By Bronwyn M Singh
Former Mayor of Newcastle, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, has been named the MEC for Human Settlements and Public Works in KwaZulu-Natal.
The announcement was made on 11 August by new KZN Premier Nomsa Dube-Ncube during a press conference. The new Provincial Executive Council was also officially named. Dube-Ncube said that rebuilding the economy and creating decent jobs in the formal and informal economies is the top priority for the KwaZulu-Natal government.
“A strong focus will be directed to unlocking opportunities available through the integrated government investment, infrastructural development and targeted implementation of radical economic transformation programmes across all corners of the province,” she said.
Upon the announcement, Dube-Ncube congratulated Dr Mahlaba. “We congratulate the MEC for Human Settlements and Public Works, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, for the deployment. The focus will be on speeding up the roll-out of temporary residential units and human settlements for flood victims. To date, more than 1 000 TRUS’s have been constructed,” she said.
Speaking to the Newcastle Express, Dr Mahlaba said that he is humbled to be appointed as KZN MEC. “I am humbled by the confidence that the ANC has shown in me. I accept this position with humility as the disciplined member of the party that I am. My first step is to settle into the department and continue the great work that has been done,” said Dr Mahlaba.
The MEC also thanked his supporters. “I really appreciate the support from the Newcastle community and the rest of the province of KwaZulu-Natal. I promise to serve the people with humility and to continue a good work ethic,” he said.
The new KwaZulu-Natal Government Provincial Executive Council also announced the following:
MEC for EDTA Leader of Government Business – Siboniso Duma;
MEC for CoGTA – Sihle Zikalala;
MEC for Health – Nomagugu Simelane;
MEC for Finance – Peggy Nkonyeni;
MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development – Bongi Sithole Moloi;
MEC for Education – Mbali Frazer;
MEC for Social Development – Nonhlanhla Khoza;
MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture – Amanda Bani Mapena.
