By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Despite much progress has been achieved in the first 100 days of office, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, says more work lies ahead to address the deep-rooted challenges facing municipalities, local governance and service delivery across the country.
Thursday marked 100 days since retired Chief Justice Raymond Zondo presided over the swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
The swearing-in ushered in the leadership, headed by Hlabisa, alongside Deputy Ministers Dr Namane Dickson Masemola and Prince Burns Ncamashe.
Hlabisa says his department will continue to drive forward a robust, inclusive agenda to ensure that every municipality works and delivers essential services to its citizens.
In June this year, the department presented its Budget Vote, led by Hlabisa, which touched on the mandate to improve coordination across the three spheres of government in aid of integrated planning, implementation and monitoring that underpins the principles of a capable and developmental State.
“This mandate, we believe, is the cornerstone that will drive the country to a developmental, efficient and ethical local government that can impact the lives of citizens positively. Key priorities include stabilising local government, strengthening cooperative governance, and aligning responsibilities across all spheres of government. “
“Additionally, the traditional leadership’s role in governance is under active review, with a focus on deepening their integration into the national framework, said Hlabisa.”
In addition, the leaders have engaged with officials, local government and traditional leaders to enhance coordination across all levels, in line with the District Development Model (DDM).