KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, led a full delegation of Members of the Executive Council (MECs) and senior officials to the Umzinyathi District Municipality as part of the provincial government’s continued rollout of Operation Sukuma Sakhe Cabinet Day—a direct and interactive platform designed to bring government closer to the people.

This Cabinet Day outreach reaffirms the provincial administration’s commitment to building a responsive, accountable and people-centred government. The programme facilitates direct engagement between citizens and provincial leadership, offering communities an opportunity to voice concerns and receive real-time interventions on matters affecting their daily lives.

Held at a packed community gathering, Premier Ntuli and his delegation were welcomed by residents, traditional leaders, councillors, and local stakeholders. The Premier used the platform to address a broad range of issues, including service delivery bottlenecks, access to healthcare, water and sanitation infrastructure, youth unemployment, and social development support.

Speaking during the engagement, Premier Ntuli said:

“Operation Sukuma Sakhe is a demonstration of our government’s commitment to active citizen participation. Today, we are here not only to listen but to act—to take decisive steps to address the challenges our people face and to accelerate the delivery of services that change lives.”

In response to issues raised by residents, the Premier and MECs provided on-the-spot feedback and committed to fast-tracking projects that had experienced delays. Sector departments also set up service desks, offering identity document applications, health screenings, social grant assistance, and agricultural support.

As part of the day’s activities, Premier Ntuli took time to honour senior citizens in the area, acknowledging their vital role in family and community life. Elderly residents were celebrated through a symbolic ceremony that included the presentation of gifts and warm tributes recognising their wisdom, resilience, and lifelong contributions to society.

“We must never forget the shoulders we stand on. Our senior citizens are the custodians of our values and the backbone of our families. Their needs must remain a priority in how we plan and deliver services,” Premier Ntuli said.

The visit also included site inspections of local infrastructure projects and social development initiatives, aimed at evaluating progress and identifying further areas for intervention. Premier Ntuli noted that the province remains focused on improving governance, accountability, and grassroots service delivery, especially in historically underserved regions.

Operation Sukuma Sakhe Cabinet Days are a cornerstone of the 7th administration’s developmental agenda, promoting transparency, inclusive governance, and alignment between government programmes and community needs.

KwaZulu-Natal continues to build a people-first public service - one that listens, learns and leads with compassion, commitment and integrity.