The DA in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) will submit written parliamentary questions to Premier, Thami Ntuli and his MECs for Public Works and Sports, Arts and Culture regarding plans to ensure that Nongoma’s multi-million-rand eNyokeni Royal Palace does not become another white elephant in our province.
The move comes after the recent announcement by King Misuzulu kaZwelithini – that the annual Umkhosi woMlanga (Reed Dance) – will no longer be held at the facility and will instead take place at the newly established Mashobeni Royal Residence on the border between Nongoma and uPhongolo.
The DA respects the cultural significance and the King’s prerogative in deciding on the venue for such an important tradition. However, we cannot ignore the fact that the eNyokeni Cultural Precinct project is now at a close-out stage – with significant public funds invested over several years. This, with the intention of creating a world-class venue for cultural events, to showcase KZN’s rich heritage and to drive economic growth in the area.
The decision to move the annual Reed Dance raises questions and concerns about the future use of this facility and its maintenance. It is now essential that clarity be provided to ensure that public money spent on infrastructure delivers value for both the Zulu nation and KZN’s people.
KZN’s rich cultural heritage must be preserved and celebrated in a manner that is both respectful and financially responsible. The DA will therefore request information from the Premier, the implementing agent KZN’s Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the National Department of Sports Arts and Culture (DSAC), which funded the project.
As a member of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), the DA remains committed to ensuring that KZN’s cultural investments serve their intended purpose and contribute to job creation, tourism growth, and community development.