KUGOMPO- The Amathole District Municipality (ADM) has outlined a renewed strategy to stabilise finances and strengthen service delivery following a two‑day Institutional Strategic Planning Session held on 17–18 February the East London Industrial Development Zone, at KuGompo City(formerly known as East London).
The session took place amid a worsening drought across parts of the district, with dam levels critically low and water shedding already affecting some municipalities.
Water security, infrastructure maintenance and financial recovery dominated discussions.
Convened under the theme; ‘One District, One Future: Inclusive Growth through Collaborative Governance,‘ the meeting brought together stakeholders including Amatola Water, Provincial Treasury, the ASPIRE Development Agency, National CoGTA, organised labour unions IMATU and SAMWU and sector departments.
On the first day, municipal leadership reflected on governance reforms and institutional performance.
ADM’s Director of Strategic Planning and Governance, Luyanda Sovasi, reported that 99% of staff placements have been finalised. Managers have also received training on disciplinary procedures aimed at reducing prolonged suspensions and improving accountability.
Furthermore the municipality has implemented the SAGE financial system and introduced a Supply Chain Management procedure manual to tighten internal controls.
Revenue collection remains a concern, with officials acknowledging the need to improve financial sustainability and audit outcomes.
Council Speaker Cllr Onke Mgunculu confirmed that Council and Section 80 Committees are fully operational and aligned with key performance areas. The only vacancy relates to the replacement of a traditional leader, a matter referred to the Office of the MEC.
In addition Portfolio heads presented updates on the 2026/27 Integrated Development Plan (IDP), service delivery performance and the municipality’s financial health, highlighting the need for stronger oversight and consequence management.
Amatola Water Board Chairperson Dr Gaster Sharpley outlined operational challenges facing bulk water provision and called for improved contract management and accelerated refurbishment of ageing infrastructure, including the Hamburg Bulk Water Upgrade project.
Delivering the keynote address, MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in the Eastern Cape Zolile Williams, , introduced the province’s “Non‑Negotiables” framework aimed at restoring accountability and functionality in municipalities.
On the second day, Provincial Treasury presented progress on ADM’s amended Mandatory Financial Recovery Plan, noting improvements in revenue collection while urging faster implementation of reforms. ASPIRE detailed tourism, agriculture and small business initiatives to stimulate economic growth.
Executive Mayor Cllr Anele Ntsangani said the session’s outcomes will guide the finalisation of the 2026/27 IDP, budget and Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan, with a focus on restoring financial stability and ensuring reliable basic services across the district.
Photograph: supplied/ADM
