to ensure continuous monitoring. Municipal communication platforms will also keep communities informed about progress of service delivery initiatives discussed during this outreach,’’ said Premier Ntuli.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said the OSS-DDM approach has shown its value in speeding up the removal of service delivery bottlenecks. ‘’The programme allows officials to respond in real time when delays arise. When challenges appear, the Municipality and the provincial government step in together to resolve these issues,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

As part of the day’s activities Councillor Nyawose handed over a newly built house to 59-year old Felumusa Nzimande from KwaLinda in Ward 12. The house forms part of the KwaLinda Rural Housing Project. Councillor Nyawose welcomed the progress of the housing project which when complete, will deliver 480 housing units.

‘’Over 400 units have already been completed and handed over to deserving beneficiaries. The remaining units are under construction and will be completed soon,’’ said Councillor Nyawose.

An emotional Nzimande expressed gratitude to the Municipality and provincial government for the house. ‘’I still cannot believe I have a decent home. My life and that of my children will never be the same. Our dignity has been restored,’’ said an elated Nzimande. ‘’We are thankful to government for changing our lives.’’

City's Festive Season Plan 2025

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 7, 2025

The eThekwini Festive Season Plan for 2025 was unveiled at uShaka Marine World on 5 December 2025 in Durban, South Africa.  

The city successfully launched its festive season management plans at Ushaka Marine on Friday, 5 December 2025. Photo: Supplied. 

The City unveiled its Festive Season Management Plan (FESMAC) to show their state of readiness to host thousands of holidaymakers.

‘’This festive season is particularly special for us, as it comes at a time when the City is experiencing significant improvements in water and sanitation services. For the first time in five years, all our bulk water reservoirs are stable with Durban Heights, Wiggins, and Midmar Treatment Works operating at full capacity. This means that communities in the north, south, and central regions will enjoy uninterrupted water supply during this period and beyond,’’ said eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Cllr Cyril Xaba.

The township and rural communities in the north of Durban have also received an early Christmas gift, as they will now get reliable water supply as the Ntuzuma Water Pump Station has been recommissioned after being destroyed by fire in 2023.

‘’Our festive season is further strengthened by the latest beach water quality results, which confirm that all 23 of our bathing beaches are safe for swimming. We reiterate to our visitors and residents that all our beaches are open and safe,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The City continues to monitor beach water quality through weekly testing. The Mayor also mentioned that more than 40 swimming pools will be open to the public including the popular Children’s Amusement Centre pool.

At the launch of the Summer Season Campaign in October, the City expected to receive 1.3 million visitors to Durban. The anticipated a direct spend of more than R341 million and a total contribution of R845 million to the City’s GDP. This economic activity would help create over 15,000 jobs and generate more than R630 million in taxes.

Tourism continues on an upward economic trajectory. Recent figures from SA Tourism show exceptional growth across domestic and international markets. Domestic tourism spend increased by 28%, reaching R8.4 billion between January and October 2025, driven by growing demand for experience-led activities. International visitor spend rose by 29% to R1.1 billion, supported by high-growth markets such as Australia, the UAE, and Botswana.

The City’s festive season theme for 2025 is ‘’Endless Waves of Tranquillity’’ and the programme includes flagship events like the Durban Jazz Festival, Fact Durban Rocks New Year’s Celebration, the Ladysmith Black Mambazo Christmas Special, Anywhere In Your City, and even more events.

There will also be precinct activations including the City Street Carnival, Christmas lighting displays, the revival of major hotel celebrations, and New Year’s Eve fireworks at the beachfront.

The cruise season also began in November. Durban is welcoming an amazing line-up of vessels and many international tourists.

‘’We encourage our residents to explore and appreciate the hidden gems within our own city. Durban, with its golden beaches, rich cultural heritage, and world-class attractions, has much to offer not only to our international guests, but also to the people who call this city home. We urge our residents to become ambassadors for Durban,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The Mayor also invited visitors to explore the vibrant nightlife of Florida Road and the serenity of the Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights.

