New Mopani SANCO Leadership.
On Saturday, May 2, 2026, a new energy filled the Tivumbeni Multipurpose Centre in Nkowankowa.
For a long time, the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in the Mopani Region had been quiet. Some political observers even believed the organization was on the verge of collapsing. However, this past weekend changed everything. The “civic giant” has officially woken up.
A total of 249 delegates from across the district gathered for a decisive Regional Conference. They came with a clear mission: to rebuild an organization that speaks for the people. The theme of the day was about transformation and working side by side with communities. It was not just a routine meeting. It was a revival of a movement that many feel is the heart of local democracy.
The conference was a high-profile affair.
Senior leaders like SANCO 1st Deputy President Christopher Malematja and representatives from the provincial office attended to show their support. The message from the stage was firm and uncompromising. Malematja told the delegates that access to clean water, decent sanitation, and safe roads is not a favor from the government. Instead, these are constitutional rights that must be defended. He urged the new leaders to lead from the frontlines of community struggles rather than from behind a desk.
The election results brought in a fresh team to lead the region from 2026 to 2029. Richard Nkuna from Phalaborwa was elected as the Chairperson. He will work alongside Maruping Tshehla from Maruleng, who takes the role of Secretary. Other key leaders include Elvis Sedutla from Tzaneen as Deputy Chairperson, Mothipa Manyama as Deputy Secretary, Angie Makgeru as Treasurer, and Nyeleti Mathebula from Giyani as the Organiser. To ensure every corner of the district is covered, the conference also elected 17 Heads of Department representing all five local municipalities.
The local ANC leadership in the Norman Mashabane Region was quick to welcome the news. Acting Regional Chairperson Dagma Mamanyoha expressed great relief at the “resurrection” of SANCO. The ANC admitted that when SANCO is mute, the voices of the communities are also mute. For the ruling party, a strong SANCO is essential as the country moves toward the 2026 Local Government Elections. They see this new leadership as a way to strengthen the alliance and address the demands of the people more effectively.
Other alliance partners, including the SACP and COSATU, stood shoulder to shoulder with the civic movement. Even the Mopani Pastors Fraternity was present, showing that the struggle for better services has broad support from all parts of society.
The road ahead for Richard Nkuna and his team is a busy one. Their first task is to rebuild branches that have become weak and to turn their plans into real action on the ground. They have been ordered to hold a Regional General Council soon to start their community-based programs. As the 2026 elections loom, the people of Mopani will be watching closely to see if this “resurrection” leads to the better services they have been waiting for.
SANCO 1st Deputy President Chris Malematja.
ANC Norman Mashabane acting Chairperson Dagma Mamanyoha delivers a message of support.
SACP member in attendance.