Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi led an intergovernmental relations briefing session at the Ratanda Multi Purpose Hall on May 14, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperative governance and improve coordinated service delivery across all spheres of government.

The engagement brought together provincial and local government leaders, law enforcement agencies and key stakeholders to reinforce collaboration in pursuit of a capable, ethical and developmental province.

Lesufi was joined by Gauteng Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Jacob Mamabolo, Social Development MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, Environment MEC Ewan Botha, Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, Executive Mayor Mluleki Nkosi, provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni and leaders from various metro law enforcement agencies, including commissioner Yolande Faro of the City of Tshwane.

As part of the programme, integrated service delivery activities were rolled out across the municipality on the day.

The initiatives included grass-cutting, road markings, spaza shop inspections and by-law enforcement operations, among other community-focused interventions aimed at improving service delivery and public safety.

Integrated Service Delivery Operations in Lesedi also commenced with school safety searches at identified high-risk schools in the Heidelberg area, including Kgoro Ya Thuto Secondary School and Kganya Secondary School.

The schools were prioritised as part of a targeted intervention to address safety concerns, prevent criminal activity, and promote a safe and secure learning environment for both learners and educators.

Lesufi said the provincial government remains committed to ensuring that communities receive efficient and coordinated services.

“We are here in Ratanda today because the government must be visible and responsive to the needs of our communities. Through this intergovernmental relations engagement, we are strengthening cooperation between all spheres of government to ensure that service delivery reaches our people faster and more effectively. Our focus is to build safer, cleaner and more functional communities while restoring the dignity of residents through coordinated action,” he said.

Nkosi welcomed the collaborative approach and said the partnership between different spheres of government is critical in addressing local challenges.

“The integrated service delivery programme taking place in Ratanda demonstrates what can be achieved when provincial government, municipalities and law enforcement agencies work together.

“These interventions are important in addressing issues affecting residents on the ground, from road maintenance and environmental management to by-law enforcement and public safety. We remain committed to improving the quality of life for our communities,” he said.

Panyaza Lesufi spearheads Gauteng service delivery and school safety operations in Ratanda and Heidelberg