Asimile Siyaqhuba - Five Years of Advancement Towards Providing Human Settlements

 

ASIMILE SIYAQHUBA – FIVE YEARS OF ADVANCEMENT TOWARDS PROVIDING HUMAN SETTLEMENTS

Significant gains have been made in the City to provide decent housing and upgrade living environments. To highlight these transformative efforts that have shaped service delivery during the 2021-2026 term of office, the City is rolling out the Five-Year Service Delivery Milestones campaign under the theme: Asimile Siyaqhuba: Resilience Through Adversity.

The spotlight is on housing delivery where significant progress has been achieved by the Human Settlements Directorate over the past five years. This reflects a strong commitment to expanding access to dignified housing, upgrading living environments, and improving the overall quality of life for residents.

During this period, the directorate issued 5 725 title deeds, enabling thousands of families to secure legal ownership and strengthen their generational wealth prospects. Over the same five-year period, the Municipality continued its programme of improving existing housing infrastructure. A total of 1 194 pre-1994 housing units were upgraded and refurbished to ensure safety, structural integrity, and improved living conditions for long-standing communities. The directorate further expanded access to affordable housing through the delivery of 10 359 rental and breaking new ground units, contributing substantially to meeting the demand for formal housing within the City.

In addition, the directorate delivered 669 units through the upgrading and refurbishment of community residential units and the construction of new family units within existing hostels, strengthening the Municipality’s commitment to upgrading high-density living environments.

Efforts to improve informal settlements also advanced significantly, with 40 777 households receiving incremental services such as roads, footpaths, and stormwater controls, ensuring safer, more accessible, and more resilient living conditions.

To further support vulnerable households, the Municipality allocated 11 702 new fully subsidised housing units over the past five years, assisting thousands of qualifying beneficiaries with secure access to formal shelter. Altogether, the Human Settlements Directorate successfully created 20 839 housing opportunities during this period, marking a substantial contribution to addressing housing needs across eThekwini. These achievements represent the Municipality’s continued dedication to delivering sustainable human settlements, strengthening community resilience, and enhancing the dignity of residents.

Asimile Siyaqhuba - Five Years of Ensuring A Reliable and Efficient Electricity Supply

 

ASIMILE SIYAQHUBA – FIVE YEARS OF ENSURING A RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

 

OVER the past five years, the Energy Management Directorate has delivered critical electricity services to residents and businesses across the metropolitan area, balancing infrastructure renewal, network expansion, revenue reform and social support. Serving approximately 800 000 customers, the directorate remains responsible for one of the largest municipal electricity distribution networks in the country.

 

NETWORK SCALE AND CORE SERVICE DELIVERY

The City’s electricity system comprises more than 110 high-voltage substations and over 14 000 medium-voltage substations. This extensive infrastructure network forms the backbone of electricity distribution, ensuring that power is transmitted safely and efficiently to homes, industries and commercial centres. Maintaining the stability of this system is central to service delivery, as reliable electricity underpins economic growth, public safety, and household wellbeing.

 

INFRASTRUCTURE RENEWAL AND NETWORK RESILIENCE

A key focus over the five-year period has been addressing aging infrastructure. Significant investment has been directed toward substation refurbishment, equipment replacement and cable renewal programmes. The replacement of aging underground and overhead cables has reduced faults associated with deteriorating infrastructure, improving supply reliability and minimising unplanned outages in affected communities. One of the most notable milestones was the commissioning of the KE Masinga Substation, a 132kV/11kV Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) facility. This is the first new GIS substation commissioned by the City in nearly a decade and marks a major step forward in adopting advanced, space-efficient and resilient technology. Constructed at an approximate cost of R120 million, the substation forms part of the City’s 25-year Transmission Network Master Plan, designed to guide infrastructure upgrades, expansion, and renewal to meet future demand. Additional upgrades are ongoing, including critical equipment replacement at the Mariannridge 132/11kV Substation, further strengthening network capacity and operational stability.

