The Minister for the Public Service and Administration, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi has officially released the Productivity Report commissioned by The Presidency in collaboration with the National School of Government. The report, titled “Productivity as a Frontier in the South African Public Service,” represents a landmark effort to assess and improve performance across all levels of the public sector.
The study was led by a multidisciplinary team of academics, supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) through the Sustainable Development Goals Initiative. The Productivity Report marks the first of its kind in the Government of National Unity to holistically examine the determinants, constraints, and comparative standing of public sector productivity.
“This report provides both awakening and inspiring insights,” said Minister Buthelezi.
“It shows where we lag behind, where we lead, and how we can turn the tide through coordinated reforms, innovation, and strengthened accountability”, added the Minister.
Key highlights of the report include:
International Benchmarking: South Africa’s public service productivity was compared with top-performing countries such as Canada, Singapore, and Rwanda. The findings highlight significant gaps, particularly in innovation, leadership, use of ICT, and citizen satisfaction.
Legislative and Policy Framework Review: The report identifies both enabling and hindering elements within South Africa’s public service legislation, emphasizing the need for coherent and adaptable policy reform.
Efficiency and Expenditure Analysis: While government spending remained relatively prudent, disparities in departmental performance suggest an urgent need to align resource allocation with productivity outcomes.
Fieldwork Findings: Surveys and interviews conducted with public officials across departments revealed that organizational culture, leadership, and performance management systems are crucial levers for change.
Recommendations for Reform: The report calls for renewed investment in employee development, performance-driven incentives, anti-corruption enforcement, and stronger citizen engagement.
The Department of Public Service and Administration will incorporate the findings of this report into the ongoing development of the Public Service Productivity Framework, aligning it with global best practices and the goals of the National Development Plan.
Minister Buthelezi also reaffirmed government’s commitment to building a capable, ethical, and developmental state. “This report is not just a diagnostic tool it is a call to action, improving productivity in the public service is not a choice; it is a necessity for building trust, delivering quality services, and achieving sustainable development” concluded the Minister.
Media enquiries:
Dikeledi Mokgokolo
Cell: 082 888 2355
E-mail Dikeledi.Mokgokolo@thensg.gov.za
