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The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Ms Thembi Nkadimeng, urges communities in Mpumalanga to actively engage in the forthcoming District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo in Emalahleni. The imbizo is scheduled to take place on the 7th of March 2024 at Sy Mthimunye Stadium.

Themed "Leave no one behind," the 12th Imbizo embodies participatory democracy by amplifying diverse voices and fostering inclusive development.

The Imbizo speaks to the institutionalization and successful implementation of the DDM, highlighting the significance of collaboration with key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, businesses, and civil society, across all phases of planning, implementation, and evaluation.

As a constitutional democracy grounded in meaningful public participation and accountability, continuous engagement with communities is important. Therefore, the Imbizo reaffirms the role of communities in shaping their development initiatives.

The DDM Presidential Imbizo forms part of a holistic government service delivery and monitoring program, employing an integrated, district-based approach to address community needs.

Hence, the DDM Presidential Imbizo serves as an important platform for transparent and constructive exchanges between communities and the government.

Since its inception in March 2022, these Imbizos have empowered millions of South Africans to directly engage with the President, contributing to policy discussions and acknowledging government efforts to better serve the people.

The government's commitment to serving the people and enhancing their well-being necessitates ongoing dialogue and collaboration. Through the Imbizo, community input informs government priorities, facilitating accelerated public service delivery.

Community engagement through the DDM Presidential Imbizo also enhances visibility, understanding, and empowerment, fostering stronger relationships between the government and the public.

Feedback from these engagements informs decision-making processes and showcases the impact of community contributions. 

Preceding the Imbizo will be a series of build-up outreach activities led by Ministers, MECs, and Mayors across the Nkangala District Municipality and throughout the Mpumalanga Province. Media advisories will be issued with details on each of these activities. 

We urge communities to attend the Imbizo so as to participate and interact with the President and government leadership across the three spheres for improved service delivery.

Issued by GCIS on behalf of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs