Robert Nkuna has joined the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) as director-general (DG).
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).
According to a statement, 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.
Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu has welcomed Nkuna as the DPME’s new DG.
“The transfer of DG Nkuna to the DPME comes at an opportune time when government is grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Mthembu. “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.
“We wish the DG well in his new role and welcome him to the DPME family,” he adds.
A former ministerial adviser in the departments of telecoms, transport and energy, Nkuna holds a Master’s degree and is pursuing his PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies at the University of Witwatersrand, focusing on the regulation of administered prices in infrastructure and utility industries.
He is considered a seasoned veteran in the communications sector, with experience in public administration, communication and policy development.
Between 2006 and 2010, Nkuna was councillor on the Independent Communications Authority of SA council, and has also served on various boards, including the South African Post Office and the Media Development and Diversity Agency.
While the reason for his sudden departure from the DCDT is unclear, his appointment as DG of the then telecoms and postal services ministry was considered as a pivotal step to bring stability to the department’s leadership following upheaval at the hands of former DG, Rosey Sekese.
In addition to leadership stability, Nkuna was tasked with ensuring the department implements the National Integrated ICT Policy White Paper.
The DCDT had not responded to ITWeb’s questions by the time of publication.
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