By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Premier Chupu Stanley Mathabatha delivered his last State of The Province Address in the 6th administration at Jack Botes Hall, Polokwane on Thursday, February 29.
Mathabatha says the province has, over the past decade, worked tirelessly to bring stability and sound administration.
“Through collective effort and unwavering commitment, we have seen remarkable improvements in audit outcomes and overall provincial performance,” Mathabatha said.
“In 2013, Limpopo was at a critical juncture. Five departments were under national administration. Confidence in our provincial administration was waning. Our task was clear, yet daunting. It was to breathe life back into these departments and restore confidence in our governance.
“[Now] no department is under administration. As we reflect on the progress we have made, let us also look to the future with optimism and determination,” Mathabatha said.
Mathabatha said the story of Limpopo’s renewal and development is far from over.
“It is a continuous journey, one that requires an active citizenry, and the collective effort of every community and leader. Together, we can build on the foundation we have laid, striving for even greater achievements and a brighter future for all who call Limpopo home.”
“Our trajectory towards a Limpopo that we all yearn for is taking shape during an unfavorable, harsh global reality,” he said.
Mathabatha said under the circumstances, the province needs to build greater self-reliance and increase its share of value addition in finished products.
Food security
Mathabatha said the provincial government remains determined to support its people in food production.
“Limpopo has established a firm role in food security in our country.”
Mathabatha said 29% of households in the province now grow food in their yards.
“This is a testament to the fact that we have an active citizenry in food production. We remain determined to support our people in food production,” Mathabatha said.
He emphasised the need to build on the progress made, harnessing the potential of the youth, investing in infrastructure, fostering industrialisation and promoting sustainable development.
“… We have made progress in addressing the legacy of colonialism and apartheid. We also all acknowledge that there is still a lot of work to be done. I am sure we all agree that the road to success is a journey, not a sprint,” Mathabatha said.
Eradication of Pit Latrines
Mathabatha says the provincial government has made significant progress in the eradication of pit latrines at schools.
In 2021, the high court in Polokwane ordered Basic Education Department to eradicate pit toilets following the death of six-year-old pupil Michael Komape.
Komape drowned in a pit latrine at his school in Chebeng Village in 2014.
“We are now left with 80 schools to complete the elimination of pit latrines from 380 schools identified in 2017 as having inappropriate sanitation. This is notable progress.
“Our sixth administration carries pride in offering the best results in the 30-year history of Limpopo.”
In 2021, advocacy group Section 27 said 66,000 pupils from 210 schools still used pit toilets.
A report written in July 2021 by the Human Rights Commission notes that millions of learners and teachers have no access to quality sanitation.