Ray Nkonyeni Municipality launches debt relief programme for cash-strapped ratepayers on KZN's South Coast
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality has unveiled a debt relief programme aimed at assisting cash-strapped ratepayers on the KZN South Coast.
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The Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM) on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast has announced a debt relief programme for ratepayers whose accounts are in arrears.
In a statement the municipality said the council approved the programme during a special council meeting on November 28. The municipality includes the towns of Hibberdene, Margate, Port Edward, Port Shepstone, Southbroom,
The municipality said it “acknowledges that many households and businesses are experiencing financial strain and struggling to settle their municipal accounts. This programme seeks to ease that burden while strengthening the municipality’s financial sustainability”.
The three-month programme took effect on December 1, and applies to residents and business accounts.
“The municipality reminds customers that failure to utilise this programme may result in consequences such as credit bureau listing, difficulties in obtaining municipal services, electricity disconnection, default judgment, or sale of property in execution. RNM encourages all eligible customers to take full advantage of this opportunity, which is valid for three months only, from 01 December 2025 to 28 February 2026.”
Key features of the Debt Relief Programme are as follows:
50% debt write-off for residential and business customers:
Applies to all customers with accumulated arrears up to 30 June 2025. Customers who pay 50% of their debt will have the remaining 50% written off.
Payment Arrangement Option (6 Months): Customers unable to settle the 50% upfront may enter into a 6-month payment arrangement. Failure to honour the arrangement will result in forfeiture of the 50% discount.
Relief for Debt Accrued Between 01 July – 30 November 2025: Customers must settle outstanding amounts for this period in full. Interest accrued during this period will be written off once the amount overdue is settled. A six-month payment arrangement is also available, and interest will be written off upon full compliance.
The municipality said there is different relief being offered for government departments and state entities - If these institutions settle their outstanding capital debt in full, all interest charged will be written off.
Ratepayers who want to find out more about the programme can visit the Revenue Management Section located at LOT 1000 Dan Pienaar Square, Newton Road, Margate or call 039 312 8314 or email rates.enquiries@rnm.gov.za