After four consecutive years of operating with an unfunded budget, the uMzinyathi District Municipality has finally turned a crucial corner. The 2025/2026 funded budget has officially been passed—marking a major milestone for both the institution and the residents it serves.

This breakthrough ends a prolonged period of financial and administrative uncertainty and is expected to unlock improved service delivery, infrastructure development, and a restoration of public trust.

Newly installed Mayor Thembisile Mchunu welcomed the development with optimism, calling it a turning point in the municipality’s recovery.

“This is more than just a financial document. It’s a commitment to responsible governance, meaningful service delivery, and rebuilding trust with the people of uMzinyathi,” said Mchunu.

She thanked the Municipal Council, administrative teams, and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) for their collective efforts during the tough years.

The Mayor also praised the residents for their “patience, resilience, and ongoing faith in the institution,” adding:
“This victory belongs to every household and every stakeholder who stood by us. The road ahead will not be easy, but we are now equipped to travel it with integrity and accountability.”

With the funded budget now in place, the municipality is expected to fast-track project rollouts, address service delivery backlogs, and rebuild operational capacity.

Among the most pressing issues is the long-delayed upgrade of the Biggarsberg Water Treatment Plant. The stagnant project has drawn public ire and sparked a full-scale march to the municipality’s Dundee headquarters in March.

The approval of the 2025/2026 budget is seen as a significant step toward financial stability and improved governance in a region long affected by systemic challenges.

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