From overcrowded clinics to stalled train services, residents delivered a blunt message to Premier Thami Ntuli during Cabinet Day in Groutville last week.

The meeting, held at the Groutville Sports Fields on Wednesday, formed part of the provincial government’s Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS) initiative, which aims to bring government leaders directly into communities to address service delivery backlogs and monitor projects.

Residents raised concerns about a shortage of clinics and nurses, deteriorating public infrastructure and high crime levels.

Transport was another major issue, with residents highlighting the failure of train services between KwaDukuza and Durban since 2019, saying commuters continue to face significant travel difficulties.

In his keynote address, Ntuli called on men to take a stronger stand against crime, gender-based violence and femicide by following the example set by the country’s respected leaders.

He said creating safer communities was essential to attracting investment, creating jobs and strengthening KwaZulu-Natal’s economy.

The premier also urged public servants to uphold high ethical standards and remain committed to delivering responsive, accountable and people-centred services.

“You cannot divide society because of political beliefs. We cannot be those leaders. We are working hard to ensure stability because investors do run away when there is no stability,” said Ntuli.

A highlight of the event was the recognition of seven centenarians, aged between 105 and 108, who received certificates and gifts.

Ntuli thanked them for their contribution to society, describing them as custodians of wisdom, history and heritage.

The premier also visited Dlelaphezulu Farm, a youth-owned communal farming enterprise in KwaDukuza.

Impressed by the project, Ntuli pledged government support to help the business access export markets.

He said youth-owned enterprises have an important role to play in improving food security, creating jobs and growing the local economy.