MAYOR HOSTS MAGOSHI FORUM TO WRAP 2023

During the Magoshi Forum held at The Bridge Boutique, Zebediela and as the year 2023 comes to a close, the Mayor, Cllr. Dr Meriam Molala thanked Makgoshi for their spirit of working together. She further committed that the municipality will continue delivering services to communities.

The Mayor urged Magoshi to prioritise attendance of Council meetings in order to have a clear understanding of decisions taken by the municipality. "Our Traditional Leaders should be part of Council meetings as we need to work together on issues of land and development as it will assist the municipality in proper planning of municipal services." Furthermore, Mayor Molala said, "We understand the importance and the role of tradition leaders in reaching out to our communities and commit to work closely with Traditional Authorities."

Mayor Molala also wished Magoshi a Merry Christmas and a Happy new year 2024.

Representatives from Ga-Ledwaba, Ga-Mphahlele and Ga-Seloane Traditional Authorities thanked the municipality while indicating that they still have faith in the municipality, thus engagements such as this will assist in addressing challenges and issues on land development.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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MUNICIPAL CLEANING CAMPAIGN AND GREENING EXPANDED PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMME EPWP LAUNCHED

On the 22 December 2023, in a vibrant ceremony pulsating with community spirit, the municipality officially held a cleaning campaign and launched its much-anticipated Cleaning and Greening Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in partnership with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment. This exciting initiative promises to not only reinvigorate the municipality cleanliness but also empower residents with valuable work opportunities.

Through this programme, 750 temporary work opportunities have been created for unemployed community members to embark on cleaning and greening activities.

Cleaning and Greening EPWP workers from all municipal thirty (30) wards were joined by, councillors, officials, environmental activists, and enthusiastic volunteers. The atmosphere crackled with energy as the Mayor spoke about the campaign's transformative potential. " The programme must also aim at addressing food insecurity challenges at household level and rising unemployment in the municipality to enhance human dignity as well as instilling pride in communities." remarked Mayor Molala.

But the true stars of the show were the 750 residents enrolled in the EPWP program. Equipped with gloves, brooms, and unwavering spirits, they rolled up their sleeves, ready to tackle the challenge. This program offers them not just income but also the chance to contribute directly to their municipality’s well-being.

The campaign targets key areas across the municipality, from parks and streets to community centres and drainage systems. The focus is on removing litter, clearing illegal dumping sites, and promoting responsible waste management practices.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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GA-MPHAHLELE COMMUNITY BENEFITS A ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT.

Today, 18 September 2023, The MEC for Limpopo Department of Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure (LDPWRI), Mme Nkakareng Rakgoale, together with Roads Agency Limpopo (RAL) has handed over a contractor and an engineer for the implementation of an upgrading project of Roads D4090, D4093, D4094 and D4096 (Malemati Roads) at Maralaleng Community Hall, Ga-Mphahlele.

The construction project of the Malemati Roads will entail the upgrading from gravel to tar, of Roads D4090, D4093, D4094, and D4096. The total length of the entire road network under design is 28.29km which will be done in phases. Currently Roads Agency Limpopo will be implementing the 1st phase of 3km with a total budget of R40 million rand.

MEC Rakgoale has urged community stakeholders to cooperate with Roads Agency Limpopo for the smooth implementation of the project. She further highlighted that the contract makes provision for the employment of local labourers and the employment of SMMEs.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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LEPELLE-NKUMPI CELEBRATES CULTURAL BUILD-UP HERITAGE DAY IN STYLE

Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (Capricorn District) and Lekgoledi Arts and Cultural Centre celebrated the build-up Heritage Day Celebration, held at Tooseng Community Hall in Ga-Mphahlele on the 05 September 2023.

Community members and different cultural groups around Lepelle-Nkumpi came in numbers to celebrate the colourful and cultural build-up event, with the showcasing of artifacts, sharing of indigenous cuisine which was followed by a cultural parade then interactive programme.

The main purpose of the events was to remind communities about the importance of preserving heritage, arts and culture, whilst the key messages included restoration of dignity, respect, encouraging moral regeneration, Ubuntu, Anti-Gender Based Violence and Femicide. Furthermore, the event showcased the talent of young musicians, support local businesses, contribute to job creation, and promote the development and growth of the rural creative sector in the Capricorn District.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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STATE OF THE MUNICIPAL ADDRESS (SOMA) 2023

The Mayor Cllr Meriam Molala delivered the 2023-2024 State of the Municipal Address at Lebowakgomo, Civic Centre Hall, on Wednesday, 31 May 2023, to provide an overview of the current state, progress, challenges, and future plans of the municipality.

