EKURHULENI HOSTS DIALOGUE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT WHITE PAPER REVIEW FOR YOUTH AND WOMEN

The City of Ekurhuleni, in partnership with the Department of Cooperative Governance, hosted a crucial dialogue on the White Paper Review for Youth and Women at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Boksburg.

The White Paper Review, launched in May 2025, is set to be finalized by March 2026. The initiative aims to reshape the framework for a more inclusive and effective local government system, with a special focus on addressing the needs of youth and women.

Minister of Cooperative Governance,  Velenkosini Hlabisa, emphasized that the objective of the dialogue is to promote a government that is efficient, transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of all people.

“Since 31 July, our department has engaged in direct consultations with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, youth, and women’s groups,” said Minister Hlabisa. “These face-to-face engagements are vital in ensuring that the White Paper reflects the voices of those it is meant to serve. By March 2026, we will have compiled a comprehensive document to guide the transformation of local government into a more people-centred and development-oriented institution.”

Alderwoman Nomadlozi Nkosi, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Development Planning in the City of Ekurhuleni, welcomed the dialogue and commended the initiative.

“We are grateful to be part of this important process,” said Alderwoman Nkosi. “The White Paper envisions a democratic, accountable, and developmental local government that can provide quality services, promote socio-economic development, encourage meaningful public participation, and uplift communities.”

The dialogue provided a platform for open engagement, offering participants an opportunity to share insights, raise concerns, and propose solutions that will shape the final review.