An analysis of the implementation of integrated development : a case study of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Abstract

The demise of the apartheid regime and transition to democratic government in South Africa in 1994 dictated an imperative and radical transformation in local government and a need to redefine the goals and objectives, the concept of developmental local government was born against this background and it focused on addressing the social, economic, material needs and improving the quality of life for the community. In achieving this objective, the municipalities must formulate, adopt and effectively implement the integrated development plan as its strategic instrument. The thrust of this study is to analyse the implementation of the integrated development plan in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. The objective of this study is to further assess the institutional capacity of the municipality in implementing the integrated development plan and identify challenges hampering effective implementation. In realising the objective of this study, the qualitative research method was adopted and the relevant information solicited through secondary data collection, which entails the review and analysis of published and unpublished information. The selected method ensures accumulation of large quality information within a short space of time. From a thorough analysis of gathered information, findings relating to human resources, public participation, intergovernmental coordination and institutional capacity were uncovered and the findings revealed that the municipality is confronted with various challenges regarding the implementation of the integrated development plan. The study has made recommendations and possible solutions to addressing the identified challenges for effective implementation of the integrated development plan in the municipality.