Thesis (Ph.D. (Development Studies)) --University of Limpopo, 2014 / In South Africa, various studies have indicated that achieving developmental mandates by local authorities is one of the biggest challenges largely due to poor planning and implementation. For instance, many local municipalities had performed inadequately in relation to their functionalities in planning and implementation of various IDP initiatives in Limpopo. The purpose of this research was to assess how local municipalities can further enhance their effectiveness in planning and implementation of development initiatives at the local level in Capricorn District Municipality, Limpopo Province South Africa. The methodology of this study was largely a qualitative case study and the quantitative approach was also used to augment the qualitative findings. The study was undertaken in three local municipalities such as Polokwane, Lepelle-Nkumpi and Agnang by engaging various IDP stakeholders including local government officers and the community representatives. The findings indicated that the local municipalities in the study area have not successfully played their role in local development. The basic service delivery was largely inadequate, the role in poverty alleviation was insufficient and community participation remains a serious concern at the local level. The finding reveals, inter alia, that the decision making process is limited, delayed and inconsistent; the institutional capacity was largely inadequate; limited understanding of IDP; limited stakeholder’s commitment; limited responsiveness to the local needs and priorities; and challenges in inclusive and wider involvement at ward and village levels. Furthermore, it was discovered that the local municipalities has not effectively addressed the planning and implementation of IDPs. The finding shows, inter alia, that tendency of top-down and technocratic planning; a concern over IDP on whether iv it reflects people’s needs and aspirations; lack of mobilisation of local resources; difficulty in integration and coordination; IDP projects implementation is slow, lacks sustainability and limited impact; and poor monitoring and evaluation of IDPs due to limited participation, lack of capacity and deficiencies in processes and procedures. Based on the findings, this research proposed the necessary strategic interventions and a framework for improving the effectiveness of the existing approach to planning and implementation of IDPs in the local municipalities. Therefore, it is recommended that local municipalities should promote their development role through strengthening the decision making process, institutional capacity, commitment, responsiveness and inclusive approach to local development. It is also recommended that local municipalities should emphasize more on people’s needs and priorities and encourages ward based planning approach to improve the planning process of IDPs. Likewise, local municipalities should strengthen their IDP implementation through mobilisation of local resources, better integration and coordination, improved project implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Furthermore, the proposed framework for strengthening the planning and implementation of IDPs be implemented, evaluated and integrated into the current IDP process of the local municipalities. Key concepts: development, decentralised development, local government, development role of local government, integrated development planning, Integrated Development Plans (IDPs), development planning, and development implementation.

<p>The birth of democracy in South Africa in 1994 not only meant the end of apartheid, but also served as the catalyst for community participation in the affairs of local government. Despite the creation of an enabling environment, i.e. the adoption of the concept of Developmental Local Government and Integrated Development Planning Framework to ensure the participation of communities, public participation remains contested today and still does not achieve its expected results. A range of problems besets public participation in governance and development planning. Accordingly, this thesis presents a case study of the barriers to meaningful public participation as well as exploration of the context and extent of public participation in Ward 28, Elsies River, Cape Town, South Africa. The investigation examined the link between public participation, development planning and service delivery. In order to achieve the stated aim, the researcher employed a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods including secondary analysis, observation, informal interviewing, focus group discussions as well as the administration of a structured questionnaire to various stakeholders. Based on the empirical results of this research, the study provides a number of developmental guidelines and public participation recommendations to enhance planning and service delivery, especially in poor communities.</p>

Abstract not available. / Thesis (M.T.R.P.)-University of Natal, 2003.

<p>The birth of democracy in South Africa in 1994 not only meant the end of apartheid, but also served as the catalyst for community participation in the affairs of local government. Despite the creation of an enabling environment, i.e. the adoption of the concept of Developmental Local Government and Integrated Development Planning Framework to ensure the participation of communities, public participation remains contested today and still does not achieve its expected results. A range of problems besets public participation in governance and development planning. Accordingly, this thesis presents a case study of the barriers to meaningful public participation as well as exploration of the context and extent of public participation in Ward 28, Elsies River, Cape Town, South Africa. The investigation examined the link between public participation, development planning and service delivery. In order to achieve the stated aim, the researcher employed a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods including secondary analysis, observation, informal interviewing, focus group discussions as well as the administration of a structured questionnaire to various stakeholders. Based on the empirical results of this research, the study provides a number of developmental guidelines and public participation recommendations to enhance planning and service delivery, especially in poor communities.</p>

