Caught in a red tape tangle
Bureaucratic excesses are costing the economy millions and, argues NEIL FRASER, much of it is against the law.
Sharing knowledge changes lives
It’s not only the people working in municipalities who benefit from partnerships, but also the communities themselves, as the cooperation between councils in the Commonwealth has shown.
Taking the pique out of peak hour
Three-hour commutes and gridlock might be good for drivetime radio ratings and music-CD sales, but they’re not good for our economy, the quality of our urban and natural environment, or the sustainability of our communities.
Making a difference at the coalface
In municipalities across the country, hundreds of hands-on supporters – from new graduates to old toppies – are providing assistance, passing on skills and changing lives for the better.
Discovering Khartoum
This African capital city is certainly not easy on the eye, but it’s a fascinating place to be as Sudan struggles to find a solution to one of the most-talked about humanitarian crises on the continent.
The ongoing impact of crossing the floor
Debate is often concentrated on the morality of floor crossing and ver y little attention is paid to its legal implications, says ACHMAT TOEFY. But , though the infamous f loor-crossing period has come and gone, the dust has yet to settle in some municipalities.
Available (if called upon)
There is absolutely no truth to the rumour that I am putting myself forward as a candidate for president of the ANC, in what will probably be the most important elections, despite within a party, to have taken place in this country (the symbolic value of the 1994 general elections aside).
Amazing Grace
When Grace Molopa was recognised as Gauteng’s most outstanding community development worker, it went some way towards easing the bitter disappointment of not being able to follow her dream of becoming a social worker. This is her story:
What's next on the financial front?
While most municipalities are grappling with the complexities of a system of local government finance regarded by many as international best practice, according to DAVID SAVAGE, there are some interesting emerging issues to be considered.
Why bicycles are part of the solution
Al l over the wor ld, bicycles are making a come back as a policy response to congestion and threats to the environment. Here bicycles – and other forms of non-motorised transport – are underrecognised and under valued.
Making space for inspiration
South African municipalities, led by the City of Johannesburg, are championing the installation of artworks to improve public spaces, and give expression to the people and artists of their towns and cities.
SALGA meets to thrash out positions
At a two-day national consultative workshop, representat ives of municipalities from around the country considered their positions on issues like ward committees, electricity, the roles of districts versus local municipalities and mayors versus speakers, as well as the role of SALGA itself as the voice of organised local government.
Talking to ... Youth development officers
When local government tries to tackle the challenges of poverty, unemployment and social problems, young people are a critical group to engage. DELIVERY found out how two KwaZulu-Natal municipalities are taking youth into account.
Grasping the minibus taxi nettle
What is the strategy for the minibus taxi industry and how will the recap programme produce a significantly different way of providing public transport? These are just a few of the questions that need to be answered.
Looking to the new mobility
All over the world the need for smart transport solutions is moving to centre stage for private and public role players. While the tendency in transport is to think big, there are a growing number of smaller solutions that together might solve some big problems.
A career of joy and passion
Time is precious and life is short, so focus on creating a sense of passion and joy every day. That was the message from inspirational human relations expert Dr Phil Rosenberg, who was the guest speaker at a recent HR conference in Richards Bay.
Understanding air quality issues
Using local residents to survey households, the City of Cape Town is devising a strategy that will help to reduce frightening air pollution levels in Khayelitsha and increase environmental awareness among residents.
How human settlements respond to HIV/Aids
There’s a growing understanding that a wide range of factors contribute to the spread of HIV/Aids, which municipalities need to understand when planning integrated, sustainable housing developments.
Making a dent in unemployment
Every IDP in the country reflects the need to create jobs, but how do municipalities actually make a difference to unemployment? One way is to start, or support , projects that play an intermediary role between job seekers and employers.