THE DISCUSSION DOCUMENT ON THE REVIEW OF THE WHITE PAPER ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT
This Discussion Document is a step in the process of reviewing the WPLG98, which is part of a process of local government reform and restructuring over the short, medium, and long term. The intention is to publish a revised Local Government White Paper in March 2026 (WPLG26), following an extensive and inclusive process of consultation based on the Discussion Document.
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WHY REVIEW THE 1998 WHITE PAPER?
The Department of Cooperative Governance (DCoG) is reviewing the White Paper on Local Government (1998) to evaluate its impact, tackle challenges, and align local governance with modern realities.
Since 1998, South Africa’s local government has transformed, yet challenges like inadequate infrastructure and financial mismanagement persist, impacting service delivery and job creation. Industries face rising costs and operational disruptions from unreliable electricity, failing water systems, and poor sanitation infrastructure, resulting in declining investor confidence and job losses.
Timeline
Presidential Summit called for review
2022Review introduced in Parliament
2024Public consultation and discussion document
2025New WPLG26 to be released
2026Why Review?
Challenges
Growing governance, financial, and service delivery challenges
Reform
Call for inclusive reform across society
Current Needs
Local government system no longer meeting current needs
Performance
Decline in public trust and municipal performance
Challenges Identified
Financial instability:
R230.5bn in municipal debt (74% owed by households)
Service failures:
frequent water & electricity disruptions
Shortage of skilled staff:
37 municipalities without managers
Malfeasance:
Over-politicisation, unethical leadership, and poor accountability
Passive Citizenry:
Weak community engagement, rising service delivery protests
Nine Priorities For Change
1. Fiscal and financial reform
2. Combat unethical behaviour and poor accountability
3. Depoliticise municipal governance
4. Restore relationships with communities
5. Integrate traditional governance systems
6. Strengthen oversight at national and provincial level
7. Improve cooperative governance
8. Embrace climate-responsive governance
9. Tackle persistent spatial inequality
New Realities
Climate Change
Massive strain on municipal budgets and infrastructure
Technology
Growing digital divide despite advancements
Urbanisation
Increased pressure on cities
Traditional Leadership
Poor integration into municipal system
PROGRESS SINCE 1998
Expanded access to water, electricity, and sanitation
Established municipal structures and elections
Implemented integrated development planning (IDPs)
Submit comments by 30 June 2025
Email: WPLG26@cogta.gov.za, RichardP@cogta.gov.za or MaphutiL@cogta.gov.za
Alternatively, comments may be submitted by post or hand-delivered:
Postal Address:
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
Attention: Mr Thabiso Richard Plank (WPLG26 Policy Review)
Private Bag X802, Pretoria, 0001
Physical Address: 87 Hamilton Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
© 2025 DCoG. All Rights Reserved.
