EMALAHLENI – The Mpumalanga provincial government says it’s all set to host the upcoming Presidential Imbizo, a national government initiative.
According to a statement released by Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane’s office, preparations are well underway for the second Imbizo, scheduled for March 7 at the Sy Mthimunye stadium in Emalahleni Local Municipality, Nkangala District.
“Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane is expected to welcome President Cyril Ramaphosa and Cabinet Ministers for the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo,” the statement reads.
“About three thousand people across the province, among them, traditional leaders, civil society organs, labour, women, youth, persons with disabilities and business representatives are expected to attend.”
The Imbizo serves as a cornerstone of participatory democracy, offering citizens a platform to engage with the President on matters of development. The first Mpumalanga Imbizo took place in Carolina back in May 2022, where President Ramaphosa engaged with citizens from Carolina and surrounding areas to address their concerns regarding service delivery in the province.
Premier Mtshweni-Tsipane further highlighted that the Imbizo aims to solidify the government’s “leave no one behind” approach as the country commemorates 30 years of democracy. She encouraged citizens to utilize various avenues, including social media messaging, to share their concerns with the President.
“Mpumalanga is more than ready to host the Presidential Imbizo,” the Premier declared. “We are inspired by the President’s decision to afford our citizens an opportunity to engage him and to share solutions on service delivery challenges. This view is based on the previous Imbizo, held in Gert Sibande District.”
