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Monday 07:45 - 16:15 Tuesday 07:45 - 16:15 Wednesday 07:45 - 16:15 Thursday 07:45 - 16:15 Friday 07:45 - 16:15

Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Building 1, Government Boulevard, Government Complex, Riverside, Mbombela (2026)

05/09/2026

A big THANKS to the people and structures in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality and Mpumalanga for a successful TLP programme.

04/09/2026

TLP Concludes with Renewed Commitment to Service Delivery and Accountability

The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature concluded the Taking Legislature to the People (TLP) programme in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (STLM) on Friday, 4 September 2026, with a sitting held at the Themba Senamela Stadium presided over by the Legislature Speaker, Ms Makhozane Masilela at the Themba Senamela Stadium which served as a Legislature Precinct for the duration of the TLP programme.

The sitting provided an opportunity for Portfolio Committee Chairpersons to present the consolidated findings from oversight visits conducted throughout the week, while Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) from all political parties represented robustly raised motions, concerns and service delivery challenges brought forward by the people of STLM.

Among the key issues raised were water provision, electricity, higher municipal tariffs, housing shortages, safety and security, youth unemployment, agricultural development, support for women and young farmers, damaged roads and infrastructure, and access to healthcare.

Members also raised concerns regarding housing backlogs in communities such as Nasaret and Rondebosch, overcrowding in Mhluzi Extension 3, as well as the need for greater transparency and clarity regarding municipal rates and tariffs. Calls were made for the municipality to accelerate the provision of adequate housing and ensure that basic services reach all communities.

The House also debated tuberculosis (TB), particularly the fight against the disease. Members highlighted the challenges faced by people living in rural areas who have to travel long distances to access healthcare facilities. The need to strengthen TB screening and awareness programmes within communities, encourage early treatment and address the stigma associated with TB was emphasised.

The MEC for Health, Ms Sasekani Manzini, called on Members of the Legislature to lead by example by undergoing TB screening and encouraging communities to do the same. She further emphasised the importance of prioritising healthcare in budget allocations to ensure sufficient resources are available to strengthen the fight against TB. The MEC cautioned against the stigma and misconceptions surrounding TB, including the incorrect assumption that a person diagnosed with TB is necessarily HIV-positive.

When delivering the closing address, the Mpumalanga Premier, Mr Mandla Ndlovu MP, the leader of the Mpumalanga Provincial Government, acknowledged the concerns raised by communities while outlining progress made by government in addressing socio-economic and service delivery challenges in the STLM.

In his comprehensive response, Premier Ndlovu also noted that the municipality’s unemployment rate stands at 18.1%, with youth unemployment at 27.6%, while 39.3% of residents are living in poverty. He stressed that government programmes will continue to focus on creating employment opportunities, stimulating local enterprises and developing sustainable livelihoods.

The Premier highlighted infrastructure development as an important contributor to economic growth and employment. He noted that R190 million has been allocated for road construction in the STLM, while approximately R800 million has been spent on roads in the municipality between 2019 and 2026. He emphasised that infrastructure programmes should not only deliver infrastructure but should also be measured by the employment opportunities, skills development and local economic activity they create.

On housing, the Premier pointed to the construction of close to 1 000 houses in Rondebosch as evidence of government’s continued efforts to provide residents with decent housing. He further highlighted developments aimed at strengthening economic activity and investor confidence in the province, including the R350 million hospitality development featuring 150 rooms and a convention centre.

Agriculture was also identified as an important area for economic development. The Premier highlighted government’s support for small-scale and emerging farmers, particularly young farmers, and the need to expand their access to markets, including the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market. Such initiatives, he said, are essential in creating sustainable livelihoods and strengthening local economies.

The Premier further highlighted progress in healthcare infrastructure, including the newly built King Nyabela Hospital, which was officially opened by President of the Republic of South Africa, demonstrating government’s continued commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare in the province. He also noted that medication availability in Steve Tshwete health facilities stands at approximately 95.5%, reflecting progress in ensuring that essential medicines are available to patients.

