GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE: STAKEHOLDER'S ENGAGEMENT IN SERVICE DELIVERY PLANNING IN SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

This article examines stakeholder involvement in service delivery planning within local government, focusing on Polokwane Local Municipality. Local governments' proximity to stakeholders through integrated development planning (IDP) enables a comprehensive understanding of their needs. Municipalities are legally required to ensure active stakeholder participation, reflecting a governance model of "government of the people, by the people, and for the people." Drawing on Patsy Healey's (1997) collaborative planning theory, the article uses a mixed methodology, including probability sampling of 80 respondents for questionnaires and purposive sampling of 3 respondents for semi-structured interviews. Findings reveal a significant deficit in service delivery due to inadequate stakeholder engagement, despite satisfactory legislative compliance. Challenges include demonstrations, resource constraints, service backlogs, inadequate monitoring and evaluation, and corruption. Recommendations emphasize prioritizing stakeholder involvement and enhancing institutional capacity to optimize resources, address poverty, and improve service delivery.

Keywords

• stakeholder engagement
• service delivery
• planning
• consultation
• collaborative planning
• decentralisation