LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE: Polokwane's Trailblazers Shine Bright at 'Big Moss' Awards
- Mpho Dube
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read


By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian
Truth. Fearless. Unfiltered.
On a warm and celebratory evening at The Ranch Hotel, the City of Polokwane stole the show at the South African Local Government Association Moses “Big Moss” Maluleke Awards.
It was as if the stage was reserved for them – and they delivered. Executive Mayor Cllr Makoro John Mpe, a visionary leader with an unyielding passion for progress, stood tall alongside Speaker Cllr Kobela Modiba, Chief Whip Cllr Adolf Rapetswa, MMC for Finance Cllr Tshepo Nkwe, and City Manager Ms Thuso Nemugumoni, as they took centre stage to receive accolades for their outstanding work.
The municipality's impressive haul included recognition for 100% spending of the 2024/25 Water Services Infrastructure Grant, ensuring flowing taps and dignity in households; 100% spending of the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant, strengthening development in communities; and 100% spending of the Integrated Urban Development Grant, shaping a city that grows with purpose.
They also received recognition for their in-house review of Annual Financial Statements, a testament to accountability, and for sustaining an Unqualified Audit Opinion for 2024/25, a badge of clean governance. Additionally, Polokwane was named the Leading mSCOA Implementation Champion, showcasing effective systems.
Cllr Mpe's leadership has been the driving force behind Polokwane's success, with a clear vision for a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable city. His collaborative approach with Ms Nemugumoni has fostered an environment where innovation thrives, and service delivery is paramount. The organisation's leadership, under their guidance, has created a culture of accountability and transparency, driving progress and prosperity in the city.
Even Polokwane Housing Association (PHA) shone, honoured for sustaining its own unqualified audit opinion – proof that good governance echoes across institutions. As the leaders took to the stage, it was clear: Polokwane's vision for accountable governance is driving real change.
The evening was a testament to the power of vision meeting accountability, proving that when it does, a municipality doesn't merely function – it flourishes. With awards in hand, Polokwane's leaders have shown they're committed to building trust, brick by brick, audit by audit, grant by grant.
The story of Polokwane's success is one of persistence, disciplined stewardship of public resources, and leadership that understands true performance is measured in service delivered to people's lives.
As the applause faded, one message remained: Polokwane is a city on the rise, and its leaders are the driving force. The municipality's focus on good governance, infrastructure development, and community engagement has created a thriving metropolis that's poised for growth and prosperity.
With Cllr Mpe and Ms Nemugumoni at the helm, Polokwane is set to continue its upward trajectory, cementing its position as a leader in local government.
The 'Big Moss' Awards was more than just a ceremony – it was a celebration of Polokwane's triumphs, a testament to the city's commitment to excellence, and a glimpse into a brighter future.
As the city continues to shine, its leaders will remain dedicated to serving the people, driving progress, and making Polokwane a place where everyone can thrive.
The municipality's next focus is on leveraging these achievements to address the pressing needs of its residents, ensuring that the momentum is maintained and the city's progress is sustained. Polokwane's success story is also a reflection of the dedication and hard work of its administration, led by Ms Nemugumoni, who has been instrumental in driving the municipality's strategic objectives.
As Polokwane continues to grow and develop, its leaders are committed to staying focused on the needs of its residents, ensuring that the city remains a place where people can live, work, and thrive.
The municipality's vision is clear: to create a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable city, driven by good governance and a commitment to service delivery. With its strong leadership and dedicated administration, Polokwane is well on its way to achieving this vision.
The City of Polokwane's triumph at the 'Big Moss' Awards is a testament to the power of effective leadership and good governance. As the city continues to shine, it serves as a model for other municipalities to follow, demonstrating that with vision, accountability, and dedication, anything is possible. #Polokwane #Leadership #GoodGovernance







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