SASSA WELCOMES NEWLY APPOINTED REGIONAL EXECUTIVE MANAGERS

By Staff writer.

• SASSA formally inducted its newly appointed Regional Executive Managers (REMs) in Pretoria to ensure alignment with the Agency’s strategic priorities and service delivery objectives.
• The recent appointments of REMs; Mmapula Pheeha (Limpopo), Nkele Ntlhe (Free State), and Karabelo Mojanaga (Northern Cape)—were made with cabinet concurrence.
• You cannot be a leader if you don’t respect people,” said SASSA CEO Themba Matlou, emphasising the importance of ethical and people-centred leadership.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) held an induction session for its newly appointed Regional Executive Managers (REMs) on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, in Pretoria. The session aimed to orient the new executives on SASSA’s strategic objectives, core mandate, and expectations as they assume leadership across key provinces.

The appointments fill previously vacant senior positions at the Agency. The newly appointed REMs are Mmapula Pheeha for Limpopo, Nkele Ntlhe for the Free State, and Karabelo Mojanaga for the Northern Cape, who officially took office following cabinet approval earlier this month. These appointments are part of Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe’s plans to fill all senior leadership roles within the social development portfolio.

Welcoming the new executives, SASSA CEO Mr Themba Matlou congratulated them on their appointments and provided an overview of the Agency’s mission, key strategic focus areas, and leadership expectations. He underscored that effective oversight requires strong engagement with regional offices and communities.
“SASSA is committed to excellence, using advanced technology and expert staff to deliver reliable social security services that improve lives and empower communities,” said Matlou.
The CEO emphasised that ethical and people-centred leadership remains the cornerstone of effective governance and improved service delivery.
“I want a leader who will empower and develop people, a leader who listens and adapts to situations, a leader who respects people. You cannot be a leader if you don’t respect people,” he stated.

Mr Matlou further reminded executives that leadership must be grounded in empathy and engagement, not intimidation.
“You don’t demonstrate leadership by bullying people. We don’t want leaders who fail to engage, inspire or support their teams, otherwise the region you lead will collapse, to the detriment of the vulnerable people we serve.”

In conclusion, Matlou expressed confidence that the permanent appointment of the Regional Executive Managers will strengthen SASSA’s organisational efficiency, service delivery, and public trust. He extended appreciation to the Executive Management for their continued commitment to ensuring that social assistance reaches those who need it most.