The Mpumalanga Premier used the 2026 State of the Province Address to highlight progress in the province while acknowledging the challenges that are still faced by communities such as Bushbuckridge.

Addressing the provincial legislature on Thursday, 5 March, the Premier said the government remains committed to building “a province that works for all” through job creation, poverty reduction and improved service delivery.

He highlighted that recent floods caused widespread damage across the province, with Bushbuckridge among the hardest-hit municipalities. More than 2,500 private properties were affected, leaving many families displaced.

While longer-term reconstruction is ongoing, the government has started offering vulnerable households in Bushbuckridge and Nkomazi temporary residential units.

The government estimates that about R5.9 billion will be needed to fully repair damaged infrastructure, with a focus on rebuilding stronger and more climate-resilient infrastructure.

Road repairs and upgrades are also part of the recovery efforts. The Thulamahashe–Cottondale to Manyeleti road project, which improves access for tourism and local travel, has already completed two of its six phases.

Agriculture was highlighted as another key growth area. The Premier praised emerging farmers, including Bushbuckridge vegetable producer Bennedict Mhlongo, saying young farmers are increasingly entering domestic and international markets.

About 20,000 households have also benefited from the province’s Smart Agriculture Boxes programme, which supports household food production.

Looking ahead, the government plans to build a community hall in Acornhoek during the 2026/27 financial year.

While acknowledging ongoing service delivery challenges in rural municipalities, the Premier said government remains determined to improve conditions for communities across Mpumalanga.

“We have not yet reached the promised land,” he said. “But we must roll up our sleeves and work harder than before.”