The Role of Leadership on Service Delivery in the South African Municipalities: A Case of Greater Giyani Local Municipality, Limpopo Province

Abstract

Leadership in the municipalities is entrusted with the responsibility of providing services to the public. These leaders possess certain characteristics that if effectively applied, may effectively meet the needs of the people. The paper aims to look into the role of leadership in municipal service delivery. The paper is grounded on Servant Leadership theory in which leaders have a desire to serve the need of others. To achieve the objectives of this paper, mixed method research approach were adopted. The findings reveals that municipal leaders play a role in facilitating service delivery. However, difficulties such as insufficient trainings, lack of understanding, compliance and lack of adherence to work ethics have been identified as factors that impede services. Municipal leaders should adhere to work ethics and procurement processes. The paper recommends the need to develop policies and strategies to enhance the role of leadership on service delivery in the municipalities.