WITH the 2026 Local Government Elections just around the corner, councillors will be elected for all district, metropolitan and local municipalities across the country’s nine provinces.

This week, the Berea Mail took to the streets of Ward 32 to meet and greet the councillor candidate who is competing for the hot seat come the November 4 Local Government Elections.

Standing as Durban’s industrial hub, Ward 32 presents both opportunities and challenges. Diza Ntanzi, a man who promises to work closely with industries and the community to make a difference, was once elected as the ward councillor.

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He has been a community worker and a resident of Dalton Hostel since 1998. “I know the community of Ward 32 like the back of my hand. I understand their day-to-day challenges, and what is needed to turn the area around. In 2011 I was elected to stand as the ward councillor, and this speaks volumes about my fitness to lead,” Ntanzi said.

He added that he is not a man to promise a pie in the sky, but practical solutions for people on the ground.

“In Ward 32 we have a huge problem of hijacked buildings. This matter is on top of my list. Foreigners occupy the buildings and run their businesses, and most worryingly, our young women are allegedly used to commit all sorts of evil. Together with the municipality, we will work on a solution.

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“With the area being surrounded by a lot of factories, educational institutions, and businesses, we aim to connect young people with relevant opportunities. The issue of housing is key. We aim to focus on the shortage of dwelling spaces around Dalton, Clairwood, Maydon Wharf, Albert Park, and more. This will eradicate informal settlements.

“The IFP has a long history of good service delivery and building infrastructure; given a chance I will lead Ward 32 to its former glory.”

Also read: MEC rolls up sleeves to reclaim hijacked buildings in Point

He insisted that the municipality’s use of small subcontractors to repair infrastructure is not viable; hence, his party will ensure that there would be no middleman between the City and contractors.

Diza emphasised that better opportunities will not only be available to the IFP voters, but to the community at large. People who have been living in poverty and had a hard time accessing services will have their dignity restored, Diza said.

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