Land and agriculture minister Lulama Xingwana has announced the names of the new Land Bank board, paving the way for the appointment of a new CEO expected to turn the ailing institution’s fortunes around. The new board boasts a mix of agricultural and financial expertise, including Harmony Gold director Modise Motloba, Free State University’s dean of agriculture Herman van Schalkwyk, Rand Merchant (RMB) Asset Management portfolio manger Patrick Mathidi and Nafu Free State president Otto Mbangula.
Mathidi was previously deputy CEO at Credit Suisse, CEO of Andisa Securities and internal auditor of Tongaat Hulett. Motloba has extensive banking experience at RMB, Goldman Sachs and African Merchant Bank. Themba Langa was appointed chairperson. The remaining members where Anna Mokgokong, Thiyeni Ramphlele, Nolwazi Qata, Johannes Potgieter, Jesmane Boggenpoel, Nomavuso Nxasana and Joe Mthimunye. Meanwhile, cabinet also approved the appointment of the chief land claims commissioner Tozi Gwanya to director general of Land Affairs. He replaces Glen Thomas, who was fired under dubious circumstances last year. – Stephan Hofstätter
