July 4, 2019. King Goodwill Zwelithini at the imbizo at Ulundi stadium. Picture: THULI DLAMINI
King Goodwill Zwelithini secures 9.2% of KwaZulu-Natal’s provincial budget
Sihle Zikalala revealed that the Zulu King would be awarded millions for his contributions towards bringing unity to the province.
July 4, 2019. King Goodwill Zwelithini at the imbizo at Ulundi stadium. Picture: THULI DLAMINI
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Sihle Zikalala revealed that for the 2019/2020 financial year, King Goodwill Zwelithini would receive 9.2% of the province’s budget.
The subject of Zwelithini being supported by taxpayers’ money has been contentious over the years. Ahead of his budget policy speech, Zikalala must have been aware of the provincial legislature’s anticipation to find out what allocations have been made for the Zulu king in this financial year.
KwaZulu-Natal financial priorities questioned
The province is still reeling from the devastation that was brought on by the recent floods that destroyed hundreds of homes and cost the government millions of repair work.
KwaZulu-Natal is also one of the nine provinces that struggle with rampant unemployment and high levels of poverty. Zikalala revealed, during his speech, that the allocation of an estimated R714-million would go a long way to addressing these issues.
However, he noted, due to the fact that King Zwelithini is regarded as a national symbol of unity, it was imperative that the government played its part in ensuring that he performs his role in society.
How much has been allocated to King Goodwill Zwelithini?
Certainly, some would argue that the R66-million that has been set aside for the Zulu King will go a long way in establishing unity in the province.
He also explained that the funds were also key in supporting the king’s traditional activities since he is regarded as “the custodian of Zulu culture.”
“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 House of Traditional Leaders,” Zikalala stated.
He did, however, note that his office had heeded the calls of frustration from people who are not too pleased with the fact that the king has been funded with taxpayers money.
He assured the provincial legislature that the government is working on a revenue-generating plan to supplement the king’s upkeep without compromising on the taxpayers’ money.
This, he revealed, would be tabled and implemented at a later stage.
