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SPRING OF RENEWAL AND HOPE IN UMVOTI AS SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT CELEBRATES NATIONAL MARRIAGE WEEK 2025

September 14, 2025

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by Staff Reporter.

National Marriage Week provided the Department of Social Development the opportunity to urge communities to strengthen family, particularly marriage, relationships.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development, Mbali Shinga, called on community members in relationships to keep communication clear.
She also urged the community to speak out if they see any signs of gender-based violence.

The first week of September marked National Marriage Week in South Africa, with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development celebrating the event in the Njengabantu area of Umvoti Local Municipality’s ward 1.

Marriage Week is dedicated to raising awareness about the significance of strong relationships.

Held under the theme “Marriage: Source of hope, spring of renewal, pursuing lasting love”, the KwaZulu-Natal event emphasised the significance of couples actively cultivating their relationships.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development Mbali Shinga partnered with local leaders, including iNkosi Ngubane from the eMabonvini tribal authority and Gabriel Zamane Malembe, the mayor of the Umvoti Local Municipality, to promote hope for families in the community.

Several government departments participated in the event, including the department’s South African Social Service Agency and the Department of Health, which provided care for community members facing various health challenges.

MEC Shinga encouraged married couples to cherish their love and maintain open communication with one another. “You need to keep communication clear and voice your concerns if you’re facing problems in your relationship.”

Shinga added that the department was actively working to combat gender-based violence. “Today, I urge you to speak out if you notice any signs of gender-based violence,” she urged the community.

The event showcased the Department of Social Development’s commitment to building strong communities through promoting social cohesion and supporting sustainable livelihoods.