MINISTER MACPHERSON HANDS OVER PROPERTIES IN RAY NKONYENI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

Article by Andile Xulu, Pictures by Caroline Mokotedi

10 November 2025

Minister Dean Macpherson officially handed over the management of 15 coastal properties to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to enable long-term leases and unlock local economic growth.

Today’s ceremonial handover marks a turning point for DPWI properties located in Ray Nkonyeni Municipality in KZN. Minister Macpherson, handed these 15 coastal properties to the KwaZulu-Natal Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Martin Meyer. This handover forms part of Minister Macpherson’s commitment to repurpose state-owned properties for public good, ending the practice of leaving assets unused and decaying.

Minister Macpherson was joined by various officials including Head of PMTE, Siza Sibande, Ward councillor Alan Bosch, Regional Manager Nkosi Vilakazi, business owners, representatives from the community and other stakeholders.

Due to short term month-to-month leases between that DPWI and tenants and the local municipality, businesses operating from these properties have been unable to plan, upgrade and access funding for their work, which inhibited them from growing and expanding. While addressing the attendees, Minister Macpherson said today’s handover marks a clear step towards these properties realising economic and tourism value, which will in turn benefit the local community.

MEC Martin Meyer, expressed gratitude about today’s handover. “This handover will lead to economic growth, job creation, attract investment and increase tourist arrivals,” he said.

Minister Macpherson says that national and provincial governments are collaborating, alongside Civil Society and the private sector, to deliver good results. “The people of Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality can begin to look ahead with hope, knowing that their coastline, their economy, and their future are once again being prioritised,” concluded the Minister.