Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Job Creation Strategies within Makhado Local Municipality

Description

Page: 542-548

Mbedzi Langanani¹ and Lavhelani Phathutshedzo David² (Department of Public and Development Administration, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa¹ and Department of Applied Management, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa²)

This manuscript evaluates the effectiveness of job creation strategies implemented within Makhado Local Municipality. The municipality, located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, faces high unemployment and economic challenges. This evaluation examines key strategies aimed at job creation, such as infrastructure development, skills development, and the promotion of local entrepreneurship. The study assesses the success of these strategies in terms of employment rates, sustainable job creation, and overall Local Economic Development (LED). The study used a mixed-method approach. Interviewed respondents were (10), and questionnaires were distributed to the respondents (120) in this study. Mayor, Ward Council, Human Resources Officials, Integrated Development Plan Officials, LED officials, Business Owners, Finance Officials, NYDA, Members of the youth forum, and selected graduates who reside in MLM. The total number of respondents was 130. Findings reflect that many job creation initiatives within Makhado Local Municipality have not significantly reduced unemployment due to inadequate funding, lack of skilled labour, and weak public-private partnerships. The study recommended that the municipality conduct regular community forums, provide accessible training programs, and improve transparency in decision-making to ensure more active participation in job creation strategies. The manuscript concludes by identifying gaps in the current strategies and offering recommendations for improvement.