Just some of the many police cars you can expect to see patrolling Durban during the festive season. Photo: Fred Felton. 

The City will also have more law-enforcement on the streets of Durban. There will be multidisciplinary operations, including roadblocks, focusing on those who break the law. Over 2,000 officers will be deployed for day and night-time patrols on freeways, the beachfront, shopping centres, and crime hotspots. This will be supported by more than 500 CCTV cameras.

The newly established Coastal Tourism Policing Unit will patrol 100 kilometres of coastline from Umkhomazi in the south to Westbrook in the north.

The City has also recruited more beach staff including recruiting 650 seasonal staff, 78 Lifeguards, 135 Litter Pickers, 67 Beach Guides, 70 Pool Supervisors, 113 Pool Attendants, 43 Childminders and 135 Additional Security Guards.

Seven tents have also been procured for separated children and an overnight facility has been procured at Ellis Brown Primary School in South Beach. The City also procured 200,000 armbands to help identify children.

‘’Let us step into this period with pride, passion, and purpose. Durban is ready. The real question is: Are you ready to experience it?’’ concluded Mayor Xaba.

Durban's Tourism Economy Set for Boost with Bumper Cruise Season

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 2, 2025

The global spotlight turns to Durban for the 2025/26 cruise season, further cementing its position as Africa’s premier cruise destination.

Durban is preparing for the bustling cruise season which commenced in November. Thousands of international visitors will experience the City's rich cultural and historical offerings. | Photo: Supplied. 

Cruise season runs from November 2025 to June 2026 with the season expecting to draw international visitors, showcasing Durban’s rich culture, world-class port facilities, and its position as the gateway to the Indian Ocean.

The season officially set sail with the arrival of vessels like the MSC Opera and Rennies Europa, marking Durban’s return as a top-tier port of call.

For this season the City will welcome a big line-up of cruise ships, including Queen Mary 2, Silver Dawn, Azamara Onward, and Seven Seas Navigator, each one offer travellers wonderful experiences filled with Durban’s hospitality and heritage.

The City is preparing to host thousands of visitors from all over the world who will explore Durban’s shores for leisure and adventure.

The 2025/26 season is expected to attract around 255 000 cruise visitors, contributing about R762 million to the economy of the City. The total economic influence could rise to around R1.12 billion.

The combined direct, indirect, and induced contributions to Durban’s GDP are estimated at almost R1.88 billion.

These figures are mostly from onshore spending by cruise visitors and look set to support around 3 401 jobs while making R140.5 million in taxes for the City.

Visitors can expect to see mini pop-up fashion shows, authentic cuisine, craft displays, and storytelling that shows the City’s vibrant identity.

Durban is a gateway to some of South Africa’s most renowned attractions, offering adventure, tranquillity, food, edutainment, and new discoveries that add to its status as a global gem.

Visitors can also go on safari game drives just a few hours from the City, where they can see the big five in natural reserves.

Vessel Dockings and Key Activations

§  5 December 2025: MSC Oh Ship Cruise – Welcome with entertainment and giveaways

§  22 December 2025: Christmas carnival on MSC Opera

§  7 January 2026: New Year celebration with World Voyager and Inchcape

§  13 February 2026: Valentine’s Day welcome on MSC Opera

§  14 and 20 March 2026: Costa Delizosa and MSC Opera visits

§  9 and 27 April 2026: Queen Mary 2 and Silver Dawn calls

§  7 May 2026: Azamara Onward welcome

§  6 June 2026: Season close-out with Seven Seas Navigator

 

This cruise season shows the fruitful collaboration between MSC Cruises and the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, showing Durban’s status as a pivotal port for cruise tourism in Africa.

