25/05/2026
‼️ UMHLOSINGA DEVELOPMENT AGENCY HOLDS STRATEGIC REVIEW SESSION ‼️
Today, 25 May 2026, the uMhlosinga Development Agency (UMDA) held its Strategic Review Session at the uMkhanyakude District Municipality Council Chambers.
The session brought together the UMDA Board, uMkhanyakude District Municipality leadership, municipal officials, and the uMkhanyakude family of Municipalities to jointly review the Agency’s Strategic Plan and map the way forward for the 2026/2027 financial year.
Attendees included uMkhanyakude District Municipality Speaker Cllr. Madhlopha, Portfolio Committee Chairperson Cllr. Moodley, Municipal Manager Dr. Sibeko, UMDA Deputy Chairperson Mrs. Mthembu, Board Members Mr. Ntshangase, Ms. Khumalo and Mr. Ndlovu, as well as UMDA CEO Ms. Khumalo.
Key discussions focused on strategic priorities, institutional risks, governance and audit matters, and the alignment of planning instruments such as the IDP, DDM, Budget, PMS, PGDS, and NDP.
The engagement also reflected on the implementation of the 2019–2024 Strategic Plan, extended to 2025–2026, and assessed progress made in advancing local economic development, investment promotion, job creation, and sustainable community development across the District.
Speaking during the session, UMDA Deputy Chairperson Mrs. Mthembu said, “This sitting allows the Shareholder to take stock of the progress made in advancing the local economy and to guide the Agency on priorities that will have the greatest impact on our communities in the upcoming financial year.”
The session further highlighted several catalytic development priorities aimed at transforming the economic landscape of uMkhanyakude through infrastructure investment, tourism expansion, agriculture commercialisation, industrial growth, and job creation. Among the projects discussed was the Mkuze Airport City Development, which continues to receive support from the District. The 84-hectare site identified for the development belongs to the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, with UMDA mandated to drive implementation and investor mobilisation.
The District has already invested in bulk services for the area as it recognises the project’s investment potential and has committed to continue expanding bulk infrastructure to support future development and attract investors.
UMDA CEO Ms. Khumalo reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to development, stating, “Through stronger partnerships and focused planning, we remain committed to driving inclusive economic growth, creating opportunities for young people, and improving the livelihoods of communities across uMkhanyakude.”
For 2026/2027, UMDA will continue prioritising the commercialisation of agriculture, agri-business development, tourism expansion, and catalytic infrastructure projects aimed at stimulating economic growth and regional development.
Despite budgetary constraints, the Agency remains committed to strengthening partnerships, improving institutional capacity, and supporting programmes focused on youth development, education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods.
