Section 2 of the Municipal Systems Act defines a municipality as a triad: Council (constituted by councillors), Administration (made up of officials appointed by the council), and Community (including residents of the municipality, rate payers and civil society organisations operating in the municipal area).
Millions of South Africans still lack access to basic services such as water, sanitation, electricity and other essential municipal services despite Government’s efforts over the last 25 years in implementing its Free Basic Services (FBS) policy.
Since 2000, South Africa’s local government system has largely been characterised by the rule of dominant parties, mainly under the African National Congress (ANC).
South African local government remains a complex system for communities to navigate. Yet communities have the potential to strengthen accountability and improve governance through the various public participation mechanisms established in law.
South Africa is embarking on an ambitious transition toward a low-carbon, climate-resilient future.
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