The South African Cities Network last week launched the State of the Cities Report that looks at the "good, bad and ugly" of South Africa's nine major cities, according to chairperson Andrew Boraine.

South African Cities and HIV/AIDS: Challenges and Responses" is the result of a study commissioned by SACN on responses to HIV/AIDS by South African metropolitan municipalities. The publication contains information on the current initiatives taken by municipalities.

A ground-breaking agreement signed by the City of Johannesburg's health department and five private medical practitioner groups means that they will work together to deliver community services and cut costs for those without medical aid.

Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang has expressed satisfaction that "misconceptions" regarding funds from the Global Fund to fight AIDS, TB and Malaria have been clarified.

Cape Town has unveiled a road map for energy development and management to help the city meet growing energy needs, thus contributing to sustainable development.

Cape Town Executive Mayor Nomaindia Mfeketo unveiled a massive 2004/05 budget, setting the city on a path to sustainability, prosperity and long-term success over the next financial year.

eThekwini Mayor Obed Mlaba sounded a warning to the city's arrears defaulters, saying the increase in outstanding debt is reaching alarming proportions. Presenting the municipality's budget in Durban, Mlaba said the budget has grown to R10,849 billion, comprising a R2,293 billion capital spending and R8,556 billion operating expenditure.

The government has finalised guidelines for the implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), while Provincial and Local Government Minister Sydney Mufamadi said in Parliament that the success of the initiative would depend on the partnership between government, labour, business and civil society.

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