ETHEKWINI Municipality’s draft Annual Report was approved by Council for public engagement and input. The draft Annual Report indicated a remarkable year, marked by resilience and recovery, with an overall achievement rate in the City’s performance of 77.03 percent for key performance indicators in the 2022/23 fiscal year. This shows a significant improvement from the preceding year’s 70.73 percent. The City attributes this success to a strategic focus on infrastructure, especially in the aftermath of the devastating floods in April 2022.

The report can be viewed on the City’s website www.durban.gov.za as well as at the City’s libraries and Sizakala Centres. Comments must be submitted before 15 March 2024. Comments and inputs can be emailed to Noky.Nyasulu@durban.gov.za EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda, recognising the pivotal role of infrastructure, said the City underwent a meticulous review of plans, reprioritised budgets, and allocated resources to ensure the seamless provision of essential services such as water, sanitation, and electricity. “The commitment to adherence to National Treasury norms and guidelines remains integral, contributing to the finalisation of the Medium-Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework with a focus on strategic alignment,” he said. Mayo Kaunda said ongoing recovery efforts post the April 2022 floods has seen the City make remarkable progress in addressing water supply challenges.

Water supply, initially below 40 percent during the floods, has been substantially restored to 79.08 percent. He said the City acknowledges the inconvenience faced by residents and businesses and assures stakeholders of its ongoing efforts to rectify severe infrastructure damage. Importantly, the City recognises the broader water challenges faced by South Africa and affirms its commitment to addressing these issues. Looking at the long-term, the City is actively pursuing the construction of the uMkhomazi Dam. In the short to medium-term, tangible interventions include the construction of a new water reservoir in Shongweni and the finalisation of the Adams, KwaNqetho, Maphephetheni, and Hazelmere water schemes. 

These initiatives aim to enhance water supply not only in these areas but across the City. Additionally, the procurement of 55 new water tankers further strengthens the City’s capabilities to provide water to communities. In the realm of economic recovery, the City’s efforts have yielded remarkable results. The 2022/23 financial year witnessed an influx of R4 billion in foreign direct investment, a testament to the success of the Economic Recovery Plan. Ongoing support for businesses remains a top priority, exemplified by collaborative initiatives that facilitated the reopening of key establishments, including the Bridge City Mall. This initiative alone reinstated 1,500 jobs, contributing significantly to the economic revitalisation of various districts. 

Other businesses that have fully resumed operations include Dube Village Mall, Mamdikazi business precinct near Mariannhill, Mega City in uMlazi, Springfield businesses including Makro and Value Centre, as well as major retail businesses in the inner city and secondary central business districts such as Pinetown and Isiphingo. The City is now inviting public input on the draft Annual Report. This transparent process of public consultation ensures that the community has the opportunity to contribute valuable insights and feedback before the final approval slated for May 2024.