The Dynamics of Government of National Unity on Local Government in South Africa

 

By Avin Bhola and Paul Kariuki,

 

The formation of South Africa's 2024 Government of National Unity (GNU) has brought about possible significant changes and challenges to local governments. This article explores the impact of this political shift on service delivery, governance, and community engagement at the local level.

Photo: Pixabay. 

South Africa witnessed the establishment of a Government of National Unity (GNU), a coalition to address national challenges through collaborative governance. This model is repeated at the nine provincial levels throughout the country.  While this move has been lauded for its potential to bring stability and inclusive decision-making, its effects on local governments are multifaceted and profound.

Strictly speaking, the elections should not affect local government as it is a separate and distinct level of government.  The lack of service delivery is an ongoing concern for ratepayers who are seen to be at the mercy of fragile coalitions and power struggles between the national, provincial, and local tiers of government.

The GNU is leading to a reshuffling of political power at local levels, with coalition dynamics influencing council decisions and policy implementations. This has both positive and negative consequences. On one hand, there is a probability of increased collaboration between parties can lead to more comprehensive and balanced policies. Better oversight on policy formulation, implementation, and governance. On the other hand, political infighting and power struggles may delay decision-making and service delivery. Parties will compromise on their election promises to keep their coalition partners happy.

There are several notable positive influences of GNU on service delivery, namely:

Improved Funding: Central government support can increase, aiming to bolster local infrastructure and services. Those parties not having a presence at local level and an influence at the national and provincial level will allocate funding to suit their party objectives. This will happen more with funding coming from the provincial level. This will enhance the parties' image and put them in good stead for the forthcoming 2026 municipal elections. However, there are potential delays in decision making while parties consult for consensus on budget review and approvals.  Furthermore, approved projects might be changed to appease the majority parties at the provincial level.

Furthermore, governance structures will see a shift towards more inclusive and participatory models. This has implications for transparency and accountability.  This move suggests that there will be enhanced oversight, promoting checks and balances toward greater accountability. All political parties irrespective of their representation in the GNU, must support the collective notion of enforcing accountability and focusing attention on easing the administrative burden that comes with managing complex political dynamics associated with GNU.

 

Moreover, the GNU emphasises the importance of community involvement in governance. Increased citizen and civil society participation is critical towards entrenching greater accountability and transparency in all its dealings. Efforts to involve communities in decision-making have been acknowledged by all parties, and the onus is now on the GNU members to actualize this commitment.

On the civil society side, it is an opportune moment for the sector to commence holding their local council accountable immediately. This must be done in tandem with holding the provincial and national governments accountable. The political parties are fully aware that the electorate is not going to let parties take them for a ride and not deliver on the campaign promises. This bodes well for the electorate to enhance its oversight role.

In conclusion, the 2024 elections has brought both opportunities and challenges for local governments in South Africa. While there are positive strides in collaboration and community engagement, the complexities of coalition politics can hinder swift decision-making and efficient service delivery. Moving forward, local governments must navigate these dynamics carefully to ensure that the benefits of the GNU are fully realized at the grassroots level. Furthermore, improving local governance under the GNU requires ongoing efforts to balance political interests, enhance community involvement, and make administrative processes accountable. By addressing these challenges, South Africa can strengthen its local governments and ensure better service delivery for all its citizens.

 

Dr. Paul Kariuki is the Executive Director of the Democracy Development Program (DDP). Avin Bhola is the coordinator of the Local Governance and Advocacy Learning Network (LGALN) consisting of 80 civil society organsiations in the Durban area and the chairman of Kwenzokuhle Community Organisation. 

Port Elizabeth to Gqeberha

 

What’s in a name?

By Bianca Louw

Apr 16, 2021.

 

Port Elizabeth which is also known as “The Friendly City” or “The Windy City” was previously known as Algoa Bay and renamed as Port Elizabeth by Sir Rufane Donkin in memory of his wife Elizabeth Frances. The city was recently renamed to Gqeberha. Why Gqeberha? The name change issue has been dragging on for nearly two years. Boy Lamani of KwaMagxaki, is the man behind the new name for Port Elizabeth. Gqeberha is the isiXhosa name for Walmer Township, which is the first and oldest township in Port Elizabeth.

