VRYHEID KZN: Premier engages with farming communities in Gluckstadt

Premier Sihle Zikalala visited Gluckstad, Ward 4, in Vryheid (Zwathi area) on April 10. The premier was accompanied by MEC for Agriculture & Rural Development Bongi Simelane-Moloi; MEC for Transport, Community Safety & Liaison Neliswe Nkonyeni; MEC for Human Settlements & Public Works Ntuthuko Sibiya; as well as district and local mayors. Premier Zikalala and members of his Cabinet have been visiting farming communities in a bid to resolve tensions between farmers, farm dwellers and tenants. The premier interacted with the farming communities in Gluckstad, where Mr Fana Mnguni’s house was allegedly demolished by a farmer who was accompanied by local police. Mnguni’s son, Lindani, was allegedly shot in the left lower leg by a police officer and had difficulty opening a criminal case against the SAPS at Gluckstad police station. “On February 20, we received a well-written letter by the ANC Youth League to let us know about the situation that the Mnguni family was facing; their house being destroyed by a tractor; so we are here today to give the community feedback on that incident and to also do a follow-up on the issues that were raised by community members when we were here previously. We were supposed to bring feedback to the people of this community on March 21, but due to the passing of our King Zwelithini, we were still mourning as the whole Zulu nation,” Zikalala said. “We all know what happened to the Mnguni household, but what we found out is that the farmer, Mr Uys, went to demolish Mnguni’s house with a police officer who had no court order, which is not good. Policemen should look into matters like this. We wish to apologise to the family, because we left them with high hopes that we would fix their situation ASAP and offer them a temporal structure, as the Mnguni family was living in a tent at that time. We faced challenges here and there, but today we would like to let you know that Mnguni’s temporal structure is being put up and by tomorrow (April 11) they will be moving into a decent home.” The premier further mentioned that after they heard Mnguni’s grievances, members of the community also pointed out issues that did not sit well with them within their area, such as poor road conditions, the need of a bridge and also scholar transport. The premier said he has passed those grievances to MEC Nkonyeni, who will look deeper into them. “So, effectively, we are here to say we are with you and we are fully aware of the issues that were raised before. It’s not like we have forgotten or are avoiding them; they are being investigated and dealt with accordingly,” Zikalala said to the community of Gluckstad. ALSO READ:Ladysmith: KZN Premier visits elderly citizens

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