 

ELECTRIFICATION AND EXPANDING ACCESS

Despite operational challenges during the term, including prolonged shortages of electricity meters, the directorate continued to expand access to electricity. Over the past five years, 19 756 new residential electricity supply connections were installed. Thousands of residents in informal settlements and mixed formal informal areas have benefitted from electrification projects, improving safety, dignity and access to economic opportunities.

 

SMART METERING AND REVENUE PROTECTION

With meter supply constraints now resolved, the directorate has launched its Smart Metering Deployment Strategy. This initiative is aimed at restoring revenue integrity, improving operational efficiency and enhancing customer service. The prepaid smart meters incorporate advanced features such as tamper detection and remote diagnostics, enabling improved monitoring and reducing non-technical losses. To date, over 6 500 smart meters have been installed, with plans to roll out more than 200 000 units in the coming years. The programme is expected to significantly strengthen billing accuracy, reduce electricity theft and provide customers with better control over their consumption.

 

FREE BASIC ELECTRICITY AND SOCIAL IMPACT

The directorate continues to administer the Free Basic Electricity programme in line with national policy guidelines. Since 2003, qualifying indigent households consuming less than 150 kWh per month receive 65 kWh of free electricity monthly, automatically credited to their prepaid meters. Currently, close to 100 000 customers benefit from this subsidy.

Asimile Siyaqhuba - Five Years of Advancements Towards Quality Water Supply

 

ASIMILE SIYAQHUBA – FIVE YEARS OF ADVANCEMENTS TOWARDS QUALITY WATER SUPPLY

Save Water.

ENSURING an uninterrupted water supply for residents and businesses remains a top priority for the City. Through major infrastructure investments and strategic Council resolutions, the Water and Sanitation Services Directorate has worked tirelessly to keep taps running. Highlighting these transformative efforts that have shaped service delivery during the 2021–2026 term of office is eThekwini Municipality’s Five-Year Service Delivery Milestones campaign being held under the theme Asimile Siyaqhuba: Resilience Through Adversity.

ADAMS K5 AND K6 RESERVOIRS

 The Water Services Directorate successfully upgraded the Adams K5 and K6 Reservoirs in 2022 to improve bulk storage capacity for residents in the Adams Mission area, under Wards 67 and 96. The Adams K5 Reservoir was expanded from two to six megalitres (ML) by constructing an additional 4 ML compartment at the existing reservoir site. Similarly, the Adams K6 Reservoir was significantly upgraded, increasing its capacity from two to 10 ML.

SHONGWENI RESERVOIR

The City successfully commissioned the Shongweni Reservoir in 2023, significantly improving water storage capacity for communities supplied by the facility. The reservoir has a storage capacity of six ML.

MKHIZWANA WATER TREATMENT WORKS

The Mkhizwana Water Treatment Works was upgraded, increasing its design capacity from 1.5 to four ML/day.

NORTHERN WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS

The restoration of the Northern Wastewater Treatment Works is progressing well, with a noticeable improvement in the quality of treated effluent being discharged. Technical teams have stabilised operations, with the plant achieving more than 80 percent effluent quality compliance.

 UMBILO AND KWANDENGEZI WASTEWATER TREATMENT WORKS

There is steady progress on the repair and refurbishment of the Umbilo and KwaNdengezi Wastewater Treatment Works. These plants are among the sanitation infrastructure that sustained significant damage during previous floods, resulting in damage to mechanical, electrical, and civil components. The installation of stormwater pipelines to improve management at both the Umbilo and KwaNdengezi plants is also making significant progress.

NTUZUMA WATER PUMPSTATION

The Ntuzuma Water Pumpstation was recommissioned in December last year. This upgrade enhanced the mechanical and electrical components, increasing performance and reliability. The station now features 15 pumps, including standby units, high-efficiency technology, automated control systems, and real-time monitoring tools.

