The Community High-Level Seminar brought together leaders, institutions and communities to reflect on local government, ethical leadership, public participation and accountable governance in the Free State.
The Community High-Level Seminar concluded on a high note, bringing together leaders, institutions, academics, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and community representatives to reflect on local government, ethical leadership, public participation, accountability and constitutional governance in the Free State.
The first session focused on local government, ethical leadership, public participation, accountability and constitutional governance. The programme commenced with arrivals, registration, networking and a dignitary procession, followed by the South African National Anthem, the African Union Anthem and a moment of silence for prayer and meditation.
The session featured a scene-setting presentation by David Letsoalo on community engagement, public participation and strategic partnerships. Hon. Mxolisi Dukwana, Speaker of the Free State Legislature, delivered the keynote address on the state of local government, elections and the rule of law in the Free State.
The programme further included presentations on municipal audit outcomes, accountability and clean governance by Mr Odwa Duda of the Auditor-General of South Africa, Free State; ethical leadership and strengthening local government institutions by Prof. Sethulego Matebesi; and local government and municipal demarcation processes by Ms Mmatsie Mooki.
Dr MG Phetheni addressed the importance of building capable municipalities through public administration and good governance, while Adv. Tsepahalo Masekoana reflected on constitutional democracy, electoral governance and the rule of law.
The second session centred on a Community High-Level Panel Discussion under the theme: “Empowered Women, Empower the Nation: Strengthening Local Government through Inclusive Leadership, Public Participation and Ethical Governance.”
Moderated by Ras Adv. Sipho Gideon Mantula, the panel brought together representatives from the Office of the Premier, Free State Provincial Legislature, Auditor-General of South Africa, SALGA Free State, COSATU, the Free State House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, and SANCO.
The panel discussion provided an opportunity for questions, reflections and community engagement, with particular emphasis on the role of traditional leaders, women, youth, communities and higher education institutions in strengthening democratic and accountable local government.
The programme concluded with official closing remarks by the Chair of Chairs, Hon. Thabo Meeko, who reinforced the importance of strengthening partnerships between traditional leadership, government, academia and communities to advance ethical governance, meaningful public participation and sustainable development.
