KZN municipalities collectively owe R20.1-billion: Cogta MEC

That's according to Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Sipho Hlomuka. 

The MEC tabled COGTA's budget at the KZN Legislature earlier. 

76% of the debt is owed by households, business owes 14% and government, 8%. 

Hlomuka says debt is crippling the performance of KZN municipalities.

"We have 33 municipalities that received unqualified audit outcomes. We want to do our best to support these municipalities and ensure that there's no regression but rather to assist them to achieve clean audits."

READ: Just 18 municipalities out of 257 achieve clean audit outcomes

Meanwhile, the Zulu Royal Household will receive nearly R67-million to assist King Goodwill Zwelthini carry out his duties. 

KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala delivered his office's budget speech this morning. The amount afforded to the monarch reflects an increase of around R800 000. 

Zikalala says the province will continue to support the King.

"The King will be supported during various important ceremonies and traditional functions of the province. This includes the official opening of the legislature and the opening of the house of traditional leaders. In addition, it will involve hosting various traditional events such as the Reed Dance, first fruit ceremony and the installation of traditional leaders," Zikalala said.