Governance and compliance.

Governance and compliance are both key disciplines, and are the drivers behind service delivery. Common to both are laws and policies that enable robust internal controls which shape efficiency, effectiveness, and ethical behaviour.

On the surface, the differences between governance and compliance may seem nuanced but governance can be broad, encompassing the entire organisational practices. It is generally overseen by a board or Council that manages risk, among others. Compliance is narrower, focusing mostly on specific legal and regulatory processes and is typically managed by risk or compliance managers, or departmental managers where compliance is engrained.

The cost of poor governance and compliance can expose a municipality to significant legal and regulatory risks through the violation of laws or ethical standards, resulting in lawsuits, fines, sanctions, or investigations. It can also cause the loss of investor-, stakeholder-, client- and key supplier confidence, as well as losing talented employees. Ultimately, the real loser is the community.

The key to service delivery is solid governance and compliance coloured with innovation and effective implementation.

 

Dr Hugo Brand
Executive in the Municipal Manager’s Office.

Weskus Distrik was awarded its 14th consecutive clean audit by the Attorney General which speaks volumes for its processes, controls and discipline.

Weskus Distrik Municipality

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