Abstract
M.A.
The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of the nature and problems of metropolitan service delivery in South Africa. The dissertation provided a broad overview of the nature of metropolitan local government and the external environment within which local government operates. It deals with the relationship between local and other spheres of Government, as well as with the legislation that creates, defines and regulates local government. The dissertation focuses on the functioning of the sphere of local government (within its constituent structures, namely municipalities) within given regulatory and structural parameters.
This enquiry is premised on the view that studying metropolitan government and administration in general, and in South Africa in particular, as well as specific factors that have a profound effect on such government-based structures should be taken into account.
In the light of the above argument, the overarching perspective this study was based on was that of a documentary and conceptual analysis using qualitative research methods to explore the specific requirements that are set for the service delivery needs of citizens within metropolitan municipalities. This study aimed to provide a conceptual framework gained from the literature in order to explain the issues, concerns and challenges surrounding metropolitan service delivery and its application in municipal settings. In conceptualising local governance and management, the study focused on unravelling the concept from the perspective of clarifying and enhancing the understanding of the phenomenon, as well as exploring the inputs that may influence effective and efficient metropolitan service delivery both positively and negatively.
Constant comparative data analysis methods were also used to search for recurring variables and themes. Due to the interdependence of all levels of Government, any discussion of constitutional mandates will inevitably touch on certain matters that will not only affect the other government levels in general, but also the total legislative and policy effort in particular.