Appointment of Mr. Godfrey Ntombela as Head of Department for Culture, Sports, and Recreation

The Premier announced the immediate appointment of Mr. Ntombela to this position, following a thorough selection process. The role involves providing leadership, strategic planning, resource management, and upholding core values such as honesty, integrity, loyalty, accountability, and transparency. Previous contract extensions and a fraudulent activity involving his electronic signature, linked to an R80,000 payment, were also addressed, prompting investigations in collaboration with SAPS.

Addressing Contract Extensions and Allegations of Fraud

Mr. Ntombela’s contract was extended multiple times by the former and current Premiers. His recent rejection of a five-month extension, citing a previous extension until 2027, was refuted by the former Premier, who clarified no such extension beyond September 2024 was given. A serious matter involving the alleged forgery of the former Premier’s electronic signature and misappropriation of funds is under investigation.

Changes to the Provincial Executive Council

The Premier highlighted the need for governance improvements and announced several leadership changes aimed at strengthening service delivery and addressing provincial challenges.

New MEC Appointments and Key Focus Areas:

• Ms. Lindi Lettie Masina – MEC for Education:
  • Improve matric pass rate to 90%
  • Promote Maths and Science participation
  • Implement eLearning starting from Grade 10 in 2026
  • Support exam preparations and resource provisioning
  • Foster community and union engagement

• Ms. Jester Sidell – MEC for Economic Development and Tourism:
  • Drive projects like Nkomazi SEZ and feasibility studies for Mariepskop Mountain Cable Car and Hazyview Water Wave
  • Develop tourism, SMMEs, industrial parks, and infrastructure
  • Support investment initiatives and skills development

• Ms. Khethiwe Moeketsi – MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs:
  • Ensure successful operation of the Mpumalanga Food Market
  • Support farmers and rural enterprises
  • Prioritize agro-processing and value addition

• Ms. Nompumelelo Hlophe – MEC for Social Development:
  • Expand social assistance coverage
  • Improve child care services and establish the Khuseleka Centre for GBV victims
  • Reduce substance abuse and support NGOs

Remaining MEC positions stay unchanged.

Acknowledgment and Future Outlook

The Premier expressed appreciation to outgoing MECs, congratulated the new appointees, and emphasized that these changes aim to promote inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and building an ethical, capable government to better serve the people of Mpumalanga.