MPUMALANGA – At the Post-Budget Breakfast Meeting on March 19, 2025, Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu addressed the province’s economic challenges and called for collaboration between government, business, and social partners to address poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
Premier Ndlovu described the new budget as “pro-poor,” aiming to address Mpumalanga’s 34.7% unemployment rate, rising youth unemployment, and over 50% of the population living in poverty. “Our youth graduates are unable to be absorbed by our industries, while the cost of living continues to rise. This is a ticking time bomb,” he warned.
The event was attended by local businesses from all sectors, including Standard Bank, which also sponsored the breakfast, as well as international large corporates like Microsoft and Huawei, who pledged their support to the provincial government.
The premier noted that the budget prioritises social spending, with the largest allocations going to education, health, and social welfare. He stressed the importance of ensuring access to basic services such as clean water, sanitation, and road infrastructure, which are critical for improving living standards and promoting social justice.
Ndlovu acknowledged the constraints of South Africa’s unsustainable national debt but supported the finance minister’s VAT increase proposal to close the revenue gap, while calling for dialogue on alternative revenue enhancement methods that don’t harm the economy.
To address challenges, the Premier proposed cutting government spending and strengthening the manufacturing and agro-processing sectors to reduce reliance on imports.
Third, Ndlovu highlighted the importance of infrastructure development as a catalyst for economic growth. He pointed to the successful public-private partnership model used in the construction of Road P171/1 between Mashishing and Roosennekal, which involved collaboration with mining companies. “We are turning Mpumalanga into a construction site,” he declared, urging further private-sector investment in infrastructure projects.
The premier also stressed the need for skills development to prepare the workforce for the evolving demands of the digital economy. “As technology advances, we must ensure our workers are equipped with the necessary skills to remain competitive,” he said. He announced plans to operationalise a research institute by the end of the year to support evidence-based decision-making.
Ndlovu concluded by calling for unity and collaboration. “Together, we can hasten service delivery. Together, we can do more,” he said, echoing the ANC’s manifesto. He invited all stakeholders to join hands with the government to build a prosperous Mpumalanga, leveraging the province’s potential in industries such as tourism, mining, and agriculture.
The Premier’s address was met with applause, as attendees expressed optimism about the province’s future. With a clear vision and a commitment to collaboration, Mpumalanga is poised to overcome its challenges and emerge as a beacon of economic growth and social progress.
