Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality in South Africa’s Eastern Cape is facing a major financial and operational crisis that has caught the attention of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. The municipality is struggling with debt, financial regulation noncompliance, and inaccurate job grading. However, the South African Local Government Association is optimistic about the municipality’s recovery and supports the implementation of a Financial Recovery Plan. Despite the challenges, the potential exists for a stronger financial management system and a positive transformation for this historic municipality.
Cape Town has achieved a Clean Audit thanks to Mayor Geordin HillLewis’s leadership and the city’s dedication to superior services. The city has attracted real estate investments and topped sustainability rankings. Over 205,000 jobs were added, and sanitation, water, and electricity access have improved. The city has invested in law enforcement, economic initiatives, public transportation, and sustainability.
In recent news, the head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), Andy Mothibi, has accused former Eskom CEO André de Ruyter of maladministration due to his approval of a covert investigation into the operations of the South African power utility. This action was taken without the authority or knowledge of the board, leading to calls for accountability and a parliamentary inquiry.
On June 2nd, Cape Town Mayor Geordin HillLewis was honored during a ceremony held in Saldanha for receiving the city’s clean audit award for the 202122 financial year from the Auditor General (AG). This award recognizes the city’s unwavering commitment to transparency, integrity, and excellence in governance. It also demonstrates Cape Town’s focus on improving the lives of its citizens by ensuring public funds are used efficiently and effectively.
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) Budget Vote for the 2023/24 financial year, presented in May by Deputy Minister Obed Bapela, highlights the efforts made to improve South African StateOwned Enterprises (SOEs). Despite structural, operational, and strategic challenges facing these entities, Bapela believes that significant progress is being made, thanks to President Ramaphosa’s vision of farreaching reforms.
The potential benefits of the collaboration between Cape Town and Nairobi are significant, as they can work together to strengthen their tourism markets, cooperate in their film industries, and enhance bilateral trade. Additionally, both cities can share knowledge and partnerships in areas such as infrastructure provision, affordable housing delivery, and clean energy.