Matlosana: With South Africa's municipalities facing numerous challenges, President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasized the vital role of local government in the nation's economy, urging it to "rise anew from the ground up."

According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa delivered his remarks at the closing session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Taking Parliament to the People programme in the Matlosana Local Municipality, North West province. He addressed the critical issues plaguing municipal performance, highlighting that these are not merely service delivery problems but direct threats to jobs, investment, and national prosperity.

The President underscored that local government is essential for providing services such as water, sanitation, electricity, roads, clinics, and community services, and plays a crucial role in attracting businesses. He stated that when companies relocate due to poor services, it results in job losses and economic decline. Conversely, well-managed municipalities can lead to thriving cities, towns, and villages.

Ramaphosa further elaborated on the need for municipalities to fulfill their role in building inclusive communities, expanding opportunities, and upholding dignity. He emphasized that transforming local government requires more than just increased budgets or additional staffing; it demands a fundamental restructuring of how local government operates and coordinates with national and provincial entities.

The President spoke of a draft White Paper on Local Government proposing four major reforms: binding intergovernmental coordination, stricter financial accountability, professionalization of municipal appointments, and bringing local government into the digital age. These reforms aim to clarify roles, enforce accountability, and modernize municipal finance and data systems.

Ramaphosa reiterated the government's zero-tolerance stance on corruption, stressing the need for tougher consequence management for corruption and maladministration. He emphasized the importance of public participation, urging for a partnership involving communities, businesses, civil society, and traditional leaders to rebuild municipalities.

Highlighting the resilience of South Africans during recent crises, such as flooding, the President expressed confidence in fixing local government to restore trust in democracy. He concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to a people-centric approach, guided by the promise of the Constitution and the will of the people.