Govt, traditional leadership unite for rural development

IN A PIVOTAL move aimed at fortifying the relationship between government and traditional leadership, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC Martin Meyer held a significant meeting with His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and various Amakhosi on Monday.

- SIPHO JACK

The discussions primarily centred on collaboration for rural development and infrastructure delivery in the province.

King Misuzulu kaZwelithini expressed his unwavering support for the Minister’s vision for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), recognising its potential to uplift rural communities.

He also endorsed the efforts of the Independent Development Trust (IDT) and the Social Facilitation Framework, which aims to resolve land-related issues in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

The meeting, attended by key leaders including Zimbini Hill, the Chairperson of the IDT, and Dr Msizi Myeza, CEO of the Council for the Built Environment, was marked by constructive discussions that sought to address pressing issues within KwaZulu-Natal’s rural sectors.