Communications & Public relations

MR V Mdletshe - Communications Manager

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS

The Public Relations and Communication division is new in the Umzinyathi District Municipality and has been established in order to improve the image of the Municipality both internally and externally. The main objectives of the division are to:

• Position Umzinyathi DM's programmes/services as the primary vehicle for co-ordination and integration in eradicating poverty and underdevelopment.

• Create awareness and foster understanding of the district municipality's operations

• Encourage public participation in the affairs of the municipality

• Encourage community ownership of the programmes run by the municipality

• Communicate progress and share insights into the impact of these programmes/services on the lives of the communities.

• Encourage and enhance the spirit of self-help and self-reliance.

The nature of communication is both proactive and reactive. Proactive communication includes the following:

• Identifying and acting on communication opportunities

• Releasing media statements prior to the event or foreseeable problems

• Researching, analysing, implementing and evaluating communication programmes

• Keeping abreast of developing trends and technology

Reactive communication includes the following:

• Reacting to negative media reporting

• Answering media queries

• Formulation and Implementing a crisis communication plan

Communication Functions Communication is a management function that ensures that the public receives information about Umzinyathi DM policies, functions and operations/services. It further ensures that the concerns of the public and stakeholders are taken into consideration. Information on specific programmes is communicated through media, in¬house publications e.g. A Newsletter, verbal communication, notice boards, memos, etc.

Corporate image and identity Corporate image and identity of the Umzinyathi DM is promoted through the use of official letterheads, logo/Coat of Arms, colours, typefaces and the display of professionalism

Publications

A staff newsletter is produced and circulated among all employees on a monthly basis. It carries staff matters ranging from birthdays, resignations, obituaries, promotions, marriages, new policies and so forth.

The main publication comes out quarterly and is the main communication tool between Umzinyathi and its various clients. Other publications include the budget and the summary ofIDP and Annual report, flyers, brochures, service commitment charter etc.

Communication Campaigns

A number of communication campaigns to communicate the municipality's functionality have been undertaken. This include days of national importance, water week celebrations, project launches, awareness campaigns, the Mayoral Projects, Mayor's Imbizos etc. Positive media coverage has been received. The Mayor has twice a month radio slots where he communicates municipal
programes on Ukhozi FM throughout the year.

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