The Eastern Cape Provincial Government continues to champion innovation in governance and public service delivery as Human Settlements MEC Siphokazi Lusithi officially launched a groundbreaking short learning programme in partnership with Nelson Mandela University (NMU). The initiative, unveiled in Nelson Mandela Bay, aims to equip local government councillors, municipal officials, and traditional leaders with vital skills in housing policy, informal settlement upgrading, and community engagement in housing development.
The programme is part of the department s broader provincial strategy to professionalise the delivery of human settlements by empowering those closest to the communities, particularly ward councillors and traditional leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to drive integrated housing development.
This programme addresses a critical gap in technical capacity and policy understanding within the local sphere. We can t deliver human settlements effectively unless municipalities are able to plan, budget, and implement at ground level. This initiative strengthens that foundation”, said MEC Lusithi.
Walter Sisulu Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Vania Davids, reiterated the programme s fundamental role, When it comes to oversight, we need to know what it is that is being delivered and not just be happy that houses are being bui
The South African Local Government Association (SALGA), as a key stakeholder, also pledged its support for the initiative. Speaking on behalf of SALGA, Cllr Deon de Vos, stated; Empowering councillors and officials is vital for effective oversight, especially in human settlements. This programme complements our efforts and strengthens local government's ability to serve communities.
Nelson Mandela University Vice Chancellor, Professor Sibongile Muthwa, said, As a university, we are very proud to be involved in the learning and research that serves the communities and support government to address the challenges that our people face”.
The training programme will be decentralized to various sites across the province, to ensure accessibility and relevance to participants. The initiative aligns with the provincial government s commitment to improving human settlements and addressing backlogs in housing delivery through skills development, ensuring that in the continued efforts of transforming communities, no-one is left behind.
