EXCO and Management Align on Municipal Priorities for the Year Ahead
Story: Sinazo Bonongo | Photo: Sinazo Bonongo
The Executive Committee (EXCO) of Walter Sisulu Local Municipality recently convened a strategic engagement with Top Management to reflect on the overall condition of the municipality, assess its current posture, and chart a focused path for the year ahead. The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, improve service delivery, and ensure financial sustainability.
Management led by Municipal Manager Khaya Gashi provided updates on service delivery challenges, electricity constraints affecting communities, with Maletswai identified as one of the areas most impacted. EXCO was briefed on ongoing interventions and the need to strengthen technical readiness to prevent and respond to infrastructure failures, including improved asset and data management within the electricity unit.
A major focus of the meeting was revenue collection and financial management. EXCO emphasised the need for a more robust and disciplined approach to revenue collection, alongside better management of funds, especially in light of the municipality’s long-standing Eskom debt. The recent repayment of R30 million, made in two instalments of R15 million, was acknowledged as progress, although it has placed pressure on the municipality’s cash flow.
Discussions further highlighted the importance of unlocking value from municipal properties and assets, and exploring strategic partnerships, including with the Joe Gqabi Economic Development Agency(Jogeda), to improve revenue sustainability. The capacitation of technical staff, particularly electricians, was identified as critical to strengthening service delivery and operational efficiency.
Human resource matters, system improvements, and employee wellness were also addressed. EXCO welcomed improvements in labour relations through the Local Labour Forum and ongoing Occupational Health and Safety interventions supporting employee wellbeing. The meeting reaffirmed the need for a fully funded budget and improved community engagement. Planned revenue roadshows and awareness campaigns will focus on building trust with residents by explaining how paying for services supports service delivery and the benefits of initiatives such as smart metering.
EXCO and Top Management concluded the engagement with a shared commitment to work together to restore financial stability, improve service delivery, and build a responsive and accountable local government.