Premier Ntuli expressed his deepest condolences to the families, stating, "The bravery and dedication of Mabongi Shishane, Ntombikhona Nxele, Nonsikelelo Zuma, Vusi Hudula, Nomfundo Nxele, and Khethiwe Ngcobo will never be forgotten. Their commitment to protecting our communities, even at the cost of their own lives, stands as a testament to their heroism. We are here to support you in this difficult time."

The Premier’s Cup has become a prestigious pre-season soccer extravaganza, providing a much-needed football feast for lovers of the beautiful game across the province. Local teams from the Premier Soccer League and those competing in the National First Division battle for the coveted title of KZN Premier’s Cup Champions.

In a press conference held on Monday morning, Premier Ntuli expressed great sorrow and sadness as he provided an update on the catastrophic disaster that had engulfed the province. Over the past two weeks, KwaZulu-Natal had been battling unprecedented and devastating wildfires that destroyed property, affected many lives and livelihoods, and devastated subsistence and commercial farmers.