KZN Premier Thami Ntuli has committed to improving service delivery in the province. Picture: Independent Newspapers Archives
Image: Independent Newspapers Archives
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli is the provincial government to restore public faith in its ability to deliver essential services.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring that municipalities fulfil their mandates to deliver services to the people.
Ntuli stated that his government has already intervened in certain municipalities which are facing significant challenges.
Addressing the Provincial District Development Model Indaba on Tuesday, he said that improving service delivery and restoring public faith in the government is a key priority.
The purpose of the Provincial District Development Model (DDM) Indaba is to launch integrated service delivery initiatives and roadshows to strengthen DDM implementation across the 11 municipal districts of KwaZulu-Natal.
In his closing remarks after the event, Ntuli said, “As we move forward, we're acutely aware of our nation's service delivery challenges. We recognise that the disconnect between what citizens deserve and what they receive is unacceptable.
“We pledge to work tirelessly to rebuild trust, strengthen local government, and ensure our citizens receive the services they deserve. I wish to quote MEC Reverend Zondi when he said, 'The devil is in the details'.
“In KwaZulu-Natal, we've made significant strides in supporting our municipalities, particularly eThekwini and Msunduzi, our economic hub and capital city. We have always treated local government with the respect and dignity it deserves, and we are committed to seeing visible change in our municipalities.
Ntuli called on the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) to come up with solutions, innovations and research that will enhance and improve the work of local government.
“Gone are the days when local government was dictated to. The DDM Indaba spoke sharply about ward committees and the planning cycle of councils and made a point to appreciate these realities,” he concluded.