The role of public participation in the integrated development plan: a case study of Mandeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.

Abstract

Public participation is a fundamental pillar of governance for all democratic states worldwide. In South Africa, the government has passed several statutes that ensure and guarantee public participation in local government affairs. These statutes include, amongst others, the Municipal Structures Act (MSA) of 1998, the Municipal Systems Act (MSA) of 2000 and the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) of 2003. Various sections of MFMA accentuate the need for the provision of clear information and public consultations on matters of municipal finances. Public participation is important in the local government sector as it promotes good governance and a responsive local government. This current study explored the role of public participation in the integrated development planning of the Mandeni Local Municipality. The study found that public participation is key in transforming and democratising local government. Though the laws of South Africa provide for public participation in local government, more should be done to encourage members of the public to be involved. This study results from qualitative data collected in the Mandeni Local Municipality through participant interviews (15) and focus group discussions. Participants were drawn from councillors, izinduna, ward committee members, community members, community development workers, traditional council representatives, business forum representatives and representatives for disabled people. Face- to-face interviews were organised and done by the researcher.