Walter Sisulu Local Municipality Launches Inaugural Mayoral Local Economic Development Advisory Council Walter Sisulu Local Municipality marked a significant milestone in its commitment to inclusive economic growth with the inauguration of the **Mayoral
Story: Sinazo Bonongo | Photo: Sinazo Bonongo
Walter Sisulu Local Municipality hosted the inauguration of the Mayoral Local Economic Development (LED) Advisory Council, held at the Burgersdorp Council Chamber. The inaugural induction session brought together appointed members from a diverse range of sectors, including business, agriculture, tourism, mining, non-governmental organisations, and professional bodies. The establishment of the Advisory Council reflects the Municipality's commitment to strengthening collaboration with key economic stakeholders and ensuring that local expertise informs strategic decision-making.
Welcoming members to the inaugural sitting, Mayor Councillor Vania Davids outlined the purpose of the gathering, which was to officially inaugurate the Advisory Council, clarify its mandate, and induct members on the legislative and policy framework that will guide its work. The Mayor emphasised that the Council has been established as a strategic advisory body that will provide independent advice on economic development priorities, investment opportunities, and initiatives aimed at unlocking the municipality's economic potential. Serving as the Mayor's economic think tank, the Advisory Council will assist in identifying opportunities for sustainable growth, strengthening partnerships, and promoting innovation across key sectors of the local economy.
Members received comprehensive presentations from the Manager in the Office of the Retsilisitsoe Khamali , and Local Economic Development Manager Xola Mahali. The presentations provided an overview of the current local economic development landscape within Walter Sisulu Local Municipality, highlighting existing opportunities, challenges, and areas requiring strategic intervention.
Mr Khamali also clarified the distinction between the Mayoral Local Economic Development Advisory Council and the Municipal Local Economic Development Forum. While the Municipal LED Forum serves as a broader stakeholder engagement platform, the Advisory Council functions as a strategic advisory committee established by the Mayor to provide focused, independent advice on economic matters and long-term development priorities. The induction further outlined the role of the Council's non-statutory members, whose sector-specific knowledge and experience will contribute to evidence-based recommendations that support municipal planning and economic development initiatives.
The Mayoral LED Advisory Council is expected to play a pivotal role in unlocking investment opportunities, identifying economic growth sectors, providing specialist expertise, and strengthening collaboration between government, the private sector, and civil society. By drawing on the knowledge and experience of leaders from various industries, the Council will support the Municipality in developing practical solutions that stimulate local economic growth, create employment opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of residents.
The establishment of the Advisory Council represents an innovative approach to local governance and economic development. While advisory councils of this nature are recognised internationally as effective mechanisms for providing strategic economic guidance, this initiative is among the first of its kind within South African local government. It demonstrates Walter Sisulu Loc al Municipality's commitment to pioneering new approaches that empower communities and harness local expertise to shape the municipality's economic future. Through this collaborative platform, the Municipality aims to create an enabling environment for investment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, ensuring that economic growth is driven by the collective knowledge and participation of all sectors of society.