17 MARCH 2025
TO ALL MEDIA
HEALTH PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE FOLLOWS UP ON MEDICINE SHORTAGES

Following the ongoing reports of shortages of medicine in public healthcare facilities, the Portfolio Committee will tomorrow, 18 March 2025, at 8am hold a virtual meeting to receive updates from the previous meeting held in this regard with the department. Then, on Thursday, members will conduct an oversight visit to the Provincial Pharmaceutical Supply Depot (PPSD) in Clairwood. The PPPSD is the “wholesale pharmacy-like” supplier to public healthcare institutions such as clinics in KZN.
The depot provides medicines to 566 of 588 clinics directly and the remaining 22 clinics receive stock from mother hospitals. It also supports 23 Community Health Centres (CHC’s), and 69 hospitals.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Hon, Imran Keeka, said “The virtual meeting follows a previous meeting where we received an update in the state of medicine stocks in KZN. With the follow-up meeting we wish to monitor whether the areas of concern raised by the portfolio committee have either improved or worsened. I am also very concerned that lapses on the side of facility management who are not properly working with district management is contributing to patient difficulties. Our duty is to perform formal oversight over the executive and to verify what officials are telling us. If we don’t go and see for ourselves, we can’t be said to be doing the work of the people of KZN”.

Members of the media are invited to join virtually and on Thursday to meet with the Committee after the oversight visit. A link will be sent to the media via our Whatsap Media Group and email. Arrangements for interviews with the chairperson following the oversight can be arranged with him directly

ISSUED BY KZN LEGISLATURE
Wesley Canham
Senior Practitioner Media liaison
0833767299
Honourable Dr Imran Keeka, MPL
Chairperson: Health Portfolio Committee
083 703 9135

17 March 2025

 Media Advisory

 AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE TO CONDUCT OVERSIGHT AT MAKHATHINI IRRIGATION SCHEME

 KwaZulu-Natal Legislature’s Agriculture and Rural Development Portfolio Committee is set to conduct an oversight visit at Makhathini Irrigation Scheme outside Jozini in the Umkhanyakude District on the 18^th of March 2025. The visit will begin at 10 am.

The committee will receive a “seasonal employment” report from the Agri-Development Agency (ADA) and the turn-around strategy of Makhathini Irrigation Scheme.

Committee members will then conduct oversight including checking the scheme’s pumping stations.

Ends

Issued by KZN Legislature Communications Unit

For Media Inquiries please contact Wonder Hlongwa at 0829083532

MEDIA ADVISORY

13 March 2025

KZN LEGISLATURE COGTA PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE TO CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARINGS ON IMDA BILL IN HARRY GWALA, AMAJUBA AND ETHEKWINI METRO

The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) will, from 18th to the 26^th of March 2025, conduct public hearings in three districts and eThekwini Municipality to solicit views and inputs on the Independent Municipal Demarcation Authority (IMDA) Bill.

Commenting ahead of the public hearings, COGTA portfolio committee Chairperson, Ms Marlaine Nair described the Bill as crucial adding that it was aimed at repealing and substituting the current Municipal Demarcation Act of 1998, to align it with current demarcation board practices.

“This is a very important bill. We urge the public to take part in all our public hearings and make their inputs. The public hearings form part of the legislature’s constitutionally mandated public participation process which involves consulting the public in law-making,” added Nair.

Members of the media are invited to cover the hearings will take place as follows:

Date   : 18 March 2025

Venue: Creighton Hall (Harry Gwala District)

Time   : 10 am

Date   : 19 March 2025

Venue: Utrecht Town Hall (Amajuba District)

Time   : 10 am

Date   : 20 March 2025

Venue: KwaBester Hall, eThekwini Municipality)

Time   : 10 am

Date: 26 March 2025

Venue: Ncotshane Community Hall, Zululand District.

Time: 10 am

ISSUED BY THE KZN LEGISLATURE COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF COGTA PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE, MS MARLAINE NAIR

For media interviews: Ms Marlaine Nair 0726928963

For media enquiries: Mr Bongani Tembe 0823272600

11 MARCH 2025
TO ALL MEDIA
FOR IMMIDIATE RELEASE

Subject: Escalating Crime in Amaoti.

