LIMPOPO – The Greater Giyani Municipality has embarked on cost-cutting activities by opting to use in-house staff on some of the projects, avoiding the outsourcing of certain services that would typically be handled by external contracts.

One of the key areas where this cost-saving approach is being implemented is the land-scalping work at the municipality’s main entrance, which is currently
being carried out using in-house staff.

“By leveraging municipal resources and employees for tasks that would usually be outsourced, the municipality has avoided the high costs that come with hiring private contractors, such as tendering fees, contractor overheads, and mark-ups. This strategy not only minimises expenses but also allows for more direct oversight and control over the quality and timeline of the work being done,” explained Steve Mavunda, spokesperson for the Greater Giyani Municipality (GGM).

Mavunda explained that the work was being carried out by municipal permanent employees alongside EPWP workers as part of a cost-saving initiative. Mavunda said, “In addition to financial savings, this approach also helps streamline operations, making use of existing personnel and equipment that might otherwise be underutilised.”

Meanwhile, the municipality’s decision to rely on internal resources is seen as a practical and efficient way to manage public works projects, while also preserving funds that can be reallocated to other essential community services and development initiatives.

“The decision to manage land maintenance internally is a strategic move by the municipality to optimise budget efficiency while ensuring that public spaces are well-kept at a low cost through the use of internal staff,” he said.