The recent reform of potable water service provisioning by means of the promulgation of the Water Services Act 108 of 1997 and the National Water Act 36 of 1998 in South Africa has started a process of addressing the imbalance that existed in regard to how the national resource was being distributed. Water is now recognised as a scarce resource that belongs to all the people of the country. Consequently, it should be managed in an integrated way for social and economic development – including future growth (Fuggle & Rabie, 2005:293; Reimann, Chimboza & Fubesi, 2012:446). What is required is an attitude that incorporates a sensitivity in the careful cognisance and management of ―the aggregate of surrounding objects, conditions, and influences that impact on the life and habits of man, or any other organism or collection of organisms (South Africa, 1989). The provision of potable water by water services authorities (WSAs) is an important basic service that faces a number of challenges, such as the use of an outdated infrastructure, the lack of skilled and knowledgeable people, improper planning, and the booming population that places overt pressure on the demand for service delivery. This study was, therefore, undertaken to investigate how a municipality – which is forced to obtain its potable water supply from nearby surface and groundwater catchments, could manage this supply in a more effective, efficient, equitable, economic and sustainable manner by means of improved co-operative governance and intergovernmental relations. The key motivation was thus to develop a plan that would manage water resources more effectively on strategic, tactical and operational levels within government structures and to assist in realising integrated water resources management (IWRM). The proposed plan could be used to develop a shared vision for the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (Dr KKDM) municipal area of responsibility; and to provide an overview of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats regarding the management of water resources. A qualitative research design was used to conduct the study, which included a literature review, semi-structured interviews, data sampling and scientific analysis of responses. Furthermore, a case-study approach was followed by the researcher, with Dr KKDM as the unit of analysis (the locus). / Thesis (Ph.D. (Public Management and Governance))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

The recent reform of potable water service provisioning by means of the promulgation of the Water Services Act 108 of 1997 and the National Water Act 36 of 1998 in South Africa has started a process of addressing the imbalance that existed in regard to how the national resource was being distributed. Water is now recognised as a scarce resource that belongs to all the people of the country. Consequently, it should be managed in an integrated way for social and economic development – including future growth (Fuggle & Rabie, 2005:293; Reimann, Chimboza & Fubesi, 2012:446). What is required is an attitude that incorporates a sensitivity in the careful cognisance and management of ―the aggregate of surrounding objects, conditions, and influences that impact on the life and habits of man, or any other organism or collection of organisms (South Africa, 1989). The provision of potable water by water services authorities (WSAs) is an important basic service that faces a number of challenges, such as the use of an outdated infrastructure, the lack of skilled and knowledgeable people, improper planning, and the booming population that places overt pressure on the demand for service delivery. This study was, therefore, undertaken to investigate how a municipality – which is forced to obtain its potable water supply from nearby surface and groundwater catchments, could manage this supply in a more effective, efficient, equitable, economic and sustainable manner by means of improved co-operative governance and intergovernmental relations. The key motivation was thus to develop a plan that would manage water resources more effectively on strategic, tactical and operational levels within government structures and to assist in realising integrated water resources management (IWRM). The proposed plan could be used to develop a shared vision for the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality (Dr KKDM) municipal area of responsibility; and to provide an overview of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats regarding the management of water resources. A qualitative research design was used to conduct the study, which included a literature review, semi-structured interviews, data sampling and scientific analysis of responses. Furthermore, a case-study approach was followed by the researcher, with Dr KKDM as the unit of analysis (the locus). / Thesis (Ph.D. (Public Management and Governance))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013.

A thorough investigation of legislation involved in the land reform programme was conducted. This includes the Constitution of South Africa, as well as the legal frameworks that manage the land reform process. Many of the unintended results are because of misunderstandings. This study sought to clarify those misunderstandings and confusing language. The South African land reform process was excellently planned. The process is managed in three phases, namely land restitution, land redistribution and land tenure. There are some successes and failures due to the way those programmes were implemented. In order to implement and manage the land reform programmes and spatial planning on national, provincial and district level, the following plans were introduced: National Level: Pro-active Land Acquisition Strategy (PLAS) & Area-based Planning Provincial Level: Limpopo Growth and Development Strategy (LGDS) District Level: Mopani Integrated Development Plan Local Level: Greater Tzaneen Municipality Integrated Development Plan & Spatial Development Framework The study area, the Tzaneen Local Municipality, was chosen because it is home to some of the first land reform projects in South Africa, it is the district with some of the highest intensity of land claims and it offers a complete menu of land reform programmes in an advanced state on a small area. The impact that land reform has had on the spatial development in the Tzaneen Local Municipality has been studied in more detail. As the study progressed, it was realised that the impact not only stops at spatial development. The influence was much bigger than that. The local economy was affected, as were job opportunities, tourism, food security, the retail industry and even the mining industry. Such an impact is also not restricted to the Tzaneen Local Municipality. In order to control the land reform process, the government should involve the private sector in the land reform process. The moment this happens, the skills and experience locked in the private sector are transferred to the government for the benefit of all people involved in and influenced by the land reform process. An Integrated Land Reform Action Forum (ILRAF) must be established that manages the land reform process on national, provincial and local level. This ILRAF has to fulfil much the same purpose as the former Joint Monitoring Committees (JMCs) accomplished. The ILRAF must consist of all role-players within the land reform process. These include, national, provincial and local government officials, commercial farmers, key role-players from the private sector, farm worker representatives, Agri-SA, professionals such as town and regional planners and transfer attorneys, farmers? associations, commercial banks and the media to ensure transparency. In order to correct past mistakes and to ensure that the next five years of the land reform process goes off without a hitch, it is important to involve all role-players and ensure transparency throughout all decision-making processes. Key Terms: Land Reform; Agri-village; Area Based Planning; Land Restitution; Land Redistribution; Land Tenure Reform; Greater Tzaneen Municipality; Willing buyer-willing seller; Spatial Development Framework; Integrated Development Plan. / Thesis (M.Art. et Scien. (Town and Regional Planning))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2010.

