The Mpumalanga Provincial Government is ushering in a new era with regards to its structural composition and coordination of service delivery. As of April 01, the newly merged CoGHSTA officially comes into effect. This follows a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa late last year, dissolving the Department of Human Settlements and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in the province.
The formation of CoGHSTA is a strategic move aimed at enhancing efficiency, integration and accountability regarding delivery of essential services. The new department will ensure a more unified approach in municipal governance, housing development and support of traditional institutions.
By consolidating these functions, the government seeks to more effectively address service delivery challenges, strengthen municipalities and provide coherent and sustainable human settlements.
The MEC for CoGHSTAProvincial departments merge Speedy Mashilo, welcomed the transition, emphasising the long-term benefits of this integrated approach. “This merger is about creating a more effective and responsive government. By aligning our governance, housing and traditional affairs functions, we are streamlining efforts to improve municipal oversight, accelerate housing delivery and strengthen partnerships with traditional leadership. The ultimate goal is to bring services closer to the people and ensure greater accountability and impact,” said Mashilo.
Acting Head of the Department, Sam Ngubane, assured stakeholders that the transition had been carefully planned to ensure seamless service delivery. “We are fully prepared for this transition. Our teams have been working tirelessly to integrate systems, align structures and ensure service delivery remains uninterrupted. CoGHSTA will be a key driver of municipal stability, improved housing programmes and strengthened traditional leadership engagement,” said Ngubane.
The provincial government is confident that CoGHSTA will provide a cohesive, people-centred approach to governance, ensuring that municipalities operate efficiently, housing projects are fast-tracked, and traditional institutions continue to play a vital role in community development.
