Buthelezi Advocates for Mission-Oriented Innovation to Tackle Public Sector Challenges

Buthelezi highlighted the importance of aligning government efforts with a mission-oriented approach to achieve Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Public Service and Administration Minister, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, has called for a mission-oriented approach to addressing complex public sector challenges, moving away from outdated, siloed solutions. Speaking at the 18th CPSI Public Sector Innovation Conference in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on Wednesday, Buthelezi emphasized the need for diverse solutions to tackle the multifaceted issues facing government.

“The key term in this theme is 'mission', which therefore means that our efforts must transition from the outdated, siloed approaches that address singular problems with singular solutions. We must strive for a mission-oriented perspective that embraces complex challenges with a range of solutions,” Buthelezi stated in his keynote address.

The two-day conference, hosted by the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI) under the theme “Accelerating Transformation through Mission Oriented Innovation,” gathered 350 delegates, 60 system developers, and over 15 speakers. It aims to create an enabling environment for innovation within the government, exposing officials and strategic partners to international trends and discussions on public sector innovation's potential.

Buthelezi highlighted the importance of aligning government efforts with a mission-oriented approach to achieve Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He stressed the government's commitment to driving inclusive growth, job creation, and poverty reduction through a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

The Minister also emphasized the critical role of innovation in improving service delivery, calling for the end of isolated work within government departments. He advocated for collaboration across departments and with external partners to ensure uniform service quality and effective governance.

“Our mission is to align Cabinet with our department’s mission, driven by the CPSI, to accelerate transformation through innovation in the public sector. Innovation must start at home, beginning with the Department of Public Service and Administration,” Buthelezi said.

He urged for the acceleration and close monitoring of innovations to ensure that South Africans receive high-quality services from a government dedicated to solving complex challenges through integrated and collaborative efforts.