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Top government leaders, Executive Mayors, DGs and CEOs gathered on 26 November 2025 for a South African Local Government Agency(SALGA)-led dialogue focused on urgent reforms to strengthen municipal service delivery. The breakfast session was driven by renowned broadcaster Sakina Kamwendo, who guided the room through fast-paced discussions on stabilising local governance and accelerating infrastructure improvements across South Africa.
What Happened
The session unpacked the economic reforms needed to help municipalities regain stability. Speakers emphasized long-standing issues such as revenue losses, water supply failures, energy disruptions and weak waste systems.
Kamwendo kept the session focused on solutions. Leaders explored innovative pathways for delivering water, energy, waste and infrastructure services. They also outlined the role of technology in improving billing, tracking outages and speeding up repairs.
High-level panelists included:
- national directors-general
- Executive Mayors
- SALGA leadership
- CEOs from key sectors
Each offered rapid insights to frame the national conversation.
Official Response
Government officials stressed the need for tighter alignment across the three spheres of government. They said municipalities cannot drive reform alone and require stronger, more predictable support.
Speakers also emphasized the importance of partnerships with SOEs, businesses, development agencies and universities. These collaborations can help municipalities access skills, investment and long-term project capacity.
SALGA leaders said the organisation aims to build a shared national narrative around reform and position itself as a leading voice on innovation in local government.
Community Impact
Although the event took place at national level, speakers emphasized that communities remain the priority. Residents need safer waste systems, reliable water, stable electricity and infrastructure that works.
The dialogue was framed as more than a conversation. Leaders said it is an agenda-setting moment aimed at: Strengthening collaborative governance, emphasizing successful municipal models, Boosting investor confidence, Accelerating project implementation.
