DM ZIKALALA BACKS UMDONI’S VISION FOR INCLUSIVE GROWTH AT INVESTMENT SEMINAR

Article and Pictures by Fanisa Makhubela

05 June 2025

Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, has thrown the weight of national government behind Umdoni Municipality’s bold vision for inclusive economic growth, during a two-day Investment Seminar that concluded today, at the Cutty Sark Premier Hotel in Scottburgh. The Umdoni Investment Seminar, brought together government leaders, business stakeholders, development agencies, and community representatives, to identify investment opportunities and build strategic partnerships in support of local economic development.

The seminar was hosted by Umdoni Mayor Cllr M.J. Cele-Luthuli and Mayor Cllr S.I Mqadi from the Ugu District Municipality. Deputy Minister Zikalala delivered the keynote address on the final day, affirming the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure’s commitment to supporting Umdoni’s development priorities.

Over the past two days, the event featured panel discussions, project exhibitions, and engagements aimed at unlocking growth through infrastructure-led investment. The seminar forms part of Umdoni Municipality’s strategic push to implement its development plans aligned with the District Development Model (DDM), the National Development Plan (NDP), and KwaZulu-Natal’s Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS).

Key areas of focus include tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, small business development, and catalytic infrastructure projects such as road maintenance, sustainable human settlements, and harbour development. “The Department is ready to partner with municipalities like Umdoni, that are clear in their vision and aligned with national priorities. Infrastructure is not just about bricks and mortar it’s about jobs, inclusion, and dignity,” said Zikalala.

Mayor Cele-Luthuli welcomed the Deputy Minister’s support and reiterated the municipality’s readiness to work with all spheres of government and the private sector to realise its 2030 vision. “We are committed to building a prosperous Umdoni that leaves no one behind,” said the Mayor. “This seminar was not just about ideas, but about action and we are walking away with clear commitments, potential investors, and stronger partnerships.”

The municipality is expected to consolidate outcomes from the seminar into an investment implementation plan, with follow-up engagements planned in the coming months.