The Strategic Planning & Governance Department, led by Director Mr. Luyanda Sovasi, is instrumental in guiding the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) toward achieving its service delivery and developmental objectives. Operating from the head office in East London, with support extended to local municipalities within ADM’s jurisdiction, the department ensures strategic alignment, robust information systems, and effective governance. It is structured into four specialized units—Information Management, Municipal Support, Communication & Customer Care, and Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation—each managed by Unit Managers to deliver high-quality services that support ADM’s mission of excellence and community engagement.
The department operates within a framework of relevant legislation, including the Municipal Systems Act, Municipal Structures Act, and other governance-related regulations. Its primary objectives include facilitating the development and implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP), managing performance information, overseeing information systems and IT infrastructure, providing municipal support to Category B municipalities, and coordinating risk management to ensure operational efficiency and compliance.
The Information Management Unit is dedicated to providing robust information systems and technologies to support ADM’s service delivery targets. It ensures seamless connectivity for ADM users by prioritizing security, availability, and high performance. The unit supports and maintains systems used across ADM departments, ensures integration of platforms, and delivers IT services aligned with industry best practices and government procedures, enhancing service delivery to communities.
The Municipal Support Unit focuses on rendering comprehensive support to local municipalities within ADM’s jurisdiction. It provides assistance in financial management, corporate services, land and human settlement matters, and technical engineering support. Additionally, the unit administers the Planning and Implementation Management Support Systems (PIMSS) and addresses IT needs, ensuring local municipalities are equipped to meet their service delivery mandates effectively.
The Communication & Customer Care Unit fosters a two-way flow of information between ADM and its communities, promoting ADM’s programs as outlined in its IDP and budget. It informs management of community perceptions, needs, and attitudes while developing communication strategies and policies. The unit manages crisis communications, media liaison, public participation, customer care, and marketing efforts to position ADM as a tourism, heritage, and investment destination. It also oversees website development and provides communication support to ADM departments, local municipalities, and other government spheres.
The Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation Unit drives the development and implementation of ADM’s Integrated Development Plan and Performance Management System. It coordinates the review of the IDP, Performance Management Framework, Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP), and Annual Report. The unit ensures alignment between the IDP, budget, and SDBIP, facilitates vertical and horizontal development planning, and conducts quarterly and annual performance evaluations to ensure compliance with legal requirements and enhance service delivery outcomes.
The Strategic Planning & Governance Department collaborates closely with all ADM departments to align strategic objectives and supports local municipalities to strengthen service delivery. Externally, it engages stakeholders such as the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), sector departments, and local communities to ensure effective communication and coordination. Through these efforts, the department upholds a professional, efficient, and community-focused approach, driving ADM’s commitment to sustainable development and excellence in governance.