Challenges of service delivery in selected townships in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality

Abstract

Municipalities, in terms of the new development mandates, must provide a democratic and accountable government for local communities by providing services to local communities in a sustainable manner, promoting social and economic development, and ensuring a safe, healthy environment. While municipalities attempt to fulfil these mandates to bring about social-economic development and a sound environment for their communities, they experience complex and multifaceted service challenges that vary from one municipality to another, reflecting the diverse political dynamics of the respective environments. This research examined service delivery challenges in selected Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality townships in Port Elizabeth, in the Eastern Cape Province. It seeks to assess how effectively the integrated development plan, as a local government tool, plays a vital role in addressing service delivery challenges in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. The study adopted a qualitative methodology using individual interviews. The data was analysed thematically using NVivo software. The sample consisted of a minimum of 30 people: ten representatives from Motherwell township and ten from Walmer township, five municipal officials and five ward councillors. The study was intended to bring about service delivery strategies and provide policy recommendations to alleviate or overcome challenges in improving service delivery in the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality