The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) section is central to municipal operations as it cuts across various functions and processes and is therefore an important strategic partner. As a business enabler, it is paramount that the ICT evolves with the times and industry trends to ensure continuous support of business objectives in the new era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and beyond.

In line with the industry developments, the need to improve decision making processes and compliance with legislative requirements from the upper spheres of government, the municipality is in the final stages of implementing a SAP Enterprise Resource Planning Solution (ERP) earmarked to replace legacy and fragmented systems.

The ICT Section of uMhlathuze Municipality is divided into four sub-sections, namely;

• ICT Governance;

• ICT Service Delivery;

• ICT Infrastructure and Cyber Security, and;

• ICT Application Systems.

ICT GOVERNANCE

ICT Governance is responsible for supporting the Head of ICT in providing strategic direction to the ICT Section, to ensure that ICT goals are aligned with business objectives, compliance with legislation, risks are managed appropriately and the ICT resources are used appropriately. It also ensures proper planning and management of all ICT related projects for the City of uMhlathuze.

As part of good governance, the ICT section is required to develop and implement sound security policies to ensure adequate protection of Municipal information assets, including the systems and data.

The ICT Service Delivery sub-section is responsible for the establishment, management and maintenance of a functional and efficient ICT Service Desk and desktop environment and the provision of ICT support services to the end-users. Planning, installation, upgrade and relocation of end-user equipment including office automation fall within the scope of this sub-section. It is also responsible for the preparation and maintenance of the ICT Asset Register and other application collaboration suites.

ICT INFRASTRUCTURE

There are three focus areas of the ICT Infrastructure sub-section:

• Network Connectivity Infrastructure: entails planning, installation, configuration, support, maintenance and management of all voice and data network devices including access control and CCTV cameras. This sub-section is also responsible for cabling, including fibre and wireless radio network infrastructure.

• Server Infrastructure: including planning, installation, configuration, support, maintenance and management of all servers within the City of uMhlathuze, including backup, DRP (Disaster Recovery Plan) and ICT Service Continuity planning, implementation, testing, and maintenance.

• Cyber Security: This component ensures that the systems, networks and data are protected from digital attacks. It involves using technologies, processes and policies to safeguard individuals, organisations and their information from cyber threats. This is crucial for overall risk management.

ICT APPLICATION SYSTEMS

The ICT Application Systems is a newly established component of the ICT Section that is responsible for the analysis, design, development, implementation, the support and maintenance of the business systems, mainly the SAP ERP and other Financial Management Information Systems.

This sub-section provides day-to-day support of the financial systems processes, thereby indirectly positively contributing to efficient delivery of public services.