Evaluating the implementation of the intergrated development plan with particular reference to Umtshezi Local Municipality.

Abstract

This dissertation examined the implementation of the integrated development plan (IDP) with particular reference to Umtshezi Local Municipality. The study explored views of municipal workers, community members and councillors on the implementation of the IDP in Umtshezi Local Municipality to establish its strength, weaknesses and make recommendations on how it can be implemented better in the future to meet the needs of the communities it serves. This study is situated in Umtshezi municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, an area comprising of former Wembezi/Estcourt and Weenen Transitional Local Councils (TLCs), located along the N3 highway, approximately 165km northwest of Durban and 400km southeast of Johannesburg. The study used mixed methods (both qualitative and quantitative methods) to provide multiple perspectives. Triangulation of data sources also avoided potential under-reporting and over-reporting of successes and/or challenges in the implementation of the IDP in Umtshezi Local Municipality. Data was collected from 25 municipal workers, 25 community members and 11 Councillors who were selected purposively and by snowballing. This study concluded that most participants do have an understanding of the implementation of IDP projects in the Municipality. There was also a general sense of agreement that the Municipality was implementing priority IDP projects in consultation with the community members and that people were generally satisfied with the service delivery. It can also be concluded that while the rates of poverty and inequality are still high in the Municipality, like in most Municipalities in South Africa, some people have and continue to benefit from IDP projects such as housing, water and sanitation, electrification of their houses, while communities benefit largely from the construction of Community Halls, installations of street lights and construction of roads and other infrastructure. The study also made a number of recommendations, namely; capacity development and enhancement; promoting community engagement at all stages of IDP projects implementation; fundraising within the Municipality; building effective leadership; and empowerment of Councillors.