Challenges in implementing monitoring and evaluation (M&E) : the case of the Mfolozi Municipality

Abstract

Globally, citizens want better and more services to maintain or improve their livelihoods. In South Africa, local government is responsible for delivering basic services (e.g. access to potable water, proper sanitation, a sustainable electricity supply, and regular waste removal), in collaboration with other spheres of government, to enhance quality of life and local democracy. To improve service delivery, municipalities must design and implement comprehensive monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems to facilitate continuous assessment, M&E of municipal structures, systems and processes, in line with municipalities’ integrated development plans (IDPs), service delivery outcomes, and operational plans to implement the budget. This case study on challenges hampering successful implementation of M&E in the Mfolozi municipality found that shortage of skills and lack of financial resources contribute to the ineffectiveness of M&E. The article concludes by recommending remedial actions to address the identified challenges, namely employing and retaining highly skilled workers from an increasingly diverse and mobile labour market. In addition, the municipality should involve the local community in the planning and execution of projects to ensure their success.