In her address, she focused mainly on the overview of the municipality's financial position, budget, and fiscal management.

1. Assessment of the municipality's service delivery, including infrastructure and waste management.

2. Updates on community development initiatives, such as spatial planning, and indigent program within the municipality.

3. Economic development plans, job creation efforts, and support for local businesses.

4. Environmental sustainability and conservation efforts within the municipality.

5. Governance and administration updates, highlighting achievements, challenges, and efforts to improve transparency and accountability.

6. Priorities, goals, and plans for the upcoming year, focusing on key areas of development and improvement of the municipality.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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LEPELLE-NKUMPI MUNICIPALITY HOST WARD COMMITTEE CONFERENCE TO IMPROVE SERVICE DELIVERY

Ward Committees are established as a catalyst for service delivery at a local sphere of government in terms of the Municipal Structures (Act 117 of 1998). Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipality (LNM) is currently hosting the Ward Committee conference over three days, 17-19 May 2023 at Oasis Lodge in Mokopane to deliberate with our service delivery foot soldiers as they tackle issues of service delivery, how best they can work together to serve the community of Lepelle-Nkumpi as well as sharing challenges and successes.

The conference is attended by municipal Councillors, officials, Ward Committee members, Community Development Workers (CDWs) and Traditional Leaders. In the spirit of cooperative governance, representatives of Capricorn District Municipality (CDM), Cllr Billy Choshi, officials from Limpopo department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Social Development among others graced the conference.

LNM Speaker, Cllr Joyce Nkoabela in her opening address praised the path taken by Ward Committees, for their commitment and efforts which ensures that service delivery is enjoyed by the rural people of the municipality. "Working hand in hand with Ward Councillors, you are reporting on matters affecting the Wards you are serving. We really admire your spirit of public service and we really appreciate your work", said Cllr Nkoabela.

A report from municipality’s 30 Wards on delivery of services on areas such as water, electricity, housing, sanitation, roads, storm-water and drainage and social services including health, safety and security will be presented.

The importance of capacitating Ward Committees as a way of improving their skills towards working with the communities in reinforcing Back-to-Basics model as adopted by the Presidential Summit on local government by putting people first “Batho Pele” was also highlighted.

In her message of support, Mayor of LNM, Cllr Meriam Molala said, “As the country is celebrating 29 years of freedom and democracy, under the theme: "Consolidating and Safeguarding Democratic Gains" we must acknowledge the achievements made such far in dealing with service delivery challenges. Our communities want us to redouble our efforts in addressing the triple challenges which are unemployment, poverty and inequality as identified in the Integrated Development Plan”.

The Mayor further emphasised that, "There are massive developments around Lepelle-Nkumpi. Many of our people have taken advantage of water and electricity infrastructure to further improve the quality of their lives. We will continue to intensify implementation of the Back to Basics programme in order to ensure continuous improvement on good governance and accountability".

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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LEPELLE-NKUMPI ORGANISATIONAL STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION

The Council and Management of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality held a progressive two days Organisational Strategic Planning Session at Warmbarths Forever Resort in Bela-Bela from 23 - 24 March 2023.

Municipal Manager Ms Morongwe Monyepao presented the Municipal overview, indicating that the strategic planning culminates from the management strategic planning session that took place in February this year. "The purpose of this session is to present the 2023/24 - 2025/26 Draft Budget and all budget-related policies, also engage in the strategic growth of the municipality and give performance feedback for the 2022/2023 financial year, which will show the status quo of all projects and future plans (IDP, SDBIP, and Budget).

The mayor, Cllr. Meriam Molala in her opening remarks reflected on the journey of the previous financial year with an emphasis on the challenges that were experienced but also touched on all the good things that happened and plans that will take the municipality forward.

"Our performance as the Council of 2021-2026 is going to be evaluated against service delivery targets. It must be about the number of jobs created and a number of new households provided with services. This is the reason for our existence as the municipality and certainly where we should focus our energies and expertise." Mayor Molala said.

She further reminded all councillors that the planning session is in preparation for their second financial year in office, we should not be starting the planning process, but instead review and ensure that we implement what is in the five years IDP, assuming that this IDP/Budget addresses the following key issues:

1. The budget must cover all the wards and traditional authorities in infrastructure projects.

2. Decentralisation of services through Thusong Service Centres and Maintenance Cost Centres.

3. Priorities development of our Lebowakgomo Township (which is our District Growth Point) and Magatle, which is in our Municipal Growth Point and further identified by our Spatial Development Framework.

