The City of Johannesburg convened its inaugural Integrated Development Plan (IDP) meeting with a focus on youth engagement on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Young individuals from various districts across Johannesburg’s seven regions congregated at the Roodepoort City Hall to directly interact with the city’s leadership.
The IDP, a comprehensive five-year blueprint outlining the city’s planning and budget allocation, serves as a framework for developmental initiatives. Annually, the city conducts IDP sessions to involve residents in decision-making processes concerning projects and programs within their communities.
Chairing the session was the Speaker of Council, Margaret Arnolds, who emphasised the significance of resident participation in shaping the draft IDP.
“Today is all about you; this IDP belongs to the community. It serves as a platform for engaging with residents on service delivery matters and presenting the draft IDP for your input,” remarked Cllr Arnolds.
Highlighting the interconnectedness of youth and the future, Cllr Arnolds underscored their inseparable relationship.
This year’s theme, “The People’s Plan – Our City, Joburg – A Place We Call Home”, sets the tone for community-driven development initiatives.
Presenting the draft IDP, Executive Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda outlined key challenges affecting the youth, including unemployment, crime, poverty, skills development, gender-based violence, school bullying, mental health, and limited access to business finance. He detailed the city’s interventions aimed at addressing these issues, encompassing skills development, poverty alleviation, youth advisory services, moral regeneration, and educational programs.
“Our objectives for this year’s IDP revolve around realising our vision of becoming a world-class African city. To achieve this, we aim to enhance quality of life, foster a resilient, sustainable urban environment, and promote an inclusive, job-intensive, competitive, and smart economy,” stated Gwamanda.
Following the mayor’s presentation, youth participants engaged with city leadership, raising concerns ranging from unemployment to safety, health facilities, and educational resources. City officials pledged to address these issues, with Arnolds reaffirming their commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in fulfilling promises made to residents.
“We will conduct oversight to ensure accountability, providing feedback to residents on achievements and areas needing improvement,”pledged Arnolds.
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