THE FUSE

Celani Sikhakhane brings you KwaZulu-Natal’s latest news.

Pongola: The NFP and DA have raised concerns about the divisions in the IFP that they claim are creating political and governance instability in the municipality of Pongola in northern KZN. Their concerns come after the surprise election of ANC speaker Moureen Nxumalo on Tuesday, which happened after eight IFP councillors decided to snub the council meeting. Siphamandla Ntombela of the NFP in Zululand said that the ungovernability of Pongola Municipality is a cause for concern because it also affects the Zululand District Municipality. Ntombela alleged that the infighting in that municipality is being caused by the appointment of Municipal Manager Mtonjani Khali, which some IFP councillors are against while others are working closely with him. On the other hand, the ANC in Mzala Nxumalo Region under Zululand District has congratulated the election of Nxumalo and stated that her election is the will of the people of Pongola to save them from the internal divisions of the IFP.

Durban: The Democratic Alliance has written to the Acting Director for Water and Sanitation, Sibusiso Vilane, demanding urgent intervention for residents in Entshongweni, Ward 7, who have been without reliable access to water for over eight years. Councillor Thobile Ntuli said that it is unacceptable that, in a democratic South Africa, communities are forced to live without water for such an extended period. “Residents have endured years of hardship, relying on inconsistent and inadequate alternatives while the municipality has failed to provide a lasting solution. This prolonged failure represents a serious violation of residents’ dignity and basic human rights and raises serious questions about the municipality’s commitment to equitable service delivery,” said Ntuli.

Durban: The Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, has extended her congratulations to all winners, nominees and participants recognised at the 2026 KwaZulu-Natal Sports Awards, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban on Saturday. Mabe said that KwaZulu-Natal’s sporting contribution over the years has played a defining role in shaping South Africa’s broader sporting story. The province continues to produce athletes who compete at provincial, national and international level, consistently reinforcing its position as a key contributor to South African sport. “This is a moment that calls for continued support and unity. KwaZulu-Natal athletes are representing the province and the country at multiple levels of sport. Their success belongs to the nation, and we stand firmly behind them as they continue to pursue excellence,” said Mabe.

Pictured above: The newly elected speaker of Pongola Local Municipality Maureen Nxumalo of the ANC after eight IFP councillors decided to snub the council meeting.

Image source: Supplied