26/05/2026
The Department of Economic Development and Tourism is today appearing before the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development and Tourism to table the Budget and Annual Performance Plan report of the Department and its Public Entities.
While giving her political overview, MEC Jesta Sidell indicated that the Department and its Public Entities have aligned their plans with the priorities of the 7th administration, the Medium-Term Development Plan, and the broader objective of building a capable, ethical, developmental state that places citizens at the center of service delivery.
MEC Sidell - “this engagement takes place against the backdrop of an economic turning point for our beautiful province. As the 7th administration, our mandate is clear, sharp and non-negotiable. We must accelerate economic transformation, spark industrialisation, cultivate our tourism potential and aggressively drive job creation to elevate the livelihoods of the people of Mpumalanga.
Our deliberations today are guided by the three overarching strategic pillars of the National Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP), which are to Drive inclusive growth and job creation; Reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living; and Building a capable, ethical and developmental state”
The Department appeared before the committee at the time when the provincial economic outlook is showing a quite but stable resilience. Following the provincial budget tabled in March, Mpumalanga’s economy is projected to grow by 1.3% in 2026, scaling up to 1.9% in 2027, with a long-term target of 3% by 2029.
MEC Sidell - “While global geopolitical tensions, especially supply chain disruptions in the Middle-East pose risks to our agricultural export markets and local farmers, our domestic metrics are highly encouraging. According to recent Quarterly Labour Force Survey data, Mpumalanga achieved a historic employment levels and ranked second nationally in job creation, anchored largely by growth in our services , finance, tourism, and agricultural sectors".