Implementation of Policy on Geographical Names Change in Mogale City
Date
2011-11-10
Authors
Molotsi, William Setempe
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Abstract
South Africa has faced the challenge of policy implementation since the
dawn of democracy. Other steps in the policy cycle are not as challenged
as implementation. This study researched the implementation of policy on
geographical names change using Mogale City as a case study. The aim
was to understand and to examine the factors leading to challenges in the
implementation of policy on geographical names change. Qualitative
research methodology, with convenience sampling of participants for
interviews were selected by the researcher as the appropriate methods for
examining the implementation of this policy.
Successful policy implementation depends on institutions that have welldefined
roles with the necessary authority and capacity to carry out their
mandate. These institutions should be resourced to manage daily
activities. The study noted that lack of resources affect policy
implementation. In addition, successful public policy implementation
requires involvement of the communities especially the affected ones. The
more the public is involved, the easier it is for the policies to be
implemented without protests or any other form of disagreement which will
affect policy implementation.
Finally, the study found that implementation of policy on geographical
names change is not implemented successfully. The study also found that
this policy faces implementation challenges because it is left to chance.
Lack of monitoring and evaluation processes, incapacity and a laissezfaire
attitude of some government institutions responsible for implementing
this policy are some of the factors responsible for the state of
implementation of this policy. The study further found that politics
dominate the implementation of this policy; in some instances this leads to
the prescribed procedures for geographical names change being
i
disregarded, thus affecting successful implementation of the policy. These
and other findings are presented in chapter four, analyzed in detail in
chapter five and recommendations are given in chapter six.
Description
MM thesis - P&DM
Keywords
Place name changes, South Africa, Geographical name changes, South Africa