4. Our programmes must-have elements of the increased revenue base, which will probably be brought about by the development of urban centres at Lebowakgomo and Magatle. This will impact not only our financial sustainability but also our existence because we must have revenue as a municipality in order to sustain ourselves.

A representative from Capricorn District Municipality, Infrastructure Department and sector departments such as Provincial Treasury and SALGA was invited to present their project status quo and councillors' benefits programmes.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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UNVEILING OF THE BRAND-NEW STUDIOS AT ZEBEDIELA COMMUNITY RADIO STATION

On Saturday 18 February 2023, The Media Development & Diversity Agency (MDDA), led by the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Ms. Thembi Siweya, (MP) accompanied by the Mayor of Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipality, Cllr Meriam Molala, Capricorn District Municipality, Member of the Mayoral Committee, Cllr Matome Masoga and MDDA board chairperson, Dr. Hlengani Mathebula unveiled the brand-new state-of-the-art broadcast studios at Zebediela Community Radio Station 93.1.

Zebediela Community Radio station is located at Moletlane Tribal Offices. The station's broadcast license covers 32 semi-rural villages which are under Kgoshi Sello Madimetja Kekana III. Zebediela Community Radio’s slogan is Lentsu la Setshaba (the voice of the nation), the station’s broadcast languages are, 45% Sepedi, 30% isiNdebele,15% Xitsonga, 5% English, and 5% local dialects. The broadcast format is 60% talk and 40% music.

Deputy Minister, Ms. Thembi Siweya explained that this new radio studio is part of the government’s wider commitment to investing in local radio, ensuring that broadcasters have the resources and technology necessary to produce high-quality content.

"The studio will also serve as a hub for community radio and educational programs, providing a space for local people to come together and create engaging radio projects. We also hope and believe that this new studio will be a source of pride and joy for the local community, and enable them to have access to the latest broadcasting technology" Ms. Siweya remarks

The community radio station has formed partnerships with NGOs and government departments in the area to address social ills like crime, health, domestic violence, and alcohol and drug abuse. Zebediela Community Radio has also committed itself, through the Gender Links Centre of Excellence to contribute towards, amongst others, promoting gender balance and sensitivity in its staff composition, institutional culture, and practice.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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LNM MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION

Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality kick-started its Management Strategic Planning Session held at Bolivia Lodge in Polokwane from 16 - 17 February 2023.

The purpose of the session is to engage in the strategic growth of the municipality and give performance feedback for the 2022/2023 financial year, which will assist the municipality in knowing the status quo of all projects and future plans (IDP, SDBIP, and Budget). Out of this session, we will have IDP strategies and performance indicators plus proposed projects for the 2023/2024 financial year.

The session allows colleagues an opportunity to self-reflect, self-access, and creatively position the municipality to deliver on its mandate in order to accelerate service delivery.

Leading the discussions, the Municipal Manager, Ms. Morongwe Monyepao, encouraged all colleagues to continue working together towards delivering better services and ensuring that the residents of Lepelle-Nkumpi become the center of priority.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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BACK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN 2023

#Back2School | The Mayor of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Cllr Meriam Molala, joined the MEC for Limpopo Provincial Treasury, Honourable Seaparo Sekoati on the 11th January 2023, in monitoring the reopening of schools for the 2023 academic year, within the Capricorn South District in Lebowakgomo Circuit, Dr Dixon Mphahlele Primary School and Derek Kobe High School.

Education is a societal matter and a pre-condition for development

The Groundstone project supplies peaches to Woolworth, Pick n Pay, Spar and other local retailers.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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MEC FORAGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT, THABO MOKONE LAUNCH HARVESTING SEASON

The Mayor of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Cllr. Meriam Molala, and Capricorn District Municipality, MMC for Finance, Cllr. Maria Ramokolo joined the MEC for Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Thabo Mokone at Ground Stone Peach Farm, Matome Village in Zebediela, for the information sharing session on peach production and launching of the peach harvesting season.

Ground Stone Farm is one of the emerging farmer's projects producing peach in Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipality. The project is on a 12 hectares peach production farm which was established in 2014 by the Serage Family. The different cultivars of peaches planted at the farm are yellow peaches, nectarines and red peaches. The farm employs 10 permanent employees and 30 are hired during harvest time.

The Groundstone project supplies peaches to Woolworth, Pick n Pay, Spar and other local retailers.

