GOVERNMENT is fast-tracking the use of public-private partnerships (PPP) in municipalities where infrastructure backlogs and service delivery pressures are most severe.

This was announced by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana while delivering the Medium-term Budget last week.

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He said the amended Municipal PPP Regulations have been submitted to Parliament for the required 30-day scrutiny period.

“This is the final step before implementation,” said Godongwana, adding that the new regulations will ‘simplify processes, reduce transaction costs and make it easier for municipalities to partner with the private sector to deliver infrastructure and services’.

The minister, however, continues to express concern with the weak financial and operational performance of many municipalities.

“This is untenable. It affects the delivery of basic services. It undermines economic activity, and it erodes public confidence,” said Godongwana.

“The priority now is to improve financial management, strengthen administration and eliminate waste.

“Communities should have reliable water, functioning sanitation, well-maintained roads and safe, well-lit public spaces,” he added.
The performance of local municipalities will come under the spotlight as voters head to the polls next week.

“With local elections approaching, citizens will judge municipalities by their performance and the quality of services they receive,” he said.

“On 4 November, South Africans will once again have the opportunity to exercise their democratic right and shape the future of their communities.

“The responsibility now rests with all municipalities to demonstrate that public resources are being used effectively and in the service of the people.”

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