In a powerful display of cooperation between national government, local government and traditional leadership, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation Hon David Mahlobo honoured Inkosi Mngomezulu while celebrating uMkhanyakude's top-performing teachers at the Mngomezulu Royal Palace on the 12th September 2026.
The Hon Mahlobo was joined by Inkosi Dladla, uMkhanyakude District Mayor Cllr Siphile Mdaka and officials from the Department of Education, uMngeni-uThukela Water, teacher unions, pastors and community members.
In his address, Deputy Minister Mahlobo described Amakhosi as the most important pillar of leadership in KwaZulu-Natal and lauded Mayor Mdaka as the first disctrict mayor to forge a genuine partnership with traditional leadership to drive development and unity. He noted that the historic R3-billion bulk water project now delivering water across uMkhanyakude was secured through this collaborative leadership.
Mayor Mdaka was celebrated for playing a pivotal role in transforming the district from 75th out of 75 districts nationally to number one in KwaZulu-Natal for three consecutive years and number two nationally. To recognise excellence, he donated R40 000 in total — R10 000 each to four schools that achieved a 100% pass rate.
In his response, Inkosi Mngomezulu welcomed the Deputy Minister and formally requested that national government consider building a university in uMkhanyakude to bring higher education closer to the people and retain local talent.
