The KZN Department of Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Sboniso Duma, paid a surprise visit to the Mzimkhulu River bridge rehabilitation project earlier today (August 6).

Ray Nkonyeni Municipality mayor Zodwa Mzindle and Ugu District chief whip Matho Shozi were also on site.

The bridge, which was meant to be completed in November 2025, is now at roughly 60% completion. The revised completion date is now September 2026.

In her welcoming remarks, Mzindle expressed that she is glad that the MEC came in his own time, not when people were telling him to come and how to do his job.

The team led by the chief director for the department, Muzi Sithole, went under the bridge to see work being done on pillar two.

Sithole explained more about the work that has been done and that still needs to be carried out, such as jacking of the pillar and creating a walkway for pedestrians.

Duma added that this bridge has been a priority and the timeframe for completion is critical for the project.

“It’s important that we fast-track this project, and we have to show the national government how far we have come because they have an interest in what is happening. I am glad that we are here today and doing this project at our pace.”

The MEC did not mention the R102 road project, between the bridge and Umtentweni, which has been in disrepair for many months.

The Herald was not allowed to ask questions.

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