Troubled municipalities, municipality troubles: An implementation of Back to Basics programme in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa

Abstract

Background: This article outlines the implementation of the Back to Basics programme in the Eastern Cape Province within the Local Government Sphere of the Government which is a corner stone of reconstruction and development of our country and society. Aim: The aim of this research article was to appraise the Eastern Cape Provincial Government on the progress made regarding the implementation of the Back to Basics programme. Setting: This research further gives an insight into programme performance update of the period from 2012 to 2019 and a review of progress on the implementation of it thereof in the Eastern Cape Province. Methods: The article used mixed-methods approach to arrive at its findings. Results: The findings of this research article also serve as building blocks towards further evaluation studies to be undertaken by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs as well as to shape the inputs by the province (Eastern Cape) in positioning the Eastern Cape Local Government for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Conclusion: Based on the findings it was recommended that for any meaningful development in the country and for the interest of good local governance, public participation should be the promoted corner stone for efficient, effective and sustainable delivery of basic essential services.

Keywords

• local government
• local governance
• service delivery
• eastern cape
• protests