Mpumalanga targets 3% growth by 2029 as DEDT tables Budget Plan 

By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe

Mpumalanga’s economic blueprint for the year was laid out before the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, with MEC Jesta Sidell saying the province is at “an economic turning point.”

The DEDT(Department of Economic Development and Tourism) appeared before the committee to table its Budget and Annual Performance Plan report, alongside those of its public entities.

“Mandate Is Sharp and Non-Negotiable”

While giving her political overview, MEC Jesta Sidell indicated that the Department and its Public Entities have aligned their plans with the priorities of the 7th administration, the MTDP(Medium-Term Development Plan), and the broader objective of building a capable, ethical, developmental state that places citizens at the centre of service delivery.

“This engagement takes place against the backdrop of an economic turning point for our beautiful province,” MEC Sidell told the committee.

“As the 7th administration, our mandate is clear, sharp and non-negotiable. We must accelerate economic transformation, spark industrialisation, cultivate our tourism potential and aggressively drive job creation to elevate the livelihoods of the people of Mpumalanga.”

She said the Department’s plans are anchored in national priorities. “Our deliberations today are guided by the three overarching strategic pillars of the National Medium-Term Development Plan, which are to Drive inclusive growth and job creation; Reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living; and Building a capable, ethical and developmental state.”

Growth Forecast: 1.3% This Year, 3% by 2029

The Department appeared before the committee at the time when the provincial economic outlook is showing a quite but stable resilience. Following the provincial budget tabled in March, Mpumalanga’s economy is projected to grow by 1.3% in 2026, scaling up to 1.9% in 2027, with a long-term target of 3% by 2029.
Sidell flagged external risks but pointed to strong local data. “While global geopolitical tensions, especially supply chain disruptions in the Middle-East pose risks to our agricultural export markets and local farmers, our domestic metrics are highly encouraging.”

“According to recent Quarterly Labour Force Survey data, Mpumalanga achieved historic employment levels and ranked second nationally in job creation, anchored largely by growth in our services, finance, tourism, and agricultural sectors,” she said.

Industrialisation, Tourism, Jobs

The Department’s Annual Performance Plan links budget allocations to industrialisation projects, tourism infrastructure, and support for SMME(Small Medium and Micro Enterprises).

Key focus areas include agro-processing, green economy initiatives tied to the Just Energy Transition, and expanding the province’s share of domestic and international tourism.

The plan also commits public entities to faster turnaround times for investor support and to strengthening township and rural economies.

With the budget now tabled, the Portfolio Committee will deliberate before the Department proceeds with implementation in the 2026/27 financial year.