‘’Durban is once again proud to stand at the forefront of global cruise tourism. This season exemplifies our unwavering commitment to excellence, safety, and authentic cultural experiences. We are confident that Durban will solidify its position as Africa’s premier cruise destination, driving economic growth and showcasing the unparalleled beauty and spirit of our City to the world,’’ said eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

This cruise season promises economic growth and an enduring legacy of hospitality and real experiences that will sustain Durban’s leadership in global cruise tourism.

Digital Future Accelerates With Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 27, 2025

Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal recently announced an investment of over R1.1 billion in network infrastructure for this financial year (FY26), showing its commitment to connecting communities and working towards digital inclusion across South Africa’s provinces with huge populations.

Imran Khan, Managing Executive for Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal Region (L) with the team at Vodacom. Photo: Supplied. 

‘’Our investment in KwaZulu-Natal reflects our commitment to building a digitally inclusive province where everyone can access the opportunities of the digital economy,’’ said Imran Khan, Managing Executive for Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal Region.

Vodacom’s R1.142 billion investment in KZN’s network infrastructure during the financial year shows the company’s commitment to connectivity in the province. The investment can be broken down into R796 million for radio projects, R289 million for transmission, R36 million to energy and R20 million towards core data networks.

This investment builds on Vodacom KZN’s strong network foundation. The province now enjoys 99.91% 2G population coverage, 99.9% 3G coverage, 99.12% 4G coverage, and 39.54% 5G population coverage. Vodacom will continue with rolling out advanced 4G and 5G technologies to improve connectivity for both urban centres like Durban and underserved rural communities across KZN.

Vodacom is also investing infrastructure in deep rural areas with over R100 million dedicated to extending coverage in previously underserved communities. This has brought reliable mobile coverage to villages including KwaMaphumulo, Nongoma, Vryheid, Empangeni, Nottingham, and the Kamberg valley region, as well as communities across uMkhanyakude which is primed for agro-processing, eco-tourism and renewable energy development.

These investments align with KZN’s strategy to strengthen secondary cities and rural economic hubs. Newcastle is emerging as a centre of manufacturing excellence; Richard’s Bay continues its role as a powerhouse in logistics and industrial gateway, while the South Coast and Midlands champion agriculture and tourism.

Vodacom Business KZN is positioning itself as the most trusted enterprise telecommunications provider in the region, supporting business transformation through its digital core strategy. The division offers integrated solutions like cloud services, cybersecurity, IoT, mobile and unified communications, hosting, managed services, and digital applications platforms.

‘’We’re transitioning from a traditional telco to a future-ready TechCo,’’ added Khan. ‘’Businesses today face emerging technologies like 5G, AI, and quantum computing, alongside competition from hyperscalers and digital natives. Our role is to help enterprises adapt to the pace of digitalisation through systems of advantage via our digital core and customer-360 approach,’’ noted Khan.

Vodacom Business supports businesses no matter how big or small.

Vodacom KZN would also like to make digital access affordable for everyone. They also have affordable programmes to meet customers where they are located.

With Just4You and Just4YourTown, customers get personalised data and voice offerings to suit their behaviour and location, ensuring lower costs. More KZN customers are using them to save money.

Easy2Own is a finance option which allows customers to access smartphones affordably. This programme is critical for people to upgrade from 2G and 3G devices to 4G and 5G devices, unlocking a world of opportunities.

Vodacom KZN is also looking to combat theft and vandalism, which threatens network availability for communities. Residents in the Nottingham and Kamberg valley area are also helping with this and they have partnered with Vodacom to install electric fencing around base stations which reduces vandalism.

‘’We recognise that network investment alone is not enough. Our focus on deep rural connectivity, business solutions, affordability, device access, and community partnerships ensures that the benefits of our infrastructure reach every resident and business in KwaZulu-Natal. With over R1.1 billion in network investment, including R100 million dedicated to deep rural areas, we are building a connected province where no one is left behind,’’ concluded Khan.

