Monitoring and Evaluation of Local Government Performance in South Africa: A Search for Effective Strategies

Abstract

Background: Public service delivery in South Africa is a crucial responsibility of the government to maintain and enhance the overall well-being of society. The inadequate monitoring and evaluation models of the municipal government result in poor public service delivery. This poor performance at the local government level is further exacerbated by the strong need for transparency and accountability in public service delivery.

Objective: This study assesses the monitoring and evaluation strategies for local government performance and analyses the effective models for monitoring and evaluation to enhance public service delivery in South Africa.

Method: This study is qualitative and utilised secondary sources as descriptive research design to assess the strategies and model of monitoring and evaluation in local government. The secondary data was sourced through, textbooks, journal articles, and internet sources, as well as data collected from the South African local government from 2012-2024.

Results: The study found that a strong monitoring and evaluation system is essential for improving the performance and enhancing the service delivery of local governments in South Africa. Municipalities should give priority to establishing and formalising efficient monitoring and evaluation methods and systems to promote long-lasting changes.

Conclusion: The study concludes that implementing a suitable monitoring and evaluation strategy and adopting the most effective model is essential for achieving efficient public service delivery, increased productivity, and enhanced overall performance.