other
14 November 2007
A group of senior political and managerial leaders from England are in South
Africa to share their understanding of how the English and South African
government systems work to accomplish positive outcomes for the
communities.
The Director-General of the Department of Provincial and Local Government,
Lindiwe Msengana-Ndlela addressed the group of about twenty of the visitors
taking them through the South African system of governance and sharing lessons
taken from the progress recorded thus far.
She highlighted that the two countries share historical ties although
glaring socio-economic differences exist.
Msengana-Ndlela said that the South African government, like most developing
countries, are focusing on meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
However, the challenges that are presented by historical legacy may threaten
the South Africa's hopes to meet the goals.
One of the key questions the group hoped to get answers for from South
Africa is "how can national and local systems work together more effectively to
deliver high priority social and economic outcomes?"
Msengana-Ndlela highlighted that South Africa seeks to have one system of
government involving all three spheres of government. "Although national and
provincial government are elected at a different time from local government,
the system of government must be one" said the Director-General.
"Building the integrity of these institutions is what is important for South
Africa's development" she added.
Some of the topics that the group hopes to have dealt with before the end of
their trip include crime, affordable housing, social health, economic growth
and sustainability.
Also present at the meeting to share their experiences was the Chief
Executive of the South African Local Government Association Xolile George, and
the Chief Executive of the Institute of Local Government Managers Thomas
Mkaza.
Issued by: Department of Provincial and Local Government
14 November 2007
Source: Department of Provincial and Local Government (http://www/dplg.gov.za)
