The FF Plus in Limpopo will keep its focus fixed on service delivery during the upcoming term under the newly elected Premier, Ms Phophi Ramathuba, at the steer of things.
The Provincial Opening Address, which recently took place (2 August) in Polokwane, quite possibly created a false impression regarding plans for progressing the province.
Ramathuba is the first female Premier of the province and all eyes are on her to see if she possesses the leadership qualities needed to improve the province’s economic prospects.
Roads, water and safety are some of the biggest challenges in Limpopo. Rural and urban areas are also affected by years of infrastructure decay and financial mismanagement.
The party has already voiced its concerns regarding the planned Musina/Makhado Special Economic Zone (MMSEZ) in the Vhembe District (Louis Trichardt, Musina) of Limpopo which poses a serious threat to agriculture, water security, tourism, the natural environment, and fossil and cultural heritage.
It is important to strike a balance with economic development by weighing it up against the damage it will cause to the natural environment and the current climate crisis.
It is unacceptable, in the FF Plus’s view, that established farmers have taken it on themselves to repair roads at their own expense.
In July this year, the party met with farmers who had lost their entire harvest to veld fires and black frost.
The FF Plus was given a mandate to submit specific demands to the relevant departments. The party hopes that the Premier will see reason and declare the situation a disaster to provide aid to these farmers.
Financial losses of approximately R200 million have already been reported to the party’s provincial office.
The FF Plus’s Member of the Provincial Legislature will meet with the heads of the Agriculture and Public Works Departments on Wednesday (7 August) to discuss possibly providing aid to farmers.
The farmers who put food on our table should get the protection and support they need to ensure adequate and sustainable food security in the province.
In addressing the high crime levels in the province, the party would like to see the Premier prioritise attempts to curb the influx of criminal elements across our borders.
Police action between 29 July and 4 August led to the arrest of 400 undocumented foreigners.
It is vital to prioritise Limpopo residents’ safety and security, and every effort has to be made to ensure that border control is in line with immigration laws and procedures.
This term offers Ramathuba a golden opportunity to demonstrate that actions speak louder than words.
;
