The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Sipho Hlomuka today met with the Mayors and Municipal Managers from municipalities that have a high number of vacant Section 56 Manager positions.
The meeting convened by MEC Hlomuka was aimed at fast-tracking the full capacitation of municipalities at management level so that they can respond better to the needs of communities. “The high vacancy rate in these municipalities is concerning as the failure to appoint section 56 managers undermines the ability of our municipalities to deliver services to our communities” said Hlomuka.
In the meeting, Mayors made presentations on the progress being made to fill these critical positions. The Mayors also highlighted challenges they are faced with in their efforts to recruit competent officials for these critical positions.
MuniMec addressed by NICD on Covid-19
Earlier in the day, Cogta MEC Sipho Hlomuka met with the Mayors and senior administrative leadership of municipalities, at the quarterly MuniMec meeting, which took place in Durban. Key among the issues that were discussed in this meeting is the implementation phase of the District Development Model, the improvement of Disaster Management policies within municipalities and the implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme which provides a safety net for several impoverished communities.
The gathering was also addressed by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases which gave a presentation on the Corona Virus and the role the sphere of local government can play in ensuring that communities are made aware about Cov-19 and what measures one can take to limit the risk of exposure to the virus.
Cogta MEC Sipho Hlomuka welcomed the presentation by the NICD and encouraged municipalities to implement all the necessary hygiene measures more especially in front line service delivery buildings.
The meeting also resolved to fully support community awareness campaigns spearheaded by the Premier of the Province Sihle Zikalala which will see several roadshows being rolled out in the provinces Districts to raise awareness about the virus.
The MuniMec was also attended by the MEC of Agriculture, Bongi Sithole Moloi and Salga Chair Cllr Mkhulisi.
Ends