Navigation of Innovative Management in the Local Spheres of Government in South Africa – An Issue for Consideration

Abstract

It is a global concern that most local spheres of government are usually faced with a major challenge of meeting the basic needs of citizens, particularly in the developing countries such as South Africa, where majority of people depending entirely on public services. It is observed that the local spheres of government are unable to carry out their constitutional mandate to provide public goods and services such as education, housing health, water and sanitation. This situation, among others, is mainly exacerbated by ineffective innovative management practices. This article sought to navigate innovative management practices in the local spheres of government in South Africa and suggests strategies that can be applied for service delivery improvement. The article used conceptual framework to analyse innovative management practices in the context of the local spheres of government. In the process, literature has revealed that most of local spheres of government are mainly characterised with ineffective innovative management practices. These management practices include, strategic planning, operational plans and performance management systems. It is evident that the current state of affairs, drastically affects service delivery improvement. This article suggests collaborative approach as mechanism to enhance service delivery in the local spheres of government.