MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa has accepted the additional responsibility of leading Gauteng’s Economic Development portfolio while maintaining her role as MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, describing the appointment as a “full circle moment”.

By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming

Reflecting on her appointment, MEC Ramokgopa expressed deep gratitude, saying: “This is truly a full circle moment … from being a shop owner in Braamfontein at the age of 22 to now leading the growth of the country’s largest economy. I don’t take this opportunity lightly and I look forward to getting stuck into my new responsibilities as MEC of Economic Development while continuing the great work we’ve already started in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.”

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The MEC emphasised that “South Africa’s leading economy needs new ideas, new leaders and people who truly love and understand its people”, saying that “Gauteng’s economy is rising”.

Her role was expanded on 1 April when Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi reshuffled his Cabinet.

Proven Track Record in Agriculture

MEC Ramokgopa’s party, Rise Mzansi, said that over the past 20 months, the MEC has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the agriculture sector. “Under her guidance, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has been stabilised with strengthened governance systems. Her achievements include focusing on agro-processing as an economic driver, launching a successful ‘Zero Hunger’ campaign that attracted numerous sponsors to combat food insecurity, and supporting emerging farmers while unlocking the agricultural sector’s productive potential.”

Currently, the MEC is leading coordinated provincial efforts to combat foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), receiving strong cooperation from farming communities and stakeholders.

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Integrated Economic Vision for Gauteng

Rise Mzansi, announcing the expanded mandate, outlined an ambitious economic development strategy under MEC Ramokgopa’s leadership. The portfolio will prioritise driving investment into key growth sectors, unlocking township and informal economies, supporting industrialisation and localisation, removing bureaucratic barriers and leveraging agriculture as a catalyst for job creation.

The party emphasised that this integrated approach recognises agriculture as central to economic development, from farm to market and production to processing, presenting opportunities for inclusive growth.

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