The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa today (19 November 2024) addressed the Minister and Mayoral Forum of the Western Cape Province on the State of Local Government: Challenges and Opportunities. In attendance were MECs, Mayors, councillors, and municipal managers.

Key issues discussed included the following among others: ▪ Reviewed Community Work Programme Policy and Implementation. ▪ Update on the Demarcation of Wards in Preparation for the 2026 Local Government Election.

Whilst addressing the delegates, Minister Hlabisa congratulated the province for the strides they have made thus far in various municipalities to deliver on their constitutional obligations. He advocated for collaborative effort in order to advance and improve the living standards of South Africans. He emphasised the importance of not working in silos if we want to provide democratic governance and socio-economic development to communities.

“Collaborative actions by all of government is important to ensure the delivery of services,” said the Minister. He added that the three spheres of government are autonomous, however, in terms of Chapter 3 of the Constitution they still have to work together and coordinate things such as budgets, policies and activities, particularly those that cut across all the spheres.

Minister emphasised that all spheres of government share a common determination to build a better quality of life for all. Notwithstanding the good work done, he sensitised delegates that a lot of work still lies ahead as many of our communities still remain behind poverty lines, longing for economic opportunities that will change their lives to the better.

Minister Hlabisa urged for a commitment to providing democratic governance, sustainable services, and promotion of social and economic development as provided for in our constitution.He also reflected on the importance of the engagement as it will go a long way to enhance and support the performance of municipalities in line with CoGTA theme of ensuring that, “Every municipality works”.

This speaks to the support and interventions approach to municipalities which finds expression in the Constitution, Section 154 which enjoins both the provincial and national spheres of government to support and strengthen the capacity of municipalities to perform their functions effectively and efficiently.Minister Hlabisa also spoke to the challenge of Spaza Shops, which have recently become the center of food poisoning. In the spirit of collaboration and for protection of children, he appealed to Municipalities in the Western Cape to adopt the by-laws within the specified period of 21 days.

The delegates thanked Minister for the engagement and the other interactions that assisted in moving the work forward.

Minister said his door will be open and committed to a continuous engagement with municipalities and the province in an effort to improve the lives of South Africans.

Ends – For media enquiries, contact: Ms Pearl Maseko-Binqose Media Liaison Officer/Spokesperson for the Minister of CoGTA +27 (82) 772 1709

Mr. Legadima Leso CoGTA Head of Communications +27 (66) 479 9904 Legadimal@cogta.gov.za