EThekwini informal trade facilities hailed for addressing unemployment

 

EThekwini informal trade facilities hailed for addressing unemployment

NONDUDUZO NGCONGO

MANDISA Gwexa, 26, from Mariannhill is proof that opportunity and determination can transform lives. Once an unemployed Environmental Management graduate, she turned her circumstances into motivation and today, she is an award-winning entrepreneur and employer.

After her internship in the private sector ended with no job prospects on the horizon, Gwexa decided to create her own opportunity after seeing informal trading spaces advertised by eThekwini Municipality. ‘’I realised that my lack of employment wasn’t the end, it was the beginning of something new,’’ she said.

In 2021, she started Mandisa Nailed It, a beauty salon specialising in nails, hair, and eyelashes, in KwaNdengezi. Her journey truly transformed when she was allocated formal trading space by eThekwini Municipality through its Informal Economy Support Programme. She applied for a trading stall.

‘’Securing that space was a game changer for my business. It gave me dignity, stability, and confidence to grow.’’

Gwexa praised the Municipality for its continuous training for small businesses, access to funding, and mentorship opportunities. ‘’The Municipality didn’t just give us space, they equip us to succeed,’’ she added.

From humble beginnings, Mandisa Nailed It has become a community hub, Gwexa now employs eight people, six full-time and two part-time and has trained more than 40 aspiring nail technicians, many of whom have gone on to start their own businesses.

She was recently awarded the Youth-Owned Informal Business Award at the 2025 eThekwini Municipality Informal Trade Awards.

‘’Winning this award has further elevated my business and has shown me that hard work pays off. I encourage other young people to apply for the opportunities government provides. I am excited to continue growing my business,’’ she said.

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said stories like that of Gwexa’s show the value of investing in the informal economy and small business. ‘’When small businesses thrive, communities thrive hence the Municipality will continue with its support of small, medium and micro-sized enterprises,’’ he said.

Extension of Special Debt Relief Programme

 

Extension of Special Debt Relief Programme

METRO REPORTER

AS a strategic measure to ease the City’s customers, the Executive Committee approved the extension of the special Debt Relief Programme during a meeting on 28 October.

The programme will run from 1 November 2025 to 31 January 2026 and offers domestic and business customers a 50 percent write-off on arrear debt accrued up to 31 January 2025.

Customers who are unable to pay their arrears in full may do so through instalment plans, provided the debt is fully settled by 31 January 2026.

Additionally, customers that have accumulated debt from 1 February 2025 to 30 June 2025 must settle the outstanding debt.

If they cannot afford to do so in one payment, they can enter an arrangement with the Municipality that will end on 30 June 2026. No interest will be charged.

Customers can visit their nearest Sizakala Centre for more information on the programme.

Multiple service delivery projects unveiled

 

Multiple service delivery projects unveiled

METRO REPORTER

ETHEKWINI Municipality continues to attract investment and prioritise service delivery to improve the lives of residents. This comes as eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba unveiled the newly constructed, state-of-the-art uMlazi G-Section Clinic recently.

The facility will bring much-needed relief to the uMlazi community where healthcare services were previously provided from a community hall and some patients had to be redirected to nearby clinics.

The new R15 million clinic underscores the Municipality’s ongoing commitment to delivering accessible, high-quality primary healthcare services to residents. Serving over 25 000 residents, the clinic is a strategic investment aimed at aligning Municipal health facilities with the National Core Standards.

Mayor Xaba also attended the official opening of the Isiphingo Shopping Centre on 29 October. He said this is yet another demonstration that Durban is open for business. ‘’The growth we are witnessing in the retail sector is due to our efforts to create a conducive environment for investors. As a City, working with all relevant stakeholders, we want to make it easy for business to invest in eThekwini Municipality.’’

And in yet another significant moment for the City, there was a jubilant atmosphere as the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) unveiled their 300^th new train during a launch in Durban on 29 October.

