Geography, History & Economy
Harry Gwala District Municipality comprises:
- Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma Local Municipality
- Greater Kokstad Local Municipality
- Ubuhlebezwe Local Municipality
- uMzimkhulu Local Municipality
MDB code: DC43
Description: The Harry Gwala District Municipality (previously Sisonke District Municipality) is a Category C municipality situated south of KwaZulu-Natal. It borders on the Western Cape Province, Lesotho and the Drakensberg Mountains, which form a 200km-long World Heritage Site.
The municipality is comprised of four local municipalities: Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, uMzimkhulu, Greater Kokstad and Ubuhlebezwe. The seat of Harry Gwala is Ixopo.
Economically, the most prominent employment sectors are agriculture, construction and small-scale manufacturing. The district is known for its progressive farming methods. Harry Gwala has an abundance of high quality soils, high altitude, abundant water, and climatic extremes, which makes the area suitable for dairy farming. A significant portion of dairy consumed in KwaZulu-Natal is produced within the district. The unspoilt natural environment has high ecotourism and adventure-tourism potential.
Area: 10 386km²
Cities/Towns: Creighton, Himeville, Ixopo, Kokstad, Underberg, uMzimkhulu
Main Economic Sectors: Community services and agriculture (60%)