Prof Zwelinzima Ndevu is Director of the School of Public Leadership (SPL) at Stellenbosch University
Prof Zwelinzima Ndevu highlights several issues confronting local governments in South Africa.
The most significant challenges include the inability of municipalities to provide services due to population growth in urban areas and a revenue decline, resulting in insufficient resources for essential infrastructure services like water, electricity, and housing.
He underscores the significance of addressing personnel capacity within municipalities by focusing on the professionalisation of local government.
This involves recruiting and retaining skilled personnel, efficient resource utilisation, and community involvement.
Ultimately, these steps could help South African local municipalities address some of their pressing challenges.