Experts call for continuous training of councillors as local elections approach
Experts say councillors need continuous professional development to improve oversight of municipal finances, planning and service delivery, while SALGA says limited funding is hampering preparations for incoming councillors.
As local elections approach, experts and MPs are urging the SA Local Government Association (Salga) to enhance its training of councillors, with professionalisation of local government becoming a key focus. Salga CEO Sithole Mbanga stated that while they are prepared to train incoming councillors, they lack sufficient resources, receiving only R40 million from the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta).
Mbanga explained that to drive the agenda of building capacity, both of municipal organisations and individuals, Salga requires more funding.
Two local government experts, Prof Zwelinzima Ndevu from Stellenbosch University and Dr Harlan Cloete from the University of Free State, have called for continuous training of councillors. Ndevu emphasized that councillors need to be trained to understand their mandate, oversee implementation of plans, and effectively monitor their alignment with community needs.
Cloete agreed, stating that councillors require ongoing training to navigate the complex and highly politicised nature of local government. Cloete proposed that councillors be included in the work skills plan under the Skills Development Act, treating them as part of the employer-employee relationship for training and development.
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