Integrated Development Planning and Budget Representative Forum

Story: Sinazo Bonongo | Photo: Sinazo Bonongo

Mayor Cllr Vania Davids spearheaded an Integrated Development Forum, drawing together a diverse array of stakeholders from across the Walter Sisulu Local Municipality. The forum, held at Burgersdorp Town Hall on 3 May 2024, served as a platform for robust discussions and strategic presentations aimed at steering the Municipality towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.

With representatives from Joe Gqabi District Municipality,  local government departments including Joe Gqabi District Municipality, Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Department Of Rural Development And Agrarian Reform, Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency and the Department of Health among others, community organisations and Ward Committee members in attendance, the forum exemplified a concerted effort to harness collective expertise and insights in addressing key developmental challenges facing the community.

Throughout the day-long event, participants engaged in an interactive session and discussions delving into a range of matters spanning urban planning, infrastructure development, economic revitalisation, social services, and environmental sustainability. Key themes that emerged included, supporting MSME’s, completing of projects as well as strengthening social safety.

 

As the forum drew to a close, Cllr Moeti who was the programme director reiterated his commitment to ensuring sector departments will respond to the plethora of concerns coming from each ward committee conveyed in order for all stakeholders to drive sustainable development and building a municipality that works for all its residents. The contingent will continue the momentum generated by the forum into the upcoming Mayoral IDP & Budget outreach programme where sector departments are to respond to all concerns raised.

In the aftermath of the Integrated Development Planning Representative Forum a way forward was given with a renewed sense of purpose in working together towards a common vision for Municipality. Community is encouraged to attend the Mayoral Outreach which kicks off 07 May 2024 in Burgersdorp in order to make an input in their desired outcome for their ward.