MEC Thabo Mokone, in his keynote address "Applauded the Serage Family who managed to plant 16000 trees, with a good erected irrigation infrastructure, storage and mini package facility with their own equity and through this magnificent project, 10 permanent jobs and additional temporary job opportunities are created during planting, thinning and harvesting"

Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality supports the drive to promote economic growth through a co-ordinated local approach and partnership in agriculture and Agro-processing that is focused on employment creation.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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CAPRICORN DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY INSPECT GA-MPHAHLELE BULK WATER PROJECTS

The Mayor of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Cllr. Meriam Molala joined the Executive Mayor of Capricorn District Municipality, Cllr Mamedupi Teffo and Mayoral Committee team members yesterday, 16 November 2022, at Ga-Mphahlele to inspect progress on the construction of Ga-Mphahlele Regional Water scheme that will be reticulating water to the following communities Bolatjane, Phalakwane, Mogodi, Makurung and Dithabaneng.

The multi-million bulk water supply scheme is expected to be completed in February 2023 and scope of work consists of 3 x 4,5ml (mega-litres) reservoirs and 1 x 9ml reservoir, construction of manhole chambers to accommodate connection points, installation of air valves, gate valves, and a telemetry system at the reservoirs to monitor the flow and leakages. This project is at more than 80% construction and on completion, it will augment the supply of water in Ga-Mphahlele area.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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MAYOR MOLALA VISIT GROUNDSTONE PEACH ORCHARD FARM AT MATOME VILLAGE

Today, 03 November 2022, The Mayor Cllr. Meriam Molala, accompanied by the Land, Local Economic Development, Planning and Housing, portfolio chairperson, Cllr. Octovia Molomo visited the Ground Stone Peach Farm under the ownership of Ms. MM Serage and her daughter, Ms. Jenifer Serage at Zebediela, Matome village in preparation for the upcoming harvesting season.

Ground Stone Farm has 15 hectares of land and utilises agricultural land to produce agricultural fresh produce, particularly fruits and vegetables.

Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality supports the drive to promote economic growth through a co-ordinated local approach and partnership in agriculture and Agro-processing that is focused on employment creation.

In her remarks Mayor Molala emphasized the importance of supporting small-scale farmers "In order to deal with unemployment, poverty and other issues we need to be visionaries and begin to use locally available resources to address local challenges and to capitalise on comparative advantage as it pertains to our municipality, we will engage with the Zebediela Ndebele traditional council to allocate Ground Stone Peach Farm more land in order to expand the production of the business." said Mayor Molala.


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LNM NEW MUNICIPAL MANAGER MEETS LABOUR UNIONS AND STAFF MEMBERS

The newly appointed municipal manager, Ms. Morongwe Adelaide Monyepao met with the labour unions and staff of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, on the 04 October 2022 at Civic Centre Hall.

The meet and greet session was led by the Mayor, Cllr Meriam Molala, accompanied by the Chiefwhip, Cllr Given Sello and other Executive Committee members (EXCO).

Mayor, Cllr Meriam Molala welcomed the appointment while confirming that Ms Monyepao has been appointed on a five-year contract. "I present to you members of Labour Unions the new Municipal Manager who has more than 22 years of experience. I hope you will work closely with her, advise her and also support her". Said the Mayor.

"The Municipality also takes this opportunity to thank Ms. Mankga who has been acting as the Municipal Manager since September 2021. We know it was not easy but we thank her for steering this administration very well. We urge all the Executive Managers to support our new Municipal Manager as it is a team effort to serve Lepelle-Nkumpi communities". said the Mayor.

In her response, Ms. Monyepao stated areas she will focus on. The issue around service delivery challenges, audit outcomes, vacant posts, revenue collection, working conditions, and other burning issues that the municipality is facing.

"I would like to appreciate the opportunity given to me by Council to lead the administration of the Municipality. I always believe a good Municipality is always community focused. As municipal officials, we have a responsibility to serve communities with the best quality of services. I am excited to undertake my duties to upscale service delivery and achieve the objectives of Council. As a collective we need to ensure that LNM strive for a clean audit finding with sound governance and excellent service delivery" said Monyepao.

"Motho ke motho ka batho"


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LEPELLE-NKUMPI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY WELCOME NEW MUNICIPAL MANAGER

Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality (LNM) has today, 03 October 2022 welcomed Morongwe Adelaide Monyepao as its new Municipal Manager (MM). LNM Council approved her appointment on a five-year contract during its sitting on the 27th August 2022. Ms Monyepao takes over the reins from Ms Khomotjo Mankga, who was steering the administrative arm of the Municipality in an acting capacity since September 2021 and will henceforth fully return to her Chief Financial Officer position.

