When government fails, who helps citizens get answers? How South Africa’s community developers bridge the gap
Originally published by The Conversation – Articles (AFRICA) — Read the original article →
South Africans – like many citizens across the world – don’t experience their government as a single entity.
Responsibility for water, housing, social grants, clinics and waste collection is distributed across different spheres, departments, municipalities and public offices. A resident can know exactly what has gone wrong without knowing who has the authority to fix it, where to report it or what to do when nobody responds.
In these situations, the role of community developers can be crucial. They help residents organise, understand government procedures and raise concerns with the relevant authorities. Their work is recognised internationally through community development practice standards.
