On Thursday 08 May 2025, the KwaZulu-Natal Premier Mr Thamsanqa Ntuli and the Provincial MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, handed over a dip tank at Mahlathini in Nkandla as part of the Integrated Service Delivery Programme within the municipal boundaries. Mr Ntuli encouraged local livestock owners to approach farming as a business and participate in auction sales for their benefit. Premier Ntuli and MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa aim to empower local communities and improve their economic well-being.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, kaMadlopha-Mthethwa remarked that the dip tank will help local livestock owners vaccinate their cattle against airborne diseases and manage their animals more effectively. Cluster A of MECs, which also included Sport, Arts and Culture MEC Mtomuhle Khawula and other high-profile government officials, also visited Ntingwe Tea Estate with the aim of restoring it to its former glory. Ntingwe tea is rated among the top 5 quality teas globally by Taylors of Harrogate and is currently under the Agribusiness Development Agency with Mr Jerry Mfusi as the new Acting CEO.

kaMadlopha-Mthethwa said the estate requires approximately R37 million to be injected in the current financial year toward its revival efforts.