Around 20 delegates attended the iLGM workshop and panel discussion on “Local Government:  Supply chain management challenges” recently.

AMEU Affiliate member, BOB WALLIS opened the presentations with an overview of the Local Government Supply Chain Management Challenges faced by large and medium size suppliers.

In his presentation Bob outlined some of the procurement principles as well as the present challenges faced in the supply chain. These challenges included the lack of technical expertise and experience, inter department conflict, unrealistic budgetary processes and over standardised tender processes. On the positive side Bob suggested that local government look at empowering their personnel by technically training them and holding them accountable. He also suggested that an emphasis be placed on the engineering and financial issues and avoid over complication.

iLGM president, DUDU MASEKO  said that although there are problems within Supply Chain Management  people in local government should look at the 80% of the good they do, but also try to improve on the 20% of the issues that need attention.

She added that the role of iLGM was to serve as a platform for City managers to share experiences about some of the challenges they face and possible solutions.

LINDI BESTER, of the Johannesburg Roads Agency delivered a presentation on “Service Delivery Issues that can be related to Local Government Supply Chain Management Practices”. She also added that a collective way of dealing with the lack of skills was needed.

SANDILE NGCOBO, who serves as a Board Member of the Supply Chain Association, spoke on the “Regulatory Reform of Local Government Supply Chain Management”. After the workshop Sandile commented that the necessary work has been done accordingly and there was now a guideline in place in managing procurement, but it was now a matter of implementation.

HILDA NDIWENI, also of Johannesburg Roads Agency delivered her presentation on “System Issues preventing payment of suppliers and possible Regulatory Changes to streamlines this process”. She said local government was capable of turning the negative perception of government around, but it had to come off the paper and put into practice. Concerning the skills shortage Hilda said: “We should start with ourselves. We must challenge ourselves”.

The workshop appointed a committee to form an iLGM stance on Municipal Procurement Practices, needs and legislation.