PREMIER NDLOVU AND EXCO DISCUSS LAND AND EDUCATIONAL MATTERS
The Mpumalanga Premier, Mr. Mandla Ndlovu convened the sitting of the Executive Council (EXCO) on Wednesday to discuss various issues of development, among them, the availability of land for farming and the state of readiness for the Matric examination.
In his remarks, Premier Ndlovu conveyed condolences on behalf of the Provincial Government and the citizens of Mpumalanga, to the bereaved family of the late South African Ambassador of South Africa in France, Mr Nathi Mthethwa. He says Mthethwa distinguished himself as selfless leader who worked hard for the country to realise its developmental goals.
The meeting comes in the backdrop of the successful Investment and Mining conference hosted by the Provincial Government at the mining town of Middelburg, in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality last week. Pledges to the tune of R242 billion rand by various investors, were confirmed by the Premier. The conference was a game-changer in the province’s pursuit of aggressive measures to grow the economy, and to reduce unemployment and poverty.
The Premier says the Provincial Government is relentless in its efforts to respond to the needs of communities in the province. These include the outcry for the state to make land available for development purpose.
1. State land availability for smallholder farmers
Land is one of the contentious subjects in the country, since the democratic dispensation. EXCO is exploring measures for efficient land use for smallholder farming and other developmental purpose.
The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA), presented an extensive land audit report, with the following significant data:
- The Provincial Government has approximately 4,110.22 hectres of farm land.
- A total of 196 418 hectres of land have been acquired by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) in the province
to increase access to land for farming by small scale farmers, and that all these farms are currently under lease to farmers.
EXCO has assigned DARDLEA to explore a viable option between the lease of identified land and disposing it off, before making a final conclusion. A commitment was made that the final decision will take into consideration government’s transformative agenda, of addressing the imbalances of the past, through prioritization of the previously marginalized groups during the distribution of land.
2. State of readiness for Matric examination
Preparations for the 2025 matric examination are at an advanced stage in the province. A total number of 78 908 candidates, both full time and part time, will write the Grade 12 exam papers this year.
EXCO approved a report which outline the state of readiness, and the 21 marking centres across the province. The report signifies the training of invigilators and the collaboration with the South African Police Services (SAPS), among stringent measures that have been undertaken to maintain a high standard of integrity for the examination.
EXCO commended the Department of Education for implementing these stringent measures. Furthermore, the department was directed to implement punitive measures against learners and educators whose conduct will undermine the integrity of the examination. The final results will be announced on 13 January 2026.
Meanwhile, a report on the Province’s readiness to host the G20 Education working Group summit, was also presented. The 2-day summit is part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, and will be held at the Kruger National Park from 20-22 October 2025.
Delegates representing G20 member states will discuss education priorities focusing on three strategic themes, namely:
- Quality foundational learning, with a focus on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE).
- Mutual recognition of qualifications in a global context.
- Education Professional Development for a Changing World.
EXCO welcomed the decision to host the summit in the province and expressed commitment to support the activities relating the G20 on Education Working Group.
3. Mpumalanga Research and Innovation Institute Bill
The process to establish a Mpumalanga Research and Innovation Institute is gaining momentum. The Provincial Government has embarked on the process to establish the Institute to improve the province’s research capacity, in the data-driven era. The Institute will ensure that decisions taken by the Provincial Government are research-based.
It is envisaged that the Institute will promote the transfer of scientific knowledge and implementation of research results and findings. In addition the Institute will facilitate an exchange of knowledge between researchers and research entities.
The Office of the Premier has drafted a bill, for the Institute to meet legal requirements. The bill seeks to achieve the following:
- To provide for the establishment of the Mpumalanga Research and Innovation Institute.
- To determine the powers and functions of the Mpumalanga Research and Innovation Institute.
- To appoint members of the Board.
- To ensure that research is conducted for and on behalf of the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.
The bill was published in the Mpumalanga Provincial Gazette on the 26 August 2025 for public comments and was closed on the 26 September 2025. The bill was accessible for public comment on the following government website: www.mpg.gov.za.
EXCO has approved the decision to introduce the Bill to the legislature for public participation. This will afford the public an opportunity to express their views about the Institute, before the bill is enacted into law.
4. Mpumalanga’s Cultural Xperience
The Mpumalanga Cultural Xperience is the province’s signature event that attract visitors outside the province. The event is popular for its multi-genre cultural festivities, featuring a diverse range of music and cultural expressions.
A report was presented to EXCO, which outline the state of readiness. It highlights the impact of the event since its inception a decade ago. These include the significant contribution towards the provincial economy through promotion of up-coming artists, SMMEs and the province as a tourist destination of choice.
The success of the Cultural Xperience is anchored on the nine (9) pillars, namely:
- Kasi Experience
- Comedy
- Carnival
- Summer Blaze
- Choral Music
- Soul Session
- Traditional
- Fun Walk
- Gospel Music Awards.
Activities will commence from 29 November 2025. The inclusion of South Africa’s iconic artist, Dr Esther Mahlangu, to mark her 90 years of artistic excellence, is one of the highlights of the festivities. The Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation will host a birthday celebration in her honour, in recognition of her enormous contribution on the 11 November 2025 at Kgodwana Culture village.
EXCO approved the activities that support the Cultural Xperience and urged communities to participate.
5. APPOINTMENTS
Several appointments of Senior Managers were approved. These appointments are key for the realization of Priority 3 of the 7th administration, of building a capable, ethical and developmental state. The appointments are with effect from 1 November 2025 and are as follows:
5.1 Department of Social development
- Ms Ingrid Sebenziwe Biya – Director: Restorative Services.
- Dr Tebogo Matoane – Director: Nkangala District.
5.2 Department of Health
- Mr Richard Khoza- Chief Director: District Health Services in Ehlanzeni.
- Ms Rosemary Mabunda – Director: Primary Health Care in Ehlanzeni.
- Ms Sellina Senamela - Director: Primary Health Care in Nkangala.
- Mr Willy Mlambo - Director: Corporate Services in Gert Sibande.
- Mr Cecil Sibiya - Director: Supply, Chain Management.
ENDS…
Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government
Office of the Premier
Contact Person: MEC Thulasizwe Thomo (Spokesperson - EXCO)
Enquiries: Mr George Mthethwa (Spokesperson - Provincial Government)
Contact: 013 766 2242/ 083 302 2774.