SAA’s turnaround hopes rest with new board
PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma’s cabinet has thrown its weight behind the newly-appointed SA Airways (SAA) board, new Communications Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said yesterday.
Addressing media at the post-cabinet briefing, Kubayi said the cabinet had confidence in the new board to turn around the fortunes of the ailing national airline by providing stability and expertise.
Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba yesterday officially announced the appointment of six new members to the board. This after the cabinet approved the appointments at its meeting in Cape Town on Wednesday.
The new board includes Johannes Bhekumuzi “JB” Magwaza, chairperson; Nolitha Fakude, his deputy; Geoff Rothschild; Ahmed Bassa; Tinyiko Mhlari and Martin Kingston.
Members retained from the previous board were Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, Peter Tshisevhe, Thandeka Nozipho Mgoduso, Peter Holmes Maluleka and Akhter Hoosen Moosa.
Former board chairperson Dudu Myeni was axed along with Tryphosa Ramano, Mzimkulu Malunga, Siphile Buthelezi, Nazmeera Moola and Gugu Sepamla.
The new board takes the helm from November 3.
“We are confident in terms of the work that is being done and that things will finally get done,” Kubayi said.
She added there was no change regarding the appointment of the new chief executive, Vuyani Jarana.
Finance portfolio committee chairperson Yunus Carrim said the real test for the new board was how they would bring their range of experiences and expertise together and operate as a collective.
“We would have liked to see more board members with aviation expertise.”