PREMIER NDLOVU CONVENES EXCO AND PCF TO ADDRESS SERVICE DELIVERY ISSUES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Mbombela, March 27, 2025 – Premier Mandla Ndlovu convened the Executive Council (EXCO) and the Premier’s Coordinating Forum (PCF) at the Ehlanzeni District Council Chamber to enhance coordination between government structures and address service delivery issues. The discussions focused on infrastructure projects, investment initiatives, municipal audit outcomes, local government functionality, and regulatory compliance.

INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Since the establishment of the 7th administration, Premier Ndlovu has prioritized inclusive growth, job creation, and infrastructure development. The EXCO session acknowledged significant progress in provincial infrastructure projects, which aim to improve education, healthcare, and economic growth.

Challenges such as labor strikes, vandalism, and adverse weather conditions were identified as causes of project delays. To mitigate these issues, Premier Ndlovu announced plans to personally visit construction sites, accompanied by MECs, to address concerns and ensure timely completion.

OUTBOUND MISSION TO THE UAE

As part of Mpumalanga’s investment drive, EXCO approved an outbound mission to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from April 7-9, 2025. Led by MEC Makhosazana Masilela of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT), the delegation will engage in global investment discussions, including the Ministerial Investment and Tourism Roundtable.

This mission aims to attract investors for key projects such as the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market, aligning with the province’s economic growth objectives.

MUNICIPAL AUDIT OUTCOMES

During the PCF session, the Auditor-General reported clean audits for Ehlanzeni and Nkangala Districts for the 2023/24 financial year. However, concerns were raised over the overall decline in clean audits across municipalities. To enhance accountability, all municipalities have developed audit action plans and committed to their implementation. EXCO resolved to include audit outcomes as a standing agenda item for continuous monitoring.

Implementation of the White Paper on Local Government

A review process of the White Paper on Local Government was presented by Deputy Minister Dr. Namane Masemola. The initiative aims to assess challenges within local governance and explore opportunities for improvement. The PCF resolved to develop an action plan for consultations with stakeholders, including community-based structures, with final recommendations set for submission in September 2025.

SPAZA SHOP REGISTRATION COMPLIANCE

The PCF reviewed a report on the province-wide registration of spaza shops, mandated by President Cyril Ramaphosa to curb foodborne illnesses. The registration deadline expired on February 28, 2025. Of the 8,129 spaza shops in Mpumalanga, 3,740 have registered, while 243 were shut down for non-compliance. Moving forward, municipalities will engage further to ensure complete adherence to the directive.

NEW APPOINTMENTS

EXCO approved key appointments to reinforce the administration’s goal of building a capable and ethical state:

Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport

• Ms. Fikile Sengwayo – Deputy Director General: Transport Management

• Mr. Mikateko Rikhotso – Deputy Director General: Public Infrastructure

• Mr. Skhumbuzo Mona – Deputy Director General: Corporate Strategy

• Mr. Vusi Ntimba – Chief Director: Human Resource Management and Development

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

• Ms. Hleziphi Mokoena – Director: Regional and Local Economic Development (LED)

• Mr. Solly Mhaule – Director: Enterprise Development

The session underscored the provincial government’s commitment to improving service delivery, economic development, and governance standards, ensuring a better future for Mpumalanga residents.