Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who reside in the Ilovu area of KwaZulu-Natal had been challenged by transport issues and expenses as they attended their church meetings in the Amanzimtoti Ward. They were given approval to have “cottage meetings” in 2010. During that time, they continued to attend their weekly Sunday meetings in Amanzimtoti, but would also have a cottage meeting at Sister Lembede’s home in Ilovu every Sunday after returning from Amanzimtoti. These cottage meetings displayed the members’ dedication and desire to become an independent church unit. The cottage meetings continued for several years under the guidance of the bishop (pastor) from Amanzimtoti.
In October 2014, these wonderful saints were organized as an official 'group' in Ilovu. They no longer had to travel to Amanzimtoti to worship, but they still remained under the direction of the Amanzimtoti bishop.
The dedication of these wonderful members culminated in their group becoming an official branch of the Church on 24 Jan 2016. As a branch they are now an independent congregation, under the guidance and direction of the Durban Stake President.
New Branch Presidency (leaders) are:
Branch President: Thabani Llewellyn Gumede
First Counselor: Sizwe Aquilla Xolani Mkhize
Second Counselor: Cosmas Vusimusi Khomo