On 31 July 2024, Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli delivered a significant State of the Province Address (SoPA) to the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, outlining the administration’s progress and future plans since his inaugural speech a month and a half ago. The address highlighted the government's commitment to revitalising the province through strategic economic initiatives, community safety improvements, and social development programmes.
Reaffirming Commitments
In his address, Premier Ntuli reaffirmed the administration's pledge to deliver hope and revival for the people of KwaZulu-Natal. Emphasising the need for transformative change, he outlined the key strategic priorities guiding the provincial government’s actions. These priorities align with the Government of National Unity's goals: driving inclusive economic growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
Premier Ntuli addressed the pressing issue of KwaZulu-Natal’s economic performance, noting the current low-growth trap that has impacted job creation, especially among the youth and women. In response, the provincial government committed to significant economic initiatives, including major investment projects valued at R1.4 billion in Trade Zone 2 at the Dube Tradeport. Additionally, a planned R2 billion investment in local economic development through the Agri-Hub at Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone and a R150 million Fresh Produce Market at uMhlathuze Municipality were announced.
The government plans to engage with key economic institutions and stakeholders, such as the KwaZulu-Natal Growth Coalition, to enhance business confidence and foster collaborations. Specific attention will be given to developing small, youth, and women-owned businesses and revitalising township and rural economies.
Addressing Poverty and Improving Housing
The Premier highlighted the ongoing challenge of poverty and the government’s efforts to address it. Initiatives include the delivery of 500 Breaking New Ground houses, 150 serviced sites, and support for vulnerable groups through Operation Sukuma Sakhe. The administration remains committed to reducing the housing backlog and improving living conditions.
Infrastructure and Development
In response to the need for effective infrastructure development, the reconfiguration of the Department of Public Works into the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure was announced. This change aims to expedite infrastructure projects and align them with broader economic goals. Premier Ntuli also called upon the construction industry to contribute positively, emphasising a zero-tolerance approach to the construction mafia.
Youth Empowerment and Innovation
The address featured several initiatives aimed at empowering the youth and fostering innovation. Premier Ntuli introduced the R100 million Youth Empowerment Fund and announced the opening of the King Dinuzulu Innovation Valley at the Dube Tradeport. A partnership with Services Seta and the Property Practitioner Regulatory Authority was also highlighted, with a 12-month leadership programme in the Real Estate Sector set to commence, targeting 800 young people.
Community Safety and Crime Prevention
Addressing the issue of crime, Premier Ntuli outlined plans for a Provincial Crime Summit, to be preceded by district engagements. These consultations aim to bring together various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, the South African Police Service, and community organisations, to develop effective crime prevention strategies.
Gender-Based Violence and Climate Change
Premier Ntuli addressed the alarming rates of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in KwaZulu-Natal, announcing the continuation of the Provincial Integrated Plan to combat this issue. He also acknowledged recent veld fires and welcomed the signing of the Climate Change Bill into law by the President, underscoring the province’s commitment to environmental resilience and recovery efforts.
Health and Education
The Premier’s address covered improvements in health systems and education. Key targets included enhancing service quality, addressing lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, and improving specialist services. In education, the focus was on monitoring teaching quality, improving school infrastructure, and addressing high drop-out rates through community collaboration.
In conclusion, Premier Ntuli reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to serving the people of KwaZulu-Natal with dignity, honour, and integrity. The address marked a clear vision for the province’s future, centred on stability, growth, and development. Premier Ntuli expressed gratitude to His Majesty the King, the Speaker, Members of the Legislature, and the Executive Council for their support and guidance.
This State of the Province Address underscored the administration’s determination to address challenges and drive progress across all sectors, laying a strong foundation for the future of KwaZulu-Natal.
