In a decisive move to restore order and enforce municipal regulations, a multi-disciplinary bylaw enforcement operation was conducted last night in the Empangeni Central Business District (CBD).
The operation represents an escalation of the City's continuous efforts to curb illegal trading and address the proliferation of unlawfully built structures that have saturated the area. These structures are frequently used by unpermitted hawkers who operate outside of the law, creating obstructions and unfair competition for compliant businesses.
The primary objective of the blitz was to systematically identify and address the illegally constructed stalls, shacks, and extensions that have encroached upon public spaces. These structures not only violate city bylaws but also contribute to:
- Pedestrian and vehicular congestion, posing safety risks.
- Unsanitary conditions and litter accumulation.
- An unregulated trading environment that disadvantages law-abiding vendors and businesses.
This targeted blitz is not an isolated incident but an extension of the City's ongoing strategy to uphold law and order within its jurisdiction. The "multi-disciplinary" nature of the operation involving units from law enforcement, Security and Roads, which underscores a comprehensive approach to the complex issue of illegal trading.
The message from the City is clear: the enforcement of bylaws is critical for maintaining a safe, clean, and properly regulated business environment for all residents and legitimate entrepreneurs in Empangeni. Operations of this kind are expected to continue as part of the City's commitment to sustainable urban management.
The City of uMhlathuze has officially commenced the festive season safety programme by intensifying law-enforcement operations to safeguard all road users. Over the past weekend, our Traffic Police, working in close collaboration with the KZN Traffic Police, and SAPS conducted targeted roadblocks at Esikhawini, Empangeni, and Richards Bay.
These coordinated operations led to the apprehension of numerous individuals for serious criminal offenses, including driving under the influence of alcohol, unlawful possession of firearms, and drugs. A total of 113 suspects were arrested and subsequently appeared before the Richards Bay Magistrates’ Court on Monday morning.
The City will continue with these enforcement activities throughout the festive season and beyond. Continuous visibility of traffic officers and law-enforcement personnel will be maintained to ensure compliance with the National Road Traffic Act, promote responsible behaviour, and protect innocent road users.
These initiatives form an integral part of the City’s Safer City Crime Prevention Strategy, which prioritises proactive policing, crime prevention, and the protection of public infrastructure. The strategy also targets a wide range of criminal activities, including vehicle hijackings, motor vehicle theft, the trafficking of drugs, and the transportation of illicit goods. Through this approach, the City reaffirms its commitment to a secure, law-abiding municipal environment.
The Honourable Mayor, Cllr Xolani Ngwezi, urges all motorists and community members to adhere strictly to the law during this festive period and beyond. He emphasised that the City has adopted a zero-tolerance stance toward conduct that endangers lives. Any person found contravening the law will be arrested, charged, and prosecuted accordingly.
The Mayor further appeals to all street vendors, reminding them that they too are legally obliged to comply with all municipal by-laws, including trading permits, waste-management rules, and designated trading zones. He stressed that non-compliance will not be tolerated, as maintaining a clean, orderly, and safe city requires the cooperation of every stakeholder.
The City of uMhlathuze remains steadfast in prioritising the safety, well-being, and protection of its residents and all who visit our City.
The City of uMhlathuze Extends Its Gratitude for a Successful Premier's Cup Event.
The City of uMhlathuze expresses its profound gratitude and appreciation to the football fans who turned out in huge numbers to enjoy the Premier's Cup matches, particularly the residents of our city who braved the rain to be a part of this historic event.
The Mayor of uMhlathuze, Honourable Councillor Xolani Ngwezi, expressed his deep appreciation to the passionate soccer fans who attended the game despite the heavy rain. He also extended special gratitude to the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Ntuli, for choosing the City of uMhlathuze as the host city for this prestigious tournament, and to the MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Honourable Khawula, for the financial support that made this event possible.
Mayor Ngwezi further shared his joy at the positive economic impact the tournament had on local businesses. From street vendors and the taxi industry to hotels and B&Bs that were fully booked, the event significantly boosted the local economy and brought vibrancy to the city.
“It is truly fulfilling to see the people of our City enjoying such positive and memorable experiences,” said Mayor Ngwezi. “This is precisely what we pledged to deliver when we assumed office, meaningful progress that touches the lives of our communities.”
This marked the first high-profile tournament to be held at the Richards Bay Stadium since its recent refurbishment and expansion to meet Premier Soccer League (PSL) standards.
The tournament was a resounding success, culminating in a thrilling victory for the home team, Richards Bay FC, who secured a 1–0 win over Durban City FC.
Once again, we thank everyone who visited the beautiful City of uMhlathuze. We hope you enjoyed your time with us, and we look forward to welcoming you again soon.
The City of uMhlathuze leadership, led by Honourable Mayor Cllr Xolani Ngwezi, accompanied by Honourable Speaker Cllr TS Gumede and councillors, visited the Prince Mangosuthu Mall construction site in Empangeni to assess progress.
The leadership expressed great satisfaction with the progress, which has now reached 65% completion and is on track to open in April next year.
Mayor Ngwezi shared his excitement about the project, highlighting its transformative impact on the city: “This development is a game-changer for our region. It brings jobs, economic opportunities. We are proud to see such significant investment in our city and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our communities.”
The Prince Mangosuthu Mall, named in honour of IFP founder and statesman Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the project has created over 850 temporary jobs, with more than 2,000 permanent positions expected upon completion.
Once operational, the mall will significantly boost the local economy, providing retail and lifestyle services that will reduce the need for residents to travel long distances to Durban.
The City of uMhlathuze celebrates this milestone, recognizing Prince Mangosuthu Mall as a beacon of economic growth, regional development, and a lasting tribute to a legacy of visionary leadership.
Kindly note due to the King Cetshwayo Events and Premier’s Cup tournament, roads will be impacted today and tomorrow .
Today King Cetshwayo Parade:
Commercial Road - closed off at Turn Bull, Union, Maxwell and Biyela
Turnbull/Commercial- closed off for the formation of Parade
Union/Hancock Road- Closed off during the formation of parade.
During the Parade the road will partially be closed during parade. The road that leads to the airfield (Commercial - Biyela - Ukula - Old Mtubatuba road) will be closed during parade.
Please plan your journey accordingly, drive safely, and adhere to all road signs. Updates will be provided as the day passes.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your cooperative.
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