With its conference theme, ‘Local Renaissance: New Ideas, Real Opportunities, Exciting Partnerships’ the Local Government Association of South Australia presented several international speakers, providing delegates with an overview of Local Government models in operation elsewhere in the world. From South Africa, Chief Executive of the Foundation for Public Management and Development, F M ‘Lucky’ Mathebula, using Nelson Mandela’s famous statement, told delegates that he believes ‘the last mile of the long walk to freedom’ is the transformation of Local Government.
He spoke of the vital role partnerships are playing in this process, with Local Government delivering democracy and accountability while many services are being provided by a range of market players, including community bodies.
Lucky Mathebula said that rather than create massive upheaval, the South African Government has taken the approach that it has inherited an apartheid state and is in the process of transforming it. However, a legacy of apartheid is to ensure people believe that what is contained in the new Constitution is in fact attainable. He said that tackling the mindset, where people still do not believe in themselves, is a major challenge.
In the establishment of its new Constitution, and particularly the role that Local Government plays in delivering basic community needs and promoting social and economic development, a close relationship has grown up between various South African and Australian Local Government bodies.
Lucky Mathebula told delegates that through various partnerships such as AUSAID, South Africa seeks the assistance of people who have ‘walked Local Government’, who can bring direct experiences of achievements in their cities and regions ‘to help us on our journey’.
Learning from others and sharing good ideas is how we can grow and prosper. Similarly, being prepared to impart our knowledge and expertise to assist others is the key to building strong and lasting relations. In recent times, given the current unease touching most parts of the world, such partnerships have become even more vital.
More than ever, inclusive, caring communities start at home in our localities and regions and then reach out to others, building bridges that will make our world a safer, more sustainable place. The role Local Governments can play in this should never be underestimated.