Municipalities are faced with the major task of providing water services to their local residents. Dissatisfaction regarding water services in South Africa has been manifested in protests staged by communities. However, service delivery is still reflecting a backlog. This study aims to describe the current situation and challenges facing Greater Tubatse Local Municipality and the roles of the major players regarding water services. The study indicated that the residents of Praktiseer have no sustainable potable water. The critical part of this inquiry is to establish whether the local municipality has strategies in place to deal with the identified problems. Access to clean water and sanitation is essential to health. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa mandates the local governments to ensure the provision of water services to their communities in a sustainable manner. This study also defined the roles of the local municipality within the context of the existing legislative framework. / Thesis (M. Development and Management)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

A thorough investigation of legislation involved in the land reform programme was conducted. This includes the Constitution of South Africa, as well as the legal frameworks that manage the land reform process. Many of the unintended results are because of misunderstandings. This study sought to clarify those misunderstandings and confusing language. The South African land reform process was excellently planned. The process is managed in three phases, namely land restitution, land redistribution and land tenure. There are some successes and failures due to the way those programmes were implemented. In order to implement and manage the land reform programmes and spatial planning on national, provincial and district level, the following plans were introduced: National Level: Pro-active Land Acquisition Strategy (PLAS) & Area-based Planning Provincial Level: Limpopo Growth and Development Strategy (LGDS) District Level: Mopani Integrated Development Plan Local Level: Greater Tzaneen Municipality Integrated Development Plan & Spatial Development Framework The study area, the Tzaneen Local Municipality, was chosen because it is home to some of the first land reform projects in South Africa, it is the district with some of the highest intensity of land claims and it offers a complete menu of land reform programmes in an advanced state on a small area. The impact that land reform has had on the spatial development in the Tzaneen Local Municipality has been studied in more detail. As the study progressed, it was realised that the impact not only stops at spatial development. The influence was much bigger than that. The local economy was affected, as were job opportunities, tourism, food security, the retail industry and even the mining industry. Such an impact is also not restricted to the Tzaneen Local Municipality. In order to control the land reform process, the government should involve the private sector in the land reform process. The moment this happens, the skills and experience locked in the private sector are transferred to the government for the benefit of all people involved in and influenced by the land reform process. An Integrated Land Reform Action Forum (ILRAF) must be established that manages the land reform process on national, provincial and local level. This ILRAF has to fulfil much the same purpose as the former Joint Monitoring Committees (JMCs) accomplished. The ILRAF must consist of all role-players within the land reform process. These include, national, provincial and local government officials, commercial farmers, key role-players from the private sector, farm worker representatives, Agri-SA, professionals such as town and regional planners and transfer attorneys, farmers? associations, commercial banks and the media to ensure transparency. In order to correct past mistakes and to ensure that the next five years of the land reform process goes off without a hitch, it is important to involve all role-players and ensure transparency throughout all decision-making processes. Key Terms: Land Reform; Agri-village; Area Based Planning; Land Restitution; Land Redistribution; Land Tenure Reform; Greater Tzaneen Municipality; Willing buyer-willing seller; Spatial Development Framework; Integrated Development Plan. / Thesis (M.Art. et Scien. (Town and Regional Planning))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2010.

Municipalities are faced with the major task of providing water services to their local residents. Dissatisfaction regarding water services in South Africa has been manifested in protests staged by communities. However, service delivery is still reflecting a backlog. This study aims to describe the current situation and challenges facing Greater Tubatse Local Municipality and the roles of the major players regarding water services. The study indicated that the residents of Praktiseer have no sustainable potable water. The critical part of this inquiry is to establish whether the local municipality has strategies in place to deal with the identified problems. Access to clean water and sanitation is essential to health. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa mandates the local governments to ensure the provision of water services to their communities in a sustainable manner. This study also defined the roles of the local municipality within the context of the existing legislative framework. / Thesis (M. Development and Management)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.