Senior officials from Zambia’s Cabinet Office Management Development Division recently visited South Africa for a five-day study tour designed to enhance their expertise in public financial management and administration. Held from November 11-15, 2024, the programme was hosted by the Government Technical Advisory Centre (GTAC). The visit fostered knowledge-sharing and collaboration, focusing on strategic planning, compliance, knowledge management, and public financial reforms.
The delegation began their visit at the National Treasury, where GTAC’s leadership introduced them to the centre’s mandate, compliance frameworks, and innovative resourcing models. Presentations by GTAC staff, including Precious Thwala and Siya Sasayi, showcased strategic planning and monitoring frameworks critical to effective governance. A session on knowledge management, led by a multidisciplinary team, emphasised the importance of leveraging institutional knowledge to improve operational efficiency.
Midweek, the programme focused on Public Expenditure and Policy Analysis (PEPA) and the role of big data in conducting spending reviews. Delegates explored fiscal architecture in local governance, gaining valuable insights into efficient resource allocation. A field trip to Merafong Municipality in Carletonville allowed participants to observe these practices in action, offering a hands-on perspective.
On the fourth day, GTAC’s Institutional Development Support (IDS) unit led discussions on institutional strengthening methodologies. Case studies on public financial management and organisational development provided actionable insights. The day concluded with a networking session aimed at fostering collaboration between Zambian and South African officials.
The visit culminated in sessions on transaction advisory services and public-private partnerships (PPPs), with a particular focus on capital project appraisals. Delegates received a comprehensive overview of GTAC’s multifaceted role in supporting public sector development.
Reflecting on the visit, both delegations expressed optimism for future engagements to drive public sector excellence across the continent.
“This collaboration showcases what is unique about GTAC. We have immense institutional knowledge and expertise that is valuable in helping not just South African government departments but governments across the continent to develop their expertise to drive meaningful reform in public finance and administration to enhance service delivery. It was a pleasure to share some of our approaches with the Zambian delegation, and we look forward to collaborating further,” said Elaine Venter, GTAC Chief Director: Strategy, Management, and Communications.
This successful exchange underscores the importance of cross-border collaboration in building a stronger, more efficient public sector in Africa.