By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The MEC for DEDT(Department of Economic Development and Tourism) in Mpumalanga, Jesta Sidell, has appointed the MTPA(Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency) interim Board aimed at stimulating economic growth and job creation.
This follows the recent appointment of Lemmy Mdluli as the  Acting MTPA CEO(Chief Executive Officer), last week.
The interim Board is led by the former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, as Chairpeson
following the expiry of the term of office of the previous MTPA board on 31 August 2025. The interim Board is tasked with managing the affairs of the Entity until a permanent Board is appointed.
MEC Sidell said the MTPA is very strategic and critical for government in the pursuit of the three main priorities of the 7th Administration; which are; to drive inclusive growth and job creation; reduce poverty and tackle high cost of living; and build a capable, ethical and developmental state.
The MEC has directed the board to pay special attention to urgent tasks including;
• Develop and submit a coherent turnaround strategy and a detailed plan that will focus on ensuring effective and efficient financial management systems, including ensuring a procurement system that is effective, efficient and transparent;
• Implementation of the Forensic Report recommendations;
• Resolve the ongoing impasse regarding the development of the Barberton Makhonjwa
Mountains World Heritage Site;
• Filling of critical posts;
• Improve staff morale.
• Develop and submit a coherent turnaround strategy and a detailed plan that will focus on ensuring effective and efficient financial management systems, including ensuring a procurement system that is effective, efficient and transparent;
• Implementation of the Forensic Report recommendations;
• Resolve the ongoing impasse regarding the development of the Barberton Makhonjwa
Mountains World Heritage Site;
• Filling of critical posts;
• Improve staff morale.
“ The swift appointment of the interim Board should send a strong statement that we are committed to revive the Entity to its former glory. We hold a view that it must be through this Entity that as government we are able to grow the economy and dismantle the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality. Therefore, we are not going to allow the Entity to fail”, said MEC Sidell.
In addition, Sidell said tourism is one of the main sectors with huge potential to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the provincial economy and job creation.
“ As the Department, we will continue to support the MTPA in its quest of making Mpumalanga a tourist destination of choice”, added Sidell.
The MEC extended her appreciation to the members of the interim board for their willingness to serve on the interim Board, and wished them well in the exercise and performance of their powers and functions.
“Congratulations on your appointment as MTPA Board members, I have confidence that you are equal to the task ahead. I wish you all the best in your responsibility to transform the entity into a viable and strategic vehicle to drive economic growth in the province. Equally, we extend our appreciation to the outgoing board for steering the ship during its tenure”, said MEC Sidell.
The members of the Interim Board are as follows:
Fish Mahlalela (Chairperson), Tholi Nkambule, Prof. David Mabunda, Malinda Grimbeek,  Sizile Ndlovu, Qondile Thabethe, Mzilikazi Khumalo,  Sandile Nene,  Mohita Latchminarin, Sister Monama, Thembelihle Anawo.
Fish Mahlalela (Chairperson), Tholi Nkambule, Prof. David Mabunda, Malinda Grimbeek,  Sizile Ndlovu, Qondile Thabethe, Mzilikazi Khumalo,  Sandile Nene,  Mohita Latchminarin, Sister Monama, Thembelihle Anawo.
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