President Jacob Zuma has today, 24 July 2012, concluded his visit to Umzimkhulu in the South Coast where he launched the Siyahlola Presidential Monitoring programme, and assessed rural development programmes and service delivery in the town.
The provincial government has invested R7 billion towards the development of Umzimkhulu since 2006. This amount has gone to the revamping of roads, controlling sewerage, dealing with water drainage and fixing potholes amongst other things. Out of this amount, R3 billion has been invested in education; part of which will go towards the eradication of mud schools.
Some of the work done is as follows:
- Construction of a sewer treatment plant and the upgrading of sewer pipes.
- A bulk water reservoir which will carry 2.5ml is almost complete.
- Two electricity sub-stations are being built in Reitvlei and Corinth in the area to connect more households.
During this visit, the President also officially opened the refurbished Mlozana High School, which was first established as a farm school in 1902. The KwaZulu-Natal province started rebuilding the school in June 2009 as part of its programme to eradicate mud schools. To date the province has replaced 25 mud schools with proper building structures.
After visiting and inspecting projects, the President met with the community at Ibisi village. Amongst issues raised, which the community feels require further attention are the following:
- Roads
- Electricity
- Water
- Houses
- Recreational facilities
President has ended the visit confident that the town is developing and that the situation can only improve going forward.
“The progress that has taken place in Umzimkhulu in recent years is impressive. We are aware that more work must still be done, but we also acknowledge our achievements in ensuring development. We will continue to work hard in improving the quality of life in our country," said the President.
The President was accompanied by Dr Zweli Mkhize, Premier of KwaZulu-Natal; Mr Collins Chabane, Minister in the Presidency for Performance Monitoring and Evaluation and Administration; Ms Edna Molewa, Minister for Water and Environmental Affairs; Mr Siyabonga Cwele, Minister of State Security; Ms Bathabile Dlamini, Minister for Social Development; Mr Richard Baloyi, Minister for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs; Ms Mildred Oliphant, Minister of Labour; Mr Ben Martins, Minister of Transport; Mr Obed Bapela, Deputy Minister for Performance Monitoring and Evaluation and Administration; Ms Barbara Thompson, Deputy Minister of Energy; Mr Gratitude Magwanishe, Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises; and Provincial MECs.
Enquiries:
Mac Maharaj
Cell: 079 879 3203
E-mail: macmaharaj@mweb.co.za or mediaenquiries@po.gov.za
