The District faces challenges in improving the quality of life amidst high levels of poverty and unemployment and low levels of economic growth. The population of Ugu is predominantly rural with 86% of the population living in rural areas. There has been a gradual shift in rural settlement patterns from much dispersed to a concentration around access roads. The decline in agricultural activities and the increase in people seeking wage employment and state grants have also contributed to the change in settlement pattern.

The N2 Highway runs through Ugu parallel to the sea, passing Port Shepstone and the main commercial centre. The N2 serves as a gateway to the neighbouring Eastern Cape. The 112 Km coastline includes the established coastal towns of Port Shepstone, Hibberden, Margate and Scottburgh.

Economically, the Ugu District is known for its extensive coastal sugar plantations and associated plants, commercial, industrial and office developments located in the towns. Among the many tourist attractions, Ugu has the highest number of blue flag beaches in South Africa . Ugu is a district that displays a “Dual space economy”: while the urbanized coastal zone performs reasonably well, the District is made up of a largely impoverished rural interior with huge commercial farms (sugar and bananas) and a large number of subsistence farmers.

Socio-economic and demographic profile

• Total population 759 134
• Males 47%
• Females 53%
• Un-insured 92.7%
• Unemployment 23%
• Households 151 621%

Health Facilities profile

• CHC:2
• District hospitals:3
• Prov Fixed clinics:51
• Specialized :1
• Mobile clinics:17
• Private hospitals:3
• Regional hospital:1