The use of public participatory communication channels for effective interaction with communities in Mahikeng local municipality

Abstract

This is a study that sought to understand the way in which government entities communicate with regards to the service delivery in this case in the context of local governments. The aim of the study sought to explore the way in which public participatory communication channels were used and to what extend were effective with communities in the Mahikeng Local Municipality. The study was guided by three objectives which were: examination of the extent to which public participatory communication channels were used, assessing the effectiveness of the channels used in the context of service delivery and proposing effective communication and efficient communication channels for the motive of improving service delivery. The aim of the study was to explore the use of public participatory communication channels for effective interaction with communities in Mahikeng local municipality. The study used a mixed research methodology in undertaking its aims and objectives. Due to the methodology data was collected through face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. The study was premised on the participatory communication theory which understands communication in the context of local government and public participation through the lenses of participatory communication theory. Participatory communication theory is one the relatively young theories to emerge in the field of communication and require the buy-in of the public in the decision-making processes. The study established that service delivery is a challenging issue in the context of South African local government and the use of effective communication processes can greatly enhance the provision of quality services to the residents of municipalities. This study has established that community engagements undertaken by the local municipality are not being effective as the needs and contributions of the public are not seriously being taken into consideration. There is increasing fatigue of the public to take part in municipal engagements as there is a feeling that they are just a charade earmarked to just be public relations opportunities for politicians. The study concluded by stating that there is the need for political willingness to abide by the spirit of democracy and Ubuntu which are the cornerstone of this country. Communication systems should be designed and undertaken in a manner that

provides opportunities for two-way interactions and the views of the public being seriously taken into consideration.