The build up continues
With little over two years to go before the kickoff of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, work in the nine host cities is quickly gaining momentum. While there is much to be done, investment in public transport and the preparation of match stadiums are the most urgent responsibilities for host municipalities.
Putting feet first in Curitiba
In South Africa, where the majority of people do not have access to cars, it makes sense to prioritise pedestrian traffic and public transport, and there’s a lot to be learnt from this inspiring Brazilian city.
Investing in cities of the future
Municipalities are buying into the glamorous notion of a ‘digital city’ by rolling out ambitious broadband networks that will help position them as more attractive places to live and invest in. The benefits are enormous, but to what extent should municipalities be active in ensuring this is realised?
Going solar
Solar-powered traffic lights are pointing the way to easing traffic congestion and limiting the loss of productivity during ongoing electricity blackouts.
Greening 2010
By learning from other countries, South Africa is aiming to minimise the impact of this FIFA World Cup tournament on the environment.
Finding a home in the city
It’s often said that the property market is not active or functional in urban townships and informal settlements, but as recent research shows, this isn’t the case.
Local government goes global
At the second World Congress of the United Cities and Local Governments, South Africa joined others from across the world in seeking solutions to problems ranging from global warming to urbanisation.
Municipal health services in the spotlight
Two years after they were required to do so, a third of all district municipalities still do not provide municipal health services, according to research discussed at a dialogue hosted by the Development Bank of Southern Africa.
Uncertainty dogs planning environment
The need to reform South Africa’s planning and land use management laws is long overdue. A fundamental shift is needed, argue STEPHEN BERRISFORD and MICHAEL KIHATO, to support a more just and sustainable future.
10 ways to create a great neighbourhood
Around the world ordinary people are improving their neighbourhoods. The Project for Public Spaces, an NGO in New York, has highlighted small things that we can all do to make our area safer and more beautiful.
Taking charge of risk
As National Treasury rolls out risk management at high-capacity municipalities, there may be sighs from some municipal officials already under pressure to ensure compliance and service delivery. But, says GLENN HO, risk management has the potential to empower officials to better manage their municipalities
What makes a good civil servant in the 21st century?
With new tasks and complex problems facing governments the world over, a vibrant international debate is underway about the role of civil servants.
Talking to ... Library managers
Access to libraries is an essential part of providing support to communities, and despite funding challenges, some of our municipalities are extending services more widely than ever before.
Talking to ... Sicelo Shiceka
It’s set to be an interesting year for provincial and local government, and as the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces’ Committee on Local Government and Administration told DELIVERY, it’s not going to be business as usual.
Where's the demand
Municipalities and the private sector are making efforts toward an effective, sustainable recycling industry. But to achieve the benefits of large-scale recycling there needs to be a demand for products made from waste materials – and local government has a critical role to play.
Towards a single public service
All spheres of government need to work together to improve delivery, but, argues BRADLEY CONRADIE, this effort is being hampered because not everyone is part of what needs to be a single multi-skilled and mobile workforce.
Greening the townships
Mpumalanga’s Mkhondo Municipality has been lauded for a massive greening effort during the past year, particularly in previously neglected townships in the municipal area.
Improving rural communication
Ward councillors in Limpopo are doing their bit to help bridge often disjointed and in some cases non-existent relationships between themselves and the residents they serve.
Encouraging sustainable living
The City of Cape Town has developed a ‘sustainable living’ guide for residents, filled with useful information and practical solutions to environmental and resources challenges.