We remain extremely worried about the violent crime perpetrated against innocent people in Amaoti, Inanda and other areas.

Following the recent murder of three men, the shooting of a woman, and a community protest in Amaoti, something drastic must be done by relevant authorities to turn around the situation.

In particular, the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, together with the Office of the Premier, should be on the side of local vulnerable members of the community during this period.
The co-ordinating role of the Office of the Premier becomes critical in terms of the deployment of resources and the rollout of tangible programs that must end the pervasive culture of violence in the affected areas.

The mushrooming of youth gangs, extortion, drug trafficking, alcohol, and substance abuse has contributed to the ongoing crime and violence.
This could be traced to the high school dropout rates and the lack of recreational and skills development activities for the youth.

An integrated approach involving both Office of the Premier and the Department of Community Safety and Liaison should be introduced and used to end the scourge whilst addressing the psychological impact of crime on communities.
The resources in the possession of both departments must be used to make a difference for the vulnerable members of communities, especially women, children, the youth, and senior citizens.

While the role of the police is critical in the fight against crime, the two departments have an equal responsibility in creating an environment that would result in the reduction or eradication of crime.

Moving forward, the Office of the Premier should be seized with the co-ordination of the work of government departments in order to accelerate service delivery interventions in the Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu and other area.

The Department of Community and Liaison must establish a central safety co-ordination team with safety initiatives being introduced and implemented urgently.

The lack of action and tangible programmes in the area will result in the creation of a pool of young people from which hardened criminals recruit. The Committee will visit these areas as soon as possible.

End

Issued by Hon Mbali Frazer
Chair of the Portfolio Committee: Premier, Community Safety and Liaison
078 300 5259

MEDIA ADVISORY

10 March 2025

CALL FOR INPUTS ON FOCUSED INTERVENTION STUDY ON WATER CHALLENGES IN ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY

The human rights to water require that drinking water is always available, accessible, safe and acceptable for all. In the eThekwini Municipality, there has been widespread concerns and grievances expressed by residents regarding the ongoing water crisis. This has prompted the KZN Legislature’s portfolio committee on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) to undertake a focused intervention study on the municipality’s water supply.

This consultative session is a significant step toward addressing potential corruption and mismanagement. We strongly believe that compiling a comprehensive report incorporating representations from various stakeholders will be beneficial to ensure a unified and informed approach toward resolving the crisis.

Members of the public are therefore invited to make their detailed inputs to the study no later than the 2nd of April 2025. Inputs should be emailed to: mthembuv@kznleg.gov.za. For more information please do not hesitate to contact Mr Vusi Mthembu on 033 355 7050

ISSUED BY THE KZN LEGISLATURE COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF COGTA PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE, MS MARLAINE NAIR

For media interviews: Ms Marlaine Nair 0726928963

For media enquiries: Mr Bongani Tembe 0823272600

TO:  ALL MEDIA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:  05 MARCH 2025

NATIONAL SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT ENTERS INTO A PARTNERSHIP THROUGH TRAINING AGREEMENT WITH THE KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL LEGISLATURE

KwaZulu-Natal Legislature is excited to announce partnership with the National School of Government (NSG) to empower its members. This collaboration is part of an ongoing programme by the legislature of creating platforms to empower its members and employees. 

The Legislature holds a firm belief that capacity building will lead to enhanced law-making, public participation, oversight, and impactful service delivery.

“The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature has prioritised capacity building for both elected public representatives and employees during this term. As the KZN we believe that a well-capacitated Provincial Legislature can only be realized if we build strong partnership with relevant institutions of Learning, other bodies supporting parliamentary democracy, and the broader community of KwaZulu-Natal Province,” said Hon Boyce.

Hon. Boyce underscored the importance of ongoing education and professional development, highlighting that such initiatives are crucial for empowering all Members to meet the expectations of their roles and serve the public effectively. By investing in continuous learning, the Legislature aims to improve governance and better address the needs of the constituents they represent.

