Beyond fuel, the rising costs of bread and groceries, electricity, building materials, school transport and medical supplies are putting pressure on families and small businesses.

Transport is also a major challenge, with fuel costs and limited routes affecting access to work and services in rural areas.

This was the sentiment of uMlalazi Mayor Queen Xulu during the IDP Business and Residents’ Association stakeholder engagement for the 2026/27 financial year held at eShowe Hills on Thursday.

The session was attended by residents, business owners and partners from eShowe, Gingindlovu and Mtunzini.

As well as the Business and Residents’ Association, attendees included local traders and community leaders, representatives of government departments, civil society and the King Cetshwayo District technical team.

“With national and provincial funding to municipalities tightening, collaboration is no longer optional, it’s essential.

“Municipalities, businesses and communities must pool resources and ideas to stretch every rand and keep services running,” said Mayor Xulu.

The open floor discussion was a highlight, with residents and business leaders not just raising concerns but also putting forward practical solutions for local growth and service delivery.

“uMlalazi Municipality remains dedicated to building a future that is resilient, inclusive and responsive to the needs of every resident and business,” she said.

uMlalazi municipal manager Nhlakanipho Shandu gave honest progress updates and laid out the real challenges on the ground from the Community Services, Engineering, Planning & Economic Development, and Finance departments.

The focus was clear: transparency first so communities can see where they are making headway and where they need support.

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