By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu delivered his inaugural State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the Legislature Chamber in Mbombela.
Ndlovu said this event gives him the opportunity to account to the province’s people for the government’s performance and its progress towards building a better life for those who live here.
In his speech, Ndlovu discussed various issues including the economy, education, access to basic services, healthcare, and safety and security.
He said the provincial government will continue to foster economic growth as this is crucial for creating job opportunities and fostering hope in the communities.
Over the next five years, our target is to create approximately 300 000 additional and sustainable work opportunities,” he said.
When he addressed access to basic services, Ndlovu touched on many things including the Driekoppies Bulk Water Supply Scheme Phase 1A, which was halted. He said the construction will resume and be completed during the 2025/26 financial year.
“Planning is at an advanced stage for a number of bulk infrastructure projects to be implemented in the coming years: the Rust de Winter Bulk Water Supply, the Msukaligwa Bulk Water Supply Cluster 1, and upgrades to the Mkhuhlu Waste Water Treatment Works.”
Ndlovu also said the feasibility studies on the proposed construction of the Mbombela Dam at Mountain View is at an advanced stage.
On safety and security, Ndlovu said the period under review saw a substantial decrease in some crime categories while there was an increase in others.
“One of the most heinous crimes that was on the increase is gender-based violence and femicide [GBVF]. This crime has been declared a second pandemic, it therefore demands that the community work with the police in combating it. We will be working closely with the newly installed provincial council on GBVF.
“Government has ensured that victim-friendly rooms and GBVF desks are established in 85 police stations, while in five others the officers are still using their own offices,” said Ndlovu.
Ndlovu also touched on the 90-day pause on all United States foreign aid, which is affecting many organisations across the country and in Mpumalanga.
“The decision by the USA to suspend and possibly terminate the support we have been receiving to combat HIV/Aids came at a very difficult time, especially given the current domestic and global economic environment. However, we are making plans to ensure these programmes are sustained and our people get the services they deserve.”