Today, Free State MEC for Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA), Mr Thabo Meeko held his first meeting with the senior managers of the department.

MEC Meeko was appointed as the MEC for DESTEA on 14 March 2023. MEC Meeko has served in different portfolio committees of the Free State Legislature since 2014. During that period, he also served as the governing party's provincial spokesperson.

MEC implored the management to double their efforts in serving the people of the Free State. He further indicated that his priority is to undertake initiatives that will empower youth, grow the economy, and create jobs.

"Improving service delivery is a continuous process and not a once off activity. Therefore, massive economic research capacity plays an important role in ensuring evidence based decision-making. As DESTEA, we need to strengthen our relations with municipalities and research approach for SMMEs to also play role in creating employment," said MEC Meeko.

MEC called for robust teamwork committed to the fulfilment of the department's mandate to positively impact the lives of the people.

Source: Government of South Africa