Provincial Lekgotla: ANC Mpumalanga Pledges to Fix Local Government, Boost Jobs and Economic Transformation

Mbombela, in a bid to tackle ongoing challenges like poor service delivery and slow growth, the African National Congress in Mpumalanga has wrapped up a two-day provincial gathering where leaders vowed to strengthen municipalities, speed up changes in the economy, and open up more work chances for residents. Held in the heart of the province’s capital over the weekend of 21-22 February 2026, this Lekgotla brought together party members to map out practical steps that align with national goals for the year, giving hope to communities tired of broken promises and eager for real progress in their daily lives.

Key Resolutions from the Gathering

The meeting focused on turning talk into action, with clear plans to fix local government at the top of the list. Leaders agreed to fill key jobs in municipalities with skilled people who can handle money better and improve how services run. This comes as many towns in Mpumalanga struggle with bad roads, water shortages, and unreliable power, issues that hit rural families hardest and make it tough for kids to learn or businesses to grow.

On speeding up economic changes, the party stressed the need to pour resources into building and fixing infrastructure. This includes buying new machines and tools for road work, stepping up maintenance on highways and local paths, and sorting out water problems that leave taps dry in many areas. They also talked about restarting drives to stop water leaks in all municipalities, a simple fix that could save millions and ensure clean water reaches more homes. These steps aim to make the province more attractive for investors, creating a ripple effect that lifts everyone.

Job creation got a big spotlight too, tied closely to these infrastructure pushes. By focusing on big projects like road upgrades and water systems, the ANC hopes to open doors for local workers, especially young people and those from poor backgrounds. This builds on national calls to make the economy fairer, where everyone gets a shot at decent work, not just a few. Leaders pointed out that stronger local governments can spark small businesses and draw in factories, turning empty lots into buzzing hubs that put food on tables.

Leadership Calls for Unity and Hard Work

Provincial Secretary Muzi Chirwa summed up the mood, saying the party is ready to roll up its sleeves ahead of local elections later this year. He shared confidence that with these plans, the ANC can keep control of municipalities and win back trust from voters who have felt let down. “We will work hard to win the hearts of the people,” Chirwa noted, highlighting how fixing basics like roads and water will show real care for communities.

ANC Chairperson Mandla Ndlovu added a plea for togetherness as the party gears up for its Provincial Elective Conference. He explained that branches across Mpumalanga are now picking their preferred leaders, handing power back to grassroots members to decide the way forward. “We avail ourselves in the conference, we are happy that we are handing over this organisation intact back to branches for them to decide what to do,” Ndlovu said. This move aims to heal any rifts and build a united front, ensuring the party stays strong in a province known for its mix of farms, mines, and growing cities.

The Lekgotla also touched on working closer with traditional leaders through community programmes, recognising their role in solving local disputes and supporting development. This partnership could help roll out fixes faster, especially in rural spots where chiefs hold sway over land and customs.

National Context and Broader Goals

This provincial push mirrors bigger plans from the African National Congress at the national level, where 2026 has been named the Year of Decisive Action to mend local governments and reshape the economy. During the National Executive Committee gathering in January, leaders like President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed the same themes: getting municipalities back on track, speeding up growth that includes everyone, and creating jobs to fight poverty. The focus includes using models like the District Development approach to empower areas, build partnerships with businesses, and make sure economic plans fit each region’s strengths.

In Mpumalanga, this means leaning on its rich resources like coal and tourism to drive change. The province has set sights on inclusive growth that transforms lives, from better skills training for youth to supporting small farmers and entrepreneurs. National strategies also call for waging war on crime and corruption, which ties into Mpumalanga’s resolve to clean up local governance and ensure tenders go to honest hands.

Challenges and Community Hopes

Despite the pledges, hurdles remain. Many municipalities in Mpumalanga face money woes, with weak systems leading to poor audits and wasted funds. Political fights and corruption scandals have eroded trust, making it hard for leaders to deliver. Residents in places like Bushbuckridge or Emalahleni, where water cuts and bad roads are daily headaches, want to see quick wins to believe in the promises.

For everyday people, these resolutions offer a glimmer of hope. Families dream of steady jobs that pay enough to cover school fees and groceries, while communities push for roads that connect them to markets and services. Small business owners see economic transformation as a chance to grow without red tape, creating work for neighbours. As one local put it, “We’ve heard plans before; now we need action that changes our lives.”

With elections on the horizon, the ANC in Mpumalanga knows the clock is ticking. By focusing on these fixes, the party aims to show it listens and delivers, rebuilding faith in a province full of potential. As the Lekgotla’s ideas take shape, South Africans will watch closely, hoping for a brighter path that lifts all boats.

🔴Central News Special Edition | Issue 129: Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Ngwathe Citizen Forum: Council Now Would Undermine Progress🔴

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