By Kopano Dibakwane
The Deputy Judge President of the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court, Justice Takalani Ratshibvumo, administered the swearing in of MEC for COGHSTA(Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs), Speed Mashilo, as the Acting Premier of Mpumalanga, on Tuesday 10 June 2025.
According to the Provincial Government spokesperson, Zibonele Mncwango, the COGHSTA MEC was appointed by Premier Mandla Ndlovu, to temporarily take over the reigns while Ndlovu will be embarking on a visit to the People’s Republic of China, alongside MEC for DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs), Nompumelelo Hlophe, as well as other senior officials from the Provincial Government.
Mncwango said the Premier’s visit to China is geared towards the operationalisation of the first large-scale market infrastructure in the province, MIFPM(Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market), which is expected to boost international market access to Mpumalanga, and with the potential to create 1500 job opportunities. In its operation, the MIFPM will reportedly benefit 1400 farmers.
“ The Premier will visit Shanghai Cooperation Organisation for trade investment, Longnam City, renowned for traditional medicine, mining and olive oil production, and the Tianshui Inland Port, a model area for modern agricultural development. Premier Ndlovu says the trip is key to lay a strong foundation for the operationalisation of the market,” said Mncwango.