Her career spans over twenty-six (26) years, with about twenty-two (22) of which is in senior management within local government. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (University of Limpopo), Bachelor of Arts Honours in Development Studies (UL), Masters in Town and Regional Planning (University of Pretoria) and currently studying towards a Masters in Real Estate (UP). Ms Monyepao has further completed the Municipal Finance Management Programme (MFMP) in line with the Municipal Minimum Competency Levels set out by the National Treasury, and courses on project management and performance management in a South African Municipality.

Monyepao is not new to Lepelle-Nkumpi, as she served as Executive Manager Planning and Local Economic Development (LED) between March 2018 and January 2019. Her recent role before rejoining LNM was a short stint (July 2022- September 2022) as Director Planning at Mopani District Municipality while prior that she was employed as Executive Director Development Planning at Emalahleni Local Municipality during January 2019- June 2022.

Her other career highlights include the following:

  • Acting Municipal Manager at Fetakgomo-Tubatse Municipality from May 2013 to August 2014, during her stint as Director Development Planning, August 2012-July 2017
  • Senior Manager: Strategy, Planning and Economic Development at Capricorn District Municipality, November 2010-July 2012
  • Director Development Planning at Sekhukhune District Municipality, January 2006-November 2010
  • Water Services Coordinator at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), May 2003-December 2005
  • Community Development Officer at Lepelle Northern Water (LNW), December 1996-April 2003
  • LNM Mayor, Cllr Meriam Molala welcomed the appointment while confirming that Ms Monyepao has been appointed on a five-year contract. The Municipality also takes this opportunity to thank Ms. Mankga who has been acting as the Municipal Manager since September 2021. "We know it was not easy but we thank you for steering this administration very well. We urge all the Executive Managers to support our new MM as it is a team effort to serve Lepelle-Nkumpi communities", said the Mayor.

    Council together with the administration extends their warmest wishes to Ms Monyepao and trust that she will take the Municipality to greater heights. "I would like to appreciate the opportunity given to me by Council to lead the administration of the Municipality. I always believe a good Municipality is always community focussed. As municipal officials, we have a responsibility to serve communities with the best quality of services. I am excited to undertake my duties to upscale service delivery and achieve the objectives of Council. As a collective we need to ensure that LNM strive for a clean audit finding with sound governance and excellent service delivery" said Monyepao. She further said her vision aligns with that of the LNM Council while concluding that "We must ensure that we continue to deliver effective and efficient services, maintain an ethical and corruption free administration, and foster good relations with our local and provincial stakeholders."

    Issued by the Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality


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    LEPELLE-NKUMPI MUNICIPALITY NETBALL INTER-CLUSTER PLAYOFFS TOURNAMENT

    Saturday, 20 August 2022, Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality in partnership with the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and Lepelle-Nkumpi Netball Association held a successful netball Inter-Cluster tournament at Lebowakgomo Stadium.

    The main objective of the tournament is to revive and encourage youth to play netball within all the four clusters of Lepelle-Nkumpi, namely Lebowakgomo, Mphahlele, Zebediela, and Mafefe-Mathabatha clusters.

    The inter-cluster tournament had 33 teams consisting of 12 players and 3 management participating in a knockout competition, which will see position 1 and 2 winners in the senior division be promoted to the district level, while those in the under 15 and 13 division will represent Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality at the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture funded camp.

    In attendance was the Council Chiefwhip, Cllr. Given Sello, Community Services portfolio member, Cllr. Ramoloko Phele, Ward 14 Cllr. Kekana, Department of Sports, Arts and Culture officials, Lepelle-Nkumpi Sports Confederation officials, and Capricorn Netball Association officials. "Motho ke motho ka batho"


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    LNM AWARDED FOR SUSTAINING UNQUALIFIED AUDIT OUTCOME FOR 2020-2021 FINANCIAL YEAR

    The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) awarded Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality for sustaining an UNQUALIFIED AUDIT OPINION from the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) for the 2020/2021 Financial Year at Warmbath Forever Resort in Bele-Bela on the 04 August 2022. UNQUALIFIED AUDIT OPINION means the Municipality's financial statements are transparent and are compliant with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

    Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipality Mayor, Cllr Meriam Molala was delighted about the award, saying that since taking over the reins in the Municipality, her administration has ensured budgetary processes focus on the urgent needs of indigent communities, through investment in infrastructure, provision of free basic services, and the growth of the local economy.

    "We are happy for sustaining the Unqualified Audit Opinion for the 2020/2021 financial year and will put more efforts towards attaining clean audit in the coming financial years. The hard work and commitment of our management and officials, oversight by our Council is showing progress and improvements. We will continue in our concerted efforts to manage our cash flow and generate cash-backed surpluses to fund future capital expenditure", Cllr Molala explains.

