ANC NGC: Ramaphosa urges focus on fixing failing municipalities

By Johnathan Paoli

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a specific focus on the state of local government, outlining comprehensive measures aimed at revitalising municipalities and restoring public confidence in service delivery.

Delivering his Political Report to the ANC’s 5th National General Council at the Birchwood Conference Centre on Monday, Ramaphosa acknowledged the persistent challenges confronting South Africa’s cities and towns and highlighted that the delivery of basic services has suffered due to governance lapses, poor financial management, inadequate infrastructure maintenance, and a shortage of skilled personnel.

“Many cities and towns are failing to deliver basic services, creating serious challenges for businesses, residents and public facilities such as schools, clinics and hospitals,” he said, emphasising that systemic weaknesses in local government were undermining the daily lives of citizens.

To address these issues, the president underscored the ANC’s commitment to a comprehensive reform of the local government system.

This includes a