UMDLOTI WASTEWATER PUMPSTATION

 The Water and Sanitation Directorate has completed critical restoration works on the uMdloti Wastewater Pumpstation. The station was equipped with two new pumps.

Fixing water pipe at Lamontville. 

NORTHERN AQUEDUCT AUGMENTATION PIPELINE

To cater for growing demand in the north, the City commissioned two major infrastructure projects: the construction of a new Northern Aqueduct Augmentation Pipeline and a 600mm diameter water rising main from Hazelmere to the Grange Reservoir.

 CANELANDS PIPE AND PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

 The City refurbished the Canelands Pipe and Pedestrian Bridge, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery for communities in Verulam.

Durban Set for Spectacular Hollywoodbets Durban July

 

By Fred Felton | Jun. 25, 2026

There is much excitement ahead of the 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July, with the City ready to host one of Africa’s most prestigious sporting and lifestyle events.

The launch was filled with fashion. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright 

The official media launch for the event was held on 24 June at the Shongweni Club.

The eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba gave a keynote address at the launch and he assured residents, visitors, and stakeholders that the City is fully prepared to welcome the thousands of guests expected to descend on Durban for the annual spectacle.

The event blends world-class horse racing, cutting-edge fashion, entertainment and Durban’s renowned hospitality.

Mayor Xaba delivering the keynote address. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright. 

‘’The Durban July weekend transforms our City into a vibrant hub of economic activity, providing a substantial boost to hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, transport operators, retailers, tourism attractions, and informal traders. It remains one of the most important economic catalysts on Durban’s annual events calendar,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

For 2026 projections indicate that more than 40 000 visitors are expected to attend the event, with direct spending estimated at R230 million and a broader contribution of approximately R798 million to the local economy.

An estimated 1 105 jobs will be supported through the event’s value chain.

Nine emerging desigers will showcase their talent at the Hollywoodbets Durban July. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright. 

‘’Through the Durban Fashion Fair programme, we are nurturing the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs. Nine emerging designers who have completed a rigorous ten month mentorship programme will showcase their talent through the prestigious DFF Rising Stars Collection on the Celebration Stage at the Hollywoodbets Durban July,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The Mayor also mentioned that the City’s extensive preparations included coordinated safety and security measures. Metro Police and Traffic Management officers will maintain high-visibility around the Greyville precinct during the event.

This year is the 130^th running of South Africa’s premier horse race, a huge milestone that shows the enduring legacy of this iconic event.

For the event this year there will be 29 independently operated hospitality venues and VIP marquees, supported by more than 9 000 event staff and an additional 1 000 security personnel.

‘’While every owner, trainer, jockey, breeder and groom dreams of winning the R10 million Hollywoodbets Durban July, the event simultaneously creates opportunities across multiple sectors, supporting thousands of livelihoods and showcasing Durban on a national and international stage,’’ said Head of Mayor Events, Broadcast and Marketing at Race Coast, Stephen Marshall.

Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager Devin Heffer also announced that the winner’s stake has doubled to R10 million, making the Hollywoodbets Durban July the richest horse race in Africa.

You can also expect to see many improvements including new grandstands, upgrades to the parade ring, roofing improvements, enhanced sound systems, fresh paintwork, and large digital screens. Heffer said the Hollywood Group and Race Coast had invested significantly in infrastructure upgrades and the venue.

The theme for this year’s event is ‘’Country Allure’’, and invites fashion fans, designers, and attendees to explore a sophisticated fusion of rural elegance, timeless charm, and contemporary style.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to embrace the spirit of Country Allure and be part of an unforgettable celebration of fashion, entertainment, horse racing, and Durban hospitality.

Win Tickets to East Coast Radio House + Garden Show

 

By Fred Felton | Jun. 23, 2026

No matter if you are looking for a painting, print, your children’s art framed or something to transform your house, the East Coast Radio House + Garden Show has a work of art just for your kind of lifestyle.

Artwork by Sarita Gous will be on display at the Show. | Photo: Supplied. 

