The Msunduzi municipality is grappling with severe revenue collection challenges due to intimidation in no-go areas, prompting officials to propose a special force for assistance.

Msunduzi municipality spokesperson, Mzukisi Madolawu, confirmed the proposal in an interview, stating that the local government is exploring all options to improve revenue collection. He didn't provide details on the proposed force's structure or composition.

The proposal has sparked debate among local residents, with some expressing concern that the force could be used as a tool for harassment. Others have argued that the measure is necessary to ensure the municipality's financial sustainability.

According to the municipality's 2025/26 budget, debt collection has been a major challenge, with outstanding debts totaling over R1 billion. The proposed special force is one of several measures being considered to address this issue.

Msunduzi Mayor, Themba Njengele, has been a vocal advocate for addressing the municipality's financial challenges. In a recent address to the council, he emphasized the need for innovative solutions to improve revenue collection.

In 2020, the municipality experienced a significant decline in revenue collection due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite efforts to recover, outstanding debts continued to accumulate, leading to the current proposal. That decline in revenue was a major blow to the municipality's finances.

The proposal is subject to further discussion and approval by the Msunduzi council. If approved, the special force would be tasked with assisting in debt collection and improving revenue collection in no-go areas. It's also expected to help the municipality recover some of its outstanding debts.

"We cannot continue to operate under the same circumstances, where intimidation and harassment affect our ability to collect revenue," Madolawu stated.

The proposal is set to be discussed further in a special council meeting scheduled for June. The public is invited to submit their comments and concerns on the proposal.

Key Facts

  • Msunduzi municipality's outstanding debts total over R1 billion.
  • The proposal for a special force is one of several measures to address revenue collection challenges.
  • The force's structure and composition are yet to be determined.
  • The proposal is subject to further discussion and approval by the Msunduzi council.
  • The public is invited to submit their comments and concerns on the proposal.

A thorough review of the municipality's financial records has revealed a significant decline in revenue collection over the past five years. This has led to a buildup of outstanding debts, which the proposed special force aims to address. The review also identified other factors that have contributed to the decline in revenue collection.

In an effort to improve revenue collection, the municipality has implemented various measures, including the establishment of a debt management unit. However, the challenges persist, and the proposal for the special force is seen as a necessary step to ensure the municipality's financial sustainability. The municipality's financial future depends on its ability to effectively manage its debts and improve revenue collection.

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Msunduzi municipality officials reviewing financial records in a meeting.