Durban – On Thursday, August 8, 2024, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Rev. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, urged local government office bearers to be responsive to community needs or face consequences from the electorate.
Speaking at the SALGA KZN Sustainable Governance and Accountability Symposium, MEC Buthelezi delivered a keynote address that underscored the importance of sustainable governance and innovative solutions to meet the challenges that municipalities throughout the province are facing.
MEC Buthelezi pointed out the complexities confronting municipalities, such as climate change, financial limitations, and the imperative for enhanced service delivery. He advocated for a unified approach to governance that is rooted in sustainability and accountability, which he believes are essential for long-term development and resilience.
“Our municipalities are the cornerstone of our communities, and their effectiveness in service delivery is vital for the welfare of our citizens. The current challenges necessitate a reevaluation of our governance methods and the adoption of new strategies,” MEC Buthelezi stated.
He also highlighted the necessity to reassess the financial model for municipal funding, especially considering the recent veld fires that resulted in 15 fatalities last month, demonstrating the urgent need for municipalities to be better equipped for such disasters. MEC Buthelezi emphasized the importance of revising the financial support structures for local governments to ensure their preparedness for future challenges.
MEC Buthelezi praised the joint efforts of all parties involved in promoting accountability and transparency in municipal governance. He encouraged mayors and senior officials to persist in these endeavors, reminding them that sustainable governance is an ongoing process that demands consistent commitment.
“The prosperity of our municipalities relies on our collective capacity to collaborate, innovate, and maintain accountability. Our primary objective is to forge a brighter future for the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” MEC Buthelezi concluded.
The SALGA KZN Sustainable Governance and Accountability Symposium convened key local government stakeholders to deliberate on ways to improve governance practices, focusing on sustainability and accountability.
Issued by: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs