The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) recently as in today, the 28th of July 2025 hosted a pivotal Women and Youth Dialogue at the Birchwood hotel.
This event brought together local government officials, youth leagues, female-led forums, and civil society members to review the current White Paper on Local Government.
Motheo Training Institute Trust was in attendance and made a substantive contribution to the dialogue.
The dialogue centered around the theme “Every Municipality must work – A Call to Collective Action.”
Keynote speakers emphasized the importance of breaking down pillars of segregation and creating ideal municipalities that are democratic, accountable, and responsive to community needs.
The ideal municipality should provide services in a sustainable manner, encourage community involvement, and drive social and economic development.
Emphasis on Sustainable Development and Equality:
Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, highlighted the significance of Goal 11: Sustainable development, Goal 5: Gender Equity, and Goal 10: Reduced Inequality.
These goals are crucial in shaping the future of local governance and ensuring that municipalities are equipped to address the needs of all South Africans.
A Meaningful Policy for Ideal Municipalities:
The take-home note from the dialogue is that a policy with a meaningful purpose should be formalized to give South Africans ideal municipalities.
While the current White Paper is foundational, it is essential that all inputs are considered to create opportunities for all South Africans.
Mrs. Nabaska Arumugam, a long-serving and experienced Compliance Officer at Motheo Training Institute Trust, attended the event and contributed immensely to the discussions.
The Women and Youth Dialogue was a significant step towards empowering local governance and promoting collective action and by working together, we can create ideal municipalities that are responsive to community needs and drive social and economic development.
Motheo Training Institute Trust’s attendance and contribution to the dialogue underscore its commitment to promoting women empowerment and youth development.
