Question

In terms of the government-wide M&E system guidelines have been developed for an assessment framework by specific instructions. What is the mandate of each of the following:
National treasury
Statistics SA
The Presidency
Department of Public Service and Administration
Office of the Premiers
Auditor-General SA

Answer 1

In South Africa, each of the entities you mentioned has a specific role and mandate in relation to the government-wide monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system. Here is an overview of the mandate of each:

### 1. **National Treasury**
The National Treasury is responsible for the financial management of the government, which includes the allocation of resources and budgeting processes. In terms of M&E, its mandate includes:
- Ensuring that departments and public entities comply with financial laws and regulations.
- Providing guidelines for performance budgeting and expenditure.
- Monitoring and evaluating fiscal performance against economic and development objectives.
- Facilitating the integration of M&E into budget planning and management processes.

### 2. **Statistics SA**
Statistics South Africa (Statistics SA) is the national statistical office responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating statistical information. Its mandate includes:
- Providing reliable statistical data to inform M&E processes.
- Conducting national surveys (e.g., census) to gather relevant data on demographics, economic status, and social conditions.
- Supporting evidence-based decision-making through the provision of accurate and timely statistics.
- Ensuring effective data management practices are in place to enhance the quality of information used for M&E.

### 3. **The Presidency**
The Presidency plays a central role in policy formulation and the overall governance framework of the country. Its mandate regarding M&E includes:
- Setting the national development agenda and priorities that guides M&E across government departments.
- Overseeing the implementation of national policies and programs and ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
- Promoting accountability and reporting mechanisms in government performance.
- Enhancing coordination among governmental bodies to ensure cohesive M&E practices.

### 4. **Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA)**
The DPSA is tasked with improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the public service. Its mandate in M&E includes:
- Developing policies and frameworks for M&E within the public service.
- Promoting best practices in performance management across government departments.
- Facilitating capacity building and training on M&E systems for public servants.
- Monitoring the implementation of M&E frameworks and policies to ensure effective service delivery.

### 5. **Office of the Premiers**
The Office of the Premiers is responsible for coordinating provincial government activities and ensuring alignment with national policies. Its M&E mandate includes:
- Providing oversight and support for provincial M&E frameworks and systems.
- Ensuring that provincial development initiatives are evaluated for effectiveness.
- Collaborating with various sectors to promote accountability, transparency, and reporting on performance.
- Facilitating communication and the sharing of M&E best practices among departments and within the province.

### 6. **Auditor-General SA**
The Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) is responsible for auditing the financial statements and performance reports of the public sector. Its mandate in relation to M&E includes:
- Conducting audits to assess the accuracy and reliability of public sector financial statements and performance information.
- Evaluating the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of government programs and projects.
- Reporting findings and recommendations to enhance accountability and improve service delivery in government entities.
- Ensuring that public resources are used effectively and in accordance with applicable legislation.

Together, these entities contribute to a comprehensive M&E framework that enhances accountability, improves service delivery, and supports the overall governance objectives of the South African government.