eThekwini:KwaZulu-Natal Deputy President Paul Mashatile has praised the significant strides made by the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) in enhancing service delivery and bolstering economic development. During a meeting at the eThekwini City Hall, Mashatile received updates on the progress, challenges, and future interventions planned for phase two of the PeWG's initiatives.

According to South African Government News Agency, the PeWG was created in 2024 after discussions between President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry to address urgent issues in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, such as water supply disruptions, ageing infrastructure, tourism decline, crime, and port inefficiencies.

The Deputy President acknowledged the PeWG's achievements in service delivery, infrastructure management, and addressing socio-economic challenges since its inception. He expressed gratitude for the ongoing progress in priority projects and identified areas requiring further escalation or strategic intervention.

The latest report from the PeWG Co-Chairs outlined improvements in municipal financial performance, governance, and accountability. Notable advancements include reduced water losses, enhanced tourism promotion, and progress on investment projects worth over R32 billion. However, the group remains concerned about safety issues in the Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma, and Kwa-Mashu (PINK) areas, calling for increased intervention.

Mashatile emphasized the importance of creating a safe, vibrant, and well-managed city center to promote business and inclusive growth. He urged continued collaboration to ensure the PeWG's legacy of investment, growth, job creation, and improved quality of life for eThekwini residents.

PeWG Co-Chair Mike Mabuyakhulu highlighted the collaboration between government and social partners, noting tangible results in infrastructure development, transport, and investment attraction. Future priorities include securing funding for the uMlazi Canal upgrade, rail recovery initiatives, reducing non-revenue water losses, and enhancing coordination for economic growth.

Mabuyakhulu stressed the importance of keeping stakeholders informed about PeWG's progress and announced plans for stakeholder accountability sessions to ensure transparency and inclusivity.