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MEC Vass tackles service delivery challenges at Northern Cape municipalities

Marlene Minopetros|Published

To enhance service delivery in the Northern Cape, MEC Bentley Vass concluded a series of targeted one-on-one engagements with selected municipalities.

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IN A MOVE to enhance service delivery in the Northern Cape, MEC Bentley Vass of the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) concluded a series of targeted one-on-one engagements with selected municipalities this week. This initiative aimed to resolve specific challenges affecting service delivery and expedite the appointment of senior managers within these local governments.

The series of meetings commenced last week, during which MEC Vass met with officials from various municipalities, including the Frances Baard District Municipality, Sol Plaatje Local Municipality, Gamagara Local Municipality, Nama-Khoi Local Municipality, Tsantsabane Local Municipality, and Emthanjeni Local Municipality. These discussions were critical for identifying and addressing pending issues that hinder efficient service delivery and reviewing the processes concerning the appointment of Section 54 managers.

MEC Vass met with officials from various municipalities.

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The discussions highlighted key issues, particularly water challenges in certain areas, revenue collection strategies, and the factors contributing to delays in securing crucial management positions.

After the meetings, MEC Vass expressed his satisfaction with the proactive measures being undertaken by the municipalities. “I am happy that all the municipalities are having tangible plans in place to address a wide range of issues that I discussed with the municipal mayors, Speakers, and accounting officers of these municipalities,” he remarked. “The meetings were very cordial, and the agreed deliverables will be monitored closely by my office to ensure that there is compliance with all service delivery imperatives and legislative prescripts.”

MEC Vass emphasised the importance of ongoing collaboration with local governance structures, reinforcing the District Development Model's spirit of partnership. This approach seeks to enhance service delivery and stability in municipalities, ultimately improving the lives of Northern Cape communities.

Looking ahead, MEC Vass confirmed that engagements with other identified municipalities are set to continue. His mandate remains clear: to facilitate significant improvements in service delivery and managerial stability across the region’s governance frameworks.