The members of the executive council (MECs) recently attended the sittings of the executive council (Exco) and the premier’s co-ordinating forum (PCF) at the Ehlanzeni District Council Chamber.

The premier, Mandla Ndlovu, convened both structures to align the activities of the two spheres of government, and to accelerate the pace of service delivery and the completion of infrastructure projects.

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During this session, the Exco noted the significant progress made in the construction of infrastructure across the province. The Exco’s spokesperson, Thulasizwe Thomo, said these projects have been marked as massive investments by the provincial government and are geared towards improving access to education and primary healthcare for previously marginalised communities and the growing population. They are also vital for the realisation of economic growth targets and for the much-needed job opportunities they would provide.

The Exco identified various contributing factors, such as strike actions, theft, vandalism and weather conditions, which may delay the completion of some of the projects.

They also discussed the outbound mission to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Thomo said efforts to reposition Mpumalanga as an investment destination, in line with the economic growth targets and job creation measures, have been intensified. “This includes vigorous attraction of investors into the province. The outbound mission to the UAE was undertaken by a delegation led by the MEC for economic development and tourism, Makhosazana Masilela.”

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They travelled to Abu Dhabi in the UAE from Monday to Wednesday, April 7 to 9, and participated in various global investment engagements, such as the Ministerial Investment and Tourism Roundtable.

“The department is mandated to foster sustainable economic growth and drive investment strategies. The Exco views this mission as a catalyst to achieve its investment objectives. Furthermore, this global platform is also viewed as an opportunity to secure investments for major provincial projects, including the Special Economic Zone and the operationalisation of the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market,” said Thomo.