Public service delivery improvement continues to be a challenge that requires the commitment of all public servants to work towards, not only meeting government's objectives but also satisfying the aspirations of members of the public for access to quality services and a better life for all. Nothing should justify our failure to respond to these expectations, as they are legitimate and noble.

For this to happen, even within the context of limited resources at the disposal of government, everyone serving in the public service, needs to do so with a high degree of commitment and a sense of duty. In this I am not asking public servants to do something different from their normal work, but to do their normal work differently through living the Batho Pele principles and the new belief set of "We belong, We care, We serve".

The Department of Public Service and Administration has developed several good practice guidelines on how to actualise Batho Pele. It is however important to note that the public service will not be judged by the number of guidelines we develop but by the extent to which these enabling tools are implemented to bring about the desired impact.

This website, dedicated entirely to Batho Pele, presents yet another opportunity to all our people not only to read the contents thereof but also raise issues, concerns etc. that will help in among others, the improvement of policy. This is also an effort to assist departments and all interested stakeholders to access as much service delivery information as easy and as comprehensive as possible.

I therefore trust that this facility will be utilised purposefully and effectively to ultimately marshall all our efforts towards ensuring a successful "people's contract for a better South Africa".

Geraldine J. Fraser-Moleketi
Minister for Public Service and Administration