The functioning of ward committees: Challenges and prospects

Abstract

Ward committees were formally introduced in 2000, and many municipalities soon commenced the process of establishing them. The establishment rate of ward committees across the country now stands at over 90% and is growing, indicating a firm commitment to this ode of community participation. The Municipal Structures Act (Act 117 of 1998) provides that the objective of a ward committee is to "enhance participatory democracy". Throughout the Municipal Systems Act (Act 32 of 2000), ward committees are mentioned as vehicles for community participation.