Nestled in the picturesque province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality stands as a testament to the country’s diversity and natural beauty.
With a rich history dating back to the 1820s and a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere, eThekwini, often referred to as Durban, is a destination that offers something for every traveler.
From its bustling port to its sun-kissed beaches and cultural treasures, eThekwini has rightfully earned its reputation as one of South Africa’s most enticing metropolitan areas.
eThekwini Municipality Geography and Landscape
eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
eThekwini is not just your typical South African city; it’s a geographical wonder.
Unlike many other cities in the country, eThekwini’s land area is sprawling and hilly, featuring a unique topography marked by gorges and ravines.
While most coastal cities boast expansive plains, eThekwini’s coastal region is characterized by its dramatic landscapes, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The Vibrant City
As the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal and the third-largest in South Africa, eThekwini is a vibrant and sophisticated metropolis.
Its dynamic atmosphere is a testament to its diverse population, making it a true melting pot of cultures.
This cosmopolitan blend is reflected in the city’s thriving arts scene, delicious cuisine, and a wide range of cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year.
The Busy Port
One of eThekwini’s most iconic features is its bustling port, which is renowned as one of Africa’s best-managed and busiest.
This port serves as a vital economic hub, facilitating trade and commerce not only within South Africa but also on a global scale.
The significance of this port is highlighted by the fact that it has hosted numerous international conferences at the world-class International Convention Centre in Durban.
Historical Significance
eThekwini’s history is rich and storied, dating back to the 1820s when ivory hunters first set foot in the region.
This early interaction between European hunters and the local Zulu monarchs led to significant historical events, with the province boasting the largest number of battlefields in South Africa.
Today, visitors can explore these battlefields, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s complex past.
eThekwini Tourism
eThekwini is a major tourism hotspot, and for a good reason. With a warm, subtropical climate and extensive, pristine beaches, it’s a paradise for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
Durban Tourism ranks as the leading domestic destination in South Africa, with an estimated 9.95 million visitors in the 2010/11 financial year.
The tourism industry contributes significantly to the region’s GDP, estimated at 8% per annum.
Visitors can indulge in a wide range of activities, from enjoying fine hotels and vibrant nightspots to exploring shopping malls, ethnic attractions, traditional villages, craft markets, sparkling dams, and big-game parks.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, eThekwini has it all.
What You May Not Know About The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
eThekwini, with its unique geography, vibrant city life, historic significance, and world-class tourism offerings, stands as a testament to the diverse and captivating nature of South Africa.
This metropolitan municipality, located in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a taste of South Africa’s beauty, culture, and history.
From its bustling port to its pristine beaches and rich heritage, eThekwini invites you to explore its many treasures and experience the warmth and hospitality of this remarkable region.
Here is the catch.
Beyond its natural beauty and cultural richness, eThekwini boasts a robust and diversified economy that serves as a significant driver of the South African economy.
Covering a vast area of 2,556 square kilometers, this metropolitan municipality is a powerhouse when it comes to economic sectors.
Diverse Economic Landscape
eThekwini’s economy is a tapestry of various sectors, each contributing to its prosperity and growth.
Here is a breakdown of the main economic sectors in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality:
- Finance (22%): The financial sector in eThekwini is a thriving one, contributing significantly to the city’s economic well-being. With a presence of major financial institutions and banks, the city plays a vital role in South Africa’s financial services industry.
- Manufacturing (22%): Manufacturing is another pillar of the local economy. eThekwini’s manufacturing sector encompasses a wide range of industries, including automotive, chemicals, textiles, and food processing. This diversity ensures a steady stream of job opportunities and economic stability.
- Community Services (18%): The provision of community services, including healthcare, education, and social services, is a vital part of eThekwini’s economy. The municipality places a strong emphasis on enhancing the quality of life for its residents, which in turn boosts the economy.
- Trade (16%): Trade and commerce are central to eThekwini’s economic landscape. The city’s strategic location along major trade routes, coupled with its bustling port, makes it a hub for trade, both domestically and internationally.
- Transport (16%): As home to one of Africa’s busiest ports, eThekwini is a key player in the transport and logistics sector. Efficient transportation of goods and people contributes significantly to the economy, connecting it with global markets.
- Construction (3%): The construction sector in eThekwini is marked by steady growth. Infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and buildings, plays a vital role in stimulating economic activity.