The unveiling forms part of PRASA’s national project to replace its aging fleet with brand-new, state-of-the-art trains. Attending the unveiling of the latest train in their fleet was Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy and MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma along with Mayor Xaba.

Mayor Xaba said it was significant that the 300^th train was launched in the City during Transport Month. ‘’We are excited to be part of today’s launch of Train Set #300 as we recognise the pivotal role the rail sector plays in promoting economic growth and supporting trade.’’

A Day in the Life of PeWG

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 17, 2025

Service delivery in the City has been accelerated by the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG). Last week on 13^th November a high-level delegation led by Co-Chairs of PeWG Director-General in the Presidency Phindile Baleni and Mike Mabuyakhulu did an inspection of big service delivery projects underway in the City.

A Presidential eThekwini Working Group tour led Co-Chairs Director-General in the Presidency Phindile Baleni and Mike Mabuyakhulu, appraised the progress of major development projects underway in the City. | Photo: Saneli Mthalane 

The delegation from PeWG which included key stakeholders from the City visited Moses Mabhida Stadium, Rivertown Precinct, the Southern Aqueduct, the uMlazi Canal and Phoenix Industrial Park.

PeWG was established as a result of engagements between the President and the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry to look at pressing challenges such as interruptions in water supply, old infrastructure, tourism decline, crime and port issues.

One of the flagship projects that PeWG looks at is the uMlazi Canal Flood Alleviation Scheme, an essential flood mitigation project that protects the South Durban Basin’s industrial hub.

As a result of intervention from PeWG, Transnet accepted ownership of the canal and did repairs which are 81 percent complete.

The full restoration is due for June 2026 at a projected cost of between R2 billion and R3 billion.

The PeWG tour also inspected the Southern Aqueduct Upgrade. | Photo: Saneli Mthalane. 

Another catalytic project is the Southern Aqueduct Upgrade which is underway in the City, aiming to enhance bulk water security and resilience across the southern region of eThekwini.

The project is divided into 8 work packages, construction is 40 percent complete, with full commissioning around mid-2026.

So far this project has created employment and integrated digital supervisory control and data acquisition systems to modernise water management.

The PeWG’s Focused Intervention Team has also helped with urban renewal; problem and neglected buildings such as 85 Anton Lembede Street and 516 Dr Pixley KaSeme Street have seen visible improvements and legal recovery efforts.

Through PeWG Workstream 3, security and social stability have improved through expanded CCTV coverage, enhanced Operation Shanele deployments and new measures to look at homelessness and forensic laboratory backlogs.

PeWG’s integrated results-driven approach is quickly becoming a national model for restoring confidence, resilience, and growth in the urban centres of South Africa.

The uMlazi Canal Upgrade. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Mabuyakhulu noted that over the past year, the PeWG has evolved into one of the City’s most progressive initiatives.

He also highlighted that eThekwini has seen improvements in water and sanitation service delivery.

The inspections also provided an opportunity to celebrate achievements that have been made possible thanks to partnerships, especially with the business sector, which has helped restore public trust and business confidence in the City.

‘’Witnessing how eThekwini has implemented initiatives to address service delivery challenges while boosting confidence is commendable,’’ said Co-Chair of PeWG, Director-General in the Presidency Phindile Baleni.

Southern Sun Hotels and eThekwini Municipality Sign 50-Year Lease

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 11, 2025

The eThekwini Municipality and Southern Sun Hotels recently signed a R1 billion lease on 29 October for the redevelopment of two of Durban’s iconic hotels, the Elangeni and Maharani Towers.

EThekwini Municipality and Southern Sun Hotels signed a 50-year lease agreement to redevelop the Elangeni and Maharani Towers. The partnership will also see the upgrade of nearby amenities, including a Municipal park. | Photo: Supplied. 

The current lease for these hotels is set to expire in December 2025.

