EThekwini Municipality has signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National and KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Departments of Public Works and Infrastructure. The signing ceremony, held on 6 November at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, aims to address the issue of abandoned, hijacked, and under-utilized buildings in the city.
The event was attended by Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson, KwaZulu-Natal Public Works MEC Martin Meyer, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba, and members of the City’s Executive Committee. This partnership marks a significant collaboration across three government spheres to conduct a full assessment of neglected properties owned by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
Minister Macpherson praised eThekwini for taking the lead. “The days of state buildings standing empty, attracting crime, and deterring investment are coming to an end,” he said, adding that a technical task team would be created to identify problem buildings and propose solutions.
Mayor Xaba highlighted the broader impact of this initiative, noting, “The signing of this MOU confirms our commitment to strengthening partnerships across all government spheres and with the private sector to drive economic growth.” He also explained that the MOU builds on initiatives launched during April’s Property Conference, aimed at repurposing government-owned, underutilized assets for economic benefit.
Prasheen Maharaj from the Durban Chamber of Commerce welcomed the MOU, stating, “This is a step in the right direction to reposition the City and will unlock the full potential of unused and dilapidated buildings.”