Education was another area highlighted during the closing address. The Premier noted the strong academic performance of learners from Steve Tshwete, with four matric learners from the municipality among the province’s top performers in the previous year. He said this demonstrates the potential that can be unlocked through greater investment in education. The newly constructed school in Rockdale was also highlighted as part of government’s efforts to improve educational infrastructure.

On safety and security, the Premier highlighted the appointment of a Provincial Commissioner as part of the efforts to strengthen the fight against crime and improve safety across Mpumalanga. While acknowledging the progress made, the Premier recognised that significant challenges remain and that government will continue working to address areas where service delivery falls short. He applauded the hard work of Members of the Executive Council (MECs), government officials and stakeholders involved in responding to the needs of communities.

The Premier also encouraged residents of Steve Tshwete to exercise their democratic right by participating in the upcoming Local Government Elections on 4 November 2026.

When closing the programme, the Speaker, Ms Makhozane Masilela reaffirmed that the Taking Legislature to the People must not be viewed as a once-off event that ends when Members leave the community. Instead, it must serve as the continuation of sustained action, monitoring and accountability.

04/09/2026

TLP Closing Address by the Premier l Mr Mandla Ndlovu

04/09/2026

Youth Stakeholder Engagement Highlights Opportunities for Economic Empowerment

As part of the week-long Taking Legislature to the People (TLP) programme in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality on Thursday, 3 September 2026, the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature convened a Youth Stakeholder Engagement session aimed at creating a platform for young people to interact with government departments, raise areas of discomfort and gain insight into available development and economic opportunities.

The engagement, led by the Chairperson of the Select Committee on Women, Youth and People with disabilities; Mr Jackson Malatjie, brought together young people and representatives from various provincial government departments, with the participation of the MEC for Social Development, Ms Nompumelelo Hlophe and the Chief Whip of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Ms Eva Makhabane.

Government departments outlined a range of programmes aimed at supporting youth development, entrepreneurship, skills development and access to opportunities. The Office of the Premier (OTP) highlighted funding opportunities for youth-owned businesses, ranging from smaller grants to substantial business funding, with the amount awarded determined by the strength and viability of the applicant’s business plan. The Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) also highlighted support for cooperatives, township and rural enterprises, tourism businesses and emerging entrepreneurs, including assistance with business materials and equipment.

Departments further encouraged young people to register their businesses and make use of platforms such as the Central Supplier Database (CSD) to access government procurement opportunities. The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) highlighted support for emerging farmers through starter packs, seeds, tools and assistance with small-scale food production, including backyard gardens. Other opportunities presented included community arts programmes, sports development, public library services, free internet access at Thusong Centres, job applications, access to e-books, and programmes supporting people with disabilities and vulnerable communities.

The youth actively engaged the Departments’ representatives, seeking clarity on company registration, access to funding, land, procurement opportunities, disability-related programmes and how to access assistance from various departments. They were encouraged to think creatively, collaborate and establish businesses that respond to community needs while contributing to economic growth and job creation.

The engagement also emphasised the importance of partnerships between government, municipalities, the private sector and communities, as government alone cannot address youth unemployment. Young people were encouraged to utilise available public facilities and development programmes and to take full advantage of opportunities when they arise.

In closing, government reiterated its commitment to youth empowerment, noting that young people should be aware of the opportunities and support available through government. The youth were further reminded that 30% of projects must benefit young people, while workers must be paid within the prescribed 30-day period for work completed.

The stakeholder engagement underscored the Legislature’s Constitutional mandate of Public Participation and involvement by bringing the youth of Steve Tshwete Local Municipality under one roof to engage with the different departments and explored a number of opportunities available for the Youth.

04/09/2026

Stakeholders in the Safety and Security sector meet in Hendrina

The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety, Security and Liaison, chaired by the Chairperson, Mr Life Monini, held an engagement session in Hendrina on Thursday, 3 September 2026 for communities of Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (STLM) to raise and discuss safety and service issues directly with government.

