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The Institute of Local Government Management (ILGM) officially launched its Eastern Cape Branch on 27 October 2025. The event, hosted by the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality in Ward 24, celebrate a major step toward building a centre of excellence for local government management in South Africa and across the continent.
What Happened
The ILGM launch brought together municipal leaders, administrators, and local government professionals under one goal to advance effective governance and strengthen management capacity in the public sector.
The newly formed Eastern Cape Branch aims to promote excellence through professional development, capacity-building, and strong partnerships with key stakeholders. The event also saw the election of the new provincial leadership:
- Chairperson: Mkhululi Nako (Mbashe LM)
- Deputy Chairperson: Zihle Gwala (Winnie Madikizela-Mandela LM)
- Secretary: Unathi Daniels (Sarah Baartman DM)
- Deputy Secretary: Simlindile Nodo (Blue Crane LM)
- Treasurer: Themba Mbukushe (Sarah Baartman DM)
Official Response
In his acceptance remarks, Chairperson Mkhululi Nako pledged to steer the branch toward becoming a hub of innovation and professional growth.
“Our mission is to champion excellence and integrity in local government. Together, we can build capable institutions that deliver quality services to our communities,” he said.
Municipal leaders from across the province applauded the initiative, describing it as a positive step toward improving governance and accountability.
Community Impact
The ILGM’s Eastern Cape Branch is expected to create new opportunities for training, mentorship, and collaboration among municipal managers. By promoting professional standards and ethical leadership, the branch aims to strengthen local governance and improve service delivery across the province.
Residents welcomed the move, saying it would help ensure more efficient and transparent local administrations.
