ETHEKWINI Municipality said the next phase of the Umlazi Canal Upgrade is expected to strengthen investor confidence in Prospecton as the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) continues efforts to unlock economic growth and protect key industrial assets.

Also read: Floods hit Prospecton industries hard

Progress on the project was highlighted during the PeWG’s July co-chairpersons’ meeting, where updates on infrastructure, economic development and water security initiatives were presented.

Following a high-level financing workshop convened by the Presidency, stakeholders finalised the scope of a R310m feasibility study for the next phase of the upgrade of Umlazi Canal. The study will pave the way for the proposed R4.5b overhaul of the canal, aimed at reducing catastrophic flood risks in the South Durban Basin while creating conditions for long-term public and private investment.

The project is seen as critical to safeguarding major industries in the area, including Toyota South Africa’s Prospecton manufacturing plant, after the company reaffirmed its R10b investment to produce the next-generation Toyota Hilux.

PeWG also reported improvements in municipal service delivery, with non-revenue water reduced to 55.7% following governance reforms and leak reduction initiatives. Safety measures have also been strengthened through an expanded CCTV network and action against illegally occupied buildings.

Also read: Prospecton’s major project completed well ahead of schedule

Chairperson Mike Mabuyakhulu said President Cyril Ramaphosa is impressed by the improvements being made in eThekwini.

“We regularly report to the President on the progress made each month. I must say that the President is pleased and is closely monitoring the work we are doing in Durban against the 18-month target, which runs until late 2027,” said Mabuyakhulu.

Mabuyakhulu also indicated that work to integrate the PeWG into the District Development Model (DDM) has commenced.

“Part of the work we are undertaking involves phasing out the PeWG by November 2027 and integrating its functions into the DDM, provided everything proceeds according to plan,” he said.

The DDM is a government initiative that brings together national, provincial and local government to jointly plan and co-ordinate development and service delivery in each district or metropolitan municipality.

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