The Department
of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs(COGHSTA), the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), and the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) launched the Northern Cape Local Government Communicators Forum (LGCF) in Upington, in the Dawid Kruiper Local Municipality (ZF Mgcawu District) from 25 to 26 July 2024. The LGCF is aimed at strengthening and supporting the local government communication system across the Northern Cape Province. In his message of support, MEC Bentley Vass said communication ought to be used as a tool to inform, influence, and meet the expectations of those whom are served by government and most importantly, to build trust. Establishing trust will encourage our communities to be more engaged and active participants in their communities, he said.
Vass encouraged communicators in local government to collaborate with councillors to ensure that the interface between municipalities and residents is strengthened. He said councillors can provide insights into community interests, and communicators may rely on them to relay necessary information to the public. This collaboration significantly influences how society perceives local government in particular and government in general. Vass reiterated, "I cannot stress enough how communication is crucial for establishing trust in the government. Transparency is essential for building trust, and effective communication is the key to achieving this."The launch was attended by local government communicators from across the Northern Cape Province and other representatives from the media sector.
