Proposing a framework for enhancing good governance in the Limpopo Provincial Government: the case of the Department of Health and Education

Abstract

The aim of the research was to propose a framework for improving good governance within the Limpopo Provincial Government, specifically, in the Health and Education Departments. The investigation aimed to assess whether the existing policy framework supports good governance and is advantageous for government institutions, by strengthening the public administration ethos and advocating for best practices, to create a state that is effective, efficient, accountable, and transparent. The Office of the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA), in its national and provincial audit report for the 2021/2022 financial year, expressed concern over the high levels of corruption within the South African government. Additionally, the AGSA highlighted issues of ineffective governance and incompetence within the Limpopo Departments of Health and Education, which continue to receive qualified audit opinions and clearly show evidence of fruitless and irregular expenditure; consequently, the researcher chose these two departments as case studies. Financial challenges in government continue to be a concern, post the attainment of democracy in 1994. During the 2023 budget speech for Vote 5, the former MEC for the Provincial Treasury in Limpopo, Honourable Seaparo Sekoati, confirmed that both the Health and Education departments had received qualified audits for the 2021/2022 financial year. The research utilised a case study research design as its chosen methodology, hence, in the case study framework organised and structured the processes involved in data collection. This research employed a qualitative research approach, this approach proved effective as it enhanced understanding through an informative and naturalistic exploration of the topic under investigation. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to recruit individuals who can provide valuable insights necessary for the analysis and interpretation of data in this study. Purposive sampling intentionally selects individuals, groups, and organizations to provide critical information that might not be available from participants selected from other sampling methods. The study noted the non-adherence to the law, ineffective security systems in vetting of government employees, poor planning and coordination as well as lack of district and management support to be key factors that affects the state of governance in both the departments. vi The study recommends that the Limpopo provincial government should draft a provincial policy that prevents the interference of the Premier, MECs, Director-Generals and HODs on programmes that do not require their personal participation, such as supply chain management processes, project management, and audit steering committees. The study also recommends that the upgrading of the security vetting system should be enhanced to detect any irregularities, such as fake qualifications, criminal records or dismissal records in respect of officials within the public service. Furthermore, the study also recommends that the two departments, Health and Education, need to consult with various stakeholders, such as the Department of Public Service and Administration and the National Treasury on whether, the Performance Management Policy can be amended to ensure that any employee who does not achieve his/her Key Performance Targets in the responsibilities assigned to him or her should be made to account to the employer. This will assist in addressing challenge of non-implementation of the departmental policies and other key legislations that seek to enhance good governance by intensifying service delivery in communities. This research is unique as it aims not only to articulate challenges to good governance but to also suggest a Framework that would enhance good governance in the public service with reference to the Limpopo provincial government.