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.

Local Climate Leadership Strengthened with Forum

 

By Fred Felton | Jun. 15, 2026

The eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba convened the second Municipal Forum for Climate Change on 5 May 2026.

Climate Change a present day reality. | Photo: Supplied. 

This forum brought together municipal leadership, experts in the field, and stakeholders to discuss key climate policy frameworks, global developments, and implementation priorities which shape the City’s climate response.

EThekwini was the first municipality to set up a governance structure of this kind, in accordance with section 9 of the Climate Change Act and Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act.

‘’By bringing together organised labour, business, civil society, traditional leadership and other stakeholders, we are ensuring that our climate response is inclusive, informed, and aligned with the principles of a just transition to a climate resilient and low carbon future,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

He also noted that climate change was a present reality.

Central to discussions was the Durban Climate Change Strategy (DCCS), presented by Dr Luyanda Mafumbu, the Deputy Head of Climate Change.

The DCCS is the City’s overarching framework guiding climate action across adaptation, mitigation, and a just transition.

The strategy reinforces eThekwini’s commitment to building climate resilience, while pursuing inclusive economic development.

‘’As a Municipality, we are enhancing our preparedness, strengthening infrastructure resilience, and mobilising partners to protect communities, safeguard essential services and reduce climate-related risks,’’ added Mayor Xaba. 

Durban Welcomes the World this Weekend

 

By Fred Felton | Jun. 13, 2026

Durban is once again showing why it is Africa’s premier events and tourism destination as the City has a huge line-up of internationally acclaimed sporting and entertainment events, attracting thousands of visitors from South Africa and the globe.

Enjoy the Comrades Long Weekend Ricksha Bus Special. | Photo: Supplied.

This weekend you can witness the world-renowned Comrades Marathon and the internationally acclaimed Gas Motorshow International Festival.

These events showcase Durban’s ability to host events of a global significance while giving exceptional experiences to visitors and helping economic growth.

The 99^th Comrades Marathon takes place on Sunday 14 June.

This iconic race will attract top athletes, supporters, media, and tourists from across the world, showing Durban and KwaZulu-Natal’s reputation as a leading international sporting destination.

Residents and visitors can also enjoy the Comrades Long Weekend Ricksha Bus Special from 13 to 16 June, offering one of Durban’s most iconic sightseeing experiences all for a special rate of R56 per person.

Durban will also be hosting one of the continent’s fastest-growing entertainment shows, the Gas Motorshow International Festival, recognised among Africa’s leading automotive and lifestyle festivals.

See Hollywood actor Sung Kang at the Gas Motorshow this weekend. | Photo: Supplied. 

More than 30 000 spectators are expected as the festival has expanded onto the international stage, bringing global celebrities, international music artists, world-class stunt entertainment, and premium lifestyle experiences to the City.

International guests include Hollywood actor Sung Kang, known for his role as Han in the Fast & Furious franchise, as well as acclaimed international artists Miro from Belgium and DJ Lex from the USA.

Festival-goers can look forward to international stunt showcases, aerial displays by the Puma Energy Flying Lions Aerobatic Team, supercars, custom vehicle builds, live music, fashion activations and food experiences, and family entertainment.

‘’This remarkable weekend demonstrates Durban’s growing stature as a City capable of hosting world-class sporting, entertainment, cultural and lifestyle events. The presence of international visitors, athletes, performers and celebrities is a strong endorsement of our City’s infrastructure, hospitality offering and tourism appeal. These events contribute significantly to our local economy, support jobs, and showcase Durban as a globally competitive destination,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

These events are expected to generate substantial economic activity across the tourism value chain, benefitting accommodation establishments, transport operators, restaurants, retail businesses, and tourism attractions.

Durban is poised to deliver a memorable long weekend filled with sport, entertainment, culture and adventure.