The role of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in implementing the National Development Plan (NDP): a case of Thulamela Local Municipality

This research investigated the function of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in conducting the National Development Plan (NDP) within Thulamela Local Municipality. It aimed to analyse how the IDP converts national development goals into local actions, pinpoint barriers to effective alignment, evaluate the extent of alignment between IDP priorities and the NDP, and suggest methods to improve integration. A qualitative research methodology was used, incorporating semi-structured interviews with municipal officials, council members, and community stakeholders to obtain detailed insights into planning processes and local development activities. The reason why this study adopted a qualitative research approach is that it facilitated a comprehensive examination of the experiences, viewpoints, and insights of municipal officials, councillors, and community members concerning the role of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) in executing the National Development Plan (NDP). The information gathered was examined using thematic analysis, which is a structured approach for identifying, organising, and interpreting patterns or themes within qualitative data. Thematic analysis provided a systematic method for analysing the data and helped the researcher to understand the key challenges, successes, and areas for improvement in the implementation of the National Development Plan through the Integrated Development Plan at the local government level. Participant responses were transcribed, assessed, and categorised based on recurring subjects and concepts relevant to the study's goals. Significant themes, including the alignment of the IDP with NDP objectives, institutional obstacles, community involvement, and intergovernmental collaboration, were identified and analysed to give a thorough understanding of how national development priorities are converted into practical local initiatives. This approach enabled the researcher to formulate meaningful conclusions and produce actionable recommendations based on the views of the participants. In conclusion, thematic analysis provided a systematic method for analysing the data and helped the researcher to understand the key challenges, successes, and areas for improvement in the implementation of the National Development Plan through the Integrated Development Plan at the local government level. Thulamela Local Municipality uses the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) as the primary mechanism to implement the National Development Plan (NDP) at the local level. The implementation of the NDP through the IDP in Thulamela Local Municipality is hindered by several financial constraints, limited institutional capacity, poor coordination among departments, weak monitoring and evaluation systems, and low levels of community participation. Thulamela Local Municipality should align its Integrated Development Plan (IDP) with the National Development Plan (NDP) by improving coordination with national and provincial government departments, enhancing staff training, and encouraging greater community participation in planning processes. The study also recommends that Thulamela Local Municipality should regularly review and update its IDP objectives to ensure continuous alignment with NDP priorities such as job creation, poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and social services.

Author dc:creator

• Nemakhavhani, Hanedzani

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Takalani, H. H.
• Lavhelani, N. P.

• Integrated Development Plan
• National Development Plan
• Local government
• Service delivery
• Implementation
• UCTD

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/11602/3383

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:11602/3383