Challenges Associated with the Implementation of Local Economic Development in Polokwane Local Municipality, South Africa

Abstract

The paper seeks to probe the challenges associated with the implementation of local economic development (LED) in Polokwane Local Municipality. The authors argue that local government in South Africa is associated with a multiplicity of challenges in implementing the LED strategy. Local economic development as a development strategy has, in the recent past, gained widespread popularity and acceptance as a grassroots-based approach, especially in the developing world. Local economic development has increasingly emerged as a crucial policy imperative for local communities across the globe, including in South Africa. The emergence of LED is explained by various government policies. However, the implementation and success of LED have also not been championed by local municipalities. This is reflected by the ever-increasing unemployment and poverty rates, as well as low economic development in rural areas. The paper employed a qualitative research approach as it relies on empirical evidence from existing literature, journals and government documents to sustain the argument. The findings of the study include the following challenges: political meddling, shortage of resources, lack of capacity, limited experience, lack of funding for LED, political interference, poor political leadership, lack of efficient bureaucracy, corruption and Infrastructure availability. The study recommends that further research should be conducted in South Africa's local government to detect problems associated with LED. The study further recommends mechanisms that can be used to adequately address LED challenges.