The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform has announced a significant leadership change, with Lebogang James Motlhaping taking the helm as the new Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for the department.
The department said the appointment, made by the Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, forms part of broader efforts to enhance governance and service delivery capacity across the provincial government.
“This appointment represents a strategic move to strengthen our department’s ability to deliver critical services to the people of the Northern Cape,” reads the statement. “Mr Motlhaping brings decades of invaluable experience and a deep understanding of our province’s unique challenges and opportunities.”
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According to the department, the new MEC brings extensive governmental experience to the portfolio, having previously served in multiple executive positions, including MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Health, and Transport, Safety and Liaison. Born in Kuruman, Motlhaping has maintained strong community ties throughout the Northern Cape region.
“His track record in various leadership roles, combined with his strategic insight and community connections, positions him perfectly to advance our mandate in agriculture, environmental protection, and rural development,” explained the department.
Prior to his latest appointment, Motlhaping served as a Member of the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature, where he contributed significantly to the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Land Reform, Rural Development, Environment and Conservation. “This experience provided him with crucial legislative oversight and policy development expertise directly relevant to his new role”.
The department has outlined ambitious goals under the new leadership, focusing on strengthening food security, driving inclusive economic growth in rural areas, environmental protection, and enhanced service delivery across all communities.
Acknowledging Outgoing Leadership
The leadership transition also sees the departure of Mase Manopole, who has been appointed to lead the Department of Social Development, Youth, Women and People with Disabilities.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to MEC Manopole for her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to our department’s mandate. Her contributions have left an enduring legacy that will continue to benefit the people of the Northern Cape. We wish her every success in her new role.”
