A six-step framework for participatory communication and institutionalised participation in South Africa’s municipal IDP processes

Abstract

Institutionalised participation in South Africa’s local government is a process that compels municipal officials to fulfil specific legislative imperatives, such as the coordination of all resources and the development of Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and budgets, to ensure effective service delivery. However, for participation to be genuine and active, should it not be approached as an end in itself and not a means to achieve pre-defined imperatives? As an answer to this question, this article proposes a participatory communication framework to facilitate institutionalised participation, thereby theoretically reconceptualising participation, dialogue, and empowerment from Freirean and Habermasian perspectives.