As part of extending democracy and public participation in government decision-making processes, community members within Ward 5 of Musina Municipality were given an opportunity to interact with their elected political representatives and administrators during an imbizo which was held at the Renaissance School grounds a fortnight ago.

During the event, the public received government services on their doorstep. These include services from the Department of Social Development, the South African Police Services, Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the Department of Home Affairs.

Municipal spokesperson Mr Wilson Dzebu says the municipality uses imbizos as a two-way platform of sharing of information that demonstrates responsiveness to the needs of the people. “This is a basis for sustained dialogue between the government and the people and a mechanism for fact finding by the government to align services with the needs of the people. This assists us in realizing an efficient, effective development-orientated public service and empowered, fair and inclusive citizenship through a well-functioning communication system that also proactively informs and engages the public with what the government is doing to improve their lives.”

Mayor Mihloti Ramoyada says the municipality used the event as a unique participatory platform, given its ability to foster active participatory and meaningful dialogue between her council and the communities. “It is important to demonstrate to our people that all three spheres of government work together to make sure that the much-needed services are delivered to ordinary people in the streets. Government has introduced a variety of platforms in an effort to consolidate, monitor and respond swiftly to public concerns – and this is just one of them. The people have elected us and gave us the mandate to work for them, and this is the opportunity to report back to them how far we have gone in addressing their needs.”

Ramoyada also reminded the residents about the elections that are taking place next year. “It is important to register yourselves with the IEC and practice your democratic right to vote. If you do not vote, some people will choose leaders for you and you will end up being represented by people you did not vote for.”

Most of the issues raised related to roads, unemployment, water and housing. Ramoyada, her councilors and administrators promised community members that all the issues raised would be attended to as a matter of urgency.