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The Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality (WMMLM) hosted its second stakeholder engagement meeting with the uMgungundlovu Communal Property Association (CPA) and Wild Coast Sun on 08 October at Lunganakho Country Lodge. The session aimed to align all development initiatives in Mzamba under the Wild Coast Precinct Development Programme and strengthen cooperation among partners.
WHAT HAPPENED
The meeting forms part of WMMLM’s ongoing effort to consolidate development plans for the Mzamba area, focusing on integrated planning, infrastructure growth, and sustainable tourism.
Councillor Makholosa, mentioned a Mayoral Executive Committee Member responsible for Planning and Development, chaired the session. The municipality presented the Wild Coast Precinct Development Plan, which outlines a long-term vision for Mzamba’s economic and spatial growth.
The presentation key priorities such as infrastructure expansion, tourism development, coordinated land use, and investment opportunities aimed at job creation. It also emphasized the importance of uniting all stakeholders’ projects under a single, collaborative framework.
OFFICIAL RESPONSE
Stakeholders welcomed the municipality’s integrated approach and reaffirmed their commitment to working together.
“As a municipality, we are intentional about ensuring that all development initiatives in Mzamba are consolidated, inclusive, and community-driven,” said Councillor Makholosa. “Through these engagements, we are building a shared vision that will unlock economic opportunities and improve livelihoods.”
Representatives from the uMgungundlovu Communal Property Association and Traditional Council shared updates on local land and development priorities. The Eastern Cape Socio-Economic Consultative Council (ECSECC) provided progress on the Small Craft Harbour Development, while the Alfred Nzo District Municipality presented its ongoing agricultural and fisheries support initiatives.
The Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) discussed available funding opportunities and shared a SANRAL report on road and infrastructure linkages. Eskom Customer Service outlined plans to install smart meters to improve energy management and reduce load-shedding in the area.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The engagement reinforced collaboration between government, traditional authorities, and development partners. Local leaders praised the initiative for promoting transparency, shared accountability, and inclusive development.
By aligning various programmes under the Wild Coast Precinct framework, stakeholders aim to ensure that Mzamba’s growth benefits local communities through better infrastructure, employment opportunities, and improved public services.
The municipality said it remains committed to “facilitating integrated planning and sustainable growth” across all wards, ensuring that future projects contribute to long-term economic transformation in the region.
