The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Rev. Musa Zondi, yesterday officially launched the Department’s Integrated Service Delivery Roadshow in uPhongolo, Zululand District, marking the beginning of a province-wide programme aimed at bringing government services directly to communities.

The roadshow forms part of the Department’s commitment to ensuring that communities have direct access to information, government services and economic opportunities offered by the Department and its public entities. Addressing community members at the oGodlwayo Multipurpose Hall, MEC Zondi emphasised that government has a responsibility to reach people where they live and ensure that no citizen is left behind.

“We are here because we believe government must go to the people. Too often, communities are expected to travel long distances to access information and services. Through this roadshow, we are bringing government closer to our people so that they can engage directly with officials, access opportunities and obtain the support they need,” said MEC Zondi. The MEC highlighted that the roadshow serves as a platform for communities to engage directly with departmental officials and entities on programmes relating to economic development, tourism, environmental management, consumer protection and support available for Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs).

He encouraged community members, particularly entrepreneurs, young people and cooperatives, to take advantage of the opportunities available through the Department’s various programmes. “Our responsibility extends beyond developing policies. We must ensure that every entrepreneur, every consumer, every young person and every community knows what opportunities are available and how government can assist them. Economic development can only succeed when our people are fully informed and actively participate,” he said.

MEC Zondi further reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with communities and ensuring that government services remain accessible, responsive and people-centred. The Integrated Service Delivery Roadshow will continue across all districts of KwaZulu-Natal during the 2026/27 financial year, providing communities with access to information, exhibitions and direct engagement with departmental officials and entities.