Abstract:

Local governments in South Africa are responsible for the provision of basic services. There are countless benefits that come with e-Government platforms if they are properly implemented to help local governments deliver these basic services to citizens. This study investigates factors influencing the adoption and use of e-Government platforms by citizens in the North-West Province, South. The study is set against a background of significant change in South Africa where government services are electronically delivered. The outcome of the study revealed that: 1) local governments are starting to benefit from higher levels of adoption of e-Government platforms by citizens; 2) user-friendliness, access to information and 24-hour availability of e-Government platforms are some of the factors that motivates citizens to use and adopt e-Government platforms; 3) the municipalities have room on their e-Government platforms for dialogue on how best to improve service delivery; 4) the use of only English as the preferred language, lack of adequate ICT infrastructure and training have an impact on the use and adoption of e-Government platforms; 5) e-Government platforms are seen by many citizens as convenient means to promote access to information and public participation in local government.