DA welcomes uMngeni Municipality’s move to strengthen public safety

Issued by Mmabatho Tembe MPL & Edwin Macrae Bath MP –
12 Feb 2026 in Press Statements

The Democratic Alliance (DA) congratulates the uMngeni Local Municipality and Mayor Chris Pappas on the decisive step to establish a dedicated municipal Fire and Rescue Service.

The announcement that the old Howick Fire Station will be renovated and brought back into active use is a major win for the people of uMngeni. This investment will significantly improve emergency response times and ensure that communities are better protected against fires, accidents, and other disasters.

For too long have many municipalities relied on overstretched regional services.

uMngeni’s move to build its own local capacity shows what good governance looks like: planning ahead, prioritising safety, and putting residents first.

The DA applauds this forward-thinking leadership and encourages continued investment in essential services that save lives, protect property, and strengthen community resilience.

uMngeni is once again setting the standard for what a well-run municipality in KwaZulu-Natal can achieve.

The people of uMngeni must continue to make progress by voting DA in the next local government elections.