The Nelson Mandela Sculpture at the Donkin Reserve in Gqeberha

These names are not plucked out of thin air, they carry history with them and if the public can take the time to read up on it, they will realize how relevant these name changes are in our country. “Name change is important as it helps to restore the culture of the country. When you look at other countries, they embrace their language and culture fully” says Andrew Mabuso a local resident.  

Geographical name changing costs millions and that money could have been used to fix the cities internal problems. The justification is reparation in our country, undoing the wrongs of apartheid which we as a nation have grown accustomed to and shrugged under the rug. “Where does government get the money for these name changes?” asks Raquel Bloem, a grade 12 student. Raquel feels that the different culture groups in Port Elizabeth will have their own complaints against the name change. If government can afford to make these name changes, Port Elizabeth residents feel that there should be enough funds allocated for more important issues. Local teacher Priscilla Nkawu expresses that these name changes are just wasting government funds. “Public servants will not get salary raises for the coming two years but money was wasted on name changes” says Priscilla.

“The name change caused a lot of discomfort for many because many citizens cannot even begin to pronounce Gqeberha” says Anecia Rossouw, a student in the area. Imagine how powerful our amazing country would be if government money were not looted. The issue of Port Elizabeth’s name change presents our ignorance or lack of knowledge of our town democracy. 

The mere fact that the name change was not bestowed on us but voted into existence, communicates a desperate need for democratic processes of our country as it affects each and everyone of us” expresses Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth resident Johan Kriege. There have been mixed emotions around Port Elizabeth since the name change. Lazola has been a resident of Port Elizabeth for over 30 years, doing odd jobs to survive. He is very happy with the name change and is willing to go to the library or museum just to educate himself on the meaning and origin of Gqeberha. “Government should work together with communities when they want to implement changes and that would help to avoid any conflict” says Faezz Salie.

If people can dance to and pronounce “Gqom” music, they should have no problem pronouncing Gqeberha.

Review of Hilton Hotel Durban

Recently I had to do some business in Durban, South Africa. I had to attend a conference at the ICC and I was surfing the internet looking for a suitable hotel to stay in.

I came upon this site Timbu.com and I must say I was pleasantly surprised. It gives you a variety of information from hotels to stay in, flights to take, visa information, bus timetables and so much more.  This is where I found out more information on The Hilton Hotel in Durban.

The Hilton Hotel is a wonderful place to stay in from the soft sheets on your bed to the free Wi-Fi.

It even features a lovely swimming pool and a variety of restaurants. Best of all it is right next to the Durban International Conference Centre.

The Workshop Shopping Centre is nearby and the beach is a short stroll away.

The hotel has a fitness centre and they also have a business centre which is perfect for meetings or conference calls.

It’s the perfect hotel for business people.

The staff are friendly and go out of their way to help you out.

Rating: Recommended.

Kiss - The Final Swan Song

The painted white faces and tongue wielding antics of Kiss have firmly rooted them in history as one of the all time greats in metal music. Formed in 1973, in New York City, by the infamous Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley and later joined by drummer Peter Criss and guitarist Ace Frehley.

Kiss

Their induction into the Rock n Roll hall of fame is testament to a career that has spanned more than 4 decades and attracted fans throughout the world. If one thing is true, it is that music truly knows no boundaries, the diversity of the “Kiss Army” is proof of this. The musical offerings of this phenomenal band has grown their fan base over the years and no, there is simply no stereotypical fan.....race, creed, age.....there is no limit to who has or will become a loyal fan and part of the “Kiss Army” and it is this devotion to the band that has forged invisible bonds among their followers.

During their more than 40 year reign in the rock world, Kiss has taken their music and out of the ordinary act to their fans and yes, the fans still want more!

In 2020, Kiss will be making their way to South African shores. This is their career ending swan song and a one night only opportunity for the South African regiment of the “Kiss Army” to witness the larger than life performance of a band that has certainly rocked through the ages.

