Passion for Local Government Earns Researcher Master’s Degree

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Ms Doli Ngema’s passion for local government culminated in her being awarded a Master of Public Administration degree.

Working under the supervision of UKZN expert in Public Governance, Professor Purshottama Reddy, Ngema’s dissertation was titled: An Assessment of Integrated Development Planning (IDP) in Mtubatuba Local Municipality, with Particular Reference to the Somkhele Rural Area.

Deputy Director at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), Ngema understands that local government is the closest form of government for the public and she believes in its potential to empower and provide sustainability for the livelihoods of communities. ‘This government is at the forefront of service delivery, addressing the immediate needs of communities,’ she said. ‘It is particularly significant to me because it brings about positive change in people’s lives, particularly those residing in rural areas. Encouraging rural communities to participate in the development of their local areas and take control of their lives are crucial.’

The focus of Ngema’s study was on evaluating the development and implementation of the IDP in a rural area in Somkhele under the Mtubatuba Local Municipality. The study examined the views of the municipal officials who participate in the IDP process as an instrument for developmental local government that responds to the requests of its people as well as the views of councillors, traditional leaders as well as community members in the execution of IDP. The study paid particular attention to how these programmes and projects are identified, implemented, and managed.

Ngema’s study revealed there were varying responses regarding IDP implementation in Somkhele. Some of the study participants believed that the Municipality was not doing enough to carry out the successful IDP projects in Somkhele whereas the majority of the study participants, including officials, local councillors and some representatives from the community believed that the Municipality was doing well in executing IDP projects in the area.

The study found that the Mtubatuba Local Municipality is endeavouring to undertake IDP projects aimed at fostering transformation and progress in Somkhele, based on gathered evidence.

At the HSRC, Ngema is responsible for providing strategic financial and administrative support to the Inclusive Economic Development Research Programme. This encompasses contract administration, and proposal development, with specific reference to the development of budgets, forecasts of expenditure and management systems for multi-year projects in partnership with various African, European and international organisations.

Ngema is currently working on a chapter of a book with Reddy, investigating the role of the Ingonyama Trust in local governance, traditional leadership and land management in KwaZulu-Natal.

Grateful to her supervisor, Ngema said: ‘Professor PS Reddy’s expertise in the field of local government has enabled me to acquire substantial knowledge and experience. His invaluable guidance and support were instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities inherent in local government which greatly benefited my entire course of study.’

Reddy congratulated Ngema on her achievement and commended her for being an excellent student who was very co-operative and hardworking.

Proud of her accomplishment, Ngema said: ‘The self-discovery and the insights into my capabilities have left me feeling motivated. I anticipate that this degree will enhance my work performance by applying the newly acquired knowledge and expertise.’

Words: Hazel Langa

Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal