Minister Thembi Nkadimeng convened the 4th Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs meeting of the Minister and MECs (MINMEC) on 28 September 2023.
Also participating in this strategic meeting were CoGTA Deputy Ministers, Mr Parks Tau and Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe respectively, Directors General, provincial COGTA Heads of Department, the leadership of the National House of Traditional Leaders (NHTL) and South African Local Government Association (SALGA) as well as the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB).
The meeting took place against the backdrop of the recent heavy rains, in parts of the country, which led to flooding as well as the destruction of property and infrastructure. Additionally, there were also incidents of fires reported in some provinces which also led to the damages of property and loss of livelihoods. Members of MINMEC noted the regrettable loss of lives and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
Several critical issues within the CoGTA portfolio were considered by the meeting:
1) The meeting was informed about the court judgment concerning the Traditional and Khoi San Leadership Act (TKLA). It was decided during the meeting that there would be a briefing for the Portfolio Committee, as well as a meeting with Traditional leaders, with a particular focus on the Khoi and San communities. CoGTA and the NHTKL will collaborate on developing a joint program related to the TKLA.
2) The meeting was briefed on the Intergovernmental Monitoring, Support, and Interventions (IMSI) Bill, in accordance with the provisions of sections 100(3) and 139(8) of the Constitution, in preparation for its submission to the Cabinet. A progress report on the Bill’s processing was also presented.
3) The meeting further looked at the institutionalisation of the DDM. This would mean making it mandatory for all national and provincial departments as well as State-Owned Entities to participate in the planning, implementation, and monitoring support to Municipalities (Cabinet resolution, 02 August 2022). In addition, the meeting also received an update on the implementation of One Plans across the 52 spaces.
4) The MINMEC also engaged in the establishment of the Results Management Office (RMO). Despite impressive overall progress with the delivery of infrastructure services in the last 25 years, access to services and inadequate maintenance of infrastructure remain serious challenges. The RMO will have experts who will support CoGTA and MISA, to amongst others facilitate improvements in planning, coordination, executing, monitoring, and reporting on the delivery of projects across the three spheres.
5) MINMEC considered an update on the implementation of the Local Government Summit Resolutions. These are implemented in collaboration with its partners, and coordinated by the DCOG (LGOS Branch). The resolution comprises the focal themes, namely:
- District Development Model;
- Local Economic Development
- Governance and administration;
- Sector/ Stakeholder Coordination;
- Service delivery and infrastructure
6) MINMEC also discussed an update regarding the Presidential Imbizo. The forthcoming round of Presidential Imbizos is scheduled to commence in the North West Province on October 20, 2023, and preparations for this Imbizo are currently in progress.
7) An action plan has been developed to tackle the municipalities that are underperforming according to the Blue and Green Drop watch reports. This action plan specifically addresses municipalities with wastewater and/or drinking water systems that received a score of less than 10% in the Green Drop and/or Blue Drop assessments, indicating the lowest performance levels in water and sanitation services. The plan encompasses thirty (30) municipalities spanning seven provinces. MINMEC has reached a consensus that this plan will be subjected to further discussion in a special meeting.
8) The meeting received a presentation on the Municipal Debt Relief. MINMEC engaged in the mechanics of the implementation of the proposal in an effort to support qualifying municipalities to submit their applications before the final closing date (30 September 2023). MINMEC agreed on a special meeting for further engagements on the Municipal Debt Relief to ensure implementation, especially looking at the deadline.
In conclusion, MINMEC committed to regular engagements to ensure that the sector meets its national objectives of improving the living conditions of the people. MINMEC agreed to reconvene a special session to engage in other key areas requiring more discussions.
For any media enquiries, kindly contact:
Tsekiso Machike
Cell: 078 237 3900
Legadima Leso
Cell: 066 479 9904