Kiss will be putting away the white paint and platformed boots for the last time at the curtain of the final End Of The World Tour, however, one thing is certain, they will live on in the memories of music gurus, rockers and fans for generations to come.

Article by Robert & Lisa Luiz

GenerosiTrees to Inspire the Spirit of Generosity this Festive Season

Donate a toy to a child in need under a Cadbury Dairy Milk GenerosiTree

When Cadbury Dairy Milk discovered that there were millions of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa – and that the overwhelming majority of them had never known the joy of owning their own toy, book or game, we wanted to make a difference – we enlisted the help of generous South Africans and launched The Little Generosity Shop in May 2019.

So amazing was the response - with more than 90 000 compassionate donations pouring in - that we’ve decided to try make the festive season a little brighter for even more of these incredibly deserving children, with Cadbury Dairy Milk GenerosiTrees.

The items collected by The Little Generosity Shop were donated to various beneficiaries, including the SOS Children's Village (SOS CV), an independent, non-governmental organization that offers family-like care for children and young people who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care. As a childcare and development organization, SOS CV also advocates for the rights of South Africa's most marginalised children. 

From 12 November, the GenerosiTree activations will be travelling the country and giving South Africans the opportunity to show that there’s ‘a glass and a half in everyone’ by giving them the chance to donate the items that were once precious to them; teddies to tricycles and books to board games; to this incredibly noble cause.

The GenerosiTree activations will be at Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Durban (12 – 18 November); Tyger Valley Shopping Centre in Cape Town (26 November – 2 December) and Mall of Africa in Johannesburg (10 – 16 December) and will be rewarding Generosity with Cadbury Dairy Milk slab. There’s also an opportunity to make donations or purchase in-store and online at select Toys R Us stores, with a ‘glass & a half’ reward for their open-heartedness.

How the Cadbury Dairy Milk GenerosiTrees activations work:

Check in at the entrance to the GenerosiTree activation and log your pre-loved toy, book or game for wrapping. One toy, book or game will be exchanged for a Cadbury Dairy Milk slab and up to five slabs for five or more donated items. You can then add even more Generosity by visiting the messaging station, where you can write a message on a tag and attach it to your donation - each child who receives a toy will also get one of these personal and heart-felt messages.

From there, a visit to the Reindeer Room or Santa’s Workshop offers great photo opportunities that you can download and share to help spread the spirit of Generosity, online. Each room offers a unique and immersive experience – the Reindeer Room is decorated with a night sky, lit up with twinkling stars, while you can take pictures with Santa himself in the hustle and bustle of Santa’s Workshop.

Toys R Us Donations:

Consumers who would love to share their spirit of Generosity, but who can’t make it to the three malls which will be home to the GenerosiTrees, can also visit select Toys R Us stores or simply go to the Toys R Us website – to make a donation.

For donations at select Toys R Us stores, simply drop off your pre-loved toy – or something new from the Toys R Us selection if you prefer – in the marked collection bin and claim a Cadbury Dairy Milk slab in return.

If you’d like to make an online donation, visit www.toysrus.co.za and select an item from the Toys R Us catalogue. At checkout, select the option for ‘Cadbury Dairy Milk GenerosiTrees Donation’ and the donated item will be channelled to the Cadbury team to add to the collection. Once the checkout process is complete, you’ll receive a voucher to go claim your Cadbury Dairy Milk slab at a Toys R Us store.

“This festive season, Cadbury Dairy Milk GenerosiTrees will see the donations shared with other deserving charitable organisations which support the millions of children who are growing up without the support of a traditional family, across the country,” says Lara Sidersky, Mondelez SA Category Lead for Chocolate. “Giving is on everyone’s minds during the festive season and we want to remind people that Generosity is driven by selflessly wanting to make an impact on someone else’s day, rather than simply giving for giving’s sake”.

For details of the GenerosiTrees donation points and the Toys R Us partnership go to https://www.cadbury.co.za/festiveseason and follow @CadburyDairyMilkSA on Facebook or @Cadbury_SA on Twitter as well as Instagram and #GlassAndAHalf #Generositrees.

