Thriving Democracy in Action: Free State Province Set to Host DDM Presidential Imbizo

The Stage Is Set

An event of great significance is about to take place in the Free State Province as the province gears up to host the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo. This pivotal assembly is planned for the 7th of December, 2023, at the Kopano Indoor Sports Centre situated in Thabong Welkom, which is part of the Lejweleputswa District Municipality.

The DDM Presidential Imbizo, renowned for fostering participative democracy, offers the community a platform to engage directly with the President, Cabinet members, and local leaders. The objective of this discussion is to identify, address, and formulate strategies to curb the socioeconomic issues encountered by the inhabitants. The Free State Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, applauds this endeavor, viewing it as an effective tool to improve the living standards of the people in the Free State.

Stimulating Economic Growth

The primary source of revenue for the Matjhabeng municipality is the mining of gold and uranium. In his maiden State of the Province Address (SOPA), Premier Dukwana disclosed his bold vision to transform the Free State into an energy hub. In realization of this dream, an Energy Security Indaba was held successfully, drawing participants from adjacent provinces. These regions contributed their success stories and case studies, aiding in the improvement of life quality in areas surrounding the Free State.

However, the recent figures detailing job losses highlight the pressing need and significance of these initiatives. The Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) Q3:2023 reports a loss of 3,000 jobs, in stark opposition to the 59,000 jobs in QLFS Q2:2023. The dilemma lies in reversing this trend promptly and effectively.

The Role of the DDM Presidential Imbizo

In this scenario, the DDM plays an instrumental role, seeking to achieve sustainable service provision through collaborative planning, budgeting, and execution across different levels of government. This framework aims to generate economic opportunities for the locals while promoting service provision, social cohesion, and propelling the agenda for state development. These goals resonate with the National Development Plan and Growth and Development Strategies of the province.

The upcoming Lejweleputswa DDM Presidential Imbizo aligns with the pledges made by the Free State Provincial Government at the 2022 Imbizo held in Bloemfontein. The event will serve as a platform to examine the progress since the previous Presidential Imbizo in the province.

Gearing Up for the Event

In preparation for the Imbizo, a comprehensive programme is being developed that involves all levels of government and various state entities. The initiative aims to engage with the residents, respond to their concerns, and provide an opportunity to discuss daily challenges with government officials.

As part of this pre-Imbizo programme, the province is set to launch the Greenest and Cleanest Municipality Competition. This competition is a representation of the government’s commitment, as per section 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996), to provide a healthy environment for present and future generations. This leading role in environmental sustainability and protection highlights the government’s commitment to sustainable living.

The Theme of the Event

The Presidential DDM Imbizo, carrying the theme “Leave No One Behind”, extends an invitation to the communities in the Lejweleputswa District Municipality to interact directly with the President and his executive team. This unique opportunity is a call for active participation, dialogue, and engagement, and stands as a tribute to the democratic principles of the Republic of South Africa.