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Overcoming Obstacles to Integrated Services: DDM Presidential Izimbizo

June 26, 2023

1 min read

ddm presidential izimbizo participatory democracy

On June 21, 2023, Thembi Nkadimeng, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), chaired a meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team responsible for the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Izimbizo. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss preparations for the upcoming 7th DDM Presidential Imbizo, which would be led by President Cyril Ramaphosa and hosted by the Alfred Duma Local Municipality in the Uthukela District Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.

Promoting Participatory Democracy

The DDM Presidential Izimbizo reflect the principles of participatory democracy, which emphasize government accountability to the public. The events facilitate direct interaction between communities and leaders from all three spheres of government: local, provincial, and national.

Local governments are responsible for providing basic services to citizens, including housing, water, electricity, and sanitation. By collaborating with national and provincial governments, local governments can ensure that these essential services are delivered efficiently and effectively to all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Face-to-Face Engagement with the President

The DDM Imbizo is not just an event; it is an opportunity for citizens to engage face-to-face with the President and leaders from all spheres of government. Under the theme “Leave no one behind,” citizens can express their concerns and receive real-time responses from the government.

South Africa’s Constitution mandates that the three spheres of government work together to promote the well-being of all citizens and ensure the prudent use of public resources. Since the first Presidential Imbizo in the North West Province, significant progress has been made in unlocking blockages to service delivery.

Municipalities as the Backbone of Governance

Minister Nkadimeng stresses that the DDM Presidential Imbizo affirms municipalities as the backbone of the country’s governance system. Instability in this sphere has a ripple effect on the provision of basic services. The Imbizo presents an opportunity for the government and society as a whole to work together towards a brighter future by overcoming obstacles to integrated service delivery using the District Development Model approach.

Ministerial Events and Mobile Services

Various Ministerial Events will precede the Presidential DDM Imbizo on June 30, 2023, in line with the theme. These events will engage communities and stakeholders in discussions on their concerns. Furthermore, critical departments such as the Department of Home Affairs, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), municipalities, and others will provide mobile services on-site to assist communities.

Active and Responsible Citizen Participation

The DDM Presidential Imbizo encourages South African citizens to play an active and responsible role in their governance. The event reflects the nation’s commitment to participatory democracy and effective communication between the government and its citizens. As the Imbizo series continues, South Africa strives to leave no one behind in its pursuit of a more inclusive and transparent government.

The Digital Evolution of South African Airports

South African airports are stepping into the future with digital travel credentials and biometric technology that make travel faster, easier, and more secure. Instead of juggling paper documents, passengers will soon use a single, safe digital ID to breeze through checkins and security. This change promises shorter lines, less stress, and smoother journeys. While some worry about privacy, the new system aims to protect everyone’s information carefully. South Africa is leading the way in making air travel simple, smart, and ready for tomorrow.

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A Road More Traveled: The Role of Vehicle Licence Fees in Shaping the Western Cape

In the Western Cape, paying vehicle licence fees is more than just a routine task—it helps keep roads smooth, safe, and ready for everyone. These fees fund road repairs and upgrades that support farmers, tourists, and daily commuters alike, making life easier and boosting the local economy. The government listens to residents’ ideas before changing fees, turning road funding into a shared effort that connects communities and builds a better future. Roads here aren’t just paths; they’re a symbol of teamwork and hope for what’s ahead.

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