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3 October 2005

Government has embarked on a programme of assessing progress made through the Municipal Imbizo Programme interventions in the form of the National Imbizo Focus Week (1 - 9 October). The Izimbizo conducted during the Focus Week will also continue to address challenges that have been highlighted through the Municipal Imbizo Programme.

The Municipal Imbizo Programme is a new phase of Imbizo aligned with Project Consolidate. This alignment gives the three spheres of government an opportunity to work with residents in implementing practical action plans developed by Project Consolidate to address challenges of service delivery.

As part of the Imbizo Focus Week several ministers and deputy ministers will conduct Izimbizo in some of the 136 municipalities identified for assistance through Project Consolidate (see schedule at http://www.gov.za) to get to listen to developments within municipalities from councillors and the communities. These government leaders will also be visiting various projects underway in municipalities that are aimed at improving lives of the people.

The Imbizo Focus Week will intensify interaction of government and public to strengthen participatory, integrated governance for local delivery. The executive from all spheres will interact directly with the public and communities around implementation of programmes that require partnerships of local, national and provincial government with communities.

Government has identified weaknesses arising from poor co-ordination in government and limitations, especially local capacity. The Imbizo programme focuses on building executive and administrative capacity; ensuring that Ward Committees function as intended in legislation; consolidating cross-boundary municipalities; and participation by all citizens in local elections. All this helps build local government that meets the needs of all residents.

Enquiries:
Lindo Nkomonde
Cell: 082 875 9631

Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)
3 October 2005