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model is significant in this study as it is better explained in terms ofagricultural land use, but
it is not limited to that land use. Although most Zululand area has poor soils, agriculture
remains one ofthe pillars ofpotential growth and development in Ulundi.
2.5 RESTRUCTURING LOCAL GOVERNMENT
This portion of the theoretical framework outlines the conceptual issues underlying political
fragmentation and regionalism in general. It also highlights some policy propositions and
alternatives to regionalism such as inter-municipal cooperation. The section also discusses
some ofthe concerns raised by these approaches. Exploring the developmental relevance of
regionalism and the alternative approaches in this study is important as it offers basis for best
developmental practices for the growth ofUlundi.
2.5.1 Regionalism
Tiebout (I956; www.government.cce.comell.eduldoc/summarv.asp?id=tieboutI956, 2008) in
his classic public choice theory puts forward a model for determining the optimum
expenditure level for public entities and goods. The theory suggests that there is a market of
local governments where mobile 'consumer citizens' 'shop around' for communities that best
fits their preferences. The competition among communities forces these communities to
choose public goods at the most efficient level.
Although regionalism is a way to combat urban inequality, Bollens (I997) criticizes current
models of regionalism, citing the difference between 'things regionalism' and 'people
regionalism'. Things regionalism is based on systems (transportation, water, etc.) and may
exacerbate inequality, while people regionalism is focused on community development in
place. Furthermore, Bollens (I997) advocates that alternative equity strategies to alleviate
inner city poverty and metropolitan segregation by way of people regionalism should be
advanced for improved life quality.
This research envisages more relevance in 'people regionalism' as a more suitable approach
to the development of Ulundi in the short run. This approach takes immediate cognisance of
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