Celani Sikhakhane brings you KwaZulu-Natal’s latest news.
Durban: The uMkhanyakude District in the far north of KwaZulu-Natal used Africa’s Travel Indaba to showcase their indigenous herbs and sangoma consultation skills to attract tourists. This took place at the Durban ICC, where the annual Africa’s Tourism Indaba was held last week, attended by over 9,000 delegates from 44 countries. At its exhibition stand, the district set up a fully-fledged consultation room (indumba) where delegates and visitors were able to engage with a registered sangoma (traditional healer). uMkhanyakude Mayor Siphile Mdaka said that the initiative forms part of the district’s strategy to diversify its tourism offerings beyond wildlife and coastal attractions by highlighting its deep-rooted cultural and healing traditions. Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 concluded in Durban with a strong focus on tourism growth, trade partnerships, and regional collaboration across the African continent.
Sundumbili: Police in KwaZulu-Natal have rescued a woman who was kidnapped, together with seven others, from their home at Chappies Section in the Mandeville area of Sundumbili by unknown men in the early hours of Friday morning, 15 May 2026.
The seven victims were reportedly released at KwaDabeka a little later; however, the woman, who recently received her Road Accident Fund (RAF) payout, was taken to an unknown location. The Provincial Tracking Team was activated, and officers wasted no time locating one of the two vehicles used in the kidnapping, subsequently arresting three suspects. Investigations led police to Phoenix, where the victim, who is in her mid-to-late 30s, was found unharmed. Police are appealing to RAF beneficiaries not to disclose their payouts or brag about the money. The suspects attempted several transactions to no avail; however, they did manage to make purchases amounting to R30,000.
The arrested suspects will appear in court soon. The search is ongoing for more possible suspects.
Ladysmith: A total of 61 motorists were arrested for drunk driving in Ladysmith over the weekend, with 21 arrested on Friday and 40 on Saturday.
Duma announced that 6,195 motorists have been arrested since the launch of the #NenzaniLaEzweni Operation on 15 August 2025.
Those arrested in Ladysmith this weekend include the director of a funeral parlour, two doctors, three SANDF soldiers, an SANDF military practitioner, three teachers, four women, a community development practitioner, three taxi drivers laden with passengers, a mechanic, and a plumber.
Pictured above: A sangoma from the uMkhanyakude District showcased his herbs and other traditional consultation skills at the 2026 Africa’s Tourism Indaba.
Image source: uMkhanyakude District
