Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli officiated the handover of previously unused DPWI property to the Nkandla local municipality to support the development of a shopping centre that is expected to create jobs and boost local economic activity.

The initiative forms part of Macpherson’s commitment to repurpose State-owned properties for public good.

Ntuli praised the project as a catalyst for rural economic revitalisation, saying it would provide long-term economic benefits, entrepreneurial opportunities and much-needed employment for the Nkandla community.

During a ceremony on July 7, the two said the property, which will be transferred to the Nkandla local municipality, would lead to the creation of many jobs in the local community. 

Nkandla executive mayor Nonhlanhla Nzuza said the municipality intended to use the property, which was previously unused by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, to develop commercial activities.

Macpherson stated that the era of the department holding onto properties without using them was ending.

“When we entered office roughly a year ago, we committed to ensuring that State-owned property in communities across the country would no longer be a source of neglect, but would be utilised to the benefit of the entire community.

“The release of the property in Nkandla is in line with this commitment, as previously empty property will now be used to create economic opportunities and jobs for the local community.

“This follows a similar release of 15 properties in Gauteng and Mpumalanga to be used as gender-based violence shelters,” he averred.

Ntuli said the land would be used for the development of commercial infrastructure, with the goal of creating jobs and expanding entrepreneurial opportunities for the local community.

“This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive development and the revitalisation of rural economies, ensuring lasting economic benefits for the region,” he said.