A strong state is built on the pillars of accountability, resilience, and innovation with the view to ensure that the needs of all citizens are met, says Public Service and Administration Minister, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi.
Speaking at the strong Nations for Africa Fellowship Programme at the North-West University (NWU) recently, Minister Buthelezi said South Africa has embarked on a journey towards becoming a strong nation, evolving through dedicated reforms and strategic initiatives.
“Our commitment as government, in building a capable state is reflected in our efforts to improve cooperative governance, foster innovation, and strengthen our institutions.
“A strong state is characterised by transparent governance, inclusive policies, efficiency, and effective public services.
“It is built on the pillars of accountability, resilience, and innovation, thus ensuring that the needs of all citizens are met.”
The fellowship programme is anchored in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063, as both frameworks advocate for building a capable state with robust institutions, which are essential for the prosperity of all nations.
According to the Minister, the programme curriculum was designed based on Chandler Institute for Governance’ Strong Nations Blueprint, which provides government leaders with a framework to build nations that are wise, prosperous, and unified.
Inkosi Buthelezi told delegates that the collective attempts in building state capacity for the African continent and the entire African Diaspora by investing in the development of public sector leaders is a clear demonstration of laying the foundation for sustainable progress and enhancing ability to tackle future challenges with confidence and competence.
“If our public sector leaders are empowered through knowledge, skills and innovation, the entire public service will benefit from their growth and development.
“This means that frontline services which serve all our people can and will become better. This aptly speaks to the importance of upskilling, reskilling, and building people,” he said.
Minister Buthelezi also used the platform to share the DPSA’s efforts and rationale of prioritising transparency and accountability across the public service through various policy reforms.
“Through this we are ensuring that our government and our public servants operate with integrity, honesty and truly serve in the best interests of our people.
“I am looking forward to the outcome of this year’s fellowship cohort as it is going to be of significance in influencing the various sectors which make up the public service,” he said.
He further assured delegates that their knowledge, skills and innovative ideas and solutions they will be gaining from the fellowship, will find expression his department’s programmes.
Minister Buthelezi also announced that over the current medium-term, government, and particularly the DPSA, will be investing heavily in technological advancements that will enhance public service delivery and make government services more accessible and efficient.
“Innovation is at the heart of our strategy as government in driving economic growth and creating opportunities for all. innovation will be key in driving reforms within the public service of our country.
“In our efforts to build a resilient economy, which is supported by investing in infrastructure and sustainable practices – we are laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity.
“As delegates of this fellowship programme, try to avoid the types of solutions which may appear “nice on paper” but are a nightmare to implement – let alone find any buy-in from the very people it was designed to serve,” he said.
