The famous author and leadership thought leader Stephen Covey is credited with the famous saying, that says, if we keep doing what we’re doing, we’re going to keep getting what we’re getting. In other words, unless we embrace periodic change and resetting, we are unlikely to change the trajectory, and by implication, the results or outcomes. The Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) was formed in 2003, and 22 years later the organisation has morphed and changed over that period, directly or indirectly due to both internal and external dynamics.
In June 2023, when I accepted the privilege to join this organisation, I knew then that to achieve a different result, bold changes were necessary. Change is not always welcome, but it is necessary. Having observed the entity from my previous role as Executive Director for Economic Development and later as Acting City Manager, I thought the transition would be easier, but the on arrival a different reality appeared.

The Mandela Bay Development Agency has inducted its new Board.
The ten new members joined a genial assembly at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, where they were welcomed and introduced to the MBDA as an implementation agency of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, focused on the urban regeneration and the revitalization of Nelson Mandela Bay.

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium brings fans a festive season soccer taster

It was a little over 11 months, on 12 November 2024 when the MBDA unveiled a state-of-the-art Security CCTV control centre. Hailed by stakeholders as a boost in the fight against crime, the technology infused security programme combines feet on the ground through tactical response vehicles and a network of high fibre optic security cameras. The system capabilities include facial recognition, wide angle pan features, license plate recognition software, and are all connected to the Tramways building.

By Anele Qaba, Chief Executive Officer.
In an environment where inaction and low rates of expenditure improve chances for positive audit findings, we see many institutions in the public sector returning funds unspent and falling way short of service delivery targets whilst scoring clean audits.