EThekwini Municipality’s Executive Committee held a meeting today, 17 August which was chaired by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

 

After his opening remarks, Mayor Kaunda responded to the recent media reports from opposition parties regarding the Deputy Mayor position. Mayor Kaunda made it clear that the Deputy Mayor post remains vacant until a formal election takes place. This is expected to happen at the next Full Council meeting. Mayor Kaunda emphasised that Councillor Diana Hoorzuk was not enjoying any perks associated with the Deputy Mayor position.

 

 

Mayor Kaunda welcomed the new Audit Committee Chairperson Siboniso Shabalala and thanked the outgoing Chair, Nala Mhlongo for his professionalism and sterling reign as the committee chair.

Mhlongo presented his final report for the third quarter, ending March 2021.

The report was tabled together with responses from City officials on the items raised in the report.

Significant matters arising in the report were:

 

• Processing of consequence management cases raised concerns and need urgent intervention.

• Water losses at 49 percent remain a concern.

• While efforts towards reducing irregular expenditure was noted, an emphasis on alignment of budget processes and procurement planning need to be heeded.

 

The Executive Committee resolved that issues of contract management must be addressed as they contribute to irregular expenditure.

 

“We also need to convene a workshop for officials to be trained to effectively deal with consequence management,” said Mayor Kaunda.

 

On the challenge of water losses, a leak detection project is currently being implemented by the City. The Municipality is also at an advanced stage of implementing the smart meter project.

Mhlongo thanked Mayor Kaunda for allowing the Committee to present to the City leadership quarterly. He noted the Mayor’s leadership qualities including his ability to listen and take criticism constructively.

 

ENDS

 

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. For media enquiries contact the Municipality’s Spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela on 060 966 4220.