The Executive Mayor of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality ( Councillor Nikiwe Julia Num) serves as the political head of the district council. Governed by South African municipal legislation, the Executive Mayor is responsible for providing political leadership, directing service delivery, and overseeing the strategic management of the district's municipalities.
Key statutory functions and responsibilities include:
1. Executive and Strategic Leadership
• Identify and Prioritize Needs: Assess the socio-economic and infrastructural needs of the district and prioritize them to guide municipal planning.
• Integrated Development Planning (IDP): Drive the development and review of the district's IDP, which serves as the primary strategic blueprint for the municipality's annual budget and development goals.
• Service Delivery Oversight: Recommend the best strategies, programs, and service delivery methods to ensure the maximum benefit for the district's communities.
2. Council and Committee Management
• Appoint Mayoral Committee: Choose members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs) to assist in executing executive powers.
• Chair Committee Meetings: Preside over meetings of the Executive Mayoral Committee, ensuring decisions align with council policies and legal mandates.
• Oversee Administration: Exercise overall general supervision and control over the administration, programs, and projects of the municipality.
3. Financial Oversight and Governance
• Budget Proposals: Oversee the preparation of the annual budget and submit it to the Municipal Council for approval.
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor the performance of the municipal administration against set key performance indicators (KPIs) and service delivery targets.
• Municipal Manager Accountability: The Municipal Manager and department heads report directly to the Executive Mayor, who oversees their performance and accountability to the council.
4. Intergovernmental Relations and Public Participation
• District Coordination: Align the strategies of the three local municipalities within the district—JB Marks, City of Matlosana, and Maquassi Hills—for cohesive regional development.
• Public Engagement: Facilitate public participation and community consultation regarding municipal programs, budgets, and the IDP.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Represent the district municipality at provincial and national intergovernmental forums and lead regional initiatives (e.g., District Command Councils).
