The Executive Council Members.
Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu convened a sitting of the Executive Council (EXCO) to deliberate on key provincial priorities, placing strong emphasis on service delivery, infrastructure development and economic growth.
During the meeting, EXCO commended the provincial government for its continued investment in infrastructure, while stressing the urgent need to strengthen maintenance and preservation of existing assets.
The council highlighted that safeguarding infrastructure is essential for sustainable service delivery and long-term economic stability.
EXCO also addressed recent public statements made by suspended SAPS Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Daphney Manamela.
The council noted that the allegations raised are serious, touching on governance, institutional integrity and professional conduct.
EXCO emphasised that such matters must be handled through proper legal channels and investigated by relevant law enforcement and oversight bodies, rather than debated in the public domain.
A key highlight of the sitting was progress on the Mpumalanga International Food Market (MIFM). EXCO confirmed that plans to operationalise the market are at an advanced stage, with a Public-Private Partnership model approved for implementation.
The model is expected to ensure financial sustainability while generating revenue for ongoing maintenance and future expansion. The market is set to boost economic growth, create jobs and open export opportunities for small-scale farmers.
EXCO also reviewed progress on the “Women in Construction” programme, which aims to empower women-owned businesses.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that at least 40% of government projects benefit women-owned companies and resolved to expand opportunities into other sectors, including supply chain management.
Additionally, EXCO assessed outcomes from the Investment and Mining Conference held in Middelburg, where R238 billion in investment pledges were secured. Government is now engaging investors and preparing agreements to accelerate implementation.
Looking ahead, Mpumalanga will host a World Tennis Tour event in Mbombela from 27 April to 10 May 2026, positioning the province as a growing sports and tourism destination. The province will also mark Freedom Day at Phola Sports Ground under the theme celebrating 30 years of democracy.
