17/03/2026
MEDIA STATEMENT
African National Congress Youth League – Tolomane Mnyayiza Region
ANCYL TMR Commends Youth Leadership and Stakeholder Collaboration in the Reopening of Umzimkhulu Bridge
The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in the Tolomane Mnyayiza Region welcomes the progress made towards the reopening of the Umzimkhulu Bridge, an important economic and transport lifeline connecting communities, businesses, and workers between Port Shepstone, Mtwetweni and surrounding areas within the jurisdiction of Ray Nkonyeni Municipality.
The ANCYL TMR wishes to commend the decisive leadership demonstrated by REC Member and Chairperson of the Economic Development and Transformation Committee, Cde Shiven Chetty, who has played a leading role in coordinating engagements and interventions aimed at addressing the challenges surrounding the closure of the bridge.
Cde Shiven Chetty did not only participate in the reopening process, but personally led a delegation that brought together a range of key stakeholders committed to protecting the economic stability of the region. The delegation included representatives from the South African Police Service (SAPS), Ray Nkonyeni Municipality Law Enforcement, the Ugu Association of Business & Transport, Ray Nkonyeni Business Association, the Port Shepstone Business Forum, as well as the Mayor of Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, Her Worship Cllr Zodwa Mzindle.
These engagements demonstrated the importance of collective leadership and partnership between government, business, law enforcement, and community structures in resolving issues that have a direct impact on the livelihoods of our people.
Addressing stakeholders during the engagement, Cde Shiven Chetty emphasized the responsibility of young leaders to actively participate in solving community challenges rather than remaining passive observers.
“We may be young people, but we cannot sit and complain when things do not go according to plan. As young leaders we must form part of the solution, particularly when we have the means and the capacity to contribute to positive change in our communities.”
The ANCYL further notes that Cde Shiven Chetty, together with local business man, Mr Tarell Krishna, has gone above and beyond by personally contributing resources and funds from their own pockets to assist with the ongoing reopening and traffic management of the bridge. Cde Shiven’s commitment reflects the spirit of servant leadership that must characterize young leaders within the movement.
In addition, the ANCYL acknowledges the role played by several private security companies that have stepped forward to support efforts aimed at ensuring safety, stability and coordination during this period.
The closure of the Umzimkhulu Bridge posed a serious threat to the local economy. Businesses in both Port Shepstone and Mtwetweni faced the risk of significant economic losses, disruption of supply chains, and the potential loss of jobs. The ANCYL is particularly concerned about the impact such disruptions would have had on young workers who make up a significant portion of the workforce in retail, transport, and service industries within the area.
As the ANCYL in the Tolomane Mnyayiza Region, we remain clear that economic transformation must not only be about long-term policy discussions, but also about practical interventions that protect livelihoods and sustain local economic activity. The protection of existing jobs is just as important as the creation of new employment opportunities.
The ANCYL TMR therefore continues to work tirelessly to advance programmes and partnerships that will contribute to economic development, job creation, and the empowerment of young people across the region. We will continue to engage municipalities, businesses, and community stakeholders to ensure that infrastructure challenges, economic disruptions, and service delivery issues do not undermine the prospects of young people.
The involvement of young leaders in resolving real challenges on the ground is a clear demonstration that the ANCYL remains a militant and progressive force for economic transformation and community development.
As the youth of the African National Congress, we reaffirm our commitment to being agents of change who do not only raise concerns, but who actively participate in building solutions that improve the lives of our people.
Forward to Economic Freedom in Our Lifetime.
Issued by:
African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL)
Tolomane Mnyayiza Region
For inquiries
Regional secretary
Cde sanele Gumede
+27 73 775 5116
Regional Spokesperson
Cde Emmanuel khomo
0733041147
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