NONKANENG – During a recent Premier’s Imbizo held at Nonkaneng Sports Grounds on Friday, 20 March 2026, residents of
the Dr JS Moroka Municipality voiced a range of significant concerns.
Among the most pressing issues highlighted were persistent shortages of water and electricity. Beyond these essential services,
community members also expressed concerns about the deteriorating state of road infrastructure, as well as the existing housing
backlog.
Premier Mandla Ndlovu, accompanied by members of the Mpumalanga Provincial Government Executive Council (EXCO),
attended the community engagement initiative, which spanned from 18 March to 20 March 2026.
The Premier also received first-hand accounts of the challenges faced by local youth, including high unemployment rates and
limited support available for local entrepreneurs and persons with disabilities, who expressed a need for greater opportunities and
assistance.
The programme featured an evaluation of service delivery progress, alongside visits to government-led initiatives and direct
engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders, including the business community and civil society organisations.
The outreach initiative aimed to foster dialogue between the community and the Provincial Government on pressing service
delivery issues, offering the government a platform to address obstacles hindering effective service provision.
During his address to residents, the Premier reiterated the Provincial Government's commitment to resolving the issues raised.
“We have listened to your concerns, and we will address the challenges you have presented,” he said.
He further outlined proactive strategies to combat unemployment, highlighting a hybrid rice project and agro-processing ventures
expected to create up to 388,000 jobs across the province. The project is supported by a Memorandum of Understanding between
the Provincial Government and the University of Mpumalanga.
In addition, the district municipality announced plans for water infrastructure projects to address ongoing water shortages.
Agricultural support programmes were also introduced as part of efforts to tackle poverty in the community.
