POLOKWANE MUNICIPALITY WELCOMES 117 NEW EMPLOYEES TO STRENGTHEN SERVICE DELIVERY
POLOKWANE , 01 October 2024 – Polokwane Municipality welcomed 117 new employees through appointments and promotions to boost internal capacity and elevate service delivery standards.
The municipality’s determination to not only meet but exceed the expectations of its residents was tangible as both new recruits and promotions filled the room with anticipation for what lies ahead.
Municipal Manager, Ms. Thuso Nemugumoni, in outlining the purpose of the gathering, delved into the strategic composition of this intake, a move that is both deliberate and carefully aligned with Polokwane Municipality’s vision. Of the 117 individuals welcomed, 48 are men, with the majority being women, stressing the municipality’s continued efforts to address gender equity within its workforce. Ms. Nemugumoni underlined that this intake also included 17 young people, a reflection of the Executive Mayor and Council’s directive to focus on empowering youth as key drivers of change, a bold statement of Polokwane’s future orientation.
Two employees who are differently abled were also appointed to further underline the municipality’s assurance to inclusivity and equal opportunity for all. The intake sees 11 current employees promoted, while a remarkable 104 individuals are joining the municipality for the first time. Among these new appointments, 21 graduates have been given their first professional opportunity, a clear consideration of the municipality’s effort to nurture fresh talent, especially those with no prior experience.
Furthermore, 88 of the new employees will serve as general workers to the backbone of the city’s service operations, while two senior-level appointments – Chief Financial Officer and Director for Corporate and Shared Services – will play pivotal roles in steering Polokwane toward its vision of becoming the first metropolitan municipality in Limpopo.
As the crowd settled, the air thick with expectation, Executive Mayor, Cllr. Makoro John Mpe took to the podium to deliver his keynote address. In a powerful and thought-provoking message, he welcomed the new employees, reminding them of the deep impact of their roles. “We are here to serve and be the humble servants,” he said, drawing attention to the profound responsibility that comes with working for a municipality whose ambition is to lead the province in innovation and excellence. Cllr. Mpe’s words carried the weight of Polokwane’s aspirations: this is not just a job – it is a commitment to a city that is evolving and relentless in its pursuit of excellence.
The Executive Mayor spoke with conviction, urging the new staff to embrace the ethos of service that lies at the heart of the municipality’s operations. Quoting leadership expert Simon Sinek, he stressed the importance of internal cohesion: “Customers will never love a company unless its employees love it first.” This sentiment served as a reminder that the culture within Polokwane Municipality should reflect the respect, love, and sincerity expected when dealing with residents and stakeholders alike. It was clear from his address that these new employees are not just joining an institution; they are becoming part of a living, breathing vision – one that places the well-being of its residents above all else.
Cllr. Mpe also spoke about the importance of continuous learning and urged all employees to take advantage of the municipality’s commitment to lifelong education. He said Polokwane Municipality would continue to offer bursaries to staff members and ensure access to training through accredited and credible institutions, a crucial element of ensuring that Polokwane remains at the forefront of municipal service delivery in South Africa.
With the appointments and promotions finalized, a new chapter begins for Polokwane Municipality – a chapter in which these 117 individuals will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the future of the city. The sense of momentum and anticipation is undeniable, as the municipality continues its journey toward becoming a metropolitan hub of excellence. All eyes will be on these new appointees as they step into their roles with the full weight of Polokwane’s aspirations behind them.
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