Residents raised the challenges of crime, drug and alcohol abuse, police responsiveness, protection orders and the handling of reported cases. They also expressed frustration over alleged delays in receiving feedback on petitions and housing matters, while calling for serviced sites rather than additional RDP houses. Other concerns included municipal rental issues, access around the power station and challenges involving mentally ill persons in the community.

General Selepe of the South African Police Service (SAPS) assured the community that the drug-related concerns were receiving attention. He encouraged community members to become registered informants and provided 082 556 5608 for residents who experience difficulties getting assistance from the station commander. He also urged complainants and businesses to retain their case numbers to assist police in following ups on reported cases.

Mr Monini said the Committee had been informed that alleged drug dealers were arrested there and appeared in court. He stressed that corruption and non-performing police officers must be addressed, describing them as “rotten apples” that undermine effective policing. He further advised that SAPS and Community Policing Forums (CPF) must hold stakeholder engagements to strengthen cooperation in addressing safety concerns.

The Chairperson assured residents that the matters raised would not end with the public hearing but would be referred to the relevant departments for further action. Housing and municipal matters would be escalated to the appropriate authorities, including the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), while the municipality would also be expected to respond. The engagement reaffirmed the Legislature’s commitment to taking residents’ concerns forward and ensuring that communities receive appropriate responses from government.

04/09/2026

Portfolio Committee on Public Works, Roads and Transport undertook an oversight visit to the Road D2274 Rehabilitation Project

The Portfolio Committee on Public Works, Roads and Transport led by Chairperson Ms Sonto Malepeng undertook an oversight visit to the Road D2274 rehabilitation project on Thursday, 3 September 2026.

The Head of Department for the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport, Mr RN Rikhotso made a detailed presentation on the progress made in the completion of Road D227 from Middleburg to Hendrina. He highlighted some of the lessons learnt as they were working on the 17 kilometres long road rehabilitation project which includes the unstable prices for bitumen and crude oil price’s following Covid-19. He further said that though the project is at 99% completion, the department made an estimate of project at a cost of R420 million but ended building it at a total cost of R435 million.

Members of the Committee expressed happiness that the road is done though there has been overspending for good quality. The Committee Chairperson, Ms Malepeng indicated that the committee is about oversight and not policing, decried the 99% progress as opposed to 100% and hailed the quality of bridges as well.

Mr Thulasizwe Thomo, the MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport appreciated the committee for always ensuring that they oversee the work of the department. He further emphasised that though they had hiccups, the department ended up winning in ensuring that the work is completed successfully. He concluded by saying that further discussions shall ensue with the committee to help ease some of the challenges raised.

04/09/2026

Portfolio Committee on COGHSTA’s oversight visit to the Reabota Community Residential Units

The Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, chaired by Mr Daniel Nkosi visited to the Reabota Community Residential Units (CRU) in Mhluzi on 3 September 2026.

The visit formed part of the Committee’s oversight responsibilities and sought to assess progress on service delivery commitments relating to the construction of new units and human settlements in general. The oversight visit commenced with an in loco inspection of the project, followed by presentations from the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA).

Ms Mbali Mathibela, the Chief Construction Project Manager from the Department, explained that the Reabota CRU project was initiated after an assessment found the existing hostel to be structurally unsafe and unsuitable for continued occupation. An alternative site was identified to allow for the construction of new housing units without necessarily displacing existing residents. The project was initially planned for 176 units; however, the identification of a 100-year floodline resulted in the scope being revised to 120 units, comprising 36 two-bedroom, 36 one-bedroom and 48 bachelor units. The total construction budget is R66.87 million.

