Council in Free State
By Thabo Mosia
Former Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, Makalo Mohale, has been appointed to the Free State Investment and Economic Advisory Council (IEAC). This appointment underscores the province’s commitment to leveraging experienced leadership to drive economic growth and transformation. 
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Makalo Mohale’s journey is deeply rooted in the Free State, having grown up in Botshabelo, a township east of Bloemfontein. His academic credentials include an LLB degree from the University of South Africa and a BCom degree from the University of the Free State. Further enhancing his expertise, he holds postgraduate diplomas in various legal fields from the University of Johannesburg. 
Mohale’s political activism began during his university years. He served as the branch chairperson of the South African Student Congress (SASCO) at the University of the Free State between 2002 and 2003 and was the provincial secretary from 2003 to 2004. His leadership roles extended to the National Education, Health, and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU), where he was the branch chairperson from 2006 to 2007.  
Professional Trajectory
Professionally, Mohale has held several significant positions:
• Public Participation Officer: Free State Provincial Legislature (2004–2007)
• Supply Chain Manager: Ngwathe Local Municipality (2007–2012)
• Spokesperson: Mangaung Metro Executive Mayor (2012–2013)
• Director of Supply Chain: Free State Department of Police, Roads, and Transport (2013–2015)
• Chief Director of Housing Programmes: Free State Department of Human Settlements (2015–2019)
In May 2019, he was appointed as the MEC for Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, a role he held until March 2023, after which he served as the MEC for Education. 
The Free State Investment and Economic Advisory Council (IEAC)
The establishment of the IEAC is a strategic initiative by the Free State Executive Council to harness expertise in driving the province’s economic agenda. The council’s primary functions include:
• Advising the Premier on economic matters
• Monitoring the implementation of the Free State Growth and Development Strategy
• Promoting and building awareness about economic opportunities in the province
The council comprises a diverse group of professionals with vast experience across various sectors. Members will serve a three-year term, renewable based on performance and willingness to continue. The appointments are effective from 1 April 2025.
Council Composition
The IEAC is chaired by Mr. Dan Mosia, with Prof. Pamela Dube serving as the Deputy Chairperson. Other notable members include:
• Mr. Letsholo Mojanaga
• Dr. Mlungisi Mangwatywa
• Ms. Dikeledi Tshukulu
• Ms. Gadija Brown
• Prof. Fiona Tregenna
• Dr. Moeketsi Mosola
• Ms. Kgomotso Magau
• Mr. Isaac Moroe
• Mr. Sekhopi Malebo
• Mr. Msebenzi Dhladhla
• Mr. Kabelo Mokhele
• Prof. Frikkie Marais
This diverse assembly of professionals is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the province’s economic challenges.
Premier’s Vision for Economic Transformation
Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae has expressed confidence in the newly appointed council, emphasizing the collective task of building a Free State that works for all. She highlighted the importance of introducing new and fresh ideas to drive economic development and growth. 
Makalo Mohale’s Strategic Role
Mohale’s inclusion in the IEAC is seen as a strategic move, given his extensive experience in economic development and governance. His previous tenure as MEC for Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs was marked by several initiatives aimed at stimulating economic growth:
• Investment Promotion: In October 2019, under Mohale’s leadership, the department hosted the inaugural Investment Summit, which culminated in the development of an Investment Booklet. These initiatives attracted investments amounting to R1.325 billion into the Free State, with the potential to create approximately 2,391 job opportunities.
• Enterprise Support: The department rolled out various support programs, including the Industrialization Support Incentive, which spent over R7 million for rental subsidies and machinery aimed at supporting manufacturing enterprises. Additionally, over R74 million was awarded to Free State businesses to combat the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Tourism Development: Recognizing the Free State’s potential as a tourist destination, Mohale’s tenure saw the facilitation of ten Kasi Tourism campaigns across various towns, aimed at marketing and promoting local tourism.
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