EXCO Lekgotla Encourages Provincial Administration and Municipalities to consolidate on economic transformation and development
The Premier of Limpopo, Mr. Chupu Stanley Mathabatha, highlighted the need for serious investment in economic development in municipalities to assist in restructuring the province's economy. He encouraged municipalities to decentralise economic activities to brown areas and identify competitive areas for economic development.
The Premier was speaking at what must be his last Lekgotla as Premier held in Meropa Entertainment World, Polokwane on 20 February 2024. He said: “I am delighted by the consistency of administration that has seen me at the helm of the provincial government for more than 10 years. What is more pleasing is the change we have brought to the outlook and socio-economic status of people of Limpopo, effective governance and professional administration.”
The EXCO Lekgotla considered and noted presentations on various key areas, including the Limpopo Draft 30 Year Performance Report, Limpopo Budget MTEF for the 2024/25 financial year, 2023 Grade 12 Performance Report, and State of Readiness for the National and Provincial Elections in 2024.
The session recognised significant progress in socio-economic transformation over the past 30 years, including the consolidation of democratic values, economic development, and improved access to basic services. However, challenges such as high levels of unemployment, poverty, and income inequality persist in the province.
The Premier highlighted the recent ruling party Lekgotla, where progress was reported on implementing manifesto priorities and government accountability. The PEC Lekgotla assessed performance and challenges faced in service delivery, emphasising the need to fulfil priorities for the people of Limpopo as agents of service delivery.
Acknowledging challenges such as budget constraints, the COVID-19 pandemic, and energy crises, the Premier outlined key priorities for economic reconstruction, job creation, basic service provision, combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, resolving the energy crisis, and strengthening the fight against crime.
The EXCO endorsed the draft 2024/25 MTEF Provincial Budget Framework and Infrastructure Service Delivery Programme, focusing on strategic infrastructure management interventions, inclusive growth, job creation, service delivery, provincial fiscus stability, and quality provision of water, health, and education.
The Executive Council was preparing for a smooth transition to the forthcoming 7th Term of Administration, finalise the 30-year Performance Report, review development plans and sector plans, and prioritise youth development and gender transformation programmes.
Additionally, the EXCO Lekgotla approved the Draft Provincial Adjustment Budget for the 2023/24 financial year and the Draft Provincial 2024/25 MTEF Budget. A post-Elections EXCO Lekgotla will be convened to focus on Medium Term Strategic Priorities for the 7th Term of Administration.
The Premier is expected to expand further on these matters in his State of the Province Address to be held on 29 February 2024 at the Jack Botes Hall, Polokwane.
For more information please contact:
Ndavhe Ramakuela
Provincial Government Spokesperson
Cell: 082 200 5357 or 067 267 2061
Email: RamakuelaN@premier.limpopo.gov.za.