This new 50-year lease was won by Southern Sun after a fair and transparent bidding process. This was after a Request for Proposals from industry in November 2023.

This lease agreement is a major part of the Municipality’s Proactive Land Release Strategy and allows the Municipality to realise its vision as set out in the Inner City Local Area Plan, which aims to protect and enhance the beachfront as a key tourism asset.

This R1 billion capital investment will see R622 million go to the upgrade of the Elangeni and Maharani, R157 million for movable assets and R348 million on two additional hotels owned by the same entity.

This is part of a functionality requirement that required bidders to further invest in the Durban beachfront precinct.

There will also be another R5 million invested towards the development of the Sunken Gardens, a Municipal park opposite the Elangeni and Maharani hotels.

‘’The integrity of the Golden Mile depends on these hotels. They are not just structures, they are symbols of Durban’s identity, resilience, and ambition. We extend our deep gratitude to Southern Sun as this lease agreement is a declaration of intent that Durban will grow broadly and inclusively,’’ said Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli, representing eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Chairperson of the Human Settlements, Engineering, and Transport Committee Councillor Themba Mvubu noted that the City’s Land Release Strategy aims to turn Municipal assets into engines of growth and empowerment.

‘’A resilient city anticipates change, adapts, and draws strength from partnerships. By building alliances between public and private sectors, the City and community, and infrastructure and events; we will fortify Durban’s future and harness tourism for inclusive growth. This will help uphold our status as Africa’s premier destination for festivals, events, and tourism,’’ said eThekwini City Manager Dr Musa Mbhele.

This redevelopment will see modernised rooms, restaurants, rooftop experiences, conference spaces, and sustainable solutions like solar power and water-saving systems.

‘’All our hotels are commercially viable despite some challenges we have experienced. EThekwini Municipality sees us as a partner, and we are looking forward to working together towards a common goal,’’ noted CEO of Southern Sun Marcel von Aulock.

Von Aulock also revealed that since the launch of their summer sale, 70 percent of their bookings are for Durban, which shows that visitors are just as supportive of their vision for the City.

Lifeguards Honoured by City

 

By Fred Felton | Nov.9, 2025

As the City prepares for the festive season the eThekwini Municipality has honoured its lifeguards for their dedication to water safety.

Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala survived a 2018 brutal attack. He was honoured at the ceremony. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

The awards ceremony was hosted by the Municipality’s Recreation and Parks Directorate at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 5 November to recognise beach and swimming pool lifesavers for their service.

‘’Your tireless efforts and commitment to keeping our communities safe are truly appreciated. We thank you for representing the City well to thousands of families who visit our beaches and swimming pools,’’ said Chairperson of the Community Services Committee Councillor Zama Sokhabase.

She noted that the City expects large crowds at beaches and swimming pools during the holidays and she had confidence that lifeguards were thoroughly able to handle emergencies.

EThekwini lifeguards were honoured and awarded for their bravery and professional excellence in saving lives. These everyday heroes play a vital role throughout the year, preventing drownings and ensuring public safety through vigilant supervision. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

‘’We acknowledge that you guys are the heroes of the City,’’ said Dr S.E. Ndlovu, Director Recreation and Parks.

There were many lifeguards honoured at the ceremony and among those was Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala who survived a 2018 brutal attack that resulted in the amputation of his leg. Gwala has continued to do well in both lifesaving and global sports, earning much praise.

Senior Lifeguard Sihle Xaba was also recognised for his recent victory at the South African Bodyboard Championships and for representing the country in international surfing events.

‘’You are our unsung heroes, your dedication does not go unnoticed,’’ noted Mr Troye Brown, Chairperson Lifesaving KwaZulu Natal. 

The lifeguards also renewed their oath to protect lives during the ceremony, which ended with the unpacking of new uniforms for beach lifeguards and swimming pool supervisors.

These new uniforms show the Municipality’s commitment to safety and professionalism during the festive season.