Joburg Speaker engages with ward committees in Region D
The engagement saw ward councillors, ward committee members, regional managers and ward administrators discuss issues that affect key challenges affecting their ability to serve their communities effectively.
As part of taking the legislature to the people, Joburg speaker of council Nobuhle Mthembu resumed her stakeholder engagement session at Jabulani Civic Centre in Region D1 on March 4 followed by another engagement in Region D2 at Phefeni Recreation Centre.
These engagements brought together under one roof ward councillors, ward committee members, regional managers and ward administrators for a discussion on governance issues across the city’s regions.
The sessions were aimed at providing a crucial platform for stakeholders to discuss key challenges affecting their ability to serve their communities effectively.
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The chair of chairs, Adolph Marema, also attended the Region D1 session and emphasised the need for collaboration in tackling Johannesburg’s service delivery challenges.
Among the major concerns raised by ward administrators are slow turnaround times in addressing service delivery issues, a shortage of essential stationery for councillors and ward committees, and the need for improved coordination across municipal departments.
In Region D2, ward administrators highlighted connectivity issues that hinder the efficiency of councillors and administrators.
Without proper internet access, officials may be forced to travel to Braamfontein to submit reports manually. Concerns were raised about the maintenance of ward offices.
The speaker’s engagement sessions form part of a broader effort to strengthen governance, improve service delivery, and enhance community well-being.
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These discussions also contribute to the establishment of a more efficient ward councillor liaison support service, aimed at improving communication and strengthening service delivery mechanisms across the city.
“These engagements aim to better understand the challenges faced by our ward committees and how we can help as the legislature.
“This is part of our mission of taking the legislature back to the people and accelerating community participation,” said Mthembu.
By gaining firsthand insight into regional challenges, the Office of the Speaker seeks to explore practical solutions that will enable ward structures to operate more effectively, ensuring that communities receive the support and services they need.
