TZANEEN – The newly elected mayor of the Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM), Odas Ngobeni, says his priority is improving core service delivery.

Ngobeni was elected mayor on May 25, during a special council meeting following a motion of no confidence in former mayor Gerson Molapisane, which passed without opposition.

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He described his election as an honour and said he is excited to take on the responsibility. Ngobeni added that his work aligns with the municipality’s 2030 vision of becoming a city, and building a “green, healthy, prosperous, united municipality that delivers quality services to all”.

He said he aims to help improve socio-economic conditions through collective leadership and stronger service delivery.

GTM outlines new leadership priorities

Ngobeni noted that he has been given clear instructions by the ANC and the provincial executive committee to ensure proper budget spending, strengthen maintenance capacity, and prevent vandalism.

He added that the party expects improved accountability, community participation, anti-corruption efforts, and better revenue collection.

He identified water supply as the municipality’s biggest challenge; a concern also raised during the IDP/budget public participation process. However, he said the municipality is working with key stakeholders to address the issue.

Water security remains key focus area

He highlighted raising the Tzaneen Dam wall and constructing the Nwamitwa Dam as key long-term solutions for water security and economic growth, noting that reliable water supply is essential for attracting investment.

He also mentioned ongoing rural water interventions under “Operation Fix All”, led by the Mopani District Municipality, which includes borehole maintenance.

Mayor brings over two decades of public service experience

Ngobeni brings more than 22 years of public sector experience, including previous work in the GTM communications unit from 2004 to 2009, followed by a role at the government communication and information system (GCIS), where he coordinated regional communications.

He is currently completing a postgraduate qualification in public management at the University of Pretoria and holds a BTech, a national diploma in journalism, an NQF level 6 qualification in municipal finance management, and a media management certificate from Wits.

From community leadership to political office

Ngobeni said he did not initially aspire to enter politics. He was introduced to political involvement by a university friend, Sydwell Mabasa, during his studies at the Tshwane University of Technology, although he initially focused on boxing, where he also led a successful team.

After returning home, he became active in community and church leadership within the Apostolic Faith Mission, eventually rising to deputy chairperson of the Tzaneen sub-region youth committee.

He later joined the ANC Youth League, where he held several leadership roles, including branch secretary, regional secretary following the 2015 regional conference, and deputy chairperson.