President Jacob Zuma on Tuesday said government would fix problems brought to his attention during his visit to Imbali, Pietermaritzburg, the presidency said.

"President Jacob Zuma has... committed all spheres of government to hastily address service delivery and infrastructure challenges facing Umgungundlovu District Municipality community and surrounding areas," spokesman Mac Maharaj said in a statement.

Problems the community highlighted included service delivery, infrastructure development, high levels of crime, social services, unemployment and substance abuse.

Zuma expressed satisfaction that the community presented their problems to their elected leaders.

"I have brought the premier and his provincial cabinet, national ministers, mayors and councillors whom I have instructed to quickly address the challenges that have been raised during this imbizo," Zuma said.

"We will waste no time in addressing your concerns and I have undertaken to monitor progress from time to time."

Zuma and KwaZulu-Natal premier Senzo Mchunu visited several homes, including a household headed by 21-year-old Thulebona Maphumulo.

Maphumulo looks after his four young siblings and told Zuma they sometimes went to bed hungry.

Maharaj said: "In response to the plight of the Maphumulo family, President Zuma committed himself to educate... Thulebona Maphumulo through the Jacob Zuma Foundation."

Zuma also called on the relevant provincial and local government departments to support the family with the necessary government services.