Once again, we wish to state from the onset that we are humbled that the African National Congress, as the governing party, has bestowed upon us the privilege to lead the government of the people. 

 

We have convened to inform you about changes in the provincial executive council following the swearing in of the Premier yesterday. 

The leadership of the ANC in the province and nationally, has emphasized that collectively, we need to strive to make the lives of the people of this province better and the sacrifices of our fallen heroes and heroines worth their while. 

 

Building the economy 

We assume our responsibilities fully aware that this country and the province in particular is facing economic challenges. 

Judging from all commentary in the public media and in the social media outlets, but more so the suffering and palpable poverty in communities, job creation has to be a matter of concern to each and every South African. 

 

Rebuilding the economy and creating decent jobs in the formal and informal economies is the top priority for KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government. 

 

A strong focus will be directed into unlocking opportunities available through integrated Government investment, infrastructural development and targeted implementation of radical economic transformation programmes across all corners of the province. 

 

Our first message, is that the next few months of the members of the executive council will be characterized by hard work and humble service to the people of this province. 

Our second message is that our fate is bound together (elected leaders of society and society at large) and therefore we must work together to unlock the potential of this province. 

 

Importantly, as the new executive council we are all aware that this province is blessed with many capable leaders across all sectors of society who have a vision for a prosperous future. However, what is urgently needed is to choose the right path that will enable all of us to reach our destination. 

 

We are inviting the people of KwaZulu-Natal to walk with us as we embark on this journey of building a stronger KZN. At this stage, we wish to pause and announce members of the new executive council. 

 

The new MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs is Siboniso Duma. He is also the Leader of Government Business. MEC Duma will ensure that as members of the executive council our energies are channelled towards ensuring an equitable distribution of economic opportunities in order to uplift our people who are leaving below the poverty line. 

 

MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs - Sihle Zikalala, 

 

The Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs will be under the leadership of Sihle Zikalala, our former Premier. 

 

MEC for Health - Nomagugu Simelane 

 

MEC for Social Development - Nonhlanhla Khoza 

 

New MEC for Human Settlements and Public Works - Dr Nkululeko Ntuthuko Mahlaba 

 

New MEC for Finance - Peggy Neliswa Nkonyeni. 

 

MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development is Bongi Sithole-Moloi. 

 

MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison - Sipho Hlomuka. 

 

New MEC for Education - Mbali Frazer 

 

The new MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture is Amanda Mapena. 

 

 It was unimaginable 28 years ago that one day the people of KZN would witness such smooth transition. 

 

Once again, we want to thank former Premiers – especially Sihle Zikalala, outgoing MECs and categories of staff, past and present, across all government departments for their loyalty to the government of the day. 

 

I salute them for their contribution in creating a stronger province, socially and economically. 

 

We wish to acknowledge that they have been part of the smooth transition from the old executive council to the new executive council. As the new executive, we count on them for ongoing support as we usher in a new era in this province. 

We will do our utmost best to ensure that civil servants remain motivated. We appreciate them as engines of change central in our efforts aimed at ensuring solid service delivery. 

It is important to emphasize that we will build on the solid foundations already laid by our predecessors and we will put greater efforts in implementing what we have agreed to do in delivering our electoral mandate.