Central SA
New Free State MEC calls for strong relations with municipalities─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 06:40 Thu, 16 Mar 2023
The Free State's newly elected MEC for Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Destea), Thabo Meeko, says relations with municipalities across the province have to be strengthened to improve services.
Meeko is one of the new faces premier Mxolisi Dukwana has appointed to his new-look provincial Executive Council (Exco). He served in different portfolio committees of the Free State Legislature since 2014, also serving as the governing party's provincial spokesperson during this period.
During his meeting with senior managers of his department, Meeko stated that improving service delivery is a continuous process and not a once-off activity. He explained that a massive research capacity will play an important role in ensuring evidence-based decision-making.
"As Destea, we need to strengthen our relations with municipalities and our research approach for SMMEs to also play a role in creating employment," he stated.
Meeko further indicated that his priority is to undertake initiatives that will empower youth, grow the economy, and create jobs. He called on management to double their efforts in fulfilling the department's mandate so the lives of people in the Free State are positively impacted.
