The programme, presented by the Community Law Centre of the University of the Western Cape, also familiarised the councillors with the policy and legislative framework and how it relates to internal functioning ofthe City for example IDP, Budget, Intergovernmental Relations and soforth.
"Not only will this initiative assist in capacity building, but theprogramme will equip councillors with the necessary skills and knowledgeto contribute towards service delivery'', says the City`s ActingDirector: Governance Support, Khaya Hamana.
The training sessions on June 14, 15 and 20 at the University of theWestern Cape focused on three key areas:
- The internal functioning of the City Council
- The role of City Councillors in Council
- The legal and policy framework of local government
The councillors were firstly familiarised with the roles of politicaloffice bearers such as the Speaker and the Executive Mayor. Facilitatorsalso introduced them to the various structures such as Sub-Councils,Ward Committees, the numerous City departments as well as the variouscommittees.
The second part of the training focused on the Code of Conduct for Councillors, their privilege and immunity in Council, the rules of Council debates as well as how their performance as councillors will bemeasured.
The final part of the course focused on the different laws regulatingmunicipalities, municipalities' role in a democratic South Africa andthe intricacies of the financial systems as dictated by nationallegislation.
All 105 councillors have successfully completed the programme andreceived a "Certificate of Merit".
Issued by:
Jan Kruger
Media Liaison Officer
Tel: 021 400 1292
Cell: 084 300 0630
Directorate: Communication And Marketing
City Of Cape Town
Email: media@capetown.gov.za
Tel: 021 400 2201
Fax: 021 957 0023
Khaya Hamana
Acting Director: Governance Support
City of Cape Town
Tel: 021 400 1261
Cell: 072 478 4417