    The Mayor, Cllr Meriam Molala was accompanied by the Acting Municipal Manager, Ms. Khomotjo Mankga and Chief Audit Executive, Ms. Rampuru Setati.


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    ROAD AGENCY LIMPOPO APPOINTS CONTRACTOR FOR 10KM UPGRADING ROAD

    As part of celebrating Mandela Day, Lepelle-Nkumpi Roads, Transport and Electricity portfolio chairperson, Cllr Zebulon Mphofela accompanied the delegation from Road Agency Limpopo (RAL) to the consultative meeting with Batau Ba Seloane Traditional Council, to introduce the contactor and present the technical, social and environmental matters regarding the 10km upgrading (Gravel to Tar) of Road D4109 from Mamatonya Village to D885 Malatane Village.

    The contractor is expected to commence with upgrades once all the processes involving communities and other stakeholders are completed. The acclaimed project is anticipated to be completed within a period of 18 months.

    Meanwhile, it will also help communities to start up cooperatives where the entity will procure material to construct sections of the road as part of the Letsema Ditseleng initiative launched in 2021. Local labourers from the affected communities will be employed while the local Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) will be empowered.


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    OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE MULTI-MILLION RAND STATE-OF-THE-ART SELETENG COMMUNITY LIBRARY

    Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Community Services portfolio chairperson, Cllr. Makonko Matsimela joined the Limpopo MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Thandi Moraka, today 27 May 2022 during the official opening of the multi-million rand State of the Art, Seleteng community Library at Ga-Mphahlele. The library is expected to benefit about 25 schools around Ga-Mphahlele area and is equipped with modern technology such as a computer lab, study rooms, early childhood development room, fire-fighting equipment system, gardening and open space for socialisation.

    MEC Moraka in her keynote address stated that the library will close a huge literacy gap in the area as it offers free public internet access, books for school learners, university students and those reading for leisure. “Magazines and newspapers are also available for the community to utilise within this safe, accessible and beautiful structure. Since the department is mandated to encourage the culture of reading and writing in communities, the building of libraries is a major step towards achieving that goal. I urge residents to take full ownership of the library. It is the responsibility of all residents to protect it from vandalism.” said MEC Moraka

    In her address, The First Lady Maggie Mathabatha motivated and encouraged the learners to always take care of themselves. “A lot of young girls drop out of school because they are made to suffer the indignity of being teased by their peers when they go through their menstrual cycle, We want our girls' learners to use these sanitary towels and at the same time they should abstain from sexual activities and focus on their education,” said First Lady, Maggie Mathabatha.

    The library will contribute to the vision of a socially inclusive, creative, active and connected Limpopo, as libraries are the social hub of communities. Educational and community programmes will be Implemented such as reading programmes, school holiday programmes, career expos, computer skills, spelling bees and school readers club.

    “Motho ke motho ka batho”


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    LEPELLE NKUMPI MUNICIPALITY LAUNCHES LOCAL BATHO PELE FORUM

    Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality officially launched the Local Batho Pele Forum at Civic Centre Hall in Lebowakgomo.

    The Local Batho Pele Forum will provide a platform for reporting, exchanging and sharing information and experiences on the implementation of the Batho Pele Programmes and other service-related challenges amongst stakeholders and sector departments in Lepelle-Nkumpi.

    The responsibilities and objectives of the Batho Pele forum were outlined by Mr Mishack Mabunda, a representative from Limpopo Office of the Premier saying "Batho Pele is about moving the Public Service from a rules-bound approach that hinders the delivery of services to an approach that encourages innovation and is results-driven. In other words, instead of looking for reasons why the government cannot do something, we have to find better ways to deliver what people need”. said Mabunda

    The Batho Pele belief set has been summarised by this slogan: "We belong, we care, we serve." Batho Pele aims to ensure that all public servants put people first, and adhere to the following overarching framework:

      We belong: we are part of the Public Service and should work together and respect fellow colleagues
      We care: caring for the public we serve-our customers
      We serve: all citizens will get good service from public servants.

    The acting mayor, Chairperson of Infrastructure, Cllr. Zebulon Mphofela outlined the challenges we face as municipalities in remote areas “government service points are often not optimally located in relation to where people live and many people still travel long distances to access services and information.

