ROBERT Nkuna has been appointed the new director-general of the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME).
Nkuna served as DG in the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services from 2016, and into its subsequent reconfiguration as the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT).
On Saturday, Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu welcomed Nkuna’s appoint to the DPME.
“The transfer of DG Nkuna to the DPME comes at an opportune time when Government is grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic. His vast experience in the telecommunications environment will assist the department to maximise on new technologies in carrying out its monitoring and evaluation function for the whole of Government,” said Mthembu.
“We wish the DG well in his new role and welcome him to the DPME family.”
Nkuna commenced his responsibilities as the new DPME DG on 1 July, taking over from Nompumelelo Mpofu, who left the department in January for another government entity.
According to DPME statement, Nkuna brings a wealth of experience in public administration, communication and policy development.
His vast leadership experience dates back to his days as a student activist, advisory roles in Government as well as becoming the accounting officer of a national Government department.
He served as an advisor to the Ministries of Telecommunications, Transport & Energy in the Republic of South Africa. Between 2006 and 2010, Nkuna was a Councillor at the communications regulator – the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA).
He also served on various boards including South African Post Office (SAPO) and the Media Development & Diversity Agency (MDDA).
Nkuna holds a Master’s degree and is currently pursuing his PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies at the University of Witwatersrand, focusing on the regulation of administered prices in Infrastructure and Utility Industries.
(Compiled by Inside Politics staff)
