Vumelana Governance Award
Rewarding good governance practices by Communal Property Institutions
The Vumelana Governance Award rewards good governance practices by Communal Property Institutions.
Those Communal Property Associations and Trusts that demonstrate effective governance and administration, stand a chance to win a cash prize that can be used for further development and growth.
Since the launch of the Award in 2014, a total of R1.2 million of prize money has been awarded to seven communities.
How does Vumelana select the winners?
Vumelana annually invites applications for the Vumelana Governance Award from Communal Property Associations and Trusts that have benefitted from the Land Reform Programme. A shortlist review panel will review the applications and select a shortlist of applicants that will undergo further assessment by the independent assessor.
The independent assessor will conduct site visits each of the shortlisted applicants to verify the information provided in the application and will complete the CPI Needs Assessment Tool. Go to Support for Practitioners for more information on the tool.
The winners will be selected from this pool of shortlisted applicants in a final adjudication meeting.
The final adjudication panel will be chaired by an independent chairperson, who will also review the integrity of the process.
Why are good governance practices important?
Communal Property Institutions with the ability to govern and administer their affairs effectively, have the potential to contribute to economic development by creating jobs for its members and reducing poverty, ensure that the restored land retains its productivity, and increase their ability to attract commercial partners.
What is good governance for Communal Property Institutions?
If Communal Property Institutions are to be effective in administering its affairs for the benefit and well-being of their members, there are a number of broad areas in which it must function:
o Basic governance arrangements must be in place such as an up-to-date constitution and properly elected governing bodies and committees.
o Relationships with members must be systematically managed by having an up-to-date member register as well as policies for entry and exit, benefit distribution and dispute resolution.
o Day to day administration must be managed by establishing operating policies and acquiring the skills and other resources needed.
o Finances must be accounted for and independently audited. Clear reports must be made to members through annual general meetings and other means.
o The property belonging to the community must be registered and managed in accordance with policies agreed to by members.
What did winning the Award mean to the Maitjene Community Development Trust?
In 2015 the Maitjene Community Development Trust and the Marobala-O-Itsose Communal Property Association were awarded the first and second prizes.
To watch a short video on the Maitjene Community Development Trust prize giving ceremony, please click the link below.
Support the Vumelana Governance Awards
Vumelana Governance Awards had to be placed on hold due to financial constraints. We will resume the Awards once sponsors have been secured. This is an opportunity for companies that supports and wants to be associated with sustainable land reform.
Should you wish to support this initiative please click here.
