The Highvelder has learned of the passing of the Msukaligwa municipal manager, Ms Gladness Jabu Majola on Saturday, 6 February.

Ms Majola took over from the then acting municipal manager, Mr S.R. Magudulela, Director of Technical Services and had vast experience and knowledge in several senior positions.

Ms Majola matriculated at the eQakwini High School in 1988 and had a Bachelor of Law degree which she obtained from the University of Zululand in 1995.

She further enrolled for additional courses as part of sharpening her knowledge in labour law and obtained an Advanced Certificate as well as a Certificate in Executive Municipal Management and Leadership.

Ms Majola also did short courses in Project Management, Municipal Service Partnership and Supply Chain Management for Municipal Senior Managers.

She had 16 years of experience in senior management, of which seven were in local government before her appointment at Msukaligwa municipality.

She worked at the Department of Justice as clerk of co-interpreter for two years, was a public prosecutor for five years, as well as a magistrate (criminal and civil cases) for two years.

Ms Majola also worked as Provincial Manager for Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) in the Mpumalanga Province as well as Director of Governance and Education: Integrity Management in the Office of the Premier.

Before she joined Msukaligwa, she was a Deputy Director-General Corporate Services in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development for seven years.

For her, creating and instilling an ethical organisational culture, starting from top management, was critical for the organisation to grow and produce the expected outcome, and at the same time for it to gain confidence from its clients and stakeholders.

The Msukaligwa Municipality posted a tribute to her on their Facebook Page with the words: “Rest in eternal peace Municipal Manager.”

The Highvelder extends it’s deepest sympathies and condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.