    Furthermore, service points of different departments are often not located close to one another making it inconvenient for people to access them". said Cllr. Mphofela

    Some of the stakeholders and sector departments, which attended the launch, are Capricorn District Municipality, Limpopo Office of the Premier, ESKOM, SASSA, SALGA, GCIS, Department of Health, Home Affairs, Department of Labour, Department of Social Development, Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) and Local radio stations (Zebediela and Mphahlele FM).


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    SANITARY TOWELS BRING DIGNITY TO DINAO SECONDARY SCHOOL GIRL LEARNERS

    Friday, 28 January 2022 | Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Chief whip Cllr Given Sello and Ward 21, Cllr Piet Mphahlele joined Limpopo First Lady, Maggie Mathabatha, Ponelopele Women's Primary Co-operative during the Limpopo Office of the Premier’s annual campaign to support girls with sanitary towels at Dinao Secondary School in Ga-Mphahlele, Makurung Village, Ward 21.

    The main aim of the campaign is to restore the dignity of the girl learners by keeping them at school during their menstrual circle and ensuring that they put in more of their time on education. It is done on the fact that sanitary towels are not a luxury but a necessity and that their education is their future.

    In her address, The First Lady Maggie Mathabatha motivated and encouraged the learners to always take care of themselves. “A lot of young girls drop out of school because they are made to suffer the indignity of being teased by their peers when they go through their menstrual cycle, We want our girls' learners to use these sanitary towels and at the same time they should abstain from sexual activities and focus on their education,” said First Lady, Maggie Mathabatha.

    In closing remarks the Chief whip Cllr Given Sello applauded the work done by the Office of the Premier in partnership with The First Lady Foundation and other stakeholders. “The donation of the sanitary towels to schools is bringing dignity to young girls. We encourage all the learners to focus on their studies and aspire to become successful and refrain from substance abuse, crime, underage sexual activities, and Gender-Based Violence activities,” said Cllr Sello

    All traditional leaders pledged their full support to the Mayor and her team and indicated that they are looking forward to a healthy working relationship that will unlock the prospects of our land, the resources, and more importantly opportunities to our people.


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    POLITICAL MANAGEMENT TEAM (PMT) INTERACTS WITH TRADITIONAL LEADERS

    The Mayor of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Cllr Meriam Molala, joined by the Speaker of Council, Cllr Joyce Nkoabela, and the Chief-whip, Cllr Given Sello met with traditional leaders at The Ranch Hotel, in Polokwane on the 24 January 2022 as part of the municipal stakeholders' engagement program.

    The main purpose of the meeting was to brief the newly elected leadership about the challenges regarding the participation of Traditional Leaders in service delivery and Council meetings and to make recommendations in this regard so as to ensure effective, responsive, and accountable local governance for communities.

    Issues that were raised by traditional leaders as a collective include service delivery projects backlogs (roads, water, housing, electricity, etc) exclusion of traditional leaders in the formation of ward committee members, regular service delivery updates meetings amongst others that the municipality will need to deal with.

    The Mayor and her team managed to reply and made commitments to resolve all the challenges raised 'The municipality will continue to work for hand in glove with traditional leaders to fast track the implementation of the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) into reality and the inclusion of traditional leaders in Council meetings is an indication that the municipality regards traditional leadership as an important stakeholder.' Cllr Molala emphasized

    All traditional leaders pledged their full support to the Mayor and her team and indicated that they are looking forward to a healthy working relationship that will unlock the prospects of our land, the resources, and more importantly opportunities to our people.


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    MAYOR MOLALA JOINS 2022 BACK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN

    Mayor Cllr Meriam Molala accompanied by Chief-whip Cllr Given Sello, Ward 07 Cllr Emsy Maphoto and Executive Mayor of Capricorn District Municipality Cllr Mamedupi Teffo and other stakeholders joined the MEC for Education, Polly Boshielo at Sethwethwa Secondary School and Nwana Mokoena Primary School in Zebediela, Makueng Village, Capricorn South Education District.

    TThe purpose was to monitor the readiness of both schools ahead of the 2022 academic year and to ensure the two schools sustain good performance. 2022 Back to School program has focused on the following key areas:

    1. Management of learner admissions, registration, and attendance. 2. Learning and Teaching support material. 3. Facilities and Infrastructure and 4. Covid-19 readiness and compliance.

    The Mayor motivated learners by reminding them that they are the future leaders "Education is one of the Government priorities, as the Municipality it is our mandate to give full support to you. In 2022 you must work very hard, avoid wrong friends” She said. Mayor also encouraged and motivated them to stay disciplined and to focus on their studies.