The Principal of the NSG, Prof. Busani Ngcaweni, said this partnership is a key focus for the NSG as it takes forward its mandate in playing a pivotal role in enhancing the professionalism, ethics, and capabilities of the public sector. “The NSG prides itself on facilitating and assisting the Legislative Sector in terms of providing strategic leadership, thereby enabling the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature to exercise its Constitutional responsibility in an enabling environment of a skilled and capable workforce that is central to the KZN-Legislatures’ vision,” said Prof Ngcaweni.

The partnership with the NSG aims to strengthen the Legislatures’ unique capabilities in fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities. It focuses on improving ethical leadership and ethical oversight, creating effective laws to enhance service delivery, and engaging citizens in decision-making.

The collaborative partnership is committed to equipping the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature with advanced skills and strong leadership capabilities with the aim of addressing the diverse needs and aspirations of various communities. This partnership will create a meaningful impact which will enhance the quality of life for all residents, fostering a brighter and more sustainable future for the province.

JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT AND THE KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL LEGISLATURE

Media Enquiries:

Media Liaison Officer, Ms. Phathisa Mfuyo: 081 021 5111

Communications Manager, Mr Sina Nxumalo:  082 906 0449

ENDS

MEDIA STATEMENT

26 February 2025

KWAZULU-NATAL FLOODING: CONDOLENCES AND CALL FOR PROACTIVE DISASTER MANAGEMENT IN KZN

On behalf of the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Portfolio Committee in KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, I extend our deepest condolences to the families who have tragically lost loved ones in the recent flooding. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this profoundly difficult time.

We also express our heartfelt sympathy to those who have suffered the loss of their homes and possessions due to these devastating floods. The impact on your lives is immeasurable, and we stand with you in solidarity as you navigate the challenges ahead. We would also like to commend the MEC for COGTA Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi and his department for their timeous response to residents in flooded areas.

The increasing frequency of torrential downpours and flooding in our province underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and proactive disaster management strategies. Climate change has rendered such extreme weather events more common, making it imperative for all municipalities to prioritize disaster preparedness and response.

We call upon municipal authorities to adopt a proactive approach, implementing robust infrastructure improvements, early warning systems, and community education programs to mitigate the effects of such natural disasters. The safety and well-being of our residents must remain paramount.

To our fellow citizens, we urge you to exercise caution and remain vigilant during these times. Do not underestimate the dangers posed by severe weather conditions. Stay informed through official channels, adhere to safety guidelines, and take necessary precautions to protect yourselves and your loved ones.

Let us unite in our efforts to enhance disaster management and build resilient communities capable of withstanding the challenges posed by our changing climate. Together, we can work towards a safer and more secure KwaZulu-Natal for all.

ISSUED BY COGTA PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON, HONOURABLE MARLAINE NAIR

For interviews: COGTA Portfolio Committee Chair, Hon Marlaine Nair 0726928963
For enquiries: Mr Bongani Tembe 0823272600

23 February 2025

Programme Director

The Secretary of the legislature, Ms. Nerusha Naidoo

Members of the media

Let me take this opportunity to thank you for joining us this morning at our press briefing where we will be outlining our state of readiness regarding our preparations for the 2025 official opening of the second session of the 7^th  term of the legislature and the State of the Province Address.

This year’s Official Opening of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature will take place over two days at the Woodburn Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on the 27^th and 28^th February 2025.  .The first day is dedicated to the Official Address to the Legislature by His Majesty King Misuzulu KaZwelithini who will deliver his message to the House to mark the beginning of the Second Session of the Seventh KwaZulu-Natal Legislature. This is the second official address by His Majesty during the seventh term.

Rule 10(1)(a) of the KZN Legislature Standing Rules, provides that the Monarch may address the Legislature. State of the Province Address by Premier Arthur Thamsanqa Ntuli give an outline of the government policies for the year ahead in terms of rule 10(1)(b).

As we are preparing for this important event in our legislative calendar, we have invited all our key stakeholders who are always part of this auspicious event. We are happy to announce that all our stakeholders are now fully on board and have accepted our invitations.  We are ready to officially commence with the annual programme of our Legislature.

