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Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure Martin Meyer met His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini at the Mashobeni Royal Palace on 03 November 2025.
The visit formed part of the Minister’s official programme in KwaZulu-Natal. Discussions focused on infrastructure delivery, job creation through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), and the Social Facilitation Framework (SFF), which aims to improve project performance and promote inclusive development.
Moreover, the Minister was joined by Independent Development Trust (IDT) Chairperson Zimbini Hill, Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Chairperson Khulile Nzo, and Council for the Built Environment (CBE) CEO Dr. Msizi Myeza.
Government’s Commitment to Rural Growth
Minister Macpherson emphasized that collaboration with traditional leadership remains key to accelerating rural development.
“To achieve our development goals, it is essential that we work with His Majesty King Misuzulu to uplift rural communities,” he said.
He further explained that government is reforming the EPWP to become a pathway to permanent employment. In addition, the Social Facilitation Framework seeks to prevent construction stoppages by strengthening community participation.
The Minister also praised the Independent Development Trust, describing it as a “force for good” that delivers essential social infrastructure across the country.
Royal Support for Development Projects
King Misuzulu expressed full support for these initiatives. He pledged to attend the pilot EPWP launch in KwaZulu-Natal and to encourage Amakhosi to back the rollout of the Social Facilitation Framework.
Positive Impact on Local Communities
MEC Martin Meyer commended progress on rural projects such as the Nongoma Cultural Amphitheatre. The facility shows that modern infrastructure can thrive in rural KwaZulu-Natal while boosting both tourism and local economies.
He also announced that 11 commercial properties will be transferred to the Agriculture and Rural Development Department, while a shoe factory in Msinga will be allocated to the Economic Development Department. Furthermore, the Tourism and Environmental Affairs Department will assist in empowering rural communities.
In addition, Meyer highlighted ongoing efforts to reclaim hijacked state properties.
“We have identified concentrations of hijacked properties, especially in Ulundi,” he said. “We are now working with SAPS Provincial Commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli to recover these assets for the people of KwaZulu-Natal.”
Building Stronger Partnerships
Minister Macpherson said this first official visit to the King signaled a renewed partnership between government and traditional leadership.
“Without the support of traditional authorities, we cannot secure the community buy-in needed to deliver infrastructure that changes lives,” he said.
Meanwhile, MEC Meyer added that practical training and stronger stakeholder engagement will align with industry needs, ensuring that young people acquire skills for lasting employment.
