Fixing the nexus between intergovernmental relations and integrated development plans for socio-economic development : case of South Africa

Abstract

The South African cooperative governmental system consists of three distinct, interdependent and interrelated spheres (local, provincial and national) of government. The collaboration, coordination and cooperation between them are facilitated by intergovernmental relations. Municipalities provide goods and services through the Integrated Development Plans system, whereas provincial and national governments focus on policies, coordination, technical support and funding. Through public administration research methodology based on literature and policy reviews, this article observes that provincial and national governments are not actively involved in municipalities’ planning processes and are thus hampering service delivery. It argues that on its own, intergovernmental relations and the Integrated Development Plans have not facilitated service delivery. The article observes that incorporating the intergovernmental relations within the Integrated Development Planning system can facilitate effective service delivery. The article emphasises the importance of a participative type of governance to facilitate the involvement of the public and other local stakeholders. It then proposes a convergence intergovernmental relations model to facilitate direct and active participation by the local, provincial and national governments in integrated development planning, thus promoting and sustaining service delivery.