CoGTA reflects on 100 days in office

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, says while much progress has been achieved in the first 100 days of office, the work is far from complete. Hlabisa, who was sworn in as the CoGTA Minister just over three months ago, said while the foundation has been laid in his portfolio, a significant journey lies ahead to address the deep-rooted challenges facing municipalities, local governance and service delivery across the country, as well as strengthening relations with traditional leaders. The department said the Minister was determined to continue driving real, lasting improvements for the future. 'From improving infrastructure and governance systems, to enhancing cooperative governance and ensuring accountability, the Minister continues to drive forward a robust, inclusive agenda to ensure that every municipality works and delivers essential services to its citizens,' the department said. Yesterday marked 100 days since retired Chief Justice Raymond Zondo pr esided over the swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet of the Government of National Unity (GNU). READ | GNU Cabinet announced The swearing-in ushered in the leadership, headed by Hlabisa, alongside Deputy Ministers Dr Namane Dickson Masemola and Prince Burns Ncamashe. 'The first order of business of the new leadership was to thoroughly review reports from our predecessors and engage a broad range of key stakeholders… These engagements have driven the sector closer to delivering on its mandates,' the department said. 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.' 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). Meanwhile, the department said it remains committed to serving the people of South Africa as part of the seventh administration under the 'Every Municipality Must Work' theme. 'The initial milestones achieved in the first 100 days serve as catalysts for the comprehensive reforms that are still to come.' Source: South African Government News Agency