In 1994 Middelburg and Mhluzi, as well as Hendrina and Kwazamokuhle amalgamated to form the Transitional Local Councils.

In 2001, a new dispensation for Local Government came into being, whereby the country was demarcated so that every piece of land fell within the jurisdiction of a municipality. The number of local governments were also reduced and the Transitional Local Councils of Middelburg and Hendrina, as well as some smaller towns, were amalgamated. A new municipality was formed, namely Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.

The municipal area covers approximately 3993 square kilometers and includes the following