progress and roadblocks in development journey
Opposition blasts SOPA: claims of corruption and demands for accountability
MPUMALANGA – Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane’s State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Friday depicted a narrative of progress intertwined with acknowledgment of areas needing development. While recognizing the African National Congress’ (ANC) role in steering the province’s development since 1994, she highlighted a 12-fold increase in GDP, the creation of 1.25 million jobs, and a decline in poverty rates. Across various sectors, advancements were evident. Educational enhancements included free hot meals and sanitary towels for learners. Substantial strides were made in basic services like water, sanitation, and electricity, alongside healthcare improvements with reduced infant and maternal mortality rates, and effective HIV/AIDS and TB programs.
Over 1.7 million hectares were redistributed to previously disadvantaged individuals through land reform, while housing initiatives provided low-cost houses and title deeds. Infrastructure development included new schools, hospitals, and government buildings, coupled with road network upgrades. The past year alone witnessed the creation of over 63,000 jobs, with notable success stories emerging from youth entrepreneurship initiatives.
However, critics pointed out persistent challenges. High youth unemployment remained a pressing concern, necessitating innovative strategies to empower young people and foster economic opportunities. Additionally, the state of road maintenance demanded increased attention to ensure smoother commutes and safer transportation for residents. In response, the Premier outlined plans to address these challenges.
Initiatives such as the Nkosi City Development project aimed to rejuvenate the Ehlanzeni district and generate new employment opportunities, while tourism facility upgrades sought to attract more visitors and stimulate the provincial economy. Success stories within various sectors were highlighted during the address. In agriculture, young farmers like Mr. Mohlala and Mr. Mogale received government support, enabling them to establish successful farms and access markets through the Mkhuhlu Agrihub.
The healthcare sector witnessed increased accessibility to oncology services following the renovation of Rob Ferreira Hospital’s oncology unit, with collaborative efforts planned for a radiation bunker. Preparation for the National Health Insurance (NHI) implementation in 2028 was actively underway. Education witnessed expanded access to Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs, improved learner performance across grades, and pilot programs introducing coding and robotics. Bursary schemes provided support to students and teachers, while specific schools were equipped with tablets and laptops.
The province aimed to introduce “smart schools” equipped with technology to benefit both educators and learners. Investments in water and sanitation projects amounted to over R17 billion, with ongoing initiatives aimed at further enhancements. Specific endeavors included addressing manganese contamination in Emalahleni and constructing the Regional Loskop Bulk scheme. Premier Mtshweni-Tsipane reflected on past and present government achievements since 1994, noting the significant strides made in access to clean water and sanitation. However, Collen Sedibe of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) disputed these claims, citing mismanagement of funds through corruption and maladministration. “That money is stolen through corruption and maladministration.
If it was used fruitfully, people would have had running water in their houses. So there is no water, the taps are dry,” Sedibe emphasized. Jane Sithole, provincial leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), criticized the Premier’s SOPA, labeling it as a reiteration of old announcements lacking implementation details. Sithole underscored critical issues such as rising youth unemployment, failing municipalities, deteriorating infrastructure, and neglected energy transition planning. Sithole concluded by stating, “Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane has failed dismally to tell the residents of the province about her successes in the last four years. Instead, she told us about her predecessors’ successes for the last 30 years.”
“We are waiting to see if she will give any report about this commitment. That’s if she comes back to deliver the next SOPA,” she added, emphasizing the DA’s commitment to holding the administration accountable for implementing proposed solutions.
