The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, has emphasised the importance of taking government services directly to the people - including those in rural areas who are often most in need of support. He was speaking at the Sibongile Sports Ground in the Endumeni Local Municipality during today’s Integrated Service Delivery Programme, which he led in his capacity as Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS) Champion for the uMzinyathi District.

The outreach forms part of the MEC’s mission to strengthen partnerships with municipalities and bring government services closer to the people, ensuring that communities are informed about the socio-economic opportunities available through EDTEA and its entities. Addressing hundreds of community members, MEC Zondi said: “We are here because government must be visible, accessible, and responsive to the needs of our communities,” he said.

He further highlighted EDTEA's ongoing commitment to creating an enabling environment for local economic growth. “Our responsibility is to unlock opportunities for entrepreneurs, support small businesses, and promote tourism and environmental sustainability that benefit every corner of KwaZulu-Natal,” added Zondi.

The event also featured exhibitions by EDTEA entities, showcasing available funding, enterprise support, and initiatives aimed at stimulating economic development within the district. “As the OSS Champion, my focus is on ensuring that every programme we bring to this district contributes to real change and improved livelihoods,” reaffirmed MEC Zondi.