Thulas Nxesi Announces Onke Mjo as Interim Director-General for The Department of Employment and Labour

The Department of Employment and Labour in South Africa has undergone a significant change in its leadership structure. Minister Thulas Nxesi has taken decisive action by appointing Onke Mjo as the acting director-general (DG) effective from January 1, until the position is permanently filled. This announcement comes at a critical juncture for the department as it continues to drive initiatives focused on job creation, labour policy, and fighting corruption within the sector.

Onke Mjo is a seasoned professional with a robust educational framework. She holds a BA degree, higher diploma, and postgraduate (honours) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, in addition to a senior management development programme qualification from the University of Stellenbosch Business School. These qualifications have laid the foundation for her diverse career within the government, which has spanned across several departments.

Mjo's career trajectory includes serving as chief of staff and special adviser to the minister, providing her with a rich expertise conducive to her new role as acting DG. Her prior experience in other ministries, including sport & recreation and public works & infrastructure, cement her reputation as a versatile leader capable of adapting to the multifaceted challenges of public service. Minister Nxesi has expressed his confidence in Mjo's abilities, citing her “analytic astuteness, strategic thinking, operational experience,” and capacity to ensure the successful implementation of departmental policies and programs.

As part of her responsibilities, Mjo will guide the department through current initiatives and programmes, constructing measurable action plans based on the department’s mandate. She is expected to maintain transparency, reinforce performance, and ensure service delivery is executed at the highest level.

Corruption and maladministration are on the top of the agenda for Mjo. The department has expressed its commitment to work in close collaboration with the office of the auditor-general and law enforcement agencies to reinforce accountability and integrity within its operations.

Furthermore, the recent shifts in the department are not limited to Mjo's appointment. Minister Nxesi recognized Alec Moemi's contribution as the former acting DG, who has been newly appointed as the DG of the Department of Human Settlements. Nxesi's administrative adjustments also included the appointment of Albertina Barlow as chief of staff and Maphefo Mbatha as private secretary. Sabelo Mali, the former spokesperson, has been given the role of a director in the communications directorate.

These appointments and reassignments demonstrate a commitment to bolstering the department with experienced individuals who can deliver on the government's promises of improved labour relations and overall employment conditions in South Africa.