This edition reflects a department that is looking ahead while remaining firmly grounded in the realities facing the communities it serves. Across strategic planning, municipal governance, traditional leadership, disaster management, public participation and heritage, one message emerges clearly: our work must ultimately make a meaningful difference in people’ s lives. This message was at the heart Of COGTA’S Strategic Planning Session in Port Alfred, where both MEC Zolile Williams and Head of Department Mr Vuyo Mlokothi challenged the Department to look beyond activities, plans and reports and focus instead on outcomes and impact. As the Eastern Cape approaches the 2026 Local Government Elections and the beginning of a new five-year local government cycle, the Department must ensure that its strategies respond to the changing governance environment and the needs of communities.
