Mahikeng — The North West MEC for Finance Kenetswe Mosenogi, has reiterated the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to restoring the financial health and service delivery capacity of municipalities across the province.
Speaking during a series of engagements with the Provincial Executive Representatives (PERs) deployed to distressed municipalities, MEC Mosenogi emphasized the critical importance of implementing Financial Recovery Plans (FRPs) as guided by National Treasury. The affected municipalities include Naledi, Mamusa, Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, Ditsobotla, Ramotshere Moilwa, Tswaing, Kgetlengrivier, Madibeng, Maquassi Hills, and the City of Matlosana.
“The restoration of the dignity of the North West Province depends on your commitment to assisting municipalities to implement the financial recovery plans,” urged MEC Mosenogi. “Your deployment is a clear indication that your expertise is not only recognized but needed. The government is counting on your ability to deliver.”
MEC Mosenogi reaffirmed that the Financial Recovery Plans must be implemented through their prescribed phases which are Rescue (short-term cash flow management), Stabilisation (improving governance and financial controls), and Sustainability (ensuring long-term financial viability). She called on PERs to ensure municipalities move beyond the Rescue Phase and actively pursue the intended outcomes of their recovery plans as legislated.
In a strong stance on the Eskom debt relief programme, the MEC stressed the importance of full compliance by affected municipalities. She cautioned against any compromise on the terms of the programme and encouraged the enforcement of measures including service disconnections if necessary to ensure consumer accountability.
“Although difficult, the disconnection of services may be a necessary step to meet the programme’s requirements. In the long run, this will benefit communities if a portion of the municipality’s debt is written off, thereby improving the municipality’s capacity to enhance revenue collection,” Mosenogi stated.
She further stressed that financial recovery is not just about balancing books but about enabling municipalities to fulfill their constitutional mandate of delivering essential services, maintaining infrastructure, and creating an environment conducive to economic development.
“A municipality’s financial health directly affects its ability to invest in infrastructure, education, and public services which are the building blocks of economic growth. This, in turn, attracts investment, creates jobs, and improves the quality of life for our people,” MEC Mosenogi concluded.
The North West Provincial Government remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that municipalities become sustainable, accountable, and service-oriented institutions.
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For more information or clarity please contact Ms Kesalopa Gill on 018 3883584 or e mail kgill@nwpg.gov.za.
OR
Ms Lesedi Makhubela on 062 103 2798 or email connielesedi@gmail.com
Issued by North West Provincial Treasury