One of government's major weaknesses in the past had been to not pay enough attention to local government, spokesperson Themba Maseko said on Wednesday.

"Local government was not seen as strategic, but local government is the sphere of government that is actually the most important," Maseko told reporters ahead of the three-day Cabinet lekgotla in Pretoria.

He said it was hoped that the outcome would be an overall focus on measurable outcomes across all spheres of government and service delivery was one such way the public could assess government's progress.

Maseko did not elaborate on how government planned to specifically address local government shortcomings, however Beeld newspaper earlier on Wednesday reported that the position of mayors could be done away with.

It said that African National Congress spokesperson Brian Sokutu had confirmed that a document detailing the restructuring of municipalities was on the table for discussion within the ruling party.

Sokutu could not immediately be reached for comment.

Maseko said that government's programme of action would be announced in President Jacob Zuma's State of the Nation address on February 11.

Particular highlights to be discussed as the lekgotla included housing, education, health and a "major focus" on safety and security.

"We need to make sure South Africans are safe."

Rural economies were also prioritised to alleviate poverty, and employment creation would also be addressed.

He said infrastructure development was one of the major drivers of employment creation.

The upcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup would also be on the agenda. "Lastly and obviously there will be a discussion on 2010, it is most important to be ready for the world to come to our shores."