Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has directed local authorities to minimise participation in non-essential workshops, conferences and similar events amid concerns that some organisations are targeting councils mainly for fundraising purposes.
In a memorandum, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works permanent secretary Dr John Basera said the move was aimed at ensuring that scarce resources are channelled towards efficient service delivery and operational priorities.
“It has been noted with concern that some institutions and entities are organizing workshops and conferences targeting local authorities primarily for their fundraising purposes,” said Dr Basera.
He said local authorities were currently facing challenges including depressed revenue collection, making it critical for available funds to be prioritised towards activities that directly improve service delivery.
“In this regard, local authorities are advised to minimize participation in non-essential workshops, conferences, and similar events that do not directly contribute to improved service delivery standards or our collective call to action,” said Dr Basera.
The permanent secretary warned local authorities against supporting arrangements by third-party entities that require the purchase of tables, payment of conference fees, accommodation costs and related expenses with little or no tangible value to residents.
“Accordingly, local authorities should not support or tolerate arrangements by third-party entities requiring the purchase of tables, payment of conference fees, accommodation costs, and related expenditures which offer limited or no tangible value to service delivery outcomes,” he said
The directive will remain in force until further notice.
