Mopani Municipality Appoints Jimmy Mojela as CFO After Financial Governance Crisis
MOPANI, Limpopo: Mopani District Municipality has appointed a young financial expert to lead its finances, marking what council hopes will be a turning point after months of scrutiny over financial governance and leadership challenges.
During a Special Council Sitting on Thursday, councillors unanimously approved the appointment of Jimmy Mojela as the municipality’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), entrusting him with the responsibility of strengthening financial management and restoring confidence in the institution.
Mojela’s appointment follows the departure of former CFO Sibongile Mathembula, who was suspended and later dismissed in February 2026 following allegations linked to an irregular procurement process involving a R5.6 million contract.
Mathembula faced allegations relating to the awarding of a contract to Ximatsatsa Investment (Pty) Ltd for the procurement of borehole spares, despite claims that the company had not submitted a bid for the tender.
The municipality said Mojela has already been serving as acting CFO since March 2026, giving him experience within the organisation before taking up the permanent position.
According to municipal spokesperson Mildred Risaba, Mojela brings strong financial credentials to the role. He holds an Honours degree in Accounting, Finance and Economics, is a qualified Chartered Accountant (SA), and has seven years of middle management experience as a financial manager.
The municipality said the appointment forms part of its broader efforts to improve institutional capacity, strengthen financial governance and ensure compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).
Executive Mayor Pule Shayi welcomed the appointment, describing it as a significant step towards building a more capable and effective administration.
“We congratulate Mr Jimmy Mojela on his appointment and wish him success as he assumes this important responsibility. We are confident that his leadership and expertise will contribute towards strengthening the Municipality’s financial sustainability, improving governance, and supporting our collective commitment to delivering quality services to our communities,” said Shayi.
Council said it believes Mojela’s leadership will play an important role in advancing the municipality’s strategic priorities, promoting accountability and rebuilding public trust through responsible financial management.
The new CFO now faces the task of steering Mopani’s financial administration through a critical period as residents and stakeholders look for improved transparency, stronger oversight and better service delivery outcomes.
