Dr Phophi Ramathuba - Strong Medicine 

Dr. Phophi Ramathuba is widely recognized for her exemplary leadership as the Premier of Limpopo, demonstrating strong skills that positively impact the province and its people. Long known on national TV as the poorest province in South Africa wants to flip that image around and has concentrated heavily on education and health in her province in terms of the strategic vision for the people of Limpopo as well as aligning with the National Development Plan.

Phophi Ramathuba, the first ever female Premier of Limpopo since Ngoako Ramathlodi at the dawn of democracy, has consistently showcased exceptional leadership qualities. Her approach emphasizes continuous assessment of management skills in response to the aspirations of the people, fostering stability within the province. Although Limpopo has a lot of natural mineral resources as well as agricultural and tourism her focus is on the greatest resource and that is the people of Limpopo. Having been born on 15 August 1973 Dr Ramathuba has ensured that women are honoured and given the space to develop to their full potential especially since she completed matric at Mbilwi Secondary School where many notables have been produced including Khumbudzo Ntshavheni a well known minister. 

We must not forget that Dr Phophi Ramathuba is also a medical doctor by proffession and training. In a profession dominated by men Dr Phophi Ramathuba was not intimidated and had at the top of her mind the intention to contribute to society and leave the world a better place. Born at Elim Hospital a provincial hospital in the then Transvaal in the township of Waterval in the then Louis Trichardt she not only completed one of the most difficult professional training regimes but she also went on to obtain a Masters Degree in Medical Pharmacology at University of Pretoria as well as an Advanced Health Management Certificate from Manchester Business School. She is one step away from becoming a doctor with a doctorate. Having grown up in the dark days of Apartheid where there was a concerted effort from all fronts to subjugate Blacks to remain a source of cheap labour she against all odds went on to become a medical doctor. Due to the injustices she saw her family and community being subjected to on a daily basis, her parents having to obtain obtain a pass and permits to come and go. Blacks did not have freedom of movement under Apartheid a thing the rightwing media conveniently forgets.

As a bright young learner at school Dr Phophi Ramathuba realises from early on that education is the key to dignity as well as a way out of poverty. Thus Dr. Ramathuba places a significant focus on skills development, actively engaging in initiatives that equip the youth with the necessary competencies for future employment. She has highlighted the importance of addressing key sectors such as the built environment, engineering, strategic management, and research to prepare for the evolving world of work. As Premier she also has to ensure the vision of the 4th Industrial Revolution is achieved.

Her leadership is characterized by a dedication to public service, evident in her personal involvement in community outreach, such as dedicating her birthday to visiting hospitals in the Vhembe District. This hands-on approach demonstrates a deep-seated commitment to understanding and addressing the needs of the people on the ground. 

Furthermore, Dr. Ramathuba encourages selfless acts of kindness and compassion, urging residents to engage in such practices. Her leadership style is often described as being equal to the task, with observations noting her exceptional abilities and readiness to lead. She is committed to up-skilling the youth, ensuring they become competent, qualified, and thriving individuals, thereby driving positive change and development within Limpopo.

Alternative NewsZA 

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