Assessing the efficacy of public participation in the enhancement of public service delivery planning in Polokwane local municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa
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Date
2024
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University of the Western Cape
Abstract
Background: Over the past few years, there has been a shift in the responsibility of service delivery planning from a centralized (national) level of government to a more decentralized (municipal) level. Contemporary perspectives on planning suggest that the responsibility is no longer regarded as a hierarchical process, but rather as a collaborative process that involves the active participation of citizens as key stakeholders. The notion of public participation is regarded as a crucial factor in the democratization of service delivery. This is achieved by empowering consumers and communities to play a major role in the process, rather than solely representing the government. Within this framework, the involvement of the public facilitates greater agency for individuals of lower socioeconomic status, granting them the ability to actively shape their own circumstances and the determination of their developmental needs. Consequently, it is imperative for municipalities to assume a crucial role in enhancing democracy and guaranteeing that communities are engaged in determinations that have a direct bearing on them. The study argued that despite the intricate structures, obstacles, and notable administrative challenges, public participation is a crucial factor for the triumph of service delivery planning. This study delved into the concept of public participation as an essential component for effective governance and efficient service delivery within the local government domain.
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Keywords
Service Delivery, Public Participation, Integrated Development Planning (IDP), Service Delivery Planning, Democracy