In an address to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Wednesday, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, shared his vision for a robust and resilient local government system.
The Minister participated in the Three Sphere Planning session with the theme: ’Towards an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Delineating Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
The session forms part of the NCOP’s objective to promote cooperative governance and intergovernmental relations and ensure that the three spheres of government work together when they fulfil their constitutional functions.
The Minister emphasised local government’s key role in delivering services and as a foundation for democratic governance, social development, and community empowerment.
Highlighting the importance of Sections 152, 153, and 154 of the Constitution, Hlabisa reiterated that municipalities must focus on meeting community needs, promoting economic and social development, and actively engage in national and provincial initiatives.
“He stressed that national and provincial governments have a duty to support municipalities to ensure effective governance and sustainable development,” said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in a statement.
Hlabisa also noted the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders.
This partnership aims to strengthen collaboration between traditional leaders and municipal councils, enhancing governance in rural areas.
“This MoU marks a significant step towards better communication and mutual respect between municipal councillors and traditional and Khoi-San leaders,” the Minister said.
He also presented the State of Local Government Report 2023, noting progress in reducing the number of distressed municipalities and increasing those classified as stable.
However, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in financial management and infrastructure.
Municipal infrastructure
Turning to municipal infrastructure, Hlabisa acknowledged ongoing challenges and highlighted the support provided by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA).
Despite the long road network and improvements in electricity access, issues such as deteriorating water and sanitation infrastructure and inadequate waste management persist.
“Support through MISA and increased funding are crucial, but we must also address the underlying issues impacting infrastructure performance.
“Our focus will be [on] improving infrastructure conditions, particularly in distressed municipalities, and integrating climate change adaptation into planning.”
Hlabisa concluded with a call for continued collaboration and commitment to overcoming challenges.
“Together, we will build a local government system that is resilient, responsive, and capable of meeting the needs of all South Africans,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
