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On 13 October 2025, the Umzimvubu Local Municipality launched its Integrated Development Plan (IDP) Outreach Programme at Zwelijikile Community Hall in Ward 26, EmaXesibeni. Executive Mayor Zukiswa Ndevu led the session as part of a wider effort to strengthen community participation in planning for the new financial year.
What Happened
The IDP outreach began in EmaXesibeni, marking the first of several consultations across eight wards. Residents filled the hall to raise service delivery issues and share development priorities with municipal officials. Mayor Ndevu said the programme aims to bring government closer to residents. She stressed that every plan must reflect the real needs of local communities.
“The municipality is spreading across all our wards, starting here in EmaXesibeni. Other areas, including KwaBhaca, will follow. We are here to plan together and prepare for the next financial year,” said Councillor Ndevu.
In addition, departments and partner agencies presented information about ongoing and future projects that support local development.
Official Response
Representatives from Alfred Nzo District Municipality, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Employment and Labour attended the event. Their presence showed active cooperation between government sectors. Mayor Ndevu stressed the importance of teamwork in delivering better results. “We are committed to building a municipality that listens, plans, and delivers in partnership with its people,” she said. Furthermore, she confirmed that each ward consultation will collect residents’ inputs for the upcoming municipal budget. This approach, she explained, will ensure that planning remains transparent and people-centred.
Community Impact
Residents welcomed the Mayor’s visit and appreciated being part of the planning process.
They also thanked the municipality for including departments that deal with jobs, farming, and healthcare. As a result, the outreach improved public understanding of how service delivery decisions are made. Community members urged officials to hold regular feedback sessions to report on progress.
Meanwhile, the municipality announced that KwaBhaca will host the next IDP session later this week.
