ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY’S EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE DECISIONS
The Executive Committee (EXCO) held a meeting today, 21 April 2026.
Several resolutions were adopted to accelerate implementation and respond to current service delivery matters in the Municipality. These reports will proceed to Full Council for further deliberation and approval.
UPDATE ON WATER SUPPLY INTERVENTIONS
The eThekwini Municipality has today presented its standing report on the status of water supply across the city, highlighting the ongoing challenge of demand outpacing available supply.
This situation is compounded by the reduction in bulk water volumes supplied by uMngeni-uThukela Water, implemented at the discretion of the Department of Water and Sanitation, as part of broader water curtailment measures.
Despite these constraints, the Municipality continues to actively manage and balance the water distribution system through a range of interventions. These include the prompt repair of leaks and bursts, the implementation of water rationing in selected areas, and the exploration of alternative supply solutions such as the installation of boreholes, package plants in areas without reticulation or those experiencing supply limitations.
Communities such as Ngonyameni remain among the most affected, largely due to rising demand and constrained supply capacity. In response, the Municipality is working closely with uMngeni-uThukela Water on the development of a package plant and the feasibility study is currently underway.
To alleviate water issues in some areas in the northern region, the Municipality has received in-principle approval from uMngeni-uThukela Water to abstract water directly from Inanda Dam to supply Ward 3 emaQadini eMzinyathi.
Processes are currently underway to secure formal approval and proceed with the construction of a package plant to support this initiative.
REPORT OF THE AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE FOR THE SECOND QUARTER ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025
EThekwini Municipality is making measurable progress in addressing audit and risk issues, particularly within the information and communication technology (ICT), supply chain, and billing environments.
The committee also acknowledged notable improvements in drinking water and beach water quality.
To strengthen oversight, it was recommended that chairpersons of portfolio committees include audit matters as a standing agenda item in their meetings and submit regular progress reports to EXCO.
ADOPTION OF REVISED ETHEKWINI DISASTER MANAGEMENT POLICY FRAMEWORK
The Executive Committee (EXCO) has recommended that Council approve the revised eThekwini Disaster Management Policy Framework, in accordance with Section 42(1) of the Disaster Management Act.
The updated policy framework serves as a strategic guide to reduce disaster risks and enhance resilience across the municipality. It underscores the importance of integrating disaster risk management responsibilities into all spheres of municipal planning and operations.
The current Disaster Management Framework was adopted by Council in September 2008. Since then, the disaster management landscape has evolved significantly, necessitating a comprehensive review and update of the framework.
In August 2024, Council approved and adopted the eThekwini Disaster Risk and Response Management Level 2 Plan, which was informed by a city-wide risk and vulnerability assessment. Building on this, the eThekwini Disaster Management Directorate, working in close collaboration with the Provincial and National Disaster Management Centres, has developed the revised policy framework, in line with national guidelines and templates.
The framework is structured around four Key Performance Areas (KPAs):
KPA 1 establishes the institutional arrangements required for effective disaster risk management. It clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of the eThekwini Municipal Council in implementing the Disaster Management Act and ensuring coordinated governance.
KPA 2 focuses on disaster risk assessment processes and objectives. It highlights the importance of conducting comprehensive risk assessments to inform planning, preparedness, and risk reduction initiatives.
KPA 3 addresses the development and implementation of disaster risk reduction plans, projects, and programmes within eThekwini, aimed at minimising vulnerabilities and strengthening community resilience.
KPA 4 outlines mechanisms for effective disaster response and recovery. It emphasises early warning dissemination, coordinated response operations, and integrated recovery efforts to ensure timely and efficient support during and after disasters.
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH VARIOUS MALLS AND OTHER PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENTS
To promote orderly, safe, peaceful, and lawful taxi operations, the Municipality has entered into Memoranda of Agreement (MoAs) with various shopping centres and private developments that incorporate public transport facilities.
These agreements enable effective regulation, coordination, and management of public transport operations within such developments.
The Municipality has already successfully concluded MoAs with several existing malls and developments across the eThekwini Municipal area. In order to strengthen and expand this approach, it is proposed that similar agreements be concluded with the following developments and facilities:
Shongweni Westown Mall
Cornubia
Oceans Mall
Sibaya Development
Galleria Mall
Gateway Mall
Chatsworth Centre Mall
Isipingo/Folweni facilities
KwaMakhutha Taxi Rank
Umbumbulu Taxi Rank
Obhukuqwini Taxi Rank
Amanzimtoti Taxi Rank
University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville Campus
Varsity College
Hammarsdale Junction Mall
Cato Ridge SPAR Taxi Rank
Dube TradePort
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
