Issued by: Office of the Deputy President
16 November 1999
Deputy President Jacob Zuma met this morning with former President Nelson Mandela, KwaZulu Natal Transport Minister Sbu Ndebele and eight traditional leaders (amakhosi) from Escourt.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss development in Emkhambathini, an area comprising eight tribal areas of Escourt from Loskop/Amangwe and Ntabamhlophe. The chiefs in that area have come together and decided to put forward a development project proposal to government that encompasses all eight tribal authorities. This proposal aims to pool together resources for the benefit of the entire Mkhambathini area.
The chiefs raised a concern that their area "has a legacy of decades of neglect". Chief amongst their needs is a request for electricity and water. The Deputy President undertook to approach the relevant government departments in that regard. Mr Mandela undertook to mobilise the business sector with regard to building a clinic and schools but the chiefs must make available adequate land. The Chiefs also raised the issue of a one-stop centre comprising all government offices (e.g. home affairs, pensions etc). This will also be raised with the relevant Ministers.
The area of Emkhambathini, previously wrecked by violence which was attributed chiefly to tensions between the IFP and the ANC has now achieved peace. The need for this peace to prevail in order for sustainable development to take place was emphasised by both the Deputy President and Mr Mandela. Former President Mandela cautioned the chiefs about the existence of a third force and appealed to them to take the responsibility to warn their people about this element. They must make people aware that some of their own people make a living out of fomenting violence on behalf of third force elements, and ensure that those people are marginalised.
What is remarkable about this meeting is the initiative taken by the eight chiefs to undertake a study and jointly present a proposal to government that effectively cuts down on the time frame for development to take place. The government’s Rural Development Program, driven by the office of the Deputy President is expected to form part of this development programme.
Issued by the Office of the Deputy President
For further details please contact:
Ronnie Mamoepa – 082 990 4853
Mathula Magubane – 082 371 1315