OFFICIALS from municipalities around the country have gathered in Buffalo City for the South African Cities Network Knowledge Management Reference Group (KMRG), a two-day strategic session.

The group was established in 2004 to promote a shared-learning partnership between different spheres of government in support of good governance in cities.

The session kicks off today, and is aimed at introducing municipalities to the Knowledge Management Group; supporting the needs of knowledge management practitioners in cities; and consolidating the outcomes of the October meeting. Those gave new strategic direction that was reinforced by a partnership between the Cities Network and the South African Local Government Association.

Executive Mayor Zintle Peter, who is also the chairperson of the Cities Network, will open the meeting. Officials expected to attend include the organisation's chief executive, Sithole Mbanga; Buffalo City's municipal manager, Gaster Sharpley; and Shirlee Vasi, from the Eastern Cape Office of the Premier; among others.

The SA Cities Network is an established network of South African cities and partners that encourages the exchange of information, experience and best practices on urban development and city management.