SALGA to convene Municipal Finance Path to Best Practice Conference

Posted: 19 February 2025

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) will host the Municipal Finance Path to Best Practice Conference on 20–21 February 2025 at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre O.R. Tambo, Johannesburg, Gauteng.

This two-day conference will bring together professionals, experts, and leaders in municipal finance to discuss key issues related to fiscal governance, institutional practices, and leadership within local government financial management.

Under the theme "Exploring Fiscal Governance, Institutional Practices, and Leadership in Municipal Finance", the conference is expected to attract around 300 delegates, including representatives from the National Treasury, the Department of Cooperative Governance, Centre for Municipal Asset Management (CMAM), academic institutions, the Auditor-General of South Africa, state-owned entities, and international stakeholders, among others.

According to Chairperson of SALGA's Municipal Finance and Fiscal Policy Working Group, Cllr Lesetja Dikgale, the conference will serve as a platform to explore best practices that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of municipal operations. This includes optimising resource allocation, minimising waste, and improving financial performance.

"Exposing both domestic and international best practices will foster transparent, accountable, and excellent municipal financial management. Institutional resilience is key, and best practices will help municipalities achieve long-term sustainability, focus on local economic development, and be better prepared for external fiscal shocks," says Cllr Dikgale.

Overregulation remains a challenge for local government, often increasing costs and limiting the ability of municipalities to serve their communities effectively. Aligning best practices with regulatory requirements and compliance standards is therefore essential.

SALGA's Portfolio Head for Municipal Finance, Lerato Phasha, says that the conference aims to build innovative, adaptive, resilient, and sustainable municipal institutions capable of navigating evolving fiscal trends and challenges.

"We aim to compare South African municipalities with counterparts in other African and international regions to explore and discuss best practices in municipal finance. The conference will facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration, and engagement with industry experts and thought leaders on global cutting-edge trends and developments," says Phasha.

The conference is expected to deliver key outcomes, including:

• A deeper understanding of best practices in fiscal governance, institutional practices, and leadership.
• Identification of practical strategies to strengthen financial management in municipalities.
• Establishing a network of professionals committed to driving excellence in municipal finance.