The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal welcomes the passing of the 2025/2026 annual budget for the DA-led uMngeni Local Municipality.
The R674.4 million budget was tabled by Mayor Chris Pappas today and was passed by all parties.
Key highlights include:
• Capital budget – R117.5 million (up from R98.3 million) in the current year:
-R60 million for Phase 1 of Africa’s first Olympic-class Rowing Facility, which will become a flagship for tourism, youth sport, and international investment
-R44 million to complete the long-awaited Mthinzima Substation.
-R19.5 million to upgrade key roads, connecting communities, farms, and economic nodes
-R4 million for the Curry’s Post landfill, ensuring compliance and continuity of waste services.
-R500,000 to establish waste sorting facilities
-R550,000 for Phase 3 of our CCTV network, expanding surveillance in Hilton and Nottingham Road. This is an expansion of our current network in Howick CBD and soon Mpophomeni and Merrivale.
-R25 million in MIG allocations for basic service projects in previously underserved areas
• R34.1 million- Repairs and maintenance
• R4.1 million – social support package – for indigent households covering free waste collection, discounted rates, and 200kWh of free electricity.
• R2 million EPWP grant of our own funds, taking the total to R3.3 million.
The budget is a clear demonstration of the DA’s ability to govern effectively and deliver for all residents. uMngeni Local Municipality continues to be the beacon of hope in KwaZulu-Natal showcasing good governance and putting residents first.