EMALAHLENI – For the first time in a decade, the eMalahleni Local Municipality has achieved an unqualified audit opinion, marking significant progress in financial management and governance. With the implementation of a few key recommendations, the municipality is edging closer to a clean audit, which is now the target for the near future.
Executive Mayor, Cllr Vusi Nhlapho, described this achievement as a testament to the municipality’s commitment to accountability and sound financial administration. The municipality joined the Nkangala District which celebrates a record ninth consecutive financially unqualified opinion “clean audit” for the 2023/24 financial year, while Steve Tshwete, traditionally known for clean audits, only managed a qualified audit this time around. It remains to be seen whether the other local municipalities within the district will follow suit with eMalahleni’s remarkable turnaround.The announcement was made during a Council sitting on January 30, 2025, where Auditor-General Sizwe Buthelezi presented the latest audit findings.
He acknowledged the municipality’s improvements while highlighting areas that still require attention. The transition from a qualified to an unqualified audit signifies that the municipality’s financial records accurately reflect its financial position, with only minor issues noted. This marks a notable turnaround after more than five consecutive years of qualified audit outcomes. Prior to the Council sitting, the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) Representative Forum took place on January 29, 2025 at the eMalahleni Local Municipality Banquet Hall.
The forum brought together municipal officials, ward councillors, business representatives, and community members to discuss key developmental priorities and service delivery initiatives.
Mayor Nhlapho provided a detailed update on the municipality’s progress, outlining achievements, challenges, and strategic interventions across various departments. He emphasised the need for collaboration in driving sustainable development and improving service delivery. Council Speaker, Cllr Mduduzi Nkosi, guided the discussions, ensuring stakeholders had an opportunity to contribute valuable insights. The forum reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. Mayor Nhlapho expressed appreciation to councillors and municipal officials for their dedication, noting that while securing an unqualified audit is a milestone, the ultimate goal remains achieving a clean audit in the near future.
