Challenges in the planning and implementation of government strategy by government departments :a case study of the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges in the planning and implementation of government strategy by government departments: A case study of the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism. The need for this study was considered relevant and necessary as government departments face challenges in the planning and implementation of government strategy. Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, as a case study, face challenges in fulfilling some of its mandate. In terms of its strategic plan, the department seeks to address issues relating to economic growth, the promotion and development of tourism, and using environmental management to guide and monitor sustainable development in the province. These challenges have negative implications in the delivery of services to the communities. The ability of the Department to effectively implement the excellent environmental and economic legislation, at the same time the management of growth of tourism in the country remains a challenge. Although the strategic plans are elaborated, they have not been translated into concrete and concerted actions to meet the needs of the citizenry. In this study, the researcher investigated the following: demographic profile of respondents, challenges in the planning process, challenges in the implementation process, the impact of planning and implementation of the strategy on service delivery and lastly the disconnection between planning and implementation of the strategy. Data was analysed into themes and revealed communication, training, interpretation of relevant prescripts, limited resources/proper allocation of resources and effective participation of relevant stakeholders as, amongst others challenges to the process. The study concluded by providing recommendations to management of the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism on how to enhance planning and implementation of government of strategy. Some of the recommendations proposed are improved communications with stakeholders, proper allocation of resources, empowerment of employees, effective time management, discipline and responsibility and encouragement of a culture of change.