The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) North West Provincial Members Assembly (PMA) 2025 opened with a strong appeal for unity and collaboration among municipalities as they prepare for the 2026 local elections.
In his keynote address, Provincial Executive Committee Chairperson, Cllr. Khumalo Molefe, urged municipalities to rise above internal conflicts and focus on service delivery. He identified professional jealousy, rumors, and petty divisions as key obstacles holding back progress, and called for collective efforts to address branch-related challenges. Molefe also announced that the PMA will engage the Provincial Committee on Cooperative Governance to review the 1998 White Paper on Local Government to strengthen municipal frameworks.
North West Speaker of the Legislature, Hon. Dr. Desbo Mohono, reinforced this message in her remarks, urging municipalities to deliver on critical issues such as water, sanitation, electricity, and unemployment. She stressed the importance of updating the White Paper to empower municipalities as proactive change agents, capable of fostering stronger partnerships with communities for sustainability and growth.
The assembly will continue with discussions focused on innovative solutions and collaborative strategies. Its outcomes are expected to set a roadmap for addressing key challenges and shaping the future of local governance in the province.
