• King Misuzulu met Public Works officials at Mashobeni Royal Palace to discuss the growing threat of construction mafia groups in KwaZulu-Natal.

• Minister Dean Macpherson says the partnership with the King will focus on safety, rural development and protecting infrastructure projects.

The Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini is working with the KwaZulu-Natal government to fight construction mafia groups that have been disrupting projects across the province.

The partnership follows a meeting between His Majesty and senior officials from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure at Mashobeni Royal Palace in oPhongolo, northern KwaZulu-Natal.

KZN MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure Martin Meyer raised concerns about people invading old government buildings in Ulundi. He said some of the invasions are happening near royal properties, putting the King’s safety at risk.

The construction mafia, known as AmaDelangokubona, has been accused of targeting companies building roads, schools and other infrastructure projects. The group allegedly demands 30% of tender money before allowing work to continue.

Most of these incidents have been reported in Durban’s townships and rural parts of KZN.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson described the engagement with the King and traditional leaders as historic.

“We agreed on a number of action steps to support the work His Majesty is doing, especially in rural areas,” said Macpherson.

“Our discussions focused on the Expanded Public Works Programme, climate change in the built environment and improving social infrastructure through the Independent Development Trust.”

Meyer, who has survived two suspected threats linked to the mafia group, said he remains committed to tackling criminal networks in the construction sector.

King Misuzulu thanked the department for showing respect and commitment to working with traditional leadership.

Pictured above: Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson meets King Misuzulu kaZwelithini to discuss plans to stop construction mafia groups.

Image source: DPWI