Leaving no one behind in a participative integrated development planning process in South Africa

The purpose of this study is to explore the IDP process for improved public participation and thereafter assess barriers design implementation IDP. was developed improve strategic planning ensure that no one left behind at grassroots. This done by promoting in municipal affairs. Many South African municipalities have been struggling use participation. A mixed-methods approach investigate participative barriers, using Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM) as a case adopted. methodology included 400 respondents who were chosen through probability sampling technique probed complete online survey closed-ended questionnaire guide, 10 also non-probability face-to-face interviewed semi-structured interview guide. key results revealed poor exists area due lack encouragement from responsible authorities. hinder effective process, such protests, working silos, institutional resources address competing needs communities, transparency, accountability, consultation. Lastly, oversight municipality adoption e-participation has discovered barrier during COVID-19 pandemic. concludes providing few recommendations enhance process. GTM should all times uphold democratic principles ensuring active participation, accountability municipalities, especially GTM, develop innovative organizational skills make better their resources, solve socioeconomic service delivery.