Initiating 'Developmental Local Government' in South Africa: Evolving Local Economic Development Policy

Local economic development policy and practice has evolved significantly in the post-apartheid era in South Africa. This article reviews recent local economic development policy and legal developments, particularly with respect to the enhanced development requirements and expectations being placed on local governments in that country. The factors encouraging this focus on 'development local government' are analysed, key policies and laws outlined, associated funding and planning strategies such as that of Integrated Development Planning are discussed and the overall process is critiqued. Quite clearly, significant and timely changes have been embarked on, but greater levels of support will clearly be needed by the smaller local authorities before widespread application of the new laws and policies can be anticipated.