Our decision to hold this session away from the Legislature precinct in the Pietermaritzburg CBD is primarily informed by space constraints in our chamber which cannot accommodate all the guests and the public. The current Legislature chamber can only accommodate 120 people in the public gallery, which will not cover the number of guests that attend the Official Opening of the Legislature.

May I further add that the Oval Cricket Stadium, which we have utilized for the past two years, is not available due to cricket fixtures which are scheduled on the dates we will be holding the Official Opening. Due to the reasons mentioned above, we had to find alternative cost-effective venue which can accommodate the number of guests we have invited including the public. After careful consideration, we agreed together with the leadership collective to utilise Woodburn Stadium in Pietermaritzburg.

As the Legislature we met with His Majesty King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini to brief him about the programme last year. We met him again on Thursday to update him about the venue change for the official opening and he appreciated how the institution stayed within the legislation to ensure we deliver a successful opening. We also want to inform you that prior to the last meeting with His Majesty, we did receive a letter from the King’s Office raising security issues in respect of the chosen venue. We want to assure you that these are being attended to as part of the overall event’ security and the monarch appreciated our efforts.

Woodburn Stadium can accommodate over 3000 people and has all the facilities we need, which also includes sufficient parking. Woodburn Stadium is not new to hosting events. Previously, it has been used for the Inauguration of the Premier.

Attendance for this year’s Official Opening and SOPA will include 2000 people who will be attending over two days, comprising of the following different categories.

• VIPs: 1000 inclusive of MPLS and other categories
• Members of the Public: 200
• Officials including Media and SAPS: 500
• Amabutho, Omama and Izintombi: 190

The State of the Province Address by the Premier is integral to the official opening of the legislature, it is a government policy speech which sets out the province’s key policy objectives and priorities for the year. This address by the Premier follows the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on 06 February which provided clear priorities, programmes and policy direction for the country to be implemented during the current year.  The President’s address provides Members of the Legislature with an instrument to be able to exercise oversight over the provincial government to oversee whether government commitments made in SONA and SOPA are indeed implemented fully within allocated resources.  

At the beginning of the year, we kicked off our annual programme with the School Functionality and Monitoring Programme, which is a critical intervention by the Legislature to ensure delivery of quality education in all our public schools. We will continue with our oversight activities throughout the year to hold the executive accountable.  

The Legislature continues to conduct its work on a hybrid mode to ensure maximum participation of the people of KwaZulu-Natal. This event will be streamed live on all our social media platforms on reverse billing or data-free (meaning members of the public can stream all proceedings for free). The address will also be live on community radio stations and TV channels.

Ladies and Gentlemen, while planning the Official Opening of the Legislature, we were mindful of budget constraints and have tried to stay within budget. We also noted the fabrication of budget which has been circulated on social media that the Legislature will spend R6.6 million in hosting the Official Opening at Woodburn Stadium. 

As an arm of government, that is responsible for overseeing the spending and value add of departments, we are mindful of wasteful expenditure. We are constantly looking at avenues and interventions to reduce the costs. Accordingly, we have budgeted for the King’s Address and SOPA to the tune of R4 million which falls within the constitutional mandate of the Legislature.

The costs entail audio visual setup, transport, catering, infrastructure setup and publicity. By maintaining 2000 guests, we will be able to minimize the costs and still align to the constitutional mandate of the Legislature which requires us to conduct the business of the Legislature in public and facilitate public involvement.  

Ladies and gentlemen, over and above the two events mentioned above, the House will debate SOPA on the 04 March 2025 wherein all political parties participate in the debate. The debate will take place in the Legislature Chamber at Langalibalele Street in Pietermaritzburg.

As I conclude, let me reiterate our unwavering commitment as the Legislature to the full exercise of our constitutional mandate of maintaining robust oversight over the provincial government to ensure prudent spending of public resources including the provincial budget by all departments and public entities to ensure visible delivery of services to the people of KwaZulu-Natal. Our oversight tools are in place to monitor the provincial government in the form of committees and other institutions such as the Auditor-General of South Africa.

ISSUED BY THE KWAZULU-NATAL LEGISLATURE

For more information contact:

Office of the Speaker Media Liaison, Phathisa Mfuyo on 081 021 5111