To date, 89 units have reached practical completion, while 31 are undergoing finishing works. Outstanding work includes reticulation, external works, landscaping and the installation of bedroom cupboards. Some work was deliberately deferred, to minimise the risk of vandalism and theft until the project is completed. Progress has been affected by several challenges, including the passing on of the main contractor, financial difficulties experienced by the contractor, delayed payments to labourers and subcontractors, and a reduction in the Human Settlements Development Grant. For the 2026/27 financial year, seven units are targeted for completion, with an allocated budget of R12.04 million. The project is targeted for completion by the end of March 2027. The CRUs are intended to provide affordable rental accommodation to low-income households earning between R800 and R3 500 per month, including both subsidy qualifiers and non-qualifiers who struggle to access formal rental and social housing.

The municipality welcomed the project, while the Office of the Premier emphasised the need to avoid any further delays. Mr Bheki Zulu, the Public Service Commission welcomed the presentation but raised concerns about security and the need to ensure that the project contributes to local job creation.

Committee members raised questions regarding the project budget, beneficiaries, rental affordability, contractor challenges, delays, security, parking, and why completed units could not yet be occupied. The Committee also sought clarity on accountability for delays and measures to ensure that contractors and workers are paid on time.

Responding to the questions, Ms Hazel Zitha, the Deputy Director General (DDG): Integrated Human Settlement at COGHSTA explained that the project is aimed at accommodating low-income households and confirmed that there had been no additional variations to the approved budget. She further explained that although the original main contractor had passed away, the contractor’s son had taken over the company. The project had an initial implementation period of 36 months but experienced delays, including compliance and tax-related challenges affecting payments.

Ms Zitha indicated that the units were substantially complete, with outstanding work mainly relating to finishing and external works. She explained that the completed units could not yet be occupied because the municipality was not yet in a position to take over and manage the additional units. She further indicated that the site is being monitored to prevent vandalism.

The Chairperson requested that all outstanding responses to the questions raised by the Committee be submitted in writing before the end of the month. The Committee emphasised the need for the project to be completed without further delays to ensure that residents can access safe and affordable accommodation.

04/09/2026

Mpumalanga Legislature Speaker leading a Prayer Session at KwaZamokuhle, Hendrina

The Speaker of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Ms Makhosazane Masilela accompanied by the Deputy Speaker; Mr Sam Masango, the Mayoral Committee Members (MMCs); Ms Bathobile Shabangu and Ms Mphekgo from the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality held a moving prayer session at KwaZamokuhle Alliance Church as part of the community outreach and stakeholder engagement process.

The MMC and Acting Executive Mayor, Ms Bathobile Shabangu expressed gratitude to the Speaker for choosing to incorporate prayer into the weeklong TLP programme, making God making the centre of it all.

When addressing congregants, The Speaker quoted a bible verse found in Proverbs 11:14 and indicated that it is a great honour to be part of the congregation. She went on to appreciate the opportunity to pray with the people and speak to them about the programme of Taking the Legislature to the People. She emphasised the importance of the community’s prayer for the Legislature and their communities. She further said it is important for the church to pray for the legislature because prayer and supplications are meant for all including the kings and leaders. She charged congregants to pray for peace, unity, growth and development of the province, youth unemployment and the upcoming Local Government Elections as well as praying for learners in schools.

The Speaker concluded by calling on the people to continue to live by the words of Psalm 133 that encourages gathering and praying together to strengthen the province and the country. “May God bless our Legislature, our province and our country,” she concluded.

Pastor Daisy Mahlangu from the House of Prayer Church delivered a sermon with the message from the book of Isaiah 54:1-4. She encouraged the congregation that God is unleashing a new beginning in KwaZamokuhle and the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.

Other Pastors took turns in rendering various focal prayer items whereby Ps N Mahlangu from the Assemblies of God prayed for the Grade 12 learners for their final exams. Ps D Jele of Brightness of His Presence prayed against the scourge of GBV and Femicide. The Senior N Gwambe of the Victory Fellowship Ministry prayed for the peaceful 4 November 2026 local government elections and also prayed for the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature leadership and officials.

The Deputy Speaker of the Mpumalanga Legislature, Mr Sam Masango delivered a vote of thanks to all the participants and attendees of the prayer service.

