MEC Buthelezi commends Ulundi for its impactful rural economic transformation efforts
MEC of Cogta, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi at the Handover ceremony event in Ulundi, where he commended the Ulundi Municipality efforts to rural economic transformative.
Image: KZN COGTA / Facebook
Kwazulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has commended the Ulundi Local Municipality for its Local Economic Development (LED) initiative aimed at empowering small-scale farmers.
one of the 480 goats that were given by the government to small scale farmers.
Image: KZN COGTA / Facebook
Parts of the Local Economic Development also include the construction of a new Toyota dealership and the development of a University of Zululand campus in town, all which is set to grow job creation and attract investment.
Earlier this year in his budget speech, MEC Buthelezi announced an investment that will go into upgrading Ulundi’s electricity infrastructure.
“This investment will expand the electricity grid, paving the way for further economic growth and improved service delivery,” he said.
The MEC applauded the Ulundi Municipality for having efforts in growing its economy, as the LED Programme has grown, especially with the handover of 480 goats.
The handover comes after consultations with the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) whereby the community opted for the government to provide them with agricultural support as a way for them to have sustainable livelihoods. That way, there is less food insecurity, and it is good for local enterprise development and is in line with the LED.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony, MEC Buthelezi praised the municipality for putting in an effort to grow and develop the municipality.
“This programme is a shining example of responsive governance. It demonstrates what is possible when municipalities listen to their people and act decisively. Ulundi is setting the pace for rural economic transformation,” said Buthelezi.
Zululand District Municipality Mayor, Councillor Michael Khumalo during his speech at the handover ceremony that is part of the LED Programme.
Image: KZN COGTA / Facebook
Zululand District Municipality Mayor, Councillor Michael Khumalo, also applauded this initiative, stating that it is also in line with their wider district development goals.
“Ulundi’s LED programme complements our district’s efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development. It is encouraging to see local municipalities taking bold steps to uplift their communities,” said Khumalo.
Inkosi Zuzifa Buthelezi, a member of the National Parliament’s Cogta Portfolio Committee and Inkosi yakwaPhindangene, emphasised the importance of involving traditional leadership in development planning.
Inkosi Zuzifa Buthelezi, a member of the National Parliament's Cogta Portfolio Committee and Inkosi yakwa Phindangene during the handover ceremony in Ulundi.
Image: KZN COGTA / Facebook
“This programme reflects the values of our people and the legacy of our forefathers. As amakhosi, we must continue to support initiatives that empower our communities and preserve our leadership,” he said.
R110 million is set to be invested, with Ulundi set to be the beneficiary of it as part of the refurbishment of the historic legislature building. A project led by Premier Thami Ntuli in honour of the legacy of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. This project is set to create job openings and grow the government's presence in the region.
“This is a new era for Ulundi, we are building a future where rural communities are not left behind but are at the forefront of development,” the MEC said.
IOL