Local government should transform “now or never”: exploring the service delivery impediments and opportunities for transformation

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Introduction Leadership within local government is a key determinant in determining its ability to fulfil its constitution and developmental mandate. Data from several studies suggest that the effectiveness of local government service delivery is closely tied to the leadership strategies employed by municipal leaders. Previous studies on leadership and its role in service delivery in local government have given limited attention to the contextual initiatives and strategies of transformational leadership employed to address the various challenges that restrict effective service delivery in South Africa. This study examines the role of leadership in overcoming obstacles to efficient service delivery in local governments. Specifically, it focuses on identifying obstacles to service delivery and leadership strategies and interventions that can lead to substantial local government transformation. Methods Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used in this investigation. Data were collected using an online survey administered through Google Forms and focus interviews. The sample for this study consisted of N = 121 respondents who completed the online questionnaire and n = 50 focus group participants drawn from ten municipalities across South Africa. Results Findings from this study revealed that municipal leadership’s involvement in transformational activities, such as influencing local government reform and fostering citizen participation, suggests a robust engagement to overcome these service delivery challenges. Despite the interventions identified, significant impediments such as poor leadership, inadequate implementation of legislative frameworks, and damaging power struggles are repeatedly cited as barriers hindering effective service delivery. Discussion The study emphasises the role of transformational leadership interventions in driving effective service delivery in local governments. By addressing systemic impediments and leveraging strategic interventions, municipal leaders can significantly enhance service provision and responsiveness to community needs. The study advocates for a continued focus on leadership development and strategic innovation as central to overcoming the persistent challenges in local government service delivery.

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