ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THOUSANDS ENGAGE AT CITY'S 2026-27 DRAFT IDP-BUDGET CONSULTATION
Curries Fountain Sport field was filled to capacity today, 22 April, as residents from 15 wards gathered in their numbers for eThekwini Municipality’s 2026-27 Draft Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Budget Consultation.
Communities came prepared to engage, raise concerns and help shape a City that responds to their needs.
The consultation forms part of the Municipality’s R74.7 billion 2026-27 financial year budget process and is a key platform for residents to influence development priorities and service delivery planning across eThekwini.
Residents showed strong interest in being part of decisions that directly affect their lives and communities.
EThekwini Deputy Mayor, Councillor Zandile Myeni, accompanied by Executive Committee members and senior municipal officials, presented the draft IDP and proposed budget, outlining plans to improve service delivery, strengthen infrastructure, support economic recovery and drive development at ward level.
Over R528 million has been allocated to 15 wards combined, aimed at addressing key service delivery needs and improving living conditions within these communities.
Deputy Mayor Myeni commended residents for the strong turnout and emphasised the importance of public involvement in shaping the City’s future.
“We are a caring city, and that is why these consultations are critical. Your participation ensures that the voices of our communities are heard and guide how we plan, how we budget and how we deliver services,” she said
She added that the engagements are about improving lives, strengthening service delivery and building an economy that creates opportunities for all.
“Together, we are shaping a more inclusive, responsive and forward‑moving city,” said Deputy Mayor.
Following the presentation, residents engaged directly with City leadership, sharing lived experiences and offering practical inputs on service delivery and development challenges in their wards.
Residents raised several issues, including crime, water, sanitation, electricity, housing, flood-related challenges, unemployment and skills shortages. The residents called for urgent interventions and sustainable solutions to improve service delivery and create economic opportunities.
Municipal officials responded to questions, clarified programmes and funding priorities, and reaffirmed that all community inputs will be carefully considered before the budget is finalised.
Residents were encouraged to continue participating through ongoing consultations and formal submission processes.
The draft IDP and Budget documents are available on the City’s website at www.durban.gov.za
Members of the public are encouraged to submit comments via email to comments2021@durban.gov.za
Information on upcoming consultations will be shared through the Municipality’s communication platforms to ensure the public remains informed and involved.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