- Electricity (2%): Ensuring a stable and reliable supply of electricity is paramount for eThekwini’s continued economic growth. The electricity sector supports various industries, from manufacturing to services.
eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality Contact Details
For those looking to engage with eThekwini, whether as residents, businesses, or tourists, it’s important to know how to reach out.
The municipal office, located at City Hall, 263 Dr Pixley Ka Seme (West) Street, Durban, serves as a central point of contact for administrative matters.
Additionally, you can contact eThekwini through their telephone number: 031 311 1111.
For more detailed information and updates, be sure to visit their official website at www.durban.gov.za.
Here, you can find valuable resources, stay informed about municipal developments, and explore various services offered by eThekwini.
Office Contact Details
Postal Address | PO Box 1014, Durban, 4000 |
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Office Location Address | City Hall, 263 Dr Pixley Ka Seme (West) Street, Durban |
Phone Number | 031 311 1111 |
Web | www.durban.gov.za |
Resident Queries
Accounts | 031 324 5000 Revline@durban.gov.za |
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eThekwini Municipality Electricity Contact Number | Faults 0801 313 111 Cable theft 031 311 9611 |
Refuse & Waste | 031 311 8824 |
Roads | 080 1313 013 |
Service Delivery | 0800 331 011 Sizakala@durban.gov.za |
Water | 080 13 13 013 073 148 3477 (WhatsApp) |
Demographic Information
2016 | 2011 | |
Population | 3 702 231 | 3 476 686 |
Age Structure | ||
Population under 15 | 29.5% | 25.3% |
Population 15 to 64 | 64.8% | 69.9% |
Population over 65 | 5.7% | 4.8% |
Dependency Ratio | ||
Per 100 (15-64) | 54.4 | 43.0 |
Sex Ratio | ||
Males per 100 females | 96.2 | 95.5 |
Population Growth | ||
Per annum | 1.43% | n/a |
Labor Market | ||
Unemployment rate (official) | n/a | n/a |
Youth unemployment rate (official) 15-34 | n/a | n/a |
Education (aged 20 +) | ||
No schooling | 4.7% | 4.2% |
Matric | 43.1% | 36.9% |
Higher education | 10.9% | 11.8% |
Household Dynamics | ||
Households | 1 125 767 | 963 011 |
Average household size | 3.3 | 3.4 |
Female headed households | 42.1% | 40.1% |
Formal dwellings | 81.5% | 78.8% |
Housing owned | 74.0% | 54.6% |
Household Services | ||
Flush toilet connected to sewerage | 69.3% | 63.0% |
Weekly refuse removal | 78.1% | 85.6% |
Piped water inside dwelling | 60.8% | 59.8% |
Electricity for lighting | 95.7% | 89.6% |
Employment Statistics
2019/20 | 2018/19 | 2017/18 | 2016/17 | 2015/16 | |
Employment | |||||
Employment Costs (R’000) | 11 181 308 | 10 475 362 | 10 081 933 | 8 860 255 | 8 251 752 |
Remuneration of councilors (R’000) | 130 833 | 126 495 | 119 344 | 110 934 | 105 334 |
Total Employee Positions | 28 014 | 29 710 | 28 060 | 27 972 | 25 081 |
Total Vacant Employee Positions | 2 855 | 3 054 | 3 794 | 4 283 | 2 930 |
Total Vacancy Percentage | 10.19% | 10.28% | 13.52% | 15.31% | 11.68% |
Managerial Positions – S56 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 113 |
Vacant Managerial Positions – S56 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 0 |
Managerial Positions – by organogram | 837 | 803 | 756 | 512 | 345 |
Vacant Managerial Positions – by organogram | 122 | 114 | 126 | 81 | 0 |
Community And Social Service Positions | 0 | 4 215 | 5 018 | 4 885 | 4 827 |
eThekwini Municipality Service Delivery Statistics In South Africa
2019/20 | 2018/19 | 2017/18 | 2016/17 | 2015/16 | |
Water | |||||
Does the municipality provide? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Is the service outsourced/commercialized? | No | No | No | No | No |
Number of households and non-domestic customers to which provided | 925 788 | 920 363 | 960 304 | 918 719 | 901 820 |
Number of domestic households/delivery points | 905 402 | 899 976 | 940 042 | 898 457 | 881 558 |
