The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced the appointment of Mr. Themba Matlou as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (ACEO).
The Minister of Social Development, Ms. Sisisi Nokuzola Tolashe, decided to ensure continued leadership and stability within the organization after the suspension of the erstwhile CEO.
Mr. Matlou, a seasoned public service professional, brings over 12 years of experience with SASSA, where he has served as Regional Executive Manager (Deputy Director-General) in Gauteng and led operations in four other regional offices. His appointment marks a pivotal step in reinforcing SASSA’s commitment to improving service delivery and upholding its mission to provide social security services effectively.
A Track Record of Leadership
Mr. Matlou’s journey in public service spans over two decades, starting in 2007 when he was appointed Senior Manager for Planning and Programme Management. Since then, he has held several senior leadership roles, including Chief Director for Strategic Management and Administration in the Mpumalanga Office of the Premier.
In 2012, he joined SASSA as Regional Executive Manager for the Limpopo Region and later took on the challenge of stabilizing SASSA’s operations in various regional offices. Through his strategic leadership, Mr. Matlou has played a critical role in improving the agency’s organizational efficiency and customer experience.
Educational and Professional Expertise
Mr. Matlou’s qualifications further bolster his ability to lead SASSA effectively. He holds a Master of Management Degree (Governance) from the University of Witwatersrand, which has equipped him with advanced governance, monitoring, and evaluation knowledge. His expertise extends to strategic management, social security, and knowledge management—skills integral to SASSA’s mission of paying the right social grant to the right person at the right time and place.
A Vision for the Future
As Acting CEO, Mr. Matlou is tasked with ensuring the continuity of SASSA’s core functions and maintaining the agency’s reputation as a trusted social security provider in South Africa. With his wealth of experience and proven leadership capabilities, stakeholders can expect SASSA to build on its efforts to enhance service delivery and meet the needs of millions of beneficiaries nationwide.
Under Mr. Matlou’s leadership, SASSA reiterates its commitment to providing efficient, reliable, and compassionate services to those who depend on it most. “Njalo!”—the agency’s rallying call to always strive for excellence—remains at the forefront of its operations.
