We are pleased to announce that the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) had advised on the 22nd of November 2013 that its board had recognised the Institute for Local Government Management of South Africa as a Professional Body for the purposes of the National Qualifications Framework Act 67 of 2008.

The SAQA board has also approved a new professional designation namely “Accredited Municipal Manager” abbreviated as AMM.

The qualification relates directly to competencies outlined in the new competency profiles for municipal managers, established by the national Department of Cooperative Governance, in terms of the Amended Municipal Systems Act.

The broader process involves an initiative of the Department of Cooperative Governance to professionalise the management of local government.

Historically municipal management was recognised as a profession in terms of an act of parliament. That legislation was, however, repealed in the 1990s.

As the chief executive officer of a municipality, the municipal manager has a key role in ensuring that the municipality functions effectively.  The municipal or metro structure is often the largest and most complex enterprise in its geographical area, requiring top notch management skills.