Minister Pule announces leadership changes at Social Development

Social Development Minister Dina Pule has announced a leadership transition and several key appointments at the Department of Social Development.

The announcements were made during an extended Management Committee meeting held at the department’s head office in Pretoria on Tuesday.

Acting Director-General Adv. Gugulethu Thimane will conclude her service with the department on 30 September 2026, with Raphaahle Ramokgopa taking over as Acting Director-General.

Pule thanked Thimane for her leadership and service during what she described as a challenging period for the department.

“She has been a pillar of support and has consistently gone above and beyond in serving the Department,” said Pule.

Thimane will officially depart the department on 1 October and will continue contributing her expertise through her work in Monitoring and Evaluation.

Ramokgopa brings 29 years of public service experience to the position. She previously served in the Department of Social Development as Chief Director: Monitoring and Evaluation from 2005 to 2009.

She later held a senior position at the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) as Executive Manager responsible for Strategy and Business Development. She most recently served as the National Development Agency’s Acting Chief Executive Officer for one year until July 2026.

Pule welcomed Ramokgopa back to the department and said her experience and institutional knowledge would support its work.

The Minister also announced the appointment of Adv. Euphemia Ntini Mashigo as her Chief of Staff and Ronnie Masilela as Media Liaison Officer.

SASSA Chief Executive Officer Themba Matlou welcomed the leadership transition and praised Thimane for helping maintain stability and operational continuity during a period of uncertainty.

He also expressed SASSA’s readiness to work with Ramokgopa and the Department of Social Development.

Pule called on the department’s leadership and staff to work together during the transition and remain focused on improving the lives of the people they serve.

“As we welcome the new leadership and appointments, I encourage all officials to work together with commitment and purpose,” said Pule.