04/09/2026

Oversight Committee visits Gemstone Jeans and Projects (Pty) Ltd in Mhluzi

The Acting Chairperson, Mr Siphosezwe Mahlangu led the Oversight Committee on the Legislature and Premier’s Office in conducting an oversight visit to the Gemstone Jeans and Projects (Pty) Ltd in Mhluzi on 3 September 2026.

A Committee Member, Mr Benon Nxumayo explained that the visit was aimed at assessing the progress, legitimacy and operations of the enterprise, while fulfilling the Committee’s constitutional oversight responsibility. The visit included representatives from the Office of the Premier (OTP), the Premier Youth Development Fund (PYDF), Sabalala Management and the beneficiaries.

Gemstone Jeans and Projects is a formally registered, 100% black-owned youth enterprise established by Mr Siphamandla Nicolas Nhlapo, a 35-year-old with a disability and Ms Noxolo Sarah Mapengu. The business operates in the clothing and textile sector, specialising in fashion design, branding, embroidery, laser engraving, customised clothing, school uniforms, personal protective equipment and promotional merchandise. Established from humble beginnings, the enterprise has grown from operating in a Wendy house into a fully operational business serving individuals, schools, retailers, corporates and event organisers.

Through the PYDF, the business was approved for R1.16 million in grant funding during the 2025/26 financial year, comprising funding for machinery, equipment and working capital. To date, R768,310.72, representing 68% of the approved funding, has been disbursed. The funding enabled the business to acquire essential equipment, including laser-cutting and engraving machinery, a Toyota vehicle, a dual-head 12-needle embroidery machine and production stock. The enterprise currently employs six young people and has expanded its product range to include denim jeans and jackets, T-shirts, uniforms, corporate products and event merchandise.

The beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the support received from the OTP and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), saying the funding had significantly changed their lives and enabled the business to grow. The enterprise is preparing to renovate part of its premises to accommodate the newly acquired machinery, with the work expected to commence in September 2026. However, rising costs of production inputs, fuel and electricity remains a challenge. Business advisory support has recommended stronger marketing, pop-up stalls, developing a website and expanding the company’s social media presence to access new markets and increase sales.

Committee members expressed satisfaction with the progress made by the enterprise and encouraged the beneficiaries to explore additional markets to strengthen its sustainability and growth. The Committee emphasised the importance of creating and supporting local brands, noting that many successful brands started as small businesses. Members called for continued government support for youth-owned enterprises to create jobs, expand local manufacturing and develop home-grown brands capable of growing into major retail businesses.

04/09/2026

Portfolio Committee on Economic Development and Tourism meets with the Business Sector

The Portfolio Committee on Economic Development and Tourism chaired by Mr Lucky Mbuyane met the business stakeholders to engage on economic and business-related opportunities within the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality (STLM) on Thursday, 3 September 2026.

Various business formations and representatives including but not limited to the taxi industry, the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NAFCOC), Middelburg Chamber of Commerce, Isihlangu samaKhosi and others gathered to hear which business opportunities exist from the Mpumalanga Provincial Government and to voice their views on how best to do business in the 29 Wards' local municipality, Steve Tshwete Local Municipality.

Various government departments and institutions made compelling and eye-opening presentations on opportunities which businesspersons could tap into without delay. These organisations include the Mpumalanga Green Energy Agency (MGEA), Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA), Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA), Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT), Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA), Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (DPWRT) and the local municipality, amongst others.

The attendees generally appreciated the information shared and the direction given. A few questions were asked and ideas shared, ranging from wanting to know if there are plans for the MGEA to operate in Middelburg, allocation of land for businesspeople and farmers in particular, the taxi industry proposing that the number of years it takes to scratch a taxi be reduced to around seven years in line with the period it normally takes to pay off a vehicle. They also raised a proposal to extensively market the STLM with billboards and directional signs, amongst others.

The biggest desire is for an enabling and conducing environment for all businesses to thrive, a commitment which government departments made.

Members of the Portfolio Committee expressed appreciation to the full house and the level of discussions which were forward looking with proposals to current challenges faced by the business sector.

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