Alfred Duma all done with IDP and budget roadshows
The mayor to meet with rates payers soon to discuss the issue of tariff increase
The Alfred Duma Local Municipality on Thursday (May 7) held its final IDP and Budget Consultation roadshow for the 2026/2027 financial year at the Town Hall. The roadshow concluded with a meeting involving the Central Cluster wards. Community members from the Central Cluster, along with councillors from different political parties, attended the meeting.
Mayor reflects on projects and future plans
During the meeting, Mayor Zama Sibisi reflected on the municipality’s work and completed projects from the 2021/2022 financial year up to the 2025/2026 financial year. The mayor also outlined projects planned for the 2026/2027 financial year. Among the highlighted developments was the sports facility at the Indoor Sports Centre, which the mayor described as the first facility of its kind in Northern KwaZulu-Natal. According to the mayor, the municipality contributed R10 million towards the project, while the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture contributed R15 million.
Community raises service delivery concerns
Residents were given an opportunity to ask questions and raise concerns during the consultation. Community members asked about infrastructure, service delivery, and ongoing projects. Some residents commended the municipality for improving service delivery, while others raised concerns about unfinished projects and the lack of services in certain areas.
The issue of proposed tariff increases also drew attention, with some residents expressing concern over the proposed increases in rates and electricity charges. The proposed rates increase is 12%, while electricity tariffs are expected to increase by 14.8%. Responding to concerns, the mayor explained that the municipality purchases electricity from Eskom and is therefore is affected by Eskom’s price increases.
“We cannot buy electricity for R10 and sell it to the community for R10. However, we are planning to meet with ratepayers to further discuss the matter,” said the mayor.
Consultation process nears completion
The IDP and Budget Consultation process began on April 15 with traditional leaders. The mayor described the consultation process as a success. The municipality’s budget is expected to be voted on before July 2026.
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