President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed a new seven-member board for the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) under Section 9(1)(a) of the NYDA Act, marking a fresh term from 1 August 2025 for three years. The agency plays a vital role in coordinating youth development efforts across local, provincial, and national government structures.
The appointed members include:
- Kelly Sandra Baloyi
- Thembisile Precious Mahuwa
- Bonga Siphesihle Makhanya (Deputy Chairperson)
- Sibusiso Makhathini
- Dr Wiseman Mfaniseni Mbatha
- Dr Sunshine Minenhle Myende (Chairperson)
- Busisiwe Nandipha Nxumalo
These candidates were selected four months after Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Youth, Women, and Persons with Disabilities tabled nine nominees, with the final board comprising seven individuals unaligned with the ANC Youth League.
Dr Sunshine Myende, a criminologist and forensic academic, brings rigor to her role as Chairperson, while Bonga Makhanya, with a background in economic science and youth economic policy, steps in as Deputy. Their leadership is expected to guide NYDA’s strategy amid a steep youth unemployment rate of 45.5% in South Africa.
President Ramaphosa emphasized the Agency’s role in “securing a promising future for the nation through the empowerment of young people,” praising the board’s readiness to serve.
The NYDA’s unitary structure is tasked with crafting policy advice, disbursing youth development funding, and supporting local incubator programmes. Stakeholders are watching closely given past delays in board formation criticized by Parliament and civil society for leaving the agency temporarily rudderless.
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, welcomed the appointments, noting the board’s diverse expertise and readiness to advance youth development initiatives across the country.