This year you can expect to discover the fine art of framing, statement mirrors, and you can take a look at how recycling turns into reinvention.

From June 27 to July 5, the Durban Exhibition Centre will have a wide variety of artworks from emerging artists to established artists.

The Durban Art Gallery will be showcasing six artists at the Show. You can expect to see a wide variety of mediums and genres from paint to charcoal to lipstick, self-portraits and even abstracts.

Visit the Durban Art Gallery stand and connect with the works of Bandile Ncanana, Njabulo ‘Vezi’ Mngwengwe, Mlamuli Shozi, Ayanda Mkhize, Lindokuhle Mthembu and Nhlanhla Shozi.

The travelling artists Jodie and Ryan Loubser will also be at the Show this year. They move around the country, painting, exhibiting and selling works of art. ‘’It’s a good and busy life, and our studio changes constantly,’’ said Jodie Loubser.

Look out for Sarita Gous who has been painting for 15 years creating modern ocean and cloudscape oil paintings, inspired by nature, light, and atmosphere. She’s inspired by the feeling and energy of the sea and sky, and how they shift and move in subtle, powerful ways.

Natal Art Craft Industries (NACI) has been in Durban for over 60 years. They are well known for custom frames, laser cut mirrors, framed prints, glass art and more.

Lazarus Kufakunesu is known as the Patio Guru and is a legendary soapstone sculptor. He makes canvas paintings, steampunk art, fine art and patio furniture. ‘’No scrap belongs in the scrap yard,’’ noted Kufakunesu. Find his outdoor stand N8.

The good folks at East Coast Radio House + Garden Show have given us 5 x double tickets just for our readers.

If you would like to win double tickets to the show just answer this easy question:

Name one of the artists exhibiting at the East Coast Radio House + Garden Show?

Email your answer along with your name, email address and/or WhatsApp number to umhlangalife@gmail.com

Ts and Cs apply.

Competition closed. 

The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show takes place from June 27 to July 5 at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

Get your tickets online via http://quicket.co.za or http://housegardenshow.co.za or at the entrance on the day.

Council adopts R75.3 billion budget

 

TWO CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE OPENED 

SIPHELELE BUTHELEZI AND

ROMITA HANUMAN-PILLAY

THE Council of eThekwini Municipality has officially adopted the Municipality’s 2026/27 Medium Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework, with a total budget of R75.3 billion aimed at accelerating service delivery, infrastructure renewal, and the implementation of turnaround strategies for the City’s trading services.

The adopted budget comprises an operating budget of approximately R69 billion and a capital budget of R6.3 billion. It has been developed within an overall planning framework that aligns with the City’s strategic objectives while prioritising sustainable service delivery and financial stability.

Addressing Council during the adoption of the budget on 28 May, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said the budget represents a practical and sustainable financial plan for the City.

‘’The 2026/27 budget is not an aspirational document. It is a funded, credible, and sustainable plan assessed as such by National Treasury. It prioritises the acceleration of repairs, the upgrading of bulk infrastructure, and the full implementation of our trading services turnaround strategies,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

He highlighted that the budget followed an extensive public participation process after the draft budget was tabled in March 2026.

Between 13 April and 11 May 2026, the City hosted 12 public budget hearings, including dedicated engagements with business stakeholders, disability organisations, and ratepayer associations, as well as regional hearings covering all municipal wards.

‘’The hearings were well attended, with most inputs reflecting the real challenges faced by communities. The process was widely advertised through radio, print and social media, inviting public participation and written submissions,’’ the Mayor said.

He noted that several public inputs were incorporated into the final budget to provide relief to residents amid ongoing economic pressures.

‘’As a result, we have made meaningful adjustments to the draft budget. However, not all requests can be accommodated due to the financial envelope. This budget therefore balances service delivery, infrastructure renewal, job creation, affordability, and financial sustainability,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

Following engagements with stakeholders and national government, Council approved revised tariff increases for the 2026/27 financial year, including reductions to proposed increases for water, sanitation, electricity, refuse removal, and property rates.

