KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to restoring economic stability, creating jobs and enforcing the rule of law in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

The Premier made the commitment during Operation Siyahlola at the Mandeni Local Municipality recently. Premier Ntuli spearheaded the Operation Siyahlola at the local municipality, focusing on the inspection and revitalisation of factories in KwaSithebe in Ilembe, that were damaged during the July 2021 civil unrest.

The operation included an inspection of Superling Clothing (Pty) Ltd, where undocumented foreign nationals were arrested on the spot. Operation Siyahlola aims to assess the damage sustained by local factories while addressing the presence of illegal and undocumented foreign workers within the region’s industries.

“The initiative aligns with the provincial government’s priority to restore order, enhance security, and ensure that businesses can operate in a safe and regulated environment,” said Premier Ntuli. “Our efforts underscore the province’s commitment to both economic recovery and the enforcement of the rule of law.”

The inspection also emphasised the government’s dedication to ensuring compliance with legal and labour standards, protecting the local economy from illegal activities and guaranteeing that workers receive wages that meet legal requirements.

Premier Ntuli, accompanied by Ilembe District Mayor, Thobani Shandu, Mandeni Local Municipality Mayor, Thabani Mdlalose and Ilembe District Police Commissioner, Major General Anthony Gopaul among others, inspected the affected factories, reviewing both the extent of the damage and the level of compliance with legal regulations.

The Premier’s tour included a second clothing factory at KwaSithebe, where he also ensured compliance with local laws and regulations.

Addressing the media after the inspection, Premier Ntuli said the operation had uncovered that several businesses in the area were operating without permits and were non-compliant with the law.

“Consequently, the South African Police Service (SAPS) made several arrests, and some factories were shut down immediately. This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to safeguarding the interests of local businesses and ensuring that the province remains a secure and prosperous environment for all residents,” Premier Ntuli added.

He also touched on the issue of undocumented immigrants, urging them to return to their home countries and obtain the proper documentation before coming back.“Do not allow yourselves to be exploited by employers who hire you to evade paying fair wages,” Premier Ntuli said.

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Premier pledges to restore economic stability