Toys R Us are on @ToysRUs.SouthAfrica on Facebook or @toysrus_za on Instagram and Twitter.

T&C’s apply.

Project Performer - Soaring to Great Heights

Saturday 28th September 2019 was a life-changing moment  for a number of aspiring and talented performing artists.

The Project Performer Showcase was the culmination of  weeks of hard work,  dedication and an absolute love for the stage.

Probably the most astounding facet of the entire showcase was the level of singing, dancing and acting  talent held within the

boundaries of South Africa. There are a phenomenal  number of performing artists in South Africa who have the  X-factor

that will take them to the top and you can rest-assured that  many of them were present on the stage at the showcase.

Project Performer has goals of its own. Keeping South African  talent in its rightful place, South Africa.

Auditions for the 2020 Project Performer are already well under way.

If you have a dream, now is the time to grab hold of it and run.

Visit www.projectperformer.co.za to download your application form.

Now is your time to shine! Article by Lisa Luiz

40th Durban International Film Festival Award Winners 2019

The 40th Durban International Film Festival announced its winners recently at its awards ceremony at the Elangeni Hotel in Durban, South Africa.

Features jury member Ziyanda Macingwane with Back of the Moon Associate Producer, Kutlwano Ditsele; actress Moneoa Moshesh; Director, Angus Gibson; 

Producer, Desiree Markgraff;Lebogang Tsipa as they accept their award for the Best South African Feature Film at the 40th Durban International Film Festival (Image: Supplied) 

A total of 19 awards were given out at the ceremony:

Best Amnesty International Durban Human Rights Award at DIFF 2019: For Sama directed Edward Watts and Waad al-Kateab

Artistic Bravery: Letters Of Hope directed by Vusi Africa

Best Cinematography: Divine Love directed by Gabriel Mascaro

Best Editing: Cronofobia directed by Francesco Rizzi

Best Screenplay: Les Misérables directed by Ladj Ly

Best Short Film: Acid directed by Just Philippot

Best African Short Film: Brotherhood directed by Meryam Joobeur. The film also received a cash prize of R20, 000 sponsored by the Gauteng Film Commission.

Best South African Short Film: Miracle directed by Bongi Ndaba. The film received a cash prize of R20,000 from the Gauteng Film Commission.

Best Actor: Bongile Mantsai for Knuckle City directed by Jahmil X T Qubeka

Best Actress: Nisrin Erradi for Adam directed by Maryam Touzani

Best Documentary: For Sama directed Edward Watts and Waad al-Kateab. The film received a cash prize of R25, 000.

Best South African Documentary: Buddha in Africa directed by Nicole Schafer The award is accompanied by a cash prize of R25,000.

Best Direction: Divine Love directed by Gabriel Mascaro

Best South African Feature Film: Back of the Moon directed by Angus Gibson                                                            

Best Feature Film: Les Misérables directed by Ladj Ly. The award is accompanied by a cash prize of R50 000.                                                                                                                                                                                

DIFF Legacy Award: Peter Rorvik                                                                                                                                 

DIFF Legacy Award: Roz Sarkin and Moosa Moosa                                                                                                                                                    DIFF Legacy Award: Julie Frederikse and Madoda Ncayiyana                                                                                      

DIFF is included as a Documentary Feature Qualifying Festival by the Academy of Motion Picture, Arts and Sciences. This means that both the winners of the Best Documentary For Sama and

Best SA Documentary Buddha in Africa, automatically qualify for consideration for an Oscar nomination.

The features jury were Emrah Kilic (Turkey), Diarah N'Daw-Spech (USA), Laurence Boyce (UK), Diana Keam (South Africa) and Mohammed Siam (Egypt). In the documentary jury were Patricia Van Heerden (SA), Florian Weghorn (Germany), Tracy Clayton (UK/SA), Rehad Desai (SA) and Ziyanda Macingwane (SA). The short film jurors were Jaime E. Manrique (Colombia), Silas Miami, (Kenya), Jacintha De-Nobrega (SA), CJ Obasi (Nigeria) and Mpho Ramathuthu (SA).