The mayor of Mandeni, Siphesihle Zulu, is determined to turn around his town and show the world
that Mandeni is on its way up.
“Even if I do not return for a second term as mayor, I want to leave this position having squashed the misconception that Mandeni is a dying industrial town. People need to watch this space,” said Zulu.
The easygoing Zulu was surprisingly enjoyable to interview. This self proclaimed lover of clothing brand Converse All Stars said some people hate interviews because they either have something to hide or are naturally shy people. But being in public office has forced him to get over his introverted nature.
Zulu took over the reigns in Mandeni when previous mayor Lindiwe Tshabalala, died last year. He said it was never his plan to be in politics as he first studied public relations and only later did public administration.
“Growing up in Sundumbili in the 90s meant I knew what was happening in politics as there was much trouble between the ANC and IFP at that time and my parents were members of trade union, Cosatu, but I did not see a career in politics until a few years after I matriculated.”
He said he does not see a reason to move out of his home and enjoys spending all his free time with
his parents, siblings and three sons.
“It is also nice to return from work and spend time with the people who are with you through thick and thin,” said Zulu.
He is on a mission to find the first lady for Mandeni but said it was not “a case of an emergency” as most of his time is being taken up by his mayoral duties.
“This year I have had to drop my project management studies at Umfolozi College because I do not have time to do much outside of serving my
community.”
When he is not doing his official work, the mayor can be found at movie theatres with his
sons, enjoying comedy shows or watching soccer or at a local ‘shisanyama’ (braai place) with his boys.
Zulu said he had big plans for his small town, starting with its own registration plate, NMD, which has
already been approved by the transport department.
