Andile Moshoeshoe
HARRY Gwala District Municipality mayor Zamo Nxumalo has emphatically underscored the imperative of forward planning, relentless monitoring and unwavering managerial commitment as the cornerstones of institutional efficiency and financial stability.
Nxumalo delivered a stern rebuke to municipal managers during a high-level Municipal Infrastructure Grant joint meeting that convened all municipalities within the Harry Gwala district.
The gathering was convened to interrogate expenditure patterns as the municipal financial year draws to a close.
In a striking show of accountability, Nxumalo instructed that proceedings of the meeting be formally recorded, compelling managers to publicly commit to definitive timelines for the full expenditure of infrastructure budgets.
He warned that those who falter in executing their mandates would face stringent consequences, signalling a zero-tolerance stance on inefficiency and fiscal lethargy.
Amidst the admonition, commendation was reserved for municipalities that demonstrated exemplary financial stewardship. Umzimkhulu Local Municipality emerged as a standout performer, securing an additional R9 million in incentive funding, an award bestowed upon municipalities that exhibit diligence and efficiency in infrastructure expenditure.
Nxumalo further reflected on past successes, citing Greater Kokstad Municipality, which previously received R7.5 million in additional funding, alongside the Johannes Phumani Phungula Local Municipality, which also benefitted from performance-based financial incentives.
In his address, Nxumalo cautioned managers against passive reliance on administrative reports, urging them instead to exercise decisive leadership, independent oversight, and a hands-on approach to governance.
He lamented that under-expenditure presents a grim paradox in communities plagued by underdevelopment, where critical infrastructure remains inadequate while allocated funds lie dormant.
“It is neither justifiable nor morally defensible,” Nxumalo asserted.
The meeting was succeeded by a collaborative engagement with King Cetshwayo District Municipality under the “Clean Audit State of Readiness” programme, an initiative designed to foster knowledge-exchange and prepare municipalities to attain unqualified audit outcomes.
