uThungulu addresses district development
Summit intends to further develop tourism and agriculture within the district.
DUSCHANKA HITZEROTH
THE untapped potential of the four municipalities within the uThungulu District came under analysis at a growth and development summit in Empangeni last Friday.
uThungulu District Mayor Thembeka Mchunu highlighted the economic sustainability that the growth of the tourism and agricultural sectors could reap.
Aimed at coordinating district planning, Mchunu said it is critical for the district and its family of municipalities to align their integrated development plans (IDP).
‘We have six local municipalities, each with their own unique features.
The economic and tourism hubs within our district are the City of uMhlathuze, Mfolozi, and Umlalazi. Even though Mthonjaneni is the smallest local municipality, it has the greatest potential in the mining and mineral sector,’ said Mchunu.
‘Ntambanana, though rural and scarce on services, remains a budding agricultural area, with Nkandla requiring economic stimulation.
‘Currently, the implementation of biogas projects throughout the district, along with the upgrade and expansion of the Richards Bay Port and Airport are of importance.
‘The establishment of an industrial precinct among primary nodes across the district are vital to development,’ Mchunu said.
Last week, the uThungulu District Municipality received an award from the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs for having the best implemented IDP in KZN and further recognised for remaining in the top ten IDPs since 2008.
