# Empowering Communities: Operation Sukuma Sakhe in Action
## Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube Takes the Lead in King Cetshwayo District Municipality
In a groundbreaking effort to enhance community-government collaboration, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has spearheaded Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS) in the King Cetshwayo District Municipality. OSS serves as a direct link between communities and government leadership, fostering unmediated interaction and a bottom-up approach to address local needs regularly.
Projects Unveiled by Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube
Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube recently disclosed several impactful projects in the King Cetshwayo District Municipality:
- Aquadene House Project: A significant housing initiative that aims to provide suitable living spaces.
- Buchanana Rural Housing Project: Over 300 houses are set to be constructed in Ward 3.
- Empangeni Phase 1, 1C: This project will see the construction of more than 200 houses, with work commencing in November.
- Dumisani Makhaye House Project: Ward 24 is slated to benefit from the construction of over 232 houses.
Furthermore, Premier Dube-Ncube emphasized the importance of supporting the local community by encouraging the hiring of Operation Sukuma Sakhe leaders for job opportunities within the department.
Cabinet Day and Premier’s Imbizo: A Platform for Community Expression
At the recent Operation Sukuma Sakhe Cabinet Day and Premier’s Imbizo hosted at Mfolozi Tvet College Sport ground on November 1, 2023, community members had the opportunity to voice their concerns directly to the cabinet. Gogo Zulu, a resident of the King Cetshwayo District Municipality, shared her grievances regarding housing and living conditions.
#### Gogo Zulu’s Transformation
Expressing her plight since 2019, Gogo Zulu received immediate attention from the Cabinet. The officials swiftly arranged housing, promising a garden from the Department of Agriculture, a three-month food voucher, and a health check-up from the Department of Health. Additionally, Gogo Zulu received a new wheelchair to improve her mobility.
### Community Engagement and Solutions
The Cabinet Day and Imbizo not only provided a platform for expressing grievances but also facilitated solutions. Community members were given a chance to share their struggles, leading to the creation of three job opportunities. MEC of Human Settlements, Mr. Nkosi, announced plans to provide 10 houses for 10 vulnerable groups.
Premier Dube-Ncube reiterated the ongoing projects in the King Cetshwayo District Municipality, emphasizing the commitment to improving living conditions and infrastructure. The Premier and her cabinet gave also gave away over 15 wheelbarrows to the community members to assist them with gardening in their household for food security.
Premier’s Imbizo and Cabinet Day: A Forum for Change
The King Cetshwayo District Municipality recently played host to the Operation Sukuma Sakhe Cabinet Day and Premier’s Imbizo at Mfolozi Tvet College Sport ground on November 1, 2023. This event allowed community members to share their struggles and grievances, leading to practical solutions.
Various government departments were present on site, ready to share and demonstrate the opportunities available within the department for the citizens of KCDM and NGOs that provide bursaries and financial assistance for the community to improve their lives. Some of these departments included the Department of Agriculture, Department of Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Moses Kotane Institute, Ke Ready, Youth Mobile Office, among others.
A Community United for Progress
Operation Sukuma Sakhe continues to be a driving force in the King Cetshwayo District Municipality, fostering collaboration between communities and government. The recent initiatives and Cabinet Day highlight the positive impact of direct engagement, bringing about transformative change and empowering citizens for a brighter future.
—
