MEC celebrates municipal audit outcomes
The MEC for cooperative governance, human settlements and traditional affairs (Coghsta), Basikopo Makamu, welcomed the unprecedented improvement of the province’s 27 municipalities outlined in the auditor general's (AG) 2019/20 financial year municipal audit outcomes.
The MEC for cooperative governance, human settlements and traditional affairs (Coghsta), Basikopo Makamu, welcomed the unprecedented improvement of the province’s 27 municipalities outlined in the auditor general’s (AG) 2019/20 financial year municipal audit outcomes.
Despite the dire financial state in which some municipalities nationally find themselves, the national Department of Cooperative Governance’s report on the state of local governance indicated that Limpopo was among the provinces displaying significant improvements.
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Limpopo municipalities have moved from six unqualified audit opinions to 15, with no disclaimer findings in the year under review.
“We reserve a word of gratitude to the Capricorn District Municipality that has again retained its clean audit; we want to recognise its consistent efforts and congratulate executive mayor John Mpe and his staff,” said Makamu.
In contrast to the national trend showing an increase in the number of municipalities that have not made submissions, Limpopo has successfully submitted all requirements to the AG.
“This in any vernacular is unprecedented, especially for a province on the top of the list in terms of the number of people living below the poverty line at 72,2%. These results are a demonstration of local government at work, and we are slowly moving towards the local government our people deserve,” revealed the MEC.
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He said, however, that the ultimate goal is yet to be reached. “The model we have implemented to achieve this financial year’s results was a targeted intervention approach, specific to every municipality’s challenges through coordinated efforts between Coghsta and the provincial treasury.
“This strategy has proven to be effective, and we will continue to practise it until all our municipalities are no longer found wanting,” added Makamu.
He extended his thanks to the administrative staff at Coghsta, provincial treasury and all municipalities, including their political and administrative leadership, for the sterling work done.
Makamu reserved his utmost gratitude to Limpopo Premier Chupu Mathabatha for the outstanding leadership and guidance he had provided.
