Limpopo Premier, Phophi Ramathuba and the Speaker of the Legislature, Makoma Makhurupetji.
Recently-appointed Limpopo premier, Phophi Ramathuba used her maiden speech during the opening of the legislature on Friday to pay homage to the women stalwart who were instrumental during the liberation struggle.
Ramathuba, who is the first-ever Limpopo female premier, said it was worth celebrating struggle icons, especially the queen matriarchs during Women’s Month.
The erstwhile Health MEC ascended to the top echelon after her party, the ANC garnered majority votes during the 2024 General Elections to retain its power in the 7th administration.
Ramathuba arrived at the Jack Botes Hall in Polokwane accompanied by speaker of the legislature, Makoma Makhurupetji, all bursting with bravado.
Ramathuba said “I am reminded of the ferocious battles which were waged by our forebears for this country to attain this state of democratic constitutionality. Our revolutionary mission was meticulously executed in all battle fronts, because we have incessantly drank from the well of wisdom, and followed in the footsteps of trendsetters, in the mould of the well-travelled women freedom fighters. I’m paying my respect for these women revolutionaries of the liberation struggle, as we are ushering in the Women’s Month of August. These women have paved the way and made it possible for countless women from around the world, to be leaders of nations.”
Outlining her five-year plan as head of provincial government, Ramathuba said Limpopo should leverage on the rich minerals and take its economic status to loftier heights.
She said “As we run the gauntlet of the ensuing five years, we are on course with a cogent plan to achieve more rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and job creation; to reduce poverty and tackle high cost of living; to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. These three priorities are the mainstays of the 7th democratic administration. Limpopo stands ready to ensure that these priorities are converted into actions that will inform our endeavour to create a better life for all.”
Ramathuba said her administration is committed to strengthening and supporting municipalities in distress.
“One of the most critical basic services impacting on the lives of our people is water. Recent challenges in water provision call for a concerted effort to double our levels of provision. We have put the necessary monitoring mechanisms and interventions that will see us turning this state of affairs around. It is on that score that we have directed the Director General to lead a technical team, comprising executive mayors, mayors and municipal managers; the Department of Water and Sanitation, and water boards to unlock all water related bottlenecks projects as a matter of extreme urgency. We are taking a bold step as this administration and pronounce #HiNwaMatiFridays” said Ramathuba.