The Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said in her State of the Province Address (SOPA) 2025 debate response of her 7th administration at Lebowakgomo Legislature on Thursday that it is important to acknowledge that, despite political differences, there is a consensus among themselves regarding the path of development that Limpopo province requires.
She said political parties in Limpopo all agree that their primary focus must be on growing the economy to include everyone and fighting the scourge of poverty that has plagued our communities for far too long.
“This shared vision of building an ethical and developmental state is crucial as we move forward together. What stands out from the debate is the unanimous desire among members to see the commitments we have made come to fruition. No one desires progress more than we do, Honourable Speaker. This is a commitment that, as the 7th Administration, I, along with the entire executive council, have made to our people,” said Ramathuba.
Dr Ramathuba further said the ANC led government has made significant strides in delivering infrastructure, providing healthcare services and creating a safer environment among other things for the people of Limpopo since the dawn of democracy. The Premier further said the work of #DikgerekgereWednesdays piloted by MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure Tonny Rachoeneis making a positive impact on unpaved roads and ensuring that communities are accessible. She added that the provincial government remains committed to accelerate service delivery, creation of jobs and inclusive economic growth.
Ramathuba acknowledged the widespread interest and discussions sparked by her address. She recognized that the people of Limpopo are growing impatient with unmet promises and commitments. To tackle this issue, she spoke at the summit with senior management from all 10 departments and state-owned entities, emphasising the critical importance of effective implementation and delivery.
“We are alive to the reality that our people are getting impatient with our failure to honour our commitments. It is for this reason that, as a start, yesterday and today we convened a summit for senior management from all our 10 departments and state-owned entities. These are men and women whose primary responsibility is implementation of our plans,” said Limpopo Premier.
“It is critical for them to understand and appreciate what is at stake, should we fail to deliver on our commitments. We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to the African National Congress for deploying capable men and women in various roles within the legislature and the executive. Their contributions during the debate have elevated our collective responsibility to make Limpopo a province we can all be proud of.”
Furthermore, Premier Dr Ramathuba assured that the province remains committed to addressing critical health issues, despite external funding challenges.
"The withdrawal of US funding for HIV/AIDS programs has not hindered their work and initiatives. In fact, Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi recently launched a program to find and treat an additional 1 million people living with HIV who aren't currently on antiretroviral therapy (ARVs). The Global Fund has also reaffirmed its commitment to providing essential medications, including lenacapavir, a pre-exposure prophylaxis," Premier said.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure Tonny Rachoene during SOPA debate at Lebowakgomo Legislature.
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