​Staff Writer
In the dynamic environment of the 7th administration, the Gauteng Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) is leading efforts to create an effective cooperative governance system. This initiative aims to build sustainable municipalities, foster inclusive communities, and strengthen the institution of Traditional Leadership in Gauteng province. 
The department strongly emphasises the professionalisation of the public sector, guided by Constitutional values and the Batho Pele principles. These principles, including service standards, access, courtesy, openness, redress, and value for money, are not just slogans but actively embedded into the department's operational culture.
That is why, in May, the MEC for Infrastructure Development, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob Mamabolo, met with the Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner, Vusumuzi Mavuso. In the meeting, the MEC emphasised the importance of transparency and openness. Additionally, Commissioner Mavuso announced that Parliament has approved the Public Service Amendment Bill and will soon be referred to all nine provinces for consideration. The bill expands the PSC's mandate to include oversight of local government.
Municipalities remain at the forefront of service delivery. From energy to water security and economic resilience, COGTA's mission underscores the vital role of collaboration necessary for building thriving, successful municipalities. 
Last year, Gauteng COGTA held a Local Government Turnaround Summit to reinforce the importance of strong leadership, accountability, and collaborative efforts to turn Gauteng municipalities around and position them for long-term success. 
Attended by representatives of all 11 municipalities, National and provincial government departments, state-owned enterprises, local government experts and Traditional leaders, the summit, themed "Building Smart and Resilient Municipalities of the Future," addressed critical challenges, sought solutions, and outlined priority areas.   
The public servants who work at the coalface of service delivery are at the heart of this mandate. They are responsible for government services reaching communities, especially during times of crisis.
In line with building a capable and ethical state, the department has taken emphatic steps to invest in skills development, leadership training, and ethical governance. Capacity-building initiatives are regularly rolled out to upskill municipal workers, improve administrative competence, and strengthen accountability systems. Public servants are encouraged to lead by example, acting not only as administrators but also as change agents who reflect the values of transparency, accountability, and responsiveness.
These investments in public service were evident during recent disasters and public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent devastating floods that affected parts of the province. Municipal workers, including emergency personnel, stepped up in extraordinary ways. They ensured that vulnerable communities received food parcels, shelter, clean water, and access to healthcare, often working around the clock and at significant personal risk.
These frontline workers embodied Batho Pele's spirit by ensuring that services were delivered efficiently and with compassion and dignity. They demonstrated courtesy in the face of fear, openness in communication, and redress when systems fell short.
Public servants are not just functionaries – they are the bridge between policy and people, between government intention and community impact. Their ability to adapt, respond, and lead, especially in times of crisis, continues to drive transformation in service delivery.
The role of public servants will continue to grow in importance. With continued investment in ethical leadership, professional skills, and collaborative partnerships, they will remain the indispensable agents of change who bring government closer to the people, one service at a time.