Executive Director for Human Resources at the University of the Western Cape Meko Ernest Magida. Image: Supplied

The Department of Employment and Labour has announced the appointment of Meko Ernest Magida – an admitted Attorney of the High Court in the Republic of South Africa and currently an Executive Director for Human Resources at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) – as the new Chairperson of the 6th Commission for Employment Equity (CEE). His appointment was made under Section 29 of the Employment Equity Act (EEA) for a five-year term, commencing in July 2026. He will continue to serve until 30 June 2031.  

Magida said, “I am deeply honoured and privileged to be appointed as Chairperson of the Commission for Employment Equity by the Minister of Employment and Labour. This is a lifetime accolade, and I accept it with humility and commitment. I look forward to working with a distinguished team of experts to advance employment equity and contribute to building a more inclusive and fair labour market for all South Africans.”

This role places Magida at the helm of one of South Africa’s most important statutory bodies, tasked with advancing equity, fairness and inclusivity in the workplace. The CEE plays a pivotal role in advising the Minister of Employment and Labour on codes of good practice, regulations and policy matters relating to the Act. It also undertakes research, reports on the Act's application, and develops well-researched norms and benchmarks to guide numerical targets across sectors.

Minister Nomakhosazana Meth. Image: Department of Employment and Labour

Beyond its advisory function, the Commission also celebrates progress by recognising employers who demonstrate excellence in promoting equity. These awards not only highlight achievements but also encourage broader participation in building workplaces that reflect South Africa’s diversity.

“I am one of the very first members appointed to the Commission of Employment Equity in 1999, where I, together with Prof Thuli Madonsela, represented the government constituency in that inaugural CEE. At that time, I was the Director of Equal Opportunities in the then Department of Labour,” he explained.

Magida has extensive experience in and exposure to workplace best practices, leadership styles, diverse working environments, the national government, provincial government, local government, the private sector, the legislature and academic and NGO environments. Above all, he has considerable experience in managing, leading and motivating diverse teams.

Magida’s appointment signals continuity and renewed energy in the pursuit of employment equity. His leadership will be crucial in navigating challenges such as persistent inequality, underrepresentation of historically disadvantaged groups, and the need for innovative strategies to ensure compliance with the Act. The South African labour market continues to reflect pronounced racial, gender and disability disparities, according to the 25th Commission for Employment Equity (CEE) in its 26th Annual Report. With Magida’s guidance, the Commission is expected to strengthen its role as both a watchdog and a partner to all stakeholders in the labour market, ensuring that transformation is not just a legal requirement but a lived reality. 

The Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, expressed gratitude to Magida for making himself available to serve and wished him well in executing the Commission’s mandate. This appointment underscores the government’s commitment to advancing workplace equity and ensuring that the principles of the EEA are upheld across all sectors.