Inside the yard | 660 620 | 655 894 | 702 710 | 665 400 | 664 401 |
Less than 200m from yard | 244 782 | 244 082 | 237 332 | 233 057 | 217 157 |
More than 200m from yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Domestic households with access to free basic service | 584 435 | 579 127 | 568 365 | 541 317 | 524 418 |
Electricity | |||||
Does the municipality provide? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Is the service outsourced/commercialized? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Number of households and non-domestic customers to which provided | 781 960 | 764 499 | 748 485 | 745 433 | 732 746 |
Domestic households with access to free basic service | 216 529 | 191 033 | 174 687 | 193 114 | 193 114 |
Sewerage and Sanitation | |||||
Does the municipality provide? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Is the service outsourced/commercialized? | No | No | No | No | No |
Number of households and non-domestic customers to which provided | 870 087 | 866 873 | 855 863 | 824 441 | 806 554 |
Number of households using: | |||||
Flush toilet – public sewerage | 479 944 | 478 649 | 474 993 | 449 661 | 449 661 |
Flush toilet – septic tank | 107 525 | 107 525 | 107 525 | 107 525 | 107 525 |
Ventilated pit latrine | 35 000 | 35 000 | 35 000 | 35 000 | 35 000 |
Bucket system | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Other | 227 232 | 225 313 | 218 083 | 211 993 | 194 106 |
Domestic households with access to free basic service | 442 291 | 439 077 | 294 675 | 396 769 | 378 882 |
Solid Waste Services | |||||
Does the municipality provide? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Is the service outsourced/commercialized? | No | No | No | No | No |
Number of households and non-domestic customers to which provided | 1 189 540 | 1 131 000 | 1 131 000 | 1 046 307 | 945 910 |
Domestic households with access to free basic service | 602 939 | 602 939 | 391 283 | 627 411 | 598 486 |
Cities And Towns In eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Below are the list of towns and cities in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality:
- Amalanga
- Amanzimtoti
- Amaotana
- Berea
- Blackburn
- Bluff
- Cato Ridge
- Cele/Vumengazi
- Chatsworth
- Cibane
- Clermont
- Clifton Canyon
- Craigieburn
- Dassenhoek
- Desainager
- Durban
- Durban International Airport
- Durban North
- Durban South
- Emalangeni
- Embo/Nksa Isimahla
- Emona
- Ethekwini
- Everton
- Ezembeni
- Folweni
- Gcumisa
- Genazzano
- Gillitts
- Glenashley
- Golokodo-Ensimbini
- Hambanathi
- Hammarsdale
- Hillcrest
- Ilanga
- Ilfracombe
- Illovo North
- Illovo South
- Inanda
- Inchanga
- Iqadi
- Isipingo
- Isipingo Beach
- Kingsburgh
- Klaarwater
- Kloof
- KwaDabeka
- KwaMashu
- KwaNdengezi
- La Mercy
- Lotus Park
- Luganda
- Luthuli/Umnini Trust
- Magabeni
- Malagazi
- Mangangeni/Vumazonke
- Maphephetha
- Mariannhill
- Mawotana
- Mawothi
- Molweni
- Mount Edgecombe
- Mount Moreland
- Mpolo
- Mpumalanga
- New Germany
- Newlands East
- Newlands West
- Ngcolosi
- Ngqungqulu
- Ntuzuma
- Oceans
- Outer West Durban
- Phoenix
- Pinetown
- Prospecton
- Qadi
- Qiniselani Manyuswa
- Queensburgh
- Redcliffe
- Roseneath
- Sapref
- Shallcross
- Sobonakhona
- Thoyana
- Tongaat
- Tongaat Beach
- Tshelimnyama
- UmgogintwiniUmbumbulu
- Umdloti
- Umgababa
- Umhlanga
- Umkomaas
- Umlazi
- Verulam
- Waterfall
- Westbrook
- Westville
- Ximba
In conclusion, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality is more than just a picturesque destination; it’s a thriving economic hub that offers opportunities for growth, development, and exploration.
From its diverse economic sectors to its commitment to community services, eThekwini is a place where progress and tradition harmoniously coexist.
Whether you’re considering a visit, a move, or a business venture, eThekwini invites you to be a part of its dynamic and prosperous future.
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