The City of uMhlathuze (KZ 282) is the third largest municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. It is an aspirant metropolitan Port City located on the north-east coast of the province, about 180 kilometers from Durban.

The City of uMhlathuze comprises the economic centers of Richards Bay and Empangeni. It also includes the supporting areas of Esikhawini, Ngwelezane, Nseleni, Felixton, Vulindlela, Ntambanana, Port Durnford, and surrounding rural areas.

The City's mission is to develop uMhlathuze as an industrial, commercial, and administrative hub while preserving the region's natural beauty. It aims to provide efficient municipal services to ensure economic development, dynamic investment growth, and an improved quality of life for all its residents.

The vision is to be an aspirant metropolitan Port City that focuses on investing in quality infrastructure and service delivery. This is pursued in partnership with Traditional Councils, local communities, and the private sector.