Upcoming National Coordinators Forum Set to Empower Community Development Workers

The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) is preparing for the quarterly National Coordinators Forum (NCF), scheduled for September 12-13, 2024, at the Cape Town Civic Centre. This significant event aims to enhance the effectiveness of Community Development Workers (CDWs) across South Africa, ensuring they are better equipped to address community needs.

CDWs play a crucial role in service delivery, acting as vital links between government services and local communities. The NCF will gather key stakeholders, including provincial coordinators and representatives from various government departments, to discuss pressing issues related to community development and service delivery. The forum will focus on sharing best practices and strategies for overcoming challenges in service delivery, highlighting the indispensable contributions of CDWs.

The Deputy Director General for the Branch for Government Service Access Improvements (GSAI) at the DPSA, Mr. Willie Vukela, said the DPSA is dedicated to enhancing service delivery in communities through the Community Development Workers Programme (CDWP). This programme aims to bridge the gap between government and communities by deploying trained CDWs who facilitate access to government services, identify community needs, and support local development initiatives.

Ms. Julia Ndlovu, Director for Citizen Relations and Public Participation at the DPSA, will chair the forum. She stated, “The NCF provides a unique platform for open dialogue and collaboration, which is essential for tackling the complexities faced by our communities. Direct engagement allows us to learn from one another and implement effective solutions.”

The forum coincides with Integrated Public Service Month, themed “A Government That Works For You.” This alignment underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing service delivery and responsiveness to community needs. Ms. Ndlovu added, “As we celebrate Integrated Public Service Month, we must focus on how our efforts can directly benefit the communities we serve. This forum demonstrates our dedication to making government work effectively for all citizens.”

The agenda includes presentations on various topics, such as fostering relationships with the Department of Home Affairs and revitalizing the Batho Pele principles. Participants will also discuss the Water and Sanitation collaboration with CDWs, aimed at building capacity and enhancing service delivery.

The forum will not only address administrative aspects but will also spotlight successful projects initiated by CDWs in different provinces. This sharing of experiences is crucial for inspiring innovation and promoting community-driven solutions.

As the host province, the Western Cape will showcase its initiatives, highlighting the importance of localized approaches to community development. The two-day event will start with a project visit to local initiatives, allowing participants to witness firsthand the impact of CDWs’ work in the community.

The DPSA continues to advocate for the empowerment of the CDWP programme, recognizing their essential role in bridging gaps in service delivery. With the NCF approaching, there is a sense of anticipation among participants, who are eager to collaborate and drive positive change in their respective communities.