Ramathuba prioritises poverty reduction and tackling cost of living in SOPA
Premier Phophi Ramathuba says the Limpopo provincial government will intensify efforts to reduce poverty and cushion residents against the rising cost of living.
Ramathuba made the remarks while delivering her State of the Province Address on Thursday, where she outlined key interventions aimed at improving livelihoods, expanding economic opportunities and strengthening social support for vulnerable communities.
GOVERNMENT TARGETING POVERTY AND RISING LIVING COSTS
The premier acknowledged that many households in Limpopo continue to face financial pressure due to high unemployment and rising living expenses.
She said government programmes will focus on improving access to economic opportunities while also strengthening support for poor households.
"Reducing poverty and addressing the high cost of living remains one of the most urgent priorities of this administration. Too many families in our province are struggling to make ends meet, and it is our responsibility as government to implement practical interventions that will ease this burden and restore dignity to our people."
Ramathuba said government is working to stimulate local economic activity, particularly in rural areas where poverty levels remain high.
"We are committed to supporting programmes that promote food security, expand access to economic opportunities and strengthen local economies so that communities can become more resilient in the face of rising living costs. These efforts are critical in ensuring that our people are not left behind as we pursue inclusive growth and development."
AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY KEY TO EASING PRESSURE ON HOUSEHOLDS
Ramathuba highlighted agriculture as a critical sector in addressing poverty and food insecurity.
She said government support for smallholder farmers and agricultural projects will help reduce food costs while creating jobs.
"Agriculture remains central to our strategy to fight poverty and hunger in Limpopo. By supporting farmers, improving productivity and strengthening agro-processing, we are able to create jobs while also ensuring that more affordable food reaches our communities."
EXPANDING ACCESS TO SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The premier added that investments in infrastructure, education and healthcare will also play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for residents.
"Our focus is not only on economic growth but on ensuring that the benefits of development reach the poorest households. Through better roads, improved healthcare services and stronger education systems, we are building the foundation for sustainable development and long-term poverty reduction in Limpopo."
Ramathuba said the provincial government remains committed to working with national government, municipalities and the private sector to address economic challenges facing residents in Limpopo.
She further highlighted that the provincial government is making measurable progress in improving healthcare outcomes, strengthening agriculture and expanding access to education and infrastructure across the province.
HIV AND AIDS RETENTION
Ramathuba says Limpopo has made significant strides in improving HIV treatment outcomes, particularly when it comes to keeping patients on life-saving antiretroviral therapy.
Adding that the province has managed to exceed national targets for retention in treatment programmes.
"Limpopo has improved HIV outcomes significantly. Retention on Antiretroviral Therapy has risen from 93,5% to 99% and 96% in September 2025, which is above the national target of 95%. This demonstrates the commitment of our healthcare workers and the effectiveness of our interventions in ensuring that patients remain on treatment and receive the support they need to live healthy and productive lives."
The premier added that children living with HIV are also benefiting from strengthened treatment programmes and improved clinical management.
"Children’s retention on treatment has also improved considerably, while paediatric viral load suppression increased to 87,3% and 93,8%. These figures exceed the national average and reflect stronger clinical governance, improved monitoring systems and the dedication of healthcare teams working tirelessly in our facilities and communities."
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