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.’’