Tag: ServiceDelivery
The connected citizen – advancing unified service delivery
For many South Africans, interacting with the government still involves repeating the same process over and over again. Whether citizens apply for an ID, access healthcare, navigate the justice system, or engage with social services, they often resubmit the same information. They also move between disconnected processes. Records do not always align. Each interaction can feel separate from the last.
Fixing local government starts with admitting the model is broken
In the African National Congress (ANC)’s annual “January 8 statement”, President Cyril Ramaphosa again placed fixing local government at the top of government priorities. This emphasis is not new. The president made the same point last year. He also referenced having said it before. The repetition matters. It signals that the challenge is no longer about intent. Instead, it is about execution and delivery in fixing local government.
Yes, running a successful municipality is possible
The fundamentals of running a municipality focus on good governance, effective financial management, robust institutional capacity and strong community engagement. These elements form the backbone of running a successful municipality in a complex service delivery environment. Success is measured by the ability to prioritise residents’ needs, deliver high-quality services and foster sustainable local development.
The real risk for municipalities is weaker growth, not lower prices
South Africa has entered a new phase of monetary policy. The repo rate has been cut to 6.75%. Year-on-year inflation sits at 3.6%, and the inflation target has been revised down to 3%, with a one percentage point tolerance band. The downward revision of the inflation target was implemented to align the country with other emerging economies.
The price we are paying for public sector failure
How much does South Africa really lose each year because our public sector lacks professionalism? It is a question that stirs taxpayers, businesses and ordinary citizens. Yet, despite the urgency, the answer remains elusive. The loss stretches far beyond the numbers in annual budget documents. It also runs deeper than the scandals that capture headlines. This is the price we are paying, not just as a nation but as households and communities.
