Addressing challenges that hinder Local Economic Development (LED) from improving the quality-of-life of uMgungundlovu District Municipality residents is what drives Dr Ayanda Makhaye.
As the Manager of Local Economic Development at uMngeni Municipality, Makhaye hopes that insights gained from the study entitled: Examining Stakeholder Perceptions on Local Economic Development and Implementation: A Case Study of uMgungundlovu District Municipality will make a substantial scholarly contribution to the field of public administration and local government.
‘My role involves facilitating economic development, which includes promoting business development support, investment attraction and retention, promoting tourism development and providing strategic planning and direction. This qualification enriches my understanding and capability to implement effective strategies for collaborative efforts in fostering sustainable development within the municipality,’ said Makhaye.
The study that was supervised by Professor Mogie Subban recommends the development of a framework to address the complex challenges, intricate relationships and varied perceptions between the municipality and its stakeholders. It contributes to the body of knowledge by proposing a comprehensive multi-stakeholder LED framework.
‘This research offers a thorough, substantiated basis for the strategic formulation, implementation, and evaluation of LED initiatives in various municipal contexts. It promotes understanding of how sustainable economic development can be advanced by local government in conjunction with various stakeholders in order to tackle the pressing economic and social issues confronting our nation,’ said Makhaye.
To enrich her doctoral studies, Makhaye participated in the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative which equips mayors and senior municipal officials to tackle complex challenges and improve the quality of life of their residents.
‘The focus of my study dovetailed with the Bloomberg programme’s collaboration track, which was both advantageous and demanding. The synergy between the practical application of my coursework and the real-world challenges addressed provided a rich, albeit rigorous, learning environment. The skills and insights gained through this unique convergence of theory and practice are invaluable, shaping a more nuanced understanding of effective leadership and collaboration in public administration and hence the important role of research. This not only reinforced my academic foundation but also added value to my role in the municipality.’
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Rajesh Jantilal