Local Government of South Africa

Ministry: Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs

Association: South African Local Government Association

There are three spheres of government in the Republic South Africa: central, provincial and local, as provided for by the constitution. Each of the nine provinces has its own elected legislature.

Provincial and local government are provided for by many Acts, and enshrined in the constitution. The Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs is responsible for both provincial and local government.

Local government comprises eight metropolitan municipalities and 44 two-tier district municipalities, with 228 local municipalities in the second tier. Provincial and local elections are held every five years.

The provincial and local authorities have revenue-raising powers, as well as receiving grants from national government. The local authorities are responsible for a broad range of local services such as public health; waste management; utilities; and transport. Partnerships between municipalities and councils are quite usual.