    Education is a societal matter


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    FESTIVE SEASON ROAD SAFETY AND COVID-19 AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

    Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality, Community Services Chairperson Cllr DanielMatsimela joined Capricorn District Municipality (CDM), MMC for Planning and Environmental Management Cllr Calvin Masoga on a Festive Season Road Safety and COVID-19 Awareness Campaign in Lebowakgomo, R579 road.

    The safety and COVID-19 awareness campaigns are to ensure that the municipality plays a role in dealing with fatalities on the roads during the festive season and to encourage the road users about the importance of vaccination.

    Cllr Daniel Matsimela emphasized the importance of responsible driving, observing the law and being considerate of other road users, particularly, pedestrians which statistics have identified as the most vulnerable among all road users. Furthermore, he reiterated the importance of using safety belts.

    Various stakeholders such as the law enforcement officers, CDM Health Service and Disaster Management Unit, Local Community Policing Forum (CPF) and Capricorn District Department of Health were among those who attended the awareness campaign.


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    MAYOR MERIAM MOLALA VISIT JESUS THE ROCK CHURCH FOR THEIR THANKSGIVING SERVICE

    The Mayor of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality together with the Chief-Whip Cllr Given Sello and Ward 13 councilor Cllr Wegan Ledwaba visited Jesus The Rock Church in Makotse (Ward 13) for their Thanksgiving service.

    The Mayor thanked the church and the entire community for going out to vote. The Mayor, Cllr Meriam Molala said "we asked and listened prior to the election campaign to what matters most to you. You made it clear you wanted efficient service delivery, clean environment, and sufficient recreation facilities. Further, a strong local economy, and an open and honest local government that listens to you and acts through the will of the people. We are ready to serve the community of Lepelle-Nkumpi. "


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    LEPELLE NKUMPI INTEGRATED COUNCILLOR INDUCTION PROGRAMME

    The 5 day, Integrated Generic Councillor Induction Programme (ICIP) for Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality facilitated by South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has commenced from the 06 - 10 December 2021, at Landmark Protea Hotel in Polokwane.

    The Induction is attended by the newly sworn-in 60 Ward and PR councillors with the objective to equip, renew and usher in the new and returning councillors, capacitating them on their roles and responsibilities as they execute the mandate of local government.

    The Limpopo MEC for COGHSTA Basikopo Makamu addressed the induction through a virtual platform urging councillors not to degrade the Induction as a fruitless exercise, by not attending sessions. He also encouraged Councillors to take advantage of the programmes SALGA is offering to further their studies and increase career prospects come to the end of term.

    The Induction will focus on various topics namely: Ethical Leadership; Policy and Legislation applicable to local government; Municipal Governance, Procedures, Protocols, Planning and Strategy, Financial Management and Performance.


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    POLITICAL MANAGEMENT TEAM (PMT) AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETS STAFF MEMBERS

    "We thank you for the hard work you are doing in making sure that our communities receive services. It is our pleasure to announce that the Municipality has received an UNQUALIFIED audit opinion for the 2020-2021 Financial Year. Thank you to the Acting Municipal Manager, her management and staff, you continue to make us proud. We appreciate the commitment and let's work towards CLEAN audit," said the Mayor, Cllr. Meriam Molala.

    The purpose of the meeting as outlined by the Acting Municipal Manager, Ms. Khomotjo Mankga was to introduce the Political Management Team (PMT) and the Executive Committee which will be working alongside the Mayor, to staff members and management.

    The meeting took place at Civic Centre Hall - Lebowakgomo, on the 02 December 2021.
    "Motho ke motho ka batho"


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    LEPELLE-NKUMPI MUNICIPALITY INAUGURAL COUNCIL MEETING

    In line with Section 29(2) of the Local Government Municipal Structures Act 117 of 1998. The newly Inaugurated Council of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality elected the Political Management Team (PMT) and Chairpersons of Council Committees as follows:

    Political Management Team (PMT)

  • Mayor: Cllr. Molala Matshipsane Merriam
  • Speaker: Cllr. Nkoabela Ngoanankoane Joyce
  • Chief Whip: Cllr. Sello Seriting Given
  • MPAC Chairperson

  • Cllr. Makgahlela Mamashele Bethuel
  • EXCO Members

  • Cllr. Matsimela Mankoko Daniel
  • Cllr. Molomo Ramokone Octovia
  • Cllr. Mphofela Sabulone Mabatane
  • Cllr. Mazwi Dimakatso Patricia
  • Cllr. Nkoana Raisibe Thwintshana Francinah
  • Cllr. Mphahlele Maphaahle Thabang Ruphos
  • Cllr. Rababalela Shirley Malebo
  • Cllr. Lekgoathi Sarah

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