By Phenyo Selnda
Mpumalanga’s newly sworn-in Premier, Mandla Ndlovu, has taken the helm with a bold proclamation to visit all municipalities and address their challenges head-on within his first 100 days in office. Sworn in by Mpumalanga High Court Judge President Segopotje Mphahlele on 18 June 2024, Ndlovu outlined his provincial government’s priorities with an emphasis on robust service delivery and crime reduction.
“I will not hesitate to intervene within the prescripts of the law should it become clear our people are not getting the services they deserve,” Ndlovu declared, promising to build a capable state that functions optimally to deliver quality basic services. In his forthcoming state of the province address, he aims to set forth his vision for a “capable state.”
Strengthening the Infrastructure Department
One of Ndlovu’s key strategies involves empowering Mpumalanga’s infrastructure department to spearhead provincial projects, although certain initiatives may be allocated to other implementing agents. This move, according to Ndlovu, is to ensure a streamlined focus and avoid the pitfalls of departmental overlap.
“I know there is a temptation by departments to implement their infrastructure projects. I advise them not to.”
Ndlovu also emphasised the need for cooperative decision-making among the Members of the Executive Council (MECs) to enhance policy implementation and service delivery. He urged MECs to promote and facilitate cooperative decision-making to ensure that the needs of the people are met efficiently.
Addressing Crime and Gender-Based Violence
Ndlovu is unequivocal about making crime, gender-based violence, and femicide top priorities within his administration. He has pledged that the provincial government will serve all Mpumalanga residents, promising a safer and more inclusive society.
His selection by the ANC’s top seven last week marked a significant shift as he took over from Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, now the new chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) under the Government of National Unity (GNU) pact.
A Vision for Prosperity
Despite the ANC retaining a slim majority in Mpumalanga with 51.89% of the votes, Ndlovu is optimistic about the province’s future. “Our people have spoken and we got the message that they yearn for sustainable quality services,” he said, highlighting the demand for essential services such as potable water, improved sanitation, enhanced road infrastructure, a safe environment, and better health services.
Ndlovu urged the provincial government to move beyond mere rhetoric. “These services will never be brought by speeches. We need to go beyond our comfort zones and deliver the services to our people together.”
Executive Council Members Announced
To lead his agenda, Ndlovu announced his executive council:
- Health: Sasekani Janet Manzini
- Education: Landulile Cathrine Dlamini
- Public Works, Roads and Transport: Thulasizwe Simon Thomo
- Social Development: Brenda Khethiwe Moeketsi
- Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs: Nompumelelo Evidence Hlophe
- Provincial Treasury: Bonakele Amos Majuba
- Economic Development and Tourism: Makhosazane Christine Masilela
- Culture, Sports and Recreation: Fana Vincent Mlombo
- Community Safety, Security and Liaison: Khensani Jackie Macie
- Human Settlements, Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs: Speed Katishi Mashilo
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