​"People participation" lies at the heart of the work of the department of public liaison, recognising that communication between the government and its citizens is a critical element in building and entrenching democracy. It is based on the assumption is that if people are informed, they will participate meaningfully in shaping and driving the growth and development of the country. It is therefore crucial that the various policies and strategies of the state are communicated to all levels and sectors of society.

For the department of public liaison, key objectives include:

• Building the image of a world-class African city;
  
• Enhancing citizen engagement, participation and commitment to the City;
  
• Deepening democracy; and
  
• Entrenching good governance through transparency and accountability. 

Each of the department's directorates is responsible for an aspect of the City's public image.

Communications and Marketing
This directorate is responsible for managing the image of the City, liaising between City departments and municipal-owned enterprises, and for public relations.

It manages media relations; issues press statements on behalf of the City on key issues, such as World Aids Day; organises information packages about the City on major events, such as the formal opening of the council each year; and helps with the various mayoral roadshows. It also manages the executive mayor's and members of mayoral committee media interactions.