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Local government

There are 278 municipalities in South Africa, comprising eight metropolitan, 44 district and 226 local municipalities. They are focused on growing local economies and providing infrastructure and services.

In accordance with the Constitution and the Organised Local Government Act, 1997 (Act 52 of 1997) [PDF], which formally recognise organised local-government associations, organised local government may designate up to 10 part-time representatives to represent municipalities and to participate in proceedings of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

• Local Government Turnaround Strategy
• Categories of municipalities
• South African Local Government Association (Salga)
• Legislation and policy
• Programmes

Relevant sections in the Constitution include:

• Objectives of local government
• Municipalities
  • Municipalities in co-operative government
  • Establishment of municipalities
  • Powers and functions
  • Composition and election of Municipal Councils
  • Membership of Municipal Councils
  • Terms of Municipal Councils
  • Internal procedures
  • Privilege
  • Publication of municipal by-laws
  • Organised local government
  • Other matters

Source: South Africa Yearbook 2010/11
Editor: D Burger. Government Communication and Information System

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