In the past week, the country has experienced a turning point in our democracy – nothing short of a revolution. KwaDukuza was at the forefront of it.

For the first time since the formation of the combined KwaDukuza municipality almost 26 years ago, the ANC has lost its position as the dominant party on the lower North Coast.

Much has changed here since 2000, and now is the time to right the ship and steer a new course. And for my money, the only sensible direction is “KwaDukuza First”. Not one political party first, not personal ambition first, but the people of KwaDukuza and the services they depend on.

We have come a long way since 1994, from what was, at best, a semi-rural economy that relied almost entirely on agriculture to a modern, upmarket residential and tourist destination.

From the dorps of Stanger and Ballito to one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the country.

Consider this: The agricultural giant that helped drive the local economy for much of the past half-century was delisted from the JSE last week. The Tongaat Hulett we once knew is gone. With the proposed sale of its businesses unresolved, what’s left are the vultures fighting over the remains. It is a sobering reminder of
just how much our local economy has changed.

What has brought about this remarkable growth to our area? For a start, Tongaat Hulett’s development of residential estates, followed by the arrival of King Shaka International Airport. These sparked intense interest, and so the boom began.

We have a warm sea, beautiful beaches and plenty of land for growth. The airport is just down the road. And all the shops you need are here.

The building blocks of local government are reliable electricity, water, refuse removal, roads and traffic control, along with an environment that enables business development.

Has KwaDukuza managed to deliver? It’s a mixed bag. Electricity is badly managed, with losses running into millions and power going on and off every second day, at least where I live in Sheffield. Roads are not good, but they could be worse. Part of the problem is that some roads are maintained by the council, others by the province.

Water supply and refuse removal are brilliant – from Ballito to Tinley Manor. Why? Because they are privately operated. Refuse removal and town cleaning are handled by Dolphin Coast Waste. The contract with Siza Water was a stroke of genius by the former Dolphin Coast council. A reliable water supply and sewage treatment are critical to land development. That contract expires in 2029, so some wise heads will be needed to decide what happens next.

So, over the next two weeks, there will be intense horse-trading to determine who runs the KwaDukuza council.

I can see a workable deal between the DA, ANC and IFP. That would give them 32 seats. With 14 seats each, it’s a tossup between the ANC and the DA for mayor.

The ANC hasn’t yet announced their mayoral nominee, but for my money Siduduzo Gumede has been a refreshing presence in the mayor’s office over the past year. He brings 16 years of mayoral experience, having led KwaDukuza from 1998 to 2008 and iLembe District from 2016 to 2021, before returning to KwaDukuza in August 2025.

On the other hand, the DA’s Privi Makhan has been an outstanding ward councillor in Ward 22.

Gumede carries the baggage of a limping ANC while Makhan would present a fresh approach in a municipality that is begging for change.

Whichever, the IFP’s four seats make that party a kingmaker in that deal.

But whoever the politicians choose, I believe the majority of voters would support a guiding motto of “KwaDukuza First”. Foremost in the minds of every party should be one question: “What is good for KwaDukuza?” Not “What’s in it for me?”

My wish, and I’m sure many residents share it, is that everyone simply gets along and works for the community.

I may be accused of smoking my socks for that wish, but please, please, councillors, just get it right!
Remember, KwaDukuza First!