THE eThekwini Municipality recently reaffirmed its commitment to making the city more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities as well as one which is people-centred.

This follows a Draft Annual Report public consultation with the disability sector, which is said to have shaped the annual report.

The consultation session was held at the Amanzimtoti Civic Centre over the weekend ending Sunday, February 15.

The session formed part of the city-wide consultations on the Draft Annual Report 2024/25 and underscored the municipality’s focus on service delivery that meaningfully responds to the needs of residents living with disabilities.

During the engagement, attendees received an overview of the sector’s achievements over the past year and identified areas for improvement.

Concerns raised included infrastructure accessibility, employment opportunities for people with disabilities, and the need for enhanced communication equipment.

The municipality confirmed that building audits are underway across all municipal facilities to assess and upgrade accessibility, ensuring residents can access services with dignity and ease.

Speaking on behalf of the eThekwini Speaker, Councillor Thamsanqa Mthethwa emphasised the annual report’s role in promoting accountability, transparency and improved service delivery.

Mthethwa further stressed the importance of engaging the disability sector.

“People with disabilities play a critical role as residents of this Municipality. Their inputs ensure disability-specific needs are addressed in planning, budgeting and service delivery, directly influencing quality of life, economic participation and social inclusion,” said Mthethwa.

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Mthethwa added that inclusive consultation processes help shape an inclusive, accommodative and responsive city for all residents.

He encouraged people with disabilities to disclose their status when applying for jobs or services so that appropriate support and equipment can be provided.

Attendees commended the municipality’s efforts to include people with disabilities in programmes and decision-making, while emphasising the need to accelerate full accessibility across services and infrastructure.

Secretary of the eThekwini Disability Forum, Siyabonga Sosibo, said: “We are happy about this engagement that allows people with disabilities to have a voice. We see improvements in areas that address our needs, although more must be done to ensure full representation in all Municipal programmes.”

Sosibo emphasised that people with disabilities are capable and equal citizens, with the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives and the developmental affairs of the Municipality.

The annual report outlines performance and guides future plans to drive organisational excellence and effective service delivery.

Through this process, the City will develop programmes that respond to community needs, promote social cohesion and collectively drive economic growth.

Public consultations are ongoing, and the public has until 6 March 2026 to submit comments and inputs.

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate to help shape the future of the City and enhance service delivery for all.

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