The revised tariff adjustments include:

                                                           ·          Domestic water tariff increase reduced from 15% to 12%;

                                                           ·          Domestic sanitation tariff increase reduced from 13% to 8%;

                                                           ·          Business sanitation tariff increase reduced from 14% to 9%;

                                                           ·          Average property rates increase reduced from 5% to 2%;

                                                           ·          Refuse tariff increase reduced from 13% to 9.5%; and

                                                           ·          Electricity tariff reduced from 10.5% to 9%

The Mayor said the revised tariffs are intended to provide much-needed relief to residents and businesses.

‘’As a caring City, we certainly hope that this brings some relief to ratepayers and consumers,’’ he said.

Council also approved amendments to the City’s Indigent Support Policy to ensure more targeted assistance for vulnerable households. The threshold for exemption from property rates for indigent households has been increased from R350 000 to R400 000, while pensioner rebate qualification thresholds have been increased from R2.5 million to R2.75 million.

The Mayor announced that the main sources of funding for the operating budget are service charges, property rates, and grants and levies. The adopted budget places significant emphasis on upgrading ageing infrastructure, improving the reliability of water, sanitation, and energy services, and driving spatial transformation.

___________________________________________________________________

Mayor Xaba launches two centres of excellence to empower youth

RHULANI BALOYI AND

SILINDILE CELE

THE communities of Cragieburn and Illovo in the south of Durban, particularly the youth, are stepping into renewed hope and opportunity following the unveiling of two Human Resources Centres of Excellence by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba on 3 June.

It was apt that the centres were opened during Youth Month, as they will become hubs for young people to access digital services. The centres signal more than a milestone; they mark the beginning of a new chapter for communities impacted by limited access to opportunities.

With many young people facing barriers to education, employment, and digital inclusion, the Cragieburn and Illovo Centres stand as a lifeline to a better future.

Mayor Xaba said the facilities will assist in equipping the youth with digital skills and tools needed to participate effectively in an increasingly technology driven world.

‘’At a time when families are facing economic challenges, the centres will provide a valuable service by offering free access to technology and the internet within the community, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances to access such resources,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

The two new facilities form part of a growing network of 34 Centres of Excellence that provide access to digital tools, skills development programmes, entrepreneurship support, and career pathways.

These state-of-the-art centres feature modern computer labs, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to digital platforms, offering young people a powerful gateway to skills development, innovation, and real economic opportunities.

Anele Mgobhozi, a matric pupil from Umkomaas Secondary School, said the centre has restored a sense of hope. ‘’This will assist us when we apply to universities. Access to free internet and digital equipment will enable us to complete applications, conduct research and access important educational resources.’’

 

SmartRev A digital innovation for eThekwini Customers

 

Welcome to SmartRev!

An innovation by the eThekwini Municipality Revenue Management Directorate, established to make life simple for all customers. You can access revenue-related services via:

WHATSAPP

·         Message: 0647617930

·         Request your bill

·         Submit meter readings

USSD

·         Dial *134*031#

·         View your bill

·         Submit your meter readings

E-SERVICES

·         Visit https://eservices@durban.gov.za/v2

·         Update account information

·         Capture and submit meter readings

·         View your bill

·         Download your bill

·         Pay your bill via Masterpass, QR Code or Direct Debit

REVENUE CORRESPONDENCE

Visit https://correspondence.durban.gov.za/

You can now apply for new water and electricity services at the touch of a button.

This saves you from travelling to Revenue Customer Centres and also ensures you are not standing in a queue. Your request will be attended to, you will be given a reference number and the City will communicate with you via email.

MOBILE APP

·         Download the eThekwini Municipality App on your phone

·         Request and download your bill

·         Pay your bill

·         Log a query

·         Capture meter readings

Keep an eye on eThekwini Municipality’s verified social platforms for more information.